Ella Simeoni’s favorite sequence from the weekend came in a semifinal match against Synergy Force 15-1s, with her team leading 19–16 and working to close the set.

In Rotation 2, she hustled across the court for a 3-ball and swung down the line off a set from Izzy Saavedra. The kill gave her team its 20th point and helped create momentum heading into the final stretch.

That play connected directly to the growth she has built throughout club season.

Ella has focused heavily on becoming a more disciplined blocker, improving her reads, lateral movement, footwork, and eye work. She set that goal early in the year and has continued applying feedback from her coaches in match situations.

With AAU Nationals and GJNC still ahead, Ella is excited to keep challenging herself against strong competition while carrying the discipline, confidence, and competitive mindset she has developed into high school season.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ella impacted matches through consistency and net presence, and she gave specific moments where she delivered when it mattered, including a crucial kill in the semifinal against Academy 16 West and key terminating swings in final sets. She also highlighted block touches that slowed opposing attacks, which coaches know is a hidden stat that changes everything. She understands what it takes to earn and hold the first seed over three days and is already framing lessons from losses as fuel, not frustration. Next, she is focused on disciplined base work and higher blocking effectiveness, a clear developmental target. Off the court, she was nominated, accepted, and inducted into National Honor Society for leadership, character, and service.

Ella’s next tournament is the NCVA Power League Qualifier, January 31 through February 1.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247