Larson leads Blossoms for senior campaign

After spending the majority of last volleyball season on the sidelines due to an injury to her thumb, Blooming Prairie middle hitter and team captain Sierra Larson has been able to make up for lost time as a vital member of the Blossoms' starting rotation.

Larson’s injury came early on in the season a year ago, and made it so fellow athletes Haven Carlson and Abby Hefling had to fill in to support the role that Larson was forced to vacate.

“Last year, I had a few games at the beginning of the season and about three to four games at the end. It being my senior season now, it’s been fun being able to have the whole season to lay it all out there. I’m really just trying to enjoy every single game,” said Larson.

Larson’s love for the game is obvious to those who witness her play.

As a middle hitter, Larson typically lines up in the front row for Blooming Prairie, but as one of the team’s most trusted athletes she rotates through most every position on the court during the course of the game.

Whether it be blocking in the middle, hitting from the outside or digging balls in the back row alongside libero and fellow team captain Madi Lea, Larson can be seen smiling and celebrating with her team after every point.

According to Larson, her biggest strength on the court is her mentality to win.

“I think it’s my aggression and willingness to compete for every single point. Whether it’s a swing to get a kill or diving to get that dig, really just my biggest focus is giving it everything I’ve got to get that next point.”

Larson’s leadership and competitiveness have earned her the support of not only her teammates, but the fans as well.

Most recently in Blooming Prairie's game against Bethlehem Academy, fans could be heard chanting “MVP” after Larson rejected a shot via a block and followed the scoring play by earning a kill the very next rally.

Having Larson back on the court has also helped Blooming Prairie improve its record from a season ago from 5-14 overall and 1-5 in-conference to 2022’s current record of 11-10 overall and 5-5 in-conference.

“It is sad that it’s my last year, but our coaches talked about leaving it all on the floor and having no regrets. Having played since fourth grade, I’ve learned so many valuable skills that have not only helped shape me as an athlete, but as a person as well.”

Fans will be able to catch Larson and the Blossoms next as the team prepares for the upcoming section playoffs beginning next week.

Blooming Prairie’s seed and matchup were unavailable at the time of press.