The Fly Under the Radar Player Awards

<p>High school volleyball in Nebraska has grown to a new level. There are players who deserve recognition for their talents, but sometimes fall through the cracks of recruiting. They may be overlooked, but that does not mean they should not be recognized. Here are four players that have made an impact on Nebraska high school volleyball that may fly under the radar of collegiate recruiting.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>The “Audacious Defender” award: Riley Newton, Elkhorn South High School, class of 2018</strong></p> <p>Ever since the Nebraska State Volleyball Tournament last November, I have been more than impressed with <strong>Riley Newton</strong>. She carries herself with such grace on the court. Newton’s impeccable court vision is something that is not widely seen at a high school level. Statistics wise, she packs a punch with 1,314 digs and 144 aces in her career at Elkhorn South.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>The “Run the Floor” award: Emma Worthington, Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, class of 2019</strong></p> <p><strong>Emma Worthington</strong> is one of the smartest setters I have seen play. Physically, she is very involved with her team’s success with 862 assists last season. Mentally, she has the indefinable quality to keep her team calm during pressure. If you’re looking for a player that has the physicality, quick wit, and leadership talents to play at a high level, Emma is your player.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>The “All-Around” award: Rhianna Wilhelm, Heartland High School, class of 2020</strong></p> <p>Primarily a setter but could excel at any position; <strong>Rhianna Wilhelm </strong>is the definition of an athlete. Quick-minded decisions are her specialty. She’s got it all: strength, coordination, speed, and most importantly a great attitude. Wilhelm is a coach’s dream. With 1,466 set assists and 414 digs in her career at Heartland High School so far, she does not succumb into the typical setter stigma that setters do not play defense.</p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong>The “Underrated Setter” award: Michaela Boon, Norris High School, class of 2019</strong></p> <p><strong>Michaela Boon</strong>, hailing from Norris High School, runs the floor with how she carries herself. She gives the opposing team’s defense a run for their money, with great placement and timing of setter dumps. Boon has a presence on the court vocally and through her high work ethic. Last high school season, she racked up 789 set assists and 259 digs.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>There are many fly under the radar players in Nebraska High School volleyball. Look for more articles in this series about fly under the radar players in the coming weeks.</p>