Guard Jenn Shinall '12. Photo courtesy of Paul Brandon.
The Connecticut College women’s basketball team kicked off their season November 20 with a game against Brandeis University. Unfortunately, the Camels lost 36-68, but that didn’t crush their spirits.
In the next two games, the team stepped it up and racked up two wins against Springfield College (66-60) and Nichols College (72-52). Their streak was short-lived, however, as they suffered another four losses against Wellesley College (44-61), Western Connecticut State University (41-54), Rhode Island College (38-50) and St. Joseph’s College (40-70). Despite the current 2-5 record, the Camels have plenty of games to prove their skills.
“The early games are our way to see exactly where we are at before we hit league play. In preparation, we are playing high ranked teams outside of the NESCAC in order to see just what we have to work on in order to give ourselves a good ranking in the league,” said Tori Verrengia ’11. “We have so many talented individuals, that I know, as the season progresses we will do just fine.”
With continued practice and preparation, this team of gifted players, which includes a talented crop of freshmen, has the ability to really improve their game for when it comes time to compete against other NESCAC schools. Ready for the challenge, the Camels have already set a few goals for themselves for this upcoming season.
“We are aiming for the NCAA tournament,” said Verrengia. “However, first we must make it to the NESCAC tournament. With three years under my belt, I have never once made it to the NESCAC tourney and would love to see it before I graduate. We have what it takes, so I would love us to come together as a team and truly accomplish what I know we can.”
Demonstrating the talent of Connecticut College athletes, two players received New England Women’s Basketball Association (NEWBA) awards for the span of November 15 to November 28. Guard Jenn Shinall ’12 was appointed to the NEWBA Weekly Honor Roll and forward Tara Gabelman ’14 received NEWBA Rookie of the Week for their outstanding play in the first five games of the season, especially in the wins against Springfield and Nichols.
The Camels are preparing for their next game, which will be played at 8PM on December 7 against Roger Williams University at Luce Field House. The first NESCAC game won’t be played until January 14 when the Camels face Amherst College.
