Top Returning Class 4 Pin Hitters: A Spotlight on the 2027 Class

As the high school volleyball season draws near, Missouri's Class 4 pin hitters are poised to make their mark. This exceptional class has consistently demonstrated that they are some of the top players in the state, showcasing a unique blend of talent, versatility, and tenacity over the past three seasons. With their impressive athleticism, ranging from explosive jumpers to strategic playmakers, these athletes are ready to leave a lasting impact. Below, we delve into my top selections for returning outside and opposite hitters who are set to shine this season.    From her very first season with the Lancers, Kate has been a dominant force on the court. Her passion and competitive spirit are infectious, making her a joy to watch. Standing at 6'0", Kate has the agility to play various positions, but her prowess as a six-rotation outside hitter is what sets her apart. With only 12 kills needed to reach the 1,000 career milestone, she is likely to achieve this feat in the season opener. One of her most memorable performances came during a nail-biting 3-2 victory against Marquette, where she recorded an astounding 43 kills with a hitting percentage of .402, alongside 10 digs. As she gears up for another season, all eyes will be on Kate to see how she continues to elevate her game.     Maddie is a high-flying outside hitter whose athleticism and skill make her a fun one to watch. Although she stands at 5'7", her impressive 31-inch vertical leap, combined with a keen volleyball IQ and relentless determination, positions her as one of the top returning pin hitters in Class 4. With a career total of 1,140 kills—567 of which were earned last year—Maddie is on track to reach the 1,500-kill milestone this season. Additionally, her potential to achieve 1,000 career digs makes her a formidable six-rotation player who can impact the game on both sides of the net.     Delaney has showcased her versatility by playing multiple front-row positions, including middle blocker and opposite hitter, before excelling as an outside hitter during her recent club season. Standing tall at 6'3", she embodies the ideal attributes of a coach's dream player while posing a significant challenge for opponents. Her adaptability and mental toughness enable her to thrive in various roles, providing her team with a competitive edge. If the Tigers aspire to make a deep postseason run this year, Delaney will need to be a focal point of their offense, and she is well within reach of the 1,000-kill milestone.     At 6'3", Jordan is a monumental presence on the court and played a crucial role in last season's state championship title for the Guardians. Her impact as an opposite hitter not only includes her impressive attacking skills but also her ability to disrupt opposing offenses. With 626 career kills and another strong season anticipated, Jordan is on track to surpass the 1,000-kill mark. Additionally, her defensive capabilities cannot be overlooked; she ranked among the top blockers in Class 4 last season with a total of 109 blocks, bringing her career total to 151.     Leah burst onto the scene with a remarkable debut season at Jefferson City, contributing to herteam's back-to-back Final Four appearances, finishing 3rd and 2nd. As a six-rotation pin hitter, Leah has averaged an impressive 335 kills per season over the last two years. This season, she aims to reach the 1,000 career milestone in both kills and digs, making her a dual-threat player with the potential to achieve a rare double 1,000 career milestone.     Miley is poised to join the ranks of some of the extraordinary players who have passed through the Pleasant Hill program over the years. Her development during the club season with KC Power has equipped her with new skills that will enhance her performance in her final high school season. A starter since day one, Miley has accumulated 748 career kills and 505 career digs, showcasing her all-around capabilities. With the right tools at her disposal, Miley is set to make significant contributions for her team this year.

As the high school volleyball season draws near, Missouri's Class 4 pin hitters are poised to make their mark. This exceptional class has consistently demonstrated that they are some of the top players in the state, showcasing a unique blend of talent, versatility, and tenacity over the past three seasons. With their impressive athleticism, ranging from explosive jumpers to strategic playmakers, these athletes are ready to leave a lasting impact. Below, we delve into my top selections for returning outside and opposite hitters who are set to shine this season.