The Wildcats Look to Win another Title

The Wildcats win their 5th straight NCAA Championship against the Tar Heels in 2009.

Playing the second best ranked team in the nation is no easy task, especially in front of a record breaking 1,705 fans versus.  That is, unless your team is ranked first.  This was the situation for Northwestern women’s lacrosse about two weeks ago.  Ranked #1 in the nation as they approached their rival from the NCAA National Championships last year, the North Carolina Tar Heels, the Wildcats had the closest game of the season.  However, the Wildcats found themselves on the losing end.  A close game till the end, the Wildcats suffered an 18-16 loss, making it their first loss in nearly two years.  Although a loss like this was obviously hard to accept, being five time defending national champions (including last year’s title) and now the #2 ranked team in the nation make the Wildcats a team whose spirit in not easily crushed.  They would not let this loss define them as a team.  Less than a week after their struggle against the Tar Heels, the Wildcats rallied to victory against their conference opponent Vanderbilt with a 27-9 win, a win that makes NU the regular season champions and places them as the number one seed in the upcoming American Lacrosse Conference Championships (ALCC), in which also they placed 1^st last year.

The 2010 season for the Wildcats began rather normally for the team with 18-6, 18-11, and 23-1 victories over schools University of Massachusetts, Stanford, and Duquesne respectively.  The team continued to build upon their undefeated record from last season by achieving 12 straight wins where three of those wins were against conference opponents.  On playing for such a successful team, freshman player Amanda Macaluso says, “playing for a team that has won five national championships means that we play with a huge target on our backs. This means that every game we play we need to bring our best, because we know the other team is.  The level of intensity and competitiveness that we play with everyday is amazing.”

Throughout the season thus far, NU’s star players Katrina Dowd and Danielle Spencer dominated the field and represented the Wildcats well as a team with power.  Dowd continues to rack up points as she currently is ranked 7^th on NU’s all time scoring list with 228 points while Spencer is ranked 8^th with 216 points.  Concerning what keeps Dowd set on success she says, “My teammates motivate me to become the best player I can be in order to further the success of the team.  Each practice and every game is an opportunity.  As a senior my opportunities are numbered, there is no greater motivation then to keep that in perspective.”

Then defeat struck.

Despite players like Dowd, Alexandra Frank, Shannon Smith, Brooke Matthews, Rachel Fox, and Amanda Macaluso all adding a total of 16 points to the scoreboard against North Carolina, the Tar Heels still won but by only a small and unfortunate margin. Has the loss affected the team’s morale?  After the loss Dowd stated, “The team’s overall morale hasn’t shifted.  We have a very positive coaching staff and we as players buy into the concept of being positive to ourselves and teammates.  But with the loss, it has come time to look inside ourselves.  Hard work and consistency is what this program values and as players we needed to decide if what we were contributing was our best effort.”  The NU women’s lacrosse team does not let the word “loss” disrupt their attitude and mindset and is why Dowd goes on to say, “As a team we cannot not let the loss define our season but let how we respond here on out define us.”  And certainly they did not let it define them, evidenced by their performance less than a week later.

Danielle Spencer (#2), scored 8 goal against Vanderbilt.

As the #2 Wildcats took the field on April 24th for their game against #8 Vanderbilt, the regular season conference crown was at stake as well as the first seed position in the ALCC.  Players Dowd and Spencer led the team with Spencer scoring a career best of 8 goals. This tied her for second most goals in a single game in NU lacrosse history.  In the end, the Wildcats defeated Vanderbilt with an overwhelming 27-9 victory.  Despite the players’ role in the team’s success, there is more to their victory.  Macaluso says, “a lot of the credit I would say has to go to our amazing coaching staff.  They put in endless hours watching and cutting film as well as coming up with new and innovative drills and ways to make us the best and most versatile team that we can be.”

With the victory over Vanderbilt, Northwestern stood with a strong record of 13-1 including a 4-0 record against American Lacrosse Conference opponents.  Northwestern then closed their season on a high note this past weekend with victories over both Virginia and Florida, giving NU an overall record of 15-1.

The Wildcats now look forward to the American Lacrosse Conference Championships on May 6^th in Columbus, Ohio where they look to defend their title from last year.

Article by staff writer:

Ryan Nangle

A Conversation with Brooke Frydendall: UIC Softball

Senior Brooke Frydendall

The UIC softball team has been one of the more successful programs in recent years. After finishing 1st in the Horizon League during the regular season, the Flames entered the 2009 Horizon League Conference Tournament with a lot of momentum. However, they fell short to Cleveland State in the Championship game. Recently, I had the opportunity to talk with Senior Brooke Frydendall about expectations for this season, her history with softball, and her plans after graduation.

Dan Cline: When did you start playing softball?

Brooke Frydendall: I started playing softball when I was 8 years old.

DC: Are there any professional softball players you idolize or would you say you follow baseball players more?

BF: I follow all sports in general and I would have to say that there is not one player in particular who I idolize. There are many players I enjoy watching simply to learn new things about the game and how to become a better player.

DC: What has kept you motivated over the years to continue playing into college?

BF: There has been so many times where I wanted to quit because it was so hard or it took up too much time. I just have so much passion for the game that I could never do that. I have met so many great friends throughout the years playing softball and they all have kept me motivated. It’s really fun playing with some of your best friends.

DC: Since you’re from California, what made you choose to play softball at UIC?

BF: I had a choice to either stay near home and play for a University in California or come to Chicago and play for UIC. I chose to play at UIC because I wanted to do something on my own and experience something completely different. As soon as I came out to Chicago for my official visit I fell in love with the city, and knew this is where I wanted to play and go to college.

DC: After having a new coaching staff take over last year, how do you feel they have done as they enter their second season?

BF: I enjoyed playing for the new coaches because they brought something new to the table and really made us believe we could win a conference tournament. We accomplished so many things last year which makes me really excited to start conference this year!

DC: What are your expectations on the season as you enter your senior year?

Brooke Swinging for the Fences

BF: We have so much talent this year and I have high expectations for this team. We want nothing less than to win the conference outright, then win the conference tournament [that is at home this year], and then make a run in regionals!

DC: After barely losing to Cleveland State in the Championship game last season, UIC is picked to finish 2^nd this year in the Horizon League behind them. Is there any room for improvement this season? Do you have a lot of motivation to get back and win it all?

BF: Rankings don’t mean anything. They could pick us last for all I care. We know exactly what we want to happen this season, and nothing is going to stop us from winning the conference tournament and moving on to regionals. I would love to play Cleveland State in the championship game just like last year except this year we will be the ones celebrating.

DC: How do you feel the team has been playing so far this season?

BF: We have been playing some tough competition while still doing some things really well as a team. We have shown how great of a team we are and as soon as we put all aspects of the game together, we will be great and do great things!

DC: What are your plans after graduation?

BF: If I knew the answer I’d tell you, but as of right now I’m focusing on graduating and enjoying my last season of softball.

DC: And finally, Cubs or White Sox?

BF: ANGELS!!!! haha but I’d definitely say the CUBS over the White Sox.

Article by Staff Writer:

Dan Cline

A Wildcat Chat: Brandon Precin

Brandon Precin Winning a Match

Senior Brandon Precin is normally found on the mats helping lead his team to victory in both duals and tournaments. However, this year he is redshirting, allowing for him to compete a 5th year. Even so, as a two-time Illinois State Champion in high school and a two-time All-American, wining third place in the NCAA tournament last year, Brandon Precin is a major contributor for the Northwestern Wrestling team.

Ryan: So Brandon, who or what inspired you to start wrestling?

Brandon Precin: It was a combination of things.  A few of my relatives wrestled, so my parents asked if I wanted to try it out. After watching pro wrestling on TV, I wanted to wrestle. However, upon going into the practice room, I was in for a surprise—it was quite different from what I saw on TV.

R: Four years ago, when you were choosing a college or university to attend, why did you pick Northwestern over Illinois, Central Michigan and Columbia?

BP: Northwestern offered me an opportunity to study at a great academic institution and compete at the Division 1 level. Northwestern is also close to my hometown of Orland Park, so I could still spend time with my family. My coaches, Tim Cysewski and Drew Pariano, who recruited me, have provided me with great support and I have learned so much from them.

R: It must be a great experience to be coached by Cysewski (the coach with the most wins under his belt in NU history). What changes do you expect to come with Cysewski stepping down from the head coaching position, becoming the Associate Head Coach?

BP: I do not think that much will change in the respect that Tim will still be a dedicated coach. Wrestling is Tim’s passion, and he truly cares for his wrestlers.  He is in the room everyday with us and he will still kick our butts in practice.

R: In high school you were a two-time Illinois state champion and became a two time All-American while in college. What motivates you for success?

BP: My desire to become the best is what motivates me. I enjoy the challenge and the great feeling I get after going through a hard workout.

R: In the past two years you’ve posted a Big 10 Championship Record of 5-3 and 7-1 respectively. Looking ahead to next week’s Big 10 Championship, what do you hope to accomplish?

BP: While I will not be competing in the Big 10 Championships next week due to red-shirting, I hope to help guide my teammates to success in the championship.  This week will be especially important in regards to their training. I hope to give them my best effort in their preparation. I have a few goals that I want to accomplish for next year, and winning the Big Ten Championship is one of them.  Last year I was a runner-up, so for next year I hope to improve on that finish.

R: What has your experience been like as a redshirt wrestler?

BP: As a redshirt, this year is an opportunity for growth. I want to improve on my technique as much as I can and become stronger. Also, I look forward to next year.  I am excited to compete for Northwestern again. In addition, we have a highly ranked freshman class coming in along with a few guys returning in the lineup.

R: Looking further down the road, what excites you most about the NCAA Championships this year?

BP:I am looking forward to seeing my teammates compete at the NCAA Championships. I will definitely be rooting for them. As for next year, I am looking forward to competing again at the NCAA Championships. My goal is to become a NCAA Champion.

R: What are your plans after graduation?

BP: After graduation next year, I hope to continue wrestling through freestyle and coaching. Wrestling is very important to me and it has given me many opportunities in life that I would not have had otherwise, such as going to Northwestern.

R: Overall, how do you feel about your team’s performance this year?

BP: This year has been tough due to injuries and guys out of the line up. However, the team won last week against Michigan in an exciting dual. My teammates did a great job; they battled their hearts out and wrestled with passion. It was especially important for us because it was Tim’s last dual meet as head coach.

R: Finally, Cubs or White Sox?
BP: White Sox.

Article by staff writer:

Ryan Nangle

A Converstation with Chelsea Grant – DePaul Women’s Soccer

This past season, DePaul women’s soccer had a turnaround year. They went from being 4-15 in the 08′ season, to 10-8-2 in 09′. These girls’ turned their program around and made it to the Big East Tournament for the first time in school history. This past week I had the chance to sit down with one of their starters, Chelsea Grant.

Tyler Rayome: For the record, what is your name?

Chelsea Grant: Chelsea Grant

TR: What year are you?

CG: This is my first year at DePaul.

TR: What is your major?

CG: My major is Business, but I would like to eventually focus more on Sports Marketing.

TR: Nice, always thinking about the future. I like it. What sport do you play?

CG: I’m on the Women’s Soccer Team.

TR: Soccer eh? What Position are you?

CG:  Center Back.

TR: Can you give our readers a brief overview of how DePaul did this past season?

CG: Well, we beat some nationally ranked teams. We were picked to finish last in the Big East conference but we finished 5th (out of 8 teams) and made it to the Big East tournament for the first time in school history.

TR: How did you get into playing soccer?

CG: I started playing when I was 5 years old and continued ever since.

TR: Wow, you have been playing for a long time. Have you had any major injuries in your career playing soccer?

CG:  No, I have never broken anything or had any injuries due to soccer, thankfully.

TR: How did DePaul recruit you?

CG:  My coach saw me playing with my club team at national level tournaments and college showcases.

TR: Did the fact that DePaul is in the city of Chicago have any role in your recruitment?

CG: Yeah, I really like city schools and I feel like I fit in better in a city school compared to a college town. It’s also nice being close to home.

TR: Well since you have had only one season, did you have any major accomplishments prior to college?

CG: Yeah, my club team won the national championship in 2009.

TR: That is awesome! So this past year did you get any playing time as a freshman?

CG: Yes, I started every game and played the entire time.

TR: That’s impressive. Since you started, did you get any awards this past season?

CG:  I made the Big East all rookie team.

TR: What was it like to start as a freshman?

CG: It was a really cool experience.

TR: I can imagine, but can you elaborate more on what made it such a cool experience?

CG: Because not many people get to go to college and start as a freshman and play, especially in a tough conference like the Big East.

TR: Were you nervous at times?

CG: A little because I was playing with girls 4 years older than me and I had no college experience.

TR: Was it ever hard to balance school, sports, and your social life?

CG:  It was a little overwhelming at first but I found time to fit everything in.

TR: How will DePaul Women’s Soccer team be next year?

CG: I think we are going to be even better next year because now that DePaul is being nationally recognized we are bringing in better recruits for the upcoming years.

TR: Any crazy/cool stories?

CG: Well it’s not really crazy, but I broke a girl’s leg on accident in the middle of play.

TR: Okay, you should have expected this question coming since we live in Chicago…Sox or Cubs?

CG: Seriously, the Cubs.

-Tyler Rayome