For Alyssa Ortiz Alyssa Ortiz 5'11" | OH/DS/L Verrado | 2027 State AZ , Fairleigh Dickinson University quickly became the right fit because it offered both a high-level volleyball opportunity and the chance to stay close to the people who matter most to her. With family spread throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania — along with her sister currently competing at the collegiate level in Connecticut — being able to remain near her support system played a major role in the decision-making process. Alyssa also spoke highly of Coach Martinez and the confidence she has in his ability to continue developing her game and helping elevate her to the next level as an athlete.

Looking ahead to the next chapter, Alyssa is most excited about the opportunity to challenge herself against elite competition and continue growing in a highly competitive environment. She’s eager to compete alongside driven teammates who share the same pursuit of excellence and embraces the hard work, discipline, and commitment that come with playing at the Division I level. Beyond personal growth, Alyssa is focused on contributing to team success and helping her future program compete for conference championships.

As she enters the collegiate level, Alyssa hopes to bring reliability, strong communication, and a relentless work ethic to her new team. She wants both her coaches and teammates to know they can depend on her on and off the court, while continuing to push herself to improve every day as both a player and teammate.

One of the most memorable moments throughout Alyssa’s recruiting journey came on June 15, when she finally had the opportunity to begin speaking with college coaches. For Alyssa, those conversations represented validation that the years of hard work and sacrifice were paying off. Another defining moment came when she officially realized Fairleigh Dickinson University would become her future academic and athletic home.

This commitment carries tremendous meaning not only for Alyssa, but for her entire family. With both her brother and sister having competed at a high collegiate level, continuing that tradition is something she takes great pride in. More than anything, Alyssa is grateful for the opportunity to live out her own dream while also fulfilling the dreams her family has had of watching her compete at the collegiate level over the next four years.

Alyssa is the definition of a well-rounded outside hitter as she consistently impacts the match as a true six-rotation player in so many ways. She brings a balanced offensive approach, showing the ability to generate pace while also mixing in smart shots to keep defenders off balance. Her approach is efficient and repeatable, leading to a high contact point and the ability to score in both system and out-of-system situations.

On defense, she plays with high-level effort and awareness, consistently putting herself in positions to make plays. Her coverage instincts are advanced which lead to a lot of long rallies. Most importantly she anticipates deflections, stays active around hitters, and keeps points alive with second-effort plays which bring a ton of extra opportunities for points for her teams. Her energy is constant and contagious, fueling her team through long rallies and she demonstrates a ton of leadership qualities with her play.

She brings a combination of physicality, skill, and competitiveness that aligns with high-major recruiting standards. As she continues to develop, her impact projects well beyond the regional level and into the national conversation as we head into her senior season.

Alyssa is a 6 rotational pin hitter for AZ Outlaws who just went undefeated and won their division at Colorado Crossroads earlier this month.

Offensively, Alyssa shows good arm speed with great shot discipline. She is super effective in her offensive game and her tool box has it all with a sharp cross, high seam, and deep line when blockers drift. Her timing continues to improve on faster tempo sets, and she stays available as a release valve for the setter when they are out of system. She is very capable of being a volume attacker who can terminate the ball at will at times.

Her serve receive continues to be an asset for her team as she can be a literal libero if it wasn’t for her great arm swing. She has a great platform that is also stable, and she shows good balance against pace and movement. In defense she is very engaged, and does well in her transition from defense to being an option to hit from the back row as well. She always seems to be moving on the floor and never slows up. Alyssa also shows willingness to pursue balls outside her zone and help her teammates out as she has a ton of confidence in her defense and serve receive.

January reinforced what we really want to see out of a pin hitter: consistency, confidence, and tools that hold up under pressure. Alyssa is someone who is worth tracking closely moving forward as her month of January was one to remember.

Alyssa Ortiz Alyssa Ortiz 5'11" | OH/DS/L Verrado | 2027 State AZ is a dynamic outside hitter who expertly blends power with precision, knowing exactly when to dial back her speed with off-speed shots and when to unleash her impressive strength. Her versatility makes her a constant threat on the court. Beyond her attacking prowess, she is a formidable presence in the back row and a key contributor behind the service line, consistently setting the tone for the Verrado team’s defense and transition play. Alyssa’s leadership is unmistakable—her confidence and determination resonate with her teammates, who rely on her to deliver crucial points in the most intense, high-pressure moments.

We are excited to continue to watch this 2027 continue to shine.

Alyssa Ortiz, a 5’11” outside hitter from Goodyear, AZ, is a player to watch at the Top 250 Expo. Representing Verrado High School and the Arizona Outlaws, Alyssa combines her athleticism and precision to be a standout on both offense and defense. Her strong presence at the net, paired with her ability to execute precise shots, makes her a dynamic and versatile player. As a young talent in the Class of 2027, Alyssa’s potential is clear, and she’s sure to make an impact. ~ Michelle Bamford @ PrepDig