Dates to Know: Women’s Volleyball Lamar University Tournament Sept. 19 - Sept. 20 September 18, 2008
THE PAN AMERICAN
Page 16
T FEATURE
By Sara Hernandez THE PAN AMERICAN The University of Texas-Pan American women’s golf team began its 2008-2009 season this week, placing fifth at the UC Invitational in Cincinnati. The two-day competition was highlighted by the outstanding performance of freshman Maria Jose Camey, sister of Mariale Camey; the former broke the all-time single season round record with a 69 score. The record was previously held by Nancy Verastegui in 1995 and Daniela Cortes in 2005. “This speaks a lot about her character and who she is. The whole team is proud of her stepping up, being a freshman,” said men’s and women’s coach Ofelia Lopez. Mariale Camey finished tied for 10th with a three-round score of 226. Her sister followed suit with a score of 233, tying for 20th with sophomore Haley Hocott. Based on the per-
QuotesFrom TheStands formance, Lopez says she foresees a successful future for the team after a steady takeoff in the season opener. “I think this is a great starting point,” she said. “Last year, we were never able to finish a round. This good performance makes them hungry for the nest tournament.” The Lady Broncs will resume play Oct. 5 in Tulsa at the ORU Shootout. PREVIEW After coming up short in several tournaments last season, the women returned to the green with a determined mindset, which has Lopez confident that there’s a new attitude. “They are looking good, pushing each other, and believing in themselves. The girls are committed in playing well as a whole team; they came back refocused,” said the second-year head coach. “We have set high standards. I’m very excited to lead the team, so they can show what the team is about.” The Lady Broncs will be led by senior Mariale Camey, who returns after posting a 79.9 stroke average in 16 rounds last season.
“She’s playing great. She’s ready to start off where she left up and is ready for her and her team to play well,” Lopez said. Ale, as her teammates call her, assures that being the top performer last year does not put a special pressure on her, although she is focused on driving her team to have a better season. “I’m feeling great,” she said. “I really like the team. We are playing for the team and care about each other.” Mariale Camey will be accompanied by the experienced Sandberg. The Canada native obtained a 73.2 strokes average in 14 rounds last season. “She practiced hard during the
summer,” said Lopez, who added Sandberg’s team skills will be crucial for the Lady Bronc success. Junior Rebecca de Leon, team captain from Mission, will look to motivate her fellow teammates by example. “She will be leading and organizing her team,” said Lopez. “She’s doing what a captain needs to do, setting an example in the classroom and outside of it.” The effort will also be bolstered by returning sophomores Sara Garcia and Valley native Melinda Uriegas, as well as the two freshmen in Sarah Kothny of Kingwood, and the elder Camey. After placing second in the National Minority Golf Championship in May, the girls have their eyes fixed on another accomplishment: winning the Big West Conference; the pending entrance into the conference will not happen until 2010, but it fills the women with enthusiasm. Belonging to a conference will allow the team to become more competitive which motivates the girls to play hard. “I’ve always dreamed to play in a conference,” said the younger Camey. “I’m very excited about it.”
“ If you look at it, only two NFC teams have won in the last eight years. The other six have been from the AFC , now it looks like the NFC are coming back.” Joey Cortez Junior TV and Film major
On past Super Bowl winners
“If I was the coach, I would have benched him for at least one game. Even though he has two consecutive 100-yard games and people are making a big deal out of him, I still would’ve benched him for the next game. Its just embarassing.” Rene Trevino Senior English major
On DeSean Jackson’s fumble
Editor’s Picks HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
C.C. Calallen @ Los Fresnos Widcats Falcons Friday 7:30 p.m.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
LSU Tigers
@
Auburn Tigers
Saturday 6:45 p.m. (ESPN)
NFL SWING AWAY - Senior Mariale Camey led the Lady Broncs with a 79.9-stroke average last spring and looks to continue her success this year.
File Photo
Dallas Cowboys
@ Green Bay Packers
Sunday 7:15 p.m. (NBC)