Helander has taken steps to improve as the libero for the Bruins during club season. She does a good job putting her body in position to make good first touches. She stays on her feet to hit balls under control only going for pancake digs when necessary. Helander also does a good job getting opponents out of system with her serving.

In the preseason, Ballard head coach Doug Coan said the team would go as far as the defense took the Bruins. Helander did her part to try to give the Bruins a solid defense and is trying to improve upon those skills in club season for the Union 17 UA Green squad. Helander does a great job tracking down balls on both serve receive and regular hits. She squares her arms up to balls and lets her momentum carry the ball to the setter. Helander dives when necessary for pancake digs, but her instincts allow her to stay on her feet for the most part for the sound passes. Helander is also a sound server for Ballard. Helander had 409 digs and 52 aces in the fall, helping the Bruins win a school record 29 games, a 28th District crown and drive to the 7th Region semifinals.

Helander played a key role in lifting the Bruins to another record-breaking season. Helander reads hitters well then quickly veers in the direction needed to dig up the ball. Helander dives to the side and quickly moves forward to make crisp passes on softer hits. Helander is experienced having seen a number of strong hitters on a nightly basis in the 7th Region. Helander also does a great job making things happen out of system. Helander had 409 digs and 52 aces helping Ballard win a school record 29 games, win the 28th District championship and make it to the 7th Region semifinals.

Ballard might not have had the win without Helander’s hustle plays. She dug up Rogers on several big occasions later in the game caroming it to the front row for nice attacks. She dove toward the back line to save one ball and had a reactive dig that landed on the other side of the net for a kill. Helander recorded a crucial kick save in the third game.

Helander is one of the many players with experience giving the Bruins a lot of optimism this fall. Helander squares her arms with smoked balls to make solid passes. It is tough to tip on her because she hustles to them and dives on her knees when she has to. Helander also has a tough serve. Helander had 315 digs and 57 aces leading the Bruins to a 26-10 record and spot in the 7th Region Tournament.