With the departure of the University of Louisville baseball team from the NCAA Tournament, the 2007-08 season has ground to a halt. The year certainly had its ups and downs. Here are my choices of the big stories from a memorable year. If some have been overlooked, and they probably have, let me know:
An Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA following one-sided wins over Tennessee, Oklahoma and Boise State.
A nine-game win streak that includes victories over Georgetown, Marquette and Notre Dame.
David Padgett makes miraculous return after his college basketball career appears to be over.
Earl Clark changes his mind and returns to U of L after declaring for the draft.
New Downtown Arena secures bond insurance, ensuring that the project is on target for 2010.
Samardo Samuels signs with U of L.
The football team wraps up a disappointing season with a come-from-behind win over Rutgers.
Ron English accepts position as Defensive Coordinator.
Jeff Brohm accepts job as Offensive Coordinator.
Darius Ashley, top running back in Ohio, signs with U of L.
Brian Brohm drafted by the Green Bay Packers
Harry Douglas drafted by Atlanta Falcons.
Kentucky Legislature approves expansion of Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium.
The Baseball Cards make it to the NCAA Tournament for a second year in a row.
Dan McDonnell’s team compiles a 41-20 record, second best in school history.
Chris Dominguez named to Associated Press’ All America third team.
Dominguez named co-Most Valuable Player in the Big East.
Dominguez joined by Derrick Alfonso and Justin Marks on Big East first team, Andrew Clark and B. J. Rosenberg on the second team, and Justin McClanahan and Stewart Ijames on the third team.
Lady Cards basketball team makes Sweet Sixteen in NCAA Tournament.
Angel McCoughtry named to numerous All America teams.
Jeff Walz wraps up a top 10 recruiting recruiting class.
Volleyball Cards (22-7) make 18th appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
Co-champions of the Big East Conference.
Soccer team makes NCAA Tournament for the first time ever.
Defeats college soccer power Indiana in overtime.
U of L Women’s Lacrosse Team is formed, makes debut in new lacrosse stadium.
Ron Mann named assistant coach for U.S. Olympic track and field team.
The UofL men’s golf squad finishing in the top 10 at nationals
Mens basketball team went to elite eight
KC, thanks. Fixed that once but from another computer and it didn’t take.
*Ron English accepts Defensive Coordinator job, leaving the University of Michigan.