UA Next Kansas City Camp

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>PrepDig ventured boldly onto the snowy scene to join the esteemed Under Armour Next Camp Series, just before the highly anticipated Triple Crown event.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our aim? To highlight our talented California prospects as they demonstrated their skills in exciting drills and game situations. The atmosphere was electric, with high stakes and intense competition. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Their goal? To gain exposure and to earn the coveted Golden Ticket to play in the All-America game in Orlando, FL—an opportunity that we have witnessed which is truly one of a kind.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The gym was filled to the brim with top athletes from all over the country. Among them, a few standout names caught my attention:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["475339"],"_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='475339' first='Shaye' last='Witherspoon'] (2027), a towering 6'3 Outside Hitter representing [program_tooltip program_id='428799' first='Rockwood' last='Thunder'] 15 Elite, dominated today's camp with her exceptional performance. In my view, she stood out as the premier outside hitter in the gym. With a physique reminiscent of a collegiate athlete and formidable power behind her every move, Shaye's mechanics are flawless. Her approach is a model of perfection, and her arm swing is one of the smoothest I've witnessed from a 2027 athlete. This marks my second encounter with Shaye in an expo setting, the first being the NTDP, and each time, she dazzles in a manner that my notes read: u0022Her.u0022 Well deserved, she has become the youngest recipient of the MVP award at this camp.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-511889u0022 src=u0022https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_6306.jpg?w=102u0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022102u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["152936"],"_player_evaluations_1_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_1_player_featured_image":511870,"_player_evaluations_1_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"Lexi Gin, bound for Penn State University, undeniably stole the spotlight in my opinion as the standout Libero in today's gym session. What set her apart was not just her exceptional defensive prowess, but her unparalleled verbal skills on the court. Lexi is a master volleyball IQ communicator. She is not just rallying with athletes she has never played with before; she is also learning and using their names. Her command of the game was evident in every drill she participated in, where she consistently dominated the competition.rnrnu003ca href=u0022https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_5750-crop-2082x1367-1708244233.jpgu0022u003eu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-511888u0022 src=u0022https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_5750-crop-2082x1367-1708244233.jpg?w=300u0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022300u0022 height=u0022197u0022 /u003eu003c/au003e","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["154041"],"_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":"Logan Parks (2025), a dynamic 5'11 setter representing Mavs KC 17-1, stands out as one of the most impressive setters I've seen to date. Not only are her skills on the court phenomenal, but her infectious personality adds another level of brilliance to her game. Logan has a natural charisma that seems to illuminate the entire court, and her athleticism is evident in her seamless movement. Her connection with the ball is impeccable, and what's even more impressive is her ability to establish a strong rapport with hitters she's never worked with. While her deliveries to specific zones are executed with lightning speed, Logan also demonstrates the finesse to encourage hitters to unleash their attacks at an accelerated pace. I am thrilled to follow Miss Parks' incredible career as she truly is a standout athlete.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-511893u0022 src=u0022https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_6307.jpg?w=155u0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022155u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003e","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_player":["222076"],"_player_evaluations_3_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='222076' first='Abigail' last='Schoene'] (2026), a skilled 5'11 setter representing [program_tooltip program_id='428799' first='Rockwood' last='Thunder'], exhibited remarkable grace in her ball handling. Her hands demonstrated strength and precision, consistently delivering spot-on placements. What truly set her apart, however, was her infectious energy on the court.","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_player":["397441"],"_player_evaluations_4_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"Kenna Cogill, bound for the University of Oregon, commanded the court as the most dominant middle blocker of the session. With an impressive swing snap, she consistently executed perfectly placed corner shots, leaving opponents struggling to keep up with the momentum of her arm speed.","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_5_player":"","_player_evaluations_5_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_5_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_5_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_5_player_featured_image":511897,"_player_evaluations_5_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='540290' first='Janaya' last='Weitkemper'] (2025), a formidable 6'0 middle player from Mavs 816, boasts an athletic build that commands attention on the court. Her presence at the net presents a solid block that poses a challenge for opposing hitters. Janya's agility adds an extra dimension to her game, enabling her to maneuver swiftly on both offense and defense. What sets her apart is not just her offensive skills in attempting to lure the setter to set her for each play, but also her blocking technique. Rather than merely focusing on taking away a specific zone on the net, Janaya intelligently adjusts her block based on the hitter's swing, maximizing her effectiveness in disrupting their attack.","_player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_6_player":["397440"],"_player_evaluations_6_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_6_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_6_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_6_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_6_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_6_evaluation":"Teraya Sigler, committed to Nebraska, is the epitome of a powerhouse player. With her strong physique and vibrant personality, she commands attention on the court. Her dominance is undeniable as she consistently puts the ball away with fierce determination. Watching Teraya play is an absolute delight—a true testament to her skill and enjoyment of the game.","_player_evaluations_6_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":7,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65d1c4d6b6f65"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>The highlight of the day arrived as the camp drew to a close, with one of our California prospects clinching the highly sought-after Golden Ticket to compete in the prestigious All-America Game in Orlando, Florida, this coming January.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["189560"],"_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='189560' first='Taylor' last='Deckert'], committed to USC, demonstrated unwavering consistency in her precise deliveries to the setter on both offense or defense. Her greatest asset lies in her knack for reading the game and providing her setters with playable balls. In my view, Taylor exudes a composed and collected demeanor on the court, making her a valuable addition to the All-America team.rnrnu003cimg class=u0022alignnone size-medium wp-image-511878u0022 src=u0022https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_5821.jpg?w=204u0022 alt=u0022u0022 width=u0022204u0022 height=u0022300u0022 /u003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65d1c4d6b6fe1"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Joining Miss Deckert on the court were Josephine Park (2025), Paige Rudolph (2025), and [player_tooltip player_id='482033' first='Mckenna' last='Giles'] (2026), all in the libero position. Josephine impressed with her remarkable speed, while Paige exhibited flawless platform freezes, following textbook techniques. Mckenna, on the other hand, dominated the court, displaying exceptional ball control as she effortlessly scooped up balls from all directions. Consistently improving with each showing, Mckenna's performance continues to impress every time I watch her play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the middle position, [player_tooltip player_id='315212' first='Charlotte' last='Kelly'], committed to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and [player_tooltip player_id='295471' first='Ariel' last='Chime'] (2025) and put on an impressive display. Ariel, who is currently uncommitted, showcased her ability to connect with numerous setters on the court. She approaches each play with careful consideration of the ball's trajectory, demonstrating mastery in handling sets that are off. Ariel excels in overpass kills and setting up tall blocks. Charlotte's athleticism and excellent communication with various setters made her a force in the middle. On the slide, her encouragement to her setter to feed her the ball was evident by her communicating for them to “push it.”. And when they did, she unleashed powerful shots down the line with precision and force.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our pins, Sarah Hom, committed to Princeton University, and [player_tooltip player_id='382780' first='Maya' last='Banks'], committed to UNLV, both delivered stellar performances. Sarah's quiet demeanor did not affect her impeccable passing form, while Maya impressed with her precise serving and arm swing mechanics.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='391079' first='Finley' last='Krystkowiak'] (2026) stood out as one of the most physically imposing athletes in the 2026 class. Standing at 6'3", she excelled as an outside hitter, demonstrating a keen understanding of when to unleash her swing and when to rely on her shots. Her confidence on the court was remarkable, seemingly anticipating a kill with every approach.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":511901,"width":"145px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_6308.jpeg?w=567" alt="" class="wp-image-511901" style="width:145px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br>[player_tooltip player_id='454603' first='Asia' last='Udo-Ema'] (2027) continues to display remarkable growth and improvement. Her development in this position is evident as she consistently outplayed some of the top right-side blockers in the gym, a testament to her dedication and hard work.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":511902,"width":"154px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_6309.jpeg?w=675" alt="" class="wp-image-511902" style="width:154px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The majority of our California athletes at this camp were setters, with five setters representing our state as potential All-America athletes. Among them, Brooke Hanson, committed to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, stands out as a smooth conductor on the court, orchestrating plays with finesse.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"align":"left","id":511874,"width":"176px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_5776-rotated.jpg?w=768" alt="" class="wp-image-511874" style="width:176px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='292903' first='Emma' last='Rowell'] (2025) displayed exceptional court hustle, setting the pace with her speed and showcasing a beautiful touch on the ball. Her passion for the game shines through in her energetic play, making her a joy to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Melissa Jin (2025), with a quiet demeanor, demonstrates relentless hustle on the court, consistently delivering precise sets to her hitters with a calm efficiency.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='288679' first='Ava' last='McBride'] (2026), with her impressive athletic build, approaches the game with a serious demeanor, seemingly always analyzing and processing the game's dynamics.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":511903,"width":"177px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/02/IMG_6310.jpeg?w=825" alt="" class="wp-image-511903" style="width:177px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lastly, [player_tooltip player_id='482031' first='Londyn' last='Neal'] (2027) displays a confidence beyond her years, playing with precision and delivering sets with impeccable mechanics. Her consistent delivery of nicely placed sets showcases her maturity and skill level on the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Camp Series offers five additional opportunities for campers to showcase their skills, with scheduled dates as follows:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>March 14, 2024 - Indianapolis, IN<br>March 28, 2024 - Atlanta, GA<br>April 18, 2024 - Dallas, TX<br>June 29, 2024 - Orlando, FL<br>July 7, 2024 - Las Vegas, NV</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->