SCVA 17U Event #2: Without the Ball

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>PrepDig hit the courts at Open Gym Premier in Anaheim to witness the extraordinary talent showcased at the 17U level. As anticipated, each player demonstrated exceptional serving, hitting, and blocking abilities. While disparities in skills were evident, the level of analysis at this stage transcends that of younger age groups.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At younger ages, volleyball presents a physical challenge, often emphasizing mechanics, fundamentals, and the spectacle of young athletes navigating their frequently long limbs. Conversely, at older ages, the game revolves more around mentality and volleyball IQ, highlighting a deeper understanding and strategic approach to the sport.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In a delightful courtside exchange, I had the pleasure of conversing with Dak Sivertson, assistant coach from Cal State San Marcos, who was diligently analyzing athletes of his own. We discussed the nuanced approach at this level, acknowledging the significance of assessing athletes between plays rather than solely during the action. It was during this conversation that Dak coined the title for this article, stating, "I like to watch players without the ball." His insight immediately resonated with me, prompting a grateful smile as I thanked him for suggesting the title change from "Between the Plays" to "Without the Ball." True to my word, I assured coach Sivertson of full credit for his contribution. Thank you, coach!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Without further delay, let's delve into listing some standout players who truly left an impression with their remarkable character.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["223808"],"_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":"[player_tooltip player_id='223808' first='Nazare' last='Judd'] - WAVE 17 JulianarnrnNazara epitomizes the quintessential court leader every team desires. She not only communicates effectively but also uplifts and directs her teammates with unwavering authority. Amidst challenging situations, she maintains a positive demeanor, whether it's engaging with a heavily involved referee or rallying her team from behind with an insatiable hunger for the ball. Even in the intense rivalry game against cross-town opponents, she exudes a calm and collected presence, showcasing her remarkable character under pressure. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["478922"],"_player_evaluations_1_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='478922' first='Julia' last='Marinesi'] - COAST 17-BelarnrnJulia radiates focus and commitment on the court. She consistently connects with her teammates, offering individual encouragement and support. Notably coachable, she demonstrates a proactive approach by seeking feedback from her coach after a missed serve, showing a willingness to improve. Even when not actively playing, Julia remains engaged in the game, exemplified by her attentiveness as a line judge, where she accurately called a foot fault. Her attentive and coachable nature truly sets her apart. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["181900"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"Gabriella Green - A4 Volley 17-JoacornrnGabriella excels in communication, fostering strong connections not only with her hitters but also with her coach. Her ability to ensure the court is operating smoothly for everyone is a particular strength. Between plays, she actively engages in discussions with her hitters, attentively addressing their preferences for her sets and meticulously conducting height and tempo checks. Gabriella's dedication to effective communication and attention to detail truly sets her apart on the court. 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Her thought process is almost palpable as she awaits serve receive, showcasing her astute awareness on the court. Not only is she highly encouraging, but she also excels in adapting to on-court adjustments, whether through self-corrections or guidance from the coach. Kelsey's exceptional communication skills and unwavering encouragement to teammates make her a standout presence on the court. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_5_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_5_player_details_player_name":"Ayla Johanski","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_5_player_details_graduating_class":"","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_5_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_5_player_details_position":"","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_5_player_details_school":"","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_5_player_details_club_team":"SoCal VBC 17-Beacons","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_5_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_5_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"Ayla Johanski - SoCal VBC 17-BeaconsrnrnAyla ignites the court with her blazing speed and fiery determination, igniting her team's momentum. 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Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_6_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_6_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_6_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_6_player_details_player_name":"Macey Smith","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_6_player_details_graduating_class":"","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_6_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_6_player_details_position":"","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_6_player_details_school":"","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_6_player_details_club_team":"Tstreet 17-Predney","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_6_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_6_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_6_evaluation":"Macey Smith - Tstreet 17-PredneyrnrnMacey's radiant smile illuminates the court, reflecting her vibrant and positively charged energy. Despite not fitting the traditional mold of a libero in terms of height, she commands the position with remarkable prowess and skill. Her exceptional ability to read and track the game is evident, coupled with her unwavering communication skills that uplift and guide her teammates. Macey's unique blend of qualities truly makes her a standout presence on the court. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_6_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_7_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_7_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_7_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_7_player_details_player_name":"Josephine Park","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_7_player_details_graduating_class":"","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_7_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_7_player_details_position":"","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_7_player_details_school":"","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_7_player_details_club_team":"FORZA1 NORTH 17 ONE","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_7_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_7_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_7_evaluation":"Josephine Park - FORZA1 NORTH 17 ONErnrnJosephine exemplifies strong communication skills within her team dynamics. I appreciated witnessing her proactive approach in checking in with her middle blocker for necessary adjustments and strategizing during gameplay. Notably, Josephine demonstrates resilience by swiftly recovering from errors, all while maintaining a positive attitude and making necessary corrections. Her ability to effectively communicate, adapt, and remain optimistic highlights her remarkable character on the court. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_7_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":8,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65c12c3b3c2db"} /-->