2026 Illinois Volleyball Prospects Still Up for Grabs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><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></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- 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>As the 2026 recruiting season heats up, Illinois is serving up a talented roster of volleyball players who are still uncommitted. These athletes have been making impressive plays on the court—delivering powerful spikes, executing precise sets, and reading hitters like seasoned liberos.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Being able to watch these players throughout the club season has been nothing short of exciting, with high-level talent on display at every rotation. Scouting clubs at tournaments across the U.S. has opened my eyes to just how strong the volleyball scene is—not only in Illinois but nationally. The level of competition, athleticism, and volleyball IQ at these events is a testament to how much the game has grown.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>For college coaches looking to strengthen their lineup, now's the time to dig deep and connect with these standout prospects before they're officially off the board.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["489954"],"_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-683759b56c873"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='489954' first='Ryann' last='Knuth'] is a dynamic outside hitter who brings power, control, and court awareness to every match. She swings with authority, hitting a variety of angles—sharp cross, deep corners, and high off the block—while consistently making smart, in-rhythm attacking choices.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Her transition game is clean, and she establishes strong tempo with her approach, allowing setters to stay in system. Defensively, Ryann is solid in serve receive and reads hitters well, making key digs and contributing with a steady platform.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What sets her apart is her composure and competitive edge. She communicates confidently, makes adjustments mid-rally, and consistently elevates her team's energy.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='489954' first='Ryann' last='Knuth'] is a polished, high-IQ player who's more than ready to make an impact at the next level.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2PSiMQ">http://www.hudl.com/v/2PSiMQ</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["323929"],"_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-683759b56c900"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='323929' first='Kate' last='Heatherly'] is a smooth, reliable defensive specialist who brings consistency and control to the backcourt. Her platform is clean, her footwork is efficient, and she excels in reading attackers and getting into position early.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kate's court coverage stands out—she moves with purpose and anticipates well, allowing her to make tough digs look effortless. In serve receive, she stays low, balanced, and delivers quality first contacts that set up the offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Her calm presence and communication help stabilize any rotation, and she takes pride in doing the little things right—whether it's sealing the seam, backing up hitters, or chasing down out-of-system balls.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Coaches looking for a poised, technically sound DS with high volleyball IQ should keep a close eye on [player_tooltip player_id='323929' first='Kate' last='Heatherly'].<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["323958"],"_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-683759b56c951"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='323958' first='Kendall' last='Kozak'] is a savvy, left-handed setter who not only runs a clean offense but also poses a scoring threat at the net. Her hands are quick and consistent, delivering hittable balls from a variety of angles, even off tight or broken plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What sets Kendall apart is her ability to keep defenses honest—she's aggressive on second contact, smart with dumps, and not afraid to swing when she's front row. That lefty attack adds an extra layer of pressure for opposing blockers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">She shows strong decision-making, keeps tempo with her hitters, and stays vocal and composed under pressure. Kendall's competitive edge, combined with her offensive versatility, makes her a high-upside setter to watch in the 2026 class.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["260935"],"_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-683759b56c996"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='260935' first='Francesca' last='Lorenzo'] is a high-impact outside hitter who brings intensity, versatility, and strong shot selection to the court. She attacks with confidence, mixing power and finesse to score from both pins and out-of-system plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Francesca's ability to adjust mid-air, tool the block, and find open court makes her a consistent offensive threat. She's also a dependable passer in serve receive, with a steady platform and solid reads that keep her team in system.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">With her court awareness, work ethic, and all-around contributions, Francesca is the kind of six-rotation prospect who elevates team play and thrives in high-pressure moments. A definite name for coaches to keep on their radar.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["259604"],"_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-683759b56c9fa"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='259604' first='Cassidy' last='Monahan'] is a relentless middle blocker known for her high motor and physical presence at the net. She consistently puts in the work—closing blocks, reading setters, and challenging every attack with strong timing and quick footwork.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Her ability to anchor the block and disrupt opposing hitters makes her a key defensive asset, while her quick attacks in transition add valuable offensive punch. Cassidy's hustle, positioning, and communication demonstrate a true workhorse mentality that coaches value.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A dependable force on both ends, Cassidy is ready to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2026 class in Illinois volleyball is loaded with talented players who bring a mix of skill, athleticism, and volleyball IQ to the court. From powerful outside hitters and crafty setters to lockdown defenders and relentless middles, these uncommitted prospects offer college programs a prime opportunity to build or boost their rosters.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Please 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;With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- 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 -->