Scouting Practice: LAVA West 16 Molten

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>PrepDig recently visited a 16u practice session at Lava West Volleyball Club located in Thousand Oaks, California. The club's distinctive Lava jerseys are a familiar sight at SCVA tournaments, but lately, the Lava West 16 Molten team has been making a statement beyond just their appearance. With remarkable performances and victories, they've garnered attention and respect from their rivals. Their impressive mid-season achievements have propelled them to the top division in the SCVA.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"align":"left","id":526083,"width":"159px","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/5/2024/03/IMG_7893.jpeg?w=688" alt="" class="wp-image-526083" style="width:159px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Tonight was dedicated to practice, honing skills in preparation for the prestigious national stage. Lava West is poised for the 2024 Pacific Northwest Girls National Qualifier, a crucial event on their journey. Guided by Coach Rachel Gam, a distinguished athlete with a legacy of achievements including two-time All-League, All-County, and All-CIF selections at Oak Park High School. Her collegiate journey, thriving both indoors at UC San Diego during her undergrad years and on the beach at Cal State Northridge while pursuing her Masters, instills confidence in her roster which is filled with athletes who also play both indoors and beach. With her strategic planning, Rachel has positioned her team favorably, ready to seize a coveted bid. Their destination in 2 days is Spokane, Washington, where they'll battle it out among 29 formidable teams for one of three bids in the highly competitive USA Division.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"align":"right","id":526085,"width":"309px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/03/IMG_7895-crop-1032x678-1711648339.jpeg?w=800" alt="" class="wp-image-526085" style="width:309px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>While I'll personally be attending the Red Rock Rave this weekend, I firmly believe that one of the most effective ways to evaluate an athlete is by observing them during their practice sessions, ideally without their knowledge. This approach offers a valuable opportunity to assess players' technical abilities without the intense pressure of a live game. Attending practices allows for a thorough evaluation of how coachable players are and their responsiveness to coaching instructions and corrections, as well as their ability to adapt in real-time situations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Observing a practice provides insights into the player's work ethic and their attitude toward teammates and coaches. It offers a glimpse into their willingness to push themselves during drills and scrimmages. Additionally, it allows for observation of their interpersonal skills, including how they interact with teammates, communicate on the court, and whether they possess the necessary talent and physical readiness for collegiate-level competition.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"align":"left","id":526084,"width":"163px","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/5/2024/03/IMG_7894.jpeg?w=753" alt="" class="wp-image-526084" style="width:163px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In tonight's practice, the team showcased a remarkable synergy, with vibrant energy and seamless communication throughout. Assistant coaches Brittney Mukhar and Sage McClain played active roles in fostering team morale and ensuring a relentless pace. The team's most formidable asset proved to be their serving skills, executed with both aggression and precision. Coach Rachel runs the team through serving drills four separate times during each practice and that consistency shows. I found myself thoroughly impressed by their collective serving and blocking skills. Nonetheless, my main objective for the evening was to provide more exposure to the standout practice performers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Let's take a look:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":526435,"_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Addison Low","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'11u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"32924","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Dos Pueblos High School","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"LAVA - West 16 Molten","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"Addison Low, affectionately known as Addie, shines as a standout player for LAVA West 16 Molten, commanding the middle with her quick agility. In tonight's practice, Addie utilizes her length to execute plays effortlessly on both offense and defense. Her swift attacks are unmatched, consistently making contact with the ball at its highest point and delivering powerful swings. A force to be reckoned with at the net, her blocking reads are of the highest caliber, showcasing her agility and quick reflexes. Beyond her practice performance, Addie's ambition extends to both indoor and beach volleyball at the collegiate level. Her unwavering dedication to perfecting her craft is evident in her commitment, commuting over an hour from Santa Barbara to practice, underscoring her exceptional athleticism, character, and determination.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eAfter the practice, I caught up with Addie to ask about her expectations for Spokane. u0022One thing I'm eager for in Spokane is to piece together the skills I've been refining in practice and contribute to our team's quest to secure a bid,u0022 she shared enthusiastically.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eMichelle Bamford @ PrepDigu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu0026nbsp;","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-66065978d4266"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/21458570/65b8490abee0f41190007e53' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-66065978d4338"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["525198"],"_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: 400u0022u003eCharlotte Hastings was a true stand-out performer of the night. She holds a remarkable blend of coachability, talent, and tenacity. Charlotte eagerly embraces feedback and swiftly implements corrections, showcasing a commendable willingness to push herself beyond her limits. She has great technique refinement, coupled with a commendable commute from Santa Barbara, underscores her unwavering commitment to excellence, making her a serious asset to any collegiate team fortunate enough to sign her. u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMichelle Bamford @PrepDigu003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["517491"],"_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":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHalle Rillie's game looks great. Watching her run the court, she gives a true essence of leadership. Her volleyball IQ and impeccable decision-making skills elevate her to the forefront of the game, as she orchestrates the offense with precision and finesse. Despite a rigorous commute from Santa Barbara, Halle's infectious energy and unwavering commitment to her craft inspire those around her, setting a standard of excellence for her teammates to aspire to. With her ability to command the court and deliver flawless sets, Halle emerges as a standout prospect destined for collegiate stardom. Michelle Bamford @PrepDigu003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["503490"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_player_featured_image":526077,"_player_evaluations_2_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eAlexa May seamlessly transitions into her new role as a libero with a natural grace and unparalleled discipline. Her instinctive platform work and impeccable reading of the game reflect a deep understanding of her position, while her strategic serving highlights a serious tactical awareness and a commitment to precision. Alexa's vocal presence on the court exemplifies leadership, as she demonstrates unwavering dedication to her craft and supports her teammates. She sets a shining example of relentless determination to hustle after the balls and an unwavering commitment to excellence on the court. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_player_details_selected_featured_image":526078,"_player_evaluations_3_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_3_player_details_player_name":"Madelyn Miller","_player_evaluations_3_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_3_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_3_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_3_player_details_height":"5'11u0022","_player_evaluations_3_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_3_player_details_position":"32924","_player_evaluations_3_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_3_player_details_school":"","_player_evaluations_3_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_3_player_details_club_team":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_player_evaluations_3_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_3_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_3_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMadelyn Miller radiates quiet confidence following an impressive blocking showing at a recent tournament. In practice, I can see her unwavering work ethic as she tirelessly refines her technical abilities by blocking through a hula hoop across the net. Her technique at the net on both offense and defense is solid. As a true team player, she not only excels individually but she is consistently uplifting her teammates throughout practice. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_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":526137,"_player_evaluations_4_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_4_player_details_player_name":"Mia Giorgi","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_4_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_4_player_details_height":"6'0u0022","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_4_player_details_position":"32925","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_4_player_details_school":"Adolfo Camarillo High School","_player_evaluations_4_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_4_player_details_club_team":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_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":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMia Giorgi plays with infectious enthusiasm. Her powerful swings effortlessly penetrate even the most formidable blocks, a testament to her exceptional skill set and relentless dedication. In practice, everyone celebrates her success on the court. Standing tall and commanding, Mia's imposing presence is further accentuated by her ability to put up solid blocks herself. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_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":526075,"_player_evaluations_5_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_5_player_details_player_name":"[player_tooltip player_id='528986' first='Abby' last='Kolder']","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_5_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_5_player_details_height":"6'2u0022","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_5_player_details_position":"32924","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_5_player_details_school":"Oaks Christian","_player_evaluations_5_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_5_player_details_club_team":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_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":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e[player_tooltip player_id='528986' first='Abby' last='Kolder'] stands out as a pillar of strength and resilience in the middle blocker position. With her athleticism, speed, and formidable blocking talents, Abby exudes confidence and determination with every move. Her positive self-talk and unwavering resolve in the face of practice challenges exemplify a commendable work ethic and a relentless pursuit of improvement. A dual threat on both offense and defense, Abby commands attention and respect on the court, warranting serious consideration as a game-changing asset. Whichever college she chooses will undoubtedly gain a highly dedicated athlete. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_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":"[player_tooltip player_id='526145' first='Addison' last='Bays']","_player_evaluations_6_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_6_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_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":"32926","_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":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_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":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e[player_tooltip player_id='526145' first='Addison' last='Bays'] is a relentless competitor, driven by a burning desire for success and a commendable work ethic. Despite facing stiff competition for playing time, Addison distinguishes herself through her unwavering hustle and determination, leaving it all on the court with every play. Her versatility as both an outside and right-side option showcases a depth of talent and a willingness to adapt, while her commitment to making plays underscores a genuine passion for the game and a relentless pursuit of making plays. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_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":"Cassidy Knox","_player_evaluations_7_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_7_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_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":"32926","_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":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_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":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eCassidy Knox is a quick study on the court, exemplifying a commendable willingness to learn and adapt. Her rapid adjustment in positioning reflects an awareness and a dedication to continuous improvement, while her confident play and seamless communication with teammates highlight her leadership qualities. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_7_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_8_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_8_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_8_player_details_selected_featured_image":526076,"_player_evaluations_8_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_8_player_details_player_name":"Hailey Lauritzen","_player_evaluations_8_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_8_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_8_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_8_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_8_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_8_player_details_position":"32561","_player_evaluations_8_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_8_player_details_school":"","_player_evaluations_8_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_8_player_details_club_team":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_player_evaluations_8_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_8_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_8_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_8_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHailey Lauritzen stands with strength, agility, and unparalleled communication on the court. She has impeccable decision-making skills and precise ball placement. Hailey orchestrates the offense with confidence, ensuring optimal execution with every set. Her tireless pursuit of perfection and relentless work ethic shine through in every aspect of her game, as she consistently pushes herself throughout practice. A remarkable note, Hailey served a flawless 25-0 game for her 15-2's team at the Red Rock tournament in 2023. Hailey is a standout prospect destined for collegiate success. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_8_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_9_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_9_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_9_player_details_selected_featured_image":526079,"_player_evaluations_9_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_9_player_details_player_name":"Leah Curtin","_player_evaluations_9_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_9_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_9_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_9_player_details_height":"5'8u0022","_player_evaluations_9_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_9_player_details_position":"32564","_player_evaluations_9_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_9_player_details_school":"Thousand Oaks","_player_evaluations_9_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_9_player_details_club_team":"LAVA West 16 Molten","_player_evaluations_9_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_9_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_9_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_9_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eLeah Curtin emerges as a shining star on the court, radiating positivity, athleticism, and sheer talent. Her explosive jumps and lightning-fast arm swing demonstrate a level of finesse and precision that is truly awe-inspiring. With a solid approach, Leah meticulously selects her shots, showcasing a refined technique that sets her apart from her teammates. With her positivity and energy in practice, Leah's infectious enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a serious contender for any collegiate roster. Michelle Bamford @ Prepdigu003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_9_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":10,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6605ab11e359a"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We wish them all the luck as they head to the Pacific Northwest Qualifier. Their first match is Friday, March 29 at 9:00 AM at the Spokane Convention Center on court 16 vs Club ZZU 16 National from Moscow, Idaho.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bring home the Bid, ladies!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":526080,"width":"550px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/03/IMG_7892.jpeg?w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-526080" style="width:550px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->