The Class of 2026: South Dakota’s Pride Shines Through

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas   The South Dakota Class of 2026 has given fans, families, and communities across the state plenty to be proud of. With 13 of the top 15 ranked players already committed to continue their volleyball careers at the collegiate level, this class is setting a new standard for success — and representing their hometowns with pride every step of the way.   From small-town gyms to statewide showcases, these athletes have grown up competing with and against each other, pushing the level of play in South Dakota higher every season. Their dedication during the offseason — training, traveling, and competing with elite club programs — is paying off in a big way this fall.   A strong group from this class is headed to compete at the Division II level, where they'll be joining some of the most competitive conferences in the country. These athletes have the work ethic, skill, and leadership to make an immediate impact on their future programs.   As these seniors take the court for their final high school run, the support behind them is stronger than ever. Coaches, parents, and fans have watched their journeys from the very beginning — and now get to see their hard work rewarded as they prepare for the next chapter of their volleyball careers.   These players have become role models for the next wave of South Dakota talent, showing that with commitment, teamwork, and belief in their community, great things can happen. Let's check out the South Dakota Class of 2026 standouts who are headed to the DII level and continue to make their state proud.    [player_tooltip player_id='742823' first='Londyn' last='Smith'] — Northwest Missouri State University Commit   Ranked as the No. 2 setter in South Dakota's 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='742823' first='Londyn' last='Smith'] has been in command of her team's offense this season. Her ability to run a high-tempo system, read blockers, and deliver clean, consistent balls has made her one of the state's most reliable floor generals. Smith keeps her offense unpredictable — mixing tempos, running quicks, and creating one-on-one matchups for her attackers.   What stands out most is her composure under pressure. She's calm, confident, and thrives in tight sets, showing leadership that steadies her entire team. Smith's defensive reads and transition speed have also been key in her team's success this year. Northwest Missouri State is getting a setter who understands how to win — one who leads with poise and precision. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='725171' first='Abby' last='Gruber'] — Augustana University Commit   The No. 1 middle blocker in South Dakota's 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='725171' first='Abby' last='Gruber'] continues to dominate the net this season. Her blocking timing is among the best in the state — she reads hitters early, gets solid hand press, and consistently shuts down high-level attackers. Offensively, Gruber is a major threat running the quick and slide, executing clean connections and scoring with efficiency.   Her ability to transition fast and be available on every rally has elevated her team's offense. Gruber's presence at the net has been a game-changer in key matches this season, and her competitiveness fuels those around her. Augustana is gaining a front-row anchor with next-level speed, power, and leadership potential. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='725174' first='Makenzie' last='Walsh'] — Southwest Minnesota State University Commit   Ranked as the No. 1 right side attacker in South Dakota's Class of 2026, [player_tooltip player_id='725174' first='Makenzie' last='Walsh'] has been unstoppable from the pin. Her heavy swing, fast arm, and ability to score against size have made her one of the toughest right sides to defend in the state. Walsh attacks with confidence and has been highly effective in both front-row and back-row offense this season.   She's not just an attacker — she blocks with intensity and reads opposing setters well, closing seams and turning touches into transition points. Her competitive motor never shuts off, and she's been a go-to in late-set situations. Southwest Minnesota State is getting a powerful, disciplined athlete ready to thrive in one of the country's toughest DII conferences. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='802191' first='Julia' last='Blom'] — Augustana University Commit   Ranked as the No. 2 defensive specialist/libero in South Dakota's 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='802191' first='Julia' last='Blom'] brings stability and energy to the backcourt every night. Her serve receive has been rock-solid this season, anchoring her team's first contact and giving setters consistent options to run their offense. Blom reads attackers early and has excellent court coverage, keeping rallies alive with her quick reactions and disciplined platform.   She's also been a strong server and communicator, directing her defense with confidence. Augustana is adding a libero who plays with heart and precision — the kind of defender who sets the tone for an entire team. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='725169' first='Lauren' last='Venenga'] — Palm Beach Atlantic University Commit   The No. 3-ranked outside hitter in South Dakota's 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='725169' first='Lauren' last='Venenga'] has emerged as a reliable and explosive point-scorer this season. She brings versatility to the court, capable of terminating from both pins and keeping the offense in rhythm through consistent swings. Venenga's contact point is high, her arm is fast, and she adjusts well to out-of-system sets.   Defensively, she's proven to be just as valuable — reading the game well and showing control in serve receive. Her all-around skill set and competitive drive have made her a major contributor in her team's success. Palm Beach Atlantic is gaining a complete outside who knows how to compete at a high level. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='731835' first='Sienna' last='Sabers'] — Minnesota State University Moorhead Commit   Ranked as the No. 7 outside hitter in the 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='731835' first='Sienna' last='Sabers'] is playing some of her best volleyball this season. She brings strong offensive presence with a quick arm swing and the ability to hit both sharp angles and deep corners. Sabers has been key in long rallies — staying aggressive, making smart shot choices, and maintaining composure under pressure.   Her defensive improvement has also been notable this season, with stronger reads and better control in serve receive. Minnesota State–Moorhead is adding a competitor with grit, athleticism, and the kind of work ethic that elevates every program she joins. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='745684' first='Addison' last='Warnke'] — Bemidji State University Commit   The No. 3 right side attacker in South Dakota's Class of 2026, [player_tooltip player_id='745684' first='Addison' last='Warnke'] brings a mix of power and precision to her role. She's been consistent in producing points from the right pin, scoring off high hands and finding smart shots when out of system. Warnke's blocking presence has been a huge factor this year, reading opposing setters and closing effectively.   Her ability to stay aggressive and steady throughout matches has made her a dependable scoring option. Bemidji State is getting an athlete who competes with confidence, communicates well, and consistently finds ways to impact the game. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='809729' first='Kya' last='Keegan'] — Minnesota State University Moorhead Commit   Ranked as the No. 3 middle blocker in South Dakota's 2026 class, [player_tooltip player_id='809729' first='Kya' last='Keegan'] continues to impress with her size, athleticism, and net dominance. Standing tall at 6'4”, she's a constant threat on the quick and slide — attacking with power and precision. Keegan's blocking game has also been exceptional this season, reading hitters and using her length to control the net.   Her timing, footwork, and ability to transition quickly make her a standout in the middle position. Minnesota State–Moorhead is getting a true impact player with the physical tools and mindset to be a difference-maker at the DII level.    <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>   This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman   Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas

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