The NewCanaanite.com Athlete of the Week is sponsored by Baskin-Robbins, Connecticut Sandwich Co., Joe’s Pizza and Mackenzie’s.
Congratulations to Grace Castle and Michael Kraus for being named NewCanaanite.com Athletes of the Week.
New Canaan senior Gracie Castle with a set in volleyball action this season. Credit: Terry Dinan
After finishing last season at 6-12, the New Canaan Rams Girls Volleyball team clinched a bid in the state playoffs earlier this week and currently sit in seventh place in the FCIAC at 9-6. A major reason for the turnaround has been the play of senior setter Gracie Castle.
Castle led the Rams to a 3-0 win against Trinity Catholic on Tuesday, tallying 12 assists, seven kills and five aces. Castle also had an impressive showing the following night against #2 Stamford with 19 assists, two aces and one kill.
“She is our general out on the floor,” Palmer told NewCanaanite.com. “She’s involved in every play. She’s a fantastic volleyball player with a lot of court knowledge, and I think the girls really look up to her.”
Despite dropping the contest 3-1 to the Black Knights, the Rams put up an impressive showing that did not go unnoticed by Palmer.
“My girls fought hard from start to finish,” Palmer said. “We work on trying to get better each and every day. Now we just need to become more consistent. I’m proud of how hard these girls work. They never let up and fight until the last play.”
Michael Kraus scores a New Canaan TD. Credit: Terry Dinan
The 5-0 New Canaan Rams football team has had a fair share of accolades this season with stars Alex LaPolice and Zach Allen deservedly getting most of the press. That being said, a phenomenal supporting cast has also been an integral part of the Rams’ success. One notable standout is senior wide receiver/defensive back Michael Kraus.
Kraus leads the Rams with four interceptions this season, including two in a 35-14 win over Warde. He also has 12 receptions for 162 yards and two touchdowns, displaying versatility and athleticism that has head coach Lou Marinelli singing his praises.
“Oh man, he’s come up big,” Marinelli said of Kraus, who committed to play lacrosse at the University of Virgina last year. “Not just on the defensive side, but also offensively with some big catches.”
If Kraus can continue his level of play on both sides of the ball, the Rams should continue to top the rankings and remain a favorite to defend their FCIAC and State titles this season.