No Excuses: These 2027s Belong on Every Coach’s Call Sheet

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">‼️<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using code JUNE15READY for 50% off</h2>   As June 15th approaches, college programs across the country are locking in their recruiting priorities—and these Class of 2027 standouts need to be on every coach's radar. These athletes aren't just prospects; they're difference-makers who are already showing the skill, drive, and volleyball IQ to impact the next level.   Whether it's a setter running a high-tempo offense, a middle blocker closing blocks and converting quicks, or a six-rotation outside managing both serve-receive and kill efficiency, these players are raising the bar. They bring energy, consistency, and a competitive edge that translates across every rotation.   These are the names that could shape the future of your program. No excuses—when the June 15th calls start, make sure these 2027s are on your list.   Let's take a look at who's ready to level up.    [player_tooltip player_id='396878' first='Ryah' last='Cotton'] has been on my radar for a while—and even without seeing her in person yet, the hours of film speak volumes. Simply put: Ryah is the prototype of a high-impact, next-level setter. At 6'0" with a left-handed delivery, she can bring immediate offensive value, especially in front-row rotations where she becomes a scoring threat on the second ball. Her ability to run a fluid, high-tempo offense while staying composed under pressure is beyond her years.   She commands the court with the presence of a veteran—reading blockers, identifying matchups, and making smart decisions in real time. Her hands are clean, her footwork is efficient, and her set location is consistent across multiple tempos. Ryah doesn't just run plays; she orchestrates momentum.   Add in a team-first mentality, high coachability, and natural leadership, and you have a setter that will elevate any program she steps into. If you're a college coach looking to build your offense around someone with size, skill, and IQ—[player_tooltip player_id='396878' first='Ryah' last='Cotton'] is a name you don't want to overlook. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18943853/682e6577350030a0cf82ec1c">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/18943853/682e6577350030a0cf82ec1c</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='396872' first='Elleora' last='Utecht'] is one of the most dynamic and versatile offensive threats in the Class of 2027. There's truly not a spot on the court she can't score from. Whether she's terminating out-of-system balls from the left pin or rotating into the middle and drilling sharp crosses to the 10-foot line, Elleora brings relentless pressure to opposing defenses.   Her line shot is lethal—hard, fast, and nearly unpickable. She sees the block early, adjusts mid-air, and has the body control to execute with precision. Even more impressive is her presence between points: Elleora carries herself with poise, maturity, and contagious positive energy. Her composed body language and vocal leadership create calm in high-pressure moments, setting the tone for her team.   College coaches looking for a true point-scorer who not only performs but uplifts the entire squad—[player_tooltip player_id='396872' first='Elleora' last='Utecht'] is a name you'll want circled on your June 15 call list.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SB3DH">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SB3DH</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='307273' first='Rilee' last='Enns'] is the kind of setter every coach wants running their offense. After hours of film study, one thing is clear—she's not just talented, she's exceptional. Rilee has the ability to run any route with precision, from quicks and slides to tempo balls and back sets. Her decision-making is sharp, her hands are clean, and her feel for the game is beyond her years.   What sets Rilee apart isn't just her technical ability—it's her volleyball IQ and leadership. She reads the floor like a seasoned veteran, consistently making smart choices that put her hitters in the best possible position to score. And when they do, she's the first to celebrate them. Her selfless, team-first mentality shines every time she steps on the court.   College coaches often talk about athletes who carry themselves with a maturity that elevates the entire team. [player_tooltip player_id='307273' first='Rilee' last='Enns'] is exactly that. She's a culture-builder, a floor general, and a setter that should absolutely be on your June 15 call list.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2S4TgW">http://www.hudl.com/v/2S4TgW</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='493712' first='Livia' last='Sathre'] is a powerful and versatile attacker who can impact the game from either pin. Whether she's swinging from the outside or opposite side, Livia brings a physical presence that demands attention. Her deep, explosive approach gives her serious power behind the ball, and she knows how to use it.   Her cross-court attacks are fast, heavy, and well-placed—consistently driving deep into the seam and corners with control and precision. She creates scoring angles that are tough to defend and keeps defenders guessing with her smart shot selection.   Livia is also a grinder. She competes hard, works relentlessly to improve, and brings intensity to every rep. Her strong work ethic and ability to produce from multiple positions make her a valuable asset at the next level. College coaches looking for a physical, coachable, and multi-dimensional attacker—[player_tooltip player_id='493712' first='Livia' last='Sathre'] needs to be on your radar.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2PNDJb">http://www.hudl.com/v/2PNDJb</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='396876' first='Lauren' last='Bunge'] is one of the most dominant middles I've seen in the 2027 class. She's explosive off the floor, quick laterally, and has an arm swing that's both powerful and efficient. Her ability to time her approach and terminate in tempo makes her a consistent scoring threat—especially on the slide, which she runs with precision and pace.   At the net, Lauren brings intensity. Whether she's closing blocks or turning quick attacks into points, she plays with the kind of edge that forces opponents to adjust. Her ability to score on both sides of the ball—offense and defense—makes her an immediate impact player.   If you're a college coach looking for a middle who competes hard, finishes plays, and raises the level of play around her, [player_tooltip player_id='396876' first='Lauren' last='Bunge'] should be at the top of your June 15 call sheet.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SB8Yz">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SB8Yz</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='413371' first='Nora' last='Mitteness'] is the type of middle you lose track of—and then she makes you pay. She's quick, smart, and has a knack for slipping through defensive seams with perfectly timed slides. Her ability to go line with authority is nearly impossible to stop, and when the defense adjusts, she reads it mid-air and tips to open space with precision.   Whether it's a quick set in front or a tempo slide behind, Nora attacks with purpose and power. She's not just athletic—she's tactical. Her ability to stay composed, adapt in real-time, and finish plays makes her a high-IQ middle with real upside at the next level.   Coachable, competitive, and quietly confident, Nora leads by example. She sets the tone with her work ethic and holds the standard through her actions. For any coach looking to add a dynamic, reliable, and intelligent middle to their roster—[player_tooltip player_id='413371' first='Nora' last='Mitteness'] should absolutely be on your radar.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   http://www.hudl.com/v/2QZZ4p    Writing about these athletes has been an honor—some I've had the chance to watch in person, others I've studied through film. No matter how I've seen them, one thing is clear: they represent the best of what their state has to offer. Years of hard work, early mornings, long practices—it's all beginning to pay off.   If you're a coach or recruiter, this is the group you want to start building relationships with now. Don't wait. These players bring more than just talent—they bring leadership, heart, and a vision for what's possible. They're setting a powerful example for the next generation, showing younger girls that big dreams can be within reach with enough dedication.   Trust me—this won't be the last time you hear their names.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you to all my readers for making this journey possible. My goal has always been simple—to shine a light on athletes at every level, from Division I to NAIA, and give them a platform to keep chasing their love for the game. Every player deserves a shot, and I'm honored to help tell their stories.</h2>   <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 <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</h2>   <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>