Pottsville’s perfect 10-0 conference record speaks volumes, and senior standout Ella has been a major piece of that success. With an impressive 340 kills, 250 digs, 30 aces, and 20 total blocks, she brings a well-rounded style of play to a team looking to hunt down a state championship. Ella has the ability to impact every aspect of the game. With Pottsville entering the Final Four, her leadership and all-around production could make the difference in extending the Apaches’ championship hopes.

In a bit of a surprise, Pottsville knocked off Harrison 3-1 to capture the 4A North Regional championship, and Ella Drown Ella Drown 5'10" | MB/OH Pottsville | 2027 State AR was right in the middle of it.

Drown delivered 15 kills on .303 hitting, adding 3 blocks, 15 digs and 15 receptions. She went toe to toe with Harrison standout middle Grace Jennings Grace Jennings 6'0" | MB/RS Harrison | 2027 State AR (15 kills, 4 blocks,2 aces). Ella contributed across the board, giving Pottsville production at the net and steady play in the back row.

The Lady Apaches took the first two sets before Harrison fought back to win the third. Drown and Pottsville finished the job in the fourth, securing the regional title and a No. 1 seed heading into the state tournament.

Drown has been putting together a strong season for Pottsville and is exactly the type of player I wanted to find for this article. At 5’10”, she gives the Apaches some versatility across the front row and has been their most productive offensive option.

Through 33 sets, Drown has 123 kills while averaging 3.7 kills per set and hitting .293. She isn’t just a front-row player either. With 112 digs and 104 serve receptions, she is handling a significant role in the back row as well.

Some of her best performances have come against good competition. Drown put down 17 kills while hitting .556 against both Baptist Prep and Alma, despite Pottsville dropping both matches. She added 16 kills in a 3-1 win over Morrilton and 14 in a 3-1 win at Episcopal Collegiate.

2026 Stats: 33 sets | 123 kills | 3.7 kills/set | .293 hitting | 14 aces | 6 blocks | 112 digs | 104 serve receptions

Coach Kacie Stabler on Ella: Ella has been a part of our offense since her sophomore year. As a junior and now a senior; she has pivoted into a key role for our success. This year we have her playing outside and she has thrived. She has matured a lot as a player and a person which has earned respect from her peers. They look to her as a leader. She is a calm force out there and trust her with the ball. Really proud of her.

2026 Stats: 33 sets | 123 kills | 3.7 kills/set | .293 hitting | 14 aces | 6 blocks | 112 digs | 104 serve receptions