SWMNVB 17s Looking to Defend at the NLQ

Prep Dig Staff

April 26, 2019 @ 11:32 AM

If you're not heading down to the NLQ this weekend in downtown Minneapolis, you're missing out. Teams from all across the country have flown in over the past couple days to match up against the best of the bests and try to secure the coveted bids to GJNC in Indianapolis. SWMNVB is one of those teams -- but instead of an airplane or bus, they just took the quick 3 hour car ride from Southern MN and settled in. A 7-Team Club that is based out of Marshall, MN -- SWMNVB has had no problem making a name for themselves - especially in the last couple years. Last year, their 16s team (many of those players are on their 17-1's team with several positions improved since last year) won the NLQ American Division -- and then went on to win the 16 Club Division at AAU Nationals in Florida. And let's not forget, their 18s from last year (comprised of mostly 17s and a couple 18s) were also National Champs in the Club Division at AAU Nationals. Their kids are well trained and they pride themselves on excellent ball control and gritty defense. They are coached primarily by SMSU Staff members and current players. The standard that has been set at SMSU has clearly translated into their club program and they are doing some great things. So -- how will the 17s do at the NLQ this weekend? Let's break it down. They come into the tournament ranked 19th out of 58. That's not surprising, as their season starts a little later than most due to so many multi-sport athletes. That won't matter to them, though. They just settle in and get to work. They play with a ton of emotion -- which tends to get in the heads of their opponents. So who do they need to play well? Logan Sherman -- 2020 S/RS -- Logan has been talked about a TON on PrepDig...and even was mentioned as a 2020 to watch at the NLQ in a recent article. She's going to have to be on top of her game. A emotional and physical leader, she commands the court as a vocal leader and with the way she plays. In order for SWMNVB to repeat, Sherman is going to have to have a great weekend. Natalie Rolbiecki -- 2022 OH -- Natalie is a standout athlete from Minneota. Fresh off a State Championship for Volleyball AND Basketball, Rolbiecki has to be looking to translate that success into her club season, as well. Extremely smart and disciplined, Natalie is a go-to player for SW. She rarely makes mistakes and that has allowed her to emerge so quickly and play up in the club scene. Autumn Hauge -- 2020 RS -- Autumn is new to SWMNVB, but she brings a heavy arm and a big block on the right side. She is one of Sherman's "go-to's" when she is in system and Hauge does a great job finding open spots on the court and mixing it up. Kalleigh Carr -- 2020 L -- In order for SW to repeat, their ball control is going to have to be spot on. Carr leads the charge in the back-row with a solid platform and quick reactions. She brings a ton of fire to this team and is an anchor in their back court. If you get a chance -- head over to their court and check out this emotional and firey team that SWMNVB has brought to the NLQ. They are sure to surprise a lot of people, and I expect them to make a run at Championship Sunday. Photo Credit: Facebook