COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – Traditions are created over time because they mean something. They help define the culture and character of a program. Currently ranked 22nd in the country in program wins, the strongest tradition for Tennessee Tech Women's Basketball is winning. From the time of the program's inception in 1970 until its 25th year, the program always finished first or second in the OVC after joining the league in 1977.
Entering her fourth year as head coach, Kim Rosamond not only embraces Tech's long-standing roots, but is looking to build on that winning powerhouse tradition. During the 2018-19 season, her young team battled with heart and tenacity to finish fourth in the OVC and garnering its first post-season appearance since the 2011-12 season, despite being picked seventh in preseason polls. This season they are picked to finish third but have their sights set on the conference championship.
More than 30 years ago, Head Coach Bill Worrell introduced his 1986-87 team with a media guide cover entitled "Maintain the Tradition". That team would go on to be the fifth TTU team to win the OVC in its nine years in the league. A tribute from one TTU legend to another, Coach Worrell was paying homage to what Tennessee Tech's first head coach, Marynell Meadors, began. Over the years the team has won 27 OVC regular season and conference championships.
The Maintain the Tradition effort started by Coach Worrell became a mainstay for the program and became an important fundraising effort to support the team. Coach Rosamond has revived the initiative and it is the team's most substantial fundraising effort each year.
The 2019 Maintain the Tradition free throw challenge fundraiser will take place this Sunday, Nov. 10 from 1:30-2:30 at Memorial Gym on TTU's campus. Fans are encouraged to attend, and there will be posters and schedule cards available. The event is part of the team's alumni weekend activities, which start on Friday with an open practice beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the Hooper Eblen Center.
Fans can pledge any amount desired per free throw for their favorite Golden Eagle player or simply make a donation to the program. To sponsor a player or make a donation you can download the roster and pledge sheet (insert link to online PDF) or go online here.
Alumni are encouraged to visit Tennessee Tech WBB Alumni Page on Facebook for a detailed itinerary of the weekend's festivities. Don't miss any of the Golden Eagle's 2019-20 action. Season tickets for Tennessee Tech basketball are still on sale. Call (931) 372-3940, visit the Hooper Eblen Center ticket office, or log on to TTUSports.com to order yours today.
