The Saint Ansgar Saints Volleyball team’s incredible journey through the 2024 season came to a heart-wrenching close last night in the Class 1A State Quarterfinal, as they fell to Janesville in straight sets, 23-25, 25-27, and 22-25.
While the loss stings, the spirit, dedication, and resilience displayed by the players throughout the season cannot be overstated. Under the guidance of Coach Steph Beaver, this team exemplified a culture rooted in hard work, camaraderie, and a steadfast belief in each other—qualities that will carry them far beyond the court.
But it wasn’t just about winning matches—it was about the mindset they cultivated along the way. These Saints were always looking ahead to the next challenge, always pushing to be better than they were the day before. That mindset was evident in the way they responded every time they took the court.
At the heart of the team’s success this season was the coaching staff, led by Coach Steph Beaver, whose belief in her players never wavered. Coach Beaver’s leadership has been the foundation of the Saints’ success. Known for her positive energy, tactical acumen, and relentless support, she has been more than just a coach to this team—she has been a mentor, a guide, and a fierce advocate for every player’s potential. Steph is blessed to have a team of coaches behind her with a perfect match to the values that she radiates. Enter Coaches Courtney Jorgensen, Logan Zipse, Katie Brinkman, and Keely Schwiesow, and you have the perfect team to accomplish greatness.
From the first day of practice to the final match, these coaches showed this volleyball team what it means to believe in themselves. Even when facing tough losses, like the season-opener against Central Springs, our Lady Saints were reminded that it’s not about one set or one match—it’s about who they are as a team and how they support each other.
Beaver and Company’s commitment to their athletes has helped shape a team culture defined by trust, work ethic, and mutual respect. The Saints don’t just play with each other—they play FOR each other. Whether it was celebrating a perfect serve, digging a difficult ball, or pulling together after a challenging set, the Saints’ bond has been the backbone of their remarkable season.
The Saints’ success this season was also a testament to the collective effort of every player. In particular, the team’s offense was a well-oiled machine, with key contributions from seniors like Sophia Urbatsch, who led the team with a Saints-record 722 assists going into this final match, and Amelia Porisch, who registered 240 total kills.
Juniors Jacey Johnston (53 blocks) and Lindsay Kruse (52 blocks) kept opponents at bay defensively while Ava Falk (265 digs and 45 ace serves) and Makenna Norby showed impressive all-around support on the court.
Perhaps the most telling statistic of the season, however, is the team’s serving efficiency. With an impressive 87.9% serving success rate as a team, the Saints controlled the flow of many matches by serving with precision and consistency. Bree Tabbert, a senior, stood out with a near-perfect 90.5% serving efficiency, a testament to the work the team put in off the court to perfect their craft.
Their performance this season has left an undeniably positive mark on the community, and the legacy of this team—one of unity, perseverance, and a never-give-up attitude—will be remembered long after the final whistle blew last night.
Skippy DeAngelo, Jack Tripper, Tenacious T, and I had the pleasure of calling these matches from the sideline, and the camaraderie of this team was evident from day 1. So many moments, so much joy, so much growth. And the positive energy among the members of this team has been contagious throughout the season.
Thank you Lady Saints and Coaches, for a season of heart, hustle, and unwavering belief!
You’ve given the entire Saint Ansgar community so much to be so proud of!