Thursday will mark a beginning for both Ryan and Lyons.
Granted, Ryan has played one game, a 14-7 defeat to Pasquerilla West, but it was the first game in dorm history, and the team is still in the beginning stages.
"We have really been meshing this season," senior captain Kenzie Bowen said. "We have a lot of young enthusiasm. I would like to believe that we have the most fun week in and week out."
In terms of key players, Ryan does not recognize any, but rather chooses to acknowledge its team as a whole on both the offensive and defensive ends.
"We play as one unstoppable unit," Bowens said. "Our defense is certainly one of the most intimidating defenses in the league and our offense is quickly gaining confidence."
Even with their rookie status, the Ryan women are more than ready for Lyons. Last week's game brought improvement even between the first and second halves, so the extra practice time will surely prepare them even more.
"We look to come out with a bang and plan to prove that Ryan, even as a new team, is a force to be reckoned with," Bowen said.
While Ryan is rather new to existence as a whole, Lyons is new to the 2009 season. After successful scrimmages and practice time, Lyons is ready to actually play.
The defense is led by sophomores Kat Rodriguez and Caroline Maroney, both of whom proved their strengths last year. They are joined by numerous freshman.
Offensively, Lyons is looking strong, especially with its upperclassmen. Wide receivers senior Maria Petnuch and sophomore Caroline Maroney are ready to catch any ball that comes their way.
"We have an impressive receiving core that I think will be effective at moving the ball down the field," senior quarterback Claire Connell said.
The Lions are ready to take on Ryan and start out with a strong season.
"We are just going to have to come out aggressive against Ryan and make sure we stick to the game plan," Connell said.
