2026 USAV 18s Nationals:  Quick Colorado Recap

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br>With so much talent in the 18s class this year, it's tough to capture every standout performance. Still, several Colorado teams made strong statements at the 2026 USAV Girls 18s Junior National Championships in Reno, finishing inside the top 20 across multiple divisions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">18 Freedom Division</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br>In the 18 Freedom division, [program_tooltip program_id='429602' first='Colorado' last='Juniors'] 18 Trevor led the way with a 3rd-place finish, putting together a consistent and competitive run. CVA 18 Black also landed in the top 20, finishing 13th overall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br>Just a few players to watch as they go on to college:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["746869"],"_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-69fb83370f1f0"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Knight brings a steady, reliable platform that makes serve receive look easy. She consistently delivers hittable balls to her setter, allowing her team to side out quickly and stay in rhythm. She isn't afraid to take seams, lay out for tough digs, or chase balls outside her zone. Calm and composed in every moment, Knight is a dependable presence and a player to keep an eye on at the next level with Regis.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["738625"],"_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-69fb83370f28b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Lynett keeps Columbine's offense flowing with balanced, intentional distribution. She's a high-IQ setter who consistently puts her hitters in positions to score. Her tempo is smooth and controlled, and she makes smart decisions under pressure. With her pace and feel for the game continuing to develop, Lynett is set up to take another step at Regis.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["750776"],"_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-69fb83370f2f2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A steady and versatile contributor, Harrington runs the offense with control while still being a scoring threat. She makes smart decisions with her sets, finds ways to attack open space, and applies pressure from the service line. Her ability to impact the match in multiple ways keeps her team balanced, and her leadership stands out. Harrington will bring that same all-around presence to Emporia State.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">18 National Division</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 18 National division saw the biggest headline, as NORCO 18 Black captured the national title, finishing 1st overall. [program_tooltip program_id='429602' first='Colorado' last='Juniors'] 18 Open added another strong result with a 5th-place finish, competing well against top teams throughout the weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A few players to look out for: </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["738568"],"_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-69fb83370f34c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Dewicki's length and athleticism make her a constant problem for opposing defenses. She can terminate cleanly when in system, but also mixes in off-speed shots, tips, and sharp angles to stay unpredictable. She's especially effective in serve receive rotation one, where she can attack from different spots and create mismatches. Dewicki is a go-to option who will translate well to Washington State.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["738566"],"_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-69fb83370f3a7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">At 6'2, Holloman is an active and dynamic presence at the net. She moves well along the net, finding openings in front of and behind the setter, and stays available in transition. Her quick footwork and strong court awareness make her tough to defend, while her presence at the net adds another layer on both sides of the ball. Holloman's game continues to evolve heading into TCU.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["215096"],"_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-69fb83370f402"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Schroetlin plays with urgency and consistency, always ready to react. She reads hitters well, moves quickly, and finishes plays with controlled digs. Whether it's a hard-driven ball or a short, off-speed touch, she stays prepared and disciplined. Her steady pace and confidence make her one to watch as she heads to Omaha.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">18 USA Divison</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br>In the 18 USA division, Elevation 18 Peak earned a 17th-place finish, battling through a deep field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A few players to watch for: </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["738592"],"_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-69fb83370f45d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Gilbert runs the offense with confidence and control, giving her hitters the freedom to swing aggressively. She's a smart decision-maker with a strong feel for the game, and she adds value at the net with her blocking. She also knows when to be aggressive herself, mixing in setter dumps to keep defenses guessing. Her ability to stay unpredictable elevates her entire offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["814467"],"_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-69fb83370f49f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">At 6'3, Abeyta brings a strong physical presence at the net on both sides of the ball. She covers space well, gets up quickly in transition, and stays available as an attacking option. Her athleticism and ability to read the play help her stay one step ahead, making her a consistent impact player. Abeyta's size and mobility will translate well as she heads to Western Carolina.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quick Snapshot</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This is just a snapshot of the talent in Colorado's 18s class, but the results speak for themselves. Be sure to keep an eye on each of these teams—many of these athletes are headed to the next level, and this group will continue to make an impact beyond club volleyball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Congratulations to all teams on amazing seasons!</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->