Cal Sports Quarterly - Fall 2008 by Cal Media Relations

Childhood needs space.

A neighborhood in touch with nature.

orindawilder.com

925-254-9900

CONTENTS

SPORTS 8

QUARTERLY

FEATURES Snap to Whistle

One of the catchphrases for the California football program is “Snap to Whistle,” a slogan that emphasizes giving full effort from the moment the ball is snapped until the referee blows his whistle. And while the saying applies to all Golden Bears, it seems to have special meaning for senior center Alex Mack, who has built a reputation for his unceasing effort.

Facing Cancer Head On

It was supposed to be a year of adjusting to living away from home, enjoying a rigorous education in Berkeley and showcasing her goalkeeping talents for the women’s soccer team. Instead, Jorden LaFontaine-Kussmann’s freshman term was filled with unexpected obstacles. Last October, in the middle of her rookie season, she received word she had lymphoma in her lungs.

journey to Independence

With a mother who played for the Croatian volleyball team and a father who was a member of his country’s Olympic basketball squad, Hana Cutura almost seemed destined for an athletic career. But her ticket to stardom didn’t start on the volleyball court, where Cutura has blossomed into one of the Bears’ primary assets. Instead, she set out on her course as a ballet dancer.

Bear for a Better World

Achieving potential with integrity is a big part of the student-athlete experience at Cal. It’s also a defining trait of Richard Sandler ’70, who serves as executive vice president and a trustee of the Milken Family Foundation. To count a man of Sandler’s character as an ally of the California Golden Bears speaks loudly that the Athletic Department’s mission is a worthy one.

Q&A with Kevin Grimes

A four-time Pac-10 Coach of the Year who has guided the Cal men’s soccer team to the past two conference titles, head coach Kevin Grimes has built the Golden Bears into one of the strongest programs in the country. As he enters his ninth season in Berkeley, Cal Sports Quarterly recently sat down with him to discuss his thoughts on the team.

The Accidental Water Polo Player

If Spencer Warden had not torn his meniscus the summer before his ninth-grade year, he probably would never have come to Cal. He may not have been a two-time national champion, or even a member of the U.S. Junior National Team. In fact, he may have never been a water polo player at all. Now, he has become one of the best players on the best team in the country.

DEPARTMENTS LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

SIDELINE REPORT

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

SEASON REVIEWS

ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT

ISP SPORTS UPDATE

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

HOME EVENT CALENDAR

fall 2008

LETTER from Director of Athletics Sandy Barbour Dear Friend of Cal Athletics:

here is always a sense of great excitement and anticipation when we welcome our student-athletes back to campus (most of them never really left!). As we prepare for a new academic year, the University grounds swell again with students and staff who decanted the campus in their summer pursuit of discovery, knowledge and just a little fun and relaxation! The 2008-09 school year is particularly exciting for Cal Athletics. Coming off our best-ever finish in the Directors’ Cup (a record-tying seventh-place standing), we have high expectations for the upcoming seasons. As we go to press, we are awaiting a Court of Appeals decision that will lift the injunction and allow us to get the long-awaited and greatly needed Student-Athlete High Performance Center under way.

FALL 2008 ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS: Sandy Barbour DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS: Steve Holton DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS/SWA: Teresa Kuehn Gould

In addition, we welcome new leadership in three of our intercollegiate programs. The early spring brought us Mike Montgomery and great hope for a huge upside in men’s basketball. In June came the announcement that Tony Sandoval had earned the permanent position as the director of our men’s and women’s cross country and track & field programs. Finally last month, we welcomed Mike Teti (currently the U.S. Olympic men’s rowing coach) to the Cal family and bid adieu to Steve Gladstone, whose leadership of our men’s crew program resulted in him becoming the winningest coach in IRA history. Each of these gentlemen joins an already stellar portfolio of coaches that we are so fortunate to have at Cal.

SENIOR ASSOCIATE AD/INTERCOLLEGIATE SERVICES: Foti Mellis

With that, I’d like to take a moment to recognize and thank two very special groups who have been integral to our success. Without a doubt, our student-athletes are exceptional, and their extraordinary efforts in the classroom, at competition venues and in our community have provided a great source of accomplishment and pride for our University. If one has ever doubted that premise, one need only look at the Beijing Olympics and the phenomenal Golden Bear presence – on the world’s largest stage! And those performances have been in large part made possible by an alumni and friends group that has been generous beyond our wildest dreams.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Scott Ball, Dean Caparaz, Chris DeConna, Anton Malko, Tim Miguel, Anna Oleson-Wheeler, Debbie Rosenfeld-Caparaz, Megan Spevak, John Sudsbury, Jeremy Wu

Your gifts have enabled us to provide our young people the best in coaching, support staff, travel, uniforms and the ever important scholarship aid which makes it possible for them to attend Cal. Your philanthropy has enabled us to boast (appropriately!) that Cal is counted as one of the very best intercollegiate athletic programs in the country. We thank you for helping us get there, and know that we can count on your continued support to enable us to reach all of our lofty goals and aspirations. In addition, we hope that you will encourage others to join in the cause for Cal Athletics. Remember, every dollar counts! I am looking forward to seeing each and every one of you on campus this fall. Go Bears!

ASSOCIATE AD/HUMAN RESOURCES & FINANCIAL SERVICES: Dawn Whalin EDITORIAL STAFF 349 Haas Pavilion Berkeley, CA 94720 EDITOR: Herb Benenson

DESIGN: Evan Kerr PHOTOGRAPHY: John Todd (www.goldenbearsports.com), Michael Pimentel, Michael Burns, Kelley Cox, John Dunbar, Evan Kerr, Mike Wondolowski, Tom Hauck, Tobin Spirer, Jigar Mehta, Associated Press, among others ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE 195 Haas Pavilion Berkeley, CA 94720 510-642-2427 bearback@berkeley.edu ATHLETIC TICKET OFFICE (800) GO BEARS For daily updates on Cal Athletics, including schedules, press releases and player profiles, visit the department’s official website at www.CalBears.com. ON THE COVER Senior center Alex Mack, who came to Cal as a lightly recruited player, has developed into one of the top linemen in the country, as well as an academic all-district honoree. Photo by John Todd.

Sandy Barbour Director of Athletics 2

cal sports quarterly

(510) 643-1967

SIDELINE REPORT

2008 Cal Football Promotion Schedule Michigan State

August 30, 5 p.m.

Spirit of America Day Special ticket discounts for past and current military personnel

Commemorative Poster Giveaway 15,000 Golden Bears posters will be handed out in Memorial Stadium

Colorado State FunZone

September 27, 3 p.m.

High School Band Day More than 100 bands will perform on the field

Faculty/Staff Appreciation Day Special discounts offered for the annual “thank you” to Cal faculty and staff

Come to College Day Invitation to youth groups to see the game and get a feel for college life

Arizona State

October 4, TBA

Homecoming Visit homecoming.berkeley.edu for a rundown of all the weekend activities Homecoming

National Championship Week Cal Athletics salutes its 2007-08 team and individual national champs

UCLA

October 25, TBA

Joe Roth Memorial Game Traditional game honoring one of Cal’s greatest quaterbacks

Hall of Fame Weekend Seven new members will be inducted into the Cal Athletic Hall of Fame

Oregon

November 1, TBA

Public Service Day Joe Roth

Honoring public safety workers who serve our communities every day

Stanford

NOvember 22, 12:30 p.m.

BIG GAME Cal looks to regain the Axe in the 111th renewal of the Bay Area rivalry

Washington

December 6, TBA

Senior Day Join in honoring the 2008 Golden Bears seniors in their final home game

Green Day Help celebrate sustainability with fans, local businesses and green organizations Senior Day

cal sports quarterly

Youth Team & Cheer Day Youth teams and cheer squads will be a part of the halftime show on the field

Basketball Tickets on Sale Now

the challenging Pac-10 slate, national powerhouses Rutgers and Baylor will be paying visits to Berkeley. Reserved season tickets are $125 for adults, $60 for youth and $100 for faculty and staff. In addition, general admission seats for the full year are $99 for adults and $50 for youth. On the men’s side, new head coach Mike Montgomery and his staff will bring a re-energized squad to the floor. Featuring returning starters Patrick Christopher and Jerome Randle, plus key veterans Jamal Boykin and Theo Robertson, the new-look Bears offer a 19game home line-up. Season tickets are $399 each, with discounts provided for faculty and staff ($320) and young alumni ($285). In addition, men’s season-ticket holders can buy a women’s season ticket for just $75. To order your tickets, click on the Tickets link at CalBears.com or call the Cal Athletic Ticket Office Patrick Christopher at (800) GO BEARS.

ome of the hottest tickets in the Bay Area this year are for events inside Haas Pavilion where the Golden Bear men’s and women’s basketball teams will take to the court. The women, of course, are coming off the most successful season in school history and expect to enter the year ranked among the nation’s Top 10. In addition to

Ashley Walker

Godec Receives Prestigious Pac-10 Award

lympic swimmer Jernej Godec, who completed his eligibility with the Golden Bears this past spring, has been selected as one of two winners of an Orowheat “Healthy Minds PostgraduJernej Godec ate Scholarship, which is awarded to one male and one female student-athlete each year from the Pacific-10 Conference. This $10,000 postgraduate scholarship recognizes overall excellence in athletics, academics and service, along with commitment to graduate education. Godec, a freestyle specialist who hails from Slovenia, has also earned a Pac-10 Postgraduate Scholarship, which was given earlier in the year. He majored in molecular and cell biology at Cal and plans to work as a research assistant before starting work on a Ph.D. program in biotechnology. This past season, Godec was a member of three Pac-10 championship relays and was a finalist in the 50 free at the NCAA meet.

Anniversary Season for the Bears This Year

Team captain Joe Kapp (left) participates in the ’59 Rose Bowl coin toss.

al Athletics will celebrate three significant anniversaries this year in football and men’s basketball. The first event on the calendar is the 50th anniversary of the 1959 Rose Bowl team. During the fall of 1958, the Bears, behind quarterback Joe Kapp and halfback Jack Hart, defeated USC and UCLA en route to a 7-3 regular-season record and the Pacific Coast Conference championship. As the top team on the West Coast, the Bears faced Iowa on Jan. 1, 1959 in Pasadena, but lost to the Hawkeyes, 38-12. That same academic year saw the men’s basketball team capture the 1959 NCAA title. With All-American Darrall Imhoff in the middle and Hall of Fame coach Pete Newell on the sidelines, Cal traveled to Louisville, Ky., for the Final Four. The Bears defeated Oscar Robertson’s Cincinnati squad, 64-58, in the semifinals before edging Jerry West-led West Virginia, 71-70, for the championship. Finally, this coming year marks the 100th season for men’s basketball at the University. Special recognitions are planned for all three anniversaries, so please check CalBears.com in the coming weeks for more details. fall 2008

SIDELINE

REPORT Olympic Coach Mike Teti to Oversee Men’s Crew

teve Gladstone’s retirement as head men’s crew coach at Cal meant the Golden Bears were losing a leader who won as many IRA titles as anyone in history. Just over a month later, Director of Athletics Sandy Barbour introduced his replacement, and Cal could not have found person with better credentials for the job.

Men’s Crew head coach Mike Teti

Mike Teti, who will take over the program Sept. 1, has been a fixture on the national level of U.S. rowing for nearly 30 years, both as a competitor and a coach, most recently serving as head men’s coach

of the U.S. Olympic team in Beijing. As coach at the Athens Olympics in 2004, Teti directed the men’s eight to a world record in its heat and an eventual gold medal, marking the first time the United States captured the men’s eight since 1964. He is the coach of the only men’s eight in U.S. history to win three consecutive world championship titles (1997-99), a feat that earned him three USRowing National Coach of the Year honors. He was also selected the Developmental Coach of the Year title in 1996. As a rower, Teti was a 12-time national team member and three-time Olympian. From 1977-93, he won 24 national titles, a silver medal at the 1979 Pan American Games in the four, and a bronze and a gold in the eight at the World Championships (1985 and ‘87). He was also a bronze medal-winner in the eight at the 1988 Olympics. In 1987, Teti was named USRowing’s Male Athlete of the Year after rowing bow on the world champion U.S. eight.

Fans Can Help Choose All-Time Teams

s part of Ron Fimrite’s upcoming book on the complete history of Cal football (scheduled for release before the 2009 season), five all-time Golden Bear teams will be selected, honoring the greatest players of their respective eras. Fans can vote for the teams by visiting alumni.berkeley.edu/calfootballhistory. The site will include a list of players by position and era, and fan input will help guide the decision of the panel that will name the teams. The Cal Football History Project, sponsored by the California Alumni Association, will detail what happened on the field, as well as the rich and intriguing off-field stories that will make the book a great read for all Bears fans.

‘Cal Sports Report’ Begins New Season on CSN West

C 2008 Rugby Team

National Championship Week to Honor ’07-08 Victors

al Athletics’ third annual National Championship Week is slated to run Sept. 29-Oct. 4, culminating with the recognition of the 2007-08 champions during halftime of the Cal-Arizona State football game. During this past academic year, Golden Bear team prevailed in men’s water polo and rugby. Individually, Tim McNeill won titles on pommel horse and parallel bars in men’s gymnastics, track & field’s Katie Morgan captured the outdoor pole vault crown and the men’s freshman eight won its crew race at the IRA regatta. Additional activities during the week include a special trophy case unveiling at Haas Pavilion, a ceremony with the chancellor in University House and a coaches’ roundtable to discuss how national champions are developed. Katie Morgan In its history, Cal has claimed 84 national team championships, and 163 individual, doubles and relay titles. 6

cal sports quarterly

omcast SportsNet West will be the best place to watch Cal sports this season. Not only will the network showcase the weekly Cal Sports Report program, but it will air three live football and three live volleyball matches this fall, in addition to other live events throughout the rest of the year. Airing each Thursday at 6 p.m., with repeat showings over the weekend, the Cal Sports Report includes features and highlights on football, volleyball and a host of other sports in the fall. The winter program will concentrate on men’s and women’s basketball, and will feature many of Cal’s Olympic teams, as well. Todd McKim and Kate Scott return as hosts for the hour-long show. The program will also be shown on CSN Bay Area Fridays at 4 p.m., pending Cal Volleyball live event schedules. Live games set for the fall include football games at Washington State (3:30 p.m.), vs. Colorado State (3 p.m.) and at Arizona (7 p.m.). Cal volleyball, which reached the NCAA semifinals last year, can be seen live vs. Arizona State Oct. 10, Washington State Oct. 31 and Stanford Nov. 4, with all matches starting at 7 p.m. Comcast SportsNet West is available throughout Northern California. To find the channel location in your area, look for the Channel Locations button at west.comcastsportsnet.com or call (866) 804-3404.

BECAUSE YOU LOVE THIS SCHOOL, YOU LOVE THIS TEAM, AND BECAUSE ENROLLMENT ISN’T JUST A FOUR (OK FIVE) YEAR COMMITMENT. IT’S A LIFETIME OF CHANTING “ROLL ON YOU BEARS!” AND COLLECTIVELY POINTING TOWARD THE END ZONE. AND AS FAR AS YOU’RE CONCERNED, THE LATE ’90S NEVER HAPPENED. “WE” HAVE THE QUARTERBACK GURU NOW, SO BRING SOME EXTRA AMMO FOR THE VICTORY CANNON BECAUSE “WE” ARE GOING TO LIGHT UP THAT SCOREBOARD. YOU SAY “WE” BECAUSE NOTHING MATTERS MORE THAN WINNING THE BIG GAME, BEATING THE CARDINAL, TAKING HOME THE AXE. AND BECAUSE “WE” HAVE “THE PLAY” – FIVE LATERALS OF PURE, CRAZY, IMPOSSIBLE MAGIC THAT PROVED TROMBONE PLAYERS DON’T PLAY VERY GOOD DEFENSE. THAT’S RIGHT, “WE” HAVE THE GREATEST PLAY IN THE HISTORY OF SPORTS, AND THE WORDS “THE BEARS HAVE WON! THE BEARS HAVE WON!” WILL FOREVER BE BURNED INTO YOUR BRAIN. AND THIS YEAR “WE” ARE MORE FIRED UP THAN EVER. “WE” ARE LOOKING TOUGH, “WE” HAVE THE BEST COACH IN FOOTBALL, “WE” CAN SWEEP THE LEAGUE, “WE” WILL WIN THE AXE, AND THIS COULD BE THE YEAR “WE” FINALLY MAKE IT BACK TO PASADENA FOR THE GRANDDADDY OF THEM ALL.

AT&T. THE OFFICIAL SPONSOR OF CAL FANS WHO SAY

AT&T keeps Cal “WE” fans in the game. Text BEARS to 72645 from your wireless phone to get breaking news, special offers, and exclusive Bears content.

Standard text messaging rates apply. ©2008 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo, and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

YOU CAN’T TALK ABOUT CAL WITHOUT SAYING IT. “WE” ARE LOOKING GOOD THIS YEAR. “WE” HAVE A STRONG, YOUNG TEAM WITH A POWERHOUSE LINE. YOU SAY “WE” BECAUSE IT’S CAL, THE BEARS, BERSERKELEY. YOU’VE BEEN A PART OF THIS SQUAD SINCE YOU WERE A TODDLER IN BEAR CUB PAJAMAS LISTENING TO YOUR DAD GO ON ABOUT “PAPPY’S BOYS” AND THEIR THREE CONSECUTIVE TRIPS TO PASADENA. THEN YOU GREW UP, CAME TO CAL, AND SPENT EVERY HOME SATURDAY CHOWING DOWN ON TOPS AND HOTS BEFORE MARCHING UP THE HILL TO THE SUNNY SIDE OF MEMORIAL FOR THE BEST VIEW IN COLLEGE FOOTBALL. YOU SAY “WE” BECAUSE THE BEARS ARE IN YOUR BLOOD. YOU STORMED THE FIELD IN ’03 WHEN “WE” BEAT #3 SC IN TRIPLE OVERTIME. YOU WERE GIDDY WHEN THE ’06 HOLIDAY BOWL TURNED INTO A TRACK MEET AS “WE” HUNG 45 ON A&M. AND YOU HUGGED A STRANGER, HIPS AND ALL, AFTER LAST SEASON’S INFAMOUS, GAME-ENDING FUMBLE IN EUGENE. YOU SAY “WE”

FEATURE

SNAP to WHISTLE By John Sudsbury

Cal All-American Alex Mack Gives 100% On and Off the Field

ne of the catchphrases for the California football program is “Snap to Whistle,” a slogan that emphasizes giving full effort from the moment the ball is snapped until the referee blows his whistle.

And while the saying applies to all of the Golden Bears, it seems to have special meaning for senior center Alex Mack, who has built a reputation for his unceasing effort – snap-to-whistle. While playing a position that does not often get noticed, Mack draws attention due to his non-stop energy and the trail of players with which he litters the field. “Players around the conference have learned to keep their eyes on Alex,” Cal offensive line coach Jim Michalczik said. “They know they can’t relax or slack off before that whistle, or he’ll put them on their butts. And then he’ll keep going downfield looking for someone else to hit.” That relentless effort and drive on the field has lifted Mack into the upper echelon of players in college football. A top candidate for the Rimington Trophy as the best center in the nation and a likely firstround selection in next spring’s NFL Draft, Mack is a two-time first8

cal sports quarterly

team All-Pac-10 selection who also earned the 2007 Morris Trophy as the top offensive lineman in the Pac-10. The Morris Trophy is a true honor as it is voted on by the league’s defensive linemen – the very players Mack battles each Saturday on the gridiron and the guys who end up on their rear ends if they relax too early. However, at 6-4, 316 pounds, Mack epitomizes the term gentle giant, and he shatters the “dumb jock” stereotype more thoroughly than opposing defenders. An all-star football player and wrestler at Santa Barbara High School, Mack was not sold on his own football skills, and a football future was not guaranteed. He focused on his schoolbooks as much as his playbooks, and when college coaches came calling, he knew what he wanted. “High school was a lot of fun,” Mack said. “I was bigger than everyone else and I could just throw guys around. I knew I was good at football, but we weren’t playing the toughest competition. I was never sure how far football would take me. I wasn’t that highly rated of a recruit and I wasn’t highly recruited, but I always enjoyed school, so I figured I would go to the best academic school I could.” In a system where five stars mark the elite recruits, Mack had a designation of one star from some recruiting services. Cal, though, invited him to its summer camp in 2003 prior to his senior season, and Michalczik couldn’t take his eyes of the hard-working youngster. “We had looked at him on film,” Michalczik said. “But the type of player he is doesn’t always come through on film. Once we had him camp, we saw his athletic ability, his work ethic and his toughness and really thought he’d be a good player for us.”

“Players around the conference have learned to keep their eyes on Alex. They know they can’t relax or slack off before that whistle, or he’ll put them on their butts. And then he’ll keep going downfield looking for someone else to hit.” - Offensive Line Coach Jim Michalczik

After Mack’s convincing performance in camp, head coach The value Mack places on academics has proven to be a huge Jeff Tedford offered him a full scholarship to play for the Golden asset to the Bears. After last season, he was projected as a first- or Bears. The academic reputation of Cal, coupled with the fact that second-round pick in the NFL Draft if he left school early. he only had offers from a pair of small schools, made it a simple “I had a pretty hard time with the decision,” he said. “But there decision for Mack. was uncertainty as to where I would go in the draft and there were “After we offered him, I went to see one of his high school things I knew I wanted to come back for. I wanted to finish my games,” said Michalczik. “It was pouring rain, just miserable, and degree. I wanted another year with my teammates. And I wanted Alex played so hard and never stopped on both sides of the ball. to have a better season. I didn’t feel like I would be satisfied and That’s when I knew he’d be great.” happy coming off last season when I could have another shot.” After arriving in Berkeley, Mack went straight to work, building The decision to return brought a sigh of relief from Cal fans, as his snap-to-whistle reputation while playing behind All-American well as the coaching staff. center Marvin Phillip. But he also focused significant attention on his schoolwork. While trying to prove to everyone, including himself, that he is a NFL-caliber football player, Mack has also been a two-time ESPN The Magazine Academic All-Region choice and a three-time Pac-10 All-Academic honoree. In May, he earned his bachelor’s degree in legal studies and is currently taking classes toward a master’s degree in education. While the athletic accolades rolled in, he never let go of his drive in the classroom. “When I started to realize that I had an NFL future, I kept thinking that I should be slacking off,” Mack said. “Why am I still trying in class? Why’d I enter a master’s program? Shouldn’t I just focus on football? But it’s just who I am. “I was taking a class pass/not pass, and I found myself writing a paper and working on it as hard as I could, and I just A master of relentlessness, Mack is pursuing a master’s degree in education. needed a C- to pass! I wonder sometimes why I’m like that, but I feel like it’s a challenge and I have to step up to the challenge. “We’re really happy and excited to have Alex coming back,” I’m here to learn and get something out of my education. I don’t Tedford said. “There is no question that he makes us a better footthink I should slack off and leave here with nothing. So I try hard ball team in a lot of ways, not just with his football ability, but from all the time and I enjoy my classes.” a leadership and work-ethic standpoint. He is a great example for Mack also realizes that while a professional future now seems every member of the team, on and off the field.” likely, the average career of an NFL player is just three-and-a-half Mack is a perfect example of how far hard work can lift a perseasons. While some pros find themselves without options at the son. By playing snap-to-whistle on the football field and by using end of that short span, Mack’s continued efforts in the classroom that same effort off the field, he is maximizing his potential as a will likely pay off down the road. player and student. “I know I won’t be able to play football for the rest of my life,” “It’s been fun to experience all of this,” Mack said. “I would never Mack said. “I want to do something after football, as well. I love have guessed coming out of high school that this would be the posithe sport, but I want to move on and be successful.” tion I’d be in. Never in my dreams did I think I’d get this far.” fall 2008

FEATURE

r e c n a C Facing Head On Soccer’s Jorden LaFontaine-Kussmann Plans to Return to the Field This Fall By Debbie Rosenfeld-Caparaz

t was supposed to be a year of adjusting to living away from her Lakewood, Wash., home, enjoying a rigorous education in Berkeley and showcasing her goalkeeping talents for the nationally ranked Golden Bears women’s soccer team. Instead, Jorden LaFontaine-Kussmann’s freshman term at the University of California was filled with unexpected obstacles. Last October, in the middle of her rookie season, LaFontaine-Kussmann received the horrible news that she had lymphoma – a form of Dr. David Irwin, LaFontainecancer – in her lungs. From the moKussmann’s oncologist, didn’t tell ment she learned the diagnosis, her her that her tumor was one of the trademark courage was evident. largest he had ever seen. Instead, he “I was a little bit in shock,” said laid out the treatment plan without LaFontaine-Kussmann, who turned Jorden LaFontaine-Kussmann’s Cal teammates wore disclosing to her that she had cancer 19 in June. “The next thing I wanted sweatbands with her initials as a show of support. cells from her collarbone to the base to hear was, how do we treat it? How of her ribs. long does it involve? I couldn’t start crying. That wasn’t going to LaFontaine-Kussmann is grateful that Dr. Irwin sounded confido anything. It ended up being six months of treatment – three of dent that what she perceived to be a smaller tumor would be comchemotherapy and two of radiation with a month in between.” pletely gone in six months. The possibility of death never seeped Health concerns initially mounted for LaFontaine-Kussmann into her conscious mind. in late September when she had periodic chest pains. A mass had And that is where the story of inspiration and triumph truly bebeen growing for a year and pushed on her lungs and heart, making gan. it hard for her to breathe. The pain usually subsided, so she didn’t LaFontaine-Kussmann, who came to Cal as Soccer Buzz’s No. seek help until after an early October workout. 12 recruit in the country, faced having cancer similar to any set“It was a Tuesday, and we were doing tons of sprinting,” LaFonback that would have kept her away from the game she loved. taine-Kussmann recalled. “I couldn’t even stand up straight. My “What makes Jorde so special is she took this whole lymphoma lungs were hurting so much. I needed to tell someone because this process like a six-month ankle injury,” said Kelly Bendixen, a perwasn’t good. I talked to Ryan [Cobb] the trainer. He got me in the sonal trainer in the Seattle area who has worked with LaFontainenext day to talk to the doctor.” Kussmann for 11 years. “She never got down. She looked at it like, The preliminary medical theory was that the breathing difficulI’ve worked too hard to have this little setback in my life dictate ties came from asthma or an infection. But over the next week and whether I’m going to be here in the next year or not.” a half, a CAT scan and biopsy led to the correct diagnosis. 10

cal sports quarterly

With aspirations to major in psychol- LaFontaine-Kussmann, who has twice met Kostov in person. ogy, LaFontaine-Kussmann never seriously They are both cancer free. Her cancer was gone in March, and considered returning home to undergo her she was cleared to return to the soccer field in April. She utilized a cancer treatments. She had a huge support smart but aggressive approach over the summer with Bendixen to network at the Cal Athletic Department, the prepare for the 2008 Cal season. The training regimen periodically Northwest weather was gloomy much of the included stops to make pottery, one of LaFontaine-Kussmann’s year, and she knew she would feel bad for a hobbies, to take the pressure off. week after chemotherapy and then would have After struggling to run for three minutes in May, LaFontainetwo good weeks. Kussmann’s endurance improved quickly, and she is confident Maintaining a sense of normalcy was clearly her she’ll be challenging for playing time this fall. priority. “Playing again is just another hurdle for me to say, ‘I did it, and “I approached it like I have appointments to go to I got through it with flying colors,’” said LaFontaine-Kussmann, on Fridays [chemotherapy],” LaFontaine-Kussmann who allowed two goals in five games as a freshman. said. “I just fit it in with my life. I didn’t want to stop While LaFontaine-Kussmann’s time at Cal has been far from everything. I felt sick, and I was too tired to do stuff some- typical, she has a new sense of purpose as she moves forward as a times. One time I got chemo and then went to our game after- two-time cancer survivor. She overcame skin cancer on her ankle wards. It made it a lot easier.” as a junior in high school. LaFontaine-Kussmann’s teammates and coaches were motivated “I definitely learned how to forget about all of the trivial things,” by her presence. In addition to daily acts of friendship, the support she said. “It’s forced me to grow up a lot. I found out how I work, from the soccer team included Megan Jesolva cutting her hair to who I am, how I deal with things and what I want. That’s all that create a wig for her fellow freshman, and goalkeeper Nicole Jarbo matters.” shaving her own head to provide comforting solidarity. “The team’s response showed exactly what it means to be a Cal athlete and a Cal soccer player,” Bears head coach Neil McGuire said. “Our team chemistry is very strong. People chose to show their support in many different ways.” By being positive, LaFontaine-Kussmann was able to counter the impact of the flu-like symptoms she experienced after each round of chemother“I was a little apy. When she first received the cancer diagnosis, she was bit in shock. The next thing I disappointed to learn that she wanted to hear was, how do would lose her hair. Even being bald didn’t get we treat it? How long does LaFontaine-Kussmann down it involve? I couldn’t start for long. Since many people crying. That wasn’t going to told her she looked good bald, she decided never to do anything.” wear a wig. “It was kind of another way – Jorden LaFontaine-Kussmann for me to say, ‘Look at me. I’m getting through it,’” LaFontaineKussmann said. “I wanted to fight against the whole cancer stereotype.” LaFontaine-Kussmann estimated she was the youngest patient by 30 or 40 years at the Alta Bates Medical Center in Berkeley. Despite her determination, her battle with cancer was a lonely one because of the age gap in cancer patients she knew. Surprisingly, LaFontaine-Kussmann would find comfort from a young man in England. Nick Kostov, a 20-year-old who used to play soccer in the United States, endured similar frustrations as he battled bone cancer in his foot. He saw a story about LaFontaineKussmann on ESPN.com and contacted her through a social networking site. After a period of skepticism on LaFontaine-Kussmann’s part, the two began corresponding and sharing experiences during their battles with cancer. “We found each other when we needed each other most,” said fall 2008

After Tailgates and Touchdowns ... Huddle at Doubletree. The best highlights come after the game. With warm friendly smiles and chocolate chip cookies, you will find it all at the Doubletree Hotel Berkeley Marina. Our contemporary new look, convenient location and exceptional service is your ticket to a VIP season.

A Member of the Hilton Family of Hotels.

200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley, CA 94710 Reservations: 1-800-222-TREE or Hotel Direct: 510-548-7920 www.doubletree.com Hilton HHonors® membership, earning of Points & Miles®, and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2008 Hilton Hotels Corporation

your northern california dealer since 1936 Whether you choose to buY, lease or rent, Peterson Tractor will provide you with the best equipment in the industry and parts & service support second to none! Call us today.

10 locations to serve You! antioch santa rosa

chico

fortuna

mt. shasta

san martin

redding

willits

san leandro willows

888-Peterson

www.petersontractor.com CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caterpillar Yellowâ&#x20AC;? and the POWER EDGE trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

Proud sponsor of Cal Athletics.

FEATURE

Journey to Independence Shifting from Ballet to Volleyball, Hana Cutura Has Become One of the Bears’ Best

W By Chris DeConna

With a mother who played for the Croatian national volleyball team and a father who was a member of his country’s Olympic basketball squad, Hana Cutura almost seemed destined for an athletic career.

But her ticket to stardom didn’t start on the volleyball court, where Cutura (pronounced SHOOT-er-ah) has blossomed into one of the Golden Bears’ primary assets. Instead, she set out on her course as a ballet dancer. Several years into developing her pliés and arabesques, then-9-year-old Cutura accepted an invitation from her mother to watch a friend play volleyball. “The head coach called me down from the stands,” Cutura recalled, “and said that I should come to practice the next day, which sparked my interest.” Cutura decided to add volleyball to her repertoire and, for a year or so, enjoyed both activities. But volleyball soon started having an adverse effect on ballet skills – certain muscles were growing in ways that would prevent her from becoming a successful dancer, according to her instructor. “I then had to make a choice of whether to continue in ballet or volleyball, and because I was getting pretty tall, I decided to stick with volleyball,” Cutura said. Now a full 6-foot-3, Cutura clearly grew out of ballet, where petite dancers are more the norm. In volleyball, though, she has flourished, presently ranking as one of the premier collegiate players heading into her junior season this fall. Cutura’s track to the United States began a few years 14

cal sports quarterly

after her fulltime commitment to volleyball. With her older brother, Tomislav, having played basketball at Lycoming College in Pennsylvania in the early 2000s, her parents encouraged her to follow in his footsteps across the Atlantic Ocean. Cutura leaped at the opportunity to strike out on her own in a new country. “My parents asked me if I wanted to go to America and play and go to school, and I immediately said yes because I wanted to become independent,” Cutura said. Trying to find the best situation for her daughter, Cutura’s mother, Gordana, began making inquiries at several schools, and Cal head coach Rich Feller was one of the first to reply. He requested game film of the up-and-coming outside hitter and shortly began e-mail correspondence with her.

continue to push myself to work even harder,” she said. “When I was back home in Croatia, when it got hard, I wanted to just give up. But here with the girls on this team, they work so hard every day in practice, so I know I can’t let them down. I’m giving it my all in everything I do.” Cutura’s perseverance paid off handsomely last fall when she earned second-team AllAmerica and first-team All-Pac-10 honors as a key part of Cal’s run to the NCAA

Hana Cutura was named an AVCA All-American after helping Cal to the national semifinals last year.

But perhaps what piqued his interest most was that Cutura hailed from Croatia, home to former Cal star Mia Jerkov, who led the Bears to the Sweet 16 of the 2003 NCAA Tournament. Jerkov also helped influence Cutura in her decision to attend Cal. Although the two players grew up about 225 miles apart – Cutura in the capital of Zagreb and Jerkov in Split – the families knew each other well, especially the mothers, who were longtime friends. “Mia expressed how great Berkeley was, how great of a school it was and how great the volleyball program was,” Cutura said. “I had the opportunity to talk with her on several different occasions in the whole process. She told me about the community, the team and the coaching staff to help me get acquainted. It’s always nice to have a friend that is going to tell you like it is and not just what you want to hear. You never know who you can trust. She was definitely a big influence.” Once on campus, and after going through the normal freshman orientation, it didn’t take long for Cutura to acclimate to the American culture. “The communication was not a problem because I already knew the language,” said Cutura, who recorded 392 kills and was voted to the Pac-10 All-Freshman team in 2006. “The team and the coaching staff really went out of their way to help me out. I had to do a lot of paperwork and get settled at the International House, as well. It was a hard transition, but after a couple of months, I got the hang of things.” Now a third-year student-athlete in Berkeley, Cutura is well aware how much she has grown from her early days at Cal, when she was more apt to follow than lead. “I’ve realized that although it’s really hard at practice I have to

semifinals. She paced the Bears in both kills (485) and service aces (37), and was named Most Valuable Player of the NCAA regional when Cal upset top-seeded Nebraska for the regional title. “She has certainly changed from your typical high school girl to a college woman,” Feller said. “She is so much a part of this team that we don’t think of her as a foreigner. She’s got a great personality and gets along with everybody. For the first time, she stayed in Berkeley this summer to do summer school and not go home to Croatia. She has certainly become more independent and integrated herself nicely into our system and culture. She has really come into her own.” Cutura is now so ingrained in American life that she has decided to major in film studies. A self-proclaimed movie buff who lists “Grease,” actor Kevin Bacon and Broadway musicals as her favorites, she would eventually like to work in mainstream media behind the scenes in production and editing. First, though, Cutura envisions a professional volleyball stint once her commitments to Cal are complete. The chance to see more of the world while she is still young is what excites her most. “I have always been a big traveler and although I have been to various cities and states, I want to continue to explore more and see new cultures,” she said, noting that her parents have promised a trip to Hawaii once she graduates. In two short years, Cutura has come a long way from the young teenager in Croatia looking to exert a little independence, transforming herself into an upperclassman who has the full respect and admiration of her teammates. For many young people, California can be a destination to start a new life, be discovered or simply escape to enjoy the warm weather. For Hana Cutura, California was her ticket to self-reliance. fall 2008

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Bringing it Back Home Cal Hall of Famer Brian Hendrick Settles Down after a 10-Year International Hoops Career By Anton Malko

rian’s back.

A contributor to two of the biggest wins for men’s basketball since the 1959 moving to China for his final pro season, guard Keith Smith. championship – beating Indiana in the first round of the Hendrick was always thankful for his Cal experience and the 1990 NCAA Tournament and stunning Duke in the second round recognition it won him overseas. “Just by going to Cal, that got in 1993 – Brian Hendrick took his English degree from the Univer- me into negotiations because the name was that big, not only as a sity of California and chalsolid athletic program but for the status it has academically,” lenged himself to play pro he said. basketball overseas. Before leaving Japan, Hendrick met his future wife, YukTen years and many counie. “She didn’t even know I was a basketball player,” he tries later, Hendrick returned said. They married in 2005 and expect their first child in to the States with a successDecember. ful career to his credit. Now After his retirement from basketball, Hendrick earned the three-time All-Pac-10 his teaching credential and accepted a job as special needs forward is coming back to teacher before committing to correctional work. Today, at Berkeley to be welcomed his job in the Soledad Correctional Facility, Hendrick keeps this autumn into the Cal a low profile, but sometimes he can’t help his instincts as Athletic Hall of Fame. a player and teacher when he “That kind of blows me sees talented young inmates who away,” Hendrick said about veered off the path to success. his induction. “For me to be “I don’t divulge too much to recognized as one of the betthem, but every once in a while ter student-athletes, I have I’ll let them know I played and no words for it.” just kind of pick their minds,” Hendrick was named to said Hendrick, who still stands the Pac-10 All-Freshman at No. 7 on Cal’s all-time scoring squad on the strength of his Married to Yukie in 2007, Hendrick is now list with 1,556 points and No. 3 in consistent work ethic and a correctional offier in Soledad. rebounds with 898. 14.9 ppg in 1990. He was Even better, he’s still No. 1 in the team MVP in both 1991 and ’92, then came back from a knee a lot of Bears fans’ hearts, and injury that sidelined much of his junior year to post reliable numthat should show when Hendrick bers in the homestretch of the 1992-93 season, including 12 regreets the crowd at halftime of bounds in the Bears’ 82-77 Big Dance win over the Blue Devils. the Oct. 25 Cal-UCLA football game when the Cal Hall of Fame Hendrick landed in Portugal for his first year abroad as a profes- class is introduced. sional in 1994. “It was a culture shock, to say the least,” he said. “But “I know I’ll be smiling,” Hendrick said. I knew that to make it, you’ve got to live and enjoy that culture.” Hendrick signed a one-year contract in Germany the followThe 23rd Cal Athletic Hall of Fame Class will be formally inducted ing season. A year later he was in Belgium, then Italy. Hendrick during ceremonies at the Greek Orthodox Church conference centhen moved to Asia for a five-year stint in the Japanese Basketball ter in Oakland on Friday, Oct. 24, and the new members will be League, joining former teammate Alfred Grigsby for one year and introduced during the Oct. 25 Cal-UCLA football game. For more playing against him in another. Other former teammates he had the information about the banquet, contact the Big C Society at info@ pleasure of seeing in Asia included forward Andre Reyes and, after bigCsociety.org. 16

cal sports quarterly

INTRODUCING! The New Official Secondary Ticket Partner of

CAL ATHLETICS

SeatExchange.com is the fan-to-fan marketplace that makes buying and selling tickets to the Bay Area’s hottest events easy, fast and guaranteed! When you buy or sell a ticket on SeatExchange.com you help support Cal Bears athletics. SPORTS CONCERTS THEATER

CAL sports Quarterly

FOODIES MERLOT, CHARDONNAY OR CABERNET

$ 99 EACH

Visit SeatExchange.com or call 1.866.276 SEAT

8 3/4 x 5 3/4

Here’s to a winning season! Whether you’re celebrating a big win or just enjoying a weekday, we’ve got over 500 world class wines that pair with every occasion. Like our Foodies™ California Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon - expertly crafted with one goal in mind: to serve up winning food and wine pairings.

And, to make your wine enjoyment a true win-win... pair with our mouth-blown Vintner Collection. Each glass is elegantly designed to place your favorite wine perfectly on the tongue, enhancing its aroma and flavor. Offer valid through 12/7/08 Offers good while supplies last Pricing and selection may vary by store All wine bottles 750ml unless otherwise noted Call 1-877-WORLD MARKET (1-877-967-5362) for locations and hours or visit us at worldmarket.com

fall 2008 3 WAYS TO SHOP THE WORLD INSTORE: over 295 locations • ONLINE: worldmarket.com • BY PHONE: 877-967-5362

sports Previews

Fall 2008

mEN’S CROSS COUNTRY

2008 Outlook

All-conference seniors Yosef Ghebray (first team) and Mark Matusak (second team) return to lead a Cal cross country team that reached new heights in 2007. The Golden Bears recorded their first-ever appearance in the NCAA championships, taking 16th overall. The Bears also reached their highest national ranking of eighth over the course of the campaign. Cal’s fourth-placing showing at the NCAA West Regional tied for the best finish in school history, with the men’s team also taking fourth in 1989 and 1981. Once again returning at the helm is head coach Tony Sandoval.

Important Local Date

Nov. 15 NCAA West Regional at Stanford Bears try to qualify for nationals

WOmEN’S CROSS COUNTRY 2008 Outlook

Cal turns to sophomore Chelsea Reilly to lead the Golden Bears in 2008 after she had a spectacular freshman campaign last fall. Reilly paced Cal in three of its six competitions, including the Pac-10 championships and the NCAA West Regional. Seniors Mackenzie Pierce and Rebecca Palm will provide the veteran leadership. Palm clocked a season-best 18:40.70 in the first race of the season, placing eighth at the San Francisco Invitational. Tony Sandoval returns for his 27th year as head coach.

Important Local Date

Nov. 15 NCAA West Regional at Stanford Bears try to qualify for nationals

18 18

cal cal sports sports quarterly quarterly

FIELD HOCKEY 2008 Outlook

Cal head coach Shellie Onstead, a U.S. Olympic assistant coach, will return from Beijing to a Golden Bears team that is looking to climb back atop the conference heap after Cal’s 2007 season ended with a 12-6 record (5-1 NorPac). A senior class, led by midfielders Ashley Glosz, Andrea Lo and Carolina Bistue, defenders Rachel Moffitt and Christina McGrath, and goalkeeper Kelly Knoche, gives Cal a good shot at reclaiming the league title and a chance to earn a postseason berth. Glosz, Cal’s second-leading scorer (21 points), was named a third-team All-American and earned a spot on the All-NorPac first team, along with Lo, last season.

Important Homes Dates

Oct. 4 vs. Pacific Tigers handed Cal its only regular-season NorPac loss in 2007 Oct. 24 vs. Stanford Bears lost to the Cardinal for the 2007 NorPac championship

FOOTBALL 2008 Outlook

With seven home games highlighting the 2008 schedule, including Michigan State in the opener Aug. 30 and the 111th Big Game Nov. 22, Cal has its sights set on a seventh consecutive winning season for the first time in over 80 years. Head coach Jeff Tedford looks to mix his experienced veterans with a talented group of young faces to again direct the Bears to bowl action. Senior center Alex Mack and sophomore running back Jahvid Best will spark the offense, while a formidable linebacking crops led by Anthony Felder, Zack Follett and Worrell Williams will anchor the defense. Last fall, Cal defeated Air Force, 42-36, in the Armed Force Bowl to finish with a 7-6 overall record.

Important Home Dates

Oct. 4 vs. Arizona State Cal has won four of the last five games in the series Nov. 22 vs. Stanford The Big Game comes back to Berkeley on the traditional weekend before Thanksgiving

MEN’S SOCCER

vOLLEYBALL

2008 Outlook

Important Home Dates

Four-time Pac-10 Coach of the Year Kevin Grimes hopes to lead another strong Cal team to the postseason in 2008. The Bears won their second straight Pac-10 title last year and made their seventh consecutive appearance in the NCAA College Cup, finishing with a final overall record of 12-6-2. Returning are first-team All-American goal keeper Stefan Frei and Pac-10 second-team selection sophomore Andrew Wiedeman, who emerged as a reliable scorer on the frontline in 2007. Frei paced the Pac-10 in save percentage (.850), saves (91), saves per game (4.55) and shutouts (9) last fall, while Wiedeman led the team in points (20), goals (7) and assists (6). Oct. 10 vs. UCLA Cal faces potentially its biggest challenge to three-peat as Pac-10 champion Nov. 15 vs. Stanford Bears renew traditional rivalry in the final game of the regular season

Cal is coming off the most successful campaign in program history, having reached the NCAA championship semifinals, posted a 26-8 record and achieved a No. 4 final ranking last fall. The Bears are led by a pair of outside hitters in junior All-American Hana Cutura and senior Morgan Beck, while sophomore setter Carli Lloyd earned Pac-10 All-Freshman honors with her 1,550-assist performance in 2007. Cal welcomes a pair of highly-touted freshmen with the arrival of outside hitter Tarah Murrey and middle hitter Shannon Hawari. Head coach Rich Feller was honored as the National Coach of the Year by Volleyball Magazine last season. Nov. 14 vs. Stanford The Big Spike pits a pair of 2007 semifinalists against each other Nov. 22 vs. USC Volleyball match in Haas Pavilion follows the Big Game

mEN’S WOMEN’S SOCCER WATER POLO 2008 Outlook

Coming off its fourth straight NCAA Tournament appearance, Cal looks to take another step forward on the national stage in 2008. The Bears posted a 15-5-1 record in 2007 under head coach Neil McGuire and are faced with replacing six starters this season. Sophomore forward Alex Morgan (8 goals, 2 assists in 2007) and senior forward Valerie Barnes (7 goals, 2 assists) are Cal’s top returning scorers, while sophomore Megan Jesolva, who joined Morgan on the Freshman All-America squad, senior Nkechi Kanu and junior Brianna Bak will anchor Cal’s perennially stingy defense. This year’s team will benefit from the addition of the nation’s fourth-ranked recruiting class.

Important Home Dates

Sept. 28 vs. Santa Clara Cal beat the Broncos twice last season for the first time in school history Nov. 8 vs. Stanford Bears fell to the Cardinal on penalty kicks in the second round of the 2007 NCAA Tournament

2008 Outlook

The 2008 Golden Bears will attempt to become the first Cal men’s water polo squad to win three straight national titles since the 1990-92 teams accomplished the feat. Kirk Everist’s troops will feature several key returnees striving for the program’s NCAArecord 14th crown, including seniors Trent Calder and Frank Reynolds, juniors Spencer Warden and Thomas Pearson, and sophomore Brian Dudley. Calder, Warden, Pearson and Dudley all scored against USC in the ’07 title match, accounting for four of the team’s eight goals. Warden garnered third-team All-America honors last year after notching 27 goals and leading the Bears with 51 steals, while Calder is Cal’s top returning scorer, notching 33 goals in 29 matches with a team-high 20 field blocks.

Important Home Dates

Oct. 25 vs. UCLA Bears open MPSF action vs. the Bruins Nov. 22 vs. Stanford Big Splash could have NCAA Tournament implications

fall fall 2008 2007

19 19

Athletic Development Bear Backer News

magine a scenario that solidifies the financial future of Cal Athletics forever, giving student-athletes and staff the world-class resources they deserve and guaranteeing fans their place within that exciting future, all at a significant savings while raising the department’s endowment to over $1 billion. The proposed Endowment Seating Program (ESP), a first of its kind in collegiate athletics, intends to elevate this imagination to reality. Helping to meet the department’s Phase II fundraising goal for the renovation of Memorial Stadium, the ESP initiative offers Bear Backers and season-ticket holders the opportunity to secure a premium seat with state-of-the-art amenities at Cal football games at a fixed price for up to 50 years. While it ensures a better future for all Golden Bear teams and the fans that love them, this donation program delivers a large slate of other benefits for its supporters. The ESP initiative offers a flexible payment plan and the right to transfer the seat to a family member or friend, or resell the endowment seat rights at any time. A significant portion of the contribution will also be eligible to be claimed as a charitable tax deduction. Moreover, those who support ESP can lock in “fixed pricing” on future tickets and donations, assuring no future increases. While the proceeds from the overall Endowment Seating Program will benefit the entire Department of Athletics, donors can stipulate which athletic team receives credit from their gift. The seats available through the Endowment Seating Program will come from a limited, premium inventory on the west side of Memorial Stadium. With all seats located in sections with terrific sightlines bundled with amenities that include three

Endowment Seating Program a Win-Win for Fans and Cal’s Future By Anton Malko clubs, parking and pampering, donors can join an exclusive group of ticket holders with 3,000 seats in prime locations with no additional donations or ticket requirements involved for the duration of the term of the endowed seats chosen. That is correct: those who participate in the Endowment Seating Program cap their charitable giving and ticket privileges with cost certainty for decades to come, with

Field Level Club

Donors who participate in the Endowment Seating Program will have access to club-level amenities in a renovated Memorial Stadium.

cal sports quarterly

no reseating, guaranteed. Nothing else is required. Fans can experience the exciting new slate of offerings associated with this program by visiting the Club Room at Haas Pavilion in 2009, when a campaign design center will be created during the first quarter of the year to allow prospective supporters to “touch and feel” the enhancements, luxuries and technologies involved.

Bear Backer News Athletic Development The four seating categories between the 30-yard lines and corresponding donation requirement plans per seat, which include a financing option at a fixed rate of six percent: HH “University Club” seats have the best sightlines spanning the width of the press box, with premium, padded seats offering the most width and leg room. The University Club will include private restrooms, an interior lounge, complimentary catered food and premium beverages, club access passes for guests, flat-screen TVs, high-speed Internet, Priority 1 parking and a climate-controlled environment. HH University Club seats will be offered with multi-year agreements starting as low as $12,000 per seat annually. HH “Stadium Club” seats offer the next-best locations and benefits after the University Club seats. Located just below the University Club level, these seat rights include complimentary food and beverage during pregame and halftime, private restrooms and an interior lounge area with flat-screen TVs, high-speed Internet, parking and a climate-controlled environment. HH Stadium Club seats will be offered with multi-year agreements starting as low as $5,000 per seat annually. HH ESP members in both the University and Stadium Clubs can buy additional seats in donor sections on a season basis at the face value of the ticket price. HH “Field Level Club” seats are chair-back seats with back rests that offer pregame and halftime access to the sports bar-like lounge with private restrooms and parking. HH Field Level Club seats will be offered with multi-year agreements starting as low as $2,700 per seat annually. HH “Young Alumni” seats, offered to alumni who graduated in the previous 10 years, feature pregame and halftime access to the Field Level Club, a six-year guarantee on seats and the ability to upgrade ESP locations in the future with full credit. HH Six-year-plans are available for as low as $1,000 per seat annually.

“The new funding approach will provide financial stability for all our athletic programs for the foreseeable future by helping create a large endowment for Intercollegiate Athletics.” – Director of Athletics Sandy Barbour

Endowment Balance Over Time, Including Debt Repayment

$1 billion endowment in year 31 after debt fully repaid

While fans enjoy the security of no additional donation requirements or extra fees for priority parking, they can also claim a significant tax deduction from their commitment, with the flexibility to allow full payoff at any time during the financing period. While donors are enjoying the amenities, the University will put these funds to work for the future of Intercollegiate Athletics. The funds will go into an endowment and, when the institution needs money and issues debt to create capital, income from the endowment’s returns will exceed the rate of debt, paying off the principal and interest, and leaving a remaining balance to be used for vital department upgrades, such as the renovation of Memorial Stadium. Following a 30-year period to repay debt issued to renovate Memorial Stadium, the department’s endowment could rise to as high as $1 billion under the Endowment Seating Program. With ESP donations, the goal is to raise an additional $250 million by offering Bears fans these license rights to stadium seats, combining with the estimated $50 million anticipated from stadium naming opportunities to bring the department’s fundraising goal to $300 million. “The new funding approach will pro-

vide financial stability for all our athletic programs for the foreseeable future by helping create a large endowment for Intercollegiate Athletics,” said Director of Athletics Sandy Barbour. “We made our decision after careful consideration of numerous possible financing method and determined that this approach is uniquely suited to meet both the interests of our supporters and the need to ensure robust and reliable financial support for the Memorial Stadium project and our athletic programs.” The Endowment Seating Program is a proprietary methodology that was developed by Stadium Capital Financing Group, LLC, a Morgan Stanley Principal Investments majority-controlled business located in Chicago. The plan is slated to go before the Board of Regents for approval in the spring of 2009 and into effect the following ticketsales season. For Bear Backers and season ticket holders, it will be an exciting opportunity to become forever gold. To learn more about the Endowment Seating Program, e-mail bearback@berkeley.edu or call the Office of Athletic Development at (510) 642-2427. fall 2008

cal sports quarterly

2008 SUMMER GAMES

Congratulations to the current and former Golden Bears – 46 in all – who represented their University and countries at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Congratulations also go out to all the Bear Backers who helped pave the way for these world-class studentathletes and coaches to reach their Olympic dreams – and beyond.

Dominik Meichtry

Shellie Onstead

Jason Kidd

Vicky Galindo

Martin Maric and Amin Nikfar

Natalie Coughlin fall 2008

Athletic Development Bear Backer Spotlight

Richard Sandler Counts Cal as a Worthy Cause

By Anton Malko research and the awareness of the disease that has resulted from the Foundation’s work, the death rate from prostate cancer has declined significantly and the treatment options have greatly expanded. To count a man of Sandler’s character as an ally of the California Golden Bears speaks loudly that the Athletic Department’s mission is a worthy one. Head football coach Jeff Tedford called Sandler “a very valuable resource that we are fortunate to have in this department. Richard has a very logical approach to things and for us to be able to call on his knowledge and wisdom is very helpful.” Growing up in the San Fernando Valley, Sandler considered local favorite UCLA, as well as Michigan and Cal, among his undergrad options entering his senior year at Birmingham High School. His older brother, Michael, had enrolled at Stanford three years earlier. Why not make it an official sibling rivalry and become a Bear? “We kid around about it,” Sandler said. “It’s a healthy ribbing.” Intense events in the Berkeley area were no joke, however, when Sandler arrived on campus in the fall of 1966. Clamors for social and political change were gaining momentum on the heels of the Free Speech Movement of 1964-65, and every year of Sandler’s undergraduate education was marked by historic clashes, from ROTC recruitment conflicts his freshman year, to protests against the Vietnam War his sophomore year, to rallies for African-American rights his junior year, to outrage over the American presence in Cambodia his senior year. Sandler remained focused as a student, an active member of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity and an intramural athlete who competed in football, soccer, basketball and baseball. He was introduced to his future wife, Ellen, by Lowell Milken outside a political science class they all attended in Dwinelle Hall. As Sandler finished his final exams in May of 1969, thousands of National Guardsmen – some Cal students – joined police to

chieving potential with integrity is a big part of the student-athlete experience at Cal. It’s also a defining trait of Richard Sandler ’70. “Richard brings integrity and insight to every aspect of his life, whether it is as a highly successful businessman, as a leader in the Richard and Ellen Sandler met at Cal outside nonprofit world or a Dwinelle Hall. devoted family man,” said Milken Family Foundation chairman and co-founder Lowell Milken ’70, a close friend of Sandler since childhood. “I don’t know if there’s anyone I’ve ever met who has more integrity than Richard,” agreed co-founder Michael Milken ’68. “He’s had an awesome responsibility to represent us in many ways and he has helped change the world.” As the foundation’s executive vice president and a trustee, Sandler has contributed to inspiring initiatives that the Milkens developed in education, along with efforts in healthcare that can justifiably take credit for saving large numbers of lives. His acumen as a lawyer with specialties in business structurings and complex transactions has also made him vital as a chief architect of the complex web that encompasses the foundation’s ambitious undertakings. In the education sector, entities such as the Milken Family Foundation’s National Educator Awards and Teacher Advancement Program ensure that the priceless work of educators is acknowledged in meaningful ways that can support the process and encourage upward-climbing excellence, with the nation’s children the ultimate beneficiaries. In healthcare, the foundation may best be known for contributions to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the world’s largest philanthropic source in the battle against a killer that few men formerly received tests to detect. Today, thanks in large part to innovative 24

cal sports quarterly

Bear Backer Spotlight Athletic Development quell riots after one man died and scores were injured following the takeover of the vacant lot near campus that became People’s Park. Sandler called it “quite an experience as a young, naïve, upper-middleclass kid from Los Angeles, getting up in the morning and having trouble breathing because of the tear

Angeles Rams who serves as a trustee and program administrator for the foundation. “I see the commitment Richard has to the community,” Grier said. “It’s not my country or his country, it’s our country. We’re responsible to try and strengthen it in some way.” The goals have been lofty and the achievements monumental at the Milken Family Foundation, one of several nonprofits that Sandler helps to lead, but those standards do not diminish the importance he sees in the Golden Bears. Sandler presented a check to 2004 Milken Educator Award winner Anitra Woodward at Annie Fisher Elementary School in Hartford, Conn.

power of education … complemented by the potential of each individual to make a positive difference in the world.” Summed up Sandler, “We have a responsibility to the students that come after us to give back to the University. Those are the people who are going to be responsible for society going forward.” Sandler’s clear-minded approach to accountability for the future of Cal Athletics has created vast appreciation within the Athletic Department. “Over my time here, he is one of the people that I’ve grown to respect and cherish as a friend,” coach Tedford said. “He and Ellen are people that have grown very close to me and this program. Not only do I rely on them for advice, but also for quality friendship.” Richard and Ellen, who is also a dedicated nonprofit participant and has been a board member at the Milken Family Foundation for over 20 years, have raised three children together. Their daughter, Tracy, is a communications specialist

“To go to school and compete takes a special amount of organization and discipline. gas in the air, and seeing uniIt’s a great opportunity for those that participate, formed forces armed with rifles stationed outside of the park.” and it’s also a rallying point, a source of Sandler finished his Bachelor of Science degree with magna pride for the student body.” cum laude honors. He later received his JD from UCLA and joined his fa– Richard Sandler ther’s firm, Sandler & Rosen, in 1973. Meanwhile, childhood friend Lowell also finished law school at UCLA and took a position at the law firm of Irell & Manella, whose offices were across the street. Six years later, when Michael Milken relocated his department of Drexel Burnham Lambert from New York City to Los Angeles, he chose a location right next door. Lowell soon left his law practice to take a principal position at Drexel, and Richard started helping with Drexel’s transactions. By 1983, Sandler had left his law firm to form a consulting practice with that same department at Drexel and its members as his chief clients. Today, Sandler continues to fulfill his duties as a senior partner at Maron & Sandler, a firm he formed in 1995 with fellow Cal graduate Stan Maron, in addition to his work as the foundation’s executive vice president. All the while, Sandler has continued to assist the Milkens in their wide-ranging financial transactions. Among those inspired by Sandler’s non-profit passion is colleague Roosevelt “Rosey” Grier, the former All-Pro defensive tackle with the New York Giants and Los

Richard with his growing family, including (clockwise) wife Ellen, daughter Tracy, daughter-in-law Betsy, son Nicholas, daughter-in-law-to-be Stephanie and son Scott

“The men and women able to participate in athletics get a tremendous character builder, self esteem and discipline,” Sandler said. “To go to school and compete takes a special amount of organization and discipline. It’s a great opportunity for those that participate, and it’s also a rallying point, a source of pride for the student body.” Michael Milken lauds Sandler’s support of the student-athlete experience at the University. “Part of Richard’s commitment to intercollegiate athletics is his understanding of how it teaches you how to compete on a world scale, which is so important in life,” he said. The common ground between the myriad missions of the University and the foundation, Lowell added, is their shared “focus on realizing human potential through the

in the office of the mayor of Washington, D.C.; younger son, Nicholas, is an investment analyst in Hong Kong; and son Scott, after serving on men’s basketball staffs at Michigan, Syracuse, San Diego State and Eastern Kentucky, returned to California with an MBA and is now a vice president at Zenith Insurance, where he focuses on workers’ compensation. “The greatest contribution we can make and be judged by is our children,” Michael Milken said. “One of the testimonies to Richard is just how great all three of his children are.” The Golden Bears are determined to continue reaching for greatness, too. Everyone at Cal Athletics knows that being counted among the Sandlers’ worthy causes is an honor worth striving for. fall 2008

2008 CAL FOOTBALL on

SEPTEMBER 6 vs WASHINGTON STATE SEPTEMBER 27 vs COLORADO STATE OCTOBER 18 vs ARIZONA CAL VOLLEYBALL

OCT 10 vs ARIZONA OCTOBER 31 vs WASHINGTON ST. NOVEMBER 14 vs STANFORD

EXCLUSIVE CAL CONTENT AVAILABLE WHEN YOU WANT.

CAL BEARS 26

cal sports quarterly west.comcastsportsnet.com

COACH JEFF TEDFORD’S PRESS CONFERENCE AVAILABLE EACH WEEK ON DEMAND.

ISP REPORT

Cal ISP Radio Network Enhances Statewide Coverage

he Cal ISP Radio Network has bolstered its family of radio affiliates so more Golden Bear fans can hear Cal football and men’s basketball broadcasts throughout the year. For the 35th consecutive season, KGO 810 AM will serve as the flagship station for all 2008 Cal football radio broadcasts. KTKZ 1380 AM, based in Sacramento, is a new addition to the Cal ISP Radio Network, bringing the total number of football affiliates to eight. The trio of play-by-play caller Joe Starkey, analyst Troy Taylor and sideline reporter Todd McKim can be heard on this statewide network that runs from Yreka/Weed in the north to San Diego in the south. KYOU 1550 AM remains the flagship station for all 2008-09 Cal men’s basketball radio broadcasts. With the addition of KTKZ and basketball-only affiliate KRXA 540 AM in Monterey, the Cal ISP Radio Network has a total of five men’s basketball affiliates. Roxy Bernstein and McKim will continue to call the action on the Northern California network. Women’s basketball contests can be heard again on KALX Radio (90.7 FM) for the 2008-09 campaign.

Cal ISP Football Radio Network

KGO 810 AM.............................San Francisco KNTK 102.3 FM............................ Yreka/Weed KTKZ 1380 AM.............................Sacramento KESP 970 AM.....................................Modesto KCBL 1340 AM..................................... Fresno KVBL 1400 AM...................................... Visalia KGIL 1260 AM............................. Los Angeles XSURF 540 AM................................San Diego

Cal ISP Men’s Basketball Radio Network KYOU 1550 AM.........................San Francisco KNTK 102.3 FM............................ Yreka/Weed KTKZ 1380 AM.............................Sacramento KESP 970 AM.....................................Modesto KRXA 540 AM................................... Monterey

Your portal to innovative executive education programs at Exchange ideas, network with peers, and learn from leading-edge thinkers Visit our website for custom and open enrollment offerings Berkeley Executive Leadership Program Berkeley Financial Engineering Series BioExecutive Institute

Leader As Brand Ambassador Negotiations: The Art of Working with People Open Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship

CIMA® Certified Investment Management Analyst

Product Management Program

Corporate Directors Enterprise

Venture Capital Executive Program

Corporate Responsibility Executive Wealth Management Financial Analysis for Non-Financial Executives

Strategic Decision Making

Women’s Executive Leadership Retreat

Visit: executive.berkeley.edu Email: executive@berkeley.edu Call Toll-free: 877 UCB EXEC (822 3932)

Question & Answer with Kevin Grimes Four-time Pac-10 Coach of the Year Has Elevated Cal Men’s Soccer to Elite Status

By Herb Benenson

When you were growing up, soccer became a very big part of who you are. How did you gravitate toward the sport initially?

occer is a big part of our family’s history. My father and my grandfather on my mother’s side have both been inducted into the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame. St. Louis has a huge tradition of soccer. It’s probably one of the most popular soccer cities in the whole country, dating all the way back to the ’20s and ’30s. Right from the moment I can even remember, soccer has always been a part of my life. It’s just something you did as a kid growing up in St. Louis. There have been several national and Olympic teams that have been filled by St. Louis players, and the 1950 World Cup team that beat England had eight of 11 starters from St. Louis. 28

cal sports quarterly

Throughout your playing career, is there any particular game or moment that stands out?

y junior year in college, we had a playoff game in St. Louis, and about 6-8 inches of snow came down right before the match. They had to shovel the snow off the field the morning of the game, but the field was still filled with slush. The wind chill had to be somewhere in the teens. We were in probably in the most dire circumstances that you could ever imagine for a soccer game. I couldn’t feel my feet or my hands the entire game. Somehow, and I don’t know how, I think I played the best game of my life. Even today when I go back home to St. Louis – and this is now 20 years later – I’ll occasionally bump into people and they will still ask me about that game. The circumstances were the worst conditions

he men’s soccer program at the University of California is one of the oldest in school history, with continuous play dating back to 1906. Kevin Grimes has served as head coach the last eight years, and already he has guided the Golden Bears to more NCAA Tournament games (14) and wins (7) than they had in the nearly 100 seasons before his arrival in Berkeley. A four-time Pac-10 Coach of the Year who has guided Cal to the past two conference championships, Grimes enters the 2008 campaign with a 93-5715 record, which includes double-digit victories each of the last seven years. His 2002 and 2006 squads reached the NCAA Sweet 16, and in 2005, the Bears advanced to the Elite Eight for the first time with a 3-2 win over Wake Forest. A native of St. Louis, Mo., Grimes played collegiately at SMU, where he was twice named a first-team All-American. He later earned seven full international caps with the U.S. National team from 1988-91 and played professionally for nearly eight seasons. Since taking over a struggling program at Cal in 2000 – one that existed under the threat of elimination – Grimes has built the Bears into one of the elite squads in the country. This past summer, Grimes agreed to a new five-year contract that will keep him in Berkeley through the 2012 season.

I’ve ever played in. It told me that mind can absolutely overcome matter no matter what circumstances you’re in. Our team could have just folded our tents, but we ended up winning, 2-1, in overtime.

When you first arrived at Cal in 2000, what was your view of the program and how much potential did you envision?

didn’t know a whole lot about the soccer program itself because it really wasn’t on the national map. What I did know was what the University of California was as an academic institution and athletic department. Being in Berkeley and the Bay Area, all of the components and

elements of Cal were extremely enticing. You looked at it and said, “Wow, it’s a sleeping giant. There’s an enormous amount of untapped potential.” I was taking a huge risk going to a relatively unknown program. Not to mention, they told me before the interview and several times after that it was a one-year contract and that soccer might be eliminated from Cal Athletics. My response was, just give me one year to prove myself, that’s all I need. I can’t exactly say that we had a very good season my first year, but the team pulled off some absolutely remarkable results. And our recruiting was going really well. Year two came and we had 13 new players and we made the NCAA playoffs for the second time in 15 years. It really gave our program an instant spotlight nationally. Since then, we’ve tried to keep chipping away and improving and molding our culture into what we really want it to be for Cal soccer.

Were there any signature moments that helped turn the program around?

t the end of our first year in 2000, which is typically when your team should be playing at its best, in a three-week period we beat UCLA, which was ranked fourth in the country, and Indiana, which was ranked second in the country and was the two-time defending national champion. It was then that the players and alumni started to think that we might be doing something special here. Fast forward it to 2005, we beat Wake Forest in double overtime in the Sweet 16 to advance to the Elite Eight for the first time ever.

Now that the program is on solid ground, what are you able to offer to recruits to help it grow?

t’s the full package of what Cal has to offer. You have an educational institution that is second to none, an athletic department that is nationally and internationally known, that participates in the Pac-10, arguably the best athletic conference in the nation, and you combine that with all the other elements of living in the Bay Area, a beautiful campus, a wonderful soccer facility to play our games in. You look from A to Z, this place is pretty much a no-brainer for wanting to be a student-athlete.

Now that the team is a fixture in the NCAA Tournament and has won back-to-back Pac-10 titles, where do you go from here?

he players want to establish their own identity every year. Anything that happened in past years, they just look at as a bookmark and as a resource. If they need to go back and check that resource and find that bookmark, they’re going to grab it and use it for that particular season. But by and large, they want to create their own story, their own chapter each and ever year. We never want to put any definition or finality on any particular season because sometimes when you do that, you can sell yourself short. We just let the players each and every year create their own history of Cal soccer and allow them to do that freely.

Earlier this summer, the team traveled to Italy and played a series of games against European teams. How much will that experience help the Bears in the coming season?

he main thing that came out of the trip to Italy was the players’ ability to bond together. They were together for 12 days in a foreign country, battling a lot of difficult elements of travel, language, hotels and food. The other thing that was pretty much a signature moment was the results that the players had against some very good competition, especially to be able to tie AC Milan – a world-renowned name in professional soccer. We basically played their youth team that’s the same age as our players. For our guys to be able to come up with a result like that against a team that has so much recognition was a great thing for the players’ confidence. fall 2008

FEATURE

l a t n e d i c c A The r e y a l P o l o P r Wate

in the Sport cer Warden Has Become a Star pen S , olo P r ate W to im H After a Knee Injury Helped Push By Anna Oleson-Wheeler

Spencer Warden

Spencer Warden was supposed to play football. But after his knee injury, he received a little push from his mom to give water polo a try. From there, Warden honed his already superior athletic ability in the pool, guiding his Soquel High School team to three consecutive league titles and a Central Coast Section championship in 2002. “After my mom suggested it, I gave it two weeks to see if I would enjoy it, and I did,” Warden said. “It took me about a year to learn the sport and get to the competitive level. I didn’t think, at first, that I’d be playing collegiately. It was a longshot. But I thought if I worked hard, got good grades and set goals, I might have a chance.” After spending a year as a novice and becoming acclimated to the sport, Warden was elevated from the junior varsity to the varsity team halfway through his sophomore season. Despite his success in high school, as well as on a club team, Warden 30

unsuccessfully tried out for the U.S. national youth team in 2004. But in his second attempt the following year, he earned a spot on the squad that traveled to Slovakia. Warden’s performances in the water garnered the attention of several college coaches, including Cal’s Kirk Everist. Several members of his Soquel High School water polo team went on to UCLA, and Warden almost joined them. Warden, who was born in Berkeley and whose father attended Cal, was drawn the coaching style and overall environment at the University. “I liked Berkeley a lot, which helped make my decision,” the 6-4 junior attacker said. “I didn’t come from a necessarily hard-edge coach in high school, but I liked the way Kirk and [associate head coach] Boyd Lachance were talking to me and I had seen how they coach. Instead of following the crowd to UCLA, I choose my own path.” Several weeks into his first semester at Cal, the U.S. junior national coach approached Warden about joining the team for a month to compete at Junior World Championships in Mar del Plata, Argentina. Everist, who also competed at Junior Worlds as a player, encouraged him to take advantage of the opportunity. Both Warden and his Cal team saw great results from the experience. “After Junior Worlds, he had a lot of confidence,” said sophomore attacker Mike Sample, who has played on teams with

f Spencer Warden had not torn his meniscus the summer before his ninthgrade year, he probably would never have come to Cal. He may not have been a twotime national champion, or even a member of the U.S. Junior National Team. In fact, he may have never been a water polo player at all.

cal sports quarterly

CALIFORNIA

GOLDEN BEARS

Warden since high school. “He Warden is much more modest. had learned a lot of new skills “I’m going to do whatever I can and increased his knowledge of to find whatever hole so that I can the game.” help improve and try to fill that In 2007, Warden traveled with hole,” he said. the junior team to Spain, Croatia Warden earned his first playand Italy to compete in a series of ing time as a redshirt freshman by small tournaments before returnexcelling as a defender in maning to the States for the Junior advantage situations. His defenWorld Championships in Los sive capabilities caught the eye of ’07 NCAA crown. Alamitos, Calif. Everist noted Warden and head coach Kirk Everist celebrate the the coaching staff and from there, that Warden’s international time Warden’s role expanded into one was immediately apparent in his of a team leader and starter. play at Cal and has helped transIn addition to enjoying his time form him into a more competitive as a student-athlete, Warden has and talented player. fit seamlessly into academics “The experience level he’s at Cal. After trying on a variety gained through making Junior of subjects and majors, such Worlds and being a part of a world as public health and American championship team helps us out,” studies, Warden decided to be Everist said. “He’s constantly tryan interdisciplinary studies field ing to make an impact, and when major with a focus in internahe plays, it’s contagious to the rest tional trade and foreign develof the players. It’s hard to let down opment. He has found motivawhen you have a player like that.” tion for academic achievement According to coaches and teamfrom his parents, who have alall t en rc pe mates, Warden exemplifies the ways had high expectations for 100 es “Spencer giv in d an adage “practice how you play.” him in college. es the time, both in practic While not the most vocal leader, “The classes are hard if you have to games ... He doesn’t even his knowledge and technique speak make them hard,” Warden said. watch say anything because you for themselves. Warden serves as a “You need to set aside time to exactly role model for his fellow Golden study every day and that’s not him and see that he knows ys gu e th of t lo Bears, many of whom try to duplia problem for me. My parA . ing what he’s do cate his playing style, both in and ents are helping me out and try to play like Spencer.” out of the pool. the school is helping me out. – Cal teammate Mike Sample “He plays so hard and the players I want to take advantage of it tend to look at him for inspiration because I know it’s very imjust because of how hard he plays,” portant to my family and to Everist describes. “When he talks, my future.” it’s with his teammates behind the Warden prepared further scenes and in the locker room.” for this future by spending Warden’s work ethic has paid divhis summer interning with idends with two national championa commercial real estate ofship rings. He had a goal in the 8-6 fice in Oakland, spending win over USC for the 2007 crown the majority of his time conand dished off the match-winning ducting market research. He assist to Jeff Tyrrell in the 2006 tialso hopes to use the sumtle match. Among the accolades he mer of 2009, his last before has earned are 2007 third-team Allgraduating in 2010, to intern American, 2006 honorable mention elsewhere. Though he does All-American, 2006 Mountain Panot currently have a set cateam’s cer Warden during the water polo cific Sports Federation Newcomer Mike Sample (left) and Spenwinn reer goal, no matter what he ing the 2007 NCAA title e House visit for of the Year and the 2005 Cal Alumni recent Whit pursues, Warden plans to use Leadership Scholarship Award. his time as a student-athlete to his benefit. “Spencer gives 100 percent all the time, both in practices and “If water polo was the work force, I would apply the same work in games,” Sample said. “His knowledge of the game helps him ethic, and I think that will translate after graduating,” Spencer said. lead because everyone looks to him to make things happen. He In the meantime, as Warden and company are preparing to doesn’t even have to say anything because you watch him and attempt a three-peat as national champions this fall, eveyone at see that he knows exactly what he’s doing. A lot of the guys try Cal feels fortunate that Warden turned to water polo when he to play like Spencer.” had the chance. fall 2008

Where the Post Game Action Kicks Off. Broadcast live from Paragon

Get ready. Join us pre game and for the post game show, broadcast live right here. Pass around one of our signature drinks or beers on tap. Revel in the celebration and game highlights. We love Bear alums, so c’mon down. Cal football gets the home field advantage here. For post game fun, there’s nowhere better to follow the action.

Located in The Claremont Resor t & Spa 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley • 510 549 8585

TRUe BLUe RECENT ReCeNT CLIENTS CLieNTS SERVED: SeRved: *Trader Vic's Warehouse, Richmond

*Ergo Sleep Systems, Richmond

*Alliance Graphics, Berkeley

*Golden Bear Storage, Berkeley *Danish Furniture Imports, Emeryville *Linford Family, Oakland *American Transportation, San Leandro

The team behind your team. As the exclusive wireless provider of Cal Athletics, AT&T shares your passion for the Golden Bears.

1.866.MOBILIT Y – ATT.COM/WIRELESS – VISIT A STORE

Service provided by AT&T Mobility. ©2008 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo, and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Jumping into History Track & Field’s Kristen Meister Studies to Become a College Professor By Tim Miguel

history at Davidson, as she became the school record holder with a mark of 5-11 1/4. She dominated the Southern Conference, taking both the indoor and outdoor crowns, setting the league Meister transferred to Cal after a success- indoor and outdoor records and earning Southern Conference Inful freshman year at Davidson, hoping the door Freshman of the Year notice. change would help her achieve her goals of Meister made a big impact for the Bears at the Pac-10 champiKristen Meister becoming a professional high jumper and onships last season when she tied the fourth-best mark in school Ph.D. recipient in history. history at 5-10, taking fifth in the competition. “I have always had the utmost respect for this university, but “Everything really began to come together at Pac-10s,” Meisthis last year has made me truly understand how great it is to be a ter said. “At that meet, I jumped my heart out and it really paid Golden Bear,” Meister said. off. I was so proud to be “Cal has challenged me in able to contribute points to ways that I didn’t think were our team’s phenomenal finpossible. I have never been ish. Even though I didn’t in an environment where get the marks that I wanted excellence in the classroom [in 2008], Pac-10s made all and on the track is the norm. the time, energy and work Cal affords me the opporworth it.” tunity to pursue my two As she studies epic mopassions - history and the ments of time in her history high jump - at the highest classes, Meister is hoping level. I don’t believe that that she can find her place any other institution could atop the high jump school help me achieve both of my record list and earn some dreams.” historic moments of her own Hoping to become a hisat Cal. tory professor, Meister’s “Next year, I want to pick emphasis right now is on up where I left off,” Meister American social and culsaid. “It is important to me tural history, as well as anthat I score more points for cient history. She said her the team at both conference concentration could change championships, and I truly because of her love for all believe that I will make it different kinds of history. to both the indoor and outKristen Meister has found the perfect blend of academics and athletics at Cal. Meister earned All-Amerdoor NCAA championships. ica honors at Davidson at the 2007 NCAA outdoor championships, I also believe that I can win at each of those meets. In terms of where she placed 11th in the high jump and was the top finisher height, I think that 6-2 is a realistic goal, but I’m dreaming of 6-4 among the freshmen in the event. It only took her one year to make and 6-5. You have to dream big to achieve great things.”

alifornia high jumper Kristen Meister came to Berkeley expecting to study history. By the time her collegiate career is over, she hopes to make a little history of her own, too.

cal sports quarterly

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Rocky Seeks One Last Title Team Captain Rachel Moffitt Hopes to Lead Cal to Another NorPac Championship By Dean Caparaz ’90

Now back on campus, Moffitt hopes to lead Cal back to its usual spot atop its conference this season after the Bears finished second to rival Stanford in the 2007 NorPac tournament. Moffitt has been a steadying influence for most of her time as a Bear. But she had a shaky start A strong student who came to Cal with a to her Cal career upon arriving in Berkeley from Junipero Serra high school grade-point average above 4.0, High School. Rachel Moffitt she is currently a political science major with “She came in as one of my top recruits in 2004, but I left her off a minor in peace and conflict studies and the team that first year because a 3.5 grade-point average who will gradshe wasn’t fit,” Onstead said. “I uate at the end of the fall semester. She told her that she could come back hopes to follow in her parents’ footsteps and re-try out again in the spring – Stacey and David Moffitt own their if she wanted to get fit and try to own law firm – by attending law school pass the fitness test then. Honestly, in the fall of 2009. I expected that she wouldn’t train, The San Diego product has been inand I wouldn’t see her again.” spired by her courses that deal with “It was a humbling experiglobal matters and will likely seek a job ence,” Moffitt said. “Coming out in international relations. of high school, you feel really “In my freshman year, I took Poli Sci entitled. I had played multiple 1 with Professor Jack Citrin,” she said. sports my entire life. But that “He really reached out to me. I found ended up being the greatest thing him profound, and it was a great atmoto happen to my career here, besphere in that classroom. Since then, cause I rededicated myself. It I’ve taken another really great course gave me a whole different outin city planning about global poverty. look on how great an opportunity I had one of the most amazing learnI had to play for the team.” ing experiences possible with Professor After passing the fitness test and Ananya Roy.” making the team, Moffitt played in On the field, Moffitt is a skilled three games in 2005. A year later, defender who was also selected to she became a team captain, startthe NorPac All-Tournament team, ed all 22 games and dished out a the NorPac All-Conference second career-high 15 assists, helping Cal team and the National Field Hockey to the NorPac title and the NCAA Rachel Moffitt has rebounded from a rough start to her Cal career. Coaches Association National Acaplayoffs. Moffitt added six assists demic Squad in 2007. in 18 games last season and now ranks fourth on Cal’s all-time assist This past summer, Moffitt competed in USA Field Hockey’s list with 21. Women’s National Championship. Her California-Pennsylvania “That’s quite a story from being cut to becoming team captain team, which included Cal teammate Ashley Glosz and Cal head and leading the team from there on out,” Onstead said. “I expect coach Shellie Onstead on staff, finished third. the same from her this year. She’ll be a rock, I hope.”

ptly nicknamed “Rocky” by her parents, Rachel Moffitt has shown the ability to get right back up after being knocked down, and worked hard to earn a starting spot on the California field hockey team.

fall 2008

home events MBB WBB XC FH

Men’s Basketball (Haas Pavilion) Women’s Basketball (Haas Pavilion) Cross Country (Golden Gate Park) Field Hockey (Maxwell Family Field)

FB MS WS

MSD WSD VB MWP

Football (Memorial Stadium) Men’s Soccer (Edwards Stadium/Goldman Field) Women’s Soccer (Edwards Stadium/Goldman Field)

Men’s Swimming & Diving (Spieker Aquatics Complex) Women’s Swimming & Diving (Spieker Aquatics Complex) Volleyball (Haas Pavilion) Men’s Water Polo (Spieker Aquatics Complex)

au g ust Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday 26

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 29

MS vs. UC Riverside WS vs. CSU Fullerton VB vs. St. John’s

FB vs. Michigan State

WS vs. St. Joseph’s VB vs. UC Santa Barbara

september Sunday

Monday

MS vs. SMU WS vs. Missouri

VB vs. Oregon State WS vs. Santa Clara

Tuesday 2

Wednesday 3

Thursday

Friday 4

MS vs. Cornell VB vs. James Madison

Saturday VB vs. DePaul VB vs. UC Riverside

WS vs. 25 Brigham Young

MS vs. San Francisco VB vs. Oregon

FB vs. Colorado State

Oc tob er Sunday

Monday

WS vs. Oregon MS vs. San Diego State

WS v. Arizona MWP v. Santa Clara MWP v. UC Santa Cruz

Tuesday

Wednesday 1

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

MSD vs. 30 Washington WSD vs. Wash.

3 WS vs. Oregon State MS vs. UCLA VB vs. Arizona State

FB vs. Arizona State MWP vs. Pacific MWP vs. West Valley JC

VB vs. Arizona

WSD vs. Texas

FB vs. UCLA MWP vs. UCLA

WS vs. Arizona State

VB vs. Washington State

Nov em ber Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday FB vs. Oregon MWP vs. UC Santa Barbara

WS vs. Stanford

VB vs. Washington MWP vs. West Valley JC

MBB vs. 6 Seattle Pacific (exh.)

MS vs. Washington WBB vs. Exhibition

WBB vs. Albany VB vs. Stanford

MS vs. Stanford MBB vs. Pacific

MBB vs. 18 San Francisco

WBB vs. Rutgers VB vs. UCLA

VB vs. USC FB vs. Stanford MWP vs. Stanford

MBB vs. 24 North Carolina A&T

WBB vs. Nevada

MBB vs. Texas-Pan American

MS vs. Oregon State

decem ber Sunday

WBB in Contra Costa Times Classic

cal sports quarterly

Monday

Tuesday 2

Wednesday MBB vs. 3

DePaul

Thursday

4 11

Friday

Saturday 5 12

FB vs. Washington WBB in Contra Costa Times Classic

6 13

For a complete schedule, pick up a Cal schedule card at any home event or visit the official Cal website at www.CalBears.com.

[ Proud SPonSor ]

GO BEARS! JuSt likE thE CAl BEARS, wE PlAy tO win EvERy timE wE tAkE thE fiElD. Our bankers provide award-recognized personalized service. with $62 billion in assets, more than 700 branches and the stability of over 130 years, we look forward to being a part of your financial team.

Stop by your local branch today to see why J.D. Power and Associates ranked us “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Retail Banking in the West Region.”

*Free checking with Check Safekeeping. If eTimeBanker® is accessed through any personal financial management software, the standard monthly eTimeBanker® service charges will apply. Bank of the West received the highest numerical score among retail banks in the West (CA, OR, WA) region in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Retail Banking Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on a total of 19,602 responses measuring 7 providers in the region and measures opinions of consumers with their primary banking provider. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of customers surveyed in January 2008. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. The West region includes: California, Oregon, and Washington.

www.bankofthewest.com

THE PERFECT WAY TO BEGIN A GAME. Serving the best school in the nation with the finest gear!

0554JN061008A

presorted standard U.S. Postage paid OAKLand, ca permit #1019 Athletic Development Office Intercollegiate Athletics University of California 195 Walter A. Haas Jr. Pavilion Berkeley, CA 94720-4424