At 5-2, Newell was destined for the back row as a volleyball player. When scouting her during the Iowa City High tournament in early September, the junior showed she belonged out there on the court with a lot of taller student-athletes from a collection of good prep programs. Newell held up well in defending a lot of court versus heavy attacks. She moved well laterally and flashed sharp reflexes. Flowing well with the action and reading the opposition’s intentions keenly, Newell consistently is positioned to make plays. She’s a smart player with great energy that communicates clearly with teammates. Newell had come up with a team-high 171 digs through the first 54 sets.