MEET OUR TEAM
Captain/#17
Shirley Elkan
I fell in love with Catchball and co-founded our team in 2019. Over the years, I’ve discovered my mission in leading DreamCatchers, building a strong, connected team through meaningful bonding and top-notch training.
My passion has always been helping people reach their goals and truly thrive. I first recognized this part of myself while growing my career in the medical field, and later in dentistry, but it has come to life in the most special way on the court.
I’m incredibly lucky to have my husband and two daughters cheering me on every step of the way. And when I’m not playing Catchball, you’ll still find me courtside, proudly watching my daughters compete at a high level in volleyball.
I’m an all-around player who loves front-line defense, and I’m excited for many more years of growing, competing, and thriving with this amazing team.
#5
Nasya Koveza
I'm grateful to be a part of Dream Catchers from the time the team was founded. Throughout the 6 years, among many changes personally and professionally, I had a baby and transformed my career from music to cybersecurity. But catchball and our wonderful team stay a strong and happy constant in my life. My favorite parts of catchball are the community, sportsmanship, tournaments, and front-line defense, especially blocking.
#12
Alena Charnova
I’ve been with the team since its start in 2019 as one of the founding members. I love helping organize fun events that bring everyone together, because I believe strong team spirit makes all the difference. Off the field, I’m a software engineer. I’m married with two sons, and I enjoy staying active through all kinds of fitness activities, hiking, skiing, and traveling with family and friends. Catchball has become especially meaningful to me—it promotes a healthy, active lifestyle while giving women the chance to connect, socialize, and build friendships in an empowering, supportive environment.
#9
Ellen Quest
I started playing Catchball in 2019 and have fallen in love with this game since my first practice. I’ve never played any sports before, so I had a lot to learn and I’m still learning! I enjoy every practice, every tournament, every gathering with my wonderful team Dream Catchers. Also, in 2023 I became a part of the USA National Team, and this year we had the international tournament in Amsterdam, Netherlands and took 3rd place. My husband, two daughters, and my cat Cosmos support and cheer my love of Catchball and my team.
#18
Sasha Gorodnitskaya
I started playing catchball in 2019, but I loved the game even as a kid. I already had a daughter when I joined, and since then I’ve welcomed a baby boy, so life is wonderfully full. Outside of sports, I’m also happily fulfilled in my career, which makes the balance even more meaningful. I love challenging defensive plays and clever offensive combinations. There’s always something new to learn. Being part of Dream Catchers gives me energy, a sense of escape, and a community I truly treasure.
#25
Olga Retyunskaya
I’ve been playing catchball for four years, and I genuinely enjoy every position on the court. Outside of sports, I’m a mom of three and a happy dog owner. Being part of DreamCatchers gives me energy, support, and a sense of community that I truly treasure.
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#7
Anna Gurbanova
I’m an outgoing person who loves volleyball, catchball, hiking, dancing, traveling, road trips, and laughing with friends. I’ve been part of the catchball family since 2022, and while I love spiking and blocking, deep down I’m a libero at heart. When I’m not on the court, you’ll probably find me chasing trails with my partner-in-crime, my beloved puppy Mishka. I live for team spirit, fresh air, and my catchball family - because what’s life without a little competition and a lot of laughter?
#8
Nadya Perfilyeva
I’ve been playing catchball since 2022, and my favorite position is the front line — I love the energy and excitement it brings. What inspires me most in the game is the feeling of unity and being part of a team. Outside of sports, I’m a medical student and I have a Devon Rex cat named Kristy. DreamCatchers is my family — this team gives me joy, support, and a place where I truly recharge.
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#22
Irina Marchenko
I started playing Catchball in 2023 and have loved playing it ever since! I’ve always been into sports since high school! I played Volleyball, track and field, and hockey. I also hike a lot with my dog Max. Love spending time with my best team Dream Catchers! Also I’m a part of the USA National Team, this year we took 3rd place in Amsterdam, Netherlands. I always push myself to be better in everything, Catchball is not an exception! I love our practices where you never stop developing your skills to get better and win in the future!
#13
Ruslana Shkola
I’ve been playing catchball since 2023. I’m grateful to have found such an amazing community after moving to the US from Ukraine with my family and my dog. I love staying active outside the court, and working on my strength and jumps in the gym. I’m looking forward to the growth of the catchball community!
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#28
Larisa Shantarenko
I’ve been playing Catchball since January 2024. I love trying different positions and seeing myself grow both offensively and defensively. For me, Catchball is all about the team energy we create together. My family’s support means a lot, and I’m grateful to be part of DreamCatchers — a team that inspires me and makes me stronger.
#44
Natasha Itskar
From the first tryout, catchball became something special to me. Two years later, I’m still surrounded by inspiring women who make every practice worth it. I love taking the front defensive line, doing my best to block whatever comes my way. For me, this isn’t just a sport, but a community where women can grow, feel empowered, and stay connected.
#21
Yana Ponomareva
Joined the team 2025 and quickly found my place as a libero. Sport have always been a big part of my life and Catchball became a natural extension of that passion. I love the energy, support and friendship within our team, and I love stepping on the court with them. I look forward to many more seasons growing together as DreamCathers.
#16
Kate Zavitnevich
Catchball keeps me grounded, competitive, and constantly growing. It’s more than a sport, it’s a community of strong women who push each other beyond limits, on and off the court. Outside of the game, I work in talent acquisition, partnering with marketing and advertising companies to build high-performing teams.