Conclusion Of Boot Camp Means Practice Set To Begin

Oct. 14, 2008

PHOTO GALLERY

Autry Podcast

The Marquette University men's basketball team concluded its "2008 Boot Camp" early Tuesday morning, capping over a week's worth of intense conditioning at the Al McGuire Center.

MU's boot camp consisted grueling conditioning work twice a day, with all results based on strict time standards. Each of the 13 players on the roster participated in the sessions and if one player didn't make the time, no one on the team received credit for completing that segment.

"I think it was wonderful and terrible at the same time and I think that's how our guys would describe it as well," Coordinator of Student-Athlete Development Brad Autry said. "It tests every part of who they are, both physically and mentally and will be a huge bonus to us down the line. They guys are really proud they made it through."

The Golden Eagles will head to Chicago Thursday afternoon following the conclusion of media day for the program's annual tip-off dinner. MU will remain in the Windy City until Sunday afternoon, beginning practice sessions Friday night. Friday morning the team will visit a local special olympics group to interact with the members.

GoMarquette.com will have complete coverage of media day, featuring on-demand audio and video, podcasts and a photo gallery of the event. The official website of Marquette Athletics will also provide behind-the-scenes access to the program's retreat in Chicago.

"Marquette Madness" Details

Because of MU's fall break, "Marquette Madness" is scheduled for Saturday, October 25 in the Al McGuire Center. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and everyone in attendance will receive a free Converse Brand WADE T-shirt.

The women's team will be introduced and scrimmage and a highlight video showcasing the squad's run to the Women's NIT title in 2007-08 will be displayed. The men's squad will also be introduced and scrimmage and a brand new Converse video involving the entire team will debut. The Golden Eagles will also participate in a dunk contest, marking the final time for fans to see senior Wesley Matthews jump over an item to be determined. Dominic James also gets his final chance at finishing his off-the-backboard, between-the-legs jam.

Beginning on Tuesday, October 21, GoMarquette.com will release segments of the Converse video on a splash page, as well as in the video player on the home page. Fans who want to see the entire production must attend "Marquette Madness."