The Gophers volleyball program’s 2026 recruiting class features a distinct Minnesota flavor.
Two of Minnesota’s three signees on National Signing Day on Wednesday hail from the metro — Centennial middle blocker Elena Hoecke and Eagan libero Madi Kraft.
The third signee is outside hitter Makenna Crosson from San Jose, Calif.
Hoecke just won the 2025 Minnesota Ms. Baden award given to the state’s top senior player while leading the Cougars to state. She was also named the American Volleyball Coaches Association’s Region 7 Player of the Year.
Hoecke — who touts a lengthy record of national team experience — hit .412 this season at Centennial with 338 kills, 189 digs and 103 blocks.
“Elena’s blocking eye work, ability to attack off one foot and her physical effort in transition will stand out immediately,” Gophers coach Keegan Cook said in a release. “Her international experiences with the USA National Team Programs have accelerated her growth. Her inner drive, ability to communicate at a high level and durability are just some of her intangible strengths as an athlete.”
In a release, Hoecke said she chose Minnesota because of the program’s “amazing history and winning culture.” She noted she wants to be an All-American who helps the Gophers win Big Ten and national championships.
“I want to play at the highest level and this program gives me the opportunity to do so,” Hoecke said. “I know my coaches and teammates are going to push me to become the best volleyball player and person I can be. Minnesota has a great winning history, and I want to help continue that legacy.”
Eagan senior libero Madi Kraft poses for a photo at a Breakdown Sports Media shoot in Apple Valley on Saturday, March 1, 2025. (Jason Wachter / Breakdown Sports Media)
Kraft joined Hoecke as a Ms. Baden finalist. She holds the Eagan record for most career digs (1,788), no small feat for a historic program.
This fall, the senior recorded 350 digs, 50 aces and a 2.2 passer rating for the Wildcats.
Kraft noted she’s followed the Gophers since she was little, adding Minnesota “is home to me.”
“Madi’s poise, determination and vocal leadership are easy to observe,” Cook said in a release. “Over the course of her high school and club career, Madi established herself as one of the top liberos in the state of Minnesota. Her toughness and love of competition are just two of the reasons we are looking forward to getting her into the gym this winter.”
Related: Meet Gophers volleyball commit Madi Kraft
Crosson has 430 kills in her still ongoing high school season.
The Gophers said it’s a top-15 recruiting class nationally, according to multiple media outlets. All three commits are expected to join the program in January.
“Their competitive character and passion to learn stands out alongside their many accomplishments,” Cook said. “We’re eager to get them into the gym and thankful for their commitment to start their journeys this winter.”
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