Uhart Granted Junior Eligibility

Aug. 14, 2006

LAWRENCE, Kan. –

University of Kansas middle blocker Natalie Uhart will have two seasons of eligibility with the Jayhawks, head coach Ray Bechard announced Monday. Uhart (Lansing, Kan.) was granted a medical hardship waiver by the Big West Conference for her 2005 season at Long Beach State.

Uhart, the 2006 Big 12 Conference Preseason Newcomer of the Year, was named to the Big West All-Freshman Team in 2003. During her sophomore season, Uhart was plagued with injuries and appeared in 30 games, in which she compiled a .336 attack percentage.

In 2005, Uhart played in just five matches early in the season. The NCAA states that student-athletes who participate in less than 20 percent of the team’s scheduled contests due to injury may be granted an additional year of competition by the conference.

“We are thrilled to have Natalie for another year,” Bechard said. “It’s a great opportunity for her and our program. Natalie brings solid, high-level volleyball experience and is expected to be a contributing factor right away.”

Fans can preview the 2006 Jayhawks when they open the season with a scrimmage against KU Alumni Saturday at 7 p.m. Admission to the event at the Horejsi Family Athletics Center is free.

-KU-