Nov. 2, 2009

Manuel, March, Nortey Named Team Captains for 2009-10

Youngstown -- Sophomore Macey Nortey will join seniors Rachael Manuel and Kaitlyn March as captains of the 2009-10 Youngstown State women's basketball team, Penguins head coach Cindy Martin announced.

Manuel and March are the lone seniors on the roster, and Nortey is the active career leader in several categories despite being a sophomore. The trio earned their captainship in a vote by their teammates.

"I think these three ladies will do a fantastic job as captains this season," Martin said. "I am excited to meet with them and get their honest feedback as we progress through the season."

"It's a fun group with a lot of personality, and I'm sure the captains will help our team bond both on and off the court."

Manuel is the most veteran player on the squad with 85 career games played, 57 of which came in her first two collegiate seasons at Southern Miss. The Grayslake, Ill., native averaged 1.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 11.8 minutes last season, but the senior post is expected to have a much bigger role this season after a strong summer.

March appeared in a career-high 23 games last season as a junior after playing in 14 contests her first two seasons combined. March is one of YSU's top outside threats from the wing. Nine of her 14 3-pointers last season came in the first seven games.

Nortey started 25 games at point guard and played in all 30 last season as a true freshman. She is the top returning player in points (5.6 points per game), rebounds (2.7) and assists (2.7) from last season.

The Penguins will play Lake Erie College at Beeghly Center in an exhibition on Friday at 7:05 p.m.