Janulewicz has skyrocketed up the rankings during the last year. The Waukee Northwest senior rose from 39 to 14 in the last update. Now, she’s up to No. 7 in Iowa’s ’29 class. Part of the rise can be attributed to her amazing versatility. Committed to Drake as a back-rower, Janulewicz shined as a first-time, six-rotation outside hitter for a Wolves’ team that won the Class 5A state title last season. She ranked third on the squad in kills and second in digs. There were 34.0 blocks for good measure. Janulewicz wore the jersey for a PowerPlex team that qualified in the open division at USAV Nationals in Indianapolis this summer. Northwest is the heavy favorite to win back-to-back titles and the third championship in four years with Janulewicz playing a starring role again.

The last Wolf we are looking at is Leah Janulewicz Leah Janulewicz 5'9" | DS/L Waukee Northwest | 2027 State IA . Leah is definitely one of those players who can do it all and do it well. Going off the high school topic, Janulewicz will be competing with her club team in the Open division at the GJNC (which is already incredibly impressive), but she will be playing as their libero. I wanted to bring up this fact because, although Leah did play a huge role in the back row this season, she was an even bigger asset in the front row. The junior OH showcased her high IQ and impressive range, being a dependable hitter for the Wolves all season. Throughout the tournament, she averaged 3.5 kills per set and used that high IQ to get her team out of tough situations. With Waukee graduating captain Avery Vogt, I’m excited to hopefully see Leah step into a new leadership role.

Janulewicz might be the most effectively versatile volleyball player in the state right now. Her ability to wear the jersey or hit at the pin is not something seen regularly. The Waukee Northwest junior will head to Drake as a back-row defender after doing everything for the Wolves during their state-championship run last fall. Janulewicz’s 223 kills (.337) ranked third on the team and her 273 digs were second. She added 42 assists and 34.0 blocks. Her state-tournament performance was impactful. Janulewicz was back at libero during the 2026 Adidas Windy City National Qualifer Easter weekend in Chicago. The ease with which she returns to the position is impressive. It’s fluid movement, lateral quickness, sharp reflexes and technical soundness leading to consistently high-level play. Janulewicz has a high volleyball IQ and uses opponent tendencies to her advantage. She shares that information with teammates and communicates well, overall.

Januelwicz has made her mark as a first-contact gem, but the Iowa Clash rewrote our scouting reports. This dynamic athlete shouldered six-rotation outside hitter responsibilities with Iowa PowerPlex 17U Brogean last weekend. She wielded an explosive step-close that made her a leading out-of-system attacking candidate. Janulewicz can do it all.

Leah Janulewicz Leah Janulewicz 5'9" | DS/L Waukee Northwest | 2027 State IA plays with visible grit. Her low center of gravity and quick lateral movement allow her to close tips and dig deep corners effectively. She competes loudly and confidently in serve receive seams.

Janulewicz thrives in tight moments, becoming more assertive when the match narrows. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas

What we expect to see this weekend: Janulewicz stepping into pressure rotations and fueling defensive momentum.