DETROIT (8/30/12) -- Competition might have started for a few sports, but the academic year is just around the corner and for a number of Titan student-athletes, Tuesday was a day of smiling and welcoming as they assisted freshmen who were moving into the campus dorms.
 
“I love the interaction that the Titan student-athletes are having with the incoming freshmen again this year. By helping the new students move in, it is a way for us to show how excited we are to welcome them to the Detroit Titan Family,” said Associate Vice President & University of Detroit Mercy Athletic Director Keri Gaither. “Athletics can play a major role in the on campus experience students have at UDM and in turn, the student support is vital to the success of our programs. With this being a significant transition for the incoming students and their families, it is important for us to all come together and set the tone to support one another.”
 
The crowds gathered at Shiple Hall ready to take on the challenge of college life and members of men's and women's basketball teams,  men's and women's track and field/cross country teams as well as the softball team, along with coaching staffs, assisted the parents and students throughout the move in process. Head basketball coaches Ray McCallum and Autumn Rademacher along with head softball coach Liz Young led their teams in greeting the new students and families and also grabbing a bag or a mini-fridge to help newcomers bring their iteam up to the dorm rooms.

Student leaders of SECTION 313, UDM's student fan group, were also on hand, collaborating with the athletic department to provide popcorn and beverages to new students and their families (beverages provided compliments of FUZE and PowerAde). SECTION 313 showcased the new student section T-shirts and signed up many excited freshmen for the group. 

All students are encouraged to visit the athletic department main office to sign up for SECTION 313. Membership is exclusive to UDM students, undergraduate or graduate, and the cost is only $20. Included in the membership are the special edition SECTION 313 T-shirt, a pint glass, a case of FUZE and other great giveaways, plus free popcorn, fountain drinks, and other snacks at various home games throughout the season.

More information on SECTION 313, its membership benefits, and its activities can be found on the facebook page by clicking HERE.