June 17, 2008

DALLAS, Texas --- The East Carolina athletic equipment staff has been named Conference USA Equipment Staff-of-the-Year as voted upon by the 12 equipment staff managers comprising the Dallas-based league. The award is given annually at the Athletic Equipment Managers Association (AEMA) Convention.

"Winning this award is such an honor for everyone involved, due to the fact that it's not just an individual effort award but a dedicated team honor," said head equipment manager Erik Lewis.

The staff at UCF received the award a year ago, while Tulane's equipment department was the 2006 recipient following the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

AEMA was started in 1974 with a handful of equipment managers concerned with the manner in which sport participants were equipped. The organization has over 700 members whose purpose is to bring about equipment improvements for the greater safety of all participants in sports and recreation.