Nov. 2, 2001

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The Maryland athletics department has developed a series of special initiatives to commemorate its transition from Cole Field House to the Comcast Center, a 17,100-seat structure which is anticipated to become America's finest on-campus intercollegiate athletics facility. The theme for this transition has been entitled "Terrapin Traditions: Honoring Our Past And Celebrating Our Future."

"In this transition year," says athletics director Deborah Yow, "it seemed appropriate to step back and reflect upon the achievements of our athletics programs and the bright future we anticipate."

Maryland has had an impressive sports history throughout much of the 20th century, with All-Americans and championships filling the halls of each of its three previous activities buildings. As Maryland participates in its final season at Cole Field House, traditions are rekindled as the Terps honor their history from the old Gymnasium, to Ritchie, to Cole, and celebrate their future with next year's move to the Comcast Center.

The following initiatives will be implemented in 2001-02.

1. Cole Commemorative game ticket provided in season ticket packet.

Available to public: No, this is only available to season ticket holders and students who attend the game.

2. Commemorative schedule cards of athletic buildings provided to season ticket holders, to be entitled "The Heritage Collection."

Available to public: Yes, on a limited basis.
Cost: Free.
Process to order: The "heritage collection" schedule cards were mailed with season tickets, the extra 2,500 cards will be available for ICA use (corporate sponsors, faculty/staff) and available for public consumption as supplies are available.

3. Basketball poster handouts at a number of home games.

Available to public: Yes.
Cost: Free.
Process to order: Posters will be distributed at home games, on campus, and throughout the community. Similar to the plans for schedule cards, posters will be available at all functions where ICA has a presence, as well as in the local community. Posters will also be distributed in the dormitories. In addition, they will be available for pick up from the sports marketing office, while supplies last.

4. A commemorative print of the four University of Maryland athletics buildings in which basketball has been played, and will be played, has been produced for public purchase.
The print includes exterior portraits of The Gymnasium, Ritchie Coliseum, Cole Field House and Comcast Center. The print measures 16" x 20" in size, is suitable for framing, and was created by Mary Holliday.

Available to public: Yes.
Cost: $30.00 PLUS SHIPPING & HANDLING
Process to order: To be sold through catalogue, at the University Book Center, at all home men's basketball games, and online at www.umterps.com beginning December 1, 2001.

Click here to see, and order, the Honoring The Past Poster from the Terps' online store.

5. Various types of Terrapin Traditions merchandise, including golf shirts, will be available through the university bookstore.

Available to public: Yes.
Cost: Estimated range $10 - $65 PLUS SHIPPING & HANDLING.
Process to order: To be sold through catalogue, at the University Book Center, at all home men's basketball games, and online at www.umterps.com beginning December 1, 2001.

6. "Cole Classics!" book to be sold at games and in local bookstores.
In cooperation with the Maryland athletics department, local sportswriters John McNamara and David Elfin have published a book entitled "Cole Classics!" which chronicles Maryland basketball's leading men and moments since Cole Field House was opened in 1955.

Available to public: Yes.
Cost: $10 plus shipping & handling
Process to order: To be sold through catalogue, at all home men's basketball games, online at www.umterps.com and in local bookstores beginning December 1, 2001. Phone orders may be placed with American Sports Media at 800-932-4557.

7. Cole commemorative game program sold at final home game.

Available to public: Only as supplies exist following the final home game on March 3, 2002.
Cost: $3 at the game, $10, if available, after the game.
Process to order: To be sold at the final home game by program vendors, any unsold programs from final game will be sold online at www.umterps.com.

8. Ceremony during the NC State home game on Feb. 3 honoring Maryland All-Americans from all sports who competed in Cole or Ritchie Coliseum.

9. Ceremony during the Terps' final home game featuring the school's first NCAA tournament team and coach, from 1958. The '58 team also included many players who participated in the Cole Field House dedication game on Dec. 22, 1955.

10. Filming of the last game ceremony/festivities will occur to ensure that it is preserved for perpetuity.

11. Hosting of the men's basketball banquet on the floor of Cole Field House in April, including a summary film tribute to Cole to be seen that evening.
Men's basketball banquet will be held on the floor of Cole Field House - estimated cost will be $50 per person. Details will follow in January.

12. External tours of Comcast Center during Maryland Day in May, if logistically possible.

13. Cole floor sales at the conclusion of 2002 summer camps in Cole.

Available to public: Yes.
Cost: Estimated range $50 - $250
Process to order: To be sold through direct mail brochure and online (linked to www.umterps.com) beginning in early 2002.