Ready to take the reins of the Thiel College women's basketball program, first-year head coach Angie Zeuch (Case Western Reserve, '04) is optimistic of her team's success throughout what promises to be a challenging campaign.

 

Zeuch (pronounced zoik) comes to Greenville after two-years as an assistant at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn. Prior to that, she spent three years as an assistant at Colgate University in Hamilton, N.Y. Zeuch replaces Artina J. Trader, who was named head women's basketball coach at her alma mater, North Carolina Wesleyan.

 

Though 10-14 a season ago, the Tomcats enter the 2009-10 campaign empowered by a strong finish that saw them advance to the semi-finals of the Presidents Athletic Conference tournament. A mix of experienced veterans and promising rookies should provide the talent and depth needed to continue the momentum.

 

“Last year the Tomcats had some great wins that helped advance them into the semi-finals of the PAC tournament,” Zeuch said. “Having graduated some key players from last year's season, fans and opponents will see a new look. With commitment, hard work, and team pride, we are ready to build a successful and exciting season.”

 

Amber Bodrick, an All-PAC first team selection last season, has graduated following a distinguished four-year career. However, Zeuch points to a number of players who are eager to accept the leadership role vacated by Bodrick.

 

One of them is senior guard Jasmin Jones (Pittsburgh, Pa./Wilkinsburg) (Pittsburgh, Pa./Wilkinsburg), who returns after missing the second half of last season due to injury.

 

“Jasmin is more than ready to make a mark on this season,” said Zeuch. “Her leadership, charisma, and athleticism will set the tone for the younger players.

 

Thiel's returning sophomores bring experience through guards Rachel Doran (Farmdale, OH/Badger High School) (Farmdale, Ohio/Badger), Nina Gabrelcik (Niles, Ohio/Niles McKinley) (Niles, Ohio/Niles-McKinley) and Rianne Thornton (Trotwood, Ohio/Trotwood-Madison) (Trotwood, Ohio/Trotwood-Madison) and forwards Ashley Davis (Cleveland, Ohio/St. Peter Chanel) (Cleveland, Ohio/St. Peter Chanel) and Chelsi Clark (Greenwich, Ohio/South Central) (Greenwich, Ohio/South Central). 

 

 “Their entire class is determined to do great things this season,” added Zeuch.

 

Complementing these veterans is a group of freshman whom the rookie coach is counting on to contribute early and often.

 

“The Class of 2013 is comprised of a versatile mix of athletes,” she said. “I am anxious for this year's freshmen class and to see the contributions they will make in the program. There is no doubt that they will have an immediate impact on the court.

 

“I am excited to see how, together, we create our own legacy for Thiel Basketball.”

 

Zeuch will get that chance when Thiel opens its season Nov. 16 at the La Roche College Tournament in Pittsburgh. Conference play starts with a Dec. 2 visit to Saint Vincent.