National News: Representing the Midwest for U17 National Team USA

<p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p>   <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">@prepdigdakotas</a></em></strong></p>   <p><strong>Check her highlights: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23521034/67abc3bc4a08d6cdc604550f">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/23521034/67abc3bc4a08d6cdc604550f</a></p>   <p>In the world of youth volleyball, some players arrive on the scene and immediately demand attention—not just for their physical skill, but for their intelligence, composure, and leadership on the court. [player_tooltip player_id='833431' first='Julia' last='Masselink'], a 6'1” freshman outside hitter from Harrisburg, South Dakota, is one of those rare talents. Already making waves at the high school level, Julia now steps into the national spotlight as one of <strong>17 athletes selected to the inaugural USA Volleyball U17 Girls National Team</strong>, which will compete at the 2025 NORCECA Women's U17 Continental Championship in San Jose, Costa Rica, from November 4–9.</p>   <p>This is a historic moment for both Julia and USA Volleyball. The 2025 championship marks the first time USA Volleyball has sponsored a U17 team internationally, opening a new pathway for younger athletes to gain international experience before moving into U18 and collegiate opportunities. Out of 17 players nationwide, Julia is one of only two from the Midwest—a testament to her standout skill set, volleyball IQ, and competitive mindset.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Making an impact as a Freshman</h3>   <p>Julia's high school career has already been impressive. Despite being just a freshman, she has earned a starting role as an outside hitter for Harrisburg High School, demonstrating not only the athletic ability to compete against older players but also the mental toughness and maturity that coaches value at every level. She has consistently shown the ability to terminate at the net with precision, whether using power or strategic placement to find gaps in opposing blocks.</p>   <p>Her offensive game is complemented by versatility across all rotations. Julia can attack from the front row with a dynamic arm swing, then transition to the back row to execute powerful off-speed attacks or push shots over seams in the defense. This six-rotation capability makes her a constant threat and provides her team with flexibility in both offensive and defensive systems.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Road to National Recognition</h3>   <p>Julia's selection to the first-ever U17 National Team follows her strong performances at both high school and club levels. Competing with [program_tooltip program_id='428678' first='Kairos' last='Elite Volleyball'], she has showcased the ability to perform under pressure against some of the nation's best talent. Her quick adjustment to fast-tempo sets, ability to read blockers, and efficiency in shot selection demonstrate a level of volleyball intelligence rare for her age.</p>   <p>Her experience in club volleyball has also allowed her to develop the all-around skills that are essential at the national level. From handling high-pressure serves to navigating multi-block situations, Julia's court awareness and decision-making are already at an advanced stage. USA Volleyball recognized this potential when they selected her for this historic inaugural team, giving her the opportunity to gain international exposure and continue her development among the nation's elite young players.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Leadership and On-Court Composure</h3>   <p>While Julia may be a freshman, she exhibits a leadership style that resonates with her teammates. She leads primarily through her actions—digging balls that seem unreachable, consistently attacking with precision, and maintaining composure during high-pressure points. Teammates and coaches alike describe her as a stabilizing force, someone who elevates the energy of the team and models consistency and focus.</p>   <p>Her maturity extends beyond gameplay. Julia is known for her dedication in the weight room, focusing on building vertical explosiveness and overall athleticism. This commitment to improvement underscores her understanding of the preparation required to compete at the highest levels. Coaches and scouts will note that Julia not only brings skill but also a mindset geared toward continual growth—one of the key characteristics of athletes who succeed on national and collegiate stages.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Representing the Midwest on a National Stage</h3>   <p>Being one of only two athletes from the Midwest selected for this first-ever U17 National Team adds extra significance to Julia's achievement. The Midwest is often overshadowed by coastal volleyball hotbeds, but Julia's selection underscores the talent present in the region. Her ability to stand out among the nation's best players highlights her elite level of play and potential to continue climbing as a top prospect.</p>   <p>USA Volleyball's U17 National Team will participate in a training block from October 26 to November 1 at the Olympic & Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs before traveling to Costa Rica. From this training block, 12 athletes will be named to the final roster to compete in the NORCECA Championship. Julia's inclusion in this group is a major milestone for a freshman, and it provides invaluable exposure to international play, coaching, and competition—all critical experiences for a player with collegiate and potentially national team aspirations.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Skillset That Demands Attention</h3>   <p>Julia's game is a combination of athleticism, intelligence, and versatility. Offensively, she demonstrates exceptional timing, allowing her to attack both high and low sets with the same efficiency. Her ability to read blockers and adjust attacks in real-time is advanced for her age, making her a matchup nightmare for opponents.</p>   <p>Defensively, Julia shows strong court awareness, transitioning quickly to cover tips, roll shots, or deep cross-court balls. Her speed and agility allow her to dig balls that seem unreachable, giving her setter more options and maintaining momentum for her team. This all-around skill set is precisely what makes her an asset for any team—at the high school, club, or national level.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Building Toward the Future</h3>   <p>While Julia's selection to the U17 National Team is historic, it also represents the beginning of a journey with enormous potential. Exposure to international competition at a young age allows her to refine her skills, build confidence, and understand the demands of playing at elite levels. For scouts and college coaches, Julia's trajectory signals a player who is ready to compete in high-pressure environments, adapt to different systems, and continually grow her game.</p>   <p>Her journey also serves as inspiration to younger athletes in South Dakota and the Midwest. By earning a spot on a national team as a freshman, Julia is demonstrating that dedication, versatility, and intelligence on the court can create opportunities that extend far beyond local competition.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h3>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='833431' first='Julia' last='Masselink']'s selection to the first-ever USA Volleyball U17 National Team is more than just an individual accolade—it is a historic moment for the sport and a milestone in the development of young athletes. She represents the best of what a volleyball player can be: skilled, versatile, mentally tough, and poised to excel under pressure. Her actions on the court, leadership qualities, and relentless work ethic set her apart from her peers and make her a player to watch—not just this season, but for years to come.</p>   <p>As the inaugural U17 team prepares for the NORCECA Continental Championship, Julia stands as a beacon of talent and potential, ready to make her mark on the international stage. For coaches, fans, and aspiring athletes, she embodies the characteristics of a next-level player: a competitor who elevates everyone around her, thrives in high-pressure situations, and has the drive to continue improving every day.</p>   <p>This historic selection is only the beginning for [player_tooltip player_id='833431' first='Julia' last='Masselink']. With her talent, leadership, and determination, she is poised to be a defining figure for the class of 2026, a role model for youth athletes, and a standout performer at every level she competes.</p>   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you to all my readers for making this journey possible. My goal has always been simple—to shine a light on athletes at every level, from Division I to NAIA, and give them a platform to keep chasing their love for the game. Every player deserves a shot, and I'm honored to help tell their stories.</em></strong></h2>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</em></strong></h2>   <p><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></p>   <p><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman</em></strong></p>   <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p>

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