Middles that Made an Impact at SVT New Year’s Bash

SVT's New Year's Bash placed a premium on how athletes handled responsibility without the benefit of system familiarity. For middle blockers in particular, the evaluation setting tested footwork, timing, communication, and the ability to stay effective through constant change.   The middle blockers featured below stood out for their discipline and presence. Each brought clarity to the center of the court, influencing play through positioning, decision‑making, and consistency across reps.    Merritt showed a steady, physical presence at the net. She moved efficiently laterally, stayed disciplined in blocking assignments, and transitioned smoothly into offensive opportunities. Her ability to maintain focus through repeated reps stood out in an environment designed to test endurance and attention to detail. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast     Little demonstrated strong court awareness. She read developing plays well, stayed active defensively, and maintained balance in transition. Her engagement on both sides of the ball allowed her to influence sequences beyond individual touches. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast     Rogers competed with control in the middle. She stayed disciplined in her movement patterns and made efficient decisions when opportunities presented themselves. Her consistency helped stabilize play during longer sequences. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast     Holcombe showed a reliable presence through the center of the court. She stayed active laterally, communicated well, and brought balance to both blocking and attacking phases. Her composure allowed play to stay organized even when structure was limited. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast      SVT's New Year's Bash highlighted middle blockers who could manage responsibility in a fluid environment. The athletes featured here demonstrated discipline, awareness, and consistency — qualities that evaluators rely on when projecting middle play beyond a single system.   Note to GA Athletes:   If you'd like to be considered for future coverage, please send me your high school season schedule and share a little bit about yourself so I can come support you and share your story. Let's keep building Georgia volleyball together! Fill out the "Cover My Game" Link in my bio @benchtobeast on IG.   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, show your support by following<a href="https://www.instagram.com/benchtobeast/"> BenchtoBeast</a> for exclusive Georgia content, behind-the-scenes action, and a closer look at the volleyball community you love.</h3>   We're on a mission to spotlight talent, uplift families, and bring the volleyball community closer than ever! Huge shoutout to our amazing subscribers — you're the heartbeat of this movement. Thank you for your help growing the game, and making every moment unforgettable. The best is yet to come — let's get it!   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   Work hard, Play hard. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast

SVT's New Year's Bash placed a premium on how athletes handled responsibility without the benefit of system familiarity. For middle blockers in particular, the evaluation setting tested footwork, timing, communication, and the ability to stay effective through constant change.