Top 50 High School National Rankings (Nov. 3)
November 3, 2025
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This time of year, conversations get quieter — and heavier. The texts get shorter. The calls get more emotional. And beneath them all is the same question, surfacing over and over again: “Should I transfer?” The answer isn’t always obvious. Especially when you’re tired. Or not playing. Or comparing your path to someone else’s highlight reel. This isn’t about whether the portal is good or bad. It’s about whether it’s right for you, right now. This piece isn’t here to tell you what to do.It’s here to help you see clearly — before you move. 📉 The Numbers Aren’t in Your Favor — But That’s Not the Point Right now, thousands of athletes are entering the portal across every sport. Recent data suggests: Over 13,000 volleyball players were listed in the portal for 2024–25. Nearly 25% of women’s college volleyball players on scholarship entered after the 2023 season. The number is growing. Fast. But this isn’t about numbers.It’s about stories.And what’s behind those entries. For some athletes, the transfer is a lifeline.For others, it’s a decision made in fatigue — and regret. 🧭 What Happens Before the Portal Is What Matters Most Before you fill out a form.Before you talk to your coach.Before you text your parents and say, “I think I’m done.” You have to ask: Am I tired… or am I triggered? Have I had a real conversation with my coach — or just imagined the outcome? Have I been coachable — or just consistent with my frustration? Do I want to transfer… or do I just want to feel seen? This isn’t about self-blame.It’s about ownership. There’s a difference between “I’m not playing” and “I’m not playing yet — and I haven’t asked why.” ✍️ Don’t Talk to Your Coach Until You’ve Done This If you’re thinking about transferring, the conversation with your coach matters. A lot. Here’s how to prepare: Write down what you want to say. Then revise it. Lead with curiosity, not confrontation. Ask questions. Don’t just make statements. Example: “I’ve been frustrated with my role, but I want your perspective. What do you think I can do better? Where do I stand?” You don’t need to agree with the answer.But you need to be open enough to hear it. 🧩 If You Do Decide to Transfer — Go In Ready If you’re clear that transferring is right for you, your next step isn’t emotional — it’s logistical. Here’s what to gather: Academic transcript Course syllabi (so the new school can assess credit transfers) Match and/or practice film (especially if you haven’t played much) A short, clear fit statement(Not just “why you left” — but “who you are and what you’re looking for”) An updated resume or recruiting profile A plan for training during your transition And if you’re not playing much, know this: practice film is gold.It may be the only thing coaches have to evaluate you. 🧠 A Note on Mindset The portal is not a rescue plan.It’s a rebuild. If you haven’t built trust, consistency, or resilience where you are — those habits won’t automatically show up in a new zip code. Take a moment to ask: Have I truly outgrown this place — or just my comfort in it? Have I talked to someone who will tell me the truth, not what I want to hear? Am I seeking alignment — or escape? This isn’t about staying or leaving.It’s about making the next decision with clarity, not chaos. 🎧 For the Athlete Who’s Not Sure What to Do Next If you’re in the thick of it — already in the portal or hovering close — pause here. You don’t have to rush.You don’t have to prove anything.You don’t have to go it alone. 🎙️ Listen to the companion podcast:→ Before You Enter the Portal: Full Episode 🔍 Final Thought Not every athlete needs to transfer.Not every athlete needs to stay. But every athlete deserves to make that decision from a grounded place — not a panicked one. Whatever you choose, let it be clear.Let it be honest.Let it reflect who you’re becoming.
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There’s a quiet conversation happening in college athletics.And it’s about to change everything. If you’re a parent or athlete in the middle of the recruiting process — or just getting started — there’s a proposal you need to know about: The NCAA is actively considering a shift to what’s being called the “5-in-5” model —5 years to play 5 seasons. No redshirt. No bonus year. Just 5 for 5. It’s not confirmed yet.But from what we’re hearing across the board — from D1 to D2 — it’s looking like it’s going to pass.And if it does, it will reshape the recruiting landscape in ways most families aren’t prepared for. 📉 Fewer Freshman Spots. More Returners Staying. Let’s break it down: If passed, the 5-in-5 rule would essentially make the COVID-era “super senior” model permanent.That means college athletes could stay in their program for five full seasons — and many will. If you’re a coach with an impact player delivering for your team, why wouldn’t you keep her an extra year?This isn’t theoretical — it’s already happening.Coaches are budgeting, shifting offers, and adjusting their timelines now. We’re hearing it in every conversation: D2 coaches are preparing like it’s a done deal D1 coaches are already having tough internal conversations And families are quietly finding out their “secured” spot… just got bumped ⚠️ The Ripple Effect for Athletes If this rule passes, we’ll likely see: Smaller recruiting classes (fewer freshmen brought in each year) More transfers prioritized over high school athletes Delayed offers and more roster uncertainty And fewer coaches willing to “develop” players over time In short?Coaches are going to be pickier.Athletes are going to have to fight harder.And families who “waited to see how things shake out” may find themselves shut out. 💬 What Families Can Do Now We’re not sharing this to create fear — we’re sharing it because you deserve the full picture. Here’s how to stay ahead: Ask the right questions — especially about fifth years, transfers, and roster size Maintain strong communication — with every coach, even if you’ve “moved on” Be strategic, not reactive — don’t just chase offers. Build relationships Plan for the long game — this isn’t just about the next tournament. This is about trajectory If you’re already working with us, we’re having these conversations on your behalf.If you’re not, and you want help navigating this new landscape with clarity and strategy — let’s talk. Because this process isn’t getting easier.But with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be harder than it needs to be. 🎧 Listen to the full breakdown on our podcast:“5-in-5: The Quiet Shift That Changes Everything” Or connect with us directly to see how your daughter’s process could be affected.
With two weeks left in its regular season, top-ranked Byron Nelson has four matches remaining, all against opponents the Bobcats have swept previously. If that trend continues, it would leave six playoff matches and one state title standing between Byron Nelson and a repeat of a national championship. While Byron Nelson is still undefeated, a handful of other teams in the Top 50 are still unbeaten as well. Among them are Carroll IN, Seton OH, Green Level NC, Norris NE and Madison ID. Ozark MO was undefeated until suffering its first loss of the season this past week to Lafayette MO. That leaves Ozark among several schools with only one loss, including Lafayette. Others include Calvary Christian FL, Winter Park FL, Alpharetta GA, Anthony Wayne OH, Waukee Northwest IA and Lakeville South MN. You can view the updated Top 50 below. VBALLRECRUITER TOP 50 HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL RANKINGS 1. Byron Nelson TX (1 – last week’s ranking) 2. Mater Dei CA (2) 3. Sierra Canyon CA (3) 4. Xavier Prep AZ (4) 5. Torrey Pines CA (6) 6. Marymount CA (5) 7. Cornerstone Christian TX (7) 8. Carroll IN (8) 9. Seton OH (9) 10. Archbishop Mitty CA (12) … 11. Mira Costa CA (10) 12. Redondo Union CA (11) 13. Harrisburg SD (14) 14. Calvary Christian FL (15) 15. Corona del Sol AZ (13) 16. Winter Park FL (17) 17. Green Level NC (18) 18. Assumption KY (19) 19. ‘Iolani HI (16) 20. Norris NE (20) … 21. Rockford MI (n/r) 22. Alpharetta GA (25) 23. Cathedral Catholic CA (22) 24. Mother McAuley IL (23) 25. Mercy MI (24) 26. Anthony Wayne OH (36) 27. Marist IL (27) 28. Madison ID (28) 29. Northwest IA (29) 30. Skyridge UT (30) … 31. Lafayette MO (32) 32. Southlake Carroll TX (35) 33. Woods Cross UT (37) 34. Lakeville South MN (39) 35. Olentangy Orange OH (26) 36. Green Hope NC (33) 37. Ozark MO (21) 38. Marian MI (34) 39. Bloomfield Hills MI (38) 40. Hamilton Southeastern IN (40) … 41. Lee’s Summit West MO (41) 42. Westfield IN (42) 43. Cardinal Gibbons NC (43) 44. Divine Savior Holy Angels WI (46) 45. IMG Academy FL (47) 46. Benet Academy IL (48) 47. Skyview ID (49) 48. Orem UT (45) 49. Allen TX (n/r) 50. Chiles FL (n/r) *** ON THE CUSP Aledo TX Austin TX Bishop Gorman NV Blue Valley West KS Buford GA Conley NC Crown Point IN Elkhorn North NE Gretna NE Hebron Christian GA Highland Park TX Joliet West IL Lake Travis TX Lovett GA Marvin Ridge NC McGill-Toolen AL Plano West TX Prestonwood Christian TX SA Harlan TX St. Thomas Aquinas KS St. Thomas Aquinas FL Walton GA Woodward Academy GA Waverly NE
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
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This time of year, conversations get quieter — and heavier. The texts get shorter. The calls get more emotional. And beneath them all is the same question, surfacing over and over again: “Should I transfer?” The answer isn’t always obvious. Especially when you’re tired. Or not playing. Or comparing your path to someone else’s highlight reel. This isn’t about whether the portal is good or bad. It’s about whether it’s right for you, right now. This piece isn’t here to tell you what to do.It’s here to help you see clearly — before you move. 📉 The Numbers Aren’t in Your Favor — But That’s Not the Point Right now, thousands of athletes are entering the portal across every sport. Recent data suggests: Over 13,000 volleyball players were listed in the portal for 2024–25. Nearly 25% of women’s college volleyball players on scholarship entered after the 2023 season. The number is growing. Fast. But this isn’t about numbers.It’s about stories.And what’s behind those entries. For some athletes, the transfer is a lifeline.For others, it’s a decision made in fatigue — and regret. 🧭 What Happens Before the Portal Is What Matters Most Before you fill out a form.Before you talk to your coach.Before you text your parents and say, “I think I’m done.” You have to ask: Am I tired… or am I triggered? Have I had a real conversation with my coach — or just imagined the outcome? Have I been coachable — or just consistent with my frustration? Do I want to transfer… or do I just want to feel seen? This isn’t about self-blame.It’s about ownership. There’s a difference between “I’m not playing” and “I’m not playing yet — and I haven’t asked why.” ✍️ Don’t Talk to Your Coach Until You’ve Done This If you’re thinking about transferring, the conversation with your coach matters. A lot. Here’s how to prepare: Write down what you want to say. Then revise it. Lead with curiosity, not confrontation. Ask questions. Don’t just make statements. Example: “I’ve been frustrated with my role, but I want your perspective. What do you think I can do better? Where do I stand?” You don’t need to agree with the answer.But you need to be open enough to hear it. 🧩 If You Do Decide to Transfer — Go In Ready If you’re clear that transferring is right for you, your next step isn’t emotional — it’s logistical. Here’s what to gather: Academic transcript Course syllabi (so the new school can assess credit transfers) Match and/or practice film (especially if you haven’t played much) A short, clear fit statement(Not just “why you left” — but “who you are and what you’re looking for”) An updated resume or recruiting profile A plan for training during your transition And if you’re not playing much, know this: practice film is gold.It may be the only thing coaches have to evaluate you. 🧠 A Note on Mindset The portal is not a rescue plan.It’s a rebuild. If you haven’t built trust, consistency, or resilience where you are — those habits won’t automatically show up in a new zip code. Take a moment to ask: Have I truly outgrown this place — or just my comfort in it? Have I talked to someone who will tell me the truth, not what I want to hear? Am I seeking alignment — or escape? This isn’t about staying or leaving.It’s about making the next decision with clarity, not chaos. 🎧 For the Athlete Who’s Not Sure What to Do Next If you’re in the thick of it — already in the portal or hovering close — pause here. You don’t have to rush.You don’t have to prove anything.You don’t have to go it alone. 🎙️ Listen to the companion podcast:→ Before You Enter the Portal: Full Episode 🔍 Final Thought Not every athlete needs to transfer.Not every athlete needs to stay. But every athlete deserves to make that decision from a grounded place — not a panicked one. Whatever you choose, let it be clear.Let it be honest.Let it reflect who you’re becoming.
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
There’s a quiet conversation happening in college athletics.And it’s about to change everything. If you’re a parent or athlete in the middle of the recruiting process — or just getting started — there’s a proposal you need to know about: The NCAA is actively considering a shift to what’s being called the “5-in-5” model —5 years to play 5 seasons. No redshirt. No bonus year. Just 5 for 5. It’s not confirmed yet.But from what we’re hearing across the board — from D1 to D2 — it’s looking like it’s going to pass.And if it does, it will reshape the recruiting landscape in ways most families aren’t prepared for. 📉 Fewer Freshman Spots. More Returners Staying. Let’s break it down: If passed, the 5-in-5 rule would essentially make the COVID-era “super senior” model permanent.That means college athletes could stay in their program for five full seasons — and many will. If you’re a coach with an impact player delivering for your team, why wouldn’t you keep her an extra year?This isn’t theoretical — it’s already happening.Coaches are budgeting, shifting offers, and adjusting their timelines now. We’re hearing it in every conversation: D2 coaches are preparing like it’s a done deal D1 coaches are already having tough internal conversations And families are quietly finding out their “secured” spot… just got bumped ⚠️ The Ripple Effect for Athletes If this rule passes, we’ll likely see: Smaller recruiting classes (fewer freshmen brought in each year) More transfers prioritized over high school athletes Delayed offers and more roster uncertainty And fewer coaches willing to “develop” players over time In short?Coaches are going to be pickier.Athletes are going to have to fight harder.And families who “waited to see how things shake out” may find themselves shut out. 💬 What Families Can Do Now We’re not sharing this to create fear — we’re sharing it because you deserve the full picture. Here’s how to stay ahead: Ask the right questions — especially about fifth years, transfers, and roster size Maintain strong communication — with every coach, even if you’ve “moved on” Be strategic, not reactive — don’t just chase offers. Build relationships Plan for the long game — this isn’t just about the next tournament. This is about trajectory If you’re already working with us, we’re having these conversations on your behalf.If you’re not, and you want help navigating this new landscape with clarity and strategy — let’s talk. Because this process isn’t getting easier.But with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be harder than it needs to be. 🎧 Listen to the full breakdown on our podcast:“5-in-5: The Quiet Shift That Changes Everything” Or connect with us directly to see how your daughter’s process could be affected.
With two weeks left in its regular season, top-ranked Byron Nelson has four matches remaining, all against opponents the Bobcats have swept previously. If that trend continues, it would leave six playoff matches and one state title standing between Byron Nelson and a repeat of a national championship. While Byron Nelson is still undefeated, a handful of other teams in the Top 50 are still unbeaten as well. Among them are Carroll IN, Seton OH, Green Level NC, Norris NE and Madison ID. Ozark MO was undefeated until suffering its first loss of the season this past week to Lafayette MO. That leaves Ozark among several schools with only one loss, including Lafayette. Others include Calvary Christian FL, Winter Park FL, Alpharetta GA, Anthony Wayne OH, Waukee Northwest IA and Lakeville South MN. You can view the updated Top 50 below. VBALLRECRUITER TOP 50 HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL RANKINGS 1. Byron Nelson TX (1 – last week’s ranking) 2. Mater Dei CA (2) 3. Sierra Canyon CA (3) 4. Xavier Prep AZ (4) 5. Torrey Pines CA (6) 6. Marymount CA (5) 7. Cornerstone Christian TX (7) 8. Carroll IN (8) 9. Seton OH (9) 10. Archbishop Mitty CA (12) … 11. Mira Costa CA (10) 12. Redondo Union CA (11) 13. Harrisburg SD (14) 14. Calvary Christian FL (15) 15. Corona del Sol AZ (13) 16. Winter Park FL (17) 17. Green Level NC (18) 18. Assumption KY (19) 19. ‘Iolani HI (16) 20. Norris NE (20) … 21. Rockford MI (n/r) 22. Alpharetta GA (25) 23. Cathedral Catholic CA (22) 24. Mother McAuley IL (23) 25. Mercy MI (24) 26. Anthony Wayne OH (36) 27. Marist IL (27) 28. Madison ID (28) 29. Northwest IA (29) 30. Skyridge UT (30) … 31. Lafayette MO (32) 32. Southlake Carroll TX (35) 33. Woods Cross UT (37) 34. Lakeville South MN (39) 35. Olentangy Orange OH (26) 36. Green Hope NC (33) 37. Ozark MO (21) 38. Marian MI (34) 39. Bloomfield Hills MI (38) 40. Hamilton Southeastern IN (40) … 41. Lee’s Summit West MO (41) 42. Westfield IN (42) 43. Cardinal Gibbons NC (43) 44. Divine Savior Holy Angels WI (46) 45. IMG Academy FL (47) 46. Benet Academy IL (48) 47. Skyview ID (49) 48. Orem UT (45) 49. Allen TX (n/r) 50. Chiles FL (n/r) *** ON THE CUSP Aledo TX Austin TX Bishop Gorman NV Blue Valley West KS Buford GA Conley NC Crown Point IN Elkhorn North NE Gretna NE Hebron Christian GA Highland Park TX Joliet West IL Lake Travis TX Lovett GA Marvin Ridge NC McGill-Toolen AL Plano West TX Prestonwood Christian TX SA Harlan TX St. Thomas Aquinas KS St. Thomas Aquinas FL Walton GA Woodward Academy GA Waverly NE
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.
You must be a Premium Access member to access this content.