TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The University of Alabama recently won its first Intercollegiate Racquetball title at the 2004 USA Racquetball (USRA) National Intercollegiate Championships in Fountain Valley, Calif.

This inaugural team was established in summer 2003 by players who showed an interest in attending the University and creating its first competitive racquetball squad.  The team consists of elite players from across the U.S. and Mexico.

More than 40 schools were represented by 270 of the country’s best racquetball players during the four-day event held at Los Caballeros Racquet and Sports Club. Other participating schools included: Auburn University, Pennsylvania State University, University of North Carolina, University of Texas, Texas A&M University, Ohio State University, BYU, Duke University and the University of Arizona.

Alabama was in eight final matches, winning three gold medals and five silver medals, two bronze medals and one pewter medal. All eight players medaled and five freshman team members were inducted as members of the All-American Team. To receive All-American status, players must finish in the top two of their single’s division.

UA Racquetball team members include: Agustin Tristan of San Luis, Potosi, Mexico; Mike Lawrence of Birmingham (zip code 35242 ); Shane Karmelin of Dacula, Ga.; Brady Hernandez of Harvey, La.; Chris Crockett of Birmingham (zip code 35444), Brian Booth of Tuscaloosa; Adrienne Fisher of Centerville, Ohio; Da'monique Davis of San Antonio, Texas; and Coach Jeff Garner of Hoover.

The 2003-2004 team consists of six freshmen, one sophomore and one junior.  The team looks forward to competing for the national championship annually.

For more information, contact UA Recreational Center programs coordinator, Jill Tappen at 205/348-1337 or jtappen@sa.ua.edu.