Improvement is the focal point for St. Michael-Albertville and Sartell/Sauk Rapids heading into this season.
The Knights have been consistently above .500 since the 2014 season, but have never made it to the state tournament. Brooke Johnson led the team in assists last season with 25 and will be aiming to improve on her 22 goals to help lead the offense.
The Sabres are beginning their third MSHSL season and have amassed a total of five wins, two in the first season and three in the second. However, Sartell/Sauk Rapids has a roster that is continuing to gain experience and will be eager to continue the upward trajectory.
Losing two top scorers could make the season difficult for the Sabres, but Lydia Johnson showed her ability to contribute as a sophomore, scoring six goals a year ago. If Johnson and the entire Sartell/Sauk Rapids roster can get some positive results early in the season, the Sabres will have a solid opportunity to continue to improve for the third straight year.