O'Rourke Diagnosed with Cancer

Dec. 13, 2005

IOWA CITY – University of Iowa junior pitcher Casey O’Rourke has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. He underwent successful surgery Monday, and is recovering at home. He will sit out the 2006 season and hopefully return to the team in 2007.

“We were saddened when we heard about Casey’s diagnosis, but very encouraged with the results of the surgery,” Iowa Head Coach Jack Dahm said. “Casey is a tough kid and he will have a rough couple months ahead, but we know he will fight this. All of our thoughts are with him and his family during his recovery.”

O’Rourke was Iowa’s No. 2 starter last season and finished with a 2-5 record. Over the summer, he was an all-star in the Northwoods League and led the league in wins.