Brunkhorst is a player with whom I became familiar on the club circuit last year. She then spent the fall developing in one of the state’s top programs at Dowling Catholic. You could see the gains again this past club campaign and they shined through more still at the Prep Dig Iowa Stock Up Showcase during July in Clive. Brunkhorst is a punishing right-side hitter, a position the Maroons churn out for colleges as well as anybody in Iowa. The sophomore looks like the next one in line even if the varsity opportunities will be tough to find in 2026 with who is returning, although she also could help in the middle. Brunkhost already generates excellent power for her age and her block also is advanced for grade. She’s a prospect in the rise.

Brunkhorst is a physical lefty with a really nice, natural swing. She has moments where you can tell she is still finding her footing and consistency, but her ceiling is remarkably high.

Dowling Catholic graduated one of the state’s top right-side hitters from its 2025 lineup. Brunkhorst showed during late March’s USAV Iowa Regional Tournament in West Des Moines that she’s a candidate to step into a varsity role this coming fall. The lefty-swinging opposite pin is athletic and explosive on the court. She can rise up into the air and hang before bringing down the hammer on the attack. Brunkhorst does well in reading the block and the opponent’s back-row alignment, leading success in putting the ball down. When in rhythm, she can hit line and across the court with equal precision. Tall with long arms, Brunkhorst has the natural gifts necessary for achieving resistance with the block. She combines them with timing and a solid feel for the opposition’s intent. Brunkhorst is one to watch moving forward this club season and in the fall.

Who doesn’t love a lefty opposite? Brunkhorst wielded a wicked southpaw swing at Sunday’s outing and will do the same for Iowa PowerPlex 15U Mendieta. This 2029 attacker brings a tremendous amount of length to the net, but she doesn’t let her impressive frame slow her down. Brunkhorst is a fluid mover who can adjust to any set she’s given on the right side. Her quickness is also an asset when she’s squaring up as a wing blocker, and Brunkhorst churned out some highlight-worthy defensive plays in Des Moines. Here’s a freshman opposite to rally around.

The 2025 Prep Dig Iowa Midwest Live Showcase was my first in-person scouting opportunity of Brunkhorst. She impressed with her game, and showed as much potential as any 2029 at the event. Brunkhorst has the requisite height for the front row, and it’s accentuated by her long arms. She looks like a classic left-handed right-side able to win on the attack and also deny the opponents’ swings. Brunkhorst jumps well and generates power in her swing. When she finds consistency, look out.