July 20, 2006

MILWAUKEE - The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee men's soccer team has been busy preparing for the 2006 season to start. Not only have they been busy on the field, but they have been busy off the field as well. The most recent event to take place was the 2006 Panther Open, which occurred this past Monday, July 17, at The Bog in Saukville, Wis.

Over 25 foursomes took part in the festivities on the course and over 125 people were at the dinner that followed.

UWM head coach Jon Coleman (pictured at right) took some time to reflect on the day's events:

"The 2006 Panther Open was a huge success. I would like to thank everyone that made it possible. Your support of the UWM soccer program is much appreciated. I would like to thank all of the friends of PANTHER SOCCER who donated gifts for the auction. The silent auction, live auction, hole prizes, and raffle were a lot fun," Coleman said. "This is a very exciting event. It is great to see all the people who love the game and support the Panthers. UWM is an awesome place to be and there is a lot of support out there for what we are doing here on this campus. This is just one event to experience the excitement."

"This event helps us raise money to improve our program from a facility

Coleman with the winning foursome

and professional standpoint. With your support and generosity we raised close to $20,000, which is the highest amount ever raised at the outing. I would also like to congratulate this year's winners, the Men's Basketball Foursome of Rob Jeter, Brian Bidlingmyer, Chip Mackenzie and Duffy Conroy."

"Lastly, I would like to give a special `thanks' to the Bode Family for their help and to Coach Dadaian and Coach Spielmann for their involvement. See you next year and during the season!"

The men's soccer staff will be providing the date of next year's outing as soon as possible so Panther fans can put it on their calendar early.