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<p>The world of youth volleyball is constantly evolving, with new players emerging every year who challenge the norms and expectations of the sport. Among the bright talents making their mark in the 2025 USAV Florida Gold Series, a group of 14-year-old girls stood out for their exceptional skills, and passion for the game. From versatile all-around players to specialized specialists who excel at their respective positions, these young athletes constantly pushed the envelope throughout the tournament.</p>
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<p><img class="wp-image-742098" style="width: 150px" src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/01/img_0158-1.jpg" alt=""><strong>#12 Cecilia Marcinek (MH)…Pinellas Heat</strong></p>
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<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DExaJ9PJtBZ/?igsh=azlzdTRwOTk1Z2k2">https://www.instagram.com/reel/DExaJ9PJtBZ/?igsh=azlzdTRwOTk1Z2k2</a><br>A remarkable middle hitter, Cecilia Marcinek's ability to transition off the net is impressive for someone of her age. Not only does she attack with power and precision, but her aggressive approach belies her years of experience. Quick off the net, she gives her setter a reliable option and is a key player who can alter the momentum of a match with her timing and force at the net.</p>
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<p><strong>#2 Tenley Youngquist (MH)…USA South</strong><br>A fierce middle hitter, Tenley Youngquist also has solid blocking skills. Her ability to strike with intensity as the ball rises makes her a challenge for any opponent to defend, and her consistency in all facets of the game sets her apart as a future leader for USA South.</p>
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<p><img class="wp-image-742107" style="width: 150px" src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/01/img_0209-1-crop-1080x710-1736851715.jpg" alt=""><strong>#37 Lauryn Williams (MH)…JJVA</strong><br>A mobile middle hitter, Lauryn Williams excels at moving across the net while blocking. Her quick transitions and athletic approach make her an unpredictable presence, and her awareness of where her setter is located ensures that she is always an option at the net. Lauryn's ability to move quickly and read the game makes her a standout on JJVA Teal.</p>
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<p><img class="wp-image-742108" style="width: 150px" src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/01/img_0163-1-crop-1080x710-1736851798.jpg" alt=""><strong>#8 [player_tooltip player_id='738488' first='Allison' last='Small'] (RS)…JJVA</strong><br>As a right-side hitter, this player excels in blocking and attacking with impeccable timing. She's comfortable at both the middle and right-side positions, showcasing her ability to adjust and adapt based on the team's needs. Her well-rounded play and versatility makes her a priceless athlete and teammate to have.</p>
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<p><img class="wp-image-742110" style="width: 150px" src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/01/img_0161-1-crop-1080x710-1736851968.jpg" alt=""><strong>#23 [player_tooltip player_id='741791' first='Ana' last='Simanic'] (S)…JJVA</strong></p>
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<p> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEyY8MopUEO/?img_index=1&igsh=MTQ3NjNhdnEwbjkwbA%3D%3D">https://www.instagram.com/p/DEyY8MopUEO/?img_index=1&igsh=MTQ3NjNhdnEwbjkwbA%3D%3D</a><br>[player_tooltip player_id='741791' first='Ana' last='Simanic']'s setting mechanics are the epitome of seamless. Calm, composed, and precise, her footwork and movement allow her to set from any position with ease. Not only does Ana possess exceptional setting skills, but she is also capable of attacking at both pins, giving her team yet another offensive weapon in her arsenal.</p>
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<p><strong>#14 Chiara Gagliano (S)…Gulfside</strong><br>Chiara Gagliano is a setter who is always thinking two steps ahead. Her fast feet and quick wit allow her to make precise decisions in high-pressure situations, setting her team up for success. With an offensive-minded approach, Chiara's ability to handle passed balls with ease and set her team up for consistent offense makes her a standout setter.</p>
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<p><img class="wp-image-742103" style="width: 150px" src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/01/img_0210-1.jpg" alt=""><strong>#22 [player_tooltip player_id='741785' first='Nina' last='Simanic'] (OH)…JJVA</strong></p>
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<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEyhmxTJGoJ/?igsh=bHNuMDFvMXl2YTMw&img_index=1">https://www.instagram.com/p/DEyhmxTJGoJ/?igsh=bHNuMDFvMXl2YTMw&img_index=1</a><br>[player_tooltip player_id='741785' first='Nina' last='Simanic'] plays with a fierce determination that is evident in every aspect of her game. Her low-to-the-net stinger serves keep opponents on their toes, while her speed and agility in transitions make her a dangerous player in both offense and defense. As a passer, Nina's solid platform and commitment to holding it after contact are crucial to her team's success.</p>
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<p><img class="wp-image-742104" style="width: 150px" src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/01/img_0156-1.jpg" alt=""><strong>#16 [player_tooltip player_id='553634' first='Sophia' last='Baron'] (OH)…Gulfside</strong><br>[player_tooltip player_id='553634' first='Sophia' last='Baron']'s communication skills and transition skills are second to none. Her ability to move athleticly, quickly allows her to generate such power that she often lands in the front row when making a back row attack. Baron is a 6 rotation outside hitter that is not afraid to step in to set a ball when called upon.</p>
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<p><strong>#44 Emma Eisenman (OH)…Pinellas Heat</strong></p>
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<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEvUY7mBben/?igsh=MTBwMDdta3AyeGVqZQ%3D%3D">https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEvUY7mBben/?igsh=MTBwMDdta3AyeGVqZQ%3D%3D</a><br>An athlete who never seems to stop, Emma Eisenman brings a relentless energy to her team. A fearless passer who will use her hands in serve receive—a rare trait for someone so young—Emma's versatility makes her a key contributor both in the front and back rows. Her all-around performance and ability to maintain composure under pressure have made her a trusted source of stability for Pinellas Heat.</p>
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The world of youth volleyball is constantly evolving, with new players emerging every year who challenge the norms and expectations of the sport. Among the bright talents making their mark in the 2025 USAV Florida Gold Series, a group of 14-year-old girls stood out for their exceptional skills, and passion for the game. From versatile all-around players to specialized specialists who excel at their respective positions, these young athletes constantly pushed the envelope throughout the tournament.
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