2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market

The 2026 class is on the move—grinding, growing, and showing why they deserve a shot at the next level. At several tournaments I attended this season, this list of players consistently stood out. Whether you're looking for a small college feel or a big university atmosphere, these athletes bring grit, hustle, and a relentless work ethic that sets them apart. I've watched them live, seen their impact up close, and I can confidently say: if you're still filling out your 2026 roster, now is the time to act. These players aren't just looking—they're ready. Let's check out who's making waves.    [player_tooltip player_id='389836' first='Ireland' last='Jackson'] stood out at NLQ with her exceptional back-row presence and defensive instincts. Competing with the Kairos program, she immediately caught my eye with her relentless hustle and clean, controlled platform. Her ability to read hitters and anticipate attacks allows her to consistently be in position, making even the toughest digs look effortless. Ireland tracks the ball well off the block, shows excellent footwork in transition, and communicates with confidence. Her court awareness and defensive IQ are high-level, and she brings energy every point. If you're looking for a libero or DS with strong ball control, elite reading skills, and a team-first mentality, Ireland is a player to keep on your radar.~@prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/video/3/23917103/67f574ee142f311fe544306f">http://www.hudl.com/video/3/23917103/67f574ee142f311fe544306f</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='490014' first='Maliya' last='Cobb'] is a force on the right side who knows how to shut down opposing offenses. With a disciplined block and sharp timing, she consistently challenges even the most aggressive outside hitters. Her lateral quickness and strong hands at the net make her a reliable front-row defender. Offensively, she swings with purpose, often tooling the block or attacking high off hands with great vision. Beyond her physical skills, Maliya brings undeniable fire and leadership to the floor—energizing her team and swinging momentum with every play. She's a difference-maker and a right side that coaches need to keep an eye on.~@prepdigdakotas   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D401rguViRQ </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='500120' first='Rachel' last='Borwick'] is a powerful presence at the net who commands attention every time she swings. Her approach may be smooth and controlled, but it sets the stage for a lethal arm swing that generates serious pace and depth. She times her attacks with precision, often beating blockers and making life difficult for defenders with heavy, well-placed hits. As an outside hitter, she brings both consistency and explosiveness, capable of terminating in-system balls and creating points out of system. Rachel has the ability to take over a match—and that kind of offensive presence is what every program needs.~@prepdigdakotas   <a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18198330/67047b64fa4a62c7df19ccf1">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18198330/67047b64fa4a62c7df19ccf1</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='551847' first='Averi' last='Nielsen'] is the type of setter every coach wants leading the offense. She runs a clean, fast-paced system with great location and decision-making under pressure. Averi's court awareness and ability to read opposing blockers allows her to distribute with precision—consistently putting her hitters in scoring positions. Defensively, she's smart and scrappy, always ready to dig hard-driven balls and extend rallies. Add in a consistent, aggressive serve that racks up aces and keeps opponents out of system, and you have a setter who brings full rotation value. Averi is a floor general with a high volleyball IQ and a competitive edge that shows every time she steps on the court.~@prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2Q6K7g">http://www.hudl.com/v/2Q6K7g</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='551847' first='Averi' last='Nielsen'] is the type of setter every coach wants leading the offense. She runs a clean, fast-paced system with great location and decision-making under pressure. Averi's court awareness and ability to read opposing blockers allows her to distribute with precision—consistently putting her hitters in scoring positions. Defensively, she's smart and scrappy, always ready to dig hard-driven balls and extend rallies. Add in a consistent, aggressive serve that racks up aces and keeps opponents out of system, and you have a setter who brings full rotation value. Averi is a floor general with a high volleyball IQ and a competitive edge that shows every time she steps on the court.~@prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2NNCDk">http://www.hudl.com/v/2NNCDk</a>    These athletes aren't just playing the game—they're mastering it. Through relentless reps, high-level competition, and a mindset built on hustle and heart, they've proven they belong at the next level. No matter the size of the school or the level of the program, one thing is certain: they will show up, stand out, and make an impact. Coaches, if you're looking for players who will bring leadership, toughness, and immediate value—these are your future game-changers. The work is being done. 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The 2026 class is on the move—grinding, growing, and showing why they deserve a shot at the next level. At several tournaments I attended this season, this list of players consistently stood out. Whether you're looking for a small college feel or a big university atmosphere, these athletes bring grit, hustle, and a relentless work ethic that sets them apart. I've watched them live, seen their impact up close, and I can confidently say: if you're still filling out your 2026 roster, now is the time to act. These players aren't just looking—they're ready. Let's check out who's making waves.