The first edition of this feature series covered a few teams that have rapidly improved despite moving up in the NSAA’s classifications. Valentine is another perfect example, as the Badgers have posted a stellar 20-5 record while ascending to Class C1. Janssen has been the ultimate team player during this thrilling journey. We haven’t forgotten about her early days as Valentine’s top scorer as an outside hitter. Now, Janssen has donned the libero jersey and logged multiple years as the Badgers’ defensive anchor. Her backcourt production and pinpoint passes have been just as valuable as her first-year terminator role.

We love a ball control player who can influence the game in more ways than one. That’s a perfect description for Janssen, who has oscillated between front-row and backcourt roles during her time with Valentine. Her end line influence took precedence last fall, and the returns were extraordinary. She churned out 4.8 digs per set and was a mainstay for the Badgers’ stacked passing lineup. And, speaking of passing, Janssen tormented opposing serve-receive patterns en route to 69 total aces in 2025. That’s a player who understands the importance of first contacts on both sides of the net.

Let’s head north to Valentine. Janssen is only a second-year prep player, but she has seemingly done a little of everything in her prep career. She amassed over 150 kills last year as a go-to pin hitter, but the narrative has changed in 2025. Now, Janssen is handling backcourt duties to produce over six digs per set for Valentine. This stunning number is a testament to Janssen’s willingness to do whatever it takes to win.

We’re heading north. Valentine High School had several underclassman contributors last fall, and Janssen led all players in several statistical categories. She paced the Badgers with 2.1 kills per set and also posted a team high in aces. And, like many small-town standouts, Janssen brings tremendous multi-sport influence for Valentine and is already thriving on the Class C2 circuit. Look for her to pilot the Badger offense again this fall.