DePaul University Athletics
Purnell Calls for Assistance from Caravan Crowd
8/24/2010 12:00:00 AM | ATHLETICS
Aug. 23, 2010
Aug. 23, 2010
LOMBARD, Ill. - DePaul men's basketball head coach Oliver Purnell challenged a capacity crowd to join DePaul's rebuilding efforts at the inaugural Coaches' Caravan at Bucca Di Beppo in Lombard on Monday night.
Director of Athletics Jean Lenti Ponsetto opened the Caravan thanking the capacity crowd of more than 150 fans for coming out to show their support for Blue Demon Athletics. Ponsetto recognized the nearly 20 athletic alumni, including eight Blue Demon Hall of Famers in attendance.
Following an introduction from Ponsetto, Purnell described his coaching style, his coaching staff and his 2010-11 personnel, "We are going to play a pressing up-tempo style that will be fun for our fans and fun for our players. This summer has been about our players building themselves up physically to play that type of tempo."
After describing his coaching philosophy. Purnell urged DePaul fans to be a part of the rebuilding effort, "In each of my previous positions, one of the key aspects of the turnaround has been the crowd. It will be no different here at DePaul. We need our fans to make Allstate Arena a tough place to play."
"Tonight, we filled this room because many of you brought a friend or brought a neighbor," the Blue Demon mentor explained. "it is going to take that same type of effort to fill Allstate Arena."
Following Purnell's remarks, softball alumni Kim Kubinski Maloney was recognized for her efforts in making the Lombard Caravan stop a success. The 1993 education graduate received an autographed basketball for her effort of bringing 28 guests to the event.
The next stop takes DePaul to Downtown Chicago at River North on Thursday, Aug. 26 at Lizzie McNeills'. Women's basketball coach Doug Bruno will join the Caravan fresh off his squad's trip to France.
Each event costs $10 per person and includes appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages. A special drink package will be available for purchase. A cash bar will be available at each event. Other stops include Arlington Heights, Merrionette Park and Lincolnshire.
To purchase your tickets or for more information, contact the DePaul Ticket Office at 773-325-SLAM (7526).
2010 Coaches' Caravan Locations
Thursday, Aug. 26 - Lizzie McNeill's in Chicago River North (400 North McClurg Court)
Time: 6 p.m. | Cost: $10
Wednesday, Sept. 8 - Trackside at Arlington Park in Arlington Heights (2000 Euclid Avenue)
Time: 7 p.m. | Cost: $10
Monday, Sept. 27 - 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park (3359 West 115th Street)
Time: 7 p.m. | Cost: $10
Friday, Oct. 1 - Cubby Bear North in 21661 Milwaukee Avenue (21661 Milwaukee Avenue)
Time: 7 p.m. | Cost: $10
