Part 2: Rising Forces in the 14U Division – AAU Nationals

As the AAU Nationals 14U Division progressed, a second wave of athletes continued to steal the spotlight. These players brought a refined edge to their game—demonstrating not just raw ability but also composure, tactical decision-making, and a fierce desire to compete. From heavy swings to clever tempo setting and steady leadership on the floor, this next group of standouts left a lasting impression. They're young, but their influence on the game was anything but minor.    Top Select 14 Elite - #10   Kazmierczak is the type of setter you build a system around. Her calm demeanor under pressure and high volleyball IQ gave her team a consistent rhythm to rely on. Her ability to run tempo and manipulate the pace of the match was rare at this level. She threaded sets with tight angles and delivered on-time windows for hitters across the board. Her grit and quiet leadership made her not just the quarterback—but the heartbeat of her team. ~Sophia Jeanpierre @prepdig_fl     Top Select 14 Elite - #15   Winkler was a constant presence in every facet of the game. Her transition from pass to attack was clean, and her swings, front row or back row, came with fierce intent. She read defenses quickly, making adjustments mid-air to place the ball where it hurt most. On the block, she anchored her pin with strength and consistency, often eliminating cross-court options for opposing hitters. In the back row, she kept her team in-system with reliable, multi-option passing. ~Sophia Jeanpierre @prepdig_fl     Top Select 14 Elite - #5   Hatfield turned defense into a spectacle. Her court coverage was relentless, diving into tight spots for tips and off-speed balls without hesitation. She had an advanced ability to read hitters' intentions, and her foot speed allowed her to get to balls most liberos wouldn't even attempt. Her voice echoed throughout the back row, commanding coverage and lifting her teammates with energy and consistency. She was a defensive wall with the engine of a sprinter and the heart of a leader. ~Sophia Jeanpierre @prepdig_fl     OTVA J 14 John - #13   Joyner's game was all-action. She was explosive off the ground, getting on top of the ball quickly to deliver sharp, downward angles. Her fearlessness at the net made her a go-to threat in fast-tempo plays. Whether closing a block or calling for a quick attack, she was fully engaged and relentless in her pursuit of the next point. Joyner brought a high-speed edge to the middle position that energized her team and overwhelmed her opponents. ~Sophia Jeanpierre @prepdig_fl    The athletes in this second wave of standouts brought power, poise, and an undeniable will to win. They weren't just reacting—they were anticipating, adjusting, and executing like seasoned players. From pin to middle to setter, each one displayed leadership and a level of precision rarely seen in the 14U space. Their potential is as evident as their impact was in Orlando. If these performances are any indication, the future of volleyball is in strong, skilled, and determined hands.

As the AAU Nationals 14U Division progressed, a second wave of athletes continued to steal the spotlight. These players brought a refined edge to their game—demonstrating not just raw ability but also composure, tactical decision-making, and a fierce desire to compete. From heavy swings to clever tempo setting and steady leadership on the floor, this next group of standouts left a lasting impression. They're young, but their influence on the game was anything but minor.