Standouts from the Asics National Championship

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>If you loved this article, please follow our Instagram page,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">PrepDigDakotas</a>&nbsp;for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes action.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>After following our page, take the next step and&nbsp;<strong>subscribe to PrepDig</strong>! By subscribing, you'll not only stay connected to the latest coverage of your favorite events, but you'll also be helping to shine a spotlight on rising volleyball talent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Use discount code&nbsp;<strong>digdakotas30</strong>&nbsp;for an exclusive offer!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the Asics National Championship in Chicago, it wasn't just skill that caught attention—it was the relentless hustle, smart court IQ, and next-level sportsmanship that set certain players apart. These athletes didn't just show up—they showed out. From diving saves to powerful swings, they were locked in and ready to battle. Coaches, fans, and teammates all took notice. Let's take a closer look at the standouts who made a lasting impact this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["724945"],"_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-68477e0faf2e8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='724945' first='Emily' last='Broden'] is the definition of a versatile asset.</strong> Whether she's in serve receive, defending the back row, or stepping into the setter role, there's not a rotation she can't handle. This weekend, she showcased her adaptability by taking over as setter—and did it with confidence and control. Her connection with the middles was seamless, running quicks and keeping the tempo high. Emily's volleyball IQ, positive energy, and willingness to do whatever her team needs make her a coach's dream. Her coachability and all-around skill set make her a player to keep on your radar.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["748303"],"_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-68477e0faf3b7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='748303' first='Justice' last='Sanders'] made her presence known at the net this weekend.</strong> As a middle blocker, she was a force defensively—reading hitters well and executing timely, disciplined blocks. Her reaction time on quick sets was impressive, and she consistently terminated plays with sharp, well-placed attacks. Justice's ability to adjust in transition and her focus on the court stood out. She's a high-impact player with great court awareness and a competitive edge that college coaches love to see.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["757718"],"_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-68477e0faf41d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='757718' first='Sophie' last='Watson'] continues to prove why she's a player to keep on your radar.</strong> As a dynamic attacker, she showed strong footwork on her approach and had excellent timing at the net. Whether swinging from the pin or adjusting off a high ball, Sophie stayed aggressive and smart. She communicated well in serve receive and brought a steady presence in the back row. What stood out the most was her coachability—she took feedback and immediately applied it.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["530800"],"_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-68477e0faf47c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Madeline Dougherty brought solid energy and consistency as an outside hitter this weekend.</strong> She stayed aggressive on the attack, showing a confident arm swing and smart shot selection—especially tooling off the block and finding deep corners. In transition, Madeline moved efficiently and was always ready to take a big swing. While we're not sure if she played all six rotations, her presence in the front row was a difference-maker. Her court awareness and ability to adjust mid-play stood out, along with a great attitude that coaches love to see.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["524274"],"_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-68477e0faf4c5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Olive Fickel made her mark as a dependable DS/Libero this weekend.</strong> Her platform was steady, her reads were sharp, and she consistently got her feet around the ball to deliver clean first contacts. Olive covered tips and short shots with quick reflexes and wasn't afraid to lay out for a tough dig. What stood out most was her communication—always talking, always directing, and keeping the back row organized. Coaches looking for a gritty defender with a calm presence and high volleyball IQ should have Olive on their radar.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>From all-out hustle plays to elite-level court awareness, these athletes proved they belong on the big stage. What stood out wasn't just the skill—it was the heart, the coachability, and the way they supported their teammates point after point. Tournaments like the Asics National Championship don't just build resumes—they reveal future leaders of the game. If this weekend showed us anything, it's that the next wave of talent is ready to rise. Keep your eyes on these names. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at&nbsp;<a href="https://prepdig.com/"><strong>PrepDig.com</strong>.</a>&nbsp;With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @</em></strong>prepdigdakotas</h4> <!-- /wp:heading -->