STEVENS POINT - UW-Stevens Point head women's basketball coach Shirley Egner has announced the addition of four new student-athletes who will continue their academic and athletic careers with the Pointer women's basketball team in 2009-10.

Newcomers include Amherst native Claire Glodowski, Oconto Falls native Kim Maedke, Eau Claire Memorial's Josi Schultz and Freedom's Kristin Verhagen.

Glodowski, a 5-10 post player for the 2009 state champion Falcons, helped the team earn for straight conference championships and qualify for the state tournament four straight seasons. She received all-conference honors this past season and is a member of the National Honor Society.

“Claire is a class act on and off the court,” said Amherst's Coach Haferbecker. She is very talented and hardworking to the game of basketball. She can go up hard with it inside and she can shoot the three.”

“I have watched Claire compete since she was a freshman,” said Coach Egner. “Her growth and development as a player over the past four years has been incredible. Claire has worked hard on her post game as well as her ability to shoot the three. She brings us another weapon to the offensive end. With the loss of [Ashley] Baker and [Jessi] Sporle, Claire fills a need for us inside.

Maedke, a 6-0 post player from Oconto Falls, was a three sport athlete for the Panthers serving as team captain of the girls basketball team in 2008-09. She was also named to the school's honor roll.

“Kim is an unselfish player who understands how important it is to be a good teammate,” said Oconto Falls Coach Rogatzki.

“Kim is a strong, athletic player who will add depth to our post play,” said Coach Egner. “She competes hard on a daily basis and is always challenging herself.”

Schultz, a 5-9 guard from Eau Claire Memorial, was an all-conference player for the Old Abes and was a special mention All-Northwest player in 2009.

“Josi is one of the most competitive players I have coached in 22 years,” said Memorial's Coach Smith. “She brings an intensity and energy to the floor that is contagious. She only has one speed.”

“Josi is an excellent communicator on and off the floor,” said Coach Egner. She is a terrific young woman who will add a lot to our program.”

Verhagen, a 5-7 guard from Freedom, was an all-conference honoree for the Lady Irish. She was a member of the Division II state runner-up team her junior season as well as a state qualifier in cross country. She is also an honor student at Freedom.

“Kristin has a tremendous work ethic,” said Coach VanderLoop. “Her skills continue to progress and she will be a valuable addition to the Pointer program.”

“Kristin's ability to shoot the ball along with her athleticism and defensive intensity will add more depth to our backcourt,” said Coach Egner.

The 2008-09 women's basketball team captured their fourth WIAC regular-season championship, their first outright title since 1987. The Pointers fought their way to a 26-4 record on the season and a 14-2 record in league play. The Pointers advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division III tournament before falling to the then undefeated and No. 1 ranked Illinois Wesleyan in Bloomington, Ill.

The Pointers finished the season ranked No. 7 by D3hoops.com.