Dave Dopek - 2010 Hall of Famer

2010 DePaul Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee (Fifth in a series)

Dave Dopek

Dave Dopek Men's Track and Field (1991-95)

Dopek is DePaul's only NCAA Championship winner as the 1995 NCAA Indoor Champion in the 200 meters. The two-time All-American was also a runner-up in the 200 meters at the 1995 NCAA Outdoor Championships. He was named the Great Midwest Conference Athlete of the Year in 1995 and compiled 10 Great Midwest Conference titles from 1992-95. Dopek still holds the indoor and outdoor records at DePaul in both the 200 and 400-meter events and is a member of the record-holder 4x100-meter relay team. He is currently in his 15th season as an assistant track and field coach at his alma mater working with DePaul's sprinters, hurdlers and jumpers.

2010 DePaul University Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet

January 30, 2010 - McGrath Arena - 2323 N. Sheffield Ave.

Register on-line - Click Here

RSVP via phone at 773-325-7504

Wendy Fahlstrom-Hall

2010 DePaul Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee (Fourth in a series)

Wendy Fahlstrom-Hall

Wendy Fahlstrom-Hall Volleyball

Fahlstrom led DePaul to its first NCAA Championship appearance in 1993 after earning Great Midwest Conference Player of the Year and Tournament MVP honors. She is ranked among the program's top five in service aces, attempts, kills and digs while being named to the Great Midwest Conference All-Tournament team three times..

2010 DePaul University Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet

January 30, 2010 - McGrath Arena - 2323 N. Sheffield Ave.

Social hour - 6 p.m.

Dinner served - 6:30 p.m.

Induction Ceremony - 7 p.m.

Register on-line - Click Here

RSVP via phone at 773-325-7504

1967 Men's Tennis Team - Hall of Famers

2010 DePaul Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee

(Second in a series)

1967 Men's Tennis Team

1967 Men's Tennis Team

Coached by Jim Seri, the Blue Demons finished the season with a 22-3 record and qualified for the NCAA Championship Regionals. The squad fifth at the NCAA College Championships. Members of the team include Ray Bachman, Ray Cahnman, Terry Garvey, George Hahn, Allen Kiel, Nat King, Mel Searles and Steve Williams. In addition to the NCAA appearance, DePaul also claimed the Chicagoland Championship.

2010 DePaul University Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet

January 30, 2010

Tickets - $40

Register on-line - Click Here

RSVP via phone at 773-325-7504

Joe Wilhoit Hall of Famer

2010 DePaul Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee

(Third in a series)

Joe Wilhoit

Joe Wilhoit Baseball (1915)

Wilhoit holds the distinction of holding the record for the longest hitting streak in professional baseball. He put together a 69-game hitting streak while playing for the Wichita Jobbers of the Western League from June 14-August 19, 1919. He is the only Blue Demon to appear in the World Series. Wilhoit appeared in games two and six of the 1917 World Series while playing for the New York Giants. After playing at DePaul, Wilhoit played in the Major Leagues for the Boston Braves (1916-17), Pittsburgh Pirates (1917), New York Giants (1917-18) and Boston Red Sox (1919). With the Red Sox, he played alongside Babe Ruth.

DePaul Hall of Fame Banquet - January 30, 2010
Tickets - $40 - RSVP at 773-325-7240
or Online by Clicking HERE

Tom Kleinschmidt - Hall of Famer

2010 DePaul Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee

Tom Kleinschmidt

(First in a series)

Tom Kleinschmidt Men's Basketball (1991-1995)

Kleinschmidt was the first player to earn conference player of the year honors when he was named by the Great Midwest Conference in 1995. He is the first player in school history to finish his career with at least 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 300 assists, 100 steals and 100 three-pointers. Kleinschmidt finished his career ranked in DePaul's top 10 in career points, field goals, free throws, three-point field goals, assists and steals. He led the Blue Demons to a 1992 NCAA Championship appearance and two NIT berths while earning honorable mention All-American honors in 1995. Kleinschmidt scored at least 30 points in eight games including a career-high 37 against UAB as a junior.

DePaul Hall of Fame Banquet - January 30, 2010

Tickets - $40 - RSVP at 773-325-7240

or Online by Clicking HERE

Downtown Demon Luncheon III: There’s a new kid on the block, and he’s ready for action!

Fans, faculty, staff and coaches gathered on Tuesday, January 12 for the inaugural Downtown Demon Luncheon of the year!

The first Downtown Demon Luncheon of 2010 introduced interim head coach, Tracy Webster to a crowd of more than 40 supporters. Coach Webster spoke eloquently about his newly- appointed position and the excitement he possessed about the remainder of the season.Webster used his wit and infectious smile to engage the crowd who was meeting Webster for the first time as head of Men’s Blue Demon hoops!

Webster’s address to the crowd was confident and candid; he answered the easy and tough questions—and even offered a new suggestion to the free throw woes DePaul has faced thus far… “6 a.m. free- throw shooting if your shooting percentage is under 73 percent.”

Next, Coach Doug Bruno briefed the room on his team’s grueling away-game schedule, and recapped the over-time lost against West Virginia. Bruno praised seniors Sam Quigley and Felicia Chester for their leadership during the season and for elevating their level of play. Bruno also discussed the dynamics of the BIG EAST and thanked fans for supporting his program. He reminded the crowd that his team is young, but that they will go out and play hard and that they still had a shot of making some noise in the BIG EAST- overcoming the loss of Deirdra Naughton and China Threatt.

The men’s basketball team is back in action on Thursday, January 14, when they take on Providence at Allstate Arena. Tip-off is at 8 p.m. Doors to the Champions Club Room open at 6:45 p.m.

The women return to the hardwood on January 16. They play rival St. John’s at 7 p.m. Doors to the Champions Club Room open at 6:00 p.m.

There’s only one more Downtown Demon Luncheon left!! On February 8, 2010 we will have our final luncheon of the year. Don’t miss out…get your ticket today! To reserve your spot, please contact Marge Mazik at 773-325-7240 or mmazik@depaul.edu.

GO BLUE DEMONS!!

Legendary Guard Haig Passes Away

DePaul Hall of Famer Billy Haig died on January 13 at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, Ill. Haig was part of DePaul's well-known backcourt duo alongside Howie Carl. Haig played his prep ball at DePaul Academy where he and eventual DePaul University teammate Tom Meier led the Academy to the 1954-55 Catholic League title.

Once in Lincoln Park, Haig teamed with fellow transfer Howie Carl for three stellar seasons from 1958-61. Their squads finished 17-7 and 17-8 in their final two seasons. Three times, he and his squadmates advanced to postseason play, twice in the NCAA Tournament and once in the NIT. The 1960 team advanced to the NCAA tournament and defeated Air Force in the opening round game played in Alumni Hall. The Blue Demons dropped the second round match-up, falling to Cinncinnati and All-American Guard Oscar Robertson in a rugged battle.

Known as a great ball handler and dribbler who could get to basket, Haig averaged in doubles figures throughout his career. He scored 843 career points in his three-year career, tallying totals of 285, 300 and 268 points in his three years, respectively.

The 1959-60 team was featured in the Dec. 12 issue of Sports Illustrated in a story called "The Secret Of A Great Offense". The article explained Coach Ray Meyer's offense in great detail. The link the article can be found here.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1134804/index.htm

Memorial information:

Haig, William W. 71, Army Veteran, CPS Teacher of 30 years at Lakeview High School, beloved husband of Josette for 48 years, loving father of Christopher (Janet) and Anthony (Riikka), devoted grandfather of Dylan and Ryan, brother-in-law of Connie (Frank) Spenko, loving uncle of Matthew (Elizabeth). Memorial 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., service at 3:30 p.m. at Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge, Chicago, on Sunday, January 17th. In lieu of flowers, donations to Misericordia Heart of Mercy.

DePaul Loses Men's Hoops Alum and Veteran

DePaul Athletics recently learned of the passing of men's basketball alum Joe Demkovich. After playing on a state championship team at Morton High School, Demkovich attended DePaul University where he played with some of best in Blue Demon History, playing with NBA veterans: George Mikan, Ed Mikan, Eugene Stump and Jack Phelan. The Blue Demons amassed a record of 56-17 while Demkovich was a member of the DePaul squad.

His bio in DePaul's Media guiide prior to his freshman season said
"A great traveler in the Army Air Transport Command for the last three years, Joe is a strapping six-feet, 200-pound young man who saw Cairo, Athens, Yalta, Marsaille, Tunis and Malta, while in the pursuance of his Army duties. Joe, who speaks fluent Russian, is a member of a family of nine, and is one of six brothers that are proficient in basketball and baseball. A hard driving, rugged ball player, his greatest thrill was being a member of the Morton High School's State Champions in 1940-41.

Several years ago, DePaul sent copies of the media guides from the 1940s to all its letterwinners. In one of the guides, Demkovich's bio said he flew President Roosevelt to Europe. In testament to Demkovich's humility, his wife Jean called and corrected the report saying, "Joe didn't want anybody to get the wrong idea that he was taking credit for something he didn't do"

His obituary tells the story, "Mr. Demkovich enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was a P-38 Lightning Fighter pilot. He was a lieutenant in the First Fighter Wing 27th Fighter Squadron and escorted numerous bombing missions out of Foggia, Italy. Joe was awarded the Air Medal with Clusters. In 1945, he flew escort for President Roosevelt to the Yalta Conference."

His obituary tells the story of a well-rounded man that had many fabulous experiences.
DePaul Athletics Salutes Joe Demkovich

Joe Demkovich - April 02, 1923-July 22, 2009
Joseph P "Puggy" Demkovich, 86, a resident of Albuquerque since 1971, passed away Wednesday, July 22, 2009. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Jean, children, Clay and Joanie See, Joe Demkovich and Laurie Vogel, Rev Michael Demkovich O.P., Eloy and Marykay Gutierrez; grandchildren, Jonathan See and Genevieve, Cecily and Avalon Gutierrez (all of Albuquerque); sister, Helene Hruska of Boulder, CO and brother Tony Demkovich of Lombard, IL, and numerous nieces and nephews and friends. Joe was a devout Roman Catholic and a past member of Holy Name Society, Sierra Club, Lobo Athletics Booster Club, St. Joseph's Hospital Board and was active in the Charlie Pride Golf Tournament where he played golf with Mike Ditka and Terry Bradshaw. Joe attended Morton High School in Cicero, IL, where he was a member of the State Championship basketball team of 1941. He then attended DePaul University on a basketball scholarship where he played for Coach Ray Meyer and was teammates of George and Ed Mikan. Mr. Demkovich enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was a P-38 Lightning Fighter pilot. He was a lieutenant in the First Fighter Wing 27th Fighter Squadron and escorted numerous bombing missions out of Foggia, Italy. Joe was awarded the Air Medal with Clusters. In 1945, he flew escort for President Roosevelt to the Yalta Conference. Mr. Demkovich later worked for IBM in Chicago, Indianapolis, Oklahoma City and was transferred to Albuquerque as Branch Manager where he retired. Because he was fluent in Russian, Joe was one of the interpreters for Khrushchev's party when Mr. Khrushchev visited IBM in San Jose, CA. Family and friends were especially important to Joe, he truly valued these relationships, wanting everyone to join in his adventures. He took great pleasure in teaching investments at the Bear Canyon Senior Center and published investment articles. Joe was a member of Four Hills Country Club for 33 years where golfing was his joy in life. He played with the New Mexico State Seniors and won his "cherished" green jacket. He also enjoyed tennis, skiing, fishing, sailing, traveling, painting, wood-working and was an avid spectator of many sports. Joe was a great husband, wonderful father, amazing grandfather and a fun-loving guy.
http://obits.abqjournal.com/obits/2009/07/26

Men's Basketball Alumni Day

More than 50 Men’s basketball alums gathered on Sunday, January 3 to celebrate Alumni Day and to support the Blue Demons as they battled Georgetown. Alums, guests, and donors gathered in the Champions Club Room 75 minutes before tip-off to hear Coach Jerry Wainwright, Director of Athletics, Jean Lenti Ponsetto, and assistant coach, Dave Booth, speak about the current team, departmental happenings, and opposing team.

During the pre-game festivities, Jean Lenti Ponsetto thanked all the alums for coming out; but highlighted one alum in particular…Dick Triptow, who played in the 40’s and who still had his original letter jacket.

After lunch, Alumni were led down to the court by men’s basketball alum, and assistant director of development, Lemone Lampley, where they joined the current team on the baseline for the National Anthem.

At halftime, the basketball alums and managers were recognized by Jean Lenti Ponsetto during a special half-time presentation.

Thanks for making this event a memorable occasion. Your continued support is imperative to the success of the program.

GO BLUE DEMONS!!

Hats off to Blue Demon Fan and Theatre Graduate PJ Byrne

DePaul Athletics wants to recognize P.J. Byrne, Blue Demon Fan and DePaul Theatre School Alum. This past weekend while watching previews at the movies, I heard a familiar voice. The shot on the screen focused on P.J. Byrne in his upcoming role as Dr. Preston in Extraordinary Measures a film with Harrison Ford & Brendan Fraser. See trailer here.

P.J. is a great Blue Demon fan and a tremendous ambassador for DePaul. Last winter, he attended the men's basketball game against UCLA in Anaheim, as well as the Alumni Association pre-game reception. (By the way, he is the guy with the orange jacket in the picture). More importantedly, he served as the emcee for DePaul's annual Theatre Gala in 2009.

P.J., his wife Jamie and I attended a World Baseball Classic game together last spring and he told me about this upcoming part with Harrison Ford about a Doctor (Ford) that tries beat the clock finding a cure for a man's (Fraser) children. The role is especially meaningful since Jaime is the district director of the LA/ Beverly Hills Chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Congratulations P.J. - Check out all his other work on his link on IMDB.