Coach Sharon Versyp and the University of Maine women’s basketball team were in a tough position this season.

Ever since their heart-wrenching loss to Boston University in the 2003 America East championship game, the Black Bears were expected to get back to the league title game and win.

UMaine had lots of experience and talent returning, but that only heightened the expectations and increased the pressure to succeed.

Versyp, her staff and the players weren’t going to be denied in their quest to, as they promised, “Get it Done.”

It’s a grueling season in Division I college basketball, especially for this group, which came together in Orono last summer to begin working out.

For all teams, many challenges arise, including injury, illness, fatigue and discontent. This year’s UMaine squad was fortunate to avoid major injuries and work through whatever obstacles confronted them.

One formidable challenge was the sheer size of the roster: 14 people from two countries, eight states and provinces, and 14 cities and towns; all with diverse backgrounds and personalities.

In basketball, there is only so much playing time to go around. That leaves a handful of student-athletes, all of them former high school stars in their own right, to swallow their egos and accept less prominent roles.

Undoubtedly, there were a few trying moments. Yet this team’s remarkable chemistry was obvious to anyone who spent time with it this season.

Whether in victory or defeat, in Maine or Missoula, Mont., these 14 young women loved each other. From the most recognized senior stars to the least-utilized underclassmen, the Bears supported each other.

Among the players, there always seemed to be encouraging words, a pat on the back or a smile to make sure any anger or negativity was quickly nipped in the bud.

Spend some time with the families, coaches, friends and fans of these student-athletes and the reason for their success becomes clear. They’re surrounded by great people.

Versyp and the Bears were confident, but never cocky. They were polite and patient, clearly appreciative of the chance to represent themselves, their families, their communities and their university, whether on the basketball court or in a hotel lobby.

Those are qualities that can only be learned in the home. And in talking with the mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers of these young people, it is apparent these women have been loved and nurtured.

UMaine basketball has brought all these people together. Often, the families follow their daughters around the Northeast and across the country to share the experience.

Every year, new family members and friends enter the circle and help it grow. They discover the amazing leadership, camaraderie and support their children enjoy and they benefit from it themselves.

The UMaine women’s basketball team should be recognized for its accomplishments on the court. But we shouldn’t lose sight of the incredibly positive impression they make on aspiring basketball players, Black Bear fans, the UMaine community and everyone with whom they come into contact.

These young women learn lifelong lessons through basketball, the college experience and the times they share together. Their legacy is proving dedication, teamwork and the success those qualities bring don’t mean anything unless one emerges a happier, more caring person.

Pete Warner can be reached at 990-8240 or pwarner@bangordailynews.net