Changing the Map: 2029 Prospects Bringing Attention to Their States

Volleyball talent can be found far beyond the states that traditionally dominate the sport. The Class of 2029 features a growing group of prospects from less-recognized volleyball states who are making their presence known and putting their home states on the recruiting map. In this feature, we spotlight several of those athletes and the impact they are already making as they continue to develop and gain national attention.

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Hadassah Smith: Elite Orange level MB- 6 Pack VBC 16s

Hadassah Smith is a 6’1” middle blocker from Iowa who is beginning to draw attention with her combination of size and developing offensive potential. Competing for 6 Pack VBC 16s, Smith has already established herself as a notable presence at the Elite Orange level. Her MVC First Team All-Conference selection highlights the impact she has made at the high school level. Smith has also continued to expand her recruiting experience through college camps at Texas A&M, Purdue, Wisconsin, and several others. With plenty of room to continue developing her game, she is an intriguing 2029 prospect helping showcase the talent emerging from Iowa.

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Lexi Rushton: Green level OH- Club V 16-1 Reed

Lexi Rushton is a 2029 outside hitter from Utah whose development has been shaped by both club competition and additional training. Currently playing for Club V 16-1 Reed, Rushton capped her season with an appearance at USAV Nationals, adding valuable experience against some of the country’s strongest competition. She has also attended college camps at Utah, CSUN, and Utah State, giving her opportunities to learn in different collegiate environments. Outside training has further complemented her club work as she continues to expand her skill set and overall game. With continued development, Rushton is a prospect worth keeping an eye on as she works to make her mark in Utah’s growing volleyball scene.

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Isabelle Brown: Elite Orange level libero/DS- FarOut 18 Black

Already a two-time All-American, Isabelle Brown has built an impressive resume as a libero/DS. The Michigan native suits up for FarOut 18 Black, where her defensive abilities and consistency have helped her stand out against strong competition. Brown’s recognition has extended beyond the club level, earning a spot in the USAV NTDP U16 program and an invitation to the UA Next Camp. She has also made the most of her recruiting opportunities, attending a wide range of college camps that includes Kentucky, Penn State, Missouri, and several others. With national recognition already on her resume, Brown represents another 2029 prospect bringing attention to the talent developing in Michigan.

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Mikayla Osaji: Blue level OH- Bama Elite 15U Owls 

Mikayla Osaji is a 2029 outside hitter from Alabama who is continuing to build her game through club competition and work beyond the court. Competing for Bama Elite 15U Owls, Osaji closed out her season at AAU Nationals, gaining experience on a major national stage. She has also attended college camps at Alabama, Mississippi State, and other programs, giving her exposure to different coaching environments. A strong commitment to outside work has been another key part of her development, allowing her to keep refining her skills between competitions. Osaji’s continued progress makes her an intriguing young prospect from a state that is producing more volleyball talent to watch.

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Taj Davidson: Elite Orange level setter- Spike and Serve 17-1 Kevin Wong

Taj Davidson has already made her presence known as a setter from Hawaii, competing with Spike and Serve 17-1 Kevin Wong. Davidson was the only freshman on the varsity roster at Punahou High School last season, an early accomplishment that speaks to the trust she has earned at a young age. Her recruiting journey has included college camps at Nebraska and SMU, along with an invitation to the UA Next Camp. Those opportunities have given Davidson the chance to train in different environments while continuing to sharpen her setting and overall court awareness. With an early varsity resume and growing national exposure, Davidson is one of the 2029 prospects helping put Hawaii on the volleyball map.

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Aniston Stoll: Green level setter- MODE 16 National 

Aniston Stoll is a 2029 setter from Montana whose volleyball IQ has become one of the defining pieces of her game. Competing for MODE 16 National, Stoll continues to develop her abilities through a combination of club competition, clinics, and showcase opportunities. She has also attended college camps at Louisville, Texas, Utah, and other programs, gaining exposure to a variety of coaching styles and training environments. Her strong understanding of the game allows her to read the court effectively and make smart decisions as a setter. As she continues to add to her experience and skill set, Stoll is a name to watch among the emerging talent from Montana.

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Sierra Thomas: Elite Orange level OH- Maryland Juniors 15 Elite Black

At 6’1”, Sierra Thomas brings an intriguing combination of size and versatility to the outside hitter position. The Maryland native competes for Maryland Juniors 15 Elite Black and has already gained recognition through multiple watchlists and showcase opportunities. Thomas has also attended the UA Next Camp and college camps at Florida, Wisconsin, UMiami, and other programs, giving her experience in a variety of training environments. Her involvement in clinics and other development opportunities reflects a continued commitment to expanding her game. With her physical tools and growing list of national exposure, Thomas is a 2029 prospect who could continue to attract attention as she progresses through her development.