High School Previews: UIL 1A – The Middles Who Dominate The Net
It will be a quick turnaround for young volleyball players in the state of Texas. Shortly after one month from the conclusion of the club season, these prospects will be back on the courts again representing their high schools. It…
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Continue ReadingIt will be a quick turnaround for young volleyball players in the state of Texas. Shortly after one month from the conclusion of the club season, these prospects will be back on the courts again representing their high schools.
It will be exciting to see some well-known names establishing themselves even more in the Lone Star state volleyball scene and some new faces breaking through and quickly emerging to earn the spaces.
Between now and the start of the high school season, at the beginning of August, we’ll highlight some players we believe are worth your attention when teams get back on the gym. It’s our final day examining the University Interscholastic League (UIL) 1A Division and it’s time we give a good look at some promising middle blockers.
Addison Willingham – HS: Blum – Club: NRG Volleyball – 2024
Blum was truly blessed to have found a freshman who was able to impact the game as much as Addison Willingham did last season. The 5’11” middle blocker immediately became a centerpiece in the Bobcats’ playing system and was the team’s leading hitter (230 kills) and blocker (21 stuffs). Willingham had a well-developed all-around game and is playing as an outside hitter for her club team NRG so expect her already remarkable 142 passes and 83 digs to increase in 2021. In her freshman year, the middle blocker was part of both the All-Tournament team and the Texas Sports Writers Association (TSWA) All-State team, besides receiving the District Offensive MVP award as well.
Kayme Schley – HS: Fayeteville – 2024
Kayme Schley split time between the middle blocker and outside hitter positions in her freshman year of high school volleyball and the diversified role allowed her to show her best game with Fayeteville. A Texas Sports Writers Association (TSWA) All-State second team selection, Schley was lethal at the net, contributing with 187 kills during the season, but arguably even better at the backcourt, where she managed to register 208 digs and impressive 84 aces for the Lady Lions.
Hayleigh Swinford – HS: Aquilla – Club: Texas Legends – 2022
Hayleigh Swinford’s strong 2020 seson with Aquilla earned her a spot in the Texas Sports Writers Association (TSWA) All-State third team. The 5’9” middle blocker was in great form with the Cougars and was the team’s leading offensive option (179 kills), its most prolific blocker (44 stuffs) and also contributed well on digging (79) and passing (98). Swinford isn’t the most physical middle out there, but she had great understanding of the game and fantastic ball control, which helps her work at the net.