Heating Up: Seniors Prepping for Breakout Summer Seasons

<!-- 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>Sure, summer may have just started and the school year is wrapping up, but for serious volleyball players, this is where the next season begins. Offseason work is where teams are built, and I'm predicting that these athletes are already putting in the time to make an impact this fall. So who are the Class of 2026 players ready to step up and shape an epic season? Let's find out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["736615"],"_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-68377be2a047c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='736615' first='Emilie' last='Bleeker'] is a senior poised to step confidently into a leadership role this upcoming season. A true competitor, Emilie leads by example—putting in the work during the offseason to elevate both her own game and those around her. At 6'0", she brings a commanding presence at the net, combining effort, athleticism, and smart play as a middle. She's the type of player who brings energy to every practice and match. With her work ethic and momentum from this summer, Emilie is setting the tone for a team determined to compete at a high level this fall.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725924"],"_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-68377be2a04d9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='725924' first='Rebecca' last='Huizenga'] will be a key leader to watch as the upcoming season approaches. This summer, she will be putting in the work—showing up to workouts, refining her skills at the net, and setting the tone for what's expected in the gym. As a middle, she'll bring size, strength, and smart play, but it's her leadership that will truly stand out. Rebecca will lead both vocally and by example, creating a competitive and focused environment her teammates will want to follow. Players will look to her not just for energy, but to gain knowledge and grow alongside her. As the season gets closer, Rebecca will be one of the driving forces helping prepare her team for success.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["769467"],"_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-68377be2a0523"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='769467' first='Taylin' last='Kleffman'] will be a defensive anchor to watch heading into the upcoming season. As a libero/defensive specialist, she'll be putting in the extra work this summer—dialing in her footwork, sharpening her reads, and fine-tuning her platform. Taylin will bring a steady presence in serve-receive and relentless effort in the backcourt, setting the tone with her communication and hustle. She's the type of player who will lead through consistency and grit, helping build the defensive foundation her team will rely on. With her dedication and attention to detail, Taylin is preparing to step into a key role this fall and make a major impact from the first whistle.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["522792"],"_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-68377be2a0569"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='522792' first='Macey' last='Boese'] is set to be a key contributor at the net this upcoming season. A versatile hitter, she'll spend the summer working on all aspects of her game—whether it's refining her approach, expanding her shot selection, or staying sharp in transition. Macey will bring flexibility to the lineup, with the ability to impact the game from multiple positions in the front row. Her athleticism and court awareness will make her a go-to option in pressure moments, and her willingness to adapt will give her team valuable depth. With her work ethic and versatility, Macey is preparing to be a difference-maker this fall.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725046"],"_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-68377be2a05af"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='725046' first='Kendra' last='Braaten'] is coming off a strong season in the back row, and she's poised to carry that momentum into a focused and productive summer. With North Dakota transitioning to a new 3-class system, Central Cass will face new competition—and Kendra will be a key leader in helping her team rise to the challenge. Her defensive instincts, consistency in serve-receive, and calm under pressure make her a cornerstone in the backcourt. As she continues to lead both vocally and by example, there's no doubt Kendra will play a major role in preparing her team for a successful season. Expect her leadership and drive to stand out as Central Cass enters this new chapter.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725031"],"_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-68377be2a0602"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='725031' first='Kloey' last='Huebner'] comes from a winning tradition, and now she's ready to take on a leadership role of her own heading into her senior season. Having spent time around players who understand what it takes to win in the offseason, Kloey will be the one setting the tone this summer—bringing focus, work ethic, and accountability to her team. One of the top players to come out of Region 2, she's known for her explosive vertical and dominant presence at the net. As she steps into her final high school season, there's no question Kloey will continue to grow and lead, helping prepare her team for a strong run in the new class system.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Kaitlyn Brink","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'5u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"32926","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Kindred","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"ND Elite","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68377cddc54a9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kaitlyn Brink from Kindred is already putting in the work—and it's showing. With valuable club experience and strong coaching behind her, Kaitlyn has made noticeable strides in her development and is ready to take the next step. This summer, she'll bring what she's learned back to her high school team, stepping into a leadership role in the back row. Her consistency, court awareness, and determination make her a natural defensive anchor. As she continues to train and push herself in the offseason, there's no doubt this will be a breakout summer for Kaitlyn—one where she sets the tone and proves she's ready to lead.<strong>~@prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Class of 2026 is gearing up to make their mark this season, fueled by dedication and offseason preparation. These athletes are developing the skills, leadership, and mindset needed to lead their teams and compete at a high level. As they head into their upcoming seasons, expect to see these rising stars step up, challenge the competition, and set the stage for exciting volleyball ahead.</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 -->