Oklahoma Rankings Tournament Preview: 15s and 16s

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Oklahoma Rankings Tournament, an invite-only tournament with the state's best teams, will be held this weekend at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. This event is an important step toward the Regionals Tournament in May because it has top-level competition in several divisions. As we prepare for intense games, let's look at some great teams looking to make a splash in the 15s and 16s division this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Oklahoma Peak (15-1)</strong> has a very good offense, and <strong>Sloane Rattay</strong> is in charge of it. Sloane is a powerful outside hitter, and her high touch point lets her easily hit over most blocks her age. She is very strong, and she also knows how to get around even the best defenders' blocks. This weekend's battle will test her skill at this level. Because she knows the court so well and has a natural feel for the game, she is a key player to keep an eye on.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Coming up quickly behind is <strong>[program_tooltip program_id='432025' first='OK' last='Charge'] 15 UA</strong>, which has standouts like outside hitter <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='533456' first='Avery' last='Hamilton']</strong> (known for her quick swings) and middle blocker <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='739808' first='Marley' last='Robbins']</strong>. When it comes to the net, Marley changes the game because she can hit from different angles, which makes her a desirable prospect for college recruiters. Her length and skill to press over the net make it very hard for the other team's hitters. She could become a powerful force at the net if she keeps working on her ability to read attackers and close gaps.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On the other hand, <strong>[program_tooltip program_id='432025' first='OK' last='Charge'] 15 UA Tulsa</strong> has disciplined, smart players like defense specialist/libero <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='752561' first='Lyrik' last='Fessenden']</strong> and setter [player_tooltip player_id='740828' first='Anistyn' last='Wondra'] who are ready to play against the best teams. Lyrik's passing style is similar to that of the best liberos in the country. Her precise footwork and angle passing make sure that the setter gets accurate feeds, which cuts down on mistakes and sets the tone for her team's attack. She is a great defensive player because she works hard, reacts quickly, and can keep runs going. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='740828' first='Anistyn' last='Wondra']</strong> is a powerful setter who runs a high-level, fast-paced attack with confidence that belies her age. She is an important playmaker because she has strong hands and can pass the ball anywhere, no matter what the move is. She also adds another tool to her arsenal: her aggressive serving, which always puts pressure on opponents and helps her team score runs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Shifting our focus to the 16s division, <strong>UPVBC 16 Elite</strong> stands out. They are led by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='741346' first='Marissa' last='Maritz']</strong>, a strong middle blocker. Marissa makes herself known on both sides of the net, where her great reach and ability to read setters make her a blocking powerhouse. Because she has good reflexes, she can close blocks well and stop other players from hitting. On offense, she's just as strong—her quick changes of speed and powerful attacks, like well-executed slides and smart shot placement, keep defenders on their toes. Marissa is always a threat at the net because she is so quick and sure of herself when she ends. <strong>Valerie Courtney</strong>, a middle blocker, acts as a support for the defense next to her. Because of her size and strength, she is a big force at the net, stopping opposing offenses all the time and being a strong presence for UPVBC 16 Elite.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Virago (16-1)</strong>'s outside attacker, [player_tooltip player_id='734803' first='Bella' last='Hoisington'] looks like a player with a lot of promise. She is one of the powerhouses on her team looking to upset the competition. Her powerful swing and well-timed plays get people's attention, but she's still working on being consistent so she can have the most effect. When Bella is in the groove, she hits hard balls that show off her speed and attacking potential. Being able to change with the game is another thing that makes her important. She keeps working on her game and finding ways to help across the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This level of skill means that the fight in the 15s and 16s division is going to be very exciting. Watch out to see which team can handle the task this weekend!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Stay tuned for more articles on Oklahoma's finest volleyballers! If you have anyone that you think we should keep an eye out for, please e-mail me at abisnailjoy@gmail.com. To help these athletes get exposure, please repost and share this article on your social media as well as with family and friends.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->