STEWART CHANGES SPORTS
For Immediate release-October 23, 2008

Kamloops-It was a struggle. The toughest decision I've had to make. Those were the first words out of Greg Stewart's mouth when announcing that he had decided to switch sports with the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack.

The 7'2" Stewart, a member of Canada's Standing Disabled Men's Volleyball team, had made the decision this summer to join Pat Hennelly's CIS Bronze Medal winning WolfPack club.  After going through the pre-season with the club, Stewart had a change of heart.  Now, he'll suit up with Thom Gillespie's Basketball program.

"It's something that I should have done in August," says Stewart. "Its not everyday that someone has a chance to compete in both sports at the CIS level. I had a big dilemma. Not knowing what to do was very confusing."

With Hennelly's squad, Stewart--who plays middle--would have been fourth or fifth on the depth chart.  Still, leaving the volleyball program was something he found very difficult. "It'll always be in the back of my mind," he says "I can see where Pat would be a little frustrated with my decision. After all, I had made a commitment to him initially. I'll never rule out another shot at volleyball in the future though..."

Stewart has played CIS basketball before: with the WolfPack in 2004-05 and 2005-06. And he joins Gillespie's program as they search for some dominance inside. With Stewart and 4th year forward Jeff Friesen (Duncan, BC), they have it.

"I can add some experience,size and depth to the team. I've played there before." Stewart states as he makes a self assessment on how he can help the program.  "Im a dedicated player who won't be all over the place on the court."

Seeing the court will be awhile for Stewart. He knows he's on a huge learning curve. In fact, he's been practicing by himself in the mornings in order to try and catch up.  "Its a huge adjustment," he says.  I'm a month and a half behind everyone. I've had to pick it up quickly--the conditioning, the mental preparation, learning the set plays."

Gillespie welcomes his new player. "He'll add a new dimention to our team for sure," says the coach  "He'll be worked in gradually but I forsee him helping us with interior scoring and rebounding."

Stewart will be on the bench as the WolfPack open their CIS regular season Friday night (Oct 24) at home to the University of the Fraser Valley.  Tip off time is 8 pm at the Tournament Capital Center.