High School News: Freshman Class Making Early Noise

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas   The 2029 class is wasting no time making its presence felt on the court this fall. From freshmen stepping into varsity rotations to others dominating at the sub-varsity level, this group is already proving they belong on our radar. What's been most impressive is how seamlessly these athletes are adapting to the speed of the high school game — whether it's putting up heavy swings from the pin, terminating balls in the middle, or finding smart shots from the back row.   Even at a young age, these freshmen are showing court awareness, timing, and confidence well beyond their years. They're not just filling roles — they're playmakers who can change momentum with a single swing. Some are powering through blocks, some are tooling the edges, and others are scoring with crafty off-speed shots. No matter the style, their impact is undeniable.   Who are the rising hitters making noise in the freshman class? Let's take a closer look.    [player_tooltip player_id='755127' first='Maddy' last='Vliem'] – 6'1” | RS/MB | Class of 2029   Standing at 6'1”, [player_tooltip player_id='755127' first='Maddy' last='Vliem'] is a freshman who already looks built for the front row. Whether she's working on the right pin or sliding into the middle, she brings size, reach, and a fearless attacking presence. On the right side, she has the ability to shut down an opponent's top outside hitter with a well-formed block, while still being able to transition quickly into offense. When she moves to the middle, her quick attacks and ability to close blocks make her a matchup problem.   What sets Maddy apart is her versatility — she can be plugged into either role and still make an immediate impact. Add in her developing timing and willingness to challenge the block, and you've got a freshman who's already on the watch list as a difference-maker at the net. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='757158' first='Allie' last='Van Laecken'] – 5'7” | OH/RS | Class of 2029 Allie is the type of player who plays with fire every time she takes the court. As a pin attacker, she brings a fast arm swing and isn't afraid to challenge bigger blocks with aggressive swings. On the outside, she keeps defenders guessing with her ability to mix power and placement, while on the right side she provides a reliable block and a steady scoring option. What sets her apart is her motor — she's the kind of player who never takes a play off, making her presence felt whether she's swinging, blocking, or picking up a tough dig in the back row. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='747640' first='Camryn' last='Jurrens'] – 5'10” | MB/OH | Class of 2029 Camryn has the length and explosiveness to be a big factor at the net. In the middle, she can beat blockers with quick tempo sets and has a knack for finding open space with her swings. Slide her to the outside, and she brings the same athleticism with a heavy ball that can score in transition. Defensively, she uses her size well to take away hitting lanes and force attackers into mistakes. Camryn's versatility between the middle and pin makes her a tough matchup and a name to circle as she continues to grow into her game. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='826762' first='Kaydee' last='Mackner'] – 5'6” | OH/RS (6-Rotation) | Class of 2029 Kaydee may not be the tallest hitter on the floor, but she plays with the all-around skillset that makes her a coach's dream. She has the hops to terminate balls on the outside or right side, and she's reliable enough in serve receive and defense to stay on the floor all six rotations. Her court vision allows her to tool the block or hit smart shots when needed, and she isn't shy about taking big swings in high-pressure moments. Kaydee's ability to impact the game from every spot on the floor makes her one of the most complete freshmen to watch. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='883835' first='Maliyah' last='Nankivel'] – 5'7” | OH/MB | Class of 2029 Maliyah brings toughness and energy to the front row, whether she's attacking from the outside or the middle. On the pin, she can score off high hands or rip cross-court shots that make defenders scramble. In the middle, she's quick off her feet and aggressive when sealing blocks, bringing plenty of grit to the net. Her game style is built on being fearless — she doesn't back down against bigger opponents and thrives in competitive moments. That edge, paired with her ability to attack from multiple spots, makes her a freshman who's already turning heads. ~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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