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<p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p>
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<p>Defense wins championships, and right now, some of the most impactful back-row defenders and liberos in the 2026 class are still up for grabs. These athletes bring elite court awareness, quick first steps, and impeccable platform control—key traits that allow them to consistently neutralize powerful attacks and extend rallies.</p>
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<p>Whether it's reading hitters early to position perfectly in serve receive or exhibiting explosive reaction times to dig hard-driven balls, these players demonstrate the discipline and anticipation every college program needs. Their ability to cover seams, execute seamless transitions from dig to pass, and communicate effectively on the floor anchors their teams' defenses and fuels offensive flow.</p>
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<p>College coaches seeking floor generals and defensive anchors who can control the pace from the back row should be paying close attention. These uncommitted defenders combine relentless hustle, high volleyball IQ, and technical precision—traits that translate immediately to the collegiate level.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='725173' first='Julia' last='Blom'] is a relentless defensive specialist/Libero and a true backbone in the back row. Her court awareness and anticipation are elite—she reads hitters early, positions perfectly, and consistently makes plays that disrupt offenses and extend rallies. Whether it's ripping up tough digs on hard-driven attacks or sprinting in for crucial covers, Julia's hustle and quickness set her apart.</p>
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<p>She anchors serve receive with consistent, clean platform work, helping her team run a smooth offense from the backcourt. Beyond her physical skills, Julia's leadership elevates her entire lineup—her communication and competitive fire bring energy and composure in tight moments.</p>
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<p>For college programs seeking a high-IQ, floor-saving Defensive Specialist/Libero who thrives under pressure, [player_tooltip player_id='725173' first='Julia' last='Blom'] is a must-watch name in the 2026 class.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>— Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='751379' first='Alexis' last='VanderHam'] is a standout defender known for her sharp instincts and consistent play in the backcourt. She reads hitters early, stays low and balanced, and tracks the ball with precision through seams to deliver clean, controlled digs. Her composure under pressure and quick reaction time allow her to neutralize powerful attacks and keep rallies alive.</p>
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<p>In serve receive, Alexis positions herself expertly, providing a reliable platform that helps her team run a smooth offense. Her anticipation and ability to read the game set her apart as a true defensive leader on the floor.</p>
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<p>College coaches looking for a high-IQ, relentless defender in the 2026 class should have [player_tooltip player_id='751379' first='Alexis' last='VanderHam'] at the top of their list.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>— Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='729821' first='Remie' last='Roduner'] is a backcourt force with exceptional court awareness and rapid reaction times. She consistently reads hitters early, positioning herself perfectly to extend rallies with clean, athletic digs—even on hard-driven or off-speed attacks. Her platform in serve receive is stable and precise, delivering accurate passes that allow her setters to run a smooth offense.</p>
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<p>Remie's ability to anticipate seams and track the ball through traffic makes her a reliable anchor in high-pressure situations. Beyond her technical skill, she's a vocal leader who commands communication and keeps her team organized and energized on every play.</p>
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<p>For college programs seeking a libero with high volleyball IQ, consistent execution, and relentless competitive drive, [player_tooltip player_id='729821' first='Remie' last='Roduner'] is a must-watch.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700"><strong>— Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Alaina brings exceptional speed, agility, and length to her defensive game, allowing her to cover wide ground and chase down tough digs. Her quick first step and lateral explosiveness enable her to extend rallies and frustrate opponents' attacks. She demonstrates advanced court awareness, reading hitters early to position herself perfectly in serve receive and back-row defense.</p>
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<p>What sets Alaina apart is her elite block coverage—after diving for digs, she quickly recovers to cover tips, roll shots, and seams behind the block. This ability to transition seamlessly keeps her team protected at the net and limits scoring opportunities for opponents.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Alaina's relentless energy and vocal leadership elevate her team's intensity and focus. College coaches seeking a versatile, high-IQ back-row defender should have Alaina firmly on their radar.</p>
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<p><strong>— Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Elexis is a natural floor general who commands the back row with precision and relentless intensity. She consistently delivers tough digs with exceptional platform control and quick reads, extending rallies and keeping her team in system. Her anticipation and ability to read hitters allow her to position perfectly in serve receive, ensuring accurate passes that run a smooth offense.</p>
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<p>She excels in the details—seamless transitions, floor defense, and constant communication—making her impact felt beyond the stat sheet. Elexis's competitive fire and on-court presence set the tone defensively, elevating her entire team every point.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">For college coaches seeking a libero who combines elite skill with intangible leadership, Elexis is a must-watch prospect.</p>
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<p><strong>— Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='261247' first='Kyla' last='Hellickson'] has proven herself as a fearless libero, consistently sacrificing her body to make incredible digs and keep her team in the rally. Her quick reads, low defensive platform, and explosive reactions allow her to track down balls others can't, turning tough swings into extended possessions.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">She commands the back row with vocal leadership and sharp court awareness, anchoring serve receive and providing reliable, accurate passes to run the offense smoothly. Hellickson's relentless work ethic and competitive drive make her a dependable defensive anchor any college program would value.</p>
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<p><strong>— Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p>
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<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>
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<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 <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</strong></h2>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></h4>
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @</em></strong>prepdigdakotas</h4>
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State:
South Dakota
School:
SF Lincoln
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HEIGHT
5'7"
POS
DS/L/RS
CLASS
2026
State:
South Dakota
School:
Brandon Valley
Club:
Sanford Sports Academy 17 Red
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HEIGHT
5'1"
POS
DS/L
CLASS
2026
State:
South Dakota
School:
Wessington Springs
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HEIGHT
5'8"
POS
DS/L
CLASS
2026
State:
Minnesota
School:
Watertown-Mayer
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HEIGHT
5'7"
POS
DS/L
CLASS
2026
State:
Minnesota
School:
Farmington
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HEIGHT
5'7"
POS
DS/L/OH
CLASS
2026
State:
Minnesota
School:
Fillmore Central
Club:
Falcon Fire
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