9-7-25

The opening week of New Jersey girls volleyball has showcased not only returning veterans but also an exceptional group of freshman who are already making their mark on the court. These Class of 2029 standouts are proving that age is just a number when talent, work ethic, and determination come together. Players to watch:

Offensive Powerhouses

Sofia Oravetz (Kingsway) has burst onto the scene with authority, averaging an impressive 3.0 kills per set while contributing across all facets of the game. Her balanced performance includes solid blocking (1.0 per set) and defensive prowess (4.0 digs per set), plus a dangerous serve that has produced 3.0 aces per set. Oravetz’s versatility and high volleyball IQ suggest she’ll be a cornerstone for Kingsway’s program for years to come.

Faith Forenza (Mother Seton) has been nothing short of spectacular, leading all freshman with 25 kills across six sets. Her 4.2 kills per set average demonstrates the kind of offensive firepower that can change games. What’s equally impressive is her serving consistency, recording 13 aces while maintaining steady production. Forenza’s ability to shoulder offensive responsibility as a freshman speaks volumes about her mental toughness and preparation.

Olivia Drucks (Mount Olive) has shown remarkable efficiency, posting 3.0 kills per set while adding a strong serving game (2.0 aces per set). Her immediate impact in Mount Olive’s rotation demonstrates the coaching staff’s confidence in her abilities and her readiness to compete at the varsity level.

Defensive Standouts

Amalia Moldovan (Glen Ridge) exemplifies the modern digger, recording an outstanding 9.0 digs per set while contributing 3.0 kills per set. Her court coverage and anticipation have been exceptional, providing Glen Ridge with a defensive anchor they can build around.

Emerson Guan (Moorestown) has established herself as a defensive specialist with 4.0 digs per set across five sets of action. Her consistency and court awareness have earned her significant playing time, and her ability to extend rallies gives Moorestown extra opportunities to score.

Koey Zheng (J.P. Stevens) has been a revelation in the back row, averaging an impressive 5.2 digs per set while contributing as a setter with assists and serving effectively. Her all-around court sense and volleyball intelligence make her a valuable asset in multiple rotations.

Setting the Standard

Isabella Montero (Ridgefield Park) has taken on the crucial role of primary setter, distributing 47 assists across six sets for an impressive 7.8 assists per set average. Her court vision and decision-making have been mature beyond her years, orchestrating Ridgefield Park’s offense with poise and precision.

Maddy Ayres (Donovan Catholic) has shown remarkable versatility, contributing 29 assists (4.1 per set) while also adding offensive production and serving consistency. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes her an invaluable asset to Donovan Catholic’s system.

Natalia Wernyj (Highland Park) has stepped into a setting role with confidence, averaging 5.2 assists per set while demonstrating the kind of leadership qualities that are rare in freshman players.

Rising Stars to Watch

Julia Stempien (Mount St. Mary) has made an immediate impact with balanced production across all categories, showing the versatility that coaches love in young players. Her 4.0 digs per set and solid offensive contribution make her a player to monitor as the season progresses.

Smitha Srinivasan (East Brunswick) has announced her arrival with a perfect 3.0 kills per set and 3.0 digs per set average, showing the kind of two-way impact that defines elite players.

Evelina Chiminova (Jackson Township) leads all freshman in kills per set at an incredible 6.0, demonstrating the kind of offensive firepower that can carry teams deep into tournaments. The co-op is working so far and Jackson can be a force with combined teams and young talent emerging.

The Future is Bright

These freshman represent more than just individual success stories. They embody the deep talent pool that continues to make New Jersey volleyball among the nation’s best. Their early success speaks to the quality of club programs, coaching development, and the competitive environment that pushes young players to excel.

What makes these performances even more remarkable is the mental strength required to contribute immediately at the varsity level. The transition from club or junior varsity to varsity volleyball can be challenging, yet these players have embraced the pressure and risen to meet expectations.

Their coaches deserve credit for recognizing talent and having the confidence to put these young players in position to succeed. More importantly, these freshman have shown they belong, earning their spots through performance rather than potential alone.

As the season continues, expect these names to become increasingly familiar to volleyball fans across New Jersey. Their combination of talent, work ethic, and competitive spirit suggests they’ll be impact players not just as freshman, but throughout their high school careers.

The Class of 2029 is already proving they’re ready to carry the torch of New Jersey volleyball excellence, and the future has never looked brighter for the sport in the Garden State.