Who's Taking Care of BIDness for 16s, 17s and 18s?

<p>The road to Nationals is officially underway, and Arizona is already making noise. Almost every age division has now secured at least one bid, proving that talent runs deep across the state from top to bottom.</p>   <p>From gritty qualifier battles to statement performances on big stages, AZ clubs are putting themselves in position early — and we're just getting started. This report breaks down where each age group (16s-18s) stands, who has already punched their ticket, and what our predictions look like as we head into the heart of qualifier season. </p>   <h1 class="wp-block-heading">18s</h1>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Storm 18 Thunder</h3>   <p>Storm set the tone early this season, securing a bid at the Salt Lake City Qualifier — and they haven't slowed down since. It's been no surprise to see them bring home Gold, as they've consistently proven why they're one of the top teams to watch.</p>   <p>Leading the charge are the middles [player_tooltip player_id='412848' first='Brooke' last='Harwood'] and [player_tooltip player_id='502333' first='Hayden' last='Conner'], both standouts we've been thrilled to watch since day one of starting Prep Dig Arizona. They both play with a high IQs, compete relentlessly, and continue to be a reliable go-to options in big moments. In the back row, [player_tooltip player_id='534541' first='Mattea' last='Saunders'] anchors the defense as one of the top liberos in the state, bringing consistency and control in serve receive. On the pins, Addison Weimann and [player_tooltip player_id='536785' first='Madisyn' last='Crnjac'] deliver in a big way, providing steady, high-level production on the outside.</p>   <p>This roster is loaded with talent, depth, and experience — and if they continue on this trajectory, don't be surprised to see Storm take home another open title. </p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Sky 18 Gold</h3>   <p>This is another team we fully expected to see at Nationals — and they proved exactly why. They dominated the AZNQ last month, finishing 1st in the 18s division and taking home the first place title, and then followed it up in Vegas finishing 4th and getting themselves and even better bid. </p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='448314' first='Erin' last='Clark'] anchors the defense with an elite ability to read hitters and make plays before they even unfold, while [player_tooltip player_id='544566' first='Vivian' last='Hickman'] runs a smart, efficient offense that keeps opponents guessing. On the pins, [player_tooltip player_id='874777' first='Clara' last='Schramm'] and [player_tooltip player_id='827356' first='Meadow' last='Hobbs'] have been nothing short of dominant, providing consistent, high-level production.</p>   <p>This group has all the pieces — and we're excited to see how they stack up on the national stage.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Sky 18 Blue </h3>   <p>This team has been a true frontrunner all season long, consistently battling at the top of Open and proving they belong among the best. Their hard work paid off at AZNQ, where they secured their bid to Nationals on their home court, and followed it up with an impressive 2nd-place finish in Las Vegas.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='822954' first='Cadence' last='Roberts'] continues to shine as a 6-rotation outside, serving as a steady anchor and go-to option in all phases of the game. At the net, [player_tooltip player_id='874827' first='Molly' last='Whalen'] is a problem for opponents — taking care of overpasses, swinging high hands, and providing a consistent offensive presence. On the right side, [player_tooltip player_id='804732' first='Ava' last='Kounkel'] brings a strong block and a dynamic attack, adding another layer to this team's offense.</p>   <p>This is a well-balanced, high-level group that continues to find ways to compete and win — and we fully expect them to keep turning heads as the season progresses.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Club Cactus 18-Mizuno</h3>   <p>This group earned their USA bid at AZNQ with a strong, well-earned finish, putting themselves in position through consistent, high-level play. They compete with great ball control and bring an aggressive presence at the net, never backing down from a fight.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='891311' first='Lydia' last='Litkenhus'] runs the floor with precision and poise, delivering a consistent, clean ball that keeps her offense in rhythm. On the outside, [player_tooltip player_id='838520' first='Sophia' last='Guzman'] impacts the game in every phase — playing strong off-blocker defense, taking smart and efficient swings, and reading the court well to find ways to score.</p>   <p>This team plays the game the right way, and we're confident they'll continue to represent Tucson and their club at a high level on the national stage.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Club One 18 Platinum </h3>   <p>This team has been a staple at the top of Open all season long, consistently competing at a high level every time they step on the court. In Dallas, they secured a well-earned USA bid to Nationals — a testament to the work they've put in all year.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='806213' first='Kristyn' last='Grantham'] has been a steady, reliable presence on the outside, delivering consistent production on the pin. [player_tooltip player_id='891171' first='Kylie' last='Christiansen'] does an excellent job running the offense, keeping her team composed while also contributing defensively. </p>   <p>This roster is loaded with talent and balance, and they have all the pieces to make a serious run at Nationals. Definitely a team we'll be keeping a close eye on.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Altitude 18 Black</h3>   <p>This team had their moment at AZNQ, finishing towards the top in good position and earning a Freedom bid to Nationals in impressive fashion. They've been competitive all season long in Open and backed it up with a strong finish in the top Gold bracket at the Fiesta Classic in February.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='813397' first='Faith' last='Brady'] has stood out in the middle as a true presence at the net — combining a strong block and effective attack with a high volleyball IQ, especially in tight, high-pressure moments. In the back row, [player_tooltip player_id='809276' first='Zoe' last='Villalobos'] brings consistency and control, excelling in serve receive and making key plays to keep her team in system, regardless of the score or situation. </p>   <p>This is a group trending in the right direction, and with the way they continue to develop, don't be surprised to see them make even more noise as the season goes on.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rev 18 Premier</h3>   <p>This group absolutely showed out in Vegas. Battling through a loaded field at Red Rock Rave, they finished 5th in Open and earned a well-deserved bid to Nationals — right in line with the level they've maintained all season long.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='531324' first='Allison' last='Dunnion'] brings a strong presence in the middle, creating impactful touches at the net that slow the game down for her defense while consistently working to transition and stay available offensively. On the right side, [player_tooltip player_id='845280' first='Brooklyn' last='Palmer'] is a major factor — her block is solid, her attack is tough to defend, and as a lefty, her ability to run middle options adds another layer that keeps opponents guessing. Running the show, [player_tooltip player_id='874765' first='Selah' last='O'Connor'] continues to lead with confidence, making smart decisions under pressure and guiding her team in big moments.</p>   <p>They've been a top-5 team all season, so it's no surprise to see them in the mix for a national championship in Open. Expect them to represent Arizona in a big way.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">EVJ 18 Elite</h3>   <p>Despite battling through injuries, this team showed resilience and grit at the Sierra National Qualifier, finishing 3rd and punching their ticket to Nationals.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='877457' first='Lucy' last='Schmidt'] has put together an impressive season, stepping up as a dominant leader and steady presence for her team. In the middle, [player_tooltip player_id='827907' first='Tatum' last='Clay'] continues to make a big impact with her quick footwork at the net and smart, efficient attack.</p>   <p>This group has all the right pieces, and their ability to persevere through adversity says a lot about who they are. We're excited to see what they can do as the season winds down and Nationals approach.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Zona 18 Black </h3>   <p>This team competes with relentless energy every time they step on the court, never backing down from any opponent. They earned their bid in Vegas earlier this month in the USA division, and we're excited to see how they take advantage of that opportunity.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='877469' first='Natalie' last='Mobley'] continues to impress on the right side with a strong, consistent attack and her ability to transition quickly, always making herself available as an offensive option. In the back row, Alexis Ferbeyr brings a steady, reliable presence, excelling in both defense and serve receive while keeping her team competitive in tight matches.</p>   <p>Proudly representing Tucson, this group is ready to carry that same fight onto the national stage — and we're excited to see how they represent Arizona in the USA division.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Aspire 18 Alpha </h3>   <p>Aspire is a group that has put in the work all season long, and it's paying off in a big way. After finishing 3rd in Open in Dallas, they followed it up by winning the Sierra Qualifier USA Division, and ultimately earned an at-large Open bid — a recognition that is more than deserved.</p>   <p>At the helm, [player_tooltip player_id='874735' first='Drew' last='Flanagan'] and Brooklyn McNulty continue to separate themselves as two of the top setters in the 2026 class, showcasing elite precision and consistent ball delivery. On the outside, [player_tooltip player_id='806890' first='Nia' last='Curry'] brings a strong court presence, mixing smart shot selection with a dangerous back-row attack. In the back row, [player_tooltip player_id='809025' first='Marianne' last='Garcia'] anchors the defense with high-level ball control and the ability to keep plays alive, even in out-of-system moments.</p>   <p>This team is a true example of what hard work, resilience, and belief can produce — and they've proven they're a force to be reckoned with heading into Nationals.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Aspire 18 Premier</h3>   <p>Aspire 18 Premier has been a consistent competitor in the AZ Open division all season long, and they've earned their spot on the national stage in the AZ Qualifier. Punching their ticket to Nationals, this group has proven they can hang with the best.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='805966' first='Kaeli' last='Moreno'] has been a true difference-maker for this squad — a 6-rotation threat with a heavy arm swing and a relentless competitive edge. Alongside her, [player_tooltip player_id='881803' first='Mira' last='Banks'] continues to make a big impact on the outside, combining smart shot selection with strong court awareness, while also putting up a formidable block against top right sides.</p>   <p>This team has shown they belong, and they'll be ready to compete with the best in Reno. We're excited to see what they can do in the Liberty division.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Oasis Volleyball Club </h3>   <p>This team put themselves in a great position at AZNQ, finishing 6th and earning the opportunity for a Freedom bid. It's been a steady climb for this group all season, consistently competing near the top of Open and proving they belong in the conversation.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='830485' first='Brielle' last='Tippins'] has been a strong presence on the right side, establishing a big block while also showing a high level of control and shot selection — knowing exactly when to turn up the power. Running the show, [player_tooltip player_id='532627' first='Lexie' last='Gallagher'] does an excellent job orchestrating the offense with precise ball placement and smart decision-making.</p>   <p>This is a team that continues to build momentum, and with the way they've been competing, they're right where they need to be heading into the final stretch of the season.</p>   <h1 class="wp-block-heading">17s</h1>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">AZ Storm 17 Thunder </h3>   <p>Storm 17 Thunder continues to set the standard for Arizona volleyball, proving year after year why they're one of the premier programs in the state. Earlier this season, they secured an Open bid at the Northern Lights Qualifier in dominant fashion — taking first without dropping a single set. They carried that momentum into Vegas, finishing second after a tightly contested championship battle.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='877226' first='Lila' last='Ellsworth'] is a pin to keep your eyes on, bringing relentless effort and a true difference-making presence on the court. Defensively, [player_tooltip player_id='603194' first='Pulelehua' last='Laikona'] is one-of-a-kind — covering ground with ease and reading the game at a high level to keep her team in every rally. At setter, [player_tooltip player_id='520375' first='Fara' last='Bronson'] runs a dynamic, high-level offense that constantly keeps opponents off balance.</p>   <p>This group has all the pieces, and if their season so far is any indication, they're right in the mix to bring home another national title for Storm.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Atomic 17 Smack Premier</h3>   <p>This team came into Vegas with one goal — earn a bid — and they delivered. Competing as a top-5 team in the Liberty Division, they held their ground in a tight, competitive field and proved they belong on the national stage.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='877239' first='Shia' last='Chancellor'], one of the top pins in Arizona for 2027, leads this group with passion and grit. She's dominant on the right side and consistently finds ways to outsmart opponents with her ability to adjust and score in a variety of ways. Alongside her, [player_tooltip player_id='882559' first='Sami' last='Mondino'] is a major weapon — a true 6-rotation threat who can produce from both the front and back row. Her ability to perform under pressure continues to stand out.</p>   <p>This team is hungry for more and clearly not done yet. With their eyes set on an even higher bid, we're excited to see how they show up at AZNQ next month.</p>   <h1 class="wp-block-heading">16s</h1>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Storm 16 Thunder </h3>   <p>With some of the top underclassmen talent in Arizona, it came as no surprise to see this squad secure a bid at Red Rock Rave. Competing against a loaded field, they battled their way to a 3rd-place finish, going 8–2 on the weekend.</p>   <p>[player_tooltip player_id='888469' first='Amari' last='Frazier'] continues to stand out with her ability to read attackers and stay one step ahead, while also creating problems offensively with her quick, dynamic attack. In the back row, [player_tooltip player_id='888758' first='Kate' last='Hayes'] and [player_tooltip player_id='509700' first='Izzie' last='Penrose'] have been rock solid, anchoring serve receive and defense against high-level competition.</p>   <p>This group is knocking on the door of a first-place finish at a qualifier, and with the talent and consistency they've shown, it feels like it's only a matter of time before they break through.</p>   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Our Predictions - Who's Still Gonna Do it? </h2>   <p><strong>Rev 17 Premier - </strong>This talented squad has consistently been at the forefront of the Open division, going toe-to-toe with some of the best competition out there. With major opportunities ahead at West Coast and Far Western, they're right in position to make a statement. It feels like it's only a matter of time before this loaded group breaks through in a big way and leaves their mark.</p>   <p><strong>Club Cactus 16-Mizuno</strong> - This squad put together an impressive finish in Open in Boston, and they're far from done. With some of the top talent out of Tucson, this group has all the pieces — and the mindset — to keep pushing.They're hungry, they're relentless, and they won't stop competing until they earn that bid.</p>   <p><strong>Livewire 16 Prime - </strong>This squad has been a consistent top team in the 16s Open division all season long, and everything points to them competing on the national stage again. After earning three bids last season, they know what it takes — and we fully expect them to find their way back there.</p>   <p><strong>AZ Sky 17 Blue</strong> -This squad has made it clear they're not to be underestimated. Loaded with talent, they've been a problem for every team in Open this season and continue to compete at a high level. They've earned their spot in the conversation, and we're excited to see how far they can take it moving forward.</p>   <p><strong>Club One 17 Platinum -</strong>There's no question this team belongs in the conversation. A bid is within reach, and they've been knocking on the door — most recently at MEQ. This is a group that knows how to find a way, and if history tells us anything, it's that they will.</p>   <p><strong>Aspire 17 Alpha - </strong>We've seen this squad go toe-to-toe with top competition and come away with some impressive upsets along the way. With high-end talent and a relentless fight, they've proven they belong — we will be seeing them on the national stage, it's just a matter of when they get there!</p>   <p><strong>AZ Outlaws 17 Elite - </strong>This is not a team you want to overlook. With multiple D1 and D2-level prospects on the roster, they bring a level of talent that challenges every opponent they face. They've put together several strong finishes on the travel circuit and continue to trend in the right direction.This is a group that competes with purpose and toughness — and they're going to battle all the way to the end.</p>   <p><strong>AZ Sky 16 Gold </strong>- There's simply too much talent on this roster to ignore — and everything points to this group breaking through. From top to bottom, they're loaded with weapons on the offensive side and bring just as much discipline and control defensively. It's a balanced, complete team that can win in multiple ways, which makes them especially dangerous as the season progresses.</p>   <p><strong>Aspire 16 Alpha </strong>- This team has made waves and turned plenty of heads this season. They play with strong chemistry and a clear sense of purpose, continuing to improve every time they step on the court. They're trending in the right direction, and it feels like they're building toward something big. We're excited to watch the rest of their journey unfold as they push toward a bid.</p>   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <p>Club season has been fantastic to watch and we will continue to cover all the action. </p>   <p id="block-ff547c59-6450-4248-97aa-538a17567baf">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>   <p id="block-2724ef01-8afd-456b-9992-0232edc76682">Want to get on our radar? Do the following:</p>   <ul id="block-25a633e5-738f-4493-a4cf-15ae3161c492" class="wp-block-list"> <li>Follow us on Instagram, Nominate Through our <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeGWSR1w3a_ZgKVLmUouN7ymhvldIHGmG6f6zWs54-pGTM_-A/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=116487285663927782556">Form</a>, and Send us your Highlights! </li> </ul>   <p></p>

The road to Nationals is officially underway, and Arizona is already making noise. Almost every age division has now secured at least one bid, proving that talent runs deep across the state from top to bottom.