Rankings Update: Dakota's Heart of the Back Row

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas   When you break down the game of volleyball, one truth stands tall—your offense is only as good as your first contact. The back row is the engine that drives everything, and without it, you can't set tempo, run plays, or win long rallies. A strong back row doesn't just keep the ball off the floor, it creates scoring opportunities and sets the tone for the entire match.   The players who grind it out in serve-receive and defense are often the unsung heroes, but make no mistake—these athletes are the heartbeat of the court. Their ability to track hitters, read angles, cover tips, and deliver clean passes gives setters the freedom to run a fast and unpredictable offense. They turn defense into transition and frustration into momentum.    [player_tooltip player_id='725659' first='Joslyn' last='Asplin'] – DS/L | Ranked #2 in North Dakota (2027) | Uncommitted   [player_tooltip player_id='725659' first='Joslyn' last='Asplin'] is a game-changer in the back row. Ranked the #2 DS/L in North Dakota's 2027 class, she brings a level of discipline and consistency that separates her from the pack. Her platform work is clean and efficient, producing high-quality first contacts that keep her setters in rhythm. She reads attackers exceptionally well, allowing her to anticipate swings and cover the court with ease.   Defensively, Joslyn combines quick reaction time with fearless pursuit—whether it's laying out for a cross-court rocket or adjusting to a soft tip, she finds a way to keep the ball alive. In serve-receive, she's steady under pressure and rarely gives opponents an easy point. What stands out most is her court awareness and vocal leadership—she organizes her teammates and plays with the kind of composure coaches look for at the next level.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='724966' first='Kinley' last='Pedersen'] – DS/L | Ranked #3 in North Dakota (2027) | Uncommitted [player_tooltip player_id='724966' first='Kinley' last='Pedersen'] thrives in high-pressure moments. Ranked #3 in the state for DS/L, her ability to track the ball off the hitter's hand makes her one of the most reliable defenders in her class. Kinley's platform angles are clean, and she consistently turns tough serves into in-system passes. She brings tenacity on defense, sliding into coverage and taking away seams that many liberos struggle to close. Her communication skills stand out, as she constantly directs traffic in the backcourt and provides her teammates with confidence to swing aggressively knowing she has their coverage locked down.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='724933' first='Aaliyah' last='Hjelmstad'] – DS/L | Ranked #4 in North Dakota (2027) | Uncommitted [player_tooltip player_id='724933' first='Aaliyah' last='Hjelmstad'] is a scrappy defender with a relentless motor. Ranked #4 DS/L in the state, she brings toughness to the floor every rally. Her quick footwork allows her to cover deep corners and adjust on late tips, and her ability to transition seamlessly from defense to serve-receive gives her an edge. Aaliyah has a strong jump-float serve that can keep opponents out of system, and her aggressive mentality makes her a momentum-shifter. She's the type of DS/L who wears opponents down over time by refusing to let the ball touch the floor.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='747677' first='Natalie' last='Sabot'] – DS/L | Ranked #5 in North Dakota (2027) | Uncommitted [player_tooltip player_id='747677' first='Natalie' last='Sabot'] is a steady presence in the back row who thrives on consistency. Ranked #5 in North Dakota, she is known for her smooth footwork patterns and ability to stay balanced under pressure. Natalie excels in serve-receive, where she rarely gets aced and often delivers a ball that gives her setters multiple options. Defensively, she positions herself early, reads hitters with precision, and doesn't get caught out of system. Natalie's calm demeanor and technical skill make her a high-IQ libero who can be trusted in tight moments.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='745512' first='Brenna' last='Martian'] – DS/L | Ranked #6 in North Dakota (2027) | Uncommitted [player_tooltip player_id='745512' first='Brenna' last='Martian'] plays with fire and energy that elevates her teammates. Ranked #6 in the state, she is fearless when it comes to taking the first ball, and she attacks serve-receive with confidence. Her defensive range is impressive—she reads hitters well, closes seams, and gets low to dig out powerful swings. Brenna also brings a competitive edge with her serving, using smart placement to target opponent weaknesses. Her hustle and ability to cover large areas of the court make her a libero who can change the flow of a match.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas    <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>   This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas

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