Volleyball: Teams, players to watch

Lakeville North: Defending Class 3A champion brings back five players who saw regular time on the court in the state tournament.

Bloomington Jefferson: Three-victory team four years ago has the pedigree to make a championship run this season with four Division I athletes (three for volleyball, one for basketball).

Wayzata: Class 3A runner-up last year will be strong again, but middle blocker Toni Okuyemi is out until at least Sept. 20 because of an Achilles' tendon injury.

Shakopee: Looking to extend run of six consecutive Missota Conference championships, and get back to state following three titles in a row (2007-09).

Blaine: The Dimke sisters (senior Sydney and sophomore Lydia) provide a potent one-two punch, combining for 346 kills last year.

Julia Doyle, Wayzata

• Nearly 750 set assists last season and more than 200 kills.

• Four-year starter with more than 1,000 kills.

Haley Bodway, Bloomington Jefferson

• Powerful at the net with a quick arm swing can get through most blocks.

Taylr McNeil, Eagan

• Pounded 27 kills in last year's state championship game for Lakeville North.

• Will be the go-to hitter on a talented squad.