KATE RAMMES (left) is on the volleyball and cross country teams at Sheboygan Lutheran. – Photo by Jenni Pickel

Sheboygan Lutheran’s volleyball team opened its season Thursday with a victory over Stockbridge.

North and South, however, have to wait until the spring to play.

Crusaders coach Emily Lambrecht calls the pandemic-caused situation interesting, especially since she is friends with the Redwings coach.

“It’s weird we’re in the same city and we’re not able to both be playing,” she said. “So we’re going with the flow, taking it day by day, hoping we can continue our season even though not every school is able to do that right now.”

Lambrecht played high school volleyball at Gillett and could not imagine having to wear a mask during practice and games – even on the bus to away matches.

“I still play adult leagues right now and honestly, it is a little difficult to wear them,” she said.

“But in order to keep the season going, the girls are really positive about it and are really willing to wear the masks, do what they need to do in order to be able to have the season. They’re happy they get to have it right now versus waiting until spring – or the alternative of not having it at all. It is difficult, but they work with it.”

TWO-SPORT ATHLETES: Junior Rose Hahn and sophomore Kate Rammes are on the volleyball and cross country teams this fall.

They were not runners a year ago, but recently started training with the cross country team as a way to stay in shape for volleyball and basketball.

They were doing so well, the cross country coach approached the two about joining his team and they did.

“We kind of talked about what they would do if there’s conflicting meets or games or practices and that,” Lambrecht said. “We were working together so they were able to do both.”

“I think it definitely adds to their all-around abilities, it makes them a little bit stronger and shows how dedicated they are to their school and each sport.”

SPEAKING OF HAHN: She was the only Lutheran player who made all-Big East Conference (honorable mention) last season, and Lambrecht calls her a leader and skilled athlete who has a powerful swing.

“I can throw her into any position and not be worried about what is going to come of it,” Lambrecht said. “She’s a great back row player, has a great serve-receiver, is a great server, just an all-around athlete.”