MEN'S BASKETBALL

Several players were recognized for their outstanding efforts this past season at the annual men's basketball post season awards dinner. All awards are decided by a players-only vote. Four seniors garnered awards, in addition to the honor of completing their fourth and final season as varsity student-athletes.

Wei Li ‘09, who was called upon to play point guard this year for the first time, was named Mr. Hustle. He ranked at the top in charges taken and was in tremendous shape the entire season. Li scored a season high 11 points in Caltech's win over NYU-Poly.

Daniel Cullina '09 was named Citizen of the Year. His sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, and work ethic transcended the model student-athlete.

Matt Dellatorre '09 received the Lockdown Award, which goes to the best defensive player. He was assigned the task of guarding the opponents' best players every game and led the team in steals. Dellatorre was also recognized as the SCIAC Ducey Award winner.

Travis Haussler '09 sealed two honors, Mr. Glue and Leader of the Year. He was the force that kept the team together all year, on and off the court. It's only fitting that he also benefitted from being a tremendous captain, spokesperson and model for the program. Haussler reached the 1,000 point plateau this past season while averaging 10 points and 6 rebounds.

Eric Li '12 was named Outstanding Freshman. He started the last seven contests in league play.

Ryan Elmquist '11 was awarded the Vesper Basketball Trophy, which goes to the player who exhibits ability, performance, sportsmanship, and improvement. He averaged 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 block per outing.

In addition to the awards, captains for 2009-10 were announced. Christian Clanton '10, Jeremy Leibowitz '10, and Elmquist will succeed the leadership trio of Cullina, Dellatorre, and Haussler, as a new era begins for Caltech basketball.

That so-called period is upon us now, as a record number of players were on campus the last few days for Prefrosh Weekend. Admitted students spent four days in Pasadena and took part in a plethora of activities and functions. The fresh crop of student-athletes provided an exciting forecast for the future while becoming familiar with one another throughout the event.