New Life Academy vs. Jordan
1 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 29

No. 8-2A New Life Academy returns an experienced core of contributors to this year’s squad, giving the Eagles a chance at redemption after a close loss to Mayer Lutheran in the Class 2A, Section 4 finals last season. 

Senior outside hitter Abby Gortner (326 kills, 246 digs) has been a team captain since her freshman year, while fellow seniors setter Kara Sternerson (962 assists) and middle hitter Abby Thor (331 kills) have been starters since the eighth grade. The trio of stars were all named all-state last season. 

Jordan has its own stock of talent. The No. 4-2A Jaguars return senior outside hitter Kenzie Hennen (334 kills), who was named all-state honorable mention last season. Senior middle hitter Karli Nielsen (295 kills) and junior setter Lexie Chambers (957 assists), who were both Minnesota River all-conference selections, should help the program transition under first-year coach Mary Bright.