Meet Osa Olsgaard, the #1 2028 Recruit

[player_tooltip player_id='572638' first='Osa' last='Olsgaard'] is the complete package — a dynamic, six-rotation outside hitter who already plays with the poise and polish of an upperclassman. At 5'9", she's athletic, explosive, and incredibly efficient. Her approach is fast and powerful, and her vertical allows her to elevate and hang before unleashing a lightning-quick arm swing. She sees the court exceptionally well, mixes speeds and locations, and scores from anywhere. Her versatility as an attacker is matched by her consistency on serve receive and defense, where she brings active footwork, sharp instincts, and elite reaction time. Simply put, Olsgaard is lethal in every phase of the game — and she's only just begun.   As a freshman, Olsgaard made an immediate impact for Grant High School's varsity team. She started all season on the outside and was instrumental in helping the Generals reach the 6A state tournament quarterfinals for the first time in program history. With a strong core of young talent returning, Olsgaard will no doubt be a key leader as Grant looks to build on that historic run.   This club season with NPJ Salem 15 National, Olsgaard has continued to shine. On a roster full of elite 2028 talent, she stands out every time she's on the court. Her contributions were critical in helping NPJ secure the coveted American bid — the highest awarded in the CEVA Region — at the CEVA GJNC Bid Tournament.   Olsgaard is also one of the state's top track and field athletes for her class, excelling as both a sprinter and javelin thrower. She's the definition of a complete, all-around athlete.   From Melissa Lund Salness, NPJ Salem 15 National Head Coach:   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> Osa is a pure athlete. Her attack is strong and smart, finding ways to score no matter the situation. She listens and executes consistently, making her a very reliable and crucial part of any team. With great defense, she is a threat through all 6 rotations. Her genuine care for her teammates and their successes completes her true deserving spot at the top. Osa is a one in a million player and human being! </blockquote>   I had the chance to email back and forth with Olsgaard, and she answered some questions for us:   <ol class="wp-block-list"> <li>Why did you choose to play volleyball? What got you hooked? What do you love about it?</li> </ol>   I first stepped onto a volleyball court the summer going into 6th grade. I had such an incredible first experience playing with my friends, I decided to play club as well. My 12s year, I got the opportunity to play with a coach that has helped me navigate through a lot of the challenges I have faced these last few years and she helped me fall in love with the sport. (Thanks, Coach Kaitie!)   <ol start="2" class="wp-block-list"> <li>What has been your favorite memory from volleyball so far?</li> </ol>   My favorite volleyball memory was getting to the championship game at my first nationals in Vegas last year. This moment really showed me that hard work does pay off. My coach, Melissa, helped us manage the emotional roller coaster that came with it and turned it into an unforgettable experience. Another really special moment was making varsity as a freshman with one of my best friends. I had been watching the varsity team all throughout middle school, so to be able to play with some of the people I had looked up to for years was a really cool experience.    <ol start="3" class="wp-block-list"> <li>What's the best piece of advice you've received that's helped you grow as an athlete?</li> </ol>   The best piece of advice I have received is that pain is temporary. My track coach, Julius Shellmire, always says this at the end of hard workouts which helps me push just that 1% harder. I know that extra effort will pay off in the long run and make me just that much better.    <ol start="4" class="wp-block-list"> <li>What are your goals for your volleyball career? What are your high school, club, and collegiate career aspirations?</li> </ol>   My goal for the future with volleyball is to continue to love the sport and gain valuable life lessons. This could mean continuing to play at a high level in club as well as getting an opportunity to play in college.

Osa Olsgaard Osa Olsgaard 5'9" | OH Grant | 2028 State OR is the complete package — a dynamic, six-rotation outside hitter who already plays with the poise and polish of an upperclassman. At 5'9", she's athletic, explosive, and incredibly efficient. Her approach is fast and powerful, and her vertical allows her to elevate and hang before unleashing a lightning-quick arm swing. She sees the court exceptionally well, mixes speeds and locations, and scores from anywhere. Her versatility as an attacker is matched by her consistency on serve receive and defense, where she brings active footwork, sharp instincts, and elite reaction time. Simply put, Olsgaard is lethal in every phase of the game — and she's only just begun.