Freshman Watch: Early Kill Leaders
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Each new prep season presents an opportunity for freshmen to step in and make an immediate impact. Thus far in 2023, we are seeing a number step up for the respective programs. The season is just a month old, but…
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Continue ReadingEach new prep season presents an opportunity for freshmen to step in and make an immediate impact.
Thus far in 2023, we are seeing a number step up for the respective programs.
The season is just a month old, but here are 10 freshmen hitters that are putting up solid kill numbers already.
*Stats were provided through MaxPreps and Hudl
Kate Kalczynski Kate Kalczynski 6'1" | OH Mercy | 2027 State MI , OH Mercy
Kalczynski has stepped in and immediately become the primary hitting option for Mercy. The 6-foot freshman has 189 kills through 49 sets on the season. That includes eight double-digit kill performances.
Mallory Wandel Mallory Wandel 6'0" | OH Rockford | 2027 State MI , OH Rockford
Wandel is part of a deep Rockford offense, but has established herself as a promising start in the future. She has 172 kills through 56 sets, most of which come against top competition in the state. Wandel is proving she can finish against anyone.
Marlie Smith Marlie Smith 5'10" | S Clarkston | 2027 State MI , OH Clarkston
The outside/setter is staying as a primary hitter and defender this year, where she’s proving she’s got the talent to dominate as an outside. Smith already has 125 kills and is finishing from the back row on a consistent basis as well.
Aubrey Reynolds Aubrey Reynolds 5'9" | OH Caledonia | 2027 MI , OH Caledonia
Reynolds has added solid depth to the Caledonia offense, being a nice compliment to their lead junior hitters. Reynolds has 93 kills through 48 sets this season. She’s been steady and reliable when Caledonia has needed her.
Calli LeFevre Calli LeFevre 5'11" | OH Marian | 2027 State MI , OH Marian
One of two brand new outside hitters for Marian, LeFevre certainly has all the makings of a future star for the Mustangs. She’s racked up 92 kills through 41 sets and shown some dominant stretches of play at the net.
Grace Goodyke Grace Goodyke 6'1" | OH Grand Rapids Christian | 2027 State MI , OH GR Christian
In need of new hitters to established themselves, GRC has to be excited in what Goodyke has done. She’s taken on a lead role as a freshman and put down 89 kills over 31 sets while hitting .262. Goodyke had her best showing against Lakewood, recording 14 kills while hitting .310.
Kennedy Duncan Kennedy Duncan 5'10" | OH South Lyon | 2027 MI , OH/MH South Lyon
A freshman that can play the middle or the outside, Duncan has looked good early in her career for the Lions. She’s got 89 kills through 48 sets. That includes a 12-set performance against a tough Milford team in Lakes Valley Conference play.
Eleanor Williams Eleanor Williams 5'11" | RS Romeo | 2027 State MI , OH Romeo
Romeo is really excited about Williams and her potential. The freshman shows a lot of good technique and instincts already. She’s got 69 kills on the season against some strong competition. Her ability to raise her game in pressure situations is impressive.
Sophia Smith Sophia Smith 6'2" | RS Marian | 2027 State MI , OH Marian
Like her teammate LeFevre, Smith is getting a chance to have an immediate impact with the three-time defending D1 champs. She’s recorded 68 kills through 42 sets and is a regular part of the offensive rotation. A 7-kill performance where she hit .600 against Divine Child gives an indicator to her potential.
Cynthia Ockerman Cynthia Ockerman 6'3" | MB Brighton | 2027 State MI , MH Brighton
Brighton has been able to be the surprise team thus far in Division 1 thanks in part to the addition of Ockerman. She joins a senior-heavy offense, but is a perfect compliment as a 6’3” middle. Ockerman has 61 kills over 28 sets, hitting a very impressive .381 on the season. Her most recent outing saw her hit .500 and record seven kills against Hartland in a KLAA victory.