Across the Court at LS Regionals

<p>Hitters and setters have got their spotlight, it's time to talk about our middles and the defensive dawgs behind them. Every good play start with a good pass, and a middle often gets left out of a play if a pass is not near perfect. These next level DS/Ls out of the Lonestar region, know what it takes to utilize their middles and put their team in position to do so. So, let's get into Middles and the DS/Ls that get the play started.</p>   <p></p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size"><strong>LS 2027 Setters to See </strong></h2>   <p>If you missed the setters on fire at Lonestar regional championships, go give it a read and keep an eye out for more on the class of 2028</p>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://prepdig.com/2026/05/ls-2027-setters-on-fire/">https://prepdig.com/2026/05/ls-2027-setters-on-fire/↗</a><br></li> </ul>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">LS Middles </h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Olivia Theis, standout middle blocker for SA Elite, brings intelligence, toughness, and aggression to every point she plays. She reads the game well and stays active at the net, constantly battling to score offensively while also protecting her defenders with strong blocking presence against opposing swings. Her ability to close space and challenge attackers makes her a key part of SA Elite's defense. The impact does not stop when she rotates to the service line, as Theis serves with precision and intent, consistently applying pressure and looking to score aces. Her competitive mindset and all-around impact make her a difference-maker for SA Elite.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Milena Miladinovic, middle blocker for HJV 17 Premier, makes an immediate impact with the way she attacks every play with purpose and intent. Her size and strong swing stand out the moment she steps on the court, giving her the ability to score efficiently and establish herself as a major offensive presence early in matches. At the net, she plays with confidence and physicality that consistently challenges opposing defenses. Defensively, Miladinovic is well trained in reading the setter and closing the block, allowing her to take away angles and make it extremely difficult for hitters to get past her. Her combination of power, discipline, and net presence makes her a key force for HJV 17 Premier.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Khadijah Blue, aggressive middle blocker for STVA, plays with an attacking mindset that immediately changes the energy on the court. It is clear from the start that she wants to terminate every opportunity she gets, bringing power and urgency to every swing at the net. Any overpass in her area is almost guaranteed to become a point, as she reacts quickly and finishes plays with authority. Her presence forces opponents to stay alert at all times because losing track of her for even a moment can shift momentum instantly. Blue is the type of middle blocker teams must account for on every rally if they want a chance to compete and win.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">LS DS/L</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Kenadie Pina, DS/L for STVA 17-1, is a steady and dependable defensive presence who brings consistency to every rally. She passes a clean, controlled ball on a regular basis, making it easier for her setters to maintain tempo and keep the offense running smoothly. Her reliability in serve receive gives her team confidence to stay aggressive throughout matches. Pina also does an excellent job covering her hitters, constantly putting herself in position to extend plays and keep rallies alive. Her defensive effort and awareness allow attackers to swing freely, knowing she is behind them ready to make the next play.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Breanna Benavides, DS/L for AJV 17 Adidas, brings a consistent and relentless defensive presence to the court. Her game is built around reading the play, delivering quality passes, and serving with confidence, making her a reliable piece of her team's system. She attacks every rally with energy and determination, never hesitating to hit the floor to keep the ball alive and extend plays. Benavides also does an excellent job covering her hitters and staying behind the play, giving her teammates the freedom to swing aggressively knowing she is there for support. Her effort, discipline, and defensive instincts make her an important contributor for AJV 17 Adidas.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Leena Gonzales, a defensive dawg for SA Elite, brings nonstop energy and grit to every point she plays. She is all over the floor from start to finish, constantly moving and putting herself in position to make a play no matter how difficult the ball may be. Her motor never stops, and her teammates know they can count on her to be there every single time when the rally gets tough. Gonzales also does an excellent job covering her hitters, extending plays and giving her team extra opportunities to score. From the service line, she continues to apply pressure by serving with intent and confidence, making her a relentless presence throughout the match.</p>

Hitters and setters have got their spotlight, it's time to talk about our middles and the defensive dawgs behind them. Every good play start with a good pass, and a middle often gets left out of a play if a pass is not near perfect. These next level DS/Ls out of the Lonestar region, know what it takes to utilize their middles and put their team in position to do so. So, let's get into Middles and the DS/Ls that get the play started.