Middles Who Owned the Net at ASICS Presidents Day Classic

<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><a href="https://prepdig.com/prospect-index/"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/02/image_b1c269.png" alt="" class="wp-image-943383" style="width:225px;height:auto" /></a></figure>   Get 30% off your first billing cycle with code: digdakotas30 in the coupon code area   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</a>   When matches tightened and momentum started to swing, it was the middles who changed everything.   At the ASICS Presidents Day Classic, the net wasn't just contested — it was controlled. From sealing seams with disciplined hands to running quick tempo in transition, these were the players who dictated pace and forced opponents to adjust. Their presence altered offensive routes, slowed down pins, and created one-on-one opportunities that shifted entire sets.   The middles featured in this recap are players who caught our attention immediately. Whether it was explosive slides, disciplined blocking footwork, or their ability to terminate in high-pressure rotations, they proved that the fastest way to separate at this level is through the middle.   Here's a look at the middles who truly owned the net at Presidents Day.    [player_tooltip player_id='746253' first='Makiah' last='Sharpe'] controlled space at the net all weekend. Her block timing was disciplined, and she consistently pressed over the tape with strong, sealed hands that eliminated sharp cross-court angles. Sharpe's lateral footwork is efficient — she doesn't drift — and she closes seams with authority. In multiple tight sequences, she forced high swings and funneled balls directly into her defensive system.   Offensively, Sharpe thrives in transition. She gets off the net quickly, re-establishes as an option, and maintains a high contact point even on imperfect passes. Her quick tempo ball is difficult to defend, and she stays aggressive rather than tipping under pressure. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   What this means moving forward: Sharpe has the tools to anchor a collegiate blocking scheme while still producing in tempo-based offenses.     Jillian Rowe's impact came from her discipline and ability to read the game. She tracks the setter's body and reacts instead of guessing, which allows her to close blocks under control. Rowe moves laterally with balance and consistently seals inside hands, taking away high-percentage swings from opposing pins.   Offensively, Rowe runs a steady tempo with clean, repeatable approach mechanics. Her arm swing is compact and quick, allowing her to score efficiently on tight 1-balls and controlled push tempo sets. She doesn't overswing — she executes. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   What this means moving forward: Rowe projects as a reliable, system-driven middle who adds stability and efficiency to structured offenses.     Madeline Sabala brought pace and athleticism to the middle position. She was especially effective running the slide — opening her hips cleanly and attacking deep corners with confidence. Sabala stretches the block laterally and forces defensive adjustments with her speed in transition.   At the net, she establishes presence early with an aggressive press and willingness to take space above the tape. Her energy is consistent from rally to rally, and she competes with visible urgency in extended plays. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   What this means moving forward: Sabala's lateral scoring ability and tempo make her a strong fit for offenses that prioritize speed and spread the floor.     Lola Schoenwald's game is defined by technical polish and composure. Her blocking mechanics are strong — elbows extended, hands angled inside the court, and jump timing that reflects patience rather than reaction. Schoenwald stays controlled in scramble situations and avoids overcommitting.   Offensively, she delivers consistent extension and high contact. She's efficient on quicks and opportunistic in transition, maximizing her swings rather than chasing volume. Her approach remains square and balanced under pressure. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   What this means moving forward: Schoenwald's technical foundation and composure make her a dependable option for programs that value execution and positional discipline.     [player_tooltip player_id='766349' first='Jelena' last='Depusoir'] played with assertiveness and physical presence at the net. Her first lateral step is explosive, allowing her to close quickly on pin swings and challenge above the tape. Depusoir presses aggressively and forces hitters to adjust their angles.   Offensively, she attacks with force and maintains a high contact point. She runs quick tempo effectively and adjusts well when the pass pulls the setter off the net. She reloads in transition and remains available across multiple phases of play. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   What this means moving forward: Depusoir's pace and physicality suggest she can thrive in high-speed collegiate systems that demand aggressive middle play.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">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.</h2>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">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!</h2>   This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas