Big Sky Breakouts: Who Made Their Mark

Billings, Montana was buzzing with talent during the Big Sky Volleyfest—one of the most underrated yet action-packed events of the season. While I wasn't able to be there in person, I was locked in on BallerTV for hours, tracking standout plays, high-level competition, and rising talent from across the region. And let me tell you—Big Sky is officially on my must-attend list for next year. The energy, grit, and skill on display were impressive, and several athletes didn't just show up—they showed out.   From fierce rallies to smart plays and standout performances, these are the players that caught my eye. Coaches, if you're building your future roster, these names deserve a serious look. Let's dive in.    [player_tooltip player_id='755127' first='Maddy' last='Vliem'] (2029) is already making waves—and at 6'0”, she's an undeniable presence at the net. What stands out even more is her clean, fast-tempo approach and precise footwork in transition. Maddy consistently gets on top of the ball, delivering high-contact swings that penetrate the block and challenge defenders deep in the court. She closes the block with discipline, reads the setter well, and times her jumps with advanced anticipation for her age. Whether it's terminating out of system or sealing the net on a read block, Maddy plays like a veteran. Coaches looking for an early-impact middle with long-term upside—this is your player. Get her on your list!~@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='756879' first='Mia' last='Barnhart'] may have started on our watchlist, but after this weekend's performance, she's making a serious case for a spot in the 2028 rankings. Mia is relentless at the net, bringing high-level energy and precision to every play. As an outside hitter, her ability to read the block and adjust her swing mid-air is advanced—she consistently tools blockers and finds open seams with high-IQ attacks. Her court awareness, ability to terminate in tight situations, and confidence in out-of-system swings make her a go-to option. She's not just working hard—she's working smart, and college coaches should be taking notice.~@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='744540' first='Macie' last='Vig'] has already cemented her place among the top 20 players in North Dakota's 2028 class—and she's only trending upward. Her grit, versatility, and consistent execution make her a standout on the court. As a primary outside hitter who can seamlessly transition into the middle, Macie brings serious value to any lineup. Her fast transitions, explosive approach, and ability to terminate from multiple zones make her a matchup problem. Whether she's swinging from the pin or putting up a strong block in the middle, Macie is a reliable, all-around threat who continues to prove she's one to watch.~@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='747088' first='Norah' last='Allerdings'] holds the top spot as the number one right-side hitter in the 2028 class—and it's easy to see why. At 5'9", she may not be the tallest, but her elite athleticism and explosive vertical more than make up for it. Norah is a true blocking machine on the right pin, reading hitters with precision and sealing the net with authority. Offensively, her timing and ability to hit sharp angles and deep corners keep defenders on their heels. With her high volleyball IQ, quick footwork, and unmatched energy, Norah is a difference-maker and a force you want on your side of the net.~@prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='752420' first='Brooke' last='Bedell'] continues to climb our 2027 rankings—and after this weekend, she's proving she's just getting started. What sets Brooke apart is her relentless work ethic and undeniable presence at the net. Whether she's swinging from the outside or attacking from the right pin, she plays with fearless intensity. Her footwork is crisp, her transitions are smooth, and she terminates with power and precision. Brooke doesn't back down—she challenges every block and hustles for every ball. She's a game-changer who brings leadership, grit, and versatility to any lineup.~@prepdigdakotas    From rising stars to seasoned standouts, these athletes showed us exactly why they deserve a closer look. Their performances weren't just about stats—they displayed grit, high volleyball IQ, and a relentless drive to improve. As the recruiting cycle heats up, coaches looking for game-changers should be paying attention.   If you're not already tracking these names, now's the time. Watch their film, connect with them, and get them on your radar—because these athletes are ready to make an impact at the next level. Stay locked in!   <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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Billings, Montana was buzzing with talent during the Big Sky Volleyfest—one of the most underrated yet action-packed events of the season. While I wasn't able to be there in person, I was locked in on BallerTV for hours, tracking standout plays, high-level competition, and rising talent from across the region. And let me tell you—Big Sky is officially on my must-attend list for next year. The energy, grit, and skill on display were impressive, and several athletes didn't just show up—they showed out.