Judson women have high hopes

Behind four solid returning athletes as well as a bevy of new talent, the Judson women's basketball team hopes to follow up an 11-17 finish from last year with newfound success.

The Eagles are pleased to welcome back some of last year's leading offensive players, namely this season's team captain Alicia Rovertoni. In 2007-08, the 6-foot forward averaged 9.9 points per game finishing the year with 286 points while pulling down 8.8 rebounds per game.

Rovertoni is joined by Devonaye Henderson (8.3 points per game, 5.1 rebounds per game, 5.7 assists per game) at guard, as well as guards Kirstin Johns (8.5 ppg. 3.9 rpg.) and Crystal Goodall (5.6 ppg).

"Offensively, we are very talented," said head coach Jim Cook. "We just need to learn how to play with one another."

"Alicia is our team captain and is a great leader. All of our returnees are leaders on the court."

While the offense will be solid, Cook notes that defense will be the team's strength.

"Everybody on this team is very athletic, and all of our players have a lot to offer," he said.

In addition to the returning foursome, Judson boasts more strength in newcomers and guards Aubrey Parsons (Sterling), Ashley Pillow (Loves Park), Kristi Siemers (Bensenville), Lindsay Jordan (West Lafayette, Ind.), Hanah Welding (Morrison), Lauren Simmons (Indianapolis, Ind.) and Kim Peek (Springdale, Ariz.).

Although it is early, Parsons is currently averaging 13 points per game with Siemers following at 5.4 points per game.

Bonnie Nge (Westmont), Megan Boxberger (Overland Park, Kan.), Daisy Jara (Huntley) and Tiana Forrest (Elgin) join the roster as forwards.

"We have added some excellent post players and guards," said Cook. "We have quite a bit of talent here, and I'm already seeing that we've added some great things to our approach."

With more all-around talent this year than last year according to Cook, Judson will look to improve upon last season's CCAC finish of fourth place.

"Our plan is to take it one game at a time," said Cook. "We're not looking past anybody. We would like to do well in our conference."

And Judson will not pursue success via one or two players, but rather will expect contributions up and down the lineup.

"We will be very balanced, and I expect a team effort," Cook said. "This group does a great job of mentally preparing before each game, they practice extremely hard every day and I cannot ask for much more than that."