Head Coach: Chris Manick (3rd year)

2007-8 Season: 2-19 (0-12, 6th place NEMC)

Returning Players: Heather Patterson, sr. (F); Krystin Inman, sr. (G); Sarah Inman, sr. (C); Megan Zarachowicz, jr. (G); Nikki Shugart, jr. (C); Abby Samotis, jr. (F);

New to varsity: Ashley Scott, so.; Rebecka Brewer, sr.; Erin Sweet, jr.; Kristin Brubaker, jr.

Outlook: Oscoda coach Chris Manick says he is looking forward to this season. In addition to his belief that the Owls will simply be better than they have been, a couple of factors are working in his team's favor.

First, the school district's rapidly shrinking enrollment dropped them down to Class C, which should help them come district tournament time after years of quick post-season exits. Second, leaving the NEMC means the Owls don't have to play the gauntlet of now much-larger schools that populate the league, though they will still play Ogemaw Heights, Standish-Sterling and Tawas in non-league contests.

"I really feel this is going to be our breakout season," Manick says. "The girls have come a long way and are ready to take the next step."

The Owls bring back six players from a year ago, led by fourth-year starter Heather Patterson (7.8 points per game). Junior guard Abby Samotis (5.1 ppg) also adds some scoring punch, while seniors Krystin (4.0 ppg) and Sarah Inman and junior Megan Zarachowicz also return.

While playing an independent schedule, the Owls will be keeping their focus on the district tournament, where they will be matched up with Hale, Alcona, Whittemore. Rogers City and Inland Lakes rather than the Standish-Sterlings and Tawas Areas of the world.

"We will be very competitive for every team we play this season," Manick says. I think this season we will be very dangerous, especially to teams who overlook us."