Region 1: New Class A Era Brings Big Expectations for Kindred

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to Prep Dig using the discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The buzz around North Dakota's new Class A system has been building all summer, and no region has been talked about more than Region 1. With a stacked field that includes Central Cass, Kindred, Lisbon, Northern Cass, Oak Grove, Valley City, and Wahpeton, this group is primed to be one of the most competitive in the state. Expect to see multiple Region 1 teams consistently landing in the top-10 rankings throughout the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One program already turning heads is the <strong>Kindred Vikings</strong>, who have made the most of their offseason. Between attending the Minnesota Gophers Team Camp, hosting development camps on their own court, and building a strong youth pipeline focused on sound mechanics and fundamentals, Kindred is putting in the work to stay among the state's elite. Coaches knew this summer mattered with the region realignment—and this group looks ready to deliver.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Who to Watch: The Kindred Core</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The <strong>Class of 2026 seniors</strong> bring experience and leadership as they anchor the Vikings' lineup:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='795164' first='Kaitlyn' last='Brink'] (DS)</strong> – Brings stability and range to the back row, expected to handle a heavy load in serve-receive and defense.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='809755' first='Lyla' last='Kittelson'] (Middle)</strong> – Spent the summer refining her attack timing and transition footwork, looking to become a bigger threat in Kindred's offense.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Lauryn Onken (Setter/Opposite)</strong> – A versatile piece who can run the offense or contribute as a blocker and attacker on the right.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Jasmin Beauchlair (Outside/Opposite)</strong> – Offers flexibility on the pins, able to score in-system or as an outlet hitter.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Averi Bauclair (Middle)</strong> – Adds size and depth to the Vikings' blocking and quick-attack game.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Among the <strong>2027 juniors</strong>, one name stands out:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='724982' first='Jenner' last='Jordheim'] (Outside Hitter)</strong> –Is one of the most dynamic juniors in North Dakota and a name you'll hear often this season. Jordheim brings length and athleticism to the pin, paired with a fast arm and the ability to score against size. She's a natural six-rotation outside, comfortable shouldering a heavy serve-receive load while still delivering as a primary attacker.What sets Jordheim apart is her ability to read the game—she knows when to bring power, when to tool the block, and when to keep plays alive with controlled swings. Her court presence is calm but commanding, and she thrives in high-pressure moments. With her skill set and volleyball IQ, Jordheim isn't just a steady contributor—she's the kind of player who can tilt momentum in Kindred's favor when a match is on the line.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The <strong>2028 sophomore class</strong> might be the most exciting group on the roster, featuring players already making statewide noise:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='727985' first='Taylor' last='Sanders'] (Outside Hitter)</strong> –Already ranked among North Dakota's top 10 players by Prep Dig, Sanders is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about sophomores in the state. Sanders plays with the kind of presence you can't miss—explosive first step in her approach, heavy arm, and the ability to score from anywhere on the court. She's comfortable as a six-rotation outside, holding her own in serve-receive and transition defense, while also being a go-to scorer in both system and out-of-system situations.<ul data-start="106" data-end="644">Her offseason résumé says plenty about her work ethic: a key part of the NCR RTDP program, a competitor at USAV Nationals in Texas, and countless reps against high-level competition. Sanders brings the energy and competitive drive that can change the tone of a match. Expect her to be one of the focal points of Kindred's offense this season, with the ability to take over matches in big moments.</ul></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Ivy Trenbeath (Setter/Opposite)</strong> – A versatile contributor who can control tempo or add firepower on the right side.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Kate Odegaard (Outside/Opposite)</strong> – Brings depth and flexibility to the pin rotation.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Collins McQuillian (Setter)</strong> –A high-IQ setter who plays with composure and command, even under pressure. While she's coming off an injury, Collins has spent the offseason fine-tuning her hands, decision-making, and connection with her hitters. Her ability to deliver consistent tempo, run a balanced offense, and adjust to the speed of the game will be key for Kindred's success this year. If she returns at full strength, McQuillan could be the piece that elevates this team's offensive efficiency and keeps their hitters in rhythm throughout the season.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bigger Picture</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What sets <strong>Kindred</strong> apart is their ability to reload and develop talent year after year, ensuring their program remains competitive even with roster turnover. While the returning varsity names will shoulder much of the load early, don't be surprised to see new faces step up and carve out roles as the season progresses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With Region 1 shaping up to be a dogfight, every match will matter, and every team will have to earn their spot in the postseason conversation. One thing is certain—Kindred and their regional rivals will make Region 1 must-watch volleyball all season long.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>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.</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at&nbsp;<a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a>&nbsp;With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></h4> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":4} --> <h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @</em></strong>prepdigdakotas</h4> <!-- /wp:heading -->