By
Jim Livengood
There are many new and exciting things happening at the University of Arizona this fall - the Integrated Learning Center, the continuing Student Union renovation and the completion of the Eddie Lynch Athletics Pavilion to mention just a few. These projects are paving the future of this outstanding university and it is great time to be a Wildcat!
The Cats are coming off a Top Five Sears Cup finish including our 6th softball National Championship. Coach Mike Candrea once again electrified the Wildcat community with an incredible finish in Oklahoma City. Congratulations to Coach Candrea, his staff and the rest of last year's team for providing Wildcats everywhere with memories we will not soon forget.
And our successes do not end there. This past year also showcased fantastic seasons in swimming and diving, men and women's golf, volleyball, and men's basketball. Our women's track team recorded its highest finish ever, placing third at this year's outdoor nationals, and our men and women's golf programs each finished the season in the top 10. Men's basketball coach Lute Olson is coming off his fourth Final Four appearance while coaching at Arizona and women's basketball coach Joan Bonvicini recorded her 500th win at Arizona this season. So if you have an interest in sports, you will enjoy what Arizona has in store for you!
I would also like to extend a hearty Wildcat welcome two new terrific coaches to our staff. John Mackovic, a former assistant football coach at the University of Arizona, has returned to take the helm of our Wildcat football program, and will celebrate his inaugural game by kicking off the 2001 season at San Diego on August 30th. Currently in the process of moving to Tucson is our new baseball coach, Andy Lopez, former University of Florida coach. I am certain that these two coaches will carry on the proud tradition of Wildcat excellence and I know how much they are looking forward to the support of our student body for their upcoming seasons.
Support from UA students is essential to all of our team's success. For example in football, offense, defense and special teams may be the keys to winning the battle on the field but it doesn't stop there. We need to pack Arizona Stadium and make it the loudest, most intimidating home field in the conference, a place that our opponents dread. Be sure to check out the Red Zone. This newly created field level seating section is bound to be full of Arizona's loudest fans.
No doubt, attending football games is one way to celebrate being a Wildcat and I hope you will make your plans to join us. Please don't forget, this year, the fun begins well before kick-off. Be a part of the Fan Fiesta, the largest public tailgate in Arizona history including live entertainment and a myriad of food vendors.
The Red Zone and the Fan Fiesta are just a couple of the new ideas that I think will make the Arizona athletics even more exciting this upcoming year. As classes begin, I sincerely hope that each of you will share not only my Wildcat pride but my enthusiasm for our future. I hope to see you on game day and I trust that Arizona athletics can be a fun and spirited part of your college experience.
I look forward to a semester and season to remember.
Go Cats and·BEAR DOWN.
