HCIAL: Top Opposites Returning
The HCIAL may be deemed one of the smaller conferences in New Jersey but that does not mean there is a lack of talent. We are now going to take a look at the ladies whose may not get all…
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Continue ReadingThe HCIAL may be deemed one of the smaller conferences in New Jersey but that does not mean there is a lack of talent. We are now going to take a look at the ladies whose may not get all of the limelight playing at the opposite position. Many players on the outside or middle play opposite as well but this list will be looking at girls where opposite is their primary position.
Seniors
Keirra Lugo (Kearny)
Lugo was a solid opposite on the Kearny squad. She has great ability by being able to go angles on her kills. She is a part of the three-headed monster of seniors that Kearny provides. As a junior, she had 46 kills and 84 digs. Watch for her to be a massive part of the offense this year.
Maddie Esquible (Snyder)
Esquible was one who flew under the radar for Snyder. A year ago she was known for her ability as a backrow passer as she finished with 180 digs. At a limited opportunity at opposite, she did record 16 digs. Watch for her to be more of a component on the offense and have a solid senior season. I can tell you she will definitely have more than 16 kills.
Juniors
Jade Nunes (Hudson Catholic)
Nunes saw limited playing time on a dominant Hudson Catholic squad and she has now finished waiting her turn. Nunes did record some statistics last season in minimal time with 2 kills and 9 digs. Expect for her to have a breakout season as one who will be putting the conference on notice of her ability. She will be a huge part of why Hudson Catholic does not skip a beat this season.
Destiny Upia (Memorial)
Upia is another who had limited playing time for Memorial. She will be one to have a season to showcase her ability. Her versality to play in the middle as well allows Memorial to be able to utilize her in multiple facets. She should easily beat the 5 kills and 22 digs from a year ago. Memorial is going to realize they have a real player on the opposite.
Sophomore
Elise Rodriguez (St. Dominic)
Rodriguez was able to see some decent playing time on a St. Dominic squad that a down year. She was able to record 15 kills, 12 blocks and 15 digs. Like Upia, she is able to play as a middle as well. Her athleticism is what makes her a problem for opponents and she’s continuing to grow into her game. Don’t be surprised if she ends up being the number one option for St. Dominic this season. The ceiling is high for her.
These ladies are going to make major impacts this season. Many of them are stepping up into new roles so watch their numbers to have major jumps.