SpringHill Suites by Marriott to sponsor UAA volleyball tournament

UAA Athletic Director Steve Cobb announced Thursday that SpringHill Suites by Marriott has agreed to become the title sponsor of the Seawolves' annual volleyball tournament.

Now known as the SpringHill Suites Invitational, the 17th annual tournament is scheduled for Sept. 7-8 at the Wells Fargo Sports Complex. The host Seawolves highlight the 2012 field, along with Adelphi (N.Y.), Western New Mexico and regional rival Dixie State (Utah).

"We are pleased and excited that SpringHill Suites by Marriott is expanding its support for UAA," said Cobb. "This sponsorship ensures a better quality experience for our volleyball team, and gives the tournament a solid foundation to remain an integral part of our tradition."


SpringHill Suites by Marriott hotels are located in midtown Anchorage and are within walking distance of UAA. Each hotel offers complimentary hot breakfast buffet, contemporary suites with free high speed internet access, microwave oven, indoor swimming pool, fitness room and countless other amenities.

"We are delighted to become the title sponsor of the tournament," said Shelley Byrd, director of Marketing-Lodging, NANA Management Services. "Partnering with the university's athletic department is a great way for the SpringHill Suites hotels to support local sports teams and their fans."

Traditionally the first home event on the Seawolves' athletic calendar, the SpringHill Suites Invitational has featured some of the top programs in NCAA Division II, including former national champions Northern Michigan, Cal State-Bakersfield and North Alabama. The Seawolves are 38-24 in the tournament, including titles in 2002, 2003, 2008 and 2009. This year, UAA will return five starters from its 2011 team that went 18-9 and reached the NCAA Tournament for the third straight season.

2012 SpringHill Suites Invitational
 Schedule
Friday, Sept. 7
11 a.m. - Western New Mexico vs. Adelphi
1 p.m. - UAA vs. Dixie State
5 p.m. - Western New Mexico vs. Dixie State
7 p.m. - UAA vs. Adelphi
Saturday, Sept. 8
11 a.m. - UAA vs. Western New Mexico
1 p.m. - Dixie State vs. Adelphi
5 p.m. - Consolation Match
7 p.m. - Championship Match