It’s about time we checked in with some of Club North’s 2029 talent. Sparks joined many of her CNVBC co-conspirators at Sunday’s showcase and exhibited her multi-dimensional ball control prowess. Her native position is setter, where Sparks’ pin-to-pin pushes produced plenty of highlights last weekend. She is at her best when distributing to three-hitter rotations. This also allows Sparks to lock down the right-back area with her unique brand of gritty defense. She’ll better the ball on any contact.

Sparks brings good intensity to the floor and looks like a player who could definitely flourish in a 6-2 system. When running the offense, I was impressed with her decision-making and set selection. She did a good job of recognizing the matchups in front of her and finding the right hitter time after time. That ability to make good choices and put hitters in favorable situations is something you want to see from a setter.

Sparks also showed value defensively. When balls came her way, she did a good job of controlling the first contact and getting the ball up for a teammate to take the second ball. Her combination of intensity, decision-making, and willingness to contribute defensively made for a strong showing throughout the morning.

Ryleigh Sparks approached Sunshine Classic with a consistency mandate and executed across setting, serving, and defensive effort. She delivered reliable distribution to all hitters while maintaining serve pressure and extended rallies with disciplined back row coverage. Her next step is transforming serves from consistent to disruptive by adding placement strategy and tempo variation. Academically driven and detail oriented off the court, she brings the same structure to her development process.

Ryleigh Sparks will compete next at MEQ from March 13 to 15, 2026.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Ryleigh Sparks Ryleigh Sparks 5'2" | S/DS/L Lee's Summit North | 2029 MO showcased assertive leadership from the moment she stepped on the court. She communicated immediately with hitters, organized offensive structure, and maintained a positive environment while delivering consistent sets. Her presence felt proactive rather than reactive, particularly in high-pressure stretches.

Her coaches have challenged her to elevate discipline through feet-to-ball efficiency, pressure consistency, and constant communication. Sparks is leaning into that accountability, strengthening the technical foundation behind her leadership voice. Off the court, she invests in developing younger athletes at her club, reinforcing fundamentals and building meaningful relationships that continue to grow her own patience and communication skills.

Ryleigh Sparks Ryleigh Sparks 5'2" | S/DS/L Lee's Summit North | 2029 MO will compete next at Sunshine Classic on February 27 through March 1.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247