Oct. 25, 2008

Recap |  Photo Gallery 

Jim Jabir

On UD’s Nationally-Ranked Freshman Class
“I think they could have gone a lot of places. The kids you recruit define your program, both in their character and their ability. It was critical that we signed them. We had to go up against SEC, Big Ten, Big East schools to get these guys. I think they’re really happy to be here.”

“We had to make sure they were aware of everything that Dayton had to offer. I think if people get to know our team they’ll see quality people from quality families; very hardworking, selfless, giving and respectful. I think that’s a reflection of the University. Some kids come here because there is that connection. They feel that bond between the values of the school and their own family values.”

On Losing Seven Seniors and Four Starters
“I think the challenge is just the learning curve and the intensity. The ability to learn the game experience is stuff the seniors had accrued. They were able to make quick decisions and read each other. There is so much inexperience right now. We have to teach and assimilate as quickly as possible.”

What This Team is Capable Of
“I really like our mix. I think we are capable of anything. I am not discounting anything this year. I don’t see why we can’t be better than last year. We have to stay healthy because we’re not very deep. We just have to continue to be hungry, work hard and get better every day.”

“We just really get after it and understand the core values of the University of Dayton. I love being a part of it and I think our program is turning it into what we want it to be.”

Freshman Justine Raterman

The Experience of Playing For First Time at UD Arena
“It was a lot of fun getting to play in front of a crowd. It’s always fun to play for your fans. We were a little nervous playing for the first time, but it was nice that everyone could see the results of our hard work.”

Team’s Performance
“I felt like we did pretty well. There are a lot of things we still have to work on. We couldn’t really get into the flow of things because of the lack of time. I think we are getting better each week.”

On Three Freshmen Starting the Scrimmage
“It’s really exciting playing along with your classmates. You’re going to get a lot of questions and teams might look past you. We can’t play like freshman.”

How to Build On Last Year
“Last year, UD had a great team. We have some key components back from that team and some great leadership. It’s great to have Brittany Holterman coaching too. That helps a lot because that shows us just how hard we have to work.”