Bluegrass Week Two Wrap-Up, Part One

<p>This past weekend was the first ever week two edition of the Bluegrass Invite in Louisville. I had the distinct pleasure of reffing this tournament, and got to see my fair share of Hoosiers in action in multiple clubs.</p> <p><strong>’23, [player_tooltip player_id="138729" first="Audrey" last="Oxley"], 5-6, DS, KIVA 17 Black, Corydon Central</strong></p> <p>It is rare, but there are Hoosiers getting exceptional training across the Ohio River in Kentucky. Of those, Audrey is probably the best passer, and defends as a libero should, even though she’s used as a three-rotation DS on this squad. She primarily plays middle back, and her pursuit from corner to corner is exemplary. It is also important to note that Miss Oxley is playing up a year in club, and plays a solid club schedule to boot. Hopefully, I get to see more of her in the fall.</p> <p><strong>’22, [player_tooltip player_id="85731" first="Libby" last="Ochs"], 5-6, S/DS, Team Indiana Elite 17 Molten, North Central</strong></p> <p>The primary setter for TI’s 17-2s is a spitfire of a setter who is relentless in her work ethic and more than makes up for her size on both offense and defense. I watched this particular team struggle to pass, to attack, to.....well, everything, and Libby kept being positive and led her team the best she could. Her hands are great, setting a hittable ball to all hitters, front and back row. She’s also an above-average defender, making the "DS" portion of her profile that much more versatile.</p> <p><strong>’22, [player_tooltip player_id="108838" first="Raven" last="Rayford"], 5-6, OH, Team Indiana Elite 17 Molten</strong></p> <p>Although listed as a DS on the roster, and used as such early in the season, she played a primary passing six rotation outside hitter for the time I saw her on my court. A high flying, physical attacker, she has all the shots and can receive serve well. Smaller schools will do well with her as an OH2, while larger schools might see her as a three rotation DS.</p>