Led by new coach Jim Floerchinger and captain Mike Zimmerman, the Crimson looks to begin its turn-around tomorrow afternoon, as it faces B.C. and Fordham in the MIT-League tournament. Harvard then comes home to take on UMass tomorrow night.

Zimmerman, a 1996 Honorable Mention All-American, is coming off of a frustrating season in which he missed four weeks with torn ligaments in his thumb. Now healthy, Zimmerman will look to return to the form that has made him one of the best 2-meter men in the region.

Also, having thus far enjoyed a strong pre-season with no major injuries, Harvard is confident that the season will be a success.

"We worked very hard last year," senior Chris Tilghman said, "but things just didn't come together. This year we have a new coach, great freshmen and so far we are injury-free. We have also had an excellent pre-season, so we are optimistic."

Women's Volleyball

The Harvard women's volleyball team begins its 1998 season tomorrow on the heels of the best season since the program's inception in 1981.

The 1997 squad, led by coach Jennifer Weiss, recorded a school-record 25-9 record, including a perfect 7-0 Ivy League mark.

And having graduated only two players from last year's team, the Crimson will look to win the Ivy League title and earn its first-ever NCAA tournament berth.

Harvard begins its quest tomorrow afternoon at home against Central Connecticut, Holy Cross and B.C.

Leading the Crimson in its pursuit are co-captains Kate Nash and Melissa Forcum. Both four-year starters will be looked upon to lead the Harvard attack.

With a wealth of experience and talent the Crimson feels confident in its chances in 1998.

"We have experienced all avenues going into the Ivy League tournament and have only grown and matured from these experiences," Weiss said. "We have learned a lot about dedication, discipline and perseverance, and as we move into the [1998] season we open the door for another opportunity to win the title and go onto the NCAA tournament."

Field Hockey

A veteran field hockey squad which returns nine of 11 starters will open the 1998 campaign by hosting New England rivals Rhode Island and Vermont this weekend.

The Crimson looks to rebound from a 7-10 record a year ago, building on a season which featured victories over ranked opponents Providence and B.C., wins which should give cause for optimism.