2024 Player Rankings: Next-Level Setters
We posted our 2024 player rankings last week, and continue to highlight our favorites by position. Today’s dive is a focus on the setters that will definitely make a difference at the next level. Mya Ball Mya Ball 6'2" |…
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Continue ReadingWe posted our 2024 player rankings last week, and continue to highlight our favorites by position. Today’s dive is a focus on the setters that will definitely make a difference at the next level.
Mya Ball Mya Ball 6'2" | RS Angola | 2024 State #124 Nation IN , 5-10, Angola
Yes, THAT Ball. The bloodline that produced Arnie Ball, the father of men’s volleyball in the midwest, and Lloy Ball, Olympian setter for the U.S. Men’s National Team. Mya is just as smooth, smart and competitive as both Arnie and Lloy, and is still growing. And is only a freshman.
Olivia Gisslen Olivia Gisslen 5'9" | S Carroll | 2024 State #196 Nation IN , 5-9, Carroll
High and soft hands emphasize the athleticism Olivia has, and is still growing and strengthening. This Empowered-trained setter from the Fort Wayne area is more than capable of running a 5-1 herself at the varsity level. Let’s hope there’s enough club ball for us to watch her further development.
Alexis Maesch Alexis Maesch 5'10" | RS Avon | 2024 State IN , 5-8, Avon
Older sister Abby is on her way to Georgia in the fall, so the bloodline is there. So is the competitiveness, as this Circle City-trained setter should not be overlooked. Although the setting for the Orioles was senior-led this past fall, this team is Alexis’ to lead come fall of ’21. Once again, I’m looking forward to some semblance of a club season this spring, and with it, more Alexis.
Leah Richmond Leah Richmond 5'8" | S Lawrence North | 2024 State IN , 5-8, Lawrence North
Far and away the most athletic on this list, Leah comes to us from LN where she did see a bit of varsity playing time in clutch situations this past fall. LN doesn’t normally pass well, so Miss Richmond’s ability to get to most balls and make them hittable for all of her hitters is next-level stuff that other setters on this list might struggle with. Fast, athletic, with fast hands and a high volleyball IQ? Yes, please.
Allie Shondell Allie Shondell 5'9" | S McCutcheon | 2024 State #78 Nation IN , 5-9, McCutcheon
Allie just led the Mavericks to a regional final upset of then-#1 Hamilton Southeastern in the 4A state tournament, and has the semi-state on Saturday to decide if they go to the state final on November 7. She’s a full-time 5-1 setter with the volleyball smarts to run the show with ease. Watching her play against high-level competition this fall (Brownsburg and Avon), it was difficult for me to see the “freshman” portion of her play. Her maturity is beyond her years, and having that Shondell bloodline also helps. Yes, THAT Shondell; granddad is Dr. Don, two Shondells on the bench at Purdue, and another Shondell winning all of the state titles at Muncie Burris for years. Great kid with great character, great skill and even better competitiveness? Can’t WAIT for club season.