16 Gold’s defensive unit deserves even more credit. Whaley has added to the first-contact excellence from this crew and can slot into any zone along the end line. Her influence has also been felt on the prep side, where she has become a wicked server and defensive specialist for Ashland-Greenwood. We are constantly taken aback by Whaley’s ability to sub in and immediately change the ball control dynamic of a match.

Whaley’s career progression has been something to behold. We were first introduced to her backcourt prowess as a lockdown defender for Premier Nebraska. Her ball control skills flourished on the Prep Dig Circuit, too. However, Whaley put on her attacking hat for Ashland-Greenwood last fall, playing around the dial and putting up triple-digit kills. That change-up was the catalyst for a Bluejay breakthrough in the state tournament.

Indeed, we’re including a player listed as a defensive specialist in our database. Whaley has demonstrated her backcourt prowess in various venues, including high-profile club events and our Prep Dig Circuit showcases. However, Whaley shoulders an all-around attacking role with Ashland-Greenwood and revealed her full repertoire in the Class C1 quarterfinals. She led the Bluejays with 15 kills and polished off a double-double with 12 digs, too. No matter which niche Whaley embraces during the club season, she’s bound to stay in the spotlight.

Whaley has completely rewritten our scouting report after Wednesday’s performance. She has made her mark as a defensive specialist, both with Premier Nebraska and on the Prep Dig Circuit. But Whaley’s attacking prowess was a game-changer as Ashland-Greenwood gained an early advantage against Omaha Concordia. This sophomore should be a six-rotation mainstay during her upperclassman tenure with the Bluejays.

Whaley has kept climbing since we saw her at last year’s Freshman Showcase. The Ashland-Greenwood standout has compiled an impressive highlight tape, particularly as Premier Nebraska 15 Black honed its skills in pre-Nationals scrimmages. Whaley often dons the libero jersey for her team and brings a stabilizing serve-receive presence in the middle-back area. Floor defense has also been a major growth area for 15 Black with Whaley leading the way. Look out for this top seed in the 15 Freedom division.

Here’s another past showcase standout who has improved even more with her 15s club squad. Whaley anchors the back row for Premier Nebraska 15 Black and has already tested her mettle against the nation’s best. She passed dimes at Triple Crown NIT and took plenty of burdens off of other players in the serve-receive pattern. Whaley has developed an incredible ability to see the ball and move her midline into the proper position. 15 Black has taken advantage.