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finalfourheadercenter.gif (2633bytes) 1972 Champs 1972 chart

Site: Illinois State University, Normal University

At the first of 11 national championship tournaments sponsored by the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, tiny all-female Immaculata College (Pa.) knocked off Keystone State rival West Chester State for the first of three straight titles. Under coach Cathy Rush, Immaculata finished the season 20-1 and was led by forward Rene Muth.

Interesting Fact: To avoid making teams play opponents they met in the regular season, tournament organizers created two eight-team brackets.

Seeding Fodder: Teams were seeded based on performance in two invitational tournaments prior to the three-day AIAW tourney.

Getting Revenge: On its journey to the championship, Immaculata avenged a stinging 70-38 defeat to West Chester State in the regional final.

Dedicated: Immaculata was coached by a pregnant Cathy Rush.

Fashion Statement: About half the teams in the tournament wore field hockey tunics, while others wore basketball uniforms featuring double-knit polyester shorts.

Money Matters: Unable to afford the trip to Illinois State, Immaculata relied on donations. Money was so scarce that the team couldn't travel together.


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