The 2019-20 St. Thomas University Tommies women’s basketball team took last year’s trip to the ACAA Finals and translated that into 15-3 regular season record and first overall in the conference.
In a season that had its fair share of ups and downs, head coach Fred Connors had his team focused throughout the course of their own personal rollercoaster ride.
“It was a very interesting year,” said Connors. “There were some very high moments for us and some very difficult stretches. We were a young team overall and with two transferring players we knew we would have some inconsistencies as a result. I felt we managed the adversity well.”
As per usual the Tommies rode a deep bench, with eight different players earning starts and nine players averaging at least 10 minutes per game.
Coming off an All-Canadian year last year, 4th year guard, Bridget Frazee, was once again in fine form as the sharpshooter led the team in scoring once again, on her way to being named an ACAA 1st Team All-Star.
“It’s not easy coming off an All-Canadian season, but Bridget handled herself quite well,” said Connors. “She expanded her game physically and played unselfish basketball all season.”
4th year post, Christina Richardson, stepped her game up to an All-Star level for the Tommies as well, being named an ACAA 2nd Team All-Star after an incredible second half of the season.
“She really played with a huge amount of confidence down the stretch,” said Connors of Richardson. “We were really happy for her that she was able to finish her career playing her best basketball. I would easily put her in an elite post status in our league this season.”
Rounding out the Tommies’ All-Stars was second year point guard, Vanessa Soffee, who had an historic season. She was one of three players in the history of the ACAA to go from being the league’s Rookie of the Year to the Player of the Year. Was also the third player in league history to win the Player of the Year as well as Defensive Player of the Year.
“V had one of the most remarkable seasons I have seen in a while,” said Connors. “She is able to beat you in so many ways and considering she would really like to stay out of the spotlight, she has managed to throw herself smack dab into the middle of it. I am really excited to see how she will continue to grow in our program.”
In spite of their 15-3 regular season record and first round bye, the Tommies drew a tough UKC Blue Devils squad in the semifinals of the ACAA Championships, in what was virtually a home game for them, ultimately losing by one point.
“The way the season ended was very difficult, but I don’t think one game should ruin all the great strides we made this year,” said Connors. “At the end of the day, we used the adversity to make us stronger as a team. I very much enjoyed coaching this team this season and have a great amount of respect for the hard work and growth they were able to show this year.”
“I would like to thank Kat and Moe for all they did this past season,” added Connors about his coaching staff, Moe Perez and Kathleen Johnson. “They do a tremendous amount behind the scenes that often doesn’t get enough recognition. I would also like to thank Abby Draper who, after suffering a season end injury, was able to play a huge part in our success with her positive attitude and involvement.”