For the first time in the history of USC athletics, two Trojan programs 4-peated in the same school year. Today, we celebrated men's tennis' 20th national championship at Heritage Hall.
May 2012 Archives
After a miserable opening round, USC men's golf rallied at Riviera by shooting the low round of the day (+2 as a team) to move into a tie for eighth as play begins Thursday at the NCAA Championships. At the end of today's round, the 30-team field will be cut down to eight for three elimination rounds of match play, so the Trojans are sitting spot on the cut line.
Click here for yesterday's recap.
Junior Sam Smith provided the microcosm for USC's effort as a team this tournament. He rebounded from an ugly 79 in the first round to lead the Trojans with a sparkling 2-under 69 in round two.
We will be tweeting live from Riviera today as USC men's golf continues its pursuit for a first ever national championship or you can follow the live NCAA leaderboard.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
Click here for yesterday's recap.
Junior Sam Smith provided the microcosm for USC's effort as a team this tournament. He rebounded from an ugly 79 in the first round to lead the Trojans with a sparkling 2-under 69 in round two.
We will be tweeting live from Riviera today as USC men's golf continues its pursuit for a first ever national championship or you can follow the live NCAA leaderboard.
Sophomore Jeffrey Kang shot even par in round two.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
The USC athletic department is working to improve our relationship with the Trojan Family and the atmosphere at all sporting events by creating a fan engagement team led by Tim Martin, the former vice president of ticket sales for the Los Angeles Galaxy.
The new approach will be focused on personal service, so expect a call from a member of our team hoping to fulfill your individual needs. If you do make a ticket purchase, our account executives will ensure that you enjoy your experience.
Plus, our team will be knowledgeable on all things USC athletics. Two of the account executives, Michelle Jenkins (women's basketball) and Tanya Krisman (women's swimming), are former student-athletes, who will bring a unique perspective on all things Troy.
You will be hearing from them soon!
The new approach will be focused on personal service, so expect a call from a member of our team hoping to fulfill your individual needs. If you do make a ticket purchase, our account executives will ensure that you enjoy your experience.
Plus, our team will be knowledgeable on all things USC athletics. Two of the account executives, Michelle Jenkins (women's basketball) and Tanya Krisman (women's swimming), are former student-athletes, who will bring a unique perspective on all things Troy.
You will be hearing from them soon!
Written by junior outside hitter Sara Shaw
After a hearty breakfast (with Nutella, of course!), we all anxiously got dressed and ready for the tasks and challenges that we will face at the ropes course extravaganza!
We began our adventures with the ski lift to the top of the mountain. At the top of the mountain lied the course. The views were spectacular and we could see the entire city of Maribor! At the top we were approached by two friendly outdoorsmen who were going to aid us along the journey. The guides split our team into two groups and everyone got harnessed up and ready to go!
One group was to start the "Leap of Faith" and the other began at the "Swing." The Swing was my first stop and happened to be my absolute favorite activity of the day!
Each of us were harnessed into 2 long ropes that met and locked to our individual harnesses. We were then lifted up by the ropes that the rest of the team was pulling like a sled-racing team. Mush! The ropes pulled us higher and higher until we had reached the top.
As the ropes hold us in place, we look out into the beautiful view of Maribor above the trees. I can hear the rest of my team chanting my name, making my adrenaline pump. Then, there is a sudden realization that you are about to drop 30 yards; only being held by a couple sturdy ropes. My heart dropped as I tugged the knot to let me go. I flew downward to swing back and forth, screaming as I go. As my swing slows and comes to a stop, I can hear my team supporting me... it makes me smile ☺
After a hearty breakfast (with Nutella, of course!), we all anxiously got dressed and ready for the tasks and challenges that we will face at the ropes course extravaganza!
We began our adventures with the ski lift to the top of the mountain. At the top of the mountain lied the course. The views were spectacular and we could see the entire city of Maribor! At the top we were approached by two friendly outdoorsmen who were going to aid us along the journey. The guides split our team into two groups and everyone got harnessed up and ready to go!
One group was to start the "Leap of Faith" and the other began at the "Swing." The Swing was my first stop and happened to be my absolute favorite activity of the day! Each of us were harnessed into 2 long ropes that met and locked to our individual harnesses. We were then lifted up by the ropes that the rest of the team was pulling like a sled-racing team. Mush! The ropes pulled us higher and higher until we had reached the top.
As the ropes hold us in place, we look out into the beautiful view of Maribor above the trees. I can hear the rest of my team chanting my name, making my adrenaline pump. Then, there is a sudden realization that you are about to drop 30 yards; only being held by a couple sturdy ropes. My heart dropped as I tugged the knot to let me go. I flew downward to swing back and forth, screaming as I go. As my swing slows and comes to a stop, I can hear my team supporting me... it makes me smile ☺
Continue reading WVB in Europe: Sara Shaw.
The Pac-12 national and regional networks will be launched soon, so the conference has set up a channel locator for you to see if you get the conference networks under the current broadcast agreements.
Click here to use the channel locator.
If the Pac-12 Networks are not available in your area, the locator below provides you the opportunity to email your television provider and request that it picks up the channel.
Click here to use the channel locator.
If the Pac-12 Networks are not available in your area, the locator below provides you the opportunity to email your television provider and request that it picks up the channel.
USC war hero Louis Zamperini and two-time national championship winning head coach Pete Carroll will headline the inaugural Win Forever Always Compete Speaker Series at the Grammy Museum at LA Live on June 16.
Click here for event information and tickets.
Zamperini will discuss his tale of World War II survival documented in the best-selling book Unbroken, while Carroll will take the audience through his personal and coaching philosophies.
Click here for event information and tickets.
Zamperini will discuss his tale of World War II survival documented in the best-selling book Unbroken, while Carroll will take the audience through his personal and coaching philosophies.
USC men's and women's track and field will send a combined 17 individuals to compete in the 18 events at the NCAA Championships in Des Moines, IA, next week plus the 4x100m women's relay team and the 4x400m men's relay.
Click here for the full list of qualifiers.
Among the highlights, the women's hammer team will complete an outstanding campaign with Jenny Ozorai (4th), Marissa Minderler (7th) and Jade Niemeyer (8th) all finishing above the top 12 cutoff line at regionals.
On the men's side, Aaron Brown will sprint to nationals. The sophomore sensation qualified for the 100 and 200 meters. The men's 4x400m relay team is led by Bryshon Nellum, Josh Mance and Joey Hughes, who all qualified as individuals for the 400m finals in Iowa.
(Photo by Kirby Lee)
Click here for the full list of qualifiers.
Among the highlights, the women's hammer team will complete an outstanding campaign with Jenny Ozorai (4th), Marissa Minderler (7th) and Jade Niemeyer (8th) all finishing above the top 12 cutoff line at regionals.
On the men's side, Aaron Brown will sprint to nationals. The sophomore sensation qualified for the 100 and 200 meters. The men's 4x400m relay team is led by Bryshon Nellum, Josh Mance and Joey Hughes, who all qualified as individuals for the 400m finals in Iowa.
Brown (center) won the 100m title at the Pac-12 Championships.
(Photo by Kirby Lee)
Going into his fourth season in charge of the USC women's basketball program, Michael Cooper will have a trio of new assistants to shake things up. Daron Park, Tai Dillard and Evan Unrau will fill the seats next to the head coach.
Click here for the full story.
"I just think this whole group of coaches I have coming in is definitely a staff that will work well together," Cooper said.
Park was named the associate head coach after coming over to USC from California.
"In going through the process of looking to revamp a coaching staff, you always want to get the best, and coach Park is a very solid coach," Cooper said of Park (pictured). "He knows his Xs and 0s. He was at Maryland for some great NCAA runs, and he was at La Tech with Teresa Weatherspoon to build that program. With him there, they pushed into NCAA tournament play, and in his last year at Cal he helped that program get to the tournament with Lindsay Gottlieb."
Dillard spent the last five years at UTSA, while Unrau jumped from Santa Clara. Both Dillard and Unrau played in the WNBA.
Click here for the full story.
"I just think this whole group of coaches I have coming in is definitely a staff that will work well together," Cooper said.Park was named the associate head coach after coming over to USC from California.
"In going through the process of looking to revamp a coaching staff, you always want to get the best, and coach Park is a very solid coach," Cooper said of Park (pictured). "He knows his Xs and 0s. He was at Maryland for some great NCAA runs, and he was at La Tech with Teresa Weatherspoon to build that program. With him there, they pushed into NCAA tournament play, and in his last year at Cal he helped that program get to the tournament with Lindsay Gottlieb."
Dillard spent the last five years at UTSA, while Unrau jumped from Santa Clara. Both Dillard and Unrau played in the WNBA.
Note: Milan was hit by a magnitude 5.8 earthquake, but the Women of Troy had already left for Venice.
Written by senior outside hitter Katie Fuller
Today, we started our morning off early with a 6:30 a.m. wake-up call to begin our journey to Venice. While we had a wonderful time in Milan, we had to pack up our things and head to the gorgeous canals of Venice. After a 2.5 hour train ride we were at our destination and free to roam the city the rest of the day. Mind that the train stations in Milan were much cleaner and well kept than Los Angeles. The only bummer was that it cost money to use the bathroom!
There was plenty of shopping and food for a lifetime there. The shops
were small and full of fine jewelry, leathers, glass animals, or
decorated masks. The ways around the city were over bridges and then
through small, sometimes smelly alleys, which were either packed with
people or completely empty...often meaning you were lost or heading
towards a dead end.
One of the most amazing parts was that the whole city is based off of water transportation or by walking. The gondolas were a fantastic experience but very slow as well as the canal-side pizzerias, which had different foods and black pastas that we were not used to. While we could only stay for about a total of four hours, it was worth the travel.
San Marcos square was the happening place for all the tourists and pigeons! I have never been to a more bird-friendly city in my life. They would sit on your table, come up and grab food out of your hand, and poop on you. The architecture of the palace and church were unreal. The amount of time that must have been put into making these historic structures must have been immense due to their handcrafted and unique style. The Realto Bridge was the on the other fabulous side of the city where we did most of our shopping. Without taxes it makes it so much better! Each shop seemed to be family owned and the people hand-made their products in the shop.
Written by senior outside hitter Katie Fuller
Today, we started our morning off early with a 6:30 a.m. wake-up call to begin our journey to Venice. While we had a wonderful time in Milan, we had to pack up our things and head to the gorgeous canals of Venice. After a 2.5 hour train ride we were at our destination and free to roam the city the rest of the day. Mind that the train stations in Milan were much cleaner and well kept than Los Angeles. The only bummer was that it cost money to use the bathroom!
There was plenty of shopping and food for a lifetime there. The shops
were small and full of fine jewelry, leathers, glass animals, or
decorated masks. The ways around the city were over bridges and then
through small, sometimes smelly alleys, which were either packed with
people or completely empty...often meaning you were lost or heading
towards a dead end.One of the most amazing parts was that the whole city is based off of water transportation or by walking. The gondolas were a fantastic experience but very slow as well as the canal-side pizzerias, which had different foods and black pastas that we were not used to. While we could only stay for about a total of four hours, it was worth the travel.
San Marcos square was the happening place for all the tourists and pigeons! I have never been to a more bird-friendly city in my life. They would sit on your table, come up and grab food out of your hand, and poop on you. The architecture of the palace and church were unreal. The amount of time that must have been put into making these historic structures must have been immense due to their handcrafted and unique style. The Realto Bridge was the on the other fabulous side of the city where we did most of our shopping. Without taxes it makes it so much better! Each shop seemed to be family owned and the people hand-made their products in the shop.
Continue reading WVB in Europe: Katie Fuller.
USC men's golf knows what's at stake. The program has never won a national title, but the 2012 NCAA Championships are in the Trojans' backyard at Riviera Country Club.
In the opening round Tuesday, USC showed some jitters posting a +14 to finish tied for 22nd after day one. The men's tournament features three days of medal play after which the field is cut down to eight teams for single elimination match play.
The Trojans have some work to do, but they have the talent and local knowledge to make up strokes in a hurry.
Click here to follow the action live.
2011 Pac-10 champion Martin Trainer (photo by Pierson Clair) led USC with an opening round 73 (+2).
In the opening round Tuesday, USC showed some jitters posting a +14 to finish tied for 22nd after day one. The men's tournament features three days of medal play after which the field is cut down to eight teams for single elimination match play.
The Trojans have some work to do, but they have the talent and local knowledge to make up strokes in a hurry.
Click here to follow the action live.
2011 Pac-10 champion Martin Trainer (photo by Pierson Clair) led USC with an opening round 73 (+2).
Despite not losing a singles match for the better part of two years, Steve Johnson avoided complacency thanks to his internal fire, which always had a way of sneaking out in matches.
The men's tennis champion's enduring image will be his signature primal celebration.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
The men's tennis champion's enduring image will be his signature primal celebration.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
Written by junior middle blocker Alexis Olgard
Today we started off with a tour through Milan, which was very informative. We learned about the history of the Church, Opera house, and the Castle. Milan is a beautiful place with a lot of history and I have enjoyed my time here.
After our tour we got a quick bite to eat and headed back to the hotel for a quick nap before our game. Unfortunately, we were unable to beat club Italy tonight but took them to a five set match.
Tomorrow, we will be traveling to Venice to sightsee all day, which will be a great adventure for our team. I also enjoyed spending my 21st birthday with an amazing group of girls and want to thank them for a great celebration with gelato!!
Today we started off with a tour through Milan, which was very informative. We learned about the history of the Church, Opera house, and the Castle. Milan is a beautiful place with a lot of history and I have enjoyed my time here.
After our tour we got a quick bite to eat and headed back to the hotel for a quick nap before our game. Unfortunately, we were unable to beat club Italy tonight but took them to a five set match.
Tomorrow, we will be traveling to Venice to sightsee all day, which will be a great adventure for our team. I also enjoyed spending my 21st birthday with an amazing group of girls and want to thank them for a great celebration with gelato!!
Steve Johnson's USC legend and legacy is sewed up tight as can be. The most accomplished Trojan tennis player of all-time finished his four years by winning 72 consecutive singles matches, back-to-back NCAA singles championships and four consecutive national team titles.
Click here for the recap of Johnson's final win.
The champion will rest now before embarking on his professional journey. He earned it and everything else that comes his way.
Here is championship point and Johnson's reflections on his future Hall of Fame career...
Click here for the recap of Johnson's final win.
The champion will rest now before embarking on his professional journey. He earned it and everything else that comes his way.
Here is championship point and Johnson's reflections on his future Hall of Fame career...
Written by senior middle blocker Natasha Siljkovic
Yesterday night, we all went to bed before 9 p.m. because we were very tired from the long flight and very quick Milan sightseeing.
Some of us woke up early this morning - Sam Hirschmann and Sara Shaw woke up at 5 a.m. and couldn't go back to bed. Emily Young woke up at 10 p.m. the previous night thinking it was morning. She got up, brushed her teeth and got ready to go to breakfast when she realized that it was still dark outside. Obviously, we needed at least a couple days to get used to the time difference. After breakfast we all went to Lake Como. It is a small town near Milan with a breathtaking view and a beautiful lake surrounded by cafes and small Italian restaurants.
The city is surrounded by mountains on all sides. We took the tram and went up to one of the mountains. We could see the lake and the city from there and the view was amazing!
Also, the tram ride was very exciting- one lady got in the tram at the last minute and we all had to pull her in because she got stuck in the closing door. When we came back down, Erin Yoder and Katie Fuller went pedal boating; and can I add - they didn't make it very far.
At the same time, another part of our team went to a boat ride on the lake. We found out that the lake has 42 cities surrounding it and we saw Switzerland from the boat. We drove by Giorgio Armani's vacation house and the house where the movie "Oceans 12" was filmed, while we could see George's Clooney house in the distance.
From left: Erin Yoder, Sara Shaw and Katie Fuller.
Written by USC women's volleyball All-American libero Natalie Hagglund
Ciao from Milano!
Despite the fact that we traveled for nearly 24 hours, we are already two days into our trip! Some of us, the jittery ones, Emily, Brent, Mick, Tim, and me of course, were far too uncomfortable on the plane to sleep, so we have not slept since we left for Italy. Others however (the lucky ones), slept like babies through the whole flight.
When we arrived in Milan, we immediately walked over to the gym. Some of us were running on 30 minutes of sleep while the others were just mentally pooped. Swollen ankles, feet, toes, calves, and knees from the fourteen-hour flight did not help our volleyball skills either. Regardless of how we played today, we know that we will be kicking butt tomorrow!
After practice we got to do some incredible sightseeing in downtown Milano! Two of the most fascinating sights of downtown were the Piazza Duomo and the Galleria. The Galleria is more of a high fashion indoor shopping complex while the Duomo is one of the most renowned Gothic cathedrals in Milan. Both places not only had a unique architectural structure, but also had remarkable designs and artistry.
We were given a few hours to roam around freely and to visit all the shops, eat gelato, browse through the church, and interact with people. On Monday, we will be returning to Milan to take a tour and to learn about the rich history of the Milano area!
Ciao!
Alabama senior Brooke Pancake sunk the Trojans with a clutch four-footer on the 18th to give the Crimson Tide the national championship and force USC women's golf to settle for second.
Despite taking a lead on the back nine, the Women of Troy came up a stroke short, but continued a run of remarkable championship consistency. Andrea Gaston's team finished in the top five for the seventh consecutive NCAA Tournament.
(Photo by Dan Avila)
Despite taking a lead on the back nine, the Women of Troy came up a stroke short, but continued a run of remarkable championship consistency. Andrea Gaston's team finished in the top five for the seventh consecutive NCAA Tournament.
(Photo by Dan Avila)
Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades will host next week's NCAA Men's Golf Championship, which is just the latest major event in the golf course's storied past.
The course officially opened June 24, 1927, and in the 85 years since, it has hosted the 1948 U.S. Open, two PGA Championships and a U.S. Senior Open. The legend of Ben Hogan was born at Riviera where he made his comeback from a near fatal car accident at the Los Angeles Open, so the course is dubbed "Hogan's Alley."
The Trojans will have a chance to stake out their own piece of Riviera history with a memorable tournament next week. Here is a look at the tradition the 2012 NCAA champion will join...
The course officially opened June 24, 1927, and in the 85 years since, it has hosted the 1948 U.S. Open, two PGA Championships and a U.S. Senior Open. The legend of Ben Hogan was born at Riviera where he made his comeback from a near fatal car accident at the Los Angeles Open, so the course is dubbed "Hogan's Alley."
The Trojans will have a chance to stake out their own piece of Riviera history with a memorable tournament next week. Here is a look at the tradition the 2012 NCAA champion will join...
With freshman Doris Chen leading the charge, USC women's golf surged within two shots of Alabama's lead heading into Friday's final round at the NCAA Championships in Franklin, TN.
Click here for the recap of day three.
The Women of Troy are in prime second place position as they pursue a third national championship in the last decade. The Trojans made up a dozen strokes on the Crimson Tide by posting the best third round score despite windy conditions.
"It's now a horse race," said two-time NCAA Championship winning head coach Andrea Gaston.
Surprisingly, USC has been paced by Chen (seventh overall) and senior Inah Park (17th overall). If the team's stars Lisa McCloskey and Sophia Popov can find top gear, women's golf could bring home Troy's second national championship this week.
Follow the action LIVE by clicking here.
Click here for the recap of day three.
The Women of Troy are in prime second place position as they pursue a third national championship in the last decade. The Trojans made up a dozen strokes on the Crimson Tide by posting the best third round score despite windy conditions.
"It's now a horse race," said two-time NCAA Championship winning head coach Andrea Gaston.
Surprisingly, USC has been paced by Chen (seventh overall) and senior Inah Park (17th overall). If the team's stars Lisa McCloskey and Sophia Popov can find top gear, women's golf could bring home Troy's second national championship this week.
Follow the action LIVE by clicking here.
Coach Gaston knows the feeling.
USC freshman Marqise Lee set a personal record in the long jump by bounding 25-5.50 to advance to the NCAA Championships. The football wide receiver joined javelin thrower Kristine Busa as the two Trojans to seal their spots in the national finals after day one of competition at the NCAA Preliminary Rounds in Austin, TX.
Click here for the full recap.
The NCAA Championships are June 6-9 in Des Moines, IA.
(Photo from the Pac-12 Championships)
Click here for the full recap.
The NCAA Championships are June 6-9 in Des Moines, IA.
(Photo from the Pac-12 Championships)
USC men's tennis head coach Peter Smith, who engineered four consecutive national championships, was rewarded with the ITA National Coach of the Year award for the second time in his career.
Click here for the full story.
Smith has masterminded one of the most decorated decades in Trojan tennis history with four NCAA team titles, two national players of the year (Steve Johnson and Robert Farah) and a .774 winning percentage.
The 2012 team spoke in the round about their beloved head coach...
Click here for the full story.
Smith has masterminded one of the most decorated decades in Trojan tennis history with four NCAA team titles, two national players of the year (Steve Johnson and Robert Farah) and a .774 winning percentage.
The 2012 team spoke in the round about their beloved head coach...
100 days until USC kicks off 2012 against Hawaii at the Coliseum...
In honor of the milestone and your unquenchable thirst for all things football this time of year, we released all the SC Classics on our YouTube channel.
Click here to see the video playlist.
Our classic footage dates back to the early days of Troy, but the more recent selections include Pete Carroll, Sam Baker and Fred Davis breaking down the drive to beat Notre Dame in 2005.
In honor of the milestone and your unquenchable thirst for all things football this time of year, we released all the SC Classics on our YouTube channel.
Click here to see the video playlist.
Our classic footage dates back to the early days of Troy, but the more recent selections include Pete Carroll, Sam Baker and Fred Davis breaking down the drive to beat Notre Dame in 2005.
USC women's volleyball is headed to Europe May 25 through June 5. Coming off back-to-back Final Four appearances, the Women of Troy will stay sharp in the offseason by playing teams in Italy, Serbia and Slovenia.
Click here for the full story.
The journey to another continent will also be a cultural awakening for the Trojans. In order to maximize that aspect of the trip, USC faculty members Alice Echols and Kate Flint from the English department will join the team and facilitate expeditions.
As part of our summer blog coverage, we will post a daily dispatch from Europe written by one of the women's volleyball student-athletes.
(Photo by Ralf Cheung/Daily Trojan)
Click here for the full story.
The journey to another continent will also be a cultural awakening for the Trojans. In order to maximize that aspect of the trip, USC faculty members Alice Echols and Kate Flint from the English department will join the team and facilitate expeditions.
As part of our summer blog coverage, we will post a daily dispatch from Europe written by one of the women's volleyball student-athletes.
All-American libero Natalie Hagglund is back to lead the Women of Troy in 2012.
(Photo by Ralf Cheung/Daily Trojan)
USC men's golf will host the NCAA Championships next week at historic Riviera Country Club. Click here for tournament info.
The Trojans will be making their sixth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament, which ranks third among active streaks. At present, Florida (12) and UCLA (10) are the only schools atop USC.
All three programs were miles behind Oklahoma State until this year. The Cowboys saw their streak of 65 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances end last week in Ann Arbor, MI, at the NCAA Regionals, which were won by USC.
Without 10-time national champion Oklahoma State in the field, USC's toughest competition is expected to come from OSU's southern neighbors Texas. The Longhorns are the No. 1 team in the country, while the Trojans rank seventh.
USC men's golf is one of only two current Trojan men's programs without a national team championship in its history. On home soil next week and without a clear favorite, Chris Zambri's deep and talented squad could make things interesting for the locals.
The Trojans will be making their sixth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament, which ranks third among active streaks. At present, Florida (12) and UCLA (10) are the only schools atop USC.
All three programs were miles behind Oklahoma State until this year. The Cowboys saw their streak of 65 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances end last week in Ann Arbor, MI, at the NCAA Regionals, which were won by USC.
Without 10-time national champion Oklahoma State in the field, USC's toughest competition is expected to come from OSU's southern neighbors Texas. The Longhorns are the No. 1 team in the country, while the Trojans rank seventh.
USC men's golf is one of only two current Trojan men's programs without a national team championship in its history. On home soil next week and without a clear favorite, Chris Zambri's deep and talented squad could make things interesting for the locals.
2011 FedEx Cup champion Hunter Mahan played at both USC and Oklahoma State.
Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen will depart USC having won four men's tennis national team titles in four years, but they know better than anyone that it took more than two Trojans to get it done.
Here are the 13 men's tennis players who competed in at least one of the NCAA Championship finals, which of course does not include Peter Smith's all-star coaching staff and a deep bench of reserves who contributed during the season and in practice.
Steve Johnson (4x)
Daniel Nguyen (4x)
Jaak Poldma (3x)
Robert Farah (2x)
Ray Sarmiento (2x)
Emilio Gomez (2x)
Matt Kecki (2x)
Peter Lucassen (2x)
JT Sundling (2x)
Yannick Hanfmann
Roberto Quiroz
Abdullah Magdas
Jason McNaughton
Here are the 13 men's tennis players who competed in at least one of the NCAA Championship finals, which of course does not include Peter Smith's all-star coaching staff and a deep bench of reserves who contributed during the season and in practice.
Steve Johnson (4x)
Daniel Nguyen (4x)
Jaak Poldma (3x)
Robert Farah (2x)
Ray Sarmiento (2x)
Emilio Gomez (2x)
Matt Kecki (2x)
Peter Lucassen (2x)
JT Sundling (2x)
Yannick Hanfmann
Roberto Quiroz
Abdullah Magdas
Jason McNaughton
USC women's golf is in the hunt after day two of the NCAA Championships at the Vanderbilt Legends Club sitting in seventh place 14 strokes back from first place Alabama.
The women's golf team national championship is decided by a four-day medal play tournament, so the Women of Troy are in good position at the halfway point. USC has finished in the top five for six consecutive years, including winning it all in 2008.
"We are still in it," said two-time NCAA championship winning head coach Andrea Gaston. "We were solid today, but we felt we could have finished stronger and could have done more. We gave up a few strokes. Going into tomorrow, we need to make some putts, hopefully get off to a good start and give ourselves an opportunity on the final day. We need to generate some momentum."
Click here for the recap of day two.
The Trojans have been led by freshman Doris Chen (photo by Pac-12), who fired a 3-under 69 after a first round 75, and sits in 13th place overall.
The women's golf team national championship is decided by a four-day medal play tournament, so the Women of Troy are in good position at the halfway point. USC has finished in the top five for six consecutive years, including winning it all in 2008."We are still in it," said two-time NCAA championship winning head coach Andrea Gaston. "We were solid today, but we felt we could have finished stronger and could have done more. We gave up a few strokes. Going into tomorrow, we need to make some putts, hopefully get off to a good start and give ourselves an opportunity on the final day. We need to generate some momentum."
Click here for the recap of day two.
The Trojans have been led by freshman Doris Chen (photo by Pac-12), who fired a 3-under 69 after a first round 75, and sits in 13th place overall.
The USC Alumni Association is planning four football road trips for the Trojan Family this season.
Click here for info and reservations.
The Alumni Association is offering travel packages, tailgates and more at the USC vs. Syracuse game in New York/New Jersey on September 8, USC at Stanford on September 15, USC at Washington on October 13, and USC at Arizona on October 27.
Click here for info and reservations.
The Alumni Association is offering travel packages, tailgates and more at the USC vs. Syracuse game in New York/New Jersey on September 8, USC at Stanford on September 15, USC at Washington on October 13, and USC at Arizona on October 27.
In 1921, Rufus B. von KleinSmid became the fifth president in the budding history of the University of Southern California. How does Dr. Von, as he was affectionately called, still come up today?
Two quick stories...
On June 30 at the Anaheim Convention Center, Henri Uyttenhove will be inducted into the U.S. Fencing Hall of Fame. Uyttenhove, a Belgian import, was President von KleinSmid's fencing instructor at the Los Angeles Athletic Club.
Dr. Von would then task Uyttenhove (pictured right) with starting the USC fencing team, which still exists as a club sport at Troy. The early years of the program were wildly successful as Uyttenhove's Trojans won 14 Pacific Coast Intercollegiate titles in the first 15 seasons.
And transitioning into USC's other great passion, the film industry, Uyttenhove was the choreographer for classic movies like The Mark of Zorro, Scaramouche and The Prisoner of Zenda.
President von KleinSmid's interest in cinema was featured in an LA Times article today about the first motion pictures with talking actors ("talkies"). USC's speech department was at the forefront of the experiment as our professors taught Hollywood's famous silent stars to project and enunciate.
Here is a great photo from the LA Times archive of movie star Anita Page being filmed with von KleinSmid behind her...
Two quick stories...
On June 30 at the Anaheim Convention Center, Henri Uyttenhove will be inducted into the U.S. Fencing Hall of Fame. Uyttenhove, a Belgian import, was President von KleinSmid's fencing instructor at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. Dr. Von would then task Uyttenhove (pictured right) with starting the USC fencing team, which still exists as a club sport at Troy. The early years of the program were wildly successful as Uyttenhove's Trojans won 14 Pacific Coast Intercollegiate titles in the first 15 seasons.
And transitioning into USC's other great passion, the film industry, Uyttenhove was the choreographer for classic movies like The Mark of Zorro, Scaramouche and The Prisoner of Zenda.
President von KleinSmid's interest in cinema was featured in an LA Times article today about the first motion pictures with talking actors ("talkies"). USC's speech department was at the forefront of the experiment as our professors taught Hollywood's famous silent stars to project and enunciate.
Here is a great photo from the LA Times archive of movie star Anita Page being filmed with von KleinSmid behind her...
USC men's tennis netted the Pac-12 its 450th NCAA Championship by completing the four-peat last night over Virginia. The Conference of Champions is the runaway leader with USC accounting for 95 of the 450.
Even more dominant, a Pac-12 team has won the NCAA men's tennis team title in 53 of the last 67 years. USC leads the way with 20 men's tennis national championships, which is more than any other program in the country.
Click here for the full story.
"450 national championships out of one Conference is an extraordinary milestone," Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott said.
Even more dominant, a Pac-12 team has won the NCAA men's tennis team title in 53 of the last 67 years. USC leads the way with 20 men's tennis national championships, which is more than any other program in the country.
Click here for the full story.
"450 national championships out of one Conference is an extraordinary milestone," Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott said.
USC men's tennis had to fight Virginia into the early hours of the morning, but the Trojans retained their NCAA crown for a fourth consecutive year. The USC 4-peat will be celebrated as a career accomplishment for seniors Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen, but it was true freshman Yannick Hanfmann who clinched the national championship in a final set tiebreaker.
Peter Smith's team became the second men's tennis program ever to win four consecutive NCAA titles (Stanford) and the second USC dynasty to pull off the feat this school year joining men's water polo.
Click here for the full recap.
The drama unfolded in cinematic fashion with rains forcing the play indoors after the doubles matches for the second consecutive day. Trailing 1-0, Johnson, Ray Sarmiento and Emilio Gomez banked singles points to give the Trojans a 3-2 lead after Nguyen lost the only singles match of his NCAA Tournament career.
With Hanfmann and fellow freshmen Roberto Quiroz the only two Trojans left on the court, the young German showed his steel by pulling off the NCAA-winning tiebreaker 7-4. Locked in a three-set dogfight of his own, a relieved Quiroz joined the celebratory mob.
The next generation proved itself worthy of carrying on the USC men's tennis tradition which now stands at a record 20 national championships...and counting. Rejoice in the moment Trojans, it was well earned.
Peter Smith's team became the second men's tennis program ever to win four consecutive NCAA titles (Stanford) and the second USC dynasty to pull off the feat this school year joining men's water polo.Click here for the full recap.
The drama unfolded in cinematic fashion with rains forcing the play indoors after the doubles matches for the second consecutive day. Trailing 1-0, Johnson, Ray Sarmiento and Emilio Gomez banked singles points to give the Trojans a 3-2 lead after Nguyen lost the only singles match of his NCAA Tournament career.
With Hanfmann and fellow freshmen Roberto Quiroz the only two Trojans left on the court, the young German showed his steel by pulling off the NCAA-winning tiebreaker 7-4. Locked in a three-set dogfight of his own, a relieved Quiroz joined the celebratory mob.
The next generation proved itself worthy of carrying on the USC men's tennis tradition which now stands at a record 20 national championships...and counting. Rejoice in the moment Trojans, it was well earned.
A pair of USC alums will represent the USA on the sandy courts of London this summer, but before the games begin, beach volleyball stars Jennifer Kessy and April Ross will make a stop to salute their fans in Southern California.
If you would like to meet Kessy and Ross, join them at Macy's in South Coast Plaza on Saturday at 2 p.m. and the dynamic duo will autograph your official Team USA Polo shirt. Fans will also be able to share a photo with the Olympians and participate in a Q&A.
Kessy and Ross will join two-time gold medalists Misty May and Kerri Walsh as the American pairs competing at London 2012. Kessy starred at USC from 1995 to 1998, while Ross was at USC from 2000 to 2003 when she helped the Women of Troy to NCAA titles her final two seasons.
Click here for more on Kessy and Ross.
(Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)
If you would like to meet Kessy and Ross, join them at Macy's in South Coast Plaza on Saturday at 2 p.m. and the dynamic duo will autograph your official Team USA Polo shirt. Fans will also be able to share a photo with the Olympians and participate in a Q&A.
Kessy and Ross will join two-time gold medalists Misty May and Kerri Walsh as the American pairs competing at London 2012. Kessy starred at USC from 1995 to 1998, while Ross was at USC from 2000 to 2003 when she helped the Women of Troy to NCAA titles her final two seasons.
Click here for more on Kessy and Ross.
(Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)
At 2 p.m. pacific today, No. 1 USC men's tennis will play for a fourth consecutive national championship. Senior captains Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen are one win away from perfect college careers.
While Johnson steals the headlines with his immaculate dominance, Nguyen seizes the moments when the pressure valve bursts his lesser foes. The combination crushed UCLA's dreams in the national semifinals last night and set the stage for a farewell final.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
Click here for the recap of USC's Final Four win over UCLA.
Johnson did his part by cruising to doubles (alongside Roberto Quiroz) and singles wins. Of course, Nguyen clinched the doubles point (alongside Ray Sarmiento) and dual match in typical grinding fashion.
After failing on several match points, he and Sarmiento finished off the doubles in a dramatic tiebreaker. And when the rains forced the play inside, Nguyen had all eyes on him as he buried the Bruins in yet another third set breaker, which only solidified Nguyen's legacy as one of the most clutch athletes in USC history.
The NCAA Championship can only be viewed live online today, but our Lindsay Crouch is in Athens, GA, providing courtside video. Here is a look at yesterday's heroics...
While Johnson steals the headlines with his immaculate dominance, Nguyen seizes the moments when the pressure valve bursts his lesser foes. The combination crushed UCLA's dreams in the national semifinals last night and set the stage for a farewell final.(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
Click here for the recap of USC's Final Four win over UCLA.
Johnson did his part by cruising to doubles (alongside Roberto Quiroz) and singles wins. Of course, Nguyen clinched the doubles point (alongside Ray Sarmiento) and dual match in typical grinding fashion.
After failing on several match points, he and Sarmiento finished off the doubles in a dramatic tiebreaker. And when the rains forced the play inside, Nguyen had all eyes on him as he buried the Bruins in yet another third set breaker, which only solidified Nguyen's legacy as one of the most clutch athletes in USC history.
The NCAA Championship can only be viewed live online today, but our Lindsay Crouch is in Athens, GA, providing courtside video. Here is a look at yesterday's heroics...
The first USC football road trip of 2012 will be a special one as the Trojan Family takes a bite out of the Big Apple on Saturday, September 8. If you would like to sit with your fellow Trojans at MetLife Stadium to watch USC vs. Syracuse, sections 146 and 148 are set aside for the Cardinal and Gold.
Click here for the ticketmaster link.
NOTE: In the USC Fan Seating pulldown, input $95 or $75 in the price menu and the password USC in the text bar provided.
Click here for the ticketmaster link.
NOTE: In the USC Fan Seating pulldown, input $95 or $75 in the price menu and the password USC in the text bar provided.
The doubles' point always seems to make the difference in big collegiate tennis matches. After falling behind 1-0, USC women's tennis fought itself into a winning position thanks to gutsy singles play, but the Women of Troy could not overcome UCLA in a 4-3 national semifinal loss.
Click here for the recap.
Despite the loss, the future remains extremely bright for Richard Gallien's team. The top six players will return next season led by the ever-improving freshmen class.
While No. 1 Zoe Scandalis ran out of gas in the third set, fellow freshmen Sabrina Santamaria and Gabriella DeSimone banked dramatic singles victories. Tied at 3-3, the dual match came down to junior Danielle Lao, who has been the queen of clutch all season, but fell in three tough sets.
Nevertheless, the Trojans have more than enough talent on this roster to make deep NCAA runs a habit.
(Photo via @USCWomensTennis)
Click here for the recap.
Despite the loss, the future remains extremely bright for Richard Gallien's team. The top six players will return next season led by the ever-improving freshmen class.
While No. 1 Zoe Scandalis ran out of gas in the third set, fellow freshmen Sabrina Santamaria and Gabriella DeSimone banked dramatic singles victories. Tied at 3-3, the dual match came down to junior Danielle Lao, who has been the queen of clutch all season, but fell in three tough sets.
Nevertheless, the Trojans have more than enough talent on this roster to make deep NCAA runs a habit.
(Photo via @USCWomensTennis)
Kentucky Derby winner I'll Have Another stormed down the stretch to capture the Preakness Stakes and secure the first two jewels of the Triple Crown. The prized thoroughbred showed the fighting spirit of a Trojan, which makes sense given its owner J. Paul Reddam is a USC alum.Reddam, a philosophy professor turned businessman, earned his Ph.D. at USC. The Canadian makes his home in Orange County.
He has been in the horse racing game for nearly three decades, including two wins in the Breeders' Cup, but I'll Have Another and rookie jockey Mario Gutierrez, who Reddam is credited with discovering, have launched his resume into a new stratosphere.
The Trojan Family is used to cheering a horse around the track, but unless Traveler enters the Belmont Stakes, I'll Have Another is worth a shout in New York. No horse has won the Triple Crown since 1978.
The Lane Kiffin and Kevin O'Neill show is headed to Manhattan Beach Wednesday night. The head coaches will be joined by All-American WR Robert Woods and basketball SF Byron Wesley, who was USC's second leading scorer as a freshman.
Click here for your invitation.
The show is hosted by legendary coach John Robinson.
(Photo by David O'Connor)
Click here for your invitation.
The show is hosted by legendary coach John Robinson.
Woods recently returned from the trip to Haiti.
(Photo by David O'Connor)
No. 5 USC men's golf won its regional in Ann Arbor last weekend to secure a spot in next week's NCAA Tournament, which the Trojans will host at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades.
Click here for the recap.
"It feels great to play well in such a critical week," said head coach Chris Zambri, who has now guided the Trojans into the NCAA final in each of his first six seasons. "Everyone contributed and now we need to find ways to improve and be sharp for Riviera."
USC will bring a balanced squad into NCAAs. Five different Trojans have posted the team's low score for a tournament and the same quintet all have top 10 finishes this year.
Click here for the recap.
"It feels great to play well in such a critical week," said head coach Chris Zambri, who has now guided the Trojans into the NCAA final in each of his first six seasons. "Everyone contributed and now we need to find ways to improve and be sharp for Riviera."
USC will bring a balanced squad into NCAAs. Five different Trojans have posted the team's low score for a tournament and the same quintet all have top 10 finishes this year.
Famed Riviera Country Club will host the NCAA Championship May 29 - June 3. Click here for ticket information.
Sixteen USC football players had their eyes opened and their lives changed in a week in Haiti.
Here is your chance to take the journey with them...
Here is your chance to take the journey with them...
USC men's and women's tennis continued to buzz through the NCAA field with national quarterfinal wins this weekend setting up a pair of Monday semifinals against the rival UCLA Bruins.
The Women of Troy defeated Stanford in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1983, a national championship year for the Trojans, and advanced to the Final Four for the first time since 2006. No. 5 USC women's tennis triumphed on the back of three three-set comebacks from freshmen Gabriella DeSimone and Sabrina Santamaria, and junior Danielle Lao.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
Click here for the full recap.
No. 1 USC men's tennis took care of Duke for the second time this season. The usual suspects, Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen, led the way by winning doubles and singles matches to secure three of the needed four points.
Click here for the full recap.
The result is a pair of USC vs. UCLA Final Four match-ups in Athens, GA, today. The women's team, which lost the season series but won the most recent battle, is on court as we type. The men, who saw their consecutive wins streak snapped by the Bruins earlier this season, will look to settle the argument for good at 2 p.m. PT.
Watch the matches live here!
The Trojan men and women are on this journey together.
The Women of Troy defeated Stanford in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1983, a national championship year for the Trojans, and advanced to the Final Four for the first time since 2006. No. 5 USC women's tennis triumphed on the back of three three-set comebacks from freshmen Gabriella DeSimone and Sabrina Santamaria, and junior Danielle Lao.(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
Click here for the full recap.
No. 1 USC men's tennis took care of Duke for the second time this season. The usual suspects, Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen, led the way by winning doubles and singles matches to secure three of the needed four points.
Click here for the full recap.
The result is a pair of USC vs. UCLA Final Four match-ups in Athens, GA, today. The women's team, which lost the season series but won the most recent battle, is on court as we type. The men, who saw their consecutive wins streak snapped by the Bruins earlier this season, will look to settle the argument for good at 2 p.m. PT.
Watch the matches live here!
The Trojan men and women are on this journey together.
USC baseball will honor the 1972 national champions at this Saturday's game. The Trojans finished off a three-peat that season shutting out Arizona 1-0 in the College World Series final.
The team was led by Fred Lynn, who would go on to become the first player ever to win the AL MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season, but it also featured famed Notre Dame killer Anthony Davis.
A.D. posed for this classic shot with head coach Rod Dedeaux...
USC Athletics on WhoSay
The team was led by Fred Lynn, who would go on to become the first player ever to win the AL MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season, but it also featured famed Notre Dame killer Anthony Davis.
A.D. posed for this classic shot with head coach Rod Dedeaux...
USC Athletics on WhoSay
The road to an NCAA title can be lonely. Most USC teams are shipped away from the heart of the Trojan Family in Southern California to college locales across the map.
Luckily for men's and women's tennis, the teams have each other this year. Both NCAA Tournaments are being played simultaneously in Athens, GA, which allows the programs to support one and other on off days.
This morning, the Women of Troy were up bright and early to fire up the men. Saturday, the three-time defending champs will bring the emotion from the stands as the women's team plays for its first Final Four appearance since 2006.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
To make the men feel at home, the women's team belted out a SoCal spell out this morning...
Luckily for men's and women's tennis, the teams have each other this year. Both NCAA Tournaments are being played simultaneously in Athens, GA, which allows the programs to support one and other on off days.This morning, the Women of Troy were up bright and early to fire up the men. Saturday, the three-time defending champs will bring the emotion from the stands as the women's team plays for its first Final Four appearance since 2006.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
To make the men feel at home, the women's team belted out a SoCal spell out this morning...
USC men's volleyball head coach Bill Ferguson and his staff are hosting
an advanced skill volleyball camp designed for boys between the ages of
14 to 18 seeking to maximize their potential in all areas of the game on
July 16-18 at USC's Galen Center.
Click here to register.
This is an advanced skill camp designed for boys between the ages of 14-18 seeking to maximize their potential in all areas of the game. While the camp is open to everyone, one year of club volleyball experience is preferred.
The campers will receive the highest level of instruction working with National Coach of the Year Bill Ferguson and his staff, including two-time National Player of the Year Jeff Nygaard.
Click here to register.
This is an advanced skill camp designed for boys between the ages of 14-18 seeking to maximize their potential in all areas of the game. While the camp is open to everyone, one year of club volleyball experience is preferred.
The campers will receive the highest level of instruction working with National Coach of the Year Bill Ferguson and his staff, including two-time National Player of the Year Jeff Nygaard.
No. 1 USC men's tennis swept away Illinois this morning before the Pacific sun had a chance to settle in the sky. The three-time-defending champion Trojans know they are the marked men coming into the NCAA Tournament, so they avoided a sleepy start despite the 9 a.m. eastern (6 a.m. body time) first serve.
Click here for the full story.
"The other teams are out to get us, so we just kind of stay under the radar as much as we can and go out there and just try and beat people," said senior captain Steve Johnson (pictured below).
Next up: USC will battle Duke in the national quarterfinals on Sunday. The Trojans defeated the Blue Devils earlier this season.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
Click here for the full story.
"The other teams are out to get us, so we just kind of stay under the radar as much as we can and go out there and just try and beat people," said senior captain Steve Johnson (pictured below).
Next up: USC will battle Duke in the national quarterfinals on Sunday. The Trojans defeated the Blue Devils earlier this season.
(Photo by Bill Kallenberg)
The inaugural season of USC sand volleyball came and went in the span of less than two months. The Women of Troy finished the year 7-4 in dual matches, while the top pairs of Geena Urango/Sara Shaw and Kirby Burnham/Kelly Irvin advance to the national quarterfinals.
At the season-ending banquet, head coach Anna Biller Collier named captain Geena Urango the team MVP.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
At the season-ending banquet, head coach Anna Biller Collier named captain Geena Urango the team MVP.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
Now that the boys are back in town, we are putting together a video of the football players' experience in Haiti, which by all accounts was life-changing.
In the meantime, Hope Force International posted a pair of new photo galleries for your perusal. In all, the team built four houses, delivered supplies to schools and orphanages and touched the lives of the people of Sous Savanne.
Click here to look at the new photo galleries.
(Photo of Nickell Robey by David O'Connor)
In the meantime, Hope Force International posted a pair of new photo galleries for your perusal. In all, the team built four houses, delivered supplies to schools and orphanages and touched the lives of the people of Sous Savanne.
Click here to look at the new photo galleries.
(Photo of Nickell Robey by David O'Connor)
USA women's water polo announced the 2012 Olympic team which features USC alums Lauren Wenger, Tumua Anae and Kami Craig. The defending silver medalists will count on Trojans to make up nearly a quarter of the 13-woman roster.
Click here for the full story.
Wenger and Craig were on the 2008 team, while Anae will experience the Olympics for the first time in London.
Craig, who won back-to-back Peter J. Cutino Awards (top college player), teamed with Anae on USC's 2010 national championship winner.
(Photo of Craig and Anae by Dianne Bekhazi)
Wenger is the veteran of the trio and renowned for her ability to play every position besides goalkeeper.
USC is expected to have about 30 Olympians competing this summer. Current goalie Flora Bolonyai will play for her native Hungary, while Sofia Konoukh ('03) will suit up for Russia.
Click here for the full story.Wenger and Craig were on the 2008 team, while Anae will experience the Olympics for the first time in London.
Craig, who won back-to-back Peter J. Cutino Awards (top college player), teamed with Anae on USC's 2010 national championship winner.
(Photo of Craig and Anae by Dianne Bekhazi)
Wenger is the veteran of the trio and renowned for her ability to play every position besides goalkeeper.
USC is expected to have about 30 Olympians competing this summer. Current goalie Flora Bolonyai will play for her native Hungary, while Sofia Konoukh ('03) will suit up for Russia.
No. 5 USC women's tennis defeated Baylor 4-1 today to advance to the national quarterfinals against No. 4 Stanford on Saturday at Noon ET in Athens, GA.
Click here for the recap.
The Women of Troy lost to Stanford 4-2 in Palo Alto on April 13, but the mark of this Trojan team has been rapid improvement. As an example, USC played UCLA three times this year losing the first dual match 4-0 then narrowing the margin to 4-3 in the second meeting before conquering the Bruins 6-1 in the latest encounter.
The obvious reason is that Richard Gallien's team features three freshmen among the top five singles players. No. 1 Zoe Scandalis and No. 3 Sabrina Santamaria fought through three-set comeback wins against Baylor today in their first taste of big time NCAA Tournament competition.
Scandalis, Santamaria and junior Danielle Lao broke down the day with our Darcy Couch.
Click here for the recap.
The Women of Troy lost to Stanford 4-2 in Palo Alto on April 13, but the mark of this Trojan team has been rapid improvement. As an example, USC played UCLA three times this year losing the first dual match 4-0 then narrowing the margin to 4-3 in the second meeting before conquering the Bruins 6-1 in the latest encounter.
The obvious reason is that Richard Gallien's team features three freshmen among the top five singles players. No. 1 Zoe Scandalis and No. 3 Sabrina Santamaria fought through three-set comeback wins against Baylor today in their first taste of big time NCAA Tournament competition.
Scandalis, Santamaria and junior Danielle Lao broke down the day with our Darcy Couch.
USC QB Matt Barkley is featured in LA Weekly's People 2012 issue which profiles the most fascinating Angelenos.
In the story, he reveals that the NCAA sanctions put him in the spotlight, and he is the better for it.
"I was forced to step up and be a vocal leader, which naturally I'm not," Barkley told LA Weekly. "You can only grow as a person when you're uncomfortable."
Click here to read the story.
(Photo by Kevin Scanlon/LA Weekly)
In the story, he reveals that the NCAA sanctions put him in the spotlight, and he is the better for it.
"I was forced to step up and be a vocal leader, which naturally I'm not," Barkley told LA Weekly. "You can only grow as a person when you're uncomfortable."
Click here to read the story.
(Photo by Kevin Scanlon/LA Weekly)
The USC football players who went to Haiti are back on American soil, which means they are back on Twitter. Judging by their tweets, the experience was life-changing. Here is a sampling...
DE Devon Kennard (@DevonKennard42) - "Just got back to America... Words can't describe how the trip to Haiti impacted my life."
C Khaled Holmes (@7kdiddy8) - "What a trip! Great to be back in the USA! So much love for my teammates, everyone involved in the trip and the people of Haiti!"
LB Dion Bailey (@dbailey_18) - "Glad I was blessed with the opportunity to go to Haiti. Definitely an eye-opening experience."
P Kyle Negrete (@kylenegrete) - "The sum of my Haiti trip captured in one picture. The most beautiful smile I have ever seen." Photo below...
DE Devon Kennard (@DevonKennard42) - "Just got back to America... Words can't describe how the trip to Haiti impacted my life."
C Khaled Holmes (@7kdiddy8) - "What a trip! Great to be back in the USA! So much love for my teammates, everyone involved in the trip and the people of Haiti!"
LB Dion Bailey (@dbailey_18) - "Glad I was blessed with the opportunity to go to Haiti. Definitely an eye-opening experience."
P Kyle Negrete (@kylenegrete) - "The sum of my Haiti trip captured in one picture. The most beautiful smile I have ever seen." Photo below...
In the summer of 2009, D.J. Morgan won the 110m high hurdles at the IAAF World Youth Championships in Italy in 13.28, the fifth fastest time ever for his under-17 age group. The Taft High School standout seemed predestined for the stardom of his choosing, track or football.
As a senior though, he tore up his knee leaving him steps behind with rehab hurdles to clear. Morgan's initial efforts were focused on the gridiron where he earned the starting spot for the first two games of 2011, but fumbled the gig to Marc Tyler and then Curtis McNeal.
Heading into his redshirt sophomore season, he has settled behind McNeal in the running back rotation with the hope that his explosiveness will continue to reemerge. To further that effort, Morgan took to the track this spring as a sprinter.
With growing confidence in his restructured knee, Morgan is back in his old event dashing over hurdles as they come. In just his second official competition, he placed fifth in the 110m high hurdles at the Pac-12 Championships, which qualifies him for the NCAA Regionals.
From his first event to his second, he shaved 0.27 seconds off his time. The return of his electric speed should mean more points for USC track and field and football.
(Photo by Kirby Lee)
As a senior though, he tore up his knee leaving him steps behind with rehab hurdles to clear. Morgan's initial efforts were focused on the gridiron where he earned the starting spot for the first two games of 2011, but fumbled the gig to Marc Tyler and then Curtis McNeal.Heading into his redshirt sophomore season, he has settled behind McNeal in the running back rotation with the hope that his explosiveness will continue to reemerge. To further that effort, Morgan took to the track this spring as a sprinter.
With growing confidence in his restructured knee, Morgan is back in his old event dashing over hurdles as they come. In just his second official competition, he placed fifth in the 110m high hurdles at the Pac-12 Championships, which qualifies him for the NCAA Regionals.
From his first event to his second, he shaved 0.27 seconds off his time. The return of his electric speed should mean more points for USC track and field and football.
(Photo by Kirby Lee)
The USC football trip to Haiti is coming to an end, but we added some great new photos to the gallery below. The genuine smiles on the faces of the Trojans and the local kids will brighten up your day.
(Photos by Lindsay Crouch)
(Photos by Lindsay Crouch)
All aboard, the Trojan tennis bus is headed to Athens, GA, the site of every meaningful NCAA men's and women's tennis match for the rest of the postseason.
Over commencement weekend, No. 1 USC men's tennis and No. 5 USC women's tennis moved through the first two rounds with ease setting up Sweet 16 matches this Thursday (women vs. Baylor) and Friday (men vs. Illinois).
The NCAA Tournament central page will provide live video of every court plus an interactive bracket. Click here to check it out.
The University of Georgia was the host site in 2010 when the USC men's team won the second of three consecutive national championships (pictured below). In 2012, Peter Smith, Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen are looking to go four-for-four.
Over commencement weekend, No. 1 USC men's tennis and No. 5 USC women's tennis moved through the first two rounds with ease setting up Sweet 16 matches this Thursday (women vs. Baylor) and Friday (men vs. Illinois).
The NCAA Tournament central page will provide live video of every court plus an interactive bracket. Click here to check it out.
The University of Georgia was the host site in 2010 when the USC men's team won the second of three consecutive national championships (pictured below). In 2012, Peter Smith, Steve Johnson and Daniel Nguyen are looking to go four-for-four.
The University of Southern California and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Commission have agreed to make USC the managing tenant of the Coliseum in a new lease which includes a mandated minimum of $70 million in renovations by the school.
Click here for the complete release.
"We look forward to restoring the Coliseum to its former glory and ensuring its viability for many generations to come. We believe this agreement will once again make the Coliseum a proud landmark and gathering place for all Angelenos," said Thomas S. Sayles, senior vice president for University Relations.
The deal still needs to be approved by the state.
Click here for the complete release.
"We look forward to restoring the Coliseum to its former glory and ensuring its viability for many generations to come. We believe this agreement will once again make the Coliseum a proud landmark and gathering place for all Angelenos," said Thomas S. Sayles, senior vice president for University Relations.
The deal still needs to be approved by the state.
In the last two weeks, USC men's volleyball and women's water polo fell a match short of the ultimate goal. Despite losing in NCAA championship games, both programs proved to be on the precipice of adding to Troy's haul of 116 national championships and counting.
In its rich athletic history, USC is accustomed to the top spot, but familiar with finishing second. Trojan teams have finished as the national runner-up 69 times.
Men's volleyball and women's water polo know that you have to be in it to win it. They have combined to win nine national titles to go along with 13 second place finishes.
The runner-up spot is a mark of consistency as well. Men's swimming and diving banked nine national championships under head coach Peter Daland, but the program has ended the season as the runner-up a USC record 11 times.
What are the two most consistently dominant Trojan athletic programs? Men's track and field (26 team titles, 8 seconds and 8 thirds) and men's tennis (19 team titles, 8 seconds and 11 thirds).
National championship season is in full force this month as men's and women's tennis, men's and women's golf, women's rowing and men's and women's track and field are all expected to be in the hunt for team and individual crowns.
(Top photo by Dan Avila, bottom by Pierson Clair)
In its rich athletic history, USC is accustomed to the top spot, but familiar with finishing second. Trojan teams have finished as the national runner-up 69 times. Men's volleyball and women's water polo know that you have to be in it to win it. They have combined to win nine national titles to go along with 13 second place finishes.
The runner-up spot is a mark of consistency as well. Men's swimming and diving banked nine national championships under head coach Peter Daland, but the program has ended the season as the runner-up a USC record 11 times.
What are the two most consistently dominant Trojan athletic programs? Men's track and field (26 team titles, 8 seconds and 8 thirds) and men's tennis (19 team titles, 8 seconds and 11 thirds).
National championship season is in full force this month as men's and women's tennis, men's and women's golf, women's rowing and men's and women's track and field are all expected to be in the hunt for team and individual crowns.
(Top photo by Dan Avila, bottom by Pierson Clair)
No. 3 USC women's rowing was selected to compete in the NCAA Rowing Championships which begin May 25 in West Windsor, NJ.
The 16-team field is comprised of five Pac-12 squads, five Ivy League schools and host of others from Big Ten country. Brown is the defending champion.
The Women of Troy will lean on their Varsity Eight boat, which was undefeated in the regular season before losing a close race to No. 1 Cal last week at the Pac-12 Championships. At the NCAAs, each team is required to fill two boats with eight rowers and one boat with four.
The 16-team field is comprised of five Pac-12 squads, five Ivy League schools and host of others from Big Ten country. Brown is the defending champion.
The Women of Troy will lean on their Varsity Eight boat, which was undefeated in the regular season before losing a close race to No. 1 Cal last week at the Pac-12 Championships. At the NCAAs, each team is required to fill two boats with eight rowers and one boat with four.
The 2012 Coaches Tour begins this week with a stop in San Diego at the Marriott Del Mar. As always, the show features head coaches Lane Kiffin and Kevin O'Neill, but the duo will be joined in San Diego by senior safety Jawanza Starling and hoops center Dewayne Dedmon.
Click here for more info.
Click here for more info.
Do you want to see USC take on Oregon and/or Notre Dame at the Coliseum? Purchasing a mini-plan is the cheapest way to do it.
Click here to buy!
We anticipate both contests will be sold out, so there is no guarantee that single game tickets will be made available. Instead, you can secure a ticket to either marquee match-up by adding on a ticket to another home game.
The Notre Dame + 1 pack is $150 per seat. The Oregon + 1 pack is $120.
(Photo by Patrick Gee)
Click here to buy!
We anticipate both contests will be sold out, so there is no guarantee that single game tickets will be made available. Instead, you can secure a ticket to either marquee match-up by adding on a ticket to another home game.
The Notre Dame + 1 pack is $150 per seat. The Oregon + 1 pack is $120.
The Coliseum rematch is November 3.
(Photo by Patrick Gee)
The USC Hall of Fame black tie gala was a special event last Saturday night filled with legends, stories and history.
The night in photos courtesy of Pierson Clair...
The night in photos courtesy of Pierson Clair...
Former USC All-American split end Hal Bedsole will be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as part of the 2012 class. Bedsole helped lead USC to the 1962 national championship and was the top receiving target on two of John McKay's teams.
Former Trojan assistant coach R.C. Slocum, who made his name as the
head coach at Texas A&M, will join Bedsole in the 17-member 2012
Football Bowl Subdivision class as the 38th and 39th Hall of Famers with
ties to Troy.
Click here for the full story.
At 6'5" 221 lbs., Bedsole had the size to dominate the red zone with 20 career touchdown catches, including two in the 1963 Rose Bowl, but he also possessed the speed to make big plays (owns the USC career record for highest average per catch at 20.94).
If Bedsole's stature reminds you of Mike Williams, his brash personality was reminiscent of Keyshawn Johnson. He earned the nickname "Prince Hal" for his outspoken ways, but backed up his words on the field as the first USC player to record 200+ receiving yards in a game.
He played three NFL seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, the franchise that drafted him in the second round, before retiring. He was inducted into the USC Hall of Fame in 2001.
Former Trojan assistant coach R.C. Slocum, who made his name as the
head coach at Texas A&M, will join Bedsole in the 17-member 2012
Football Bowl Subdivision class as the 38th and 39th Hall of Famers with
ties to Troy.Click here for the full story.
At 6'5" 221 lbs., Bedsole had the size to dominate the red zone with 20 career touchdown catches, including two in the 1963 Rose Bowl, but he also possessed the speed to make big plays (owns the USC career record for highest average per catch at 20.94).
If Bedsole's stature reminds you of Mike Williams, his brash personality was reminiscent of Keyshawn Johnson. He earned the nickname "Prince Hal" for his outspoken ways, but backed up his words on the field as the first USC player to record 200+ receiving yards in a game.
He played three NFL seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, the franchise that drafted him in the second round, before retiring. He was inducted into the USC Hall of Fame in 2001.
Former USC All-American wide receiver Erik Affholter, who was reported missing after not returning from a hike Sunday night, has made contact with his family.
Click here for the full story.
The search has been called off by authorities.
(Photo via LA Times)
Click here for the full story.
The search has been called off by authorities.
(Photo via LA Times)
USC women's water polo is young. The Women of Troy placed five athletes on the conference honor roll and all of them will return next year.
Now, the Trojans know what it takes to bring home the big trophy. After a regular season of coming up just short against UCLA and Stanford, USC trumped the Bruins in the national semifinals before falling to the Cardinal in a hard fought NCAA Championship match.
Click here for the full story.
Glory missed the Trojans by a matter of inches. "We were ready to play this game just a few things didn't go our way and that was the difference," said Kaleigh Gilchrist about playing emotional contests on back-to-back days.
USC women's water polo will have a year to think up how to close that narrow gap between itself and its Cardinal rival. Jovan Vavic, who has won 10 national titles at USC including three with the women, is just the coach to finish the job.
(Photo by Dan Avila)
Now, the Trojans know what it takes to bring home the big trophy. After a regular season of coming up just short against UCLA and Stanford, USC trumped the Bruins in the national semifinals before falling to the Cardinal in a hard fought NCAA Championship match.Click here for the full story.
Glory missed the Trojans by a matter of inches. "We were ready to play this game just a few things didn't go our way and that was the difference," said Kaleigh Gilchrist about playing emotional contests on back-to-back days.
USC women's water polo will have a year to think up how to close that narrow gap between itself and its Cardinal rival. Jovan Vavic, who has won 10 national titles at USC including three with the women, is just the coach to finish the job.
(Photo by Dan Avila)
Several Trojans starred at the Pac-12 Track and Field Championship this past weekend in Oregon, but the injury-riddled rosters kept USC from making any statements as a team.
"I'm disappointed," said USC Director of Track and Field Ron Allice. "I don't want to make any excuses with the injuries, but we didn't use all of our weapons that we have on scholarship."
Click here for the full story.
The Women of Troy placed fourth in the conference led, as they have been all season, by their throwers. Most notably, Marissa Minderler won the hammer competition and scored in the shotput (photo below by Pac-12) and javelin.
The men's team, which finished seventh, missed sprinters Joey Hughes and Josh Mance, but senior Bryshon Nellum put an exclamation point on his comeback story with a win in the 400m four years after being shot three times in the legs. (Photo of Nellum by Pac-12)
"I'm disappointed," said USC Director of Track and Field Ron Allice. "I don't want to make any excuses with the injuries, but we didn't use all of our weapons that we have on scholarship."Click here for the full story.
The Women of Troy placed fourth in the conference led, as they have been all season, by their throwers. Most notably, Marissa Minderler won the hammer competition and scored in the shotput (photo below by Pac-12) and javelin.
The men's team, which finished seventh, missed sprinters Joey Hughes and Josh Mance, but senior Bryshon Nellum put an exclamation point on his comeback story with a win in the 400m four years after being shot three times in the legs. (Photo of Nellum by Pac-12)
No. 3 USC women's golf sealed a berth into the NCAA Championship with ease this past weekend topping the competition at Regionals in Columbus, Ohio.
Click here for the full story.
As a team, the Women of Troy led wire-to-wire with senior Lisa McCloskey finishing in a first place tie individually. Sophomore Sophia Popov and freshman Doris Chen also posted top 10s.
The Trojans are headed to the NCAA Championship final for the 15th consecutive time under head coach Andrea Gaston. Tournament play begins May 22 in Nashville, TN, with Vanderbilt serving as the host.
Click here for the full story.
As a team, the Women of Troy led wire-to-wire with senior Lisa McCloskey finishing in a first place tie individually. Sophomore Sophia Popov and freshman Doris Chen also posted top 10s.
The Trojans are headed to the NCAA Championship final for the 15th consecutive time under head coach Andrea Gaston. Tournament play begins May 22 in Nashville, TN, with Vanderbilt serving as the host.
Pierson Clair served as a roving photographer on graduation Friday documenting student-athletes from several different fields completing their undergraduate studies.
The student-athletes and athletic department staffers are captioned at the bottom of the photos.
The student-athletes and athletic department staffers are captioned at the bottom of the photos.
We have four great events in three days from last week to feature in photos on the blog today. First, the Marks Luncheon and Student-Athlete Graduation were last Thursday.
The Marks Luncheon recognizes student-athletes with exceptional GPAs, while the senior speakers at the Student-Athlete Graduation were Greg Woodburn (track and field) and Geena Urango (volleyball) plus Legend of Troy recipient Barbara Hedges.
A pair of galleries from Pierson Clair...
The Marks Luncheon recognizes student-athletes with exceptional GPAs, while the senior speakers at the Student-Athlete Graduation were Greg Woodburn (track and field) and Geena Urango (volleyball) plus Legend of Troy recipient Barbara Hedges.
A pair of galleries from Pierson Clair...
USC football graduates Matt Barkley, Khaled Holmes and Devon Kennard are finishing up a whirlwind 24 hours. The trio donned their cap and gowns to celebrate scholarly achievements Friday before jumping on a midnight plane bound for Haiti connecting through Florida.
The Trojan troop including 16 football players will arrive in the earthquake ravaged country today and get straight to work. If the Haitian internet allows it, we will do our best to document the journey as it happens.
In the meantime, here's a great shot of Barkley and Holmes taking care of some "unfinished business."
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
The Trojan troop including 16 football players will arrive in the earthquake ravaged country today and get straight to work. If the Haitian internet allows it, we will do our best to document the journey as it happens.
In the meantime, here's a great shot of Barkley and Holmes taking care of some "unfinished business."
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
Congratulations to all the USC graduates!
The athletic department is proud to announce that by the end of the next fall semester, 107 of the 108 senior student-athletes are expected to have completed their undergraduate degrees. As of right now, 80% of the 2012 class have officially graduated.
The graduation rate, which was high last year with only five student-athletes still finishing up coursework, has only improved.
To the class of 2012...Fight On!
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
The athletic department is proud to announce that by the end of the next fall semester, 107 of the 108 senior student-athletes are expected to have completed their undergraduate degrees. As of right now, 80% of the 2012 class have officially graduated.
The graduation rate, which was high last year with only five student-athletes still finishing up coursework, has only improved.
To the class of 2012...Fight On!
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
The USC Hall of Fame black tie gala is tomorrow night. And now a look at the final member of the class of 2012...
USC men's basketball has made just two Final Fours in its history. The most recent national semifinal run came in 1954 under the guidance of Forrest Twogood.
"Twogie," as he was known around Troy, sits only behind his mentor Sam Barry on the Trojan men's hoops all-time wins list with a 251-179 career record. He captured three conference crowns and recorded 13 winning seasons during his 16-year tenure as the head coach.
Like Barry, Twogood was a Midwest guy who fell in love with USC. He was a three-sport athlete at Iowa before coaching both basketball and baseball as an assistant at Troy.
After retiring from the sidelines, Twogood served as an assistant athletic director at USC. The World War II veteran of the Navy passed away in 1972 at the age of 64.
USC men's basketball has made just two Final Fours in its history. The most recent national semifinal run came in 1954 under the guidance of Forrest Twogood."Twogie," as he was known around Troy, sits only behind his mentor Sam Barry on the Trojan men's hoops all-time wins list with a 251-179 career record. He captured three conference crowns and recorded 13 winning seasons during his 16-year tenure as the head coach.
Like Barry, Twogood was a Midwest guy who fell in love with USC. He was a three-sport athlete at Iowa before coaching both basketball and baseball as an assistant at Troy.
After retiring from the sidelines, Twogood served as an assistant athletic director at USC. The World War II veteran of the Navy passed away in 1972 at the age of 64.
USC women's water polo begins its ascent to the NCAA crown with a national quarterfinal match against Princeton at 1:45 p.m. today in San Diego.
Click here to watch the match LIVE for FREE.
The Women of Troy lost five matches this year, three to UCLA and two to Stanford, but every loss was by a single goal.
(Photo by Dan Avila)
Click here to watch the match LIVE for FREE.
The Women of Troy lost five matches this year, three to UCLA and two to Stanford, but every loss was by a single goal.
(Photo by Dan Avila)
On this 2012 USC graduation day, we say goodbye and thank you to our departing senior Dave Dulberg.
In 2011-12, the USC athletics blog expanded to provide much more coverage of the Olympic sports thanks in large part to Dave's talents as a colorful feature writer. He unearthed fascinating stories on student-athletes like women's volleyball's Natalie Hagglund, track's Bryshon Nellum and rowing's Dionne Licudine.
Dulberg doubled as a Daily Trojan columnist and closed his student newspaper career with a touching retrospective of his time covering Trojan athletics and the student-athletes that opened his eyes along the way.
Click here to read it!
You will no doubt see his byline in the future. Good luck and Fight On!
In 2011-12, the USC athletics blog expanded to provide much more coverage of the Olympic sports thanks in large part to Dave's talents as a colorful feature writer. He unearthed fascinating stories on student-athletes like women's volleyball's Natalie Hagglund, track's Bryshon Nellum and rowing's Dionne Licudine.Dulberg doubled as a Daily Trojan columnist and closed his student newspaper career with a touching retrospective of his time covering Trojan athletics and the student-athletes that opened his eyes along the way.
Click here to read it!
You will no doubt see his byline in the future. Good luck and Fight On!
Name: Dan BaneResume: Chairman and CEO of Trader Joe's
Sport at USC: Baseball (Class of 1969)
How did playing for the legendary Rod Dedeaux shape who you became as a person and a businessman?
I came to USC on an academic scholarship and as a walk-on to the baseball program. I had an offer of a baseball scholarship to UCLA, but wanted to go to USC and try to be part of the baseball team and experience what at that time was one of the best teams in the nation every year. In that era, freshmen were not allowed to play varsity sports, so I was a member of the freshman baseball team and then was on the varsity teams during my remaining years until graduation in 1969. In 1968, the Trojans were the National Champions and I was on the team, but did not play much.
I can recall that sometime during my sophomore year I asked myself what was the benefit for me to be on the roster even though I was slotted behind some very good players who were on scholarship and frankly were better than me. I recall concluding that what I could get out of the process was a set of lessons for life. I would use the time to try to see and understand what our highly regarded coach was doing and determine why he was so successful. In short, I decided to analyze Coach Rod Dedeaux and his behavior to determine what he could teach me...not about baseball, but about how to handle people.
Continue reading Trojans in Business: Dan Bane.
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12.
Wayne Hughes and Steve Bisheff profoundly effected USC athletics without ever competing for the cardinal and gold.
A true patron of Troy, Hughes is one of the most passionate Trojans fans and has generously supported the cause. He is a USC Marshall School of Business graduate who turned his Trojan education into Public Storage, the nation's largest self-storage company.
Bisheff is also a USC alum. The award-winning journalist never drifted too far away from Troy while covering the Southern California sports landscape for more than 40 years.
As a scribe primarily for the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner, San Diego Evening Tribune and the Orange County Register, he provided a unique and colorful insight into Trojan football and USC athletics. Bisheff also wrote five books including two on USC football, Always Compete and Fight On!
(Photo of Hughes right and Bisheff below)
Wayne Hughes and Steve Bisheff profoundly effected USC athletics without ever competing for the cardinal and gold.
A true patron of Troy, Hughes is one of the most passionate Trojans fans and has generously supported the cause. He is a USC Marshall School of Business graduate who turned his Trojan education into Public Storage, the nation's largest self-storage company.Bisheff is also a USC alum. The award-winning journalist never drifted too far away from Troy while covering the Southern California sports landscape for more than 40 years.
As a scribe primarily for the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner, San Diego Evening Tribune and the Orange County Register, he provided a unique and colorful insight into Trojan football and USC athletics. Bisheff also wrote five books including two on USC football, Always Compete and Fight On!
(Photo of Hughes right and Bisheff below)
The USC campus will be littered with Trojans this weekend celebrating the end of another successful school year. While you are here, stop by Marks Stadium as men's and women's tennis begin NCAA Tournament action as the hosts of the first and second rounds.
No. 5 USC women's tennis will take on Fairfield at 2 p.m. Friday after the Vanderbilt/San Diego match which begins at 11 a.m. The winners will square off at 3 p.m. on Saturday.
Click here for a women's preview.
No. 1 USC men's tennis begins its quest for a four-peat against the same opponent as the women, Fairfield, at Noon Saturday after South Carolina and Texas A&M. The winners will meet on Sunday at Noon.
Click here for a men's preview.
As far as the brackets go, the men's team's toughest foe is expected to be Duke in a possible regional final. The Trojans swept the Blue Devils at a neutral site match in February.
The women have a bit of a tougher road to the Final Four. The Stanford Cardinal, which beat USC 4-2 in Palo Alto last month, are looming in the Elite Eight.
(Photo by John McGillen)
No. 5 USC women's tennis will take on Fairfield at 2 p.m. Friday after the Vanderbilt/San Diego match which begins at 11 a.m. The winners will square off at 3 p.m. on Saturday.Click here for a women's preview.
No. 1 USC men's tennis begins its quest for a four-peat against the same opponent as the women, Fairfield, at Noon Saturday after South Carolina and Texas A&M. The winners will meet on Sunday at Noon.
Click here for a men's preview.
As far as the brackets go, the men's team's toughest foe is expected to be Duke in a possible regional final. The Trojans swept the Blue Devils at a neutral site match in February.
The women have a bit of a tougher road to the Final Four. The Stanford Cardinal, which beat USC 4-2 in Palo Alto last month, are looming in the Elite Eight.
(Photo by John McGillen)
The 3rd annual USC athletics Student-Athlete Graduation begins at 2 p.m. pacific today inside Galen Center.
Watch the ceremony LIVE right here...
Watch the ceremony LIVE right here...
Happy Birthday Lane Kiffin!
The USC head coach turns 37 today. He is still the fourth youngest head coach in college football.
Kiffin joined Pete Carroll's USC staff in 2001. He served as an assistant for six seasons and then returned as the head man in 2010.
In two years running the program, Kiffin has compiled an 18-7 record, which is the most successful start by a USC head coach since John Robinson. Now, he is uninhibited by a bowl ban and leads the Trojans into 2012 as a national title contender.
USC Athletics on WhoSay
The USC head coach turns 37 today. He is still the fourth youngest head coach in college football.
Kiffin joined Pete Carroll's USC staff in 2001. He served as an assistant for six seasons and then returned as the head man in 2010.
In two years running the program, Kiffin has compiled an 18-7 record, which is the most successful start by a USC head coach since John Robinson. Now, he is uninhibited by a bowl ban and leads the Trojans into 2012 as a national title contender.
USC Athletics on WhoSay
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12.
Jill McGill is still going. With $2.3 million in career golf earnings already banked, the 16-year LPGA veteran continues to represent the Women of Troy on the big stage.
Before turning pro, the All-American led USC to a runner-up finish at the 1994 NCAA Championship. She also impressed as an individual player by winning the 1993 U.S. Women's Amateur and the U.S. Women's Amateur Public Links the following year.
She and Tina Thompson are the only two athletes in the 2012 Hall of Fame class still active in their sport professionally. McGill has posted 25 top 10 finishes on the LPGA Tour.
Almost two decades later, McGill has returned to Troy to finish her coursework en route to a bachelor's degree in communication.
Jill McGill is still going. With $2.3 million in career golf earnings already banked, the 16-year LPGA veteran continues to represent the Women of Troy on the big stage.
Before turning pro, the All-American led USC to a runner-up finish at the 1994 NCAA Championship. She also impressed as an individual player by winning the 1993 U.S. Women's Amateur and the U.S. Women's Amateur Public Links the following year.
She and Tina Thompson are the only two athletes in the 2012 Hall of Fame class still active in their sport professionally. McGill has posted 25 top 10 finishes on the LPGA Tour.
Almost two decades later, McGill has returned to Troy to finish her coursework en route to a bachelor's degree in communication.
USC All-American safety Ronnie Lott will be one of the voices of Pac-12 football as the conference unveils its new network this fall.
Click here for the full story.
"When I first heard that the Pac-12 was planning to build seven networks to showcase all of the incredible student-athletes and programs throughout the Conference it was one of those WOW moments," Lott said. "What is being created is truly remarkable and I'm excited to be part of it. If you are a fan or alum of the Pac-12 you have to have these networks."
Lott is a legend of Troy with two Rose Bowl wins and the 1978 national championship on his USC resume before winning four Super Bowls in the NFL.
He will join Rick Neuheisel (UCLA) and Summer Sanders (Stanford) as part of the initial broadcast team.
Click here for the full story.
"When I first heard that the Pac-12 was planning to build seven networks to showcase all of the incredible student-athletes and programs throughout the Conference it was one of those WOW moments," Lott said. "What is being created is truly remarkable and I'm excited to be part of it. If you are a fan or alum of the Pac-12 you have to have these networks."
Lott is a legend of Troy with two Rose Bowl wins and the 1978 national championship on his USC resume before winning four Super Bowls in the NFL.
He will join Rick Neuheisel (UCLA) and Summer Sanders (Stanford) as part of the initial broadcast team.
Without Derrick Rose or Joakim Noah, Taj Gibson has become the emotional leader of the top-seeded Chicago Bulls. USC's all-time leading shot blocker swatted away four Sixers last night in another all-around gritty effort.The lede in the Chicago Tribune says it all, "Taj Gibson had a quiet night, other than being a one-man SWAT team, scuffling with Elton Brand and limping onto the court a la Willis Reed."
Gibson has four blocks in each of the last two games despite ankle and knee injuries.
"I was going back in regardless of the pain," Gibson said. "I was only worried about riding till the wheels came off."
The playoffs have been good to Trojan alums in 2012.
Nick Young has found new life with the Clippers and keyed LA's remarkable fourth quarter game one comeback with three threes in a 1:10 stretch. Nikola Vucevic (Sixers), Brian Scalabrine (Bulls) and O.J. Mayo (Grizzlies) are all stile alive in the NBA postseason tournament.
By now, you know the story of Jake Olson, the USC superfan who serves as a constant inspiration to Trojans for his Fight On spirit despite losing both his eyes to cancer. Olson spoke at the Men's Volleyball Final Four banquet last week and opened the eyes of a student-athlete outside the Trojan Family.
Stanford men's volleyball All-American Brad Lawson took Jake's words to heart. In response, he wrote an article for the NCAA about the impact the speech will have on his life going forward.
Click here to read it:
My NCAA Story.pdf
Stanford men's volleyball All-American Brad Lawson took Jake's words to heart. In response, he wrote an article for the NCAA about the impact the speech will have on his life going forward.
Click here to read it:
My NCAA Story.pdf
The third annual USC Student-Athlete Graduation is coming up this Thursday at 2 p.m. inside Galen Center. We will be streaming the ceremony LIVE for FREE right here on the USC athletics blog.
As Pat Haden previously announced, Barbara Hedges will receive the Legend of Troy award for her impact on building the roots of the women's athletics program at Troy.
She will speak at the graduation as well as senior student-athletes Geena Urango (women's volleyball) and Greg Woodburn (track and field).
As Pat Haden previously announced, Barbara Hedges will receive the Legend of Troy award for her impact on building the roots of the women's athletics program at Troy.
She will speak at the graduation as well as senior student-athletes Geena Urango (women's volleyball) and Greg Woodburn (track and field).
The deadline for current USC students to renew their football season tickets is fast approaching. Undergraduates and graduate students must renew by May 18.
Click here to renew!
(Photo by Jon SooHoo)
Click here to renew!
(Photo by Jon SooHoo)
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12.
The All-American from Ireland took the fight out of the Fighting Irish. Adrian Young was the defensive version of Anthony Davis, a Notre Dame killer.
In the 1967 version of the greatest intersectional rivalry in college football, Young intercepted four passes in South Bend to tie a conference record. The resulting victory set off a string of 12 wins in 16 years for USC over Notre Dame.
The Trojan linebacker, who grew up in Dublin until the age of 10, captained the 1967 national championship team. He won a pair of Pac-8 titles in his three years as a varsity letterman and played in two Rose Bowls.
After leaving USC, he played in the NFL from 1968 to 1973 primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles, the team that drafted him in the third round. After football, he sold commercial real estate in Southern California.
The All-American from Ireland took the fight out of the Fighting Irish. Adrian Young was the defensive version of Anthony Davis, a Notre Dame killer.
In the 1967 version of the greatest intersectional rivalry in college football, Young intercepted four passes in South Bend to tie a conference record. The resulting victory set off a string of 12 wins in 16 years for USC over Notre Dame.
The Trojan linebacker, who grew up in Dublin until the age of 10, captained the 1967 national championship team. He won a pair of Pac-8 titles in his three years as a varsity letterman and played in two Rose Bowls.
After leaving USC, he played in the NFL from 1968 to 1973 primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles, the team that drafted him in the third round. After football, he sold commercial real estate in Southern California.
USC men's volleyball head coach Bill Ferguson was named the AVCA National Coach of the Year for leading the Trojans to the NCAA final in a season that was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Troy.
Click here for the full story.
Random fact: Ferguson is now a two-time National Coach of the Year (2009 and 2012) and the 2011 MPSF Coach of the Year, but he has never won both awards in the same season.
The USC men's volleyball program waved goodbye to a historically talented senior class after 2011, so the Trojans were picked to finish a mediocre fifth in the conference. Instead, Ferguson's 2012 crew won 18 consecutive matches, rose to the No. 1 national ranking and earned the MPSF regular season title.
After starting the season 5-4, Ferguson found a mix that inspired the program's longest winning streak in two decades and a 24-6 overall record. The Trojans showed their consistent dominance by posting 3-0 sweeps in 17 of the team's 24 wins.
Click here for the full story.Random fact: Ferguson is now a two-time National Coach of the Year (2009 and 2012) and the 2011 MPSF Coach of the Year, but he has never won both awards in the same season.
The USC men's volleyball program waved goodbye to a historically talented senior class after 2011, so the Trojans were picked to finish a mediocre fifth in the conference. Instead, Ferguson's 2012 crew won 18 consecutive matches, rose to the No. 1 national ranking and earned the MPSF regular season title.
After starting the season 5-4, Ferguson found a mix that inspired the program's longest winning streak in two decades and a 24-6 overall record. The Trojans showed their consistent dominance by posting 3-0 sweeps in 17 of the team's 24 wins.
USC men's basketball announced the final addition to the 2012-13 roster last week as Tennessee transfer Renaldo Woolridge joins the team for a year as a graduate exception.
Woolridge (pictured) averaged 4.3 points per game in 13 minutes per contest for the Vols, but he did break out for 17 points at eventual national champion Kentucky. He will be yet another new boost to Kevin O'Neill's offensive overhaul after last year's struggles.
Here is what the USC rotation looks like now:
G Jio Fontan - 10.5 ppg for USC in 2010-11
G Maurice Jones - 13 ppg as last year's leading scorer
G J.T. Terrell - 11.1 ppg for Wake Forest in 2010-11
G Greg Allen - 4.7 ppg for USC last year
F Renaldo Woolridge - 4.3 ppg for Tennessee last year
F Ari Stewart - 8.5 ppg for Wake Forest in 2010-11
F Byron Wesley - 9.6 ppg for USC last year
F Aaron Fuller - 10.6 ppg for USC last year
F Eric Wise - 16.3 ppg for UCI in 2010-11
C Dewayne Dedmon - 7.6 ppg for USC last year
C James Blasczyk - 3.2 ppg for USC last year
If you add it up, the Trojans bring 99.4 points per game of Division 1 scoring into this season. Plus, USC will add two true freshman in G Brendyn Taylor and F Strahinja Gavrilovic.
The Trojans averaged a Pac-12 low 52.6 points per game last season, but the talent has arrived to get the Galen Center scoreboard working again.
Woolridge (pictured) averaged 4.3 points per game in 13 minutes per contest for the Vols, but he did break out for 17 points at eventual national champion Kentucky. He will be yet another new boost to Kevin O'Neill's offensive overhaul after last year's struggles.Here is what the USC rotation looks like now:
G Jio Fontan - 10.5 ppg for USC in 2010-11
G Maurice Jones - 13 ppg as last year's leading scorer
G J.T. Terrell - 11.1 ppg for Wake Forest in 2010-11
G Greg Allen - 4.7 ppg for USC last year
F Renaldo Woolridge - 4.3 ppg for Tennessee last year
F Ari Stewart - 8.5 ppg for Wake Forest in 2010-11
F Byron Wesley - 9.6 ppg for USC last year
F Aaron Fuller - 10.6 ppg for USC last year
F Eric Wise - 16.3 ppg for UCI in 2010-11
C Dewayne Dedmon - 7.6 ppg for USC last year
C James Blasczyk - 3.2 ppg for USC last year
If you add it up, the Trojans bring 99.4 points per game of Division 1 scoring into this season. Plus, USC will add two true freshman in G Brendyn Taylor and F Strahinja Gavrilovic.
The Trojans averaged a Pac-12 low 52.6 points per game last season, but the talent has arrived to get the Galen Center scoreboard working again.
USC men's water polo four-time national champion goalie Joel Dennerley now has the distinction of being the top athlete in his sport in two countries. The collegiate National Player of the Year was named Australia's Male Player of the Year.
Click here for the full story.
Dennerley is expected to be the anchor of the Aussies water polo squad in London 2012, which will make it four consecutive Olympics in which USC men's water polo is represented.
He finished his career at Troy as the program's all-time saves leader.
Click here for the full story.
Dennerley is expected to be the anchor of the Aussies water polo squad in London 2012, which will make it four consecutive Olympics in which USC men's water polo is represented.
He finished his career at Troy as the program's all-time saves leader.
Thank you to the Trojan Family who created an unforgettable atmosphere in support of our USC men's volleyball team's national title bid.
Here's a look at the electric atmosphere as UCI trumped the Trojans in three tough sets:
Photos by Pierson Clair
Here's a look at the electric atmosphere as UCI trumped the Trojans in three tough sets:
Photos by Pierson Clair
USC athletic director Pat Haden recently attended the BCS meetings to discuss the postseason future of college football, which prompted blog reader Mark Child to ask what the AD's stance is on a playoff format.
Follow Pat Haden on Twitter.
"I have been an advocate for a playoff for a long time. All the arguments that have been put out there against a playoff can be refuted.
"At the end of the day, I think there will be some change in format in the direction of a playoff. Whether that is a seeded four-team playoff or a plus-one, that is for the BCS commissioners to decide.
"For me, I want to preserve the integrity of the regular season, so I would limit the playoff to four teams not 16 or 32. And second, we want to protect the bowl system in particular the Rose Bowl. The Pac-12 and the Big Ten, we would like to see the Rose Bowl be a part of that system going forward."
Haden also asked and answered his own question. "How are the four teams selected? The voting has to be transparent, fair and easily understood by fans."
Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott recently met with a group of USC football leaders to get the student-athlete perspective. The Trojans agreed that they would like to see it decided on the field.
(Photo by Jon SooHoo)
Follow Pat Haden on Twitter.
"I have been an advocate for a playoff for a long time. All the arguments that have been put out there against a playoff can be refuted. "At the end of the day, I think there will be some change in format in the direction of a playoff. Whether that is a seeded four-team playoff or a plus-one, that is for the BCS commissioners to decide.
"For me, I want to preserve the integrity of the regular season, so I would limit the playoff to four teams not 16 or 32. And second, we want to protect the bowl system in particular the Rose Bowl. The Pac-12 and the Big Ten, we would like to see the Rose Bowl be a part of that system going forward."
Haden also asked and answered his own question. "How are the four teams selected? The voting has to be transparent, fair and easily understood by fans."
Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott recently met with a group of USC football leaders to get the student-athlete perspective. The Trojans agreed that they would like to see it decided on the field.
(Photo by Jon SooHoo)
As part of USC baseball's military appreciation celebration Sunday, USC athletics alum and World War II hero Louis Zamperini threw out the first pitch to current Trojan Kevin Swick, whose grandfather was a prisoner of war in WWII just like Zamperini.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12. The black tie gala is open to the public and NFL Hall of
Fame WR Lynn Swann will be the emcee.
Click here for tickets.
Bob Hughes was at home in the water. With his diverse skill set from swimming to water polo, he is best described as one of the finest American aquatics athletes of all-time.
He was a two-year letter winner in water polo and swimming at USC with All-American credentials as a swimmer in 1955 and 1956. Hughes then took his two-sport show to the world stage.
In the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, he helped the U.S. water polo team to a fifth place finish, while also participating in the 200m breaststroke. In doing so, he was the first American athlete since Johnny Weissmuller in 1924 to compete in two different sports in the same Olympics.
Hughes made a lasting impact on water polo by popularizing the two-meter position. And in swimming, he once broke the world record in the 100m breaststroke.
(Photo from El Rodeo)
Click here for tickets.
Bob Hughes was at home in the water. With his diverse skill set from swimming to water polo, he is best described as one of the finest American aquatics athletes of all-time.
He was a two-year letter winner in water polo and swimming at USC with All-American credentials as a swimmer in 1955 and 1956. Hughes then took his two-sport show to the world stage.
In the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, he helped the U.S. water polo team to a fifth place finish, while also participating in the 200m breaststroke. In doing so, he was the first American athlete since Johnny Weissmuller in 1924 to compete in two different sports in the same Olympics.
Hughes made a lasting impact on water polo by popularizing the two-meter position. And in swimming, he once broke the world record in the 100m breaststroke.
(Photo from El Rodeo)
USC men's basketball sophomore Evan Smith is leading the search for his father, who went missing last Tuesday, and needs any help the Trojan Family can provide.
Gavin Smith, a longtime movie executive with Fox, was last seen driving his 2000 four-door Mercedes E Class with tinted windows, soft racks on the roof and California plate number 6EKT044 from a friend's house in Oak Park.
Click here for the full story.
Here's his physical description: 6 feet, 6 inches tall, 210 pounds, with green eyes and gray hair and blond highlights. Sheriff's officials say he has a four-inch scar on the inside of his right wrist and a five-incher on one of his calves.
If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, please call detectives at 323-890-5500.
Gavin Smith, a longtime movie executive with Fox, was last seen driving his 2000 four-door Mercedes E Class with tinted windows, soft racks on the roof and California plate number 6EKT044 from a friend's house in Oak Park. Click here for the full story.
Here's his physical description: 6 feet, 6 inches tall, 210 pounds, with green eyes and gray hair and blond highlights. Sheriff's officials say he has a four-inch scar on the inside of his right wrist and a five-incher on one of his calves.
If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, please call detectives at 323-890-5500.
Jovan Vavic has won 10 national championships as the head men's and women's water polo coach at USC. His son Nikola Vavic helped the men's team to the last two NCAA titles.
Now, Monica Vavic takes center stage as the first Trojan freshman to make the All-MPSF First Team since 1999 for USC women's water polo. She has scored 34 goals to date, second on the team, and controls the offensive play as a talented distributor.
Click here for the full story.
Vavic is not alone in the cause as four other Women of Troy earned conference honors. Sophomores Flora Bolonyai and Kaleigh Gilchrist made the conference second team, while Dominique Sardo and Colleen O'Donnell received honorable mention.
USC women's water polo is on its way to the NCAA Championships this week in San Diego, where the Women of Troy will take on Princeton in the national quarterfinals.
(Photo of Vavic by Daily Trojan/Chris Pham)
Now, Monica Vavic takes center stage as the first Trojan freshman to make the All-MPSF First Team since 1999 for USC women's water polo. She has scored 34 goals to date, second on the team, and controls the offensive play as a talented distributor.Click here for the full story.
Vavic is not alone in the cause as four other Women of Troy earned conference honors. Sophomores Flora Bolonyai and Kaleigh Gilchrist made the conference second team, while Dominique Sardo and Colleen O'Donnell received honorable mention.
USC women's water polo is on its way to the NCAA Championships this week in San Diego, where the Women of Troy will take on Princeton in the national quarterfinals.
(Photo of Vavic by Daily Trojan/Chris Pham)
The USC sports information department was recognized among the Football Writers Association of America's "Super 11" for the NCAA Football
Bowl Subdivision during the 2011 season becoming one of two schools (Georgia) to be honored in all three years of the esteemed list.Click here for the Super 11.
Our football PR staff is led by sports information director Tim Tessalone and assistant SID Paul Goldberg, but the entire SID staff of Darcy Couch, Dave Tuttle and Chris Roberts deserves credit for all the work they do to make the events run smoothly and keep the media and fans informed.
Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor
Different year, same story for the USC men's volleyball team.
Despite playing on their own home floor in Saturday night's National Championship match against UC Irvine, the Trojans were unable to exact any measure of revenge on the Anteaters, falling in a three-set sweep by a combined seven points (25-22, 34-32, 26-24).
"They were the better team tonight," said coach Bill Ferguson. "I am unbelievably proud though of the way this team played not only tonight, but the entire season. And even tonight, I was proud of how we played through adversity. I thought we should have been playing longer in the first set, the second set and the third set, but it wasn't in the cards of us. It's disappointing, but we fought extremely hard."
In 2009, Ferguson's squad came up just short against UC Irvine in a five-set thriller and this time around the script was much of the same for the Trojans, who fell a win shy of securing the university's first men's volleyball title since the 1990 season.
In addition to their past history, the Anteaters also knocked off the Trojans at the Galen Center nine days ago in the MPSF semifinals.
USC had their fair share of chances on Saturday night. After a controversial call ended a comeback bid in the first set, the Trojans built up a comfortable 14-7 lead in the second frame, but it was all for naught as the Anteaters came storming back with a 12-4 run of their own.
Continue reading MVB Falls Short in NCAA Final.
In association with Salute the Brave, USC baseball will show its appreciation to the military during this Sunday's game against Washington.
Exclusively at Dedeaux Field, you can purchase a military USC baseball hat and Salute the Brave will donate one to a serviceman or woman serving overseas. Salute the Brave was started by current USC senior and former Trojan baseball player Ryan Morris, who wants his consumers to "be a hero for a hero."
Click here for more info on Salute the Brave.
The entire USC baseball team will wear the hats in Sunday's game and a special military guest will throw out the first pitch.
Exclusively at Dedeaux Field, you can purchase a military USC baseball hat and Salute the Brave will donate one to a serviceman or woman serving overseas. Salute the Brave was started by current USC senior and former Trojan baseball player Ryan Morris, who wants his consumers to "be a hero for a hero." Click here for more info on Salute the Brave.
The entire USC baseball team will wear the hats in Sunday's game and a special military guest will throw out the first pitch.
The ESPN College GameDay commercial push restarted thanks to some voting irregularities.
If you would like to see Chris, Lee, Kirk and the gang shoot a college football spot on campus, click here to cast your vote for USC.
(Photo by John McGillen)
If you would like to see Chris, Lee, Kirk and the gang shoot a college football spot on campus, click here to cast your vote for USC.
(Photo by John McGillen)
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12. The black tie gala is open to the public and NFL Hall of
Fame WR Lynn Swann will be the emcee.
Click here for tickets.
A local legend, Keyshawn Johnson grew up in the shadow of the Coliseum and dreamed of playing for the Trojans. He did more than that.
He was a unanimous All-American first team selection in 1995 when he set a conference and USC record for pass receptions (102) in a
season, which was only broken in 2011 by Robert Woods. He set an NCAA record with 12 consecutive games with 100+ receiving yards.
In his two season at Troy, Johnson led USC to wins in the Cotton Bowl and Rose Bowl with MVP performances in both. In the two games, he caught a combined 20 balls for 438 yards and 4 TDs.
From there, he built his name and persona in the professional ranks as the No. 1 overall pick of the 1996 NFL Draft. He won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Bucs and made the Pro Bowl three times over his career.
Click here for tickets.
A local legend, Keyshawn Johnson grew up in the shadow of the Coliseum and dreamed of playing for the Trojans. He did more than that.
He was a unanimous All-American first team selection in 1995 when he set a conference and USC record for pass receptions (102) in a
season, which was only broken in 2011 by Robert Woods. He set an NCAA record with 12 consecutive games with 100+ receiving yards.In his two season at Troy, Johnson led USC to wins in the Cotton Bowl and Rose Bowl with MVP performances in both. In the two games, he caught a combined 20 balls for 438 yards and 4 TDs.
From there, he built his name and persona in the professional ranks as the No. 1 overall pick of the 1996 NFL Draft. He won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Bucs and made the Pro Bowl three times over his career.
Last night the USC men's volleyball team defeated Lewis University in a thrilling four-set match to advance to Saturday night's National Championship match against UC Irvine.
Our very own Pierson Clair was on the Galen Center floor Thursday night and captured all the sights and sounds from the Trojans' Final Four victory over the Flyers.
USC men's volleyball was just too big, too powerful and too athletic for Lewis University in the first two sets, but the gutty Flyers responded and pushed the Trojans to overcome demons of blown leads past.
In the end, USC earned a four set victory in the national semifinals thanks to an emotional lift from a raucous Galen Center crowd, which set the stage for Saturday's NCAA title match against UC Irvine.
"The crowd sure energized us at the end...when it seemed like we were a little bit tired there," said head coach Bill Ferguson.
Just a week ago, USC's 18-match winning streak dissipated along with a 2-0 lead over UCI in the MPSF semifinals. The Trojans would not admit to any feelings of a deja vu on the court tonight, but co-captains Tony Ciarelli and Steven Shandrick emphasized the need to play loose under pressure.
"We were all loving [the crowd] and having a good time and just playing for each other," Shandrick said about the fourth game. "We were just playing volleyball and having a blast doing it."
The Trojans are hoping to be the last team smiling on Saturday after their fourth match against UCI this season. The top-seeded Anteaters have taken two of the three contests.
"This will be like the 15th time we have played them," Ciarelli exaggerated. "We know each other pretty well. I am real excited. It's going to be good volleyball."
Click here for more.
In the end, USC earned a four set victory in the national semifinals thanks to an emotional lift from a raucous Galen Center crowd, which set the stage for Saturday's NCAA title match against UC Irvine.
"The crowd sure energized us at the end...when it seemed like we were a little bit tired there," said head coach Bill Ferguson. Just a week ago, USC's 18-match winning streak dissipated along with a 2-0 lead over UCI in the MPSF semifinals. The Trojans would not admit to any feelings of a deja vu on the court tonight, but co-captains Tony Ciarelli and Steven Shandrick emphasized the need to play loose under pressure.
"We were all loving [the crowd] and having a good time and just playing for each other," Shandrick said about the fourth game. "We were just playing volleyball and having a blast doing it."
The Trojans are hoping to be the last team smiling on Saturday after their fourth match against UCI this season. The top-seeded Anteaters have taken two of the three contests.
"This will be like the 15th time we have played them," Ciarelli exaggerated. "We know each other pretty well. I am real excited. It's going to be good volleyball."
Click here for more.
If you cannot make it to Galen Center to support the USC men's volleyball team's quest for a national championship tonight and Saturday, you can watch the semifinals online and the final on TV.
Click here to watch a LIVE webcast of UCI vs. Penn State at 6 p.m.
Click here to watch a LIVE webcast of USC vs. Lewis at 8 p.m.
The national title match is Saturday night at 7 p.m. and will be broadcast LIVE on ESPNU.
Click here to watch a LIVE webcast of UCI vs. Penn State at 6 p.m.
Click here to watch a LIVE webcast of USC vs. Lewis at 8 p.m.
The national title match is Saturday night at 7 p.m. and will be broadcast LIVE on ESPNU.
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12. The black tie gala is open to the public and NFL Hall of
Fame WR Lynn Swann will be the emcee.
Click here for tickets.
Now known as Lindsay Benko Mintenko, she was a 21-time All-American swimmer at USC. Benko won five individual national titles at Troy, three in the 500y freestyle and two in the 200y backstroke.
Even more than individual glory, she was the core of the USC's only national championship women's swimming and diving team in 1997. She helped tally points for the Women of Troy by reaching the finals in all 12 career NCAA individual events.
Like every great Trojan swimmer, she made her mark on the world stage as well. Benko owns a pair of gold medals as part of the 800m freestyle relay team in 2000 and 2004.
After five years as an USC assistant coach, she assumed her current role as USA Swimming's National Team managing director in 2006.
(Photo via Getty Images)
Click here for tickets.
Now known as Lindsay Benko Mintenko, she was a 21-time All-American swimmer at USC. Benko won five individual national titles at Troy, three in the 500y freestyle and two in the 200y backstroke.Even more than individual glory, she was the core of the USC's only national championship women's swimming and diving team in 1997. She helped tally points for the Women of Troy by reaching the finals in all 12 career NCAA individual events.
Like every great Trojan swimmer, she made her mark on the world stage as well. Benko owns a pair of gold medals as part of the 800m freestyle relay team in 2000 and 2004.
After five years as an USC assistant coach, she assumed her current role as USA Swimming's National Team managing director in 2006.
(Photo via Getty Images)
The Trojan Family continues to mourn the loss of Junior Seau. Many of you saw our video, but here's a look at some other tributes to No. 55...
- Saw this old press conference of Seau with the Patriots posted by several people. The message is profound.
- USC All-American S Mark Carrier spoke about his Trojan teammate on satellite radio.
- The OC Register's Michael Lev compiled links from some of the nation's top writers reflecting on Seau's life and career.
- Lev also posted a list of Twitter reactions from Trojans past and present.
- Finally, we received a video from the Trojan Club of San Diego. Seau spoke at an event on April 17 and led the crowd in our fight song.
Each month, we interview athletic director Pat Haden to find out the latest news around Heritage Hall
What are your initial thoughts on the passing of Junior Seau?
We are tremendously saddened to hear this news and our hearts go out to his family and children. Junior Seau was one of the greatest legends in USC football history. He will always be remembered by USC as the original No. 55.
(Photo by Sports Illustrated)
Why should the Trojan Family turn out for the NCAA Men's Volleyball Championship?
We need our fan support. We are hosting the NCAA Men's Volleyball Championship for the first time ever. We have an opportunity with the semifinals Thursday night to really get behind our guys. The final is Saturday at 7 p.m. at Galen Center. Hopefully, we have two great games ahead of us.
Click here for ticket info.
What is the impact of Fred Uytengsu's gift to the Aquatics Center?
We are thrilled to announce that Fred Uytengsu, a former walk-on swimmer, has given $8 million for the renovation of the Aquatics Center, which allows us to break ground on a $17-million project. To think we have won 20 national championships in that pool, those student-athletes really deserve something that is special. This is the largest single gift by a former student-athlete and hopefully a call to our other successful former student-athletes to give back to their alma mater.
Click here to support USC athletics.
What does it mean to be a USC Hall of Famer?
If you are a member of the USC Hall of Fame, you are one of the best of the best. Some special people are being inducted this year like Wayne Hughes, who has been a big supporter of ours for a long time, or Barbara Hallquist, the first ever female scholarship athlete at USC. I think of some of the old great football players like Adrian Young, Clarence Davis, Tony Boselli and Keyshawn Johnson or a baseball legend like Randy Johnson. And how about Art Bartner (pictured), the band director for 40 years. It should be a great celebration and it is open to all this year.
Click here for ticket information.
Why is Barbara Hedges receiving the Legend of Troy Award at the Student-Athlete Graduation?
Last year, Lou Zamperini and Gordon Marshall, two great World War II veterans, were given the inaugural Legend of Troy awards. Barbara Hedges is really deserving of this honor in this 40th anniversary of Title IX. She got our women's athletics program going in the early 70s. We have all been the beneficiaries of her foresight.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
What are your initial thoughts on the passing of Junior Seau?We are tremendously saddened to hear this news and our hearts go out to his family and children. Junior Seau was one of the greatest legends in USC football history. He will always be remembered by USC as the original No. 55.
(Photo by Sports Illustrated)
Why should the Trojan Family turn out for the NCAA Men's Volleyball Championship?
We need our fan support. We are hosting the NCAA Men's Volleyball Championship for the first time ever. We have an opportunity with the semifinals Thursday night to really get behind our guys. The final is Saturday at 7 p.m. at Galen Center. Hopefully, we have two great games ahead of us.
Click here for ticket info.
What is the impact of Fred Uytengsu's gift to the Aquatics Center?
We are thrilled to announce that Fred Uytengsu, a former walk-on swimmer, has given $8 million for the renovation of the Aquatics Center, which allows us to break ground on a $17-million project. To think we have won 20 national championships in that pool, those student-athletes really deserve something that is special. This is the largest single gift by a former student-athlete and hopefully a call to our other successful former student-athletes to give back to their alma mater.
Click here to support USC athletics.
What does it mean to be a USC Hall of Famer?If you are a member of the USC Hall of Fame, you are one of the best of the best. Some special people are being inducted this year like Wayne Hughes, who has been a big supporter of ours for a long time, or Barbara Hallquist, the first ever female scholarship athlete at USC. I think of some of the old great football players like Adrian Young, Clarence Davis, Tony Boselli and Keyshawn Johnson or a baseball legend like Randy Johnson. And how about Art Bartner (pictured), the band director for 40 years. It should be a great celebration and it is open to all this year.
Click here for ticket information.
Why is Barbara Hedges receiving the Legend of Troy Award at the Student-Athlete Graduation?
Last year, Lou Zamperini and Gordon Marshall, two great World War II veterans, were given the inaugural Legend of Troy awards. Barbara Hedges is really deserving of this honor in this 40th anniversary of Title IX. She got our women's athletics program going in the early 70s. We have all been the beneficiaries of her foresight.
(Photo by Pierson Clair)
Matt Leinart signed a one-year contract with the Oakland Raiders this week to serve as Carson Palmer's backup.
The two Heisman Trophy winners are used to this scenario. Leinart was Palmer's understudy in 2001 and 2002 before taking over for the 2003 NFL Draft No. 1 overall pick.
Combined, the duo passed for 171 touchdowns in their Trojan careers.
The quarterback photo from 2001 has a few familiar faces with Palmer and Leinart joined by Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel, Hawaii head coach Norm Chow and Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian.
The two Heisman Trophy winners are used to this scenario. Leinart was Palmer's understudy in 2001 and 2002 before taking over for the 2003 NFL Draft No. 1 overall pick.
Combined, the duo passed for 171 touchdowns in their Trojan careers.
The quarterback photo from 2001 has a few familiar faces with Palmer and Leinart joined by Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel, Hawaii head coach Norm Chow and Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian.
USC senior men's volleyball captain Tony Ciarelli was named the AVCA National Player of the Year at the NCAA Championship banquet last night at Galen Center. The Trojan program becomes the first to have two different players win the award in back-to-back years with Ciarelli joining 2011 MVP Murphy Troy.
Click here for the full story.
Losing the likes of Troy, Ciarelli was forced to step up as a leader and offensive focal point in 2012. He responded by setting the career ace record for the rally scoring era and pushing USC to the No. 1 national ranking on the strength of an 18-match winning streak.
Even more, Ciarelli has the Trojans in line for another NCAA title run after failed Final Four appearances his freshman and junior seasons. USC will take on Lewis University tonight at 8 p.m. in the national semifinals at Galen with the hopes of advancing to Saturday's final.
USC men's volleyball now has seven National Player of the Year awards with Ciarelli joining Adam Johnson (1986), Tom Duke (1988), Bryan Ivie (1990 and 1991), Donald Suxho (2000) and Murphy Troy (2011).
(Photo of Ciarelli center by Dan Avila)
Click here for the full story.
Losing the likes of Troy, Ciarelli was forced to step up as a leader and offensive focal point in 2012. He responded by setting the career ace record for the rally scoring era and pushing USC to the No. 1 national ranking on the strength of an 18-match winning streak.Even more, Ciarelli has the Trojans in line for another NCAA title run after failed Final Four appearances his freshman and junior seasons. USC will take on Lewis University tonight at 8 p.m. in the national semifinals at Galen with the hopes of advancing to Saturday's final.
USC men's volleyball now has seven National Player of the Year awards with Ciarelli joining Adam Johnson (1986), Tom Duke (1988), Bryan Ivie (1990 and 1991), Donald Suxho (2000) and Murphy Troy (2011).
(Photo of Ciarelli center by Dan Avila)
Just two and a half weeks ago, we interviewed Junior Seau before the USC Spring Game. He was bright, vibrant and engaging.
Today, we mourn the loss of a Trojan great.
Today, we mourn the loss of a Trojan great.
USC All-American LB Junior Seau was reportedly found dead in his Oceanside home today of a gunshot wound, according to San Diego police.
Pat Haden on Seau: "We are tremendously saddened to hear this news and our hearts go out to his family and children. Junior Seau was one of the greatest legends in USC football history. He will always be remembered by USC as the original No. 55."
Lane Kiffin on Seau: "This is a very sad day. The USC football program and the entire Trojan Family extend our condolences to Junior's family. He was one of the greatest Trojans of all-time. Our team and fans were very fortunate to see him just a couple of weeks ago at our Spring Game at the Coliseum. He will be deeply missed."
We'll have more coverage on Seau's life and career, but for now, we send out our condolences from the Trojan Family to his family. RIP No. 55...
Pat Haden on Seau: "We are tremendously saddened to hear this news and our hearts go out to his family and children. Junior Seau was one of the greatest legends in USC football history. He will always be remembered by USC as the original No. 55."
Lane Kiffin on Seau: "This is a very sad day. The USC football program and the entire Trojan Family extend our condolences to Junior's family. He was one of the greatest Trojans of all-time. Our team and fans were very fortunate to see him just a couple of weeks ago at our Spring Game at the Coliseum. He will be deeply missed."
We'll have more coverage on Seau's life and career, but for now, we send out our condolences from the Trojan Family to his family. RIP No. 55...
USC football had only three players drafted in 2012, which was its lowest total since 2002. In this case, the stat reflects more on how loaded the Trojans are for next season more than any talent attrition in the program.
As the 2013 mock drafts start to come out, it is clear that USC players will dominate the headlines next April. For example, Pete Prisco of CBSSports.com has three Trojans projected in his first round with QB Matt Barkley at No. 1, WR Robert Woods at No. 4 and S T.J. McDonald at No. 29.
Among the seniors, Barkley and McDonald are just two of the names to watch. C Khaled Holmes, DE Wes Horton, DE Devon Kennard, S Jawanza Starling and RB Curtis McNeal should all attract NFL interest.
The list of draft eligible underclassmen is headlined by Woods and CB Nickell Robey, but they can also opt to follow Barkley and McDonald down the four year path.
Just like 2002 when only CB Kris Richard and CB Chris Cash were drafted, the pipeline is only filling up with talent and the explosion begins next year.
(Photo of Wes Horton by Jon SooHoo)
As the 2013 mock drafts start to come out, it is clear that USC players will dominate the headlines next April. For example, Pete Prisco of CBSSports.com has three Trojans projected in his first round with QB Matt Barkley at No. 1, WR Robert Woods at No. 4 and S T.J. McDonald at No. 29.Among the seniors, Barkley and McDonald are just two of the names to watch. C Khaled Holmes, DE Wes Horton, DE Devon Kennard, S Jawanza Starling and RB Curtis McNeal should all attract NFL interest.
The list of draft eligible underclassmen is headlined by Woods and CB Nickell Robey, but they can also opt to follow Barkley and McDonald down the four year path.
Just like 2002 when only CB Kris Richard and CB Chris Cash were drafted, the pipeline is only filling up with talent and the explosion begins next year.
(Photo of Wes Horton by Jon SooHoo)
For the first time ever, USC will host the NCAA Men's Volleyball Championship this Thursday and Saturday at Galen Center. Even more, the Trojans are in the Final Four with a national semifinal match against Lewis at 8 p.m. Thursday.
Athletic director Pat Haden sent out a mass letter urging fans to support USC's national title push this weekend plus he announced that all students are in FREE with ID. The Trojan Family can purchase all-session or single-session tickets in advance or walk-up tickets at the box office.
Click here for ticket information.
We have a chance to win a national championship on home soil. This is officially a call to arms!!
Athletic director Pat Haden sent out a mass letter urging fans to support USC's national title push this weekend plus he announced that all students are in FREE with ID. The Trojan Family can purchase all-session or single-session tickets in advance or walk-up tickets at the box office.
Click here for ticket information.
We have a chance to win a national championship on home soil. This is officially a call to arms!!
USC baseball was reeling. The Trojans had lost seven out of eight after dropping the opener of a three-game series against No. 19 Oregon State last weekend.
But, a slight rotation tweak by head coach Frank Cruz might turn out to be the season saver. Senior pitcher Andrew Triggs was moved off the traditional Friday game to start Saturday against the Beavers.
Quite simply, Triggs' efforts were being lost without much run support against the opponent's ace. Despite a sub-4.00 ERA and three complete games in conference play, he was just 1-3 going into his latest Pac-12 outing.
When his team needed him the most, Triggs pitched seven strong innings giving up two runs and earning the victory thanks to three runs of support. Freshman Stephen Tarpley, who has thrived as the Sunday starter all season, followed with his team-leading fifth win to take the series for Troy.
The rotation reshuffle continues tonight as former Saturday starter Ben Mount will get the ball against Cal State Fullerton. The Trojans host Washington this weekend at Dedeaux Field in a three-game set.
(Photo by John McGillen)
But, a slight rotation tweak by head coach Frank Cruz might turn out to be the season saver. Senior pitcher Andrew Triggs was moved off the traditional Friday game to start Saturday against the Beavers.Quite simply, Triggs' efforts were being lost without much run support against the opponent's ace. Despite a sub-4.00 ERA and three complete games in conference play, he was just 1-3 going into his latest Pac-12 outing.
When his team needed him the most, Triggs pitched seven strong innings giving up two runs and earning the victory thanks to three runs of support. Freshman Stephen Tarpley, who has thrived as the Sunday starter all season, followed with his team-leading fifth win to take the series for Troy.
The rotation reshuffle continues tonight as former Saturday starter Ben Mount will get the ball against Cal State Fullerton. The Trojans host Washington this weekend at Dedeaux Field in a three-game set.
(Photo by John McGillen)
The countdown continues to the 2012 USC Hall of Fame induction dinner
on May 12. The black tie gala is open to the public and NFL Hall of
Fame WR Lynn Swann will be the emcee.
Click here for the tickets.
Randy Johnson was the most intimidating pitcher of his generation. Standing at 6'10", the lefty flamethrower could break the radar gun with his velocity or break your helmet with his fastball.
As a youngster at Troy, he had the same power repertoire that would turn him into a dominant big league ace, but he was still refining his control. Johnson had 206 career strikeouts as a Trojan in 243.1 innings, but he also walked 188.
Once he worked out his mechanics, "The Big Unit" was nearly unhittable. In 22 major league seasons, he won five Cy Young Awards, the 2001 World Series MVP and earned 10 All-Star nods.
On two occasions, he was actually unhittable tossing a pair no-hitters, including one perfect game. He recorded 4,875 strikeouts in his career, which is the most ever by a left-hander and the second most all-time.
Known best for his dominance, Johnson was a winner as well. He cracked the historic 300-win milestone in his final season finishing with a 303-166 MLB record plus one world series ring.
Click here for the tickets.
Randy Johnson was the most intimidating pitcher of his generation. Standing at 6'10", the lefty flamethrower could break the radar gun with his velocity or break your helmet with his fastball.As a youngster at Troy, he had the same power repertoire that would turn him into a dominant big league ace, but he was still refining his control. Johnson had 206 career strikeouts as a Trojan in 243.1 innings, but he also walked 188.
Once he worked out his mechanics, "The Big Unit" was nearly unhittable. In 22 major league seasons, he won five Cy Young Awards, the 2001 World Series MVP and earned 10 All-Star nods.
On two occasions, he was actually unhittable tossing a pair no-hitters, including one perfect game. He recorded 4,875 strikeouts in his career, which is the most ever by a left-hander and the second most all-time.
Known best for his dominance, Johnson was a winner as well. He cracked the historic 300-win milestone in his final season finishing with a 303-166 MLB record plus one world series ring.
USC football seniors T.J. McDonald and Khaled Holmes provide the soundtrack for spring practice, so we thought we would mic them up, so you can listen in too.
Here are the loquacious veterans...
Here are the loquacious veterans...
Written by Farren Benjamin, USC blog contributor
On Friday, over 40 current and former USC
student-athletes and coaches took a trip to the Children's Hospital LA
and spent three hours with the patients. They got the opportunity to
visit with many children in numerous divisions throughout the hospital
including the rehabilitation center and the dialysis division. "The children were so excited to see us and it was a
really great experience to go spend time with kids that truly love our
company," former USC swimmer and current graduate student Ellie Doran
said. "It is a great feeling to go out and do something for others
around our community that support us in so many ways."
Photo gallery by John McGillen...
USC athletics announced an $8 million gift from former swimming walk-on Fred Uytengsu to the new aquatics center. The donation is the largest ever by a student-athlete back to the Trojan athletic department.
Click here for the full story.
At Uytengsu's request, the swimming pool at the heart of the new facility will be named after his head coach Peter Daland, who won nine national championships at Troy.
The aquatics center will house both men's and women's swimming and diving plus men's and women's water polo. The four programs have won a combined 20 national championships.
"Fred's gift is one purely of the heart," said swimming head coach Dave Salo. "I have never met a man with such humility and integrity. He epitomizes what it means to be a USC graduate, with a true Trojan spirit. This lasting gift is not only a tribute to Fred's generosity and love for his alma mater, but also a great acknowledgment of the man who made USC swimming and diving what it is today - Peter Daland."
Click the link for renderings of the new aquatics center:
USCAquaticsCenter.pdf
"The USC community takes such profound pride in its student-athletes, and Mr. Uytengsu's gift sends a strong message of support," said President C. L. Max Nikias. "Thanks to his extraordinary generosity, the university will create world-class facilities for our world-class athletes."
Click here for the full story.At Uytengsu's request, the swimming pool at the heart of the new facility will be named after his head coach Peter Daland, who won nine national championships at Troy.
The aquatics center will house both men's and women's swimming and diving plus men's and women's water polo. The four programs have won a combined 20 national championships.
"Fred's gift is one purely of the heart," said swimming head coach Dave Salo. "I have never met a man with such humility and integrity. He epitomizes what it means to be a USC graduate, with a true Trojan spirit. This lasting gift is not only a tribute to Fred's generosity and love for his alma mater, but also a great acknowledgment of the man who made USC swimming and diving what it is today - Peter Daland."
Click the link for renderings of the new aquatics center:
USCAquaticsCenter.pdf
"The USC community takes such profound pride in its student-athletes, and Mr. Uytengsu's gift sends a strong message of support," said President C. L. Max Nikias. "Thanks to his extraordinary generosity, the university will create world-class facilities for our world-class athletes."
