Ali Arat to Join Fordham University for 2009 Season

BRONX, N.Y. -- The Fordham University Department of Athletics has announced the addition of two-meter player and graduate student Ali Arat (Istanbul, Turkey/Sisli Terakki Secondary -  Koc University) to the Rams for the 2009 season.

A member of the Turkish National TeamProgram since 2003, playing for the Senior National Team from 2006-08, he has competed in tournaments in Italy, Poland, France and Thailand. Turkey's best finish came at the 2006 Poland Cup, where they placed second.

In addition to the Turkish National team, Arat, a 6'-6" two-meter player, is also a member of the IYIK Club, which is one of the pioneer sports clubs for swimming and water polo in Turkey. Prior to his stint with the National team, he was captain of the Sisli Terakki Secondary School swim team, competing in the freestyle and butterfly events.

"Ali brings immediate size and skill to the two-meter position. He should be a great addition to the squad with his international experience at a very high skill level," said Fordham head coach Bill Harris.