20052005 BBeeararcatscats

Senior Maria Pongonis 20052005 OutlookOutlook

Young Bearcats Enter New Era In 2005 The University of and its volleyball pro- The Bearcats will have substantial work to do to both offensively and defensively, as well serving as a gram embark on a new journey this year as the get back to the post-season in 2005, as they must re- mentor for UC’s young roster. Bearcats enter their first season of competition in the place three key starters, including the program’s first- In addition to the challenging first season of BIG BIG EAST Conference. The Bearcats will be out to con- ever All-American in Julie DuPont. EAST play, Sunahara and his staff have put together tinue the winning tradition they established during Even with the losses, sixth-year head coach Reed another tough non-conference schedule that includes their decade of membership in Conference USA in the Sunahara likes what he sees with his young squad. eight NCAA Tournament qualifiers from a season ago new league. “It’s no secret that we lost some very talented play- and three squads that finished the year ranked among That tradition runs deep and includes 10 straight ers,” Sunahara says. “But we also have quality play- the top-20 nationally. 20-win seasons, NCAA Tournament berths in five of ers coming back and coupled with the newcomers we “We are extremely excited about the upcoming the last six years and four C-USA regular season or tour- have coming in, I think that we should have our sights season, our first in the BIG EAST,” Sunahara continued. nament championships. set on another successful year.” “In addition to the challenges of a new conference, we The 2004 season was another strong one for the Stepping into a leadership role after DuPont’s have put together a very competitive non-conference 2005 Outlook Bearcats, as they posted a 22-11 record and finished graduation will be senior outside hitter Maria schedule that will test us early on. While we do have a tied for second in the C-USA race. Despite the record, Pongonis. Having been a fixture in the starting line- young team, we feel they are certainly capable of com- UC missed out on a sixth straight NCAA berth. up the past two seasons, Pongonis will be counted on peting against such a quality schedule.” Outside Hitters Senior Maria Pongonis anchors an otherwise The battle after Maldo comes down to a pair of young group at outside hitter that will have huge newcomers in freshmen Lindsey Peterson and Jami shoes to fill with the loss of Julie DuPont, the first two- Torok. UC plucked Peterson from Arlington, Texas time Conference USA Player of the Year in program where she was a High School All-American and one of history. Despite the losses, Sunahara is excited about prepvolleyball.com’s Senior Aces. At 6-0, Peterson has this young, but talented group. the talent to make an immediate impact this fall. Pongonis has been one of the Bearcats’ big guns Torok (6-0) is a local product that signed with the for the past two seasons after transferring from Ohio Bearcats out of McAuley High. Coming from one of State. Pongonis is a dangerous offensive player and the Cincinnati-area’s top programs, Torok was a two- is also an anchor for the Bearcats on defense. Last year, time all-state selection and also helped her school to Pongonis used her outstanding all-around skills to a pair of district championships. rank second on the team in kills (2.90 per game) and With the graduation of Leslie Newell, the Bearcats third in digs (2.67 per game). She also possesses a have a hole to fill at right-side hitter and Jenny Custer dangerous jump serve that allowed her to lead the is the top candidate for the job. A 6-0 sophomore, team with 43 aces last season. Custer played in all but one match last season and After Pongonis, the Bearcats’ cupboard is short on has the ability to be a star. experience, but not on talent. Sophomore Erin Maldo Senior Maria Pongonis gained limited experience last year, playing in a total of 13 matches. Setters The setter position has possibly the most Another year of experience will do nothing but help experience of any time since Sunahara took the reigns. Olson and the Bearcats. In addition to returning starter Noel Olson, the Wisz should also be a factor after being named to Bearcats added University of Rhode Island transfer the Atlantic 10 Conference All-Rookie squad last year. Chelsea Wisz in the off-season to compete for the slot. Just a sophomore, Wisz averaged 11.62 assists per UC started 2004 in a 6-2 alignment, using both game for Rhode Island. Her size (6-0) also makes her Olson, now a junior, and Jenny Custer as setters. The a dangerous offensive threat and her strong defensive squad could go that route again this year as Wisz skills allowed her to record a pair of triple-doubles last started 22 matches for the Rams last year. year. Olson took over the main setting job about a half- Custer has also proven she can handle the setting dozen matches into last season and wound up ranked duties if the top two falter. However, she will be third in Conference USA with 12.35 assists per game. counted on heavily as a right-side hitter. Junior Noel Olson

1818

 20052005 OutlookOutlook

Middle Blockers The Bearcats are talented, but young in the Nevitt may have the upper hand in the middle, led by the return of two-year starter and battle for the other starting job after learning former conference freshman of the year Myanna from Hellsten and Torblaa last year. An Hellsten. Behind Hellsten, though, are a pair of outstanding leaper, Nevitt, at 6-2, refined her inexperienced players in redshirt freshman Jessie skills with a trip to Argentina over the summer Nevitt and true freshman Jessica Elley. with other college all-stars. Hellsten (6-3) is expected to anchor the middle UC should also get a boost this fall with the after showing steady improvement the last two addition of the 6-3 Elley. An accomplished prep seasons. A junior, Hellsten is one of the squad’s most player, Elley will bring much needed depth to experienced players and is coming off a year in which the inside. At Gilbert High School in Arizona, Elley

she was a third team all-conference selection. UC will was a three-time all-state performer and is also 2005 Outlook need more offense from Hellsten with the graduation an accomplished soccer player. loss of Rachel Torblaa. At the net, Hellsten has led the Junior Myanna Hellsten team in blocks each of the last two years. Libero/Defensive Specialist In its fourth season in college in women’s college At 5-8, she brings good size to the backline. volleyball, the libero has proven to be a crucial position UC also boasts a pair of players with the for teams across the country. versatility to contribute on defense when not Like so many other positions, the Bearcats have a playing other spots. Setters Noel Olson and nice blend of youth and experience at the libero spot. Chelsea Wisz both have the skills to help Sophomore Natalie Dossman took the starting spot defensively when not at their natural positions. last year and wound up leading the team with 3.32 The libero is a defensive specialist who can digs per game. Despite being just 5-3, Dossman is a sub in and out of a game without counting fiery, tough competitor that will work hard to keep against a team’s substitution limit, however the her position. player can only play the back line and cannot Dossman can expect a challenge from freshman attack or set. A new rule for last season allows Melissa Zenz. A product of Ursuline Academy in the libero to serve during one of the team’s Cincinnati, Zenz was an all-state performer as a senior. rotations. Sophomore Natalie Dossman Capsule Look at the Bearcats

Outside Hitters Setters The middle features a returning starter in Hellsten, plus a Returning Starters: Returning Starter::: pair of rookies. Nevitt redshirted last season and gained Jenny Custer 6-0 So. 0.31 k/g 1.29 d/g Noel Olson 5-7 Jr. 12.35 a/g 1.79 d/g experience playing with a national team in Argentina over Maria Pongonis 6-0 Sr. 2.90 k/g 2.67 d/g Newcomer::: the summer. Elley will also figure in the mix as a true fresh- Other Key Returnee: Chelsea Wisz 6-0 So. 11.62 a/g 2.74 d/g man. Erin Maldo 5-11 So. 0.62 k/g 0.95 d/g UC has the rare luxury of having two experienced setters Newcomers: with Wisz joining the team from Rhode Island. Olson was Libero/Defensive Specialist Lindsey Peterson 6-0 Fr. the team’s starter in 2004 and will be pushed this year by Returning Starter::: Jami Torok 6-0 Fr. the addition of Wisz. Natalie Dossman 5-3 So. 3.32 d/g Losses: Newcomer::: Julie DuPont 4.90 k/g 3.26 d/g Middle Blockers Melissa Zenz 5-8 Fr. Leslie Newell 2.18 k/g 0.71 b/g Returning Starter::: Loss: The Bearcats have an enormous hole to fill with the loss Myanna Hellsten 6-3 Jr. 2.43 k/g 1.35 b/g Lindsey Garrison 2.11 d/g of DuPont, a two-time conference player of the year. Other Key Returnee: Dossman stepped into the starting libero role last year and Pongonis will be counted on to step in as the squad’s Jessie Nevitt 6-2 R-Fr. led the team in digs as a freshman. She will be challenged most experienced outside hitter. Custer has been Newcomer::: this year by newcomer Zenz. Olson and Wisz could also groomed for the right side position and will have first Jessica Elley 6-2 Fr. contribute here when not setting. crack. The team will need Maldo or one of the freshmen Loss: to step up as well. Rachel Torblaa 2.87 k/g 1.12 b/g

1919

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Jenny Custer 1 6-0 • Sophomore • OH/S • Colorado Springs,,, Colo... • Doherty

2004 Season (Freshman) High School: Led Doherty High to a state championship as • Played in 32 matches, seeing time as both a setter and an a senior under coach Linda Feeney ... named tournament outside hitter. MVP by the Rocky Mountain News ... an all-state and all- • Averaged 1.29 digs per game, including a career-best eight area selection as both a junior and senior ... earned a total of at Wright State. 11 varsity letters, competing in volleyball (4), basketball (3), • Tallied at least 20 assists in all four matches in which she soccer (3) and tennis (1) ... was named the Rotary Champi- Getting to know ... played setter. Posted career-high 22 in win over (Ohio). ons Foundation Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year as well Jenny Custer • Registered season-high six kills vs. Kent State. as being inducted into Doherty's Athletic Hall of Fame ... a • Fifth on team with 25 aces. nominee for the Fred Steinmark High School Athlete of the Favorite singer/band: ...... Rascal Flatts • Totaled five blocks in collegiate debut against Bradley. Year, as one of the top eight athletes in Colorado ... a National Favorite sports movie: • Named to C-USA Commissioner's Honor Roll (GPA 3.0 or Honor Society member who graduated seventh in her class...... Miracle better). One word that describes me: • Topcat (GPA over 3.5) and Bearcat Scholar (GPA over 3.0). Personal: Born Aug. 23, 1985 … daughter of Duane and ...... outgoing Jayne Custer … older sister Jaden played volleyball at Favorite pro sports team... Creighton … undecided on a major...... Denver Broncos Favorite meal: ...... Pizza Hut pizza Before a match, I ...

Bearcat Bios .. spray axe on myself in the shape of a “J.” The best advice I ever received is ...... if you don’t love what you do, then you won’t be very good at it. 2004 Season Highs Kills ...... 6 vs. Kent State (9/4) Att ...... 16 vs. UMBC (9/4) SA ...... 4 vs. Memphis (10/22) Ast ...... 22 vs. Miami (OH) (9/7) Digs ...... 8 vs. Wright State (10/19) BS ...... N/A BA ...... 5 vs. Bradley (9/3) TB ...... 5 vs. Bradley (9/3) Coach Sunahara on Custer::: Career Highs ““This could be her breakthrough year. Kills ...... 6 vs. Kent State (9/4/04) We are expecting big things out of her.” Att ...... 16 vs. UMBC (9/4/04) SA ...... 4 vs. Memphis (10/22/04) Ast ...... 22 vs. Miami (OH) (9/7/04) Digs ...... 8 vs. Wright State (10/19/04) BS ...... N/A BA ...... 5 vs. Bradley (9/3/04) TB ...... 5 vs. Bradley (9/3/04)

Custer’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2004 32 111 34 0.31 26 118 .068 118 1.02 25 143 1.29 0 19 19 0.17 Career 32 111 34 0.31 26 118 .068 118 1.02 25 143 1.29 0 19 19 0.17

2020

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Natalie Dossman 16 5-3 • Sophomore • DS • ,,, Ind... • Bishop Chatard

2004 Season (Freshman) High School: A four-year letterwinner at Bishop Chatard • Led team with 3.32 digs per game. High, playing for coach Jill Starliper ... named to Indianapolis • Started at libero in all but one match as a true freshman. Star All-City second team as a senior ... also earned all-city • Reached double figure digs in 22 matches, including eight honors as a sophomore and junior ... helped squad to city times in 13 league matches. and sectional championships as a junior ... member of na- • Averaged 3.25 digs per game in Conference USA play. tional champion club team as a freshman ... earned two Getting to know ... • Recorded a career-high 19 digs vs. C-USA foe Saint Louis. letters in track. Natalie Dossman Personal: Born July 2, 1986 … daughter of Jim and Chris Favorite Singer/Band: ...... Dave Matthews and Rascal Flatts Dossman … father played basketball and baseball at Marian Favorite actress: College ... has an older sister, Emily, a younger sister, ...... Jennifer Aniston Stephanie, and a younger brother, Timothy … majoring in Favorite sports movie: nursing...... Miracle and Rudy One word that describes me: ...... energetic My dream job would be ...... running around playing with little kids. Before a match, I ...... like to relax and get focused. Bearcat Bios Favorite quote ... “I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.”-- Vincent Van Gogh 2004 Season Highs Kills ...... 1 at Marquette (10/1) Att ...... 2 at Marquette (10/1) SA ...... N/A Ast ...... 4 vs. Washington State (9/10) Digs ...... 19 vs. Saint Louis (10/22) BS ...... N/A BA ...... N/A TB ...... N/A Coach Sunahara on Dossman: Career Highs ““Natalie improved a great deal during Kills ...... 1 at Marquette (10/1/04) the spring after a good freshman year. Att ...... 2 at Marquette (10/1/04) With her defensive ability, she will be SA ...... N/A Ast ...... 4 vs. Washington State (9/10/04) right in there contributing.” Digs ...... 19 vs. Saint Louis (10/22/04) BS ...... N/A BA ...... N/A TB ...... N/A

Dossman’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2004 33 111 1 0.01 1 7 .000 15 0.14 0 368 3.32 0 0 0 0.00 Career 33 111 1 0.01 1 7 .000 15 0.14 0 368 3.32 0 0 0 0.00

2121

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Myanna Hellsten 12 6-3 • Junior • MB • Austin, Texas • St... Michael’s Academy 2004 Third Team All C-USA • 2003 C-USA Freshman of the Year

Career Milestones High School: A three-time all-state performer at St. • Ranks fifth in school history in both career blocks per game Michael’s Academy, under coach Michael Kane … led St. (1.32) and hitting percentage (.299). Michael’s to three state championships and a 91-23 overall record … nominated for the Wendy’s High School Heisman 2004 Season (Sophomore) Award as a senior … also an excellent basketball player, • Named to All-Conference USA third team. helping team to a state championship and two runner-up Getting to know ... • Ranked fourth in C-USA in hitting percentage (.323) and finishes, while being ranked the 51st best senior basketball Myanna Hellsten fifth in blocks per game (1.35). player in Texas … served as senior class president, while • Named C-USA Player of the Week after posting career- being named to the National Honor Society. Favorite singer/band: ...... Alanis Morissette highs of 14 kills, four aces and three solo blocks at Tulane. Favorite sports movie: • Registered season-high 10 blocks against Saint Louis. Personal: Born Nov. 3, 1984 … daughter of John and Donna ...... Bring It On • Recorded five blocks or more 17 times, including six in con- Hellsten … is an only child … majoring in interdisciplinary If I wasn’t playing volleyball at UC, I... ference play. studies...... would be going to school in Spain. • Reached double figure kills on 12 occasions, including four Favorite non-volleyball sport: times in league play...... curling • Tied for fifth in blocks (1.30) and listed eighth in hitting Ten years from now I ... percentage (.333) against C-USA opponents...... will have an organic garden. • Earned second C-USA Commissioner's Academic Medal Before a match, I ...

Bearcat Bios ...... pick out the perfect hair ribbon. (GPA 3.75 or better). Favorite quote ... • Topcat Scholar (GPA over 3.5)...... “I’m fed up to my ears with old men dreaming up wars for young men to die in.” 2003 Season (Freshman) --George McGovern • Named Conference USA and AVCA Regional Freshman of 2004 Season Highs the Year. Kills ...... 14 at Tulane (10/30) • Ranked second in C-USA with 1.30 blocks per game. Att ...... 28 vs. two opponents • Led all players with 1.59 blocks per game during C-USA SA ...... 4 at Tulane (10/30) play. Ast ...... 3 at Marquette (10/1) • Set the C-USA Freshman record for total blocks in a season Digs ...... 6 at Marquette (10/1) with 149. BS ...... 3 at Tulane (10/30) • Tied school record for blocks assists in a four-game match BA ...... 9 vs. Saint Louis (10/24) with 10 at Memphis. TB ...... 10 vs. Saint Louis (10/24) • Recorded five or more blocks 15 times, including eight dur- ing league play. • Reached double-figure kills on eight occasions, including Career Highs career-best 12 against three opponents. Kills ...... 14 at Tulane (10/30/04) • Hit over .300 14 times, including high of .688 vs. George Att ...... 29 vs. (11/22/03) Mason. SA ...... 4 at Tulane (10/30/04) • Earned C-USA Player of the Week award after averaging Coach Sunahara on Hellsten: Ast ...... 3 at Marquette (10/1/04) 2.75 kills, 1.62 blocks and 1.12 digs per game, while hitting Digs ...... 8 vs. two opponents .326 in wins over Southern Miss and Tulane. ““Myanna has had two successful years BS ...... 3 at Tulane (10/30/04) • Topcat Scholar (GPA over 3.5). and we look for bigger and better BA ...... 10 at Memphis (11/1/03) things this year from her.” TB ...... 10 vs. two opponents

Hellsten’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2003 33 115 230 2.00 81 549 .271 13 0.11 19 88 0.77 14 135 149 1.30 2004 33 117 284 2.43 90 600 .323 17 0.15 39 84 0.72 17 141 158 1.35 Career 66 232 514 2.22 171 1149 .299 30 0.13 58 172 0.74 31 276 307 1.32

2222

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Erin Maldo 14 5-11 • Sophomore • OH • Frederick, Md... • Gov... Thomas Johnson

2004 Season (Freshman) High School: A four-year starter and three-year captain at • Saw action in 13 matches, including first career start at Gov. Thomas Johnson High, playing for coach Jim Dorsch ... Wright State. named Washington Post Area Player of the Year as a senior • Recorded career-high 14 digs against Wright State ... earned four all-county awards ... county player of the year • Tallied career-best four kills in collegiate debut vs. UMBC. as a junior and senior ... helped squad to state semifinals • Averaged 0.62 kills and 0.95 digs per game. twice and regional finals twice ... a top 100 player according • Had a pair of kills against then-No. 1 Minnesota. to prepvolleyball.com ... graduated with high honors. Getting to know ... • Bearcat Scholar (GPA over 3.0). Erin Maldo Personal: Born June 24, 1986 … daughter of Ray and Jeri Favorite Athlete: Maldo … has one older sister, Nicole … majoring in busi- ...... LeBron James ness. Favorite singer/band: ...... Outkast Favorite sports movie: ...... Varsity Blues One word that describes me: ...... Random Ten years from now I ...... will be a successful entrepreneur or model. Before a match, I ... Bearcat Bios ...... dance to music. Favorite quote ... “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”-- Arisotle 2004 Season Highs Kills ...... 4 vs. UMBC (9/4) Att ...... 14 vs. two opponents SA ...... 1 at Wright State (10/19) Ast ...... N/A Digs ...... 14 at Wright State (10/19) BS ...... N/A BA ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents TB ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents

Career Highs Kills ...... 4 vs. UMBC (9/4/04) Att ...... 14 vs. two opponents SA ...... 1 at Wright State (10/19/04) Coach Sunahara on Maldo: Ast ...... N/A “ Digs ...... 14 at Wright State (10/19/04) ““Erin got a good taste of the game last BS ...... N/A year and she should be even better this BA ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents year.” TB ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents

Maldo’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2004 13 21 13 0.62 20 54 -.130 0 0.00 1 20 0.95 0 3 3 0.14 Career 13 21 13 0.62 20 54 -.130 0 0.00 1 20 0.95 0 3 3 0.14

2323

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Jessie Nevitt 5 6-2 • R-Freshman • MB • Kennesaw,,, Ga.• Kennesaw Mountain

Summer 2005 Personal: Born Jan. 29, 1986 … daughter of Jack and • Traveled to Argentina as part of Bring It Promotions All- Amanda Nevitt … has older sister, Julie, and older brother, Star Team. James ... father played basketball at Huntingdon College, while uncle, Chuck, played in the NBA …majoring in finance. 2004 Season (Freshman) • Redshirted while learning from starting middle blockers Myanna Hellsten and Rachel Torblaa. Getting to know ... • Named to C-USA Commissioner's Honor Roll (GPA 3.0 or Jessie Nevitt better). Favorite Meal: • Bearcat Scholar (GPA over 3.0)...... anything cooked by my mom Favorite singer/band: High School: A first team all-state selection as a senior at ...... Rascal Flatts Kennesaw Mountain High, under coach Tonya Kern-Honea Favorite sports movie: ...... The Replacements ... named Journal Constitution Area Player of the One word that describes me: Year ... holds school records for kills in a season and career ...... Goofy ... also lettered in basketball and track ... earned two state If I wasn’t playing volleyball at UC I ... championships in the high jump ... earned four team MVP .. would be high jumping at Clemson or Auburn. honors on the basketball court, leading the team in scoring Before a match, I ...

Bearcat Bios and rebounding each year ... graduated with honors and ...... like to relax and have a snack. earned scholar athlete awards. Favorite quote ...... “If it’s free, it’s for me. If I gotta pay, its gotta stay,”--Jenny Custer 2004 Season Highs Kills ...... N/A Att ...... N/A SA ...... N/A Ast ...... N/A Digs ...... N/A BS ...... N/A BA ...... N/A TB ...... N/A

Career Highs Kills ...... N/A Att ...... N/A SA ...... N/A Coach Sunahara on Nevitt: Ast ...... N/A ““With her ability, the sky is the limit for Digs ...... N/A BS ...... N/A Jessie. Playing in Argentina this sum- BA ...... N/A mer should really help.” TB ...... N/A

Nevitt’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2004 Redshirted

2424

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Noel Olson 2 5-7 • Junior • S • Wheaton, Ill. • St... Francis

Career Milestones High School: Led St. Francis High to a state championship as • Ranks eighth in school history in career assists (1,533) and a senior, playing for Peg Kopec … earned spot on state all- seventh in assists per game (6.61). tournament team … named team’s most valuable player as a senior … garnered all-conference and all-area acco- 2004 Season (Sophomore) lades during senior year … member of the National Honor • Became team’s primary setter during the fifth match of the Society and student government … also involved with Big year. Brothers and Big Sisters program. Getting to know ... • Ranked third in Conference USA in assists per game (12.35). Noel Olson • Dished out career-high 66 assists in four-game win over Personal: Born Jan. 26, 1985 … daughter of Dave and Kathy Favorite Athlete: Southern Miss. Olson … father played baseball at Centenary College … ...... my dad • Ranks seventh in school history in assists in a season (1,445) has one older sister, Lauren, and one younger sister, Danni Favorite meal: Favorite meal: and ninth in assists per game (12.35). … majoring in psychology...... prime rib Favorite sports movie: • Was third in the conference in assists per game in league ...... Remember the Titans matches at 13.49. One word that describes me: • Averaged 1.79 digs and 0.44 blocks per game...... lucky • Recorded 50+ assists 13 times, including seven times When I get an hour of free time I, ... against C-USA opponents...... sleep. • Had career-highs of four kills and six blocks in C-USA Tour- Before a match, I ... nament win over Saint Louis. Bearcat Bios ...... play cards. • Named to Conference USA Commissioner's Honor Roll (GPA The best advice I ever received is ... The best advice I ever received is ... 3.0 or better) for second time...... to make the best of every situation - life is what you make it. • Topcat Scholar (GPA over 3.5). 2004 Season Highs 2003 Season (Freshman) Kills ...... 4 vs. Saint Louis (11/20) • Played in all 33 matches as a defensive specialist. Also Att ...... 11 at Marquette (10/1) backed up Laura Lauder at setter. SA ...... 3 vs. East Carolina (11/6) • Saw most extensive action at setter vs. Brown, handing out Ast ...... 66 at Southern Miss (10/29) a then career-best 22 assists. Digs ...... 12 vs. Memphis (10/22) • Double-digit digs in four contests, including a career-high BS ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents 12 vs. DePaul. BA ...... 5 vs. two opponents • Topcat (GPA over 3.5) and Bearcat Scholar (GPA over 3.0). TB ...... 6 vs. Saint Louis (11/20)

Career Highs Kills ...... 4 vs. Saint Louis (11/20/04) Coach Sunahara on Olson: Att ...... 11 at Marquette (10/1/04) ““With a year of setting experience un- SA ...... 3 vs. East Carolina (11/6/04) der her belt, Noel should be much im- Ast ...... 66 at Southern Miss (10/29/04) proved this season.” Digs ...... 12 vs. two opponents BS ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents BA ...... 5 vs. two opponents TB ...... 6 vs. Saint Louis (11/20/04)

Olson’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2003 33 115 7 0.06 3 20 .200 88 0.77 19 212 1.84 0 2 2 0.02 2004 33 117 36 0.31 27 112 .080 1445 12.35 18 210 1.79 4 47 51 0.44 Career 66 232 43 0.19 30 132 .098 1533 6.61 37 422 1.82 4 49 53 0.23

2525

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Maria Pongonis 7 6-0 • Senior • OH • Cincinnati, Ohio • McNicholas

Career Milestones Ohio State: Injuries cut short most of freshman year, limiting • Ranks ninth in school history in career kills per game (3.15). her to just eight matches … was a starter for the first three matches of the season, concluding the campaign with 1.35 2004 Season (Junior) kills and 1.29 digs per game … had season-best perfor- • Ranked second on the team in kills (2.90) and third in digs mance against Colorado, carding then career highs of 11 kills (2.67) per game. and seven digs … also had nine kills and six digs against • Led team with 43 service aces. Hawaii. Getting to know ... • Erupted for a career-high 23 kills vs. Washington State, Maria Pongonis while hitting .372 and adding 12 digs. High School: A three-time first team all-conference selec- Favorite Athlete: • Had double digit kills in 19 of 32 contests, with 11 double- tion at McNicholas High, playing for Molly McDermott … ...... Muhammad Ali Favorite sports movie: doubles. named to all-state second team as a senior … led McNicholas ...... Remember the Titans • Set new career-high with 18 digs vs. Saint Louis. to a 59-28 record, including a conference championship as a If I wasn’t playing volleyball at UC, I... • Registered 16 kills on season-best .387 hitting, while add- junior … named to the all-city first team three times … ...... would be majoring in music. ing 15 digs in win over Kent State. earned team most valuable and best offensive player awards One word that describes me: • Had season-high four blocks in win over Miami (Ohio). as a senior … served as co-president of the National Honor ...... stubborn • Named to C-USA Commissioner's Honor Roll (GPA 3.0 or Society. Ten years from now I will be ... better) for second time. ... working as a physical therapist and coaching. • Topcat Scholar (GPA over 3.5). Personal: Born June 15, 1984 … daughter of Larry and Carole Before a match, I ...

Bearcat Bios Pongonis … has one older brother, Steve, and two older ...... listen to music to get pumped up. 2003 Season (Sophomore) My dream job would be ... 2003 Season (Sophomore) sisters, Katy and Anna … majoring in health sciences...... starring on Broadway. • Ranked second on the team in kills (3.44) and third in digs The best advice I ever received is ... (2.80) per game. .. understand that everything happens for a reason. • Second on team with 34 service aces. 2004 Season Highs • Recorded 10 or more kills in 21 of 28 matches, while posting Kills ...... 23 vs. Washington State (9/10) 11 double-doubles. Att ...... 47 vs. Miami (FL) (9/11) • Registered a career-best 15 digs at Saint Louis. SA ...... 3 vs. multiple opponents • Averaged 3.72 kills and 3.26 digs in Conference USA play. Ast ...... 3 vs. Saint Louis (10/24) • Erupted for a then career-best 20 kills in win over Marquette. Digs ...... 18 vs. Saint Louis (10/24) • Put together 13 matches of at least .300 hitting, including BS ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents season-high .579 vs. Robert Morris. BA ...... 3 vs. multiple opponents • Named to all-tournament team at Bearcat Invitational. TB ...... 4 vs. Miami (OH) (9/7) • Topcat (GPA over 3.5) and Bearcat (GPA over 3.0) Scholar.

Career Highs Kills ...... 23 vs. Washington State (9/10/04) Att ...... 54 vs. Marquette (10/3/03) Coach Sunahara on Pongonis: SA ...... 4 at Miami (OH) (9/12/03) ““When Maria is healthy, she has the Ast ...... 3 vs. two opponents Digs ...... 18 vs. Saint Louis (10/24/04) capability of being an impact player.” BS ...... 1 vs. multiple opponents BA ...... 4 vs. two opponents TB ...... 5 at Memphis (11/1/03) Pongonis’ Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2002* 8 17 23 1.35 18 82 .061 3 0.18 3 22 1.29 0 1 1 0.06 2003 28 96 330 3.44 144 816 .228 23 0.24 34 269 2.80 5 35 40 0.42 2004 32 112 325 2.90 179 933 .156 18 0.16 43 299 2.67 3 37 40 0.36 Career^ 60 208 655 3.15 323 1749 .190 41 0.20 77 568 2.73 8 72 80 0.38 * at Ohio State ^Cincinnati Only

2626

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Jessica Elley 13 6-2 • Freshman • MB • Gilbert,,, Ariz. • Gilbert

High School: Led Gilbert High to four regional and one Getting to know ... state championship, playing for coach Joe Hesse ... Jessica Elley squad made three trips to state tournament ... a three- Favorite sports movie: time all-state selection, twice earning first team hon- ...... Kicking and Screaming ors ... named area Player of the Year as a senior by the Favorite non-sports movie: East Valley Tribune ... also named the Fiesta Region and ...... Old School Southwest Player of the Year ... named a Senior Ace by If I wasn’t playing volleyball at UC, I... prepvolleyball.com ... was also a four-time all-region ...... would be home in Arizona. selection as a goalie in soccer ... named the region’s One word that describes me: ...... spunky defensive player of the year three times ... helped soc- 10 years from now I will ... cer squad to three regional titles and three trips to the .. be living in California and playing sand volleyball. Coach Sunahara on Elley::: state tournament. Before a match, I ... ““Jessica can have a big impact as a ...... eat Gushers. freshman with her great swing.” Personal: Born Feb. 14, 1987 … daughter of Gordon Favorite meal ... and MarySusan Elley … has one older brother, Rich- ...... steak and baked potato ard, and one older sister, Susanne … intends to major The best advice I ever received is ... in pre-pharmacy...... live life to the fullest. Bearcat Bios

Lindsey Peterson 3 6-0 • Freshman • OH • Arlington, Texas • Lamar

High School: Led Lamar High to a district champion- Getting to know ... ship as a senior, playing for coach Shain Sackett ... Lindsey Peterson named a High School All-American and a Senior Ace by Favorite sports movie: prepvolleyball.com ... a first team all-state member as ...... Remember the Titans a senior ... tabbed District Hitter of the Year ... named Favorite singer/band: all-area first team by the Dallas Morning News ... a two- ...... Britney Spears time all-district selection and twice named all-area by If I wasn’t playing volleyball at UC, I... the Fort Worth Star Telegram ... National Honor Society .. would be a normal student at Texas Tech. member. Favorite athlete: ...... Dirk Nowitzki My dream job would be ... Personal: Born April 19, 1987 … daughter of Craig and Coach Sunahara on Peterson: ...... Britney Spears’ back-up dancer Mary Jo Peterson … older sister, Lauren plays volley- Before a match, I ... ““Lindsey has the all-around skills to be ball at Wake Forest … intends to major in business...... listen to rap music to get pumped up. a really good college player.” When I get an hour of free time I ...... watch Ellen or Oprah. The best advice I ever received is ...... always listen to your mother.

2727

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Jami Torok 15 6-0 • Freshman • OH • Cincinnati, Ohio • McAuley

High School: Led McAuley High to a pair of district Getting to know ... championships, under coach Kristi Nadler ... a two-time Jami Torok all-state selection, including second team in 2004 ... was Favorite sports movie: twice named all-conference and was tabbed first team ...... Love and Basketball as a senior ... named school’s Senior Scholar Athlete of Favorite non-volleyball sport: the Year ... helped club team win the Junior Olympics ...... cornhole national championship, while picking up tournament Favorite meal... MVP honors ... National Honor Society member. ... blackened chicken alfredo from TGI Friday’s One word that describes me: ...... playful Personal: Born January 16, 1987 … daughter of Marc Favorite actress ... Coach Sunahara on Torok: and Karen Torok … has two younger sisters, Kellie and ...... Natalie Portman Karlie ... mother, the former Karen Mohaupt, lettered in ““Jami will battle for a starting job. She Before a match, I ... volleyball at UC in 1977 … intends to major in pre- . put on my headphones and get focused. is an excellent all-around player.” med. When I get an hour of free time,,, I ...... take a nap or talk on the phone. The best advice I ever received is ...... sing like no one is listening and dance like no one’s watching. Bearcat Bios

Chelsea Wisz 9 6-0 • Sophomore • S • Naperville,,, Ill. • Naperville North

At Rhode Island: Named to the Atlantic 10 Conference Personal: Born July 29, 1986 … daughter of Stan and All-Rookie Team ... averaged a team-best 11.62 assists Rose Wisz … has two younger brothers, Stanley and per game in 22 starts ... recorded triple-doubles vs. Con- Nathan … majoring in fine arts. necticut (48 assists, 13 kills, 16 digs) and Fordham (55 assists, 11 kills, 13 digs) ... also averaged 1.21 kills and Getting to know ... 2.74 digs per game ... handed out a career-high 53 as- Chelsea Wisz sists in win over New Hampshire. Favorite sports movie: ...... The Mighty Ducks High School: Led Naperville North High to a confer- My dream job would be... ence title and a 37-2 record as a senior, playing for coach ...... an artist Favorite Meal: Ric Krebs ... recorded 911 assists as a senior ... earned ...... sushi Coach Sunahara on Wisz: all-conference first team honors ... also named an AAU Before a match, I... ““Chelsea brings the added dimension All-American, playing for the West Suburban Volleyball ...... sing. of size to the setter position that we’ve Club ... also spent three years with the Sports Perfor- Favorite quote ... mance Setting Academy, learning from top setting in- “If everyone demanded peace instead of never had.” structor, Rick Butler. another television set, then there’d be peace.”--John Lennon

Wisz’s Career At Rhode Island Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G Career 24 87 105 1.21 42 305 .207 1011 11.62 25 238 2.74 4 53 57 0.66

2828

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

Melissa Zenz 17 5-8 • Freshman • DS • Cincinnati, Ohio • Ursuline Academy

High School: Helped Ursuline Academy to three state Getting to know ... tournament appearances, including a state title as a Melissa Zenz sophomore ... played for three different coaches, includ- Favorite sports movie: ing Chuck Harmon as a senior ... squad was regional ...... Remember the Titans runner-up during senior campaign ... a third team all- Favorite athletes: state selection as a senior ... also earned all-conference ...... Mia Hamm and Sean Casey and all-city recognition ... helped Junior Olympics squad If I wasn’t playing volleyball at UC, I... to a national championship, while also earning a spot ..... would be in college in/near New York. on national all-tournament team ... winner of One word that describes me: Cincinnatus Scholarship and a presidential award...... spontaneous Favorite meal ... Personal: Born May 20, 1987 … daughter of Jim and ...... steak and mashed potatoes Coach Sunahara on Zenz: Before a match, I ... Teri Zenz … has one older sister, Michelle and a younger ““Melissa will add good defense and ...... eat chocolate and mentally focus. brother, Michael … intends to major in marketing. passing skills to our team. She can chal- When I get an hour of free time,,, I ...... play piano or guitar. lenge for the job at libero.” The best advice I ever received is ...... dream as if you’ll live forever and live as if you’ll die today. Bearcat Bios

Volleyball Support Staff

Maddie Barron Hannah May Scott Greenawalt Student Assistant Student Manager Asst. Strength Coach

Jacki Ryden Shawn Sell Assoc. Director of Academic Asst. Sports Info. Director/ Services VB Contact

2929

 20052005 BearcatsBearcats

2004 Bearcat Seniors Julie DuPont • OH • Muskego,,, Wis... • Muskego HS • Named to the AVCA All-American third team as a junior, becoming the first ever UC Volleyball All-American. Was an honorable mention selection as a senior. • A two-time Conference USA Player of the Year. • A three-time CoSIDA Academic All-American. • Named to C-USA’s 10th anniversary All-Decade Team. • Ranks first in school history and third in conference annals in career kills (2,137). • Among UC’s career top-10 in kills per game (first-4.69), attempts (first-5,310), digs (second-1,350), block assists (fifth-364), digs per game (tie,sixth-2.96), total blocks (eighth-412) and games played (tie, ninth-456). • Earned four C-USA Academic Medals for having a cumulative GPA over 3.75. • A member of UC’s prestigious Legion of Excellence for having the team’s highest cumulative GPA. • A two-year team captain.

DuPont’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2001 31 111 359 3.23 131 968 .236 50 0.45 34 265 2.39 12 108 120 1.08 2002 32 113 581 5.14 222 1445 .248 19 0.17 20 309 2.73 13 86 99 0.88 2003 33 115 624 5.43 227 1482 .268 30 0.26 37 395 3.43 14 89 103 0.90 2004 33 117 573 4.90 223 1415 .247 23 0.20 26 381 3.26 9 81 90 0.77 Career 129 456 2137 4.69 803 5310 .251 122 0.27 117 1350 2.96 48 364 412 0.90

Leslie Newell • OH • Merrillville,,, Ind... • Merrillville HS • Listed in the top-10 on the UC career lists for block assists (T8th-331) and hitting percentage (ninth-.281). • One of just 15 players in program history with over 900 kills (953). • Ranked fourth in Conference USA as a senior with a .321 hitting percentage. Bearcat Bios • Holds the fourth and fifth highest single match hitting performances in school history. • Ranked sixth in C-USA as a junior with a .312 hitting percentage. • Had a career-best 22 kills against Marquette as a sophomore. • Team tri-captain as a senior.

Newell’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2000 34 119 215 1.81 113 551 .185 33 0.28 10 74 0.62 2 86 88 0.74 2001 Medical Redshirt 2002 24 81 169 2.09 48 411 .294 29 0.36 8 60 0.74 4 65 69 0.85 2003 33 115 320 2.78 84 756 .312 66 0.57 1 43 0.37 4 100 104 0.90 2004 33 114 249 2.18 72 549 .322 32 0.28 3 31 0.27 1 80 81 0.71 Career 124 429 953 2.22 317 2267 .281 160 0.37 22 208 0.48 11 331 342 0.80

Rachel Torblaa • MB • Savage,,, Minn. • Burnsville HS • A two-year All-Conference USA selection, including a second team choice as a senior. • Became just the 10th player in school history with 1,000 career kills, finishing with 1,018. • Ranks second in school history in career block assists (437), third in total blocks (497) and seventh in blocks per game (1.26). • Also listed in school annals in career hitting percentage (seventh-.291) and career kills (10th-1,018). • Broke school records for blocks in a three-game match with 12 vs. TCU, while matching three-game block assist mark in 2003. • Led C-USA and ranked 11th nationally in blocks per game as a sophomore (1.46). • Three times named to the C-USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Also a member of UC’s prestigious Legion of Excellence for holding the highest cumulative GPA on the team. • Team tri-captain as a senior. Torblaa’s Career Statistics Year MP GP K K/G E TA Pct... A A/G SA D D/G BS BA BT B/G 2001 19 50 67 1.34 31 159 .226 3 0.06 0 6 0.12 7 49 56 1.12 2002 32 113 256 2.27 90 609 .273 16 0.14 10 52 0.46 20 145 165 1.46 2003 33 115 359 3.12 106 808 .313 6 0.05 26 80 0.70 18 127 145 1.26 2004 33 117 336 2.87 109 767 .296 6 0.05 29 93 0.79 15 116 131 1.12 Career 117 395 1018 2.58 336 2343 .291 31 0.08 65 231 0.58 60 437 497 1.26

3030

 CCincinnatincinnatii SStafftaff

UC Head Coach Reed Sunahara BearcatBearcat CoachesCoaches Reed Sunahara Head Coach 6th year • UCLA ‘89 Reed Sunahara has guided the University of Cin- As an assistant, Sunahara was involved in all coaching aspects, from recruit- cinnati volleyball program to unprecedented heights ing and scheduling to practice planning and scouting. He was instrumental in de- during his five seasons as head coach. veloping Cincinnati’s middle blockers, including former all-time kills leader Becky Sunahara has piloted the Bearcats to NCAA Tournament appearances during Tenkman, four-time all-conference selection Bonita Wise and two-time all-confer- four of his five seasons, after helping the program to an NCAA berth as an assistant ence choice Stephanie Meinig. The Bearcats were 70-32 in his three seasons as an in 1999. UC has claimed a trio of Conference USA regular season championships assistant. and set school records for consecutive wins, consecutive home wins and consecu- Sunahara previously spent four seasons at Toledo, serving as head coach for tive games won, under Sunahara’s tutelage. Since his arrival in Clifton, UC has won the final two years. In 1993, the Rockets reached the Mid-American Conference at least 21 matches every season. Sunahara has also become the program’s Tournament for the first time. As head coach, he posted a 19-40 record, including a winningest coach, a distinction he gained in 2004. In five years at UC, Sunahara has 12-19 mark in 1996. amassed 119 coaching victories. Prior to Toledo, Sunahara served as assistant men’s coach (1990-93) at peren- The 2004 season saw UC earn another C-USA Tournament first round bye, while nial power UCLA under Al Scates, the all-time winningest volleyball coach in NCAA advancing to the tournament semifinals for the seventh time in 10 years. Sunahara history. He also served as the graduate assistant at UCLA in 1987 and 1989. The also guided the Bearcats to their 10th straight 20-win season, finishing with a 22- Bruins won three national championships during his coaching tenure. 11 mark. Julie DuPont was honored as the C-USA Player of the Year for the second As a player, Sunahara helped lead UCLA to three straight national champion- straight campaign and was again tabbed an All-American by the AVCA. ships, including two undefeated seasons (29-0 in 1982 and 38-0 in 1984). He led During the 2003 season, Sunahara guided a team that lost two of the top the Bruins with a .399 hitting percentage in 1984 and was considered the nation’s players in school history-Trish Ladusaw and Bonita Wise-to a share of the C-USA best outside hitter. regular season championship and a fifth straight NCAA Tournament appearance. A two-time All-American, Sunahara played with Olympians Karch Kiraly, Ricci The Bearcats finished with a 27-6 record, presenting him with his 100th coaching Luyties (the current head coach at Southern Miss), Doug Partie and Dave Saunders victory. DuPont blossomed under Sunahara’s tutelage, becoming UC’s first-ever during his career. In 1988, he went to Spain to play professionally in the Canary volleyball All-American. In 2002, Sunahara led the Bearcats to a 23-9 mark and an NCAA Tournament at-large berth. Sunahara earned the C-USA Coach of the Year Award in 2001 after leading the Bearcats to their most successful season ever. The Bearcats finished the season 23- 8, capturing the C-USA regular season championship and matching a school record with a 14-2 conference ledger. A trip to the NCAA Tournament brought UC its first tournament win. Along the way the Bearcats set a school record by winning 16 straight matches. In 2000, his first year as UC’s head coach, Sunahara led a team returning three Bearcat Staff starters to a second consecutive C-USA American Division title with a 14-2 league record, earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Sunahara joined the Cincinnati family in 1997 as the top assistant to then head coach Laura Alford.

The Reed Sunahara File College: UCLA (BA in Sociology, 1989) Year at Cincinnati: 6th as head coach, 9th overall Career Record: 134-84 overall, 119-44 at Cincinnati Coaching experience: 18 seasons Playing experience: UCLA (1982-86), two-time All-American, three NCAA titles; NIKE/Molten at the USVBA national championships (1987, 90); Cisneros Isla Verdes in the Canary Islands (1988). Personal: Married, wife Laura; children Rex (9), R.J. (5) and Mia (born in July)

3232

 BearcatBearcat CoachesCoaches

Sunahara Career vs. All Opponents Won Lost Last Meeting Won Lost Last Meeting Akron ...... 0 4 1996 Memphis ...... 6 0 2004 Arizona State...... 0 1 2003 Miami (FL) ...... 0 1 2004 Austin Peay ...... 1 0 2003 Miami (OH) ...... 3 3 2004 Ball State ...... 1 4 2003 Michigan ...... 0 3 2002 Bowling Green ..... 2 3 2000 Minnesota ...... 0 1 2004 Bradley ...... 1 0 2004 Missouri-Kansas City . 1 0 2000 Brown ...... 1 0 2003 Morehead State.... 1 0 2004 Buffalo ...... 1 0 1996 Nevada ...... 1 0 2002 Butler ...... 2 0 2004 New Hampshire ... 1 0 2000 Cal Poly ...... 0 1 2002 New Mexico State 1 0 2003 UC-Santa Barbara . 0 1 1995 New Orleans ...... 1 0 1996 Central Florida ...... 1 1 2003 Nicholls State ...... 0 1 1996 Central Michigan .. 1 4 2003 Northern Illinois ... 0 1 2000 Charlotte ...... 7 1 2004 Notre Dame ...... 0 3 2002 Cincinnati ...... 0 1 1996 Ohio ...... 1 4 2004 Laura, Reed, Rex & R.J. Sunahara State .... 1 0 1995 Ohio State ...... 0 3 2001 Colorado State...... 1 0 2002 Penn State ...... 0 1 2003 Dayton...... 5 1 2004 Robert Morris ...... 1 0 2003 Islands for Cisneros Isla Verdes. He played for cham- DePaul ...... 6 1 2004 Saint Louis...... 6 1 2004 pion NIKE/Molten at the Volleyball As- East Carolina ...... 5 0 2004 San Francisco ...... 1 1 2001 sociation national championships in 1987 and 1990. Eastern Kentucky .. 2 0 2003 South Carolina ...... 0 1 1996 Eastern Michigan .. 3 2 2000 Southern Miss ...... 5 0 2004 Sunahara has held his own camp, The Reed Evansville ...... 1 0 1995 SW Missouri State 1 0 2003 Sunahara Volleyball Camp, for 10 years. Fairfield ...... 1 0 2003 TCU ...... 3 1 2004 A native of Hilo, Hawaii, Sunahara, 42, is married Florida ...... 0 1 2000 Tennessee ...... 1 0 2000 George Mason ...... 2 0 2003 Tennessee-Martin 0 1 1995 to former Bearcat volleyball letterwinner Laura Rekstis, George Washington .. 0 1 2003 Texas Southern ..... 1 0 1996 who played at UC from 1983-86. The couple and their Georgia State ...... 1 0 1995 Tulane...... 6 0 2004 sons, Rex (9) and R.J. (5), and daughter, Mia (born in July), Gonzaga ...... 1 0 2002 UAB ...... 5 0 2004 Hawai’i ...... 0 1 2001 USC ...... 0 1 2001 reside in Clifton. Hofstra ...... 1 1 2003 USF ...... 2 4 2004 Houston ...... 5 1 2004 Utah State ...... 0 1 2001 Indiana ...... 0 1 2000 Valparaiso ...... 0 1 1996 Bearcats Committed To Academics Indiana State ...... 0 1 1995 Virginia ...... 0 1 2004 Success in the classroom is one of Head Coach Reed IUPUI ...... 1 0 2004 Washington State 1 0 2004 Louisiana-Lafayette .. 1 0 2000 Western Kentucky 4 1 2004 Sunahara’s top priorities, which has shown through- Louisville ...... 3 5 2004 Western Michigan 2 2 2003 out his career. Among the highlights during Sunahara’s Loyola Marymount 0 1 2004 Wisconsin ...... 0 1 2004 tenure are: Loyola (IL) ...... 1 0 2000 Wisconsin-Milwaukee3 1 2002 Kent State ...... 2 3 2004 Wright State ...... 5 1 2004 • Julie DuPont named a CoSIDA Academic All-Ameri- Marquette ...... 7 1 2004 Wyoming ...... 1 0 2001 can three times, including a first team choice in 2004. Marshall ...... 1 1 2004 Xavier ...... 3 0 2002 • Trish Ladusaw named CoSIDA Academic All-District Maryland- Co. 1 0 2004 Youngstown State 1 0 1996 Massachusetts...... 0 1 1995 *2005 opponents in italics in 2002. • Student-athletes have earned a total of six Confer- ence USA Academic Medals and 33 slots on the C- Sunahara’s Year-By-Year Coaching Record USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Year School Position Record Conf... Postseason Bearcat Staff • During the 2004-05 year, 12 players posted at least ______1987 UCLA Men’s G.A. Coach 30-3 18-0 NCAA Champion one quarter with a GPA above 3.0, with six of the play- ______1989 UCLA Men’s G.A. Coach 29-5 17-3 NCAA Champion ers doing it all three quarters and four doing it twice. ______1990 UCLA Men’s Asst. Coach 26-5 15-3 ______1991 UCLA Men’s Asst. Coach 16-9 12-4 ______1992 UCLA Men’s Asst. Coach 15-12 11-7 Sunahara’s Milestone Wins at UC ______1993 UCLA Men’s Asst. Coach 24-3 16-3 NCAA Champion 1 - September 2, 2000 at Indiana ______1993 Toledo Women’s Asst. Coach 16-12 9-9 Cincinnati 3, Loyola (IL) 0 ______1994 Toledo Women’s Asst. Coach 8-19 4-13 50 - September 14, 2002 at Wright State ______1995 Toledo Women’s Head Coach 7-21 4-13 Cincinnati 3, Austin Peay 0 ______1996 Toledo Women’s Head Coach 12-19 5-12 100 - September 4, 2004 at Fifth Third Arena ______1997 Cincinnati Women’s Asst. Coach 21-13 12-4 Cincinnati 3, Kent State 0 ______1998 Cincinnati Women’s Asst. Coach 21-12 12-4 102* - September 10, 2004 at Loyola Marymount ______1999 Cincinnati Women’s Asst. Coach 28-7 13-3 C-USA Div. Champs, NCAA Tournament Cincinnati 3, Washington State 1 ______2000 Cincinnati Women’s Head Coach 24-10 14-2 C-USA Div. Champs, NCAA Tournament *Sunahara became UC’s winningest coach ______2001 Cincinnati Women’s Head Coach 23-8 14-2 C-USA Champions, NCAA Tournament ______2002 Cincinnati Women's Head Coach 23-9 11-2 NCAA Tournament ______2003 Cincinnati Women's Head Coach 27-6 12-1 C-USA Champions, NCAA Tournament 2004 Cincinnati Women’s Head Coach 22-11 10-3

3333

 BearcatBearcat CoachesCoaches Steve Aird Assistant Coach 1st year • Penn State ‘00 Steve Aird joined the Cincinnati coaching staff Prior to his tenure at Auburn, in the summer of 2005, after a successful stint as an Aird was an assistant at Davidson assistant coach at Auburn University. College in 2001. He also spent a year At Cincinnati, Aird will have a hand in all areas of (2000) as a graduate assistant coach the program, including serving as the Bearcats’ recruiting coordinator. He will also at his alma mater, Penn State, under be involved with the Bearcat camps, as well as scouting and player development. legendary head coach Russ Rose. Aird spent the previous three seasons at Auburn as As a player, the London, a member of former Marquette coach Laura Farina’s staff. At Auburn, Aird had re- Ontario native was a two-time cap- sponsibilities in all areas of tain of the Nittany Lions men’s the program, including team, helping the squad to three Fi- The Steve Aird File budget, travel, training, re- College: Penn State (BA in Letters, Arts and Sciences, 2000) nal Four appearances. Aird also Year at Cincinnati: 1st cruiting and camps. Dur- played with the Team Canada Vol- Coaching experience: Five seasons ing his tenure, the Tigers leyball Program, competing against Penn State (2000), graduate assistant; Davidson (2001), jumped from the 286th- national teams from across the assistant coach; Auburn (2002-04), assistant coach; Cin- ranked program nation- globe. He earned a BA in sports man- cinnati (2005-present), assistant coach. ally to as high as 77th in Playing experience: Penn State (1997-2000); Team agement from Penn State in 2000. Canada Volleyball (1995-97). 2004. Personal: Single Chrissy Smith Assistant Coach 1st year • Cincinnati ‘98

Former Bearcat Chrissy Smith returned to her Screaming Eagles to a record of alma mater as an assistant coach during the sum- 22-10 and a second place finish mer of 2005. She was a standout middle blocker for in the Great Lakes Valley Confer- Bearcat Staff UC from 1994-97. ence Tournament. During the A 1998 graduate of UC, Smith is directly involved in every aspect of the Bearcat 2000 season, Smith helped the program, with specific responsibilities in the areas of recruiting, travel planning, team to a 27-4 record. tape exchange and on court training with the squad’s middle blockers. As a player at UC, Smith Smith previously served three seasons as an assistant at Northern Illinois, earned All-Conference USA hon- where she coordinated the recruiting efforts for the Huskies’ program and worked ors three times, including second with the team’s middle blockers. Smith was also the Mid-American Conference team awards in 1995 and 1996. representative to the She was also a member of the American Volleyball Great Midwest Conference’s All- The Chrissy Smith File Coaches Association Assis- Newcomer Team in 1994. Smith’s College: Cincinnati (BS in Biology, 1998) name is peppered throughout the Year at Cincinnati: 1st tant Coaches Committee. Coaching experience: Five seasons Smith launched her school record book in numerous Southern Indiana (2000), assistant coach; Southern In- coaching career at Southern categories, including a fourth place ranking in career kills and kills per game. A diana (2001), head coach; Northern Illinois (2002-04), Indiana in 2000, and in former walk-on, Smith went on to receive a full scholarship and served as a team assistant coach; Cincinnati (2005-present), assistant 2001 served as head coach captain during the 1997 season. coach. Playing experience: Cincinnati (1994-97). of the Division II school. In Personal: Single 2001, she guided the

3434

 UCUC AdministrationAdministration Dr. Nancy L. Zimpher

President Dr. Zimpher was the Project Director for a U.S. De- Award, Association of Teacher Educators; the Edward C. On October 1, partment of Education Teacher Quality Grant, co-chair Pomeroy Award for Outstanding Contributions to 2003, Nancy L. of the Partnership Academy: An Urban P- Teacher Education, American Association of Colleges Zimpher became the 16 Council for Quality Teaching and Learning, and for Teacher Education; Distinguished Woman Scholar twenty-fifth Presi- served from 1996-2001 as the President of The Holmes Award, Virginia Commonwealth University; YWCA Ca- dent of the University Partnership, a national network of schools and orga- reer Women of Achievement Award (Cincinnati, 2004); of Cincinnati – and its nizations to improve teaching and learning. Dr. Outstanding Women of Achievement Education Award first woman presi- Zimpher has served on the Executive Board of the (Milwaukee, 2000); YWCA Women of Achievement dent. She previously National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Educa- Award (Columbus, 1997); U.S. Postal Service “Women served as the Chan- tion. She served as a key investigator in the eight- Putting Their Stamp on Metro Milwaukee” Award cellor of the Univer- year Research About Teacher Education (RATE) Study, (2003); the U.S. Postal Service Women’s History Month sity of Wisconsin-Mil- served as a member of the American Council on Award recognizing High-Impact Women (2004, Cincin- waukee and held a faculty position in the School of Education’s Leadership and Institutional Effectiveness nati); and in 1998 was inducted into the Ohio Women’s Education. Prior to the appointment in Wisconsin, she Commission, and served on the Executive Committee Hall of Fame. served as the Executive Dean of the Professional Col- of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Divi- leges and Dean of the College of Education at The Ohio sion I. She currently chairs the Commission on Inter- University Trustees State University in Columbus, Ohio. Dr. Zimpher has national Programs for NASULGC, serves on the board served in various administrative positions and en- of NASULGC, and AACTE. gaged in research and development efforts concerned Dr. Zimpher has participated on numerous state and with improving the preparation of teachers, especially regional as well as civic and community commissions teachers for urban contexts. and boards. She co-chairs the Ohio Board of Regents’ She is the co-author and co-editor of books on Articulation and Transfer Advisory Council and is the higher education (including University Leadership in Inter-University Council representative to the Ohio Urban School Renewal and A Time for Boldness: A Story Board of Regents’ Funding Commission. She has served Phillip Cox of Institutional Change) and books on teacher educa- on several statewide commissions and councils, in- Chair tion (including Profiles of Preservice Teacher Educa- cluding the Ohio Board of Regents/Ohio Board of Edu- tion: Inquiry into the Nature of Programs). She also cation Joint Council, the Wisconsin Governor’s Task has authored and co-authored monographs, book Force on Technical Education and the Wisconsin State chapters, and academic journal articles related to aca- Superintendent’s Blue Ribbon Commission of the Arts demic leadership, school/university partnerships and and Education. She currently serves on the Cincinnati teacher education. Her many contributions in educa- Business Committee and the Advisory Committee for tion and education research have resulted in her be- A Greater Cincinnati Initiative, as well as the boards of Anant R. Bhati Gary Heiman ing sought after as a key participant in conferences the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, both national and international. She has made nu- Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati merous presentations at the American Association of Center City Development Corp. (3CDC), the Greater Cin- Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), Association of cinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau, the United Way of Greater Cincinnati, the Uptown Consortium and

Teacher Educators (ATE), American Educational Re- Bearcat Staff search Association (AERA), American Association for Hebrew Union College-UC Ethics Center. Higher Education (AAHE), National Association of State She is the recipient of numerous awards including Universities and Land-Grant Colleges (NASULGC), the Council for the Advancement and Support of American Council on Education (ACE) and other na- Education’s Chief Executive Leadership Award (2003); Sandra Heimann Tom Humes tional and international conferences. Professional Achievement Award, The Ohio State Uni- versity Alumni Association; Distinguished Research Dr. Nancy R. Hamant Faculty Representative

Nancy Hamant is in her 20th year as Cincinnati’s faculty athletic representative. Candace Kendle H. C. “Buck” Niehoff She also serves on the Athletic Policy and Planning Committee. As UC’s Faculty Representative, she is a liaison with the NCAA and the BIG EAST Conference. She recently completed a term on the NCAA Division I Management Council and currently is a member of the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship Committee. A Univer- sity of Cincinnati graduate with degrees from Arts and Sciences and Education, Hamant is a past president of the UC Alumni Association. She joined the UC faculty in 1964 and is currently Associate Professor and Coordinator of Professional Experiences in the College of Education. The new Academic Center in the Richard Lindner Athletic Center, scheduled to open next spring, will bear her name. George A. Schaefer Jeff Wyler

3535

 AthleticAthletic AdministrationAdministration

Bob Goin, Director of Athletics top 20 contender for the Sears Cup. His most significant accomplishment was guiding Florida State into membership in the Atlantic Coast Conference in 1991. Bob Goin's tenure as director of athletics has brought Goin played a major role in shaping the future of the Florida State program unprecedented success to the University of Cincinnati during his previous nine years as associate AD. sports program. His vision has positioned the university A 1959 graduate of Bethany College, Goin launched his career in athletics at the to achieve continued success for decades to come. school a year later, holding a number of coaching and teaching positions. He served His crowning accomplishment was ushering UC into as AD and chair of the physical education department from 1970-1976, and was a membership in the Big East Conference, a move that tenured professor. aligns the Bearcat sports program with one of the From 1976 to 1979, Goin served as assistant athletics director at West Virginia, nation’s premiere athletic conferences. and spent two years as athletics director at California University of Pennsylvania Goin’s other major achievement is the Richard E. (1979-81). Prior to coming to UC, he was special assistant to the president at the Lindner Varsity Village, a comprehensive $80.3 million enhancement of all of UC's University of North Florida. athletic facilities. Goin has played the lead role in the planning, put together a funding plan, and set an aggressive construction schedule. Goin’s efforts began to take form last year with the opening of the new UC Baseball Stadium and Gettler Stadium, a state-of-the-art track/soccer complex opened. The crown jewel of the project, the Richard E. Lindner Center, is a state-of-the-art athletic center which will be completed in early 2006. Other components include the renovation of Armory Administrative Staff Fieldhouse and a new natatorium, tennis center and boathouse. Other significant accomplishments during Goin's tenure include: • enhancement of Nippert Stadium with the conversion of approximately 9,000 bench seats into individual seating and the installation of a new grass-like artificial playing surface. • increased academic support for current student-athletes and launched a pro- gram to help recent student-athletes complete their degrees. • implemented a gender equity plan which upped all women’s sports to full Dean Billick Dr. Brian Mand Bill Mulvihill scholarship levels and added rowing for women. Deputy Director of Senior Associate AD Senior Associate AD/ • stabilized the athletic department’s budget through more stringent fiscal man- Athletics Development agement and the development of new revenue sources. UC’s sports teams have parlayed these accomplishments to success on the field. Bearcat teams posted a combined winning percentage of nearly .600 over the past eight years. UC has claimed 29 conference titles, made 49 postseason appearances and produced 39 All-Americans. Goin, who was named to the Cincinnati AD position on Oct. 1, 1997, is nationally recognized for his administrative acumen. He has served on the NCAA Division I Championships/Competition Cabinet and the NCAA Football Bowl Certification Brian Teter Paul Klaczak Jeanette Shoecraft Associate AD Associate AD Associate AD/Chief Subcommittee. Financial Officer Goin has shared his professional expertise, serving as a consultant to two NCAA Bearcat Staff Division I athletic programs. Goin carved his professional niche during his five years as athletics director at Florida State (1990-94). FSU’s across-the-board success made the school a regular

Bob Goin At A Glance College: Bethany (BA 1959), West Virginia (MS 1962) Stephanie Rousseau Bill Walker Tom Hathaway Administrative Experience: Assistant AD/SWA Assistant AD/ Assistant AD/Media Bethany College (1960-70), assistant athletics director, athletics director, Sports Medicine Relations associate professor and chair of Physical Education West Virginia University (1976-79), assistant athletics director California University of Pennsylvania (1979-81), athletics director Florida State University (1981-90), associate athletics director; (1989-94) athletics director University of North Florida (1996), special assistant to the president for athletics University of Cincinnati (1997-present), athletics director Personal: Married, wife Nancy; family includes children Doug (wife Carol, daughters Nicole, Madison, son Robbie), Brian, Janice (husband Charlie Lowe, son Joel Barnhill Michelle McBride Zachary) and Bruce (wife Whitney, sons Andrew, Matthew Robert and Assistant AD/Tickets and Assistant AD/Athletic J.D.). Promotions Development

3636