Class Of ’25 Freshman Defenders Making An Impact
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Our class of ’25 watch list was released last week, and we finally touch on defenders that need to make that first contact for their respective teams to be successful this spring. Here are five that we’re keeping an eye…
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Continue ReadingOur class of ’25 watch list was released last week, and we finally touch on defenders that need to make that first contact for their respective teams to be successful this spring. Here are five that we’re keeping an eye on once club season begins.
Addi Applegate Addi Applegate 5'5" | DS/L Yorktown | 2025 State #93 Nation IN , 5-6, Yorktown, Munciana
The ’bro all year for 4A top five Yorktown, Addi is the smooth first contact in serve receive that other coaches covet. It’s easy to see why defense is so important for the Tigers; Kylie Murr (Ohio State), Kenzie Knuckles (Nebraska), Ellee Stinson (Northwestern), Kate Vinson (Ball State) and Jenny Morey (Wright State) are just a few of the current Yorktown grads that see regular playing time at their respective schools. Miss Applegate fits that mold perfectly, and she’s got three high school (and four club) seasons to show it.
Bella Dafforn Bella Dafforn 5'4" | DS/L Lawrence North | 2025 State IN , 5-3, Lawrence North, Team Indiana
A three-rotation DS on varsity this past fall, Bella shows a maturity and volleyball IQ far beyond her age and experience level, and is a natural fit for both the Wildcats and TI’s 15-1 squad. Her first contact is consistent and smooth, and anticipates well on off-speed shots. I said this back in the summer and I’m saying it again—at the level Miss Dafforn plays, it’s hard to believe she’s “only” a freshman.
Kennedy Cherry Kennedy Cherry 5'7" | DS/L Hamilton Heights | 2025 State IN , 5-7, Hamilton Heights, Boiler Juniors
Kennedy is a multi-sport athlete that prides herself on making those around her better. She’s a full-go, no-quit defender for Boiler Juniors’ 15-1 squad, and plays as such regardless of the score. I liked what she brought to the Prep Dig Top 250 Expo a few weeks back, and her constant pursuit of the first contact was evident from the start. I’m looking forward to watching her develop this spring.
Sophia Nowacki Sophia Nowacki 5'8" | DS/L Hammond Bishop Noll | 2025 State IN , 5-8 DS/OH, Hammond Bishop Noll, Epic United
Although seeing time as a full-time six-rotation passer for Bishop Noll, Sophia listed herself as a DS/L, and showed out as such at our Expo last month. I’m going to list her as both, as her multiple skill set will make a difference at the next level. Another silky smooth defender, Miss Nowacki will play a very tough club schedule on the Epic United 15-1.
Peyton Ridge Peyton Ridge 5'5" | DS/L Speedway | 2025 State IN , 5-6, Speedway, Circle City
On the 15 Black (15-2) roster at Circle, Peyton comes from a smaller non-traditional volleyball program in Speedway as their ’bro of the present and the future. A middle-back defender for now, Peyton can make smooth and athletic transitions in any position, and anticipates well for her age group. I like that she stays on her feet as much as possible, but can go for it and hit the floor at a moment’s notice.