NorCal Winter Classic: 2028 Prospects Ready to Shine

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2025 NorCal Winter Classic, set to unfold January 18–20 at @the Grounds in Roseville, California, is more than just a tournament—it's a thrilling kick-off to the club season and a pivotal moment in the recruiting journey for volleyball's Class of 2028. This West Coast Volleyball Association-sanctioned event draws elite talent and eager college scouts, offering freshmen a prime opportunity to make their first impression on the recruitment stage. Organized by Elite Event Partners, the Winter Classic is a proving ground where rising prospects aim to establish their reputations, ignite their college dreams, and set the tone for an exciting season ahead.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In anticipation of the tournament, I connected with a few standout prospects who have excelled in self-promotion on social media and are eager to gain exposure leading up to the event. Meet some of the Class of 2028 athletes and hear their thoughts on this year's highly anticipated NorCal Winter Classic. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["505606"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6787086163a2f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Standing at 6'1", Middle Blocker [player_tooltip player_id='505606' first='Caira' last='Tasi'] is ready to make an impact at the NorCal Winter Classic, competing in the highly competitive Open Elite division. She looks forward to the opportunity to grow with her team, using the event to refine their strengths and address areas for improvement ahead of upcoming tournaments. Known for her dedication both as an athlete and a teammate, Caira is committed to putting in the work to achieve excellence on and off the court. A dual-sport athlete, she also plays varsity basketball, showcasing her athletic versatility and drive. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">College coaches, don't miss the opportunity to see Caira in action! Catch her first match on 1/18 at 8:00 am at Grounds Ct. 7.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["730216"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6787086163a78"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='730216' first='Cosima' last='Buchser'], a versatile multi-sport athlete, is excited to take the court at the NorCal Winter Classic to strengthen her team's connection and ignite their spark. Known for her outgoing personality and ability to stay focused under pressure, Cosima brings a balance of fun and determination to every game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">In addition to her volleyball achievements, including a bronze finish at the 2024 FWNQ, she plays high school soccer, honing her endurance and physicality for both sports. Cosima's energy and dual-sport experience make her an exciting player to watch this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">College coaches, don't miss the opportunity to see Cosima in action! Catch her first match on 1/18 at 8:00 am at SportsHouse Ct.4</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725940"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6787086163abf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='725940' first='Noelani' last='Ramirez'] is an exceptional setter in the Class of 2028, standing out not only for her skills on the court but also for her leadership and commitment to team dynamics. Competing with SynergyForce 15-1 Nationals and Franklin High School Varsity, she is eager to showcase her abilities at the upcoming NorCal Winter Classic.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Noelani looks forward to facing the top teams in Northern California, using these challenges to strengthen connections with her teammates and refine their collective performance. She thrives on constructive criticism, understanding its value in driving personal and team growth. Building strong relationships on and off the court is a cornerstone of her approach, ensuring a positive and cohesive team environment.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Fun Fact: Noelani loves doing the gritty and brings energy and enthusiasm to every moment, whether it's celebrating a point or encouraging her teammates. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">College coaches, don't miss the opportunity to see Noelani in action! Catch her first match on 1/18 9:00 am at Grounds Ct.5</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["739924"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6787fb2c5bd0a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='739924' first='Ayda' last='Turgut'] is excited to showcase her skills and make an impact at the NorCal Winter Classic, where she'll compete in the highly competitive 16 Open Elite Division. As a hardworking and aggressive player, Ayda is eager to kick off her season strong and demonstrate her commitment to her team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Known for her determination and team-first mentality, Ayda thrives in high-pressure situations, always striving to push her limits and support her teammates on and off the court. College coaches will find her to be a dedicated athlete, driven to continuously improve and grow in the game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A fun fact about Ayda is that she is bilingual and fluent in Turkish, adding a unique skill set that highlights her ability to connect with diverse groups. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["530589"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-678932591c1a3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Giulia "Gia" McManigal is a standout player for SF Elite 15-Salazar, ready to showcase her team's hard work at the NorCal Winter Classic. Coming off a strong third-place finish in last season's NCVA, Gia is eager to connect with her teammates and see how their new talent shines in this competitive tournament. Known for her dedication on the court, in the classroom, and within her community, Gia consistently demonstrates hard work and focus. Fun fact: Her Italian-spelled name may say "Giulia," but her teammates all know her as "Gia." </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">College coaches, don't miss the opportunity to see Giulia in action! Catch her first match on 1/18 3:00 pm Grounds Ct.12.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["742445"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6787fb2c5bd66"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Maggie Bolton, a skilled setter and rising star in the Class of 2028, is eager to showcase her abilities at the NorCal Winter Classic. With four years of competitive volleyball experience and now in her second year as a setter, Maggie has already demonstrated her leadership by serving as team captain for two consecutive seasons.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the Winter Classic, Maggie looks forward to competing with her new team, building bonds, and striving for victory. Her hard work and dedication extend beyond indoor volleyball, as she also excels in beach volleyball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Off the court, Maggie is driven to grow as an athlete and leader, channeling her passion for volleyball into continuous improvement. With her determination and skill, she is ready to make an impact this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">College coaches, don't miss the opportunity to see Maggie in action! Catch her first match on 1/18 3:00 pm at Grounds Ct.19</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["719236"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6787086163b09"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='719236' first='Caylee' last='Chin'] is a rising talent who thrives on taking on challenges. Playing in the 16 Open Elite division at the 2025 NorCal Winter Classic, she is excited to face older, higher-skilled teams and further develop her game. Known for her versatility as both a setter and defensive specialist, Caylee is ready to push herself to new heights during the tournament. Beyond volleyball, she enjoys camping, watching Asian dramas, and giving back to her community by coaching clinics at SF Tremors. Her love for learning and commitment to improving make her a player to watch this season. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Please note that the tournament schedule and court assignments listed above are subject to change: <a href="https://results.advancedeventsystems.com/event/PTAwMDAwMzc1Njk90/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here to view the latest tournament schedule.</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2025 NorCal Winter Classic promises to be an unforgettable weekend of volleyball, where freshman athletes have the chance to make their mark and take the first steps in their recruitment journeys. Last year's event showcased incredible performances, propelling young talents into the spotlight and capturing the attention of college coaches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This year, I'm excited to see what the Class of 2028 brings to the court as they embark on their club volleyball careers. These rising stars have the opportunity to establish themselves on this highly competitive stage, setting the tone for their futures. Stay tuned as I highlight some freshman athletes who are poised to shine and inspire the next generation of volleyball talent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>If you enjoyed this article, show your support by following&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en">PrepDigCA</a></strong>&nbsp;and<strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachable247/?hl=en">Coachable247</a></strong>, for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes action, and a closer look at the volleyball community you love.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Together, we're building a positive platform to celebrate players, empower families, and connect with the volleyball community. Thank you to all of our subscribers for being an essential part of this journey. Let's keep growing the game and creating unforgettable memories.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Michelle Bamford @<a href="https://www.coachable247.com/">Coachable247</a></em></strong></h4> <!-- /wp:heading -->