CA Top 250 Expo: Pins with Division 1 Trajectory

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br>Numerous athletes possess the skill to compete in college sports, thanks to the diverse opportunities available at D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO schools. However, only a select few have the capabilities to excel in Division 1. The recruitment process for Division 1 athletes is intricate, involving factors like academics, athleticism, dedication, character, family background, and often unforeseen variables. Coaches have specific roster needs, and a graduation year might not align with open positions due to redshirts, fifth-year seniors, graduate students, over-sea-transfers, and students extending their education due to COVID-19. Rejection from dream schools might not relate to the athlete's abilities but rather to roster dynamics.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In navigating this, prioritize academics as they will persist beyond the athletic career. Then, focus on self-improvement as an athlete, honing skills and athleticism while refining character both on and off the court. Remember, the scrutiny starts from the moment the athlete shows interest in playing in college, including online presence. Posts and even choice of music can influence perceptions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Considering all this, I believe these prospects have the potential for a Division 1 trajectory.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["482046"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":482728,"_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eTristyn Bailey, 2027: 5'11 Pin for Brentwood and Mizuno Long Beach Club.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eTristyn epitomizes the essence of an athlete, standing at the threshold of becoming a Division 1 collegiate athlete herself. Her family boasts a deeply entrenched legacy in sports: an aunt excelling in volleyball at Fresno State, another shining in basketball at San Diego State, and one more displaying prowess in soccer at UCLA. u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHer uncle played basketball at UCLA, along with her father, u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003ewhile her mother excelled in soccer and basketball at UCLA. Moreover, both of her parents had professional careers in the NBA, WUSA, and Europeu003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e. Even her great-grandfather graced the courts of the Boston Celtics. This robust familial support has aptly prepared Tristyn for the path toward collegiate sports.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eBefore uncovering Tristyn's illustrious lineage, her exceptional skills as an Outside Hitter for Brentwood's varsity team immediately captured my attention. As I engaged with her, it became apparent that she possesses not only immense talent but also the mindset requisite of a top-tier athlete. Beyond her physical prowess, Tristyn emanates a unique mental fortitude crucial for success in sports and everyday life. She prioritizes being a supportive teammate, radiating energy both on and off the court.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eAt the expo, Tristyn left us in awe with her outstanding vertical ability and powerful hitting mechanics as an outside hitter. Her on-court fundamentals were impeccable, distinguishing her as one of the standout performers. Notably, she also holds a remarkable 4.0+ GPA, showcasing academic excellence among her peers at the Expo.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eTristyn's freshman performance displayed a promising skill set. With continued dedication and hard work, she positions herself favorably to pursue her aspirations at esteemed institutions like UCLA, USC, or Stanford. When asked about her dream schools, she eloquently expressed, u0022My dream school would be where the academics and athletics are the best of the best!u0022u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_player_details_selected_featured_image":482733,"_player_evaluations_1_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_1_player_details_player_name":"Westley Matavao","_player_evaluations_1_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_1_player_details_graduating_class":"2027","_player_evaluations_1_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_1_player_details_height":"6'0u0022","_player_evaluations_1_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_1_player_details_position":"32564","_player_evaluations_1_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_1_player_details_school":"Orange Lutheran","_player_evaluations_1_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_1_player_details_club_team":"Forza1North","_player_evaluations_1_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_1_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_1_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eWestley Matavao, 2027: 6'0″ Outside for Orange Lutheran and Forza1Northu003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eMy initial introduction to Westley came through a u0022Freshman of the Weeku0022 article, where her remarkable blend of athleticism and rich cultural depth immediately stood out. Firmly rooted in core values of God, family, and her cultural heritage, u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eWestley's transition from excelling in softball to discovering a newfound passion for volleyball, a sport where her potential for greatness seems evident.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eObserving Westley's performance at the Expo was akin to watching a collegiate player in action. Renowned for her commanding kills and devastating top-spin serves, Westley's performance was nothing short of impressive, earning her recognition as a top performer during the event. Her approach to the net, marked by swift footwork and lightning-fast arm swings, left opponents struggling to predict her shots. Notably, her skills extend beyond offensive attacks; she demonstrates finesse in defensive prowess, excelling in both digs and passes from the back row. Even as a freshman, her leadership qualities shone brightly at the Expo. Witnessing her actively engage in fast-paced drills, vocalize self-corrections, and apply them on the court in real time was a coach's dream.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eConsistently emerging as the go-to hitter throughout the Expo, Westley displayed exceptional athleticism and a coachable spirit, hinting at a promising future ahead. Her aspirations to join prestigious institutions like Oregon, UCLA, and USC underscore her limitless potential. Furthermore, any college fortunate enough to recruit her won't just acquire an outstanding athlete; they'll gain access to a deeply rooted and dedicated Aiga support system, propelling their “Bee” towards success at every phase.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["482032"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_player_featured_image":481603,"_player_evaluations_2_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e[player_tooltip player_id='482032' first='Makenna' last='Barnes'], 2027: 6'1 Pins for Marymount High School and Mizuno Long Beachu003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e[player_tooltip player_id='482032' first='Makenna' last='Barnes'] possesses an undeniable flair. Her vibrant, lively nature and impressive power on the ball make her stand out. Makenna's approach mechanics set a benchmark for outside hitters and, combined with impeccable timing and precise footwork, she embodies the quintessential package of an outside hitter. Beyond dominating the front row with her swings and powerful blocks, she radiates positivity, engaging with teammates and exuding a contagious energy that's palpable both on and off the court.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eWhile capturing footage for analysis, Makenna's spirited persona shines through as she's seen dancing on the court in more than one clip. Her ability to maintain this infectious energy reaches its pinnacle when she smashes a ball, igniting her teammates with the thunderous sound echoing across the court. Makenna presents an ideal choice for a coach seeking a vocal, vibrant player who excels at delivering powerful shots.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eInquiring about her aspirations, Makenna mentioned Hawaii, Stanford, Cal Poly, and Cal as her dream schools. Should [player_tooltip player_id='482032' first='Makenna' last='Barnes'] persist on her current trajectory, any of these esteemed institutions could soon come knocking at her door.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_player":["338908"],"_player_evaluations_3_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eLucky Fasavalu, 2027: 5'8” Pin for Lakewood and Mizunou003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eLucky is a fitting name for this young lady, for witnessing her on the court leaves you feeling privileged to have secured a ticket to her performance. She stands out as a showstopper, from the moment her infectious smile lights up the arena to the instant her furious kills command attention, leaving no doubt about the caliber of her game. As a child from a military background, Lucky has traversed the globe, engaging with various club volleyball teams every couple of years. This experience has molded her not only into a resilient individual but also an adaptable player ready for collegiate-level competition.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eAn adept high-flying outside hitter, Lucky's volleyball IQ surpasses her freshman status. She excels in every essential skill—serving, passing, blocking, and notably, delivering powerful hits. As accurately noted by Michael Deleon, 'the best part of her game is EVERYTHING! There is not a skill that she cannot perform at a high level.'u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHer remarkable GPA, highlighted in a previous article, further cements the perception that this freshman embodies the complete package—a dream prospect for college coaches. In her own words, 'You may not know me when I walk in, but you'll remember me when I'm gone!'u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_player":["480605"],"_player_evaluations_4_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eKalyani Olive, 2026: 6'2″ Outside for LACES and Los Angeles Volleyball Clubu003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eThe Expo marked my introduction to Kalyani, and her exceptional talents immediately captivated my attention, prompting a desire to delve deeper into her story. Kalyani's athletic prowess is rooted in a storied family legacy, with her grandfather excelling as a collegiate swimmer at the University of California, Berkeley, and her father making his mark setting volleyball records at the University of Hawai'i, Manoa. With thisu003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e background, along with a multitude of excellent coaches aiding her journeyu003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e, Kalyani has evolved into a skilled pin hitter, equipped with a robust foundation of fundamental abilities.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eBeyond her skills on the court, Kalyani's commitment extends to her academic endeavors and community engagement. Notably, she spearheaded a baking business that generously donated over 2,000 cookies to support first responders during the pandemic. Additionally, she orchestrated the most significant donation drive in her volleyball club's history, benefiting the children of the Bresee Foundation.u003c/spanu003eu003cbru003eu003cbru003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eAt the Expo, Kalyani showcased a dynamic and adaptable playing style, seamlessly adjusting to various sets. u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHer disciplined approach to mechanics allowed her to strategically place her shots, showcasing precision and control. Defensively, her blocking technique demonstrated an impressive pressu003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e. Kalyani emerged as a standout performer at the Expo, and I anticipate her continued growth and improvement throughout the club season.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_5_player":["454603"],"_player_evaluations_5_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_5_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_5_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_5_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eAsia Udo-Ema, 2027: 6'0” Pin for Corona Centennial and Forza1Northu003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eAsia's performance at the Expo affirmed my decision to consider her as a standout prospect with a D1 trajectory as a pin.u003c/spanu003e u003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eShe maintains a significant online presence, showcasing impressive reels that document her training, highlights, and notably, her high school team's historic advancement to the CIF Playoffs after an 11-year hiatus. u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eWhat initially drew my attention to Asia was her distinct on-court persona—a unique swagger that sets her apart.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eUpon inquiry, I discovered that Asia's upbringing was steeped in the world of AUU basketball, shaped significantly by her father's role as the co-founder of Compton Magic. Intrigued by her background, I followed Asia's highlights and felt compelled to witness her play live. Attending a playoff game where Asia faced off against the formidable [player_tooltip player_id='162783' first='Taylor' last='Yu'], bound for Stanford, showcased Asia's potential despite facing a tough opponent and dealing with out-of-system sets.u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e Even while under the weather during my u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eencounter watching her play,u003c/spanu003eu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003e Asia's performance continued to leave a lasting impression.u003c/spanu003ernrnu003cspan style=u0022font-weight: 400u0022u003eHowever, it was the Expo that truly unveiled the exceptional abilities of this 6'0u0022 freshman outside hitter. Watching Asia seamlessly integrate into high-paced drills alongside upperclassmen, maintaining her performance standards, offered significant insights into her recruitable potential. Asia showcased an impressive skill set encompassing passing, setting, hitting, blocking, and serving. Her dominance during gameplay left no doubt that Asia's future in volleyball is destined for greatness.u003c/spanu003e","_player_evaluations_5_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":6,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6560ed52d8c31"} /-->