Oracle Online

Before the game last week, Coach Young-Kruse of the Hamline women’s team stated that the team would be the keepers of their own destinies. “We need to play well to get into the playoffs...We need to step up our defense and finish shots,” said Coach Young-Kruse. Considering the high-scoring lop-sided loss, the Pipers failed to play solid defense or finish shots. The Pipers only made 29 percent of their field goals against the Blazers.

The Pipers had a strong season and playoffs seemed like a realistic possibility for the team that made their first appearance in the playoffs last year. Against St. Benedict, though, the Pipers could not get anything rolling all night. The Blazer’s defense stymied the Pipers and no one from Hamline scored in double figures. The Pipers turned over the ball 33 times compared to St. Benedict’s nine.

Although the Blazers only had two MIAC losses at the time they met up with the Pipers, Hamline just had an off night. A fluke of a performance. The off night resulted in the end of a solid season.

Though there ups and downs (more ups than downs), the Pipers still had a good season culminating in a record around .500. The Pipers will surely miss the leadership of Megen Haugen and Ashlee Senser next year but they return a young team that has gained much experience this year and last. Coach Young-Kruse and her staff are strong recruiters and without a doubt have the ability to capitalize on this team’s success. Hamline should expect big things from this team next year and congratulate them on a season well-played.