Meet Tabitha Westermeyer, the #2 2028 Recruit

[player_tooltip player_id='740401' first='Tabitha' last='Westermeyer'] is an elite-level setter whose skill, intelligence, and athleticism clearly separate her from her peers. She consistently sets against the flow of play, creating one-on-one opportunities that give her hitters an edge. This is a result of her high volleyball IQ, exceptional court vision, and naturally strong hands, which allow for clean, deceptive releases. Her jump set is fluid and on tempo, and she shows mature command of the offense, especially in transition. She works hard to keep her middles involved, establishing balance and unpredictability in every rotation. What sets Westermeyer apart even further is her ability to be an offensive threat herself. She has the hops, timing, and arm strength to attack aggressively when in the front row, scoring off second balls and playing confidently as a right-side hitter when running a 6-2. She's a dynamic athlete, capable of contributing across multiple phases of the game.   At Oregon City High School, Westermeyer earned a varsity spot as a freshman. While she wasn't used as a setter during the season, her offensive talent was tapped on the right side, where she helped power the Pioneers to the 6A State Finals — an impressive achievement for such a young player.   In club, she's come into her own as the starting setter for NPJ Salem 15 National. Whether running a 5-1 or 6-2, her leadership and poise have helped guide a deep roster of top 2028 athletes. Her consistency and competitive energy were key in helping NPJ capture the American bid — the highest awarded in the CEVA region — at the GJNC Bid Tournament.    From Melissa Lund Salness, NPJ Salem 15 National Head Coach:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> Tabitha is a very dedicated player. She consistently sets her hitters to give them the best possible situation. She is selfless and aggressive, taking her chances to score when she can. She's a leader on and off the court, playing consistently and purposefully. Tabitha is an incredible athlete to watch! </blockquote>   I had the chance to email back and forth with Westermeyer, and she answered some questions for us:   <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li>Why did you choose to play volleyball? What got you hooked? What do you love about it? I have competed at a high level in cross country and track since second grade, so when I went to a volleyball camp the summer before my first year playing in 12s I saw college girls playing and I knew that's what I wanted to do. When I started to play club volleyball when I was 11 years old I quickly fell in love with it. I've always loved the competitiveness and intensity of playing. I love that volleyball gives me the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends who also love the sport.  </li>   <li>What has been your favorite memory from volleyball so far? I have so many good memories that I have made throughout playing volleyball, but one of my favorites has been being able to play in the State championship game this fall with my Oregon City High School team. The speed and level of the game was so cool to experience. Going to big travel tournaments is one of my favorite things. It's so fun to travel with my team and spend time with them. I am able to watch older girls play and learn from them while also playing against really talented athletes. </li>   <li>What's the best piece of advice you've received that's helped you grow as an athlete? The best piece of advice that I have gotten is to play for love of the game. I have learned through volleyball that I play my best when I'm not worrying about what others think and just play the game. I've learned that the mental game is just as important as the skills you work on in the gym. </li>   <li>What are your goals for your volleyball career? What are your high school, club, and collegiate career aspirations? I want to continue to play at a high level, earn a bid and compete at Nationals each year. I would like to keep playing on varsity and help my highschool team to succeed as much as possible and keep playing in high competition. My biggest goal is to play at a competitive college level with a program that I love and am lucky enough to meet lifelong friends.</li> </ol>

Tabitha Westermeyer Tabitha Westermeyer 5'8" | S/RS Oregon City | 2028 State OR is an elite-level setter whose skill, intelligence, and athleticism clearly separate her from her peers. She consistently sets against the flow of play, creating one-on-one opportunities that give her hitters an edge. This is a result of her high volleyball IQ, exceptional court vision, and naturally strong hands, which allow for clean, deceptive releases. Her jump set is fluid and on tempo, and she shows mature command of the offense, especially in transition. She works hard to keep her middles involved, establishing balance and unpredictability in every rotation. What sets Westermeyer apart even further is her ability to be an offensive threat herself. She has the hops, timing, and arm strength to attack aggressively when in the front row, scoring off second balls and playing confidently as a right-side hitter when running a 6-2. She's a dynamic athlete, capable of contributing across multiple phases of the game.