Spartans Women's Basketball Spartans - Aurora University

“BUILDING A New TRADITION” 

Spartans 

Women’s Basketball 

2005 – 2006

Getting to the Gym 

2005-2006 Media Guide 

Table of Contents 

Getting to the Gym (maps) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .inside front cover 

AU Quick Facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .inside front cover 

Media Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 

Head Coach Michelle Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 

Assistant Coaches and Support Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 

2005-2006 Season Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 

2005-2006 AU Roster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 

Player Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-8 

2004-2005 Season Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 

2004-2005 Spartan Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 

The NIIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 

AU NIIC Honors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 

AU Year By Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 

Individual Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 

Team Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 

AU Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 

AU Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 

This Is AU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 

2005-2006 Game Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .back cover 

AU Quick Facts 

Edgelawn Dr. 

Evanslawn Ave. 

Glenwood Pl. 

AU Field 

P 

Southlawn Pl. 

P 

Gym 

Prairie Road 

Randall Rd. 

P 

Randall Rd. 

Calumet Ave. 

Calumet Ave. 

P 

P 

Marseillaise Pl. 

Gladstone Ave. 

Kenilworth Pl. 

Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Aurora, IL 

Founded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1893 

Enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Approximately 4,000 

Nickname . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Spartans 

Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Royal blue/White 

Conference . . . . . . . . .Northern Illinois-Iowa Conference 

National Affiliation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .NCAA Division III 

Gymnasium/capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thornton (2,200) 

President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rebecca L. Sherrick 

Director of Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mark Walsh 

Athletics Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630-844-5110 

Athletics Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630-844-7809 

Head Basketball Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Michelle Roof 

Coach’s Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0-0/First Year 

Assistant Coaches . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keith Parris, Frank Razo 

Athletic Trainer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stevie Baker-Watson 

2004-2005 Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-20 

Sports Information Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brian Kipley 

Sports Information Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630-844-7575 

Sports Information Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630-844-3826 

AU Spartan Sports Hotline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630-844-3838 

Bottom map is an enlargement of Aurora University area. 

Basketball is played in Thornton Gymnasium in Alumni Hall. 

Parking areas are shown with a circled P. 

On the Cover: 

2005-2006 Aurora University Women’s Basketball Team in 

front of AU’s Institute for Collaboration, scheduled for 

completion this year

AU Media Outlets 

Meet the Head Coach 

Local Print 

Aurora Beacon-News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 S. River, Aurora, IL 60506 

Dave Parro, Sports Editor 630-844-5911 

Fax: 630-844-1043 

Kane County Chronicle . . . . . . . . 1000 Randall Rd., Geneva, IL 60134 

Brian Schaumburg, Sports Editor 630-232-9222 

Fax: 630-232-4962 

Fox Valley Labor News . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 4155, Aurora, IL 60507 

Carter Crane, Editor 630-897-4022 

Fax: 630-892-3873 

Daily Herald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3805-A Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174 

630-587-8623 

Fax: 630-587-8639 

Kendall County Publications . . . . . 222 Bridge St., Yorkville, IL 60560 

630-533-7034 

Fax: 630-533-7085 

Oswego Ledger-Sentinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Box #669, Oswego, IL 60611 

630-554-8565 

Fax: 630-554-7560 

Regional Print 

Chicago Tribune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 435 N. Michigan, Chicago, IL 60611 

Metro Sports 312-222-3474 

Fax: 312-828-9392 

MICHELLE ROOF 

Head Coach 

First Season 

Michelle Roof enters her first season 

as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach 

at Aurora University. Roof takes over the 

reigns of the AU women’s basketball 

program after spending last season as 

an assistant at Lewis University. 

Roof previously spent two years as an assistant at Saint 

Mary’s University (MN) and one season at Grinnell College 

(IA). 

Roof played two seasons at Eastern Illinois University 

(Division I) before spending a season as a student assistant 

coach for the Panthers. She also was a student assistant at 

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for one season. 

A member of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association 

(WBCA), Roof has worked several national camps, including 

University of Tennessee, Doug Bruno-DePaul basketball 

camps, Syracuse University, Texas Tech University and 

University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Roof received a Bachelor of Science in physical education 

from Eastern Illinois University in 2001. 

Chicago Sun-Times . . . . . . . . . . . . 350 N. Orleans, Chicago, IL 60654 

College Sports 312-321-2247 

Radio/TV 

WSPY (107.1 fm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Broadcast Center, Plano, IL 60545 

WFXV (TV-30) 630-552-1000 

Greg Burks, Sports Director Fax: 630-552-9000 

Comcast (ch. 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . 800 W. 5th Street, Naperville, IL 60563 

630-552-1000 

Wire Services 

Associated Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230 N. Michigan, Chicago, IL 60601 

Sports Desk 312-781-0500 

Fax: 312-781-1989 

All requests for interviews should be made through 

Brian Kipley, Director of Sports Information, at 630-844-7575. 

Media should call in advance, as seating in the press area is limited. 

Alison Kohler 

AU Women’s Basketball 

1

Meet the Assistant Coaches 

KEITH PARRIS 

Assistant Coach 

First Season 

Keith Parris enters his first season as 

an assistant coach for the Spartans. He 

comes to Aurora University from 

Edgewood College (Madison, WI), where 

he was an assistant coach in 2004-2005. 

“I am very excited to have Keith join my staff,” said Head 

Coach Michelle Roof. “Along with his knowledge of the game, 

he brings a great amount of energy and intensity to our 

program. I believe he will do an outstanding job of motivating 

and developing our post players, while also focusing on 

developing our team communication skills.” 

While at Edgewood, Parris helped guide the Lady Eagles 

to the Lake Michigan Conference championship and their 

first NCAA tournament appearance in school history. They 

also finished the year ranked 13 th in the country among all 

Division III women’s basketball programs in the category of 

“most-improved.” 

As a student-athlete, Parris played one year at Northland 

Community and Technical College, where he was a member 

of the divisional championship team in his first season. He 

averaged 12 points and six rebounds per game and was 

ranked seventh nationally in field goal percentage. 

Parris completed his eligibility at the University of 

Dubuque, where he was a two-time captain and averaged 13 

points and six rebounds per game. He finished his career 

ranked as one of the school’s top field goal percentage 

shooters in history, shooting more than 50% for his career. 

“Keith comes from winning programs, both as a coach 

and as a player. He understands how much work it takes to 

establish a winning program and is committed to moving this 

Spartan program forward,” Roof said. 

In addition to his degree from University of Dubuque, 

Parris also holds a degree from Keller Graduate School of 

Management. He and his wife, April, live in Aurora with their 

son, Isaac Duane Parris. 

FRANK RAZO 

Assistant Coach 

First Season 

Frank Razo begins his first year as an 

assistant coach for the Spartans. He 

comes to Aurora University from Plano 

High School in Plano, IL, where he was the 

Head Girls’ Basketball Coach for the past 

two years. He was an assistant there for four years. 

While at Plano, Coach Razo guided the Reapers to a 21-10 

record in 2005, which tied the school record for most wins in a 

season. They continued that success into the state tournament, 

where they won their second regional championship in the 

program’s history. 

Razo’s previous coaching experience includes Henry- 

Senachwine High School, North Boone High School, Clay City 

High School, Flora High School, Newark High School, Clinton 

High School, Ashland High School and Washington High 

School. 

Razo has worked with some of the top coaches in the 

country, instructing camps at University of Illinois (under 

former Coach Lou Hensen), Indiana University (under former 

Coach Bob Knight), Western Illinois, Southern Illinois 

University-Edwardsville, Cincinnati and Dick Baumgartner 

Shooting Camp. 

“Coach Razo brings a great amount of coaching knowledge 

and experience to the staff,” said Head Coach Michelle Roof. 

“Not only has he been coaching the game for the past 27 years, 

but he has also attended a great number of camps and clinics 

around the country every year. He has a true passion for what 

he does and brings some great ideas and strategies to our 

Spartan staff.” 

JESSICA EHMLER 

Student Assistant 

2005-2006 AU Women’s Coaching Staff 

2 AU Women’s Basketball

2005-2006 

Season Preview 

The Aurora University women’s basketball team has a 

new look in the 2005-2006 campaign, with Michelle Roof 

assuming the duties as Head Coach. Roof takes over a Spartan 

program looking to establish a strong foundation of discipline 

and pride within the team. “I plan on challenging these young 

women to expect more of themselves and each other, both on 

and off the basketball court,” Roof said. The Spartans were 7-20 

last season but have been to the NCAA Division III Tournament 

twice in the past four seasons. 

Roof stated, “Our coaching staff has set the bar very 

high for these ladies, and I think that if we can focus on the little 

things and learn what TEAM basketball is all about, we will 

turn a few heads this season. We are in the process of teaching 

our players what it means to give an all-out effort every time 

they step on the floor, while taking satisfaction and feeling good 

about themselves for the hard work they put in.” 

AU returns several key contributors from last season. 

Junior guard Beth Plucinski (Vernon Hills, IL/Vernon Hills HS) 

is the Spartans’ top returning scorer (9.9 points and 5.44 assists 

per game), while junior forward Laura Wiesner (Des Plaines, 

IL/Maine West HS) (7.7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game) provides 

the Spartans with a presence in the post. Also returning 

to the AU program is the lone AU senior, guard Deisy Mena 

(Cicero, IL/Morton West). Mena averaged five points and shot 

29% from three-point range last season. Junior foward 

Stephanie Kiger (Momence, IL/Momence HS) returns to add 

veteran leadership for the Spartans. Sophomore guards 

Rachael Blanton (Vernon Hills, IL/Vernon Hills HS), Lexi Pioli 

(Oglesby, IL/LaSalle-Peru HS) and forward Beth Sandon 

(Plainfield, IL/Plainfield HS) had substantial playing time for 

the Spartans in 2004-2005. 

Several newcomers will be key contributors to the AU 

program and will provide Roof with a deep and versatile club. “I 

believe our biggest strength this season is our athleticism and 

quickness, as well as our versatility and depth. Because we 

have a good nucleus of players with a wide variety of talents 

and skills, we will be capable of throwing many different looks 

at our opponents. We should also be able to wear teams down 

Building a New Tradition 

with our subbing rotations and high level of conditioning,” 

Roof said. 

The top newcomers for AU are a pair of transfer 

guards, Kisha Miller and Naomi Guise. “Miller brings quickness 

and athleticism to the point-guard spot and has a great ability 

to see the floor well and push the tempo, which is exactly what 

we need to get our offense going,” Roof said. “Guise has great 

penetration and passing skills and can also knock down the 

outside shot. Although her athleticism will be tough to match, 

I believe her biggest strength is her versatility. She has the ability 

to play anywhere on the floor and will be looked to as a 

major contributor.” 

Joining Miller and Guise as the newest Spartans are 

freshmen forward Tiffani Guest (Loves Park, IL/Christian Life), 

guard Meagan Re (Belvidere, IL/Belvidere HS), guard Kathleen 

Thanas (Plainfield, IL/Plainfield HS) and junior center Misty 

Mitchell (Chicago/Mother Guerin HS). 

With a new head coach comes changes, including the 

style of play Spartans fans can expect to see in the upcoming 

year. Roof said, “AU fans should expect an exciting, up-tempo 

style of basketball. We will push the ball up the floor and attack 

the basket in transition and in our half-court offense. We want 

to put the pressure on our opponents offensively, forcing them 

to stop us, while also pressuring and creating turnovers defensively.” 

AU once again will play a demanding nonconference 

schedule leading up to the Northern Illinois-Iowa Conference 

schedule. “In order to win in the NIIC, we must put together an 

entire 40 minutes of smart, aggressive basketball, and we must 

be able to do this night in and night out. I do feel like our 

tough, nonconference schedule will help prepare us for the 

competition we will face within the NIIC,” Roof stated. 

With a new style of play and a first-year head coach 

building a strong foundation, expectations remain high for the 

Spartan women’s basketball team. 


3

2005-2006 AU Roster 

NO. NAME POS. HT. YR. HOMETOWN/HIGH SCHOOL 

11 Kisha Miller Guard 5’5” Jr Decatur, IL/Eisenhower 

12 Beth Plucinski Guard 5’6” Jr Vernon Hills, IL/Vernon Hills 

13 Tanisha Hawkins Guard 5’3” Jr Westchester, PA/Henderson 

20 Stephanie Kiger Forward 5’9” Jr Momence, IL/Momence 

21 Naomi Guise Guard 5’7” So Springfield, IL/Southeast 

22 Deisy Mena Guard 5’7” Sr Cicero, IL/Morton West 

23 Lexi Pioli Guard 5’4” So Oglesby, IL/LaSalle-Peru 

30 Rachael Blanton Guard 5’8” So Vernon Hills, IL/Vernon Hills 

31 Lisa Hoover Forward 5’8” So LaGrange Park, IL/Lyons Township 

32 Beth Sandon Forward 5’8” So Plainfield, IL/Plainfield Central 

33 Meagan Re Guard 5’9” Fr Belvidere, IL/Belvidere 

34 Kathleen Thanas Guard 5’8” Fr Plainfield, IL/Plainfield Central 

42 Caitlin Ebbinghaus Forward 5’9” Jr Martinsvillle, IN/Martinsvillle 

43 Abby Young Guard 5’6” Fr Elgin, IL/Hampshire 

44 Misty Mitchell Center 6’2” Jr Chicago/Mother Guerin 

50 Alison Kohler Center 6’0” Jr Sandwich, IL/Sandwich 

52 Tiffani Gueste Forward 5’11” Fr Loves Park, IL/Christian Life 

54 Laura Wiesner Forward 5’11” Jr Des Plaines, IL/Maine West 

Head Coach: Michelle Roof 

Assistant Coaches: Keith Parris and Frank Razo 

Photos courtesy of Al Benson.

Meet the Spartans 

#30 RACHAEL BLANTON, 5’8”, So, Guard, 

Vernon Hills, IN/ Vernon Hills HS 

College as a Freshman (’04-’05): Played in 25 

games, averaged 2.0 points and grabbed 56 

rebounds. High School: Attended Vernon Hills 

High School and played four years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Paul Brettner. Senior 

year she was All-Area Honorable Mention and 

All-Conference. She played two years of varsity softball under 

Coach Greg Stilling, where she was All-Conference Honorable 

mention as a senior. Personal: Born 2/16/86 in Bloomington, IL. 

Parents: Roger and Victoria Blanton. She has one brother, Victor, 

and one sister, Rebecca. Hobbies: Movies and music. Major: 

Psychology. 

YR G FGM-A 3FGM-A FT-A R A TP PPG 

04-05 25 17-66 2-13 15-26 56 23 51 2.0 

#42 CAITLIN EBBINGHAUS, 5’10”, Jr, Forward, 

Martinsville, IN/Martinsville HS 

College as a Sophomore (’04-’05): Played in 25 

games, scored 22 points and grabbed 29 

rebounds. College as a Freshman (’03-’04): 

Played in 10 games, scored 8 points. High 

School: Attended Martinsville High School and 

played two years of varsity basketball under 

Coach Vince Cerbone and three years of varsity softball under 

Coach Ken Rhoden, where she was named best offensive player as 

a senior. Personal: Born 1/1/85 in Indianapolis. Family: Stacia and 

Robert Zloty and Tom Ebbinghaus. She has one brother, John, and 

three sisters, Brianna, Lynn and Alaina. Hobbies: Shopping, music 

and dancing. Majors: Marketing and Communication. 

#52 TIFFANI GUESTE, 5’11”, Fr, Post, 

Rockford, IL/Christian Life HS 

High School: Attended Christian Life High 

School and played three years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Donna Sheperd. She 

was named All-Conference Honorable Mention 

her junior year and named First-Team All- 

Conference, Team MVP, Athlete of the Week and 

rebound leader all three years. Personal: Born 1/17/87 in 

Barrington, IL. Family: Walter and Yvetta Gueste. She has one 

brother, Chris. Hobbies: Playing sports, being active, coaching 

elementary and middle school sports and refereeing elementary 

basketball. Major: Physical Education. 

#21 NAOMI GUISE, 5’7”, Jr, Guard, 

Springfield, IL/Southeast HS 

High School: Attended Southeast High School 

and played three years of varsity basketball 

under Coach Jennifer Blongh. She was MVP 

her sophomore and senior year, Athlete of the 

Week her senior year, set a school record for 

most double doubles her senior year, and was 

All-Region and All-Conference her senior year. She also ran two 

years of varsity track under Coach Thomas McBride. Family: Born 

6/30/84 in Chicago. Family: Berrenice Guise. She has three 

brothers and four sisters. Hobbies: Watching TV and listening to 

music. Major: Business Administration. Minor: Sports 

Management. 


03-04 10 4-13 0-0 0-0 5 2 8 0.8 

04-05 25 10-37 0-0 2-5 29 11 22 .09 


5


#13 TANISHA HAWKINS, 5’3”, Jr, Guard, 

Westchester, PA/Henderson HS 

College as a Freshman and Sophomore (’02- 

’04): Played basketball at Delaware County 

Community College. High School: Attended 

Henderson High School and played two years 

of varsity basketball under Coaches Jenine 

Faith and Frank Steidler. She was named 

outstanding female basketball player her senior year. Personal: 

Born 4/18/83 in Washington D.C. Family: Ron and Santa 

Hawkins. She has one sister, Sharday. Hobbies: Watching 

women’s basketball. She is a youth leader at church and likes to 

bowl. Major: Management and Innovation. Minor: Sports 

Management. 

#31 LISA HOOVER, 5’9”, So, Forward, 

LaGrange, IL/Lyons Township HS 

College as a Freshman (’04-’05): Was primarily 

a member of the junior varsity squad. High 

School: Attended Lyons Township High School 


under Coach Dawn Shawbacker. Personal: 

Born 3/10/86 in LaGrange, IL. Family: Karin 

and Greg Shawbacker. Hobbies: Sports, family and friends. 

Major: Psychology. 

#20 STEPHANIE KIGER, 5’9”, Jr, Forward, 

Momence , IL/Momence HS 


games, had 62 total points and 55 rebounds. 


games, had 18 points, 30 rebounds and 15 

assists. High School: Attended Momence High 

School and played three years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Kris Holloway. Was named team captain 

as a senior, All-Area and All-Conference as a junior and senior. 

Played two years of varsity volleyball under Coach Sheila 

Anthony, was All-Area as a junior and senior. Played two years of 

varsity softball under Coach Jerry Abbott. Personal: Born 3/23/85 

in Tulsa, OK. Family: Tom and Wendy Kiger. She has two 

brothers, Nathan and Russell. Hobbies: Sports, family and 

writing poems. Major: Athletic Training. 


03-04 23 8-33 1-5 1-2 30 15 18 0.8 

04-05 19 30-61 0-1 2-12 55 13 62 3.3 

#50 ALISON KOHLER, 6’0”, Jr, Center, 

Sandwich, IL/Sandwich HS 


games, started 21. Averaged 7.4 points a game 

and had 155 total rebounds. College as a 

Freshman (’03-’04): Played in 28 games, 

averaged 3.3 points and grabbed 78 rebounds. 

High School: Attended Sandwich High School 

and played three years of varsity basketball under Coach Brain 

Howell. Team captain and All-Academic team all three years. 

Played three years of varsity volleyball under Coach Marisa 

Colgan, was All-Conference as a junior and captain as a junior 

and senior. Personal: Born 12/14/84 in Sandwich, IL. Family: 

Bruce and Pam Kohler. She has a one brother, Jon. Her mother 

and uncle (Charles Westbrook) are Aurora University graduates. 

Hobbies: Spending time with friends and basketball. 

Major: Mathematics and Education. 


03-04 28 37-86 0-0 17-23 78 6 91 3.3 

04-05 27 84-167 0-0 32-44 155 19 200 7.4 

#22 DEISY MENA, 5’7”, Sr, Guard, 

Cicero, IL/ Morton East HS 

College as a Junior (’04-’05): Played in 25 

games, had 125 total points with 59 total 

rebounds. Previous College (’02-’04): Attended 

Triton College and played basketball and was 

Team-MVP, All-Region and All-Conference. 

High School: Attended Morton East High 

School and played two years of varsity basketball under Coach 

John Molitor. She received Team MVP, All-Conference and All- 

Area both her junior and senior seasons. Personal: Born 6/4/84 

in Chicago. Family: Mario and Quirino Mena. She has one 

brother, Emanuel, and two sisters, Edith and Jessica. Hobbies: 

Listening to music, hanging out with friends and playing 

basketball. Major: Physical Education. Minor: Health. 


04-05 25 41-126 26-88 17-23 59 16 125 5.0 



#11, KISHA MILLER, 5’5”, Jr, Guard, 

Decatur, IL/ Eisenhower HS 

High School: Attended Eisenhower High 

School and played four years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Stacy Potts. She was 

MVP, Player of the Year, and All-Regional team 

pick her junior and senior years. She also 

played three years of varsity volleyball under 

Coach Mike Wilks. She played two years of varsity softball as well. 

Personal: Born 5/14/85 in Rantoul, IL. Family: Joeann Eubanks 

and Kenny Pruitt. She has one brother, Jake. Major: Physical 

Education. Minor: Business. 

#44 MISTY MITCHELL, 6’2”, Jr, Center, 

Chicago/ Mother Guerin HS 

Previous College (’02-’04): Attended Triton 

College and played basketball and was All- 

Conference Second Team and All-Tournament. 

High School: Attended Mother Guerin High 

School and played four years of varsity 

basketball. She played three years of varsity 

softball and two years of varsity volleyball. Personal: Born 

12/25/83 in Chicago. Family: Charles and Judy Mitchell. She has 

two sisters, Michelle and Melody. Hobbies: Basketball, hanging out 

with friends and family and dancing. Major: Physical Education. 

#23 LEXI PIOLI, 5’5”, So, Guard, 

Oglesby, IL/LaSalle-Peru HS 


games, averaged 5.0 points and had 31 

rebounds. High School: Attended LaSalle-Peru 

High School and played three years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Haberkorn. She 

received Second Team All-Conference and MVP 

her junior year and received First Team All-Conference, All-Area 

and MVP her senior year. Personal: Born 9/19/85 in Peru, IL. 

Family: Ron and Lauri Pioli. She has three sisters, Jessica, Katrina, 

and Mamie. Hobbies: Softball, music and basketball. 

Major: Business. 


04-05 27 42-125 25-78 27-38 31 15 136 5.0 

#12 BETH PLUCINSKI, 5’6”, Jr, Guard, 

Vernon Hills, IL/ Vernon Hills HS 

College as a Sophomore (’04-’05): Named 

Northern Illinois-Iowa Conference All- 

Conference. Played in 27 games, started all but 

one, had 147 assists, averaged 9.9 points a 

game and 119 total rebounds. College as a 

Freshman (’03-’04): Named Northern Illinois- 

Iowa Conference All-Conference. Played in 29 games, started all 

29. Averaged 12.6 points, 3.5 rebounds. High School: Attended 

Vernon Hills High School and played three years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Paul Brettner. Named team captain and 

All-Conference all three years and All-Area as a senior. Played 

three years of varsity volleyball under Coach Steve Rochon. Was 

named team captain as a sophomore and senior, All-Conference 

as a junior, and All-Area as a junior and senior. Played three years 

of varsity softball under Coach Greg Stilling and was named 

captain, All-Conference and All-Area all three seasons. Personal: 

Born 6/5/85 in Lake Forest, IL. Family: Mike and Mary Plucinski. 

She has two sisters, Mary and Becky. Hobbies: Sports and movies. 

Major: Business. 


03-04 29 124-361 74-234 42-56 101 122 364 12.6 

04-05 27 88-324 54-209 36-54 11 147 266 9.9 

#33 MEAGAN RE, 5’9”, Fr, Guard, 

Belvidere, IL/Belvidere HS 

High School: Attended Belvidere High School 

and played two years of varsity basketball 

under Coach Ben Commare. She was named 

captain, First-Team All-Conference, Rising 

Stars Participant and All-Tournament her 

senior year. She also played two years of varsity 

softball under Coach Jody Flynn. She was named MVP and special 

mention her senior year. Personal: Born 5/14/87 in Rockford, IL. 

Family: Fran and Debbie Re. She has two brothers, Matthew and 

Michael, and one sister, Melissa. Hobbies: Playing all sports, 

eating and traveling. Major: Athletic Training. 

Minors: Health and Physical Education. 

AU Women’s Basketball 7


#32 BETH SANDON, 5’8”, So, Forward, 

Plainfield, IL/ Plainfield Central HS 

College as a Freshman(’04-’05): Played in 13 

games, scored 19 total points and grabbed 14 

rebounds. High School: Attended Plainfield 

High School and played two years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Brian Bazan. She 

received the Wildcat Award and All-Conference 

Honorable Mention her senior year. She also played two years of 

varsity volleyball under Coach Jason Herrmann, where she was 

MVP her senior year. Personal: Born 1/20/86 in Aurora, IL. 

Family: Kevin and Caria Sandon. She has two brothers, Mike and 

Jim, and one sister, Kelly. Hobbies: Shopping, being with family 

and friends and watching all kinds of sports. Major: Undecided. 


04-05 13 8-21 1-3 2-4 14 4 19 1.5 

#34 KATHLEEN THANAS , 5’8”, Fr, Guard, 

Plainfield, IL/Plainfield Central HS 

High School: Attended Plainfield High School 


under Coach Mark Krusz. As a senior, she was 

captain, All-Area and broke school records for 

points in a game (31), points in a season and 

free-throw percentage. She was also named All- 

Conference as a junior and senior. She played four years of varsity 

softball under Coach Anne Campbell. She was named Captain, 

All-Area and All-Conference as a junior and senior. As a senior, 

was named to the Chicago Tribune Top 100-Team. Personal: Born 

6/24/87 in Joliet, IL. Family: Tom and Thea Thanas. She has one 

sister, Toni. Hobbies: Playing sports, traveling, eating, hanging out 

with friends, the White Sox, Notre Dame and watching all kinds of 

sports. Major: Physical Education. Minor: Health. 

#54 LAURA WIESNER, 5’11”, Jr, Forward, 

Des Plaines, IL/Maine West HS 


games, averaged 7.7 points a game and pulled 

down a total of 140 rebounds. College as a 

Freshman (’03-’04): Played in and started 28 

games, averaged 5.7 points and 4.6 rebounds. 

High School: Attended Maine West High 

School and played three years of varsity basketball under Coach 

Deril Kipp and was named Most Improved as a senior. Played four 

years of varsity soccer under Coach Jim McGowan and was 

named team captain as a junior and senior. Named All- 

Conference as a sophomore, junior and senior. Played one year of 

varsity volleyball under Coach Deanna Rip. Personal: Born 

2/16/85 in Park Ridge, IL. Family: Howard and Renee Wiesner. 

She has one brother, Ken. Hobbies: Movies, playing pool and 

sports. Major: Physical Education. Minor: Health 


03-04 28 70-167 0-2 19-33 128 30 159 5.7 

04-05 26 88-209 0-0 24-48 140 25 200 7.7 

#43 ABBY YOUNG, 5’6”, Fr, Guard, 

Elgin, IL/Hampshire HS 

High School: Attended Hampshire High 

School and played two years of varsity 

basketball under Coach Sue Ellett. She was 

named All-Area and All-Conference her 

senior year. She also played four years of 

varsity softball under Coaches Sherm Morgan 

and Mike Wendt. She was All-Area her 

sophomore, junior and senior years; All-Conference her junior 

and senior years; All-State her senior year. Personal: Born 3/10/87 

in Park Ridge, IL. Family: Robert and Linda Young. She has two 

brothers, Josh and Jared, and two sisters, Rebekah and Jessica. 

Hobbies: Playing softball and basketball, hanging out with 

friends, sleeping and talking to her brothers. Major: Accounting 

or Business Management. 


2004-2005 

Season Results 

(7-20 overall) 

Date H/A Result 

11/19 A Wheaton College 52 Aurora University 41 

11/20 H Wisconsin-Oshkosh 65 Aurora University 33 

11/23 H Illinois Wesleyan 79 Aurora University 50 

11/27 H Millikin University 60 Aurora University 41 

11/30 A Carthage College 85 Aurora University 58 

12/3 H Fontbonne University 59 Aurora University 57 

12/4 A North Central College 58 Aurora University 26 

Northern Illinois Iowa 

Conference Champions: 

1988-1989; 1992-1993; 1993-1994; 1994-1995, 

1995-1996, 2000-2001; 2001-2002; 2002-2003 

12/7 H Elmhurst College 59 Aurora University 47 

12/11 A Webster University 72 Aurora University 59 

12/15 H University of Chicago 63 Aurora University 57 

12/29 H Kalamazoo College 69 Aurora University 60 

12/30 A Hope College 81 Aurora University 30 

*1/8 A Rockford College 75 Aurora University 55 

1/11 H UW-Stevens Point 59 Aurora University 46 

*1/15 H Dominican University 80 Aurora University 75 

*1/18 A Aurora University 65 Concordia University 62 (OT) 

*1/25 H Aurora University 58 Benedictine University 54 

*1/29 A Clarke College 58 Aurora University 53 

*2/1 H Rockford College 72 Aurora University 58 

*2/3 H Aurora University 64 Clarke College 47 

*2/8 A Aurora University 67 Dominican University 55 

*2/10 A Aurora University 47 Eureka College 46 (OT) 

*2/12 H Aurora University 75 Concordia University 72 (OT) 

NCAA Postseason Results 

1993-1994: 

First round (at Aurora, IL)-w. Wartburg (IA), 61-57 

Second round (at St. Louis)-l. Washington (MO), 77-68 

1994-1995: 

First round (at Decorah, IA)-w. Luther, 72-68 

Second round (at St. Louis)-w. Washington (MO), 75-63 

Third round (at St. Paul, MN)-l. St. Benedict (MN), 80-46 

2001-2002: 

First round (at St. Louis)-l. Webster University, 81-60 

2003-2004: 

First round (at Greencastle, IN)-l. Depauw University, 88-44 

*2/15 H Eureka College 50 Aurora University 49 (OT) 

*2/19 A Benedictine University 67 Aurora University 55 

#2/21 H Aurora University 69 Concordia University 49 

#2/23 A Rockford College 54 Aurora University 53 

*NIIC Conference Game 

# NIIC Conference Tournament 


2004-2005 

Season Statistics 

Name (GP) FG FG% 3FG 3FG% FT FT% TP PPG 

Beth Plucinski (27) 88 .272 54 .258 36 .667 266 9.9 

Laura Wiesner (26) 88 .421 0 .000 24 .500 200 7.7 

Alison Kohler (27) 84 .503 0 .000 32 .727 200 7.4 

Courtney Lillard (26) 65 .433 0 .000 34 .557 164 6.3 

Jamie Barwick (26) 52 .234 9 .205 20 .500 133 5.1 

Lexi Pioli (27) 42 .336 25 .321 27 .711 136 5.0 

Deisy Mena (25) 41 .325 26 .295 17 .739 125 5.0 

Michelle Hard (20) 22 .272 13 .342 11 .611 68 3.4 

Stephanie Kiger (19) 30 .492 0 .000 2 .167 62 3.3 

Rachel Blanton (25) 17 .258 2 .154 15 .577 51 2.0 

Beth Sandon (13) 8 .381 1 .333 2 .500 22 1.5 

Caitlin Ebbinghaus (25) 10 .270 0 .000 2 .400 2 0.9 

Melissa Robinson (8) 1 .200 0 .000 0 .000 0 0.3 

Samirah Watkins (1) 0 .000 0 .000 0 .000 0 0.0 

Michelle Weinlader (1) 0 .000 0 .000 0 .000 0 0.0 

Alex Contreras (6) 0 .000 0 .000 0 .000 0 0.0 

Lisa Hoover (3) 0 .000 0 .000 0 .000 0 0.0 

Aurora University (27) 548 .343 130 .273 222 .594 1,448 53.6 

Opponents (27) 617 .411 121 .322 347 .671 1,702 63.0 

Name Reb. RPG PF/DQ A TO BLK STL 

Beth Plucinski 119 4.4 54/1 147 147 10 43 

Laura Wiesner 140 5.4 75/4 25 53 5 24 

Alison Kohler 155 5.7 63/1 19 35 22 24 

Courtney Lillard 180 6.9 81/6 15 58 14 17 

Jamie Barwick 94 3.6 44/0 41 98 1 55 

Lexi Pioli 31 1.1 20/1 15 25 1 14 

Deisy Mena 59 2.4 29/0 16 34 1 15 

Michelle Hard 20 1.0 10/0 16 19 1 8 

Stephanie Kiger 55 2.9 12/0 13 23 3 13 

Rachel Blanton 56 2.2 34/0 23 29 2 12 

Beth Sandon 14 1.1 6/0 4 13 0 4 

Caitlin Ebbinghaus 29 1.2 20/0 11 20 0 3 

Melissa Robinson 2 0.3 0/0 0 0 1 2 

Samirah Watkins 2 2.0 0/0 0 0 0 0 

Michelle Weinlader 0 0.0 0/0 0 0 0 0 

Alex Contreras 0 0.2 1/0 1 3 0 1 

Lisa Hoover 0 0.0 0/0 0 0 0 0 

Aurora University 1,072 39.7 449/12 346 567 61 235 

Opponents 1,034 38.3 400/0 381 511 76 297 


The NIIC 

AU NIIC Honors 

TEAM 

NIIC Record Overall Record 

Rockford College 10-2 22-5 

Eureka College 8-4 21-7 

Benedictine University 7-5 12-14 

Aurora University 6-6 7-20 

Concordia University 6-6 9-17 

Clarke College 3-9 7-19 

Dominican University 2-10 3-23 

2004-2005 ALL-NIIC TEAM: 

Beth Plucinski, Aurora University 

Kristina Dorman, Rockford College 

Kristi Strunz, Rockford College 

Angie Butler, Rockford College 

Jessica Reardon, Eureka College 

Sarah Deakin, Eureka College 

Tamika Curtis, Benedictine University 

Amanda Burditt, Benedictine University 

Atoi Sinclair, Concordia University 

Melissa Lounds, Dominican University 

Player of the Year: Kristina Dorman, Rockford College 

Coach of the Year: Bob Amsberry Rockford College and 

Sandy Schuster Eureka College 

AU All-NIIC Selections 

2004-2005 Beth Plucinski 

2003-2004 Tina Brooks 

2003-2004 Beth Plucinski 


2002-2003 Joanna Dietz 


2001-2002* Molly Jones 

2001-2002 Michelle Lexow 

2000-2001 Kara Baysinger 

2000-2001 Molly Jones 

1999-2000 Erica Mullner 

1998-1999 Jaime Lawrence 

1997-1998 Jennifer Harms 

1997-1998 Jaime Lawrence 

1997-1998 Kristen Ericson 

1996-1997* Dana Lettow 

1996-1997 Diana Thompson 


1995-1996 Beth Edwards 

1995-1996 Stephanie Calvesio 

1994-1995* Jennifer Gabel 

1994-1995 Dana Lettow 


1993-1994 Jennifer Gabel 

1993-1994 

1992-1993* 

1992-1993 

1992-1993 

1991-1992* 

1990-1992 

1990-1991* 

1990-1991 

1989-1990 

1988-1989 

1987-1988 

1986-1987 

1985-1986* 

1985-1986 

1984-1984 

1984-1985 

1983-1984 

1982-1983 

1982-1983 

1980-1981 

1978-1979 

1978-1979 

1977-1978 

*Denotes NIIC Player of the Year 

Samantha Harris 

Jennifer Gabel 

Samantha Harris 

Sona Bedenian 

Sona Bedenian 

Jennifer Gabel 

Cathy Flanagan 

Kim Schaubel 

Melba Morris 

Bobette Schoenbeck 

Bobette Schoenbeck 

Kristen Benner 

Charlotte Shepherd 

Sue Collins 

Charlotte Shepherd 

Chris Hallberg 

Sue Collins 

Sue Collins 

Bev Tooney 

Lisa Thom 

Kim Colweck 

Gwen Smith 

Gwen Smith 

The coaches of the Northern Illinois-Iowa 

Conference (formerly known as the Northern 

Illinois Intercollegiate Conference) selected an 

Aurora University athlete as the NIIC’s women’s 

basketball Player of the Year for seven 

consecutive years. The string began with Cathy 

Flanagan, a junior, in 1990-1991 and continued 

with Sona Bedenian (who also won the award as 

a junior in 1991-1992), Jennifer Gabel (winning 

as a sophomore in 1991-1992) and freshman 

Dana Lettow in 1993-1994, Gabel again as a 

senior (1995-1996), and Lettow three-peating as 

a junior and senior in 1995-1996 and 1996-1997. 

During those seven years, the Spartans were 58- 

12 in NIIC play and won four titles (along with 

three second-place finishes). 

1990-1991 

1994-1995 

1992-1993 

1996-1997 

1991-1992 

1993-1994 

1995-1996 


AU Year-By-Year 

Individual Records 

OVER. NIIC NIIC 

YEAR COACH RECORD REC PL. 

1977-1978 Karen Heiden 3-11 0-4 4th 

1978-1979 Karen Heiden 10-9 3-3 3rd 

(Heiden’s 2 yr. AU record: 13-20) 

1979-1980 Joe Carter 5-12 2-4 n/a 

1980-1981 Joe Carter 10-13 2-4 n/a 

(Carter’s 2 yr. AU record: 15-25) 

1981-1982 Nancy Schley 6-13 2-4 4th 

1982-1983 Nancy Schley 8-13 4-2 3rd 

(Schley’s 2 yr. AU record: 14-26) 

1983-1984 Jack Augustine 17-7 8-4 4th 

1984-1985 Jack Augustine 15-10 5-3 3rd 

(Augustine’s 2 yr. AU record: 32-17) 

1985-1986 Lester Foster 17-8 6-4 3rd 

1986-1987 Lester Foster 10-13 3-5 4th 

(Foster’s 2 yr. AU record: 27-21) 

1987-1988 Brenda Hillman 4-22 1-7 5th 

1988-1989 Brenda Hillman 9-14 6-2 1st 

1989-1990 Brenda Hillman 2-20 2-8 5th 

(Hillman’s 3 yr. AU record: 15-56) 

1990-1991 James Lancaster 8-14 6-4 2nd 

1991-1992 James Lancaster 12-14 8-2 2nd 

1992-1993 James Lancaster 16-9 9-1 1st tie 

1993-1994 James Lancaster 22-5 9-1 1st# 

(Lancaster’s 4 yr. AU record: 58-42) 

1994-1995 Doug Porter 22-6 9-1 1st# 

1995-1996 Doug Porter 14-11 9-1 1st 

(Porter’s 2 yr. AU record: 36-17) 

1996-1997 Linda Olson 15-10 8-2 2nd 

1997-1998 Julie Sexton 2-6 0-0 

1998-1999 Frank McQuade 10-16 

(Sexton resigned with a 2-6 mark midway 

through the 1997-1998 season) 

****** Frank McQuade 11-6 8-2 2nd 

(Assumed Head Coaching duties midseason 

tabulating an overall record of 11-6. Coach 

of the Year honors in the NIIC in 1997-1998.) 

1999-2000 Jennifer (Gabel) 

Buckley 6-20 4-8 4th 


Buckley 13-12 9-3 1st 


Buckley 16-10 11-1 1st 


Buckley 17-10 12-0 1st 



******** (Buckley had a 6-9 record in the 2003-2004 

season due to absence from maturnity leave. 

Assistant Darlene Guyett went 5-9 in Buckley’s 

absence.) 



(Buckley’s 6 yr AU record: 65-81) 

# NCAA post-season playoff participant 

******Spartans encountered two coaching changes and 

registered an overall record of 13-12 and 8-2 in the 

NIIC in the 1997-1998 season. 

MOST POINTS SCORED: 

G: 44 Jennifer Harms 2/14/98 vs. Rockford 

S: 500 Dana Lettow 1994-1995 (28 games) 

C: 1,693 Dana Lettow 1993-1997 (94 games/18.0 ppg) 

BEST POINTS PER GAME AVERAGE: 

S: 21.0 Kristen Benner 1986-1987 

C: 18.0 Dana Lettow 1993-1997 

MOST FIELD GOALS MADE: 

G: 19 Dana Lettow 2/1/97 vs. Rockford (19-35) 

19 Jennifer Harms 2/14/98 vs. Rockford (19-36) 

S: 199 Charlotte Shepherd 1985-1986 (25 games) 

C: 624 Jennifer Gabel 1991-1995 (624-1274) 

MOST FIELD GOALS ATTEMPTED: 

G: 36 Jennifer Harms 2/14/98 vs. Rockford (19-36) 

S: 426 Jennifer Harms 1997-1998 (152-426) 

C: 1,366 Dana Lettow 1993-1997 (622-1366/45.5%) 

BEST FIELD GOAL PERCENTAGE: 

S: 55.8 Cathy Flanagan 1990-1991 (150-269) 

C: 53.5 Cathy Flanagan 1990-1991,1993-1994 (227-424) 

MOST 3-POINT FIELD GOALS MADE: 

G: 7 Sona Bedenian 2/8/92 vs. Rockford 

S: 74 Beth Plucinski 2003-2004 (74-234) 

C: 205 Sona Bedenian 1989-1993 (205-563) 

MOST 3-POINT FIELD GOALS ATTEMPTED: 

G: 18 Sona Bedenian 2/17/92 vs. Elmhurst (5-18) 

S: 234 Beth Plucinski 2003-2004 (74-234) 

C: 563 Sona Bedenian 1989-1993 (205-563) 

MOST FREE THROWS MADE: 

G: 13 Dana Lettow vs. Washington, MO (13-15) 

S: 127 Dana Lettow 1994-1995 (127-172) 

C: 313 Dana Lettow 1993-1997 (313-436) 

BEST FREE THROW PERCENTAGE: 

S: 87.5 Lisa Thom (21-24) 1982-1983 (21-24) 

C: 74.0 Kristen Benner 1985-1987 (142-192) 

MOST REBOUNDS: 

G: 29 Jennifer Gabel 1/30/92 vs. Millikin 

S: 358 Jennifer Gabel 1991-1992 (26 games) 

C: 1,136 Jennifer Gabel 1991-1995 (106 games) 

MOST ASSISTS: 

G: 12 Diana Thompson 2/25/97 vs. Rockford 

12 Beth Plucinski 2/3/05 vs. Clarke 

S: 147 Beth Plucinski 2004-2005 

C: 316 Diana Thompson 1993-1997 

MOST BLOCKED SHOTS: 

G: 10 Joanna Dietz 2/1/03 vs. Eureka 

S: 78 Joanna Dietz 2002-2003 

C: 193 Joanna Dietz 2000-2003

Team Records 

MOST POINTS: 

G: 111 vs. Trinity Int’l. (111-92) 2/20/96 

S: 2,137 1994-1995 (28 games) 

MOST POINTS, OPPONENT: 

G: 111 by Simpson College 1997-1998 

S: 1,916 1991-1992 (26 games) 

MOST POINTS, COMBINED: 

G: 203 AU 111, Trinity Int’l 92 2/20/96 

FEWEST POINTS SCORED: 

G: 26 vs. North Central 12/4/04 

S: 1,155 1987-1988 (26 games) 

FEWEST POINTS SCORED, OPPONENT: 

G: 14 Cornell College 1976-1977 

S: 1,129 1976-1977 

LARGEST MARGIN OF VICTORY: 

G: 94 Cornell College (108-14) 1976-1977 

LARGEST MARGIN OF DEFEAT: 

G: 53 Washington (Mo) 1997-1998 

(Washington 102, AU 49) 

BEST POINTS PER GAME AVERAGE: 

S: 77.0 1993-1994 2,079 pts. (27 games) 

LARGEST AVERAGE SCORING MARGIN: 

S: +17.8 1976-1977 

LARGEST AVERAGE SCORING MARGIN, OPPONENT: 

S: -13.3 1987-1988 

MOST FIELD GOALS MADE: 

G: 47 vs. Trinity College 1985-1986 

S: 825 1993-1994 (825-1,953) 

MOST FIELD GOALS MADE, OPPONENT: 

G: 50 Simpson College 1997-1998 

S: 736 1991-1992 

BEST FIELD GOAL %: 

S: 45.7 1986-1987 

MOST 3-POINT FIELD GOALS MADE: 

G: 12 Trinity International 1985-1986 

S: 152 1999-2000 (152-484) 

MOST 3-POINT ATTEMPTS: 

G: 29 vs. Judson 2/4/95 (4-29) 

S: 484 1999-2000 (152-484) 

BEST 3-POINT %: 

S: 36.4 1989-1990 (24-60) 

MOST FREE THROWS MADE: 

G: 35 Benedictine University 2/7/98 (35-43) 

S: 412 1994-1995 (412-622) 

MOST FREE THROWS MADE, OPPONENT: 

G: 36 Rockford College 1/24/98 (36-58) 

S: 390 1985-1986 

BEST FREE THROW %: 

S: 68.8 1986-1987 

MOST REBOUNDS: 

G: 68 Trinity College 1985-1986 

S: 1,281 1993-1994 (27 games) 

MOST REBOUNDS PER GAME: 

S: 51.1 1985-1986 1,277 rebs. (25 games) 

MOST REBOUNDS, OPPONENT: 

G: 63 Washington, Mo 12/5/97 

63 Puget Sound 12/9/91 

S: 1,252 1997-1998 (25 games) 

MOST CONSECUTIVE WINS: 

S: 12 1993-1994 (27 games) 

MOST VICTORIES: 

S: 22 1993-1994 (27 games) 

1994-1995 (28 games) 

Simply the Best! 

By the time Dana Lettow completed her AU career 

in 1996-1997, she left as the most prolific player in 

Spartan history. Some of her career highlights include 

AU’s all-time scoring leader 

(1,693 points.); two-time Kodak 

All-American; Columbus 

Multimedia and Division III 

News All-American; three-time 

All-Region; four-year All-NIIC; 

three-time NIIC Player of the Year; 

AU single game scoring record 

(41 points.); four-time AU team 

Most Valuable Player; double-digit 

scoring in 85 of 94 career games; 36 games with 20 plus 

points; and led the team in scoring in 66 of 94 games 

(70%). 

In recognition of her achievements, her #40 was 

retired by Aurora University President Dr. Thomas H. 

Zarle immediately after her final game on 2/25/97, 

joining former 

NBA star Mickey 

Johnson as the 

only other AU 

athlete to have 

his number 

retired.

AU Directory 

AU Administration 

(All numbers are 630 area code) 

Sport/Department Coach/Contact Phone 

Director of Athletics Mark Walsh 844-5111 

Athletics Business 

Manager Lisa Wisniowicz 844-4574 

Athletic Trainer Stevie Baker-Watson 844-5114 

Asst. Athletic Trainer Terry Smith 844-6173 

Baseball Shaun Neitzel 844-6515 

Basketball, Men James Lancaster 844-5144 

Basketball, Women Michelle Roof 844-5112 

Cross Country and 

Track and Field James Kluckhohn 844-4573 

Events/Equipment 

Manager Jason Smith 844-6891 

Football Rich Duncan 844-5115 

Golf, Men John Donofrio 844-3855 

Golf, Women Chad Johansen 844-3849 

Soccer, Men Pete Watkins 844-5268 

Soccer, Women Kanute Drugan 844-4207 

Softball Mike McKenzie 844-4939 

Sports Information Brian Kipley 844-7575 

Tennis, Men and Women Paul Heinkel 844-5152 

Volleyball Jerry Angle 844-5261 

Other Important Numbers 

Admission 844-5533 

Alumni Office 844-5486 

Physical Education Office 844-6181 

Campus Safety 844-5450 

Training Room 844-4891 

University Communications 844-5481 

Wellness Center 844-5434 

Rebecca L. Sherrick 

President 

Currently in her sixth year as Aurora 

University President, Rebecca Sherrick is 

a true Spartan booster and often attends 

athletic events. She earned her B.A. from 

Illinois Wesleyan University and Ph.D. 

from Northwestern University. 

Andrew Manion 

Provost 

Previously Dean of the College of Arts 

and Sciences from 1998 to 2000, Andrew 

Manion earned his B.A. from Saint 

Norbert College and his Ph.D. in 

experimental psychology from Adelphi 

University. 

Michael Moser 

Vice President for Student Life 

Michael Moser assumed the duties of 

Vice President for Student Life in March 

2004. He has a B.A. from North Central 

College and a Master of Divinity from 

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary 

Mark Walsh 

Director of Athletics 

Mark Walsh was named Director of 

Athletics in 1998. Previously, Walsh was 

AU’s Head Baseball Coach from 1992- 

2002 and Assistant Coach from 1987- 

1992. Walsh led the Spartans to nine NIIC 

Conference Championships and nine 

NCAA Tournament appearances while posting a 320-85 

(.790) won-lost record in 10 seasons. Walsh also served as 

Assistant Football Coach at AU from 1986-1996 and was 

part of the coaching staff who reinstated football after it 

had been dropped in 1952. Walsh earned both his bachelor’s 

and master’s degrees from Aurora University. 

Brian Kipley 

Sports Information 

Director 

14 

AU Women’s Basketball

This Is Aurora University 

When you can’t 

attend games, catch 

ALL the scores on the 

SPARTAN SPORTS 

HOTLINE 

630-844-3838 

touchtone phone required 

Eckhart Hall 

Aurora University traces its origins to the 1893 founding of a seminary in 

the small town of Mendota, Ill. Though established initially to prepare graduates 

for ministry, the institution soon adopted a broader mission and moved to a 

new campus on the western edge of the nearby community of Aurora. With this 

change came a different name and a growing enrollment. In 1985, the institution 

was rechristened Aurora University. 

In 1992, the Aurora and George Williams College traditions blended when the 

two institutions entered into the affiliation agreement that paved the way for a 

merger eight years later. 

Today Aurora University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission 

of the North Central Association to award degrees at the baccalaureate, master’s, 

and doctoral levels. The institution enrolls approximately 4,000 degree-seeking 

students a year on its Illinois and Wisconsin campuses. AU offers its undergraduates 

a wide range of on- and off-campus learning experiences. Students 

participate in more than 40 musical, literary, religious, social and service organizations 

and play active roles in campus governance. The university also fields 

18 NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletic teams. The Spartans boast a winning 

tradition with 37 conference titles in recent years and 32 regular appearances in 

national tournaments. 

The Alumni Hall of Physical Education features a racquetball court, climbing 

wall, complete locker-room facilities, training room, weight room, aerobicactivities 

room, classroom and coaches’ offices. 

At AU, we believe that the educational needs of students are served best 

through the formation of strategic partnerships with institutions of like vision, 

mission and values. Such collaborations also enhance the well being of the 

communities around our campus. For example, our innovative partnership 

with the West Aurora School District is recognized nationally as a model for 

educational reform. Opening this year is AU’s $14 million Institute for 

Collaboration that will house this growing collaboration and the students and 

faculty it nurtures. Our George Williams Campus at Williams Bay, WI is also the 

scene for important collaborative efforts. Last year, the residential, conference 

and academic facility, developed in partnership with Children’s Oncology 

Services Inc., opened. In the years ahead, the new building will serve as the 

home to the One Step At A Time Camp for children with cancer and the university’s 

rapidly growing academic program. 

Aurora University is located in west Aurora, within an hour’s drive of Chicago 

and at the western end of the Illinois Research and Development Corridor. It is 

accessible via Interstate 88 at the Orchard Road exit. 

statistics 

highlights 

upcoming games 

For Complete 

NIIC 

Conference Standings, 

Results, Directions 

and News 

LOG ON TO 

www.niiconline.com

2005-2006 

Women’s Basketball Schedule 

Date Opponent Time Site 

Nov. 18, Fri Wheaton College Thunder Classic 4:00 p.m. Wheaton, IL 

vs. Wheaton College 

Nov. 19, Sat Wheaton College Thunder Classic 2:00 p.m. Wheaton, IL 

vs. Ripon College 

Nov. 22, Tue CARTHAGE COLLEGE 7:00 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Nov. 26, Sat Illinois Wesleyan University 2:00 p.m. Bloomington, IL 

Nov. 29, Tue University of Chicago 7:00 p.m. Chicago,IL 

Dec. 1,Thu Millikin University 5:15 p.m. Decatur, IL 

Dec. 3, Sat Elmhurst College 2:00 p.m. Elmhurst, IL 

Dec. 6, Tue NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE 7:00 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Dec. 10, Sat WEBSTER UNIVERSITY 2:00 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Dec. 12, Mon North Park University 7:30 p.m. Chicago, IL 

Dec. 17, Sat Olivet Nazarene University 12:00 p.m. Bourbonnais, IL 

Dec. 21, Wed DIII Desert Shootout-Muskingum 1:15 p.m. Las Vegas 

Dec. 22, Thu DIII Desert Shootout-UT-Dallas/Millsaps TBA Las Vegas 

Jan. 3, Tue BLACKBURN COLLEGE 5:30 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Jan. 7, Sat Judson College 1:00 p.m. Elgin, IL 

Jan. 14, Sat Rockford College* 7:00 p.m. Rockford, IL 

Jan. 17, Tue EUKEKA COLLEGE* 1:00 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Jan. 21, Sat CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY(IL)* 7:00 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Jan. 25, Wed CLARKE COLLEGE* 5:30 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Jan. 28, Sat Benedictine University* 1:30 p.m. Lisle, IL 

Feb. 4, Sat ROCKFORD COLLEGE* 5:30 p.m. AURORA, IL 

Feb. 7, Tue Eureka College* 7:00 p.m. Eureka, IL 

Feb. 11, Sat Concordia University(IL)* 1:00 p.m. River Forest, IL 

Feb. 15, Wed Clarke College* 5:30 p.m. Dubuque, IA 

Feb. 18, Sat BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY* 1:00 p.m. AURORA, IL 

All home games in BOLD 

* Denotes Northern Illinois-Iowa Conference Game 

347 S. Gladstone Ave. 

Aurora, IL 60506-4892 

630-844-5533 or 

630-PICK AU-1 

www. aurora.edu

Spartans Women's Basketball Spartans - Aurora University

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