Setting expectations high

For the past two years, the New Rockford-Sheyenne Rockets have been to the Class B Volleyball State Tournament, and with another season getting underway, this year's team is hoping they can make it three in a row.

It'll be harder than ever this year, however, as three seniors who were instrumental to the team's previous success won't be returning.

But Sara Myhre, head coach of the NR-S Rockets, says there's still plenty of talent and experience on this year's roster.

"We have four returning starters from last season," said Myhre. "Kaiya O'Connor, Ava Peterson, Logan Cudworth and Emmie Belquist. I feel the four of them have the power to really have an impact on how the season goes.

"They know what it takes as far as playing in competitive games under pressure and how to work together as a team."

Three of those returning starters – O'Connor, Cudworth and Peterson – will be taking on more of a leadership role this season, as they were each voted this year's team captains.

The team began practice on Monday, Aug. 19, and Myhre says they've been focused on conditioning and the fundamentals, as well as coaching receptiveness and their ability to work as a team.

This year's team also has six seniors: Bailey Jacobson, Addysen Fandrich, Tillie Swart, Abby Nystrom, Ava Bullinger and O'Connor.

And based on what she's seen in practice so far, Myhre says it's her team's experience that could be a real positive this season.

"I believe our biggest team strength at the varsity level is experience, and with experience comes confidence," said Myhre.

"We had a varsity and JV scrimmage against Medina/Pingree-Buchanan on [August 27] and it was so much fun to watch them all play and to see how all of them have matured and developed as an athlete from last season."

Myhre added that the challenge of handling pressure is always the most difficult to overcome, which is why having such an experienced group could bode well for the Rockets this season.

Nevertheless, the loss of graduates Kelsie Belquist, Lucy Meier and Lora Wobbema won't be easily overcome, but Myhre is confident they can do it.

The varsity squad's first test will come against Oakes on Thursday, Sept. 5, which will take place at their home gym in New Rockford at 7 p.m.

Meanwhile, in that day's b-squad and c-squad games, the community will get to see the large amount of talent on display throughout the popular NR-S volleyball program.

"We have 45 girls 7th-12th playing volleyball this year and to see those kinds of numbers in the volleyball program is so inspiring," said Myhre. "We have a great group of athletes and coaches and I'm looking forward to our first game at home against Oakes on September 5th."