Dec. 8, 2005

Amherst, Mass. - The UMass women's rowing team will be naming its newest boat after longtime UMass supporter Alice Bishko. The ceremonies will take place at the UMass hockey game with Boston College, Saturday night at the Mullins Center between the first and second periods. The new racing shell will be lowered from the rafters to be christened by Bishko, who will be honored by the entire women's crew.

"Racing shells are traditionally named for people who embody the spirit and dedication of the team," said head coach Jim Dietz. "The shell takes on a life of its own and binds those rowing it into a team with purpose and high goals. It is the opinion of the women's rowing team that UMass has no greater athletic supporter than Mrs. Bishko. We are honored to have her name adorn our newest shell and have her become part of the long tradition of success of UMass crews."

Bishko works on game days at all of the UMass athletic events at the Mullins Center and has been one of the loudest and most ardent fans of all UMass teams for years. Her late husband, Tom, was an equipment manager for the athletic department from 1947-1998.