Strong Stevi

BC native Schnoor starts strong in first half of Mist season

Through the first half of the Seattle Mist’s 2014 campaign, Stevi Schnoor has emerged as a key factor in the squad’s undefeated start. On a team that suffered an unforeseen degree of turnover, Schnoor has helped ease the loss of such valued teammates.

Having established herself as a star athlete in rugby, Schnoor’s tenacity and desire to succeed have helped set a strong tone with her Seattle teammates. This is complemented by the experience of winning a championship with the BC Angels in 2012. While she still competes in British Columbia at various rugby events, along with a stint coaching the Gleneagles Talons Girls Rugby Team, it is evident that Schnoor is highly motivated.

The toughness and endurance acquired from competing on the rugby pitch has not only helped Schnoor excel with the Mist, it has resulted in a game defined by a remarkable versatility. Competing on both offense and defense, her iron will has resulted in being among the league’s statistical leaders.

Emerging as a rare double-threat in league play, Schnoor ranks third in rushing yardage. Her 145 rushing yards (in which she is averaging a healthy 5.8 yards per carry) stands behind Chris’Dell Harris of Chicago and Saige Steinmetz of Jacksonville. Despite the fact that Schnoor has only managed to score one touchdown, her ability to accumulate yardage has contributed to tremendous ball control on offense, frustrating opposing defenses. Complemented by BC Angels quarterback, and fellow Canadian, Mary-Anne Hanson contributing on offense, it has resulted in the Mist ranking among the top offenses in the league.

Defensively, Schnoor has also made an impression. Tied for first in sacks with the aforementioned Steinmetz (another double-threat) and Heather Hudson of Baltimore, she is one of two Canadians ranked among the top five in sacks. Fellow Canadian, Deanna Schaper-Kotter ranks fourth in sacks. Along with Schnoor, the two are living up to their billing of the “Smash Sisters” as the Mist also sit in the upper echelon of the league for overall defense.

While the second half shall certainly provide the opportunity for even more memorable moments, Schnoor has certainly emerged as a fan favorite with the Mist faithful. For a franchise who is hungrier than ever for its first-ever league championship, Schnoor may emerge as a key component in making such title dreams a reality.

Photo credit:  Robert Delphin Photography