A year and a half ago, Krea was forced into setting duties for her Columbus East squad, who didn’t exactly have the greatest season in the fall of ‘24. Fast-forward to her ‘26 club season’s start, and Miss Martin is a full-time libero, and can do anything a defender is supposed to do at the next level. With a relentless motor and even more relentless positivity, Krea’s the libero that can be the captain because of how she carries herself on and off the court. I’ve liked this kid for years—-and pretty soon, colleges will notice all the things she can do for them.

For a kid that’s spent a little time doing just about everything at Columbus East, it was a pleasure to finally see her lock down the libero jersey on Saturday. Relentless in her pursuit of the ball with active feet and a positive, vocal attitude, Krea showed her leadership abilities from 0-0 in the first match on Saturday.

If you’ve ever seen Martin play you will quickly see there is one skill that clearly elevates her from the rest of the defensive players, especially those who are just sophomores – her setting. This DS can put up a hittable ball from pretty much anywhere on the court (with her hands), whether she is running full speed towards the net or chasing a ball towards the stands. Krea is such an asset to have for this reason alone! But it’s not just about setting with this young lady because she has a solid foundation for all the skills including passing, digging, serving and just flat-out hustle. Martin is a SMART, well-rounded player at a young age who is quickly making a name for herself.

Krea is a standout for me because of all the things she can do on the floor. She is a player who could be either your starting varsity setter OR your starting libero – there aren’t a ton of players you can say that about, especially when they are just sophomores. This past season with the Olympians she led the team in digs (223), aces (35) AND assists (441). Now how often do you see that stat line? To have the ability to play both defense and set that well is definitely unusual in the best way, and then add being a great server on top? You have the makings of a player that any team would be lucky to have. Look for Martin to quickly make herself known amongst the other defensive players.

It’s one thing to lead your team in assists as the setter, but it is an incredible feat to also lead the team in digs AND aces. Martin is doing just that so far this season. When you watch her play you can tell that she is a young lady who has been taught all aspects of the game, so she is able to step in and step up when needed. Players like Krea are rare these days; you don’t see many sophomores who could lead their teams in these three distinct stats. I also loved the leadership and energy she brought to this young Columbus East squad. You could tell she was running the floor and was also leading by example. One aspect of her game that I must mention is her defense when she is front row and the off blocker! Martin did not let one off speed or tip drop, and made many diving saves to keep the play alive – a skill that many right sides and setters do not develop until later, if at all. I look forward to watching her play more in person in the seasons to come!