ZBT Recap: 17's Bid Winners

The 17s division at the 2025 Zelinkoff Bid Tournament was packed with talent, as some of Colorado's top teams battled for their shot at Nationals. [program_tooltip program_id='429602' first='Colorado' last='Juniors'] 17 Kaleena emerged as the dominant force, securing the championship and a coveted National division bid. NORCO 17 Black put together a strong tournament run, finishing as the runner-up and proving they can compete with the best. Meanwhile, [program_tooltip program_id='429639' first='Front' last='Range'] 17 Black fought hard to claim third place and a well-earned Freedom Bid.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[program_tooltip program_id='429602' first='Colorado' last='Juniors'] 17 Kaleena</h2>   [program_tooltip program_id='429602' first='Colorado' last='Juniors'] 17 Kaleena dominated the 17s division at the 2025 Zelinkoff Bid Tournament, securing their National bid with a strong, well-rounded performance. Based in Monument, [program_tooltip program_id='429602' first='Colorado' last='Juniors'] is known for developing high-level athletes through elite technical training and a competitive, disciplined program. This team is stacked with future collegiate talent, as five players have already committed to play at the next level: [player_tooltip player_id='738568' first='Whitney' last='Dewicki'] (Washington State), [player_tooltip player_id='735716' first='Tatelyn' last='Brandsma'] (Samford), [player_tooltip player_id='738566' first='Morgan' last='Holloman'] (TCU), [player_tooltip player_id='738569' first='Ava' last='Johnson'] (Texas Tech), and [player_tooltip player_id='738570' first='Kaylynn' last='Pardue'] (UTEP). Their championship run at ZBT further solidifies the club's reputation as a powerhouse in the Rocky Mountain Region.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">NORCO 17 Black</h2>   NORCO 17 Black battled their way to a strong second-place finish, showcasing their depth and resilience throughout the tournament. As we mentioned in the 16's recap, NORCO is well known in the region for producing high-level athletes, and this squad is no exception, with four players already committed to play at the next level: Tessa Dodd (Kansas), Olivia Ewing (Colorado State), [player_tooltip player_id='215096' first='Kate' last='Schroetlin'] (University of Nebraska - Omaha), and Madelyn Bahnsen (University of Missouri - KC). This team proved that they have the talent and ability to compete with the best in the region and we can't wait to see how they stack up at Nationals!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">[program_tooltip program_id='429639' first='Front' last='Range'] 17 Black</h2>   Finishing in third place and securing a Freedom Bid was [program_tooltip program_id='429639' first='Front' last='Range'] 17 Black, a team that showed grit throughout the tournament. Based in Englewood, [program_tooltip program_id='429639' first='Front' last='Range'] Volleyball Club has a long history of competing at a high level and developing next-level athletes. Leading the way for 17 Black is [player_tooltip player_id='738567' first='Logan' last='Cary'], a standout player committed to San Diego State University. Their performance at ZBT demonstrated their ability to compete with top teams in the region and earned them a well-deserved spot at Nationals.   For colleges looking for 2026s, here are a few to keep an eye on from these teams:    Betschart is a dynamic OH/DS with an exceptional defensive presence in the back row. Her ability to read the game, stay composed under pressure, and dig hard-driven balls with ease makes her a key asset to her team. She brings a scrappy, relentless energy to the court, keeping plays alive with her quick reactions and smooth ball control. Whether making a clutch dig or covering every inch of the floor, Betschart's defensive skills set her apart as a difference-maker.     Gardner, a setter for NORCO 17 Black, is a fast and intelligent playmaker who keeps opposing defenses on their toes. She makes smart setting decisions, using her strong wrists and neutral positioning to disguise her plays and create one-on-one opportunities for her hitters. Her ability to run a deceptive, well-balanced offense makes her a key leader on the court.     Madi Smith, a pin for NORCO, is a versatile and disciplined six-rotation player who makes an impact in every aspect of the game. Her strong serve receive allows her team to stay in system. At the net, she brings a powerful swing, using her arms to generate lift and put away kills. She's quick and athletic, even when diving for a ball, she pops right back up, always ready to take a big swing. With the ability to attack from every position in the front row, she's a key offensive weapon for NORCO.

The 17s division at the 2025 Zelinkoff Bid Tournament was packed with talent, as some of Colorado's top teams battled for their shot at Nationals. Colorado Juniors 17 Kaleena emerged as the dominant force, securing the championship and a coveted National division bid. NORCO 17 Black put together a strong tournament run, finishing as the runner-up and proving they can compete with the best. Meanwhile, Front Range 17 Black fought hard to claim third place and a well-earned Freedom Bid.