Morgan State Signs 20 Prospects to National Letters

MSU Bears Head Coach Donald Hill-Eley

BALTIMORE, Md. -- Morgan State football coach Donald Hill-Eley has announced the signing of twenty (20) players to national letters of intent to play for the Bears beginning next fall. The list released Thursday consists of 12 high school signees and eight junior-college recruits.

Overall, the twenty (20) signees included five (5) defensive linemen, five (5) linebackers, two (2) quarterbacks, two (2) offensive linemen, two (2) tight ends, two (2) cornerbacks and one (1) wideout.

Morgan State University Football
2011 National Letter of Intent Signees

Damarco Bisbee, DL, 6-3, 280, Lansing, Mich., J.W. Sexton HS
Notes: CAAC All-Conference ... All-Area Dream Team ... All State Dream ... AP All-State Team

Calvin Fuller, LB, 6-3, 210, Aiken, S.C., Georgia Military, Lucy Laney H.S.
Notes: First Team All-Region, First Team All-Area

Moses Skillon, QB, 6-5, 210, Hollywood, Fla., Hallandale HS
Notes: 28 TDs ... 2,000 yards ... First Team All-Broward

Jamil Lawson, DT, 6-5, 340, Norfolk, Va., Booker T. Washington HS
Notes: Second Team All-District/Eastern District ... All District on Offense and Defense

Anthony Drayton, WR, 5-10, 175, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Stranahan HS
Notes: MVP North-South All Star ... 13 TDs ... 2,100 All-purpose yards.

Seth Higgins, QB, 6-4, 210, Edgewood, Md., Edgewood HS
Notes: Two-time All-Conference ... Threw for 1,500 yards in seven years during his senior year

TierneyYates, LB, 6-2, 210, Los Angeles, Calif., Bakersfield College 
Notes: 1 Team All-Conference ... 70 Tackles, 7 sacks, 13 TFLs, 6 fumbles recoveries

Tyrell Okoro, OL, 6-4, 295, Ozone Park, N.Y., Bayside High HS
Notes: All-Queens Team... Offense gained over 2,000 yards rushing ... Collected 40 Tackles and 12 tackles for loss

Cordell Robinson, LB, 6-1, 230, Los Angeles, Calif., Pasadena CC...Notes: Two-time All-Conference

Kris Westphal, TE, 6-4, 215, Gaithersburg, Md., Gaithersburg HS
Notes: All-County ... All-Conference ... 33 receptions for 327 yards, including 8 touchdowns

Lakendrick Ross, DE/DT, 6-4, 285, Portsmouth, Va., IC Norcum HS
Notes: All-Eastern District ... 1st team All District ... Defensive Player of the Year

Denzel Stanback, TE, 6-3, 220, Washington D.C., Friendship HS
Notes: All-Conference selection

Thomas Perry, LB, 6-3, 225, Colerain, N.C., Bertie HS
Notes: Defensive Player of the Year ... All-Area ... All-Region

Jeffrey Perry, CB, 5-10, 180, Mirmar, Fla., Miramar HS

Joseph Wilson, OT, 6-3, 290, Chicago, Ill., College of Dupage
Notes: JC All-American

Kyle Bell, DE/DT, 6-3, 280, Visalia, Calif., College of Sequoias
Notes: All Conference

Randon Key, DT, 6-5, 310, Newport News, Va., Fork Union Military
Notes: 2 Times All-Tidewater

Earvin Gonzalez, K, 5-10, 200, Visalia, Calif., College of Sequoias

Tony Mack, CB, 6-3, 190, Ladson, S.C., Feather River CC
Notes: Shrine Bowl ... All State

Chris Outten, LB, 6-1, 235, Camden, S.C., Feather River CC
Notes: All-Conference ... RED Zone Player of the Year


Videographer: TheCoachva; "Jamil "The Hummer" Lawson, " DT-6-4,340

by MSU Media Relations

Former Alcorn State receiver Emmanuel Arceneaux headed to Minnesota Vikings

VANCOUVER - It might be a long, long stretch to suggest that Emmanuel Arceneaux is going to become the next Donald Driver. But Driver too was undersold when he was drafted in the seventh round in 1999 by the Green Bay Packers out of Alcorn State, a small, historically black university in Lorman, Miss. Driver went on to become the Packers all-time leading receiver.

Arceneaux, another unheralded Alcorn State prospect, from the NFL's perspective, will have his signing with the Minnesota Vikings officially confirmed today after he and his agent, Bardia Ghahremani, reached agreement on a three-year, $1.8 million deal early Saturday morning with the club.



New receiver took Canadian detour to NFL

Emmanuel Arceneaux wondered if his football career was over when he wasn't selected in the 2009 NFL draft after his career at Alcorn State.

He figured he might end up "sitting at home on the couch and just working a normal job." He chose a different path and headed to the Canadian Football League. Now, after two productive seasons with the B.C. Lions, Arceneaux is set to sign a three-year deal with the Vikings.

The contract could be worth as much as $1.8 million and includes a $75,000 signing bonus.

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Savannah State Releases 2011 Football Schedule

SSU 2011 Football Schedule (click here)

SAVANNAH, Ga.- A new stadium, a new conference, a new coach and five home games highlight the 2011 Savannah State football schedule.

The Tigers will play in a brand new Theodore A. Wright Stadium as members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) under the direction of new head football coach Steve Davenport. After playing just two home games last year, SSU will play five games at home in 2011, all against MEAC opponents.

Included in the schedule are first ever matchups with Southeastern Louisiana and Appalachian State as well as eight MEAC games. SSU will start the season with four road games.

Savannah State will play former Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference rival Albany State on September 3 at a yet to be determined location.

After road trips to Southeastern Louisiana (Sept. 10) and Appalachian State (Sept. 17), the Tigers will play their first official MEAC game on the road against North Carolina Central on Sept. 24.

SSU will play Howard on October 1 at 7:00 p.m. for their first home contest of the season in the “Coming Home/Hall of Fame Game”.

Following a road trip to Morgan State (Oct. 8), the Tigers return home for a three-game home stand.

Savannah State will play host to Florida A&M (Oct. 15) for “Church & Community Day” at 7 p.m.

After an OPEN date on Oct. 22, SSU will celebrate HOMECOMING on Oct. 29 against Hampton at 2:00 p.m.

Norfolk State visits the Port City on November 5 for “Band Weekend/High School Day” and SSU travels to Bethune-Cookman on Nov. 12.

The Tigers close out the 2011 campaign on Nov 19 with South Carolina State on “Senior Day/Military Appreciation Day”.

MEAC games on the schedule include NCCU, Howard, Morgan, FAMU, Hampton, Norfolk State, Bethune-Cookman and South Carolina State.

Albany State, Appalachian State, Bethune-Cookman and South Carolina State all made the playoffs in 2010. Albany State made the Division II playoffs while the remaining schools participated in the FCS playoffs.

SSU 2011 Football Schedule (click here)

by SSU Sports Information

SSU's Davenport signs 20 players

Two days after announcing the hiring of five assistants, first-year Savannah State University football coach Steve Davenport on Wednesday announced the signing of 20 players to national letters of intent.

Davenport, who was hired Jan. 7 after four seasons as the running backs coach at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, signed 13 players from Georgia high schools. None of the signees are from the Coastal Empire.

"I don't have a lot of relationships that were built in Savannah, but I will," said Davenport, a 43-year-old Decatur native. "We're going to extend ourselves to the coaches in the community, and to the community as a whole. But this wasn't an opportunity to do that. I got the job so late I hit the ground running, and ran to where I knew I would be accepted. We'll get to the people of Savannah."



Tigers Ink 20 Football Recruits

SAVANNAH, Ga.- Savannah State head football coach Steve Davenport announced the signing of 20 young men who have decided to continue their educational career at SSU. “We wanted to bring in quality student-athletes and good football players,” said Davenport.

Of the 20 signees, 13 hail from the state of Georgia in the Atlanta metro area. Davenport thinks that linebacker Jordan Mincy, wide receiver Vaughn Cornelia, defensive lineman Evince Dossous, wide receiver Kristopher Drummond and defensive end Brandon Rhodes could come in a possibly get some playing time early.

Full Signee List (Click Here)

Mitchell hoping effort pays off for Southern Jaguars

Less than three months after his first season ended with a 2-9 record, Stump Mitchell said he knew his second recruiting class had to count for quite a lot. This time around, his program couldn’t afford to whiff.

Mitchell, who introduced 17 new recruits to a crowd of faithful fans Wednesday night at the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union, said he wanted the complete package among this year’s signees — players who weren’t just ready for college football, but those who were coming to campus with a lofty grade-point average.

After all, he said, student-athletes aren’t worth much to a football program if they can’t remain students.

SU’s Mitchell re-recruiting former players

Second-year coach Stump Mitchell was, without much doubt, pleased with his second class of recruits at Southern University, which included 17 signees. But there’s another piece to a potential turnaround at SU, which posted a 2-9 record — the worst in school history — in Mitchell’s first season.

It was almost as important, Mitchell said, to re-recruit some players who are already on campus — former SU veterans who were academically ineligible last season.

The Official List of 2011 Southern U. Football Signees

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Delaware State Hornets name Blount football coach

Delaware State University today named Kermit Blount head football coach. Blount spent 17 seasons coaching Winston-Salem State before resigning in November 2009. Blount went 91-87-3 at the North Carolina university, from which he graduated in 1980.

The Virginia native won his 90th career game in 2008 when the Rams beat Delaware State 27-26.

Blount replaces Al Lavan, who after taking over in 2004 wound up as the third-winningest coach in Delaware State history with a record of 41-36 and guided the Hornets to the MEAC championship (10-2 overall, 8-0 MEAC) and its first appearance in the Division I-AA playoffs in 2007.



DSU names new football head coach

The Delaware State Hornets have a new football coach to lead them in the 2011 season. Kermit Blount replaces Al Lavan whose contract was not renewed after this past season.

Blount is a North Carolina native. He comes to the Dover campus after 16 years as the head football coach for Winston-Salem State University. His resume there includes two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Championships and a total of three CIAA Championship game appearances. He's also had teams in the Pioneer Bowl on two occasions.

“Coach Blount has proven he knows how to guide student-athletes to championship-level seasons as well as accomplish high standards of academic success,” Dr. Harry Williams, DSU President said. “The Search Committee is to be commended for its diligence in reviewing the candidates, in engaging in earnest deliberations and arriving at its recommendation.”

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NCCU ANNOUNCES 26 RECRUITS IN FOOTBALL SIGNING CLASS

Eight Signees from North Carolina, Including Four from State Champions Hillside High

DURHAM, N.C. – Twenty-six student-athletes signed national letters of intent on Wednesday (Feb. 2) to become part of head football coach Henry Frazier III’s first recruiting class at North Carolina Central University.

The 2011 NCCU recruiting class consists of 23 high school seniors and three transfers. Among the signees are 12 linemen (6 offense, 6 defense), five defensive backs, two linebackers, two wide receivers, a quarterback, running back, fullback, tight end and a return specialist.

“Our goal was to recruit an athlete at every position, just to create some competition,” said Frazier, who took over the Eagles gridiron program on Jan. 3. “That’s what we were able to do.


Videographer: NCCUEagles

by Kyle Serba, Associate A.D. for Media Relations, www.NCCUEaglePride.com

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PVAMU Panthers Sign 20 Student-Athletes To National Letters Of Intent

A total of 20 student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play football for Prairie View A&M University on Wednesday.

“Recruiting has gone well as we’ve met our critical needs,” said first-year head coach Heishma Northern. “I’m happy with our assistant coaches for going out and doing their due diligence as they did a fine job of keeping our class intact after the coaching change.”

Northern also mentioned the difference in recruiting as a head coach for the first time compared to being a coordinator.

“One of the first things that stood out was that I had to make the sales pitch of what myself and the program is going to do for the kids,” he said. “As a coordinator, my biggest thing was bringing players to the table and letting Coach Frazier decide but now I had to make the ultimate decision on whether we’re going to offer a particular kid and decide if the scholarship was going to be a full, partial or walk-on opportunity. I had to make some tough decisions regarding that situation but that comes with the territory of being a head coach.”



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Tennessee State Tigers Ink Twenty-Two Football Players

Coach Rod Reed and his staff have signed twenty-two football players to National Letters of Intent on national signing day, February 2, 2011.

The Tigers inked twelve players on defensive, nine players on offense and one player termed an athlete. The 2011 recruiting class consists of five players from Tennessee, five from the state of Florida, three players from Louisiana, two players each from Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia. One player each comes from the states of South Carolina, North Carolina and Indiana.

The position breakdown sees the addition of six defensive linemen, four linebackers and two defensive backs. The offensive additions are as follows, three tight ends, two wide receivers, two running back and one each at offensive line and quarterback. The one player listed as an athlete has played as running back, quarterback, receiver and kick returner.

2011 TSU Football Class

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Taylor calls class best since he has arrived at FAMU

One of the promises Joe Taylor made when he took over as head football coach at Florida A&M was to have his recruiting staff cast a wide net. Call it a promise kept if the class of signees announced Wednesday is an indication.

Taylor reached as far as Hawaii for help to shore up the Rattlers' offensive line, signing offensive guard Pieper Kawika. FAMU beat out nine other schools, including Duke from the ACC and Marshall of Conference USA, for the services of the 6-foot-3, 320-pound two-time all-state lineman from Moanalua High School.

In all, FAMU signed 22 of the 25 prospects it pursued during the recruiting period. Taylor hailed the class, which includes three Division I transfers and one from a junior college, as the best he's recruited since taking over the FAMU program.


Videographer: FAMUSPORTS

2011 FAMU Rattlers Signees

Aiken, Patrick, 5-10/170, CB, Pembroke Pines, Fla./Flanagan H.S.

Bass, Tyler, 6-4/210,QB, r-Jr. Atlanta, Ga./Memphis

Broaddus, James, 6-5/245, DE Choctawhatchee, Fla./Choctawhatchee H.S.

Brinson, Sherrod, 6-1/270 OC Madison, Fla./Madison HS

Carroll, Jeremiah, 6-4/290 OL Dothan, Ala./Northview HS

Carter, Ravonne, 5-11/190 DB Fr. Miami, Fla./New Mexico

Gibson, LaDontae, 6-4/280 OL/DL Madison, Fla./Madison HS

Harrison, Delmus, 5-11/185 RB Tallahassee, Fla./FAMU DRS

Harvey, DeWayne, 6-3/200 Ath Tallahassee, Fla./Florida HS

Hypollite, Ellie 6-4/275 DL Jr. Bartow, Fla./Eerie JC

Liford, Gene 6-9/280 OL Monticello, Fla./Aucilla HS

James, Dane 6-1/180 QB Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./Boyd Anderson

McGhee, Rickey 6-2/190 WR Crawfordville, Fla./Rickards HS

Morris, Michael 6-5/230 TE Jacksonville, Fla./Andrew Jackson H.S.

Nettles, Michael 6-5/290 OL Miami, Fla./Miami Palmetto

Newton, Brenton 6-3/255 TE/FB Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./Boyd Anderson

Pieper, Kawika 6-3/320 OG/C Fr. Honolulu, Hawaii/Moanalua HS

Powell, Darius 6-0/206 Ath Gainesville, Fla./East Side

Turner, Casey 5-11/190 RB r-Fr. Jacksonville, Fla./Rutgers University/Ed White H.S.

Ward, Kevin 6-4/285 OG Raleigh, N.C./Broughton HS

Williams, Anthony 6-0/175 WR Ft. Lauderdale, Fla./Boyd Anderson

FAMU signee ready to shine in classroom

Crista Wright, a math teacher at Gainesville Eastside High School, wasn't sure what to think of Darius Powell the first couple of days he was in her classroom. He appeared a little too shy, although as a sophomore he had already demonstrated that he was a star on the school's football team. That threw Wright for a loop.

"He wasn't that typical, 'Oh, I'm playing football. I'm the star; look at me,' " she said. "He was very driven by his academics. He became a leader in the classroom. He would take other athletes under his wings and encourage them to make sure they were doing their homework."

Florida A&M Rattlers – Meet the Class

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown/High School

Aiken, Patrick CB 5-10 170 Pembroke Pines/Flanagan
Snake Bites: All-Broward County Team selection … Recorded 54 tackles, 12 pass break-ups, two interceptions, eight tackles for loss, five sacks, three forced fumbles, 326 yards in kick returns with two TDs his senior year of play.

Bass, Tyler QB 6-4 210 Atlanta, Ga./Memphis
Snake Bites: In 2009 at Memphis, Bass played in four of the 12 games at quarterback, making three starts as the Tiger signal caller … Averaged 213.2 yards of total offense per game (45.0 rushing, 168.3 passing) … Ranked No. 73 nationally among quarterbacks by Scout.com … Tabbed No. 57 nationally among athletes by Scouts Inc. … Also rushed for 606 yards and 11 TDs on 81 carries.

Florida A&M fans cheer recruits

Right after winning one of the give-away prizes that were handed out during the celebration of Florida A&M catches on National Signing Day, Cicero Hartsfield dashed to find a Sharpie. He had to have coach Joe Taylor's signature on the football that he'd won.

It was a little more than Hartsfield came for when he showed up at The Moon on Wednesday night. He and about 200 other FAMU boosters and fans were there for their first look at the new Rattlers.

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Hilton Takes Over As North Carolina A&T Athletics Director

Aggies Athletics Director Earl Monroe Hilton III

GREENSBORO, N.C. - Chancellor Harold L. Martin has announced the appointment of Earl Hilton as the new North Carolina A&T intercollegiate director of athletics.

"For the last three months, Mr. Hilton has served as interim athletics director," said Martin. "During this time, we have had the opportunity to examine his work ethic and professional practices, and we have been impressed with both his managerial and interpersonal skills. We are anticipating significant changes and growth in our athletics programs under Earl's leadership."

Hilton is no stranger to N.C. A&T. He worked as the department's finance, compliance and personnel director from 2000-02. After his first stint with Aggie Athletics, he spent eight years an assistant vice chancellor for student affairs at the university. His duties included budget oversight, personnel development and management. In addition to his role in student affairs, Hilton assisted Aggie Athletics in its second-cycle NCAA certification. Before becoming the interim director of athletics, he was the chairman of N.C. A&T's 2011 NCAA re-certification committee.

"In many ways, student affairs and athletics mirror one another," said Hilton. "Both areas offer an environment to nurture, train and protect the welfare of our students. I want to assure you that N.C. A&T Athletics will be steeped in individual accountability, transparency and student safety."

Before coming to N.C. A&T, Hilton worked as Buffalo State's NCAA compliance director from 1997-2000. He also handled the departmental budget and served as the recreational and intramural supervisor. In 1993, he became an academic counselor at Texas Tech.

Hilton received his B.S., degree in political science in 1992. He also has a master's degree in public administration and Juris Doctorate from Texas Tech.

Courtesy: NC A&T Sports Information               Release: 02/03/2011

Broadway Named North Carolina A&T Football Coach

North Carolina A&T Head Coach Rod Broadway

GREENSBORO, N.C. - Director of Athletics Earl Hilton has announced the appointment of Rod Broadway to become North Carolina A&T's new football coach. Broadway will become the school's 18th head football coach.

"Mr. Broadway's record speaks for itself," said Hilton. "We are very excited with the new turn North Carolina A&T football took today. We are looking forward to Mr. Broadway restoring the winning tradition our fans have become so accustomed to having."

Broadway comes to N.C. A&T with impressive credentials. He spent four years as the head coach of N.C. Central. After leaving the Eagles' program he had a four-year stay at Grambling State University. Between those two universities, he compiled a combined record of 68-23, .750 winning percentage.

"I'm excited about coming to N.C. A&T," said Broadway. "Their tradition and fan support is second to none. I'm looking forward to the challenge that lies before us. If everything I hear about Aggie Pride is true, we're going to win and win big here."

Broadway became the head coach at Grambling in 2007. In only his second year at the helm, he led the Tigers to an 11-2 record and the Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship. His Grambling teams were 3-1 against archrival Southern. He posted a 35-12 record at Grambling.

At N.C. Central, Broadway won two CIAA Championships, made two NCAA Division II playoff appearances and won 75 percent of his games. He won a Black College National Championship at Grambling and NCCU.

Prior to his tenure at NCCU, Broadway honed his skills on the NCAA football's highest level as the defensive line coach at the University of North Carolina (2001-02), University of Florida (1995-00), Duke University (1981-94) and East Carolina University (1979-80).

As an assistant coach at North Carolina, Broadway helped the Tar Heels to a No. 15 national ranking in total defense and an appearance in the Peach Bowl.

While at Florida, he served as a member of Steve Spurrier's staff and helped the Gators attain four SEC Championships, six bowl appearances and one national championship in 1996.

Broadway's defensive units at Florida led the SEC in sacks from 1996-99 with the 1997 team setting a school record for rush defense with 70.7 yards per game.

A 1977 graduate of the University of North Carolina, Broadway played on the defensive line from 1974-77 and helped lead UNC to the 1974 Sun Bowl and the 1977 Liberty Bowl. Among the honors he earned were the team's "Outstanding Freshman" in 1974 and "Most Outstanding Senior" along with All-ACC honors in 1977.

Courtesy: NC A&T Sports Information Release: 02/03/2011

The Offer Broadway Could not Refuse

Broadway agreed to a five-year contract worth $232,500 per year, with the option to brings in his own assistant coaches, plus a car allowance and standard university benefits. All five years are guaranteed.

Alonzo Lee, the outgoing coach at A&T, earned $145,000 last season.

BREAKING NEWS: GSU head coach Rod Broadway resigns (updated 2:55 p.m.)

Rod Broadway has resigned from his post as head coach of the Gramblling State football team, and will take the same position at North Carolina A&T.

GSU announced Broadway's departure in a press release Thursday afternoon. Last Friday Broadway announced he had turned down an offer from North Carolina A&T and would remain at Grambling, but it appears he has either had a change of heart, or never planned to stay at Grambling at all.

Grambling offensive coordinator Bob Leahy said Broadway gave no indication that he was about to resign.

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Jackson State signs 16 to Scholarships on National Signing Day

JACKSON, Miss. - The Jackson State University football team has officially signed 15 football players to National Letters of Intent. One recruit received an academic scholarship to JSU to make 16 the total number of players to officially commit to play for the Tigers Wednesday.

Head Coach Rick Comegy looked to strengthen the offensive line as well as shore the linebacker and defensive back positions.

Below is the complete list of the newest members of the JSU football program:

Sterling Wright, DB, 6-1, 190, Coral Reef High, Miami, FL

Zion Pyatt, OL, 6-6, 280, Lackawanna CC, Baltimore City College HS, Baltimore, MD

Maurice Brooks, OL, 6-2, 295, Coahoma CC, Charleston HS, Charleston MS

Reuben Corley, FB, 6-1, 235, MGCCC, South Panola HS, Batesville, MS

Jeff Travillion, OL, 6-2,305, Hendricks HS, Hendricks, TX

Jordan Helm, DE/OLB, 6-1, 220, Marshall HS, Missouri City, TX

Kris Selita, K/P, 6-1, 175, Dakota HS, MaComb, MI

Jahmal Jones, TE, 6-3, 240, Livingston, Livingston, AL

Alvin Kelly, OL, 6-3, 350, Hahnville HS, Louisiana

Danny Williams, OL, 6-3, 320, Tuscaloosa County, AL

Remund Jackson, OL, 6-4, 295, Tuscaloosa County, AL

Darreon Atkins, DB, 6-0, 170, Round Rock HS, Round Rock, TX:

Mike Johnson, ATH, 5-8, 170, Booker T. Washington High, Tuskegee, AL

*Willie Bell, III, LB, 6-2, 215, Murrah High, Jackson, MS

Tedarian Johnson, LB, 6-3, 230, Murrah HS, Jackson, MS

Mark Webster, DT, 6-2, 265, Pensacola HS, Pensacola, FL

Preferred Walk-Ons
*Eric Wills, 5-8, 185, RB, Mississippi Gulf Coast CC
*Illiard Kelly, 6-3, 260, DE, Raymond
*Rashard Davis, 5-11, 185, CB, Mansfield, Texas
*Joseph Perry, 5-10, 185, CB, Natchez
*Denotes - Academic Scholarship recepients

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By Jackson State University Athletic Office of Media Relations

Bethune-Cookman Football Signs 27 for 2011

Daytona Beach, FL - “I think this recruiting class is very talented,” said Head Coach Brian Jenkins. “We have some size that we wanted. We have a lot of speed and a lot of range. “I think we were very successful with this class; that is yet to be seen because they still have to take the field.

The exciting thing about his class is 90 percent of these guys are already qualified. That is exceptional. I am really excited about this class. It’s a lot of talent, and we have to get it out of them early. That’s what we are looking for, all of these guys to jump in and contribute right away.”

The 2011 class features 27 new additions to the Wildcats roster, including four presently enrolled in the spring semester at B-CU. The list also features three Division I FBS transfers, a highly-rated defensive back from Florida, and a wide receiver, free safety, and linebacker considered among the top players in the prep school ranks…plus let’s not forget that the Wildcats picked up Florida's "Mr. Football".

Bethune-Cookman 2011 Football Signing Class

Dominic Addison- CB - 6’2” - 170 - Freshman - Riverview, Fla. - Spoto High School
Coach Jenkins on Addison: “Tremendous athlete; Anybody who has watched his film knows that this man can get it done on either side of the ball. He’s going to play corner for us. At between 6’1” and 6’2” he is a great addition for us because it gives us two big corners, and I can see Nick contributing right away.”

Breon Allen - RB - 5’6” - 170 - Freshman - Daytona Beach, Fla. - Warner Christian High School

Ryan Bryson - DT - 6’3” - 280 - Freshman - Jacksonville, Fla. - Menendez High School
Coach Jenkins on Bryson: “Defensive lineman, very strong and athletic guy. We watched him throw guys side to side and make plays. His strength and size is something we have been lacking and he has a chance to come in and make a name for himself right away.”

Seth Clayton - WR - 6’1” - 185 - Freshman - Altamonte Springs, Fla. - Lyman High School
Coach Jenkins on Clayton: “Very explosive, very smooth, and another one that runs great routes. His ability has only been scraped. I think he can be an explosive guy with us in our offense at many different positions, and I expect great things from him.”

*Tavares Dantzler - LB - 6’3” -230 - Freshman - Homestead, Fla. - North Carolina Prep
Coach Jenkins on Dantzler: “Originally out of Homestead, Florida. 6’3” 230 pounds and has been clocked at 4.5. Great upside; this guy can play anywhere on the field. Anywhere you put him, he will perform because he has that much ability.”

*Marquis Drayton - S - 6’1” - 220 - Freshman - Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. - North Carolina Prep
Coach Jenkins on Drayton: “Coming to us out of North Carolina Prep School, he is originally out of Dillard High School in Ft. Lauderdale. As a 220 pound free safety, he has a lot of range. He can cover the middle of the field and is big enough to come down into the box and tackle those big running backs.”

Al-Ghaffar - LB - 6’2” - 225 - East Orange, N.J. – Transfer/Rutgers
Coach Jenkins on Ghaffar: “Very fast; has been clocked at 4.49. Will graduate from Rutgers and still have two years to be able to play. He’s a guy who has played a lot of football and I am excited about him because he brings a lot of speed to our linebackers, and he’s a competitor.”

Jhomo Gordon - WR - 6’0” – 185 - Freshman - Palm Bay, Fla. - Bayside High School
Coach Jenkins on Gordon: “A young achiever who possesses a lot of talent. More of a possession guy; Runs good routes; Very aware of the package that we run; Very physical with the ball after the catch. A young man who I think has a very bright future here.”

Tyree Green - WR - 6’1” -190 - Freshman - St. Petersburg, Fla. - Boca Ciega High School
Coach Jenkins on Green: “This young man possesses great size and speed. Very, very athletic and has the ability to possibly contribute right away.”

Daniel Jackson - LB - 6’2” - 225 - Freshman - Winter Haven, Fla. - Bartow High School
Coach Jenkins on Jackson: “A young kid who has a great upside. He runs extremely well, and he’s going to have to develop a little bit, but he has a big frame and a lot of ability. I think he’s going to be the big surprise out of the whole recruiting class.”

Howard Jones - CB - 6’2” - 170 - Freshman - Harvey, La. - Warren Easton High School
Coach Jenkins on Jones: “Great upside; Reminds us of Ozzie Slater a little bit. A very fast kid, long arms, and gives us what we’ve been looking for at the corner spot. You know we wanted big corners and you know this young man is out of New Orleans and has played in the inner city league and knows what it takes to be accustomed to being a physical football player at that position.”

Rakeem Knight - DL - 6’3” – 294 - Freshman - Birmingham, Ala. - Restoration Academy
Coach Jenkins on Knight: “He’s one that has not played much football, but I’ll tell you what, he’s been clocked at 4.49. He can run; he pursues ball carriers, runs them down, and causes damage.”

Harold Love - DL - 6’2” -305 - Junior - Portland, Ore. - Feather River CC
Coach Jenkins on Love: “He’s going to be an anchor for us on the inside. I’m really excited about this guy because his attitude is tremendous. He’s a great leader, and he’s one that I really think is going to elevate to the next level defensively.”

Stavion Lowe - OT - 6’5” - 330 - Junior - Brownwood, Texas - Tyler CC
Coach Jenkins on Lowe: “He originally signed with LSU out of High School, a real big, big offensive lineman, period. He’s another young man that I think will play at that tackle spot for us. He understands our scheme and he understands what it takes just to be a top offensive linemen. He was one of the top offensive linemen coming out of high school, and we expect him to come and step right on the field from day one and lead the charge for us.”

De’Shon Nettles - WR - 6’3” - 195 - Freshman - Buffalo, N.Y. - North Carolina Prep
Coach Jenkins on Nettles: “A big, physical receiver who possesses everything needed to be a playmaker. I think he will be a very, very good replacement for Reams, who we lost as a senior. I expect really, really good things from him, and I think he’ll come in and contribute right away.”

Leroy Pate - CB - 6’1” - 205 - Freshman - Jacksonville, Fla. - Raines High School
Coach Jenkins on Pate: “A guy who is dual-threat player, who can play safety or corner. The thing that he has is he’s a ball hawk; he has a nose for the ball and making plays, and he is a big kid. He gives us another big corner at close to 200 pounds, and 5’11”, and exactly what we were looking for.”

Rashard Payne - CB - 5’10” - 180 - Orchard Park, N.Y. - Eerie CC
Coach Jenkins on Payne: “Originally out of Pompano Beach, Florida, but went to a junior college in Buffalo. He is a tough medium-sized corner. He reminded us of Dion Hanks who we have here now. Great upside is he has a nose for the ball; one that’s not scared of contact and he will hit you whenever he has a chance to lay some wood on you.”

Reginald Polite - DL - 6’3” - 260 - Freshman - Bartow, Fla. - Hargrave Military Academy
Coach Jenkins on Polite: “Very quick, agile type of player, and we really expect some great things from him.”

Blake Pritchard - OT - 6’5” - 295 - Junior - Huntington Beach, Calif. - Golden West CC
Coach Jenkins on Pritchard: “A very strong force on the offensive line. He’s going to play offensive tackle for us. A very strong, very tall guy, with a great frame. He’s going to be a tremendous addition to this team. He is originally from Jacksonville. Went to school in California. He is a very good pass blocker and has a very, very mean streak when he plays.”

Jean Prophete - TE - 6’3” – 250 - Boynton Beach, Fla. - Summit Christian High School
Coach Jenkins on Prophete: “This is a man-child right here. He already has a college body; an ex-basketball player with tremendous upside, who catches the ball well. He can get north and south and has really good speed. He’s going to be a bright spot out of our recruiting class.”

Quincy Quetant - S - 6’1” - 205 - Redshirt Sophomore - Orlando, Fla. - Transfer/Univ. of Cincinnati
Coach Jenkins on Quetant: “He’s a safety out of Orlando that had a lot of playing time there at Cincinnati, will graduate, and still have two years to play. He will bring experience and accountability for our secondary.”

Johnothan Quintero - K - 5’11” - 185 - Freshman - Port St. Lucie, Fla. - Treasure Coast High School
Coach Jenkins on Quintero: “Has repeatedly kicked 50-yard field goals. He can make an extra point, that’s all I care about (flashes a joking smile). He’ll definitely be one who steps in and does stuff right away.”

*Rodney Scott - RB - 5’10” - 198 - Junior - Cross City, Fla. - Transfer/Univ. of Mississippi
Coach Jenkins on Scott: “Transfer from Ole Miss, who was the number-three rated running back in the state of Florida coming out of high school. Now, he’s come home to show his talent, and I think he’s already proven that he can be the ‘guy’.

Daniel Stewart - OG - 6’3” - 270 - Freshman - Sunrise, Fla. – Plantation
Coach Jenkins on Stewart: “He’s very strong and one of the top wrestlers in the state. He plays with good balance and has good awareness. The upside with him is that he can play any position on the front line.”

*Andre “Ross” Williams - DL - 6’4” -240 - Freshman - Jacksonville, Fla. - Hargrave Military Academy
Coach Jenkins on R. Williams: “Originally from Jacksonville, he is big and has a lot of range as a player, can run, and will only get bigger and better as a player. I’m very excited about him. He has a great attitude and a great work ethic.”

Kevin Williams - OL - 6’2” – 305 - Freshman - Brandon, Fla. - Armwood High School
Coach Jenkins on K. Williams: “He’s a young man that we are going to give a look at center, but he could play either side of the ball. Good wide body kid. Originally started out playing D-line in high school, but moved to offensive lineman. He was a mainstay for Armwood, and he’s a kid that we think is going to develop very fast on either side of the ball.”

Quentin Williams - QB - 6’0” - 190 - Freshman - Tampa, Fla. - Jefferson High School
Coach Jenkins on Q. Williams: “Exciting Player. Has one of the strongest arms I’ve seen since I’ve been coaching. The kid is a true leader, a true winner, which he’s exemplified by winning the State Championship. He also exemplified the caliber of player that he is being awarded the Florida ‘Mr. Football’ award. He’s broken every quarterback passing record in the state of Florida, and is a young man that I think is going to have a chance to lead the charge for the Wildcats in the near future.”

Anthony Woodard - DE - 6’3” - 256 - Junior - Tracy, Calif. - Phoenix CC
Coach Jenkins on Woodward: “Gives us a chance to be very good on the edge. Another big defensive end. He is quick on the ball and has a great technique. We are going to use him mainly on the edge at defensive end. And the sky is the limit for this young man and I think he will really turn heads when he gets here.”

*=Presently Enrolled at B-CU

By Bethune Cookman University Sports Information

South Carolina State Signs 23 Football Prospects

ORANGEBURG, SC – South Carolina State, on Wednesday, announced the signing of twenty-three (23) prospects to national letters, including ten from South Carolina, nine from neighboring North Carolina -- among them six from Charlotte -- two from Georgia and one each from Florida and Virginia.

The 2011 Bulldog class, which features four Shrine Bowl participants and three North-South All-Star Game players, is made up of six offensive linemen, five defensive linemen, four listed in the athlete category, three running backs and defensive backs each, and one linebacker and tight end each.

SC State's Buddy Pough, who is beginning his tenth season as Bulldog head coach, said the class addresses the team's need.

The Bulldogs finished the 2010 campaign at 9-3 overall and 7-1 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference to earn a share of the title after winning outright league championships in 2008 and 2009. Pough lost 11 starters and 15 seniors overall from that squad.

The signees are:

Raheim Barr OL 6-3 270 Lamar Timmonsville, SC North-South All-Star,
HSSR All-State

Fadol Brown TE/DE 6-4 235 Burke Charleston, SC All-Low Country,
Region Def POTY

Andrew Carter DE 6-1 230 Richmond Sr. Hamlet, NC

Dominique Cooper RB 6-0 180 Darlington Florence, SC North-South All-Star, 247 Sports 3-Star recruit; received offers from East Carolina and South Carolina; Has 4.4 speed in 40 yard dash. Coach Justin Danner said, "When he breaks out, you might as well go ahead and warm up the band." Despite two nagging injuries, Cooper rushed for 1,200 yards and 11 TDs senior season.

Mariel Cooper DB 5-11 170 Sumter H.S. Sumter, SC Shrine Bowl, HSSR All-State

Devin Flowers OL 6-3 300 Mallard Creek Charlotte, NC Shrine Bowl, AP All-State

Alex Glover DE 6-1 310 Mallard Creek Charlotte, NC All-Mecklenburg,
Meck Def POTY

Avery Grant OL 6-2 310 Mullins H.S. South Carolina,  Mullins North-South All-Star, HSSR All-State

Javon Hargrave DL 6-1 280 North Rowan Salisbury, NC All-State, Def POTY

Jairon Harrison OL 6-3 310 James Island H.S., Charleston Shrine Bowl, HSSR All-State

Temmarick Hemingway TE 6-4 210 N. Myrtle Beach Loris

Charles Henderson OL 6-3 265 Kennesaw Mtn. Kennesaw, GA Cobb County Senior Bowl

Justin Hughes LB 6-2 215 Fork Union Mil. Virginia Beach Dondre

Dondre Lewis-Freeman ATH 5-8 180 Hopewell Charlotte, NC Lake Norman News
POTY, All-Lake Norman

Chris Manns DL 6-2 250 Mount Tabor Winston-Salem AP All-State, All-County, All-Region; Received offer from N.C. State.

Dominique Mitchell DB 5-10 180 NC Tech Miramar, FL

Julius Pendergrass ATH 5-9 170 Chester Chester, SC Shrine Bowl, HSSR All-State

Tevin Richard ATH 6-0 180 Carvers Bay Hemingway

Gideon Scott OL 6-3 310 Louisburg College Jonesboro, GA

Jalen "Scoot" Simmons RB 5-8 200 West Charlotte Charlotte, NC All-Mecklenburg, All-Conference

Austin Smith ATH 6-1 190 Mount Zion Rex, GA All-Area, All-Region

Austin Stewart DB 6-1 200 Butler Charlotte, NC NC 4AA State Champs

Deion Walker RB 5-10 190 Butler Charlotte, NC NC 4AA State Champs

By S.C. State Sports Information 2/2/2011

Coach Adrian and Norfolk State Announces 11-Member Football Recruiting Class

NSU Spartans Coach Pete Adrian

NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State head football coach Pete Adrian announced Wednesday the signing of nine players to national letters of intent. Those nine join two mid-year enrollees in the Spartans’ recruiting class of 2011.

“We’re extremely pleased with this group of recruits,” Adrian said. “Our main goal was to increase our team speed offensively, and we feel we have definitely accomplished that.”

All 11 newcomers could potentially wind up on the offensive side of the ball at NSU, though several played on both sides of the ball at their previous institutions. The Spartans added four linemen, three quarterbacks, two wide receivers, one tight end and one running back. Two previously attended junior colleges, one is a Division I FBS transfer, and eight are high school recruits.

2011 NSU Football Recruits (as of Feb. 2)


Shaun Corbett, WR, 5-11, 160, Miami, Fla./Varela HS
Notes: A first-team All-Dade County 6A selection as a senior…caught 42 passes for 754 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior…averaged 18 yards per catch…played in the Dade vs. Broward and the Miami North/South all-star game…one of six finalists for city Player of the Year.

%Nico Flores, QB, 6-2, 210, Miami, Fla./UCF/North Miami Beach HS
Notes: Redshirted the 2009 season at UCF before playing primarily as the Knights’ “wildcat” quarterback in 2010, rushing six times for 48 yards…enrolled at NSU for the spring semester…has three years of eligibility remaining…was a two-time All-Dade County pick for North Miami Beach and was an all-state selection as a junior…rated a three-star recruit by both Rivals.Com and Scout.Com…rated the No. 31 high school QB in the country according to Rivals…completed 135-of-210 passes (64 percent) for 1,517 yards and 17 touchdowns as a senior.

Ramsey Henderson, OL, 6-4, 305, Washington, D.C./HD Woodson HS
Notes: Named to the All-Metro team by the Washington Pigskin Club…rated a two-star prospect according to Rivals.Com…also had offers from Delaware State and Howard and interest from Morgan State.

James Lynch, TE, 6-3, 220, Darby, Pa./West Philadelphia Catholic HS
Notes: First-team Pennsylvania Sportswriters Class AA all-state selection…also first-team All-City and All-Catholic League…helped the Burrs to a 13-2 record and the state AA championship…played both tight end and defensive end for West Catholic…defensively, recorded 90 tackles, 29 for loss, and 9.5 sacks as a senior…also forced and recovered two fumbles…had scholarship offers from Stony Brook and Monmouth and was recruited by Villanova and Temple.

Randy Maynes, RB, 5-9, 185, Miami, Fla./West Hills College (Calif.)/North Miami Beach HS
Notes: Ran 143 times for 750 yards and nine touchdowns as a sophomore at West Hills…rushed for 747 yards and seven TDs as a freshman, earning All-Valley Conference honors…was an honorable mention All-Dade County pick as a senior along with former NMBHS teammates and fellow Spartans Ricardo Volcin and Nico Flores.

Brendon Riddick, QB, 6-0, 195, Richmond, Va./Hermitage HS
Notes: Two-time Colonial District Offensive Player of the Year…also named the Central Region and Richmond Times-Dispatch Metro Player of the Year as a senior…rushed for 1,281 yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior while passing for 1,446 yards and 21 scores…led Hermitage to a 13-1 record, the district and regional titles, and a berth in the state Group AAA championship game…first-team all-district, all-region and All-Metro…second-team all-state Group AAA…grandfather Cladwell was an NSU alum and long-time University employee.

George Riddick, OL, 6-3, 285, Suffolk, Va./King’s Fork HS
Notes: Second-team All-Southeastern District selection…also had an offer from Morgan State and interest from Towson, Richmond and Old Dominion.

Wilonte’ Roscoe, QB, 6-0, 175, Portsmouth, Va./Churchland HS
Notes: Honorable mention All-Eastern District pick…passed for 1,700 yards and 20 touchdowns while rushing for 600 yards and six scores…threw just two interceptions all season…team MVP. He is also an honors student.

DeAndre Sangster, WR, 6-1, 175, Dumfries, Va./CD Hylton HS
Notes: Caught 35 passes for 720 yards and nine touchdowns…also returned a kickoff for touchdown…first-team All-Cardinal District and News & Messenger all-area pick…second-team All-Northwest Region and honorable mention Washington Post All-Met.

William Waters-Shorter, OL/DL, 6-4, 295, Chesapeake, Va./Grassfield HS
Notes: First-team All-Southeastern District…second-team All-Tidewater pick by The Virginian-Pilot.

%DeAnte Williams, OL/DL, 6-3, 275, Hyattsville, Md./St. Johns College HS
Notes: Honorable mention all-conference selection…two-way starter on both sides of the line…originally signed with NSU last February, but did not enroll for the fall session…enrolled at NSU for the spring semester of 2011 after attending Prince George Community College in the fall of 2010 but did not play there.

% Mid-year tranfer

CLICK HIGHTLIGHT TO VIEW PLAYER'S VIDEO

By Matt Michalec, SID, Norfolk State University Office of Sports Information.

Hampton University signs 15 new Pirates on National Signing Day

HU Pirates Head Coach Donovan Rose

HAMPTON, Va. – Hampton University head football coach Donovan Rose announced on Wednesday the signing of 15 players – including six transfer students – as part of National Signing Day.

“We feel real good about the incoming class,” Rose said. “They fit into the philosophy we have here … offensively, they’re lean and fast and match the fast-paced way we’re looking to do things. Defensive, even though we’re not done yet, we’re getting some good athletes who fit into the way we do things.”

Incoming Freshmen:

Ronald Rose (OL, 6-3, 275, Dematha HS/Fort Washington, Md.): All-District.

J’rod Beard (WR, 5-8, 170, Atlantic HS/Boynton, Fla.): First Team All-Palm Beach County.

Rodney Joiner III (S, 6-0, 200, Auburn HS/Auburn, Ala.): All-Area.

Chris Gooden (ATH, 6-2, 195, Warren Easton HS/New Orleans, La.): All-District.

Chris Dukes (RB, 5-9, 190, UMS Wright HS/Mobile, Ala.): All-State, 6,300 yards, 92 TDs, Ala. All-Star Game.

Christopher Scott (OL, 6-5, 340, N.C. Prep/Carol City HS/Miami, Fla.): All-Dade, played in Dade County All-Star Game.

DaMarcus Bell (DT, 6-3, 285, Dudley HS/Greensboro, N.C.): Defensive MVP, Shrine Bowl All-State.

Charles Benning (LB, 5-11, 210, McGill Toolen HS/Mobile, Ala.): All-State, MVP All-Region.

Steven Johnson (LB/FB, 5-9, 230, Warren Easton HS/New Orleans, La.): All-Area.

Khalid Marshall (DB, 5-9, 170, Miami Northwestern HS/Miami, Fla.): First Team All-Dade, two-time state champion; Runs a 4.41 40 yard dash.

Dylan Kearns (LS, 5-10, 190, Palm Beach Lakes HS/Palm Beach, Fla.): All-District.

Leon Shorter (WR, 6-3, 195, Fort Pierce HS/Fort Pierce, Fla.): Offensive Player of the Year, All-State.

Transfers:

Khambrel McGee (DB, 5-8, 176, Florida International/Booker T. Washington HS/Miami, Fla.): First Team Class 6-A All-State, two-time state champion, Dade vs. Broward All-Star; Sophomore

Nubian Peak (RB, 6-0, 200, 4.2 40 yard dash; Virginia Tech/Pulaski HS/Pulaski, Va.): Offensive Player of the Year, All-Region; r-Sophomore;

Tahrick Peak (LB, 6-3, 210, Texas Tech/Pulaski HS/Pulaski, Va.): Rated No. 32 outside linebacker in the nation by Rivals; 4.45 second 40 yard dash.

VIEW VIDEO BY CLICKING EACH NAME AND HYPERLINKS.

By Hampton University Office of Sports Information

WSSU Rams Open 2011 Season with Tough 4-3 Loss at Wingate

WINGATE, NC - The wait is over as Rams baseball made its return after a 37-year hiatus, but the return was a bittersweet one as the Winston-Salem State Rams (0-1) could not hold on in a tough 4-3 loss at Wingate (1-0), Tuesday evening. The Rams had a solid day, holding a 3-0 lead heading into the bottom of the seventh inning, but four unanswered runs by the Bulldogs in the final three innings ended the day with the WSSU loss.

"First game or not, it's disappointing that we didn't play baseball for nine innings; we played for seven innings," WSSU head baseball coach Kevin Ritsche said following the tough loss. "We had some runners on base in scoring position with only one out and we get them across. We only had one error so I can't be too upset about, but it was a costly error."

The WSSU offense had a solid day with eight total hits for the game and took advantage of three Wingate errors to score three unearned runs. Junior outfielder Brice Rivenbark led the effort with two hits and two RBI in the game. Junior catcher Michael Robbins added a hit and a pair of runs scored.

'Dogs rally for 4-3 win over Rams in season opener

Wingate, N.C.----The defending South Atlantic Conference champion Wingate University Bulldogs scored three runs in the bottom of the eighth to rally for a 4-3 victory over the Rams of Winston-Salem State University in the 2011 season opener Tuesday afternoon at Ron Christopher Stadium and Plyler Athletic Field. Wingate is 1-0 on the season, while the Rams, playing their first game since 1973, are 0-1.

Junior outfielder Casey Allison (Horse Shoe, N.C.) was two-for-three with a double and a run scored to lead the Wingate offense. Redshirt sophomore first baseman Brian Yeung (Raleigh, N.C.) had a pair of hits and an RBI for the Bulldogs, while redshirt sophomore infielder James Tedder (Clemmons, N.C.) was one-for-three with an RBI.

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With new coach, ASU baseball has sights set on defending SIAC crown

ALBANY, Ga. — Albany State University began a new era in its baseball program Tuesday when Kenyan Conner made his debut as interim head coach of the Rams, who opened their 2011 campaign Tuesday on the road at Edward Waters.

Conner replaces Edward Taylor, coach of the Rams for the last eight years, after Taylor abruptly resigned late last year for another career opportunity in Texas, according to the ASU sports information office.

Now with new blood at the helm, Conner — the Rams’ assistant baseball coach under Taylor since 2002 — will look to lead the Rams back to the top of the SIAC after ASU won the conference crown a year ago. Conner takes over a program he helped to build into one of the most successful in the SIAC.

The Rams have won four SIAC Championships and made two appearances in the NCAA Division II tournament since Taylor and Conner came aboard eight years ago.

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Students mourn for Tuskegee Airman Charles Flowers at Maryland high school named for him

Black bunting draped the sign in front of Charles H. Flowers High School in Springdale (Maryland) on Tuesday as students mourned the loss of a mentor and friend for whom the building had been named.

Charles H. Flowers Jr., 92, a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, died of kidney and heart disease Friday. Students at the school, many of whom had shaken his hand at awards ceremonies or heard the stories he told when visiting classrooms, were notified of the death Friday afternoon.

"I was in English class. Everybody just looked at each other like, 'Oh, man,' " said Tobias Whitley, 17, a JROTC student from Largo who is headed to Johnson C. Smith College in North Carolina next year to study chemistry. "We couldn't believe it."

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Videographer: CHFHSnews; Speed Portrait of Dr. Charles Herbert Flowers; Portrait drawn by Charles Herbert Flowers High School student Briana Hall.

Charles H. Flowers Jr. High School Release:

Charles Herbert Flowers, namesake of our school, was a Glenarden resident, who was born in Wadesboro, North Carolina.

After graduating in May of 1942 from the Army Air Corps Flight Training Center located at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, he became the first African American with military training to become a primary flight instructor of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.

The Tuskegee Airmen were the best because Tuskegee Institute only accepted those who met extensive physical and mental qualifications. These men, while fighting for America, also fought for themselves, their children, their culture, as well as, every American citizen, in hope that their country would accept Americans of all colors as first class citizens. During World War II, the Tuskegee Airmen served with distinction, and were honored by the Congress of the United States with the Congressional Gold Medal.

After the war, Dr. Flowers completed his college degree in Business Administration at what is now known as North Carolina Central University. While at Central, he became the first student government president.

He later moved back to Maryland, and in 1965 he went to work for NASA at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt. He retired as the Manager of Employee Relations in 1990. While retired he kept himself busy and active in the community and at his church, Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Lanham, Maryland. Through his church, he mentored children at James McHenry Elementary School and Thomas Johnson Middle School. Additionally, he worked with the Youth in Aviation program in this area, and was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

In 2000, Dr. Flowers became the only living person to have a school named after him in Prince George's County Public Schools. In 2006, the historic Tuskegee University, founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881, bestowed upon Charles Herbert Flowers an honorary Doctorate in Public Service. Married to Wilhelmina Flowers since 1943, he was blessed with four children - Carolyn, Yvonne, Charles Herbert Flowers III, and Roderick.

He was the grandfather of six and great grandfather of eleven. Dr. Flowers was a humble man, whose life serves as an example of the excellence we seek to be embodied in the students at Charles Herbert Flowers High School. To be part of a school named after this wonderful man, who was a part of the Tuskegee Airmen, makes the Flowers community proud. We salute all that this man stood for and are grateful for his accomplishments.

The entire Charles Herbert Flowers High School family mourns the loss of this distinguished, historic man. Our condolences are extended to his wife and family.


Videographer: lefrazier; The Tuskegee University Choir, under the direction of Dr. Wayne Barr, celebrated the Tuskegee Airmen during the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Grand Opening Ceremonies on October 11, 2008.

Funeral arrangements for Dr. Charles Herbert Flowers Jr.

Friday February 4, 2011
United Methodist Church
3512 Whitfield Chapel Rd
Lanham, MD 20706
301-577-1800

Viewing 9- 11am
Services 11:00 am

Please note: The church in which the services are being held only seats 500 people.

READ RELATED ARTICLES, VIEW PHOTOS:
Local Tuskegee airman, Charles H. Flowers, dies at age 92
Charles H. Flowers: A historical icon
Dr. Charles Herbert Flowers

Savannah State Coach Davenport Hires Five Assistants

Videographer:wsav.com, SSU's Davenport Preps for Coaching Hires and National Signing Day

SAVANNAH, Ga.- Savannah State head football coach Steve Davenport has hired five assistant coaches to join his coaching staff.

Among those are former Atlanta Falcons All-Pro wide receiver Terance Mathis and former Georgia Tech football players Thomas Balkcom, William Bell and Greg Lester.  C. Angelo Wyatt round out the staff hires.

Mathis will serve as offensive coordinator/inside receivers coach; Balkcom will be the defensive backs coach; Bell will work with the running backs; Lester will be the assistant head coach/outside receivers coach; and Wyatt will serve as the linebackers coach.

Mathis attended Redan High School in Stone Mountain, Ga., and University of New Mexico, where he played both football and basketball. In 1989, he became New Mexico's first consensus All-American after setting a Division I record for most receiving yards. He also became the first player to have more than 250 receptions, 4,000 receiving yards, and 6,000 yards total. Drafted in 1990 by the New York Jets, he played the majority of his career with the Atlanta Falcons. He last played in the NFL in 2002 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and then retired in 2004.


Videographer: capturedliving; 2010 Terance Mathis' Elite 1 Football Camp

Coach Balkcom

Balkcom comes to SSU from University High School in Orlando, Florida where he coached defensive backs and was the special teams coordinator. The Miami, Fla. native was head coach at Pine Ridge HS in Deltona, Fla. and Miami Jackson Senior HS in Miami, Fla. He has also coached at Decatur HS and Southwest Dekalb HS both in Decatur, Ga. He was a defensive assistant at Central Florida and Morehouse and Morris Brown. While attending Georgia Tech, he was defensive co-captain of the 1990 national championship team and was named defensive MVP of the Florida Citrus Bowl.

Bell comes to Savannah State from Edward Waters in Jacksonville, Fla. While at EWC, Bell has served as interim head coach, assistant head coach, offensive coordinator, wide receivers coach, special teams coordinator, recruiting coordinator, running backs coach, video coordinator and football academic specialist. Bell has been at Edward Waters since 2004. He was also a member of the Tech 1990 national championship team and has 2,026 career rushing yards as a Yellow Jacket. Bell played with the Washington Redskins from 1994-96.

Lester comes to SSU from Lakeside High School in Decatur, GA where he was head football coach. He also served as head golf coach and was a business education teacher. In 1990 as a wide receiver at Tech, Lester caught 16 passes for 236 yards and three touchdowns and in 1991 he hauled in 35 receptions for 676 yards and five touchdowns.

Coach Wyatt

Wyatt worked at Bethune-Cookman for 13 years where he was assistant head coach and outside linebackers coach. Wyatt brings more than 20 years of knowledge to SSU as he has coached on both the college and high school levels of athletics. Prior to arriving at Bethune-Cookman, Wyatt established the Urban League for Disadvantaged Children (ULDAC) in his hometown of Jacksonville, Fla.

Davenport plans to add two additional full-time coaches to the staff.

By Savannah State Sports Information


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