After seven grueling weeks, Kansas University’s football team will wrap up its summer conditioning program today.

NCAA rules don’t allow KU head coach Mark Mangino and his assistants to work directly with players during the summer, so workouts are directed by strength and conditioning coach Chris Dawson and his staff.

Mangino, however, has noticed the results.

“We’re having a monster summer,” said Mangino, whose team will open the season Sept. 4 with a home game against Tulsa. “I see the kids walking around the hallways. They’re bigger, stronger, thicker. Chris has done a phenomenal job.”

KU started summer workouts June 8. The Jayhawks ran for an hour to 90 minutes four times a week. The rest of their 21/2-to three-hour sessions were spent lifting weights.

“I feel like our strength and conditioning program is as good as anywhere that I’ve been,” said Mangino, who was an assistant coach at Kansas State and Oklahoma before coming to KU following the 2001 season. “That’s so important to the development of our program.”

KU players will have eight days off before reporting for preseason camp Aug. 6.

Berner, Bailey honored

Two Kansas University baseball players from city high schools have been selected to play in the Ban Johnson League All-Star Game on Sunday in Kansas City, Mo.

Free State High graduate Matt Berner, an infielder for Arrow Rents, will suit up for the J All-Stars. Lawrence High graduate Derek Bailey, a shortstop and outfielder for Regal Plastic, will play for the B All-Stars. Bailey is among the leaders in the wood-bat league with a .338 batting average and 71 RBIs. Bailey is among the leaders with 77 doubles.

The nine-inning All-Star Game will start at 8:30 a.m. before the Kansas City Royals take on the Cleveland Indians at 1:10 p.m. at Kauffman Stadium. A Royals ticket is required to attend the All-Star Game.

Volleyball seating altered

Seating at Kansas University volleyball matches will change from general admission to reserved seating this season, KU officials said Tuesday.

Season tickets are available for 15 home matches and cost $70 for adults, $56 for faculty and staff, and $35 for youth (17 and under). If available, single-match tickets may be purchased for $6 (adults) and $3 (youth). Williams Fund members who purchase season tickets will receive two (2) priority points per account regardless of the number of tickets purchased.