Last season, the women’s rugby team had a storybook season by going a perfect 11- 0.

As this season begins, the Panthers have a long road ahead of them to duplicate the same success they had last year.

“Last year, the sophomores understood what was expected of them and really stepped up in a big way,” head coach Frank Graziano said. “This team has great chemistry.”

With a tougher schedule, the Panthers exhibit the same motivation, enthusiasm, and work ethic that have gotten them to elite status in the collegiate ranks.

The Panthers began practice about a week ago. During this stretch, they have had fourteen practices in just five days. Graziano said the best teams continue to become better it was the best preseason he has ever had.

Leading the way for the Panthers this season will be seniors Becky Carlson, who will be returning to the team after a year off, Kate Taake and Mary Archer.

Joining the team will be Robin Harris and Marlice Davidson along with three other freshmen.

Overall Graziano likes what he sees in his veteran team.

“The girls get along and blend in well,” Graziano said. “They enjoy playing the game and the game plan.”

Women’s rugby at Eastern has come a long way since Carlson, Kate Taake and Archer first joined the team four years ago. It was not too long before rugby was recognized as more than a club sport. The recognition that the sport has received is very special to the girls.

With a more competitive schedule, Carlson wants to show they are capable of repeating success from previous seasons.

“(We want to) prove that last season was no fluke and to improve on our game.”

The Panthers season begins Sept. 6 at the University of Illinois.

“We’ve put a lot of eggs in the basket for this game,” Graziano said. “Illinois is a very good team and we have not looked past them at all. If we win, it will do a lot for our confidence.”

After playing Illinois, the Panthers schedule gets even tougher. They will play against other distinguished schools such as Penn State, Ohio State, North Carolina and Stanford.

“To the girls’ credit, they knew that with the success we had last year, the competition would get tougher,” Graziano said. “They have done a great job of not looking past the Illini game.”