Rising Stars: Class of 2029 Shines Bright

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The future of Missouri volleyball looks exceptionally bright, as the Class of 2029 steps up and makes significant contributions to their teams. These young athletes aren't just filling roles; they are emerging as formidable leaders and setting impressive benchmarks in their positions. From electrifying kills to crucial digs, let's spotlight the standout players already making waves this season!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Brooklyn Johnson – Clinton</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brooklyn, the Cardinals' dynamic outside hitter, is off to an incredible start, boasting a .300 hitting percentage with 80 kills. In a thrilling five-set loss to Adrian, she showcased her skills with a double-double, recording 24 kills and 16 digs. Following that performance, Brooklyn hit an impressive .700 with 8 kills in a sweep of Neosho. Big things are on the horizon for this talented player!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Hadyn Howie – Northland Christian</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>After helping the Trailblazers reach the Final Four as a freshman, Hadyn continues to impress with a strong start to this season. In a nail-biting 3-2 win over West Platte, she recorded a double-double with 13 kills and 15 digs, solidifying her role as the team's primary offensive threat.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Penelope Glosier – John Burroughs</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Standing at 5'11”, Penelope has worked tirelessly during the club season, transforming into one of the top middles in the 2029 class. Previously known for her defensive prowess, she set a new career high with 17 kills at .500 hitting in a 3-2 win over Lutheran SC, showcasing her offensive growth.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kayla Pitts – Helias</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kayla has emerged as the most efficient hitter among all 2029 players in the state, boasting a .440 hitting percentage. With Helias off to an impressive 11-0-1 start, Kayla has hit over .400 in 6 matches and holds a career high of 8 kills. She's also tied for the top blocker in the class with 18, making her a dual threat on the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Ava Dotson – Liberty</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 6'2” middle blocker for Liberty is making a name for herself, tied at the top of the leaderboard among 2029 players with 18 blocks. Her strength allows her to dominate at the net, and she established new career highs of 15 kills and 6 blocks in a thrilling 3-2 win over St. Joseph Central.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Brynlee Ash – Hermann</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>After a successful season as a setter in the 6-2 offense, Brynlee has transitioned to the libero position, quickly becoming one of the top liberos in Class 2 with 65 digs. Her move is vital for the Bearcats, particularly after losing a star libero to graduation. Brynlee's career-high of 22 digs in a 3-1 win over Montgomery County demonstrates her defensive capability.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Lana Bakrac – Oakville</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lana, a lefty opposite, is off to a stellar start, contributing significantly to the Tigers' 8-3-2 record. She ranks second on the team in kills with 54, while also leading in aces and digs. Her all-around skills as a top passer make her essential to her team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Adalyn DeLunas – Oakville</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>&nbsp;A standout from Crossfire's club season, Adalyn is a versatile hitter, excelling as both a pin and middle player. Currently, she leads her team in blocks with 14 and has shown early promise with a hitting percentage of .433. As the season progresses, expect her blocking and offensive numbers to rise.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Natasha Schultz – MICDS</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Natasha has made a strong comeback for the Rams, already halfway to her total kills from last season with a new career high of 9 kills achieved twice. Her versatility to play on the pins or slide to the middle has transformed MICDS's offense, making her a key player to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Nora Butler – Kirkwood</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Although she may be overshadowed by her senior teammates, Nora's talent is undeniable. A heavy ball hitter with remarkable quickness, she averages a .342 hitting clip and has achieved a .727 hitting percentage, including 8 kills in a sweep of Marquette. Nora is definitely making her mark!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->