Class 1 Top Setters and Defenders for 2028s

Prep Dig Staff

December 3, 2024 @ 04:30 PM

Most of the 2028 class usually gets a lot of playing time in Class 1. Small schools mean small numbers, but that definitely doesn't mean the volleyball is weak. Here are seven players who have massive potential to be the next best player for their teams and for Class 1.   [player_tooltip player_id='729545' first='Kenadie' last='Ward'] – Setter – Oak Ridge   Kenadie was the top 2028 setter for Class 1 with 755 assists. During her season, she received all-conference and all-district recognition. Oak Ridge won its first district title in school history, and Kenadie was the driving force behind the success. She is a quick-setter from a volleyball-coaching family, so she understands the game.   Drew Miller – Setter – Greenfield   Greenfield has a rising star in Drew. She led her team in assists and finished second among 2028 players in Class 1 with 609. Drew has a high volleyball IQ and plays solid defense. She ended the season with 217 digs and, if not for having to run the offense, could be a fantastic libero.   Saphera Smith – Setter – Couch   This is the first season where Couch finished at or above .500 and ended with a 17-16-2 record. Couch next season will return every player and look for more future success. The potential is there, and with Saphera running the show, they will be in great shape. Saphera is a great setter with great hands and sees the defense well. She has one of the best setter dumps I've seen at this level. She finished the season with 561 assists for 3rd in Class 1 for 2028s.   Hayden Walter – Libero – Bell City   Hayden finished the season with 397 digs and is part of the youth movement at Bell City. The youth isn't a joke, either. Hayden is an all-out baller on defense. She covers a lot of court and does it quickly. She's unafraid to get on the ground and does a great job covering her hitters.   Peyton Lasater – DS – Lockwood   I'm telling you now that in the next few seasons, Lockwood will be pushing hard for a trip to the final four, and it will be based on how well the class of 2028 improves at Lockwood. Peyton finished third on the team in digs with 383 and will most likely move into a different-colored jersey next year.   Karlee Dickey – Libero – Bismarck   I watched Karlee play in the district championship game and was impressed with her defensive and passing skills. You can tell she's been thumping the ball around with her older sister for years. Karlee has a nice platform, quick to the ball and sucks up the middle of the court for tip coverage. She finished her first season with 304 digs and had a season-high 19 digs in a five-set win over North County.   Bristol Lay – Opposite – Winona   I'm putting Bristol in this group because Bristol would be an outstanding libero if Winona had more players. Instead, she played the opposite and did a fantastic job of playing defense. She ended the season with 364 digs and a season-high 24 in a five-set loss to Mountain Grove. Bristol is part of a group of talented 2028 players for Winona that helped them win the state championship.

Most of the 2028 class usually gets a lot of playing time in Class 1. Small schools mean small numbers, but that definitely doesn't mean the volleyball is weak. Here are seven players who have massive potential to be the next best player for their teams and for Class 1.