Scouting Crystal Lake South Gators

Crystal Lake South Gators

Coach: Kyle McCaughn (11th season, 146-141)

Conference: Fox Valley (Valley Division)

2010-2011 record: 3-24 (1-9 FVC Valley)

Top returning players: Seniors Stephanie Melone (5-5, G), Meredith Fruehauf (5-8, G/F), Lauren Johnson (5-8 G/F), Kayla Peterson (5-9, F), Elizabeth Strack (5-10, P).

Key newcomers: Juniors Carina Madoni (5-3, G), Stephanie Oros (5-5, G), Kelly Ryan (5-4, G), Katie Benson (5-5, G), Emily Ellison (5-7, G), Lauren Del Vecchio (6-0, F), Michelle Fuchs (6-2, F), sophomores Rachael Rasmussen (5-6, G/F), Sara Mickrow (5-11 C/F).

Outlook: After struggling last year in the always tough Fox Valley Conference McCaughn is looking forward to moving on and improving this season. "This is a new year with new athletes and new determination," said McCaughn. "I am looking forward to seeing what the season holds for this young group of athletes." This young group of athletes consists of five returning veterans and newcomers, who will each contribute in different ways. "(The seniors) all worked very hard in the offseason to improve their game, stamina and skill level," said McCaughn. "None of (the newcomers) have varsity experience, but we will be looking to many of them for significant minutes in the upcoming season. These young players are all very eager to learn the game and prepare to perform at the highest level." McCaughn knows that there will be improvement in this squad, and will wait for the ball to tip off before he has any concerns. "We are most confident that we will work hard and improve as the season progresses," said McCaughn. "We have no big concerns at this point. Our first couple of games will help us to identify our concerns."