FIVE TEAMS 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.
FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH
Julia Doyle, Wayzata
6-1 setter; sr.
• Nearly 750 set assists last season and more than 200 kills.
Leigh Pudwill, Centennial
6-2 outside hitter; sr.
• Four-year starter with more than 1,000 kills.
Haley Bodway, Bloomington Jefferson
6-1 outside hitter; sr.
• Powerful at the net with a quick arm swing can get through most blocks.
Taylr McNeil, Eagan
6-foot outside hitter; so.
• Pounded 27 kills in last year's state championship game for Lakeville North.
Alyssa Goehner, Lakeville North
5-10 outside hitter; so.
• Will be the go-to hitter on a talented squad.
BRIAN STENSAAS