Thomas is listed as a defensive specialist, but Trinity recognized her this season after she stepped into outside-hitter responsibilities and produced effectively in the role. The school specifically highlighted her enthusiasm and effort while filling that need. That tells me something much more useful than a positional label. It shows role adaptability.

Coachability is difficult to evaluate responsibly from outside a program, but one of the strongest public indicators is whether a player can be trusted to absorb a different assignment and remain productive. Thomas did exactly that.

A DS who can step into the front row brings useful ball-control instincts into an attacking role. She already understands defensive positioning, transition and what a good first contact does for an offense. Now she’s adding the hitter’s perspective. Players who understand a rally from multiple positions often become faster problem-solvers because they understand what their teammates are trying to accomplish. That’s a recruiting asset. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast_prepdigga