March 13, 2009

WASHINGTON - We just punched our ticket to The Big Dance. Break out your dancing shoes because American University is headed back to the NCAA Tournament. Tonight's victory over Holy Cross was a team effort and the entire university community shares in the success. A heartfelt thanks to all of you for being a part of it. The environment that you created with your energy, enthusiasm and spirit propelled our team to victory.

Our student's were phenomenal tonight. The Blue Crew had Bender Arena rockin' and with that kind of support there was no possible way our basketball team was going to lose. I thank you for cutting your spring break short to provide the home court advantage that propelled American for the second year in a row into the field of 65 teams on the road to the Final Four.

We should all savor today's win. The win is the result of the hard work of the entire American University community. The preparation of coaches and students so they can perform at a high level on the court, the vision and support from the Trustees and administration to provide the tools for our team to be successful, the outstanding instruction provided to our students by our faculty, the tremendous level of involvement by alumni and the energy and support from our fans and students paved the way for tonight's triumph. Our basketball team executed the plays and made the shots, but the university community provided the foundation that made our remarkable achievements possible.

In the last two years, our basketball team has won 45 games, 2 conference regular season titles, 2 conference tournament titles and had two appearances in the NCAA Tournament...A.K.A...The Big Dance. We should all treasure the opportunity to be associated with this team and the seven seniors that provide its leadership. This team has been a joy to watch and provided some breathtaking memories. Enjoy the win and cherish the victory. It is one more wonderful chapter in the history of our fabulous institution. The Department of Athletics and Recreation looks forward to working side-by-side with you to create future chapters that tell the magnificent story of American University.