Prep athletes of the week: Blaine quarterback picks up where he left off last season

Thrust into a starting role midway through last season because of an injury, Connor Melton has thrived ever since.

In Blaine's season opener, Melton completed 16 of 24 passes for 400 yards and five touchdowns and rushed for 50 more yards and another score in a 53-28 victory over Stillwater.

"Connor continues to get better as a quarterback every time he steps on the field," Blaine coach Tom Develice said. "He did a tremendous job leading and controlling our offense against Stillwater. He made some great decisions with the football, and gave other kids opportunities to be successful."

Melton, who also plays hockey and baseball, carries a 4.0 GPA in the classroom. He led the Bengals to the Class 6A state tournament semifinals a year ago.

"As a student-athlete, he leads by example in all areas," Develice said. "What amazes me the most about Connor is how humble he is. He doesn't want the attention or accolades.He just wants our team to be successful."

Biffert has netted a hat trick in two of the Cougars' first three victories. "Her relentless work ethic is what gives her so many opportunities," Lakeville South coach Olivia Bagnall said. "Bianca's athleticism, control, and driven mentality help get the job done. She plays a huge role in the success of our team."

The senior quarterback did it all for the Vikings in their season opener. He passed for 287 yards and two touchdowns and ran for another 176 yards and four scores in a 50-30 victory over Princeton.

Florvil has turned into a scoring machine for the Millers. He had a hat trick, including the game winner in overtime, in a 3-2 upset victory over East Ridge. He also scored the lone goal in a 1-1 tie with Edina and had two goals and three assists in an 8-0 triumph over Cooper.

The senior has been key to the Wildcats getting off to a 3-1 start. Lange netted a hat trick against Hutchinson. "She has continued her high level of play from a year ago," Waconia coach Ivan Woyno said.

ACER IVERSON

Iverson has opened the season with back-to-back medalist honors, most recently winning the Irish Invitational by four-tenths of a second. The junior completed the two-mile course in 9 minutes, 42.4 seconds. He previously won the St. Paul Central Invitational.

RON HAGGSTROM