The loss of two players will mean even more teamwork than before. Starting forward Mathaline Otis will miss the remainder of the season, and freshman Lisa Sandel, out with stress fractures, will mean even more team unity than ever. In the spirit of unity, the freshmen on the squad have withstood the challenge. Linda Walsh has found her spot on the team, contributing key rebounds as well as dominating inside. Chritie Ledesma leads the Dons in conference shooting percentage with a .600 average, and turned in a strong performance against Santa Clara. Lisa Sandel started to come around most noticeably in the battle against Louisiana Tech, where her outside shot became less tentative, and started to fulfill her role as the "sparkplug" of the team. As for the playoff situation, once again, the Dons must win every game remaining.
Co-coaches Walt Bugler and Mike Rice were quite pleased with both the turnout and performance of their troups. Their most pleasant surprise was the Alaskan connection. Lisa Sandel. Sandel, now competing for a starting job in the women's basketball back court, was without a doubt the Cross Country franchise. Each week, Sandel lowered her own school record (now 18.45) and placed 9th at the league championship meet. Behind Sandel was a score of other talented harriers. Mary Jilke. when she could stay healthy, provided scoring punch and inspirational leadership. Eileen Brennan. a veteran work horse, contributed to the team with dramatic flare and late-race kicks. June Brewer, a multi-talented young lady, developed into a top notch runner and competitor for the Dons (TheFoghorn).
