Vol. 1- Get to know your top 2027's for June 15th!

We're doing something exciting and new at Prep Dig—and the timing couldn't be better. With the June 15th contact period for the Class of 2027 quickly approaching, we're spotlighting some of the top rising athletes from North and South Dakota through exclusive interviews that give coaches, fans, and scouts a deeper look into who they are and what drives them.   Our scouting team has been working hard to identify talent that doesn't just show up—but stands out. These players have the grit, volleyball IQ, and relentless work ethic to compete at the next level. We're talking about athletes who are putting in the time beyond practice—private training, film study, extra reps, and elite-level camps—because they know what it takes.   This summer, many of these players are headed to programs like UCLA, Creighton, Louisville, Indiana, and North Dakota for camps and invites. They have a vision for their future—and they're just getting started.   It only takes one coach to believe in them. So who are these standout 2027s? And what makes them special?   Let's dive in and find out.    Why do you want to play college volleyball?   ~I have seen both my brothers go through the process of playing college sports. I love playing volleyball, and competing at a high level. The process of getting better everyday is something I find enjoyable!   What does your training schedule look like in-season and off-season?   ~In high school season I lift 2-3 times a week around practices, and in the club season I lift 3-4 times a week depending on my tournament schedule. During the club season, I get into the gym as much as possible to get extra serve receive reps in!   How do you balance school, sports, and your personal life?   ~When I am not training I am usually doing homework, working (I do nails), or spending time with my family and friends. I try to have people in all areas of my life. I think it's important to have friends outside of my sport because they help remind me there is more to life than just volleyball. I balance everything by trusting Gods plan for me and my future. Sometimes when I get overwhelmed or anxious about what the future will hold, I just take a breath and remind myself that this is all Gods plan for me!!   What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?   ~I would say one of my big strengths is staying level headed. I try to stay in a zone when I play to truly stay focused on what's in front of me. When I am focused and having fun, I perform my best. I would say one of my weaknesses is not knowing when my body needs a break. I always want to go go go, and I have a hard time knowing when I really just need to rest.   What are your academic interests or intended major?   ~I am looking at sports psychology, business, or coaching right now. I am not 100% sure exactly what I want to do yet, but it would be something alone these lines!     Why do you want to play college volleyball?   ~I want to play college volleyball one day because over the past few years, I've really grown to love the sport. I'm excited to keep improving both on the court and as a positive, social person.   What does your training schedule look like in-season and off-season?   ~In-season- Conditioning, block work, connection and speed Off-season- Lifts, Runs, camps/open gym   How do you balance school, sports, and your personal life?   ~I try to stay organized and manage my time well, but I've learned it's also about knowing when to take breaks and not be too hard on myself. Sports help me stay focused, and I make sure to set aside time for school and my personal life so I don't get overwhelmed.   What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?   ~Strengths- fast, court vision, strong/hard hits, energetic Weakness- Guessing where the opposing setting is going to set the ball   What are your academic interests or intended major?   ~I am interested in Marketing, but I am still open to other options.     Why do you want to play college volleyball?   ~I want to play college volleyball to compete at a higher level, grow as a player, and be part of a driven team culture while earning my degree.   What does your training schedule look like in-season and off-season?   ~In season, I train daily with my team, lift/cardio 3 days a week, and meet with my trainer for film and skill work. Off-season, I practice with my club 3x a week, lift 4x a week, and do weekly lessons and film review to keep improving on skill and knowledge of the game.   How do you balance school, sports, and your personal life?   ~Balancing school and sports has definitely helped me grow. Traveling two hours to club practice and getting home around midnight pushed me to manage my time better and stay focused. At first, it was a lot to juggle with school, but I found a rhythm that works for me. Getting my workouts in can be tricky, so I've learned to make the most of my mornings—training before school at 5:30 a.m. twice a week has become part of my routine. I also really value time with my friends, and while this summer is super important for my goals, I've learned how to make smart sacrifices. At the same time, I make sure to take breaks, step away from volleyball when I need to, and just enjoy being a normal teenager. Finding that balance keeps me grounded and motivated.   What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?   ~One of my strengths is staying composed under pressure, even when I'm still figuring things out. A challenge I'm working on is overthinking—I'm learning to trust my instincts and play with confidence.   What are your academic interests or intended major?   ~Businesses/Marketing/Accounting     Why do you want to play college volleyball?   ~I want to play college volleyball because I love the game and thrive in a competitive, team centered environment. Volleyball has pushed me to grow as a leader and teammate, and I want to continue that growth at the next level while representing a school I'm proud of.   What does your training schedule look like in-season and off-season?   ~During the season, I practice daily with my team and focus on game prep, team strategy, and skill development. In the off-season, I train through weightlifting, summer leagues, and volleyball camps to stay strong, improve my performance, and continue developing my leadership on the court.   How do you balance school, sports, and your personal life?   ~I stay organized with a schedule and make sure to prioritize what's most important each day. I've learned to manage my time efficiently between schoolwork, practices, and downtime to recharge and stay mentally focused.   What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?   ~My biggest strength is my blocking, I read hitters well and use my height and timing to shut down plays. I'm also a vocal leader and love bringing energy to my team. One area I'm continuing to work on is my lateral speed, and I've been focusing on that in training to become a quicker, more explosive middle.   What are your academic interests or intended major?   ~I'm very interested in the medical field and plan to become a labor and delivery nurse or OB. I've always been passionate about helping others, especially in a healthcare setting.     Why do you want to play college volleyball?   ~It's an incredible opportunity to be able to continue playing your sport after high school. I think that being from North Dakota limits you to a smaller standard and I want to change that. I want to show people that anyone can be successful and find what they are good at. I want to inspire younger girls to dream big and put everything that they have into that dream to make it a reality. This sport means so much to me and I couldn't imagine a better way to spend my college years playing the sport that I love. My job isn't finished yet and I can't wait to grow as a person and as a player.   What does your training schedule look like in-season and off-season?   ~In-season includes a lot of strength and agility training along with team practices. I work on skills at home as much as I can such as ball control. In the off-season I continue strength training and continue growing my skills at camps and scrimmages.   How do you balance school, sports, and your personal life?   ~It can be challenging sometimes but I just remember the goal that I have made for myself is worth all the hardships and sacrifices. I make sure that I still have time to just be alone so I can relax. I make time for my family and their support is the one of the main reasons I can balance it.   What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?   ~Strengths: I am mentally tough, I have an intense work ethic, I am vocal, I take this sport very seriously, I am focused, I have a powerful swing and smart ball placement, my defense is getting better with every rep. weaknesses: my serve could be stronger and more consistent, I could improve my blocking technique, I could do better on reading the block on the other side of the net.   What are your academic interests or intended major?   ~As of now I am undecided but am interested in business so I would probably go in that direction.    These 2027 athletes from the Dakotas aren't just promising—they're prepared. They've put in the work, shown consistency, and are already competing and training at a high level. With many of them heading to top camps this summer, now is the time for college coaches to take notice.   If you're looking for players with grit, high volleyball IQ, and the drive to get better every single day—these are the athletes you want in your gym. Don't wait. Get to know them now, because the next level is calling—and they're ready to answer.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">If you loved this article, please follow our Instagram page, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">PrepDigDakotas</a> for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes action.</h2>   After following our page, take the next step and subscribe to PrepDig! 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.   Use discount code digdakotas30 for an exclusive offer!    Year-Round Coverage: Access all PrepDig articles nationwide.  Player Rankings: See how athletes rank across every state.  FREE Player Profiles: Build and update your recruiting profile.  College Coach Views: Know which coaches are checking out your profile.  Profile Trends: Track your profile views over time.  Recruiting Tips: Get advice for your recruiting journey.  Coach Contacts: Connect with any college program across the country.  Event Perks: Get $25 off every PrepDig Showcase   Help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> Together, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences with your support!   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @prepdigdakotas</h4>

We're doing something exciting and new at Prep Dig—and the timing couldn't be better. With the June 15th contact period for the Class of 2027 quickly approaching, we're spotlighting some of the top rising athletes from North and South Dakota through exclusive interviews that give coaches, fans, and scouts a deeper look into who they are and what drives them.