Oct. 14, 2005
ORLANDO - UCF kicked off the 2005-06 college basketball season on Friday evening, holding its annual MidKnight Madness at UCF Arena. The Golden Knights men's and women's teams marked the official start of practice, holding scrimmages in front of the UCF faithful.
Fans in attendance were treated to a performance from the Knight Moves dance team, a lesson in school cheers from the spirit program and music from UCF's pep band. The women's team scrimmaged for 10 minutes and the men's team spent 12 minutes on the floor.
"We are looking forward to an exciting season as we move into Conference USA," said Gail Streigler. "Tonight marks the start of the year and we cannot wait to get the season underway."
Following the event, the men's team held its first official practice, hitting the court for two hours. Head coach Kirk Speraw's team focused on the defensive aspects of the game and also worked on their conditioning.
"The team was real excited to get out there and play in front of the fans again, even though it was for a short time," said Speraw. "Now we need to get back to work and improve as a basketball team before the season begins."
Both UCF teams open the regular season at home on Nov. 18. The women's squad hosts Florida A&M in the first round of the Golden Knights Classic at 5:30 p.m. The men's team hosts cross-town rival Rollins at 8 p.m.
Season tickets are currently on sale. Call (407) UCF-1000 for more information or to purchase tickets.