B-CU finishes year unbeaten in MEAC‎

B-CU Coach Mervyl Melendez's Wildcats clinch #1 Seed for MEAC Tournament and earned 2010 Regular Season MEAC Baseball Title.

For the second time in school history, Bethune-Cookman's baseball team has gone undefeated in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. B-CU scored five runs in the top of the ninth inning in a 13-9 win over Delaware State (12-30, 8-10) on Sunday. It's the first-ever 18-0 MEAC regular season; B-CU was 15-0 in 2006. The Wildcats (32-19) will have the No. 1 seed for the conference tournament May 20-23 at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach.

Delaware State Falls to MEAC Champs‎

Dover, DE -- Bethune-Cookman scored five runs in the top of the ninth inning in a 13-9 win over Delaware State in MEAC baseball at Soldier Field today. The Wildcats, who clinched the MEAC regular season title on Saturday, completed the conference schedule with an 18-0 record (32-19 overall). Delaware State is 8-10 in the MEAC and 12-30 overall. Delaware State broke an 8-8 tie on a two-out single by Scott Davis in the bottom of the eighth inning.

Bethune-Cookman tied the game at nine on a single by Emmanuel Castro in the top of the ninth inning. The Wildcats pulled ahead 10-9 when Matt Wright followed with a run-scoring in the inning. BCU padded its lead when the next batter, Alejando Sanchez, followed with a three-run homer. The Hornets trailed 6-1 before scoring seven runs in the third inning to take the lead. Mike Rizzuto doubled in the first two runs of the inning. Also in the inning, Matt Aleman had a run-scoring single and Abe Eubank was credited with a RBI on a bases loaded walk. Brandon Crist capped off the inning with a three-run homer to give DSU an 8-6 lead.

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Texas-Pan American Leads Defending Champions Tennessee State by Three after 36 Holes

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- After witnessing a tragic flood that just missed engulfing its Nashville campus and having the team charter bus break down, the prospect of fighting the South Florida sun and a three-stroke deficit is a mere bump in the road for Tennessee State University's men's golf team. It's all in a week's work for the Tigers, who rode senior Chris Seibel's career-best 6-under-par 66 Saturday at PGA Golf Club's Wanamaker Course to make it a race with pace-setter Texas Pan-American for the Division I men's title in the 24th PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship.

"We made up two strokes today, and Chris gave us a great lift," said Tigers Coach Chip Taylor, a PGA Professional, recalling how his 2009 team erasing a 10-stroke deficit in the final round. "What we're looking for is a good performance from all five tomorrow." Texas Pan-American, bidding to capture its third overall national title and first since 2007, demonstrated the depth it needed from the balance of its line-up to post a 581 total through 36 holes. Tennessee State is next at 584, followed by Jackson State University at 596, and Bethune-Cookman University at 600.

Peni Sanjoto of Prairie View A&M University sent a shot flying on Friday. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/The PGA of America)

"We've had two decent rounds, and despite us letting about seven or eight strokes go on the last six holes, I'd rather us be leading by three than trailing by three," said Texas Pan-American Coach Santiago De Larrea. "I'm happy that Tennessee State is there with us. They're very good fighters. It's going to be very interesting tomorrow. We have always wanted to get this title back, and I feel my kids are pretty confident and know what it will take to win."

The Championship, making its 13th consecutive appearance at PGA Golf Club, features a field of 185 student-athletes representing 41 colleges and universities and golfers from 15 countries.

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Young — both of them — to play college baseball at A&T

North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University Aggies head baseball coach Keith Shumate signs a set of twins, a pitcher and a catcher from Statesville (N.C.) High School.

North Carolina A&T might have the most interesting battery in the state over the next few years. Statesville seniors Brett and Sean Young, twin brothers, have both accepted scholarship offers from the Aggies. Brett Young was recruited as a pitcher and Sean Young will play catcher. "We didn't really set it up where we both were (intending) to go to the same school," Brett Young said. "That's just how it turned out. It fits both of us the best."

The Youngs are going to a program that has won a lot of conference games lately. The Aggies (22-23, 12-3) are the No. 2 seed in the upcoming Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tournament. The MEAC is a conference comprised of Division I schools. "It was a nice Division I offer," Brett Young said. "It's small Division I, but we play against top-notch competition like (N.C.) State and Carolina." Brett Young said the coaching staff intends to pack 30 pounds onto his frame. He expects to likely start out as a relief pitcher and progress from there.

Meanwhile, Sean Young has a shot to contribute right away. He plays his position well and can really swing the bat. Sean Young finished the North Piedmont 3A season with better than a .460 batting average, along with three home runs, against some really good pitchers.

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MVSU Woods not done yet; signs local star forward Falando Jones

Mississippi Valley State University Coach Sean Woods is building upon last year's 47th nationally ranked recruiting class with even a stronger class this year. The Delta Devils return four starters for next season and have signed point guard Jerome Harris, Jr., and Falando Jones.

Mississippi Valley State basketball coach Sean Woods is excited about the future of his program and the part Greenwood's Falando Jones will play in it. Jones, a former Greenwood High School (MS) standout, recently signed a national letter of intent with Valley after two seasons at Mississippi Delta Community College. The 6-foot-4 forward averaged 15.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.4 steals per game. He shot 72 percent from the free throw line while shooting 47 percent from the field, including 33 percent from 3-point range.

"Falando is a tremendous talent and can play either the two or three position. He's a tough defensive player. He's my type of player," said Woods. "He will come in and have a chance to contribute on a large scale right away. "He's not just a great player but a great kid, too. He's a great ambassador for Greenwood and will now be the same for Valley." As a freshman at MDCC, Jones averaged 12.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists while shooting 57 percent from the field and 33 percent from long range.

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FIRST ANNUAL HBCU NFL COMBINE CLEARS NEW PATH FOR IMPACT PLAYERS INTO PRO FOOTBALL

Former Director of NFL Football Operations and NFL star, Gene Washington has organized the First Annual HBCU & Small College Pro Combine at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University later this month to expose undrafted senior players to 32 NFL Coaches and Scouting Directors. The Tuscaloosa, Alabama native and Stanford University graduate has worked previously with the NCAA's Champs Life Skills Program assisting HBCUs.

Standout players from the 105 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) throughout the U.S. are being invited to attend the first annual HBCU & Small College Pro Combine, May 21 through 23, 2010, at North Carolina A&T State University.

The Combine is for draft eligible QB's, DB's RB's, TE's, LB's and Wide Outs. Events include the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, bench press, pull-ups, and agility drills. Former Director of NFL Football Operations, Gene Washington, is co-founder of the HBCU COMBINE event.

“The talent level at HBCU’s is stellar. Yet, the selection of only one player in this year’s NFL draft proves there is greater potential that is being overlooked. By hosting an HBCU Combine, our goal is to bring increased recognition to HBCU football programs and amplify the number of HBCU players on NFL rosters,” states Washington.

As an undergraduate at Stanford, Gene Washington was one of 25 black students out of 10,000 students. He attended Stanford because of its concerted efforts to integrate minority students into the college community. During his NFL career with the 49ers and the Lions, he made four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 1969-1972. He was Director of NFL Football Operations from 1994-2009.

Florida A&M University standout quarterback (#11) and Kentucky transfer Curtis Pulley (6-4/200) had an excellent college career, but went undrafted and unsigned by the NFL in April. Pulley was 2004 Mr. Kentucky Football and passed for over 3200 yards, rushed for 1768, and scored 29 touchdowns in two seasons as a Rattler.

HBCU players are proven fruitful players for the National Football League. Great players like Walter Payton, Jerry Rice, Michael Strahan, Aeneas William and Shannon Sharpe have all come out of HBCUs. While achievements made by HBCU college players were recently acknowledged with the opening of the Black College Football Hall of Fame this past February in Atlanta, Georgia, the HBCU & Small College Pro Combine is creating one more avenue for recognition of players representing historically black colleges.

“Few NFL players come from a historically black college. HBCU players bring an elevated level of pride to the league, knowing that they represent a select group. We wanted to give them a special venue to showcase their talent for NFL coaches and scouts, says Mark Bloomquist, Washington’s business partner and co-founder of the HBCU NFL COMBINE.

Southern University's quarterback Bryant Lee (6-3/205) was passed over in the 2010 NFL draft and free agent signings. The All-SWAC/All-American senior passed for 8,134 yards and 70 touchdowns in a stellar four year Jaguar career.

Mark Bloomquist is the President for The Milestone Team and is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1975. Following his naval service, Mr. Bloomquist established himself in the community as a very successful businessman, entrepreneur, and leader. As a former professor at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, he is very familiar with the university system in general and HBCUs in particular.

For more information on the HBCU & Small College Pro Combine at North Carolina A&T State University, please visit the website: www.procombine.com or call 336-937-5202.

Event Schedule

•Host hotel will be the downtown Marriott
•All Activities will take place on the North Carolina A&T State University campus. Transportation will be provided.

•Tentative Schedule is provided below:
A. Friday: May 21
1200 – 1600 Check-In – Waivers , Eligibility Verified, and Films. Issue Gear
1600 – 1900 Medical Records Review
1900 – 2000 Coaches & Scouts Reception – off site. Bus provided.
2000 – 2200 Nutrition Booth & Lecture. Evening Snacks available for athletes at hotel.
B. Saturday: May 22
0600 – 0700 Breakfast
0700 – 0730 Transport to NC A&T University
0730 – 0800 All Hands Meeting
0800 – 0900 Stretching and Conditioning
0900 – 1200 Stations as Assigned : Bench Press , Vertical Jump & Agility Drills
1200 – 1300 Break – Snack
1300 – 1600 Stations as Assigned: Bench Press , Vertical Jump & Agility Drills
(Transport to Marriott hotel at end of Day)
1700 – 1900 Welcome Banquet at Marriott Hotel
2030 – 1900 Depart

South Carolina State University All-MEAC/All-American running back William Ford scored 35 touchdowns and rushed for 4,676 yards in 764 attempts during a record setting career for the Bulldogs. Ford owns the MEAC rushing record and three 1,000+ yard seasons, but suffered a torn lateral collateral ligament against Appalachian State in the 2009 NCAA FCS Division I Playoffs. Ford went undrafted and unsigned although he was the best running back in the FCS over the past four years.

C. Sunday: May 23
0600 – 0700 Breakfast
0700 – 0730 Transport to NC A&T University
0730 – 0800 All Hands Meeting
0800 – 0900 Stretching and Conditioning
0900 – 1200 Stations as Assigned : 40 yard Dash & Pull-ups
1200 – 1300 Break – Snack
1300 – 1600 Stations as Assigned. : 40 Yard Dash & Pull-ups

•Each school will only be allowed to send 2 Graduating Seniors (verified); selected by Head Coach.

•Each attendee will be issued a t-shirt
•Each participant will provide own transportation to and from Greensboro, NC
•Liability waivers will be signed and filed. No spectators will be permitted
•Milestone Marketing Company will provide all meals and water

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UAPB Head Coach Monte Coleman talks about Golden Lions football team‎

The UAPB Golden Lions finished up spring practices with their annual scrimmage two weeks ago. Now Arkansas Pine Bluff is focused on the fall. UAPB lost their last two game of the 2009 season to finish with a record of 5-5. The Golden Lions open the season on the road against Texas El Paso. Friday afternoon head coach Monte Coleman called in to talk to Wess Moore. Click on the video button to see their conversation.

Texas-Pan American jumps out to Five-Shot lead over Tennessee State

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Kevin Kirakossian picked an opportune moment to match his personal-best collegiate round of golf. Making his debut at PGA Golf Club on Friday, the 19-year-old freshman at the University of Texas Pan-American knocked home a 10-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole of the Wanamaker Course to cap a 4-under-par 68 in the first round of the 24th PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship. Kirakossian's seven-birdie, three-bogey performance propelled the Broncs' quintet from Edinburgh, Texas, to a 290 total and a five-stroke Division I lead over defending champion Tennessee State University, a team that arrived at the Championship from flood-ravaged Nashville having lost a week of practice.

Wesley Yates of Florida A&M kept his eye on the ball during Friday's first round. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/The PGA of America)

Jackson State University, which won the last of its eight national titles in 1998, is third with 297 and Bethune-Cookman University of Daytona Beach, Fla., fourth at 298. A native of Tualatin, Ore., Kirakossian collected four birdies in his final six holes, and credited keeping his round intact by making par on the 215-yard 17th hole, following a 3-iron tee shot to 25 feet. "It's my first time in this Championship and I really enjoyed the course and its design," said Kirakossian, whose brother, Armen, a senior and the 2009 Division I medalist, added a 72. "I knew that we would bring a good team here and hopefully we can keep it going." Texas-Pan American Coach Santiago De Larrea said that there's a difference from last year's squad, which finished third.

RELATED
Return to Championship home Friday photo gallery Tee times and scoring Field list Fact sheet Upbear Career expo Championship preview

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Former UCLA 5-Star Recruit Signs With Mississippi Valley St‎ate

Mississippi Valley State University signed its first 5-star recruit since NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice playing days at the Valley. Chicago's Jerome Harris Jr. was ranked as the number one basketball point guard in the recruiting Class of 2009 by some recruiting services and opted out of UCLA.

Former UCLA recruit Jerome Harris, who left Ben Howland's program early in the season due to qualifying issues has signed to play for Mississippi Valley State of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Harris who was expected to be a one and done type of prospect is in route for a huge season at MVSU. Harris who left the program in November spent time at Spoon River Junior College, was rated as one of the top 3 juco point guards in the country.

MVSU Head Coach is former Kentucky standout point guard Sean Woods who spent some time in the NBA. Woods says Harris is a big time talent that can really make a name for himself this season as he has one of the toughest preseason schedules next season. Harris chose Mississippi Valley State over Texas, Minnesota, and USC.

Prior to signing at UCLA, Harris Jr., received offers from Central Michigan, St. Johns, Ohio State, Rutgers, UAB, Arizona, Florida State and Indiana University, among many other major programs too numerous to name.

The 6'-3" point guard, five-star recruit out of Collins High School (Chicago, IL), posses as one of the top players in the Midwest. ''I think I have great point guard skills,'' he said. "It's not rare, but I think I can be one of the ones to succeed. Although Harris is not banking on a future in the NBA, he does consider it a possibility. ''I think about it a lot, he said. I think if it did happen, that's a good life. I just have to work hard. I can never wake up one day and be like, `I'm this' or `I'm that.' "No matter where I'll be, even if I get to the NBA, I'll always keep working. You can always get better.''

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Chattanooga's Gordon Signs Florida A&M Softball Scholarship

Chariah Gordon of Chattanooga (Tennessee) School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) recently signed a college softball scholarship with Florida A&M University. Gordon is a multi-sport athlete at CSAS, most recently as a member of the basketball team that made it to the Class A semifinals at the state tournament in March.

Chariah's signing will make her the third athlete in the Gordon family to compete - concurrently - in collegiate sports. Chariah's sister Ciera plays softball for Howard University. Her brother Channing, a Baylor senior, will play football for Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio. Since Florida A&M and Howard University are both members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Chariah and Ciera may have a chance to compete against other.

See full size image - Gordan with basketball

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Southern basketball class grows by two more

Southern University men's head basketball coach Rob Spivery.

All too often, during a long, grim season for the Southern men’s basketball program, Rob Spivery watched his offense disappear for minutes on end. The result was predictable. All too often, Southern lost. “There were times last year when we just couldn’t buy a basket,” said Spivery, who enters his sixth season as SU’s coach. So as the offseason began, Spivery made his top priority Spartan simple: He vowed to recruit a few scorers. In adding to his signing class Tuesday, Spivery said he believes he has found two more: Mike Celestin, a 5-foot-11 point guard from Mount Laurel, N.J., and Fred Coleman, a 6-5 forward from Memphis, Tenn.

Celestin spent last season at Trinity-Pawling, a prep school in New York, where he averaged 17.0 points, 4.1 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. He will have four seasons of eligibility. oleman spent the last two seasons at Marion (Ala.) Military Institute, where he averaged 12.0 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. He will have two seasons of eligibility. Celestin and Coleman join Arsenio Francis, a 6-foot-4 forward from Baton Rouge Community College; Marceis Davis, a 6-4 guard/forward from Richwood High in Monroe; and Lloyd Hickerson, a 6-6 forward from Western Nebraska Community College.

“I think all these guys we’ve brought in, they have that scoring element to them,” Spivery said. “I think we’ve got a pretty good crew.”

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JSU Tigers make some history, deal more misery to Mississippi State Bulldogs‎

PEARL, MS — Quintavious Drains pumped his fist, walked toward the Jackson State dugout and then met the mob of players pouring out in ecstatic celebration. There were chest bumps, bear hugs, high-fives and even a bit of dancing. Yep, David had beaten Golliath. Jackson State beat Mississippi State 3-1 Tuesday night at Trustmark Park, knocking off the tradition-rich program for the first time in 18 years. The Tigers (29-14), in position to win their first SWAC title in a decade, won their 10th straight game and won for just the eighth time in 58 meetings with Mississippi Sate (20-24).

"We were ready. We were ready," said Drains, a sophomore pitcher who got the save. Said JSU coach Omar Johnson: "It means a lot to the people at the university." Meanwhile, the Bulldogs dropped their seventh straight and lost to JSU for the first time since an 8-4 defeat in Jackson in 1992. State, which was swept in the past two SEC weekend series, beat Jackson State 18-2 on April 6 in Starkville to make it 23 in a row over the Tigers. This time around the Bulldogs failed to handle Drains and JSU starter Cortney Nelson. They had a season-low three hits and hit into three double plays. Their only run came in the sixth on Connor Powers' homer.

PHOTO GALLERIES: JSU - MSU

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Fired B-CU coach sues university

DAYTONA BEACH, FL -- Alvin Wyatt, the winningest football coach in Bethune-Cookman University's history, has sued the school, claiming breach of contract for firing him in November after a 5-6 season. Neither Wyatt nor his attorney could be reached for comment Thursday, but the lawsuit filed in circuit court Wednesday claims the 62-year-old coach was "wrongfully terminated" without cause and without written notice, as required in his contract with BCU.

Alvin Wyatt, Sr., former head football coach, B-CU.
















Wyatt seeks more than $800,000, including five years of his base salary of $90,000, five years of television appearance income at $35,000 per year and five years of "additional guaranteed income" that totaled $40,000 in 2009. The suit also opens the door for a possible age-discrimination action in federal court after the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission completes its review of the case. Former Rutgers assistant coach Brian Jenkins, 39, was hired to replace Wyatt in December.

Liz Poston, a university spokeswoman, confirmed that B-CU has been served with the complaint, but declined to comment, saying the university has a policy to not discuss personnel matters publicly. Athletics Director Lynn Thompson also refused comment. Wyatt was fired on Nov. 23, 2009, two days after the Wildcats lost to arch-rival Florida A&M, 42-6. He compiled a record of 90-54 in 13 seasons as B-CU's head coach.

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SSU Men's Basketball Signs Three

Coach Horace Broadnax adds three solid players to the Tigers Den for their first MEAC basketball season.

SAVANNAH, Ga.- Savannah State men’s basketball head coach Horace Broadnax has announced the signing of three players to join the SSU basketball program for the 2010-11 school year. Inking with the Tigers were Christopher Spears, Jyles Smith and Stephen Wilson.

Spears (6-8, 225) was a four-year starter at Turner County High School in Ashburn, Georgia. Spears led his team to three final four appearances and two state championship game appearances. He was also named to the all-region team (2-A) during his sophomore, junior and senior years. With Spears in the lineup, Turner County had a record of 124-20. As a senior, Spears averaged 22 points and 12 rebounds per game and was named region Defensive Player of the Year. He was also named to the all-state team. Spears was Turner County High’s junior class president and senior class vice president.

Smith (6-8, 215) played at Creekside High School in Fairburn, Georgia where he averaged 10 points, 10.5 rebounds and 6.5 blocks a game. During the 2009-10 season Smith had three triple doubles. He was named first team all-region (4-AAAAA) and was selected to play in the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association North-South All-Star Game.

Wilson (5-11, 165) played at Mt. Zion High School in Jonesboro, Georgia where he was the team Offensive Player of the Year. During his senior year, Wilson averaged 20 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.5 steals per game. The second all-time leading scorer in Mt. Zion High history, Wilson was a third team all-region (4-AAAA) selection as a junior and a first team all-region pick as a senior.

DSU Announces 2010 Football Game Times

Director of Athletics Derek Carter (in photo) has announced kickoff times for the Hornets' 2010 home football schedule and the season opening MEAC/SWAC Challenge against Southern University on September 5 in Orlando, Fla.

The sixth annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney will kick off at 12:00 p.m. ET at Citrus Bowl Stadium in Orlando. The contest will be aired live on ESPN. This will mark the first time the game, which will be produced in high definition, will be offered on ESPN. Delaware State will be making its first MEAC/SWAC Challenge appearance. The contest features a team from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference against an opponent from the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Delaware State is 2-0 all-time vs. Southern. The Hornets, led by first-year head coach Bill Collick and All-American John Taylor, defeated the Jaguars 46-8 in 1985 in Baton Rouge, La. The teams met again the following year in Shreveport, La., with the Hornets coming out on top, 21-14.

Delaware State's 2010 home schedule features two night games at Alumni Stadium. The Hornets will play their home and MEAC opener on Sep. 11 against Florida A&M. Game time is 6:00 p.m.

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DSU Hornets 2010 Football Schedule

Date Opponent Site Time












Sun., Sept. 5 Southern University Orlando, Fla. 12:00 p.m. (ESPN)(MEAC/SWAC Challenge)
Sat., Sept. 11 FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY* HOME 6:00 p.m.
Sat., Sept. 18 OPEN
Sat., Sept. 25 at Coastal Carolina University Conway, S.C. TBA
Sat., Oct. 2 HAMPTON UNIVERSITY* HOME 6:00 p.m.
Sat., Oct. 9 at Bethune-Cookman University* Daytona Beach, Fla. 4:00 p.m.
Sat., Oct. 16 NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY* HOME 1:00 p.m.(Homecoming)
Sat., Oct. 23 at Morgan State University* Baltimore, Md. 1:00 p.m.
Sat., Oct. 30 SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY* HOME 1:00 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 6 NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY HOME 1:00 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 13 at Norfolk State University* Norfolk, Va. 1:00 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 20 at Howard University* Washington, D.C. 1:00 p.m.

Home games in all CAPS. *-MEAC games
DSU Ticket Office: 302-857-7497/1-866-378-TIXX

Dallas Cowboys' Marcus Dixon 'to make an impact'

IRVING, Texas -- Marcus Dixon (Hampton University) knows all about wanting -- and waiting -- to prove himself. After spending parts of his first two seasons on the practice squad, the Dallas Cowboys defensive end has high hopes to make it on the 53-man roster. "He's really reshaped his career as a football player," coach Wade Phillips said. "The first day he came in, two years ago, he couldn't run one lap without collapsing. Now he's on special teams runs and he's up to 294 now, and he was 270 when he came in."

Dixon will have steady competition for an end spot that is occupied by starters Marcus Spears and Igor Olshansky. The backups are Jason Hatcher and Stephen Bowen. Spears, Hatcher and Bowen are currently in the final year of their contracts. It's something Dixon has noticed. "My mindset is it's got to be my year," Dixon said. "This is a league of 'What have you done for me lately?' I know the coaches and the owner like me and they kept me, but it's still a league of 'What have you done for me lately?' I've been here. I got to show them something. I got to get this done and stay healthy, and I got to showcase my talents because I want to be here."

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Coach Nickelberry Lands at Howard University

Howard University Bison head basketball coach, Kevin Nickelberry.

Over the past two months, Coach Kevin Nickelberry has been the hottest coaching commodity on the Division I basketball circuit. The former Hampton University head men's basketball coach had been offered assistant coaching positions by incoming head coaches Gib Arnold at the University of Hawaii and Oliver Purnell, DePaul University. After all things considered, Nickelberry had to say no--for a better offer as the new head men's basketball coach at Howard University, in his hometown of Washington, D.C.

This is probably the best hire Howard University has made since the legendary Willie Jeffries was named the coach of Bison football. In our opinion, Coach Nickelberry is just that good and is an expectional recruiter of Division I talent. It will be interesting to see how soon Nickelberry can get the Bison back on the winning track and compete with Morgan State's Coach Todd Bozeman for the wealth of basketball talent in Washington D.C., Prince George's and Baltimore Counties. We expect a battle of public school (Morgan State) vs. private school (Howard) in this MEAC race. More importantly, Howard University has made a very serious statement with this hire -- the Bison are now serious about winning in basketball and making it to the big dance.

Coach Nickelberry replaces Gil Jackson, who was fired after five consecutive 20-loss seasons, including a 7-25 record last season.

No doubt, the Coach Nickelberry hire is definitely a strong upgrade for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference coaching ranks. Add to the mix -- coaches Todd Bozeman (Morgan State), Horace Broadnax (Savannah State), Tim Carter (South Carolina State), Greg Jackson (Delaware State), Ron "Fang" Mitchell (Coppin State), Jerry Eaves (North Carolina A&T) and LeVelle Moton (North Carolina Central), the conference is moving in the right direction to become a mid-major force.

Now, the rest of the story...

Kevin Nickelberry Named Head Men's Basketball Coach at Howard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Kevin Nickelberry, who helped UNC Charlotte and Clemson to four postseason appearances, has been named head basketball coach at Howard University."We are pleased to have a coach with the distinguished career and success of Kevin Nickelberry lead our men's basketball program," said Charles Gibbs, Director of Athletics. "This is an exciting day, not only for Howard University, but for our alumni and loyal supporters. We look toward the future under Coach Nickelberry's direction as we take the steps necessary to propel our program to a new era of excellence.”

Nickelberry, a native of Washington, D.C. and no stranger to Howard, spent the last year as the head coach of the Libya National Basketball Team. He was the head coach at Hampton University from 2006-2009. During his three years with the Pirates, Nickelberry helped guide his teams to 20 non-conference wins. He collected 49 Division I wins during his tenure, which ranks second among MEAC schools.

"This is an opportunity of a lifetime for me to be able to return to the sidelines at Howard because of its rich tradition, heritage and a strong academic dimension,” Nickelberry said. “I look forward to getting to know each of the players, building a staff and making sure that we put things in motion for the upcoming academic year."

Nickelberry began his coaching career as the head women’s basketball coach at Columbia Union College in 1991 and moved to Howard University for four seasons, from 1994-1998. During his time in the coaching ranks, Nickelberry worked in all areas including recruiting, fundraising, marketing and public relations. The 45-year-old has been a major part of every aspect, especially during his three-year tenure at Clemson from 2003-2006 when he recruited nine players on the Tigers’ 2007-08 and 2008-09 NCAA Tournament teams.

Nickelberry was the assistant coach at UNC Charlotte for two seasons. Over this period in 2001-03, he helped develop Eddie Basden, the second player in Conference USA history to win Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards in the same season. He also contributed to successful programs at Holy Cross and Monmouth. For his efforts, Nickelberry was rated among the Top 25 “Up-and-Coming” college basketball coaches by The Sporting News and Hoopscooponline.com in 2008.

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RECRUITMENT: Director, Intercollegiate Athletics

Our Alma Mater needs help... please pass this vacancy announcement on to any "top shelf" qualified candidates that you may know in the profession that is looking for a fresh career start.

Director, Intercollegiate Athletics

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is one of eleven state-supported universities in Florida. The University is governed by a 13-member Board of Trustees and is a member of the State University System governed by the Florida Board of Governors. FAMU is an 1890 land-grant Comprehensive/Doctoral University, which was established by the Legislature in 1887 in the capital city of Tallahassee. The University currently has an enrollment of approximately 12,000 high achieving students and over 700 faculty members who provide instruction, research, and service through six colleges, seven schools, and an Environmental Science Institute. In addition to 62 outstanding baccalaureate programs, FAMU offers 42 master's level programs, several professional programs, including a College of Law, and 11 Ph.D. programs. The University has been an historic leader in recruiting National Achievement Scholars and has been number one in the production of African American baccalaureate graduates.

The University is seeking applications of individuals with a strong academic, and/or administrative background for the position of Director, Intercollegiate Athletics.

QUALIFICATIONS: A master's degree or professional degree from an accredited university in an appropriate area of specialization and six (6) years of appropriate experience; or a bachelor's degree from an accredited university in an appropriate area of specialization and eight (8) years of appropriate experience. Preference will be given to applicants with evidence of significant senior leadership in athletic administration and/or coaching, preferably at the NCAA Division I collegiate level, a comprehensive understanding and extensive knowledge of NCAA bylaws, rules and regulations, successful fund-raising efforts and absolute commitment to the philosophy of the student athlete including academic excellence and sportsmanship.

The deadline to apply is May 31, 2010. Applicants should submit a completed FAMU employment application to:

Office of Human Resources
Florida A&M University
211 Foote-Hilyer Administration Center
Tallahassee, Florida 32307-3200
Telephone: (850) 599-3611
Fax: (850) 561-2080

Salary: Salary is based on educational requirements, experience and knowledge, skills, and abilities.

NOTE: Successful completion of a background investigation is a condition of employment.

Alcorn State Claims 2010 SWAC Softball Championship Title‎

The (Alcorn State University) Lady Braves started the day with an 11-2 rout over Grambling State to secure a place in the championship game against the six-time defending champion (Mississippi Valley State University) Devilettes. In the first inning of the title game, MVSU’s first two batters, Ashley Hobbs and Angelica Wade hoisted home runs out of the park, giving Alcorn State an early 0-2 deficit. However, the Lady Braves answered back at the top of second with a Jennie Hatch homer that drove home two runs. The game would remain knotted at two all for the next five innings.

After a brief rain delay at the top of the eighth inning, Alcorn State returned from the hiatus re-energized as the Lady Braves rattled off three hits while scoring four runs to take the 6-2 lead. The Devilettes looked poised for a scoring surge of their own after an Angelia Jones homer at the bottom of the eighth. However, MVSU wasn’t able to score again, halting a six-year conference championship win streak. Alcorn State was led by Rachel Morris who was 2-for-4 in the game while Haleigh Eubanks led the way for the Devilettes, going 3-for-4.

This is Alcorn State’s first conference championship since 1997, when they were co-champions with Grambling State. With the win, the Lady Braves are automatic qualifiers for the NCAA regional tournament. The softball selection show is set for Sunday, May 16 at 9 p.m. (CT) on ESPNU.

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Anthony's decision boosts GSU's hopes‎

GRAMBLING, LA — As Grambling's Black and Gold Spring Game was wrapping up last Saturday, so was the final day of the 2010 NFL Draft. GSU defensive end Christian Anthony very well could have heard his name called in the draft had he chosen for forego his final year of eligibility with the Tigers. But his mother had other plans. "The first thing I did after the Bayou Classic was I sat down and talked with my mom, and we had a little discussion," Anthony said. "She wanted me to finish school, and then go on from there. What's another six or seven months?"

Grambling State’s star defensive end Christian Anthony (#90) chose to forego the NFL Draft and return to GSU for his senior year to graduate.

It sounds like Anthony's motivations for returning for his senior year extend beyond academics. He also wants to finish his athletic career on a high note. He was a key player on a GSU defense that paved the way to a SWAC championship in 2008, but the Tigers had a disappointing 2009 season, including mid-season loss to Prairie View A&M that essentially knocked the Tigers out of title contention. "That's all I need is motivation," Anthony said. "There's always motivation, especially with Prairie View." At 6-foot-3 and 277 pounds, Anthony certainly looks the part of an NFL draft pick.

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2010 UDFA Profile: Terrell Whitehead, S, Norfolk State

Norfolk State's free safety Terrell Whitehead #9 is the Spartans first-ever three-time Division I FCS All-American. How this 6-1/196 gem of a defensive player was overlooked and not drafted in 255 picks is a complete mystery to MEAC fans. (photo by Mark Sutton)

We are currently in the midst of the 2010 mini-camp for the Jaguars and unfortunately I am unable to attend. So instead I'll defer to the judgement of those that were able to attend, namely BCC's own Alfie Crow. In his last post, reviewing day 1 of mini-camp, Alfie singled out Norfolk State safety Terrell Whitehead as one of the undrafted free agents that has a chance to make the final roster:

A free agent rookie to keep an eye on is Norfolk State safety Terell Whitehead. He intercepted a Luke McCown pass during what was supposed to be one-on-one drills. Defensive coordinator Mel Tucker told him to jump the route if he could on the play, which Whitehead did, and was abruptly met with a "Hey man! Not fair!" by the intercepted quarterback.

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Terrell Whitehead was the safety to backup Jaguars CB Don Carey at Norfolk State for three years and was a very successful one at that. Whitehead was injured for the first two games of his freshman season, found the field as a reserve for the next five games and started his last four games. From then on, Whitehead was nothing short of a superstar for Norfolk State. In both his sophomore and junior seasons he was named to the 1st team All-MEAC and the 3rd team FCS All-American teams. In his senior season, Whitehead earned a spot on the 1st team All-MEAC and the 1st team FCS All-American teams. He remains the only player in NSU history to earn spots on the All-MEAC and the FCS All-American teams in three years.

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Friend helps Pugh discover recruiting gem

Southern University Coach Sandy Pugh expects to sign one more player by the end of the late signing period.

Fresh off her trip to the NCAA tournament, Southern women’s basketball coach Sandy Pugh was scanning the country for a good recruit. She had someone specific in mind — a versatile guard who could dribble, shoot, score and play multiple positions. Someone who reminded Pugh of some of her veterans, like standouts Hannah Kador and Ashley Augerson. Just then, Pugh said an old friend called her with a tip: Check out Adrian Sanders, a 5-foot-10 guard/forward from Ridgeway High School in Memphis, Tenn.

“One of my colleagues saw her work out and said, ‘Hey, you have to get this girl.’ I looked at her on tape and we did our homework, and my friend was right,” Pugh said. “Adrian came down (last) weekend, she loved the team and the campus. ... We were lucky to get in on her this late in the game.” Sure enough, Sanders was one of two players to sign national letters of intent to play at Southern next season. She joined Adjua David, a 5-foot-10 forward from New York.

Sanders, a left-hander, averaged 16.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game during her senior. She was named to her all-district and all-region teams her senior year. David averaged 23.7 points, 17.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game this season at Boys & Girls High School in Brooklyn. She led New York’s three-tier Public School Athletic League in scoring and rebounds.

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An idea whose time has come at TSU

Few main stream sports fans know that Super Bowl Champion Michael Strahan All-American smile was developed on the playing fields of Texas Southern University, where he ruled the SWAC, recording 41.5 career sacks. The NFL's all-time sack leader and future hall of famer is a native of Houston, Texas and played 15 NFL seasons for the New York Giants.

You know the saying about not remembering history and our being condemned to repeat it? Well, Texas Southern University hopes that remembering some of its glorious football history might help it relive it. Tigers greats will gather tonight to celebrate the inaugural class of the Texas Southern Football Hall of Fame. The idea, pushed by TSU coach Johnnie Cole, a TSU legend and almost certain future inductee, is long overdue.

TSU All-American defensive tackle, the late Ernie Holmes, a two-time Super Bowl winner and an anchor of Pittsburgh's "Steel Curtain" defense, pose with Super Bowl trophy and Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Chuck Noll. The two-time All Pro played for the Steelers from 1972-77, and spent part of the 1978 season with New England before retiring. Holmes, an ordained minister, lived on a ranch in Wiergate, Texas and died at age 59 in a car crash in January 2008. As part of a famous front four that included "Mean" Joe Greene, L.C. Greenwood and the late Dwight White, "Ernie was one of the toughest players to ever wear a Steelers uniform," Steelers chairman Dan Rooney said in a statement. "At his best, he was an intimidating player who even the toughest of opponents did not want to play against."

“This is something I've dreamed about for years,” said Cole, who played quarterback at TSU from 1982-86 and returned as coach in 2008. “Over the years, a lot of former athletes had said they felt that the school had forgotten about them, and I always felt this would be one way to pay tribute.

“There are so many wonderful people, so many great football players, who have done so much for the university and so much in life that needed to be acknowledged. Before you know where you're going, you got to know where you come from.” Local sports fans are not as familiar with the grand history of TSU football as we should be. Any university would be proud to honor such a distinguished group as this first class. All 15 of the players who will be celebrated tonight at the Westin Galleria were All-Americans. The group spans five decades of TSU football.

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Former MLB star Dave Parker visits FAMU‎

"The Cobra" Dave Parker was the 1978 National League MVP and a two-time batting champion.

A larger than usual crowd waited at Rattler Field. They came for two reasons: To see former major-league great Dave Parker throw out the first pitch. Then to hopefully enjoy a competitive game between the Florida A&M and Bethune-Cookman University softball teams. The Rattlers have dominated the past five meetings between the conference rivals. Rain, however, washed out the softball game Friday afternoon. Those who waited out a lengthy delay mingled with Parker, who is in town for the graduation of his daughter, Dorian, today. He didn't seem bothered by the delay, although it was the second one in his day.

His flight was late getting into Jacksonville, followed by a two-hour ride to Tallahassee. Waiting. It seems to be the story of Parker's life when it comes to the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. For the past 13 years, since he has became eligible to be considered for induction into the HOF, Parker has yet to hear his name called. He often finds himself talking about it and Friday was no exception. There is no bitterness, Parker said, just confusion as he approaches his final year of eligibility before his only way of getting in would be through the Veterans Committee.

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