Storylines, players to watch this season

High school volleyball is well underway across the state.

Most Oklahoma City-area teams opened their seasons last week, with many competing in tournaments over the weekend.

El Reno went 5-0 in its tournament, winning all five of its matches in straight sets. El Reno (7-1) topped Duncan in the semifinals before beating Santa Fe South in the finals.

Coach Kristen Koehler said seniors Kadin Patterson and Riley Conner, along with sophomore Bailey Denwalt, have all been pivotal to El Reno's fast start.

“We didn't graduate a single senior last year, so we have our entire team back,” Koehler said. “The biggest thing we have is team unity on the court. Every girl stepped up and did her job

and they played as one unit.”

Carl Albert won the Cow eta Invitational Tournament, top ping Glenpool 2-1 in the championship match. Emily Boyer was named tournament MVP and Karsyn Smith was named to the All-Tournament team.

Edmond Santa Fe started its season with a 5-0 weekend, winning the Norman Tournament. The Wolves dropped only one set in five matches, and that came in the championship match against Deer Creek.

Junior Allison Pope made the All-Tournament team.

The Classes 4A-3A state tournament is scheduled for Oct. 9-10, tentatively at Westmoore, and the Classes 6A-5A state tournament will be Oct. 19-20, tentatively at Choctaw.

Here are some players to watch across the metro this season:

Aubrey Cramer, Sr., Edmond North: Cramer is a four-year starter for the defending Class 6A state champion Huskies. Coach Jaclyn Burroughs said Cramer has a positive, encouraging and calm demeanor and is a vocal leader.

Ashton Major, Sr., Oklahoma Christian School: Major is a strong offensive player who excels on the first line of defense as a middle blocker. Coach Rachel Sinclair said the younger players all look up to Major, who is a huge mentor.

Lari Migliorino, Jr., Norman North: Migliorino, who was honorable mention on The Oklahoman's 2019 All-City volleyball team, is one of the leaders for the Timberwolves and is an excellent middle and outside hitter.

Cami Turner, Jr., Deer Creek: Turner, a setter, was voted a team captain before the season and leads on the court with her work ethic and encouragement. Additionally, she's also a 4.0 student.