Though the 2004-2005 team won a school-record 15 games, the team graduated a host of talented players, including top goaltenders Kerry Rollwagon ‘'05 and Andrea Smith ’'05, both four-year starters.

Fortunately, the team returns All-MIAC selections Susannah Brokl ’'07 and Lindsey Boeser '’08, who scored 31 points and 33 points last season, respectively. Laura Wild ’'08 and Katie Bennet '’08 should contribute to the Oles'’ offensive juggernaut that ranked among the best in the MIAC last season.

Additionally, the Oles should benefit from an influx of talented recruits. If goaltenders Shannon Herrick '’09 and Elaine McKenna ’'09 can transition quickly into the college game, the Oles will experience little, if any, defensive letdown. Herrick is a six-time high school letter winner, while McKenna comes to St. Olaf having earned two high school varsity letters while starting for her high school'’s men'’s varsity team.

Interim head coach John Bazzachini and his team have their work cut out for them, but early-season results are promising.

After three games, the team is 2-1, including a pair of 4-2 wins against UW-Eau Claire. If the team can sustain its early-season momentum, they should be in the running for a MIAC title come February.

Also contributing to this preview were Matt Stortz and Peter Gloviczki. Special thanks to Mike Ludwig and the St. Olaf Sports Information Department.

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