Two WildCat Cagers Travel to Europe for International Basketball Experience

Mostar, Herzegovina was just one stop during the European tour for Hamilton and Shepherd

Lynchburg, VA -- For Randolph College juniors Pete Hamilton and Cameron Shepherd, an opportunity to travel to Europe while in college was an experience they just could not pass up; especially one that would involve playing against international basketball competition. Hamilton and Shepherd, both guards from nearby Roanoke, VA, ventured on a tour of Europe this summer as part of the USA Athletes International tour. The trip would cover four different countries with lots of sightseeing and some basketball.

The trip started in Sarajevo, Bosnia where the two had the opportunity to explore historical war landmarks including the underground tunnel that was used during the conflicts. While in Bosnia, the duo played against two professional teams. "These first two games were very tough as we had to get used to the European style of play," commented Shepherd. "The game is a lot more physical and several infractions like traveling are called much differently," stated Hamilton. In just two games I realized how different the European style of play is from what we are used to," noted Shepherd. The tour would continue in nearby Mostar, Herzegovina, where their team would compete against Mostar University.

From there it was off to Croatia where the two would enjoy a beachfront hotel with some unbelievable views. They would compete against a local professional team during their time in the southeastern European country. "Croatia was a beautiful place and we stayed right on the beach the whole time we were there," stated Shepherd.

The last stop in the tour was Venice, Italy. It was here where the two experienced how precious Venetian glass is made along with a scenic tour of what many call the "most beautiful city built by man". Hamilton was amazed at how everyday transportation is so unique in this northeastern Italian city. "Everyone travels by boat; it doesn't matter where you go, the only way to go is by water". One last game against a professional team in Venice concluded the basketball experience for the two WildCats.

Looking back on the trip both Hamilton and Shepherd are thrilled they were able to experience Europe while gaining valuable lessons on the court. "I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to experience other cultures first hand during the trip," stated Shepherd. "It was an experience I will never forget," added Hamilton. Head Coach Clay Nunley realized how special the experience was for his two players. "To be invited to participate on this international tour says a lot about Cam and Pete," stated Nunley. "The criteria for receiving an invitation included not just ability on the basketball court, but academic accomplishment and character as well. They have been two important members of our program for the past two years, and I'm excited they had a chance to experience this opportunity."

The two will look to the upcoming 2009-2010 season to display some of the valuable experience they gained during the trip playing against international competition. The WildCats return all five starters from a season ago, where they fell to eventual ODAC Champion Virginia Wesleyan College in the quarterfinals of the post-season tournament. In 2009-2010, Randolph will enter just its second year as a member of the prestigious Old Dominion Athletic Conference.

CONTACT: Vince Scalzo, Sports Information Director