SCVA 17U Event #2: Without the Ball Pt.3

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This weekend, 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":["228682"],"_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='228682' first='Kayla' last='Ostovar'] - Miz LB 17 Rockstaru003cbru003eu003cbru003eKayla truly stood out on the court as an exceptional leader. Her role as a positive court communicator was undeniable, constantly providing vocal support and guidance to her team. Kayla's unwavering positivity made her the most vocal player on the team, uplifting everyone around her. She consistently checked in with players and coaches, demonstrating her commitment to the team's success. Kayla's energy was infectious, inspiring her teammates to perform at their best. One of the most memorable moments was after an error, she passionately reassured her team with a resounding u0022we are good.u0022 This collective spirit, emphasizing unity and resilience, embodies Kayla's remarkable character. Her immense heart and unwavering dedication are qualities that cannot be taught, making her a truly invaluable asset to her team. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["366845"],"_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='366845' first='Quinn' last='Loper'] - WAVE 17 Julianau003cbru003eu003cbru003eQuinn embodies positivity in a way that is truly remarkable. Throughout her team's intense battle against a cross-town rival, she maintained a composed and collected demeanor, never allowing the pressure to affect her attitude. A constant presence on the court is her infectious smile, reflecting her unwavering positivity. Quinn's all-star on-the-court attitude is unparalleled, making her one of the most uplifting players I have ever witnessed. Even in matches that didn't end in her team's favor, she exhibited complete class, showing respect not only to her own teammates but also to her opponents. Her impressive character of the day set an exemplary standard, establishing her as a role model for sportsmanship and positivity. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["292903"],"_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":"[player_tooltip player_id='292903' first='Emma' last='Rowell'] - Surfside 17 Legends Loriannu003cbru003eu003cbru003eEmma's play is characterized by both a radiant smile and swift agility on the court. As a skilled setter, she exhibits a strong sense of ownership, constantly making self-adjustments to ensure her hitters can execute at quicker tempos. Her proactive approach and dedication to optimizing her team's performance demonstrate her exceptional character as a player. 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Not only does she excel in communicating effectively with her team and orchestrating the offense, but she goes above and beyond by ensuring clear comprehension among her hitters. Anya's leadership extends beyond calling plays; she actively engages with her hitters, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding to achieve the team's overarching goal. Her dedication to fostering cohesion and effectiveness within the team exemplifies her outstanding character as a leader on the court. Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_4_player_details_player_name":"Sierra Lever","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_4_player_details_graduating_class":"","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_4_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_4_player_details_position":"","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_4_player_details_school":"","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_4_player_details_club_team":"COAST 17-Bela","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_4_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_4_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"Sierra Lever - COAST 17-Belau003cbru003eu003cbru003eSierra's standout quality is her positivity and communication with her teammates. 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Watching her play was truly a delight, thanks to her vibrant and supportive character.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eMichelle 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":"Addyson Benefield","_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":"Surfside 17 Legends Loriann","_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":"Addyson Benefield - Surfside 17 Legends Loriannu003cbru003eu003cbru003eAddyson's infectious smile lights up the court as she plays, exuding an unmistakable joy for the game and an eagerness to be on the court. 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