SIAC Announces 2018 Volleyball Preseason Honors

ATLANTA, Georgia – Middle blocker Kia Thomas of Clark Atlanta University was named the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Preseason Offensive Player of the Year along with Libero Cassidi Sterrett of Spring Hill College who was selected as Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, announced Monday by the league office.

All votes are submitted by SIAC head coaches and sports information directors.

Kia Thomas

Preseason Offensive Player of the Year
Kia Thomas, Middle Blocker
Clark Atlanta University

Thomas, a sophomore middle blocker, led the SIAC in kills (3.13/game) and hitting percentage (.338). Thomas earned the SIAC Newcomer of the Week award twice last season. She also recorded a season-high 20 kills over Albany State and a season-high 25 points over Claflin. Thomas finished her rookie season with 65 total blocks (No. 9 in conference), 46 digs, and 34 service aces. Thomas helped the 2017 Eastern Division Champions finish 17-13 last season and looks to improve this season.

Cassidi Sterrett

Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Cassidi Sterrett, Libero/Defensive Specialist
Spring Hill College

Sterrett, a junior libero, led the SIAC in digs as she recorded 491 digs on the season averaging 4.63 digs per game. The Lee’s Summit, Mo. native also ranked No. 7 in service aces as she recorded 44 on the season. Sterrett led the 2017 Western Division Champions to a perfect season last year as they dominated the conference 18-0 and look to continue the streak as they are now eligible for post-season play.

Preseason Rankings

In the East Division, Albany State is anticipated to capture the Eastern Division Championship title as they had six first-place picks. The defending Eastern Division Champions, Clark Atlanta was picked to finish second with five first-place votes ahead of Benedict who had one first place vote. Fort Valley State and Paine rounded out the division.

In the West Division, defending SIAC Champions, Kentucky State is anticipated to top the west as they receive seven first-place votes ahead of Spring Hill who received five first place votes. LeMoyne-Owen, who faced Kentucky State in last year’s championship game, is expected to finish third this year ahead of Central State who is expected to come in fourth. Lane is expected to come in fifth place above Miles and Tuskegee who will round out the western division.

Volleyball Rankings by DivisionAdd caption

East Division
1. Albany State (6)
2. Clark Atlanta (5)
3. Benedict (1)
4. Fort Valley State
5. Paine

West Division
1. Kentucky State (7)
2. Spring Hill (5)
3. LeMoyne-Owen
4. Central State
5. Lane
6. Miles
7. Tuskegee

*First place votes in parenthesis.

2018 SIAC Volleyball – Preseason Team 

First Team

Jasmine Davis	LeMoyne-Owen	Outside Hitter
Adrionna Washington	Benedict	Outside Hitter
Jannai Cheeks	Albany State	Outside Hitter
Brittany Warren-Dancy	Clark Atlanta	Middle Blocker
Kia Thomas	Clark Atlanta	Middle Blocker
Naporsha Gilliam	LeMoyne-Owen	Libero
Sierra Nelson	Clark Atlanta	Setter

Second Team

Taylor Prude	Clark Atlanta	Outside Hitter
Randi De’Armitt	Spring Hill	Outside Hitter
Aza Rae Underwood	Lane	Outside Hitter
Arlandria Greathouse	Kentucky State	Middle Blocker
Crystal Hall	Tuskegee	Middle Blocker
Majda Cisic	Benedict	Libero
Emmarose Neibert	Spring Hill	Setter

SIAC MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

Veteran Gokhan Yilmaz Set To Lead Florida A&M Volleyball

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Florida A&M University has appointed veteran volleyball coach and teacher Gokhan Yilmaz to take the reins as head coach of the school’s Women’s Volleyball Program.

Yilmaz, who served the past two seasons as Associate Head Coach at FAMU, has fashioned an impressive resume replete with volleyball playing, teaching and coaching experiences from both overseas and in the United States.

A native of Istabul, Turkey, Yilmaz has compiled a 284-137 career record as a collegiate coach, good for an excellent .680 winning percentage, utilizing his skills as a teacher/trainer in volleyball, as well as using his wealth of contacts in the international volleyball community in recruiting.

Yilmaz served one season (2014-15) as head coach at UNC Charlotte, leading the 49ers to 17 wins, the most in eight years, while leading the team to its’ first conference tournament appearance in five years – a team built around nine new recruits he signed for that first season.

Prior to that, he spent seven seasons as Associate Head Coach, Training Coordinator and Main Recruiter for nearby Florida State University (2008-14),

 GOKHAN YILMAZ
FAMU HEAD VOLLEYBALL COACH

While at FSU, Yilmaz landed the nation’s Number Three recruiting class in 2012, helping the Seminoles to a sizzling 154-41 record, featuring five NCAA Tournament appearances (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013), highlighted by a 2011 Final Four berth, a 2009 Elite Eight spot and a 2013 Sweet Sixteen berth.

Yilmaz’s collegiate resume also includes stints as an Assistant Coach at the University of Arkansas (Spring 2005, 2007-08); Northwood University (2005-07 – 2005 regional semifinalist), Cameron University (2003-05 – two-time conference finalist), and Western New Mexico University (2002-03).

He began his coaching career in his native Turkey as a club coach (Eczacibasi Sports Club) in 1995-96, before working the next six years coaching club, high school and middle school teams, most of which achieved national, regional and city honors.

In his six seasons prior to starting his collegiate career, Yilmaz led his charges to two national championships, and four other finals appearances, and all of his teams earned berths in the Turkish National Tournament.

Yilmaz holds a Bachelor’s in Eastern European Studies from Istanbul University (2002), and a Master’s in Sports Psychology from Cameron University (2005).

He also completed a Volleyball Coaching course in 1999, and completed a first degree Volleyball Coaching course in Istanbul in 2000.

Additionally, he has attended numerous volleyball seminars, covering lifting (strength and conditioning) in volleyball, nutrition, kinesiology and skill perfection training.

His playing career in the sport was rather extensive, as he played for his high school team from 1989-95, while also playing for two sports clubs: Eczacibasi SC (1991-95), and Besiktas SC (1994-95).

WHAT'S ON TAP: Yilmaz will officially open his tenure as FAMU head coach when he leads the Rattler Women into battle in the USM Invitational hosted by Southern Miss in Hattiesburg, Miss., Friday and Saturday, August 24-25.

FAMU’s home opening weekend will be Friday and Saturday, September 7 and 8, as they jointly host the FAMU-FSU Invitational. They will face off against Southern Miss and VCU, playing one match each day in the Al Lawson Center.

THE GOKHAN YILMAZ FILE

Overall Record as a college coach: 284 - 137 (.680 winning %)

2018 Florida A&M University Head Volleyball Coach
2016 – 2017 Florida A&M University Associate Head Coach

2014 – 2015 UNC Charlotte Head Volleyball Coach
Highest number of wins, 17, since 2006
First Conference Tournament appearance in the last 5 years
Recruited/signed, 9 new players in the first year

2008 – 2014 Florida State University Associate Head Coach
Training Coordinator/ Main Recruiter
#3 Recruiting Class in 2012
154 – 41 Overall Record, .800 winning %
2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 NCAA Tournament Participant,11 – 5 record
2009 Elite Eight,2010 Second Round,2011 Final Four,2012 Second Round,2013 Sweet 16
2009, 2011, 2012 ACC Champion

2007 – 2008 University of Arkansas Assistant Volleyball Coach

Main on Court Trainer/International Recruiting Coordinator

2005 – 2007 Northwood University Assistant Volleyball Coach
2005 Regional Semi - Finalist

2005 Spring University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Assistant Coach

2003 – 2005 Cameron University Assistant Coach
Two Time Conference Finalist

2002 – 2003 Western New Mexico University Assistant Coach
Overall record of 19 – 13.

2001 – 2002 Youth Boys Team Head Coach, Uskudar Cmh. HS Head Coach
Youth Boys Team both City and National Champions
High School Team City Champions, National Finalist

2000 – 2001 Youth Boys Team Head Coach, Besiktas High School Team Head Coach
Youth Boys Team Third Place in the City and National Finalist
High School Team City Champions, National Finalist

1999 – 2000 Youth Boys Team Head Coach, Professional Team Second Assistant Coach
Youth Boys Team City Finalist, National Champions

Professional Team 5th Place in the regular season, Quarter Finalist in Play-offs

1998 – 1999 Youth and Junior Boys Teams Head Coach
Youth Boys Team both City and National Finalist (lost both finals 2-3)
Junior Boys Team Third Place in the City, eliminated in the Nationals

1997 – 1998 Youth Boys Team Head Coach, Galatasaray Middle School Head Coach
Youth Boys Team City Champions, eliminated in the National Tournament
Middle School Team both City and National Champions (26–0)

1996 – 1997 Youth Boys Team Head Coach, Galatasaray Middle School Head Coach
Youth Boys Team City Champions , National Finalist
Middle School Team both City and National Finalist

1995 – 1996 First year in coaching. Eczacibasi Sports Club

COACHING ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

2018 Florida A&M University Head Volleyball Coach
2016-2017 season ` Florida A&M University Associate Head Coach
2014 – 2015 season UNC Charlotte Head Volleyball Coach
2008 – 2013 season Florida State University Associate Head Coach/Training Coordinator
2007 – 2008 season University of Arkansas Assistant Coach/Training Coordinator
2005 – 2007 season Northwood University Volleyball Coach/Training Coordinator
2005 Spring Season University of Arkansas Assistant Coach
2003 – 2005 season Cameron University Assistant Coach
2002 – 2003 season Western New Mexico University Assistant Coach
1996 – 2002 seasons Coached in Galatasaray Sports Club
2001 – 2002 season Coached Uskudar Cumhuriyet High School Team
2000 – 2001 season Coached Besiktas High School Team
1998 – 2001 seasons Youth Boys National Team Head Coach
1995 – 1996 season Coached in Eczacibasi Sports Club
1999 – 2000 season Professional Team Second Assistant Coach
1996 – 1998 seasons Coached Galatasaray Middle School Team

FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUICATIONS

Former Virgina State Trent Cannon stealing the show throughout New York Jets training camp

'
NEW YORK, New York -- So far all throughout New York Jets training camp, rookie running back Trent Cannon has easily been the player everyone has been talking about. From head coach Todd Bowles to even fans in attendance at the Green & White scrimmage game, Cannon has showcased some incredible speed. Such blazing speed that he could be a nice x-factor on offense this upcoming season.

Even though the Jets have several running backs ahead of him on the depth chart, Cannon could find himself a spot as a versatile weapon that can be used in several different ways. Cannon has been handling kickoff and punt return duties in training camp as it’s likely he’ll make the final roster of the Jets in such a role.

The Jets might also sub him in on certain offensive plays to use his ridiculous speed as either a running back or even receiving option. Either way, it looks like general manager Mike Maccagnan got it right when he selected Cannon in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Ideally, the Jets might have found a hidden gem in this year’s draft with a player that will likely contribute immediately in 2018. At the start of training camp this week, however, Cannon left practice early in which Ralph Vacchiano confirmed that trainers were checking out his left foot and ankle.

CONTINUE READING

HBCU PLAY - Episode 3 - CIAA

ATLANTA, Georgia -- Episode 3 = Preview of the 2018 football season for the the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). Long time TV analyst/commentator for CIAA - Stan Lewter - joins the show and makes himself 'bulletin board material' after listing who he believes will dominate the conference this year. WAOKAM: ON-DEMAND

VSU Trojans Camp Report: First Scrimmage In The Books

ETTRICK, Virginia – The Virginia State University football team held its first scrimmage of fall camp on Saturday morning at Rogers Stadium, running 125 total plays between regular scrimmage work as well as situational, red zone and goal line work.
 
"We were excited about having the opportunity to get out on the field, get the guys lined up and to see if they understood the system and plays," Barlow said. I saw some really good stuff. I saw guys making plays there were some nice catches made by the receivers. Cook made some really good throws. Our defensive the players stood up and made some plays. Newcomer Washington came in and made a really big play and got an interception. Sacks were made by Alexander Williams and Noah Pryor.
 
The guys are running to the ball doing some really good stuff. It's a good start and apparently, we have a long way to go. The ball was on the ground too much in terms of center and quarterback exchange. This is one area that we need to continue to work on. All and all we kept the players healthy and we have the opportunity to look at the film and continue to improve one day at a time.
 
 "We have better depth this season in a lot of positions. I really like the depth that we have especially on our defensive line and if we can continue to nurture that and get guys ready to play we will be good."
 
Trojans Still Competing at All Positions
Being almost two weeks into fall camp, Barlow emphasized that they are still a long way from determining who will earn starting spots for the team's season opener against Norfolk State University on September 1.
 
"As we get into figuring out who the players are going to be at which spots, it give us an opportunity to create some consistency and rhythm, but we are not there yet," Barlow said. "There is still a lot of competition and we have to figure it out. This will be ongoing for a lot of positions throughout fall camp and throughout the year."
 
Barlow also said he hopes most of his players have aspirations past starting a game for the Trojans.
 
"With every position, I hope I have players – whether they play quarterback, defensive tackle, punter or long snapper – I hope their number one goal is to be a starter at Virginia State University" Barlow said.

Young Trojans Impressing but Still Have Plenty to Learn 
Virginia State University's young players got plenty of opportunities to display their talents in Saturday's scrimmage. The youngsters showed some promise but also still have a long way to go according to Barlow.
 
"Newcomer Washington came in and made a really big play and got an interception" Barlow said. "Today was their first chance out there on the field. Just like most of the guys, as the scrimmage went on they got better. 

The Trojans will take Monday off before getting back to practice at Rogers Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
 
For more information on VSU football, follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports, or call 804-524-5030.

VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

North Carolina A&T State Coach Sam Washington Discusses No. 6 Jacksonville State; JSU's Grass discuss the Gamecocks foe A&T.

N.C. A&T head coach Sam Washington's Weekly Football Press Conference, 8/20/18.
Sam Washington will make his head coaching debut 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 25 against Jacksonville State on ESPN.



Head coach John Grass, running back Tramel Terry, linebacker Quan Stoudemire and defensive lineman Connor Christian meet with the media and preview the Gamecocks' season opener against North Carolina A&T.

NEXT GAME: #14 North Carolina A&T State Aggies vs. #6 Jacksonville State Gamecocks
EVENT: GUARDIAN CREDIT UNION FCS KICKOFF
VENUE: CRAMTON BOWL, Montgomery, Alabama
CAPACITY: 25,000 
TIME: 7:00 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN

Coastal Carolina adds Norfolk State to 2019 football schedule

CONWAY, South Carolina -- The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers have added the Norfolk State Spartans to their 2019 football schedule, FBSchedules.com has learned.

Coastal Carolina will host Norfolk State at Brooks Stadium in Conway, South Carolina on Sept. 14, 2019. CCU will pay NSU a $225,000 guarantee for the game, according to a copy of the contract obtained via a state Freedom of Information Act request.

Coastal Carolina and Norfolk State have never met on the gridiron.

Norfolk State is a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). The Spartans finished the 2017 season 4-7 overall and 4-4 in MEAC play.

The addition of Norfolk State tentatively completes Coastal Carolina’s non-conference schedule for the 2019 season. The Chanticleers are scheduled to open the season at home in Brooks Stadium on Aug. 31 against Eastern Michigan.

CONTINUE READING

Howard University Women’s Basketball Announces 2018-19 Non-Conference Schedule

WASHINGTON, D.C.  --  Howard University women's basketball announced its 2018-19 non-conference schedule today. The non-conference slate features 13 regular season  games. Four of those games will take place in Burr Gymnasium.

"I'm really excited about this upcoming season. We are returning our entire roster with the addition of two talented freshmen (Krislyn Marsh and Gia Thorpe), so I'm happy to say we're going into the season more experienced than last year," said head coach Tiesha "Ty" Grace.  

The Bison open the season away at La Salle on Nov. 6 in Philadelphia, PA before bringing the competition home on Nov. 9 when they host New Jersey Institute of Technology. Howard will meet William & Mary on Nov. 12 in Williamsburg, VA. The Bison face Siena in Burr (Nov. 19) before traveling to Fairleigh Dickinson (Nov. 25) to wrap up November road games. The last home game of the month will take place on Nov. 28 against area rival George Mason University.

"Every year we're looking to be competitive during the non-conference season with the intent that it will ultimately get us ready for the MEAC. I think this schedule allows us to do so, by playing the likes of William and Mary, George Mason and Mercer, who all are coming off 20-win seasons last year. My players also get an opportunity to play teams from high level conferences such as the ACC and AAC."

December begins with four road games (Dec. 1, Dec. 8, Dec. 13, Dec. 15) before the Bison welcome Mercer on Dec. 18. Howard closes their non-conference schedule on the road against University of Cincinnati (Dec. 21) and University of North Carolina (Dec. 28).

"North Carolina and Cincinnati will be tough matchups, but we will be up for the challenge. Myself, team, and staff look forward to every game. We are ready to compete and embrace any challenge this season. This team is ready. Their time is now!" exclaimed Grace.

Howard ended last season 12-18 overall and 8-8 in the MEAC.
 

The full schedule of women's basketball non-conference games can be viewed by visiting the HUBison website. Dates for Howard's MEAC contests will be announced at a later date.

About Howard University Athletics

The Howard University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics sponsors 19 NCAA Division I men and women varsity sports. The programs represent six conferences: the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Coastal Collegiate Swimming Association (CCSA), Sun Belt Conference, Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) and Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Conference. Visit www.hubison.com to learn more.

What the addition of Jamal Currie-Elliott means to North Carolina Central

DURHAM, North Carolina -- North Carolina Central interim head coach Granville Eastman got a gift wrapped four-star present in the form of running back Jamal Currie-Elliott this month.

Elliott played high school football up the road from NCCU’s campus at Hillside High, and has returned to the Bull City after a taking a detour through the Pacific Northwest. Elliott (5-10, 185) committed to Oregon out of high school, enrolling in January and going through spring practice with the Ducks. However, Elliott left school shortly after the spring game and popped back up in his hometown, reporting to camp with the Eagles.

Elliott will be eligible to play right away and should make an immediate impact for the Eagles. It’s too early in camp to tell if Elliott will dethrone returning starter Isaiah Totten as the No. 1 ball carrier, but he will definitely add to the team’s offensive arsenal.

“Our first day of 1-on-1 (drills) he was clearly the best player out on the field,” Eastman said. “Without a question. He’s been more than a pleasant surprise.”




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N.C. A&T begins final week of prep for season opener against Jacksonville State

GREENSBORO, North Carolina — It’s game week. At last.

Sam Washington presided over his first gathering of alumni and fans at N.C. A&T’s weekly head coach’s football luncheon today at the Alumni Foundation Events Center on A&T’s campus.

If the new coach was nervous, it didn’t show.

The No. 14 Aggies will open the season against No. 6 Jacksonville State at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Crampton Bowl stadium in Montgomery, Ala., in a made-for-TV game.

“We are blessed for this opportunity,” Washington said. “And this is a huge opportunity for us. … Now we’re looked upon on a national level, and I am tickled pink that ESPN thought enough of our brand to invite us to play a top-10 I-AA football team. That says a lot about where we are.”

Washington is an old-school coach, hence the old-school Division I-AA reference to what is now called the Football Championship Subdivision.

It’s the same thing.

CONTINUE READING

New coach looks to keep Prairie View's momentum going

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- Since 2007, Prairie View A&M has had seven winning seasons, highlighted by the 2009 SWAC championship. So winning has become the norm for the Panthers’ football program, which has finished above .500 in each of the last three seasons.

The exploits of the past three years were under the direction of coach Willie Simmons, who in the offseason took the same position at Florida A&M. Eric Dooley, a veteran assistant at three SWAC schools who has been part of seven SWAC championships as either a player or coach, now has the responsibility of continuing that success.

“It’s going to always be tough here because of the expectations, and that’s the way it should be,” said Dooley, who spent the previous four years as offensive coordinator at Grambling State, the two-time reigning conference champion.

In winning their final three games of 2017, the Panthers finished 6-5 overall and at 4-3 were third in the league’s West Division. Prairie View has had a winning conference record in 10 of the past 11 seasons.

Returning seven offensive starters and four on defense, the Panthers are again picked to finish third in their division. Seven players received preseason all-conference recognition — cornerback JuAnthony Parker, offensive lineman Corbin Finlayson, running back Dawonya Tucker, offensive lineman Roderick Smith, wide receiver Markcus Hardy, tight end Zarrian Holcombe and defensive back Reggie Stubblefield — with Parker and Finlayson earning first-team status. Linebacker Anthony Stubbs is the top returning tackler (69, with 5½ sacks).

CONTINUE READING

TSU seeks offensive reboot after 2-win season

HOUSTON, Texas -- Wins have been slow to come by for Michael Haywood in his first two seasons as head coach at Texas Southern. The Tigers have won six times in that span and are coming off a 2-9 season in which they lost their first seven games.

“We’ve been in a losing funk the last couple of years and want to turn things around,” Tigers junior middle linebacker Julian Marcantel said. “We want to change the culture.”

Haywood has been changings things up a bit and in the offseason made two additions to his staff. Morris Watts, who Haywood said has been his mentor since 1995, is the new coordinator of an offense that averaged 17.5 points a game in 2017. Michael Slater, who comes from Arizona State, is in charge of the defensive line, a position the Tigers have addressed with several promising newcomers.

Offensively in the SWAC last year, TSU ranked seventh in scoring, eighth in offense (270.8 yards per game) and eighth in passing offense (144.3), going 2-5 in league play.

“I didn’t feel like we were unified and all on the same page last year,” said Haywood, who was head coach at Miami (Ohio) from 2009-2010.



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HU Women’s Soccer Picks Up First Win of the Season Defeating Youngstown 2-0

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Women's soccer defeated Youngstown State University (YSU) in a decisive road win today in Farmers National Bank Field. This is the first win of the season as the Bison improve to 1-1-0.

"I thought we played better today which resulted in a well deserved win. With that being said, once we scored our second goal we became complacent," stated head coach Brent Leiba.  "I would like to see us finish the game with the same mentality and effort that was demonstrated to score both of our goals." 

The first point of the game came from senior Jasmin Miller who scored on a breakaway goal at the 23 minute mark. In the first half, the Bison outshot Youngstown,7-3.

Freshman forward Jordan Taylor led the team in shots, recording three. The Penguins freshman midfielder Luca Fahmer was the YSU team leader with four shots.

During the second half, the Bison saw additional scoring action in the 65th minute as sophomore Aleeya Sawyer scored off of an assist from Kendall Macauly. Junior goalkeeper Alayah Hightower made three saves as the Bison ended the game with a 2-0 victory.

Youngstown outshot Howard in the second half, 12-3 and had more total corner kicks, 7-4; however, they failed to capitalize off of their advantages. The Penguins fell to 0-1-1.

"Overall, we learned a lot this weekend and look forward to getting better each game," Leiba said.

Howard hosts its first home game on Friday, Aug. 24 against Yale at 7 p.m in Greene Stadium.

About Howard University Athletics
The Howard University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics sponsors 19 NCAA Division I men and women varsity sports. The programs represent six conferences: the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Coastal Collegiate Swimming Association (CCSA), Sun Belt Conference, Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) and Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Conference. Visit www.hubison.com to learn more.

Alabama A&M Unveils New Nike Apparel

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — The Nike swoosh officially is now part of Alabama A&M athletics.

Alabama A&M's athletic department has joined an apparel partnership with Nike and BSN that begins during the 2018-19 athletic seasons.

In front of a crowd gathered at Louis Crews Stadium for Fan Day, the Alabama A&M athletic department unveiled its new Nike apparel for the fall sports with student-athletes from the football, women's soccer and volleyball teams modeling the new uniform combinations.

"This is an exciting time for our university and its athletic programs," Alabama A&M Director of Athletics Bryan Hicks said. "This partnership brings two extremely recognizable brands together, and as our athletic programs move into the future, we feel like this is a partnership that will create great opportunities for everyone involved."

As a SWAC member, Alabama A&M previously wore apparel supplied by Russell — which had a contract with the conference. That conference-wide contract ended following the 2017-18 athletic seasons, giving SWAC members an opportunity to pursue their own apparel deals.

"Nike was a good fit for us here at Alabama A&M, and we're looking forward to working with them as we enter this new era," Hicks said. "This has created a lot of excitement among our student-athletes, and having these two brands come together also is generating a lot of excitement for the future."



ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

ASU Breakfast of Champions set for August 31 in downtown Montgomery

MONTGOMERY, Alabama | The Alabama State University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will host the second annual "Breakfast of Champions" Friday, August 31, with ESPN's Jay Walker serving as the keynote speaker for the event.

The event will take place from 9 am until 11 am at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa Convention Center, located at 201 Tallapoosa Street. The following championship teams (Soccer, volleyball, women's cross country, men's golf, men's and women's tennis, bowling,  indoor track & field (men), indoor track & field women, and outdoor track (women)) from 2016-17 will receive their rings at the event. Student-athletes who were on championship teams during the 2017-18 are welcome to attend and be recognized at the football game Saturday night, with the goal for the those champions to receive their rings before the new year.

All former and current student-athletes who were on those championship teams being honored, click here to RSVP today. There are a limited number of tickets available to the general public, and can be purchased for $25 at the door. Those individuals wanting to attend the event from the general public, should RSVP to Veleta Rogers by clicking here.

Walker, who starred at Howard University where led the Bison to their first playoff berth in team history, will headline the event. A political science major, Walker led Howard to an 11-0 record in 1994, breaking several Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Howard records that earned him All-American honors. He was named the I-AA Player of the Year by Sports Illustrated, and was drafted by the New England Patriots which started his four-year NFL career.

He is currently the President of Walker Financial Services, in Oxon Hill (MD). He also is a Maryland State Delegate representing the 26th Legislative District in the Maryland General Assembly and is a sought after lead color commentator; having worked for BET Sports, ESPNU, NFL Network, as well as the Host of the Black Family Channel's weekly Sports Desk. Walker has been featured on The George Michael Sports Machine, ESPN, SportsTalk with Glenn Harris, Comcast Sportsnet, The Sports Groove, and The Washington Post for both his success on the field as a Quarterback, as well as his community involvement off of the field. While the accolades have been rewarding, Jay Walker has always remained humble in the fact that "it's always better to give than receive."

The purpose of the "Breakfast of Champions" is to celebrate, and recognize, Alabama State University student-athletes that have excelled in the their respective field of competition, and have won Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championships in their sport.

Mark your calendars for August 31, 2018 because this event is sure to kick off our seasons right!

Follow the Hornets
For complete coverage of Alabama State University athletics, follow us on social media at @BamaStateSports (Twitter), /BamaStateSports (Facebook), and @BamaStateSports (Instagram) or visit the official home of Alabama State University athletics at BamaStateSports.com.

The CW to Carry The AAMU Football Review with Connell Maynor

HUNTSVILLE,  Alabama — Alabama A&M football is returning to television.

This season of the Alabama A&M Football Review with Connell Maynor is scheduled to begin on Sunday, Sept. 2. on the Tennessee Valley's CW following the Bulldogs season opener against Miles.

The football review will air each Sunday at 9:30 p.m. CT and the 30-minute program will feature Coach Maynor offering commentary and analysis on the previous week's game.

The Bulldogs open the season at home against Miles on Sept. 1 in the Louis Crews Classic, with kickoff set for 6 p.m. Season tickets and single game tickets are now sale for the 2018 season. The Bulldogs play four home games during the campaign with North Alabama, Alcorn State and Grambling State joining Miles. For more information on tickets, call (256) 372-4700 or visit the ticket website.



Follow the Bulldogs
For complete coverage of Alabama A&M University football, follow us on social media at @AAMUFB (Twitter), /Alabama A&M Bulldogs (Facebook), and @Alabama A&M Football (Instagram) or visit the official home of Alabama A&M athletics at aamusports.com.

Hampton Pirates Showcased in 24 Fall Dates on ESPN+

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina – Hampton University fans will get to enjoy HU athletes on a whole new level this fall as the Big South has partnered with ESPN+, bringing 24 Hampton dates to a national audience.

Hampton will see 12 volleyball matches, six soccer matches, and all six football home games on ESPN+ as presentations of the Big South Network.

ESPN+ is the exclusive steaming home of Big South Network productions. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year). ESPN+ is an integrated part of the completely redesigned ESPN App.

Below is the schedule, sorted by date that Hampton will appear on ESPN+. The schedule is subject to change with the most up-to-date schedules being listed on BigSouthSports.com. All contests are available exclusively on ESPN+. All Big South Championships, beginning with quarterfinal action, will also be broadcast on ESPN+.

September

9/1 – Football vs. Shaw
9/8 – Football at Monmouth
9/14 – Soccer vs. Gardner-Webb
9/15 – Football vs. Tennessee State
9/21 – Volleyball at Presbyterian
9/22 – Soccer at Winthrop
9/27 – Volleyball vs. UNC Asheville
9/28 – Volleyball vs. USC Upstate
9/29 – Football vs. Charleston Southern
9/30 – Soccer vs. USC Upstate

October

10/3 – Soccer at Longwood
10/5 – Volleyball at Radford
10/6 – Football vs. Lane
10/10 – Soccer vs. Radford
10/12 – Volleyball at Gardner-Webb
10/13 – Football at Presbyterian
10/13 – Soccer at UNC Asheville
10/16 – Volleyball vs. Campbell
10/19 – Volleyball vs. High Point
10/20 – Volleyball vs. Gardner-Webb
10/23 – Volleyball at Campbell
10/27 – Football vs. Virginia-Lynchburg
10/30 – Volleyball vs. Norfolk State

November

11/2 – Volleyball at UNC Asheville
11/3 – Volleyball at USC Upstate
11/17 – Football vs. St. Andrews

HAMPTON UNIVERSITY PIRATES STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

Track and Field Makes a Comeback at Harris-Stowe

ST. LOUIS, Missouri -- Earlier this summer, the Harris-Stowe State University Athletics Department announced that they would be bringing back Track and Field. After the hiring of Fred Lewis as the Director, Lewis has been very optimistic about how this season could play out.

"This 2018-19 school year at Harris-Stowe State University will encompass great thing: the largest incoming class, superior academics,an increase of college degrees and the start of new track and field greatness. This transformation of the track program is my destiny. A life of developing state record, collegiate champions, Olympians, and World caliber athletes around the world has no comparison to the opportunity of helping develop college graduates. There is no better place to have this success but in St Louis at a HBCU, particularly at HSSU."

For more information, contact Fred Lewis, Director of Track and Field, at lewisf@hssu.edu.

HARRIS-STOWE STATE UNIVERSITY HORNETS SPORTS INFORMATION

Former WVSU Yellow Jacket Standout Jasmine Davis Signs Pro Contract

INSTITUTE, West Virginia -- Former West Virginia State University women's basketball standout Jasmine Davis has signed a contract to play professionally overseas with Sportovni Basketbalova Skola (SBS) Ostrava in Czech Republic.

SBS Ostrava is Central Euro League, the league is one of the top divisions in Europe. The season tips off in early September with playoffs concluding in March.

"Getting this opportunity is a blessing, it has always been a dream of mine and reality is setting in," Davis said. "I'm more than grateful to get a chance to continue my basketball career overseas and getting a chance to see the world while I do that."

It was a solid campaign for Davis in 2017-18 as she ranks second in program history in 3-pointers made with 164 made. Davis, a junior college transfer, only played two seasons for the Yellow Jackets. Davis helped our team to a 13-9 conference record as well as a third place final ranking in the Mountain East Conference.

She received Mountain East All-Conference Honorable Mention and ended the regular season averaging over 13 points and five rebounds per game. She was second in the MEC in 3-pointers made with ninety in 2017-18.

"We are very excited and proud of Jasmine as she takes this step to become a professional basketball player," Yellow Jacket Head Coach Charles Marshall said. "It was a goal of hers that she worked extremely hard to obtain and she will no doubt continue to represent Lady Jacket Women's Basketball and make us proud."

The Jackets are coming off arguably the most successful season in program history earning first round bye in MEC conference tournament and was 10 points from reaching the MEC championship game.

WEST VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Hampton Pirates Sailing Announces 2018 Fall Schedule

HAMPTON, Virginia -- The Hampton University sailing team announced its fall 2018 schedule on Thursday -- a slate that opens with a home regatta.

The Pirates will be at Strawberry Banks to open the fall 2018 campaign on Sept. 1-2 with the Edward Teach Memorial-which is one of the two regattas Hampton won this past season. From there, the Pirates will be on the road for seven straight races to close out the fall.


The ODU Riley Cup and Navy Laser Singlehanded Qualifier will be Sept. 8-9, for the first of two straight weekends at the U.S. Naval Academy. They will return to Annapolis for a second Navy Laser Singlehanded Qualifier on September 15-16 and go back the next weekend for the Middle Atlantic Intercollegiate Sailing Association (MAISA) Conference Laser Championship. The Pirates will participate in the Moody Trophy Sept. 29-30, hosted by the University of Rhode Island to close out September.

Hampton will compete in the Co-Ed Showcase Preliminary Round Oct. 6-7 hosted in the Boston, Massachusetts area. If they finish in the top nine in Boston, they will travel to Maryland on October 20-21 for the final round of the Co-Ed Showcase. The Pirates will wrap up the fall Oct. 27-28 with the MAISA Fall Co-Ed Conference Championship hosted by Navy.

For more information on Hampton University sailing, please call the Office of Sports Information at (757) 727-5811, or visit the official Pirates website at www.hamptonpirates.com.

Dr. Larry Glover Named Athletics Director at Fisk University

Dr. Larry E. Glover

NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- Fisk University appoints Dr. Larry Glover as the athletics director. Previously, Dr. Glover served in a dual role as director of athletics and head men’s basketball coach.

“It’s always such a joy to have our graduates return to their alma mater to invest their time and talents into our students’ futures,” said Willie Jude, vice president, student affairs and enrollment management. “Dr. Glover is prepared to move forward and focus on the future of Fisk. We look forward to his leadership, contribution, and vision.”

Dr. Glover will continue overseeing the school’s athletic department in a full-time capacity. Under his current leadership, the institution’s sports program has expanded to include soccer and golf programs. Under his tenure as director of Fisk’s Education program, a new Bachelor of Science major in Special Education was established, with a grant and full accreditation from the Tennessee Department of Education. The program was selected for partnership with Belmont University Teacher Education Department (faculty and student exchange program). In addition to earning his B.A. in Health and Physical Education from Fisk University, he has a M.A. from Tennessee State University and a Doctorate degree from Texas Southern University. He is a member of the NCAA Management Council Committee and sits on the executive committee for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

FISK UNIVERSITY BULLDOGS SPORTS INFORMATION

Alabama State Hornets Labor Day Classic Press Conference set for Wednesday, August 22

MONTGOMERY, Alabama | The Alabama State University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced it will hold a press conference Wednesday, August 22 for the Labor Day Classic contest between the Hornets and Tuskegee.

The press conference is open to the public, and will take place in the ASU Stadium Club Lounge at 11 am on Wednesday.

Coaches from both schools - Donald Hill-Eley of Alabama State and Willie Slater of Tuskegee - will be in attendance to discuss the contest which will be 10 days from the date of the press conference. It will be the second year of the Labor Day Classic at ASU Stadium, with Tuskegee claiming a 14-6 victory in the first contest last year.

Administrators from both institutions will also be hand to discuss the events during the week, leading up to the football contest.

Alabama State opens the season at home against Tuskegee September 1 in the Labor Day Classic, with kick set for 5 pm. Season tickets and single game tickets are now sale for the 2018 season. The Hornets play four home games during the campaign with Jackson State, Texas Southern and Mississippi Valley State joining Tuskegee. Several options are available for fans this season, including a Young Alumni package and group rates. For more information, call (334) 229-4551 or visit BamaStateSports.com.



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For complete coverage of Alabama State University football, follow us on social media at @BamaStateFB (Twitter), /BamaStateSports (Facebook), and @BamaStateSports (Instagram) or visit the official home of Alabama State University athletics at BamaStateSports.com.

Grambling Lady Tigers bounce back with road victory

THIBODAUX, Louisiana| Just two days after dropping a road decision to Lamar to open the season, the Grambling State University women's soccer team got goals by Kailey Penaand Kaylee Holt as the Lady Tigers bounced back with a 2-1 victory over Nicholls on Sunday afternoon at the Nicholls Soccer Complex.

"I'm very pleased with how our team bounced back from adversity today after a tough opening loss," Grambling State head coach Justin Wagar said. "We responded well. GSU went down early in the game and didn't hesitate to battle back. We had a lot more focus and intensity today and battled until the end. It was a nice road win for our program."
 
Grambling State (1-1-0) fell behind in the 17th minute when Alison Ward scored off a deflection to give Nicholls (0-2-0) a 1-0 lead.
 
The Lady Tigers didn't fold and just eight minutes later, Jasmine Smith's cross found Pena for the equalizer in the 25th minute.
 
The score remained tied at 1 until the 57th minute when Holt converted a penalty kick to give Grambling State its first lead of the game and the season.
 
Turning Point
Down 1-0 after 17 minutes of action, Grambling State battled back and didn't let the deficit affect this young, but veteran squad.
 
Jasmine Smith's cross found Kailey Pena and the freshman found the back of the net for her first collegiate goal to tie the game at 1 in the 25th minute.
 
Pena's goal sparked the Lady Tigers as Grambling State and Nicholls went into the break level at 1.
 
Kaylee Holt, the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, notched her first goal of the season from the penalty spot in the 57th minute as the Lady Tigers earned their first win of the season and avenged last season's 1-0 loss to the Colonials.

 @GSU_TIGERS

Win No. 1 in the books as the Lady Tigers defeat Nicholls #RespectTheG #grambling #gramblingstate #gramblingstateuniversity #WhyNotGrambling

1:56 PM - 19 Aug 2018 from Ruston, LA

Inside the Numbers
· Hanna Johnson started in the net for Grambling State and played all 90 minutes
· Hanna Johnson registered five saves on 13 shots faced
· Jade Gallaher notched three saves on 13 shots for the Colonials
· Grambling State finished with 14 shots, with five being on target
· Nicholls tallied 13 shots, including six on frame
· Both teams recorded five corner kicks
· There were 20 fouls (nine by Grambling State) and two yellow cards (both Grambling State)
 
News & Notes
· Grambling State dropped a 1-0 decision at home last season to Nicholls.
· Hanna Johnson made her first start in goal for the Lady Tigers
· Kailey Pena scored her first collegiate goal
· With the penalty-kick goal, Kaylee Holt now has scored 10 career goals for the Black and Gold
 
Up Next
Grambling State continues its four-game season-opening road swing with a trip out west as the Lady Tigers travel to Moscow, Idaho to face off against the University of Idaho. The match is set to begin at 6 p.m. (central) at the Kibbie-Asui Activity Center and will be broadcasted live on PlutoTV (Channel – 242).
 
Follow Grambling State Athletics
For complete coverage of Grambling State athletics, please follow the Tigers on social media at @GSU_Tigers (Twitter), /gramblingstateathletics (Facebook), @gramblingathletics01 (Instagram) or visit the official home of Grambling State Athletics at gsutigers.com.