Class 5 Player of the Year Watchlist

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This article highlights some of the top volleyball players to watch in Missouri, showcasing their impressive stats and potential for the upcoming season. Key players include [player_tooltip player_id='222076' first='Abigail' last='Schoene'], who has already amassed over 1,500 career assists, and [player_tooltip player_id='475339' first='Shaye' last='Witherspoon'], a standout recruit for Nebraska with a remarkable 449 kills last season. Each athlete is poised to make significant contributions to their teams, with many aiming to surpass career milestones and lead their programs to victory.<strong></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='222076' first='Abigail' last='Schoene'] – Timberland</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Baylor Bears made a smart move by recruiting one of the top setters in Class 5. Abby has quickly established herself as a key player, expertly orchestrating the offense and positioning her team for success in every match. With an impressive 1,567 career assists, 531 digs, and 301 kills under her belt, she is on track to achieve remarkable numbers again this season, intending to reach 2,500 total assists well within her grasp.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='475339' first='Shaye' last='Witherspoon'] – Lafayette</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Being recruited by Nebraska is a testament to [player_tooltip player_id='475339' first='Shaye' last='Witherspoon']'s elite talent in volleyball. Standing tall at 6'3", she played a pivotal role in leading the Lancers to yet another state title, finishing her sophomore season with an impressive 449 kills. Over the club season with Rockwood, Shaye has honed her passing and defensive skills, setting her up for a strong chance at securing another championship for this powerhouse program.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='219778' first='Tara' last='Venable'] – Ozark</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Tara has consistently been a formidable presence at the net, and this past season, she took her game to the next level by becoming a six-rotation outside hitter. Her versatility played a crucial role in leading Ozark to the state title match. With 360 digs and 523 kills last season, Tara has accumulated a remarkable total of 1,206 career kills and is now set to showcase her skills on the beach as she heads off to play for Missouri State.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='838860' first='Sydni' last='Lafasciano'] – Park Hill South</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sydni stands out as one of the top returning pin hitters in the state, and had she not missed half of her sophomore season, her kill and dig totals would likely surpass 1,000 each. With a strong and powerful arm, she wrapped up last season with an impressive 419 kills and 338 digs. Expect her to reach the milestone of 1,000 career digs and kills within the first few weeks of the upcoming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='805621' first='Gwen' last='Kubik'] – Nixa</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Gwen made a significant impact last season, dramatically increasing her production from 193 kills to 360. With dedicated off-season training, she is poised to become an even more formidable force for the Eagles on the outside. Surrounded by a talented team, Gwen aims to lead her squad back to claim the district crown.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='220349' first='Teagan' last='Pocius'] – Marquette</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Standing at 6'0", Teagan has been a consistent and thriving presence in the Mustangs' lineup since day one. As one of the top returning middle hitters in Class 5, she boasts an impressive 636 career kills and 274 career blocks. With her powerful hitting and diverse skill set, Teagan is a formidable force at the net, making her a player that opponents will find difficult to stop.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='487562' first='Mara' last='Coulter'] – Nixa</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With a standout performance of 626 digs last season, Mara is the top returning libero in Class 5. Her feisty and fierce defensive style showcases her readiness for the next level, making her a formidable challenge for opposing teams. Remarkably, last year marked her first season on the varsity squad, and she certainly made a strong impression with her exceptional play in the backcourt.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='222069' first='Lauren' last='Ortwerth'] – Cor Jesu</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lauren hails from a program renowned for producing elite pin hitters, and she certainly belongs in that category. As a dual-sport star for the Chargers, Lauren is determined to lead CJ back to the Final Four. With a strong track record of 763 career kills and 562 digs, she is on track to surpass 1,000 career kills before the season concludes. Her hard-hitting prowess will be a key asset for the team this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='222058' first='Katherine' last='Byergo'] – Parkway West</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Iowa State is set to welcome a true gem in Katherine. At 6'5", this versatile middle hitter can excel in any position at the net, though she is likely to transition to the opposite position in college. With each passing season, Katherine has improved her game, and her combination of versatility, athleticism, and height makes her a dynamic presence. With 767 career kills and 131 blocks, she is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with on the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->