There is no question that the winner of the Class 2A, Section 1 title will be deserving of its spot in the state tournament. No. 3-2A Rochester Lourdes and No. 7-2A Goodhue are in play among the section contenders, and six teams have 13 or more wins already this season.
Rochester Lourdes (14-2, 3-2) has emerged as a potential favorite to win the section title. The team's defense has been a big part of that equation, as the Eagles have limited their opponents to just 42.5 points per game this season.
The Eagles' offense runs through star Alyssa Utsby. On Saturday, she broke the program's all-time scoring record of 2,165 points that was previously held by Stacy Paulson.
While Rochester Lourdes is the highest in the state rankings among Class 2A, Section 1 programs, Stewartville has proven it has the talent to contend for the section crown. The Tigers (13-5-1, 3-1) have also already defeated the Eagles (65-53 on Jan. 7).
Opposing defenses have struggled to shut down Lily Welch. The senior forward put up 24 points in a 55-45 triumph over Chatfield this past Saturday. The multi-sport star also helped lead the Stewartville volleyball team to a Class 2A state title this season, earning a spot on the state all-tournament team.