Starcher gives Trinity Christian an experienced defensive specialist in its senior class. Her recruiting value should be measured heavily through reliability. Defensive specialists may enter in shorter windows than six-rotation players, which means they don’t always get several rallies to find rhythm.

That makes preparation an important intangible. Where is the server trying to go? Which hitter is front row? What does the block intend to take away? Where should the defender begin before the ball ever crosses the net? Senior defenders who process those questions quickly can make an immediate difference without needing the offense built around them. That’s an underrated college skill. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast_prepdigga