Howe has made a definitive impact for the Knights in their run to a
second-straight state tournament appearance. She was overlooked for a spot
on the All-Sectional Teams, but it would be wise for Loyola not to do the
same on Thursday in the quarterfinal round.
The Ramblers' boast a great deal of offensive production, but it could be
goalie Meredith O'Brien that helps them earn a trophy this weekend if she
can lead the defense against a potent LWC attack.
Sam Gavars (Barrington)
The Fillies have a plethora of offensive options, but it could be Gavars
who steps up if their state opponents choose to focus on stopping players
like Catherine Byron or Lisa Danhauer on Thursday and beyond.
Anna Ward (Mundelein)
The Mustangs may choose to play a possession game and keep the score low
like they did in their sectional final game against Stevenson. If that's
the case, Ward could star as the last line of defense for Mundelein.
Erin Reagan (Naperville Central)
Reagan has made a significant impact for Naperville Central after taking
over the goaltending duties at the midseason point. She could be a major
factor both as a shot-stopper and in starting the counterattack against a
tough opponent like St Ignatius.
Jenny Stelnicki (St Ignatius)
Stelnicki is a talented and versatile player who has started in goal for
the Wolfpack from the first day of her freshman season. If she can
continue to produce in a high pressure situation like the state
tournament, SICP could be in line for their first-ever state title.
Catie Wallace (Fenwick)
The Friars have potent scoring options like Cara Borkovec and Colleen
Barron, but they may call upon a youngster like Wallace to produce if
opposing defenses pull out all the stops to shut down their top two
scorers this weekend.
Meg Golon (Mother McAuley)
Golon has been a key contributor on both ends of the pool for a McAuley
team that is loaded for a run at a state title in 2013; don't be surprised
if she plays a major role in helping the Mighty Macs win their first
championship of the decade.
