Defense is what stood out right away when I watched Haines. She was very active at the net and consistently found ways to get touch after touch on opposing attacks. Those touches may not always result in a stuff block, but her ability to slow the ball down and give the back row time to get in position for easier defensive plays can’t go unnoticed. That’s valuable work at the net and can make a big difference in extending rallies. Offensively, Haines also showed an understanding that power isn’t always necessary to score. She found different ways to put the ball on the floor, showing good awareness and giving herself options beyond simply trying to overpower the defense.

Haines benefited from quality playing time at the varsity level to move up the rankings. She tallied 85 kills and 110 digs last fall with Circle. She is now ranked No. 17 overall after previously being ranked No. 68. She also showed off her strength last season with 22 blocks and 11 aces in limited varsity time.