Dreams in Motion: Abby Gruber’s Journey to Augustana

Over the past week, my inbox has been buzzing with one question: "Who's your June feature?" I kept it simple—“You'll have to wait and see.” I'm always grateful to shine a light on standout players each month, and this one is special. Young athletes are eager to learn from those who've walked the path before them—the wins, the setbacks, the grind. This month's spotlight just signed, and the moment I heard the news, I knew her story had to be told. So, who is it? You've asked... now it's time to find out.

Have you ever found yourself frozen courtside, completely locked in by what you're witnessing? That was me at a tournament in Minneapolis—stopped mid-step, in awe. I've watched hours of film, and while video tells part of the story, nothing compares to seeing a player like this live. With a jaw-dropping 10' touch and an explosive attack that shakes the court, Abby Gruber Abby Gruber 5'11" | MB/OH Brandon Valley | 2026 State SD is a force at the net. Her timing, elevation, and power are next-level. Augustana isn't just getting a good player—they're getting a game-changer. If you're ever in South Dakota, do yourself a favor and watch her play. Aspiring middles, take notes: Abby Gruber Abby Gruber 5'11" | MB/OH Brandon Valley | 2026 State SD is the real deal, and she's only getting better.

Before we dive into her journey, let's take a moment to recognize just how much Abby Gruber Abby Gruber 5'11" | MB/OH Brandon Valley | 2026 State SD has achieved in her high school career:

- 2024 JVA watchlist

- Class AA All-State ~ 2nd team

- All Metro ~ honorable mention

- All Conference ESD Team ( Eastern South Dakota) 

- Currently 4th on the all-time Brandon Valley HS leaderboard for hitting percentage

- Prep Volleyball "Magic Middles" at LSC

- Argus Leader Super 6 ~ Honorable mention

- Ranked 4th recruit in SD (PrepDigs)

Q: When did you start playing volleyball, and when did you realize you wanted to play in college?
Abby's Response: "I started playing volleyball around 10 at Embe! I started taking it more seriously around the 15-16s level and knew from then on, I wanted to play in College!"

Q: Can you explain your process in your recruitment? When did you start? How did you start?
Abby's Response: "I started my recruiting process in my 16s year with emailing a few schools. June 15th came, and I was lucky to get some calls and texts. After June 15th, I just kept uploading videos and started mass emailing a lot of colleges. I was able to generate a lot of phone calls this way. We tried to communicate with a lot of schools, regardless of how I initially felt about their program; in hindsight, those phone calls were a great learning experience. I ultimately went on a total of 6 visits to schools from 20 minutes away to 14 hours away. Going on multiple visits gave me a good feel for what I wanted in a school."

Q: Can you describe the moment you decided to commit to your college? What made that program stand out?
Abby's Response: "I loved Augustana because of many things, but definitely the community!! The coaches and players are all super nice and were super welcoming! The thought of also staying close to home was nice as well."

Q: What challenges did you face on your journey, and how did you overcome them?
Abby's Response: "I knew going into the recruiting process, my height would have been a detriment to colleges. I just tried to stay positive through the whole thing, knowing some colleges wouldn't prefer a 5'10 middle, but I knew something would fall in place for me! We had some interactions where you'd talk to a coach for an hour plus, you thought the conversation went well, and then they go quiet. Just remember it's not always you."

Q: How have you balanced academics, training, and personal life during your volleyball career so far?
Abby's Response: "Every single coach and teammate I've had has significantly influenced my growth, and I'm super grateful for everyone who has helped me!"

Q: Were there any coaches, teammates, or mentors who significantly influenced your growth as a player?
Abby's Response: "Balancing volleyball, school, friends, family, and work has been a pretty big challenge. I often find myself staying up late after practice or work, getting highlight videos done, or doing homework. I think hanging out with friends/family or just finding stuff that you like to do outside of volleyball and school is super important and something I value!"

Q: What role has mental preparation played in your success?
Abby's Response: "Being mentally prepared is such a big part in volleyball, so I'm often reminding myself during games that it's okay to make mistakes and no one's perfect. I also think positive self-talk, visualization, and mindfulness help build that mental preparation and confidence!"

Q: What's the most valuable lesson you've learned from playing volleyball?
Abby's Response: "I think the most valuable lesson I've learned from playing volleyball is having confidence and positive self-esteem. I think it's important not only on the court but off the court also."

Q: What advice would you give younger players who aspire to play volleyball in college?
Abby's Response: "Take in every moment because it goes by so fast!! I would also say to keep a positive attitude and don't be afraid to make mistakes, as it's part of learning!"

I'm beyond grateful that Abby took the time to help bring this story to life, because her journey is one every young volleyball player needs to hear. She didn't let her height define her. She didn't let doubt win. She outworked it. She outplayed it. And now, she's earned her spot at Augustana.

To every girl with a dream bigger than the box others try to put you in: Don't back down. Keep grinding in the gym, keep showing up early, keep diving after every ball. It doesn't matter if they overlook you today—what matters is that you never stop believing in yourself.

Your future? It's not just coming. It's waiting for you to rise to the net and take the swing.

Follow Abby Gruber Abby Gruber 5'11" | MB/OH Brandon Valley | 2026 State SD as she continues to chase greatness at Augustana—and remember: your story could be next.

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