<!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} -->
<p>The top five players were nothing short of electrifying, but the talent doesn't stop there. South Dakota's Class of 2026 is stacked with game-changers—players with high IQs, elite skill sets, and the relentless drive to elevate the game. The competition is fierce, and the level of play continues to rise, making this ranking one of the toughest yet.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} -->
<p>These next five athletes rounding out the top 10 are setting new standards and proving exactly why they belong among the best. Some have already secured their spots at the next level, while others remain top recruits to watch. Either way, their impact on the court is undeniable. Let's break it down and introduce the next wave of South Dakota's volleyball elite.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725185"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67eebedcb5474"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>#6 Overall | #1 DS/Libero | Committed to Winthrop</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='764763' first='Lindsay' last='Langner'] is the top Libero/DS in South Dakota for the Class of 2026, and she proves it every time she steps on the court. Her ability to read the game is unmatched, reacting instantly and making tough plays look effortless. She hustles nonstop, covering every inch of the court with precision and intensity. Her leadership shines through her constant communication, keeping her team engaged and in sync. Lindsay is a defensive powerhouse who dominates the back row.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["389837"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67eebedcb54e7"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700"><strong><strong>#7 Overall | #1 Right Side Hitter | Committed to Northern Iowa</strong></strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='389837' first='Claire' last='Munch'] is a standout right-side hitter with a commanding presence at the net. Her explosive approach and powerful swing make her a constant threat, capable of delivering crushing hits from any angle. She reads the game exceptionally well, adjusting her attack to exploit weaknesses in the defense. Beyond her offensive firepower, Claire is a strong defensive player, proving her versatility with quick reactions and solid blocking. With her skill set, work ethic, and high-level IQ, she's a must-watch player who will make waves at the next level.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725172"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67eebedcb5566"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>#8 Overall | #2 Middle Hitter | Uncommitted</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='725172' first='Jayaunna' last='Stroh'] is ranked as the No. 2 middle hitter in South Dakota's 2026 class, and for good reason. At 5'8”, she plays well beyond her height, using her explosive vertical and aggressive approach to dominate at the net. She thrives against taller competition, outworking and outsmarting opponents with her quick, decisive swings. Her court IQ is next level—she reads plays effortlessly, adjusts in an instant, and delivers game-changing blocks against some of the strongest hitters. Jayaunna is a relentless competitor who proves size is just a number when you have her skill, athleticism, and determination.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725174"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67eebedcb55b6"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>#9 Overall | #2 Right Side Hitter | Uncommitted</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='725174' first='Makenzie' last='Walsh'] is the No. 2 right-side hitter in the 2026 class, and for good reason—she is an absolute nightmare for opponents at the net. If you don't get a block up on her attack, good luck trying to keep the ball in play. She's a secret weapon with jaw-dropping power, delivering cross-court and down-the-line shots that are nearly impossible to read. Her speed and explosiveness make her unpredictable, keeping defenders guessing and struggling to adjust. On top of that, her blocking is elite—she shuts down hitters with her timing and dominance at the net. Makenzie is the kind of player that changes the game the moment she steps on the court.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725173"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67eebedcb55fa"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>#10 Overall | #2 DS/Libero | Uncommitted</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>[player_tooltip player_id='725173' first='Julia' last='Blom'] is an unstoppable force in the back row—a true defensive anchor who makes the impossible look routine. Her court awareness is next level, reading plays before they even unfold. Whether she's digging powerful hits from the baseline or sprinting to the net for a perfectly timed cover, her hustle is unmatched. Julia is relentless, a workhorse who never stops moving, and her leadership shines not just through her voice but in every play she makes. When the game is on the line, she's the player you want holding down the defense.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>As the competition heats up, these athletes continue to prove why they belong in the spotlight. Their dedication, skill, and relentless drive set them apart, making them names to watch in their respective classes. Whether it's their powerful attacks, lockdown defense, or high-level court IQ, these players are raising the bar. Stay tuned as we track their progress and see who continues to dominate the rankings!</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:separator -->
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<!-- /wp:separator -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>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.</em></strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>After following our page, take the next step and <strong>subscribe to PrepDig</strong>! 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.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Use discount code <strong>digdakotas30</strong> for an exclusive offer!</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p> <strong>Year-Round Coverage</strong>: Access all PrepDig articles nationwide.<br> <strong>Player Rankings</strong>: See how athletes rank across every state.<br> <strong>FREE Player Profiles</strong>: Build and update your recruiting profile.<br> <strong>College Coach Views</strong>: Know which coaches are checking out your profile.<br> <strong>Profile Trends</strong>: Track your profile views over time.<br> <strong>Recruiting Tips</strong>: Get advice for your recruiting journey.<br> <strong>Coach Contacts</strong>: Connect with any college program across the country.<br> <strong>Event Perks</strong>: Get $25 off every PrepDig Showcase</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>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/"><strong>PrepDig.com</strong>.</a> Together, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences with your support!</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading {"level":4} -->
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></h4>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:heading {"level":4} -->
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @</em></strong>prepdigdakotas</h4>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
The top five players were nothing short of electrifying, but the talent doesn't stop there. South Dakota's Class of 2026 is stacked with game-changers—players with high IQs, elite skill sets, and the relentless drive to elevate the game. The competition is fierce, and the level of play continues to rise, making this ranking one of the toughest yet.
HEIGHT
5'7"
POS
DS/L
CLASS
2026
State:
South Dakota
School:
Harrisburg
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
HEIGHT
5'10"
POS
OH/RS
CLASS
2026
State:
South Dakota
School:
Dakota Valley (SD)
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
HEIGHT
5'8"
POS
MB/OH
CLASS
2026
State:
South Dakota
School:
Brandon Valley
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
State:
South Dakota
School:
O'Gorman
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
HEIGHT
5'8"
POS
DS/L
CLASS
2026
State:
South Dakota
School:
Lincoln
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue Reading
Already a subscriber?
Log in