With a year of experience and a national championship under her belt, Kuusisto may see significant time between the pipes even if Springer stays healthy.
The Crimson is expected to add to its 30-game winning streak as the season progresses. With many talented teams on the schedule, however, an undefeated season will be difficult. But the Crimson will not let the winning streak distract them from their main goal in 1999-2000: another national championship.
"We know we've got a target on our foreheads after winning the championship, and we have high expectations for ourselves," Maloney said. "But we're looking at this year as a new team with a fresh start. We haven't accomplished anything yet, but we hope to be as successful as last year."