August 11th, 2008

The final pieces are in place for the beginning of the 2008-2009 basketball season as Head Coach  Bryan Rooney announced the commitments of six student-athletes for the upcoming season.  Junior College transfers Leo Sarrade, Daniel Gresham, and Jabraun Copeland join Dwight Wood, Jeremiah Hazel, and Lee Murray to round out 2008-2009 recruiting class.  Rooney remarked on the additions.  We are extremely excited about having these student-athletes join our program. Each is a high character individual committed to reaching his potential as a student and as a teammate."

Leo Sarrade is a 6'4" forward who recently completed a successful junior college career playing for coach Nate Rein.  He was named to the conference's All Defense team his sophomore year after leading the conference is charges taken. "Leo gives us a physical presence on both sides of the floor. He plays his tail off and we expect him to be a great source of energy for our team." commented Rooney.  Leo will study Mechanical Engineering at Maritime. 

Daniel Gresham comes to Maritime after a productive two years at San Joaquin Delta College. He was a member of a team that was consistently among the state's elite. "Daniel is the consummate team player.  He works extremely hard on the floor and his leadership qualities are outstanding.  We are thrilled to have him as part of our family." commented Rooney.  Daniel will study Business at Maritime.

Jabraun Copeland transfers to Maritime with two years of eligibility remaining. Jabraun had a very successful high school career at Chaparral High School.  "Jabraun is an excellent defender who really affects the game with his ability to pressure the basketball.  I look forward to him creating havoc for the opposition," Rooney said.  Jabraun will study Business at Maritime.

Dwight Wood joins the Keelhaulers after a stellar career at Rim of the World High School. Dwight was named first team all conference and participated in the prestigious Riverside/San Bernardino       All Star Game.  As a 6'4" wing player, he led his team in scoring at 15.7 points per game.  "Dwight is a player with limitless potential.  With his length and ability to score the basketball, I look for him to have a fantastic four year career for us," Rooney said.  Dwight will study Global Studies and Maritime Affairs.

Jeremiah Hazel comes to Maritime after playing his high school basketball at Price High School in Los Angeles.  At Price, Jeremiah was part of some outstanding teams and as a starter averaged 13 points per game. "Jeremiah is a talented outside-in player.  He is very crafty in his ability to score the ball.  The thing that excites me the most about Jeremiah is his energy and genuine excitement about being part of our program," Rooney concluded regarding the commitment of Hazel. Jeremiah will study Business at Maritime.

Lee Murray comes to Maritime from nearby Saint Patrick's/ Saint Vincent's High School.  A tenacious defender, Lee is often the hardest worker on the floor. "Lee has made himself into a difference maker on the defensive end.  We look forward to him bringing that same passion to our team and program," Rooney commented.  Lee will study Mechanical Engineering.

Joining the above mentioned student-athletes, the Keelhaulers also welcomed Zac Kinman, Andy Medeiros, Eddie Williams, and Alex Raj as incoming student-athletes earlier this Spring.

The 2008-2009 season begins November 1st as Maritime travels to play the Sunbirds of Fresno       Pacific University.

Go Keelhaulers!