Coming off of a winning season last year, the Colby women's basketball squad now looks to use its positive momentum to improve even further as the young team from last year returns as a lineup of experienced veterans.

Starting this Friday, November 20, the Mules kick off their season with the Colby Invitational Tournament. Opening against Vassar College at 5:30 p.m. in Wadsworth Gymnasium, the women hope to secure a victory that will propel them to the finals on Saturday, November 21, against the winner of a game between St. Joseph's College and Thomas College.

The women also have high expectations for all the matches this season. Fighting a home game against Bowdoin College on Saturday, January 16, the women hope to avenge their loss from last season against this formidable rival. Additionally, the lady Mules look forward to the end of the year as the team plans to travel to Florida for the Eastern College Athletic Conference Holiday Tournament. Sure to find strong competition there, the women will be able to hone their skills and connect as a team in preparation for difficult league games against Amherst College and Bates College in New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) play.

Outscoring opponents by an average of 2.6 points per game last year, the Mules certainly validate their high ambitions and indicate potential for a breakout year. Reviewing other statistics, the women led their opponents in all categories but blocks and steals per game last year, showing that the women's precise passing and consistent shooting should lead to success in the 2009-2010 season.

Although still a relatively young team, with seven out of 11 team members being underclassmen, the women's basketball team has abundant talent and looks forward to future achievements. First-years Diana Manduca, Jacqueline McLaughlin and Jayde Bennett all have promising futures while returning sophomores Rachael Mack, Kelly Potvin, Aarika Ritchie and Jilian Vaughan play far beyond their level of experience would suggest. Upperclassman Karlyn Adler '11 and team captains Julianne Kowalski '11, Alison Cappelloni '10 and Sam Allen '10 anchor the team both offensively and defensively, rounding out the team with their skill.

Guiding these players, Head Coach Lori Gear McBride begins her fifth season with the team, and assistant coach Christine Clancy her second. Both coaches hope to add another playoff appearance to their records. Overall, the lady Mules expect big things from this season, and each member is extremely excited to prove the group's merit in NESCAC play.