Week One: Players to Watch
Contributors: Andrea DeSabato, Bonesaw Kepner, Lily Ponitz
Throughout the 2024 season, the PUL will highlight Players to Watch leading up to each weekend of games.The players are listed alphabetically by last name.
The 2024 PUL opening weekend is just one sleep away. We have some exciting games on the docket, including a 2024 PUL Championship semifinals rematch between DC Shadow and Raleigh Radiance. Let’s take a look at some of the players to watch in our three-game weekend.
Elise Bjork
Austin Torch
Elise Bjork is back as captain of the Torch in 2024. She is one of the original founding members of the team who has played every season and improves every year. She has unstoppable around breaks coupled with off-hand backhands in tight spaces and hammers to the break side.
Mia Griner
Atlanta Soul
Mia Griner is gearing up for a breakout second year in the PUL. She has a never-quits-running style on offense and plays to her advantage. She’s noted for making big, key plays on both offense and defense.
Alex "Galaxy" Krueger
Atlanta Soul
Alex "Galaxy" Krueger comes to Soul after playing for LA Astra and taking a brief break from pro to have a baby. She drives the offense by being in the right places at the right times and plays consistently and unselfishly, often opening space for big gainers.
Claire “Skittles” Milton
Indianapolis Red
Claire “Skittles” Milton is entering her third season with Indy Red. In 2023, she led the team in assists (hockey and regular). Look for her to be dishing more dimes in their opener this weekend.
Sierra Rimmer
Nashville NightShade
Sierra Rimmer returns to Nashville NightShade after several seasons playing for Torch where she was featured heavily in Austin’s offense as a handler. Known for her smooth athleticism and throwing skills, Rimmer will no doubt bring a dynamic, calming presence to the Nightshade in 2024
Mary Rippe
Raleigh Radiance
Mary Rippe is coming into this season off a USA world’s team appointment, and it will be exciting to see how Raleigh puts her skills to use on an already deep, talented roster. A top-of-the-line role player, expect breakout performances from her when they need it most.
Tyler Smith
Raleigh Radiance
Having recovered from injury, Tyler Smith returns to the field this weekend for the defending PUL Champion. Smith is noted for powerful throws and strong defense, adding even more talent to an already deep Radiance roster.
Clara Stewart
Austin Torch
Clara Stewart joins the Torch after a standout college career at Northeastern University where she also competed on the Team USA U-24 team. Power pulls, layouts, and a lethal inside break should be on display against Atlanta Soul as she makes her professional debut.
Caroline Tornquist, Jamie Eriksson, and Marie Perivier
DC Shadow
Shadow has eight first-year players on their roster for 2024, and among them are some top names in Caroline Tornquist, Jamie Eriksson, and Marie Perivier. They have all the potential to be high-impact players in their first season on the team, so keep an eye out for their performances this weekend to see where they fit in the Shadow scheme.