S.A Up Next Defenders

<p>Here are five defensive dawgs that ran the court at the San Antonio Up Next Showcase! It was a good morning for some volleyball on Aug. 15th, as many athletes showed up and showed out for our Prep Dig event. Defensive is no small feat in this game, and these girls came ready to prove they are ready for the challenge. Discipline, big energy, and outstanding hustle, set these player apart on the court, we cannot wait to see more.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other S.A Standouts </h2>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://prepdig.com/?p=1020002">https://prepdig.com/2026/08/s-a-up-next-pin-hitters/↗</a></li> </ul>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ds/Liberos</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Zoe Gennero, a 2031 Ds/L for San Antonio Force, brought hustle and energy to the court. Her ability to read the ball and move through the pass was notable early on in the event. Moving her feet and pushing to touch anything within her reach, showed the effort she has for the game. As she continues to develop er game and hone in on the little things, Zoe has the fundamental training and the grit to take her play to the next level.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Alanah Stroklund, defensive specialist from the class of 2031, she may not have all the size, but does not let that stop her from getting to the ball and making the play. She does well moving her feet and pushing forward to keep her platform under the ball. Alanah hustles, fights to keep the play alive, and communicates well when on the court. Her quick reaction time and consistent passing has made an impression and will continue to be key factor in keeping her on the floor.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Gianna Magana, a technical defensive specialist for SA Juniors, came in with constant movement on the court. Showcasing her comfort on the court early as she flowed and transitioned well with those on the court alongside her. She is fundamentally sound and moves well during play. Staying low and keeping her platform in her line of vision while playing. Her speed and commitment to good and clean technique keep her ahead of the game and have been a big push in getting her ready for the season.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Juliana Sanchez, Ds/L for SA Juniors is a smart and sound defensive player and showed off her skills this past weekend. Staying low and ready for every ball throughout positions drills and live play grabbed attention early, but the most impressive feat, was her ability to remain on her feet in hustle plays. The discipline and hustle to take the extra step, the quick read and reaction time to cover ground so a dive is not necessary is impressive and serves as a big quality in defenders. </p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Ava Hernandez, defensive specialist for San Antonio Juniors, who is ready to compete. She does well moving through the ball on a run through, keeping her platform together well after contact, and seeing the ball to target. With a focus on the fundamentals and intentionally keying in on seeing her pass, Ava sets herself apart. As her footwork and transition time continue to improve, she will definitely be a force on the court in seasons to come.</p>

Here are five defensive dawgs that ran the court at the San Antonio Up Next Showcase! It was a good morning for some volleyball on Aug. 15th, as many athletes showed up and showed out for our Prep Dig event. Defensive is no small feat in this game, and these girls came ready to prove they are ready for the challenge. Discipline, big energy, and outstanding hustle, set these player apart on the court, we cannot wait to see more.