Brooklyn Pudwill has become a name that opposing teams in the Western Dakota Association (WDA) know well as they prepare for Legacy volleyball. The senior outside hitter’s confidence and work ethic have propelled her to the top of the league’s hitting charts.
Coach praises her growth
Legacy head coach Courtney Huck said, “It’s been four years coming. She has been working for this for a really long time, but she has put in the work.” Pudwill worked her way through the Legacy program before earning a consistent starting role as a junior. She credits much of her growth to developing confidence in herself and her abilities.
“I think it’s really my confidence, honestly. It’s my mental game,” Pudwill explained. “Going into my freshman and sophomore year, I wasn’t as confident and didn’t think I had the skill or the mindset. But Coach Huck and all the coaches really pushed me and fueled me up with confidence to swing on the court and have my aggressiveness.”
Statistical breakout
That confidence has translated into production. Pudwill has recorded more than 200 kills this season, the second‑most in the WDA, making her a major focus on opposing teams’ scouting reports.
Huck reminded her player that being a focal point of opposing defenses is something to embrace. “I told her pressure is a privilege. I tell her that all the time,” Huck said. “When these people are picking you out on the court because they know you are our heavy hand, that’s something you should hold close to your heart. Be humble about it, but that’s a big deal.”
Expanding her skill set
The all‑state and all‑region selection has always been known for her powerful swings, but she has added another dimension to her game by improving her off‑speed shots. “She has always been able to hit hard and do the big things and make the big plays in those big moments,” Huck noted. “But her being able to be resilient this season is what I think has found her the most success.”
College commitment and future plans
Pudwill’s impact also extends beyond the front row. Her defensive effort and versatility have attracted college attention, and she has committed to Iowa Central Community College, where she plans to compete in both indoor and beach volleyball.
“During the summer, I played beach volleyball, and I really discovered a passion for it. It’s more competitive, and it’s kind of a different aspect you don’t really see in North Dakota,” Pudwill said.
Before making the transition, however, Pudwill has one final postseason run ahead of her in a Legacy uniform.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
