Day 1 Recap: NLQ & Jan. Thaw Highlights

Day 1 is officially in the books! After 12 electrifying hours at the Minneapolis Convention Center, I watched some of the most elite talent fight tooth and nail for a coveted national bid. From the 18s all the way down to the 15s, the energy was unmatched, and the competition was fierce. And let me tell you—the Dakotas came ready. These players were not just showing up, they were dominating the courts. Keep an eye out because the level of talent here is one for the books. Let's dive into the standout players that made their mark today!      [player_tooltip player_id='724882' first='Cate' last='Legel'], an outside hitter, immediately caught my attention in the morning matches. Facing off against serious height at the net, she never backed down—kept swinging, adjusting, and eventually cracking the block. Her high volleyball IQ and ability to read the game set her apart. Already committed to the University of South Dakota, it's clear why. She's a dynamic player who will make an immediate impact at the next level!~Thereasa @prepdigdakotas     Karalynn Leach, a dominant middle, took center stage on Day 1. Her blocking was some of the best of the day, with flawless footwork that allowed her to move side to side with ease. Not only did she shut down hitters at the net, but she also showed great awareness by covering tips immediately after landing. Committed to Augustana, she's a player to watch—her presence will be a game-changer at the next level!~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Peyton is currently the No. 1 player in North Dakota for the class of 2027, and after watching her on Day 1, it's easy to see why. As an all-around outside hitter, she steps up in every rotation, reading the defense and placing her attacks with precision. She's the full package—a must-watch for college coaches. But what truly sets her apart this season is her leadership. Humble, composed, and carrying herself with class, Peyton elevates those around her. I can't wait to see where her journey takes her!~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Anna is a middle on the rise, and it won't be long before she climbs even higher in our rankings. She puts in the work at the net, constantly looking for the best ways to attack and executing routes with precision. She was a player who kept grabbing my attention throughout the day with her presence and impact on the court. Her skill set, combined with her relentless work ethic, drive, and passion, makes her a player college coaches should have on their radar. If you're out on Day 2 or 3, find her court and watch her!~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Jordyn was one of the most exciting players to watch on Day 1. At 6'3", she dominated as a right-side hitter, attacking with power, blocking with precision, and covering the court defensively. Her presence was impossible to ignore—she brought energy, intensity, and a competitive edge that elevated everyone around her. Committed to Akron, it's clear why she's a top recruit. She's the kind of player every team needs—a player who lifts the level of play and brings fire to the court.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Brietta was on fire yesterday! As an all-around outside hitter, she controlled the court with confidence and precision. She powered through blocks, making smart decisions on when to hit the line, cut, or tip. Her attacking power stood out as one of the best of the day, consistently putting pressure on the defense. Committed to the University of Duluth, she's destined to be a game-changer at the next level. With her strength, skill, and high volleyball IQ, she's a player who will make an immediate impact.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Madelynn is a player I was beyond excited to watch, and she did not disappoint. From the moment she stepped on the court, it was clear—she's one of the best players I've seen. Competing at a high level with Kairos is no easy task, but she rose to the challenge with confidence and dominance.   Her attacks were explosive, her serves nearly unpassable, and her defensive reads were on point. What stood out most? Her ability to execute under pressure—when her coach called a play, she delivered flawlessly. Madelynn is a force on the court and a player that demands attention.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Izzy was an absolute workhorse on the court, covering every inch with relentless energy. She attacked from multiple positions, constantly adjusting and finding ways to score. Her versatility and hustle made her impossible to ignore.   Coaches, take note—if you're looking for a full-package player who brings skill, adaptability, and determination, Izzy is the one to watch.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Eleanore, currently on our watch list for the 2028 rankings, continues to impress. She is a force at the net, consistently reading attackers and timing her blocks with precision. Her attacking is just as strong—powerful and precise, making her a threat on both sides of the ball.   Eleanore is definitely a player to keep an eye on as she continues to develop into one of the top talents in her class.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Alaina stood out as one of the strongest in the back row yesterday. She consistently read attackers with great anticipation, always in the right place at the right time. What impressed me most was how she brought a unique combination of calmness and energy to the court—keeping her team steady while still elevating the intensity. Her presence in the back row is undeniable, and she's a player to watch as she continues to grow.    As we head into Day 2, it's all about mental toughness. Yesterday's scores are in the past, and today is a new battle. Remember, no one has a perfect game, and no tournament is flawless. Coaches—whether club or college—know this, and they want to see how you respond when faced with adversity. Here's my tip: Be in the moment, work relentlessly, and never lose sight of why you're here: the passion for the game you love. This is your time to rise, show resilience, and embrace the grind. Keep that fire burning!   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">If you loved this article, please follow our Instagram page, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">PrepDigDakotas</a> for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes action.</h2>   After following our page, take the next step and subscribe to PrepDig! By subscribing, you'll not only stay connected to the latest coverage of your favorite events, but you'll also be helping to shine a spotlight on rising volleyball talent.   Use discount code digdakotas30 for an exclusive offer!    Year-Round Coverage: Access all PrepDig articles nationwide.  Player Rankings: See how athletes rank across every state.  FREE Player Profiles: Build and update your recruiting profile.  College Coach Views: Know which coaches are checking out your profile.  Profile Trends: Track your profile views over time.  Recruiting Tips: Get advice for your recruiting journey.  Coach Contacts: Connect with any college program across the country.  Event Perks: Get $25 off every PrepDig Showcase   Help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> Together, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences with your support!   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @prepdigdakotas</h4>

Day 1 is officially in the books! After 12 electrifying hours at the Minneapolis Convention Center, I watched some of the most elite talent fight tooth and nail for a coveted national bid. From the 18s all the way down to the 15s, the energy was unmatched, and the competition was fierce. And let me tell you—the Dakotas came ready. These players were not just showing up, they were dominating the courts. Keep an eye out because the level of talent here is one for the books. Let's dive into the standout players that made their mark today!