Class of 2021: Under The Radar Recruits

<p>The class of 2021 in Minnesota is bursting with volleyball talent. With so much talent, it's natural for athletes to fly under the radar. Below are athletes that have been identified as potential next level recruits. <br /> <br /> </p> <p><strong>Ella Wheatcraft - Mizuno M1 16-1 - Libero/DS</strong></p> <p>Wheatcraft is a 5'6" libero with a quick read, a solid platform, and foot speed to match. Her serve receive is quiet and calm, putting her team consistently in system. Ella's ability to cover a large area of court on defense makes her a key contributor for the M1 16-1 squad. <br /> <br /> </p> <p><strong>Amelia Armstrong - Kokoro 16-1 - Middle Blocker</strong></p> <p>Armstrong is a quick footed six-foot middle blocker that always seems ready to run her route. She picks up the opponents offensive systems and uses her athleticism to close the block. Armstrong also uses her length and arm speed make her a threat at the net.<br /> <br /> </p> <p><strong>Talya Hoel - Northern Lights 16-2 - Setter/DS</strong></p> <p>Hoel is a dynamic 5'8" setter and defender with the foot speed and determination to keep her team in system. Talya gives her team great opportunities at the net, however her defense in the right-back is what sets her apart from other setters in this class. Hoel's commitment to defense gives the stacked Northern Lights 16-2 team opportunities to terminate out of system.<br /> <br /> </p> <p><strong>Elizabeth (Libby) Mattila - MN Select 16-2 - Outside Hitter</strong></p> <p>Mattila is a 5'10" OH hitter with terrific court vision and the ability to find the court against any opponent. Mattila specializes in terminating fast sets to either pin and in the back row. Solid serve receive and defense have made Libby a stable six-rotation player for her MN Select 16-2 crew.<br /> <br /> </p> <p><strong>Emma Van Heel - Crossfire 16-1 - Right Side Hitter/Middle Blocker</strong></p> <p>Van Heel is a 5'11" hitter who plays well above the net and uses her volleyball IQ to find holes in opponents defense. Emma is capable of hitting in front and behind her setter, and uses her shots to score.  Her explosive athleticism and fast arm have made her an offensive and defensive threat for the Crossfire 16-1 team. </p>