Lommori, Steel among nation's top players

Two local volleyball players have been picked as finalists for National High School Player of the Year by PrepVolleyball.com, a nationally syndicated website that focuses on volleyball.

Yerington High's Kayla Lommori was among the top 25 sophomores in the country to be chosen as a finalist for the National Sophomore of the Year while Damonte Ranch freshman Scharae Steel is a finalist for National Freshman of the Year honors.

Being named as two of the top players in the nation, Lommori and Steel will no doubtedly receive interest from major programs.

"I think it's incredible," said Yerington coach Anna Aiazzi about Lommori's honor. "We're just thrilled for her.

"She definitely deserves it. She has the right attitude and work ethic. She deserved every accolade."

Lommori had 561 kills and 174 blocks this past season in helping lead Yerington to a 35-2 record and the NIAA 3A State title, its first ever state crown. Lommori is also the defending 3A state champion in the discus.

"A ball masher, no one in Nevada hits harder than this sophomore," said PrepVolleyball.com about the 5-11 Lommori. "Her physicality, court awareness and non-stop motor make her one of the most promising players ever from Nevada."

The 5-9 Steel finished the year with more than 520 kills and also helped Damonte Ranch win the NIAA 4A State title. "A high riser and hard hitter, Steel started and played all the way around for Damonte Ranch," PrepVolleyball.com said. "Her kill put an exclamation point on the Mustangs first large-school state title in only their fourth year of existence. One of two Steel girls playing for their mother, Velvet Steel, Scharae is a true coach's daughter, displaying natural awareness for the game and maturity beyond her years. "

Coaches from across the nation were asked to nominate players based on statistics, team results, and the player's impact on her team. Hundreds of players were nominated from across the United States. The National Player of the Year in each age group will be announced on Jan. 30.

Lommori also plays for the Capital City Volleyball Club while Steel plays for the Sierra Nevada Volleyball Club in Reno.

For more information about the selection process and the results, go to www.capitalcityvbc.com and view the bar on the right-side column.