D1 Commits In North Dakota: Who Are They?

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">@prepdigdakotas</a>   When you talk about what it takes to be a Division I volleyball athlete, the characteristics run deeper than raw numbers on a stat sheet. It's about the complete package: setters who command the court with vision and tempo, outsides who score in high-pressure situations with a full shot arsenal, middles who dominate with quick transitions and closing speed on the block, and liberos who bring ball control, fearless defense, and relentless energy. A true D1 athlete has not only the physical tools but also the mental edge — consistency, composure, and the ability to compete at the highest level day after day.   The North Dakota Class of 2026 is showing exactly that. Out of 111 players ranked, four are already committed to Division I programs, while five more are locked in with Division II, Division III, and NAIA schools. And as this season plays out, it's clear that number is only going to rise. These athletes are making their mark with skill sets that translate directly to the college game — from setters who run a diverse offense, to pin hitters who terminate from anywhere on the court, to liberos who flip momentum with game-changing digs.   This class isn't just filled with talent — it's filled with athletes who embody the traits college coaches want to build around. The 2026 group is setting the tone right now for the future of North Dakota volleyball.    [player_tooltip player_id='203420' first='Raina' last='Chwialkowski'] – Libero – University of Maryland Commit   [player_tooltip player_id='203420' first='Raina' last='Chwialkowski'] may not be the loudest voice in the gym, but she doesn't need to be. She leads through her actions, setting the tone with her relentless hustle and steady composure. As North Dakota's No. 1 libero, her game is built on clean technique — quick, balanced footwork that keeps her in position, smooth passing that keeps her team in system, and fearless pursuit of balls that others might give up on. Raina has a presence that speaks volumes: her teammates trust her because she delivers time and again in the biggest moments. Every dig, every serve receive pass, every chase into the stands shows her commitment to competing at the highest level. Off the court, she carries the same professionalism and work ethic, modeling what it means to prepare like a D1 athlete. Maryland is getting more than a libero — they're getting a player who anchors a team with consistency, poise, and actions that inspire everyone around her. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   Check Out Raina's Highlights: <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SmtHg">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SmtHg</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='722412' first='Ellee' last='McIntosh'] – Outside Hitter – University of North Dakota Commit   Few players in the 2026 class are generating as much excitement as [player_tooltip player_id='722412' first='Ellee' last='McIntosh'], and for good reason. The UND commit has been unstoppable this season on the outside, cementing herself as the No. 1 outside hitter in North Dakota. She swings with power, but it's her range and ability to see the court that make her lethal — tooling the block, finding deep corners, or ripping sharp cross-court. Ellee doesn't just score points; she creates energy. Every kill, every celebration, every moment she's on the floor, the fans are locked in — and she has become a true fan favorite. Her hustle is relentless, chasing balls in the back row and refusing to give up on plays. She brings leadership that pushes her team forward and sets a standard of grit and fight that everyone feeds off. With her rise this fall, she's not only the top outside but also making a serious case for the top overall ranking in her class. Ellee is the type of player people pay to watch — fiery, competitive, and unforgettable. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   Check Out Ellee's Highlights: <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SmtHV">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SmtHV</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='722410' first='Cora' last='Metcalf'] – Right Side Hitter – University of Omaha Commit   [player_tooltip player_id='722410' first='Cora' last='Metcalf'] is the kind of right side hitter who changes the way opponents prepare. As the No. 1 ranked right side in North Dakota's 2026 class, she brings size, strength, and an ability to dominate at the net. Offensively, she can terminate in transition, put balls away on the pin, and finish plays in out-of-system moments. But her blocking is where she sets herself apart. With quick hands, strong lateral movement, and the ability to seal seams, Cora consistently shuts down some of the top outside hitters in the state. She thrives in the high-pressure moments, delivering kills and big blocks that flip momentum in her team's favor. Cora leads with her presence — calm, confident, and competitive — and her teammates feed off knowing she's always ready to rise to the occasion. Omaha is adding a right side with the power to score, the discipline to defend the net, and the mindset to be a cornerstone at the next level. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   Check Out Cora's Highlights: <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2PzZS1">http://www.hudl.com/v/2PzZS1</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='748825' first='Mackenzie' last='Dufner'] – Setter – University of North Dakota Commit   Every great team starts with a great setter, and for North Dakota's 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='748825' first='Mackenzie' last='Dufner'] is the standard. Ranked the No. 1 setter in the state, Mackenzie controls the game with poise and creativity. She runs an offense that keeps defenses guessing — fast tempo to the pins, quick sets to the middle, and perfectly placed balls that allow her hitters to attack in rhythm. What makes her stand out is not just her technical skill, but her leadership. Mackenzie communicates with confidence, directing traffic, encouraging her teammates, and elevating everyone around her. She understands the game at a high level, seeing the block and making adjustments in real time. Off the court, she carries herself with the same presence — steady, approachable, and respected by teammates and coaches alike. Her hustle is unmatched, whether it's chasing down tight passes or diving for a second-ball save. UND is getting a setter who doesn't just distribute — she leads. And for those watching her this season, it's obvious why she sits at the top of her position rankings. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   Check Out Mackenzie's Highlights: <a href="https://www.fieldlevel.com/app/profile/mackenzine.dufner/volleyballwomen/videos/2125805?m=3">https://www.fieldlevel.com/app/profile/mackenzine.dufner/volleyballwomen/videos/2125805?m=3</a>    <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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