It was a “special” weekend all around for NIU’s women’s basketball team.

On Friday, head coach Jane Albright-Dieterle received a Letter-of-Intent from Chelsea Schwankl of Burnsville, Minn. The 5-7 point guard is the third player to sign with NIU this year. Forwards Dana Lau (Maine West/Des Plaines) and Charmonique Stallworth (Washington/South Bend, Ind.) have already signed.

Saturday night, Albright-Dieterle paid tribute to her players, including seniors Dee Dee Jeske and Tracy Mondek and NIU’s “special” fans at the women’s basketball awards banquet at Chick Evans Field House.

Cindy Conner was presented with a special basketball for breaking the 1,000-point barrier and then was named Most Valuable Player for 1991-92.

The rebounding excellence award was given to repeat winner Angela Lockett, who was also tabbed most improved player.

Mondek was presented with the academic excellence award.

The best offensive player honor went to E.C. Hill, while the defensive award was presented to Dianna Wingis.

The Captain’s Cup was awarded to NIU’s two captains this past season, Jeske and Mondek. The Lisa Foss Desire and Determination Award, which Albright-Dieterle said goes to the player who, “Did what she did to become something,” was presented to freshman Leslie Pottinger.

This year’s coach’s awards were given to trainer Stacy Michalski and Jay Orbik of NIU’s media services.