Despite the South Suburban Conference losing 10 graduating seniors to Division I or Division II volleyball programs, traditional powers Prior Lake, Lakeville North, Lakeville South and Eagan are loaded with returning talent.
Here is a look at some returning players who will keep the conference among the most competitive in the state next year.
Prior Lake
After losing to Lakeville South in the state quarterfinals, the Lakers won the consolation bracket and are returning Kayla Bair and Haley Stolt. Bair led the team in kills while Stolt finished third. Both are in line to fill a void left by six graduating Lakers seniors.
Lakeville South
The Cougars graduated two Division I talents in Halle Johnston and Jenny Mosser. Jasmine Mulvihill, who finished second on the team in kills, returns along with setter Sydney Case.
Eagan
Winners of three state championships in four years, the Wildcats lose Alyssa Doucette, Saylor Olstad and Brie Orr to graduation. Kennedi Orr is the heir apparent to sister Brie's starting setter position. Other returners include McKenna Melville, Ellie Husemann and Anne Wong.
Lakeville North
Kills leader Elizabeth Juhnke and setter Amanda Burger will lead a team with five seniors and seven juniors with significant experience returning.
ELLIS L. WILLIAMS
