I.D That Sophomore: Must See Middles

Dallas Sophomore ID athletes came to play! As we kick off the first round of Texas Showcases, there was hustle, there was grit, and there was some gems. So many athletes representing North Texas volleyball and they showed up to leave their mark. Some good talent and athleticism to see, here are some names you need to know. Of course, I cannot fit all in one go, so be on the look out for more to come!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Coach Faith's Must See Middles</h2>    [player_tooltip player_id='967054' first='Giorgia' last='Dal Santo'], a surprise middle out of Pavia, Italy came to put on a show at the Dallas Sophomore I.D Showcase. She brings a strong swing to the game with a drive to break through the block. She is explosive out of her approach and has perfected her own consistent swing. Her drive to score and fearless play set her apart as an aggressive attacker. Big swing, big drive, big play, it's going to be Giorgia on the court.     [player_tooltip player_id='907242' first='Laila' last='Fields'], 2029 middle blocker from Allen, Texas with a smart and tactical game. She attacks the play with High IQ, swinging to score in deep corners and beat the block. Her approach is quick and consistent, making it easy for setters to find her timing and feed her the ball. Defensively she takes the extra step to ensure a closed block and protect her defenders. With high quality footwork and smart offensive decisions, Laila is undoubtedly a middle that will progress at the top of her class.     [player_tooltip player_id='895597' first='Leighton' last='Lindley'], middle blocker out of Aledo, Texas, already turning heads this past season with APV 15.1. She came out swinging big at the Sophomore I.D Showcase this weekend. Taking every ball with a hard approach and a swing only capable of a kill, she brought it all to the court. Leighton emphasizes her footwork, taking her feet to the ball and driving through her jump completely to elevate above and around blocks to find room to score. She is fearless with her swing and will move to put herself in position to be an option for her teammates.     [player_tooltip player_id='1004602' first='Riis' last='Britt'], a showstopping middle blocker out of Cedar Park. From the first ball in play, Riis is all about strength. Her approach, her swing, her presence on the court speaks for itself. There is no hesitation when she is given the ball. When she sees an opportunity to score, she is going to approach and swing with intent to score. The tenacity and fearlessness behind her play is exactly what coaches look for in a middle. There is still much to see from miss Britt, so keep an eye out for her this upcoming season.     [player_tooltip player_id='903378' first='Azaria' last='Johnson'], an unexpected surprise in the middle. From Waxahachie, Johnson brings the fire to any court she is on. Standing at only 5'7, she is explosive and eager to make her mark. The energy and confidence in her play speaks volumes as she does not hesitate to approach and swing big any time she is given the ball. Her athleticism makes up for the height separation in her position, as she is quick, explosive, and reactive. A middle that can move and play a big game, is a player made to fit the role.     [player_tooltip player_id='1005540' first='Austyn' last='Hale'], big middle blocker from Argyle, Texas, that is here to run the net.Taking over the middle with a strong and aggressive play that is sure to catch attention. It is clear that Austyn plays an intentional game, using her court awareness and IQ to strategically place the ball when she swings. Once her mind is made up, there is little to do in effort to stop her from scoring. She is coming in hot, with a heavy swing, and a big block that does not break. With Hale in the middle, there is confidence she will lead with her strength, IQ, and energy.

Dallas Sophomore ID athletes came to play! As we kick off the first round of Texas Showcases, there was hustle, there was grit, and there was some gems. So many athletes representing North Texas volleyball and they showed up to leave their mark. Some good talent and athleticism to see, here are some names you need to know. Of course, I cannot fit all in one go, so be on the look out for more to come!