The Lady Lakers Volleyball Club was founded by the passionate and visionary Coach Laurie Bitter. Her love for the game and commitment to elevating girls’ sports in our community laid the foundation for what would become a respected volleyball powerhouse in our corner of Minnesota.

Around 1991/1992, Coach Bitter, along with regional coaches Ian Rodveldt, Kay Marrian and Geraldine Estling, launched a regional club called Northern Choice, which brought together talented players from Lake of the Woods, Roseau, Warroad, Hallock, and Karlstad. The club featured teams in both the 14’s and 16’s divisions and offered athletes an opportunity to compete at a higher level.

After a few seasons of coaching and running the Northern Choice program, Coach Bitter had a revelation: “Why am I making my competition better?” With that thought, she proposed a new idea to her players and their families – forming a club exclusively for athletes from Lake of the Woods. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Wanting to reflect our regional identity and hometown pride, Coach Bitter suggested the name “Lakers.” The girls quickly chimed in: “How about the Lady Lakers?” And just like that, a legacy was born.

With the incredible support of players, families, and the community, the Lady Lakers took off and thrived under Coach Bitter’s leadership.

The early years wouldn’t have been as successful without the support from the parents, especially her committee board of parents. Endless hours of volunteer time from Connie Waibel, Nancy Anundson, Liz Hanson and many others didn’t go unnoticed. 

From her youth, she was deeply inspired by mentors Doug Nosan and Burt Larson, whose influence helped shape her coaching philosophy.

Known for starting each practice with a motivational “Quote of the Day,” Coach Bitter led with heart, integrity, and a deep faith in the Lord that guided her every step.

Two core mottos were the cornerstone of every team she coached:

• Believe in Yourself
• Have No Fear

These simple but powerful words were foundational beliefs instilled in each player and helped carry them through many physical and mental challenges.

Coach Bitter’s Notable Achievements:

• Founder of the Lady Lakers and Northern Choice J.O. Volleyball Clubs
• Led 2 Junior Olympic teams to Nationals, a feat requiring victories at three regional tournaments and a top-2 finish at a qualifying event
• Brought home the only State Championship in Lake of the Woods history (Class AA Volleyball, 1st Place at the Minnesota State Tournament)
• 400+ career high school volleyball wins
• Never had a losing season
• Class AA Breakdown Coach of the Year
• Bemidji Coach of the Year

Your tireless dedication, passion for the game, and unwavering belief in young women have forever shaped the Lady Lakers program and our entire community. Your legacy is more than just wins and titles – it’s in every inspired athlete who dares to believe in herself.

Thank You, Coach Bitter