Tough Early Schedule is a Good Test for Hungry Lancers

by: Jacob Genereux

The Lancers women’s basketball team isn’t just looking for wins this season; they’re looking to find a pathway to get back to the mountaintop and reclaim the glory of the recent past.

Players like Teighan Stoukas are well aware of the team goals and understand the way forward will be demanding.  That’s the price of getting a coveted championship hat proudly worn by Ontario University Athletics (OUA) winners.

“Obviously, we aspire to win a national championship, but an OUA title is one that we are more focused on going forward,” says Stoukas. “We are able to consistently push the pace, and this will ultimately help us win more games which align with our goal to win an OUA championship.”

Isabella Anes points out that the small goals throughout the season lead towards the big goal of winning a championship.

“Every game has its individual goals, which all contribute to the end goal of winning a championship, and I believe this helps our team to play with intent and brings out the best effort in us.”

Anes applauds the team’s off-season dedication that led to this moment – one that drilled down on offensive and defensive strategies with an emphasis on team chemistry. Head coach Chantal Vallee says this close-knit team has primed her belief in this year’s squad.

“There was a huge emphasis on unity heading into this season and all the athletes came early in August to prepare for the season, which showed me that there is commitment and dedication with this group,” Vallee says.  “At the conclusion of the previous season, each athlete took the time reflect on their season and shared what were the strengths, weaknesses, and key areas that need to be addressed for next season.”

There are early signs this belief has been well-founded.  The defending national champion Carleton Ravens narrowly beat the Lancers 67-66 at the end of October in Ottawa.

“To me, I believe this is one of the toughest opening schedules we have ever had since I started coaching here,” says Vallee. “The confidence around the team is high and we are looking forward to November’s matchups.”

The Lancers had four scorers in double-digits and stole the ball 14 times, proving pesky against the Ravens.  They have followed that up with four straight wins – including a 16-point win over the visiting McMaster Marauders on November 9, a team that’s traditionally given the Lancers fits. There’s cause for optimism even if the injury bug has bitten early.

“The injuries opened up an opportunity for a rookie player to step in coming out of high school and play big minutes,” says Vallee. “We could see more success if we complement our strong defensive game with an increased shooting percentage in the offensive end.”

The road to a championship is rarely easy, but the Lancers are embracing every challenge. The tough November schedule will tell them a lot about how they are.