MAYER – When a team returns all but two players from a state championship a season ago, expectations are high. When you add a sophomore who’s a six-foot power hitter into the mix, expectations are even higher.
The Crusaders, who have been ranked the No. 1 team in Class A all season long, only added to their championship team from a season ago with the addition of middle hitter Claudia Stahlke this season.
Stahlke, a sophomore who came along for the state title run a season ago, is now beginning to find her groove alongside her teammates, and it’s showing as the Crusaders cruised to a 3-0 (25-14, 25-9, 25-14) sweep over third-ranked Bethlehem Academy Tuesday night.
Sophomore Caludia Stahlke has found her groove with her teammates as Mayer Lutheran improved to 19-1 on the season with a 3-0 sweep against third-ranked Bethlehem Academy Tuesday night.
“I think that communication helps a lot with me,” Stahlke said. “I haven’t been on the team before, so talking to the girls and bonding with them really helps me on the court.”
The Crusaders jumped out to early leads in each of three sets, never letting up as they cruised to their 18th sweep of the season. Aggressive serving was also a key for the Crusaders in the win as six players recorded at least one ace in the win.
Stahlke, who joins an already loaded lineup for the Crusaders with Maddy Hucky, Sophia Heuer, Madi Beck, Martina Saulsbury, and Olivia Tjernagel, has fit in nicely as the Crusaders improved to 19-1 on the season with their win Tuesday night.
What’s been the key for Stahlke to fitting in? Look no more than the senior leaders who know what it takes to win at the highest level.
“I got to say, Maddy, Mya, and Sophie,” Stahlke said about who’s helped made the transition to the team easier. “They just cheer me on. It’s a blast (playing with them). I love it. I wouldn’t trade this team for the world.”
Stahlke and the Crusaders are back in action Thursday, Oct. 5 when they host LeSuer-Henderson for a Minnesota River Conference matchup.
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