Oct. 4, 2006

Garden City, N.Y. - Former Adelphi University women's basketball player, Carlyshia Hurdle '06 (Brentwood, N.Y.), has become the school's first female to compete in international basketball. Hurdle has signed a one-year contract to play with Olivais-Coimbra, in Portugal.

"I've wanted this since I began playing basketball when I was 7 and I'm living my dream," Hurdle said. "I would like to thank my Mom and Dad and the rest of my strong support system of family and friends. I really want to thank Coach [Kelley] Watts for everything she's done for me. Mr. Hartwell and the whole athletic department have done nothing but extend themselves these last four years and I greatly appreciate that and all that they continue to do for me and support me. To [President] Dr. Scott and Dean [Bill] Proto and my countless professors and other members of the Adelphi Academic community, I am greatly indebted to and appreciate their support and encouragement."

Hurdle left the United States on September 28 and will remain in Portugal through May 1, 2007. She has signed with Chris Coates Sports Management of New Hampshire.

The team, based in the city of Coimbra, is third richest city in the nation and the site of the oldest University not only in Portugal but in all of Europe.

"I'm just excited to work hard and look forward to a healthy, productive and blessed season as I wish my fellow athletes who are competing in their seasons here at Adelphi."

Hurdle with AD Robert Hartwell (left) and President Robert A. Scott (right).

Prior to Hurdle's signing, she played summer league with the Utah Flames National Basketball Team. Not only was she honored as the Best Overall Athlete (Female) by the United States Developmental Basketball Association (USDBA, but she was selected at the Best New Women's Basketball Amateur Athlete for the 2006 Summer Season by The Nike Amateur Women's Sports Committee.

"To be recognized by a company like Nike is surreal. I'm very humbled by the experiences I've had this summer. I had an amazing team, a great coach and fell in love with basketball all over again."

Hurdle, a two-time all-conference selection, finished her Adelphi career ranked second all-time in both scoring and rebounds. She is a three-time All-Met selection, including Division II Female Athlete of the Year (2006).