The Pandas try like crazy to not let balls hit their side of the floor and Grout more than exemplifies that. She had a huge dig during the game that landed on the other side for a big point. Grout makes the simple passes and does not hesitate to lunge after balls under control to keep plays alive. Grout said defense is all about pursuit and going after balls trying to get touches even if one does not believe she can get to them in time. Grout added she happened to be in the right position to get her hands under it and send it over for the huge point.

Grout has taken her defensive play up a few notches. Grout uses her great range to track down balls. She gives a great effort trying not to let balls fall. Her first touches have seen exceptional development. Grout also sends sound serves to different places on the court. Grout keeps her arms angled toward the net to make solid two to three-point passes. She’ll continue to find different ways to better balls throughout the rest of the club season.

Grout rose up in the first round of the state tournament and contributed for Notre Dame like she has all season. Grout sends hard line drive serves that West Jessamine struggled with at times. Grout handles hard cross and line shots, lunging when needed, but still staying under control. Grout has landed some big digs that caromed to the other side of the net for kills. Her athleticism will be key for the Pandas to make another deep postseason run.

In the long line of great liberos and defensive specialists that have worn the Notre Dame uniform, Grout is ready to make her mark. She anticipates balls well and does she can to form walls around balls for sound two to three-point passes so the setters can set up the size in the front row for big swings. Grout makes sound decisions on the court bettering balls each time she touches one. Grout leads the Pandas with 213 digs on the season.