Kokoro 18-1 undefeated at Winter Classic
The appropriately named event held in Milwaukee this past weekend, had a near perfect performance in the 18 Open Division as Kokoro 18-1’s controlled the event. With the massive storm that moved in late Friday afternoon, the MN and…
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Continue ReadingThe appropriately named event held in Milwaukee this past weekend, had a near perfect performance in the 18 Open Division as Kokoro 18-1’s controlled the event. With the massive storm that moved in late Friday afternoon, the MN and WI players made their way to Milwaukee.
Perfect in Pool Play: Kokoro came out with as much power as the predicted storm, making quick work of all the teams in Pool A. Their opponents were held below 15 points in four out of the eight sets. The WI Juniors 18 Elite came closest losing 25-21 and 25-13. It was the last match in pool play, but Kokoro’s players were well conditioned and didn’t look the least bit fatigued. Early stars on the team emerged during the first round. Kaitlyn Steffes, of Rochester John Marshall, was compelling in the early matches. At 5’10” uncommitted junior, influenced the game from all aspects. From her aggressive jump serve to her forceful swings, she had her hand on most plays. Her passing and defense looks to have improved too since joining Kokoro. Steffes has played for various top programs: Southeast Energy (SEE), Southern Minnesota Volleyball (SMV) to Northern Lights (last year), and now to Kokoro. This weekend showed she’s found her niche.
Teammate Lauren Stenman did wonderful job with her part otoo. Their offense seemed to be better established than others. She spread the ball nicely from pin to pin, while making sure to feed the hitter with the hot hand. The North High School favored her as a right side hitter and she got plenty of chances to attack this weekend too. After their state tournament run and this title, it will be a big year for Stenman and teammates.
Club Championship: They breezed into the Gold bracket and continued to knock out the tough CIA 17 Black. This match proved to be one of their toughest, with CIA’s strong middles. Dani Stock, gave the hitters a challenge with her strong blocking. In the end, Kokoro had a few longer runs and fewer errors at key times.
Next they crushed 1st Alliance White. No matter what line-up they went with, they were able to pull away early. Last they faced their club-mates Kokoro 17 for the championship. In the first set, the 17’s looked fired up for the chance to try and beat their 18’s. There were a few lead changes and ties, but the 18’s remained in control throughout thanks to Alexandra Lyle and the passing of Madison Klimek.
Wisconsin Players: 4 of the 9 players on the championship 18’s team are from Wisconsin. They were essential to the success this weekend bringing energy, skill, and height to the team. Emily Banitt from Prescott, WI pounded the ball down from everywhere on the court. Her line shots on the outside were one of the team’s favorites, but we loved her quicks in the middle too. By her side was Makenna Holman, a 6’1” from Osceola. Her size adds a lot to the line-up and will continue to serve them well as they face some of the top teams in the nation. Maddi Kealy and Brenna Olson both were assets to the offense too.
The Kokoro’s near perfect tournament and should give them the confidence needed as they prepare to take on elite competition this season.