ND Class of 2026: Dakota Players On The Move

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Class of 2026 is making a statement across the Dakotas, and this year's crop of rising volleyball talent is impossible to ignore. From powerful middles to dynamic right sides, versatile setters, and defensive specialists who anchor the back row, these athletes have put in the work—on the court and in the gym—to elevate every aspect of their game. They've refined footwork, sharpened arm swings, increased verticality, and, most importantly, developed the mental toughness to perform under pressure.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What sets this group apart is not just skill, but momentum. Some players are surging up the outside hitter rankings, others are turning heads in the middle, while setters are dictating the flow of play with precision and poise. Defensive standouts are locking down the back row with court vision and lightning-quick reactions, and versatile players bring complete packages to the net, combining power, timing, and game IQ that make them unstoppable on both sides of the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["748830"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-689df2269fff9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='809990' first='Anne' last='Fricke'] had a standout club season, proving herself as a versatile and reliable middle blocker. She excels at running a variety of routes—quicks, slides, and combination plays—keeping blockers off balance and giving her hitters consistent scoring opportunities. Her timing and footwork at the net allow her to close blocks efficiently while staying ready to transition into offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Anne's skill set goes beyond just attacking; she reads the game well, positions herself to shut down opposing hitters, and communicates effectively to anchor the middle of the court. With her combination of speed, IQ, and adaptability, she's a player poised to make a significant impact this season and continue climbing in the rankings.<strong><em>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["752530"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-689df2269ffa3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='752530' first='Emma' last='LeClerc'] is ranked among the top 10 defensive specialists/liberos in North Dakota's Class of 2026—and for good reason. She's a defensive force in the back row, covering seams, reading hitters, and delivering precise passes that keep her team in system. Emma's quickness and anticipation make her a nightmare for opposing hitters, able to extend rallies and turn defense into offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">What sets Emma apart is her versatility. Not only does she anchor the back row, but she's also capable of running sets when needed, giving her team flexibility in rotations. Her combination of speed, court awareness, and technical skill means she can impact the game in multiple roles. Keep an eye on Emma this season—her ceiling is high, and she could easily climb further up the rankings.<strong><em>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["727713"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-689df226a0088"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='727713' first='Kadie' last='Kocka'] has made a strong climb in the rankings and is now the 6th-ranked outside hitter in North Dakota for the Class of 2026. Kadie brings a powerful and versatile arm swing, able to score from multiple angles and keep defenses guessing. Her ability to read blocks and adjust her approach makes her a reliable offensive option in both front-row and back-row situations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Beyond her attacking, Kadie contributes consistently in serve-receive and defense, covering seams, delivering accurate passes, and maintaining floor stability. Her combination of athleticism, skill, and volleyball IQ makes her a complete outside hitter and a player to watch as she continues her rise in the state rankings.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["752472"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-689df226a0042"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='831549' first='Elisabeth' last='Kunz'], standing 6'0", has earned a spot among North Dakota's top 100 players for the Class of 2026. As an outside hitter, she brings a powerful arm swing and consistent ability to terminate balls from both the front and back row. Her sharp angles, deep corners, and high-contact attack make her a constant scoring threat.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Elisabeth also contributes in the back row with solid passing and smart court positioning, keeping her team in system. Her combination of height, skill, and volleyball IQ makes her a versatile, dynamic player and one to watch as she continues to rise in the ranks.<strong><em>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["740473"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-689df226a00cd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='809980' first='Harper' last='Wrigley'] has climbed into the top 20 overall players in North Dakota, a reflection of her growth and impact on the court. As a middle blocker, she combines explosive attacks with precise timing on blocks, making her a consistent threat at the net. Her quick reads and ability to seal gaps challenge even the toughest hitters.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Offensively and defensively, Harper contributes on every play—closing blocks, transitioning efficiently, and keeping her team in system. Her dedication, athleticism, and volleyball IQ make her a key presence for her team and a player to watch as she continues her rise in the state rankings.<strong><em>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725045"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-689df226a0111"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='807954' first='Isabelle' last='Thompson'] has made a major leap in the rankings and is now the #2 outside hitter in South Dakota's Class of 2026. Her combination of power, speed, and precision makes her a constant scoring threat from the left pin and out of the back row. Isabelle's ability to read blocks, adjust her approach, and hit sharp angles keeps defenses off balance and allows her team to maintain momentum in critical rallies.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Beyond her offensive impact, Isabelle contributes consistently in serve-receive and defense, covering seams, delivering accurate passes, and keeping her team in system. With her athleticism, technical skill, and volleyball IQ, she is one of the most complete outside hitters in the state and a player to watch closely as she continues to rise.<strong><em>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</em></strong> </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>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.</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at&nbsp;<a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a>&nbsp;With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->