Nebraska’s Late-Season Stock Risers: 2026 Setters
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What about the setters? Our late-season stock riser series has covered a lot of ground across a few different age groups, but setters haven’t entered the mix yet. That changes today. The Great Plains Region showcases a lot of setter…
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Continue ReadingWhat about the setters?
Our late-season stock riser series has covered a lot of ground across a few different age groups, but setters haven’t entered the mix yet. That changes today.
The Great Plains Region showcases a lot of setter talent every season, and this year marked a big turning point for the Class of 2026. This group will start its collective recruiting journey next month, so let’s put some names on your radar.
On to the next list.
We’ve recently praised River City Jrs 16 Navy’s frontcourt attacking talent, but let’s not forget about the players who set them up. Dutcher is a key piece of that puzzle and had a big surge to end the 2024 campaign. She can work with any pass she’s given and manages to keep her hitters in rhythm during out-of-system situations. Another impactful high school season is on deck for Dutcher, who does a little of everything for Omaha Gross Catholic.
Sjuts has proven to be a high-level performer at two very different positions. We saw her lock down the middle blocker spot during Lincoln Lutheran’s 2023 title run, but Sjuts’ setting prowess took precedence with Nebraska ONE 16 Black this spring. She is not afraid to push tempo and generates a ton of split-block opportunities for her hitters. Sjuts also brings a formidable block in the front row, so we know she’s capable of guiding a one-setter offense.
Highlights
Torchia made the most of Banzai VBC’s trip to the Great Plains Region Bid Tournament. After a narrow defeat in the team’s first contest, Torchia rallied her team and produced two-straight victories to get back in the bid hunt. Setters play an invaluable role in pulling their team back from low points, and Torchia has exhibited this skill well. Look for more of the same this fall.
VCNebraska has a wealth of 2026 setters who can operate at a high level. Bodnar carries the torch for 16 Black and made an incredibly smooth transition to her new squad in 2024. 16 Black unleashed its new setter to run a 5-1 offense, and Bodnar provided all the skills you’d hope to see from your signal-caller. She distributed well, brought a solid block in the front row, and contributed to 16 Black’s backcourt defense. The upcoming prep season will be a pivotal one for Bodnar.
Highlights
Faust will inevitably show up on the biggest stages. It was evident during her 15s season with Premier Nebraska, and she keeps bringing it at the 16s level. Premier 16 Black had a dominant outing at the GPR Bid Tournament, but this was just a continuation of the team’s extraordinary late-season efforts. Faust ties everything together at the setter spot and can connect with any of her team’s hitters. Keep an eye on the 16 National division this summer.
Perdew’s prep journey has been a joy to watch. We first watched her put up big numbers as a left-side hitter for Nebraska Christian, which made the state tournament in Perdew’s debut season. Her tenure with South Central NE has moved Perdew from outside hitter to setter, and the team’s pattern of success makes this a worthy choice. Perdew is heading back to GJNC after 16 Black picked up back-to-back Liberty bids at the Show Me Qualifier. She can do it all.
Capturing a late-season Open bid is always a good way to boost your stock. That’s the big storyline for Booth as Premier 16 Gold climbed to a runner-up finish at last month’s Show Me Qualifier. Booth has seen prior stints as a defensive specialist with Elkhorn North, but her second contacts take center stage with 16 Gold. Add this standout setter to your must-watch list at GJNC.
Nebraska Juniors has a history of showcasing the state’s best small-town talents, and Powell is a perfect example. This Malcolm High School setter knows how to run a smooth offense, but her recent role with 16 Red has been a change of pace. Powell’s late-season surge has come at the left-side hitter spot, so our scouting report keeps evolving on this well-rounded prep star. We’re anxious to see which position prevails when Powell returns to the high school stage this fall.
Highlights
North is a vital piece of Nebraska Elite 16 Lokahi’s ball control–in more ways than one. She sets out of the back row and ensures that all three frontcourt options are incorporated in the offense. North will also keep 16 Lokahi in long rallies with her stellar right-back defense. This multi-talented athlete is listed as a setter and a defensive specialists, and North’s highlight film makes it easy to see why.