The Minnesota Strike’s inaugural season in 2022 was one filled with hope and promise, though ultimately resulted in a 2 - 4 record. In a hyper-competitive league such as the PUL, which is filled to the brim with talent, teams need to build star lineups to get the edge over their opponents.
The Strike have done just this in the offseason.
As the team turns their attention to a new season, the Strike have added key components to their lineup. And with a core of returning players, the team has a lot to look forward to in 2023. Here are five players in particular who could have breakout seasons and will be exciting to watch as they don a Strike jersey this year.
1. Robyn Fennig
Robyn Fennig is somewhat of a legend in the ultimate community. With vast experience playing the game, she has built quite the resume on and off the field. Fennig was named Ultiworld’s Mixed Club Player of the Year in 2022 — her second of her career thus far — and has racked up countless other accolades driving from her skills with a disc in her hand.
However, it is more than just her awesome handling skills that will be something to look forward to with the Strike. After leading the Milwaukee Monarchs to a 4-2 Central Division-winning season in 2022, Fennig brings critical leadership qualities to a young team. She will be instrumental in helping the Strike build a lineup that clicks and wins. Her experience in big games will be valuable later in the season, though she will also be able to provide insights and tips early on to elevate the team's style of play. It will be incredible to see a player of Fennig's caliber put a Strike jersey on this year, and she will definitely be a big draw to Sea Foam Stadium for fans.
2. Jane Koch
Opposing offenses better circle Jane Koch on their lineups when they get to the field before every game. A human highlight reel, Koch is every offense’s worst nightmare and the Minnesota Strike defense’s not-so-secret weapon.
Her adaptability to quickly shift to an offensive role on a turn makes Koch incredibly effective in securing break points. Not only that, but she allows break point opportunities to happen in the first place. Koch’s pestering defensive prowess disturbs opponents’ offensive flow and takes away any opportunity of hope.
The Strike will be certain to build their defensive counterattack around the likes of Koch this year. Paired with teammates like Nariah-Belle Sims, Kalli Poletto, and Sarah Mondschein, Koch has an opportunity to shut opponents down and lead the Strike to a huge 2023.
3. Nariah-Belle Sims
Nariah-Belle Sims is another Strike pillar whose 2023 season is filled with potential. Sims approaches her defensive role strategically, carefully planning layout D’s and attacks when opposing teams least expect them.
Defensive pressure is going to be important for the Minnesota Strike this season, and much of it will likely come from the likes of Sims. Her willingness to layout and force turns is a valuable asset, and one the team will rely on as they make a playoff push. Sims feels sneaky on defense, even if offenses know she’s coming. It is always exciting watching her strike and convert break points, and this season will prove to be big for her and the rest of the team in that regard.
4. Alicia Carr
Leadership and experience are going to be essential factors in elevating the Strike’s 2023 season. Alicia Carr brings both to the team, with impressive hardware to back up her handling skills. Carr is going to anchor the team’s backfield this season, along with Robyn Fennig, and they will also likely step up as influential leaders off the field, too.
Carr has won multiple Nationals titles and Master’s Nationals titles, as well as a World’s title and Team USA appearances. Her experience alone is enough to make her an exciting player to watch.
But she didn’t get to the level of success accidentally.
Carr’s handling abilities turn heads, and the Strike will use cutters strategically on the same line as her. It will be interesting to see how the team pairs Carr with teammates, notably Fennig, and how their offensive build will evolve during the season.
5. Sarah Meckstroth
Speaking of cutters capable of bringing in any disc thrown in their vicinity.
Sarah Meckstroth is the cherry on top of the Strike’s offense. After playing with the Raleigh Radiance last year, Meckstroth returns to the Strike ready to finish what she started (literally). In addition to playing with the Radiance, Meckstroth has an impressive ultimate background. Her resume includes playing for Team USA in the World Games, helping lead the team in big games.
Meckstroth can do it all. On defense, she’ll help force a turn and secure the break. As a handler, she’ll rack up the assists, while putting her downfield will pair perfectly with the Strike’s existing handler set ready to look deep. As a deeply experienced and incredibly good player, Meckstroth joining the Strike in 2023 can turn the tides and make all the difference game-by-game.
Ready for 2023
There is no question that the Strike are ready to get back on the field and make waves in the league. Stick around and join Wind Chill Talk as we deliver season-long coverage of the team. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, and subscribe for the latest in your inbox!
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