Tom Garlepp, who was expected to play for Westmont Men’s Basketball the next two seasons, has decided instead to take advantage of another opportunity. Garlepp was offered an opportunity to play with the Perth Wildcats of the Australian National Basketball League – the highest level professional league in Australia.

“It was a decision to play on his hometown professional team and he was excited about being a part of it,” said Westmont head coach John Moore. “Tom’s plan all along was to play professionally in Australia – it’s just two years earlier than we, or he, expected.”

When Westmont men’s soccer takes the field next month for the beginning of the 2007 season, there will be nearly twice as many new faces as old wearing Warrior uniforms. Head coach Dave Wolf and assistant coach Ryan “RJ” Jorden have worked tirelessly to bring in 15 new players to add to eight returnees.

“Having 15 new players hasn’t happened during my time at Westmont,” said Wolf. “This will be a real growth opportunity for us (as coaches) as well as for the team. It is a massive challenge. Under normal circumstances you would say this is a rebuilding year. But we don’t feel like these are normal circumstances because of the history and success of our program. Expectations of going to the national championship don’t change just because you have 15 new players.”

Westmont Baseball will have a new look next season. In addition to 16 veterans, head coach Scott Deck has announced the addition of 18 recruits to the Warriors’ roster for the 2007-08 season.

“This is taking a step in the right direction,” said Deck. “We brought in quality student-athletes who can come in and help us become a better program, not just numbers. They are a good academic group and are quality people.

“Having this many players completes a full roster and allows us to do some things in practice that we weren’t able to do last year,” continued Deck. “The level of competitiveness should rise. Now there are guys competing for positions and that is only going to make us better by adding depth. If a player doesn’t bring their best effort every day, they may not start.