9/3- Illini Tennis Gears Up for 2008 Alumni Reunion Weekend

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - The Illinois mens and womens tennis teams, fresh off their NCAA Tournament appearances, are set to host the 2008 Alumni Reunion weekend this Friday, Sept. 5, at the Atkins Tennis Center. The nights festivities are slated to begin at 6 p.m. Fans are invited to come out and watch as both teams welcome back former Illini greats. "Alumni weekend is always a special event because of the tremendous support former alumni show for their alma mater," head womens tennis coach Michelle Dasso said. "It also marks the kick-off of our new season bringing both the mens and womens program together." Confirmed attendees for this weekend include All-Century team players Rajeev Ram, Jeff Laski, Ryler DeHeart, along with honorary All-Century team captain Chris Martin. "Im very happy to have all of the former Illini returning to the Illinois tennis family this weekend," head mens tennis coach Brad Dancer said. "This weekend is always exciting for all involved. Other notable former Illini returning to their roots include Adam Ambielli (1985), Jim Appleman (1975), Todd Black (1982), Lelia Cehajic (2005), Lewis Cort (1981), Charly Crawmer (1994), Cynthia Goulet (2006), Webb Hayne (1976), Stephen Hill (1955), Brianna Knue (2006), Greg Philiotis (1985), John Quarenghi (1987), Howard Robinson (1952), Hope Thompson-Haberer (1977), and Michelle Webb (2003). The reunion kicks off with a round robin competition at the Atkins Tennis Center on Friday night at 6 p.m. Afterwards, alumni are invited to take part in a special event hosted by the Varsity I Association. The weekend concludes with tailgating beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday before heading to the Illinois vs. Eastern Illinois football game, with kickoff scheduled for 11 a.m. at Memorial Stadium.