Aug. 6, 2003

Columbia, Mo.-The Mizzou soccer team prepares for the upcoming 2003 season opening official practice beginning on Tues., August 12. After a whirlwind practice period, the Tigers then embark on a pre-season travel tour to Brazil.

Competing against various Brazilian national teams, the Tigers look to test their mettle early on against world-renowned contenders. The team is scheduled to leave August 16 and return August 22. Coverage of their trip and competitive accolades will be posted to the Missouri soccer website at www.mutigers.com.

In the planning process for over a year, the international trip ran into various setbacks due to budgetary cuts. Following cuts to the University system, funding for the excursion was lost. Members of the soccer team stepped in voting to take up the reins and raise the monies needed for the trip to carry through. Each student-athlete participated helping the Tigers host various fundraisers, including a raffle, during the spring to raise the necessary funds to make the trip.

Learn more about the upcoming season and the Tigers' international experience by attending the Tigers' annual Media Day on Wed., Aug. 13 at 8:30 a.m. The Mizzou program invites media representatives to attend a black and gold scrimmage followed by an interview session with the Tiger coaches and players directly following the competition. This will be the only opportunity for members of the media to visit with the team prior to their trip.

Missouri officially opens the 2003 season on the road against Iowa on Aug. 29, before hosting their first home game on Aug. 31 against Northwestern.

For more information on the Tigers' Brazilian tour or for further Media Day information, please contact Assistant Media Relations Director Whitney Vernieuw at (573) 882-2531.