New Life Academy at Mayer Lutheran
7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2

The top seed in Section 4A is likely up for grabs Tuesday night when Mayer Lutheran (1-1) hosts New Life Academy (2-1). Both teams took a backseat to a senior-laden Southwest Christian squad last fall as the Stars emerged from the section to win the state Class 1A championship. With graduation depleting the Stars' roster, the Eagles and the Crusaders seemed poised to take advantage. 

Mayer Lutheran is no stranger to the state tournament, qualifying seven times in coach Joelle Grimsley’s 18 years at the school. Senior middle Maria Kuntz is the latest in the Crusaders’ long line of top hitters. She’ll be tested by a veteran New Life Academy team (No. 3-1A) anchored by a trio of four-year starters — setter Kara Stenerson, middle Abby Thor and outside hitter Abby Gorter. All three are only juniors.