Three years ago, a pair of upstart freshmen stepped into a tough situation. In the midst of a rebuilding program, Mary Washington's 1987-88 women's basketball team had just suffered a 4-19 record. This determined duo dedicated themselves to turning the program around, and now - entering their senior seasons - the results have been extraordinary. Forward Kim Nagy (Reston, VA) and guard Susan Myers (McGaheysville, VA)will soon be the fifth and sixth MWC players to reach the 1,000 point barrier, and Nagy (957 points) is on course to become the school's all-time leading scorer; Trish Long (1981-84) presently leads at 1,298.
Nagy, a 5-10 slasher, became a first-team All-Capital Athletic Conference (CAC) performer after averaging 16.5 points/game on .463 shooting. She also grabbed 8.0 rebounds/game and led MWC with 48 steals. The 5-5 Myers shot a solid .482 from the outside in scoring 13.8 points/game, and contributed 41 steals. But by no means is this a two-person team. Several other returnees should help MWC improve on a 15-12 season in which the Eagles advanced to a second straight Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Tournament.
Senior Jennie Tompkins (Charlottesville, VA) - a 6-0 center - played in 24 games and showed a deft touch around the basket. She'll be counted upon to help replace departed pivot players Linda Konfala and Patty Charron, who combined for 18 points and 16rebounds in 1990-91. AlisaRamirez (Jr./Charlottesville,VA),a 5-7 wing, showed some fine shooting range and can also rebound inside. Melody Brown (Sr./Stafford, VA) appeared in 25 games last year and is a solid rebounder and inside passer. MWC receives an added bonus with the return of 5-7 wing Chris Paige Gr./Vienna, VA), possibly the team's best all-around player two years ago
when she averaged 11 points/game as a freshman. Paige - who can score outside and off the dribble - missed all of last season with mononucleosis. Her return will help alleviate the graduation loss of off guard Robin Peck (1,047 career points).
In the backcourt, senior Staci Musselman (Shawsville, VA) looks to assume full-time playmaking duties after splitting time with now-graduated Vikki Lenhart. At the off guard, Sandy Garrett (So./Storrs, CT) may be the team's best outside shooter, and looks to improve with experience. Unda Kattwinkel (Sr./ Charlottesville, VA) also shows promise at the big guard spot.