Weekend Watchlist: Five Standout Liberos

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Liberos have been a focal point following the recent meeting of the NCAA women's volleyball rules committee, where the recommendation surfaced to allow each team to designate two liberos per set. The proposal aims to expand player participation, boost the game's dynamism, and potentially create more opportunities for talented individuals, like the five I'm about to introduce from the SCVA 16U Division, to pursue collegiate volleyball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["478293"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003ePayton Obermyer, LB, Surfside 16 Legends Wyatt u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003ePayton undeniably stands out as one of the most remarkable liberos in the gym. Her athletic talent is undeniable, but what truly sets her apart isn't solely her ability to read blocks or exhibit exceptional ball control—it's her personality. On the court, she's completely focused and driven. Payton's forte lies in her exceptional communication skills from the back row, constantly rallying and energizing her teammates. Her precision in delivering pinpoint passes and expert digs to her setter showcases her mastery, complemented by a disciplined and steady platform. Watching Payton play is simply fun; she's not only a player who consistently keeps the ball in play but also a catalyst for firing up her team. Her impactful presence warrants serious consideration on recruitment lists, as she possesses the potential to be a game-changer and a source of inspiration for her teammates.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-659cf44cc1705"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["482033"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e[player_tooltip player_id='482033' first='Mckenna' last='Giles'], LB - Pipeline 16-Adidasu003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eOver time, [player_tooltip player_id='482033' first='Mckenna' last='Giles'] has exhibited a steady and remarkable improvement in her game. While she initially showcased a notable skill set, her current performance reflects a heightened level of refinement and finesse. Mckenna has an exhilarating presence on the court, displaying an unwavering hunger for the ball. Her consistent engagement and rapid reactions to various in-game scenarios are particularly impressive. Excelling in both serve reception and defensive maneuvers, Mckenna's reading of the game stands out. However, what truly distinguishes her is the drive she exudes—an unmistakable determination and on-court attitude that propels her to help her team keep the game in motion.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-659cf44cc1796"} /--> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kenzie Houston, LB, Balboa Bay 16 Blue </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kenzie is a dynamic and relentless defender who refuses to let any ball hit the ground, showcasing exceptional determination in the backcourt. Her diligent work ethic is evident as she consistently reads serve receptions with precision, positioning herself expertly to effortlessly handle served balls. On the defensive front, her agility and swift footwork enable her to comfortably engage with the ball. Kenzie's ability to consistently make impactful plays grants her numerous touches, effectively propelling her team's offensive momentum. Notably, her disciplined platform and outstanding communication skills significantly add to her defensive prowess. Additionally, Kenzie plays a vital role in her team's service game, further solidifying her status as a key contributor and a prospect to keep on your radar.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tatawan Vongfak, LB - SG Elite 16 Roshambo</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Tatawan plays a pivotal role in the backcourt, serving as a key contributor. Her ability to consistently engage with the ball and communicate effectively makes her an invaluable asset. Tatawan's adeptness at staying low, coupled with quick and disciplined ball control, showcases her exceptional skills. Notably, she demonstrates remarkable consistency in setting up her hitters with the second ball while maintaining unwavering coverage, ensuring no lapse in defensive play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations":"","_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-659cf44cc17c5"} /--> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kate Schneider, LB - WAVE 16 Nancy</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kate earned her spot on my list due to her consistent performance in the backcourt. Her strength lies in maintaining a disciplined platform, managing serve receptions with precise angles. Kate's athleticism is evident as she maneuvers the court with confidence. Her skills allow her team to remain in system through accurate passing. Diligently she handles every ball within her zone, displaying a relentless work ethic to deliver for her team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://www.instagram.com/reel/C15lK06veJj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linku0026amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"instagram","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-instagram wp-block-embed-instagram"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://www.instagram.com/reel/C15lK06veJj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed -->