2008-09 Annual Report Hoyas Unlimited Celebrates Record-Setting Year in Annual Giving The Opportunity to Compete Sport by Sport Update HOYAS UNLIMITED OFFICERS Fiscal Year 2009-10 President: Peter Farrell (C’82), [email protected] Vice President: Alfred Bozzo, Jr. (B’85), [email protected] Treasurer: Yvette Joy Liebesman (C’86, L’06), [email protected] Secretary: Aubrey Bruggeman (C’02), [email protected] Hoyas Unlimited Staff Director: Bill Johnson, 202.687.6308 | [email protected] Associate Director: Paul Muite 202.687.0487 | [email protected] Associate Director: Mara Vandlik 202.687.7159 | [email protected] Assistant Director: Ricky Schramm (C’07) 202.687-6285 | [email protected]
SUPPORT CLUBS Baseball - Hoya Diamond Club Club President: Thomas Elliott (C ‘71, L ‘74), A letter from the President of Hoyas Unlimited [email protected] Men’s Basketball - Hoya Hoop Club Club President: Alfred Bozzo, Jr. (B ‘85), Georgetown Athletics Family, [email protected] There is no place quite like Georgetown in the fall, and Homecoming Weekend was no exception. Approximately 5,500 alumni, students Women’s Basketball - Fast Break Club Club President: Colleen Hanrahan (C ‘95), and friends returned home to the Hilltop to celebrate a fantastic weekend of Hoya events. We are now well into the athletics season, and [email protected] it is difficult not to notice the excitement and energy emanating from our student-athletes. It is, after all, Georgetown and our athletics Cheerleading - Cheerleading Association programs that have always played a paramount role in shaping and defining our community. This year’s teams have provided our ever- Club Co-Presidents: Terri Ann Sgarlata (B ‘03) and Gail Gillis-Louis (C ‘75), [email protected] enthused community with a lot of excitement. Men’s & Women’s Crew - But none of the success on the field happens without planning and preparation. While there was plenty of opportunity for fun there were Georgetown Rowing Association Club President: Drew Schreiber (F ‘86), also many meetings, events and countless hours spent behind the scenes. [email protected] One such meeting was Hoyas Unlimited’s Fall Board meeting at which we had the great pleasure of hearing from our Interim Athletic Field Hockey - Hoya Circle Club Club Co-Presidents: Aubrey Bruggeman (C ‘02) and Director, Dr. Daniel Porterfield, regarding his goals, priorities and ambitions. In summary they are: Bridget McConnell (B ‘02), [email protected]
i. Recruiting an outstanding athletic director Football - Gridiron Club Club President: Jim Lenihan (C ‘04), [email protected] ii. Strengthening the student-athlete experience Men’s Golf - 19th Hole Club iii. Developing a new facilities strategy, and Club President: John Bermel (B ‘83), [email protected] Women’s Golf - FORE HOYAS iv. ensuring excellence in NCAA compliance. Club President: Connie Isler (B ‘06), [email protected] Hoyas Unlimited plays an active role in supporting these initiatives and our new initiatives in communications, committee work and Men’s Lacrosse - Hoya Crease Club volunteer involvement should prove beneficial in helping us fulfill our job. Club Co-Presidents: Greg McCavera (C ‘99) and Mike Shuler (C ‘04), [email protected] Our financial goal for the 2010 fiscal year is a lofty one: $5.5 million. This is a steep increase from our record-breaking 2009 total Women’s Lacrosse - Hoya Crosse Club of $4.4 million dollars raised. Even in the most difficult economic environment in recent history, fundraising for athletics has been a Club President: Paige Andrews (B ‘06), successful component of the Annual Fund. As a result, we are confident that this goal is achievable. [email protected] Sailing - Friends of Georgetown Sailing Hoyas Unlimited has developed new online communications, an innovative event plan, enhanced annual fund communication plan, Club President: Cindy Hassler (P ‘10), [email protected] created a plan for collaboration with the Alumni Association and regional clubs and implemented a revised strategy to improve our outreach to parents, alumni and past athletes. Last year’s self study and peer reviews helped us organize and enhance many of the Men’s Soccer - Goals Unlimited Club President: Dan Helfrich (F ‘97), outreach efforts we will employ to reach our goal. [email protected] Women’s Soccer - Hat-Trick Club I look forward to working with all of you as we take the next steps in leading the efforts of our University family to enhance the student- Club President: Melissa Coleman (C ‘01), athlete experience by raising financial support, providing leadership and communicating with the global Georgetown community at large [email protected] regarding opportunities for athletics. Softball - On Deck Circle Club President: Lauren Camp (B’06), As always, thank you for all you do for Georgetown Athletics. [email protected]
Swimming & Diving - H2OYAS Hoya Saxa, Club Co-Presidents: Kevin Feder and T.C. Roberge (C’96, L’99), [email protected] Tennis - Hoya Netters Club Club President: Gregg Ficery (B ‘88), [email protected] Track & Field - Spiked Shoe Club Peter J. Farrell, C ’82, Men’s Lacrosse, P’ 2012 Club President: Meghan Dotter (C ‘94), [email protected] President Hoyas Unlimited Volleyball - Side Out Club Club President: Megan Mullen (B ‘02), [email protected]
2 Learn more about the Athletics Excellence Fund when you visit www.GUHoyas.com/HoyasUnlimited. Vanessa Dorismond
Contents Winter 2010
2 A Letter from Our President Peter J. Farrell
4 Hoyas Unlimited Celebrates Record- Setting Year in Annual Giving Statistical Fundraising Update
5 Appreciating Hoya History: Greg Monroe Men’s Basketball Feature
6 Making a Difference: John Keyser (C ‘59) Donor Profile
7 The Opportunity to Compete: Kelly D’Ambrisi Women’s Soccer Feature
8-9 Sport by Sport Update Athletic & Academic Accomplishments
10 Leap of Faith Women’s Basketball Feature
11 Two Paths to the Hilltop Men’s Soccer Feature
12 Parenting a Hoya Athlete A Lifelong Experience
14 Georgetown Swimming and Diving Unveils New Scoreboard Display
15 NCAA Compliance
Upcoming Events...... p13 ( from left to right ) Kelly D’Ambrisi Feb. 6: 23rd Annual Athletic Recognition Event Ian Christianson Greg Monroe Sept. 17-20: The 2010 Major at Pinehurst C.C. Monica McNutt Cover Credits:
3 Follow Hoyas Unlimited on Twitter @HoyasUnlimited. Fundraising Update annual fund results as of June 30, 2009
3.9% Corporations & Foundations Hoyas Unlimited Celebrates 12.9% Donor Type Another Record-Breaking Year Friends
Hoyas Unlimited recorded another tremendous year during 2008-09.
The past fiscal year was remarkable in many regards. From a
fundraising standpoint, Hoyas Unlimited reported yet another record- 12.8% breaking year with $4.4 million in annual giving – eclipsing last year’s Parents mark by close to five percent. 70.4% Hoyas Unlimited also registered nearly 5,300 donors, almost 400 more Alumni than during 2007-08. This is the third consecutive year that Hoyas Unlimited has eclipsed the previous year’s fundraising totals.
One team that achieved outstanding success was the swimming and This year, Hoyas Unlimited and Georgetown Athletics are also pleased to present the
diving program. With the support of loyal alumni and friends, H2OYAS Georgetown Athletics Excellence Fund, the new annual giving fund for Georgetown University raised over $80,000, a 57 percent increase from 2007-08. With the Athletics. This new fund is a great opportunity to help Georgetown address the top three funds raised, the program has purchased a state-of-the-art scoreboard strategic priorities within athletics: scholarships, short-term facility needs, and program and automatic timing system to be installed in October (read more expenses. It is a centerpiece in Georgetown Athletics’ continued pursuit of excellence. about the new scoreboard on page 14). To those of you who have helped us this year—THANK YOU!
Hoyas Unlimited Total Giving by Sport as of 6/30/2009
Sport FY09 Dollars FY08 Dollars Difference FY09 Donors FY08 Donors Difference Baseball $208,787.44 $191,028.77 9.30% 166 183 -17 Crew $227,529.74 $295,179.66 -22.92% 474 373 101 Field Hockey $16,400.00 $10,655.00 53.92% 60 55 5 Football $172,565.34 $269,348.45 -35.93% 254 259 -5 Men’s Basketball $2,308,810.45 $2,020,542.26 14.27% 2696 2540 156 Men’s Golf $315,900.00 $77,815.77 305.96% 101 63 38 Men’s Lacrosse $121,728.44 $148,623.75 -18.10% 215 184 31 Men’s Soccer $47,908.60 $52,069.76 -7.99% 110 79 31 Sailing $106,366.94 $116,425.77 -8.64% 178 167 11 Swimming $80,528.51 $51,284.69 57.02% 194 134 60 Tennis $64,076.13 $94,420.21 -32.14% 54 63 -9 Track $115,343.19 $104,185.43 10.71% 189 198 -9 Volleyball $14,106.99 $10,935.00 29.01% 71 32 39 Women’s Basketball $16,820.09 $15,360.00 9.51% 33 34 -1 Women’s Golf $22,991.18 $33,050.11 -30.44% 41 31 10 Women’s Lacrosse $48,674.35 $52,800.08 -7.81% 107 97 10 Women’s Soccer $11,670.90 $15,430.00 -24.36% 50 34 16 Cheerleading $15,445.90 $550.00 2708.35% 15 8 7 Softball $13,405.09 $15,351.53 -12.68% 29 29 0 General Fund $465,958.16 456,445.81 2.08% 227 286 -59 Other $13,550.25 $126,985.86 -89.33% 32 58 -26 GRAND TOTAL: $4,408,567.69 $4,158,487.91 6.01% 5296 4907 389
4 Email [email protected] to start receiving Inside Georgetown Athletics the monthly Hoyas Unlimited e-newsletter. Greg Monroe
Appreciating Hoya History Greg Monroe
Greg Monroe has a sense of history. happens after that, we’ll see, but I’m that made me even more nervous. It was trying to win like they did when they fun, but I guarantee any other freshman in A native of New Orleans, he’s aware of were here.” my situation would have been nervous.” some of the players from his hometown that had success at Georgetown, like Monroe came in with high expectations The nerves did not show too much. In his Dwayne Bryant, Duane Spencer and after being rated one of the top players first game, he scored 14 points, grabbed Jaren Jackson. in the country as a scholastic senior at seven rebounds and blocked five shots Helen Cox High School just outside of New against Jacksonville. He helped guide the A 6-foot-11-inch 247-pound center, he Orleans. The comfort level he felt on his Hoyas to a 10-1 start, including a big win knows the names of the some of the great official visit reminded him of his home, to open BIG EAST play at Connecticut. big men to have played at Georgetown and that made his decision to come to and their accomplishments (Patrick Ewing The remainder of the season did not go Georgetown that much easier. (C’85), Alonzo Mourning (C’92), Dikembe as he and his teammates planned, but Mutombo (I’90)). “It’s a very tight-knit city and a lot of people after a summer of hard work – including in the area are my family,” he said of his a chance to work out with Mourning when A sophomore who was named the 2009 hometown. “Everyone knows everyone. the Georgetown Hall of Famer was on BIG EAST Rookie of the Year, he knows the Most of my family lives in the area. It campus, and playing in the Kenner League names of some of the other Georgetown definitely translated into Georgetown. with NBA stars such as Green, Kevin players who won that award and what they Durant and Michael Beasley – Monroe is did during their careers (Ewing, Mourning, “One of the things that is great about ready to start again. Allen Iverson (C’98), Jeff Green (C’09)). Georgetown is that it’s a small campus. The people here are kind of tight-knit and “Coming in this year, knowing the system, But if you ask Monroe, he’s not ready I like that a lot. The familiarity…you get a knowing how to handle things off the court, to put himself in the same sentence with chance to be comfortable with people and I’m definitely more prepared,” he said. those names. get to know people on campus and fit in.” “Last year we didn’t have as good a season Still, Monroe made a big impact during his as we wanted, but we need to learn from As a freshman last year, Monroe was a first year on the Hilltop, finishing second our mistakes and know what we have to starter in every game, but he still wasn’t on the team in scoring (12.7 points per do to win some games, to close out games much different from classmates like game), led the team in rebounding (6.5), and get big stops.” Jason Clark or Henry Sims, having to blocked shots (1.45) and steals (1.8) while make an adjustment. “Using everything from last year, finishing among the top-10 in the league everyone is itching to play. We’ve put in field goal percentage. “Coming in and being able to play [as that season behind us and we’re ready a freshman], I was definitely nervous,” “It makes me feel good being in company to make this one of the best years in Monroe said. “This program has a long with those players, but they all left a Georgetown history.” history. There’s no need to say any names. legacy here,” Monroe said. “They have Coming in and being able to play in the By Mike “Mex” Carey real legacies. They went on to be great Sports Information Director same gym and wear the jersey they wore, players in the League, so I’m just trying to it definitely made me nervous. I couldn’t do the things they did. Jeff Green went to shake the comparison [to Ewing, etc.], so a Final Four. I’m trying to do that. Whatever
5 Make a gift today at http://giving.georgetown.edu. John Keyser, C’59
Making a Difference John Keyser
When John Keyser (C ’59) reflects on the 55 McLennan, resulting in a merged company Keyser’s initiation of the women’s golf years he has enjoyed as a member of the named J & H Marsh & McLennan, Inc. Along program is solid proof of this. His wife, Leland, Georgetown Athletics family, he cannot help with the merge came new opportunity, and served as the coach of the program for four but return to the reason he was drawn to the Keyser moved into a managing director years. His contributions to the Women’s Hilltop in the first place: the people. “The best position with the combined firm. He retired Athletic Endowment and the recent initiative thing about Georgetown is the people that from the company in 1999, and soon joined for screening the perimeter of the North Kehoe go to Georgetown. What I find so inspiring the board of directors of The Cancer Research soccer field help student-athletes on the is that regardless of age, there is an instant Fund of the Damon Runyon-Walter Winchell Hilltop each day. connection between alumni here. I have so Foundation in New York. And with that sentiment, Keyser continues many friends of so many ages that are Having since served as Interim Director of to express his fervor to new members of the as enthused about the University as I am.” Development for the Georgetown Medical Georgetown Athletics family. A successful It is this understanding of the value of Center and as a member of the Board of steward of the Georgetown value of community that has seemed to motivate Regents and the Hoyas Unlimited Board, it is community, he is an inspiration to alumni and Keyser throughout his professional and safe to say Keyser has made his rounds. A a mentor to student-athletes. One particular philanthropic ventures. mainstay on the sidelines of Hoya athletic program that has benefitted from Keyser’s A member of the soccer, football and baseball events, he makes his presence known by engagement is the men’s soccer team. teams during his time on the Hilltop, Keyser fostering relationships with coaches and Reflecting on Keyser’s efforts, head coach was an enthusiastic student-athlete. He student-athletes. This, he intimates, is one of Brian Wiese notes, “John is as engaged as any participated in the ROTC program and after the most attractive aspects of involvement in alum of Georgetown Athletics. He is committed graduation served as a first lieutenant and as Hoyas Unlimited and Georgetown University. to helping us better the student-athlete an Army field artillery officer. He subsequently “Georgetown is a medium-sized university, but experience both on and off the playing fields. began his career as an account executive in it operates and feels like a small college in a We are extremely lucky to have him.” the New York office of Johnson & Higgins, a lot of ways. This makes it easy for someone To learn about other supporters of private insurance services and employee who would like to get involved and make a Georgetown Athletics like Keyser, visit benefits consulting firm. In 1985 he was difference to do so. Every effort here matters, www.GUHoyas.com/HoyasUnlimited. promoted to president of the Chicago office, big or small. Investments are appreciated by which had become a leader in employee our coaches and student-athletes every day. By Ricky Schramm (C’07) benefits services and pension plans. In 1997 One may find out about a program’s needs Assistant Director, Hoyas Unlimited Johnson & Higgins was acquired by Marsh & and help make it happen.”
6 Email [email protected] to start receiving Inside Georgetown Athletics the monthly Hoyas Unlimited e-newsletter. Kelly D’Ambrisi The Opportunity to Compete Kelly D’Ambrisi
Today, sophomore midfielder Kelly confidence. She has always been a very D’Ambrisi is a crucial piece of Hoya talented player with unique gifts, but Women’s Soccer’s prolific offensive now she’s been out there with some attack, but yesterday she was just one of the best players in the country, and of the many high school soccer players she realizes that she can compete on itching for a chance to compete at the the same level as all of them. Watching next level. “Kelly came to us a little her development last year was very bit under the radar because she didn’t encouraging, and we’re looking for her play on high profile teams in high to continue to improve as time goes on.” school, but we were very lucky This year that a couple of her coaches the Hoyas who I know well were very It was always field a very insistent that we give her a “Georgetown – the talented look,” Head Coach Dave Nolan combination of the squad recalls. She was recruited by academics and the bolstered several schools, but for her “It soccer and especially
by the
was always Georgetown – the Coach Nolan being return of combination of the academics willing to really give “ Wells after and the soccer and especially me a shot. I knew it was what I wanted. helping Coach Nolan being willing to lead the really give me a shot. I knew it national was what I wanted.” team to the Once D’Ambrisi committed and arrived gold medal at the U-20 FIFA Women’s on campus in the fall of 2008, the World Cup. With Wells and D’Ambrisi relationship quickly began to pay keying the offense, Nolan says he has dividends for both sides. With the loss “no worries” about scoring goals. Asked of star midfielder Ingrid Wells to the for her thoughts on her sophomore Under-20 National Team for the 2008 campaign D’Ambrisi says, “For me, season, D’Ambrisi was asked to step it’s about the team winning. I hope to in and fill a huge hole on the offense develop as a player and hopefully get from the very beginning. She responded asked back to compete for a spot on with a four goal, five assist campaign, the national team, but only if that helps helping lead the Hoyas to their best the team win.” ever record in the BIG EAST Conference, D’Ambrisi is quick to appreciate the and individually earning third-team opportunities that Georgetown has All-BIG EAST and SoccerBuzz Magazine offered her, both in the classroom and Freshman All-American honors. on the field. Reflecting on her time Her stellar play earned D’Ambrisi a spot on the Hilltop thus far, she explains, in the U-20 National Team pool, and “Many of the schools I was looking at an invite to their camp in California were great academically, but what this summer. For her, the camp was a Georgetown offered me was a chance once in a lifetime opportunity. “All the to compete at a different level, in a girls there were just, well, incredible. conference like the BIG EAST. The The whole experience was unreal. opportunities I’ve had and the exposure After playing on not so good teams I’ve gotten are really due to the coming up and then coming here and amazing chances being a Hoya has having Dave make the national team given me.” The Hoyas are certainly glad stuff happen, it wasn’t something I to have her as well and look forward could have imagined before coming to to her continuing her already excellent Georgetown.” Asked if he has noticed career on the Hilltop. a change in his young midfielder after By Greg Bohn (C’11) her experience this summer, Nolan Intern, Hoyas Unlimited responds, “Confidence, a lot more
7 Make a gift today at http://giving.georgetown.edu. Sport by Sport Update athletic & academic accomplishments
Women’s Soccer Conference play began with a win over rival Villanova, 4-0, and the Hoyas played Hoyas have been active in a handful of nationally-ranked teams including Rutgers, UConn, West Virginia and Notre Dame. both athletic and academic A number of players attained accolades as Michaela Buonomo, Jackie Desjardin and Camille Trujillo all earned weekly awards from the BIG EAST. DesJardin also set the Georgetown career wins and shutout records while Sara Jordan became the communities the following is a all-time leader in assists. Volleyball condensed list of student awards and The Hoyas had won seven consecutive matches, the longest streak any player on the roster had experienced on the Hilltop, before falling in its BIG EAST opener to accomplishments Seton Hall. The seven-match winning streak started as Georgetown defeated Hampton and Maryland at the Georgetown Classic, where Kortney Robinson, Vanessa Dorismond and Ashley Malone were named to the all-tournament team
Field Hockey The Georgetown University field hockey team snapped a 33-game losing streak, while picking up its first BIG EAST Conference victory in program history with a 3-2 win over Rutgers on Friday, September 25. Sophomore Meggie Taylor scored the game-winning goal on assists from Kristen Volpe and Annika Bannon.
Cross Country The men’s cross country team was ranked No. 10 in the country. Graduate student Andrew Bumbalough set a course record at the Wisconsin Invitational and was named the BIG EAST Conference Cross Country Athlete of the Week. Football Freshman quarterback Isaiah Kempf was named the Patriot League Rookie of the Men’s Basketball Week after completing 32-of-59 passes for 332 yards against Yale in his first Sophomore center Greg Monroe was selected as a preseason nominee for the collegiate start. Kempf’s 332 passing yards were the second-most in a single game Wooden Award. in Georgetown history. Georgetown was selected as one of nine sites for ESPNU’s national television Junior linebacker was named the Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week on coverage of Midnight Madness. September 28 after registering a game-high 17 tackles, the sixth-best single game The Hoyas will appear on television 25 times during the 2009-10 season, including mark in school history. Parrish was leading the Patriot League in tackles and ranked two games on CBS and 13 on the ESPN Networks. among the top-20 in the country. Women’s Basketball Men’s Soccer The women’s basketball team will appear on television five times during the Georgetown played one of the toughest schedules in program history during the 2009 2009-10 season. season and was ranked among the top-20 teams in the country. The team is coming off one its most successful seasons in recent years, The team had posted an 8-3-1 overall record and was 5-2 in the BIG EAST Conference advancing to the quarterfinals of the NIT. as of October 13, posting several impressive out-of-conference wins including a victory over UCLA. The team was ranked No. 19 in the country according to Soccer America. A number of players – Ian Christianson, Len Coleman, Uche Onyeador, Alex Verdi and Swimming & Diving Mark Wilber – earned weekly recognition from the BIG EAST Conference and other Freshmen from the swim team were featured in a story on ReachForTheWall.com soccer publications. in October. The men’s and women’s teams posted second place finishes at the Potomac Relays in early October, the best finishes ever at the event for the program.
8 Find us on Facebook! men’s lacrosse sailing Seniors Craig Dowd, Barney Ehrmann and Scott Kocis were named captains Charlie Buckingham was named 2008-09 College Sailor of the Year (Everett B. Morris for the 2010 season. Trophy). He is the first sophomore ever to win the award. Georgetown sailors have now Following the team’s preseason banquet in October, the Hoyas posted wins over won the award three of the last four years. Penn State (12-11) and Hobart (11-6) in a fall tournament at the United States Charlie Buckingham, Evan Aras, Sydney Bolger, Carly Chamberlain, Caila Johnson and Naval Academy. Alex Taylor achieved All-America status. The Hoyas will play in the newly-formed BIG EAST Men’s Lacrosse Conference The team finished third at Co-ed Nationals, third at TeamRace Nationals, and seventh at this season. Women’s Nationals all held in San Francisco, California in June 2009. This fall Charlie Buckingham and freshman Chris Barnard have both qualified for Singlehanded Nationals women’s lacrosse to be held in Corpus Christi, Texas in November 2009. The Hoyas finished the 2009 season with a 13-6 overall record, advanced to the championship game of the BIG EAST Tournament and were ranked No. 9 baseball in the country. The 2010 baseball schedule was released, with Hoyas hosting playing nine series’ The 2010 schedule features some of the top teams in the nation, including eight against BIG EAST teams, including five of them at home at Shirley Povich Field. teams that advanced to play in the NCAA Tournament. Head Coach Pete Wilk introduced the 2009-10 recruiting class, which includes ten freshmen. men’s golf The team hosted the 25th Annual Georgetown Intercollegiate on October 19-20. softball Seniors Trevor Matese and Vincenzo Salina were selected as captains for the Head Coach Pat Conlan welcomes five newcomers to the roster as the team begins 2009-10 academic year. its second year as a member of the BIG EAST Conference and its fifth year overall. Salina tied for 18th place overall as Georgetown finished in sixth place at Sophomore MacKensey Carter was named Third-Team All-BIG EAST last season. the John Dallio Memorial in September. tennis women’s golf Six members of the tennis team were named Intercollegiate Tennis Association Scholar- The women’s team features one of the youngest lineups in the country with Athletes, maintaining a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher. two sophomores and three freshmen playing each tournament. Five members of the team had strong outings during the fall, winning titles at the Navy Senior captain Robyn English is a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Gold Invitational. Committee and recently took the LSAT as she prepares for law school following graduation. women’s rowing The Openweights won their first ever EAWRC title, in the Novice Four, setting a men’s crew course record in the process. The Women’s Varsity Eight earned their first medal at In 2009, Heavyweight Captain Jack Carlson was awarded the Allbritton the BIG EAST Championships and the squad finished fourth in BIG EAST standings Scholarship to continue his studies at the University of Oxford, helping the for the second straight year, helping their coaches to BIG EAST Coaching Staff of team earn the highest team GPA on campus last spring. the Year honors. The Men’s Varsity Heavyweight 4+ was a Grand Finalist at the 2009 IRA Women’s Crew won the BIG EAST Academic Excellence award for the second straight Men’s National Championship. year, eight oarswomen were named Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA) National Scholar-Athletes and Laura Donaldson was named a Pocock Lightweight The Lightweight Varsity defeated Yale in a dual race for the first time in history, All-American. en route to an Eastern Sprints bronze medal, the third post-season medal for the team in as many years. This fall, the Lightweights improved their Head of the At the 2009 EAWRC Sprints, the Lightweight Women medaled in the Varsity, Junior Charles result for the third straight year, finishing third among U.S. Colleges. Varsity and Varsity Four for the first time ever and the Varsity qualified for the National Championship.
For the most current sports news, visit www.GUHoyas.com or sign up for Inside Georgetown Athletics – an e-newsletter produced by Hoyas Unlimited – by emailing [email protected].
9 Follow Hoyas Unlimited on Twitter @HoyasUnlimited. Leap of Faith Fostering Teamwork and Leadership
The Georgetown University women’s basketball team has been preparing for the 2009-10 “It looks easy but it became harder as we went lower,” said senior Kenya Kirkland. season since March. The day after the Hoyas fell to Boston College in the quarterfinals of As the day progressed the tasks became more difficult and physical as the girls partnered the Women’s National Invitation Tournament, talk turned to plans for the following season. up and did trust falls, an exercise design to build trust among groups that the other will be From summer lifting to hours in the gym on their own to miles of running there to catch you. the Hoyas have been preparing for this moment for months. However, this summer a new voluntary activity was added to the regimen for both Heights tested the group’s stamina in later exercises, which was a mental and physical conditioning. mental hurdle for many of the team members to overcome. The first was a huge rope ladder that pairs had to scale by working together. The As the school year began, the coaching staff put together a number of second was a wall that the entire group had to make it over one-by-one group activities that ranged from media training to study skills to life without going back. skills. Capping off the introduction to campus life was a ROPES course designed to promote leadership, trust and an openness among the team Finally, those who were brave enough volunteered to do the “leap of and staff. faith”, which was a plunge from a 50-foot wall. “This year we are hoping to prepare the team as students and leaders before hitting the “It was fun and exciting,” said senior Shanice Fuller. “We worked together as a team to court for BIG EAST competition,” said Head Coach Terri Williams-Flournoy. “We focused on accomplish many goals. Even though we were scared, we knew our teammates had our many different aspects of campus life, just some of the many things they’ll need to be backs which made you push yourself.” successful student-athletes.” At the end of the day, the bruised and tired team headed back to campus with a newfound The ROPES course was a day-long exercise in Darnestown, Md., at Butler School run by Go sense of togetherness and trust. Adventure Sports. The company provided a day that offered both high and low elements to As the Hoyas begin the 2009-10 season, this trust will be imperative to their success on promote a team-building experience. The Challenge Course at Butler School was designed the court. Whether it is trust that your teammate will be there to help you on defense or specifically to focus on enhanced teamwork, encouraging and increasing leadership and that everyone will crash the boards on your shot, one can be certain these lessons will pay building a foundation of trust and commitment among the members of the team. Throughout dividends come March. the day, every student-athlete was forced to take on a leadership role and each challenge The squad learned that by banding together, they were able to accomplish much more than elevated the level of leadership needed to complete the task. what they could do on their own—a lesson that translates on the court as well as off. One of the first challenges was on the ground as the girls passed swimming noodles through the group with certain colors being passed by the neck, arms or legs. Next, hiking into the By Barbara Jonas woods, they were then each given problems such as lowering a hula hoop in groups and Associate Sports Information Director holding on with only one finger each.
10 Make a gift today at http://giving.georgetown.edu. Andy Riemer Head Coach, Brian Wiese
Two Paths to the Hilltop Andy Riemer and Ian Christianson
Andy Riemer and Ian Christianson came to Georgetown of January, and it was does and that’s who I’ve modeled my life after,” said on opposite ends of the spectrum. Coach Samol who said Riemer. “It’s great having my family around. I love them, ‘I’d get out and see Andy and I love that they have become a part of my new Christianson was a highly-touted recruit from the Riemer play again.’” family here at Georgetown.” Midwest. The Cedar Rapids, Iowa, native played in the Chicago Fire’s Developmental Academy, and he was Wiese took his advice Christianson has had to adjust to life on the East Coast ranked-nationally in the top 25 for the Class of 2009. and was blown away by as well as a more physical and adult game compared what he saw. to the Fire’s Academy. Riemer, on the other hand, was Georgetown’s final signing of the season being added even after the class “I went to the game and “It’s a lot busier on the East Coast. People are a had already been announced. Being from the D.C. saw a big, aggressive, little different but I definitely like it out here,” said Metro area, he was familiar with the Hoya coaching center midfielder that was nothing like the player Christianson. staff after playing club soccer for Assistant Coach Zach we had seen a few months prior. We resumed talks He has also learned to lean on his friends and Samol but didn’t get the offer until late in the year. with him and asked if he was willing to reconsider teammates for support instead of his family, who lives Georgetown because we had been wrong. We’re happy No matter the circumstances, both have come to halfway across the country. he didn’t hold a grudge and he has come in and made the Hilltop and shown why this recruiting class has as much an impact as anyone on the team.” “That’s what the freshmen guys on the team are for,” he been called the best under fourth-year by Head Coach said. “I always talk about the games with them and the Brian Wiese. Christianson immediately moved into a starting midfield small group of friends we’ve already made. It’s different, role and proved himself to the veterans by scoring in “Ian was the first of the class to commit, we called him but at the same time not so much.” just the fourth game of the season. His presence has the first day we could, July 1, and he committed,” said made the midfield more dangerous bringing something Both of the freshmen have started their careers here Wiese. “He was a high-profile recruit, an exceptional to both the offensive and defensive ends of the pitch. on the Hilltop on a high note but understand that to player and an exceptional person. He’s come through leave a lasting impression it will take more than one as expected and been a mainstay on the team from After a good preseason, Riemer saw some minutes early good season. opening whistle, and we expect him to be a big part of on and quickly became a crowd favorite at North Kehoe the program.” Field. Known for his speed, Riemer found himself in a “My goal is just to work hard and if I do, good things will number of one-on-one situations throughout the year happen,” said Riemer. “I was very fortunate Coach gave Riemer was originally turned down by the coaching staff resulting in some spectacular goals. me the opportunity to see the field so much this year. I being told he wasn’t at the level that the Hoyas were did not expect that, and just having the opportunity to looking for; however, seeing him months later the staff Being from the area, Riemer and his family have taken practice here at Georgetown is a dream come true.” changed its tune. Christianson and the rest of the freshman class under their wings. By Barbara Jonas “It shows you how the recruiting process is a fickle lady,” Associate Sports Information Director said Wiese. “We were looking for a player near the end “My mom is great. She works hard in everything that she
11 Learn more about the Athletics Excellence Fund when you visit www.GUHoyas.com/HoyasUnlimited. My connection with Georgetown began the summer before our son’s senior year in high school. Miles played lacrosse and was being Parenting A Hoya Athlete recruited by many of the top Division I programs. In the end, Georgetown’s educational opportunities, coaching staff, campus in the nation’s capital, and the wise advice he received from an alumnus A Lifelong Experience were what won him over.
That alumnus, Kevin O’Brien (B’99), was on the Georgetown lacrosse roster for four years and saw little playing time, but nonetheless had only positive things to say about his experience. If you really want to know about an athletic program just ask those players that had limited roles on their teams for four years, worked extremely hard in practice, demonstrated an unselfish attitude, and now enthusiastically attest that they would not trade their team experience for anything.
When I reminisce about Miles’ four years at Georgetown — something I admittedly do often— the memories are endless. I remember how much fun we had traveling to away games with other families. What was important to me was being present for as many games as my schedule permitted. Sharing the victories was exciting, but being supportive after a loss was more important.
I happily recall planning the pre-and post-game tailgates for each and every event, ordering various kinds of merchandise (now cherished memorabilia) for parents to wear and encouraging all to capture the moments digitally as keepsakes for the future. My husband and I have made some wonderful friends from this experience, and these relationships never would have been a part of our lives had our son not been a student-athlete. While Miles’ playing days are fleeting, the memories are ours to cherish.
Miles’ experience at Georgetown extended beyond what he learned in the classroom and on the athletic field to include what he gained from service to the larger community. In the tradition of Hoya student- athletes, Miles and his teammates took to heart the Jesuit philosophy of working to be “men and women for others.” The lacrosse team regularly volunteered in the Pediatric Unit at the Georgetown University Hospital– comforting, befriending and entertaining children stricken with serious illnesses.
Miles had an opportunity to reach out beyond the D.C. Metro area to Mali, West Africa. The summer before his junior year, we traveled to Mali representing a non-governmental organization, Build On, which builds schools in remote villages in developing countries. Miles and I worked on the initial stages of construction of the first-ever school in Laban Village, an impoverished community of eleven hundred people, whose profound kindness and unselfishness amidst want live on in my heart. An article about our experience appeared on the Georgetown men’s lacrosse Web site, which highlights the wide-ranging extracurricular interests and accomplishments of team members.
The blessings that came my way as a parent of a student-athlete inspired me with gratitude, and impelled me to give of myself. To walk away from those four years of involvement in Georgetown athletics pulled at my heartstrings, but I found a way to stay connected. Hoyas Unlimited, whose mission is to support excellence across all of Georgetown’s twenty-nine intercollegiate athletic programs, asked me to join their Board of Directors. In this role, I have been asked to chair the Parents’ Committee, which promotes ways parents of student-athletes can feel connected all four years of their students’ experience at Georgetown. By Barclay B. Kass Mother of Miles (B ’08) I am excited about this challenge and the opportunity to remain a Chair of Hoyas Unlimited Parents Committee committed supporter of Georgetown Athletics.
12 Follow Hoyas Unlimited on Twitter @HoyasUnlimited. Hoyas Unlimited Presents the 23rd Annual Athletic Recognition Event
Date: February 6th, 2010 | Register: [email protected]
Hoyas Unlimited and Georgetown Athletics present the Athletic Recognition Event, the annual all-sport awards event at which four major awards are presented to outstanding student-athletes, alumni and coaches. It is the signature event for the Georgetown Athletics family to rally behind its common passion for the pursuit of excellence on and off the field. Please plan to join us at the men’s basketball game vs. Villanova at 12 pm.
Further details on the time and location will be determined soon. Feel free to call Associate Director of Hoyas Unlimited, Mara Vandlik, at (202) 687-7159 with any questions. Hoyas UNLIMITED THE 2010 MAJOR At Pinehurst Country Club
“Experience the Tradition” Plan now to join us in Pinehurst, NC | September 17-20, 2010 Donald Ross’s famed #2, Tom Fazio’s majestic #8 and the stately Carolina Inn will provide the backdrop for a memorable weekend of golf and re-acquaintance with Georgetown.
For more information, please visit: www.GeorgetownMajor.com Events Calendar Winter 2010
Georgetown Swimming and Diving Unveils New Scoreboard Display
On November 7, the Georgetown student-athletes because now they will to keep alumni and friends involved and Georgetown Swimming & Diving University swimming & diving program be able to look up after a race and see give them ownership. The bottom line is would like to thank:
witnessed the primary goal of a three- their name alongside their time. This is these people are going to be alumni of Betsy Comerford (B’80) and-a-half-year campaign coming to a large advancement in our efforts to Georgetown for much longer than their and William Spinelli fruition as a state-of-the-art scoreboard continue to better the student-athlete four years as swimmers and divers. We Maura and Frank Comerford (B’77) was mounted on the wall of the Albert experience.” have worked to cultivate this principle, G. McCarthy, Jr. Swimming Pool. An and it has built momentum.” Nancy and David Donovan (F’72) The swimming & diving support effort by alumni, family and friends of Pam (B’83) and Paul Donlin (B’83) club, H2OYAS, was instrumental in Cartwright also hopes to instill the same the swimming & diving program, the the fundraising efforts that made the values in the student-athletes currently The GE Foundation scoreboard will enable the Hoyas to scoreboard a reality. Club co-presidents on the squad. host meets against national competition Candy and John Hickey (C’74) Kevin Feder (F’02) and T.C. Roberge when the dual-meet season continues “One of the biggest lessons I hope Carol and Mark Kenyon (C’74) (C’96, L’99) spent countless hours in January. The LED matrix-display to teach is the value of giving back,” strategizing with both Cartwright and Mary Beth and Tim LiVolsi, Parents ’10 scoreboard will allow animation, Cartwright added. “The value of realizing the Hoyas Unlimited community at-large. Adam and Martha Metz B’84 graphics, logos and competitor’s names that there were athletes before you Through strong event programming and to be displayed along with their times. and athletes will come after. It is about Margo and Hans Noisten, Parents ’13 alumni outreach, Feder and Roberge providing people with the experience Leading the campaign was Head Coach raised over $80,000 in the last fiscal Michael Scanlan (C’86) that you had and the unparalleled Steve Cartwright. year, in addition to funds raised through Claire (C’92) and John Sheehan (C’92) opportunity to compete and learn here the campaign for the scoreboard. “This Colorado Time Systems scoreboard at Georgetown.” Marybeth (N’79) and John Wooters (C’75) will allow us to run more efficient meets,” This success is a product of strategic If the recent success of the program Meg and Scott Young (C’88) says Cartwright. “It will provide a large initiatives from the desk of Cartwright: is any indication, Cartwright’s lessons boost to our “My main goal here is to continue to By Ricky Schramm will be heard loud and clear. Assistant Director, Hoyas Unlimited raise excitement about the program,
14 Follow Hoyas Unlimited on Twitter @HoyasUnlimited. NCAA Compliance Georgetown Athletics 2010
Information that Representatives of Georgetown’s Athletics Interests Need to Know About NCAA Rules and Regulations
Georgetown University is proud and thankful to have the loyal support and continued interest of our alumni, donors and friends in HOYA Athletics. Your support and involvement with our athletics program is critical to its success; however, please know that any inappropriate, even if inadvertent, activity on your part could jeopardize the eligibility of our current or prospective student-athletes and the compliance of the University with NCAA rules. As a result of your recent contribution to HOYAS UNLIMITED, you are considered by NCAA rules to be a representative of Georgetown’s athletics interests. Once you have been classified as a representative, you retain that identity indefinitely.
You are a Representative of Georgetown’s Athletics Interest (booster) if: • You have ever made a financial contribution to the athletic department or any organization that promotes Georgetown’s athletics (e.g., HOYAS UNLIMITED). • You are a member of an organization that promotes a HOYA athletic team. • You were, or are, involved in promoting Georgetown’s athletics program in any way.
Representatives of Georgetown’s Athletics Interest MAY NOT: • Be involved in the recruitment of prospective student-athletes in any way. • Provide extra benefits (i.e., discounts, gifts, transportation) to prospective student-athletes, enrolled student-athletes or their parents, legal guardian(s), relatives or friends; or • Provide any financial assistance to prospective student-athletes, enrolled student-athletes or their parents, legal guardian(s), relatives or friends.
Representatives of Georgetown’s Athletics Interest MAY: • O ffer summer employment to prospective student-athletes who have signed a National Letter of Intent and to enrolled student-athletes, after contacting the Athletics Compliance Office. • Support Georgetown’s athletics program by attending HOYA athletics contests and by making financial contributions to Georgetown athletics.
A Prospective Student-Athlete is an individual who: • Has started ninth grade; • Is enrolled in a two-year college; • Has officially withdrawn from a four-year college; • Is recruited by Georgetown’s staff; • Has not started ninth grade but has received financial assistance from the institution.
If you have a question regarding NCAA rules, please contact the Athletics Compliance Office at(202) 687-6573 and ask for Mark Rountree, Associate Athletics Director for Compliance. Don’t be afraid to ask! Georgetown’s athletics program wants and needs your full cooperation to ensure that the HOYAS win the right way.
15 Email [email protected] to start receiving Inside Georgetown Athletics the monthly Hoyas Unlimited e-newsletter. Hoyas Unlimited Georgetown University McDonough Arena Washington, DC 20057
How do I donate? Donating is easy— choose from one of the three options below... 1. Go to http://giving.georgetown.edu 2. Call (202) 687-3608 3. Mail a check made out to the support club of your choice to: Georgetown University, Hoyas Unlimited, Department Number 0734, Washington, DC 20073-0734 • Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover accepted. • For more information on how you can make a monthly recurring gift call (202) 687-6308 or sign up for your recurring gift to Hoyas Unlimited by visiting What is Hoyas Unlimited? Established in 1970, Hoyas http://giving.georgetown.edu. • Hoyas Unlimited accepts stocks and other Unlimited is an organization consisting of dedicated volunteers whose mission is to securities. For more information call (202) 687-6308. • Your donation to Georgetown Athletics counts support excellence across all of Georgetown’s 29 intercollegiate athletic programs. toward your class and reunion totals through the Georgetown Annual Fund. Your donation to Hoyas Unlimited provides direct support to Georgetown University Athletics. By giving to Hoyas Unlimited • Your company can match your gift, and you get the credit! Contact your company’s you will not only enhance the experience of current Georgetown student-athletes but also future Hoyas to come. personnel office, get their gift-matching form and send it to us. We’ll take care of the rest. In addition to providing financial support for Georgetown Athletics, Hoyas Unlimited also produces e-newsletters to keep its You can also find out if your company has a matching gift program by visiting constituents informed and sponsors social events to promote fellowship among its members. www.matchinggifts.com/georgetown. Support Clubs: Hoya Diamond Club, Hoya Hoop Club, Fast Break Club, Georgetown Cheerleading Association, Georgetown All donations to Hoyas Unlimited are tax-deductible to the full extent allowable by law. Should you exercise a right to Rowing Association, Hoya Circle Club, Gridiron Club, 19th Hole Club, Fore Hoyas, Hoya Crease Club, Hoya Crosse Club, any priority seating benefit because of your contribution to Hoyas Unlimited, only 80% of your contribution would be deductible. Please consult your tax advisor when Friends of Georgetown Sailing, Goals Unlimited, Hat-Trick Club, On Deck Circle, H2OYAS, Hoya Netters Club, Spiked Shoe determining the deductibility of your contribution. Club and Side Out Club.