The University of Mary Washington athletic department staff opened the 2013-14 school year with a two-day retreat at The Homestead resort in Hot Springs, Va. on August 12-13. The staff participated in group meetings, heard a guest lecture from University of Virginia Director of Athletics Carig Littlepage, and reviewed several new department manuals and guides.

“Our department retreat was a great success", said UMW Director of Athletics Ken Tyler. "We had some terrific discussions, got some real work done, bonded with and learned about each other, and had a lot of fun. We are grateful to Peter Faraone and the staff at the Homestead for making this trip possible and enjoyable. It was an unbelievable way to kick off the year!”

The staff also competed in a putt-putt golf challenge, with head basketball coach Rod Wood taking low medalist honors with a 41. The winning foursome consisted of Wood, Clint Often, Richard Wilson, and Ian Rogol, who not coincidentally all played left-handed. Members of the staff also played a round of golf at the Homestead's Cascades Course, which has hosted many U.S. presidents and carries the distinction of having the oldest first tee in the United States.