Rankings Update: Back Row Studs That Round Out Top 10

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>When you talk about the heartbeat of a volleyball team, it starts in the back row. These defensive specialists and liberos aren't just digging balls—they're dictating the pace of play, stabilizing serve-receive, and giving their hitters the chance to shine. The pressure on these players is immense: one shaky pass and the offense is out of system, but these athletes thrive under that spotlight.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The class of 2027 in South Dakota has produced a group of back row players who round out the Top 10 defense rankings and prove that the grind of the position is where the game is truly won. From fearless layouts to controlled platform angles, these players have mastered the skills that don't always fill the stat sheet but absolutely change the game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>College coaches take note: these athletes bring energy, communication, and relentless hustle. They're floor generals who keep rallies alive, keep teammates locked in, and consistently turn first contact into scoring opportunities. The libero/DS role isn't about glory—it's about grit. And this group of 2027 standouts has both in spades.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["446330"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab2ee"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='446330' first='Coryn' last='Kimbell'] – #3 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='446330' first='Coryn' last='Kimbell'] has solidified herself as one of the top back row players in the South Dakota 2027 class, earning the #3 ranking at the DS/L position. Her game is built on quick reads, clean footwork, and an elite ability to anticipate hitters before the swing ever happens. Coryn's platform control is steady under pressure, keeping her team in system and giving setters multiple options to run the offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>She excels in serve-receive, showing confidence on high-velocity serves and staying low through contact to deliver consistent, playable passes. Defensively, Coryn's lateral speed and willingness to sprawl across the floor allow her to extend rallies and frustrate opposing attackers. What makes her stand out is her court presence—she communicates with confidence, directs her teammates, and plays with the poise of a libero who takes pride in being the first contact.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Still developing and hungry to grow, Coryn brings the mentality every coach wants in their back row anchor: steady, fearless, and reliable in the moments that matter most.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["745678"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab383"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='745678' first='Liliana' last='Rolon-Colon'] – #4 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='745678' first='Liliana' last='Rolon-Colon'] is one of the most steady back row defenders in the South Dakota 2027 class. Ranked #4 at the DS/L position, Liliana brings calm consistency in serve-receive and a platform that stays quiet even under the most aggressive serves. Her anticipation allows her to step into seams and take control of passing lanes, making her a reliable first contact option. Defensively, she reads hitters early, positions herself quickly, and takes pride in turning tough digs into quality transition balls. Coaches looking for a libero with stability and poise should keep Liliana on the radar.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["760373"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab3f8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='760373' first='Jocelyn' last='Amundson'] – #5 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='760373' first='Jocelyn' last='Amundson'] has earned the #5 ranking among DS/Ls in the 2027 South Dakota class by playing with grit and high-level court awareness. She thrives in out-of-system situations, using her quick first step and aggressive pursuit to keep balls alive that most players let drop. Her ability to cover tips and roll shots makes her a defensive weapon against crafty hitters. Jocelyn also brings a fearless presence in serve-receive, holding her platform steady on tough float serves and keeping her team in rhythm. With her energy and relentless pursuit, she's the type of back row spark plug that every coach values. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725195"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab461"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='809376' first='Ember' last='Semmler'] – #6 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='809376' first='Ember' last='Semmler'] comes in ranked #6 for DS/Ls in the South Dakota 2027 class, and her defensive motor is one of the reasons why. Ember plays with fast reaction speed, exploding low to the floor to pick up hard-driven swings and immediately transition her team back into offense. She communicates with urgency, constantly directing coverage and adjusting the back row to keep her team organized. In serve-receive, Ember holds her ground and is confident taking primary reps, showing dependable ball control. Her hustle-first mentality makes her a true competitor who can elevate her team's defensive level. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["752397"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab4c8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='752397' first='Emma' last='Smajlovic'] – #7 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Ranked #7 at the DS/L position, [player_tooltip player_id='752397' first='Emma' last='Smajlovic'] brings smooth mechanics and strong instincts to the back row. Her strength lies in her ability to stay balanced through passing, creating consistent first contacts that allow her offense to run at full speed. Emma reads the court exceptionally well, positioning herself early and cutting off attacks before they can do damage. She has a calm demeanor in high-pressure moments, never rushing her platform or panicking against tough serves. With her steady play and developing leadership, Emma projects as a libero who can be a stabilizer for any program. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["748311"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab53a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='748311' first='Molly' last='Fischer'] – #8 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='748311' first='Molly' last='Fischer'], ranked #8 among DS/Ls in the South Dakota 2027 class, stands out for her versatility. While her primary position is DS/L, Molly also has the ability to swing as an outside, giving coaches a multi-dimensional option. Her defensive range is impressive—she covers the floor with speed and isn't afraid to throw her body into plays to extend rallies. In serve-receive, Molly shows consistency and confidence taking a high number of reps, helping her team stay in system. Her ability to impact both the back row and the front row adds value to her profile and makes her a unique asset in the 2027 class. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["760379"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab5b3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='812106' first='Cambree' last='Ideker'] – #9 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='812106' first='Cambree' last='Ideker'] earns the #9 spot among DS/Ls in the South Dakota 2027 class, bringing high energy and relentless pursuit to every rally. She thrives in scramble situations, using her quick reaction time to dig balls most players can't touch. Cambree's serve-receive mechanics are clean, and she has the ability to handle tough zones under pressure, keeping her team composed in rotation. What separates Cambree is her vocal leadership—she's always communicating, always directing coverage, and always locked in. That type of defensive command is exactly what coaches look for in a future libero. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["748877"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68a74dfdab629"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='748877' first='Katelyn' last='McKay'] – #10 Ranked DS/L, South Dakota 2027 (Uncommitted)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Rounding out the top 10 at the DS/L position in South Dakota's 2027 class is [player_tooltip player_id='748877' first='Katelyn' last='McKay'], a defender who plays with heart and consistency. Katelyn excels in reading servers and adjusting quickly to tough float and spin serves, holding her platform steady through contact. On defense, she positions herself early and isn't afraid to dig in against high-level attackers, showing discipline in staying low and balanced. She adds intangibles as well—steady communication, a positive presence, and the ability to lift up teammates during long rallies. Katelyn has the foundation and work ethic to continue climbing as she develops her all-around back row game. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- 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><em>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!</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->