Standout Teams that Jumped the Rankings in Open 1

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The first AZ Region seeding event of the season delivered exactly what makes club volleyball so compelling—statement performances, unexpected surges, and teams ready to surprise us from the jump. From top to bottom, this weekend revealed squads that took full advantage of the stage, elevating their way up the rankings and pulling off impressive upsets. Whether through dominant wins, improved chemistry, or clutch execution under pressure, these teams made it clear they're trending in the right direction and we are going to have a lot to talk about this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Arizona made it hard to nail down the top standouts, however, here are <strong>8 teams that jumped the Open rankings at AZ Region Seeding #1</strong>, and why their rise deserves attention as the season continues.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">MAJOR MOVERS</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Storm 16 Thunder</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>16</strong> <mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color"> Ended</mark>: <strong>2</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the most talked-about matches of the weekend came in a statement upset between sister programs <strong>AZ Storm 16 Thunder</strong> and <strong>AZ Storm 18 Thunder</strong>. This wasn't just a club-versus-club battle—it was a high-level showdown featuring former school teammates competing across the net, with elite talent packed onto one court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Outside hitter <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='886814' first='Saydie' last='Vega']</strong>, a newcomer to Storm, made an immediate impact on the pin, holding it down offensively and delivering in big moments. On the opposite side, fellow outside <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='768939' first='Nia' last='Tinsley']</strong> was equally impressive, finding ways to score under pressure when it mattered most. In the middle, another new addition, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='882771' first='Makinlee' last='Landis']</strong>, put together an outstanding weekend defensively—slowing down powerhouse attackers and getting quality touches that consistently set up the back row for success. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We were also impressed by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='883366' first='Addison' last='Martin']</strong>, who is playing up and thriving in her role as setter, confidently running the offense and controlling the floor despite being a year younger than many of her teammates. It proved why she's at the top of her 2029 class. And, as expected, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='509700' first='Izzie' last='Penrose']</strong> anchored the defense in the libero jersey, providing stability and consistency throughout the match as she always does. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With such a strong and confident start to the season, this group is clearly trending in the right direction—and we're excited to see how they continue to take shape as the year unfolds.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Sky 14 Gold</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>63</strong> <mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: <strong>18</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This weekend marked a major debut for one of the most exciting young powerhouse teams in the gym. Despite being a middle school group, they competed fearlessly against older age divisions and proved that in the Open level, age truly doesn't define impact. Their poise, physicality, and competitive edge immediately set them apart.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Newcomer <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='919648' first='Charlotte' last='Lilley']</strong> was dominant on the outside, playing well beyond her years and consistently leading her team to victory. Her high volleyball IQ, shot selection, and relentless, all-out mindset made her a go-to option in pressure moments and a constant problem for opposing defenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Defensively, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='920105' first='Elliot' last='Millhiser']</strong> was nothing short of exceptional. She played with the confidence and discipline of a seasoned veteran, fearlessly taking on hitters three to four years older than her. Her willingness to go all out, combined with elite reading and effort, played a major role in the team's success throughout the weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the middle, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='934533' first='Marieme' last='Mbodji']</strong> controlled the net with authority—shutting down attackers and executing quick plays with a level of maturity rarely seen at her age. Her presence added a physical and tactical dimension that elevated the entire lineup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This young group is just getting started, but the ceiling is incredibly high. With this kind of debut, they've firmly established themselves as a team to watch for years to come—one that could make a serious national title run long before their high school careers even begin.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Omni 15N1</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>59</strong> <mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: <strong>22</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We were surprised to see this group open the season so low in the rankings, especially after the way they finished last year. But if there's one thing this team embraces, it's a challenge—and they wasted no time proving they belong right in the mix with the top contenders. Their performance this weekend sent a clear message: this is a team should be on top. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the center of it all is <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='888746' first='Joelle' last='Wasson']</strong>, a true powerhouse in the middle. Her athleticism and ability to read setters made it extremely difficult for opponents to score at the net, and she consistently turned defensive stops into points by terminating efficiently in system.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='885082' first='K'Lei' last='Noah']</strong> brought six-rotation value on the right side, showcasing her versatility and fearlessness as an opposite. She proved she can score from anywhere on the court, whether attacking in transition or delivering in high-pressure moments.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The offense was expertly anchored by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='787775' first='Kendall' last='Klingenberg']</strong>, who ran a dynamic, unpredictable system. Her aggressive serve applied constant pressure, and her ability to dump at the right moments kept defenses off balance throughout the weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With this kind of showing, it's only a matter of time before this team continues climbing the rankings—and we're excited to watch their momentum build as the season unfolds.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Club One 15 Platinum</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>60 </strong><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: <strong>38</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This group brings dynamic energy and a relentless, can-do mentality every time they step on the court. They compete with grit and determination on every point, never backing down and consistently finding ways to stay in matches against tough opponents.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We were especially impressed by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='789384' first='Chloe' last='Johnson']</strong>, who ran a dynamic, well-balanced offense and showed a clear understanding of how to put her go-to hitters in positions to succeed. On the right side, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='888751' first='Brynne' last='Harwood']</strong> was a true force—making her presence felt with a strong block and a physical, high-impact attack that challenged opposing defenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>From the outside, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='934498' first='Ellie' last='Stones']</strong> proved she's a name to keep firmly on our radar. She delivered clutch swings in key moments and carried herself with a composed, confident presence that elevated the team when it mattered most.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This squad pushed several top contenders to the brink, turning matches into hard-fought battles, and we have no doubt that momentum will continue to build for them as the season goes on.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">SMALL BUT STEADY MOVERS</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Aspire 16 Alpha</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>19</strong> <mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: 11</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This group featured a strong mix of new faces, yet competed with the composure and cohesion of a seasoned unit. Starting near the top of the rankings always brings added pressure, and maintaining—or climbing from—that position is no easy task. Still, this team rose to the challenge and proved they belong among the elite.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We were especially impressed by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='916085' first='Devi' last='Thomas']</strong>, a former 2s player who made a seamless transition into her new role and quickly established herself as a go-to option in the middle. Her impressive vertical and quick arm swing made her a constant threat and added a dynamic dimension to the offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On the right side, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='886724' first='Grace' last='Gelder']</strong> delivered some phenomenal swings, bringing both power and consistency when her team needed it most. At the helm, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='787997' first='Jade' last='Smith']</strong> did an excellent job keeping opposing defenses guessing—moving the ball with ease, spreading the offense, and keeping her team competitive in every match.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With this blend of new talent and high-level execution, it's clear this team is just getting started—and we fully expect them to continue turning heads as the season progresses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Storm 18 Lightning</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>30 </strong><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: 20</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This team made a strong statement in their opening tournament, standing out for their smart decision-making, high volleyball IQ, and infectious energy on the court. They played with confidence and purpose, consistently making the right reads in pressure moments and competing with a level of cohesion that set them apart early in the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The offense was efficiently run in a 6–2 system, with setters <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='882608' first='Kaitlyn' last='Rain']</strong> and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='931872' first='Viviana' last='Hogan']</strong> sharing responsibilities and keeping the pace fast and unpredictable. Kaitlyn excelled at creating one-on-one situations for her hitters, putting them in position to score with clean looks and favorable matchups. Viviana complemented that approach with her steady leadership—bringing strong communication, defensive effort, and a calming presence that helped organize the team on both sides of the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On the pin, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='806789' first='Miley' last='Avenell']</strong> was a standout in her six-rotation role. Despite being undersized, she made high-level plays throughout the weekend, showing fearlessness, versatility, and the ability to impact the game in multiple phases. Her all-around contribution added another dynamic layer to an already balanced lineup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This group is dynamic, confident, and genuinely fun to watch, and their early success feels like just the beginning. We're excited to see how they continue to build momentum and what they'll bring to the court next.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Livewire 16 Prime</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>25 </strong><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: 24</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>When you open the season near the top, there's far more risk of falling than climbing—so even a modest rise in the Open rankings is a significant accomplishment. This team embraced that challenge and competed with heart, resilience, and confidence throughout the tournament. With an impressive 7/10 returners, we can't wait to see what they do as they continue to fine-tune their flow and chemistry.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='888726' first='Carsen' last='Steinkamp']</strong> was an absolute force in the libero jersey. She brought relentless energy on defense, made a clear impact with her block coverage, and consistently delivered in serve receive—allowing her team to stay in system and run their offense effectively.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the controls, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='888725' first='London' last='Clark']</strong> kept the offense flowing with pinpoint ball placement and excellent decision-making. She added value beyond setting as well, contributing with a strong block and timely dumps that caught defenses off guard.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On the right side, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='826371' first='Haylie' last='Johnston']</strong> emerged as an opposite hitter firmly on our radar. Her ability to terminate down the line, paired with smart shot selection, helped keep her team competitive in tight moments and added a reliable scoring option to the lineup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This is a team we'll be watching closely all season. Their energy, fight, and upward momentum make them one of the most entertaining groups to follow as the year unfolds.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Sky 17 Gold</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Started:</mark> <strong>5 </strong><mark class="has-inline-color has-primary-color">Ended</mark>: 4</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This group is shaping up to be a true frontrunner in the State of Arizona this season. With some of the most physically powerful and dynamic athletes in the Class of 2027, they gave a clear preview of just how high their ceiling is—and just how special the season ahead could be.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Anchoring the back row, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='881802' first='Aubrey' last='Burns']</strong> was a steady, relentless presence at libero. Her defensive effort was nonstop, and her consistency in serve receive kept her team in system while also providing reliability on second-ball touches. She set the tone defensively and allowed the offense to operate with confidence.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='749268' first='Ashlyn' last='Quiri']</strong> drew plenty of attention with her composed serve receive and elite transition game. Her ability to move seamlessly from defense to offense, paired with a powerful, controlled approach, made her a constant threat every time she went up for a swing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Running the show were setters <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='845340' first='Cassidy' last='Armstrong']</strong> and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='881806' first='Hailey' last='Johnston']</strong>, a dynamic duo that gave this team the ability to score at will. Together, they pushed a fast tempo, kept hitters in rhythm, and applied pressure with aggressive defensive play—making the offense difficult to predict and even harder to slow down.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With this kind of balance, power, and execution, expectations are high—and rightfully so. We're excited to see how this group continues to develop and perform throughout the 2026 season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We can't wait to see what the rest of the 2026 club season will bring! </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As always, make sure you are following us on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigarizona/?hl=en">@PrepDigArizona </a>as well as our scouts<a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdiganthony/"> @PrepDigAnthony</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachmarissamorah/">@CoachMarissaMorah</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Want to get on our radar? 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