Community members are invited to join students, faculty, staff and alumni of The University of Findlay to greet the returning NCAA Division II National Champion men’s basketball team at 1:30 p.m. Sunday.
The University of Findlay Oilers won the NCAA Division II National Championship on Saturday in Springfield, Mass. The Oilers, now 36-0, topped California State Polytechnic at Pomona 56-53 in overtime to take the title.
The Oilers’ arrival is tentatively scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sunday on the front loop, between the College First Church of God and Croy Gymnasium.
“The Oilers, and the whole community of Findlay, can take so much pride in this team and this season. We will welcome them home with pride,” said David Emsweller, vice president for student services at the University.
About 1,000 fans crowded into Croy Gymnasium in Findlay to watch the game on two large screens. Residence life staff painted Oiler images on fans young and old, and free pizza, pop and snacks were provided.
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A young fan shows her colors.
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The crowd got into the game with cheers and spilled onto Jim and Mira Houdeshell Court - the Oilers' home floor - to celebrate as the final seconds ticked off.
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Students show their Oiler pride!
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The Oilers, ranked first in the nation in Division II, advanced to the NCAA Championship game with a 67-65 win over Central Missouri on Thursday night. A crowd estimated at more than 750 turned out to watch the game on two large screens in Croy Gymnasium. While support was strong at home, many made the trip to Massachusetts to cheer on the Oilers in person. The University sent three busloads of students, faculty, staff, alumni and fans, with numerous others driving on their own.
Oilers National Championship T-shirts will be available beginning Monday at all University stores or may be ordered through the University Stores Web site, situated at http://shop.findlay.edu. Click on Clothing and Apparel from the menu at the top; choose Browse Adult Clothing from the middle section; scroll down until you see the T-shirt; follow online ordering instructions.
For more information or with media inquiries regarding the welcome at UF, please contact Suzanne English at 419-434-4425.
