March 19, 2002
Media Advisory
To: News Directors and News Editors
From: Veronika Brown, Coordinator of Media Relations, 342-5444

The National Collegiate Water Ski Association recently announced the addition of two top skiers to the team at The University of Louisiana at Monroe. Tyler McDermeit, of Winter Haven, Florida has announced his decision to attend ULM as well as Regina Jaquess, of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

Tyler is an alternate on the 17-21 Team USA and will be joining three other members of that gold medal team who already attend ULM (Joey Blakley, Matt Curmi, and Renee Jaquess). Tyler's addition makes him the second elite athlete from this year's outstanding crop of high school seniors to commit to ULM.

Regina Jaquess will be joining her older sister, Renee, when she comes to ULM next fall. Jaquess is USA Water Ski's 2001 Female Athlete of the Year and is known as the world trick champion. "After much consideration, I've decided that the University of Louisiana-Monroe is the best choice for me," said Jaquess.

The University of Louisiana-Monroe has won 16 overall team titles in the 23-year history of the Collegiate Nationals, but last year it finished third behind champion Arizona State and runner-up Louisiana-Lafayette.

"The University of Louisiana at Monroe is excited about the signing of these two extremely talented young people. We know they will add a great deal to our university as well as our water ski program", said Dean of Student Affairs, Charles McDonald.

You can find more information on both athletes at www.ncwsa.com