Josh Wastvedt wanted to make Burnsville's volleyball program prominent again when he took over as coach four years ago. He is headed in that direction.
The Blaze, who had their first winning season (16-13) in nearly a decade last year, have opened the season with four consecutive wins. Their most recent victory was a three-game sweep of Chanhassen, 25-18, 25-8, 25-14. It's their first 4-0 start in more than 20 years.
"We're really excited and happy with our start to this season and hopeful to keep things rolling," said Wastvedt, whose squad will host Edina in a key Class 4A, Section 6 matchup on Tuesday night. "Being able to start off with four straight wins is a big accomplishment for them and really a reflection of the work we've put in over the last four seasons."
He has a veteran group, with seven seniors, led by 5-7 libero Corrina Benson (30 digs), 5-10 setter/outside hitter Kiylah Franke (48 kills and 34 digs) and 5-5 setter Julia Valois (80 assists, 24 service aces, 21 digs). The other four seniors are 5-6 Abby Briese, 5-10 Eleri Deaven, 5-8 Ashlyn O'Brien and 5-9 Evelynn Shero.
The Blaze last appeared in the state tournament in 2009.
"These girls are working hard to get Blaze volleyball back into state contention and are determined to make a statement," Wastvedt said.
"We've really been stressing being in the moment and keeping a good balance between being composed on the court and utilizing their high energy to increase our play."
Outside hitter Mesaiya Bettis, a 6-foot sophomore, has 60 kills and 21 digs, and 6-foot junior Julia Perrine contributes significantly down the middle.
