SD Class of 2026: Who Made The Big Moves In The Rankings

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas   The Class of 2026 in South Dakota is surging—and it's no accident. This group has been grinding in the gym, logging countless reps, sharpening footwork, and mastering the finer points of their craft. But their rise isn't just about stat sheets or highlight reels—it's about complete player development. Over the past year, these athletes have committed themselves to building explosive first steps, more efficient arm swings, and relentless defensive reads. They've worked on court vision, improved transition speed, and elevated their serve-receive consistency to meet the demands of high-level play.   Off the court, they've invested just as much into their mental game—developing the poise to reset after errors, the confidence to take big swings in high-pressure moments, and the leadership to elevate everyone around them. Physically, they've hit the weight room with purpose, adding vertical inches, core stability, and endurance to last deep into five-set battles.   Now, as the new season approaches, these players are climbing the rankings because they've earned it. They're not just prospects—they're competitors who know how to win points when it matters most.    [player_tooltip player_id='818975' first='Siri' last='Bach'] is grinding her way toward the top 10—and she's doing it with purpose. A fierce competitor, Siri brings the complete package to the net. Her arm swing is lightning-quick with explosive power, able to terminate balls from both pin and transition situations. On the block, she's an imposing wall on the right side, reading setters with precision and closing seams with textbook timing.   This past year, Siri has put in the reps, refining her footwork patterns, improving her range, and adding layers to her offensive arsenal. Her competitive edge is matched by her composure in high-pressure moments, making her a reliable go-to in tight sets. She's already making the rounds with visits to top collegiate programs, and it's no stretch to say she's a golden ticket for wherever she lands. With another year of growth ahead, expect Siri to make a serious push up the rankings and become one of South Dakota's most feared right sides.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Alexis Vanderham is headed to Dakota Wesleyan, and it's easy to see why she caught their attention. This past year, she's been a defensive anchor, patrolling the back row with exceptional court IQ and quick-twitch reactions. Her ability to read hitters, anticipate angles, and position herself perfectly puts her in the path of balls most defenders wouldn't touch.   Alexis thrives in serve-receive, delivering consistent, on-target passes that keep her offense in system. Her range, communication, and hustle allow her to cover seams and extend rallies that swing momentum. She's made a noticeable climb in her game over the past season, and with her competitive drive and defensive instincts, we're eager to see the impact she'll make in her senior year before she takes her talents to the collegiate stage.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='765217' first='Madilyn' last='Dinges'] has surged into the top 10 middle blocker rankings—and she's earned every bit of it. Over the past year, her game has taken a major leap, not just in technical skill but in her ability to read the game at a high level. Madilyn's blocking presence is a nightmare for opposing offenses; she studies hitters, times her jump perfectly, and seals the net to take away high-percentage shots.   Her footwork has become more efficient, allowing her to close blocks quickly and transition into offense without losing power. Offensively, she's added variety to her attack, mixing quicks, slides, and sharp angles to keep defenses guessing. But it's her defensive IQ—reading setter tendencies, recognizing approach patterns, and adjusting mid-play—that has made her one of the most reliable shutdown middles in the state. With her momentum building, Madilyn is poised to make an even bigger impact this season.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='736615' first='Emilie' last='Bleeker'] is climbing fast, now ranked as the 7th-best middle blocker in South Dakota. Her rise over the past year has been fueled by her dominance at the net—combining raw power with a sharp volleyball IQ. Emilie brings a heavy arm swing that can terminate points in one contact, whether it's a quick set in the middle or a well-timed slide attack.   Defensively, she reads the game exceptionally well, tracking hitters' approach angles and anticipating shots before they're taken. This allows her to seal the block and redirect attacks back into the court. On offense, her ability to place the ball with precision—whether going for the seam, tipping over the block, or crushing it crosscourt—makes her a constant scoring threat. With her momentum building and confidence high, Emilie is primed to keep rising in the rankings as the season unfolds.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='765208' first='Meredith' last='Larson'] has made a major leap—cracking the state's top 50 overall and climbing into the top 5 setters for South Dakota's Class of 2026. She runs her offense with confidence and precision, delivering quick, clean sets that keep her hitters in rhythm. Her ability to read blockers, adjust tempo, and disguise her location makes her a constant problem for opposing defenses.   Whether in serve-receive or transition, Meredith's footwork and ball control allow her to turn tough passes into quality swings. She isn't afraid to take the attack herself with a perfectly timed dump, and her court vision ensures she's always a step ahead of the play. With her rising skillset and competitive drive, she's quickly becoming one of the most reliable and dangerous setters in the state.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='842864' first='Jaidyn' last='Jund'] has moved up the charts, earning a spot in South Dakota's top 50 players. As a right side, she brings a powerful, quick arm swing that can terminate balls from both in-system and out-of-system situations. Her ability to read the block, hit sharp angles, and score through or over defenders makes her a constant scoring threat.   Defensively, Jaidyn is just as valuable—closing blocks with precision, sealing seams, and taking away high-percentage swings from the opponent's top hitters. She transitions well from block to attack, keeping her offense dangerous on every rally. With her steady rise and strong two-way impact, Jaidyn is a name to watch closely this season.~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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