Team prepares for
nationals in Los Angeles
By Cathy McLaren
Staff
Writer
Even though the women's basketball team didn't
win the NCAA championship, Purdue still has a good chance at clinching
a national title in another sport. The Boiler roller hockey team competes
in the national tournament Wednesday through Sunday in Los Angeles.
Coming into the tournament armed with the Midwest
title and a victory over two-time defending national champion Michigan
State, the Boilers are optimistic about their chances to win it all.
"Everyone's looking forward to going out there
and playing well," said club president Grant Baker.
There are 24 Division I teams competing in the
national tournament, down from 32 a year ago. There are separate Division
II and III tournaments. Purdue is taking 17 players, although only 15
can dress per game.
This is Purdue's third time competing in nationals.
With plenty of experience from past years' competitions, the team has
prepared somewhat differently for the 2000-01 season.
"We were much more dedicated this year," coach
Nick Kasprzyk said. "We had mandatory practices, put forth more effort,
and the dedication paid off."
The Boilermakers went 16-1-3 this season. Their
one-point defeat of Michigan State handed the Spartans their first loss
in 77 games and earned Purdue first place in the region.
"We're not going to change any of our game plan,"
Kasprzyk said. "We've got the team to get to the championship. Everyone's
pretty excited, so the intensity should come."
n To check the status of the team, visit www.crhl.net.
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