Nine new players, three new coaches, and a 589-day gap between games doesn’t seem like the ideal formula for a Rams women’s basketball squad working to build off a record-setting 2019-20 campaign. But if the events of the last 19 months have done anything, they’ve reminded returning members just how much the game and program means to them.

Head coach Carly Clarke, who’s held the title since 2012, took pause to reflect on a lost 2020 season and perhaps what might have been.

“I don’t think any of us realized how fortunate we were to have what we have until we lost it for a full season.”

The campaign prior, the Rams established themselves as a legitimate force in the U SPORTS ranks. Led by the ultra-efficient scoring duo of Marin Scotten and Jama Bin-Edward, the team set program records in both regular season wins (18) and points (36).

In order to replicate the successes of two years ago, senior guard Stefanija Mrvaljevic is steadfast in her belief that the Rams must focus on the short-term, rather than looking too far ahead in the schedule.

“All the games are really important this year, especially having a year where we didn’t get to play at all, every game means a little bit more.”

Despite several personnel changes, one thing that hasn’t been altered according to the Mississauga, Ontario native is the Rams’ welcoming culture.

“We have a team environment going that I love being a part of,” said Mrvaljevic. “I just look forward to going to practice every day, being with my friends and playing basketball, the sport I love.”

The addition of veteran guard Mikaela Dodig, a two-time AUS All-Star who transferred to Ryerson from UNB for her final year, provides another spark to a roster already loaded with offensive firepower. Dodig is thrilled to be part of such a tight-knit group, one that has aspirations of building on their impressive 2019-20 campaign.

“Having a goal in sport is really fun to work towards and gives myself at least, a sense of purpose.”

The Rams regular season tips-off at home against Queen’s on November 5. Until then and throughout the campaign, coach Clarke will continue to preach the message that serves as the foundation of Rams women’s basketball.

“We talk about being the best at getting better, that’s our focus every day.”