RAMS SIGN ANOTHER FROM AUSTRALIA
June 25, 2007

FORT WORTH, TX:  Texas Wesleyan University’s head men’s basketball coach Terry Waldrop announced today the signing of Martin Vahala, a 6’5” guard/forward out of Australia.  Vahala will join fellow Australian Ryan Barnes as freshmen at Texas Wesleyan in the coming school year.

“We are very happy to add another versatile athlete to the team,” Coach Waldrop commented.

Vahala was referred to Texas Wesleyan by former Ram Ben Hunt who said, “Martin is not only a very good basketball player, but he is also a great guy who will give his all to the program.  It is exciting to know that other Australian players are getting the opportunity to experience life, both on and off the court, at such a great school.  I look forward to following Martin's progress this year, as I am sure he will play a major role in yet another successful season.”  Hunt is currently in the second year of a two-year contract with the Perth Wildcats in Australia’s National Basketball League.

Vahala has played in five national championships for Western Australia, leading his team to one gold medal and to bronze medals.  He was vice captain of the bronze medal teams.  During the under-18 Australian National Championships he averaged 14 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals per game while shooting 95% from the free throw line.

His top performances in the tournament came against Victoria Country when he scored 25 points and pulled down 15 rebounds and against Tasmania when he scored 20 points while grabbing 15 rebounds.

In addition he was a two-time team captain in High School and was awarded All-Star recognition.