Class of 2023 Middle Blockers to See in Wisconsin
The Middle Blocker is like the front line of defense. Most middles start out with the focus of moving laterally and getting the block, but by this point, some are developing into real offensive threats as well. Middles nowadays are expected to…
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Continue ReadingThe Middle Blocker is like the front line of defense. Most middles start out with the focus of moving laterally and getting the block, but by this point, some are developing into real offensive threats as well. Middles nowadays are expected to be extremely powerful, agile, and have a long reach. The pins usually get most of the glory, but if the middles aren’t holding the attention of the opposing block, their job gets much tougher. Most game strategy starts with establishing the middle attack early and using them often. When this is achieved, the opposing defense has to pay attention and this causes blockers to wait a little longer or make incorrect first steps.
Here are some high-level middles who may also be considered diamonds in the rough. No matter what you consider them, they are all players you will want to watch out for in the Wisconsin Class of 2023.
Abby Walsh – 2023 – 5’11 – Middle Blocker – Watertown – River City 16 Blue
Walsh has a reach to close the block and smother opposing attackers. Just when opposing hitters think they can expose the seam, Walsh slams the window shut. Walsh is very quick off the ground, has a heavy arm, and is really physical at the net. She is an instinctive frontline player who can make an impact defensively and offensively. She can put up a big block but also has a booming arm that can take care of an overpass or find an open spot in the corner.
Meghan Scholz Meghan Scholz 6'3" | MB Tomahawk | 2023 State WI – 2023 – 6’4 – Middle Blocker – Tomahawk – Wisconsin Ice 16 Purple
Scholz hits the ball like she’s mad at it. Sometimes when she really gets ahold of it, you almost feel bad for the ball. Scholz can swing from anywhere along the net, off any tempo, and is effective at all of them. She plays the game with passion, and she’s exciting to watch. I think the best part is that she still has such a high ceiling, and the sky really is the limit for her.
Addison Janus – 2023 – Middle Blocker – Waunakee – Madison Sting United 16 Red
Janus is developing into quite the force at the net, and her discipline is undeniably a difference-maker during gameplay. When she extends her long arms to block, it causes a panic for opposing attackers. Janus was one of the quickest middle hitters in the 16’s division, and her lateral quickness is what first caught my attention. This makes her extremely critical, not only when holding the opposing defense’s attention but also as a blocker. I will be watching out for Janus to really come into her own in the next couple years.
Olivia Lasee Olivia Lasee 6'3" | MB Appleton North | 2023 State WI – 6’3 – Middle Blocker – De Pere – FC Elite 16 Navy
Lasee has a lightning-quick armswing that makes her very efficient on offense. She shows off sound footwork in transition, and she stays balanced when approaching to the ball. Lasee drives in hard and aggressively, giving her momentum and power in her swing. This athlete has a bright future if she continues in her development.
Marissa Duddeck – 2023 – 5’10 – Middle Blocker – Lakeside Lutheran – River City 16 Blue
When Duddeck attacks out of the middle, she creates a lot of force, elevates, and can see what spot of the court to attack. She can run slides behind her setter, Olivia Bartels, and is a big defensive presence along the net for River City. Duddeck is developing into quite an all-around athlete and she gets a ton of block touches.