Tommies Women's Basketball enters the 2025-26 season with depth and confidence 

Fredericton, NB - The St. Thomas University Tommies women’s basketball team is gearing up for another exciting season on the hardwood, with confidence and determination fueling their return to the court. After a strong 2024-25 campaign that included competing at Nationals and beating ACAA champions, the Tommies are motivated to build on last year’s success and compete for a championship once again.

Head coach expressed pride in how far the team progressed last year and the effort players invested throughout the season. “I was very happy with how far we came and the work the players put into the season,” he said. The experience of competing at Nationals served as a powerful motivator for the returning group. “It really motivated a lot of players this summer to work hard to get back to that level of play. I think it is a confident group that believes they can win a championship this year.”

The Tommies have added four new players to the roster, each bringing unique strengths to the team dynamic. Transfer Payton Oschypko joins from UNB, adding athleticism and energy that align perfectly with the Tommies playing style. Norah Quinlan, entering the Bachelor of Education program, contributes veteran experience along with elite shooting and passing. Fun fact she will be joining her sister Kathleen Quinlan to play together as she hopes to get back on the court this semester. First-years Grace Crawford and Charlee Hall are adjusting well to the collegiate level and have already shown promising signs.

“Our rookies will take some time to learn how we play, but Norah and Payton have been adjusting well and played valuable minutes,” Fred said. The entire coaching staff from last season returns, providing consistency and familiarity as the team prepares for another competitive campaign.

The offseason focused heavily on strength and conditioning, helping players elevate their fitness and endurance. “We had a challenging offseason plan focusing on our strength and cardio,” Fred noted.

The objective this season is clear: compete for a championship and make another run on the national stage. The team has set the goal to win a Championship and compete for one at the national stage. With confidence and experience on their side, the Tommies are determined to prove they belong among the country’s elite programs.

The Tommies pride themselves on their depth and collective mindset. “Our team is built around sharing the basketball and defending as a team. Everyone is important and everyone makes a difference,” Fred said. Leadership will come from captains Katie Vidito, Alyssa Jeffrey, and Micheala Hansen, who have all done an excellent job keeping the group focused and fostering leadership throughout the roster. “They all lead in different ways and very much promote increased leadership within the team dynamic,” he added.

One of the biggest challenges for the Tommies this season will be performing under pressure. “Our ability to handle the big moments,” the coach reflected. “Last year we earned the right to be in big games with big moments and learned valuable lessons. I believe we will put ourselves back in those positions and we will be ready for them when they come.”

To overcome those challenges, the team is focusing on unity, preparation, and resilience. “We work on playing to our strengths and being tight together. We will train our bodies and minds so that we are confident we can overcome large obstacles when they arrive.” Defensively, the Tommies expect to continue setting the tone. “Our defence will be our staple again this season. Everyone is buying into the importance of defending and playing tough Tommies basketball.”

The Tommies are calling on fans and the STU community to bring their energy to the gym this season. “Come out and see us play. We are going to be a fun team to watch,” the coach said. Supporters can also contribute through the Adopt a Tommie program to help the players financially. Your Tommies are entering the season on a high note after having a great showing in preseason going 3-0 in their annual Ken Gould Invitational Exhibition tournament hosted on their home court. 

“You do not want to miss a game this year,” Fred concluded. “The league is competitive top to bottom and we are going to play a fun style of basketball.”