The Best of the Best: SD Volleyball’s Class of 2026 Leaders

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Today is a big day for volleyball in the Dakotas! We've just updated our Class of 2026 South Dakota rankings, and the new Top 100 is loaded with talent. With our one-year anniversary since launching just around the corner, I have no doubt that by the end of this upcoming season, we'll be adding even more names to this already impressive list.</h2>   But now for the best part—introducing our Top 10 players for the Class of 2026. These athletes are the best of the best, and selecting them was no easy task. It took countless hours, in-depth film study, and conversations with our team before finalizing this list. I'm proud to stand behind these picks because they embody the full package.   It's not just about elite skill—although they absolutely dominate in their positions. These players live in the gym, logging extra reps, sacrificing pieces of their high school life, and committing to the weight room. They bring leadership, high energy, and positive body language every time they step on the court. I've been fortunate enough to watch them from the sidelines, and they represent their programs with class, grit, and an unwavering competitive drive.   Even more exciting—all 10 players have already committed to outstanding college volleyball programs at the next level. They are the complete blueprint for success, and they've earned every bit of this recognition.   Let's dive in and meet the Top 10.    #1 – [player_tooltip player_id='536783' first='Gabi' last='Zachariasen'] – Outside Hitter – Committed to University of South Dakota [player_tooltip player_id='536783' first='Gabi' last='Zachariasen'] sits at top our Class of 2026 rankings for a reason—she's the total package on the pin. As a six-rotation outside, she delivers terminal swings from both the front and back row, using a quick arm and heavy contact to score from anywhere. Her ability to see the block and tool it with precision makes her nearly impossible to contain, and she can just as easily terminate down the line as she can blast sharp cross-court. Defensively, she's a steady presence in serve-receive and reads hitters at a high level, keeping her team in system. Add in her relentless work ethic, competitive fire, and leadership on the floor, and it's no surprise she's headed to USD—a program that thrives on players who bring both high-level production and championship mentality.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     #2 – [player_tooltip player_id='725181' first='Lily' last='Van Hal'] – Setter – Committed to University of Denver [player_tooltip player_id='725181' first='Lily' last='Van Hal'] claims the No. 2 spot in our 2026 rankings and stands as the premier setter in South Dakota. Running the offense with poise and precision, she delivers clean, consistent balls that put her hitters in the best possible position to score. But Lily isn't just a distributor—she's an offensive weapon in her own right. Her setter attack keeps defenses on their heels, as she reads blockers and times her dumps and swings with surgical precision. In transition, she maintains tempo and court awareness, adapting on the fly to what the defense gives her. Her combination of leadership, high volleyball IQ, and ability to score from the setting position makes her a true dual threat, and the University of Denver is getting a floor general who can change the tone of a match in an instant.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     3 – [player_tooltip player_id='742823' first='Londyn' last='Smith'] – Setter | Committed to Northwest Missouri State [player_tooltip player_id='742823' first='Londyn' last='Smith'] comes in as our number 3 ranked player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and is committed to Northwest Missouri State for the setter position. She takes command of the court with a setter's touch that is as sharp as it is strategic. Londyn runs the offense with flawless tempo, putting her hitters in the best possible position to score. Whether it's a quick feed to the middle, a perfectly placed ball to the pin, or a setter dump to catch the defense sleeping, she executes with confidence and precision. Her ability to keep the defense guessing makes her one of the most dangerous playmakers in the state—and a perfect fit for the next level.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     4 – [player_tooltip player_id='725171' first='Abby' last='Gruber'] – Middle Blocker | Committed to Augustana [player_tooltip player_id='725171' first='Abby' last='Gruber'] comes in as the number 4 ranked player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and is committed to Augustana, SD, where she will be arriving as one of the top middle blockers in the state. Abby is a wall at the net, reading attackers with precision and closing blocks with authority. Her quick lateral movement allows her to seal gaps, while her explosive jump makes her a constant threat on the slide or quick set. She doesn't just block—she turns defense into offense, converting transition opportunities with powerful swings that are nearly impossible to defend. Abby's presence in the middle changes the momentum of matches, making her a game-shifter for any lineup.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     5 – [player_tooltip player_id='764763' first='Lindsay' last='Langner'] – Defensive Specialist/Libero | Committed to Winthrop University [player_tooltip player_id='764763' first='Lindsay' last='Langner'] comes in as the number 5 ranked player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and is committed to Winthrop University. As the top DS/L in the state, Lindsay brings relentless grit and tenacity to the back row. Her quick reads and lightning-fast reactions allow her to cover every inch of the court, turning tough digs into transition opportunities. She's a master of serve receive, consistently delivering accurate passes that set up the offense. Lindsay's leadership and energy ignite her team's defense, making her an indispensable asset and a true backbone for any program.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     6 – [player_tooltip player_id='389837' first='Claire' last='Munch'] – Outside Hitter | Committed to University of Northern Iowa [player_tooltip player_id='389837' first='Claire' last='Munch'] is the number 6 ranked player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and one of the state's top outside hitters. Committed to the University of Northern Iowa, Claire pairs explosive power with elite volleyball IQ and court leadership. She commands the front row with precision attacks, consistently finding seams in the defense and delivering clutch kills when it matters most. Beyond her offensive firepower, Claire sets the tone with her communication, hustle, and ability to elevate teammates. Her all-around skill set and leadership presence make her a cornerstone for any program aiming to compete at the highest level.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     7 – [player_tooltip player_id='833091' first='Jayaunna' last='Stroh'] – Middle Blocker | Committed to Concordia University Nebraska [player_tooltip player_id='833091' first='Jayaunna' last='Stroh'] ranks as the number 7 player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and is committed to Concordia University Nebraska. Jayaunna earned her spot in the top 10 due to her explosive presence at the net and her ability to control the middle with relentless energy. She attacks the 10-foot line with power and precision, consistently forcing errors and scoring key points. Her quick first step allows her to close blocks effectively, while her timing and court awareness help her read hitters and shut down attacks. Beyond her physical tools, Jayaunna's work ethic and competitiveness make her a constant threat on both sides of the net, solidifying her status as one of the state's premier middle blockers.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     8 – [player_tooltip player_id='725174' first='Makenzie' last='Walsh'] – Right Side Hitter | Committed to Southwest Minnesota State University [player_tooltip player_id='725174' first='Makenzie' last='Walsh'] comes in as the number 8 ranked player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and is committed to Southwest Minnesota State University. Makenzie stands out as one of the state's most dynamic right side attackers, combining power and precision to consistently finish plays. On the defensive side, she's a formidable blocker who reads the opposing hitters well, effectively shutting down attacks at the net. Her versatility and competitive drive make her a valuable asset on both offense and defense, earning her a well-deserved spot among the top players in the state.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     9 – [player_tooltip player_id='802191' first='Julia' last='Blom'] – DS/L | Committed to Augustana, SD [player_tooltip player_id='802191' first='Julia' last='Blom'] ranks as the number 9 player for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota and is committed to Augustana University. As a defensive specialist/libero, Julia brings relentless intensity and high-level aggression in the back row. Her quick reads and exceptional footwork allow her to track down tough shots and deliver consistent, accurate passes to the setter. Julia's energy and tenacity make her a stabilizing force on defense, giving her team confidence to build rallies and transition into offense. Her presence in the backcourt is a major reason she ranks among the state's elite defensive players.~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     10 – [player_tooltip player_id='725169' first='Lauren' last='Venenga'] – Outside Hitter | Committed to Palm Beach Atlantic Closing out our top 10 for the Class of 2026 in South Dakota, [player_tooltip player_id='725169' first='Lauren' last='Venenga'] is a dominant force on the court. As one of the state's most lethal outside hitters, she blends explosive attacking power with exceptional court awareness and precision placement. Lauren's relentless work ethic, ability to read defenses, and clutch performance in high-pressure moments set her apart. Her strong serve receive and back-row defense add depth to her all-around game. Committed to Palm Beach Atlantic, Lauren is poised to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level and stands as a true leader and difference-maker for her team.~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>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas

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