Chicago Invite Preview - ISU Women

I asked Emily to write up a preview for the Lady Gnomes for this weekend. Here it is, enjoy.
[Women's Score Reporter Link]

Every season seems to be a rebuilding season for the Lady Gnomes, fortunately, going into Chicago Invite we have more returning players than ever before. We have been ranked 7th overall in the women's division and are competing in a power pool with Illinois (1), Loyola (4), North Park (6), and Wisconsin B (10).

Game 1: Illinois
This will undoubtedly be our toughest game of the day. Illinois is a very solid team with experienced handlers and quick cutters. They continually rank in the UPA top 50. This is not something we should be intimidated by. All we need to do is beat them at their own game. Smart throws are going to be key in this game because Illinois knows how to capitalize on mistakes...if they don't their coach will take them out back and shoot them. Everyone should be looking forward to this game because it's rare that we get to compete against their level of play and there's a lot we can take away from this experience.

Game 2: Loyola
We have played Loyola twice as long as I've been on the team and both outcomes were very similar. The match was a close one which resulted in Loyola winning. I don't know why, but it seems that we are constantly telling ourselves that we've lost before the game has even begun. Heads up Gnomes! We can ABSOLUTELY beat this team! I believe our handlers are stronger and if we can force a lot of turnovers we could run away with a victory. Defense, defense, DEFENSE! Also, we like Loyola and this is bound to be a fun game!

Game 3: Wisconsin B
Don't be fooled by the "B". Wisconsin is one of the best teams in the nation, meaning that they're B team (atropha) is one of the best B teams in the nation. They are bound to have fairly experienced handlers, as well as a lot of newer players. We're going to have to go into this game with confidence if we want to come out on top.

Game 4: NORTH PARK

In the past couple years North Park has developed into a solid program. Every year our matches with them are very close (not counting last semester's game at Western...grr). If there are two words that can describe North park's offense they would be...red head. This chick is very fast and plays a very smart give and go game. Speedy players get ready to mark her. If we can shut her down their game will take on a completely different dynamic. I also want to try throwing a cup on them because they always seem to freak out when we do that. GET EXCITED!

Saturday's schdule will definitely be tough, but if we come to the fields with confidence, get a good warmup in and listen to "Bounce That" over and over on the way there...we could definitely make a good showing.