THE UNIVERSITY A PACESETTER FOR PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES “The University of is truly a great university. WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OU? It is becoming a pacesetter for public higher education • OU is one of the few public universities in the nation in the United States. We must no longer keep the • OU ranks number one in the nation among all public to cap the class size of fi rst-year English composition university’s excellence a secret! It’s time for us to let universities in the number of National Merit Scholars courses at no more than 19 students. others know about the strengths of our university and enrolled per capita. our determination to make it even better.” • The University has created an Honors College with • The Princeton Review ranks OU among the best in one of the largest honors programs among public - President David L. Boren the nation in terms of academic excellence and cost universities in the United States. More than 2,600 for students. students participate in small classes of 19 or less. THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA OVERVIEW Created by the Oklahoma Territorial Legislature in • OU’s 2007-08 freshman class was the largest at a • OU’s Campaign for Scholarships has passed the $130 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a doctoral degree- four-year public university in Oklahoma history. More million mark, allowing the university to double new granting research university serving the educational, than 10 percent of the entire freshman class came scholarships for students in just four years. cultural, economic and health-care needs of the state, from high school with a perfect 4.0 grade-point region and nation. The Norman campus serves as average. • The Campaign for Scholarships is continuing, and in home to all of the university’s academic programs March 2008 surpassed its goal of raising $100 million except health-related fi elds. Both the Norman and • OU has over a $1.5 billion impact on the state’s for endowed scholarships. To date, $110 million Health Sciences Center colleges offer programs at economy each year. in scholarship endowments have been donated or the Schusterman Center, the site of OU-Tulsa. The OU pledged. Health Sciences Center, which is located in Oklahoma • OU ranks fi rst in the Big 12 and at the top in the na- City, is one of only four comprehensive academic tion in international reciprocal exchange agreements • OU is one of only 25 public universities in America health centers in the nation with seven professional with countries around the world. The University has with an endowment above $1.1 billion and has colleges. OU enrolls almost 30,000 students, has 174 student exchange agreements with universities in increased from 100 to 539, the number of endowed more than 2,300 full-time faculty members, and has 66 countries. More than 1,500 students from almost faculty positions in the past 13 years, demonstrating a 20 colleges offering 154 majors at the baccalaureate 100 countries are enrolled on OU’s Norman campus. strong commitment to excellence. level, 160 majors at the master’s level, 85 majors at the doctoral level, 39 majors at the fi rst professional level, • OU is among the top universities in the nation in • OU continues to break private fund-raising records, and 18 graduate certifi cates. The university’s annual Goldwater Scholarship winners, with 12 in the past with more than $1.4 billion in gifts and pledges since operating budget is $1.46 billion. The University of four years, and OU student Andrea DenHoed was 1994, which has provided funding for dramatic capital Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. named OU’s 27th Rhodes Scholar in 2007. improvements, the growth in faculty endowment and student scholarships.

THE CAMPUS EXPERIENCE

74 most important gift of art ever given to a U.S. public • OU has the academically highest ranked student body university; the Adkins Collection, among the most im- • For the outdoor improvements to the Norman campus at a public university in Oklahoma. portant private collections in the nation of works by the — gardens, fountains, sculptures, benches — the Taos artists as well as Native American works of art; the University of Oklahoma has won fi rst place in the educa- • Since 1994, research and sponsored programs former U.S. State Department Embassy art collection; tion category for Beautifi cation and Landscaping in the expenditures at OU have more than doubled, and OU and the Dorothy Dunn collection of Native American art. statewide environmental competition. Gifts of over $3 continues to set new records for funding for externally million have permanently endowed OU’s gardens. sponsored research. OU ended FY 2007 with total expen- • OU’s Western History Collection is one of the largest ditures of more than $250 million. collections in the world of documents and photographs, • With nearly 400 doctors, OU Physicians is the state’s including a rare multivolume portfolio on the Indians of largest physician group. Our practice encompasses • The OU Health Sciences Center in FY 2007 continued the United States and Alaska by Edward S. Curtis. almost every adult and child specialty. Many OU Physi- its impressive rate of research growth by achieving cians have expertise in the management of complex more than $130 million in federal, state, corporate and • OU’s Research Campus has been certifi ed by the conditions that is unavailable anywhere else in the nonprofi t or foundation grants and contracts. Funding Oklahoma Department of Commerce as Site Ready, state, region or sometimes even the nation. Some have from the National Institutes of Health – considered to which enables the university to capitalize on fast-mov- pioneered surgical procedures or innovations in patient be the gold standard for research – was $44 million. ing economic opportunities and enables site selectors to care that are world fi rsts. readily fi nd quality land and facilities that meet nation- • Since 1995, almost $1.5 billion in construction projects ally established criteria in a timely fashion. • About 125 of OU Physicians’ doctors are OU Children’s have been completed, are under way or are forthcoming Physicians. These board-certifi ed pediatric specialists on OU’s three campuses, the largest of which is the $67 • A major beautifi cation campaign has transformed committed their training and, now, their practices to million . the appearance of the OU Health Sciences Center in the care of children. Many children with birth defects, . The project replaced a divided highway critical injuries or serious diseases who can’t be helped • OU is home to one of the two largest natural history through campus with seven tiered gardens featur- elsewhere come to OU Children’s Physicians. Oklahoma museums in the world associated with a university. ing traditional OU arches at each end. The pedestrian doctors and parents rely on OU Children’s Physicians The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History walkway’s landmarks include an OU Seed Sower depth of experience, nationally renowned expertise and has more than 7 million artifacts and contains 195,000 sculpture at the west end, a clock tower at the east end, sensitivity to children’s emotional needs. square feet on 40 acres of land. The museum exhibits and a 70-foot granite fountain in the center. include the largest Apatosaurus on display in the world • The University of Oklahoma maintains one of the and the oldest work of art ever found in North America • OU has strong programs in international and area three most important collections of early manuscripts — a lightning bolt painted on an extinct bison skull. studies, with an International Programs Center led by in the history of science in the United States. It includes Zach P. Messitte, a foreign policy expert with a doctorate Galileo’s own copy of his work, which fi rst used the tele- • The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art’s collections total in international politics whose experience includes scope to support the Copernican theory, with corrections more than 8,000 works of art, including OU’s Weitzen- working for the United Nations and CNN. in his own handwriting. hoffer Collection of French Impressionism, the single

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

75 WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OU?

• The University of Oklahoma Libraries has added its • OU has established a faculty-in-residence program • A major building project has doubled the size of the 5 millionth volume, continuing a commanding lead as with faculty members and their families living in Law Center, refurbishing classrooms and creating a the state’s largest research library and claiming one apartments in the student residence halls. new library, a cutting-edge courtroom, and expanded of the top two spots in size student lounge and offi ce among Big 12 libraries. MISSION STATEMENT facilities. • OU’s Julian P. Kanter The mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educa- • OU has one of the oldest Political Commercial Archive tional experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and comprehensive colleges of fi ne houses the world’s largest arts in the Great Plains states, collection of political creative activity, and service to the state and society. with highly regarded schools of commercials. With more Music, Drama, Art and Dance, and than 90,000 commercials, the programs in opera, musical archive includes political advertisements dating back • OU’s 271-acre Research Campus is anchored by the theater, and sculpture. to 1936 for radio and 1950 for television. Stephenson Research and Technology Center, where cutting-edge research into life science fi elds ranging • OU has won awards for new initiatives to create a • The highly acclaimed journal of international from robotics to genomic studies is taking place, sense of family and community on campus. OU is one literature, , is published at the and the National Weather Center, which houses OU’s of the very few public universities to twice receive the University of Oklahoma. academic and research programs in meteorology Templeton Foundation Award as a “Character Building and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric College” for stressing the value of community. • OU is home to the Neustadt International Prize for Administration’s Norman-based weather, research and Literature, considered to be second in prestige only to operations programs. • The University of Oklahoma has consistently the Nobel Prize and often referred to as the “American been designated as one of America’s 100 Best Nobel.” Twenty–six Neustadt laureates, candidates • OU’s College of Education continues to be ranked College Buys by Institutional Research & Evaluation, and jurors have won the Nobel Prize in the past 38 in the top 10 percent of all graduate colleges of an independent higher education research and years. education by U.S. News & World Report. consulting organization.

• The OU Cousins program matches U.S. and • The OU College of Law attracts and admits only the • Dance Magazine places the OU School of Dance in the international students to share informal and social very best students, and continues to set records in bar top three of all dance programs in the country. experiences. Students may volunteer to live on passage rates with OU graduates scoring the fi fth- international fl oors with half of the residents from the highest bar passage rate for fi rst-time takers among • The Athletics Department became just the second United States and half from other countries. all law schools in the nation. Division 1 winner of the Prism Award, recognizing best practices in sports management. THE CAMPUS EXPERIENCE

76 UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Linguistics Management Information Systems Electrical Engineering Multidisciplinary Studies Mathematics Marketing Engineering Physics Microbiology Supply Chain Management Environmental Engineering COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE Native American Studies Environmental Science Architecture Philosophy COLLEGE OF CONTINUING EDUCATION Industrial Engineering Construction Science Physics Aviation Information Technology Environmental Design Political Science Professional Studies Mechanical Engineering Interior Design Psychology Public Affairs & Administration COLLEGE OF EARTH AND ENERGY WEITZENHOFFER FAMILY COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES Religious Studies Environmental Geology COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS African & African-American Studies Russian Geology Art Anthropology Social Work Geophysics Art History A&S Planned Program Sociology Paleontology Dance Astronomy Sociology - Criminology Petroleum Engineering Drama Astrophysics Spanish Petroleum Geology Media - Filmaking, Photography, Video Biochemistry Women’s Studies Music Botany Zoology COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Music Education Chemistry Early Childhood Education Musical Theatre Performance Chinese COLLEGE OF ATMOSPHERIC AND Elementary Education Studio Arts Classics GEOGRAPHIC SCIENCES Foreign Language Education Theatre Communication Geography Language Arts Education Visual Communications Economics Meteorology Mathematics Education English Science Education GAYLORD COLLEGE OF JOURNALISM AND Ethics and Religion MICHAEL F. PRICE COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Social Studies Education COMMUNICATION Film and Video Studies Accounting Special Education Advertising French Economics Broadcasting & Electronic Media German Energy Management COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING Journalism Health & Exercise Science Entrepreneurship Aerospace Engineering Professional Writing History & Venture Management Architectural Engineering Public Relations Human Relations Finance Chemical Engineering Information Studies Human Resources Management Civil Engineering COLLEGE OF LIBERAL STUDIES International & Area Studies International Business Computer Engineering Liberal Studies Letters Management Computer Science THE UNIVERSITY OF

77 THE PATH TO GRADUATION PRENTICE GAUTT ACADEMIC CENTER the use of the center for all facets of the learning and as obtain experience; and gain knowledge and skills In the 1950s, he came to OU to play football, and, in the writing processes encountered in college. necessary for résumé writing, job-related letter writing process, broke down barriers and crushed stereotypes. and interviewing techniques. Today, OU student-athletes use the Prentice Gautt The Prentice Gautt Academic Center provides student- Academic Center to break another kind of stereotype. athletes with a state-of-the-art academic support The Career Center is a link with the campus Careers The center that today’s student-athletes use everyday facility. The environment encourages a collaboration Services Offi ce and offers student-athletes a wide now bears the name of the man who left an indelible between staff members and student-athletes. In array of effective job hunting skills, training and career legacy for Sooner Athletics and helped change a society addition, it is highly conducive to learning in all areas services. in the process. of students’ academic endeavors and features seven learning centers. KERR FOUNDATION COMPUTER CENTER The formal dedication of the Prentice Gautt Academic In the 21st century, computers have become an integral Center was held Friday, Sept. 17, 1999. The proposal to Located on the second and third fl oors in the north part of the learning experience. Students need access re-name the center was approved by the OU Board of end of the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial to computers and their resources almost daily. The Kerr Regents in March 1999. Stadium, the Academic Center houses Academic Foundation Computer Centers are here to meet these Counseling offi ces, and Learning and Skill Development technological needs. We provide each student with the “It is appropriate that this center be named after centers including the Kerr Foundation Computer equipment and support necessary to succeed. Prentice Gautt,” OU President David L. Boren said. “His Center, the Thompson Writing Center and centers for personal values and character, along with his leadership communication, reading, study skills, math and foreign The computer center is housed within the Prentice Gautt as associate commissioner of the , language as well as learning enhancement and study Academic Center and houses nearly 200 computers continue to bring pride to his alma mater. His personal areas. available exclusively to our student-athletes. example of quiet courage, grace under pressure, and dedication to the university helped open the doors of LEARNING CENTERS: KERR CAREER CENTER Students also enjoy a large amount of storage space on opportunity for countless number of African-American Whether student-athletes are freshmen, sophomores, our athletic network. Laptop computers are checked out and minority student-athletes who have followed him juniors, seniors or graduates, they will benefi t from the to students when the computer center is unavailable. into collegiate athletics.” services of the Kerr Career Center. It provides a system of This allows access to our network and resources 24 hours services that educates and guides students through the a day. The laptop program is very important in helping The professional consultants of the Prentice Gautt career development process. athletes stay on top of their schoolwork when traveling. Academic Center help student-athletes with a variety of academic tasks, from learning strategy instruction to any The Career Center is dedicated to helping students make Group training is provided for all new student-athletes stage of the writing process including preparing for an the transition from college to career by developing during the fi rst week of supervised study. This helps essay exam and the formal research paper. an individualized career plan where they gather familiarize each student with our resources and information to assist in making a decision about a procedures. Individual training sessions are available The goal is to help student-athletes develop the career; obtain information on the suitable career list; to each student and lab technicians are always on hand strategies they need to be successful by encouraging explore classes and publications in the fi eld as well to help. ACADEMICS

78 The Kerr Foundation Computer Center has been a model its staff teach how to make direct applications to current STEP TWO: Skill Development for other universities around the country. We plan resources. Consultation, computer-assisted instruction, Tutorial Program - A comprehensive tutoring program on being a leader in the future as well. Upgrades are tutoring and independent activities are available. of approximately 150 tutors provides one-to-one and scheduled annually and there is a deep commitment small-group instruction. Student-athletes are assisted from the Athletics Department ensures that the THOMPSON WRITING CENTER with study skills, problem-solving techniques and specifi c excellence in the computer center will continue for a long Because learning and writing are essential life long skills course material. Athletic Student Life Offi ce counselors time. which can always be strengthened, the Writing Center may recommend tutors or a student-athlete may request offers personalized instruction to student-athletes who one independently. COMMUNICATIONS CENTER seek assistance in refreshing, reviewing, or improving This academic center focuses on developing these skills. The Thompson Writing Center offers a Study Skills - The Study Skills Center provides student- communication and public speaking skills for student- dynamic, positive atmosphere to help student-athletes athletes with assistance in college reading strategies athletes. The state-of-the-art center, coordinated by a generate ideas and strategies for writing assignments. and individual instruction for reading improvement. A broadcast professional, builds strong media relations Consultants help student-athletes organize papers, learning specialist regularly conducts time management skills through the use of video equipment. review grammatical basics, develop proofreading and and study skills workshops. The staff’s goal is to help library research skills, and design résumés. student-athletes become independent writers and KERR FOUNDATION FOREIGN LANGUAGE CENTER learners in the academic environment. To assist you in speaking, listening, reading and writing in THE PATH TO GRADUATION other languages, the Kerr Foundation Foreign Language Steps For Building “Champions For Life” Computer Skills - The Kerr Foundation Athletic Computer Center offers a multimedia environment that provides Center, also located in the Prentice Gautt Academic Center, instruction in all foreign languages and in English as a STEP ONE: Assessment provides student-athletes with computer knowledge and second language. On an individual basis, students have New Student-Athlete Assessment -The academic access. The Computer Center is open six days a week with the option of working with computers, audio-visual assessment process begins with an entry-level extended hours offered during peak times. Made possible equipment and tutors in order to enhance their language assessment of all incoming student-athletes. This from a $250,000 Kerr Foundation matching grant, the experience. assessment is designed to help student-athletes Athletic Computer Center is equipped with more than know their strengths and weaknesses in content areas 200 state-of-the-art computers, including Macintosh and MATH CENTER such as reading, writing, and mathematics. With this Windows-compatible computers with color monitors, If performing math functions is a problem, the solution information, we can determine if student-athletes have CD-ROM drives and modems. High-speed high-resolution is the Math Center. As a supplement to class instruction, the skills necessary to succeed in standard entry-level laser printers, digital camera, video equipment and the Math Center provides all levels of math computations, courses. Some results from this initial assessment may a scanner are also available for student-athlete use. concepts and problems to help students review course require additional testing, enrollment in developmental Software in use includes all popular word processing material. In addition, it offers personal and group courses and academic services, or programs programs, spreadsheet programs, presentation programs, tutoring sessions to assist with math assignments. recommended based on individual needs. The ultimate databases and desktop publishing/graphic design purpose of our assessment is to ensure that student- programs. In addition, computer training courses are READING/STUDY SKILLS CENTER athletes have the appropriate academic support services provided each semester and portable computers are If students have trouble with assigned textbook readings to achieve academic success. available to student-athletes who need computer access or studying, the Reading and Study Skills Center can after 11 p.m. Approximately 100 portables are also help. It provides reading and studying techniques and available to teams when traveling. THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

OKLAHOMA REMEMBERS GAUTT Prentice Gautt ushered in a new era for Oklahoma football when he landed a spot on the 1956 team. Former Sooner head coach was pressured against giving Gautt a scholarship. A group of black doctors and pharmacists gave money for Gautt to attend the school. Within a year, Gautt was given a scholarship and the donated amounts were given to another black student.

Gautt, considered Oklahoma’s best player in 1958, was a two-time All-Big Eight player and 1959 Orange Bowl MVP. During his senior year, Gautt was named to the academic All-America team and eventually earned master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology.

The academic center for student-athletes at the University of Oklahoma was named in Gautt’s honor in 1999. A special assistant to the commissioner of the Big 12 Conference, Gautt passed away on March 17, 2005.

“His personal example of quiet courage, grace under pressure, and dedication to the uni- versity helped open the doors of opportunity for countless numbers of African-Americans and minority student-athletes who have followed him into collegiate athletics,’’ said Uni- versity of Oklahoma president .

79 Foreign Language - The Kerr Foundation Foreign jointly sponsored by the OU Athletics Department, the individual or group basis in order to ensure student- Language Center was established to assist student- Sooner Club and the Varsity O Association. athlete success. athletes with speaking, listening, reading and writing in different languages. The Center, coordinated by a Modern Communication Skills - Communicating well is an LEARNING ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM Languages department instructor, offers a top-notch essential skill in successful personal and professional Learning specialists are assigned by academic services to multimedia environment for all foreign language interaction for OU student-athletes. The OU designated student-athletes to assist them with study instruction. Communications Center offers training for effective skills, problem solving techniques, and time management. oral communication and media relations. A working The primary goal of the learning program is to create an Math Skills - Realizing the increasing role mathematics media conference room featuring a stage and a modern environment conducive to student-athlete success in the plays in society today, the Prentice Gautt Academic audio-visual systems is available in a state-of-the-art university academic setting. The staff of the Athletic Stu- Center aims to help all student-athletes achieve an communications center. dent Life offi ce promote this environment of academic understanding of math and related topics in their course success through several methods. Arriving at a college work. The Mathematics Center offers regular instruction SUPERVISED STUDY campus can be very intimidating for both freshmen and for student-athletes placed in preparatory mathematics Supervised study is a monitored study program designed transfer students. Our program provides a learning spe- courses and tutorial consultation in all math and to provide student-athletes with organized study and cialists to help familiarize the student-athlete with the statistics courses. tutoring time in a fl exible environment conducive to academic and social culture at OU, thus helping to ease the successful learning. Supervised study is required for transition to the University setting for student-athletes. Career Preparation - At OU, non-athletic career all fi rst-semester freshmen, transfer student-athletes, preparation is enhanced through workshops in résumé student-athletes with a cumulative GPA below 2.50, STEP THREE: Counseling development, job search strategies, interviewing skills and any student-athlete who the coaching staff and Personal Career Counseling - Student-athletes receive and graduate school preparation assistance through the Student Life academic staff believe would benefi t caring, professional support from Dr. Gerald Gurney and the Kerr Career Center. The Sooner Career Program is from the experience. Supervised study is fl exible for all his staff at all levels. This support may take several forms, dedicated to educating student-athletes about the student-athletes. All freshman and transfer student- including career choice, academic or personal decisions. world of work and providing a transition from college athletes are required to put in 10 hours a week in their athletics to their fi rst careers. The program includes fi rst semester at the University. Any study area or Academic Counseling and Advisement - Six professional the OU Career Fair, career information seminars, learning center is available for use during these times. athletic academic counselors are present to help student- opportunities for summer internships in various athletes through the educational process. Approximately fi elds, an employment referral service and mentorship ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE AND TUTORING one counselor per 100 student-athletes is available to opportunities for graduating student-athletes. The Career Tutors are available to assist student-athletes in all assist the student-athletes with planning class schedules, Center, an exciting learning center, allows student- subject areas. Individual or small group sessions can choosing degree programs and setting personal and athletes the opportunity to explore potential careers be arranged with content experts either allocated academic goals. and majors through a variety of resources. Additionally, by academic services or personally requested by the student-athletes are able to take personality and career student-athlete. Academic services also provides revision Psychological Counseling and Sport Psychology (PROS) inventories via computer. The Sooner Career Program is groups, study sessions and weekly instruction on an The Prentice Gautt Academic Center is staffed with ACADEMICS

80 a licensed Counseling Psychologist and several relationship with the faculty and staff. Faculty members commitment through comprehensive programs to fully psychological counselors and interns to provide a wide are selected to be guest coaches for the week in all develop the student-athletes’ academic and personal array of counseling and performance enhancing services. sports throughout the academic year. During that potential, while enjoying the highest levels of athletic Student-athletes may visit the staff psychologist to time, the faculty guests are provided with a list of competition. confi dentially discuss anything impacting their academic, planned activities that are designed to give them an athletic or personal lives. OU’s national award-winning opportunity to experience various aspects of the athletic Academics Awards Program - The OU Athletic Student Life program has become a model for other programs to department’s operations and introduce them to student- program places special emphasis upon recognition of follow. athlete lifestyles and expectations. outstanding academic performances by student-athletes. An awards banquet is held in the spring to recognize Academic Monitoring - Course attendance and course STEP FIVE: Resident Life special award winners and scholar athletes who have performance are checked a minimum of four times per Sooner Housing Center - Student-athletes reside in a achieved a 3.00 GPA or higher. Graduating student- semester for each student-athlete participating in the variety of University housing environments, including athletes receive recognition prior to OU’s graduation intercollegiate athletic program. the Sooner Housing Center. The Sooner Housing Center, ceremonies in May during a reception. Each is given managed by Athletic Student Life staff, is located an “O” ring, representing their athletic participation Personal Health and Nutritional Counseling - The personal across the street from the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma and graduation from The University of Oklahoma. All health and nutritional needs of student-athletes are Memorial Stadium. It provides a living environment that scholarship student-athletes who exhaust their eligibility monitored by the OU Sports Medicine staff of physicians is conducive to the academic and personal development within eight semesters may receive an additional year of and certifi ed athletic trainers. The Wagner Dining Center of student-athletes. The Sooner Housing Center was the fi nancial aid within a six-year period. makes every effort to accommodate the special dietary winner of the 1998, 2003 and 2005 President’s Trophy and nutritional requirements of OU student-athletes. for the outstanding housing center on the OU campus Student-Athlete Advisory Committee - Student-athlete The cafeteria serves all three meals with several healthy and was recognized for its contribution to academic leaders from each sport comprise the Student- entrees to choose from. The menu is designed to meet excellence, innovative programming and campus Athlete Advisory Committee, which aims to improve the nutritional needs of every individual student-athlete diversity. The Sooner Housing Center was also selected as communication with the athletic and University by allowing each athlete to choose from a variety the President’s Trophy runner-up in 1997, 2000 and 2006. administration regarding student-athletes’ needs and of options to accommodate the unique demands of concerns. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee his/her schedule. In addition, a program to promote STEP SIX: Life Skills, Academic Recognition, developed a community outreach partnership with substance abuse awareness requires student-athletes to Graduation/Post Eligibility, Community Service the Oklahoma Youth Center, a local residential facility enroll in a campus personal health course focusing on and Student-Athlete Leadership Life Skills for physically, mentally and sexually abused children. substance abuse, human sexuality, nutrition and stress Program - OU is a member of the NCAA’s Life Skills SAAC also designs programs that encourage excellence management. Program and is dedicated to contributing to the growth in academics and social responsibility and serve to and development of student-athletes through academic represent student-athletes on campus-wide committees. STEP FOUR: Faculty Relations excellence, athletic excellence, personal development, Faculty Guest Program - The faculty guest program’s community service and career development. The OU purpose is to enhance the athletic department’s Athletics Department offers and maintains a strong THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

81 OU EXPERIENCES ANOTHER SEASON OF ALL-AROUND EXCELLENCE Baseball becoming the fastest player in school or Big 12 history to Men’s Golf Head coach Sunny Golloway led the OU baseball team into score 2,000 career points. Nine of the 10 roster spots on the 2007-08 men’s golf squad the championship round of an NCAA Regional for the third were fi lled by underclassmen, yet eighth-year head coach time in his four years at the helm. The Sooners advanced Cross Country Jim Ragan led the Sooners to nine top-10 fi nishes and a to their 31st NCAA Tournament after a strong fi nish to Jessica Eldridge closed out her impressive OU cross country spot in the NCAA West Regional to close the season. Lone the season which included an appearance in the Big 12 career with a fourth consecutive trip to the NCAA Cross upperclassman Phillip Bryan paced the team, carrying a Championship where OU was one game away from playing Country Championships. Eldridge completed her cross 73.71 stroke average for the season and earning Academic for the conference title. In the Tempe Regional, OU defeated country eligibility as just the sixth woman in OU history to All-Big 12 honors for the third consecutive season and a spot No. 22 Vanderbilt twice and was eliminated by the host earn All-America honors after fi nishing 18th in the 2006 on the PING All-Region team. Eric Durbin fi red an opening- school and fourth-ranked team in the country, Arizona State. NCAA Cross Country Championships. Eldridge was named to round 7-under-par 64 at the Scenic City Invitational, the the 2007 Division I Midwest All-Region Cross Country team lowest round for an OU golfer since 2001. Men’s along with sophomore Jon Grey and freshman Kevin Schwab Behind a fi rst team All-Big 12 performance from freshman after the trio recorded top-25 fi nishes in the NCAA Midwest Women’s Golf forward Blake Griffi n, head coach Jeff Capel’s Sooners Regional. Eldridge and classmate Catherine Odell, along with When all was said and done, the 2007-08 Sooners had posted a 23-12 overall record, fi nished in fourth place in sophomores Rob Sorrell and Chris Sweeney, received fi rst captured three tournament championships and qualifi ed for the conference race and participated in the program’s 21st team Academic All-Big 12 honors. the NCAA West Regional, their fi rst appearance in the NCAA NCAA Tournament in the past 26 years. Griffi n capped one of Regional Championships since 2004. Kelly Jacques recorded the most successful seasons in school history by averaging Football eight top-15 fi nishes in OU’s 11 tournaments in 2007-08 team highs of 14.7 points and 9.1 rebounds a game. He Oklahoma won its fi fth Big 12 Football Championship and while Kendall Dye recorded her fi rst career tournament also ranked third in the Big 12 with his .568 fi eld goal became the fi rst program to win the crown in back-to-back victory at the Susie Maxwell Berning Classic. percentage. seasons. Oklahoma raced through the non-conference portion of its schedule with an average victory of 61-12. Men’s Women’s Basketball An upset loss at Colorado preceded a 28-21 win over Texas, Ranked second heading into the 2008 NCAA Championships The women’s basketball team fi nished the 2007-08 season a victory that launched a fi ve-game winning streak. OU and facing No. 1 Stanford on its home fl oor in Palo Alto, with a 22-9 overall record, a No. 19 ranking and a 10th dropped the Fiesta Bowl to West Virginia, but garnered Calif., the Sooners surged ahead of the Cardinal on the straight postseason appearance. OU reached the NCAA its ninth straight bowl appearance, it’s sixth in the BCS. fi nal routine of the night to claim their eighth national Tournament for the ninth straight year, defeating Illinois Linebacker and offensive guard Duke Robinson championship and fi fth in the last seven years. Jonathan State to advance past the fi rst round for the third straight both earned consensus All-America honors to become the Horton, who won the 2008 Nissen-Emery Award, concluded year before falling in an overtime thriller to Notre Dame in 143rd and 144th All-Americans in school history. Oklahoma his career as the most decorated gymnast in OU history by the second round. Head coach earned her 250th won 11 or more games for the seventh time in Bob Stoops’ claiming an individual national championship on the still win as the Sooners’ head coach while Courtney Paris earned nine seasons. The head coach fi nished the season with a rings and earning All-America honors for his runner-up consensus All-America honors for a third straight season, career mark of 97-22. fi nish in the all-around as well as on rings and parallel bars. becoming the fi rst Sooner to do so, and was named the Big The Houston, Texas, native fi nished with six career individual 12’s Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. Paris NCAA titles and 18 career All-America honors during his snagged record after record in her junior season, including time in Norman. ATHLETICS EXCELLENCE

NATIONAL TITLE The OU men’s gymnastics team won the 2008 National Championship, marking the fi fth title in the last seven years. The men have claimed eight titles in program history. The 2008 national gymnast of the year, OU’s Jonathan Horton, represented the U.S. in the 2008 Olympics.

82 Women’s Gymnastics Women’s Tennis student-athletes were named to the Big 12 Conference’s Etching its name in the record books on multiple occasions, The University of Oklahoma women’s tennis team went 2008 Academic All-Big 12 Track and fi eld teams, including the Sooners clinched their fi rst Big 12 title since 2004 in 11-12 and 4-8 in the Big 12 with a young squad. The Sooners Amy Backel and Catherine Odell with perfect 4.0 GPAs. dramatic come-from-behind fashion and placed eighth had three true freshmen playing in their top six, including at the NCAA Championships, tying the ‘07 squad for the standout Ana-Maria Constantinescu, who was named the best fi nish in program history at the season-ending event. ITA Central Regional Rookie of the Year after the season Despite losing fi ve seniors, the Oklahoma volleyball team Senior Kiara Redmond capped off her illustrious career with ended. Constantinescu led the Sooners at the No. 1 posi- continued to escalate its program in 2007 under the leader- four additional All-America honors to move her career total tion, earning a 15-5 overall record and a 7-4 Big 12 mark. ship of fourth-year coach Santiago Restrepo. Restrepo led to nine - the highest number of any gymnast in program Combined with her play in the fall, the Romania native went the Sooners to another successful regular season as they history. The ’08 campaign started with 21 straight victories, 24-9 during her freshman year. fi nished with an overall record of 22-10, including a 13-7 including all 18 regular-season contests. The Sooners mark in the Big 12. Once again, the Sooners, picked to fi nish became the only team in the country to post an undefeated Men’s Tennis ninth in the preseason Big 12 poll, were the surprise of the regular season. Following OU’s come-from-behind heroics The Sooners excelled on their home court where they won Big 12 as they fi nished fourth in the league and fi nished the in the conference championship, second year head coach K.J. eight matches, including their lone Big 12 victory. The Soon- regular season ranked No. 21 in the country. Following its Kindler was named the 2008 Big 12 Coach of the Year while ers fl irted with a top-30 ranking all season. The inexperience fourth-place fi nish in the Big 12, OU advanced to the second Redmond garnered Big 12 Gymnast of the Year honors. did not work to the Sooners’ favor as the young squad consecutive NCAA Regional, marking only the second time struggled in Big 12 play. Andrei Daescu was the lone Sooner in program history that the team had made back-to-back Soccer selected to play in the NCAA Championships. The sophomore appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The 2007 team also Freshman Whitney Palmer became the third Sooner in was defeated in the fi rst round by Clancy Shields of Boise became the fi rst squad in OU history to win back-to-back program history to be named to the All-Big 12 Newcomer State, 5-7, 6-2, 7-5 to fi nish the season with a record of 28- fi rst round matches as it defeated Florida A&M in fi rst-round team following a stellar 2007 season. Palmer is the fourth 12. Oklahoma’s season came to a close in a Bedlam rematch action of the Gainesville Regional before falling to the 13th- freshman in school history to lead the team in goals (6) and in the quarterfi nals of the Big 12 Championships. The No. 3 seeded in the second round. the third to lead in overall points (13). Palmer, a native of seed Cowboys defeated No. 6 seed Sooners 6-1 to end the Plano, Texas, ranked 10th in the Big 12 Conference in goals Sooners’ season. OU fi nished the season with a record of scored and was tied for third in game-winning goals (4). The 11-13 and ended Big 12 play with a record of 1-5. The Sooner wrestling squad completed the 2007-08 regular Sooners fi nished the season at 6-10-3 overall and placed season with a 14-5 dual record, its most wins since winning ninth in the Big 12 standings with a 2-7-1 mark. Track & Field 14 in 2004. It also marked the 13th straight season that The Sooners reached the double-digit mark in All-America head coach Jack Spates had led the OU program to at least Softball honors with six coming at the NCAA Outdoor Championships 10 wins. Seven of Oklahoma’s victories came against teams The Sooners advanced to their third Super Regional in the and four at the NCAA Indoor Championships. Two of the that placed in the top 30 at the NCAA Championships (No. last four years and fi nished the season with an overall All-Americans, Shardae Boutte and Latoya Greaves, recorded 5 OSU, No. 16 Pitt, No. 18 Navy, No. 25 North Carolina, No. 26 record of 47-14, marking the 15th straight season that a sweep of the Big 12 Conference titles, claiming indoor and Cal Poly, and tied for No. 28 was Michigan State and Arizona the Oklahoma program had notched a 40-win season. The outdoor titles in the triple jump and hurdles, respectively. State). The OU squad caught fi re midseason by reeling off Sooners are the only team in Big 12 Conference history to Both the men’s and women’s teams reached their highest seven straight victories, beginning with a win over at Central record 40-win seasons in each of the 13 years since the national rankings, the men at No. 3 during the indoor Oklahoma on Dec. 7. Four wrestlers qualifi ed for the NCAA league has existed Oklahoma was solid in conference action season and the women at No. 16 in the outdoor season. in St. Louis, Mo., by placing in the top three at the Big 12 as the Sooners produced a 16-2 record in the Big 12. The Oklahoma men closed out the indoor season with a Championships in Stillwater, Okla. 15th-place fi nish at the NCAA Indoor Championships. Eleven THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

BIG 12 CHAMPS The OU football team, led by , won its fi fth Big 12 Cham- pionship in the last eight years with a 38-17 win over Missouri. The 2007 title, coupled with the 2006 win over Nebraska, made OU the fi rst Big 12 program to win back-to-back championships.

83 A STORIED AND ACTIVE TRADITION OF ATHLETICS EXCELLENCE

The University of Oklahoma athletics program boasts Oklahoma’s student-athletes continue to lead in the • Oklahoma defeated UCLA in the 2000 Women’s Col- a tradition that few schools can rival. Over the years, classroom and their actions in the community are lege World Series to capture the school’s fi rst softball Sooner squads have combined for 26 team national exemplary. With the Great Expectations campaign, national championship. The Sooners won 66 games, championships including eight in men’s gymnastics, Oklahoma continues to build the fi nest facilities in the broke 15 school records, had four All-Americans, the seven in football, seven in wrestling, two in baseball, nation. WCWS Most Outstanding Player, three WCWS all-tour- one in men’s golf and one in softball. nament team members, a Big 12 title, a No. 1 ranking Each day, it becomes more evident that the University and the National Coaching Staff of the Year. The Soon- The Sooner tradition isn’t something buried in the of Oklahoma has become one of the fi nest compre- ers became just the second non-West Coast team in past. It inspires OU’s student-athletes to greater hensive athletics program in the country. When OU NCAA history to win a softball national championship. heights every season. In 2004-05, the Sooner football student-athletes raise the trophy of another champi- team competed in its second national championship onship, the hands responsible for hoisting that trophy • The OU men’s basketball team has competed in 26 in just four years and, in 2008, the men’s gymnastics symbolize thousands of Sooners around the globe. postseason tournaments in the last 27 years. Last team earned its fi fth national title in seven seasons. season OU produced its 31st winning season in the In 2002, the Sooner men’s and women’s basketball The following represents a closer look at the tradition last 32 years. No other Big 12 team can boast as many teams carved their spot in history by advancing to the powering the Oklahoma Sooners: winning campaigns in the span. NCAA Final Four -- only the third time in NCAA history a school accomplished the feat with both teams in • Oklahoma was playing football before it was a state. • Sooner football has accumulated seven national the same year. The OU women added another fi rst in It’s only one of two Division I football programs to championships, 41 conference titles, 24 bowl cham- 2005-06, becoming the fi rst team men’s or women’s, win seven or more national championships. And OU is pionships, 144 All-Americans and had 334 players in Big 12 history to go 16-0 in league play. the only Division I football program ever to record 47 drafted by the NFL, including 37 fi rst-round selections straight victories. and three No. 1 picks: (1976), Billy Even more remarkable, during the 2001-02 season, Sims (1980) and (1987—supple- the OU football and men’s and women’s basketball • Oklahoma gymnastics great Bart Conner won two mental). teams combined for 74 wins -- the most ever for those NCAA all-around crowns and led the Sooners to two three sports by a Division I school in a single season. NCAA titles in 1977 and 1978. A three-time Olympian • Oklahoma’s storied wrestling program has amassed Oklahoma went 11-2 in football, 31-5 in men’s basket- (1976, ‘80, ‘84), Conner won two gold medals in 1984. 23 conference titles and seven national champion- ball and 32-4 in women’s basketball. The University of He was instrumental in the foundation of the Interna- ships. OU has produced 252 All-Americans and its 65 Oklahoma now stands alone in college sports’ 30-30- tional Gymnastics Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City. individual national champions ranks third all-time. 10 club, created exclusively by OU.

THE SOONER TRADITION UNRIVALED The Oklahoma athletics department has experienced great success against its fi ercest rivals in recent seasons. OU has claimed the last three Bedlam Bells from Oklahoma State, while also claiming six of the last eight wins in the Red River football rivalry with Texas.

84 • The OU women’s basketball team became the fi rst captured 34 national player of the year awards and the • Oklahoma basketball great was a team to go a combined 19-0 against league opponents, Sooners have also produced fi ve Outland Trophies, four three-time All-American for the Sooners from 1983-85 and was one of only four teams nationally to run the Walter Camp Trophies, four Butkus Award winners, three and is the all-time leading scorer and rebounder in OU table against their league in 2005-06. Next season, OU Lombardi Awards, three Thorpe Awards, three Davey history. He was a member of the 1984 gold-medal-win- enter with a 17-game regular season and a 20-game O’Brien Awards, two Bronko Nagurski Awards, two ning U.S. Olympic team and was recently named the winning streak against conference foes. The unprec- Maxwell Awards, one Tatupu Award and one Bednarik. greatest player ever in the by a edented run netted the Sherri Coale-led Sooners their panel of longtime conference media observers and of- fourth regular season Big 12 Championship and their • The Oklahoma baseball team swept through its re- fi cials. Tisdale’s No. 23 jersey was retired by Oklahoma in third Big 12 Tournament Championship, both league gional tournament and the World Series without a loss 1997 -- the fi rst jersey ever retired by OU in any sport. highs. OU’s 19-game winning streak topped the previ- to capture the 1994 national championship. The Sooners ous best of 18 set by the 2000-01 team. topped off a 42-17 regular season with the school’s • Sooner basketball great Stacey Dales graduated as second national baseball title. the most decorated player in the program’s history in • Oklahoma football has placed 23 former Sooners into 2002. She was the WNBA’s third overall draft pick by the the National Football Foundation and College Hall of • Oklahoma golf’s Charlie Coe was one of the most Washington Mystics. In addition to leading OU to the Fame, including three head coaches: in celebrated amateur players in the history of the game. 2002 national championship game, Dales was a two- 1951, Bud Wilkinson in 1969 and in 2001. During his career, Coe captured U.S. amateur crowns time consensus All-American, two-time Big 12 Player of in 1949, 1958 and 1959. He also played in 19 straight the Year, four-time Academic All-Big 12 selection, and • The Oklahoma men’s golf program has produced 47 Masters Tournaments. Coe competed on the Walker Cup two-time CoSIDA Academic All-American. All-Americans, eight three-time All-Americans, eight teams of 1949, 1951 and 1953. individual conference champions, 14 conference titles • Former OU letterwinners Michael Blackwood (track and the 1989 national championship. • Oklahoma wrestling has produced 18 Olympians who and fi eld), Jonathan Horton (men’s gymnastics) and have collectively won three gold and two silver medals. Danny McFarlane (track and fi eld) represented Okla- • Oklahoma men’s basketball great Mookie Blaylock Brothers Dave and Mark Schultz both won gold in the homa at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. holds the NCAA-single game record for steals in a con- 1984 games. test with 13. He accomplished the feat twice in games • Three-time OU All-American Anthony Kim won the against Centenary on Dec. 12, 1987, and Loyola-Mary- • Oklahoma baseball won the 1951 2008 AT&T National in early July, becoming the fi rst mount on Dec. 17, 1988. with a come-from-behind win over Tennessee in the American golfer since Tiger Woods to win twice in one championship game to become the fi rst team in history year on the PGA Tour. • OU football has produced four to claim the title after winning the double-elimination winners: halfback won the award in 1952, tournament without a defeat. tailback Steve Owens won in 1969, halfback won in 1978, and quarterback Jason White brought the trophy back to Norman in 2003. OU players have

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

ALL-AMERICAN OU women’s basketball great Stacey Dales (below) graduated as the most decorated player in the program’s history in 2002. In addition to lead- ing OU to the 2002 national champi- onship game, Dales was a two-time consensus All-American and a two- time Big 12 Player of the Year.

85 SOME OF THE MOST RECOGNIZED TRADITIONS IN COLLEGE ATHLETICS

The University of Oklahoma has a long and storied Mascots history. The rich tradition has given birth to some of the One of the most recognizable college fi ght songs The is a Conestoga, or covered wagon, most recognized pageantry in all of college athletics. in the country, Boomer Sooner immediately evokes reminiscent of the mode of travel used by pioneers Here is a look at the origin of some of the elements that enthusiasm from OU fans and sends chills down the who settled Oklahoma. The Schooner is powered by create the wonderful atmosphere so unique to OU: spines of those who dare to oppose them. matching white ponies named Boomer and Sooner, and it ventures onto Owen Field in a triumphant Sooners In 1905, Arthur M. Alden, a student in history and victory ride after OU scores. Although the Schooner College sports fans are hard-pressed to fi nd a nickname physiology whose father was a Norman jeweler, wrote was introduced in 1964, it did not become the offi cial that is as unique and as tied in to a state’s history as a the lyrics to the fi ght song, borrowing the tune from mascot until 1980. The Schooner is well-recognized by Sooner. The University of Oklahoma is the only school ’s Boola Boola but improvising the words. college athletics fans across the country and makes known as Sooners and those who claim that they are A year later, an addition was made to it from North regular appearances at university functions. Sooners say it with pride. Carolina’s I’m a Tarheel Born and the two combined to form today’s university fi ght song. Though the tune During OU football and baseball games from 1915- The Oklahoma Territory opened with the Land Run of was fi rst made known by Yale, the everlasting success 1928, Mex the Dog wore a red sweater with a letter “O” 1889. Settlers from across the globe, seeking free land, of Sooner squads has taken the melody of Boomer on the side. Mex died of old age on April 30, 1928, and made their way to the prairies of the plains to stake Sooner to national popularity. he was so popular among students and faculty that the their claim. One of the few rules to claiming a lot of university closed for his funeral and procession on May land was that all participants were to start at the same Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner 2, 1928. time, on the boom of a cannon. All settlers who started Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner then were labeled as “Boomers” and the ones who Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner In the fall of 2005, the OU Athletics Deparment went early were called “Sooners.” Boomer Sooner, OK U! introduced costumed mascots. The new characters Oklahoma, Oklahoma will act as an extension of the Sooner Schooner and OU athletic teams were called either Rough Riders Oklahoma, Oklahoma its horses to be enjoyed by fans -- especially children or Boomers for 10 years before the current Sooner Oklahoma, Oklahoma -- at all OU athletics contests. The costumes feature nickname emerged in 1908. The university actually Oklahoma, OK U! traditional collegiate gear as part of their regular derived its name from a pep club called “The Sooner I’m a Sooner born and Sooner bred uniform, but will don team uniforms for football and Rooters.” The success of University of Oklahoma and when I die, I’ll be Sooner dead men’s and women’s basketball. They were voted “Most athletics teams over the years has made the nickname Rah Oklahoma, Rah Oklahoma Collegiate” by the Universal Cheerleading Association synonymous with winning. Rah Oklahoma, OK U! (UCA).

SOONER SPIRIT

86 Crimson and Cream Pride of Oklahoma OU Chant In the fall of 1895, Miss May Overstreet, the only woman The Pride of Oklahoma Marching Band has been The OU Chant is a loyalty song that is sung before every on the faculty, was asked to chair a committee to select supporting Sooner Spirit for more than a century. Unlike home football game, before and after every men’s and the colors of the university. The committee decided the many other college bands, which began as military drill women’s basketball games and at the end of many colors should be crimson and cream and an elaborate units, the Pride of Oklahoma had its beginnings as a athletic and university functions. display of the colors was draped above a platform pep band. before the student body. Every fan who wears the offi cial colors, each current In the early years of the 1900s, both townspeople of student and student-athlete and all OU alumni are The student body approved with great enthusiasm Norman and students of OU participated in a band that encouraged to stand and raise one fi nger in the air and immediately pennants, banners, badges and played for football games. Professor John Merrill started during the playing of the Chant -- a symbolic gesture decorations of every description appeared on the the fi rst band in 1901, which was composed mostly of that shows those who do not know what it means to be streets, in the windows, at chapel, in classrooms, and townspeople and disbanded after each football season. a Sooner, the greatness of the university and the unity all public places; however, local merchants could not Lloyd Curtis, a cornetist, founded the fi rst continuous between all Sooners. supply the demand. student band in 1904. The Chant was written in 1936 by Jessie Lone Clarkson Even though the school colors have evolved to red and Today, the 300-member Pride of Oklahoma has Gilkey, who directed the OU girl’s glee club from 1936 white over the years, you can ask any self-respecting members representing virtually every college and to 1938 and was voted Outstanding Faculty Woman in Sooner what the colors are and they will proudly major on campus. The Pride of Oklahoma stands for 1937. announce “Crimson and Cream.” excellence in musicianship, academics, school spirit, and commitment to our role in the surrounding O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A On gamedays, a sea of crimson rolls through OU’s home community. Our chant rolls on and on! venues and all Sooners are urged to wear the offi cial Thousands strong colors to show the rest of the country what school spirit Boomer Sooner rings out at the end of each rehearsal, Join heart and song and Sooner Pride is all about. and that song is the defi ning element of the University In alma mater’s praise of Oklahoma. Maybe that is why Sooner fans love the Of campus beautiful by day and night band so much. Not much can compare to the fi rst “go- Of colors proudly gleaming Red and White go” at a football game when the Pride of Oklahoma ‘Neath a western sky marches the interlocking OU down the fi eld playing OU’s chant will never die. Boomer Sooner. Live on University!

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

87 SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY THAT SUPPORTS OU

OU lives by a clear and strong motto in dealing with its student-athletes...Inspiring Oklahoma’s student-athletes recognize that wearing the Crimson and Cream means Champions for Today, Preparing Leaders for Tomorrow. To fulfi ll that promise, the representing a popular sports program and themselves as individuals. They are athletics department and student-athletes take an active role in a number of encouraged to respond to a public that adores them, while learning important community service projects. Sooner student-athletes are exposed to life outside of lessons about making a positive impact in the lives of others and in the community sports and school work with opportunities to serve and help others. in which they live.

The Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) is a committee made up of student- Community service events for OU student-athletes from the past year included: athletes from all 21 intercollegiate athletic teams at the University of Oklahoma. The group coordinates community service programs for the Sooners each month. • Women’s basketball players and coaches visited the Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City and participated in the Sooner Big Sis Program, an event in which “Giving back is something that benefi ts us as much as those we’re helping,” says each student-athlete selects a Norman elementary school class and visits the class OU head softball coach . “It brings us back to reality and makes us realize weekly for an hour. that there is more to life than collegiate softball. I feel it’s our duty to help out because of the role we’re in as a Division I softball program.” • The Oklahoma baseball team annually attends Willow Springs Boys Ranch to spend time with children and host a barbeque, in addition to visiting the “Miracle The University of Oklahoma men’s golf program holds an annual Clubs for Kids League” in Edmond and working with children at local elementary schools. event in early May at the Lakeview Golf Course in Ardmore, Okla. Providing clubs and instruction, the event allows more than 1,000 southeastern Oklahoma youth an • The OU men’s gymnastics team coordinated with High School and pre- opportunity to interact with the OU golf team and coaches. formed an exhibition. In addition, the squad participated in Adopt-An-Angel, Safe Trick-Or-Treat and volunteered at various elementary schools in the Norman area. Oklahoma women’s basketball teams have been extremely active in the community since head coach Sherri Coale’s arrival in 1996. In addition to projects with the • The OU Athletics Department participated in “Think if You Drink,” a community United Way, Coaches vs. Cancer, Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity and the campaign to help promote safe and responsible drinking among student-athletes Children’s Miracle Network, Coale implemented the Sooner Big Sis Program which and students on campus. places women’s basketball players at elementary schools in Norman to serve as mentors and teachers’ aides. • The football program participated in Special Spectators for children with terminal illnesses by visiting and playing with the children. “I want our student-athletes to learn through their experience here,” says Coale, “how important it is to volunteer to be a part of whatever community they decide • OU student-athletes and coaches made contact with more than 1,000 Norman to reside in when their playing days are over.” Public Schools students in 20 schools as visiting readers, tutors, mentors and other special events including speaking engagements. COMMUNITY SERVICE

88 • The OU women’s volleyball team visited Santa Fe High School, mentored children during lunch at Norman Lutheran Church, led FCA at Alcott Middle School, refereed and taught children’s volleyball for Jumping Juniors and the Homeschool Association and spoke to the young adults at Tulsa High School.

• Oklahoma men’s basketball has been involved with community organizations includ- ing the American Cancer Society, the American Lung Association, Boys and Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts of America, Citizens Caring for Children, Children’s Miracle Network, Food and Shelter for Friends, Sooner Reading Program, the Oklahoma Blood Institute, the Oklahoma Committee to Prevent Child Abuse and Special Olympics, among others.

• Bridge Builders, the African American Student-Athlete Network, organized student outreach programs at Marcus Garvey Leadership Charter School and Moon Middle School helping to impart ideas and strategies to young people that will help them be successful in sports as well as life.

• Oklahoma women’s basketball players supported the Special Olympics in Norman and Noble. The players were honorary hug givers and cheerleaders, encouraging Oklahoma’s special stars. The Sooners also assisted the United Way in its Meals on Wheels program. OU delivered, sacked and decorated bags that contained food items The 2007 OU soccer t for emergency use during the winter months. eam volunteering at the J.D. McCarty Center in Norman. • Sooner football players spent more than 300 hours involved in various community projects during the course of the year including the Clinic for Kids, visiting elementary schools and conducting the annual food drive. • OU student-athletes hosted Safe Trick-or-Treat and provided candy, games and safe en- tertainment for hundreds of local children and their families at the .

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

89 SHOWCASING THE SOONERS TO A NATIONAL AUDIENCE

Oklahoma Athletics is a household name due to the overwhelming media attention • Both the men’s and women’s gymnastics teams had regular television coverage that hovers around the Sooners. Writers and broadcasters representing the nation’s thanks to the hosting duties of their respective conference championships. The nation most recognized media outlets regularly interact with Sooner players and coaches and focused its eyes on Norman in April 2006 when the Sooners hosted the NCAA Men’s routinely spend time in Norman. Gymnastics National Championships at Lloyd Noble Center.

And when they can’t come to campus, those same observers keep tabs on OU thanks to • The popularity of the Sooners is evident in the immense amount of products extensive television coverage. The Sooners are at the very center of the college athletics and apparel purchased by fans. OU ranks eighth in the nation in sales of licensed and everybody is watching. merchandise.

• In 2007, all 14 Oklahoma football games appeared on live television. OU enters the • Since 2000, Oklahoma student-athletes have appeared on the cover of Sports 2008 season with a streak of 71 consecutive televised games and has been shown on Illustrated nine times. Sooner football is one of the most popular subjects for SI with 30 TV 281 times dating back to the 1953 season. cover appearances.

• During the 2007-08 season, the men’s basketball team received live television • Over the past eight years, ESPN’s popular Gameday production has coverage of 31 games, including 13 nationally televised contests. broadcast on site from 17 of Oklahoma’s games.

• The women’s basketball team was seen live for 27 games during the 2007-08 season, • 38 million people logged on to SoonerSports.com last year, making the offi cial Web including national coverage for 10 contests. site of the Oklahoma Athletics Department one of the top collegiate sites in the nation.

• Thanks to the introduction of ESPNU, a cable-television network devoted solely to • Many former Sooners have gone on to successful careers as talent for the nation’s collegiate athletics, the OU baseball team received television coverage for an unprec- top media outlets including ESPN’s Stacy Dales and CBS’ Spencer Tillman. Former OU edented 12 regular-season baseball games in 2005, including two on ESPN’s national athletes are often called on to provide color commentary during regional broadcasts coverage. due to their championship experience and athletics expertise.

• The Women’s College World Series is hosted in Oklahoma City each year, with all games shown live across the nation.

• The men’s golf team’s home tournament, The Maxwell Invitational in Ardmore, Okla., is televised live by the local ABC affi liate.

IN THE MEDIA SPOTLIGHT UNIVERSITY OKLAHOMA OF

9090 THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

9191 ROBIN SIEGFRIED & FAMILY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COMPLEX

Oklahoma’s weight training program is a pioneer in The objective of the strength and conditioning OU athletes receive a winning edge with a sound the development of strength and conditioning, and program is to ensure each student-athlete in every nutrition program. is a vital part of the Sooners’ tradition of success. sport is provided with a sound in-season and off- OU strength and conditioning coaches utilize their season program. This program of activity includes “Our goal is to get the student-athletes in their best expertise along with a wide array of equipment strength, conditioning, fl exibility and nutrition. A condition,” says Schmidt. “That condition will give and tests to produce national championship caliber strength and conditioning coordinator for each sport Oklahoma an edge at the end of a game. Top of the athletes. is provided to assist athletes in reaching the highest line conditioning is what it takes to be a Sooner possible training levels. athlete. Running, lifting and good nutrition must be Evaluation, goal-oriented programs, supervision and kept in a balance. All these components must be in state-of-the-art facilities help Oklahoma athletes The OU strength and conditioning staff takes great place for an athlete to compete at the highest level.” become bigger, faster, stronger and more fl exible. The pride in providing a very intensive program that Robin Siegfried & Family Strength and Conditioning helps maintain greater overall body strength and Located at the south end of the Gaylord Family Complex, located in the Barry Switzer Center, has conditioning levels during the season. By maintaining Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, the Barry Switzer Center 13,000 square feet to facilitate the intensive training strength in the muscles and connective tissues houses administrative offi ces, the football locker room, of OU athletes. An additional facility, the throughout the season, the potential for injuries the equipment room, the 8,000-square-foot Henry J. Strength Training Facility, is available for workouts decreases. Freede Sports Medicine Facility and the 7,000-square- inside the Everest Training Center. The former Sooner foot Touchdown Club Legends Lobby in addition to football All-American and current Dallas Cowboy The off-season program is also extremely intensive. the Siegfried and Family Strength and Conditioning made the center possible through a gift to the Speed, strength, power, agility, fundamentals and Complex. University. nutrition are addressed. The OU staff is committed to full compliance with NCAA rules concerning Jerry Schmidt, director of sports enhancement, time allocation for student-athletes and voluntary says the complex is a state-of-the-art facility workouts during off-season periods. where athletes work closely with six full-time staff members. “Oklahoma recognizes the importance of The staff’s interaction with the nutritional consultants conditioning,” says Schmidt. “This facility is refl ective on campus is essential. The staff maintains an open of that commitment.” channel of communication with the dining staff at the Wagner Dining Center. This interaction enables the strength and conditioning staff to ensure that

STRENGTH AND MEDICAL TRAINING

92 HENRY J. FREEDE, M.D., SPORTS MEDICINE FACILITY

The Oklahoma Athletics Department feels a strong The therapy room is supplied with the latest responsibility to help its athletes reach and maintain modalities on the market. their optimum health and achieve conditioning goals. For this reason, OU has developed excellent “The addition of space is the greatest benefi t,” training and conditioning programs to lessen the says Anderson. “This space allows for dedicated possibility of injuries. However, should injuries occur, rehabilitation and consultation to the athletes. An the department is committed to a comprehensive option with the facility is the water rehabilitation area. rehabilitation program. The athlete stands in a pool of water that is adjusted to his or her own physical needs. Cameras are then Complete athletically-related medical services are placed where physicians can monitor the progress provided to Oklahoma student-athletes by team made by the athlete on his or her road to recovery.” physicians and OU’s certifi ed athletic trainers. The University of Oklahoma obtains the services of the A total team effort is the key to OU’s effi ciency in best medical consultants available. preventing, treating and rehabilitating injuries sustained by student-athletes. These measures keep The base of operation for the Sooners’ medical care Sooner athletes at their highest level of performance is the state-of-the-art Henry J. Freede, M.D. Sports as they compete for championships. Medicine Center in the Barry Switzer Center. “Sports medicine is a team effort,” says Anderson. “The Head athletic trainer Scott Anderson says the addition stated goal of athletic training at Oklahoma is, fi rst of to the Barry Switzer Center has allowed the university all, care for the student-athletes, thereby granting our to upgrade to a new edition of rehabilitation sports a competitive advantage and ultimately greater equipment that can best benefi t the student-athletes. esteem for the entire program.

From simple therobands to taping tables, the facility “To that end we are blessed with a full complement offers everything a school can have or hope to have. of self-sacrifi cing medical professionals working on a The Sooner training room is equipped to perform regular basis with our athletic training staff.” isokinetic joint evaluation for preventive medicine and for post-injury rehabilitation.

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

93 GREAT EXPECTATIONS AND BEYOND With one of the greatest winning traditions in intercollegiate conditioning and sports medicine centers and an indoor Robin Siegfried and Family Strength and Conditioning athletics, the University of Oklahoma, its players, coaches training center. Complex and fans understand the meaning of “Great Expectations.” This 13,000-square-foot facility serves more than 500 OU hopes for and expects great things from its athletics Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium athletes in OU’s 21 sports. The state-of-the-art facility inside teams -- and the athletes and coaches expect the same from The $75 million expansion and renovation of OU’s football the Barry Switzer Center has been central to OU’s success in themselves. Time and time again, the Sooners have delivered stadium, completed in 2004, transformed a towering concrete recent years and helped develop OU’s reputation as a pioneer on this expectation: 26 national championships, more than structure into a beautiful facility featuring the brick and cast in the strength and conditioning fi eld. 200 conference titles and more than 1,000 All-Americans. stone that characterize OU’s historic buildings. The expansion added 8,000 seats, including 56 suites, on the east side. At Barry Switzer Center The University of Oklahoma’s goal is to provide fi rst-class the same time, the press box was remodeled and outfi tted A special feature is the Barry Switzer Center on the south side facilities and resources for all the programs and endeavors with several state-of-the-art features. This historical facility of the Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, where sponsored by the institution. OU Athletics captures so much is the largest sports arena in the state, and following its recent OU’s storied football history is displayed, media conferences attention and interest that it requires the help and support expansion, now ranks among the 15 largest on-campus are held and recruits are entertained. The center recently of all Sooners to continue the tradition that all have enjoyed. facilities in the nation. experienced a signifi cant upgrade to refl ect this success and With that in mind, OU launched “Great Expectations...The to fully realize the original vision as an exhibit area focusing Campaign for Sooner Sports” in 1999. Everest Training Center on OU’s greatest victories and most successful coaching eras. Considered one of the premier indoor facilities in the country, “Great Expectations - The Campaign for Sooner Sports,” the Everest Training Center is a 74,000-square-foot center that Henry J. Freede, M.D., Sports Medicine Facility a recently completed fund-raising effort, was about the includes a full-size playing fi eld, simulated stadium lighting, This 8,000-square-foot sports medicine facility within continuation of a proud championship tradition. It was a a complete scoreboard with play clocks, LED 40-yard timing the Barry Switzer Center treats athletes from all 21 sports, fi ve-year campaign launched with an eventual goal of $100 devices and a ceiling that hangs 65 feet above the playing ensuring the best possible health for OU student-athletes million, making possible an extraordinary era in new athletics surface to allow for all kicking and throwing drills. through preventative medicine and post-injury treatment facilities that has led to unprecedented athletic and academic and rehabilitation. success for OU student-athletes. McClendon Center for Intercollegiate Athletics While the football gameday facilities in the Gaylord Fred & Mary Eddy Jones Foundation Red Room Among the accomplishments made possible by Great Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium may be more familiar The Red Room is where OU football players meet as a team Expectations’ donors: an expanded, renovated and more to OU supporters, the north side McClendon Center for or offensive/defensive units to watch motivational videos beautiful football stadium; two completely new facilities for Intercollegiate Athletics is one of the most vital areas for OU’s before each game. OU’s offense and defense post their goals men’s and women’s basketball at Lloyd Noble Center; new or entire athletics program as it is the center of student learning for each week, and the Sooner coach holds his post-game renovated facilities for baseball, softball, volleyball, wrestling, and athletics administration activities. press conference in this area. softball, tennis, soccer and track and fi eld; new strength and TOP-NOTCH FACILITIES

FAST TRACK The John Jacobs Track was altered and re-surfaced in 2006 to include European Oval turns for a faster track. Other improvements in- clude spectator seating for 2,000; new restrooms and concessions; and the installation of champion- ship lighting.

SHINING STAR The $75 million expansion and renovation of OU’s football stadium, Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, transformed a towering concrete structure into a beautiful facility featuring the brick and cast stone that characterize OU’s historic buildings.

94 Headington Family Tennis Center Expansion Baseball Practice Facility fans more comfort. In addition, the entire facility was The men’s and women’s tennis teams will compete in one of With an estimated cost of $1 million, the OU baseball team will repainted and improvements were made to the HVAC system, the fi nest indoor venues in the country in 2009. Highlights of have an indoor hitting facility and practice infi eld added to L. sound system, lighting and scoreboards. The Sooners have the new, 55,000 square-foot facility include six air-conditioned Dale Mitchell Park prior to the 2009 season. The 5,160-square also enjoyed renovations done to the training room as well courts, championship-quality lighting and surface, and -foot facility will contain three full-size hitting/pitching lanes as an upgrade to both the volleyball and wrestling locker approximately 375 chair-back seats for spectators, which and is air conditioned and heated. Previous renovations to L. rooms. are elevated between the courts. The programs opened a Dale Mitchell Park were completed in 2001 when the press 12-court outdoor championship facility in 2001 during the box underwent state-of-the-art improvements including Wrestling Practice Facility Great Expectations campaign and was particularly notable four suites and a press area, the Mike Treps Media Room. The Connected to the McCasland Field House, the Athletics because it was donations exclusively from tennis lettermen facility originally opened in 1982. Department launched a $2.4 million project in 2008. The who made the new courts possible. bulk of the construction will include a $1.3 million addition John Jacobs Track and Field Complex to the Port Robertson Wrestling Center. The facility serves as John Crain Field at the OU Soccer Complex The project, which was completed in spring 2004, included the practice venue for the Sooner wrestling team. The University of Oklahoma Athletics Department and the a 25,000-square-foot building connecting the Mosier Indoor soccer program enjoyed a $4.5 million expansion to the soccer Practice Facility with the Everest Training Center. This new Mary Jane Noble Women’s Basketball Center stadium in 2006. In addition to a press box and a permanent building includes track and fi eld locker rooms, a sports In 1975, the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation of Ardmore grandstand, a multi-use building is located between John medicine room and a video teaching room. The John Jacobs made the fi rst million-dollar gift in OU history with its Crain Field at the OU Soccer Complex and the Headington Track was altered and re-surfaced to include European Oval contribution to OU’s campaign to build a multi-purpose arena. Family Tennis Center at the corner of Chautauqua Avenue turns for a faster track and nine 48-inch wide lanes. Other In 1999, the foundation made another gift to support the and Imhoff Road. The multi-purpose complex includes locker improvements include upgrades of fi eld event areas, placing renovation of the original center, adding fi rst-class matching rooms, meeting and video rooms and offi ces for the student- them directionally north/south and east/west to take facilities for the men’s and women’s basketball teams. The athletes and coaches. advantage of wind conditions; spectator seating for 2,000; Lloyd Noble Center addition includes two new full-sized new restrooms and concessions; and the installation of practice courts for the men’s and women’s basketball teams. Softball Hitting Facility championship lighting. The OU softball team broke ground on an indoor hitting Bob and Ann Coleman Men’s Basketball Center facility in July 2008 that is scheduled for completion prior Howard McCasland Field House The nearly 63,000-square-feet Lloyd Noble Center addition to the 2009 season. In 2002, the Robert E. Young and The Field House is one of OU’s most historic buildings. Many offers a matched set of men’s and women’s facilities, Family Softball Locker Room was added to the Softball OU alumni fondly recall the fi eld house as the home of OU’s including full-sized practice courts, new team and coaches’ Complex, giving the team a spacious and comfortable basketball program, which it was until Lloyd Noble Center locker rooms, training rooms and steam/spa/sauna rooms. gathering place for preparation and relaxation. In opened in 1975. In 2005, the Field House underwent a $6 Offi ce facilities and conference rooms provide views of 2003, the softball fi eld was named in honor of retired million facelift that included a complete interior renovation the practice courts as special features and a shared weight softball coach and women’s administrator Marita Hynes. comprised of a resanded and repainted fl oor with four training facility was created. The Kerr-McGee Courtside Club effi cient practice courts and chair-back seating that offers gives fans a venue for special events. THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

HISTORIC VENUE Renovated before the 2005 season, the Howard McCasland Fieldhouse, unveiled a $6 million face lift in 2006. The Field- house is one of the oldest buildings on campus and the renovation made dra- matic improvements while retaining the historic feel. 95 THE HOME OF OKLAHOMA SOCCER

John Crain Field at the OU Soccer Complex Year Opened: 2000 (Named John Crain Field in 2002) First Game: Sept. 8, 2000 (SMU 1, OU 0) Overall Record: 40-16-2 (.707) Surface: Grass Seating Capacity: 3,500 (after renovation) Largest Crowd: 1,348, vs. Oklahoma State (Oct. 29, 2004)

The University of Oklahoma Athletics Department completed Phase II of the OU The press box is equipped with camera decks and a media level complete with Soccer Complex, a $4.5 million renovation in the summer of 2006. The addition of a the latest technologies. The attractive conference room/meeting area serves as a state-of-the-art press box and grandstand is joined by a multi-use building located versatile location for team meetings and activities, and can be used to host special between the soccer complex and the Headington Family Tennis Center at the corner guests, parents, donors and media. of Chautauqua Avenue and Imhoff Road. In addition to increasing the seating capacity to 3,500, the complex also includes Phase II construction began in November of 2005 and the new facility is comprised concessions, restrooms and a ticket booth to give fans a complete family atmo- of spaces for student-athletes, coaches and fans of both soccer and tennis. sphere for watching Division I soccer.

“We are so grateful for the donors who helped us complete Phase II of the Soccer “We have an incredible facility that is second to none and the commitment to suc- and Tennis facilities,” said OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione. “ One of the unique cess is evident when you look at our facility,” said head coach Nicole Nelson. “Our aspects of the funding for our fi rst phase was that almost every dollar was provided facility is unique in that it allows the crowd to be very involved with what is hap- by former student-athletes. Many of those same individuals were so excited about pening in the game because they sit very close to the fi eld. It is the perfect soccer the quality of the facility that they stepped forward again to fi nish the project and environment and unique in the Big 12.” provide state-of-the-art facilities for our current student-athletes.”

The OU soccer and tennis clubhouse features a training room, locker rooms, video and conference rooms, team facilities, and equipment, laundry and other support services.

JOHN CRAIN FIELD - OU SOCCER COMPLEX DEDICATION In 2002, the fi eld was renamed to honor the donation made by John Crain (center). The $600, 000 gift is one of the largest ever made to Sooner women’s athletics, all of which was applied to the soccer program.

96 HISTORY TOP 10 ALL-TIME ATTENDANCE MARKS On Sept. 8, 2000, a new era began for the OU soccer program when the Soon- ers hosted SMU in the fi rst game at the on-campus complex. Before the game, a Attendance Opponent Date ceremony, featuring OU Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione, was held to celebrate 1. 1,348 OSU October 29, 2004 the opening of the complex. 2. 1,325 OSU November 2, 2001 3. 1,283 SMU September 13, 2002 The fi rst phase ($1.2 million) at the OU Soccer Complex featured a fi rst-class, regula- 4. 1,132 OSU September15, 2006 tion fi eld with top-of-the-line turf and drainage system. Since its initial season, the 5. 847 Texas A&M October 14, 2005 most noticeable addition of the project was the scoreboard which measures 37 feet 6. 812 SMU September 8, 2000 in length and is close to 15 feet in height (standing 25 feet above ground). 7. 757 Arkansas August 29, 2003 8. 763 Texas October 18, 2002 In 2002, the fi eld was renamed to honor the donation made by John Crain. The 9. 711 Missouri September 24, 2004 $600,000 gift, all of which was applied to the soccer program, still remains one of 10. 667 Baylor September 27, 2002 the largest ever made to Sooner women’s athletics.

In 2006, the complex enjoyed a $4.5 million renovation that included a state-of- the-art press box and grandstand, joined by a multi-use building located between the soccer complex and the Headington Family Tennis Center at the corner of Chautauqua Avenue and Imhoff Road.

Most recently, the words “Oklahoma Sooners” were added to the front of the press box to further enhance the appearance of the facility. In addition, the locker room and team room on the second fl oor were decorated and furnished for the coaches and student-athletes.

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

BEDLAM SOCCER Three of the Sooners’ top attended home games have come against Bedlam rival Oklahoma State, including the 2006 total of 1,132 that saw the two play on Sept. 15.

97 SIDEKICKS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION LETTER FROM COACH NELSON The University of Oklahoma booster club for soccer began in 2004 and its members have been enthusiastic supporters of the OU women’s soccer program from its begin- Dear Sooner Soccer Fans, ning. The Sidekicks club, which was formerly named the Booter Rooters, supports the soccer program in a variety of ways including banquets, tailgating functions and many It is a new and exciting era for the Sooner Soccer Program. Growing up as an Oklahoma other projects to enhance and improve the home of Sooner Soccer. native and an avid Sooner Fan, I feel a tremendous amount of pride for the University of Oklahoma. It is with great enthusiasm and passion that our staff and team have The Sidekicks strive to provide the soccer program with the resources to maintain a embraced the challenge of building a national powerhouse. competitive advantage. The funds are raised to improve facilities and to host events that will give members a chance to get involved behind the scenes and really take part The academic and athletic success that already exists at the University of Oklahoma is in making the OU Soccer program a national contender. An amazing group of young the key to making championships an Oklahoma Soccer tradition. Our goal every year women who would serve as great role models for future college soccer players have will be to win championships. been assembled over the last few years. The soccer facility, which is second to none, and OU’s commitment to excellence in As a member of the Sidekicks, your donation is directed specifi cally to the Women’s every avenue of the university is very attractive and something I believe in selling. Soccer program for us to use to improve our chances for success. With your support, we will strive to make winning a tradition for OU Soccer. Please join or renew your membership with the Sidekicks today. One of the program’s most recent highlight was the opening of a new $4.5 million soccer specifi c stadium in the summer of 2006. With the opening of this facility and Thanks again for your support of Sooner Soccer and we look forward to seeing you at the contributions of John Crain, the OU Soccer Complex is the premier soccer facility in our events. the Big 12 and the southwestern region of the country.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP Boomer Sooner, Member social events Members-only skills clinic Newsletter Poster and schedule card Sooner Club Priority Points (one point per $100 given) Nicole Nelson, Head Coach

OU SOCCER BOOSTER CLUB

LOCKER ROOM Donations from the booster club helped decorate the locker rooms at the OU Soccer Complex.

98 LEARN MORE For more information on the Sidekicks, call the Sooner Club at 405-325-8000.

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

TEAM ROOM Recent donations by the Sidekicks made possible the completion of the team room on the second fl oor of the facility. The room consists of state of the art technology for players and coaches to review fi lm and provides an area for the team to meet and relax.

99 THE BIG 12 CONFERENCE The Big 12 Conference has established a consistent level men’s Final Four participants since 2002 is more than history, the conference can boast of over 300 academic of national success on the fi eld and in the classroom as any conference. Numerous national honors have honorees, averaging more than 25 each season. it enters its 13th season in 2008-09. been won by basketball student-athletes during the league’s history, with (Kansas State), The Big 12 can boast of other stories that combine on Since it began play in 1996-97, the Conference can D.J. Augustin (Texas) and Courtney Paris (Oklahoma) and off the fi eld success. Patience Knight (Texas ) boast 31 team crowns and over 385 individual NCAA the most recent to garner accolades as consensus All- was the recipient of the Honda Inspiration Award in Championships. The success continued during 2007-08 America in 2007-08. 2008, given to an outstanding female college athlete as Kansas captured the Big 12’s fi rst national title in who overcomes adversity to excel in her sport. She men’s basketball, while the league added 31 individual The Big 12 and its member institutions are committed was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in 2007, but crowns. to a competitive environment where sportsmanship rebounded to win All-America honors at the 2008 and fair play take center stage. Whether on the NCAA Indoor Track & Field Championships. Over the past four seasons a total of 12 NCAA trophies fi eld, in the classroom, or within the community the have been hoisted by Big 12 institutions, with at least student-athletes, administrators, coaches and game Competitive excellence, scholarship and sportsmanship one national crown won in all but one year for the offi cials of the Big 12 support the highest ideals in are all equal components of the Big 12 philosophy. Conference, including each of the past 11 seasons. sportsmanship. All-Big 12 teams and Academic All-Big 12 squads are recognized for each sport at the end of their respective The Big 12 leads all conferences with fi ve appearances in Big 12 student-athletes also do well in garnering seasons. title games. League squads national academic recognition. Sarah Pavan (Nebraska) have played for the football national championship was named Academic All-America of the Year in At the end of each academic year, the Conference fi ve times in the last nine years with berths in 14 BCS volleyball the past two seasons by ESPN The Magazine honors its top male and female student-athletes with games overall, including two in 2007. The Big 12 led and College Sports Information Directors of America the Big 12 Athlete of the Year and Big 12 Sportsperson all conferences with four teams ranked in the Top 10 with a 4.0 grade-point average in Biochemistry. She of the Year awards. in the fi nal national polls a season ago. In addition, an also won the national academic honor presented all-time high eight league players earned consensus for all sports in 2006-07 and was named recipient Institutions can also nominate student-athletes All-America recognition in 2007, more than any other of the prestigious 2006-07 Honda-Broderick Award for the prestigious Dr. Prentice Gautt Postgraduate conference. as Collegiate Woman Athlete of the Year. She is the Scholarships at the end of each academic year. A total fi rst athlete since the Big 12 was formed to earn the of 201 scholars have received over $1.2 million in In basketball, nine men’s and women’s teams have accolade. postgraduate fi nancial aid through the fi rst 12 years of advanced to their respective Final Fours in the past the program. seven seasons as the Big 12 continues its place among In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Augustin the elite intercollegiate athletic conferences. The six was an Academic All-America First Team choice. In its THE BIG 12 CONFERENCE

100 The Big 12 sponsors 21 sports. Men’s squads include Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, University of In the last several years the Big 12 has increased its bowl baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, indoor Texas, Texas A&M University and . agreements and expanded television opportunities for track & fi eld, outdoor track & fi eld, swimming & diving, The institutions created a league that encompasses all sports through contracts with ABC/ESPN, FSN and tennis and wrestling. Women’s teams are fi elded in seven states, over 45 million people and television CBS College Sports. Most recently, the league renewed basketball, cross country, golf, gymnastics, indoor track households in 18 of the top 100 markets within its and expanded its multi-year arrangement with ABC/ & fi eld, outdoor track & fi eld, soccer, softball, swimming, geographic footprint. ESPN, Inc. The new contract begins in 2008-09. tennis and volleyball. The conference conducts championships for 20 of its 21 In its fi rst 12 years, the Conference has distributed more The conference is made up of 12 institutions that have sports. Each championship helps to determine teams than $1 billion to its 12 member institutions. shared many traditional rivalries throughout their and/or individuals that will represent the Conference histories. Member schools include - , in national postseason competition. The winner of the The Big 12 staff administers to over 4,600 student- University of Colorado, , University Big 12 football championship game earns the league’s athletes in 21 sports. The conference is headquartered of Kansas, , University of berth into the prestigious Bowl Championship Series. in Irving, Texas. Missouri, University of Nebraska, University of

BIG 12 STAFF Commissioner...... Dan Beebe Coordinator of Football Offi cials...... Walt Anderson Deputy Commissioner...... Tim Weiser Associate Director of Communications ...... Joni James Lehmann Senior Associate Commissioner ...... Tim Allen Assistant Director of Communications...... Carmen Branch Senior Associate Commissioner ...... Dru Hancock Assistant Director of Video Services...... Sean Hollister Associate Commissioner - Men’s Basketball & Game Mgmt...... John Underwood Championships Manager ...... Blair Beneke Chief Financial Offi cer ...... Steve Pace Business and Ticket Manager ...... Tim Frick Assistant Commissioner - Communications ...... Bob Burda Executive Assistant to the Commissioner ...... Melanie Ellis Assistant Commissioner - Events & Human Resources ...... Brad Clements Administrative Assistant...... Regina Everett Assistant Commissioner - Governance & Compliance ...... Lori Ebihara Administrative Assistant...... Tracy Hunt Assistant Commissioner - Championships ...... Dayna Scherf Administrative Assistant...... Valerie Rocha Assistant Commissioner - Football & Student Services...... Edward T. Stewart Administrative Assistant...... Brad Simmons Director of Compliance ...... Keri Boyce Receptionist/Administrative Assistant ...... Michelle Peterson Director of Communications...... Rob Carolla Will Hancock Communications Assistant ...... Felicia Michael Director of Football Championship ...... Will Hancock Communications Assistant ...... Bonnie Ryan Director of Marketing ...... Maark Keith Internet Services Assistant ...... Melanie Weiser

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

101 A UNIVERSITY TOWN WITH A CHAMPIONSHIP SPIRIT

Norman was recently named by Money Magazine as No. In the last fi ve years alone, Norman has served as straight from the Middle Ages. Knights joust, jesters 6 of America’s Best Places to Live among “small” cities host of the NCAA Men’s Gymnastics Championship, entertain and story tellers spin tales of a magical time or locations with a population between 50,000 and an NCAA men’s golf regional, NCAA softball regionals, in history. 300,000. NCAA men’s and women’s gymnastics regionals, NCAA women’s tennis regionals, NCAA track and fi eld The $44 million Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Norman is an ever-changing city of nearly 100,000 regional and the NCAA women’s basketball regionals. Natural History, a state-of-the-art facility designed to residents. Located in the heart of the state, it has grown In addition, the Big 12 Conference Men’s and Women’s display a collection of historical and natural science to become the third largest city in Oklahoma. Despite Tennis, Track and Field, Wrestling, Women’s Golf, and items that trace the southwest’s development since its continuous growth, it has maintained the spirit and Women’s Gymnastics Championships were held in prehistoric times, opened in May 2000. History buffs serenity of a small close-knit community. Norman. will also enjoy the Cleveland Country Historical House which holds exhibits relating to the development of Since the Oklahoma landrush of 1889, Norman has Cultural activities are unlimited in Norman, making this area of the state. grown into a popular and smart city. The spirit of Norman it the ideal backdrop for the University of Oklahoma. and its citizens is unwavering and uncompromising. As home to people of all ethnic and educational For art enthusiasts, the Fred Jones Jr. Memorial Art While other towns were clamoring to become the state backgrounds, the city has something to offer everyone. Center houses permanent collections, nationally and capital, Norman residents desired to have the fi rst state Norman is home to a variety of enriching events and world-renowned traveling exhibits as well as a yearly university. When the fi rst OU president got off the train attractions, including the Sooner Theater, which hosts a student art show. The museum has recently added and saw a prairie, he saw opportunity. series of entertaining theatrical performances produced the Weitzenhoffer Collection of French Impressionist by locally-based talent and touring companies. paintings -- the single most important gift of art ever As home to the state’s premier educational institution, given to a U.S. public university. Norman boasts an excellent quality of life and is a The city also showcases local and regional artists in its city that thrives on and celebrates the diversity of its annual May Fair. In addition, through the university’s Maintaining a progressive approach to the future while community. School of Drama, School of Dance and the School of remembering its history, Norman continues to be a Music, stage productions are offered year round. well-balanced community, proud to be the home of the Legendary University of Oklahoma football coach University of Oklahoma. Barry Switzer called Norman “a university town with a The Medieval Fair has become a springtime tradition in championship spirit.” Norman continually exhibits its Norman as people from around the country converge love for sports by hosting numerous local and national on the city for one weekend each April to partake in a athletic events. fascinating look back in time. Each year, an area park is transformed into a festival of sights, sounds and tastes

NORMAN AND OKLAHOMA CITY COOL The average annual temperature in Norman is a cool 70 degrees. The area enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and four distinct seasons with a warm spring and fall.

100,000 Norman is the third largest city in the state with nearly 100,000 resi- dents. Despite its growth, the city nurtures and maintains its small, college town atmosphere.

RANKED NO. 6 Norman was recently ranked No. 6 of America’s Best Places to Live by Money Magazine among “small” cit- ies” or locations with a population between 50,000 and 300,000.

102 Oklahoma City Oklahoma City has become a haven for exciting Tulsa Oklahoma City, the capital of Oklahoma, is located just sports action. It is home of an NBA team, two semi- Tulsa, the state’s second largest city, is located 100 miles 18 miles from the Norman campus. It was the fi rst city professional sports teams and the host of the NCAA to the northeast of Norman in the heart of Oklahoma’s settled in the Land Run of 1889 because of its position Women College Softball World Series and Big 12 Green Country. Ask people to describe Tulsa, and you’ll as the center of the state. It is because of this central Softball Championship. The Oklahoma RedHawks, 1996 likely get many different answers. It was a city forever location that Oklahoma City has become known as American Association champions (then named the changed by the discovery of oil in 1901. It is home to the home of America’s Western heritage. Whether Oklahoma City 89ers), are the Triple-A baseball affi liate art deco treasures and nationally renowned museums. adventure, history, culture or sports, Oklahoma City of the Texas Rangers. The team plays in the 13,066-seat Its African-American heritage left its mark, in both the offers a variety of attractions and activities different AT&T Bricktown Ballpark, one of the plushest venues in business and music worlds. And it’s a city of nostalgia from any other place in the country. all of minor league sports. The ballpark served as host and special memories for countless Americans due to to a 2004 NCAA baseball regional and the 2005, 2006, its location on historic Route 66. Oklahoma City was born on the afternoon of April 2007 and 208 Big 12 Baseball Championships. 22, 1889, when the central portion of what is now Tulsa is a cosmopolitan town that appeals to both young Oklahoma was opened to settlement by presidential Hockey mania runs rampant with the recent success families and retirees. National touring exhibitions can proclamation. Thousands crossed the borders of of the Central Hockey League’s Oklahoma City Blazers. be seen at the Philbrook Museum of Art, which was “” at the sound of gunfi re at high The Blazers won the CHL crown in 1996 and are yearly recently featured on the television program America’s noon. Never before or since has such a “run” occurred one of the league’s best teams. In addition, the city has Castles. For great western art, check out the Gilcrease anywhere on the earth. hosted numerous PGA and Senior PGA Tour events. Museum, and music legends are commemorated at Oklahoma’s Jazz Hall of Fame. Other unique attractions By the time the dust had settled on that historic day, worth a stop include the Elsing Museum, Ida Dennie many people had staked their claim at “Oklahoma Willis Museum of Miniatures, Dolls & Toys, Tulsa Air and Station,” an area which was destined to become Space Center and the Fenster Museum of Jewish Art. Oklahoma City, a leading city in America. In 1911, Oklahoma City offi cially became the capital after a statewide election moved the state seal from Guthrie.

THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOONERS

18 MILES Located just 18 miles north of Nor- man, the state’s capital, Oklahoma City, off ers all the trappings of a large metropolitan area within an easy drive.

NBA IN OKC Oklahoma City was recently awarded the NBA’s Seattle fran- chise and games will be played in the Ford Center downtown for the 2008-09 season.

103 SOONERSPORTS.COM

OKLAHOMA ATHLETICS ON THE WEB SoonerSports.com will also receive CBS College Sports Network’s industry-leading online and Oklahoma’s offi cial athletics site, SoonerSports.com, ranked in the top fi ve across the board in new media solutions, including access to new distribution platforms such as CBS2Go mobile and CBS College Sports’ rankings of the 213 school and conference sites in its network for the past podcasting. year. CBS College Sports Network is the leading digital and cable programming company dedicated The University of Oklahoma, in conjunction with its multimedia rights partner, Sooner Sports to college sports. Connecting more fans to more college sports than any other company, Properties, signed on to become a partner in CBS College Sports Network, the industry leader its many platforms for programming distribution include CBS College Sports TV, televising for online networks. It operates Oklahoma’s offi cial athletics Web site, providing Sooner fans regular-season and championship events for 35 men’s and women’s college sports; sportsline. with the most in-depth coverage and interactive content of Oklahoma sports that has ever been com/cbscollegesports and its network of more than 215 offi cial athletic sites; CBS College Sports available. The new and improved Web site, SoonerSports.com, launched on July 1, 2007. Network All Access, broadband services providing live audio and video of more than 10,000 events annually; as well as satellite television and radio, in-fl ight entertainment, wireless The OU Athletics Department and CBS College Sports Network committed considerable research, networks and more. Further information is available at www.sportsline.com/cbscollegesports planning and design resources in developing the new SoonerSports.com. OU is recognized as a leader in intercollegiate athletics and its offi cial site follows in that tradition. Sooner Sports Properties is a division of Learfi eld Sports, which administers multimedia rights for nearly 35 collegiate institutions and associations including fellow Big 12 members Colorado, For many, the site serves as the front door to the Sooner experience. SoonerSports.com also Iowa State, Kansas State, Missouri and Texas A&M. The Dallas-based company also secures provides an integral link between OU student-athletes, their families, coaches, Oklahoma marketing partnerships for the Black Coaches Association (BCA) and provides exclusive sports students, fans, prospective student-athletes, alumni, media, donors, corporate partners, the programming to more than 1,000 radio stations throughout the country. University and peer institutions in the Big 12 Conference and the NCAA. Additionally, Team Services, LLC, a Learfi eld Sports company, specializes in venue naming rights, The site strengthens Oklahoma’s commitment in bringing its fans the most extensive coverage marketing research and sales consultation. of the Sooners direct from Norman. By utilizing the latest technology, including webcasts, podcasts, RSS feeds, wireless services and more, OU presents fans with unprecedented SOONERSPORTSMEDIA.COM opportunities to access offi cial Sooner news, features and multimedia. The OU Athletics Department provides an innovative service for media covering the Sooners. Log on to SoonerSportsMedia.com and download high-resolution action photos, mug shots, offi cial In addition to Oklahoma All-Access, CBS College Sports Network launched a custom Web site OU logos, online credentials and more. Visit the site to request an account for access. with a variety of online features including an e-commerce store, photo galleries and CBS College Sports Network’s exclusive GameTracker ™ technology, which allows fans to follow live simulated game action, details and full play-by-play of their favorite Sooner sports.

OKLAHOMA’S HOME ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB

104