Aug. 29, 2012

Photo Gallery

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The University of Maryland student-athletes were welcomed back on Tuesday evening at Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium with an inspirational message from campus leaders, including University President Dr. Wallace D. Loh and Director of Athletics Kevin Anderson.

Sitting together in the north end zone boasting their Maryland Pride black t-shirts, each student-athlete and coach from Maryland's 20 varsity sports enjoyed the opportunity to visit and hear words of encouragement from Dr. Loh, Anderson, NCAA Faculty Athletic Representative Dr. Nick Hadley, SAAC president, Anna Roth, M Club President Marjorie Bollinger Baker and Terrapin Club President Colin Potts.

The distinguished speakers each shared a personal message on how they are extremely proud to be associated with Maryland Athletics.

"Athletics is the front porch of a University," Dr. Loh said. "It is the most visible part of the school and therefore is very important." Dr. Loh also shared that his door was always opened and welcomed a visit from every student-athlete.

Potts shared how he has been associated with Maryland athletics for 40 years and can vividly remember his first Maryland football game at the age of five. Bollinger Baker, who lettered in cross country/track, shared how she has been involved with Maryland athletics since 2002. She stressed the importance of staying connected with the university and the lifelong friendships she has made through athletics and the M Club.

Anderson beamed about the long and storied tradition at College Park and the opportunity to strive for excellence in both academics and athletics.

"Our goal is to provide an excellent education for our student-athletes, allow them an opportunity to compete in intercollegiate athletics, have them graduate with a degree from the University of Maryland and move forward to become productive citizens and leaders of their community."

The Welcome Back Event concluded with a highlight video from the 2011-12 season and the spirit squad led the group in singing the Maryland Victory Song. Student-athletes had the opportunity to mix and mingle with friends from the other athletic teams and enjoy a delicious dessert -- ice cream sundaes.

Among the other highlights was a performance of an original rap, "Fear the Turtle," from football senior A.J. Francis and women's basketball junior Sequoia Austin, who received outstanding reviews from their fellow student-athletes.

"The performance was very entertaining and fun," women's basketball junior Alyssa Thomas. "It made us laugh. The Welcome Back Event reminded us how fortunate we are to be a part of such a great university and athletic department."

Earlier in the day, Dr. Loh visited with members of the football team at an afternoon practice. To see a photo gallery of Dr. Loh addressing the team, click here.