March 14, 2009

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COLLEGE STATION, Texas - The University of Memphis was represented at the 2009 NCAA Indoor Championships by junior Steffen Nerdal and senior Sivan Aballi. Nerdal earned his second All-America honors and his first indoors.

The Norwegian native opened the trials with a throw of 21.33m (69-11.75). His second throw marked the best throw of the championship at 22.46m (73-08.25) and Nerdal's career best for the time being which qualified the junior for the event finals. In the fifth round, he launched his career best and Memphis school record throw of 22.54m (73-11.50) which landed him in second position of the standings. Nerdal's second place showing gave the Memphis Tigers their eighth All-America performance of all-time (both indoor and outdoor) and eight points for the meet.

"Steffen (Nerdal) had an incredible competition," said head coach Kevin Robinson. "He led for most of the meet and he had three lifetime PR's at the biggest meet of the year. He is a true competitor and I am so proud of him and what he has accomplished. He's an amazing athlete, incredible student, and an unbelievable person, both inside and out. He is a phenomenal representation of my program and the University of Memphis."

Aballi failed to advance to the finals of the shot put event, but earned a 12th place performance by recording a mark of 15.70m (51-08.25). Aballi is the ninth Lady Tiger to have competed in the NCAA Championships all-time (both indoor and outdoor).

"Sivan really struggled today," said Robinson. "I am very proud of the season that she had and the way that she represented the University of Memphis. She will bounce back stronger and hungrier outdoors. She is determined to use this as motivation to fuel her training for the upcoming outdoor season. "