Sophomores Show Up and Show Out at All Star Event

A select group of sophomores gathered at El Camino College in Torrance, California for the prestigious All Star Event hosted by respected volleyball coach Chris Austin. This invite-only showcase brought together some of the top high school players in the country, including setters, hitters, and liberos, and created a high-performance environment centered on growth, competition, and connection.   The event offered each athlete the opportunity to showcase their skills through advanced drills, competitive play, and focused instruction. While talent was on full display, the emphasis extended beyond performance. The athletes engaged in thoughtful training that prioritized development and mindset, surrounded by peers who shared their hunger to improve.   With June 15 approaching, the date when college coaches can begin official contact, these sophomores are stepping into a new chapter of their recruiting journey. They shared what this experience meant to them, how Chris Austin's coaching has elevated their game, and what they hope college coaches see in them, on the court and beyond it.    [player_tooltip player_id='501865' first='Anuu' last='Purev-Thompson'], a setter and defensive specialist from San Ramon Valley High School and Red Rock 16-1 Marietta, was honored to be invited back for her second year at the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event. Competing alongside Division I commits and elite players continues to fuel her passion and drive. She's been working with Coach Chris Austin since the age of 13 through camps, private lessons, and his Mental Toughness program, which has deeply shaped both her mindset and skill development as a setter.   Anuu embraces every opportunity to grow and lead. She focuses on learning new skills, having fun, and guiding her team with confidence. She thrives in competitive environments, surrounds herself with like-minded athletes, and values the friendships built through the game. For Anuu, volleyball is more than a sport, it's a community where she leads by example and finds joy through shared goals and connection. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='563696' first='Caterina' last='Gambaro'], a middle blocker and opposite from Chatsworth High School and Lava West 16 Molten RG, was thrilled to compete at the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event. She values the opportunity to challenge herself against new competition, meet athletes who share her passion, and build connections with like-minded players. Caterina has trained with Coach Chris Austin for two years, and his detailed approach has helped her break bad habits and refine her technique, especially in blocking. While she's just beginning to explore the mental side of the game, she's eager to grow in that area as well.   Caterina is especially proud of her progress in blocking and reading hitters, skills she's worked hard to develop with Chris. She hopes college coaches notice the strides she's made and the energy she brings to her team. On the court, she stays positive and uplifts her teammates, always wearing a smile. Off the court, music is a core part of who she is. She plays electric bass, is learning guitar, and finds joy in creating music, a passion that has been with her since childhood. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='747547' first='Syriana' last='Messy'], an opposite from MVVC and Saint Francis High School, saw the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event as a powerful motivator. Competing alongside top athletes pushed her to raise her level and inspired her to keep growing. Working with Coach Chris Austin has helped her develop different parts of her game, with concepts she applies regularly in club practices and matches. His guidance has challenged her to embrace new approaches, even when they feel uncomfortable, knowing that growth often comes from stepping outside of her comfort zone.   Syriana hopes college coaches recognize her versatility and reliability as an athlete. She plays with a fierce, competitive spirit and brings a steady presence to her team through her next-play mentality. Off the court, she leads with care and compassion, aiming to make a positive impact on others through her faith and actions. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='545277' first='Anaiya' last='Thornton'], an outside and right-side hitter from Culver City High School and SCVC 16 Roxy, has been training with Coach Chris Austin since she was 11 years old, making her invitation to the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event especially meaningful. Competing alongside other top athletes was both fun and rewarding, and her long-standing relationship with Chris has helped her grow on multiple levels. His training has sharpened her attention to detail and fundamentals while also teaching her how to recover quickly from mistakes.   Anaiya has developed into an all-around player with strong skills in every area of the game. Including championing a monster 54 inch box jump. She hopes college coaches notice her energy, competitive drive, and the genuine support she brings to her team. Off the court, she values her relationships deeply and finds strength through the connections she shares with her friends and family. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='469439' first='Bella' last='Kompaniez'], a 2027 outside hitter from Edison High School and [program_tooltip program_id='515277' first='United' last='Volleyball Club'], described her invitation to the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event as a unique and meaningful experience. Knowing that Coach Chris Austin hand-picks each athlete made it feel truly special. While she initially felt nervous competing alongside such talented players, Bella quickly settled in, found her rhythm, and enjoyed the opportunity to play with new teammates and reconnect with old friends. Through her training with Chris, she has sharpened her blocking skills and improved her ability to read the game, while also gaining confidence in herself as a player.   Bella hopes college coaches notice the positive energy she brings to the court. She encourages her teammates, stays focused, and plays with intensity. She takes pride in being coachable and always seeks feedback to grow her game. Off the court, Bella lives an active and well-rounded life, she water skis, snow skis, and enjoys electric skateboarding. She also volunteers at a local soup kitchen, an experience that has taught her gratitude and the importance of giving back. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='777202' first='Jayden' last='Meyer'], a 2027 pin hitter from Mira Costa High School and SCVC 16 Roxy, felt honored to be invited to the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event. Competing alongside high-level athletes pushed her to elevate her game and strengthen her competitive edge. Training with Coach Chris Austin has given her valuable insight into the technical details that make a difference. His ability to deliver individualized feedback has helped her apply adjustments quickly and grow both mentally and physically on the court.   Jayden has developed greater resilience and confidence, learning to bounce back from mistakes and keep her focus on the next play. She hopes college coaches see her as an aggressive, competitive blocker with the versatility to contribute in multiple roles. Known for her work ethic and positive energy, she never gives up and is always encouraging her teammates. Her drive to improve and love for training make her a strong and reliable presence both on and off the court. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='548314' first='Siena' last='Warren'], a 2027 setter from Oaks Christian Volleyball and PCVC, felt honored to be invited to the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event. Surrounded by top athletes, she welcomed the challenge and opportunity to elevate both her game and mindset. Training with Coach Chris Austin has refined her technical skills and strengthened her mental approach, helping her become a more well-rounded player. She continues to focus on growth, embracing a next-point mentality and the ability to make quick adjustments to support her teammates in every phase of play.   Siena takes pride in her precise ball placement, quick decision-making, and ability to read opposing defenses. As a tall setter, she brings added value at the net as a blocker, attacker, and playmaker. She communicates clearly, sets with consistency, and drives her team's offensive rhythm. Off the court, Siena is just as driven. With a 4.5 GPA and aspirations to become a doctor, she applies the same focus to her academics as she does to volleyball. She also enjoys surfing, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='434974' first='Maddy' last='Conner'], a 2027 right-side hitter from Seattle Prep High School and Sudden Impact 16-1 Thunder, viewed her invitation to the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event as an opportunity to grow, compete, and connect. Playing alongside top athletes gave her new insights into the game and motivated her to keep pushing for the next level. Training with Coach Chris Austin has helped Maddy elevate her all-around game while developing a strong court IQ and mindset built for consistent improvement and long-term success.   Maddy has learned to set high standards for herself while maintaining an open, growth-focused mentality. She hopes college coaches see her as a lefty attacker who brings power and presence to the court while making an impact in all phases of play. Her energy, competitiveness, and ability to lift up her teammates make her a difference-maker. Off the court, Maddy is a strong student and a positive force in any environment, always working hard and creating a space where others want to thrive. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='531661' first='Brooke' last='Whitesell'], a 2027 setter from Saint Francis and [program_tooltip program_id='507263' first='Academy' last='Volleyball'] Club, felt energized by the chance to compete at the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event. Playing with talented athletes her age who share the same passion for the game made every play more enjoyable. She thrived in the high-level environment and appreciated the opportunity to grow her skills both technically and mentally. With Coach Chris Austin's guidance, Brooke has sharpened her footwork and embraced a mindset that helps her move past mistakes and focus on the next play.   One of the biggest lessons Brooke has learned is that "good is good" perfection isn't always the goal, especially for a setter. Her focus is on delivering a hittable ball and staying mentally strong. She hopes college coaches see her versatility and willingness to step into any role with a positive attitude. Whether she's running the offense or filling in at another position, Brooke plays hard and keeps the game fun, believing that a strong mindset sets the foundation for success. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247    <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sophia Soto, Setter and opposite from Saint Joseph High School and Apex1 Volleyball Club</h3>   Sophia Soto, a 2027 setter and opposite from Saint Joseph High School and Apex1 Volleyball Club, saw her invitation to the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event as validation of her growth and commitment. For Sophia, playing at a high level is something earned through hard work and the right mindset. Training with Coach Chris Austin has helped her sharpen the details of her game and embrace the leadership role that comes with being a setter. She has developed more consistent footwork and improved her decision-making under pressure.   Sophia hopes college coaches notice how she takes control of her side of the court and communicates with intention. She values clear, detailed communication and sees herself as a vocal leader who puts her team first in every situation. Her approach is rooted in selflessness, and she takes pride in elevating those around her. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, please help us keep the momentum going!</h3>   <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_b3bd7c.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770392" /></figure>     ✨ Help a player get discovered — share this article using the share buttons and tag us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en">PrepDigCa</a>!   <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_ff10cb.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770394" style="width:98px;height:auto" /></a></figure>   🚀 <a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Upgrade to a PrepDig+ Subscription</a> — exclusive rankings, in-depth analysis, and access to the full <a href="https://prepdig.com/prospect-index/">prospect index</a>.     <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_4421fb.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770395" style="width:106px;height:auto" /></a></figure>   📍 <a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase">Come get on our radar!</a> — attend an upcoming <a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase">PrepDig Event</a>:       June 13 – Ripon (Classes of 2026–2029)   June 14 – Rancho Santa Margarita (Classes of 2026–2029)   June 24 – USAV GJNC Showcase – Session 1 (Classes of 2026–2029)   June 29 – USAV GJNC Showcase – Session 2 (Classes of 2026–2029)   August 23 – Rancho Santa Margarita (Classes of 2030–2032)     <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Together, we're building a positive platform to celebrate players and connect the volleyball community through exposure and opportunity.   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A select group of sophomores gathered at El Camino College in Torrance, California for the prestigious All Star Event hosted by respected volleyball coach Chris Austin. This invite-only showcase brought together some of the top high school players in the country, including setters, hitters, and liberos, and created a high-performance environment centered on growth, competition, and connection.