Unforgettable Talent: ND Class B

By: Theresa Hickman   As the season comes to a close, it's time to shine a spotlight on the athletes who have truly made their mark this year. These game-changers have stood out with their exceptional skills, relentless determination, and ability to lead their teams to success. From powerful hitters to precise setters and unstoppable defenders, these players have proven themselves as forces to be reckoned with. Let's dive into their stories and celebrate the impact they've had on the court this season.    Meet [player_tooltip player_id='724943' first='Lauren' last='Bell'], a 5'11" sophomore from Park River who's already making waves as one of North Dakota's top hitters for the 2027 class. Known for her sharp court IQ and net-savvy play, Lauren has been a standout for years, constantly proving she's a force to be reckoned with. Last season, she earned a well-deserved spot on the All-Region Team and boasts one of the highest hitting percentages in the area. With her talent and presence at the net, Lauren is definitely a player to watch—now and for years to come.     [player_tooltip player_id='725025' first='Jocelyn' last='DeGeldere'], a junior at Grafton High School, is a standout player to watch. Her energy is electric, and she leads both on and off the court. Currently excelling as an outside hitter, Jocelyn brings strength and precision to every game, showing remarkable growth each time she plays. With her height, strong court awareness, and versatile skills—including the ability to step in as a setter—she's the kind of all-around talent that any college coach would be eager to recruit. Keep an eye on this rising star!     I recently had the chance to watch Malia play, and she immediately stood out as a player to watch. She's a powerful outside hitter for Hillsboro/Central Valley with remarkable precision and minimal errors, consistently placing the ball where her opponents can't reach it. Malia is equally dominant as a middle hitter, showcasing the same strength and precision that makes her an exceptional player. Her versatility and power at the net make her a dual threat, capable of excelling in any role she's placed in. I'm excited to see her compete in the postseason tournament and look forward to watching her in club season as well. She's a true competitor.     I hope that you got a chance to watch [player_tooltip player_id='724843' first='Paightyn' last='Downs'] during Class B State Tournament. This hardworking senior has poured everything into her game, and the results speak for themselves. As a dynamic outside hitter, Paightyn delivers relentless power with every swing, keeping defenses scrambling to keep up. Her exceptional court vision and ability to adapt make her a constant threat, whether she's finding the open floor or powering through blockers. Paightyn's intensity and leadership drive her team in high-pressure moments, making her a standout player in every sense.     [player_tooltip player_id='724939' first='Paetyn' last='Strand'], ranked among the top hitters in the Class of 2027, is a player you don't want to miss. Her explosive power and pinpoint accuracy make her a nightmare for opposing defenses, while her fierce competitive drive sets her apart as a standout athlete. Paetyn's ability to dominate at the net with precision and confidence is nothing short of remarkable. Watching her in action is witnessing the perfect blend of skill, athleticism, and determination—a true game-changer destined to leave her mark on the volleyball world.     Brook Gullickson - Setter - is the definition of a small-town standout. Recently hitting the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career assists, Brook has solidified her role as a true workhorse on the court. What's even more impressive? She's only a junior! Her dedication and hustle are unmatched, and she has an incredible ability to keep her team running smoothly with precision and composure. Brook's setting is sharp, with perfectly timed assists that allow her hitters to shine. She's a player who thrives under pressure and represents the grit and determination small-town volleyball is all about. Coaches and fans alike, keep this name on your radar!     Finally, [player_tooltip player_id='724802' first='Annelise' last='Presteng'], a senior and captain at Grafton High School, is an incredibly versatile player who can excel in any position on the court. Known primarily as a hard-to-defend outside hitter, her lightning-fast defense sets her apart, establishing her as Region 2's top libero. With an exceptional court IQ and an ability to read and adjust to opponents on the fly, she's a formidable presence on both offense and defense. And let's not forget her jump serve—it's one of the best, often catching opponents completely off guard.    Class B volleyball has given us a season to remember, filled with unforgettable talent. From players reaching remarkable career highs to those closing out their journeys with grit and grace, this year has been nothing short of inspiring. At the same time, we've seen rising stars step into new roles, ready to carry the torch and shape the future of the game. These athletes have shown us the beauty of hard work, the power of teamwork, and the promise of what's to come when we move into 3-class system next year.

By: Theresa Hickman