Net Closed: The Middle Blockers Who Shut Down Everything at PNQ

The Pacific Northwest Qualifier (PNQ) is more than just a tournament, it's a critical proving ground for volleyball athletes chasing a spot at the USA Volleyball National Championships in Texas. As one of the premier qualifiers on the West Coast, PNQ draws elite teams and standout talent from across the region, all battling for more than just wins: they're fighting for recognition, recruitment, and a chance to shine on a national stage. The energy is high, the competition fierce, and the stakes couldn't be greater.   In my opinion, true middles are rare. All too often, the tallest players are placed in the position by default, rather than because they naturally embody the skill set the role demands. That's not the case with the middle blockers featured here. These athletes are dominant with quick reads, explosive transitions, and an instinct for shutting down offenses. They didn't just play middle… they owned it.    What a difference a year makes. When I first met [player_tooltip player_id='507975' first='Ellouisa' last='Quiel'] in March 2024, she was a multi-sport athlete balancing basketball, softball, and volleyball. Today, she's charting a clear path forward as a dedicated volleyball middle, one with the tools and mindset to make a real impact at the next level. Her passion for the game is unmistakable, and she plays with an energy that's contagious.   At PNQ, Ellouisa stood out not only for her physicality at the net but also for her tactical approach to the position. She's assertive in calling for the ball, runs clean routes that challenge opposing blockers, and shows strong court awareness in every rotation. Her back-row presence was just as fierce, serving up a string of aces with impressive control and power. Perhaps most remarkable, she performed at this level while still recovering from illness, a testament to her resilience, focus, and competitive spirit. She's a middle who wants the ball, embraces the moment, and raises the standard for her team. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='764235' first='Dior' last='Williams'] is a dynamic middle with exceptional block awareness and explosive leaping ability, she truly jumps out of the gym. She's a constant presence at the net, impacting plays on both sides of the ball with her quick reactions and high-flying approach. When her setter delivers the height she needs, Dior becomes nearly impossible to stop, unleashing powerful swings that challenge even the most disciplined defenses.   What makes Dior especially exciting is her untapped potential. As one Idaho Crush player watching courtside put it, “She gets up!”—and that vertical is only the beginning. With continued development in timing and offensive connection, Dior has the raw athleticism and instinct to become a game-changing force at the next level. The ceiling is high, and she's just getting started. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='568108' first='Jadyn' last='Foran'] brings consistency and athleticism to the middle blocker position, particularly with her smooth transitions into the slide and her command at the net on the block. She reads the game well, positions herself early, and takes smart angles that challenge attackers. Jadyn plays with composure, but it's her steady energy and positivity that elevate her impact far beyond the stat sheet.   Even when off the court, Jadyn remains fully engaged, cheering, encouraging, and always tuned into the needs of her team. One standout moment came on the sidelines when she pointed out that a particular cheer might not sit well with her teammate, [player_tooltip player_id='764744' first='Caelyn' last='DeWit'], before a serve. That small moment spoke volumes. It showed emotional intelligence, awareness, and the kind of teammate every program wants. Jadyn leads by example, both in skill and in spirit. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='730217' first='Delicia' last='Kivalu-Ahio'] approaches the middle blocker position with serious focus and a strong presence. One of her most defining traits is her connection with the setter, she communicates clearly and confidently, helping orchestrate quick plays that keep opposing defenses on their heels. Her slide approach is smooth and efficient, and she executes it with power, consistently finding success down the line.   Delicia's presence at the net is both composed and commanding. Her ability to stretch the offense while staying in sync with the setter makes her a dynamic asset in any rotation. What sets her apart is the balance she strikes between competitive fire and genuine love for the game. While she plays with intensity, it's clear she also enjoys the moment, bringing light and connection to her teammates along the way. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='757960' first='Kynslee' last='Martin'] is a high-motor middle who brings speed, power, and intensity to every play. She's quick off the block, active in transition, and consistently makes herself available as an option on offense. Her ability to get up fast and high gives her a distinct advantage, when she swings, it's fast, clean, and mean.   Kynslee hits with purpose and plays with presence. She's the kind of middle who can shift the momentum of a match before the opposing team has a chance to adjust. Her ability to read and react, combined with her relentless energy, makes her a disruptive force at the net and a key contributor in any rotation. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='764868' first='Isabella' last='Foster'] plays with undeniable fire and intensity, bringing passion to every point. At the net, she's locked in, reading her opponents with precision and shutting down attacks from both pins. Offensively, she showcases impressive range, confidently attacking to both sides of the court and keeping blockers on their heels.   What truly sets Isabella apart is her emotional connection to the game. She competes with heart and urgency, and it's clear that every play matters to her. After the match, she asked insightful questions about her volleyball journey, a reflection of her curiosity, drive, and willingness to grow. With that mindset and her natural competitive edge, Isabella is a player whose progress will be exciting to follow. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='764837' first='Colbie' last='Baker'] is a technically sound middle blocker who plays with impressive polish and presence at the net. Her arm swing mechanics are a standout, she does an excellent job crossing her body to find sharp angles, keeping defenders guessing and creating scoring opportunities from tough positions. She also shows maturity in knowing when to take pace off the ball, adding variety to her offensive arsenal.   Defensively, Colbie is just as sharp. She's strong on the soft block, using disciplined hand positioning and timing to redirect attacks and slow down the opposing offense. With her all-around skill set and volleyball IQ, Colbie brings consistency and creativity to the middle, making her a reliable and versatile option at the net. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247      <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>

The Pacific Northwest Qualifier (PNQ) is more than just a tournament, it's a critical proving ground for volleyball athletes chasing a spot at the USA Volleyball National Championships in Texas. As one of the premier qualifiers on the West Coast, PNQ draws elite teams and standout talent from across the region, all battling for more than just wins: they're fighting for recognition, recruitment, and a chance to shine on a national stage. The energy is high, the competition fierce, and the stakes couldn't be greater.