Volleyball: Benson Braves hope that experience counts

BENSON — With five returning starters, the Benson volleyball team is looking to make strides in the upcoming season under new leadership. The handful of returnees come back to a Braves’ squad that finished 1-13 in the West Central Conference and 4-17 overall in 2023. But, as the new season gets underway, first-year head coach Erick Hedman will be at the helm of Benson.

His assistant coaches will be Holly Erickson and Renee Helgenset. Benson will be led by senior Mya McGeary, who will have four returning juniors in her support. Hedman noted that McGeary, who is a 5-foot-4 setter, is a good defender and an excellent server for the Braves.



McGeary will be joined by junior starting returners Julia Claussen, Sophie Krusemark, Madison Osterbauer and Gwen Wilcox. Hedman said that Claussen, who is a 5-6 setter, has good hands and provides Benson with leadership on the floor. Hedman mentioned that Krusemark, a 5-3 libero, is a good passer who reads the court well.

Osterbauer, who is a 5-8 middle hitter, is versatile up front, being that she can connect on attacks from various positions on the court, according to Hedman. Hedman believes that Wilcox, a 5-5 outside hitter, will generate offense through her hitting and passing abilities. Another key senior to watch for the Braves is Lexi Hoberg.

She is a 5-7 middle hitter with power, according to Hedman. A pair of sophomores to look out for on Benson’s roster are outside hitters Jada O’Leary and Carly Tolifson. Key losses for the Braves from the 2023 season include: Kaylin Grube, Hailee Ellingson and Presley Nygaard.

.