Mitty Battles Marin Catholic: Top Performers in CIF Showdown

PrepDig traveled to the picturesque town of Kentfield, CA, a place that felt straight out of the movie, The Goonies. Here, the stage was set at Marin Catholic for an electrifying matchup against Mitty in the first round of the Open Division CIF State Regional Championship. Both teams brought their A-game, vying for the chance to advance to the next stage.   Mitty delivered a commanding performance, showcasing their talent-packed roster that features six players already committed to playing at the collegiate level:   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='508795' first='Makenna' last='Crosson'] – University of Minnesota</li>   <li>Kacie Caoili – Cal Poly Pomona</li>   <li>Nicole Macalintal – Fairfield University</li>   <li>Misaki Harte – Babson College</li>   <li>[player_tooltip player_id='478925' first='Leyna' last='Nguyen'] – Loyola University Chicago</li>   <li>[player_tooltip player_id='538061' first='Isabella' last='Romero'] – UC Irvine</li> </ul>   For those committed and not, every player on both rosters played a vital role in their team's journey to this championship, embodying the dedication required to reach this level. Below are my notes on the standout performers who made an impact in the game.    Committed to the University of Minnesota, Makenna is a dominant outside hitter whose attacking prowess is nearly impossible to contain. She brings versatility to her team, excelling both at the net and as a reliable option for back-row attacks. Her high, controlled swing on the outside is a hallmark of her game, allowing her to generate consistent, powerful kills.   Makenna's ability to hit with solid open-hand contact creates impressive power and precision. Whether she's hammering a sharp angle or threading the needle down the line, her shot selection is strategic and effective. She keeps defenders guessing by moving the ball around with ease.   What truly sets Makenna apart is her impeccable timing and ability to rise above blockers. Her high-flying athleticism and court presence make her a standout performer, capable of taking over a game with her offensive firepower. From front-row dominance to back-row reliability, she is a crucial asset on the court. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     A standout freshman who plays with maturity and confidence well beyond her years, Chayse is a force to be reckoned with at the net. Her poise and skill make her a key contributor on both offense and defense, proving she belongs on the big stage.   Defensively, Chayse is a pivotal part of her team's three-person block, using her height, timing, and positioning to challenge even the strongest outside hitters. She transitions quickly and effectively from defense to offense, capitalizing on opportunities to make an immediate impact.   On the attack, Chayse delivers with precision and power, consistently scoring down the line and showing an ability to adapt based on the defense in front of her. Her decision-making is sharp, knowing when to unleash a full-powered swing and when to strategically place a tip.   Chayse's ability to read the game and execute with precision makes her a rising star. Her presence on the court is undeniable, and her contributions as a freshman are setting the foundation for an exceptional career ahead. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Committed to Cal Poly Pomona, Kacie is a solid setter who plays with a unique combination of hustle and grace, making her a key facilitator on the court. Her ability to deliver consistent, precise sets across the net allows her hitters to execute with confidence, whether she's setting to the outside, middle, or right side. Her hands are quick and clean, ensuring smooth transitions and fluid offensive plays.   Kacie's court awareness extends beyond her setting skills. She utilizes a smart, well-placed tip to keep opponents off balance, effectively turning defensive situations into offensive opportunities. Additionally, she contributes defensively with a strong block against outside hitters, using her technique and timing to challenge attackers at the net.   Kacie's blend of finesse and grit ensures her impact is felt in every rally. Her leadership and decision-making make her a setter her team can rely on in high-pressure situations, a quality that will undoubtedly translate well at the collegiate level. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Committed to Fairfield University, Nicole is a textbook example of strong fundamentals and smart gameplay. Her consistency in serve-receive and defense makes her an indispensable player, showcasing her ability to handle high-pressure situations with ease and precision.   Nicole's ball control is exceptional, as she consistently delivers passes that are picture-perfect and land exactly where the setter needs them. Her ability to read opposing hitters and anticipate the play allows her to position herself perfectly, turning tough defensive situations into offensive opportunities for her team.   From the service line, Nicole is equally impactful. Her serves are not only accurate but also strategically placed, putting pressure on the opposing team's serve-receive and often disrupting their offensive rhythm.   Nicole's skill set, combined with her composure and court awareness, makes her a standout performer. Fairfield is gaining a player who will contribute immediately with her technical excellence and high volleyball IQ. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Katelyn is a relentless worker who embodies the team-first mentality, consistently putting herself in the best positions to contribute to her team's success. As a middle blocker, she is always active and engaged, making herself a constant and reliable option for the setter in both transition and in-system plays.   Offensively, Katelyn's quick movements and sharp instincts allow her to create opportunities at the net. She reads the setter well and is ready to execute with precision, whether it's delivering a quick hit or adjusting to a tough set. Her ability to stay available ensures her team's offense remains dynamic and difficult for opponents to predict.   Defensively, Katelyn's hustle and determination shine. She works tirelessly to close blocks and create a strong wall against opposing hitters. Her presence in the middle is a stabilizing force, providing both offensive firepower and defensive consistency. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Committed to Occidental College, Jasmine is a highly athletic player whose movements across the net are both fluid and explosive. Her agility allows her to quickly adjust to any offensive play, whether she's transitioning from defense to offense or positioning herself for an attacking opportunity.   Defensively, Jasmine is a standout with her solid blocking technique. She reads the hitter's approach well, using her quick reflexes and impeccable timing to make key stops at the net. Her ability to close the block and shut down outside hitters adds a significant layer of strength to her team's defense.   Jasmine's overall athleticism allows her to be a dynamic presence on both sides of the ball. Whether she's working to close the block or transitioning for an offensive play, her versatility and court awareness make her a constant threat on the floor. Occidental is gaining a player who can contribute immediately with both her physical skill and volleyball IQ. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Rania is a skilled setter with exceptional hands and court awareness. She delivers sets with precision, consistently placing the ball in the prime zones for her hitters to attack with power and accuracy. Whether it's a quick set in the middle or a ball to the outside, Rania's ability to read the game and make accurate decisions makes her a standout playmaker on the court.   Her movement is fluid and efficient; she moves around the court with ease, positioning herself in the perfect spot to set her teammates. Her hustle is evident as she works tirelessly to keep the ball in play and get it to her hitters in the best possible position.   Rania's court communication is a key element of her leadership. She's constantly vocal, ensuring that her teammates are in sync with her sets and making sure that everyone is on the same page during fast-paced rallies. This communication adds to her ability to set a consistent tempo and rhythm for the offense.   One of Rania's most impressive qualities is her ability to deliver quick, accurate sets on the move, particularly under pressure. Whether it's a set off a dig or a ball coming from an off-speed pass, she stays composed and delivers perfect sets even on the run. Her picture-perfect sets along the net make her a crucial part of her team's offensive success. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Eden is an outside hitter who consistently challenges blocks with her impressive high swing. Her ability to generate power and accuracy on her attacks allows her to effectively combat opposing blockers, often finding ways to score even against well-positioned defenses.   Her high, aggressive swing gives her the ability to hit around the block, making her a formidable presence at the net. She excels at adjusting her shots based on the positioning of the blockers, utilizing both power and placement to attack from different angles. Whether it's a sharp angle or a deep line shot, Eden's versatility in attack keeps defenders guessing. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig       Krystal is an imposing presence on the court, both in stature and skill. Standing tall and with a well-built frame, she embodies the perfect combination of physicality and finesse, making her a dominant force on the right side. Her size and strength give her the ability to challenge blockers with authority, while her technical abilities allow her to execute with precision.   As a left-handed hitter, Krystal brings a unique advantage to her team. Her strong snap on the ball creates both power and sharp angles that keep defenders on their heels. Her ability to find open spaces and her deceptive speed make her a go-to option in high-pressure moments.   Beyond her offensive capabilities, Krystal's physical presence is a valuable asset on defense. Her height allows her to dominate at the net, making her a key blocker and a disruptive force for opposing hitters. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Committed to Boston College, Chloe is a highly focused and skilled player who excels at both offense and defense. Her court awareness is outstanding, especially when it comes to handling overpasses. Chloe is dialed in during these situations, consistently turning what could be a defensive mistake into an offensive opportunity by making precise and powerful attacks.   At the net, Chloe stands out for her ability to create scoring opportunities from almost any angle. She effortlessly adjusts her approach to hit sharp angles, keeping defenders guessing and opening up the court for her team. Her versatility allows her to attack from different positions, making her a tough player to defend against.   Chloe's high volleyball IQ is apparent in her ability to read the game and react quickly to changing situations. Whether it's handling an overpass or finding an opening to score, she makes quick decisions that consistently benefit her team. Her offensive adaptability, combined with her solid defense, makes her a well-rounded and invaluable player on the court. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig     Carolina is a well-rounded outside hitter known for her strong fundamentals and versatility. Her approach to the ball is textbook perfect, allowing her to attack with power and precision. She moves with confidence and purpose, setting herself up for effective, aggressive swings from the outside.   In addition to her offensive skills, Carolina excels in serve receive. Her passing fundamentals are solid, and she consistently delivers accurate passes that allow her setter to run a smooth offense. Her calm, composed demeanor in serve receive situations helps keep her team in system, making her an integral part of the team's passing game.   Carolina's back-row play is also noteworthy. She's capable of attacking from the back row with both speed and accuracy, making her a double-threat on the court. Whether she's transitioning quickly to a back-row attack or adjusting her approach to deliver a well-placed shot, Carolina's ability to make an impact from the back row keeps opposing defenses on their toes. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig       Sierra plays with solid movement and exceptional skills in both serve receive and defense. She moves seamlessly around the court, positioning herself perfectly to dig up even the toughest of balls. Her quick lateral movement and anticipation allow her to make difficult defensive plays look effortless.   On defense, Sierra is consistently reliable. She has an innate ability to read the hitter's intentions, often getting in position just in time to dig up hard-hitting attacks that would challenge most defenders. Her ability to track and adjust to the ball's trajectory makes her a standout on defense, especially when facing powerful or unpredictable attacks.   One of Sierra's greatest strengths is her court communication. She is constantly vocal, directing her teammates and helping to keep the team organized during fast-paced rallies. Her leadership on the floor not only enhances her own play but also elevates the performance of those around her. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig        If you loved this article, please follow our Instagram page, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en">PrepDigCA</a> for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes action.   After following our page, take the next step and subscribe to PrepDig! By subscribing, you'll not only stay connected to the latest coverage of your favorite events, but you'll also be helping to shine a spotlight on rising volleyball talent.   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PrepDig traveled to the picturesque town of Kentfield, CA, a place that felt straight out of the movie, The Goonies. Here, the stage was set at Marin Catholic for an electrifying matchup against Mitty in the first round of the Open Division CIF State Regional Championship. Both teams brought their A-game, vying for the chance to advance to the next stage.