Stanton aiming for first ever state tournament appearance

Team: Stanton

Mascot: Mustangs

Colors: Orange and Black

Class: C-2

Head Coach: Tracy Kuester-Burtwhistle (1st season)

2014 record: 32-2

Returning Starters: 3


Overview:

After going 32-2 a season ago and being left out of the state tournament, the Stanton Mustangs appear to have plenty of motivation to get the job done this season.

Stanton returns three starters, including Hiliary Huss (5'7 SR S/OH), Mackenzie Brandl (5'5 JR L), and Chantelle Christensen (5'10 SR M).

Other returning letterwinners include Ali Wade (5'10 SR M), Alex Oestreich (5'4 SR S/DS), Leah Arens (5'10 SR M/OH), and Sally Brechbill (5'8 JR OH).

The Mustangs appear to have plenty of depth with a couple of freshmen expected to start. Stanton shouldn't wear out as the season goes along, and should be able to remain fresh at all times.

Head Coach Tracy Kuester-Burtwhistle says her squad is motivated to finish what last year's team started. "After a heartbreaking season going 32-2 and losing to Columbus Scotus at District Finals and not making the wildcard to go to State. Let’s just say that the players have that extra drive to continue to stay focused and the determination to succeed. We have a combination of older and younger players that will play a significant role this year that will only enhance our team. Our multi-sport players compete not only in volleyball, but also have endured success in basketball and track. From that experience they have learned how important each person’s role is to a team to be successful. We are looking forward to this year’s 2015 Season."

The Mustangs must replace the middle position, but feel they have players capable of stepping up and filling the outside hitter position.

It appears Stanton is going to have two freshmen starters, and I would imagine they and other newcomers could have a significant impact on this team.

The Mustangs appear to be strongest at serving, serve receiving, and defense.

Mental toughness is something they need to work on, according to Kuester-Burtwhistle.

Kuester-Burtwhistle feels her team can live up to expectations. "This is a strong volleyball PROGRAM and the student-athletes are commited to continue with the values and foundation that has been set before them."

Stanton certainly has to be very motivated to get to the state tournament for the first time in school history given what happened to them against Columbus Scotus last season.

The good news for the Mustangs is they are in Class C-2 now. That should give Stanton a better chance to make the state tournament as they won't have to deal with Columbus Scotus.

I look for this season to be very successful for the Mustangs. I look for Stanton to be near the level they were at last year. Look for the Mustangs to finish what was started by last year's team.

Season Outlook:

The Stanton Mustangs have to be motivated beyond belief given how their season ended a year ago.

Kuester-Burtwhistle says this team always sets goals. "Goals are a must with this program and we do set goals to achieve however if we have a setback it’s good to reevaluate those goals and learn from them."

Stanton didn't suffer many setbacks a year ago, and could very well have the same kind of success this season.

The Mustangs figure to be challenged by Wisner-Pilger, Oakland-Craig, Howells-Dodge, West Point-Beemer, Pierce, Randolph, and North Bend Central.

The schedule isn't the most difficult, but Stanton will still have some difficult challenges on their hands.

Teams will definitely be gunning for the Mustangs given all the success they had last year.

Stanton has a good mixture of size and speed, and should be able to match up well with just about anyone they play.

That's what you want ideally. A team that can go out there and get the job done against any opponent. That certainly describes the Mustangs.

Stanton could be challenged in sub districts by Humphrey/Lindsay Holy Family, but if the Mustangs can get past them they should have a really good chance of making the state tournament. 

Anything less than a state tournament berth will no doubt be a disappointment for this program. I really think Stanton will make it this year though. The schedule sets up nicely for the Mustangs to have a very good regular season, and have postseason success.

I look for Stanton to be very dominate again this season. Look for the Mustangs to be in Lincoln come November. 

Projected Starting Lineup:

Hiliary Huss – S/OH 5’7” Sr

Bree Burtwistle – S/R 5’8” Fr

Leah Arens – R 5’10” Sr

Jessie Brandl – OH 5’7” Fr

Chantelle Christensen – M 5’10” Sr

Ali Wade – M 5’10” Sr

MacKenzie Brandl 5’5” Jr

2015 Stanton Mustangs Volleyball Schedule:

09/03/15	Madison	C1
09/03/15	Clarkson/Leigh	C2
09/05-09/05	(To Be Determined)
09/10-09/12	(To Be Determined)
09/17/15	Boone Central/Newman Grove	C1
09/17/15	Norfolk Catholic	C1
09/19-09/19	(To Be Determined)
09/22/15	Pender	D1
09/22/15	Wisner-Pilger	C2
09/29/15	Tekamah-Herman	C1
09/29/15	Oakland-Craig	C2
10/06/15	Howells-Dodge	D1
10/13/15	West Point-Beemer	C1
10/13/15	Scribner-Snyder	D2
10/15-10/17	(To Be Determined)
10/20/15	Pierce	C1
10/20/15	Randolph	D1
10/20/15	Randolph	D1
10/27/15	Logan View	C1
10/27/15	North Bend Central	C1
10/27/15	North Bend Central	C1
10/29/15	@ Twin River	C2