Marion continues to roll at 14-1 on the season. Last week was no different as the Patriots took down Brookland, Beebe and Batesville while dropping just one set along the way.

Typically, you might see a big hitter or setter sitting in the spotlight, but this week we’re going to the back row. Senior libero/DS Annabelle White Annabelle White DS AR controlled things defensively for Marion, finishing the week with 4 aces, 34 digs, 10 assists and 54 serve receptions. Those 54 receptions are important because Marion’s offense starts with first-ball contact. White’s ability to consistently get the ball to target allows the Patriots to stay in system and gives setter Claire Brinkley Claire Brinkley S/RS Marion | 2027 State AR plenty of options to work with.

I’ve written extensively about Kendall Brown Kendall Brown 5'8" | OH/MB Marion | 2027 State AR , Marlee Williams Marlee Williams 5'10" | MB/RS Marion | 2027 AR and Claire Brinkley Claire Brinkley S/RS Marion | 2027 State AR , and all three had another strong week. Brown finished with 43 kills, 3 aces, 5 blocks and 36 digs. Williams added 29 kills, 7 aces and 4 blocks, while Brinkley handed out 97 assists to go with 8 aces and 4 kills.

With that kind of production across the floor and White controlling the back row, I wouldn’t expect to see Marion slow down anytime soon.

Player Spotlight – Annabelle White Annabelle White DS AR : 4 aces | 34 digs | 10 assists | 54 serve receptions