By MATT “SWEETS” McCARTHY

Sports Writer

FELCH TOWNSHIP — In Nordic country, there’s been a familiar face in the head coach’s seat on the North Dickinson varsity volleyball bench. Long time coach Sandy Haustein has stepped down due to family reasons, noted Nordics athletic director Mike Roell.

The new head coach is Haustein’s JV coach from last season Taylor Johnson. Roell notes she is very excited an eager to get her feet wet as the teams varsity coach. Johnson will be assisted by Jill Steinbrecher.

“We have a young team this year, made of eight juniors and one sophomore,” Johnson said. “This team is very eager to prove themselves and have high hopes for a successful season.”

We are returning just three players from last season – Ashton Hord, Chrislyn Inglese, and Kassandra Cary. “These three girls have done a great job stepping up to the plate as leaders; they lead like seniors, despite not being ones.”

“We expect to see some competitive conference play, particularly from powerhouses like Carney-Nadeau and Stephenson. We have been working hard and will continue to strive in the hopes that we also can be a conference powerhouse,” Johnson added.

North Dickinson opens the season Monday hosting Skyline Central Conference foe Norway. Tuesday night, they travel to non-conference opponent Kingsford.

Roster:

Name, grade

Micah Lindholm 10

Ashton Hord 11

Kassandra Cary 11

Vanessa Lindholm 11

Sophie Mattson 11

Chrislyn Inglese 11

Isabella Reimer 11

Eleigh Stout 11

Kendra Mayo 11