2008 Woodie Awards
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Amid expectations, new coach hopes for success
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First-year head coach Brian Fogel will replace Molly Goodenbour as the head coach of the women's basketball team with a ton of expectations. Fogel served as the assistant coach for the 2007-2008 season and was picked to lead because of his knowledge and understanding of the program, Athletic Director Anita Barker said.
New coach hoping to return Wildcats to winning ways
After more than two decades a new coach roams baseline for the 'Cats
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When Greg Clink walks through the doors of Acker Gym for the men's basketball home opener, he'll be the first coach since the '86-'87 season without the nickname "Puck." After Prescott "Puck" Smith's retirement at the end of the 2007-2008 season, Athletic Director Anita Barker set out to find a replacement who would fit in seamlessly.
Three men's basketball players to watch
Andy Bocian • F/C As either forward or center, Bocian, the 6-foot-6-inch senior, is one of the tallest players on the team. He must be a monster in the post for the 'Cats to compete with taller, more athletic frontcourts in California Collegiate Athletic Association play.
Three women's basketball players to watch
Synchro Bull • G A true freshman out of Emeryville High School, Bull averaged 23 points per game last season and was a Division V all-state mention. She also put up 4.9 assists and 3.5 steals per game. She adds a great deal of athleticism to the team and can run the point guard or two guard position.
5 keys for the men's basketball season
Clink communication Puck Smith is gone after 21 years, so the returning members of the team have to learn to communicate with and play for coach Greg Clink. They will have to be a model for the younger players, who may have a tough time with an intense college coach who hasn't been around.
5 keys for the women's basketball season
Half-court execution The Wildcats will focus on stopping their opponents' transition game and force them to play in the half-court and set the tempo of the game. By forcing opponents into a half-court set, it will provide a more patient approach, rather than a fast-paced game.
Q&A with guard/forward Robert Ash
Guard/forward Robert Ash has ridden the highs and the lows of the men's basketball team during the last couple of seasons. Now, with a new coaching staff and a revamped roster, the 6-foot-4-inch senior looks toward his final season to leave a lasting impression.
Q&A with center Renee Goldoff
For the past few years, Renee Goldoff has gone through two coaches and a few California Collegiate Athletic Association championships. But this year is different. The Wildcats will look to the senior for veteran leadership after losing two starters to Molly Goodenbour's UC Irvine.