Strong Generals making waves on North Dakota's 2027 rankings

Slide, 2, 4, 1, hut, 3, pipe, red, white, 32, 5—confused? These are just a handful of the sets that every great setter must know and execute with precision. Setters are the backbone of any offense, orchestrating plays, making split-second decisions, and always putting their team first. They are the generals on the court—leaders who take responsibility and elevate those around them.   For North Dakota's 2027 class, who are the setters commanding their teams with skill and leadership? We've already highlighted [player_tooltip player_id='724922' first='Makayla' last='Amundson'] as the top setter in the state, but now it's time to see who else has risen in the rankings. Let's dive in!    [player_tooltip player_id='749986' first='Avi' last='Johnson']-2027   #25 Overall | #6 Setter   Avi has locked in the No. 6 spot for setters in North Dakota's 2027 class, and she's a player who brings energy, speed, and pure excitement to the game. She thrives in a fast-paced system, pushing the tempo and keeping defenders scrambling. Her hustle is unmatched—she's constantly on the move, delivering precise sets from all areas of the court and making sure her hitters get the best possible opportunities to score.   What makes Avi stand out is her ability to step up, no matter the competition. Playing up with her current club, she refuses to be intimidated, proving she belongs at a high level. She doesn't just keep up—she runs the show. Her confidence, quick hands, and ability to take control of the offense make her a force on the court.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='724964' first='Kenley' last='Melby']-2027   #23 Overall | #5 Setter   Kenley has firmly established herself as one of the top setters in North Dakota's 2027 class, earning the No. 5 spot in the rankings. She is a high-IQ player with an exceptional ability to read opponents and make in-game adjustments to exploit defensive weaknesses. Her court awareness and quick decision-making allow her to dictate the tempo and keep opposing blockers on their heels.   What truly sets Kenley apart is her ability to run an offense like a seasoned veteran. She distributes the ball with precision, making smart choices that maximize her hitters' strengths. Whether she's setting a fast-tempo attack, a well-placed back set, or a perfectly timed dump to catch defenders off guard, Kenley's execution is sharp and consistent.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='724958' first='McKinley' last='Beaton']-2027   #22 Overall | #4 Setter   McKinley has earned her spot as the No. 4 setter in North Dakota for the Class of 2027, and she's a player that demands attention every time she steps on the court. She is the definition of a workhorse—relentless in her effort, selfless in her play, and always putting her teammates in the best position to succeed. Her leadership shines through her actions, and she plays with a determination that refuses to back down, no matter the competition.   What makes McKinley stand out is her versatility. While her setting ability is already strong, she brings an all-around game that sets her apart from others at her position. She can step in as a hitter when needed, defend with the confidence of a libero, and serve with precision and power. Her ability to impact the game from multiple areas of the court makes her a rare talent and a true difference-maker.   McKinley isn't just a setter—she's a competitor who thrives in high-pressure moments. Whether she's delivering a perfectly placed set, making a crucial dig, or putting away a ball herself, she plays with an energy that elevates her team.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='724960' first='Courtney' last='Heiser']-2027   #18 Overall | #3 Setter   Courtney has made significant strides in the rankings, earning her place as the No. 3 setter in North Dakota, and for good reason. She possesses an elite combination of composure, precision, and court awareness that sets her apart from her peers. While some setters rely on sheer athleticism or speed, Courtney's strength lies in her ability to control the tempo of the game with an unmatched calmness.   Her understanding of her hitters is exceptional. She not only recognizes their preferences—whether it's a fast-tempo outside set, a high ball to the pin, or a quick attack in the middle—but she also has the ability to adjust mid-play based on defensive positioning. Her connection with her attackers is a direct reflection of the time and effort she has invested in studying their tendencies and optimizing their success.   Beyond her technical skill, Courtney's presence on the court is powerful. She leads with confidence, communicates effectively, and executes each play with purpose. It's clear that Courtney has put in the work, and her ranking as one of the top setters in the state is well deserved. With her steady demeanor and dynamic playmaking ability, she is a game-changer at the setter position and a name to keep an eye on.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='713562' first='Julia' last='Heidt']-2027   #10 Overall | #2 Setter   As the #2 setter in North Dakota's 2027 class, Julia is a dynamic playmaker with a relentless work ethic. She doesn't just run an offense; she commands it with confidence and precision. Her court vision and IQ are elite, allowing her to read defenses, adjust on the fly, and deliver pinpoint, well-placed sets from any position on the court.   What truly sets Julia apart is her versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Not only is she an exceptional setter, capable of running a full arsenal of plays—including quicks, slides, and tempo sets—but she is also a dominant offensive weapon. With her strength and athleticism, she can transition into a powerful hitter, taking defenders by surprise with her ability to attack at the net. She has a fast, explosive swing that makes her a threat both in-system and out-of-system.   Her ability to turn a broken play into a scoring opportunity is unmatched, showing her instinctual feel for the game. Julia is the total package—a setter who can run any system, a hitter who can dominate at the net, and a competitor who thrives in big moments. She's the type of player every coach dreams of leading their offense. North Dakota volleyball better take notice—Julia is just getting started, and her ceiling is sky-high.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas    In this group of standout setters, each player brings something unique to the court—whether it's composure under pressure, dynamic versatility, or a fast-paced offensive command. Courtney's precision and ability to read the game make her one of the most controlled yet powerful setters in the state. McKinley's relentless work ethic and versatility allow her to impact the game in multiple ways, while Kenley's veteran-like court awareness and strategic decision-making set her apart. Julia, with her high-energy play and ability to run a fast-tempo offense, proves she belongs at the top, regardless of the competition she faces.   These setters don't just facilitate the offense—they elevate their teams. With their leadership, skill, and drive, they are players to watch as they continue making their mark in North Dakota volleyball. Keep an eye on them, because their journey is just getting started.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">If you loved this article, please follow our Instagram page, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">PrepDigDakotas</a> for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes action.</h2>   After following our page, take the next step and subscribe to PrepDig! By subscribing, you'll not only stay connected to the latest coverage of your favorite events, but you'll also be helping to shine a spotlight on rising volleyball talent.   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Slide, 2, 4, 1, hut, 3, pipe, red, white, 32, 5—confused? These are just a handful of the sets that every great setter must know and execute with precision. Setters are the backbone of any offense, orchestrating plays, making split-second decisions, and always putting their team first. They are the generals on the court—leaders who take responsibility and elevate those around them.