PD Slam: Top Players "Playing Up" Age Levels

Playing up an age level is often viewed as a learning experience. It can give players a chance to gain exposure, adjust to the speed of the game, and perhaps learn quickly how they might not be ready for the next level. But every so often, a different scenario plays out. Some athletes don't just survive the challenge of competing above their age group, instead they thrive in it. At the PrepDig Slam, I found there were numerous players "playing up" age levels. The following are some of those players that stood out not because they are young or inexperienced, but because they were among the best on the court. Regardless of age, they impacted matches, elevated their teams, and forced everyone to watch them compete.   Remember to follow me on Instagram @Prepdigamy and Facebook @PrepDig Amy for up to date event coverage, stories, and more. Use code "AVG30" for a discount on your initial membership.    Strunk demonstrated a high level of composure and confidence throughout the tournament which is especially impressive given that she was competing up an age level. She ran a clean, efficient offense and showed strong court awareness, making smart decisions in her ball distribution. Her work ethic was in high gear as she stayed engaged on every point and consistently put her hitters in a position to be successful. She also mixed in well timed setter dumps proving that she is a reliable offensive threat herself. Overall, her court smarts, competitiveness, and ability to control the offense stood out.     Krull is a dynamic six rotation outside hitter who brings energy, grit, and competitiveness to the court. Playing up an age division in the 16s bracket, she was clearly one of the top outside hitters on the floor. She is quick in her approach with a fast, explosive arm swing that allows her to score consistently from the pin. In addition to her offensive contributions, she was solid and dependable in serve receive and defense, showing good ball control and court awareness. Her all around game, relentless effort, and raw athleticism made her fun to watch. This is one player that we are going to be keeping tabs on.     I hadn't seen Fahl play in person before this tournament and whoa, is she impressive. Playing up two age levels, she competes with skill and confidence well beyond a sophomore. She showcases a strong vertical and a fast, explosive arm swing that allows her to score consistently and play above the net. She is also strong in serve receive and defense. Her athleticism, energy, and competitiveness make her extremely fun to watch and difficult to contain. Given the training environment and high level of competition she is currently facing, her ceiling is very high, and she is only going to keep getting better and better. The sky is the limit for this player and we can't wait to see where she goes.     Jackson is a setter that does a remarkable job finding her middles from virtually anywhere on the court. Whether setting from beyond the 10 foot line or in system, she consistently delivers accurate, well timed balls that allow her middles to be terminal. Her ability to establish and maintain the middle attack kept opposing defenses off balance, opening up the offense for her team as a whole.   What is also remarkable is that she is playing up not only one age level, but two. For being 15, Jackson showed excellent court awareness and decision making in the 17/18 division, and her set selection and distribution was key to her team's run to the championship.     Playing up an age level, Sweeney is a reliable six rotation outside hitter who is methodical and composed in her movements and does not get easily rattled. She plays with a calm confidence, consistently making good decisions. Her nonstop hustle and work ethic stand out, and she is a steady contributor on both sides of the ball. Offensively, she is dependable. She transitions quickly and can terminate both in system and out of system balls while defensively she showcases a solid read on the ball, allowing her to pick up almost everything sent her way.     Irlbeck is one of my favorites to watch in Wisconsin's Class of 2028. Playing up an age level, she is dynamic and brings speed, versatility, and energy to the court. One of her biggest assets is that she moves efficiently, showcasing not only fluid movements but also excellent court awareness and instincts.   Offensively and defensively, Irlbeck is highly impressive. She delivered lethal attacks repeatedly and also closed numerous blocks to help her team make it to the finals. And, when you think there isn't anything more she can do to help her team, I even watched her throw in a perfectly timed and well placed setter dump this weekend.   Irlbeck is straight up a stud. I can't wait to see where she ends up come recruitment time, as she is clearly going places.

Playing up an age level is often viewed as a learning experience. It can give players a chance to gain exposure, adjust to the speed of the game, and perhaps learn quickly how they might not be ready for the next level. But every so often, a different scenario plays out. Some athletes don't just survive the challenge of competing above their age group, instead they thrive in it. At the PrepDig Slam, I found there were numerous players "playing up" age levels. The following are some of those players that stood out not because they are young or inexperienced, but because they were among the best on the court. Regardless of age, they impacted matches, elevated their teams, and forced everyone to watch them compete.