Wynnie has already spent multiple seasons developing into Pope’s defensive anchor.

The junior libero currently leads the Greyhounds at 4.6 digs per set after recording 513 digs as a sophomore.

What makes Wynnie important in this matchup is the variety she will have to defend. Destinee can attack quickly through the middle. Stella can create from the pin. BT’s setters can also use serving pressure to prevent Pope from ever reaching clean offense.

Wynnie’s skill is not simply reaching difficult balls. It is turning defense into something usable. A spectacular dig that flies into the stands may extend the rally; a controlled dig to target gives Pope a chance to score.

The intangible to watch is command. Great liberos become the backcourt’s traffic controller—calling seams, identifying tips and helping teammates reset after mistakes. In a match where runs could develop quickly, that presence can be enormous. ~ S.Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast_prepdigga

Wynnie handled enormous defensive volume as a sophomore, finishing with 513 digs, 548 receptions, 47 aces and 128 assists. Her 4.8 digs per set led Pope by a significant margin and helped provide the first-contact foundation for a team that finished 31-9 and reached the Class 5A state semifinals.

Pope will enter the new season replacing several experienced seniors, making Wynnie’s stability even more valuable. She can become the athlete who connects old and new pieces by controlling seams, taking ownership of difficult serves and keeping transition opportunities alive. If Pope’s next lineup develops quickly, Wynnie’s ability to make the backcourt feel organized may be one of the biggest reasons why. ~ S.Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast_prepdigga