Experienced KMS aiming for a better season

KMS junior Katie Klaphake (9) looks to hit the ball down the line while RCW blockers Alexis Roxberg (12) and Addyson Tanner go for the deflection during a Camden Conference match Thursday at Kerkhoven.

After some unusual struggles in 2021, the Fighting Saints are more experienced and have more depth

BY TOM ELLIOTT | West Central Tribune

KERKHOVEN — After a long run of being toward the top of the Camden Conference, 2021 turned out to be quite different for Kerkhoven- Murdock-Sunburg.

The Fighting Saints wound up going 0-11 in the Camden’s North Division and 7-21 overall. It was a surprise to Joquel Molenar, who is in her 11th season as head coach.

“Our record was pretty poor last year,” Molenar said. “We were close in a lot of our matches, but we couldn’t finish off a lot of games.

“Our conference is very tough. I’m looking for us to be a lot better record-wise.”

The reason for optimism is eight seniors, six of whom started. All saw playing time last year. The group includes outside hitters Julia Carlson, Shakira Olson and Katie Klaphake. Middle hitter Taylor Haats, who was an honorable-mention All-Camden pick, was voted the team’s best offensive player. Carlson was voted as having the best team spirit.

Also back is senior libero Elsa Gjerde and senior defensive specialist Josie Gerde. Elsa Gjerde was voted the team’s best defensive player.

“The girls are looking really strong,” Molenar said. “A few have stepped up into leadership positions and that was needed. Last year, we didn’t have a lot of confidence. This year, we’ll have a little more grit and fire and a little more depth.”

Also back is sophomore Savannah Peterson, who was voted as the team’s most improved player.

They’ll try to make up for the loss of Grace Collins and Karli Jensen. Collins was a three-year starter at setter. Jensen was a defensive specialist.

“I think we’ll surprise a few people this year,” Molenar said. “I think it’ll be a good year.”

A key player to watch will be Olivia Noble. The junior setter will be running the offense for the first time on varsity.

“Noble is our starting setter this year,” Molenar said. “She has been waiting for her chance out on the court and is already doing some great things.

“She has great hands, is a consistent setter — already — and is also an offensive threat as well. She is quick and can jump … Look for her to be noticed making an impact immediately out on the court.”