by Hank Brockett
November, 2004
Both hit the court without the bevy of seniors used by preseason pollsters in predicting seasons. Men’s coach Rob Judson, off a season in which preseason hopes gave way to a string of tough losses, said he welcomes new expectations.
“You’re always better off to have an innocent climb,” said Judson.
With just four upperclassmen, the onus now falls on the likes of forward Johnathan Byrd in readying a team five seniors lighter for the tough conference season. Both Byrd and junior guard Anthony Maestranzi said the new roles have helped attain team chemistry, both on and off the court.
“We know what we have, and we’re confident about it,” said Byrd.
After a 12-16 campaign in 2003-04, the women’s team lost five seniors, including four starters. Coach Carol Hammerle named sophomore point guard Stephanie Raymond and junior forward Jamie Wilson co-captains – a sign that leadership doesn’t have age restrictions.
The women tallied a 4-1 record on a trip through Italy this past summer, honing a quick perimeter attack Hammerle hopes will open up the inside for easy baskets.
“That trip, by far, (with) the playing experience and the competition, developed so much confidence in us,” said Hammerle.
That buzzer you hear is school in session at the Convocation Center.