Meet the MVPs and Invited Athletes from UA Middle School Camp

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Thank you to our subscribers for supporting exclusive coverage of the UA Middle School Camp held in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. </strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This camp brought together a promising group of young athletes who showed up ready to compete, grow, and take their game to the next level. With elite coaching, high-energy drills, and a focus on fundamentals, the atmosphere inspired hustle, focus, and breakthrough moments. Several athletes stood out for their maturity, athleticism, and leadership, earning MVP honors and coveted invitations to the UA High School Camp. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In this article, I will highlight their voices as they reflect on their favorite parts of camp, describe their game in three words, share who inspired them, and explain what mindset or skill they are excited to bring back to their teams. Their reflections provide a window into the heart, hustle, and potential that made them impossible to ignore.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["700675"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683bd7dc19498"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='700675' first='Baylee' last='Wilson'] earned an invitation to the 2026 UA Next Camp</strong> </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Baylee from Coast 15-1 stood out for her energy and competitive spirit. Her favorite moment came during hitting lines, where athletes were crushing the ball and hyping each other up, creating an electric and inspiring atmosphere. When asked to describe her game after camp, Baylee chose three powerful words: grit, passion, and purpose. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">One of the most impactful parts of her experience was meeting Coach Ashley from Raki Volleyball, whose voice carried purpose and intensity. Baylee was especially inspired by the way Ashley communicated with passion and clarity. After camp, Baylee is focused on helping her team elevate their communication, emphasizing the importance of staying vocal and energized as they head into Nationals. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["714028"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683bd7dc194f4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='714028' first='Yemaya' last='Chappell'] earned an invitation to the 2026 UA Next Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Yemaya from [program_tooltip program_id='429323' first='Actyve' last='Volleyball Club'] brought energy, curiosity, and focus to every drill. Everyone at camp took note of her 6'3" height and then of her undeniable talent. Her favorite moment came during 3 on 3 with serving, a high-tempo drill that blended competition, learning, and fun. The energy on her court was infectious, and she embraced every opportunity to grow, especially in serve receive. With music playing and feedback flowing, she found herself learning from both coaches and teammates while truly enjoying the experience. After camp, she described her game in three words: competitive, engaging, and intelligent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Yemaya found inspiration in [player_tooltip player_id='700675' first='Baylee' last='Wilson'], a fellow camper who brought consistency, skill, and strong communication to every play. She appreciated Baylee's encouragement and reliability on the court, as well as her approachable nature off of it. What Yemaya is most excited to bring back is a mindset shaped by a story shared by Coach Mike Lingenfelter. The story of the emperor moth helped her understand that challenges are necessary for growth. She now carries a deeper belief that struggle is part of becoming her best self, both on and off the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["754908"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683bd7dc19586"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='754908' first='Lexi' last='Sheffield'] earned an invitation to the UA Next Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lexi from Madtown 151 National brought a fiery edge to every play, making her mark through hustle and heart. Her favorite part of camp was the 6 on 6 competition, where she loved the chance to play alongside a group of competitive athletes who matched her energy. She embraced the team dynamic and fed off the spirit of the game. After camp, she described her style of play in three words: scrappy, loud, and aggressive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lexi was especially inspired by an outside hitter on her court who stood out for going after every ball and staying vocal and encouraging throughout. That level of commitment and presence made a lasting impression. Lexi heads back to her team excited to bring that same intensity, especially when it comes to communication. She knows that staying loud and connected is key to competing at the highest level. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["752867"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683bd7dc19540"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='752867' first='Layla' last='Marquez'] earned a MVP at the UA Next Middle School Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Layla from Mountain View Volleyball Club (MVVC) brought power and presence to every rep. Her favorite part of camp was the hitting lines, a drill that allowed her to showcase one of her strongest skills. Every time she gets the opportunity to swing and compete, her energy rises. Camp gave her that platform, and she made the most of it. After the experience, Layla described her game in three words: rejuvenated, driven, and hungry.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One player who stood out to her was [player_tooltip player_id='700675' first='Baylee' last='Wilson']. Baylee's energy, tempo, and camaraderie on and off the court made a lasting impression. As a fellow outside hitter, Layla felt a connection to her style of play and found inspiration in watching her compete. Layla is excited to bring the same fire back to her team as they prepare for Nationals in the open division. She plans to lead with the confidence and experience she gained from training alongside some of the top talent in her age group. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["769741"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683bd7dc195cc"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='769741' first='Jimin' last='Seung'] earned a MVP at the UA Next Middle School Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jimin from Pipeline Volleyball Club stepped onto the court with a clear mission and competitive edge. Her favorite drill was the basic hitting line, a setting that allowed her to tap into her offensive strengths and bring her best against strong competition. Surrounded by athletes who were just as driven, Jimin thrived. Knowing her objective and feeling the pressure of the moment pushed her to leave it all on the court. After camp, she described her game with three intentional words: driven, adaptable, and collaborative.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='700675' first='Baylee' last='Wilson'] was a key source of inspiration for Jimin throughout the event. She admired Baylee's presence both on the beach and indoor courts, as well as her smart shot placement and overall volleyball IQ. Seeing that level of play firsthand pushed Jimin to elevate her game. She leaves the UA Next Camp excited to bring the same energy and mindset into her upcoming competition at SoCal Champs. With newfound confidence in her offensive ability, Jimin is ready to lead her team and compete for gold.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["780024"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683ca3d6085ff"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kaeley Johnston <strong>earned a MVP at the UA Next Middle School Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kaeley from Mizuno Long Beach brought energy, enthusiasm, and a strong team spirit to the court. She loved the warm-up activities and especially enjoyed the final scrimmage, where she had the chance to apply everything she had learned throughout camp. From passing and setting to covering and hitting, it was a full-circle moment that tied the experience together. When asked to describe her game after camp, Kaeley chose three fitting words: energetic, fun, and competitive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>She expressed gratitude for all the UA Camp coaches, but was especially inspired by the setting coaches who challenged her with fast-paced reps and helped her focus on quick release and strong extension. Being surrounded by other hardworking setters pushed her to raise her game and reminded her how much she enjoys the process of improvement. One of Kaeley's biggest takeaways was the importance of mindset. She left camp committed to carrying an "attitude of gratitude," a simple but powerful reminder of how shifting perspective can influence everything, both on and off the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["780053"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683ca1f492969"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='780053' first='Brooklyn' last='Lopez'] <strong>earned a MVP at the UA Next Middle School Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brooklyn from Valley Volleyball Academy made a strong impression with her focus and competitive drive. She especially valued the hitting lines, where she could observe and learn from top-tier players and coaches, using each rep as an opportunity to grow. When asked to describe her game after camp, Brooklyn chose three words that reflect her mindset: competitive, focused, and motivated.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What stood out most to Brooklyn was the encouragement she received from her peers, who inspired her to use her voice with confidence on the court. That shift in mindset, recognizing she belongs among high-level talent, was a turning point. She left camp more confident in her ability to lead and more determined to elevate her presence as a captain on her club team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cassandra Padilla Hubbard <strong>earned a MVP at the UA Next Middle School Camp</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cassandra from MVVC brought a spark of enthusiasm and determination to the court. Her favorite drill was the flow drill, where the pace and rhythm kept things fun and engaging while still demanding focus and effort. When asked to describe her game after camp, Cassandra chose three words that reflect her experience: fun, entertaining, and explosive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>She was especially inspired by fellow athlete [player_tooltip player_id='752867' first='Layla' last='Marquez'], who stood out for her kindness and the positive energy she brought to the court. What Cassandra is most excited to take back to her team is the mindset of perseverance. Even when fatigue sets in, she now understands the importance of pushing through and showing up for every rep.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, please help us keep the momentum going!</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {"id":770392,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","align":"left"} --> <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> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>✨ <strong>Help a player get discovered </strong>— share this article using the share buttons and tag us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en"><strong>PrepDigCa</strong></a>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"lightbox":{"enabled":false},"id":770394,"width":"98px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"custom","align":"left"} --> <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> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>🚀 <strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Upgrade to a PrepDig+ Subscription</a></strong> — exclusive rankings, in-depth analysis, and access to the full <a href="https://prepdig.com/prospect-index/"><strong>prospect index</strong></a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"lightbox":{"enabled":false},"id":770395,"width":"106px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"custom","align":"left"} --> <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> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>📍 <strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase">Come get on our radar!</a></strong> — attend an upcoming<strong> <a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase">PrepDig Event</a></strong>:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 13</strong> – Ripon (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 14</strong> – Rancho Santa Margarita (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 24</strong> – USAV GJNC Showcase – Session 1 (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 29</strong> – USAV GJNC Showcase – Session 2 (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>August 23</strong> – Rancho Santa Margarita (Classes of 2030–2032)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><em><strong>Together</strong>,</em><strong> </strong>we're building a positive platform to celebrate players and connect the volleyball community through exposure and opportunity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><strong><em>To all of our subscribers</em></strong> — thank you for being such an essential part of this journey. Let's keep growing the game and creating unforgettable memories together.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><strong><em>This journey</em></strong> is powered by the village — athletes, coaches, families, and the subscribers who support the sport.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><strong>Thank you for making it all possible — one article, one player, one memory at a time.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>~ Michelle Bamford @<a href="https://www.coachable247.com/">Coachable247</a></em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->