2021 Prep Preview: Top defenses in Division 3
With so many big offensive powerhouse teams going through changes in the 2021 season, defense could be the story of Division 3 this fall. Here’s a look at five teams that should be among the best defensive teams in D3…
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Continue ReadingWith so many big offensive powerhouse teams going through changes in the 2021 season, defense could be the story of Division 3 this fall.
Here’s a look at five teams that should be among the best defensive teams in D3 when all is said and done.
Bronson
There is only one returning libero in Division 3 that had any kind of All-State recognition in 2020 and that is Bronson senior Jaydn Cary. She has the instincts and athleticism to be even stronger this season while helping the D3 power make a push back to Kellogg Arena. Karissa Gest is a strong six-rotation outside that has the passing skills to be a standout defender as well. Macy Covey and Kaylee Withington also return up front to help lead the blocking efforts.
Beaverton
The Beavers have reached the semifinals the last two years and will have plenty of questions to address on offense. However, the defense should still be a strength led by senior libero Alexis Grove. Leiyah Mungin and Hannah Stearns were regular contributors on the court on the outside and were among team leaders in digs last fall. Faith Danielak returns in the middle as a junior after leading Beaverton in blocks in 2020. The 6-footer could be in line for a big breakout season.
Valley Lutheran
The Chargers weren’t able to compete in their 2020 semifinal match, which may only fuel the fire of this year’s returning unit. While some big pieces graduated, the Chargers should still bring a solid defense to the court this year. Ashlyn Martin is a dynamic middle that led the team in blocks and was third in digs. She will be a senior leader that others can mimic due to her work ethic. Olivia Grimpo is a 6’2” middle that steps into her senior year and has been working on her footwork to be a stronger defensive presence. Laxie Peplinski and Lindsay Burk were among team dig leaders as well and should round out a solid back row.
Riverview Gabriel Richard
The Pioneers had a relatively young team in 2020, which should allow them to come to the court with a lot of team chemistry in 2021. Defense can lead the way this year with Sarah Collins returning as a senior libero. Natalie Neubecker and Delaney Cousino Delaney Cousino 5'7" | OH Riverview Gabriel Richard | 2024 State MI were promising outsides as freshmen and can take big steps forward this year with improved all-around play. Faith Sibert and Mia Woodworth return as options in the middle that can create some havoc with their blocking to help the defense.
North Muskegon
The Norsemen were district champions last year and will have some holes to fill on offense. However, defense can definitely carry North Muskegon in the early going. The Noresemen will have a lot of returning defensive experience with Megan Houseman, Grace Vander Woude, Josee Cooke and Jaley Schultz. Up front, Emma Houseman was an All-Region middle last fall as a sophomore. She has the ability to impact a lot of opposing swings to make life easier for her passers.