The women's basketball team welcomes four freshmen to the team this winter as it looks to have a strong 2004-05 campaign. Forward Julie Mulinare, forward/center Khalilah Ummah and guards Ali Landes and Jenna Gomez will try to make an immediate impact on a Jumbo squad that went 18-6 (7-2 NESCAC) last season.
"We've had just two weeks of practices so far, so it's a little hard to tell what kind of contribution the freshmen will make," coach Carla Berube said. "However, we have a great group of [returning players], so there's no pressure."
Each freshman will look to find her niche on the team as the season progresses.
"Julie is a forward who is also a good shooter and both Ali and Jenna are good rebounders from the guard position," said Berube. "Khalilah is a good shot blocker and adds a different dimension to the team."
Junior Jessica Powers emphasized the importance of this added size.
"Khalilah will make a big impact underneath the basket," she said. "She is tall and strong and adds a presence that our team really needs."
The addition of the freshmen will make this Tufts team one of the most athletic that Berube has coached.
"Come game time, we'll see who can step it up," she said.
As far as having an impact goes, it is a question of when, not who. All the players' strengths will show as the season continues.
"They are really hard workers that will add a lot to the team this year," senior captain Erin Connolly said. "The girls are committed, dedicated and bring a lot of energy on the court. They make this team a very deep one."
With the first game coming up this Friday, the team will get a chance to see how it plays together. The players do not foresee any obstacles in the way of their effort to become a tightly knit team.
"Though they are new, they are already fitting in really well," Powers said. "They are making a pretty smooth transition so far and we are excited to have them as a part of the team."
The athleticism and depth of the team will be big keys this year to the Jumbos' success, and the freshmen will have a significant impact in both of these. If the freshmen can help the team build on last year's performance, similar results can be expected.
