Sizzle Recap: Familiar Faces from the State Tournament"

The Prep Dig Sizzle showcased a wide range of talent from across the state, with teams competing at all different levels. Among them were programs with experience on the biggest stage last season — and they're looking to make a return to the Resch this fall. Let's take a look at the teams who went from State to Sizzle.   Hudson High School Varsity:   Ending their season with an impressive 36-3 record last fall, Hudson plowed through the competition all year. This squad has strengths across the board, with every girl on the court bringing something valuable. What set them apart was their scrappiness and fiery intensity. They know how to get everyone involved — especially their middles, who made a huge impact.   Despite losing key players like captains Jana Jankowski and Addison Leach, Hudson still boasts a strong core. Several returners stepped up at the Prep Dig Sizzle, leading the team to a 4-2 record that included big wins over DeForest and Waukesha West. Let's take a look at a few key returners who could help get them back to the Resch this fall:    Kaitlyn played a big role in the backcourt for Hudson last season, recording nearly 200 digs. She'll be stepping into an even bigger role for the Raiders this fall, and her lightning speed and natural composure will be key to her success.     As just a freshman, Libby recorded 124 kills with a .156 hitting percentage. With her quick arm swing and impressive height on either pin, she's set to be a go-to player for the Raiders this season.    Bay Port High School Varsity:   Finishing the season 29-3 with a tough loss to Menomonee Falls at the state tournament, Bay Port still had a historic run last fall. They took down some major programs along the way, including Appleton North, Aquinas, and Neenah. The Fox Valley Conference is no joke, so taking home the title was a huge accomplishment for this team. Known for their fast-paced offense and high-energy play, Bay Port was electric on the court.   Despite losing most of their starting lineup, I still saw a spark in this new squad at the Sizzle — one that shows real potential for a deep playoff run. Let's take a look at a couple of players who could help make that happen:    As just a sophomore, Meghan averaged just under six assists per set and totaled over 500 on the season. She's already proven to be a reliable leader on the court, bringing drive, passion, and — not to mention — silky smooth hands. Meghan is going to be the glue for this team this season and has the potential to carry this squad far.     Taylor was a consistent and reliable presence in the middle for Bay Port last season. She uses every bit of her height to her advantage, pairing a quick, heavy arm swing with a strong presence at the net on the block. She capped off the season with a hitting percentage just under .300 — which is phenomenal. I'm excited to see her continue to dominate at the net this upcoming school season!    Sheboygan Christian High School Varsity:   Some people might look at smaller divisions like 4 and 5 and expect less talent — but let me tell you, a lot of these teams can compete with the best of the bigger schools. Sheboygan made a huge run last season, finishing at the Resch Center and even taking a set off the eventual state champions, Eau Claire Immanuel Lutheran.   With most of their squad returning this year, they're hungry to make it back to the big stage. At the Sizzle, they played like they never missed a beat, picking up big wins and dominating in every aspect of the game. Let's take a look at a few key returners expected to make a big impact this fall:    It was hard to believe Madelyn was only a sophomore last season, especially after tallying 342 kills and playing like a seasoned veteran. She's super consistent from either pin and has a great feel for finding the open court. With her high volleyball IQ and fierce competitiveness, she'll be a major factor in leading Sheboygan Lutheran on another run to the Resch Center this November.     Lydia played a huge role for her team last season, running a 5-1 offense and recording over 900 assists throughout the year. She has a leader's mentality and rises to the occasion when her team needs her most. She's expected to make another big impact for Sheboygan this fall.

The Prep Dig Sizzle showcased a wide range of talent from across the state, with teams competing at all different levels. Among them were programs with experience on the biggest stage last season — and they're looking to make a return to the Resch this fall. Let's take a look at the teams who went from State to Sizzle.