Maddy Sledge Maddy Sledge 5'0" | DS/L Little Rock Central | 2028 State AR controls the back row with the confidence of a seasoned libero. From the first whistle until championship point, she never seemed to take a play off. Her voice is constant, giving teammates confidence to trust the court around her, and she backs it up with consistent defensive play. Throughout the weekend, she absorbed swings from bigger, more physical attackers without losing composure. Her reaction time is outstanding, especially on hard-driven balls that change direction late. She consistently got her platform underneath difficult attacks and kept rallies alive when many defenders would have been out of position. Even when she rotated off the court, she remained engaged by encouraging teammates and helping maintain the team’s energy. Her leadership showed just as much on the bench as it did between the lines.

The 501 Volley 16.1 team is one of the most talented teams in the state, already boasting three Division 1 Power 4 conference commits. Still, the diminutive Maddy still stands out on this talented squad.

What else can be said about the #1 ranked libero in the class of 2028? A lot actually. Her energy and enthusiasm shines on the court. She’s a bulldog when it comes to the back row. As I wrote about her during the High School State Tournament, Sledge is undersized but ultra-scrappy.

Maddy has an exceedingly high in game IQ and the calmness to run the show from the back row. She has precise passing and always seems to be in the right spot. Will she be the next big commit from this squad? It would not surprise me, but wherever she lands at the next level they will be getting the ultimate competitor. Coaches need to keep an eye on her at Nationals in the Liberty Division. Play starts this week.

Sledge is very scrappy in the back row and does a very good job at reading the opposing offense. She sets her self up and sees the attackers elbow down making her ready to pick up the tip. She has a pretty consistent serve receive, almost always keeping her team in system. Her out of system sets to the pins are also really consistent, giving her multiple assist. She will be a strong back row defender for Central.

Maddy Sledge Maddy Sledge 5'0" | DS/L Little Rock Central | 2028 State AR is the definition of a high-energy, scrappy libero who demands excellence on the court. With a play style reminiscent of Zoe Fleck, she is relentless in her pursuit of every ball, covering the floor with speed and determination. Her serve receive is rock solid, allowing her team to stay in system, and she brings an aggressive serve that puts opponents on the defensive. Maddy’s consistency, work ethic, and court presence make her a game-changer in the back row, always setting the tone with her intensity and leadership.