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2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market

2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market
Iowa Impact ’26 Maliya Cobb (Photo: Rob Howe/Prep Dig)
Theresa Hickman
Theresa Hickman May 6, 2025 @ 01:35 PM
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In this article:

Averi Nielsen
Averi Nielsen 5'7" | S | 2026
IA
Rachel Borwick
Rachel Borwick 6'0" | OH | 2026
IA
Maliya Cobb
Maliya Cobb 5'10" | RS | 2026
IA
Jozie Lahr
Jozie Lahr 5'11" | MB | 2026
IA
Ireland Jackson
Ireland Jackson 5'5" | DS/L | 2026
IA
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>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.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["389836"],"_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-681a23058704b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[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.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/video/3/23917103/67f574ee142f311fe544306f">http://www.hudl.com/video/3/23917103/67f574ee142f311fe544306f</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["490014"],"_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-681a2305870a3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[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.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D401rguViRQ","type":"video","providerNameSlug":"youtube","responsive":true,"className":"wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"} --> <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> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["500120"],"_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-681a2305870ec"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[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.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18198330/67047b64fa4a62c7df19ccf1">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18198330/67047b64fa4a62c7df19ccf1</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["551847"],"_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-681a230587136"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[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.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2Q6K7g">http://www.hudl.com/v/2Q6K7g</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["448350"],"_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-681a23058717a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[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.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2NNCDk">http://www.hudl.com/v/2NNCDk</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>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. Now it's time to get them on your radar.</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,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">PrepDigDakotas</a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<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&nbsp;<strong>digdakotas30</strong>&nbsp;for an exclusive offer!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>&nbsp;<strong>Year-Round Coverage</strong>: Access all PrepDig articles nationwide.<br>&nbsp;<strong>Player Rankings</strong>: See how athletes rank across every state.<br>&nbsp;<strong>FREE Player Profiles</strong>: Build and update your recruiting profile.<br>&nbsp;<strong>College Coach Views</strong>: Know which coaches are checking out your profile.<br>&nbsp;<strong>Profile Trends</strong>: Track your profile views over time.<br>&nbsp;<strong>Recruiting Tips</strong>: Get advice for your recruiting journey.<br>&nbsp;<strong>Coach Contacts</strong>: Connect with any college program across the country.<br>&nbsp;<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&nbsp;<a href="https://prepdig.com/"><strong>PrepDig.com</strong>.</a>&nbsp;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 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.

Ireland Jackson

Ireland Jackson

IA
DS/L
HEIGHT 5'5"
POS DS/L
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Ireland
Jackson DS/L
Class
2026
Height
5'5"
HS
Sioux City North
|
IA
2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market
Ireland Jackson stood out at NLQ with her exceptional back-row presence and defensive instincts. Competing with the Kairos...
Written by Theresa Hickman
Read more at PrepDig.com
Prep Dig

Ireland Jackson

State: Iowa
School: Sioux City North
Club: MVP
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Maliya Cobb

Maliya Cobb

IA
RS
HEIGHT 5'10"
POS RS
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Maliya
Cobb RS
Class
2026
Height
5'10"
HS
Ankeny
|
IA
2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market
Maliya Cobb is a force on the right side who knows how to shut down opposing offenses. With...
Written by Theresa Hickman
Read more at PrepDig.com
Prep Dig

Maliya Cobb

Instagram Twitter
State: Iowa
School: Ankeny
Club: Iowa Impact Volleyball Club
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Rachel Borwick

Rachel Borwick

IA
OH
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS OH
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Rachel
Borwick OH
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
HS
Nevada
|
IA
2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market
Rachel Borwick is a powerful presence at the net who commands attention every time she swings. Her approach...
Written by Theresa Hickman
Read more at PrepDig.com
Prep Dig

Rachel Borwick

State: Iowa
School: Nevada
Club: Iowa Power Volleyball Alliance
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Averi Nielsen

Averi Nielsen

IA
S
HEIGHT 5'7"
POS S
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Averi
Nielsen S
Class
2026
Height
5'7"
HS
Williamsburg Jr/Sr
|
IA
2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market
Averi Nielsen is the type of setter every coach wants leading the offense. She runs a clean, fast-paced...
Written by Theresa Hickman
Read more at PrepDig.com
Prep Dig

Averi Nielsen

Instagram Twitter
State: Iowa
School: Williamsburg Jr/Sr
Club: Iowa Rockets Volleyball
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Jozie Lahr

Jozie Lahr

IA
MB
HEIGHT 5'11"
POS MB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Jozie
Lahr MB
Class
2026
Height
5'11"
HS
Solon
|
IA
2026 Hidden Gems Still on the Market
Averi Nielsen is the type of setter every coach wants leading the offense. She runs a clean, fast-paced...
Written by Theresa Hickman
Read more at PrepDig.com
Prep Dig

Jozie Lahr

Instagram Twitter
State: Iowa
School: Solon
Club: Iowa Rockets
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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