Some players make their mark with big swings and highlight-reel kills. Others make sure those balls never hit the floor. Brookland’s Lexie Schuermann Lexie Schuermann 5'6" | DS/L Brookland | 2027 State AR falls into that second category.

In Brookland’s four-set state championship victory over Bauxite, Schuermann was a steady presence in the back row. She finished with 16 digs and handled 36 serve-receive opportunities with just two errors. That’s a lot of responsibility in a championship match, especially against a Bauxite team with plenty of offensive weapons.

Defensive players don’t always get the recognition they deserve. Their work can get lost behind the kill totals and offensive highlights. But anyone who understands volleyball knows how valuable a reliable back-row player can be, particularly when a championship is on the line.

Lexie Schuermann Lexie Schuermann 5'6" | DS/L Brookland | 2027 State AR earned THE VACUUM at the 2026 Diggies because she spent the afternoon doing exactly what the award represents. Keeping the floor clean!

State Championship Stats: 16 digs | 36 serve receptions | 2 reception errors | 5 assists | 1 service ace

Schuermann has been a stalwart in the back row for Brookland. After finishing last season with 308 digs, 35 assists and 33 aces, she is on pace to surpass those numbers in 2026.

Her value starts with first-ball contact. Schuermann keeps the Bearcats in system and gives the offense a chance to run at full speed. She can also step in as a secondary setter when needed, adding another layer to her game. Defense has been a major part of Brookland’s strong start, and Schuermann, along with middle Lilly Gillbow, has helped set the tone.

Stats for the Week: 7 sets | 4 aces | 36 digs | 38 serve receptions

Season Total: 34 sets | 10 aces | 107 digs | 169 serve receptions

Schuermann is a very active back-row defender for the Bearcats. She was all over the court, digging up hard-driven attacks, keeping her team in system, and stepping in to set when needed. Lexie is the type of player who frustrates opposing hitters because balls they expect to score often come right back over the net. Her relentless motor and ability to extend rallies are what separate good back-row players from great ones. She consistently gives her team another opportunity to score by refusing to let plays end easily.

2025 Stats: 308 Digs | 453 Receives | 33 Aces | 35 Assists

Lexie Schuermann Lexie Schuermann 5'6" | DS/L Brookland | 2027 State AR compiled 308 digs while handling 453 serve receptions. She also added 33 aces and 35 assists, highlighting her reliability in serve receive and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game.Brookland has turned out plenty of quality players over the years and Lexie fits that mold. Brookland will be a senior laden team in 2026 with Kinley Hammett Kinley Hammett 5'9" | OH/DS/L Brookland | 2027 State AR , Kinlee Crafton Kinlee Crafton MH AR , and Schuermann hoping to restore Brookland back to the top of the division.