MVC Top Defenders
Every team needs a defensive stopper sooner or later. A player that can shut down a top offensive threat or alter shots in the paint can change a game all by themselves. These players play a role that is often…
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Continue ReadingEvery team needs a defensive stopper sooner or later. A player that can shut down a top offensive threat or alter shots in the paint can change a game all by themselves. These players play a role that is often unsung and under the radar. The bigger the games get come tourney time the more important it becomes to have that girl who can get you that big stop.
- Ashlyn Klucker is a 5’10 2020 wing from Highland. Ashlyn is that player that loves the assignment of stopping the opposing teams best player. She is long and can really disrupt passing lanes and shots. Ashlyn has shown her ability against some of the top talent in the Metro East. She was was able to hold multiple high scorers to 10 or less.
- Ali Scace is a 5’8 2020 guard from Waterloo. Ali is a very good on ball defender. She does a great job of putting constant pressure on the girl she is guarding.Ali wants the role of defending the best player and has the right attitude to accept the challenge. When she goes, the team goes according to Coach Tim Augustine.
- Maura Niemeier is a 5’6 2022 guard from Civic Memorial. Maura is an outstanding athlete. She excels in track and field in sprints and jumps. She is able to use that physical talent to be a very good defender. Maura is very good on the ball and will cause turnovers. She is also very good in the passing lanes and using her speed to get to a ball or player that others cannot.
- Maya Singletary is a 5’8 2021 wing from Mascoutah. Maya is another very good on ball defender that can alter a game with her defense. She has a very high energy motor. Maya provides much needed energy and leadership to her team on the defensive side of the ball.
- Abby Manns is a 5’7 2020 guard from Jerseyville. Abby has long arms and does a great job of using that reach to get her hands on the ball. She averaged almost 2 steals per game and blocked 22 shots. Not many guards can do this plus lead the team in rebounding. Abby is tough on the ball and in the passing lane.
- Avery Bohnenstiehl is a 5’9 2022 wing from Triad. Avery is a very good soccer player that uses her athletic ability and length very well. She can make it very hard for guards to get a good look at a pass or shot. Avery played more minutes the last half of her freshman campaign. She will be counted on to help anchor the defense in her sophomore season.
- Jackie Woelfel is a 6’0 2021 forward from Civic Memorial. Jackie is very long and extremely versatile. During the summer session Coach Denney used her on a 6’5 post player and also a 5’5 guard. She can use her motor and length to disrupt anybody. Jackie is excellent at post defense. She really excels in her ability to anticipate the passes at the back end of their run and jump defense. This is vital to take advantage of the over the top passes and turn them into a fast break going the other way.
CM has been the top dog in the conference the last few years. The Lady Eagles have built their team on defense. I could have very easily named a few more players from Coach Denney’s team. The ability of the other teams to handle their pressure and create some stops of their own will be important. Any team that can do that will be able to compete for the regular season crown and make a post season run.