Lethbridge - Despite claiming their sixth consecutive Canada West title, the 2011 CIS rugby season did not end the way the Lethbridge Pronghorns envisioned. For the second consecutive year, the ‘Horns season finished in disappointment, losing their final game of the season and finishing off the podium at the CIS Championships.
 
Even though the ‘Horns return a veteran-laden squad that is in search of tying the Alberta Pandas for the all-time conference title mark of seven championships, there are some unexpected holes to fill. Two-time Canada West Player of the year Kelsey Willoughby and the reigning Canada West rookie of the year Kayla Moleschi did not return and are with the Canadian Sevens program.  Forward, and Canada West all-star Juhee Thompson also decided to not to return for her third season.
 
The ‘Horns return 22 players and will be led by five fifth-year seniors, including four-time Canada West all-star prop Brandi Van Euewen and captain Kendra Reeves. A pair of sophomores are expected to build off exceptional rookie seasons and continue their explosive runs for the ‘Horns this year. Sarah Gordon and Cassandra Orr finished one-two in conference scoring, with Orr leading all players in tries with 6.
 
The ‘Horns will begin defense of their Canada West title this weekend on the road traveling to play the Victoria Vikes Friday and then the UBC Thunderbirds.