Next Five: ’24s In The Middle
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We continue our small series on the next five players that will make an impact in college by positions. This time around we’re looking at middles that are at the tail end of their freshman years, and 15s (or higher)…
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Continue ReadingWe continue our small series on the next five players that will make an impact in college by positions. This time around we’re looking at middles that are at the tail end of their freshman years, and 15s (or higher) age groups. There are a couple of basketball-first players on this list, so here’s to hoping they come to volleyball permanently.
Faith Wiseman Faith Wiseman 6'4" | MB Indian Creek | 2024 State IN , 6-4, Indian Creek HS
A basketball-first player, Faith is a little-known prospect because she doesn’t play club. Her natural athleticism has gotten her this far, and her knowledge of the game is only going to increase. Starting all season as the M2 at small Indian Creek has given her the experience that few get—playing high-level talent at a young age. Stay tuned with this one, I should have an update in August.
Abby Sollenberger Abby Sollenberger 6'2" | MB Brownsburg | 2024 State IN , 6-2, Circle City 15 White, Brownsburg HS
Abby is the M1 for Brownsburg’s JV team, and plays as the M2 on Circle’s 15-3 squad. She came on the scene last fall as a heavy-hitting middle that uses her size to her advantage. Her development has only increased with the higher level of play. I also believe she’s playing club for the first time this season. Her strength gets her high marks from us.
Jenna Heidbreder Jenna Heidbreder 6'0" | MB Floyd Central | 2024 State IN , 6-0, KIVA 15 Red, Floyd Central HS
It’s hard to make a club team. It is exceptionally hard to make a 1s team. Add to it that this is KIVA we’re talking about; they don’t just take anyone. High-level training unmatched in the Louisville area, Jenna is playing a hybrid position of middle and right side, and her natural volleyball acuity is improving with every match. I would love to see this kid play varsity in the fall, and I don’t believe there’s enough size at Floyd to keep her from doing so.
Evie Dart Evie Dart 5'11" | MB Avon | 2024 State IN , 5-11, Circle City 15 Purple, Avon HS
An immediate plug-and-play M2 for any team, Evie has progressed quickly off of two feet, and her ultra-long arms and stride help her defend from pin to pin with ease. I don’t have her as high on this list simply because I’m waiting for her to either grow or jump touch past 9-6—or both. Nevertheless, this is a volleydork through and through, and her gym rat personality will carry her far. She’s also getting great training from Scott McQueen both in club and high school.
Zyon Francis, 6-0, Academy 15 Elite Venom, Franklin Central HS
If there’s anyone that knows how to come back from a major knee surgery or injury, look no further than Miss Francis. Anyone who goes through what she’s been through the last year plus has seen her lowest of lows, followed by the highest of highs. I’m impressed that Zyon not only came back from major surgery, but has thrived for Academy’s 15-1 team. She still jumps past 9-6, and is slowly inching towards ten feet. I am rooting HARD for this kid, as her perseverance and love of the game has made her an exemplary recruit.