Hometown Heroes: Wisconsin’s Volleyball Wave

Wisconsin continues to produce talented volleyball prospects who are making their mark on the court. From developing young athletes to established standouts, these Hometown Heroes are representing their state with competitive drive, dedication, and a passion for the game.

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Class of 2027

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Amelie Pankonin: Orange Level OH- Northern Lights 

Representing Northern Lights is Amelie Pankonin, an Orange Level outside hitter who brings an impressive combination of size and offensive production to the court. Standing at 6 feet, Pankonin is a six-rotation player who has established herself as a consistent force at the high school level. She is a two-time Big Rivers Conference Player of the Year (2025, 2026), two-time Wisconsin All-State selection, and 2025 AAU All-American. Pankonin also holds River Falls High School's all-time career kills record with more than 1,600, continuing to build an impressive résumé while attending college camps at Duke and Virginia Tech.

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Alyssa Gray: Green Level MB- Milwaukee Sting 

Alyssa Gray has been a consistent presence in the middle for Milwaukee Sting. The Green Level middle blocker is committed to South Dakota State, where she will continue her volleyball career at the collegiate level. Her steady contributions and reliability make her an important piece of the Sting lineup. Gray closed out her club season on a national stage, competing at USAV Nationals.

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Aubrey Frey: Green level OH- FC Elite  

Aubrey Frey brings a dynamic skill set to Fox Cities Elite Volleyball, making an impact both at the net and in the back row. The Green Level outside hitter has earned statewide and national recognition, including WVCA Division 2 All-State First Team and AVCA All-America Girls High School Third Team honors. Her ability to contribute across all six rotations adds another dimension to her game and gives her team a dependable option in multiple areas. With a commitment to Stephen F. Austin University secured, Frey is preparing to carry her talents to the collegiate level.

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Gigi Chasco: setter- Milwaukee Sting 

At 6 feet tall, Gigi Chasco offers an impressive presence at the setter position. Her ability to lead the offense has earned her back-to-back All-State selections in 2024 and 2025, along with consecutive appearances on the JVA Watchlist. Chasco recently added another accomplishment to her résumé by capturing gold at the 2026 USAV Nationals. Committed to FGCU, she brings a decorated background and valuable leadership qualities as she prepares for the next chapter of her volleyball career.

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Class of 2028 

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Tegan Loechler: Silver Level OPP/RS- Milwaukee Sting

Standing at 6-foot-3, Tegan Loechler brings an imposing presence to the right side for Milwaukee Sting. The Silver Level opposite/right-side hitter has earned five selections to the U18 USAV National Team Development Program, highlighting her continued development among the nation's top talent. Loechler also helped Divine Savior Holy Angels capture a state championship in 2026, adding to her growing list of accomplishments. With her collegiate future set at Louisville, she is poised to bring her size and offensive ability to the Cardinals.

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Class of 2029

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Riley Kinney: Blue Level setter- Just A Game Volleyball 

Riley Kinney continues to build her reputation as a prospect to watch out for. The Blue Level setter’s ability to lead the offense has been recognized with back-to-back First Team All-Conference selections in 2025 and 2026. Kinney was also named to the AVCA Phenom Watch List, adding national recognition to her growing résumé. Through continued participation in camps and clinics, she is focused on sharpening her skills and expanding her game.

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Avery Gaskell: Blue Level OH- Valley Velocity Volleyball 

Avery Gaskell is continuing to build her game as a Blue Level outside hitter with Valley Velocity Volleyball. After competing at AAU Nationals this summer, she is gaining valuable opportunities to challenge herself against strong competition. Her work ethic and willingness to improve show on the court as Gaskell continues to develop her skills. With plenty of room to grow, her dedication and drive give her an exciting foundation moving forward.

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Class of 2030

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Kinley Reed: Orange Level OH- FC Elite 

Kinley Reed already displays a level of maturity and court awareness that stands out for her age. The 6-foot-1 Orange Level outside hitter for FC Elite is coming off an impressive 2026 campaign, highlighted by a USAV National Championship and USAV MVP honors for the BG Region. She has also earned recognition through the USAV National Team Development Program, continuing to test herself among top talent. With her size, composed gameplay, and developing skill set, Reed is an exciting young prospect to follow.

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Ashlee Willis: Green Level setter- WI Juniors 

Ashlee Willis brings an impressive ability to read opposing defenses and make smart decisions as a setter. The Green Level prospect is coming off a strong showing at the 2026 AAU season, earning All-American recognition. Her court awareness and ability to identify opportunities help create options for her hitters and keep the offense moving. Willis continues to invest in her development through camps and clinics, adding to her foundation as a young setter.

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Blake Doehla: Green Level setter- Madtown Volleyball

Blake Doehla is gaining valuable recognition as a setter for Madtown Volleyball, with several opportunities to compete and develop among top talent. The Green Level prospect was named to the 2026 AVCA Phenom Watchlist and received an invitation to the 2026 USAV NTDP Girls Indoor Accelerator. She also helped her team reach the finals of the HP All-Stars 17U competition while attending college camps at Texas and Wisconsin. With continued opportunities to sharpen her game, Doehla is building a strong foundation as she progresses through her recruiting journey.

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