2005-2006 NAIA Women's Division II Basketball National Tournament

Spt/,co 'f.ast 8un1J 'J(IOlt: Sp1/,c9 'f.nst 8,Mic 2006: Sp,i,uJ 'f.11$1 Br~al! W06: SP1l1<9 'f.nst 8r•n~ W06: Spr/,.9 Inst 8rtnl( 2£'(16., Sptl"f FMI 8r~aE 10L16. Weu:,{)UU,;tt) tlte, tstkA~NAIA Dwuw/1/II Wo~s Baske:tbatt Na:aonat ~IU~! This marks the 69th year that the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has provided opportunities for more than 45,000 student-athletes to compete for 23 national championships in 13 NAIA sports. The NAIA and host cities strive to create championship events that reward athletic and academic excellence and provide memorable experiences for all student-athletes, coaches and fans in attendance. Since 1937, the NAIA's mission has been the education, development and advancement of student-athletes. Through our nationally recognized Champions of Character program, the association is emphasizing the positive lessons of sport and encourages participation based on the love of the game. The NAIA is committed to the true spirit of competition and our athletic programs strive to intentionally teach respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership and sportsmanship inside and outside athletics. NAIA national championship events provide a center stage to reinforce the association's commitment to change the culture of sport across the country while implementing exceptional standards for academics, diversity and character. As the NAIA celebrates the culmination of long hours of team and individual preparation, season-long competition and dedication, I would like to thank the student-athletes, coaches, administration and fans and express my appreciation for your continued commitment, interest and support of the NAIA. On behalf of our entire Association, I want to thank Sioux City for hosting this event and furthering the mission of the NAIA. In particular, I would like to express my appreciation to Sioux City Mayor Craig Berenstein, tournament directors Dennis Gann and Tim Seaman and countless volunteers for their dedication, time and energy Best wishes for an enjoyable event, Jim Carr Interim President and Chief Executive Officer Weu:,{)Hf-e; From- The- (joverntJr's or Dear Tournament Participants and Fans, It is with great pride that I welcome you to this year's National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Division II Women's Basketball Championships. My congratulations to the efforts of all those involved to make this tournament a success. I hope you enjoy your stay in Sioux City and that you'll find yourself returning to Iowa in the very near future. 2-~~ -=-=---=----=--=---=----=-----_-_- _-_-_-_-_-_-_- Sincerely, Thomas J. Vilsack Governor of Iowa