The team which finished fifth at the 2009 NJCAA Division II National Tournament has seven new players. Success will depend on growth and leadership.

Coach Donnie Denson will ask the new freshmen to step up and make their presence felt on the offensive and defensive ends. The seven sophomores will be expected to lead by example and continue the hardnosed style of play that earned a final record of 28-7 last season.

The 2008-09 schedule has the Cavs facing off against McHenry County College, South Suburban College, Carl Sandburg, and Moraine Valley in Region IV Division II. The Lady Cavs also will return to the Cougar Holiday Tournament. The schedule also takes the Cavaliers out of Region IV, as they play Kalamazoo Valley, John Wood and Illinois Central College.

The Lady Cavaliers expect to face several nationally ranked teams. A good recruiting year for other teams also may produce challenges for the squad.

The 2009-10 schedule includes five contests against Division I opponents and 23 with Division II teams. It should give the Lady Cavaliers the preparation necessary to complete for the regional championship crown.