Defense wins championships. You hear in every sport, every year. That is the mindset preached in every locker room. One player that lived that out during Nationals, was Aubrey Stricklin Aubrey Stricklin 5'9" | MB/RS Benton | 2028 AR .

Playing in the challenging Liberty Division, the EVA 16 Elite had many hard fought-battles. ” Aubrey made a big impact on games with comebacks that started with her blocking parties,” said EVA Director Tanja Eckart. Stricklin led defensive charges in several matches that sparked the team. Her timing and anticipation allowed her to close the seams or just one on one stifle attackers. She is not just a defensive player; she has the ability to get the ball down on offense as well. As she heads into the high school season, the Benton Panthers can expect to see a fierce warrior at the net!

Aubrey Stricklin Aubrey Stricklin 5'9" | MB/RS Benton | 2028 AR is an explosive middle blocker who creates offense even in out-of-system situations. She gets off the net quickly to create space for her setter and stays available offensively regardless of pass location. Her volleyball IQ is noticeable in the way she works around blocks, especially when trapped tight to the net. Defensively, she closes fast to the pins and helps establish a strong first line of defense.