<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>High School Preseason News</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>It's hard to ignore the momentum building in Casselton. With fall preseason in full swing and the first serve of the 2025 season just around the corner, the <strong>Central Cass Squirrels</strong> are gearing up for what could be one of the most exciting and competitive seasons in recent memory.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>This squad has the pieces. And they're not just aiming to hang around the top 10—they're looking to shake things up at the top of Class A volleyball.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Central Cass returns a deep, battle-tested group, backed by one of the most respected coaching staffs in the state. There's a real edge to this program. Their culture is built on discipline, competitive fire, and a hunger to get better every time they step in the gym. And don't expect any shortcuts—this team is willing to grind. That starts with the leadership up top. <strong>Coach Stansbery</strong> holds her players to high standards and expects them to show up ready, focused, and ready to go to work.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Competing in <strong>Region 1</strong>, one of the most stacked and physical regions in North Dakota, nothing will come easy—and that's exactly how this group wants it. They've spent the offseason training, adjusting, and growing. From open gyms to club, weight room reps to individual development, this team didn't sit still. Now, with varsity experience and fresh faces pushing the pace, they've got a deep roster that gives them both consistency and versatility.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Let's break it down by class:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Senior Leadership – A Loaded 2026 Class</strong></h3>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='749982' first='Abby' last='Kobbervig'] – 2026 | Setter</strong><br>Kobbervig is the heartbeat of this team. A true <strong>quarterback</strong> on the court, she runs a fast-paced offense with confidence and precision. Her ability to read the block and deliver in-rhythm tempo sets—whether it's a quick 1, a back 2, or a pin out-of-system ball—gives Central Cass balance and unpredictability. She's a vocal leader with court vision and strong connection to her hitters.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='726034' first='Aspyn' last='Prien'] – 2026 | Middle Blocker</strong><br>A high-flying, explosive middle who closes blocks with speed and takes pride in winning the net. Aspyn's <strong>first-step quickness</strong> and vertical give her the edge, especially on fast tempo plays. She terminates off the slide, disrupts the opponent's middle game, and brings constant pressure from zone 3. A go-to force in transition.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='748212' first='Bradey' last='Bosse'] – 2026 | Setter</strong><br>A smart, consistent setter who can step in and keep the offense flowing smoothly. Bradey brings a steady presence and great touch, with the ability to adjust on the fly and get her attackers in rhythm. A valuable floor leader who doesn't flinch under pressure.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='832913' first='Izzy' last='Thompson'] – 2026 | Outside Hitter</strong><br>A high-volume, <strong>six-rotation</strong> attacker with great range and court awareness. Izzy can score crosscourt, tool the block, and deliver one of the best line shots in the region. Her ball control makes her just as valuable in serve receive and defense. Competitive, consistent, and calm in big moments.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='800161' first='Kaylie' last='Broden'] – 2026 | Defensive Specialist</strong><br>Back from a year abroad, Kaylie re-enters the lineup with fresh energy and veteran awareness. Her platform is clean, her reads are quick, and she brings a calming presence to serve receive. With her back in the mix, Central Cass gains a vocal leader and defensive rock.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='725046' first='Kendra' last='Braaten'] – 2026 | DS/Libero</strong><br>One of the strongest backcourt players in the region. Kendra has <strong>elite reads</strong>, quick feet, and a fearless mentality on defense. She can chase balls down in coverage, pick up hard-driven attacks, and run the back row with confidence. A standout in serve receive and a player who makes everyone around her better.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='748211' first='Kirra' last='Gunufson'] – 2026 | Setter</strong><br>Smart, consistent, and a strong option when Central Cass rotates systems or shifts tempo. She's efficient with her touch and keeps the offense steady when she's in.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='816040' first='Liv' last='Siverson'] – 2026 | Middle Blocker</strong><br>A solid middle who brings length, discipline, and great <strong>blocking form</strong>. Liv reads the setter well, closes strong, and turns her hands effectively to control the net. Offensively, she finds seams and keeps the ball in play with high contact.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='835894' first='Maya' last='Davis'] – 2026 | OH/Opp</strong><br>Versatile and athletic, Maya is the type of attacker every coach wants in their lineup. She's comfortable hitting both pins and offers smart placement and power. Maya can be plugged into any role and produce—whether that's delivering a sharp angle swing or locking up a right-side block. A true utility attacker.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:separator -->
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<!-- /wp:separator -->
<!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Juniors – The Rising Threats</strong></h3>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='724945' first='Emily' last='Broden'] – 2027 | Utility</strong><br>Emily can do it all. Whether she's swinging from the outside, stepping in as a secondary setter, or anchoring the back row, she adds value everywhere. Her volleyball IQ is high, and her skill set is sharp. She gives Central Cass unmatched flexibility and depth.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='831872' first='Emily' last='Meyer'] – 2027 | OH/Opp</strong><br>Powerful, aggressive, and confident on the attack. Meyer brings heat from the pin and doesn't back down against bigger blocks. She's continued to grow her all-around game and is ready to take a step forward this season.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Maddie Bratsch – 2027 | Middle Blocker</strong><br>Brings size and physicality to the net. Maddie's blocking instincts are improving every season, and her ability to finish at the net makes her a solid contributor in rotation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='843606' first='Maddie' last='Steig'] – 2027 | Right Side</strong><br>A smart blocker with solid positioning. She does the little things right—sealing the pin, reading the setter, and staying ready for transition swings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Whitney Mitchell – 2027 | Middle Blocker</strong><br>Continues to grow into her role. Whitney brings depth to the middle and gives the Squirrels another option in the front row.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:separator -->
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<!-- /wp:separator -->
<!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Sophomores & Underclassmen – New Faces to Watch</strong></h3>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><strong>Mackenzie Meyer – 2028 | Middle Blocker</strong><br>This sophomore has the physical tools to make an impact. She's learning quickly, moves well laterally, and could find herself in the rotation as the season progresses.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:separator -->
<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />
<!-- /wp:separator -->
<!-- wp:heading {"level":3} -->
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Coaching & System Depth</strong></h3>
<!-- /wp:heading -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Coach Stansbery's ability to develop depth is one of the biggest strengths of this program. With a strong core, a growing bench, and multiple hitters to run through, Central Cass has the option to mix and match systems based on matchup. They're not one-dimensional—they'll run a <strong>6-2 or 5-1</strong>, shift tempo mid-match, and keep opponents adjusting.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They'll be tested in Region 1—there's no easy road—but that's what makes this group exciting. They don't want the easy path. They've been building for this season, and now it's time to see it all come together.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/">PrepDig</a> will be following along this season to keep you up to date!</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- 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 <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> 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 -->
Subscribe to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue Reading
Already a subscriber?
Log in