…inspirational leaders; Maritime Intercollegiate Champions
The 1924-25 women’s basketball team enjoyed tremendous success under the coaching of Terry Osborne, who had assumed his duties as Acadia’s physical education instructor that previous fall. Even before his arrival, however, the women’s squad had enjoyed winning seasons, often playing in front of relatively large and enthusiastic audiences. Back in ’23, for example, Captain Jean McLaughlin, Anne Doherty, Carolyn Chipman and Pauline Colbath starred in a two-game total point series.
The following winter -with the astute Mr. Osborne at the helm -the girls concluded a fine season with a 23-13 decision over Mt. Allison as Anne Doherty starred offensively and Chipman, Colbath, Helen Lawson and Beatrice Smith were strong in supporting roles. Everything came together for the squad in ’24-’25, enabling them to conclude their excellent season as Maritime Intercollegiate champs.
On March 21 at Memorial Gymnasium, the Acadia team inspired by the outstanding, performances of Captain Anne Doherty, defeated Dalhousie, 36-15, to capture the tri-province crown. McLaughlin, on that occasion, shot for a total of 23 points, while Colbath and Doherty put forth fine two-way efforts. In fact, in front of the partisan and appreciative crowd of spectators, teammates Helen Lawson, Beatric Smith, Carolyn Chipman, Janet Murray and Inga Vogler were applauded for their excellent play.
As winners of the Maritime Senior crown as well, the Acadia team was encouraged to challenge in the legendary Edmonton Grads for the Canadian Championship. After due consideration, the latter idea was dropped.
It is indeed an honour to induct the 1924-25 Women’s Maritime Intercollegiate and Senior Basketball Champions to Acadia’s Sports Hall of Fame.
