Summer Elite volleyball tourney brackets announced

Is Shakopee ready for a fourth straight Class AAA state volleyball title, despite the loss of Miss Volleyball Ashley Wittman and a strong 2010 graduating class? Can Bethlehem Academy make an unprecedented ninth consecutive trip to the Class A championship match? Those two defending champions are among 32 of the best high school volleyball teams going head-to-head this weekend at the 1st annual Minnesota Elite Preseason Tournament, held this Saturday, Aug. 7 at Midwest Volleyball Warehouse (14050 Judicial Road, Burnsville, MN).

Breakdown Sports USA, in conjunction with Midwest Volleyball Warehouse presents the elite – and unique – tournament. We've invited the top eight teams from our preseason polls in each of the three classes (AAA, AA and A), as well as eight at-large teams to come up with a full 32-team tournament.

The first round of play will be in pool format with pools of four (4) teams, running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., followed by playoffs for the top three (3) teams in each pool from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. All pool play matches will be best-of-3, with the first two games to 25 points (no cap) and the third to 15 points (no cap) if needed. Schedules will be posted online at www.BreakdownSportsUSA.com and on Midwest Volleyball Warehouse’s real-time scheduling website www.midwestvolleyball.com on Monday, Aug. 2.

The tournament features two of our preseason No. 1 teams (Wayzata in Class AAA and Wadena-Deer Creek in Class AA), two defending state champions (Shakopee in Class AAA and Bethlehem Academy in Class A) and 27 teams ranked in the top-15 of our preseason polls (12 in Class AAA, seven in Class AA and eight in Class A). Also, individuals such as Miss Volleyball candidates Courtney Volkmann (Wadena-Deer Creek), Courtney Ysker (Windom Area), Chelsie Stahl (Chaska), Kellie McNeil (Lakeville North), Sam Johnson (Belle Plaine), Kaitlyn Braun (LeSueur-Henderson), Chanda Honebrink (Waconia) and many more could be representing their programs.

Pool 1 Breakdown

Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa Jaguars (No. 9 A)
Last year’s record: 27-6
Playoff result: Lost to Nevis in Section 5A final, 3-0
Coach: Kevin Weller
Section 5A
Top returning players: Sr. MH Maggie Gruber, Sr. S Julie Hieserich, Jr. L Raeann Sorenson
B-B-E has a real family act going on right now, as coach Kevin Weller has three players who are following in the footsteps of older sisters who came through the Jaguars’ program, two of whom are playing in college. Even more interesting is that their mothers all played for B-B-E, as well. Not surprisingly, that consistency has resulted in three state tournament berths in the past five years and has the Jags ready to chalk up another. Five of the letter winners are back, paced by 6-foot-1 senior middle Maggie Gruber (386 kills, 85 blocks, 30 aces), an All-State choice and powerful leaper, and senior setter Julie Hieserich (145 digs, 754 assists), an All-CMC choice who reads defenses well and is quick to the ball.

Lakeville North Panthers (No. 2 AAA)
Last year’s record: 19-10
Playoff result: Lost to Burnsville in Section 3AAA semifinals, 3-1
Coach: Milan Mader
Section 3AAA
Top returning players: Sr. S Kellie McNeil, Fr. OH Alyssa Goehner, Fr. OH Taylr McNeil
The Panthers didn’t graduate an Amy Braun-level elite talent this offseason, but still did lose All-Lake libero Cassie Weaver and three other teammates who will be difficult to replace. Thankfully for fans of the Panthers, they do bring back All-State setter Kellie McNeil, who has already committed to the University of Minnesota and is widely considered one of the best setters in the country, let alone the state. She’ll be setting to some great young talent who earned playing time as eighth-graders last fall. Freshmen outside hitters Alyssa Goehner and Taylr McNeil look like future stars.

Mabel-Canton Cougars (NR A)
Last year’s record: 31-4
Playoff result: Lost to Kingsland in Section 1A quarters, 3-1
Coach: Lonnie Morken
Section 1A
Top returning players: Sr. S Kayla Rasmussen, OH Ali Kerns, MH Lindsey Kuhn, Fr. MH Lydia Geving
Mabel-Canton was especially young last year, but still managed to win 31 matches and now has all its attackers back, although none are tall in stature. Coach Lonnie Morken is counting on three-year letter winner Kayla Rasmussen (207 digs) to move to setter. She’ll have plenty of offensive options on the court in outside hitter Alix Kerns (369 kills, 275 digs) and middles Lindsey Kuhn (327 kills, 60 aces) and freshman middle Lydia Geving (217 kills, 99 aces, 188 digs). All three are just 5-foot-7, so they aren’t big, but they are explosive and intelligent players.

Waconia Wildcats (No. 15 AAA)
Last year’s record: 15-14
Playoff result: Lost to Eden Prairie in Section 2AAA quarters, 3-0
Coach: Jim Lee
Section 2AAA
Top returning players: Sr. OH/S Chandra Honebrink, Sr. L Dana Noelder, So. OH Anna Pioske
Waconia had just two seniors on last year’s 15-14 team, which should bode well for a resurgence under coach Jim Lee. It started to show over the second half of last year’s campaign, but he fully expects even more this fall. The Wildcats are led by senior hitter/setter Chandra Honebrink (363 kills, a school-record 107 aces, 241 assists), who has a “kangaroo-like vertical” and soft hands while running a 6-3 offense, and senior libero Dana Noeldner, who has school records for both digs in a season (444) and career (845). Sophomore outside hitter Anna Pioske also should add to the Wildcats’ powerful lineup this year.

Pool 1

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	1	Lakeville North	Waconia
10 am	1	B-B-E	Mabel-Canton
11 am	1	Lakeville North	Mabel-Canton
12 pm	1	B-B-E	Waconia
1 pm	1	Waconia	Mabel-Canton
2 pm	1	Lakeville North	B-B-E

Who's the favorite in Pool 1?

Pool 2 Breakdown

Centennial Cougars (No. 10 AAA)
Last year’s record: 24-7
Playoff result: Lost to Andover in Class AAA consolation semifinals, 3-1
Coach: Jackie Rehbein-Manthey
Section 5AAA
Top returning players: Jr. OH Leigh Pudwill, Sr. S Hannah Glocke
The Cougars finally broke through to state last season perhaps a year earlier than coach Jackie Rehbein-Manthey may have expected. Now, the Cougars are primed for a repeat as arguably the favorite, even with the loss of several key veterans like middle Megan Waytashek. That’s because the Cougars should have plenty of offensive firepower with Leigh Pudwill (369 kills, 228 digs), an All-State honorable mention choice. The 6-foot-2 powerhouse is a terrific all-around player. She’ll receive plenty of sets from senior Hannah Glocke (529 assists), a consistent and intelligent player.

Sebeka Trojans (NR A)
Last year’s record: 21-6-1
Playoff result: Lost to Bertha-Hewitt in Section 5A quarters, 3-1
Coach: Becca Pulju
Section 5A
Top returning players: Jr. MH Alicia Boe, Jr. MH Jessica Lillquist, So. OH Brett Brockpahler
Sebeka returns its two top offensive weapons from the Park Region conference championship team and also adds 6-foot junior middle Alicia Boe, who transferred from New York Mills. There is plenty of size and strength at the net for the Trojans, but will they be able to overcome the loss of Park Region defensive player of the year Bridget Martini and Park Region outstanding setter Adrienne Nelson, both of whom graduated? One of the keys will be to get the timing and rhythm down between a new setter and her returning offensive weapons that includes 5-foot-11 junior middle Jessica Lillquist (790 career kills, 121 blocks, 155 aces, 402 digs), a three-time All-Park Region choice and three-sport star at Sebeka.

Stewartville Tigers (No. 8 AA)
Last year’s record: 23-6
Playoff result: Lost to Byron in Section 1AA semifinal, 3-1
Coach: John Dzubay
Section 1AA
Top returning players: Sr. MH Lindsay Blahnik, Sr. OH Lisa Flynn
Stewartville enters a new era, one that will begin without longtime outside hitter and All-Stater Julie Rainey, who has been a varsity stalwart for the past six years, four of which ended in state bids. Longtime coach John Dzubay still has power in the lineup, though. Lindsay Blahnik and Lisa Flynn, both seniors, have combined for more than 550 career kills and nearly 700 career digs. They’re both two-time All-Conference choices who will step into the limelight even more this fall.

Wayzata Trojans (No. 1 AAA)
Last year’s record: 24-9
Playoff result: Lost to Shakopee in Class AAA final, 3-1
Coach: Scott Jackson
Section 6AAA
Top returning players: Sr. RH Bri Adams, Jr. S Julia Doyle, Jr. MH Toni Okuyemi, Sr. OH Jess Kegel
In advancing all the way to the Class AAA title match against Shakopee, the Trojans had terrific ball control to offset a lack of height. But that was last year. With those players graduated, veterans like right-side hitter Bri Adams (214 digs, 52 aces) and defensive specialist Kayla Jedele will have to mix with youngsters like sophomore Lauren Houg to keep them strong. Wayzata should be even better on offense, though, led by junior setter Julia Doyle (874 assists, 67 aces, 204 digs), an All-Classic Lake choice. Junior middle Toni Okuyemi (264 kills, 90 blocks) and senior outside hitter Jess Kegel (268 kills) aren’t tall, but are very talented veterans who also earned All-Conference honors.

Pool 2

Team	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	2	Wayzata	Centennial
10 am	2	Stewartville	Sebeka
11 am	2	Wayzata	Sebeka
12 pm	2	Stewartville	Centennial
1 pm	2	Centennial	Sebeka
2 pm	2	Wayzata	Stewartville

Who's the favorite in Pool 2?

Pool 3 Breakdown

Andover Huskies (NR AAA)
Last year’s record: 25-8
Playoff result: Beat Farmington in Class AAA consolation final, 3-0
Coach: Connie Huberty
Section 7AAA
Top returning players: Jr. MH Karlie Hauer, Sr. MH Abby Cleveland, Jr. MH Janelle Rupkalvis
Andover has won five of the last six Section 7AAA titles, continuing the school’s run of dominance. It looks like more of the same from the Huskies this fall, led by a strong corps of middle hitters such as 6-foot-1 junior Karlie Hauer (274 kills, 87 blocks). Andover will have to replace eight talented graduates, including All-State honorable mention setter Nicole Husfeldt (the school’s career and single-season record-holder in set assists).

Bethlehem Academy Cardinals (No. 2 A)
Last year’s record: 30-3
Playoff result: Class A state champions
Coach: Franz Boelter
Section 1A
Top returning players: Sr. L Victoria Nass, Sr. S Jena Budde, So. MH Maddie Borwege, So. Jessica Mathews
After eight straight appearances in the Class A title match, a new season starts for BA with senior libero Victoria Nass (521 digs), a fearless player who coach Franz Boelter said he wouldn’t trade for any other in the state. She’s a two-time All-Gopher and three-year starter. Setter Jena Budde (992 assists, 197 digs) is also a two-time All-Gopher and three-year starter who provides invaluable experience. The 5-foot-8 senior will also be asked to hit this year. Sophomores Maddie Borwege (90 kills, 97 blocks) and Jessica Mathews (144 kills, 392 digs) and eighth-grader Payton Schultz (164 digs) also contributed to last year’s state champion. Borwege, a 5-foot-10 middle, will be the new intimidator at the net while Mathews proved to be a tremendous passer and defender last season. Schultz was the first seventh-grader to ever play for BA.

Byron Bears (No. 9 AA)
Last year’s record: 27-7
Playoff result: Lost to Wadena-DC in Class AA consolation final, 3-1
Coach: Jane Krier
Section 1AA
Top returning players: So. S Jillian Krier, Sr. OH Britta Schubert, Sr. L Jordan Price
Byron broke through Stewartville’s hold on Section 1AA with its first state tournament bid ever last fall. They’re eager to return and certainly have the talent to do so. Setter Jillian Krier (515 assists) runs the show as just a sophomore, but already with two years of varsity experience. Senior outside hitter Britta Schubert (168 kills, 67 aces, 437 digs), junior right-side hitter Karlee Johnson (169 kills, 220 digs, 429 assists) and junior middle Erika McRoberts (117 kills) will provide great targets for Krier on the set. Schubert was an All-Hiawatha Valley pick last year, while Johnson was honorable mention. Defensively, not many teams have a stalwart like Jordan Price in the back row. The senior libero set a school record for digs last year with 607 and is a two-time All-Conference selection.

Hopkins Royals (No. 8 AAA)
Last year’s record: 18-12
Playoff result: Lost to Wayzata in Section 6AAA final, 3-1
Coach: Vicki Seliger-Swenson
Section 6AAA
Top returning players: Sr. OH Jill Greenfield, Sr. S Erin Ohlemann, Jr. MH Taylor Lockett, 8th OH Samantha Seliger-Swenson
Hopkins returns five of its top seven players from last year’s Section 6AAA runner-up squad. The Royals are deep in experience at key positions. Seniors Jill Greenfield (329 kills) and Erin Ohlemann (681 set assists) are the veteran leaders of the group. Greenfield, an outside hitter, was the school’s player of the year and is a powerful leaper. Ohlemann, a setter, is a versatile player who took over the position just last season. She’s a two-year captain and both players earned All-Classic Lake honors. They combine with junior middle Taylor Lockett, junior outside hitter Rebecca Woodstra and eighth-grade outside hitter Samantha Seliger-Swenson to provide a great core of players.

Pool 3

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	3	Bethlehem Acad	Byron
10 am	3	Hopkins	Andover
11 am	3	Bethlehem Acad	Andover
12 pm	3	Hopkins	Byron
1 pm	3	Byron	Andover
2 pm	3	Bethlehem Acad	Hopkins

Who's the favorite in Pool 3?

Pool 4 Breakdown

Blaine Bengals (No. 11 AAA)
Last year’s record: 18-10
Playoff result: Lost to Centennial in Section 5AAA semifinals, 3-1
Coach: Celeste Gorman
Section 5AAA
Top returning players: Sr. S Elizabeth Hawkins, Sr. OH Tanner Heyl, Jr. DS Taylor Dordan, Jr. RH Sydney Dimke
Blaine admittedly went through a rebuilding last year after losing a large and talented senior class two falls back. But nearly anywhere else an 18-10 record (7-2 in the Northwest Suburban) wouldn’t be considered “rebuilding.” Now with a veteran team filled with experience at every court position, Blaine is looking to get back to the state tournament for the first time since making back-to-back appearances in 2006 and 2007. The Bengals have a strong setter in All-NWSC senior Elizabeth Hawkins (684 assists), smart hitters in honorable mention senior Tanner Heyl (143 kills, 246 digs), Megan Bauer (102 kills) and Sydney Dimke (133 kills) and speedy defenders like junior Taylor Dordan (224 digs).

Chaska Hawks (No. 14 AAA)
Last year’s record: 25-4
Playoff result: Lost to Shakopee in Section 2AAA final, 3-2
Coach: Sue Murphy
Section 2AAA
Top returning players: Sr. MH Chelsie Stahl
Chaska was hit as hard by graduation as any team in the state, losing seven seniors, all of whom were named either All-Lake or honorable mention in their final year with the Hawks. That group included a pair of Class AAA All-Staters in outside hitter Ellen Degler and setter Amanda Konetchy. And yet, coach Sue Murphy’s team is still expected to be a contender. How is that possible? The Hawks are one of the premier programs in the state and will likely just reload with strong players who have been biding their time. The return of All-State middle Chelsie Stahl certainly helps matters for Murphy, as does her strong ball control philosophy, which has always been their forte.

LeSueur-Henderson Giants (No. 4 AA)
Last year’s record: 30-4
Playoff result: Beat Hibbing in Class AA third place match, 3-0
Coach: Dave Nixon
Section 2AA
Top returning players: Sr. OH Kaitlyn Braun, Jr. RH Gretta Schultz, S Ashley Kahlow, Megan Zeiher
LeSueur-Henderson should have an interesting mix of veterans and newcomers. The Giants bring back four players with three years of varsity experience in All-State honorable mention OH Kaitlyn Braun (275 kills, 93 aces, 272 digs), Gretta Schultz (204 kills), Ashley Kahlow and Megan Zeiher (115 kills), but they also lost four seniors who played pivotal roles. Coach Dave Nixon will have the Giants running a variety of different tempo sets in their offense, while retaining excellent ball control and defense. The Giants are extremely athletic, which helps them overcome a lack of height. None of the returning veterans is taller than 5-foot-9, although sophomore Jessica Thelemann is expected to play a bigger role as a 5-foot-10 hitter.

Windom Area Eagles (No. 4 A)
Last year’s record: 24-6-1
Playoff result: Lost to Minneota in Section 3A final, 3-0
Coach: Ron Wendorff
Section 3A
Top returning players: Sr. OH Courtney Ysker, Jr. S/H Abby Hayenga
Windom Area didn’t step very far back after its 2008 state championship, still winning 24 matches and getting all the way to the Section 1A final before losing to Minneota. Coach Ron Wendorff has the luxury of getting All-State outside hitter Courtney Ysker (417 kills, 51 blocks, 70 aces, 299 digs) involved on the court. She has tremendous skills and was a key contributor on the state championship team two years ago. Other Eagles veterans include junior setter/hitter Abby Hayenga (93 kills, 54 aces, 140 digs, 443 assists), senior right-side hitter Sierra Even (176 assists), junior outside hitter Amber Eigenberg (54 kills), sophomore outside hitter Hali Tasler (146 digs) and sophomore middle Holly Larson.

Pool 4

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	4	Chaska	LeSueur-Hend
10 am	4	Windom	Blaine
11 am	4	Chaska	Blaine
12 pm	4	Windom	LeSueur-Hend
1 pm	4	LeSueur-Hend	Blaine
2 pm	4	Chaska	Windom

Who's the favorite in Pool 4?

Pool 5 Breakdown

Apple Valley Eagles (No. 6 AAA)
Last year’s record: 16-12
Playoff result: Lost to Lakeville North in Section 3AAA quarters, 3-0
Coach: Gordy Hagert
Section 3AAA
Top returning players: Sr. S Taylor Voss, Sr. OH Melissa Racz, Jr. MH Aly Johnson, Jr. RH Maren Loe
Coach Dan Kuklock stepped down after last season, but he certainly didn’t leave the cupboard bare for the incoming staff. The new coaches will rely on the experience of All-Lake setter Taylor Voss and honorable mention outside hitter Melissa Racz and middle Aly Johnson. Along with middle Maren Loe, the quartet has a terrific veteran presence that will make the transition easier. They’re hoping to lead the Eagles back to the state tournament for the first time since 2001 – a significant gap for a program with the tradition of Apple Valley, which won state titles in 1985 and 1992.

Heritage Christian Eagles (No. 12 A)
Last year’s record: 28-6
Playoff result: Lost to Meadow Creek Christian in Section 4A semifinals, 3-0
Coach: Tom Fuglestad
Section 4A
Top returning players: Sr. MH Lauren Williams, Sr. DS Calli McLellan, Sr. S Lauren Anderson
Heritage Christian looks like a very strong contender for a section title and state berth. The Eagles were 28-6 last season (8-2 in the MCAA) and are led by a trio of experienced seniors in middle Lauren Williams (448 kills, 85 blocks, 82 aces, 271 digs), defensive specialist Calli McLellan (324 digs) and setter Lauren Anderson (138 kills, 53 aces), all three of whom were All-MCAA choices. Williams also earned All-State honors with her school-record 448 kills.

Osseo Orioles (NR AAA)
Last year’s record: 23-6
Playoff result: Lost to Centennial in Section 5AAA final, 3-0
Coach: Bill Quan
Section 5AAA
Top returning players: Sr. L Kyle Everett, Sr. OH Sarah Pekarek, Fr. S Megan Pekarek
With the graduation loss of All-NWSC hitters Karen Hiltunen and Katie Meidtke, the Orioles won’t likely be the favorite this fall, but that may fit right into their modus operandi. Coach Bill Quan will get great senior leadership from libero Kyle Everett (446 digs) an outside hitter Sarah Pekarek (279 kills, 373 digs), both of whom were All-NWSC choices, and honorable mention setter Paige Olson (560 assists). And as has been the case for the past several years, another couple of Pekareks are on the way in freshman setter Megan and eighth-grader Hannah. Megan already has made her mark at the varsity level, recording 202 assists as an eighth-grade setter.

Wadena-Deer Creek Wolverines (No. 1 AA)
Last year’s record: 30-5
Playoff result: Beat Byron in Class AA consolation final, 3-1
Coach: Sue Volkmann
Section 8AA
Top returning players: Sr. S Courtney Volkmann, Sr. OH Kelsi Crawford, Jr. OH Brittney Noon, Sr. OH Rachael Carlisle
Wadena-Deer Creek has 14 of its 15 varsity players back from the team that finished as the state consolation champ last fall. They’re shooting even higher this time. It starts at setter, where senior All-Stater Courtney Volkmann (133 kills, 117 blocks, 133 aces, 292 digs, 863 assists) is another coach on the court and a four-time All-Mid-State pick. She’s an outstanding setter and leader, but also has a terrific jump serve and can attack and block. Volkmann does it all. Barring injury, she’ll likely finish her stellar varsity career with more than 4,000 set assists and 400 service aces – heady territory indeed. Six of her returning teammates were also recognized as All-Mid-State or honorable mention last year, showing the depth the Wolverines can lean on. Junior outside hitter Brittney Noon (361 kills, 145 digs) is the team’s go-to hitter, but also has plenty of competition for that role from senior outside hitter Kelsi Crawford (249 kills) and senior outside hitter Rachael Carlisle (118 kills, 143 blocks), all of whom were All-Mid State. Intimidating 6-foot middle Rachel Craig (114 kills, 277 blocks) was honorable mention, as were defensive specialist Amanda Perkins (315 digs) and freshman libero Hope Theisen (344 digs).

Pool 5

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	5	Wadena-DC	Heritage Christian
10 am	5	Apple Valley	Osseo
11 am	5	Wadena-DC	Osseo
12 pm	5	Apple Valley	Heritage Christian
1 pm	5	Heritage Christian	Osseo
2 pm	5	Wadena-DC	Apple Valley

Who's the favorite in Pool 5?

Pool 6 Breakdown

Jackson County Central Huskies (No. 6 AA)
Last year’s record: 26-2
Playoff result: Lost to Marshall in Section 3AA semifinals, 3-1
Coach: Teresa VanEpps
Section 3AA
Top returning players: Jr. OH Whitney Burmeister, So. RS Kaylee Benson, Sr. MH Courtney Donnelli, Jr. MH Sarah Darling
For the sake of the other teams in Class AA, they’d better hope Jackson County Central gets knocked off in the Section 3AA playoffs again this year. The Huskies have made three trips to state in school history and all three have ended in state titles (1999, 2003 and 2006). This year, JCC’s returning crew of two- and three-sport athletes remains impressive, paced by junior Whitney Burmeister, a 5-foot-9 All-State honorable mention outside hitter. The two-time All-Conference choice paced the team last year in kills (322) and digs (341) and finished with more than 100 blocks. She’ll anchor a young team that also includes middles Courtney Donnelli (100 blocks, 124 digs) and Sarah Darling and sophomore right-side hitter Kaylee Benson (108 kills, 126 blocks), all three of whom saw significant time last year.

Mayer Lutheran Crusaders (No. 3 A)
Last year’s record: 12-18
Playoff result: Lost to Meadow Creek Christian in Section 4A final, 3-2
Coach: Joelle Grimsley
Section 4A
Top returning players: Sr. MH Sara Schmidt, So. OH Nicole Schmidt
Don’t let the record fool you. Mayer Lutheran was a top contender for a state berth last year and will certainly be so again this year. The Crusaders were just 12-18 over the season, but advanced all the way to the Section 4A final, where they took Meadow Creek Christian to five games before finally losing. Six-foot-1 senior middle Sara Schmidt is a force at the net, while 5-foot-11 sophomore outside hitter Nicole Schmidt adds a quality offensive impact. The Crusaders are looking to return to state for the first time in three years after having made four appearances in five years from 2003 to 2007.

Nevis Tigers (No. 8 A)
Last year’s record: 28-6
Playoff result: Beat Parkers Prairie in Class A consolation final, 3-2
Coach: Stephanie Hanson
Section 5A
Top returning players: So. MH Riley Hanson, Sr. MH Annessa Feder, Sr. OH Paige Walters
It was a breakthrough season for Nevis, as the Tigers qualified for their first state tournament and ended up claiming the consolation title over Parkers Prairie. It helps to have veterans like 6-foot sophomore middle Riley Hanson (445 kills, 112 blocks, 81 aces, 310 digs) returning. She’s a strong player both at the net and in the back row and will be even more of a threat this fall. Already a two-year starter, she has 716 career kills and 263 blocks. Along with senior middle Annessa Feder (95 kills, 41 blocks, 29 aces, 303 digs) and senior outside hitter Paige Walters (156 kills, 42 blocks, 55 aces, 253 digs), they provide a potent trio of hitters for the Tigers.

Shakopee Sabers (No. 12 AAA)
Last year’s record: 32-0
Playoff result: Class AAA state champions
Coach: Matt Busch
Section 2AAA
Top returning players: Sr. S Megan Westlund, Jr. MH Claire Sames, Jr. OH Kari Monnens
The Sabers capped off three straight state titles with a perfect 32-0 season last year, powered by the Gatorade National Player of the Year and Minnesota Ms. Volleyball, Ashley Wittman. It was one of the most powerful teams in state history, but suffered steep graduation losses. Is the run truly over? Four players with state tournament experience return, including All-Missota honorable mention setter Megan Westlund and middle hitter Claire Sames, who made the All-Tournament team last fall. Shakopee should rely on a strong and consistent backcourt, despite the loss of All-State libero Mollie Geske. Junior Alexandra Berger and senior Emily Schroers look to take over that role. Offensively, Shakopee won’t have the big swing of Wittman anymore, but will have better flexibility all around, including outside hitter Kari Monnens.

Pool 6

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	6	Shakopee	Mayer Lutheran
10 am	6	Jackson CC	Nevis
11 am	6	Shakopee	Nevis
12 pm	6	Jackson CC	Mayer Lutheran
1 pm	6	Mayer Lutheran	Nevis
2 pm	6	Shakopee	Jackson CC

Who's the favorite in Pool 6?

Pool 7 Breakdown

Belle Plaine Tigers (No. 5 AA)
Last year’s record: 20-10
Playoff result: Lost to Hutchinson in Section 2AA semifinals, 3-0
Coach: Cassie Wolpern
Section 2AA
Top returning players: Jr. MH Abby Wolpern, So. S/RH Haley Fogarty, Sr. MH Sam Johnson
New coach (and Belle Plaine legend) Cassie Wolpern retains a familial connection to the team as 6-foot junior middle Abby Wolpern (260 kills, 79 blocks, 198 digs) is a younger sister – and plenty talented. It’s just one of several family connections on the Belle Plaine roster, as sophomore setter/right-side hitter Haley Fogarty (175 kills, 274 digs) is the younger sister of former Tiger All-Stater Chelsea Fogarty (and both are first cousins of the Wolperns). Sophomore Kirsten Johnson and All-State honorable mention middle Sam Johnson (277 kills, 82 blocks), the Minnesota River MVP, are also sisters.

Bemidji Lumberjacks (No. 13 AAA)
Last year’s record: 22-6
Playoff result: Lost to Alexandria in Section 8AAA quarters, 3-1
Coach: Teresa Colligan
Section 8AAA
Top returning players: Sr. MH Kayla Hirt, So. RH Allie Heifort, So. OH Jessica Yost
Bemidji returns a small group of three starters from last season’s 22-6 team, but like Alexandria, should remain a contender. Senior middle Kayla Hirt (357 kills, 110 blocks), a 6-foot-2 dominator who is headed to the University of Minnesota as a basketball recruit, leads the way for the Lumberjacks. Needless to say, she’s an athletic hard worker who has good court awareness. The team MVP in 2009, she already has 825 career kills and will easily surpass 1,000 this season. Sophomore right-side hitter Allie Heifort and outside hitter Jessica Yost will be key contributors despite their youth.

Eden Prairie Eagles (No. 3 AAA)
Last year’s record: 18-10
Playoff result: Lost to Chaska in Section 2AAA semifinals, 3-2
Coach: Chad Becker
Section 2AAA
Top returning players: So. OH Sarah Wilhite, Sr. MH Dani Schultz, Sr. S Andie Kuebler
Eden Prairie has a strong and deep senior class with seven returning letter winners and four more making the move up from the junior varsity. Combined with a talented group of underclassmen and the Eagles are loaded. Sophomore outside hitter Sarah Wilhite (258 kills) burst on to the scene last year, winning All-Lake honors and playing beyond her years. Senior middle Dani Schultz (70 blocks) and setter Andie Kuebler were both honorable mention All-Lake last fall. Captains Ashley Snuggerud and Ashley Alonso will help instill coach Chad Becker’s commitment to hard work and a team-first mentality that should power the Eagles to the top.

Martin County West Mavericks (No. 14 A)
Last year’s record: 22-7
Playoff result: Lost to Nicollet in Section 2A semifinals, 3-1
Coach: Travis Anderson
Section 2A
Top returning players: Sr. MH Maggie Prunty, Sr. MH Alyssa Taylor, Sr. S Taylor Saxen, Sr. OH Paige Breneman
Martin County West endured a few growing pains last year but remained a contender. It should be more of the same for the Mavericks, led by the hard work and grit of All-Valley senior middle Maggie Prunty, who broke two teeth in a conference match last year and still managed to finish it out. Prunty (785 career kills, 262 blocks, 140 aces, 638 digs) is one of two top middles along with 6-foot-1 senior Alyssa Taylor (553 career kills, 260 blocks). Both have been in the starting lineup for years along with senior setter Taylor Saxen (1,557 career assists) and should have the Mavericks offense humming. Senior Paige Breneman isn’t big on the left side, nor is Madison Bloomquist on the right, but both are powerful. Defensively, a few players stepped up last year to fill the void, including libero Jessi Jurries (483 career digs).

Pool 7

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	7	Eden Prairie	Bemidji
10 am	7	Belle Plaine	Martin Co West
11 am	7	Eden Prairie	Martin Co West
12 pm	7	Belle Plaine	Bemidji
1 pm	7	Bemidji	Martin Co West
2 pm	7	Eden Prairie	Belle Plaine

Who's the favorite in Pool 7?

Pool 8 Breakdown

Hutchinson Tigers (No. 2 AA)
Last year’s record: 22-7
Playoff result: Lost to LeSueur-Henderson in Section 2AA final, 3-2
Coach: Dennis Piechowski
Section 2AA
Top returning players: Jr. S Brianne Stamer, Jr. OH Sara Carlson, Sr. MH Kayla Tronick, Sr. L Julia Witt
Hutchinson lost six seniors off of last year’s squad, but does have five players back who were part of last year’s rotation and a big group of talented JV graduates who went 18-3 last fall. Junior Brianne Stamer (285 assists) was a key distributor in a 6-2 system and she’ll be looking for junior outside hitter Sara Carlson (329 kills, 331 digs), a terrific all-around player and competitor, and senior middles Kayla Tronick (285 kills, 269 blocks) and Jessica Zieman. Tronick, a 6-foot-4 tower, is on the verge of setting the school record for career blocks, just 29 shy of Mackenzie Piechowski, an All-State middle who graduated in the spring. Tronick and Carlson were All-Missota last year, while senior libero Julia Witt (199 digs) was honorable mention.

Lakeville South Cougars (No. 9 AAA)
Last year’s record: 16-11
Playoff result: Lost to Bloomington Jefferson in Section 3AAA quarters, 3-1
Coach: Jennifer Nelson
Section 3AAA
Top returning players: Jr. OH McKell Anderson, Sr. S Kelly Davenport, Jr. MH Monica Turner, So. Jazzmyn Tingelhoff
South returns a strong group of juniors who started as sophomores. Three players have also started since they were freshmen in junior captains McKell Anderson and Monica Turner and sophomore Jazzmyn Tingelhoff. Anderson (221 kills) is a gifted outside hitter who has proven to be the Cougars’ go-to player, while Turner (181 kills, 64 blocks) is a tall and explosive middle hitter. They combine with fellow captain and senior setter Kelly Davenport (570 assists) to provide plenty of experience. Tingelhoff is just a sophomore, but was the team’s rookie of the year and plays with a calm that belies her age.

New Life Academy Eagles (NR A)
Last year’s record: 14-14
Playoff result: Lost to Mayer Lutheran in Section 4A quarters, 3-0
Coach: Wally Bomgren
Section 4A
Top returning players: Sr. OH Rebekah Schmidt, Jr. MH Reagan Barr, Sr. DS Tori Witt
New Life Academy welcomes a new coach into the fold, as Wally Bomgren stepped down at nearby Woodbury to join the Eagles’ program coming off a 14-14 season. New Life looks to be even better this fall, as it graduated no one and returns 5-foot-11 All-MCAA outside hitter Rebekah Schmidt and two honorable mention choices: defensive specialist Tori Witt and middle Reagan Barr. Adding 6-foot junior Mikayla Diers as a transfer from Woodbury certainly helps add height, as well. Baar and Schmidt will captain the squad along with senior setter Stephanie Petrich.

Win-E-Mac Patriots (No. 5 A)
Last year’s record: 22-8
Playoff result: Lost to Badger/GB-MR in Section 8A quarters, 3-2
Coach: Lynette Kaster
Section 8A
Top returning players: Jr. MH Olivia Kaster, Fr. MH Shelby Kaster, Sr. OH Kynndyl Ross, So. S Erica Handley
Glancing up and down the roster, Win-E-Mac has no clear holes to attack, and with the leadership of coach Lynette Kaster, the Patriots appear to not only be the section favorite, but one of the top teams in the state. Sisters Olivia and Shelby Kaster are two of Win-E-Mac players recognized as among the best in the state. Olivia (324 kills, 197 blocks, 53 aces, 141 digs) is a 6-foot-1 junior middle with quiet intensity and is already a four-year starter, while the 5-foot-11 Shelby (151 kills, 60 blocks, 31 aces) stepped into the middle as an eighth-grader and made an immediate impact. Along with 6-foot senior outside hitter Kynndyl Ross (550 kills, 58 blocks, 64 aces, 259 digs) and sophomore setter Erica Handley (117 aces, 260 digs, 962 assists), the Patriots are loaded and well-balanced among positions and grade levels.

Pool 8

Time	Court #	Team	Team
9 am	8	Hutchinson	Win-E-Mac
10 am	8	Lakeville South	New Life Acad
11 am	8	Hutchinson	New Life Acad
12 pm	8	Lakeville South	Win-E-Mac
1 pm	8	Win-E-Mac	New Life Acad
2 pm	8	Hutchinson	Lakeville South

Who's the favorite in Pool 8?

Playoff brackets

Gold Division

Game #	Time	Court #	Team	Team
G1	3 pm	1	Pool 1 champ	Pool 8 champ
G2	3 pm	2	Pool 4 champ	Pool 5 champ
G3	3 pm	3	Pool 2 champ	Pool 7 champ
G4	3 pm	4	Pool 3 champ	Pool 6 champ
G5	5 pm	1	G1 winner	G2 winner
G6	5 pm	2	G3 winner	G4 winner
G7	6 pm	1	G5 winner	G6 winner

Silver Division

Game #	Time	Court #	Team	Team
S1	4 pm	1	Pool 1 runner-up	Pool 8 runner-up
S2	4 pm	2	Pool 5 runner-up	Pool 4 runner-up
S3	4 pm	3	Pool 7 runner-up	Pool 2 runner-up
S4	4 pm	4	Pool 6 runner-up	Pool 3 runner-up
S5	5 pm	3	S1 winner	S2 winner
S6	5 pm	4	S3 winner	S4 winner
S7	6 pm	3	S5 winner	S6 winner

Bronze Division

Game #	Time	Court #	Team	Team
B1	3 pm	5	Pool 1 third	Pool 8 third
B2	3 pm	6	Pool 4 third	Pool 5 third
B3	4 pm	5	Pool 2 third	Pool 7 third
B4	4 pm	6	Pool 3 third	Pool 6 third
B5	5 pm	5	B1 winner	B2 winner
B6	5 pm	6	B3 winner	B4 winner
B7	6 pm	5	B5 winner	B6 winner

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