Game-Changers on Social Media This Week

In today's fast-paced recruiting landscape, social media has become a game-changer for volleyball players looking to gain exposure. A single highlight reel can capture the attention of college coaches, showcase skills, and create opportunities that might not have been possible otherwise. While recruitment is about more than just views, the impact of a well-timed play, a clutch dig, or a powerful swing can't be ignored.   At PrepDigCA, we spotlight athletes who bring energy, skill, and dedication to the court. Whether their reels rack up thousands of views or simply catch the right coach's eye, every post is a chance to stand out. This week, we're featuring players who have turned their social media highlights into must-watch moments.   Who are the athletes behind the reels? Read on to see their stories, their plays, and how they're making a name for themselves in the volleyball world. Keep tagging @PrepDigCA in your posts—you never know who's watching!    [player_tooltip player_id='469145' first='Blair' last='Gardiner']'s reel showcases her strengths as a player by demonstrating her ability to go against the flow and disguise her set choices while remaining disciplined on defense instead of releasing early to the net. In her reel, Blair creates multiple one-on-one situations for her hitters, providing them with the necessary tempo and time to score. She includes defensive reactions and digs that illustrate how she stays back on defense, and she occasionally throws a dump to keep opposing defenders honest, hoping to slow them down from releasing, and then transitions into faster tempo sets so her hitters can beat the defenders down the line or through gaps in the block.   Recently, Blair has been working hard to improve her game by incorporating more plyometrics into her lifting routine to increase her vertical jump and speed, and she has been practicing setting wall drills to fine-tune her touch on the ball and improve her consistency. Blair wants college coaches to know that she works hard in every practice, no matter how she is feeling. She always plays hard to win, playing for an audience of one, and gives the glory to God, who has given her the ability to chase her goals and dreams—He is her biggest motivation. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF1Fk3jyhMp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDigCA: @blairgardiner_vb @a4volley Quote: Never say die</a>   For more on Blair, visit her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic6GsnkTqcg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube Page</a> or her <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/blair-gardiner/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDig profile</a>.   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DG1wEkrvOlF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Update - Blair posted this inspirational recovery video. </a>     [player_tooltip player_id='525010' first='Ava' last='Duran'] stands out in her reel for her ability to secure kills from nearly anywhere on the court, showcasing her capability to play multiple positions effectively. This versatility highlights not only her offensive prowess but also her coachable nature and willingness to work hard in any role assigned by her coach. In the reel, she made deliberate decisions to emphasize her adaptability by incorporating popular music and on-screen text to capture the audience's attention.   On her new team, Ava has been focused on mastering the outside position, aiming to be as effective in that role as she has been in the middle blocker position. She has expanded her offensive repertoire by using a variety of shots—including off-the-block attacks, controlled roll shots, sharp angle, and corner shots—rather than relying solely on power. Additionally, she has been dedicating extra time in the gym to improve her vertical, continually striving to build on her already strong foundation.   Coaches will appreciate that Ava is an extremely versatile player, capable of contributing in both the front row and back row. Known for her relentless work ethic both in and out of the gym, she is committed to being the best player and teammate she can be. Her disciplined, team-first attitude, diligence, and competitive spirit, all delivered with a fun and positive demeanor, make her a well-rounded and impactful athlete on the court. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFqd2swx3V0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDigCA: @duran_volleyball2027 @redrockvball Quote: Hits from [program_tooltip program_id='510737' first='Nor' last='Cal'] Qualifier. My team battled to place 2nd! Had so much fun playing with my teammates!</a>   For more on Ava, visit her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8w7ot7EXMk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube Page</a> or her <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/ava-duran/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDig profile</a>.     [player_tooltip player_id='507980' first='Ameira' last='Hardin'] is a dynamic player whose athleticism, jumping ability, and constant movement on the floor showcase her strengths. In her reel, she demonstrates her quick decision-making by choosing whether to swing line or angle, and she executes high swings to hit off the blockers' hands.   Recently, Hardin has focused on refining her technique by opening her chest more when swinging, extending her reach during transitions to hit, and building greater confidence in her passing. She is relentless in the pursuit of her goals—self-driven and confident in her current skills as well as her ability to learn new ones. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFqJNyjyuF2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDigCA: @ameira_hardin @dartfrog_volleyball Quote: SCVA Event #1 - Highlights 16's DartFrog vs United 1/20/25 </a>   For more on Ameira, visit her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_rh4eovh3xhnOZzh3HgOOQ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube </a>or her <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/ameira-hardin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDig profile</a>.     Olivia Hickey's highlight reel showcases her versatility as both an offensive and defensive playmaker. As a setter, she carefully selected clips that demonstrate not only her precise sets and well-timed dumps but also her ability to contribute on defense with key digs and blocks. Her reel also serves as a testament to the success of her team and the chemistry she builds with her hitters during a strong weekend of competition.   Understanding that coaches receive countless emails, Olivia strategically uses short-form highlight reels to quickly grab attention. Through fast-paced editing, music, and effects, she aims to create an engaging snapshot of her abilities—one that encourages coaches to watch her full tournament footage and explore her resume further.   As competition continues to get stronger and smarter, Olivia embraces the challenge of outmaneuvering blockers. She thrives in high-level play, where strategic decision-making dictates who she sets and why. Beyond countless reps and play variations, she dedicates herself to early-morning gym sessions before school, training not only her body but also her mental toughness.   Olivia's relentless work ethic has been a defining trait throughout her athletic career. During her freshman year, her varsity team struggled with an 0-5 start before switching to a 5-1 system with Olivia as the starting setter. The change sparked an 11-match win streak, culminating in a section title in one of the most competitive divisions. Moments like these have reinforced her belief in perseverance, adaptability, and trust in her teammates.   Her drive and commitment extend far beyond volleyball. At just nine years old, she completed a half-marathon with her dad, transforming self-doubt into confidence through training and discipline. That experience shaped her approach to both academics, where she maintains a 4.0+ GPA, and volleyball, where she consistently pushes herself and embraces the lessons that come with every win and loss. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFoiwhIvnro/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDigCA: @livyhickeyvb2027 @synergyforcevbc</a>   For more on Livy, visit her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@oliviahickey2027" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a> or her <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/olivia-hickey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDig profile</a>.     Maren McBride's highlight reel showcases her ability to move the ball effectively, keeping blockers off balance while consistently finding the hot hitter. As a setter, one of her biggest responsibilities is reading blocking matchups and making quick, strategic decisions on where to set. Her reel also highlights her versatility as a dual-role player, excelling as both a 6-rotation setter and right-side hitter.   Recently, Maren has been focused on advancing her game by incorporating faster offensive sets such as gos, huts, and slides to maximize efficiency with her hitters. On the attacking side, she has been refining her line shot, aiming to become a more dynamic scoring threat. She is eager to continue showcasing her growth in future competitions.   Beyond her technical skills, Maren thrives in a team-oriented environment and takes pride in being part of a strong volleyball community. She values the close-knit, supportive culture at [program_tooltip program_id='429323' first='Actyve' last='Volleyball Club'], which has helped shape her as both a player and a competitor. College coaches will appreciate her adaptability, leadership, and ability to contribute in multiple roles on the court. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFeOxrkvB7Z/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDigCA: @maren_mcbridevb29 @actyvevolleyball Quote: Highlights from SCVA tourney 2! (S/RS #21)</a>   For more on Maren, visit her <a href="https://prepdig.com/player/maren-mcbride/">PrepDig profile</a>.    Ready to elevate your game? Tag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDigCA</a> in your reels—whether it's an epic block or a flawless set. Each post puts your talent in front of recruiters, coaches, and fans nationwide, turning your highlights into opportunities.   Your next big break could be just one post away!   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, show your support by following <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en">PrepDigCA</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachable247/?hl=en">Coachable247</a>, for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes action, and a closer look at the volleyball community you love.</h3>   Together, we're building a positive platform to celebrate players, empower families, and connect with the volleyball community. Thank you to all of our subscribers for being an essential part of this journey. Let's keep growing the game and creating unforgettable memories.   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Michelle Bamford @<a href="https://www.coachable247.com/">Coachable247</a>

In today's fast-paced recruiting landscape, social media has become a game-changer for volleyball players looking to gain exposure. A single highlight reel can capture the attention of college coaches, showcase skills, and create opportunities that might not have been possible otherwise. While recruitment is about more than just views, the impact of a well-timed play, a clutch dig, or a powerful swing can't be ignored.