2018 MHSAA Season Preview: Breaking down the Blue Water Area Conference
The Blue Water Area Conference has a new look this season, as North Branch joins the fold in the 2018 season. The Broncos are a big-time addition to this conference and could come in as the favorite. Here’s a closer…
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Continue ReadingThe Blue Water Area Conference has a new look this season, as North Branch joins the fold in the 2018 season. The Broncos are a big-time addition to this conference and could come in as the favorite. Here’s a closer look at the Blue Water Area Conference and what we can see on the court this fall.
Blue Water Area Conference Breakdown
Croswell-Lexington won the conference last season, but then were stopped in the district semifinal by North Branch. Now the Pioneers must deal with the Broncos in the conference.
North Branch was likely one of the best teams in Class B last year, but didn’t get a chance to show just where it stacked up because it ran into dominant Pontiac Notre Dame Prep in the regional. This year’s Broncos’ squad returns some great talent, led by 6-1 outside Allison Severance (Miami-Ohio). Severance ranks ninth in our latest 2019 player rankings and will be tough for anyone in the Blue Water Area Conference to handle. North Branch also returns senior setter Autumn Deshetsky and senior outside Reese Rulhman. Depending on the Broncos’ passing and defense, they could be a top contender in the state again this year.
Croswell-Lexington was able to pick up some confidence last season, but lost leader Lexie Davidson on the outside. Davidson was one of 10 seniors on the 2017 squad. That leaves the Pioneers having a lot of transition to deal with to open the season. Devyn Gordon will be relied on for their attack after amassing over 365 kills and 110 blocks last year. The Pioneers also will return setter Sydney Soper to help develop the younger talent.
Richmond was in the mix last season in the conference race, but the Blue Devils also have a lot of big losses. They lose three All-Region players form 2017 in middles Jessica Weaver and Shayla Zihlavsky, along with libero Sam Christensen. They were three of seven seniors to graduate last spring. Ashley Teltow is a returning outside that will look to have a big 2018 season.
Almont was able to make some strides in 2017, posting a winning record. The Raiders also lose a lot of key seniors, but will return outside Maria Bussone, who had over 380 kills and 145 digs last season.
Blue Water Area Conference Prediction: North Branch
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