EWING – Jane Beiermeister may not be the top scorer or even a starter, but the College of New Jersey women’s basketball team wouldn’t go to the conference semifinals without her.
Beiermeister, a senior who has been a dedicated and determined programmer for four years, jointly won a career day in the first round of the NAC playoffs at Packer Hall on Saturday in the Lions’ convincing 67-47 win over Stockton.
The victory sends TCNJ (9: 0) with 3rd place in the semifinals next weekend against New Jersey City (8: 2) with 3rd place. The Gothic Knights advanced with a 68:60 win against William Paterson. The other No. 1 semi-final pits planted Montclair State, where Kean No. 5 was sown.
Beiermeister has done everything that was asked of her in the last four years, be it in training, in the game or just as a manager on and off the pitch.
“Jane has been amazing the past four years,” said TCNJ coach Chessie Jackson. “It’s so nice to see that she’s getting the time she deserves.”
Beiermeister only reached four points, but had nine rebounds and three assists.
However, the senior’s career cannot be measured by statistics. It is measured by how she has done the intangibles to make the program successful.
She is also humble.
“Today was a great team performance,” said Beiermeister. “Everyone contributed. It was a really nice win. ”
Shannon Devitt scored 15 points and got 10 rebounds for her 49th career double double. With their 10 carambolas, three of them shy away from tying the record of 962 by Candy Kaschak from 1984.
“I would not have made it here without the support of my entire career,” said Devitt. “My teammates, coaches, my family and many other people have helped me. I couldn’t be happier having all of the great experiences along the way. ”
Julia Setaro returned to the line-up pouring 14 points and Elle Cimilluca added seven points and six assists.
“The team this year has great chemistry on and off the pitch,” said Beiermeister. “It’s always easy to be positive when playing with friends.”
During these difficult times, Beiermeister wondered if the chance to play basketball in 2021 would come.
“I am grateful that I have a senior season at all,” said Beiermeister. “I know a lot of other schools didn’t take part this year, so I’m grateful for every game we can take part in. ”
The Lions have managed to stay focused during this unusual season.
“I think our success as a team is based on our competitive practices,” said Devitt. “Coach (Jackson) did a great job with the training plan every day. It seems that our exercises are more difficult than games most of the time. When it comes to the game, we are all ready to run it. ”
