2A Preview: The Dark Horses

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Use code KypDig2024 to save $10 off of your registration to either our Stock Up Showcase or our Freshman Showcase August 3!</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>So far, the previews have come pretty easily to me. However, with all of the upheaval, graduation and teams changing classes, today's article might be the toughest. To pick only two teams for this edition of the previews leaves out so many others that feel they have a fighting chance to make it all the way to Worthen Arena in early November. Here they are, with the returnees that should make a difference.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Woodlan (25-6)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>After an epic season last fall, the Warriors look to reset and make a return trip to the latter part of October. However, it is unclear to us at PD who might be part of that reset. The top attacker returning is <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='513646' first='Alyssa' last='Anderson'],</strong> whose size and skill will be much needed to keep up with the other big and strong middles in the Fort Wayne area and beyond. <strong>Makenna Smith</strong> returning at the libero definitely gives a feeling of consistency in serve receive, so there's a good place to start. Unfortunately, this squad is going to need more than two players to make a run. Here's to hoping that their JV program from a year ago learns a ton, and quickly.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Western Boone (20-9)</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Moving from 3A to 2A is HUGE for the Stars. However, seeing up-and-coming volleyball power Benton Central in their own sectional certainly didn't help matters. Here's to hoping that the "blind draw gods" are kind to both teams and don't have them meet until the final. That being said, there's a ton that comes back for another 20-win season, starting with Middle Tennessee commit <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='154814' first='Raegan' last='Durbin'].</strong> A First Team All-State honoree in 3A from a season ago, this young lady can and will do everything in her power to keep her senior season going as long as possible. At six kills per set, the offense is clearly going through her. Miss Durbin's supporting cast has a bunch of athleticism and experience as well. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='487350' first='Emmerson' last='Gott']</strong> has size in the middle and improved a ton after a solid club season. Her length will keep some offenses from fully firing, and her high attack point will be key against the bigger programs. <strong>Alyssa White</strong> is another big option, who could legitimately play either right side or middle if she wanted. <strong>Olivia Smith</strong> returns with the special jersey on, solidifying the defense and serve receive. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='157436' first='Janie' last='Ransom']</strong> can run an offense with the best of them, and looks to do just that this fall. With all of this talent returning, is THIS the year of the Stars?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->