"BC should be a varsity team. They have outstanding freshman, an excellent goaltender [Kerry Tieranan, 1.00 GAA], an excellent facilities," Dooley said. "They have all the makings of a good team."

BC's first line of Lisa Tullimieri (13-11-24), Amy Teianan (8-12-20) and Tracey Ladossiere (6-9-15), will lead the way for the Eagles.

"In past years we automatically knew we'd get shelled, 11-0, 12-0, but not any longer," O'Malley said. "We're a hard-skating team and if we come to play, we'll walk out with our heads high."

Boston University (which takes on Northeastern in the first round) also performs at the club level, but it has an excellent goaltender in Michelle Mesnick.

The terriers are in the same somber position that the Eagles were a few years ago.

BC, however, had the advantage of strong administrative support from Athletic Director Chet Gladchuck. The Eagles also were able to attract promising recruits.

It remains to be seen, however, whether BU will receive enough support to move from the Physical Education Department (where non-Varsity teams reside) to the Athletic Department. After which, BU could successfully compete for top prep school players.

O'Malley has a lot of respect for the Terrier's program, even though his team has downed BU three times this season.

"BU always comes to play, and they have a great goalie who can keep them in the game," O'Malley said.

Although the Crimson has had a tough time recently, losing close Ivy League games to Department, 7-6, and Brown, 4-3, the team's play has been of a higher level this season. Harvard looks poised to compete against the top hockey teams in the Boston area.

Harvard boasts U.S. national player Sandra Whyte, who plays on one of hockey's most potent lines with senior Ginny Simonds and sophomore Joey Alissi; Jen Minkus, who centers a much-improved second line; and all-Ivy defensewoman Bev Stickles.

A talented crop of six freshmen have also been added to the Crimson's roster. Erin Villiotte has been a "blue-chip" goalie, and Winkie Mleczko and Diana Clark have performed well on the blueline.

In last year's Beanpot final, Harvard lost to Northeastern, 2-1 after relinquishing a one goal lead with 4:00 left in the game. In order to win this year's championship, Dooley said he feels his team will need improved timing and tighter defense.

"This is the bulk of our season, and we need everyone focused on hockey," Stickles said.

"The games come fast and furious [in February]."