Marauders persevere through injuries

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With injuries hitting the McMaster women’s basketball roster, the resilience of the team has been put to the test. They have had to look deep in their bench and despite this, the No. 9 Marauders have still managed to make it work.

“Unfortunately injuries are a part of it,” said head coach Theresa Burns. Injuries when playing an active and fast-paced sport at the university level are inevitable, but this team has helped each other along the way. McMaster may have suffered another hit to the roster after the game against Queen’s; Clare Kenney’s status is unknown after suffering an injury in that game. The team is treating the injury “day-by-day.”

Injuries in the off-season to Jelena Mamic and Isabel Ormond saw them unable to suit up for the entire season. First-year guard Linnaea Harper also had her playing season come to an early end when she suffered a broken foot while playing against Guelph. Though not being able to contribute big numbers on the board, anybody who watches a game knows the ir presence looms large. They are on their feet when a big play is made, are always ready with a high-five when substitutions are called and are a part of every team huddle.

As the team plays their final three games of the regular season, they will look to continue the same type of game they have been playing. With the playoffs approaching, the players both in and out of uniform will have to continue to create a positive atmosphere to win. The team will also have to rely on their depth to ensure a spot in the nationals.

“We will continue the same style of fast pace. We need to be smarter and more tactical about subbing rotations and timeouts. We know the pace we want, we have to be smart about how we play that way,” said Burns.

Burns’ players have demonstrated strength and leadership qualities, something she is proud of. When an injury happens to a player, it impacts the dynamic of the entire team. How well this team has been able to bounce back with a winning mindset is telling of their attitude.

“I have seen strong leadership all year. Everybody on the roster has stepped up and shown character and adversity,” said Burns of the qualities noticed in her captains, veterans and the newer players who have matured and taking on bigger roles. The entire team has risen to the challenge.

The players who have been playing big minutes will continue to do so. We will also notice the bench check-in more as they will have to make their playing time count.

Injuries have allowed greater minutes for players who previoulsy may not have had much hardwood exposure. Newer faces on the roster have been given the opportunity to strengthen their skills and are given the chance to play better.

“I am pleased with the team’s progress. We are very young and I am optimistic of the future,” said Burns. As of press-time, her team owned a 12-4 record.

Had there been a roster of 14 healthy players all season, there’s no telling how far this talented team would go. What we know for sure is this basketball team is capable of making a run in the playoffs.

“How far?” is a question that only the team can answer.

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