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Greek recruitment offers UM students social benefits, more

The Miami Hurricane
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Greek Recruitment is here! If you’re not Greek, you’ve probably asked yourself, “What’s all the fuss about?” It’s simple.
“Recruitment is the best way to meet new friends at the University,” Tim Williamson, vice president of recruitment for the Interfraternity Council [IFC], said. “It allows you to meet hundreds of new students while at the same time acclimating you to life at the University.”
Williamson says he expects a record number of men and women to go through recruitment this year.
“We have new and exciting events, and the student leaders around campus are all Greek,” Williamson said. “All new students should participate in recruitment because it gives you benefits that you can take with you for the rest of your life.”
Natalie Pick, vice president of recruitment for Panhellenic, agrees.
“Being Greek is a great way to find your niche at this University, be it through academics, leadership positions, sports or just a group of people that share a common bond,” Pick said. “There’s something for everyone and it’s definitely been the best experience of my college career.”
“It’s opened so many doors for me,” she said.
Panhellenic recruitment is a series of events allowing potential new members to learn all about sorority life. Within this week of events, students meet with each individual sorority to learn more about their chapter.
Through this formalized recruitment process, a system has been set up where the intended outcome is that all participating ladies are allowed to be offered a position in a sorority through quota. Quota is set during the recruitment process using a formula to predict the average number of women that would be placed in the sisterhood of each sorority at the end of recruitment, on Bid Day.
IFC recruitment began the first day you walked onto campus; bids could be given out the first day of class, and bidding continues through Sep. 12. Although there is a formal process, IFC organizations may recruit year round. IFC has a lot to offer its members.
“There so many reasons, its hard to begin,” Steven Ollek, Rho Alpha, said. “Sports, academics, social connections – there are so many opportunities.”
Additionally, the Latino Greek Council and the National Panhellenic recruit through a process known as intake. This process generally includes an introduction stage, an induction ceremony, and an education program.
Many believe that Greek membership definitely has its advantages.
“Being Greek is great – it allows you to meet more people than if you were not Greek,” William Ryan Walker, junior, said.
Think it’s too late to join because you’re not a freshman? Think again; recruitment is for everyone. When asked why she was signing up for recruitment, Katherine Unger, sophomore, said: “I want to meet people, meet new friends, get involved with the social aspect.”
Both the IFC and the Panhellenic Association are currently gearing up for their formal recruitment. IFC has already kicked off their formal recruitment, while Panhellenic formal recruitment is slated to begin Sep. 8.
For more information regarding Greek recruitment, contact greekhurricanes@yahoo.com or visit www.miami.edu/greeklife.

The Miami Hurricane will print a Greek Gossip section every Tuesday. Greek organizations are encouraged to contact either Stephanie Brown or Robert Castro with any information they would like to see included in the section in regards to special events, achievements, plans or any other newsworthy aspect of Greek life.

Traveling to Tanzania

The Miami Hurricane
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This summer, Minal Ahson, a junior double majoring in Microbiology and Religious Studies, volunteered with Cross Cultural Solutions [CCS], an international grassroots volunteer placement organization. Ahson conducted her volunteer work in Tengeru, a small village outside of Arusha, Tanzania. She was awarded the Patrick Stewart 2003 Human Rights Scholarship from Amnesty International for her project to research the HIV/AIDS and healthcare situations in the village. This is the first installment of a four-part series in which Ahson will describe her experiences and volunteer work in Tanzania.

Journal Entry #1

As my parents saw me off, my mother was really worried. I told her that, in order to help and learn about others, we must step outside of our own comfort zones. I can’t help but feel extremely fortunate to have this experience. First of all, I have amazing parents to support me in going to a country where I know no one and do not speak the language. Second of all, I was humbled to receive the Amnesty International scholarship. I didn’t think it was a big deal when I won, but when I read the bios of the other winners, I was amazed. It is encouraging to see that other young people are also motivated to help others and change the world around them.
On the way there, I spoke with the lady sitting next to me on the plane. She was going to Spain for vacation. She didn’t seem to understand that I was going to Tanzania to volunteer. I guess that’s an odd concept? I don’t know. . .
At the airport, I met some of the other volunteers – most of them were students from around the country, a few from Canada and the UK. We were greeted at the airport by members of CCS. They drove us to the CCS house in a van, and during the ride, I couldn’t help but notice how cool the air was and how dark the town was. I could hardly see anything out of the windows because there were no street lights.
We reached the house, which was very different in layout from most homes in America. We were greeted at the gate by a guard and were led inside, where a traditional Tanzanian meal awaited us even though it was almost midnight! Hospitality is extremely important in the Tanzanian culture. Later, as we were escorted to our rooms, I noticed that it was already very quiet. I was told that most village people rise and sleep with the sun, due to the limited amount of electricity. I could hear radios in the distance.
The next morning, we woke up early to hike the foothills of Mount Meru with a local guide. Since we were staying in a village, to get to the main town we took a van called a Dalla-Dalla. It wasn’t bad that morning, but normally people would be sitting on laps of others and hanging out windows! The hike was amazing. We were able to see the whole city and waded in a river to a waterfall. We met many of the townspeople, who were extremely excited to shake our hands and teach us Swahili greetings. On the way back, our tour guide decided to chart his own path with a machete. We were literally climbing through vines and trees. Definitely crazy!
We went through orientation the following day, which allowed us to learn about cultural differences and how to conduct ourselves. Little things, such as eye contact and the concept of time, were interesting to learn. I was given my placement: Nkoaranga Secondary School and Orphanage. I am glad that I will be working with kids!
We were informed of the Travel Alerts issued by the U.S. government about American tourists visiting East Africa. I found out that the flights from the U.S. to the region were being cancelled. I guess we made it just in time! Mama Simba, the country director of CCS, instructed us to give her copies of our passports, just in case. It was a little intimidating to be amidst the anti-Americanism that I had only heard and read about, but I never experienced anything like that during my trip. On the contrary, people were surprised to learn that I am American [due to my appearance] and in the predominantly Muslim country, people were happy to hear me say the Islamic greeting of “Peace.”
It’s interesting to observe the HIV/AIDS situation. I asked Mama Simba what the situation was like in Tengeru, and all she said was, “Very bad!” I noticed that HIV is something that is not openly spoken of in the conservative culture. I hope the next few weeks will allow me to get a better picture of the situation.

Minal Ahson can be contacted at mahson@miami.edu.

Chartwells’ renovations impress UM students

The Miami Hurricane
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The verdict is in: Chartwells outdid themselves with the renovations to the Hecht/Stanford cafeteria, bringing positive feedback from students and administrators. That is, except for the increased traffic, the issue at the center of student complaints about the renovated facility.
Phase one of this $3 million project, completed this summer, increased the seating capacity from 180 to 630.
According to administration, an estimated 60 percent of the students with meal plans ate at the Hecht/Stanford cafeteria last year.
“We tried to incorporate a retail restaurant look which would afford privacy and a better all-around feeling,” Mel Tenen, director of auxiliary services, said. “We worked closely with student council and a committee made up of students and faculty to get the input necessary to have the renovations reflect what students want.”
The whole interior was gutted and redone with new flooring, including tile and carpet.
“We see ourselves being the leaders in this new style of residential dining,” Tenen said. “Students want to have more of a casual yet commercial feeling in their dining halls.”
Many students say they are really excited about the changes. Some say it makes the food taste better.
“It’s fantabulous because last year it was really ghetto,” Alex Ortiz, junior, said. “I would walk to the other cafeteria, but now the Hecht/Stanford cafeteria is like eating in an actual restaurant.”
“We went from trash to class,” Marc O’Connor, junior, said.
Chartwells administration is pleased with the feedback they have received.
“Of the 75 accounts we have at different Universities, this dining hall has the nicest facility,” Fred Heaviside, vice president for Chartwells, said.
However, some students have already begun to complain about long lines and wait times.
“It’s pretty and appealing, but the lines are worse because the new arrangement inside the serving area is more cluttered and causes confusion,” Nicole Brin, senior, said.
“The traffic is terrible since they changed the setup – they don’t have enough people working at the stations, but the surroundings are cleaner and prettier,” Krystle Canaii, senior, said.
Chartwells administration attributes this added traffic to the increased popularity of the facility.
According to Tenen, renovations to the dining halls on campus are conducted every seven to 10 years, in agreement with what the students want.
Renovations for the Mahoney/Pearson cafeteria are scheduled for Summer 2008. For more information about Chartwells services or dining options, contact 8-2715.

NEWS BRIEFS

The Miami Hurricane
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Sebastian the Ibis creator dies
John Stormont, the UM graduate credited with creating and wearing the original Sebastian, has died. Stormont, a n and his fellow residents of San Sebastian hall created the ibis as an entry in the homecoming celebration of 1957. The following year, Stormont wore the costume to football games, thus beginning the tradition of Sebastian the Ibis. Following graduation, Stormont worked as a professor at UM and MDCC, as well as a news editor for WPLG.

Undergrad mag seeks editors
Dune Shack is an online literary magazine featuring work from UM undergraduates. It is produced by the Creative Writing program in conjunction with U-Turn, the non-fiction webzine written and designed by students in English 306. Dune Shack is now looking for editors who will solicit student creative work-including poetry, fiction, drama and new media-and select pieces for inclusion in the Fall issue of the ‘zine. Any UM undergraduate who would be interested in working on this exciting new publication should contact Neil de la Flor at theduneshack@yahoo.com or Gina Maranto, Assistant Director of Composition, at g.maranto@miami.edu. An organizational meeting will be held in the next few weeks. To check out the current edition of Dune Shack, go to www.uturnmag.com.

Latin films to show at Cosford
The Motion Picture Association-Latin America and School of Communication present the Latin American Film Series 2003, showcasing first-run films from Argentina, Brazil and Mexico twice a month at The Bill Cosford Cinema located in the Memorial Building. For details and show times call 305-284-1870.

CALENDAR

The Miami Hurricane
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TODAY

Thinking about adding a class? Today is your last day.

Ever imagined yourself riding a mechanical bull? Here’s your chance. Hurricane Productions presents Rodeo Freaky Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.

Sunseeker Entertainment presents Ludacris, at 7:30 p.m. at the Convocation Center. Opening for Ludacris is Columbia Records recording artists Trouble Is. The concert is a kick-off to the weekend of the highly anticipated UM vs. UF football game. Tickets are on sale for $29.25 and will be $34.25 day of show. Tickets are available at the UM Convocation Center box office and at all Ticketmaster locations. For more info call 305-284-8686.

MONDAY September 8

Catch the ACLU College Freedom Tour from 7 to 10 p.m. Join in a political forum led by Anthony Romero and guest speaker Larry Flynt. There will also be musical performances by dead prez and DJ Kuttin Kandi. For more information go to www.aclufreedomtour.com

Don’t forget to sign up for Greek Life Recruitment. Sign-ups end today.

TUESDAY September 9

C.A.C. presents a Sneak Peak of the movie Fighting Temptations at Cosford Cinema at 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY September 10

C.A.C. presents Identity starring John Cusack and UM alum Ray Liotta at Cosford Cinema, 8 p.m.

The International Education and Exchange Programs office hosts an information session on Study Abroad Programs at 12 p.m. Food will be served. For more information call 305-284-3434 or stop by Allen Hall 212.
THURSDAY September 11

HP presents Patio Jams with Jessie Jackson project from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on the UC Patio

Feeling parched? Come to Thirsty Thursday’s at the Rat from 7 to 10 p.m.

Come to Culture 101 at 7:30 p.m. in the UC.

FRIDAY September 12

Last day to drop a course without a “W.”

Last day to file for candidacy for Student Government elections.

Show your letters at Fraternity Bid Day on the UC Patio at 5 p.m.

MONDAY September 15

Hispanic Heritage Month opening ceremonies: Latin Market on the UC Patio from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

UP in SMOKE

The Miami Hurricane
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UM administration has decided to let students enforce the new Student Government bill, passed last September, that provides for a 25-foot non-smoking buffer zone around residence halls, effective since Aug. 15.
“When I wrote this bill, I wanted to make it something that would make the non-smokers happy and keep the smokers comfortable,” Mike Johnston, former SG president and author of the bill, said. “You have to respect the right of breathing healthy air.”
Many freshmen, however, say they have not been made aware of the exact stipulations of the rule.
“I remember hearing something about the rule, but nobody has said anything,” Whitney Drechsler, freshman, said.
The bill, which passed 16-5, states that smoking is not permitted within a 25-foot radius of the residence halls. It also states that UM will provide covered seating in smoking areas.
Fines and penalties have been established to deter violators.
“A $50 fine has been set for not following the policy,” Dr. Patricia Whitely, vice president for student affairs, said. “Also, violators must take a mandatory educational class on second hand smoke at the Wellness Center.”
According to Whitely, failure to pay the fine and to attend the two-session class will lead to further disciplinary action including expulsion from the residence halls.
According to administration, plans are underway to construct the covered seating areas outlined in the bill.
“The bill is something that all of the resident coordinators support,” Keith Fletcher, resident coordinator for Hecht, said. “We have all gotten consistent complaints about the ‘cancer cloud’ from students.”
However, despite the apparent positive impact of the bill, some still see holes in the wording.
“It’s a little funny on the surface because the way that the bill is written you can’t smoke outside the residence halls, but you can smoke outside the Wellness Center and the dining halls,” Fletcher said.
However, Fletcher is confident that students will be able to effectively enforce the new bill.
“The hope behind the policy is that students will police themselves,” Fletcher said. “This can mean asking a smoker to move to the designated smoking area.”
Whitely agrees with Fletcher’s sentiments.
“Given that this was a student-driven policy, students should enforce it,” Whitely said. “If someone is a chronic offender, go inside the residence hall and request someone to write a report.”
Students have expressed mixed opinions in regards to the enforcement of the policy.
“If they really want to enforce it the University has to do it, not a student,” Drechsler said. “If my RA tells me to move I will, but as soon as she’s gone, people will be lighting up again.”
“They’ll have to be out here 24 hours a day enforcing it because people are smoking at all hours,” Drechsler said.
Some students feel that it is the responsibility of UM administration to enforce the policy.
“I’m not sure I would feel comfortable asking someone to go smoke somewhere else,” Jennifer Smith, freshman, said.
Marie Federico says she is always considerate of others when she smokes.
“If someone asked me to move I would,” Marie Federico, freshman, said, “I used to not like the smell of smoke.”
The Miami Hurricane will continue to follow this issue throughout the semester. For more information on the specifics of the smoking bill, contact the Student Government office at 8-3082.

Leigha Taber can be contacted at l.taber@umiami.edu.

RELOAD or REBUILD?

The Miami Hurricane
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The Hurricanes have waited eight months to get back on the field. They have had eight months to think about the National Championship that slipped away. Eight months to think about the 34-game winning streak that ended at the hands of Ohio State. Eight months of “what ifs.”
But a new season has arrived, and there is no time to dwell upon the past. New and old faces returned to the gridiron last night, trying to help the Hurricanes reach the National Championship game for a third straight year.

As with every team, the Hurricanes will have some question marks. Unlike most teams the Hurricanes will have to replace four first round NFL draft picks and the most successful quarterback in school history.
Below, The Hurricane takes a look at the 2003 ‘Canes.

Offense
Quarterback:
After much controversy during Miami’s spring practice, Brock Berlin won the unenviable job of following Ken Dorsey. If taking over for a quarterback who lost just two games in three years and won a National Title doesn’t sound like pressure, then add in the fact that his first game is in his hometown of Shreveport, LA, and his second start is against his former team. If Berlin can handle the pressure then the ‘Canes won’t need back up Derrick Crudup, but Berlin knows Crudup can’t wait to get on the field after watching Dorsey for two years.

Running Back:
The hype over Frank Gore has intensified every day since Willis McGahee declared for the NFL draft. Everyone knows what Gore did his freshman year (9.1 yards per carry), but that happened a long time ago against second and third string defenses. Gore’s knee has finally healed after having two ligaments repaired, and if he lives up to even half of what is expected of him, he should do all right.
The players behind Gore are oft-injured senior Jarrett Payton and true freshman Tyrone Moss, while Quadtrine Hill returns to the fullback position.

Wide Receiver:
The ‘Canes have potential coming from their young wide receivers. A few players who should get more recognition by December are Ryan Moore, Akieem Jolla, and Devin Hester. Senior Kevin Beard, coming off of a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, will lead the corps, while fellow senior Jason Geathers, whose hamstring injury kept him out of last night’s game, will try to fulfill his enormous potential. Roscoe Parrish, a fan favorite, should also have a breakout season after showing glimpses of brilliance last year.

Tight End:
Kellen Winslow II, hands down the best tight end in the country, should soon become Brock Berlin’s best friend. For two tight end sets, or whenever Winslow needs a break, Kevin Everett will provide a more than ample second option.

Offensive Line:
The front five will feature former tight end Eric Winston at left tackle, with Vernon Carey next to him at guard, Joel Rodriguez at center, Chris Myers at right guard, and Carlos Joseph at right tackle. The injury to guard Joe McGrath leaves the line without a battle tested substitute. Rashad Butler and Tony Tella have stepped up their games but the coaches will start to get very uneasy if another big man takes a fall.

Defense
Defensive Line:
Defensive tackles Vince Wilfork, Santonio Thomas, and Orien Harris have more than enough ability, size, and experience to stop anyone that tries to go up the middle of the field. The question mark on this line rests squarely on the shoulders of the defensive ends. Thomas Carroll and Baraka Atkins will try to accomplish what the defensive backs did last year when they had to replace NFL players. John Square should return soon from a shoulder injury, and he will join junior college transfer Alton Wright and freshman Bryan Pata as back-ups.

Linebackers:
Returning all three starters, including two Butkus Award semi-finalists in Jonathan Vilma, and D.J. Williams, along with rising star Rocky McIntosh, should make this unit one of the most formidable in the nation. McIntosh may start the season late after having minor knee surgery, but seniors Jarrell Weaver and Carl Walker will gladly fill in. Leon Williams will see plenty of time on special teams while he patiently waits for his turn at middle linebacker.

Defensive Backs:
The secondary also returns all four starters along with its backup cornerbacks. Wide receivers would be wise to stay away from middle of the field with head-hunter Sean Taylor decapitating people with his vicious hits. Strong safety Maurice Sikes should improve greatly this season after playing almost all of last year with an injured shoulder. In fact, teams might not want to pass at all with cornerbacks Antrel Rolle and Kelly Jennings, who played all of last season with a cast on his left hand. Unbelievably, all four starters are candidates for the Jim Thorpe award, given to the nation’s top defensive back.

Special Teams
Kicker/Punter
Replacing senior kicker Todd Sievers and punter Freddie Capshaw could prove to be pretty hard. Freshman Brian Monroe will take over punting duties and the coaches are very happy with his performance thus far. Monroe, who played defensive back in high school, will also give the ‘Canes more options for fake punts with his athleticism. Mark Gent and Jon Peattie may share kicking duties since Gent has not shown consistency and Peattie has missed some time with a hamstring injury.

Nate Johnson can be reached at NPJ44@aol.com

Volleyball team starts season with tough tests

The Miami Hurricane
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The Hurricane volleyball team has had plenty of time to brush themselves off after a heartbreaking loss to Nebraska that followed a highly successful 2002 season. Now the ‘Canes enter 2003 hungry for a better finish.

“Last year we showed that we can compete on a national level,” junior outside hitter Biz Tyson said. “We proved to everyone that we are a good team and we can go far.”

There is certainly no shortage of talent on the Miami team, and most of last year’s stars are back and rearing to go. Junior outside hitter Valeria Tipiana was named Big East Player of the Year in 2002, and junior setter Mallorey James earned Big East Setter of the Year Honors.

Head Coach Lantagne Welch is optimistic about the upcoming season, which leaves no time for early errors with three matches scheduled this weekend.

“We’re playing some excellent competition…we will be challenged right from the start and we’re ready to get out there and see how we can put it together against the opposition,” Welch said. “We have some very high goals set for the team. They tasted success and they want more, so we’re working to get more every day in practice.”

The Hurricanes are looking to some new freshmen to help get them get started: outside hitters Sara Duncan and Jennifer Vance, defensive specialist Ann Gallo, middle blocker Ciara Michel, setter Jill Robinson, and red shirt middle blocker Francheska Savage. Senior outside hitter Leyre Santaella Sante, a transfer from Central Florida, also adds depth to the team. Sante won the Atlantic Sun Conference’s Player of the Year in 2002. She posted 10 kills at the annual Orange and Green Scrimmage on Tuesday afternoon in the Knight Sports Complex.

“We have a great group of freshmen and a transfer; six new players who have really come in and raised the level,” Welch said.

“They’re working hard…they’re definitely going to make a difference in our program.”

Competition begins Friday night, when Miami faces Manhattan College. The Jaspers finished 30-4 last year, winning the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. They were subsequently defeated by Temple at the NCAA Tournament in December. Saturday the ‘Canes are matched up against Kent State, who finished 18-13 last season, and Indiana, who finished 20-12. The Hoosiers lost to Texas in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at the end of the year.

Tipiana doesn’t seem fazed by the strong early competition.

“We have a much more positive attitude and we’re much more ready [than we were last year],” she said. “We’re all excited to start playing.”

Welch enters the season cautiously, but feels prepared for anything.

“We just have to take it one match at a time,” Welch said. “And we must continue to have that in our thoughts as we work hard and take care of business every game.”

You can tune into the Hurricanes match against Indiana Saturday at 7 p.m. on WVUM 90.5 F.M.

Melissa Teich can be reached at melissateich@hotmail.com.

Vilma: A leader through action, not words

The Miami Hurricane
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Intelligence is an unheralded aspect of football. In the case of middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma, however, intelligence is the one thing that everyone wants to talk about.

Vilma, the 2002 Hurricane Scholar-Athlete of the Year, two-time member of the Big East All-Academic Team and Verizon Academic All-American, is not the typical football player.

“Jonathan is a quality young man. His elective class is German. How many football players take German?” Head Coach Larry Coker said.
Vilma’s performance on the field is comparable to his performance in the classroom. Vilma has led the team in tackles the last two seasons including 133 tackles last season that helped him earn unanimous All-Big East First Team Honors. As a semi-finalist for the Butkus Award last season, given to the nation’s best linebacker, Vilma earned national respect.

Vilma was recently featured in an article in Sports Illustrated, giving him even more notoriety.

Despite his achievements in the classroom and on the field, Vilma prides himself on humility.

“I don’t like talking about myself to be truthful, so I don’t think about those type of things,” Vilma said. “I guess they show that I am dedicated and that I take care of my business on and off the field.”

Even though there is a quiet modesty to Vilma, he still takes charge on the defensive end of the field.

“I just try to lead by example, and if I see something I don’t like, I let you know,” Vilma said. “I’m not really trying to be in that role, it is just what I am right now. I think the players see that I’m not trying to hard. I am just out there doing what I do naturally.”

A key aspect to being a leader is earning people’s respect. Through his play on the field and his academic success, Vilma has earned everyone’s respect.

“People respect Jonathan so much that when he talks, everyone listens,” cornerback Kelly Jennings said.

Vilma watches more tape than anyone on the team. He feels preparation is critical to having success on the gridiron.

“He brings the leadership on this team,” defensive tackle Vince Wilfork said. “A lot of people look up to him because he knows exactly what to do on the field. He doesn’t make many mistakes.”

Even though Vilma is humble, his teammates are quick to give him praise.

“Vilma is the guy that everyone looks to and leans on for support on and off the field,” Maurice Sikes said. “He is very intelligent, then he gets on the field, and he is a dominant player also. He is someone we look to as our leader and the strength of our team.”

As part of the 2001 national championship team, Vilma knows what it takes to win the big game.

“He is a smart guy, he knows defense and he knows what it takes to win.” Jennings said.

For a guy who can learn German, leading a football team to glory should be a piece of cake.

Darren Grossman can be reached at
d.grossman@umiami.edu

Not so bold prediction

The Miami Hurricane
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The entire sports nation understands that the Miami Hurricanes have been the class of college football for the past three seasons. A 35-2 record over this span, that included a 2001 National Championship, a 34-game win streak and a record 13 NFL first round picks, has resulted in extremely high expectations for Hurricane football. Nothing short of a National Championship will be tolerated.

Although many experts are counting the ‘Canes out in 2003, I refuse to. Miami will be in the title hunt for a fourth consecutive season.
The ‘Canes face the biggest challenge since their turnaround three seasons ago. Miami must rebound from a devastating and questionable defeat thanks in part to Ohio State and a certain official named Terry Porter. If sobering up from this horrible hangover is not enough of a battle, Miami must produce after losing the bulk of their potent offensive attack from a year ago.

Gone are quarterback Ken Dorsey, running back Willis McGahee, wide receiver Andre Johnson…to name a few. However, to no surprise, the ‘Canes have restocked and reloaded with more than capable replacements. At the very least, Miami will be an exciting team once again. An exciting team that just may march its way back to the title game.

“We have a new quarterback, some new offensive lineman, and new defensive ends,” head coach Larry Coker said. “We have some veteran injuries we have to deal with so there will be some young faces out there. It is going to be an exciting time for us.”

Junior UF transfer Brock Berlin finally returns to the field in attempt to match his much heralded high school career. In addition, tailback Frank Gore returns from injury after producing big numbers as a back up two seasons ago.

Teammates say Berlin has more of an attitude and fight in him…the kind of personality that a head coach loves in a signal caller.

“Brock is like the anti-Dorsey in terms of his demeanor,” center Joel Rodriguez said. “Brock will get in your face. I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets in a fight or two this season. He has more of a mean streak than Ken.”

Coker probably wouldn’t want his star quarterback getting in any altercations. Coker feels Berlin just needs to fit into the offense and to simply trust his talented teammates. The transition for Berlin is a bit cozier knowing that Heisman Trophy candidate and All-American tight end Kellen Winslow II will be his main target.

“He (Berlin) just needs to make good decisions and be efficient because we have players like Kellen Winslow and Frank Gore and other guys that are going to be important,” Coker said. “I’ve heard people say that if Brock Berlin can perform as good as a second year Ken Dorsey then Miami is going to be pretty good, and I think that may be a fair statement. Brock seems to perform better in big situations.”

Coker’s sentiments on Berlin are on par with my prediction for the Hurricanes in 2003. If Berlin performs in big situations, then Miami should be in great shape. Defensively, the Hurricanes have the best linebacker unit and secondary in the nation. That, along with a potent offensive attack, should result in nothing but success.

Their schedule has two tough home contests and three testy road games that will clearly determine where the ‘Canes stand. Home games against Florida and Tennessee will both be victories. October 11 at FSU, November 1 at Virginia Tech, and a season ending November 29 game at Pittsburgh could be troublesome.

FSU will play the ‘Canes tough as they always do at Doak Campbell Stadium, but the ‘Canes will be victorious. Now for my not so bold prediction: The winner of the Nov. 1 showdown at Virginia Tech will play in and win the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.

Yes, the Big East will have a National Champion…a champion who will run to the ACC next season. Should Miami beat the Hokies, they will then proceed to finish off the season strong and convincingly beat Pittsburgh. Yes, the Panthers are an extremely talented team and the cold weather will help their chances. However, if Miami enters the season finale undefeated, there is no way the inexperienced and less talented Panthers will ruin Miami’s quest for a second National Championship in three years.

“We will not lose a game this year,” Winslow proclaimed. “We don’t care about a Big East Championship or being ranked No. 2 or 3. We are only playing to win the whole thing.”

Well my optimistic thinking is at least consistent with Miami’s star player. There is a lot of football to be played. Only time will tell, but I am ready to make an early January reservation for New Orleans.

Brian Poliakoff can be reached at
b.poliakoff@umiami.edu.

Winslow’s the pick in 2003

The Miami Hurricane
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No tight end will ever win the Heisman Trophy.

Those are nine simple words that Hurricane fans have already heard several times and will continue to hear throughout the 2003 season. It doesn’t matter if Winslow has a chance to haul in 100 receptions, because he’s a tight end. The fact that Winslow is a tight end in a wide receiver’s body, and in fact, came to the UM as a wide out apparently doesn’t matter. And it is supposedly meaningless that Winslow is more motivated than anyone else in the country, personally pinning the Fiesta Bowl loss on himself, despite the fact that he was the Miami offense in the second half.

All these reasons mean nothing because Winslow is a tight end, and a tight end will never win the Heisman, right? Wrong, wrong, wrong.

Ladies and gentlemen, Kellen Winslow is my favorite to be the first tight end to take home the golden statue at the Yale Club in December. Why? Because not only is Winslow going to have more impact that any other player in college football, but you don’t see very many tight ends run deep routes down the sidelines, drawing triple coverage. And I suppose the name Winslow couldn’t hurt his chances either.

However, to fulfill my journalistic duties, I am forced to point out the fact that other college football players have pronounced themselves in the mix to grab Mr. Heisman at season’s end. Some big names realistically don’t have a snowball’s chance in hell, but others are right on the doorstep, just in case KW2 isn’t ready to join college football immortality.

The 5 favorites, if there wasn’t a player named Winslow:

1. John Navarre (QB)-Michigan: The Wolverines are now in the driver’s seat in the Big Ten, and for all intensive purposes, a likely Sugar Bowl berth. Navarre will finally have the great season, and the Wolverines will experience Mardi Gras early.

2. Kevin Jones (RB)-Va. Tech: Jones is the most explosive running back in the country, and with no Lee Suggs and an option offense in place, 2,000 yards is within reach.

3. David Greene (QB)-Georgia: The Carson Palmer of this season will take some Southeast attention away from Winslow, and lead Georgia to another 10-win season.

4. Andrew Walter (QB)-Ariz. St.: More like Joey Harrington than Palmer, in the sense that he won’t be able to recover from a lack of exposure out East. However, gaudy numbers are forthcoming.

5. Roy Williams (WR)-Texas: Big wide receiver should win the Big 12 Player of the Year, and if Texas gets a BCS berth, he is why.

The next five:

1. Cody Pickett (QB)-Washington: Pressure is on to come through in his senior campaign after a dismal 7-6 record for UW a year ago.

2. Casey Clausen (QB)-Tennessee: Substitute UT for UW, and 8-5 for 7-6.

3. Phillip Rivers (QB)-N.C. State: May move up to the Top 6 pretty soon. Either way, the Wolfpack are your ACC champs.

4. Rashaun Woods (WR)-Oklahoma State: Not sold on the Cowboys contending for Big 12 supremacy, but if Woods equals his 107 catch season, he needs to get some consideration.

5. Darren Sproles (RB)-Kansas State. While everyone is singing the praises of Ell Roberson, I’m more impressed with Sproles’ Marshall Faulk-like ability out of the Wildcats’ backfield.

Five long shots you may or may not have heard being kicked around:

1. Adam Hall (QB)-San Diego State: The “what are you smoking” selection this year. Still, 3,253 yards is 3,253 yards.

2. Bruce Perry (RB)-Maryland: The Terps need to take home the ACC crown for him to be in serious contention, but he is an underrated player in College Park.

3. Timmy Chang (QB)-Hawaii: Out of action for the season opener, but bound to renew his crown as the best signal caller no one has heard of.

4. Marlin Jackson (CB)-Michigan: Another player who will miss the team’s first game, but is still the most dominant defensive back in the Big Ten since Charles Woodson.

5. Ben Roethlisberger (QB)-Miami(OH): Nearly 7,000 career yards, and almost as many syllables.

And my favorite category, five players who will not win the Heisman Trophy:

1. Eli Manning (QB)-Ole Miss: They don’t give college football’s premiere award to a quarterback of a .500 team.

2. Larry Fitzgerald (WR)-Pitt: A terrific Heisman candidate…in 2004.

3. Chris Gamble (CB/WR)-Ohio State: How many different ways can you say overrated?

4. Carlyle Holiday (QB)-Notre Dame: Irish eyes won’t be so kind this year.

5. Steven Jackson (RB)- Oregon State: Not sold on the third team Dennis Erickson abandoned, which spells trouble for Jackson.

Jeremy Marks-Peltz can be reached at jmp310@hotmail.com

Hurricane Sports Briefs

The Miami Hurricane
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Women’s Soccer

The University of Miami soccer team played its final exhibition match of the season against No. 21 Florida Saturday morning at Cobb Stadium.
The Hurricanes had a strong outing the three 30-minute periods. Miami took seven shots on goal compared to four for UF.

“I was pleased with our overall performance today,” said head coach Tricia Taliaferro. “We came in with a set game plan and executed it very well. We will now go in and make some adjustments in preparation for the regular season.”
The two teams were scoreless after the first 30 minutes of play, with Miami taking six shots compared to only two for the Gators.

The only goal of the match came at the 47 minute mark as Amber Presnick of UF scored on a deflected ball by Miami goalkeeper Alex Alford. Miami tallied 13 total shots on the day while the Gators took 12 shots. Freshman keeper Alford made three saves in 90 minutes of action in her first outing as a Hurricane.

Brittni Goodwin of UF made four saves in 45 minutes, while Colleen Donovan made three saves in 45 minutes. Florida took seven corner kicks while Miami took three. Anik Huffman led Miami with three shots.

Miami opens the 2003 season on Friday, Aug. 29 at 5:30 p.m. vs. Indiana in the FAU tournament in Boca Raton, Fla.

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