👉 On the Radar: 2029's Trending Into Summer

Use Code: digdakotas30 in the coupon code area   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</a>   <figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2026/04/image_bd866d.png" alt="" class="wp-image-964379" style="aspect-ratio:2.014200729226636;width:337px;height:auto" /></figure>   The next wave is already starting to take shape—and it's coming from the 2029 class. While these athletes may not be in the rankings just yet, they've put together performances that demand attention. This is a group that has taken meaningful steps forward, showing growth not just in production, but in how they understand and manage the game. From adjusting to off-system swings to staying available in transition, these players are beginning to separate themselves in ways that translate beyond the stat sheet.   What stands out most is the trajectory. These are athletes learning how to score with purpose, read the game at a higher level, and compete through imperfect volleyball. The consistency isn't fully there yet—and that's exactly why they're on the radar. Heading into the summer, this group brings a mix of athleticism, IQ, and work ethic that makes them worth tracking closely. Don't be surprised if this is a list that looks very different the next time rankings are updated.    [player_tooltip player_id='743765' first='Caylee' last='Larson'] doesn't take plays off—and that's not something you have to look hard to find. It shows up immediately. I watched her chase down balls that most players let drop, resetting rallies and keeping her team alive longer than they should have been. That kind of motor matters. Then you add in her serve—it's not just consistent, it's aggressive. She's going after seams and putting pressure on serve-receive, not just getting the ball in. She's still building the rest of her game, but that combination of effort and ability to impact from the service line makes her someone I keep coming back to. ~Theresa@prepdigdakotas     Watching [player_tooltip player_id='790123' first='Caitlin' last='Ryckman'], the versatility stands out right away. She moves between right side and middle with confidence, and that ability to impact in multiple roles gives her real value on the court. I saw her stay patient in her approach, timing her movements well and making herself available in transition. She doesn't rush plays—she reads, adjusts, and finds ways to stay effective at the net. As she continues to build within both roles, Ryckman is a player who brings flexibility, presence, and a strong foundation that will continue to elevate her game heading into the summer. ~Theresa@prepdigdakotas     Watching [player_tooltip player_id='943686' first='Channing' last='Ell'], the growth in her game is starting to show up in meaningful ways. She's working well off the net, reloading quickly, and consistently making herself available in transition. When she's in system, her timing connects and you can see the potential in how she runs her tempo and stays involved offensively. She's active, engaged, and beginning to impact more rallies at the net. As she continues to build on that rhythm and presence, Ell is a middle who is gaining momentum and becoming a player to track closely heading into the summer. ~Theresa@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='941848' first='Dani' last='Hermanson'] is building into a true six-rotation outside, and that development is noticeable. Watching her, she's taking on more responsibility in serve-receive while still staying engaged as an offensive option. She works to stay balanced through contact and continues to make herself available in transition, even in out-of-system situations. There's a clear commitment to expanding her game, and it shows in how she competes across all rotations. As that all-around consistency continues to grow, Hermanson is positioning herself as a complete outside to watch. ~Theresa@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='880408' first='Halle' last='Welken'] brings a steady, composed presence to the backcourt. Watching her, she controls her platform well and delivers consistent first contacts that keep her team in system. She reads the game effectively, positioning herself to extend rallies and limit breakdowns defensively. There's a calm confidence in how she handles serve-receive and defensive responsibilities. As she continues to expand her range and take away more court, Welken is developing into a reliable and impactful back-row player. ~Theresa@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='932805' first='Marlene' last='Perez'] is a six-rotation outside who continues to show balance across her game. Watching her, she stays composed in serve-receive and transitions smoothly into offense, making herself available in every phase. She doesn't force plays—she manages them, finding ways to stay efficient and keep rallies controlled. There's a steady presence in how she contributes across rotations. As she continues to build her offensive assertiveness and expand her scoring options, Perez is a player trending upward heading into a big summer. ~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>   Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at PrepDig.com. With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!   This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman</h4>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</h3>   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   If You Enjoyed This Article, Help Us Keep the Momentum Going 🔥 Players Use this article to grow. Take notes, study what makes others stand out, and apply it to your own journey. Want to take the next step? Reach out to a featured athlete and introduce yourself. Build connections, not just stats.   📣 Club Coaches & Directors Share this with your teams. If your athletes are highlighted, celebrate them. Post it, tag us, and help their stories reach the right eyes. Visibility matters.   🎯 College Coaches Tag these athletes in University Athlete and evaluate them as potential fits for your program. We continue tracking their growth and impact through Recruitable Credentials, the indicators coaches trust. Follow their progress with us and keep these prospects on your radar.   🙏 Parents & Supporters Thank you for being the backbone of this movement. Your subscriptions, shares, and belief in your athletes make this work possible. Help a player get discovered — share this article and tag @prepdigdakotas.   🚀 Upgrade to a PrepDig+ Subscription Access exclusive rankings, deeper analysis, and the full Prospect Index to follow every athlete's journey.

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