The Cowl Est. 1935

Seventh Annual Winter Sports

Preview

Mike Springer ’08 previews the Women’s Hoop team: Can Chelsea Marandola lead PC to the NCAAs?

Erin Redihan ’08 previews the Men’s Hoop squad: Will the Friars overcome the loss of Herb Hill and be dancing in March for the first time since ’04? 2 The Cowl Winter Sports Preview October 11, 2007

Remember, Cowl readers ... we want to A Brand New Season hear from you! Just e-mail your questions either about PC sports or sports in general to by Drew Goucher ’08 [email protected], and we’ll do our Sports Staff best to answer them—and stir up a little debate if we can! The Providence College Women’s Hockey Team was left with an unpleasant taste last season. Slightly bitter and tart, it Thanks, was two parts disappointing, and one part The Cowl Sports Staff frustrating. It was the taste WOMEN’S of defeat. HOCKEY Though the Friars made a Which PC athlete is poised to have a breakout season this winter? valiant run to the Hockey East Finals last year and battled the University of New Hampshire for 3 peri­ The biggest question facing the I think it would be unfair to say the ods, they ultimately fell, 3-1, to wind up Providence College Men’s Basketball men’s hockey team should be this winter’s with a second place finish and no Hockey team in the upcoming 2007-2008 season is break-out team or player, but after a sub­ East Trophy. who will replace the production of All-Big par 2006-2007 season, there is little doubt Senior Sarah Feldman did not overlook East performer Herbert Hill. Although it the team will greatly improve. the team’s semifinal victory over Boston will be extremely difficult for anyone to Under Head Coach Tim Army, who College, but acknowledged the difficulty match Hill’s production in the paint from a enters his third year at PC, the Friars of the loss to UNH in the final. year ago, I feel that junior power forward will try to get back to being a top team “We can’t overlook beating BC in the Jonathan Kale is primed for a break-out in Hockey East. In his first year, Army semis,” she said, “It was a huge game for season and will fill the void left by Hill. led the team to a 14-10-3 record in us going into UNH, especially since we Last season Kale showed tremendous Hockey East play, one of , if not the had just been coming off a loss to BC improvement from his freshman year and toughest division, in college hockey when we played them. But against UNH, this year I fully expect him to build on his (17-16-3 overall). After a difficult sec­ it’s always tough to lose those close sophomore year success. During the 2006 ond season, the Friars were knocked out games, especially for [last year’s sen­ and 2007 seasons, Kale improved in almost in the Hockey East Quarterfinals. iors], since it meant that they lost their every important statistical category. He Also, the team has lost their leading goal final game.” upped his scoring average from 2.6 points scorer from last year, Colin McDonald. That doesn’t sit well with this team, and per game to 7.0 points per game, increased Therefore, my pick for the player who they’ve built their entire summer around breaks out this year is senior co-captain COURTESY OF SPORTS INFO his minutes played from 10 minutes per getting back to the Hockey East Finals game to 19 minutes per game, and pulled in and forward, Jon Rheault. Those who with one goal—to win. Senior forward Jenna Keilch looks to 4.2 rebounds per game as opposed to the 2.7 have been following PC hockey know that “We build ourselves on championships, play an important role in the high-pow­ boards per game he averaged as a freshman. he has the skills, as he led the team in scor­ and take pride in getting to the champi­ ered Friars’ offense this season. In addition to his on-court production, Kale ing last year. A 2006 selection by the onship game,” said Head Coach Bob gave the Friars a tremendous energy boost. Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL draft, he Deraney, “We expect to win when we’re Rachel Crissy also look to add positive Nobody played with more intensity last sea­ finished with 25 points (12 goals, 13 put in that situation. But I think this year’s contributions with the puck, as do return­ son than Kale, and his fierce competitive­ assists) and had a team best of four game­ team has turned last season’s disappoint­ ing junior speedster Katy Beach, and ness is what will propel him into the upper winning goals and three short-handed ment into a very positive mindset. This is freshmen Jean O’Neill and Alyse Ruff. echelon of Big East big men. goals. He is one of the fastest and most not a new season for us. We’re just picking Meanwhile, senior Kathleen Smith and Although the start of the season is still fluid skaters. Rheault is also known for up where we left off.” junior Erin Normore are steady on defense, over a month away, Kale has already really pouring on the scoring once he Of course, that doesn’t mean the Friars and the team expects big blue line contri­ shown the ability to be the go-to scorer for starts. He put up five multiple-point games are without key losses and new additions. butions from freshman Amber Yung and the Friars in the post. During the Friars’ including a five point game against New Gone is a graduating class that featured junior Brittany Simpson, who has worked tour of Italy this summer, Kale became the Hampshire. forward Sonny Watrous, goalies Jana extremely hard at her game over the spring focal point of the PC post game. While Rheault has been an integral part of PC Bugden and Lauren Florio, and top and summer. appearing in all six games in Italy, Kale puck since he was a freshman, and as a defenseman Kristin Gigliotti. In are “Marked improvement,” Coach Deraney averaged 16.2 points per game to go along sophomore he earned the Co-MVP team freshmen Christina England, Jean said of the junior’s development. with 9.7 rebounds per game. He showed a award. The biggest change Army will want O’Neill, Leigh Riley, Alyse Ruff, All told, it should be a banner year for great ability to finish in and around the and the team will need is Rheault to be the Jennifer Smith, and Amber Yung. While women’s hockey this season. But will it be basket and also impressed the PC coaching voice and leader of a team that can com­ the players that left made great contribu­ enough to win Hockey East? To earn an staff with his newfound ability to knock pete with the best in the nation. Since it is tions in their years at Providence NCAA tournament berth? To win the down the mid-range jump shot. Army’s third year, most of the players are College, it is not entirely unwelcome for NCAA tournament? In addition to Kale’s dramatic offensive now Army’s recruits. They need to be pre­ Deraney to lose great players. Rather, he The team got its quest for the trophy off improvement over the summer, I feel that pared and focused for Hockey East play. sees it as the mark of a great program. to a fast start when it defeated the he will benefit immensely from having a We will get to see the crop (10 newcomers) Bluewater Hawks 10-1 in an exhibition healthy Geoff McDermott in the lineup. that he has brought in. "------game on Sept. 30. Doolin led the explosive McDermott, who has played through seri­ If they can adhere to Army’s fast pace Our seven seniors and six Friar offense with four goals while senior ous injuries in each of his two years as a and aggressive offensive style, they could juniors have really set the Kathleen Smith and junior Erin Normore Friar appears to have fully regained his easily reach his prediction of finishing added two apiece. Providence over­ health and is also primed for a monster within the top four in the difficult division. foundation, because of the whelmed the Bluewater defense, outshoot­ year. Because of this, I predict that the Army, when recruiting these players, must standard they have held ing the Hawks 41-13. Ciarlatta played the Friars will have a devastating hi-lo combi­ have expected them to commit to his themselves to early on, and I majority of the game in goal and made nation to work with in the paint. Teams strategies. Much of that strategy relies on hope we can maintain it. eight saves. will put a lot of focus on defending the getting Rheault the puck and allowing him Bob Deraney “We know who our big guns are this more highly publicized McDermott and to set up the offense. year,” said Feldman. “Last year is fuel for There is much this team can learn from Head Coach, Women’s Hockey often double team him in the high post, the fire for this year. We need to get there which will create many one-on-one match­ Rheault. While you don’t want to put the ------" this year. We can’t be content with just ups in the post for Kale. Considering that pressure on one player, especially on a making it to the Finals. We have to know McDermott was second in the Big East in hockey player—because lines change in we can win the whole thing.” assists last season, it won’t be a problem and out so quickly—there is a need for him “Every year we lose great players,” Coach Deraney agreed. for him to find Kale in the post for easy to produce. Deraney said. “Last year it was Sonny “We were playing our best hockey at the scoring opportunities. Whether it’s in leading by example on [Watrous], Kristin [Gigliotti], and Jana end of last year. It took five of the six- Overall, Kale has all the physical tools the ice with impressive assists or slap-shot [Bugden], Two years ago it was Karen months in the season to get there. Our goal as well as the attitude to have a break-out goals or vocally, by being a leader out Thatcher and Ashley Payton. Before that, was to become quicker, faster, stronger, season. He, along with a plethora of talent­ there, PC’s success is deeply intertwined it was Rush Zimmerman and Hilary and more skilled in every aspect of the ed players returning to the PC roster this with its senior co-captain. My prediction Greaves. That’s the sign of a great pro­ game. We have. And we have achieved the season, will turn some heads in the Big for Rheault is 30 points (15 goals, 15 gram. But there comes a responsibility goal of picking up [this year] where we left East this season and make a run for the assists) but it is his leadership presence when you lose great players that people off [last year]. So now we can set our NCAA tournament. that will make him and his team a top pro­ have to step up and fill the void. We’ve sights on winning our third Hockey East — Dan Ollquist '10 gram in Hockey East once again. done it year after year, and I expect this regular season title, our fourth Hockey —Bradley Chen ’08 year to be no different.” East Championship, our second appear­ “It’s tough to replace Sonny and ance in the NCAA tournament, and our Kristin,” added senior forward Sarah first national championship,” he said. Feldman, “But we did a good job recruit­ The coach was also quick to praise his ing. The freshmen should bring us some returning upperclassmen for the example scoring punch. They fit in perfectly.” they have set for the younger players. Also, the team will turn to junior Danielle “Our seven seniors and six juniors have Ciarletta in nets full-time, after she split really set the foundation, because of the duties with Bugden last season. The team standard they have held themselves to feels she is ready for the added workload. early on, and I hope we can maintain it,” “We’re looking for her to be the back­ he added. bone of this team right now. She’s earned Feldman agreed. “Everyone’s on the that distinction based on her performance same page,” she said. “The freshmen are last year,” Coach Deraney said. learning really quickly, and everyone is fit­ “She played some unbelievable games ting in, which is nice.” last year,” added Feldman. “She knows her So far the results have been encourag­ role, and we’re pretty comfortable with her ing, as the team rallied to a 10-1 exhibition back there. We think she’s pretty set.” victory over Bluewater. Senior Kelli And this team returns a strong group of Doolin led the way for the Friars with four Scorers and defenders, with Feldman head­ goals in the victory. Kathleen Smith and COURTESY OF SPORTS INFO lining the offense along with junior Mari Junior forward/defenseman Erin Noremore played a big part in the Friars’ suc­ Pehkonen. Seniors Jenna Keilch and HOCKEY/Page 6 cess for the 2006-2007 season and looks to continue that this season. October 11, 2007 Winter Sports Preview The Cowl 3 Men’s Hockey Ready for Another Exciting Year

by Ryan Holt ’09 Junior center dent-athlete leads to success on the ice. We Sports Staff Nick have a great positive team chemistry. Mazzolini, These guys are at PC for the right reasons. When they get on the ice they’ll be doing Sharpen those skates and warm up the right, of the zamboni; it is time for Providence things right.” Providence College Men’s Hockey. After a tough Army and the Friars acknowledge that year, the Friars are back for year three of College last year, they got ahead of themselves. the Tim Army era. Men’s They say they got caught up in expecta­ MEN’S “We’re bigger, more Hockey Team tions, and perhaps looked too far down the HOCKEY physical, edgier, faster, played in all road. This, they say, won’t be happening more skilled, more intelli­ 36 games for this year. “We want to get better every day. If we gent,” said Head Coach Tim Army. the Friars last This season, the Friars’ Men’s Hockey do that we can put some wins together. season and Team looks to erase the memory of last Then we can get into position to be in a season with tough, in-your-face play. This scored a good spot going into March in the end of year, though, they’ll be taking it one game career-high the conference season. Our theme: Be at a time. 21 points. He clear headed, calm, and assertive. If we “Our focus is to get better every day, to looks to play stay on task, we will get better. If we do continue to improve. We have the talent a major role that, we put ourselves in place to make a to make us continue to do that. We don’t in the Friars run,” said Army. want to get ahead of ourselves, we did “We need to take each step as it comes. success this that last year. We need to stay on task. We We’ll go day by day, get better, and go have a good base, the room to develop,” season. from there. We need to be more consistent, said Army. be ready every day. We need to look at the From Coach Army, down to all the play­ next game in front of you, not down the ers, this is the mantra for the 2007-08 COURTESY OF SPORTS INFO line,” said Rheault. Friars. They’ll be led this year by co-cap- Seniors Marc Bastrarch and Trevor “If we improve, we can do some great tains, Jon Rheault ‘08 and Kyle Laughlin in points with 25, including 12 goals. Four Ludwig are both known for their hitting things. We have a talented team that can ‘09. They’ll be assisted by juniors Cody of them were game-winners, and three goals abilities on the ice. Their physical play will make some noise. We want to win games,” Wild and Nick Mazzolini. were short-handed. He is a quick skater, and continue to make difficult nights for said Laughlin. “They are examples of people who have always a threat for a breakaway goal. opposing offenses. The Friars compete in arguably the fulfilled expectations as a student-athlete. Co-Captain Kyle Laughlin had 11 points Junior Matt Taromina was the second- toughest conference in college hockey, They’re great students, good in the com­ last year, with two goals and nine assists. highest goal scoring defenseman, with Hockey East. Many nationally ranked munity, and good players on the ice. We He’ll look to add more to the Friar five goals last year. He looks to add more opponents reside in the conference. have some good leaders who don’t have a offense this season. as a junior. They’ll have to be consistent and tough letter, who are examples of this as well,” Assistant Captain Nick Mazzolini was Sophomore David Cavanaugh should night after night. There is never an “off- said Army. second in scoring for the Friars last season. also contribute to the Friars’ defense. His night” in conference play. Both Rheault and Laughlin were excited He contributed 21 points on five goals and play improved as the year went on, and This could be an exciting year for Friar and honored to be named co-captains. 16 assists. He is one of the better passers in should be even better this year. hockey. If high scoring and fast-paced play “It’s a great honor. I’ve learned a lot Hockey East. The Friar defense is made of both is exciting to you, head down to Schneider from the captains when I was younger. I’m Sophomore John Cavanaugh, despite an speed and size. They can hit and they Arena; you’ll see a great show. Look for excited,” said Rheault. injury-shortened season, scored 11 points can score. Look for this year’s defense­ the Friars to turn some heads and surprise “It’s an honor, and more importantly a on 10 assists as a freshman. He was partic­ men to add another degree of difficulty a lot of people this season. responsibility. Jon’s a great leader, we ularly effective on the power play, con­ for their opponents. “Some are going to think we’re how we want to get us back to the top of the tributing seven of his 12 points. There are three strong goalies return­ were last year, but we’re not. This gives us league,” said Laughlin. His one goal and six assists rendered ing to action this year. Tyler Simms, an edge to be underestimated. We have a It’s also a very young team, adding 10 him good enough for second on the team. who saved nearly 90 percent of all shots lot to prove. We think we’re better than new players, nine of them freshmen, to This will be important this year, as power faced last year, is returning for his sen­ that, and we need to show it,” said the squad. They’re young, but they’re play was a point of struggle for the Friars, ior season. Simms is a skilled goal­ Laughlin. talented. who had several opportunities, but few tender who can handle the pressure of Most of the new Friars are excellent goals. Success on the power play will be Hockey East offenses. offensive players. There are also some vital for a winning season. Ryan Simpson is back and looking to defensemen who can score as well. Sophomore Greg Collins will look to contribute after an injury cut short his Austin Mayer plays left wing and improve on a great start to his career. Last freshman season and forced him to red­ Men’s Hockey 2007-2008 recorded 25 points in 25 games in the season, he contributed 13 points: Five shirt. He is a promising, nationally rec­ Schedule junior leagues. Kyle Mackinnon is a goals and eight assists. ognized talent who is back and ready high scoring center. Two wings, that Junior Pierce Norton returns from an 11 - for action. should add a scoring punch are Paul point season, where he scored six goals Junior Chris Mannix was thrown into October Golden, who led his team in scoring, and recorded five assists. He should add to file fire of late-season hockey last sea­ 12 @ St. Lawrence and Ben Farrer, who tallied 60 points in that total this year. son. He was strong in his appearances, 13 @ Clarkson 59 games in juniors. Junior John Mori had three assists in with a 2.44 goals against average and a 19 @ Northeastern A trio of left wings will also join an injury-shortened season. At full 2-1-1 record. HOLY CROSS the squad. The three include Matt strength, Mori is a quick skater and an As of now, Army will platoon Simms 20 Germain who helped guide his juniors offensive threat. and Simpson on a nightly basis. Simms 26 MASSACHUSETTS team to a national title, Jordan Sophomore Chris Eppich had five will start one game, Simpson the next, and 27 (a) Massachusetts Kremyr, a potent scorer, and Ian assists as a freshman and is looking to add so on. November O’Connor, who has scored three more this year. “Like all other positions, this one is up 1 BOSTON U. game-winning goals in 25 games. Sophomore Matt Tommasiello was lim­ for guys to be able to get out there and win 9 @ Maine The Friars have two freshmen defense­ ited to only two games last season due to themselves a job and play. No one is enti­ 10 @ Maine men. Eric Baier is a defenseman who can injury. He is back this year, and should be tled to anything, you have to earn it. They also become an offensive threat. Joining ready to add to the team’s scoring. understand the expectation is to earn 16 UMASS-LOWELL Baier on defense is Joe Lavin, a highly The nine returning Friar forwards everything. Everyone is in position to fight 17 NEW HAMPSHIRE touted top-50 recruit in North America. along with the freshmen will create for playing time. We’re going to rotate the December The two should add to an already tough high-pressured, high paced scoring, and goalies,” said Army. 1 @ Vermont and aggressive group of defensemen on will cause problems for many defenses He believes this will keep them rested 4 BROWN the Friar squad next year. around the league. for the grind of Hockey East play in 7 UNION “These guys are great. Nine new guys, “We’ll be fun, fast-paced, we’ll score a January, February, and March, but will they’ve shown a lot to us already. They’re lot,” said Laughlin. also help them be more prepared for a spe­ 28 @ Michigan fast, they’ll fit in great. They’re definitely Defensemen also play a vital role in cific game. 29 @ Michigan St. ready to go,” said Rheault. Tim Army’s offense. They play an “Tyler and Ryan will play every other January “The youth will be more of an asset aggressive style to pressure opposing game. This will help them mentally man­ 11 UMASS-LOWELL than a hindrance to our team. We’re shooters, suppress their scoring chances, age the preparation, but also to be ready at 12 @ UMass-Lowell eager, ready, and want to compete,” said and then contribute to their own offense. any time if they’re called in. They’re both UMASS Laughlin. “They’ve adjusted well. Six defenders are returning to the team more than capable,” he said. 18 They’ll contribute a lot this year,” he this year. Last year, defensemen Don’t count Mannix out either. Army 19 MAINE added. accounted for one of every four goals spoke of Mannix’s ability to step in and 25 @ Northeastern There will be one more new Friar, a scored by the Friars. manage games effectively when needed. 26 NORTHEASTERN transfer, Matt Johnson ‘ 10, a forward from Assistant Captain Cody Wild is a In the third year of any coaching February Lynn, Mass. He’ll be playing with the team threat on both sides of the puck. As a regime, the team looks more and more 1 @ Boston College next year. defender, he has made it a habit of get­ like that of the coach. Most of the play­ There will be 18 returning players to ting in the way of the other team’s scor­ ers now have been recruited by Army. 2 @ Merrimack the team. ers by blocking shots and making neces­ They were recruited for the system of 8 VERMONT Nine of the returning Friars are for­ sary hits. He is also a potent scoring fast paced, aggressive, high scoring, in- 9 VERMONT wards. One major issue for last year’s threat. In a season where he struggled your-face hockey. The rest are now in 16 NEW HAMPSHIRE team was scoring. They outshot their with injury, Wild contributed 14 points their third season in the system and like­ 22 @ New Hampshire opponents in all but six of their games, on six goals and eight assists. His per­ ly have far less adjusting to do. © Merrimack yet finished among the bottom of the formance earned him Hockey East “Through this two-year process, some 23 Hockey East in scoring. Honorable Mention Honors. have dropped out because they couldn’t 29 @ Boston College There is, however, a lot of fire power on Sophomore Mark Fayne had a solid keep up with our standards,” said Army. March this team. If this team gets hot, watch freshman year with 12 points on five “Those who are left, as well as those 1 BOSTON COLLEGE out—they have the makings of a high- goals and seven assists. He was named we’ve recruited, are ready; they know our 7 @ Boston U. scoring team. to the Hockey East All-Rookie Team. expectations and standards. Success and 8 BOSTON U. Co-Captain Jon Rheault is a constant Like Wild, he can beat opponents on details, and perseverance on the ice and scoring threat. Last season, he led the Friars both ends of the ice. having expectations for yourself as a stu­ 13-22 Hockey East Tournament 4 The Cowl Sports October 11, 2007 Ready to Make Some Moves in the Big East Despite losing their top scorer, the Friars are optimistic about life after Herb Hill

by Erin Redihan ’08 juniors—Chris Baudinet, Shaurad Curry, Sports Editor Weyinmi Efejuku, Randall Hanke, Jonathan Kale, Geoff McDermott, Jeff Will this be the year? After being Xavier,-—four-sophomores—Luke knocked out of the opening round of the Burchett, Ray Hall, Brian McKenzie, 2004 NCAA Tournament by 12th seed Dwain Williams—and three freshmen— Pacific and disappointing seasons in 2005 Marshon Brooks, Alex Kellogg, and and 2006, will the Friars hear their team Jamine “Greedy” Peterson. Unlike in past announced on Selection Sunday in March? seasons, Welsh has elected to max out the I know. Every year starts with these number of allowed scholarships at 13. The same hopes. Every year could be “our injury problems that have plagued the year.” All across the country, college hoops team in recent years have left the bench fans are sharing the same dream: Can my and practice squads a little thin at times— team make the Big Dance? It seems like somethings the team is hoping to evade there is a new Cinderella team every year this season. that comes in and upsets one of the big programs. Just 20 years ago, Providence was that team, winning some very improb­ The big thing about a great able games and making it as far as the team is togetherness. This Final Four. [trip] let us interact with play­ Since midnight struck for the ’87 Friars, ers we don’t usually talk to. the team has made two trips back to the tournament with limited success. The most We had different roommates recent appearance came in 2004 when cur­ in every hotel we stayed at so rent NBA player Ryan Gomes ’05 led the that everyone got to know team to be ranked No. 21 nationally and a each other. fifth seed in March Madness, its first tour­ Geoff McDermott ’09 nament appearance in three years. MARY PELLETIER '09/The Cowl Now as the team heads into 2008, PC is ------" ready to make a push for its 16th tourna­ If the Friars are going to better their 10th place finish in the Big East from last ment appearance overall and second under season, they are going to need their big men, like sophomore Jon Kale, above, to Since Welsh’s squad includes just one Head Coach Tim Welsh, who is in his 10th step up on defense. senior and it is not likely that any of his season at the helm of the Friars. players will bolt for the NBA draft in ’08, And while the team lost 26 percent of its losing in the first rounds of the Big East Rico will be 2007 Tournament contenders the next two seasons could be very special scoring last season due to graduation— and NIT tournaments to West Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth—who upset ones for Friar fans. Herb Hill ‘07—and personal decisions— Bradley, respectively. Duke—and Arkansas, along with Marist, With a junior class that includes poten­ Jamal Barney ’10—the next two seasons For the Friars, the opener at the Ryan Houston, the College of Charlestown, and tial All-Big East players like Curry and should offer the Friars their best opportuni­ Center will help acclimate the team for the University of Miami. Efejuku and a promising freshman class, ty to make the Big Dance since Gomes’ road games and also prepare them for their In addition to playing in Puerto Rico, HOOPS/Page 5 disappointing senior season. attl with URI. The game—which alternates PC will face former Big East rival Granted, the loss of Herb Hill will be between host sites—will take place this Boston College in the Hall of Fame hard to overcome. Hill, now signed to play year on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at URI. Challenge at the TD Banknorth Garden Men’s Basketball 2007-08 for the Philadelphia 76ers, had the type of While the home team has taken the in­ on Saturday, Dec. 1. Last year, the Friars senior year a player dreams of. Hill was state bragging rights each of the past three handed the then-No. 23 Eagles their sec­ Schedule named to the First Team All-Big East—the seasons, Providence is hoping to start a ond straight defeat, 73-64, in the teams’ Movember first Friar to do so since Gomes—and led new trend by picking up where they left off first contest since BC defected to the 2 CARLETON (at URI) the league in scoring with 18.1 points per last season against the Rams when they Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) 15 ©Temple* game and 19.9 in conference play. He fin­ beat URI by a score of 95-66. The 29- before the 2005 season. ished the year with a 64 field goal percent­ point difference was the largest in the Welsh’s team will also travel to 16 Puerto Rico Tip Off age, fourth all-time in PC history. He history of the series. The game does not Philadelphia in December to take part in 18 Puerto Rico Tip Off earned the team’s Jimmy Walker Award for really have any significance when it the inaugural Big East/SEC Invitational. 24 HARVARD the most valuable player, the Big East’s comes time to decide who will make the The two-day tournament will feature 27 MAINE Most Improved Player, and was selected NCAA Tournament, but it is usually one eight teams from the two power confer­ of the more exciting matchups from a 50th overall in the 2007 NBA draft. ences combined. Providence will face December Though it is a big deal any time a team fan’s perspective. South Carolina—another team it could loses an All-Big East Player, the 2007-08 The 2007-08 schedule will provide an possibly meet in March—on Thursday, 1 © Boston College** Friars are ready to step up their offense to early season challenge for the team Dec. 6 as part of a doubleheader. ESPN, 4 © Rhode Island make up the difference in scoring. because it will limit its normal opening who is organizing the Invitational, is 5 @ South Carolina # Junior big man Geoff McDermott is stretch with weaker opponents to build looking to make it a perennial event. 9 BROWN confident that his team is ready for life confidence before moving into Big East The Friars will also have a chance to after Herb Hill. conference play. However, it will give the avenge last year’s embarrassing 30-point 19 SACRED HEART “If everyone just plays a little better, Friars the chance to get used to playing on loss to Florida State when the Seminoles 22 FLORIDA STATE then we’ll be good,” he said. “We need to the road quickly. Their first contest at the visit the Dunk on Saturday, Dec. 22—one 31 ST. PETER’S play better defense. We just need everyone Dunk will be against Harvard on Saturday, of their final non-conference tune ups. Last to step it up a few points.” Nov. 24, four games into the regular sea­ year, the Friars wasted an 11-point lead There were times last year when the son. and were outscored by the Seminoles 20-3 January team’s offense soared above expectations. in one stretch during the second half. This 3 @ Marquette The Friars scored 101 points against "—------season, the Friars hope that the home court 5 © DePaul Harvard on Dec. 22, then in January they We need to stay consis­ advantage—along with more big game 9 RUTGERS put up 107 against Longwood and 91 tent. We were up and experience—will prevent them from mak­ 12 SOUTH FLORIDA against Seton Hall in the same week. ing the same types of mistakes that cost 17 ©Connecticut However, there were many more games down last year and we rhem the game. where the points just did not come. The Friars can’t do that again. We The team took its first step toward 24 SETON HALL failed to break 50 in a loss to Brown have to come to practice improving its record on the road by taking 27 @ Syracuse University in November and missed a layup ready to play a trip to play in Italy in August. The Friars 31 @ Notre Dame at the buzzer to lose 69-68 at Seton Hall on everyday. played six games in nine days against Jan. 17. The Friars will have to work on their some of the top teams in Italian basketball February and posted a 3-3 record on the trip. consistency to win more games in the com­ ------" 2 WEST VIRGINIA petitive Big East conference. “Playing extra games is always good,” The home field advantage played an The Friars will return home to a said McDermott. “We played three or four 5 DEPAUL integral role in the Friars’ efforts last sea­ revamped Dunk with new locker rooms good teams and two okay teams in the best 9 © St. John’s son. The team won 70 percent of its home and a new training area, which should only league there.” 12 ©Pittsburgh games last year, including an early season build on their success at home. The trip helped to bring the Friars Besides 18 exciting Big East contests, 16 LOUISVILLE upset of then-No. 15 Marquette in their together, while giving them some experi­ 18 GEORGETOWN Big East opener and pulled off an exciting the Friars will play some exciting basket­ ence at the hands of some former last-minute comeback against No. 22 West ball early in the season when they travel to American college and professional players 23 @ West Virginia Virginia in the last week of the season. San Juan, Puerto Rico from Thursday, now playing overseas. In addition to continuing their success Nov. 15 through Sunday, Nov. 18, for the “The big thing about a great team is March on the home court, the Friars must improve Puerto Rico Tip Off Tournament. togetherness,” McDermott said. “This 2 @ Cincinnati their record on the road if they wish to play The Friars will join teams from eight of [trip] let us interact with players we don’t in the postseason. the conferences that send teams to the Big usually talk to. We had different room­ 3 CONNECTICUT Though they enjoyed a huge win over Dance each season and give them a chance mates in every hotel we stayed at so that 3 VILLANOVA Connecticut at the Hartford Civic Center to face programs that they would not nor­ everyone got to know each other.” 12-15 Big East Tournament last season, most of their away games mally see in the regular season—which Now that school has started, the whole ended in losses, including their last regular could give them an advantage should they team is allowed to practice together for a "at San Juan Puerto Rico season matchup with St. John’s. The game, make the Tournament. limited number of hours each week. They played at Madison Square Garden against Providence will face Temple in the will begin their regular season training **Hall of Fame Challenge, TD a weak Red Storm, was supposed to be a opening round and play three games in next week in preparation for their matchup 3anknorth Garden last tune-up for the playoffs. Instead, the four days as a tune up before coming to the with Carleton, just three weeks away. Storm embarrassed the Friars, who went Dunk for their home opener a week later. As of right now, the 2007-08 Friars con­ ¥ Big East/SEC Invitational, on a three-game skid to close out 2007, The other teams on the slate for Puerto sist of one senior—Charles Burch—seven Philadelphia, Penn. October 11, 2007 Winter Sports Preview The Cowl 5 Looking Ahead to the Big East...

With the revamped Big East Big East 2006-07 Final Standings schedule for 2008, the Friars Team Big East Overall will once again face all of the Georgetown 13-3 30-7 Louisville 12-4 24-10 teams in its conference this Pittsburgh 12-4 29-8 season. In addition, they will Notre Dame 11-5 24-8 play both home and home Syracuse 10-6 24-11 Marquette 10-6 24-10 series against three teams: West Virginia 9-7 27-9 Connecticut, Georgetown, DePaul 9-7 20-14 and West Virginia. Villanova 9-7 22-11 Providence 8-8 18-13 St. John’s 7-9 16-15 by Erin Redihan ’08 Sports Editor Connecticut 6-10 17-14 Seton Hall 4-12 13-16 HOW THEY FARED IN ’07 USF 3-13 12-18 Rutgers 3-13 10-19 Providence 84, Connecticut 72 Cincinnati 2-14 11-19 As was the case with the West Virginia game, Providence overcame a halftime deficit to stun the Huskies. Only this time, the Friars went from being 11 points down in a hostile crowd at the Hartford Civic Center, to completely shutting down the Husky offense to win by 12—one of just two road wins all season for Tim Men’s Basketball 2007-08 Roster Welsh’s squad. 21 Chris Baudinet JR 6-5 This season: The Huskies are a young Forward team with only one senior, Ben Spencer. 2 Marshon Brooks FR 6-5 Last year’s disappointing season ended a streak of four straight NCAA Tournament Guard/Forward appearances. This season does not look 33 Charles Burch SR 6-7 much brighter for Head Coach Jim Forward Calhoun. He is only losing two players 10 Luke Burchett SO 6-0 from 2007, but that does not leave much Guard room for the new talent the team desper­ 4 Sharaud Curry JR 5-10 ately needs to win in the Big East. Look Guard for the team’s scoring woes to continue 13 Weyinmi Efejuku JR unless someone steps up and is able to get 6-5 to the basket on a consistent basis. Overall, Guard the team’s chances at playing in the Big 55 Ray Hall SO 6-11 Dance are about as dismal as last year. Center MARY PELLETIER ’09/The Cowl 32 Randall Hanke JR 6-11 Providence 64, West Virginia 61 Junior Shaurad Curry and the men’s basketball team showed flashes of brilliance Forward/Center Last season, the Friars hosted—and last season in games like their 29-point rout of Rhode Island and their comeback 34 Jonathan Kale JR 6-8 upset—then-No. 22 West Virginia. The victories over West Virginia (above) and Connecticut. Forward Friars overcame a 30-25 deficit at halftime to win 64-61. Sophomore Jonathan Kale prised that 22 wins were not enough to win This season: The 2008 Hoyas are looking a 0 Alex Kellogg FR 6-7 scored seven straight points to take a 41-39 the Mountaineers a bid on Selection little better than they thought they would be Forward lead. West Virginia was down three and Sunday, losses to midtier programs—like in early May before Roy Hibbert decided to 11 Geoff McDermott JR 6-8 had possession with 33 seconds to play, Providence—doomed them to the NIT. drop out of the NBA Draft and return for his Forward/Guard but could not score. Herb Hill ’07 put the WVU returns everyone but Rob Summers senior season. After finishing on top of the 23 Brian McKenzie SO 6-4 Big East in 2007 and advancing to the Final game away with a dunk in the final seconds. and Frank Young from the NIT champion Guard squad. Look for Darris Nichols and Alex Four, the Hoyas look poised for another sea­ This season: The most notable change for Ruoff to pick up the team and lead a more son in the Top 25. Though they will miss 15 Jamine Peterson FR 6-6 the Mountaineers in 2008 will be the experienced Mountaineer team back into Jeff Green, who, unlike Hibbert, bolted for Forward absence of Head Coach John Beilein, who the NCAAs. the pros, a solid group of freshmen and a 5 Dwain Williams SO 6-0 bolted after taking them to an NIT title, to formidable sixth man in Patrick Ewing, Jr. Guard take over the Michigan job, vacated by Providence did not face Georgetown should help make up for the loss of Green as 1 Jeff Xavier JR 6-1 in 2007. they make a run for the national title. Tommy Amaker. Though many were sur- Guard Hoops: Four New Faces Ready to Join the Lineup for ’08

toring program where each freshman is forward out of Brooklyn, N.Y. Peterson continued from Page 4 players off the bench. matched up to an upperclassman.” helped lead Notre Dame Prep to the Hall and Kale should continue to pro­ The newcomers—the freshman and national prep school title last year. He, vide a strong presence on the boards. the team is likely to only improve from transfer Xavier—all bring unique back­ like Kellogg, averaged double figures in Kale has some starting experience from the ’08 to ’09 seasons, giving the so- grounds and skills that the team hopes points and rebounds. replacing both Curry and Burch at vari­ called “sixth man” on the sidelines two will fill some holes from last season. Pawtucket, R.I., native Xavier joins ous times last season, while Hall’s role big reasons to get excited about the team after playing two seasons at was mainly on the boards. Hall returned Providence basketball. "------——————— Manhattan College. A 6’ 1” guard, Xavier to Providence this fall noticeably trim­ The team has already discovered that We’re excited for every sat out 2007 to comply with NCAA mer and ready to take on a bigger role as the 2007-08 campaign will not be without game. I can’t wait for the transfer regulations but looks to make an a sophomore. its share of obstacles, as it will likely open season. We always talk about impact on the 2008 squad. He had a The Friars will need all of these guys its season with two important players on career high 31 points in a first round NIT to have big years if they want to compete the sidelines. Curry suffered a broken foot the tournament. We feel like game against Maryland in 2006. in the Big East and improve on their 10th in practice last week and probably will not we should have been there Unlike the freshmen, Xavier was place finish in ’07. play in Puerto Rico, while Burch is nursing last year. allowed to travel with the team to Italy, “We need to stay consistent,” said a bad hamstring. Geoff McDermott ’09 though he suffered a foot injury that lim­ McDermott. “We were up and down last While these injuries are definitely not ited his playing time on the trip. year and we can’t do that again. We have to how the Friars had hoped to start their ------" In addition to the four new team mem­ come to practice ready to play ever day.” year, they will likely allow the team’s bers, Hanke will rejoin the team after red If the team can play like it did against three freshmen to get into the lineup shirting in 2007 due to health problems. UConn and West Virginia last year, PC sooner than expected and give them a Brooks, a 6’5” guard from Tucker, Ga., In 2006, his sophomore season, Hanke should be poised for a postseason run with the chance to build some confidence before averaged 20 points and eight rebounds was top in the nation with a 67.7 field talent it has—both new and returning. the all-important Big East slate starts up for his high school team. He was named goal percentage, a mark the team will “We’re excited for every game,” in January. With just one senior, the new­ the MVP of the East-West All Star game. count on him to try to match in order to McDermott said. “I can’t wait for the comers should expect to see significant Kellogg, a 6’7” guard, joins the team improve its long range shooting. season. We always talk about the tourna­ playing time off the bench all season. from Columbus, Ohio. He scored 1,000 The team returns two of its three top ment. We feel like we should have been Although the team’s freshmen were points for DeSales High School over four scorers in Curry and Efejuku and their sec­ there last year.” not allowed to participate due to NCAA seasons and averaged a double-double in ond-best blocker in the 6’8” McDermott. In a few weeks, the Friars will open a rules, McDermott does not think this will points and rebounds in 2007. He is the After missing the final 14 games with new chapter in their quest for a trip to the hold the team back. son of former Indiana Pacer and current a back injury, Burch, the lone senior, is Big Dance and a chance at the national “It’s not a big deal,” he said. “They’re broadcaster Clark Kellogg. ready for a return to the court following title. And with an attitude like learning about the team now. We’re Peterson was the first recruit to sign on recovery from his hamstring injury, along McDermott’s, it is hard not to get excited working with them and we have a men­ with the Friars this season. He is a 6’6” with Kale and Hall, two of the team’s key at the team’s possibilities for 2008. 6 The Cowl______WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW______October 11, 2007 Swim Team Hoping to Make Waves Under New Coach

John O’Neill, who most Swimming and Diving recently coached the swim Schedule 2007-08 team at West Point, returns to October direct the men’s and women’s 20 LOYOLA programs after a six-year 31 @ Rhode Island absence from the College. November by Mollie Quinn ’09 3 FAIRFIELD Sports Staff 4 @ Boston College 10 @ Monclair State While most Providence College stu­ 30 @ Harold Anderson Inv. dents have already put away their swim­ suits for the season, the Men’s and December Women’s Swimming and Diving Teams are just starting to feel comfortable in 1 @ Harold Anderson Inv. theirs again. The combination of a new coaching staff, confident freshmen and a January strong returning roster will likely prove an 10 BRYANT UNIVERSITY* unstoppable force in the pool. 26 VERMONT In June, Providence College announced the hiring of John O’Neill as the head coach of both the Men’s and Women’s COURTESY OF SPORTS INFO February Swimming and Diving Programs. O’Neill, Blair Flynn, who specializes in the backstroke and individual medley, is one of 2 @ Holy Cross who coached the Friars from the 1984-85 only two seniors on the women’s swimming and diving team under new Head 9 @ New England Inv. season through the 2000-01 season, Coach John O’Neill. 21-23 @ Big East Champ. presided over some of the most successful squads in the history of the program. rest that O’Neill has designed for them against Loyola College. The Friars know Most recently, O’Neill was the head is geared toward keeping everyone that they have their work cut out for them * at St. Thomas, USVI coach of the men’s and women’s swim­ healthy and fit, which he believes are racing against the Greyhounds but feel ming and diving team for the United States some of the most important factors for a confident that their intense training has performance. Instead, he is confident Military Academy at West Point. O’Neill successful season. effectively prepared them. about the addition of nine freshmen to the will concentrate on getting to know each “I like to manage on a day-to-day basis, “We have been working extremely hard team who already demonstrate a great swimmer individually and helping him to concentrating on keeping the team healthy so we will be prepared to swim fast,” said vision for the future of the program. strengthen the skills necessary to allow so that we can go into any meet with ener­ McCarthy. “If anything, this will be a good “Every year you have to sustain the loss them to excel this season. gy and confidence,” said O’Neill. gauge of how successful we are going to of undoubtedly key people,” said O’Neill. “I’m excited to be back here again The changes that are taking place be throughout the season.” “Students keep graduating but you have to and I am looking forward to the upcom­ right now are clearly geared toward Also during the season, the Friars will focus on the here and now.” ing season,” said O’Neill. “No one strengthening the team as a whole. be facing Fairfield University and Holy It is clear that both coach and swimmers knows more about the history of the pro­ Senior Jessica McCarthy recognized Cross. O’Neill noted that these meets are have the right mentality going into the start gram than I do.” these adjustments immediately. two of the most crucial and exciting events of the season. The vigor and camaraderie With 17 years of experience at PC “There have been a lot of changes so far, through out the course of the season. With felt among the team in practices is a prom­ already behind him, O’Neill knows what but a lot of good changes, and I think that more than 20 years of tradition and rivalry, ising start to the season. Every swimmer he wants to get done this season. He there will be more over the years,” said it is important to the swimmers in black will be striving to achieve their personal noted the team’s great potential and how McCarthy. “While this pre-season has and white that they surpass their oppo­ best and simultaneously will be hoping to he plans to capitalize on it this season. been much more demanding, it has made nents, adding another victory to the list. provide positive energy for the next swim­ In addition to dominating in the pool, the team more motivated and focused. “We are big rivals with both of these mer. the team is also successful in the class­ As the team looks ahead to the start of competitive schools. It usually comes “In swimming you need to feed off of room, boasting the highest team GPA the season, they know they will be facing down to the last few races so it is exciting each other. If one person has a great out of all the athletic programs at several Division I swimming powerhous­ to watch and also to be a part of,” said swim, then you can’t wait to swim too,” Providence College. It is this type of es. On the 2007-08 schedule are teams McCarthy. This year’s swimming and div­ said O’Neill. “I want this momentum to discipline both in and out of the pool from the University of Rhode Island, ing teams are definitely on the younger continue to build—it has already hap­ that will carry the team far this season. Boston College, the University of side with no seniors on the men’s side and pened in practice and will hopefully At the start of the official season, the Vermont, and the University of Maine. only two on the women’s squad. However, carry into meets.” team will have already been training for On Saturday, Oct. 20, the men’s and O’Neill feels that the loss of some top­ six weeks. The cycle of training and women’s teams will open their season scoring seniors will not affect this year’s Hockey: High Women’s 2007-08 Hockey Schedule October S0 WHAT IF YOU CAN’T 14 @ Maine 19 ©Colgate Hopes for ’08 20 © St. Lawrence 25 @ Connecticut PLAY 'EM? continued from page 2 30 © Boston College November classmate Danielle Tangredi each scored 6 NORTHEASTERN COME WRITE ABOUT 'EM! twice, and Keilch and freshman Ruff tal­ 10 VERMONT lied the other markers for PC. With contri­ 11 DARTMOUTH butions from every class, it appears the 16 © Ohio State Providence attack will be diverse and 17 @ Ohio State deep, the defense strong and poised, and 24 BROWN the goaltending unshakable. 25 ROBERT MORRIS “We have a terrific group of student ath­ December letes,” Deraney added, “The coaching staff 1 MAINE enjoys being around them, and I think 2 MAINE they enjoy being around each other. 6 YALE Wherever you have that, good things are 8 HARVARD in the future.” January And this year, the Friars can accom­ 4 © Niagara plish many things, especially if their 5 @ Niagara senior leaders such as forwards Jenna 12 MERCYHURST Kielch, Cherie Hendrickson, Kelli 13 MERCYHURST Doolin, Rachel Crissy and defenseman 19 © New Hampshire Kathleen Smith can provide leadership 20 BOSTON UNIVERSITY for this relatively young Friars team, both 25 @ Vermont on and off of the ice. 26 @ Vermont The Friars will look to build upon their 31 BOSTON UNIVERSITY 12-6-3 Hockey East record and an overall February record of 16-16-4 as the Friars open their 2 @ Boston University season Sunday, Oct. 18 at 2:00 p.m. 9 ©Connecticut against the University of Maine 10 CONNECTICUT Come pick up your application lor The Cowl today! Blackbears at Maine. 16 @ Northeastern The first home game for the Friars will 17 NORTHEASTERN be on Tuesday, Nov. 6 at 7:00 p.m. as the 23 NEW HAMPSHIRE Providence College Women’s Hockey 24 © New Hampshire Team takes on the Northeastern University March Huskies for another Hockey East show­ 1 BOSTON COLLEGE Our office is located in Slayin 005, across from Hall’s down. 2 © Boston College 8-22 Hockey East Tournament www.TheCowl.com October 11, 2007 Winter Sports Preview The Cowl 7 Women’s Basketball Raises the Bar for 2008

Head Coach Phil Seymore hopes that experience and improved free throw shooting will be his team s ticket to the Big East Tournament in 2008.

by Mike Springer ’08 Asst. Sports Editor

Last year, the Providence College Women’s Basketball Team set the bar high, finishing the 2006-07 seasons with a 13-16 record. The Friars compiled their highest win total since the 2001-02 season and for the first time in nearly six seasons, the Friars managed to post a winning record at home, going 8-7 at Alumni Hall. 2007 was also the year that saw the Friars beat nationally ranked Louisville on the road in a double-overtime effort. But the road to, improvement for the Friars will only get tougher, as the Big East Conference will once again be one of the more competitive in the nation this season.

“The Big East is a tough league because PHOTOS COURTESY OF SPORTS INFO every game tends to be against some one Chelsea Marandola, above, returns for her junior season to lead the team in pur­ that was the National Champion, Runner- up to the National Champion, or made the suit of its first winning record since the 2001-02 season. Her classmate, Catherine Final Four, like Notre Dame, UConn, and Bove, right, and second only to Marandola in scoring last season, will look to give Rutgers,” said Head Coach Phil Seymore. the Friars the offensive lift they will need to be successful in one of the nation’s “There are going to be a lot of teams in the top conferences. Big East that will be ranked when we start the season like St. Johns, Rutgers, and I’m expecting us to keep getting better, Another who looks to factor into the Louisville, but this is why we are here, become more competitive, and mature as a Friars’ plans this season is junior forward play in these tough games and to play hard team.” Shantee Darrian. A native of New Jersey, ship and experience, which these girls will and be successful.” The lack of experience should be less of Darrian led the Friars in rebounds last sea­ provide, will rub off on the Friars three But in order for the Friars’ success to an issue for the Friars this season as they son averaging 9.5 a game before she went freshmen swingmen this season, Mi-Khida continue, Seymore knows he needs to will be returning 12 players from last down with an injury after playing in just Hankins, Trinity Hull, and Megan Jackson, count on his team to stay healthy and con­ year’s team and look to build upon their two games, causing her to miss the rest of whom Seymore hopes to see have an tinue to grow and mature. Already, he has seasoned skills and maturity enroot to the 2006-2007 campaign. This season the impact on his team this year by providing seen his players take tremendous leaps in another successful season. Friars will look to Darrian to provide them some depth and versatility on the wings. their growth and maturity and just two This season, the Friars will look again to with strong presence in the post and on the Experience and maturity should play an short seasons. junior guards Chelsea Marandola and boards, helping to anchor the Friars’ interi­ integral role for the Friars this season as “In my first year, we were not as talent­ Catherine Bove to provide them with lead­ or defense. they will use it to help them overcome the ed as we are now, but we worked harder, ership and scoring. Bove averaged 11.7 “Having Shantee get injured was a huge poor free-throw shooting and turnovers had more experience in knowing what to points, 2.8 assists, and 5.1 rebounds a loss for us because it was hard for us to that plagued their team last year. do, and were in better condition,” said game for the Friars last season. While establish an inside presence last season As a team the Friars shot just 60 percent Seymore. “Last year’s team had more tal­ Marandola finished the year averaging without her,” Said Seymore. “Without from the free-throw line and turned the ball ent than the team that I coached my first 17.3 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.7 steals a Shantee, we were forced to go smaller and over 15.9 times a game last season. In year, but we didn’t have that maturity fac­ game, which led to her selection to the All­ that put us at a disadvantage defensively order to counter this, Seymore has had his tor. This year I expect us to be tougher and Big East Second Team. But Marandola since we had to have some players like team shoot more free-throw over the sum­ more competitive. I know we hit a bit of a still feels there is room for improvement. Bove playing out of position.” mer while drilling into their heads the slump towards the end of last season, but "------While that type of season ending injury importance of good ball handling. would have deterred most players, for “Even though Chelsea shot around 90 Women’s Basketball 2007-08 We need to be better than Darrian, it became a source of motivation. percent from the free-throw line for us last we were last year. If we play Schedule Something that helped humbled her and season, free-throws where still an issue for as a team ana give it our all, helped her grow as a player and a leader. us, which is why this year, we have been November leaving everything out there “That was one of the hardest things that taking a lot more free-throws during prac­ 9 @ Brown whenever we step out on the I’ve ever experienced,” said Darrian. “It tice to stay sharp and improve our form,” 13 HARTFORD' court we should be very suc­ was hard being on the sidelines, knowing said Seymore. 17 IONA cessful this year and make my team needed me. But that whole expe­ “As for turnovers, we averaged about 20 the Big East Tournament and rience taught me that you can’t take any­ per game before I got here and now we got 20 MANHATTAN maybe even the NCAAs.. thing for granted and you need to appreci­ it down to about 16 and ideally we would 23 @ Florida International Chelsea Marandola ’09 , ate the little things. Sitting out also like to see it continue to drop even-lower, 25 Illinois/South Carolina* allowed me to take things in from the to about 12 or 13 a game. And I believe 28 @ Fordham bench and helped motivate me and make that will come with our added maturity and me a better leader.” experience as we learn to handle the ball “We need to be better than we were last For Darrian, the best way to lead is by better.” December year,” said Marandola. “If we play as a example, both on and off the court, as she Taking care of the ball and making their 1 @ Rhode Island team and give it our all, leaving eveiything will do all she can to help motivate and free-throws will be a must, when the Friars 5 @ Harvard out there whenever we step out on the guide her teammates through the long sea­ take on the runners-up to the 2007 NCAA 8 CENTRAL CONN STATE court we should be very successful this son ahead. Championship, the University of Rutgers year and make the Big East Tournament 20 MICHIGAN STATE “I think the most important thing you on Feb. 23 at Providence. and maybe even the NCAAs.” can do is to lead your team by example, “Last year when we played Rutgers they 28 NEW HAMPSHIRE Sophomore guard Kendria Holmes will both on and off of the court.” Said Darrian, were on point with eveiything that they 31 MASSACHUSETTS also figure in being a big part of the Friars’ “That’s why it’s important to me to not did,” said Marandola, “We don’t expect offense this season. Last year, Holmes had only be more of a vocal leader, but to make them to be off, that’s why if we limit our January an impress freshman debut for the Friars, sure that I play hard every game and that I mistakes and take care of the ball that 5 @ Marquette as she averaged 7.3 points, 3.7 assists, 1.1 continue to still do well academically and came we should be able to come in and steals, and 2.1 rebounds per game, which maintain a high GPA.” win.” 12 DEPAUL led to her being selected to the All-Big Darrian will share her role as team Darrian shares Marandola’s confidence 19 @ Pittsburgh East Freshmen Team. leader with fellow teammates Bove and in her teammates and their hard work pay­ 22 VILLANOVA “Kendria started a good portion of the Marandola. Marandola feels that she too, ing off, as she looks forward to their game 26 @ Seton Hall games for us and was able to step-up into is ready to step-up and take charge as one against the University of Rutgers. 30 @ Notre Dame the role of point-guard for us and handle it of the team’s leaders this season. “It’s going to be like any other Big East very well,” said Seymore in praise of his “This year, I think that we (Bove, game,” said Darrian. “You just have to be young guard. “I really think she should Marandola, and Darrian) are doing a good ready to go out there and play hard and if February have no problem handling that role again job in not just talking, but leading by you do that, you can win.” 2 @ Connecticut for us this season.” example, through our workouts, play, and Though one game cannot necessarily 9 WEST VIRGINIA Seymore hopes Holmes’ play at the attitudes on the court,” said Marandola. define a season, the game against the 12 @ Villanova point and a healthier roster this season will In addition to talented sophomore and University of Rutgers will be an important allow for the Friars to play a more high junior classes, the team will return seniors barometer in telling how far the 16 ST. JOHN’S energy and up-tempo style of offense this Aga Lorenc, Danielle Howard, and Providence College Women’s Basketball 19 SYRACUSE season. Savannah Price. Of those three, Lorenc is Program has come in three short years and 23 RUTGERS “What we do offensively will depend on likely to get the most playing time. how much further it still needs to go. 26 @ Louisville our numbers and health. We would like to Last season, Lorenc played in 22 games, The Friars will open their season on dictate the tempo of the game, spread the averaging three points and 2.6 rebounds in Friday, Nov. 9, against Brown at 7:30 p.m. floor out, shoot threes, and be able to drive 13.4 minutes. Howard came off the bench And be sure to come down and cheer the March and penetrate,” said Seymore. “If we can in 15 of the 20 games she played in and Friars in their home-opener on Tuesday, 1 @ Georgetown stay healthy then we will press more and averaged just under three points and Nov. 13, when they take on Harvard at 3 CINCINNATI try to establish some inside post play, rebounds per appearance. 7:00 p.m. at Alumni Hall. 8-11 Big East Tournament which we couldn’t do last season.” Seymore is also hopeful that the leader­ 7th Annual PROVIDENCE Winter Sports Preview

Inside the Winter Sports Preview: --Mike Springer ’08 takes a look at the -Dan Ollquist ’10 and Bradley Chen ’08 women’s basketball team’s chance in Phil debate which athletes are ready for a big Seymore’s third year at the helm. year. --Erin Redihan ’08 previews life after Herb -Mollie Quinn ’09 speaks with the new Hill for the men’s hoops team. head coach of the swimming and diving -Ryan Holt ’09 talks with the men’s hockey teams. team about why the ’07-08 stands to -We look at the Friar mens’ hoops squad’s improve on the ’06-07 season. chances in the Big East.