Ramljak, Hall Ink Division I Letters

 MBB  4-25-2012  Austin Ramljak and Corey Hall both signed letters of intent to study and play, Ramljak with Rice University in Houston, Tex. and Hall with nearby Cal State Bakersfield, during the recent NCAA signing period.  Both players entrusted their futures with head coach Joey Ramirez and Ventura College basketball two years ago when the future of the embattled men’s program was still uncertain. They both were aware of the penalties the program faced. Yet, they trusted the system, the staff and the tradition of the VC men’s basketball program to help them reach their goals of a scholarship and chance to play at the highest of collegiate levels.

     Ramljak, a local product from Oak Park High School, where he graduated with a 3.7 grade point average two years ago, could have chosen many competitive academic institutions out of high school. However, he decided to attend Ventura College, giving himself a chance to continue his playing career and receive an undergraduate prerequisite education equal to that of many four-year schools.  Academically, he did just that earning a 3.4 GPA while completing two year requirements at VC. Austin challenged himself in calculus and other difficult economic and finance coursework, classes that have directly influenced Austin’s choice of study at Rice.  In the fall Austin will begin pursuit of his bachelors degree in Economics. 

     On the court, to say Austin played would be an understatement.  Austin worked, sacrificed and bought into the “We Play Hard” lifestyle.  He went from a good shooter to arguably the deadliest outside threat at the junior college level.  His time and energy put into improving his game took to another level, a level high enough to grab the attention and warrant a scholarship offer from Ben Braun and his Rice University men’s basketball staff.  Rice competes in the very competitive Conference USA.

     Hall made his way to Ventura College via Chicago.  Again, like Austin, Corey believed and bought into the system, including the tradition, family and maximum effort at all times.  He has overcome a great deal of adversity during his transition at VC, much of which was assisted through the daily teachings of Coach Ramirez about persevering, competing and always giving your best, if when you think there is nothing left in the tank.  Corey will take his talents to Bakersfield and a program undergoing a transition of its own. 

     CSUB is a recent addition to the NCAA Division I after many years of incredible success at the Division II level, and plays as an independent while searching for a conference home.  With the recent addition of Coach Rod Barnes, former SEC coach of the year at Ole Miss, the program looks poised to reach its goal of not only joining a conference very soon, but also participating in postseason play on a regular basis.  This past season they were invited to the CollegeInsider.com postseason tournament following a 16-win season. The addition of Corey will allow the Roadrunners to continue their ascent at the Division I level, especially with his contribution on both ends of the floor and his tireless work on the glass.

     The Ventura College men’s program would like to wish these two the very best and may success follow them in all of their academic and athletic endeavors.  The program is forever grateful for your trust and effort over the last two years in helping supplant VC  Men’s basketball in its proper place, amongst the elite in the state and nation.  The newest additions to the traditions who will keep a watchful eye over the Pirates for years to come.  WE PLAY HARD!