Ted Fitz, who hails from the hometown of Pete Rose, exhibits certain qualities of the legendary Charlie Hustle. He doesn’t walk or strut to his position, he runs. And while many players today sulk because they don’t see enough playing time, Ted’s enthusiasm on the court is matched by his enthusiasm off.

As a walk-on 3 years ago Fitz saw limited playing time in 9 games. He worked hard to increase his contribution, improving to a career high 25 games including 12 starts last season. Ted is not going to blaze the stat sheet night in and night out, however, he brings several intangibles to this team. Most importantly, he demonstrates what a player can achieve given such a humble beginning. Teammates see this and naturally work harder because they find an easily identifiable benchmark for success. Other intangible qualities such as determination, enthusiasm, and hustle describe Ted’s game. However, attitude may supersede them all.

The Flyers, as a team, have been lacking a certain degree of attitude in the paint for quite some time. They have managed some success without it, riding instead on the coat tails of such mild mannered personalities as Ryan Perryman and Mark Ashman. Ted adds a little intimidation factor when he steps on the court. Not because he’s 6-11 260, but because he’ll get into an opponent’s face without hesitation. One look at the UD/XU contest on ESPN last season and there’s little doubt the 6-7, 215 lb forward likes to mix it up.

Successful teams combine skill and aggressiveness down low at the forward and center positions. Fitz brings the latter off the bench.

These qualities are a welcome addition to any player’s resume, but can Ted transcend his reliever/enforcer status on the Dayton Flyers? He has shown steady improvement over 3 years in all phases of his game at the forward position. Will a new drop-step or 12 foot jumper enable Ted Fitz to come into his own this season?

There is one certainty. As Ted’s senior year approaches, the Flyers still find themselves searching for the answer at both forward positions after the recent departures of Ryan Perryman and Coby Turner. Fitz is likely to see an increase in playing time this season as he takes on veteran status.

As Ted’s basketball career at the University of Dayton comes to an end, he may be remembered as just another role-player. However, Ted Fitz fills a very important role not many want or can fill. He’s the example.