Queen Bees ready for 05-06 basketball season

by: shawna o'hara
Staff Writer

It may not feel like November with temperatures still lingering in the 60's, but the time has come, St. Ambrose University basketball fans, for another killer basketball season to begin.

Both the men’s and women’s teams have started to tear up the courts again, and there is no better time for SAU women’s basketball than right now. Just three games into the regular season, the Queen Bees are already off to a very positive start, after winning two of their first three contests.

As the team rolls on with their season, first-year head coach Amy Eagan expects nothing less than an exciting and positive basketball season.

"I was a little nervous for the first game," Eagan admitted. "But really, after that (coaching) just feels natural. I felt well-prepared. Now the nerves are gone and it’s really more exciting than anything."

And exciting it has been thus far, as the Queen Bees have come out strong in their first victories of the season. Both coach Eagan and junior guard Cathy Mangan agree that along with timely rebounding and clear communication, a solid game plan and good team chemistry are what have lead the team to their early success.

"We had a great game plan before we even stepped onto the court," Mangan said. "We’re working to be a great defensive team (as well). We want to go out there and stick it to ‘em every time."

Mangan is in her third year as a Queen Bee, and knows it takes leadership and a positive outlook to advance team chemistry.

For these keys to the game, coach Eagan feels the team is loaded with girls willing to step up, especially recognizing her senior Bees for their leadership this year. But it will take effort from all the Queen Bees to solidify the team bond this year.

Mangan says the time she spends with her team both on and off the court is guaranteed to be a good time.

"We have a lot of fun, definitely," she stated. "We joke around a lot, but we’re on task and know when it’s time to be serious."

One thing the Bees are serious about is the opportunity to "stick it to" rival Augustana College when the teams meet on Dec. 8.

A win against Augie would accomplish a big goal for both the team and coach Eagan, who recognizes the fun in the rivalry.

"The girls really talk about beating Augie," Eagan said. "But every team is out to get them. That’s the game to win."

According to Eagan, the secret to any victory this year is to be ready to play. She expects stand-out years from both freshman Casey Breitbach and Mangan, but feels confident in her team to step up and hopefully run away with the division.

"We were projected as sixth in the conference, but we’d like to compete for a top spot," Eagan said.

As far as drawing fans to the games, all one has to do is crave excitement, according to Eagan.

"[We’re] fun to watch. We have an up and down tempo of play and many fans enjoy that."

The real excitement comes in the form of the December match up vs. Augie, which will take place at home in the Lee Lohman Arena at 7:30 p.m.