2008 Woodie Awards
Senior Wood embraces leadership role
Brian Hungarter
Issue date: 11/6/07 Section: Sports
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Staff Writer
Fifth-year senior Meghan Wood has been an Evergreen so long she has been dubbed "Old Lady" by her teammates. That nickname is merely a playful jest, but they also call her by another, better suited name: Captain. If the Loyola women's basketball team wants to improve on last season's success, it's going to start with the determined leader of the Hounds.
"When I decided to come to Loyola I set my mind on two things: a degree and a MAAC championship," Wood said. "I have my degree, and now I want my MAAC championship."
The senior forward has been a steady and consistent leader for the Greyhounds, who garnered their highest preseason ranking in MAAC history this preseason, projected to finish fourth in the conference.
So what can be expected from Wood and the Hounds this season? If everyone on the team goes in with Wood's mentality, it will certainly be a determined group that will put together an entertaining season if nothing else.
"My career will not be fulfilled at Loyola unless we bring home the MAAC championship this year," Wood said. "I know that's a big goal, but we have the talent and the depth to do it. Our team keeps improving, and with strong leadership and encouragement from us seniors, we can take the next step."
Wood's play in the post has been dominant; she was second on the team in rebounds last season and either led or tied for the lead in rebounds on 12 different occasions. Those strong efforts put extra pressure on Wood this year because she will be up against stiffer competition.
"My job is just to be a solid, consistent kid for the team and keep grabbing rebounds," Wood said. "Last season was a good year for me, but that was last year, and I need to prove myself all over again. Teams saw what I can do last season, and now … the word is out. But I can do it."
Wood became a major contributor for Loyola last season, but it was not only last year that Wood made a name for herself. She has appeared in every game since joining the Hounds in 2003, and prior to that, Wood averaged 27 points and 13 rebounds per game as she led her Carmel High School team to a league title in 2003.
Along the way, Wood picked up numerous honors including All-League, All-Section, and all All-State recognition in high school.
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