It’s surprising that Hodge has not received the college attention leading to a commitment. Whenever I’ve watched her compete, she’s proven to be a player that would enhance the rosters at plenty of schools on the next level. The latest in-person scout happened at the Iowa City High quad in late September. Hodge had increased her impact even though she was coming off a sophomore campaign of 2025 that saw her hold down the back row for the 3A state champions. She’s technically sound and smart, making her a problem for opponents. Hodge covers a lot of ground and rarely is out of position, a result of reading the action and flowing with it accordingly. She’s going to make a college recognizing the value really happy. Despite teams avoiding her, Hodge had racked up 322 digs in 62 sets coming into this week.

One of the top liberos to look at in the area would be Piper Hodge Piper Hodge 5'5" | DS/L/OH Assumption | 2028 State IA out of the Quad Cities.  She preps at Davenport Assumption and has been part of Iowa Select where she is really strong when it comes to her anticipation.  She is able to make some of the tougher plays look easy because she’s already in position.  She brings quickness and athleticism to the position and knows how to win.  Her Davenport Assumption team was the 2025 Class 3A state champions in Iowa. 

Although the Knights are loaded with all kinds of talent, you can’t help but give this kid extra props. Hodge is unlike most libs in Iowa; she is on a whole other level. This girl defends her back row like no other; not only is she insanely good at reading her opposing hitters, but she is also scrappy as all get out. She has always done an amazing job pushing her teammates and guiding them to success, and this season is no different.

There is no denying that Piper Hodge Piper Hodge 5'5" | DS/L/OH Assumption | 2028 State IA is a key player in this program. If you’re looking for a libero who shows discipline and precise ball control, Hodge is the kid to watch. Not only is she a highly skilled athlete, but she’s also an amazing teammate. She showcases love, care, and passion not only for the sport but also for the teammates that surround her. Piper has a very strong future ahead of her and she’s only a junior.

I’ve seen Hodge compete quite a few times during the last few years and feel confident in saying she can help a lot of college programs. That she remained uncommitted despite being ranked No. 12 in the latest Prep Dig Iowa Class of 2028 rankings shouldn’t be alarming, however. There’s plenty of time for her to find her home on the next level. The right staff will see what Hodge brings to the back row. She’s rock solid, consistently delivering for winning programs. She helped Assumption win a state championship last season and Select advance to the USAV Nationals in the summer. Hodge is consistently reliable in serve-receive and thrives in digging up the opposing attack. She reads the opponent’s plan and positions herself to defend at a high level.

Piper is the key component of Assumption’s outstanding back row and is the epitome of a libero. Hodge’s ball control, consistency, and court awareness help her stand out amongst other ds’. She shows a great amount of confidence and leadership in the back row and is someone that her team looks to for guidance and reassurance. I absolutely love watching her in action because of her ability to throw herself all over the floor and still somehow manage to get the prettiest pass to not only keep her team alive, but even more so keep them in system.