Athletic Storstad to lead Riders

Two years ago, Grand Forks Red River track and field coaches talked Megan Storstad into a sport she had never tried.

They convinced Storstad to come out and throw the javelin. Well, two North Dakota state track meets later, Storstad is a state-champion javelin thrower.

It's that natural athleticism that makes the senior outside hitter one of the best volleyball players in the state.

"Megan's got solid skills all the way around," Red River coach Carolyn Olson said. "She's an all-around athlete. We could have her set if we need to. She passes well and plays great defense. She could really play a variety of positions, but we're going to use her on the outside."

As an all-East Region player last season, Storstad piled up 234 kills, 56 aces and 312 digs.

It was Storstad's second straight season of more than 100 kills and 300 digs.

"She's 5-8 or 5-9, so she's not exceptionally tall, but she's put time in the weight room," Olson said. "She's done her work outside the court. She's really developed as an athlete."

With the loss of Casey Morton (201 kills) and Sarah Smith (210 kills) to graduation, Storstad is easily Red River's top returning offensive attacker and will be counted on to be a team leader.

"I think I can help the younger players on the team get used to the level of play and have a good time," Storstad said.

Olson agrees.

"I think Megan brings a calmness to the court," Olson said. "She provides leadership skills just being out there. She's comfortable doing a variety of things. You have that player who's been around a number of years and she won't be rattled by situations that could develop."

With the help of setter Rachel Black and middle hitter Holly Asche, Storstad and the Riders hope to contend for East Region and state titles.

"West Fargo and Fargo South will be good, as usual," Storstad said. "I think we're right up there. We should be very strong in the East Region. We just need to take it one game at a time."

Storstad and Olson also have been impressed with Red River's newcomers.

"So far, they've been very good," Storstad said. "I'm excited to see what they can bring to the team."

The key, Olson said, will be how the veterans and newcomers mesh.

"We've looked very good so far," Olson said. "We have the potential to be one of the top teams."

Miller reports on sports. Reach him at (701) 780-1121; (800) 477-6572, ext. 121; or send e-mail to tmiller@gfherald.com .