DEFIANCE, Ohio – The Defiance College Lady Jackets will host Manchester College on Tuesday in the opening round of the HCAC Tournament. Fans are encouraged to wear all white in a show of support for the Jackets as they attempt to knock off the Spartans, which is only fitting as DC prepares to bid farewell to its senior star Mandie White.  

The Yellow Jackets’ fourth place spot in the final regular season standings is their highest ranking since they finished second in the conference during the 2004-05 season, and their 16 wins this season are their most during a regular season campaign since 2003-04.  

The game will also mark the Lady Jackets first conference tournament appearance under the guidance of head coach Dic Doumanian. The team has not been particularly hot of late, dropping three of their last four games, including their last two contests. However, the Jackets have much reason for optimism entering Tuesday night’s game as they boast an 11-2 record this season at the Karl H. Weaner Center, and have swept the Spartans during the regular season.

Manchester posted a 6-10 record in HCAC competition this season, and have gone 2-3 since losing to the Yellow Jackets in Defiance on February 3. In their last contest, the Spartans were dropped in a 68-51 decision at league-leading Transylvania.

Adults will be able to purchase tickets for admittance to the game at the gate for five dollars, senior citizens and students will be given a discounted price of four dollars, and HCAC passes will be accepted as well. Defiance College faculty, staff and students will be admitted for free.

The winner of Tuesday’s game will advance to play at number one Franklin College (19-6, 13-3 HCAC) on Friday, February 26, with the tip-off scheduled for 8:00 p.m. The Lady Jackets split the regular season series with Franklin this season, with both teams winning at home.

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