The Mineola High School winter sports teams have now entered their regular seasons. Preseason and non-league games are out of the way and the Mustangs are now playing for league standings. Both of the bowling teams are off to a strong start, as well as the boys basketball team.

This week, Coach Denise Zunno introduces the Lady Mustang varsity basketball team. She speaks of a rebuilding year, but also of the leadership of senior captains Kim Rossi and Erin Cloghessy. It certainly sounds like the team is not short on talent. And with so many younger players, we can look forward to successful seasons in the future too.

This year is a time to rebuild. After graduating seven seniors, four starters, the Lady Mustangs will be a young team. The team has two freshmen, six sophomores, four juniors and two seniors, all of whom are eager to learn.

The captains of the team are seniors Kim Rossi and Erin Cloghessy. Erin is an offensive threat, averaging 10 points a game. She enjoys shooting the three and shoots 75 percent at the foul line. Playing at center is three-year varsity starter Kim Rossi, the key rebounder. Their varsity experience and leadership skills will be instrumental to the success of the team.

Juniors Katherine Hock, playing at point guard, is the 1998-99 All Division player. She led the team in steals and is the strongest defensive player. Ashley O'Neil, a junior, will be the premier shooting guard. Mary Warren and Erin Sanderleaf, juniors, are new to varsity this year, bringing it speed and offense. Both players will make tremendous strides during the season due to their incredible work ethics.

Our six enthusiastic sophomores include center Patty Ober, a powerful rebounder; Liz Diaz, strong offensively at the post; Danielle Adams, shooting guard; Kristina Zunno, solid defense with strong rebounding; Maureen Cloghessy, adding height, speed and offense to the team; and Nicole McAllister, who is a solid all-around player. They are also very excited about the two freshmen, who are quick learners and have tremendous potential ¬ Nikole Tsabasis, back-up point guard, who has incredible speed, and Kristen McNally, a strong rebounder and a tough competitor.

The 1999 Mineola team is truly a team. They are selfless players working toward a common goal. They understand the importance of practice and hard work. Most importantly, they have created a lasting bond, with a strong support system, that will take them through their wins and losses this season.

The boys basketball team, under the leadership of Coach Jim Smith, has had a positive start to the season. Here are the results of early December games. We will bring you more highlights as the season continues:

Mineola 75-Carey-62, Dec. 6: James McQueen scored 25 points with 8 rebounds while Stanley Smith added 20 points with 12 rebounds. Matt Damon contributed 18 points and 8 rebounds.

Mineola 54-Garden City 62, Dec. 9: The Mustangs came up short at the Garden City tournament, despite Damon's 19 points and 8 rebounds. Damon received All-Tournament honors, totaling 30 points and 16 rebounds in a 2-game tournament.

Mineola 55-Oyster Bay 51, Dec. 10: The Mustangs came from behind to win after being down 8 points in the third quarter. Smith scored 15 of his 22 points in the second half. Damon added 11 points.

Coach: Brenda White, CW Post graduate and post graduate; SUNY Cortland; New Hyde Park Memorial High School.

Returning players: Diane Macedo, Sarah Helmich and Kerrin Hughes. All three gymnasts are strong all-around competitors. They are self-motivated and driven to do their best.

Expectations: We should have a fairly successful season. Our team is small but experienced.

Hot newcomers: Michelle Bucalo comes to Mineola as a young and enthusiastic gymnast. Her charm combined with grace should take her far. Jill Tognelli is strong and capable.

Toughest opponent: Our toughest opponent will probably be Garden City because they are seeded number one in our conference.