Spotlight on Memorials Precedes Cardinal Park Dedication
August 30, 2000 | General
Aug. 30, 2000
LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The University of Louisville dedicated the Joe Kitchen Memorial Pavilion and memorial trees honoring four former U of L student-athletes prior to the Cardinal Park dedication on Wednesday, Aug. 30.
The Joe Kitchen Memorial Pavilion is named for one of U of L's most enthusiastic and loyal Cardinal fans. A basketball letterman who played in the late fifties, Kitchen was a rugged frontline performer on the Cardinals' first NCAA Final Four team in 1959. He remained closely tied to Cardinal basketball throughout his life as a fan and booster.
Four trees near the Pavilion and Ulmer Stadium will serve as living tributes for four former U of L student-athletes who each suffered untimely deaths. The four memorials include:
Derek Smith (basketball, 1978-82). A starter on U of L's 1980 NCAA Championship team, this relentless competitor elevated himself to a successful nine-year NBA career. One of the Cardinals' top all-time scorers with 1,826 points, the rugged forward was teh 1981 Metro Conference Player of the Year.
James Jeter (basketball, 1981-85). A four-time Kentucky state champion miler in high school, Jeter was a tireless worker and steady ball handler as a guard for the Cardinals. He earned starting time as a senior and helped U of L win 98 games during his four-year career.
Andy Schrecker (tennis, 1988-92). One of Louisville's homegrown tennis stars, Schrecker excelled at every level he attacked with a strong work ethic. He set a standard for career victories at U of L with 119 and won a record 38 single season matches.
Kelly Dwyer (soccer, 1991-92). Hard work, athleticism and love for her sport may have gon unnoticed by the record boks but not by those who knew and loved Dwyer. Her contributions as a Cardinal were valued and numerous, as she helped lay the foundation for the women's soccer program.
