Rankings Breakdown: 2020’s top 5 liberoes

Developing a young libero can set the foundation for a team’s success for years to come. The Class of 2020 features some liberoes that are already established, and only going to continue to improve over the next two years. Here’s a closer look at the top 5 from this class.

1. Paige Gallentine, 5-7, Charyl Stockwell/Michigan Elite: This outside hitter for Charyl Stockwell Academy had a huge prep season in 2017, leading her team in kills with 484 while hitting .410 on her attacks. Gallentine also had 353 assists, 253 digs and 22 blocks as she was able to showcase her all-around performance. In club, Gallentine is the libero for Michigan Elite 16 Mizuno. She was named to the PrepVolleyball.com Sophomore 79 Highest Honorable Mention list. She was also a Class C All-State First Team pick and is a big reason why Charyl Stockwell is a team to watch in 2018.
2. Allison Wiese, 5-5, Mattawan/FaR Out: The foundation for Mattawan’s squad, Wiese has great instincts and mobility to get to opposing attacks. In the 2017 prep season, Wiese was a Third Team All-State selection in Class A after racking up 489 digs and 40 aces, which also earned her a spot on the Sophomore 79 Elite Honorable Mention list. She has Mattawan as a top contender for the Division 1 title in 2018. In club play, Wiese handles the back row for FaR Out 17 Gold.
3. Grace Gorsline, 5-7, East Grand Rapids/MVA: Gorsline has been developing her skills the last few years as she will take on a bigger defensive role for East Grand Rapids in the 2018 season. She was fourth on the team in digs last year with 145. However, the two team leaders are graduating seniors. Gorsline also added 20 aces. Currently playing for MVA National Black 16, Gorsline gets to showcase her skills on a talented squad as she prepares for a breakout season in the fall.
4. Bella Hommes, 5-6, Forest Hills Northern/FaR Out: Hommes gets to handle back row duties for a loaded Forest Hills Northern team in the fall of 2018. Joining three All-Region talents, Hommes gives Northern a defensive stability to go with their talented setting and attack. Hommes competes for FaR Out 17 Black and is committed to Eastern Michigan University.
5. Kaylee Baker, Zeeland West: Baker is a rare just-prep player on this list. Still, her impact for Zeeland West is certainly felt. Baker is the lone player for the Dux to be names All-Region in Class A for the 2017 season. She also was named to the Sophomore 79 Honorable Mention list. Baker gives the Dux something to build from, as they can become a dangerous team if they develop some hitters. Baker will be able to get the ball to the setter and keep the opposing attacks off the floor. Her skills will only get strong for 2018.