Oct. 19, 2009

Photo Gallery from WBB Weekend Events

(San Francisco) - Fourth-year head coach Tanya Haave and the 2009-10 USF Women's basketball team kicked off the season this weekend, with the first practice of the up-coming campaign. This season's team features four returning starters, six returning letterwinners and a talented crop of newcomers.

"The first day of practice is always the best day of the year for me," commented Haave. "Everything is new and exciting, and this year was no exception. Overall, I was pleased with what we were able to accomplish. We had a good combination of effort, energy and enthusiasm. Even as early as it is in the season, our team is showing signs of competitiveness and a drive to win, which is refreshing."

This season, USF will depend on a talented duo of sophomores to lead the program in the new era. Guard Rheina Ale is the Dons' top returning offensive threat from last season. As a freshman, Ale averaged 10.1 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 2.1 apg in 29 games, including 28 starts. Joining Ale as a threat is guard Vania Singleterry. The native of Murietta, Calif. enters her second season on the Hilltop as the Dons' top rebounding threat, averaging 4.7 boards per game last season. Singleterry also added 5.8 ppg in 29 games, 17 starts.

USF will open the 2009-10 season November 17 at UC Davis. Prior to the contest with the Aggies, the Dons will host a pair of exhibition games, November 2 and 11, against Vanguard and Sonoma State, respectively.

In addition, Saturday evening the Dons participated in the annual Midnight Madness event on the Hilltop. The women's basketball team entertained USF fans with a dance, a scrimmage and also participated in a 3-point contest with the San Francisco men's team.

Later this week, www.USFDons.com, will release information about new coverage of the women's basketball team for the up-coming season.