Proctor High School’s Basketball Stars Swap Nets
Prep Dig Staff
<p> In northern Minnesota basketball often reigns as the top female sport, but the players at Proctor high school prove you can master both. It is great to see the numbers and the level of competition grow north of the metro. This year the players on Proctor's team are hoping to shake things up in the AA Lake Superior conference. </p>
<p> The team has a talented senior duo who can post-up, make a three point play, shoot free throws, and nail a jumper beyond the arch; but for the next two months, they are focused on their other skill set. <strong>Sam Pogatchnik,</strong> is the Rail's starting right side hitter. At 5'9, she is a dynamic attacker with an impressive vertical. The team often rely on her for setting duties too. In last year's season alone, she had 280 assists and close to 300 kills. Next year she will take her talent to <em>Bemiji State</em>'s basketball team. </p>
<p> Her classmate, <strong>Katelyn Marunich</strong>, has also chosen to continue her athletic career on the basketball court next year at <em>Southwest Minnesota State</em>. At 6'2'' she has been a commanding center for the Rail's girls basketball team. Likewise, her height has added ability on the volleyball court. Again, found in the middle, she is an excellent blocker. Her ability to take away space from hitters isn't always reflected in her stats but she is making opponents work. <em>Marunich</em> has improved her hitting greatly over seasons spent with the <em>Minnesota North club</em> team. </p>
<p> However, to make it out of the quarterfinals this year, the team will need more than just these two. <strong>Payton Rodberg</strong> is only a sophomore, but the natural leader for Proctor. Last year she led the team in kills. As a 5'9'' outside player, she will likely play all six rotations. Perhaps the the position she has the most impact is at the service line. Helping in the back row will be <strong>Mia Himes </strong>and<strong> Cora Ross.</strong> Improved serve receive will be big if they want to climb to the top of the conference. </p>
<p> Basketball may be the passion of <strong>Marunich</strong> and <strong>Pogatchnik</strong>, but we hope to see their volleyball career end on a high note; and if their colleges needed to fill the volleyball roster, these dual sport athletes would be a great choice!</p>
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