West Aurora’s Ellie Dobbertin always had the physical tools to be an impact player.

In her second varsity season, however, the 5-foot-10 senior right-side hitter is now smarter and more judicious about merging form and style in producing the requisite front-row power.

“I think I’ve worked a lot on just having a stronger block and a stronger hit,” Dobbertin said. “It’s not just about putting it over the net but about being smart where you put it.

“That change has really helped me improve.”

That improvement was apparent Tuesday night as Dobbertin delivered three kills and a block kill for the host Blackhawks in a 25-7, 25-8 Upstate Eight West win over Streamwood in Aurora.

Junior outside hitter Natalie Mitchell led West Aurora (12-6, 1-0) with six kills, while senior middle block A

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