From the Desk of Athletics Director Ron Prettyman
Perspectives on the Toros Athletic Department
December 8, 2003

Ron Prettyman began his tenure as Athletics Director at Cal State Dominguez Hills in April, 1995, coming to the Toros from Vanguard University. During his administration, Prettyman has expanded the department from eight to eleven sponsored sports, and he oversaw and coordinated the acquisition of the Hughes Education and Athletic Center. Ron is a graduate of Southern California College and has a master's degree from Cal State Stanislaus.

From the Desk, Issue #1 From the Desk, Issue #2 From the Desk, Issue #3 From the Desk, Issue #4

The Fall Season in the California State University Dominguez Hills Athletics Department was one that allowed for a full range of emotions. We experienced the thrill of having our men’s and women’s soccer teams ranked with the top teams in the nation, seeing two cross-country runners achieve All-CCAA status, and witnessing our volleyball team competed hard day in and day out, doubling its win total from last season.

CSUDH’s men’s soccer advanced to the final game of the NCAA National Championship Far West Region Tournament, playing with both heart and class. They showed superior skill and talent, but couldn’t find the back of the net as they eventually fell to the team that went on to compete in the National Championship game.

Women’s soccer also advanced to the final game of the NCAA National Championship Far West Region Tournament, saving their best for last. When their backs were up against the wall they played harder. They kept playing harder throughout the tournament. They came back to tie (0-0) the team that had defeated them 5-1 one week earlier. The final game was a game of courage and fortitude. We did not get the opportunity to advance, because during the playoffs, in the beautiful game of soccer, when a tie takes place the opportunity to advance hinges on penalty kicks. The other team converted one more penalty kick than we did. I was very proud of the young ladies on our team. They represented us all very well. Even with the heartbreak of a very difficult loss, they held their heads up with pride and showed a high level of sportsmanship by congratulating the other team and wishing them well.

Our cross-country runners had a great year as well. We advanced to the CCAA Championships and NCAA Regional Cross Country meets, ending the season with two runners earning All-CCAA honors, an accomplishment that puts us amongst the best programs in the conference. The program is building and, with another good recruiting year, will be a force to be reckoned with in both the CCAA and the NCAA.

Volleyball had a tough year, playing in many close matches. The young ladies in our program always played hard right down to the last point, and were able to win twice as many matches as they did last year. They were fun to watch.

All in all, it was a good fall. We had several seniors on our fall sports teams this year, who represented and competed for the TOROS for the final time. We wish them well and know that they will remain a supporter of our programs for many years to come.

Last Friday afternoon, I had an opportunity to accompany about 18 of our student-athletes to the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center to distribute gifts to children. I could not have been prouder of a group of quality young men and women who gave their personal time and money to bring some excitement and holiday cheer to kids in the hospital. We took about 60 toys to the hospital and gave them out to about 20 kids, with each team donating several toys to the cause. We also left some toys for their community playroom that they all could share and enjoy.

I am grateful to Lamel Harris, Assistant Athletics Director, for his leadership and efforts in making this event one that several children will remember for many years to come. I also appreciate the student-athletes and coaches who gave their own time and money to contribute toys to give these special a memorable Christmas season.

I know I will remember it and I think that our student-athletes will, too.

As the fall season has ended, the winter season has begun, and we are very excited. Both men’s and women’s basketball teams are off to good starts, so take some time this winter and take in a game. You can find the schedules online (Schedules -- Men   Women), or you simply call the office at 310-243-3893.

Join me for some of the intercollegiate events this winter and spring. We compete in beautiful facilities and I am certain that you will enjoy your experience at our events.

Have a great holiday season, and I will see you at the games.

Ron Prettyman
Athletics Director
GO TOROS