Sept. 4, 2008

Irvine, Calif. - - UC Irvine will be hosting a Welcome Home Reception Tuesday (Sept. 9) at 1:30 p.m. at the Student Center Stage to celebrate the achievements of the University's 2008 Olympians.

Olympians scheduled to appear include former UC Irvine water polo players and silver medalists Ryan Bailey, Tim Hutten, Jeff Powers and Rick Merlo.

Following an introduction, those in attendance will have an opportunity to meet the athletes, see their Olympic medals, obtain autographs and take photos.

UC Irvine had 10 representatives participating in six different sports in Beijing. UCI head men's volleyball coach John Speraw and women's volleyball assistant coach Jay Hosack were on the staff of the gold medal men's indoor volleyball team, while UCI had connections on both the men's and women's water polo teams that claimed silver medals.

You can also send the Olympians a congratulatory message.

A complete recap and information on the athletes and coaches can be found on the UC Irvine Olympic page.

Parking is available at the Student Center Parking Structure.