Frontcourt Forces: The 2026 Middles to Watch in Wisconsin

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   The middle blocker position demands versatility and relentlessness—closing blocks, running quicks, staying active in transition, and reading the game faster than anyone else on the court. For Wisconsin's Class of 2026, a standout group of middles has been doing exactly that over the past few seasons, anchoring their teams' frontcourts and changing matches on both sides of the ball.   As they enter their final year of high school, these athletes are polished, battle-tested, and ready to finish strong. They're not just putting up numbers—they're commanding the net by sealing seams, running tempo with setters, and finding ways to terminate whether they're in system or scrambling in transition. Their ability to read attackers, disrupt timing, and convert on offense makes them some of the most valuable pieces on the floor.   Here's a look at the Wisconsin 2026 middles who have built strong résumés and are set to make one final run at the top before taking their game to the next level.    At 6'1”, [player_tooltip player_id='376306' first='Taylor' last='Neuenschwander'] commands the net as a dynamic middle blocker for Bay Port (WI). She runs quicks and slides with precision, finishing with a fast arm and the ability to score against size. Neuenschwander's footwork and lateral speed allow her to close blocks effectively, sealing seams and taking away hitters' best angles. Her transition game stands out—she gets off the net quickly to be a consistent offensive threat while staying disciplined on first contact. With her combination of length, athleticism, and IQ, Neuenschwander is a middle who impacts both sides of the ball and has clear next-level upside.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SG61b">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SG61b</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='249665' first='Kennedy' last='Tisdale'] may not be the tallest middle in the gym, but she plays big with explosive footwork, quick closing speed, and a fast arm. At 5'11”, she runs quick attacks with tempo, finishing with a clean, high contact point that challenges blockers. Defensively, Tisdale's ability to read setters and adjust to hitters allows her to seal seams and take away key angles at the net. Her energy, mobility, and consistent presence in transition make her a reliable impact middle who brings both offensive spark and defensive grit to the court.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2PSjMB">http://www.hudl.com/v/2PSjMB</a>     At 6'2”, [player_tooltip player_id='736709' first='Grace' last='Burfeind'] brings size, length, and a commanding presence to the middle for Holy Family (WI). She runs quicks and slides with efficiency, using her reach to score over smaller blockers and terminate out of transition. Burfeind's blocking is a difference-maker—her timing, wingspan, and ability to close seams force hitters to adjust. She stays active in transition, tracks the setter well, and can quickly convert defensive plays into offensive opportunities. With her size, athleticism, and steady net presence, Burfeind is a high-upside middle with the tools to make an immediate impact at the next level.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="https://sportsrecruits.com/athlete/grace_burfeind?video=5030119">https://sportsrecruits.com/athlete/grace_burfeind?video=5030119</a>     Don't let the height fool you—[player_tooltip player_id='506759' first='Olivia' last='Graves'] plays with the speed, grit, and athleticism that elevates her presence at the net. At 5'10”, she runs fast-paced quicks with a quick first step and finishes with a snap-heavy arm. Graves brings high energy and is always active in transition, getting off the net fast to stay involved in every play. Defensively, she reads well, closes blocks with strong lateral movement, and isn't afraid to battle bigger attackers. She's a high-IQ middle who plays fast and fierce—definitely one to keep on the radar.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SEm1a">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SEm1a</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='388473' first='Taylor' last='Lord'] is an athletic, mobile middle who plays with energy and impact for Tomah (WI). At 5'11”, she brings quick footwork and an explosive first step, allowing her to run fast-tempo quicks and close blocks effectively. Lord's ability to transition quickly off the net keeps her engaged as an offensive threat, while her timing and reads defensively allow her to take away key hitting lanes. With her speed, motor, and ability to finish plays, Lord is a middle who continues to climb as one to watch in Wisconsin's 2026 class.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2QZiUs">http://www.hudl.com/v/2QZiUs</a>    <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>

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