MCKENZIE, Tenn. (08.23.09) - After an uncharacteristic 2008 season finishing with a 9-7-2 record, the Lady Wildcats look to rebound in 2009. Bethel's tradition was recognized in the NAIA pre-season poll with the Lady ‘Cats garnering the #23 spot. With Misty Aird entering her ninth season at the helm sporting a 134-50-8 record, the team should feel confident coming into the season.
Bethel loses six seniors from last year's team and will look for leadership in the six seniors on the team this season; Tashana Taylor, TranSouth First Team All-Conference Marika Fukuta, Carla Chambers, TSAC Second Team All-Conference Kimmarley Chin, TSAC First Team All-Conference Jordan Nuffer and Candace Solcido.
The team has eleven newcomers from four different counties that will look to provide immediate impacts. The Lady Wildcats will be tested all season and will play four pre-season top 25 teams. On August 29, 2009 they will play #20 Ohio Dominican University at home, on September 12, they host #11 William Carey College (Miss.), October 9, against #5 Martin Methodist in McKenzie, Tenn. and will conclude the regular season at #24 Lindenwood University (Mo.).
The schedule also has two NAIA teams receiving votes in the poll with a game at Union University on October 6 and on the road at Shorter College (Ga.) on October 24. Bethel also will take on two NCAA D-II schools; on September 17 at Delta State University (Miss.) and October 27 at Harding University (Ark.).
