For the next three weeks I will be giving you a deeper look into the players and coaches that make up the Fanshawe women's basketball team. After following the guys and their success it is now time to turn the spotlight on these women. This week I will talk about the basics and the roots of the team followed by one-on-ones with players and coaches for the weeks to come.

The transition from high-school basketball to college level basketball is quite different. College basketball is a fast paced, end-to-end game where stamina and team play is key. A lot of girls come into Fanshawe to try out for the women's team but fall short not realizing the level of competition there is at the tryouts and some aren't physically fit to meet the demands. Coach Matt White looks for a team to be strong, fit and ready to compete. How you do it is your choice but these are the expectations that one is to have of you.

The Falcon's squad this year looks to be a strong, fit team that is competing with the best. With the women's record sitting at 6-2 heading into the second half of the season you can't say they haven't proved the coach wrong.

Following the women's team during the first half of the season I have to say the team is talented and strong with a good blend of veterans and rookies, with good team chemistry. They move the ball on the court smoothly and tend to get good baskets.

The roots of the team would have to be a few of the veteran players who bring forth knowledge and an understanding of the game. You can't help but notice Allison Griffiths, who is ranked in the top of the list of point guards in Ontario. Jessica Finlay, who is a fifth year veteran is a solid player with a solid defensive game as well. A few other players that can't go unnoticed for their hard work are Alissa Medieros, who is a third year veteran, followed by Kaitlind Dutrizac.

As the second half of the season starts the women have their work cut out for them. If they want to make the playoffs and compete for the OCAA championship each game will be a battle and they will be tested in all ways.

Next week I will sit down with the players for an inside look into the basketball life of Fanshawe's women's team.