Lizzy Karp is one of just two returning starters on a Mankato Loyola girls basketball team that only has two seniors.

Add it up and Karp, a junior, has found herself in a leadership role going into the 2008-2009 season. It’s something she’s ready to take on.

“The younger girls are probably looking to me this year and I want to lead by example,” Karp said before Loyola opened its first practice Monday at Fitzgerald School.

Look for Karp to start at guard when the Crusaders open the season Dec. 1 at Martin Luther. Loyola coach Kari Koester said Karp is also an option to run the point.

“It might be point guard by committee this year but (Karp) is a good option,” Koester said. “She has good hands and she is the most physical guard we have.”

Karp says she’s prepared.

“I feel good about it and I want to push the ball this year,” said Karp, who finished third on the team in scoring with 7.6 points per game in 2007-2008.

Karp, a versatile player, may also play some post.

The Crusaders’ only other remaining player from last year’s starting lineup is two-year starter Maria Peterson. The senior will see time at center.

“We’re looking to replace positions not players,” Koester said. “I can’t ask people to take Meghan, Steph or Nicki’s place. We’re going to look to a lot of different players to take on different roles.”

She’s talking about Meghan Kelly, Nicki Menke and Stephanie Price who graduated in the spring. Kelly and Menke were the top two scorers.

Karp goes into this season as Loyola’s returning top scorer and rebounder. Kristy Rotchadl, who averaged 7.5 ppg, provides long-range shooting capability.

The Crusaders finished last season with a 13-13 record and were eliminated in the Section 2A quarterfinals by Truman.

With Loyola’s lack of experience and youth going into this season, matching last year’s win total might be a lofty goal but, during a rebuilding year, Karp looks to keep herself and her teammates positive.

“You can’t let yourself get down,” said Karp, one of three Loyola captains. Peterson and Liz Jamrog are the other two. “It’s on me, Maria and Liz to stay positive and not let the scores of any games get us down.”