Class 5’s Top Returning 2028 Pin Hitters Part II

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As we delve into the second part of our spotlight on the top returning players in Class 5 for the 2028 class, we turn our attention to an impressive lineup of athletes who have demonstrated exceptional skills and versatility on the court. From [player_tooltip player_id='729480' first='Lauren' last='Dorey']'s remarkable dual-role performance as a setter and opposite to [player_tooltip player_id='800632' first='Eleanor' last='Reisch']'s powerful offensive presence as a six-rotation outside hitter, these players are set to make significant contributions to their teams. Additionally, [player_tooltip player_id='800285' first='Andi' last='Gardner']'s adaptability and Alivia Saultz's strategic play highlight the depth of talent in this class. Finally, [player_tooltip player_id='720942' first='Mila' last='Asay'] and [player_tooltip player_id='843535' first='Lucy' last='King'] round out this group of standout athletes, each bringing their unique strengths to the game. Get ready to watch these dynamic players!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='729480' first='Lauren' last='Dorey'] – 6'2” – Jackson</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lauren is set to excel this season after a standout performance with [program_tooltip program_id='428797' first='Pursuit' last=''] during the club season. As a versatile setter/opposite, she has proven to be a significant contributor on the court, ending the season with an impressive tally of 239 kills, 243 digs, and 706 assists. Lauren's skills and maturity in play far exceed her age, indicating her potential to become an exceptional player in the coming seasons.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='800632' first='Eleanor' last='Reisch'] – 5'9” - St. Teresa's</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Eleanor had an impressive season playing for Dynasty 15-Black, establishing herself as a standout six-rotation outside hitter with a mighty swing. She excels at finding scoring opportunities, whether by placing her shots strategically or utilizing the outside hands to earn points. As she embarks on her second season with the Stars, she returns as the team's leading kill leader, boasting an impressive 202 kills to her name.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='800285' first='Andi' last='Gardner'] – 5'7” - Truman</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This dynamic 5'7" athlete has showcased her versatility by playing libero during the club season and transitioning to outside hitter for the Patriots. Her impressive skills on the court make her a standout player, with her next opportunity likely coming as a libero, where she truly excels. During her time at Truman, she recorded an impressive 324 kills, 378 digs, and 106 aces, finishing second among Class 5 players for the Class of 2028.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Alivia Saultz – 5'5” – Fort Osage</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Despite being undersized in Class 5, this tiny but mighty outside hitter knows how to make an impact on the court. After a successful season with Invasion, Alivia has showcased her impressive vertical leap and, more importantly, her keen ability to place the ball strategically. With a knack for finding gaps in the defense and utilizing the block to her advantage, she returns to Fort Osage as the team's second-leading hitter and defender. Last season, she recorded 172 kills and 209 digs, proving that determination and skill can overcome any height disadvantage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='720942' first='Mila' last='Asay'] – 5'7” – Kickapoo</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kickapoo continues its tradition of developing exceptional talent, and [player_tooltip player_id='720942' first='Mila' last='Asay'] is poised to be the next standout. As the team's top returning attacker, she made a significant impact last season, finishing with 153 kills. This year, she will not only lead the attack but also take on the crucial role of a primary passer, showcasing her versatility and importance to the team's success. With her skills and experience, Mila is set to make a lasting impression this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='843535' first='Lucy' last='King'] – 5'11” – Grain Valley</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>King had a significant impact as an opposite hitter for Club North 15s, where she not only showcased her formidable blocking skills but also leveraged her height and reach to become a dominant terminating hitter. Returning to Grain Valley this season, Lucy aims to build on her impressive performance from last year, where she recorded 122 kills and contributed 31 blocks. Her combination of offensive prowess and defensive strength makes her a key player to watch in the upcoming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->