Appleby is the type of consistent catch-and-finish attacker every offense needs. She understands cutting angles and timing extremely well, reads her defender, and uses her height to create separation and become an easy target around the cage. Once the ball reaches her stick, she can use multiple fakes to deceive the goalie before finishing. Her effort on the re-defend is another major part of her game. Appleby plays relentlessly, using her speed to chase down ball carriers and delivering back checks when the opportunity presents itself.

Appleby, out of Maryland, is a good righty dodger who drives hard. Off-ball, she makes good cuts and opens lanes for a teammate to cut and get a look on cage. Off the 8-meter, she can finish the rock.