Emma is focused on building confidence through repetition and game play. She’s been developing her passing, serving, and movement so she can stay steady and composed in competition. “I’m working on being more confident, playing steady, and knowing what to do during games,” she said. At the showcase, she showed growth by running clean offense, staying positive through mistakes, and finding her rhythm with new teammates.

Her excitement for learning is contagious. “I’ll run for every ball, cheer for my teammates, and stay positive even if I mess up,” she shared. Emma’s mindset is exactly what coaches look for in young players, open, joyful, and always improving.

Fun fact: She has been playing volleyball for just over a year and enjoys both indoor and beach volleyball. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

For Emma Kerdiles Emma Kerdiles 4'8" | S/RS Franklin Elementary School Santa Monica | 2033 CA , the SoCal UpNext Showcase was about stepping into the game with both excitement and nerves, but mostly with joy for the chance to learn and grow. She explained, “I feel really excited and a little nervous, but once I get on the court, I know it’s going to be so much fun,” highlighting her eagerness to play with new teammates and absorb coaching that will help her sharpen her skills. With just over a year of volleyball under her belt, Emma is focused on building confidence and consistency in the fundamentals, showing that she is willing to laugh off mistakes, stay positive, and keep improving every time she takes the court. Her performance impressed coaches and earned her a MVP at the showcase. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Emma Kerdiles Emma Kerdiles 4'8" | S/RS Franklin Elementary School Santa Monica | 2033 CA , an Outside Hitter from Franklin Elementary School, was selected by coaches Taylor Kushner and Christian Obergfell, who praised her for taking initiative and competing with confidence throughout the SoCal UpNext Showcase. They highlighted her ability to communicate clearly, calling for the ball and using strong volleyball language that kept her teammates engaged and connected. What stood out most was her willingness to go after everything, showing determination on every rally and proving she was ready to take ownership of her role on the court.

Emma’s energy and communication set her apart as the kind of player who raises the level of those around her. By combining effort with leadership, she created opportunities not only for herself but for her teammates, showing that she understands the complete game. Coaches took notice of how she balanced skill with maturity, proving that her ability to step up and take charge is just as valuable as any single highlight play. She left the showcase with a reputation for being a competitor who is not afraid to lead, a quality that will serve her well as she continues her volleyball journey.~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Emma impressed with her ability to deliver dimes to her hitters. She showed great form, communicated loud and clear, and was steady in every drill. Her court presence was felt and she allowed her hitters to shine with consistent location. Emma is one to watch as she continues to grow and refine her game. — Kantessa Bryant-Miller

Congratulations to Emma Kerdiles Emma Kerdiles 4'8" | S/RS Franklin Elementary School Santa Monica | 2033 CA , Class of 2033, for being named a Top Performer at the SoCal UpNext Showcase!