July 1, 2003

MEMPHIS, Tenn.-- - Memphis soccer program was dealt a blow Tuesday, as head coach Richie Grant announced that Daniel Ronan, the Tigers leading scorer from a year ago, and Matt Bryant, one of the Tiger's most versatile players, have decided not to play soccer for Memphis in the 2003 season.

Bryant, a graduate of Ridgeway High School, departs after two strong seasons in the blue and gray for personal reasons. Bryant was set to be a key component of the Tigers campaign to appear in the Conference USA Tournament, which Memphis will host in November. In his first season, Bryant led all freshmen with 17 points on six goals and five assists. He followed that season with a strong sophomore year, scoring 12 points on four goals and four assists despite playing forward, midfielder and defender over the course of the season. Over his two-year career, Bryant started in 24 matches for Memphis. "We will miss Matt and I wish him the best." said Grant.

Ronan leaves the program due to homesickness. The Blanchardstown, Ireland native produced a stellar freshman season in which he garnered C-USA All-Freshman honors after leading the team in points (25), goals (11) and game-winning goals (3). He turned in multi-goal performances on three occasions throughout the year to lead the Memphis offense that ranked eighth in the country in scoring last season. "After being here for a year, the homesickness was too much for Daniel to overcome," said Grant. "We are disappointed to lose him and wish him the best back in Ireland."

Memphis begins fall workouts on Aug 18, before its first exhibition test against Vanderbilt on Aug. 23 at 7 p.m. at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex. The Tigers will open the regular season against UNC-Wilmington in the 2003 Memphis-Diadora Tournament at the MRSC.