Coach Julie Conner, the women’s basketball coach at ABAC, said she and her players are looking forward to the new season.

"Women’s basketball returned to ABAC last year after a 15-year absence, and starting a new program was very difficult and challenging," Conner said. "I had no time to recruit players--we basically went right into the season. Taking that into consideration, I feel the team had a good first season, and it was a great learning experience that really benefitted us as a team. We’re really looking excited about the new season. The team has some new recruits as well as five talented players returning for their second season."

Conner said Freda Cherry of Atlanta, Mary Lee Henderson of Tifton, Jasmin Lee of Clewiston, Fla., Latoya Office of Ashburn, and Bronwyn Smyre of Hephzibah are returning for their second season. Cherry and Lee are being recruited to play for senior and college universities next year. The team also has nine new players.

"The five returning players will provide the core to build the team around," Conner said. "They worked with me last year, and they are familiar with my coaching techniques. So, they will provide leadership for the new players and help them with their game.

Conner said she believes the team is prepared to be very competitive.

"There are a few teams that are going to be tough to play, such as FCCJ, Georgia Perimeter, and Darton. But overall, I feel we can compete well--every game is anyone’s game."

Conner said she really appreciates all the support the team received last year.

"I encourage everyone--faculty, staff, students, and members of the community to come to the games, many of which are double-headers," Conner said. "It’s a fun way to spend an evening. I’m so happy to have a women’s basketball program at ABAC. I believe the conference is growing, and more teams are being added."

The Fillies’ first home game is on Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. against North Florida.