Prospect Voices: USAV NTDP Spring Training Series U15-U16
In the dynamic world of volleyball, every player has a story to tell, and their voices resonate powerfully, especially those who have earned the coveted invitation to the National Team Development Program (NTDP) Spring Training Session in Florida this weekend. It’s an experience where aspirations meet opportunity, where dreams take flight, and where young athletes hone their skills to reach new heights. Ahead of the NTDP, players have been invited to share their voices, offering insights into their aspirations, experiences, and what sets them apart on the court.
Abbie Hairrell Abbie Hairrell 6'3" | MB Redondo Union | 2027 CA
Hi my name is Abbie Hairrell Abbie Hairrell 6’3″ | MB Redondo Union | 2027 CA and I am a 6’3 Middle blocker from SCVC 15 Roxy.
I am a two-time team captain for my club and I was selected to play on varsity for playoffs/CIF this year at Redondo Union! I started playing volleyball in 7th grade for my middle school team after I gave up playing club soccer. I was a little late to the game in realizing that volleyball is the best sport!! My best friends are my teammates and I appreciate how many connections and opportunities that volleyball has brought me. I was named to the 2024 JVA watchlist and the 2024 AVCA Top Phenom watchlist. I have been on Principals Honor Roll for the past 7 semesters and an active member in Student Council since 4th grade. 4th grade is also the same year that I passed up my mom in height! But I am humbled and so grateful for all the chance to travel to Florida and train with NTDP. It might be just one of the best things that has happened to me yet! This is my first year attending but excited to meet new talented players and learn new things from the coaches there! I am used to traveling for volleyball because of qualifiers and nationals but the three-hour time difference is going to be hard which is why preparation is so important.
I am excited to bring my skills and positive attitude to the U-15/16 NTDP Training!
Provided to Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig
Highlights
McKenna McIntosh McKenna McIntosh 6'1" | OH St Mary’s | 2027 CA
This year just keeps getting better! Playing as a six-rotation Outside Hitter isn’t what sets me apart on the court. Instead, the variation of my game, powerful back row attacks, strong mindset and optimism is what truly distinguishes me. Playing on the St Mary’s Varsity volleyball team as a freshman was a season of growth and gratitude for me. Being surrounded by exceptional teammates, we finished the year as D1 Section Champions, the first time in over 20 years, and I received several accolades including MaxPreps Freshman All American and PrepVolleyball – 2027 Player of the Year Finalist.
These accomplishments coupled with my first invite to the NTDP Spring and Summer Programs fuels me to continue developing my game. Being a first-time participant, I am looking forward to being surrounded by a variety of elite talent, connecting with players from other parts of the country and learning new strategies and techniques from high level college coaches.
This year I made a successful transition to Vision Volleyball in San Jose, CA. This move requires a 3hr commute to train three days a week all while maintaining a 3.6 GPA. I love my new team and the way we have come together. We took first place at Far Westerns and third place at the Salt Lake City Showdown, double qualifying in 15-Open for USAV Nationals. On my off days, I play high school Beach Volleyball and even practice with my high school boy’s team. I am a multisport athlete, love spending time with my family and friends and consume as much volleyball as I can watching and learning from Collegiate, Professional and Men’s Volleyball players. I am honored to be representing NCVA for the U16 group.
Provided to Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig
Highlights
Kiersten Moore Kiersten Moore 5'10" | S Vista Murrieta | 2027 CA
Hi! I’m Kiersten Moore Kiersten Moore 5’10” | S Vista Murrieta | 2027 CA class of 2027 setter from Forza 1 Volleyball, and I’ve been playing for around 6 years. My team and I have recently double-open qualified at Lone Star and Far Western.
I’ve recently received my very first invite to NTDP U16 to train with high-level athletes and coaches. Since this session takes place in Florida, knowing that it is three hours ahead of California. I’m looking forward to the ability to play with girls that I usually play against and also learning from the other setters as well. I’m anticipating that my ability to set balls from long distances well will help me stand out on the volleyball court.
Provided to Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig
Highlights
Westley Matavao Westley Matavao 6'0" | OH Mater Dei | 2027 CA
TALOFA!
First and foremost I’d like to thank Hevenly Father for his continued blessings. I’m Westley Matavao Westley Matavao 6’0″ | OH Mater Dei | 2027 CA – Pin for FORZA1N 16ONES. A new freshman at Mater Dei high school, formerly OLU. I was All CIF First Team. First team all league. MVP. More recently, first place in Far Western Qualifier and Bidded.
NTDP is HUGE! Im beyond blessed to be invited, I’m so looking forward to meeting and learning from the best coaches in the country. It’s awesome I get to train with great athletes, who I know I’ll learn from, also I can’t to see Florida beaches cause my family is from Hawaii and I love to go beach. Cheeeeeee
Travel doesn’t affect my game but let me knock on wood lol. What I’m hoping will stand out on the court is my game, leadership and I like to think of my team as family so I’m hoping to do that in Florida.
And s/o to Mrs Courtney Smith from NTDP for being awesome.
Provided to Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig
Highlights
If you are interested in learning more about the USAV NTDP, selection for NTDP training and competitive events hinges on identification through their extensive nationwide scouting network. For indoor athletes, their website emphasizes the critical need to maintain an updated profile on University Athlete throughout the year.
Learn More @ National Team Development Program – USA Volleyball
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