Libby Epoch is looking forward to her final season with the U of S Huskies women's basketball team. (Huskie Athletics)

By Wray Morrison

Women's Basketball

An encore season for Libby Epoch

Sep 6, 2021 | 9:20 PM

Libby Epoch admits it.

“There was a lot of worry”.

Epoch, a star guard with the Huskies’ women’s basketball team, wasn’t sure if the 2019-2020 “Bronze Baby” championship season was her last. The pandemic cancelled the 2020-21 season, and it was uncertain if graduating players would be granted an extra year of competition for the 2021-22 season. The ruling has gone in Epoch’s favour, and she’s grateful.

“Having the year off really makes [me] look back and think, ‘Wow, we are so lucky to part of this organization.’ The U of S is in my blood. I’m humbled to be part of this team.”

Teammates, 6’2” forward Summer Masikwich from Calgary, and 6’2” forward Janaya Brown from Warman will also be granted the opportunity to play in their graduating seasons for the Huskies.

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Epoch is studying civil engineering. She is also completing her certificate in professional communications.

“For me it was a no brainer to come back, play the sport I love, and finish my schooling.”

Epoch, a USports All Academic Canadian in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, is a force on the court for a player that is listed as 5’ 7”.

“I’ve just always been a competitor, and sometimes that competitiveness comes out in aggression and toughness on the court. I’m happy to fill that roll,” Epoch told HuskieFAN.

The Moose Jaw product has always shown dedication to the sport.

“In Moose Jaw, we didn’t’ have much of a basketball league, so I bounced around Saskatoon and Regina. I had good coaches with Basketball Saskatchewan and high school that put me on a good path.”

So now, Epoch is preparing for her final season with Huskies head coach Lisa Thomaidis who also serves as Canada’s national team coach.

“It’s kind of something you take for granted when you see her every day,” Epoch said. “Her knowledge, skill and experience is something we are a sponge to. All ears, all day.”

With no 2020-21 season, Epoch admits that the team approach is a little different going in to this season.

“It’s a ‘focus on ourselves’ year. Know our weaknesses, and improve on those throughout the season.”

Although Epoch did admit she is looking forward to continuing the rivalry with the University of Regina Cougars.

Epoch will be part of a leadership group expected to not only play well, but mentor younger players.

“I just want to pass everything on that I know to see them be successful in the future, when I’m an alumni cheering them on.”

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