FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BUFFUM, HENNESSEY NAMED BATES ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

LEWISTON, Maine -- Senior women's squash players Lori Buffum of Wilton, N.H., and formerly of Milford, N.H., and Mary Ellen Hennessey of Manchester, N.H., have been named Bates Athletes of the Week for the week ending Jan. 16.

Hennessey, a co-captain for the Bobcats, played an integral role in Bates' strong showing at the Williams Invitational, held Jan. 14-16 in Williamstown, Mass. Hennessey won five of six matches in the tournament and dropped only one game in her five victories. She helped the Bobcats to their first-ever win against Amherst College, defeating Christine Kahn in three straight games. Bates won the match, 6-3. Hennessey defeated Mary F. Dempsey from Franklin & Marshall in three straight, allowing Dempsey only six total points.

Buffum also played a key role in the Bobcats' success. She dominated her opponents, winning five matches without losing a game while only suffering one defeat. In the match against Amherst, Buffum defeated San Alves in three straight games. She defeated Julia Morgan of Connecticut College in three straight games, allowing her only two points.

"Lori and Mary Ellen exemplify the spirit of this team," said head coach John Illig. "They play hard and enjoy every minute of the game. Both have shown solid commitment for four years, and they should feel proud that it's paying off handsomely in this best-ever season for Bates women's squash."

The Bobcats finished with a 4-2 record for the tournament, and improved to 9-4 overall. Bates defeated Franklin & Marshall, Connecticut College, Amherst College, and Smith College.

Williams and Middlebury both defeated the Bobcats. Bates is currently ranked 12th in the nation by the Women's Squash Racquets Association (WSRA).

Hennessey is a 1996 graduate of Stoneleigh-Burnham School. She is the daughter of Vincent and Mary Hennessey of Manchester, N.H.

Buffum is a 1996 graduate of Milford High School. She is the daughter of Paul and Elisabeth Buffum of Wilton, N.H.