Ryan Murken

Your Prep Sports

One of the top young hitters in the state has made a decision on her volleyball future.

Clear Creek Amana junior Julia Schlarbaum announced her commitment to South Dakota on Wednesday with a post on social media.

“I am so beyond excited and grateful to announce my verbal commitment to the University of South Dakota to continue my athletic and academic journey,” Schlarbaum wrote on a post on Instagram.

Last fall Schlarbaum emerged as one of the top young hitters in the state when she followed up strong freshman season with a stellar sophomore campaign that ended with her earning all-state honors from the Iowa Girls Coaches Association.

As a freshman in 2024 Schlarbaum had 94 kills on .205 hitting and added 33 digs and 15 blocks while helping the Clippers to a 4A state tournament appearance.

Last fall Schlarbaum blossomed into one of the best hitters in 4A ranking third on the team with 268 kills while hitting .288 to help the Clippers to a 42-4 record and a spot in the 4A state semifinals.

The 6-foot Schlarbaum ranked third on the team with 283 digs and added 26 blocks while leading Clear Creek Amana with 72 ace serves as a sophomore last fall.

Schlarbaum earned second team all-WAMAC West Division honors last fall and was a Class 4A third team all-state selection by the IGCA.

A member of the Summit League, South Dakota went 20-9 last season.

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