West Windsor, N.J. -- Now in his 20th season as head coach for women's basketball, Mike Tenaglia knows how the injury bug can limit a team and its players. While that bug has unfortunately hit the Lady Vikes this year, they have still managed a solid start, earning a 4-0 record in the GSAC Conference and a 7-4 record overall, with one final game to be played before winter break against Union CC on Dec. 22.

"The team is showing improvement with each game as players start to understand their roles and how they fit in on the team," Tenaglia said.

In addition to physical skill, Tenaglia credits his players with a good work ethic and positive outlook. "They have bounced back from some tough early season losses," he reports.

The Lady Vikes feature a blend of returning talent and new additions. A key contributor is sophomore guard Alexis Sweet (Trenton, NJ/Trenton Central HS), an All-Region and All-Conference performer in her freshman season who leads the team in all categories (based on statistics through the first 7 games) - averaging 17.5 pts., 12.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.7 steals per game.

Returning forwards Azaria Crews (Ewing, NJ/Ewing HS) and Marelys Williams (Hamilton, NJ/Hamilton West HS) have been a strong presence in the front court, with Crews averaging 12.6 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, and Williams averaging 5.1 points and 7.7 rebounds. Freshman forward Chelsea Holman (Hamilton, NJ/Nottingham HS) has contributed in the front court as well, averaging 5.6 points and 4.1 rebounds per game .

Also contributing are freshman guard Natasha Nichols (Trenton, NJ/Coconut Creek HS) and returning guards Showana Paul (Trenton, NJ/Trenton Central HS) and Lauri Regan (Lawrenceville, NJ/Lawrence HS). Rookie guard Chanel Johnson (Hamilton, NJ/Hamilton West HS) has had some big games as well, averaging 2.7 assists and 2 steals per game.

Key off the bench are freshman forward Kristine Funk (Columbus, NJ/Northern Burlington HS) and freshman guard Allicia Pickett (Bordentown, NJ/Bordentown). The Lady Vikes hope to have another front court presence when freshman forward Tori Povia (Florence, NJ/Florence Twp. HS) returns from the injured list.

While winning the Region 19 title is one of the Lady Vikes' goals, with a 96-58 loss to Harcum CC early in the season, Tenaglia and his players understand the challenges ahead. A second half in which players work hard and remain injury-free will go far to achieving that goal.

Vikings' action resumes after the winter break in a home game against Ocean CC on January 11. For the game schedule and scores, click here.