March 25, 2008

Grand Rapids, Mich. - After two outstanding seasons over the past winter, the Davenport University Athletic Department is proud to celebrate the success of the men's hockey team and the women's basketball team. The celebration will take place this Wednesday (March 26) from 12:00-1:00 PM on the main campus of Davenport University. Each team will be present as well as the coaching staff and both teams will have their championship trophies on hand for pictures and viewing.

The women's basketball team, led by sixth year head coach Mark Youngs, won their second consecutive Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference Championship this year and made it to the Sweet 16 at the NAIA DII National Tournament for the first time in school history. Senior Jeanette Woodberry was honored as the WHAC Player of the Year and was also named a First Team All-American. The Lady Panthers compiled a record of 28-6 overall and 13-1 in WHAC play.

After making their third consecutive appearance in the ACHA DII Final Four, Head Coach Paul Lowden and the Panthers hockey team claimed their first ever National Championship with a 5-2 win over Indiana University. The win was part of a dominating week at the national tournament in Fort Myers, FL where DU outscored their five opponents 40-7. The win in the national championship game came on the heels of a third straight GMHL regular season title and a third straight GMHL Tournament title. The Panthers concluded their season with a 35-10-3 overall record.

If you have any questions about the event or would like to set up any interviews with the head coaches or players, please contact Davenport University Sports Information Director Aaron Sagraves at 616-554-5045 or Aaron.Sagraves@Davenport.edu.