April 19, 1999

CHAPEL HILL, N.C.--Women's rowing and men's soccer were honored at Carolina's All-Sports Banquet April 12 as UNC's top weightlifting teams of the year, as selected by the UNC strength and conditioning staff. Each year, the staff recognizes the men's and women's teams that have shown the best effort, attitude and performance in their workouts and competition.

In its second year as a varsity sport, the rowing team distinguished itself with a high level of self-motivation. "The rowers are very team-oriented and have worked really hard," says Greg Gatz, director of strength and conditioning for Olympic sports. "We've seen great improvement from them."

The men's soccer team significantly improved its intensity and performance in the weight room. "They're a young team and they're excited about the coming season," Gatz said. "Their effort has been outstanding."

The UNC strength and conditioning staff is led by director George Smith and includes Gatz, Todd Hagler, Jodi Hopkins and Victor Ishmael. The staff works with all 28 varsity sports at Carolina.