First Impressions From The Indiana Exposure Tour

What a turnout we had yesterday! Nearly 130 athletes from around Indiana, Illinois and Ohio came to show us what they had, despite the nasty weather that was coming in. I was impressed with the level of play, the amount of energy in the building, and how willing everyone was to adjusting their comfort zones. I even had the opportunity to coach a little, and the kids' response was nothing short of exceptional. One common theme I found from the athletes that signed up was the fact that we had a TON of athletes that will be playing up a year on their respective clubs this coming spring. Here are eight athletes that signed up, showed out, and will be seen on an older age group squad in just a few weeks.    Taking advantage of her full height, Rowan is a high-and-hard attacker that can be anything from a six-rotation outside to a libero at the next level. Her all-around skill allows her to be all things for her teammates, including tough from behind the base line. I'm looking forward to how she competes against the older athletes during the club season, as this will be a true test of how bigger and faster affects her play.     Tatum's ability to use her athleticism to get to each and every pass, regardless of system, will be her calling card for the foreseeable future. This makes PERFECT sense, since setters will need to show athleticism, speed and accuracy in future iterations of this game. Although the Tornados might not be traveling to a ton of “out of state” tournaments this spring, her presence will definitely be felt among those she plays with—-and against.     Remove the “MB” portion of her position, because Elle is a full-grown, six-rotation outside in the making. Her length makes her look that much bigger than everyone else, while her athletic acuity has her moving with a smoothness that's unexpected for both her size and age. Energy abounds for Miss Boser as well, as she brought the heat from the first ball to the last. She'll be fun to watch develop on PHP's 17-1 this spring.     Springy and quick, Malia's ability to get up quickly eliminates any size disadvantage she might have. She'll easily beat the lumbering, slower middles while also outjumping middles her size. Playing up on the Valkyries 17-18 squad this coming spring, she'll have all of the advantages of playing bigger and faster competition, while also learning quickly what she can do from the middle position. I wouldn't be surprised in the least if she's seeing some right side reps in practice, as her two-footed approach is quick and well-trained.     With international experience in hand, Cala's presence at our Exposure Tour yesterday changed how teams with her (and against her) played. She's calm, cool and hyper accurate with her passing, all while able to direct the drill around her to get the job done. A two-time defending state champ at Carroll, Cala's immediate presence on PHP's 17-1 will keep those ladies in-system for the majority of club season.     Playing up on Rev's 16-2 squad this coming spring, Lily's ability to hit high and hard from both pins while limiting attacking errors makes her a must-have for any squad looking for a control pin player. It's my understanding that Miss Dailey's setter for this squad will have a bit more accuracy, leading to her having more in-system opportunities during each and every match. I'm looking forward to her development and how a change in scenery will help her show out during club season.     This is the third PHP kid playing up an age group that I'm mentioning, and for good reason. Jocelyn's ability to control the floor with a special jersey on will show her immediate impact once January comes around. A state champion defender with Cala (listed above), Miss Walborn will be a pleasant surprise for not only this roster but for anyone looking for a Division-I-level libero. She'll be a steal for anyone looking for accuracy, work ethic and relentless drive.     Playing up on Circle's 16-1 this coming club season, Gabby's length and ability to reach half the court on both defense and serve receive will be her identifier this season. From a family of volleyballers (older sister is on Circle's 18-2), they share a similar love for the game, each giving a constant positive vibe when playing. Gabby's fun to watch, and makes this tough game look simple when she's passing.

What a turnout we had yesterday! Nearly 130 athletes from around Indiana, Illinois and Ohio came to show us what they had, despite the nasty weather that was coming in. I was impressed with the level of play, the amount of energy in the building, and how willing everyone was to adjusting their comfort zones. I even had the opportunity to coach a little, and the kids' response was nothing short of exceptional. One common theme I found from the athletes that signed up was the fact that we had a TON of athletes that will be playing up a year on their respective clubs this coming spring. Here are eight athletes that signed up, showed out, and will be seen on an older age group squad in just a few weeks.