Top Defensive Players in Tampa Bay
As the Libero, these players possess unmatched talent in ball control, speed and agility on the court, and leadership among teammates. They are responsible for getting to every first contact on the court, making a perfect pass, all while orchestrating…
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Continue ReadingAs the Libero, these players possess unmatched talent in ball control, speed and agility on the court, and leadership among teammates. They are responsible for getting to every first contact on the court, making a perfect pass, all while orchestrating the team’s defense. These particular players have proven to be exceptional leaders on their team and continually set up the rest of the team for success with their digs.
Emily Bonnin – 5’3” – DS, L – Class of 2021 – East Lake High School
Emily Bonnin is a dynamic defender for East Lake High’s varsity volleyball team. As a senior this year, Emily has impressed with her adaptability and tenacity in the libero and defensive specialist position. She is a fast player, excellent at being in the right location to snag the hard-driven ball to the back row. In her two years on Varsity, she has accumulated 141 digs and 235 serve receptions in almost 100 sets.
Madi Espy – 5’5” – DS, L – Class of 2022 – Steinbrenner High School
Madi Espy joined Steinbrenner’s varsity volleyball team last season, in 2019, as a Sophomore. Since then, she has played in over 100 sets and snagged 390 digs and over 400 serve receptions. When she is playing libero for her team, she is a player that never stands still. In one rally, she is picking up a short tip in front of the ten-foot line, diving for a roll shot to the back corner, and digging up a powerful cross-court attack. She is definitely a top player to watch and could be considered among Florida’s best defensive specialists.
Ryleigh Powers – 5’2” – L – Class of 2022 – Tarpon Springs High School
Ryleigh Powers is the current libero for the Tarpon High Varsity Volleyball team. She has only played in 51 sets at the varsity level but has already amassed over 156 digs and nearly 300 successful serve receptions. Although she is small in stature at only 5’2”, she covers the back row with assured experience, not only digging up the hard-driven balls to her but also covering the rest of the defensive players. Even while competing against nationally-ranked teams, she keeps her cool under pressure.
Livvi Harting – 5’6” – L – Class of 2022 – St. Petersburg High School
Livvi Harting joined the St. Petersburg High’s Varsity Volleyball team as a Sophomore last year in 2019, and since then has accumulated over 520 digs and almost 700 serve receptions in a total of 116 sets. Livvi is an amazing libero for her team and continues to impress this year as a Junior. She is able to defend against some of the best hitters in the region and hold her own. Her presence on the court sets up the rest of the defense for success, even when she is not contacting the ball.