A Message From Director of Athletics Mark LaBarbera

March Madness is upon us at Valparaiso University. As we prepare for the second straight season to host the men’s basketball Horizon League Tournament at Valpo’s Athletics-Recreation Center, I can’t help but look back on what has been another exciting winter season.

Our student-athletes continue to excel through their efforts in the classroom, within our campus and greater community, and in competition. I couldn’t be more proud of them.

And, now, for the time being, we turn our attention to the Horizon League Tournament. The men’s basketball team captured the conference’s outright regular-season title for the second consecutive year, and, by virtue of doing so, earned the right to host the tournament.

The top-seeded Crusaders will play Saturday, March 9, in the 7:30 p.m. semifinal. With a victory, we will host the Horizon League Tournament championship on Tuesday, March 12.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our campus and the excellence of our Division I athletics program. We are blessed with amazing support from our students and the Northwest Indiana community. And you will see that on display during the tournament.

If you are able to be here on campus and take part in what is sure to be an exciting and thrilling atmosphere at the ARC, we look forward to seeing you. If not, be sure to watch Valpo on ESPNU on Saturday and on ESPN at 8 p.m. Tuesday if we advance to the championship.

Thank you for your continued support of Valparaiso University and of Valpo athletics. If you haven’t already, please consider a gift to the Crusader Fund as we remain committed to sustaining athletic programs that reflect both the quality and the values of our University.

Go Valpo!
Mark LaBarbera
Director of Athletics