Freshman of the Week
![Freshman of the Week](https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/PD-FreshmanoftheWeek-2.jpg?w=865)
In this article:
Making the varsity team as a freshman is no small feat. However, these incredible freshman athletes are not just stopping at being on the team; they’re making a name for themselves. PrepDig is witnessing these remarkable athletes putting in the…
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Continue ReadingMaking the varsity team as a freshman is no small feat. However, these incredible freshman athletes are not just stopping at being on the team; they’re making a name for themselves. PrepDig is witnessing these remarkable athletes putting in the grind.
Asia Udo-Ema
Asia
Udo-Ema
6’0″ | OH
Corona Centennial | 2027
State
CA
plays the court with confidence. Her passing game is top-notch. With her extended approach on the outside, she consistently scores kills on both the left and right sides of the court. Her rapid transition skills make her a reliable option in every play. Moreover, she stands out as a go-to hitter in the back row for her setter.
In her own words, “I feel like being a freshman on Varsity has impacted me to step up for my team. My high school team is really young and there are only about 4 seniors on the team. I’ve had to fill a role of an upperclassmen and lead my team to the best of my abilities. It may seem like a lot of pressure to put on a freshman, but my coach and I trust that I can handle it. Overall, it has positively impacted my maturity and how I now have to make changes to better my team.”
Highlights
![Mckenna McIntosh](https://prepdig.com/wp-content/themes/prep-network-content/public/images/generic-female.png)
Mckenna McIntosh
Mckenna McIntosh
Mckenna McIntosh defies the typical freshman look. Far from displaying rookie nerves, her court presence is nothing short of commanding. Standing tall at 6 feet 1 inch, McKenna is the go-to player for scoring points. As a powerful outside hitter, her speedy arm swing effortlessly sends the ball past opposing defenders, scoring impressive kills for her team.
But McKenna isn’t just a threat at the net – her serves are a force to be reckoned with. When she steps up to the service line, opponents better be ready for a challenge. McKenna’s back row attacks are a true spectacle, showcasing the beauty of her skills. What sets her apart is not just her height and strength but also her exceptional footwork, which allows her to create the perfect setup for her attacks. She gives herself plenty of room to execute her plays with precision.
McKenna will be playing for Vision VBX in San Jose, California. Keep an eye on this rising star as she continues to make waves both in high school and beyond!
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Saaliyah Brown Saaliyah Brown 5'10" | MB Etiwanda | 2027 State CA
Saaliyah Brown Saaliyah Brown 5'10" | MB Etiwanda | 2027 State CA
Saaliyah Brown Saaliyah Brown 5’10” | MB Etiwanda | 2027 State CA impresses with her swift transition, repositioning herself to stay active in the game at every opportunity. Whether the set is perfect or not, she demonstrates a clever ability to effectively tip the ball. Saaliyah is versatile in her attacks, showcasing a powerful high arm swing from the right side, the middle, and the left. Even when she opts for a tip, she executes it with aggression. Notably, her defensive skills shine as she consistently positions herself well on the block, even against opponents who are not hitting the ball straight down.
![Ajahliah Paleafei](https://prepdig.com/wp-content/themes/prep-network-content/public/images/generic-female.png)
Ajahliah Paleafei
Ajahliah Paleafei
Ajahliah Paleafei is a force to be reckoned with as a freshman on the varsity volleyball team. She has impressive power with her attacks on the ball. Her jumps reach great heights, and she snaps the ball with remarkable speed. Adding to her skill set, she delivers a beautiful, extended float serve, which frequently catches opponents off guard and leads to aces.
![Brianna Nottingham](https://prepdig.com/wp-content/themes/prep-network-content/public/images/generic-female.png)
Brianna Nottingham
Brianna Nottingham
Brianna Nottingham dominates both the left and right sides of the volleyball court with her formidable skills. Her expertise lies in precisely tracking the ball and executing the crucial last two steps to connect with it. Brianna possesses a keen ability to read the opposing block, allowing her to strategically place the ball in play. Her powerful swings often result in well-placed shots across the court, and she also demonstrates finesse in skillful tipping maneuvers.
![Alice Burgett](https://prepdig.com/wp-content/themes/prep-network-content/public/images/generic-female.png)
Alice Burgett
Alice Burgett
Alice Burgett stands out as a quick setter with the ability to execute precise sets. Beyond her role in running the Varsity offense as a freshman, Alice possesses a remarkable offensive skill set, particularly with her sneaky tipping maneuvers. Her serves standout, consistently earning numerous aces in zone 7. On the defensive end, Alice demonstrates discipline by staying vigilant and positioned, contributing to the team’s overall strategy.