In defeating Lawrence University this past weekend, the women’s basketball team improved to a 2-12 record for the season. The Pioneers’ 62-48 triumph last Saturday was the Pioneers’ first Midwest Conference victory.
Abby Jaeger ’14 pulled out a 15-point, nine-rebound performance and Alissa Hirsh ’16, had a game-high 20 points for the Pioneers, complementing the feat with two assists and two steals. Anne Boldt ’16 contributed 11 points and nine boards.
Although its record is not where the team would like it to be, many recognize that this year will provide a base to build future success. With a new coach and seven first-year players, an adjustment period is expected, and many are happy with the effort and determination put in by everyone this season.
“Progress every game, and every practice” said Cristal Coleman ’15. “That’s how we look at this season.”
One struggle for the team is that the Pioneers do not have the height of other teams in the conference. To compensate, they have been pushing the pace of their game.
“I would say one constant thing that we have had all season is our work ethic and the never-quit attitude,” said head coach Dana Harrold. “We have a goal each game to outwork the opponent and the women have done a great job with this. It doesn’t always mean we get the W at the end of the night, but we leave the gym knowing that we left everything we had on the court. I am proud of my team for that.”
Comments from teammates on the change in coaching staff are positive, citing the coach as a straightforward leader in words and action. Harrold was a point guard in college, and therefore brings a new perspective to the team, different in focus and logistics from past coaching staffs.
Her strategy has allowed guards on the team to become stronger playmakers on the court. Harrold has promoted a family atmosphere within the team, and has encouraged them to commit to working hard not only for themselves, but also for their teammates.
According to Coleman, Harrold has a humorous personality, but commands respect.
“The season so far has been a tough one in terms of wins and losses, but within our basketball family we measure our success by a lot more than the win and loss column,” Harrold said. “We knew heading into the season that we had a lot of work ahead of us because of our youth, inexperience and lack of size.”
Despite the poor record, the team is determined to end the season on a positive note.
“I have never allowed my women to use [the losing record] as an excuse. We have about 10 games left in the season and we are hoping to not only compete with some of these teams, but to be able to get the victory,” Harrold said.
The next home women’s basketball game will be tomorrow in Darby Gymnasium at 3 p.m. against Ripon College.
