Monday, June 4, 2012
Texas star QB Brian Swain Jr., signs with Hampton University
LAREDO, Texas -- J. B. Alexander High School Quarterback, Brian Swain Jr., has agreed to play for Hampton University in Virginia.
Hampton is a DI school and is in the MEAC conference, the same conference the Laredo Rattlesnakes (Lone Star Football League) new kicker, Blake Erickson (South Carolina State University) comes from.
According to online sources, Swain passed for roughly 3500 yards and 33 touchdowns his senior year, adding over a thousand more in his running game. He is the only quarterback in district 29-5A to pass for over 3400 yards and rush over one thousand (yards) in the same season.
Swain is also ranked ninth in the state of Texas in all time passing yards and was selected all district three years in a row. Swain also added MVP to his resume his senior year.
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VIDEO: Brian Swain's #5 QB/Athlete2011 Games 8-13
Alexander plans its future at quarterback
LAREDO, Texas - After three years of not having to worry about the quarterback position, Alexander coach Joel Lopez suddenly has a vacancy to fill. Senior quarterback Brian Swain is graduating after leading the team to a 26-12 record over three seasons, including a historic 12-1 run last year.
“(Quarterback) is the most important position,” Lopez said. “It’s very vital we get the guy who will listen to us and do what we ask, follow the rules and be a good student at school.”
Those expecting a wide-open quarterback battle will be disappointed, however. Lopez and offensive coordinator Leo Mireles say the position is senior-to-be Alex Bryand’s to lose – though Brian Swain’s younger brother, freshman Aaron Swain, will be competing for the spot as well.
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Fred McNair to return to Alcorn State as offensive coordinator
JACKSON, Mississippi - The original "Air McNair" is returning to the Reservation. TV-3 Sports has learned that former Alcorn State quarterback Fred McNair is coming back to his alma mater to serve as the Braves offensive coordinator in 2012.Fred spent last season as head coach of Collins High School and sources say he will join new coach Jay Hopson on his staff. McNair led Collins to the second round of the 3A state playoffs in his first year as the Tigers head coach in 2011. Prior to his time with Collins, McNair helped lead Mount Olive to a pair of state championships as offensive coordinator.
Fred McNair was the quarterback at Alcorn State in the late 1980's before the arrival of his brother, Steve McNair.
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Contentious Hire Puts Spotlight on Black Coaches
NEW YORK, New York - For more than two decades, Fitzgerald Hill has fought to have minority and African-American head football coaches hired at predominantly white colleges and universities. In his new book, “Crackback: How College Football Blindsides the Hopes of Black Coaches,” written with the veteran journalist Mark Purdy, Hill, a former head coach at San Jose State, tells about those efforts. He uses “crackback” as a metaphor to describe what often happens to black candidates seeking head coaching jobs at predominantly white universities. Last week Hill was surprised when Alcorn State, a historically black university in Lorman, Mississippi, announced the hiring of Jay Hopson as its coach. Hopson, 43, became the first white head football coach in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, which is made up of historically black colleges and universities.
Hill had mixed reactions to the hiring.
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Note: The writer of this story stated in error the position held by Edward Hill Jr. at Howard University. Mr. Hill is currently the sports information director at HU. The Howard athletics director is Louis "Skip" Perkins.
White Castle Standout, Jarrain Jenkins, signs with Dillard University Men's Basketball
NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana - Dillard University head men's basketball coach, Bernard Griffith, has announced the signing of Jarrain Jenkins from White Castle High School in White Castle, Louisiana.Jenkins, a 6-4 forward, led his team to the LHSAA Class 1A state championship game during his senior season. He averaged 19.4 points per game and 9.2 rebounds per game. His outstanding performance earned their team a 26-8 overall record and 10-0 district record. As a senior, Jenkins earned all-State - 1st team, all-district - 1st team, all-metro selection - 1st team and District 7-1A Most Valuable Player honors. He also earned Maxpreps.com player of the week six times during the 2011-12 season. He also scored a career and season high of 38 points and 14 rebounds versus Southern Lab this season.
Jenkins is as impressive in the classroom as he is on the court. He is an honor student and has maintained above a 3.0 grade point average over his high school academic career. His academic performance has led him to being named to the honor roll. Among other accolades, he also received the award for perfect attendance.
Jenkins plans to major in Physical therapy at Dillard University.
"My college goals are to get an education first and then see if my talents can lead me to the NBA or play basketball overseas," says Jenkins. "If that does not work out then I will work to become a physical therapist." When asked how he has maintained the academic/athletic balance, he credits his family. "I would like to thank my mom, dad, uncles and aunts, and grandmother for being there for me and making sure I stay on the right path in life."COURTESY DILLARD UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Sunday, June 3, 2012
PV Women's Basketball Adds Size With Recruiting Class
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas - The Prairie View A&M women's basketball team added two highly recruited standouts to their team for the 2012-13 basketball season.The Lady Panthers snagged 6-4 center Shamiya Brooks from Troup County High School out of LaGrange, Georgia and a 6-2 junior transfer from Pasadena City College in Pasadena, California, Tonisha Lacey. Lacey will have two years of eligibility with the Lady Panthers.
Brooks was highly recruited with multiple offers coming from: North Carolina-Wilmington, East Carolina, Florida A&M, Jacksonville, Florida Atlantic, Temple, Jacksonville State, West Georgia and Troy.
As high school senior, Brooks established herself as one of the top players in the state of Georgia, earning an All-State Honorable Mention selection…averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds as a senior…led Troup County to a 23-6 record as a senior and the Class 3A State Quarterfinals…was selected to play in the Herbert Green All-Star Game, in which the top players from Georgia and Alabama face off…four-year letter winner and starter…led Troup County to the Class 3A state quarterfinals as a junior, averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds in her junior campaign.
Prairie View A&M Head Coach Toyelle Wilson on Brooks: “Brooks will be an immediate asset for our team. We needed an inside presence that could change our look offensively and defensively, and she will do that. She has great size, athleticism and blocking ability. She will be solid at Prairie View."
As a sophomore Lacey led Pasadena CC in rebounding with 10 boards per game while also providing eight points per contest during the 2011-12 season...she helped lead her team to the second round of the SoCal Regional Playoffs as a sophomore starter at center…earned All-South Coast Conference First Team honors as a sophomore...as a freshman, Lacey averaged 3.7 points and 4.8 rebounds, playing a critical role off of the bench…she played a part in Pasadena CC making it to the third round of the playoffs.
At Tennyson High School in Hayward, California, Lacy was an All-Hayward Athletic League First Team selection as she led the team in scoring with 15.8 points per game…Lacey was also a multi-sport athlete, standing out as an All-Hayward Athletic League middle blocker and also participated in the long jump in track and field...Lacey held a 3.88 GPA as a student athlete and was the features editor for her high school newspaper.
Lacey was also recruited by and received offers from: Prairie View A&M, Cal State-Northridge and Hawaii.
Prairie View A&M Head Coach Toyelle Wilson on Lacey: “Tonisha is a wonderful addition to the program. She has a superb body and can bang inside. She is very physical and has a great touch around the basket.”
Lacey and Brooks will join a recruiting class that includes 6-3 center Deanna Moore (Muskogee, Oklahoma/Muskogee HS), who signed a national letter of intent during the early signing period. The Lady Panthers, who return every player from their 2011-12 SWAC Championship team, look to be in good position to three-peat under the helm of third-year coach Toyelle Wilson.
“We're excited about her future here,” Wilson said. “It's a great day to be a Lady Panther.”
COURTESY PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Golden State forward Mickell Gladness to attend AAMU Men's Basketball Camp
 |
| MICKELL GLADNESS GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS |
“We are really excited to have one of our former players to help with this camp and give back to his alma mater,” said head coach Willie Hayes. “Having a current NBA star and member of the Golden State Warriors instructing the campers will be great for Alabama A&M and the city of Huntsville.”
Gladness will assist Hayes and his staff with high level of instruction and motivation that will assist both beginners and experienced players alike.
The rate is $100.00 for the fundamental camp with the time running from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. On Friday, June 8, the camp will end at noon.
For more information, call Dexter Holt at 256-372-8240 or James Wright 256-372-4007.
COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
FAMU's Delon Turner Takes Unique Path To Graduation
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Delon Turner was best known by Rattler fans as the big man who scored and rebounded relentlessly for the Rattler basketball team from 1990-1993.
"Baby Barkley," as popular ESPN analyst Dick Vitale nicknamed him during a game played on ESPN, left FAMU as the second-leading scorer (1,795 points, 16.8 ppg.) and the third-leading rebounder (974, 9.1 rpg) in the school's history. Since he played as a true freshman, he left Florida A&M University (FAMU) to play professional basketball essentially after three-and-a-half years.
On Saturday, April 28, 2012, Turner walked across the stage during FAMU's Spring Commencement Ceremony to receive his bachelor's degree in Agri-Business. Between the time he initially left school at FAMU and his walk across the stage, Turner lived a full life, but it was incomplete.
Turner was a highly-touted basketball player from Miami Carol City High School. He was an All-City selection, as his team won the state championship his senior year. The University of Colorado, University of Miami and other big schools offered him scholarships. Due to his core curriculum in high school, he was not allowed entry to those schools and the offers were rescinded. The schools wanted Delon to go to junior college and then transfer to their schools. Not wanting to go that route, Turner looked for other options.
In walked FAMU head basketball coach Willie Booker.
Booker got assistance in persuading Turner to come to FAMU, from Turner's principal Dr. Hunt, who was a graduate. Hunt assisted Booker in making the connection to Turner, which resulted in a campus visit. Turner liked what he saw when he came to Tallahassee.
"I met Eric Staten and a few other lifelong friends on that visit," Turner said. In months, Turner would be enrolled at FAMU and ready to make his debut.
Finally at FAMU
From the outset, things would be difficult. Turner began his freshman season in 1989, recovering from a meniscus tear. He would remarkably recover quickly. In fact, he played on opening day, which was against Bethune-Cookman College, as the Florida Classic Basketball Game would be played on the Friday night before the Saturday football game. Turner scored 30 points and won the Florida Basketball Classic MVP award.
Booker was not known to start freshmen, but Turner's performance dictated that he play right away. Being such a good player from the start, he began to gather nicknames. Former FAMU sports information director Alvin Hollins named him "Heavy D" and "Big Man," while Vitale's "Baby Barkley" was holding it's own. "I was a big fan of Charles Barkley. In fact, at that time he was one of my favorites, but I didn't like the nicknames, but I accepted them. Today, I realize that you get nicknames when you do something," Turner said.
He would go on to a stellar career with the Rattlers. He led the team in rebounding as a sophomore, pulling down 245 boards, for a 10.2 average. That 1990-1991 team would win FAMU their first-ever MEAC basketball title, and the lone championship for Booker. The Rattlers defeated the Delaware State Hornets 84-80 in overtime, to advance to the NCAA tournament. The Rattlers would fall to NE Louisiana 87-63 in the play-in game.
Turner led the team in both rebounding and scoring during his junior and senior years. During his junior year, he scored 572 points and grabbed 286 rebounds. The averages of 19.7 points and 9.8 rebounds per game were good enough to lead the team. His senior season, he had his highest scoring output as he scored 21.5 points per game. That success in scoring and rebounding made him attractive to professional teams, nationwide as well as internationally.
FAMU's executive director of the Rattler Boosters, Mickey Clayton, was the assistant coach for the Rattlers during Turner's playing days and he recalls his experiences with Delon very vividly. "Coach Booker was a good recruiter, so for him to come in and not let anybody outdo him spoke of his talent level. He could work the post, take you off the dribble or shoot over you. If that wasn't enough, he would dunk it right over you. People flocked to the gym to see him dunk on folks," Clayton said.
The beginning of a journey
Turner left after playing his last game for the Rattlers in 1993. He was invited to camp with the Denver Nuggets, but did not make the squad. He left there to play in the CBA. He then went to Finland. He played one year at Finland and then went to play in Israel for two years. His most successful stint came with the following four years when he played in Spain. He was voted the MVP, as his team won two championships while he was there. He concluded his career playing three years in Argentina and two years in Korea.
"I retired in much better position than most athletes do. I had a successful professional basketball career, but I wanted so much more," he added. Slowed by a couple of knee operations, Turner knew it was time to move on. "My transition was smoother than most athletes because I had a direction," he added. That direction was entrepreneurship.
Beginning with a Quiznos franchise, Turner's natural business skills kicked in. Turner added a few Quiznos stores, before deciding to transition to Foot Locker stores. He and partner Kelvin Daniels, who played with Turner at FAMU, kept the businesses rolling along.
At the height of business, he owned seven stores across the country, primarily in the Miami area and Dallas, Texas. He was managing 40 people, four district managers and grossed about $6 million in sales. Life was good.
With the U.S and world economies in shambles, Turner had to do what was previously unthinkable. He was forced to downsize his assets in 2010.
"It was one of the toughest things I ever had to do," he said. "Our business was as close-knit as a family. So to have to call someone you personally knew and tell them that you were closing that store, or that you were letting them go because we needed to downsize...that was tough. To know that you were in control of not only their salaries, but their family insurance, it was a hard lesson," Turner said.
Turner and his partners weathered the collapse of the U.S. economy and began rebuilding their businesses. Feeling that they could never regain all they feel they had lost during the downturn, but they survived the rough turn and made it through the trying time.
The trek back to A&M campus
All seemed well until one day when Turner's son began inquiring about his college days. He asked about his accolades and then asked him where was his diploma from FAMU. He was taken aback. Though he had been successful in business and as an athlete, he felt a void in having left his degree incomplete.
Previously, while playing in Spain, he passed two correspondence courses, but determined it was too difficult to complete his degree in that manner. When he came back in the off-season, he inquired at FAMU about finishing his coursework.
In 2009 he returned to get his transcript and get advised on a plan for completing the work. The plan called for him to complete two classes at Broward College, where he lives in the Ft. Lauderdale area. He completed those courses and returned to FAMU to aggressively pursue the courses. He did so with a working knowledge of what he was doing.
In the summer of 2011, he took nine hours and garnered a 4.0 average that semester, in the fall of 2011, he took the maximum load of 21 hours and collected a 3.67 GPA for the semester, and finally, he concluded it with 15 hours in the spring, where he made the Dean's list with a perfect 4.0. Mixed in among the hundreds of graduates, the 6'6" Turner sat in virtual oblivion, except for Clayton and several of his teammates who played with him.
"The guys were very close back then. Terry Giles, who was one of the best point guards in FAMU's history, was a perfect fit for Delon. Reginald Finney and Turner were a lethal combination. Aldwin Ware, Joey McGear, Kelvin Daniels and the whole team complemented each other. The Rattlers won the MEAC in 1991 and had to travel to NE Louisiana for the play-in game, which we came up short. That was a special time, winning our first-ever MEAC title," Clayton said.
Turner didn't complete his degree without its share of challenges. The shift in technology was a whirlwind around him.
"When I first came to FAMU in 1989, we registered for classes with pieces of paper in Perry-Paige. When I came back in 2010, everything was on the computer. All information is now on the iRattler system. Coursework is now on Blackboard. I found myself befriending 18-22 year olds to help me maneuver the system," Turner jokingly said.
At the end of the day, Delon "Baby Barkley" Turner is proud to say he's a FAMU graduate. "The journey was definitely worth it. God gives everybody a path. That was my road; I had to travel it in my own way. I have no regrets about my life. Any decision I made I'll live with it, because it was a part of my path. I enjoyed and embraced the process.
As an older student I was prepared, even though I had 10 times more obligations. As a matter of fact, I am looking at enrolling in an MBA program this summer.
Turner concluded, "I can't put into words what it felt like to walk across that stage. I hope someone reads this and says somebody else did it, I need to do what I have to do to finish up."
COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
The buzz at Florida A&M ...
1. Inaugural Clemon Johnson Celebrity Golf Tournament, June 21st.
2. Former Basketball Star Roosevelt Harper Passes
3. 2012 Rattlers Football Tickets on Sale Now
4. FAMU Athletics marches 40 Athletes Across the Stage
5. 53 FAMU Athletes Make MEAC All-Academic Squad
The Florida A&M University's Alma Mater played at Founder's Day Convocation 2008
FAMU Alma Mater
College of love and charity
We gather ‘round thy noble shrine;
We lift our voice in praise to thee,
And ask a blessing all divine.
(Chorus)
FAM-U! FAM-U! I love thee
I’ll fight and win what’er the battle be
The Orange and the Green thy Sons shall e’er defend
And loyal to thy voice of love attend
FAM-U! FAM-U! FAM-U! I love thee!
On gridiron, diamond, track and field,
Thy sons the vict’ry never yield
And while they tread a broader life
Thy love shall stay them in the strife.
(repeat Chorus)
God ever keep us true to thee;
Thy faith that truth shall make men free.
Shall guide thy loyal sons aright
And fend them thru’ the skeptic night.
(repeat Chorus)
"Baby Barkley," as popular ESPN analyst Dick Vitale nicknamed him during a game played on ESPN, left FAMU as the second-leading scorer (1,795 points, 16.8 ppg.) and the third-leading rebounder (974, 9.1 rpg) in the school's history. Since he played as a true freshman, he left Florida A&M University (FAMU) to play professional basketball essentially after three-and-a-half years.
On Saturday, April 28, 2012, Turner walked across the stage during FAMU's Spring Commencement Ceremony to receive his bachelor's degree in Agri-Business. Between the time he initially left school at FAMU and his walk across the stage, Turner lived a full life, but it was incomplete.
Turner was a highly-touted basketball player from Miami Carol City High School. He was an All-City selection, as his team won the state championship his senior year. The University of Colorado, University of Miami and other big schools offered him scholarships. Due to his core curriculum in high school, he was not allowed entry to those schools and the offers were rescinded. The schools wanted Delon to go to junior college and then transfer to their schools. Not wanting to go that route, Turner looked for other options.
In walked FAMU head basketball coach Willie Booker.
Booker got assistance in persuading Turner to come to FAMU, from Turner's principal Dr. Hunt, who was a graduate. Hunt assisted Booker in making the connection to Turner, which resulted in a campus visit. Turner liked what he saw when he came to Tallahassee.
"I met Eric Staten and a few other lifelong friends on that visit," Turner said. In months, Turner would be enrolled at FAMU and ready to make his debut.
Finally at FAMU
From the outset, things would be difficult. Turner began his freshman season in 1989, recovering from a meniscus tear. He would remarkably recover quickly. In fact, he played on opening day, which was against Bethune-Cookman College, as the Florida Classic Basketball Game would be played on the Friday night before the Saturday football game. Turner scored 30 points and won the Florida Basketball Classic MVP award.
Booker was not known to start freshmen, but Turner's performance dictated that he play right away. Being such a good player from the start, he began to gather nicknames. Former FAMU sports information director Alvin Hollins named him "Heavy D" and "Big Man," while Vitale's "Baby Barkley" was holding it's own. "I was a big fan of Charles Barkley. In fact, at that time he was one of my favorites, but I didn't like the nicknames, but I accepted them. Today, I realize that you get nicknames when you do something," Turner said.
He would go on to a stellar career with the Rattlers. He led the team in rebounding as a sophomore, pulling down 245 boards, for a 10.2 average. That 1990-1991 team would win FAMU their first-ever MEAC basketball title, and the lone championship for Booker. The Rattlers defeated the Delaware State Hornets 84-80 in overtime, to advance to the NCAA tournament. The Rattlers would fall to NE Louisiana 87-63 in the play-in game.
Turner led the team in both rebounding and scoring during his junior and senior years. During his junior year, he scored 572 points and grabbed 286 rebounds. The averages of 19.7 points and 9.8 rebounds per game were good enough to lead the team. His senior season, he had his highest scoring output as he scored 21.5 points per game. That success in scoring and rebounding made him attractive to professional teams, nationwide as well as internationally.
FAMU's executive director of the Rattler Boosters, Mickey Clayton, was the assistant coach for the Rattlers during Turner's playing days and he recalls his experiences with Delon very vividly. "Coach Booker was a good recruiter, so for him to come in and not let anybody outdo him spoke of his talent level. He could work the post, take you off the dribble or shoot over you. If that wasn't enough, he would dunk it right over you. People flocked to the gym to see him dunk on folks," Clayton said.
The beginning of a journey
Turner left after playing his last game for the Rattlers in 1993. He was invited to camp with the Denver Nuggets, but did not make the squad. He left there to play in the CBA. He then went to Finland. He played one year at Finland and then went to play in Israel for two years. His most successful stint came with the following four years when he played in Spain. He was voted the MVP, as his team won two championships while he was there. He concluded his career playing three years in Argentina and two years in Korea.
"I retired in much better position than most athletes do. I had a successful professional basketball career, but I wanted so much more," he added. Slowed by a couple of knee operations, Turner knew it was time to move on. "My transition was smoother than most athletes because I had a direction," he added. That direction was entrepreneurship.
Beginning with a Quiznos franchise, Turner's natural business skills kicked in. Turner added a few Quiznos stores, before deciding to transition to Foot Locker stores. He and partner Kelvin Daniels, who played with Turner at FAMU, kept the businesses rolling along.
At the height of business, he owned seven stores across the country, primarily in the Miami area and Dallas, Texas. He was managing 40 people, four district managers and grossed about $6 million in sales. Life was good.
With the U.S and world economies in shambles, Turner had to do what was previously unthinkable. He was forced to downsize his assets in 2010.
"It was one of the toughest things I ever had to do," he said. "Our business was as close-knit as a family. So to have to call someone you personally knew and tell them that you were closing that store, or that you were letting them go because we needed to downsize...that was tough. To know that you were in control of not only their salaries, but their family insurance, it was a hard lesson," Turner said.
Turner and his partners weathered the collapse of the U.S. economy and began rebuilding their businesses. Feeling that they could never regain all they feel they had lost during the downturn, but they survived the rough turn and made it through the trying time.
The trek back to A&M campus
All seemed well until one day when Turner's son began inquiring about his college days. He asked about his accolades and then asked him where was his diploma from FAMU. He was taken aback. Though he had been successful in business and as an athlete, he felt a void in having left his degree incomplete.
Previously, while playing in Spain, he passed two correspondence courses, but determined it was too difficult to complete his degree in that manner. When he came back in the off-season, he inquired at FAMU about finishing his coursework.
In 2009 he returned to get his transcript and get advised on a plan for completing the work. The plan called for him to complete two classes at Broward College, where he lives in the Ft. Lauderdale area. He completed those courses and returned to FAMU to aggressively pursue the courses. He did so with a working knowledge of what he was doing.
In the summer of 2011, he took nine hours and garnered a 4.0 average that semester, in the fall of 2011, he took the maximum load of 21 hours and collected a 3.67 GPA for the semester, and finally, he concluded it with 15 hours in the spring, where he made the Dean's list with a perfect 4.0. Mixed in among the hundreds of graduates, the 6'6" Turner sat in virtual oblivion, except for Clayton and several of his teammates who played with him.
"The guys were very close back then. Terry Giles, who was one of the best point guards in FAMU's history, was a perfect fit for Delon. Reginald Finney and Turner were a lethal combination. Aldwin Ware, Joey McGear, Kelvin Daniels and the whole team complemented each other. The Rattlers won the MEAC in 1991 and had to travel to NE Louisiana for the play-in game, which we came up short. That was a special time, winning our first-ever MEAC title," Clayton said.
Turner didn't complete his degree without its share of challenges. The shift in technology was a whirlwind around him.
"When I first came to FAMU in 1989, we registered for classes with pieces of paper in Perry-Paige. When I came back in 2010, everything was on the computer. All information is now on the iRattler system. Coursework is now on Blackboard. I found myself befriending 18-22 year olds to help me maneuver the system," Turner jokingly said.
At the end of the day, Delon "Baby Barkley" Turner is proud to say he's a FAMU graduate. "The journey was definitely worth it. God gives everybody a path. That was my road; I had to travel it in my own way. I have no regrets about my life. Any decision I made I'll live with it, because it was a part of my path. I enjoyed and embraced the process.
As an older student I was prepared, even though I had 10 times more obligations. As a matter of fact, I am looking at enrolling in an MBA program this summer.
Turner concluded, "I can't put into words what it felt like to walk across that stage. I hope someone reads this and says somebody else did it, I need to do what I have to do to finish up."
COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
The buzz at Florida A&M ...
1. Inaugural Clemon Johnson Celebrity Golf Tournament, June 21st.
2. Former Basketball Star Roosevelt Harper Passes
3. 2012 Rattlers Football Tickets on Sale Now
4. FAMU Athletics marches 40 Athletes Across the Stage
5. 53 FAMU Athletes Make MEAC All-Academic Squad
The Florida A&M University's Alma Mater played at Founder's Day Convocation 2008
FAMU Alma Mater
College of love and charity
We gather ‘round thy noble shrine;
We lift our voice in praise to thee,
And ask a blessing all divine.
(Chorus)
FAM-U! FAM-U! I love thee
I’ll fight and win what’er the battle be
The Orange and the Green thy Sons shall e’er defend
And loyal to thy voice of love attend
FAM-U! FAM-U! FAM-U! I love thee!
On gridiron, diamond, track and field,
Thy sons the vict’ry never yield
And while they tread a broader life
Thy love shall stay them in the strife.
(repeat Chorus)
God ever keep us true to thee;
Thy faith that truth shall make men free.
Shall guide thy loyal sons aright
And fend them thru’ the skeptic night.
(repeat Chorus)
FAMU Athletics Releases List of Signees
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The FAMU Department of Athletics released its list of signees for the 2012 season. The list includes all sports except football, which was released in February. Other signees may be forthcoming. This list is certified by the athletic compliance office and if others are certified, we will add them to the list.Check back with FAMUAthletics.com on Monday, June 4, as we present biographical information on all of the athletes.
National Letter of Intent
2012-2013 Signees
Baseball
Garrett Johnson
Jordan Montague
Bennie Robinson
Kendal Weeks
Women's Basketball
Shiniece Beamon
Tanikqua McFarlane
Monesiea Prothro
Ariel Thomas
Ashley Watson
Men's Basketball
Jamie Adams
Muhammad Aleem
Jakari Bush
Willie Connor
Trey Kellum
Odi Onyekachukwu
Bowling
Victoria Jones
Dawn Sidney
Golf
Omari Whitmore
Softball
Jennifer Escalona
Kelly Hunter
Raven Mosely
Naesha Lewis
Alexis Sandage
Tikeya Strong
Bianca Torres
W. Tennis
Alexis Dean
Symone Townsend
Men's Track
Corey Jones
W. Track
Zenia George
Ashley Ivey
By FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Bill Vilona: FAMU coach can take lead
The horrific hazing scandal with the Marching 100, resulting in the death of drum major Robert Champion, the extended suspension of the famed band, an entire administration in question, have all put the university in a negative light.
But it’s the football program, led by fifth-year coach Joe Taylor and heading upward, which could spur a process to bring FAMU back. The future of the entire university is at stake.
That’s part of the reason why it’s important Taylor takes a lead role. He visits Pensacola on Saturday (June 9) to speak to area alumni and supporters at New World Landing. The event begins at 7 p.m. and is open to the public.
READ MORE
ASU Volleyball Adds Eleven To 2012 Squad
MONTGOMERY, Alabama - During the 2012 signing period second season Head Volleyball Coach Penny Lucas-White signed eleven student athletes that will be joining the ASU volleyball team. Lucas-White will be adding nine freshmen one sophomore and one junior college transfer to the 2012 Lady Hornets team.Incoming freshmen Amber Bennett, Khryssnee Madison, Myla Marshall, Annii'ya Robinson, Chelsey Scott, Rachel Smith, Julia Griz, Portia Watkins, Ravenn Hill, also joining the Lady Hornets volleyball team will be sophomore Brooke Beasley and junior college transfer Latoya Ellington.
“I think it's great that we have a population coming in from all over the nation to represent Alabama State University”, Lucas-White said. “I think that indicative of the direction in were we are going, I think in order for us to grow and get better I think that we have to bring players from other regions of the countries, to best represent Alabama State. I am so excited to start the 2012 campaign and I think that all of the incoming freshmen, junior college transfer and returning players are just as excited. August isn't getting here fast enough.”
Bennett is a 6-1 middle hitter from Baton Rouge, La., and was picked to the All State Metro Volleyball Team. She was voted the MVP of district four, and tallied 309 kills, 100 digs, 88 block and 33 aces during her senior year at McKinley High School.
Ellington, the lone junior college transfer will be joining Bennett and Marshall as middle hitters. The 6 foot Gadsden State Community College transfer helped lead GSCC in qualifying for NJCAA National Tournament in 2012. She was chosen to the 2012 Alabama Community College Conference All-Region Team. Ellington averaged 3.01 kills per set and had a .450 hitting efficiency.
Marshall is a 6-0 Memphis, Tenn. native, led her Houston High School teammates with a .358 kill per game average tallying 404 kills her senior year. The District 15 MVP and All-Region athlete was selected to the 2011-12 Best of the Preps team. Marshall was also a part of her high school District 15 and Region 8 Championships.
Madison is a 5-10 outside hitter from Bosse High School in Evansville, Ind., was selected as the Courier and Press All Metro Player of the Year. She was voted to ESPN Radio Volleyball Player of the Week and was the MVP of her team leading them in kills and blocks for the past three seasons. The First Team All-Metro, First Team All City athlete also received the Kiwanis Award for the 2010 volleyball season.
Robinson is another 5-10 outside hitter that will be joining the front line with Madison and Smith. Robinson is a Phoenix, Arizona native from Desert Vista High School that also doubles as a setter. Robinson earned a spot on the 2012 Junior Nationals squad that earned the National bid for the Arizona Region.
Scott is a 5-10 outside hitter who led the 2012 Enterprise High School volleyball team to its first Elite Eight State Tournament since 2005, while winning the Area and Region Title. The Enterprise, Ala. native was a part of the All-State Team and the Dothan Eagle Super 12 team. She was the team leader both her junior and senior year in kills, blocks and aces.
Smith another outside hitter from Riverside, Calif. will be bringing in many accolades from her Martin Luther King High School experience. Smith was a 2012 third place Gold Division finalist with the Mavericks Club league. A 2011 All League Big VIII MVP also assisting her team to the league champship. In 2011 Smith was a part of the CIF SS Volleyball Championship and the Los Osos All tournament Volleyball team. She was also selected to the 2010 All Riverside County Team and the 2009 REV All Tournament Player and played on the CIF SS Volleyball Championship team.
Beasley will be transferring in from Wallace State-Hanceville after one year. The Winfield, Alabama native received honors on the First Team All-Region Alabama Community College Conference team as well as the NJCAA National Tournament team at WSH placed 12th overall. Beasley was selected as the MVP of the All Tournament Team and First Team All-Region.
Griz, a name familiar to the Lady Hornets will be joining her older sister Luiza Griz at ASU. Julia Griz, is a 5-7 defensive specialist/libero from Lakewood High School in Lakewood, Colorado. While at Lakewood the team was ranked 5th in the State of Colorado and she led her team to a Final Four State playoffs, after finishing as undefeated District Champions. She earned a spot on the 2011 and 12 Junior Nationals as the starting libero for the Denver Volleyball Club. In 2011 and 12 both teams won a National Championship bid for the Rocky Mountain Region.
Watkins joins the ASU program after a standout career at Central High School in Phenix City. The 5-9 setter was named All-Bi-City and was a two-sport star at Central, also playing on the basketball team.
Hill a 5-5 defensive specialist from Renaissance High School in Detroit, Mich. was an All City performer. She was named team Captain and was also named a Public School League Player of the Week. The Renaissance High School standout was named Detroit Public School League Proud Strong Learner of the Week twice during her career. She averaged 12 digs a game with and had a 75% passing percentage.
COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Kentucky State Announces 2012 Regular Season Football Schedule
FRANKFORT, Kentucky - Kentucky State University's Director of Athletics, Dr. Denisha L. Hendricks, announced today the 2012 Thorobred Football regular season schedule.
The Thorobreds kickoff the 2012 campaign on September 8 in a home, non-conference battle against Kentucky Wesleyan College at 7 p.m.
“We are very excited about the 2012 season,” stated Hendricks. “Coach Dickens and his staff have worked tirelessly to prepare the team for another competitive season.”
The nine-game regular season schedule consists of four home games, including homecoming, and five road games. Entering the second year of the East-West Divisional format in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Breds will play a seven-game conference schedule this year.
After opening at home, the Thorobreds hit the road for two weeks, playing at Lincoln University (Pa.) on September 15 and then at Stillman College on September 22 for their first West Division game. They end September with a home game against East Division foe, Albany State University.
KSU heads Georgia on October 6 for another cross-division game against Fort Valley State University. On October 13 at 1:30 p.m., the Breds battle will Miles College in the 2012 Homecoming game. Last year, KSU won it's first homecoming game in nine years with a 25-24 victory over FVSU.
The Thorobreds' final three games of the regular season feature battles against two West Division and one East Division school. On October 20 KSU takes on the Tuskegee Golden Tigers, a game sure to continue the high-intensity play after the Breds defeated TU last year for the first time in 13 years. The Breds have a home game against Lane College on October 27 and end the regular season with an away game on November 3 against Morehouse College.
2012 Kentucky State University Football Schedule
September 8 Kentucky Wesleyan College Frankfort, KY
September 15 Lincoln University Philadelphia, PA
September 22 Stillman College Tuscaloosa, AL
September 29 Albany State University Frankfort, KY
October 6 Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, GA
October 13 Miles College (Homecoming) Frankfort, KY
October 20 Tuskegee University Tuskegee, AL
October 27 Lane College Frankfort, KY
November 3 Morehouse College Atlanta, GA
COURTESY KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
The Thorobreds kickoff the 2012 campaign on September 8 in a home, non-conference battle against Kentucky Wesleyan College at 7 p.m.
“We are very excited about the 2012 season,” stated Hendricks. “Coach Dickens and his staff have worked tirelessly to prepare the team for another competitive season.”
The nine-game regular season schedule consists of four home games, including homecoming, and five road games. Entering the second year of the East-West Divisional format in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Breds will play a seven-game conference schedule this year.
After opening at home, the Thorobreds hit the road for two weeks, playing at Lincoln University (Pa.) on September 15 and then at Stillman College on September 22 for their first West Division game. They end September with a home game against East Division foe, Albany State University.
KSU heads Georgia on October 6 for another cross-division game against Fort Valley State University. On October 13 at 1:30 p.m., the Breds battle will Miles College in the 2012 Homecoming game. Last year, KSU won it's first homecoming game in nine years with a 25-24 victory over FVSU.
The Thorobreds' final three games of the regular season feature battles against two West Division and one East Division school. On October 20 KSU takes on the Tuskegee Golden Tigers, a game sure to continue the high-intensity play after the Breds defeated TU last year for the first time in 13 years. The Breds have a home game against Lane College on October 27 and end the regular season with an away game on November 3 against Morehouse College.
2012 Kentucky State University Football Schedule
September 8 Kentucky Wesleyan College Frankfort, KY
September 15 Lincoln University Philadelphia, PA
September 22 Stillman College Tuscaloosa, AL
September 29 Albany State University Frankfort, KY
October 6 Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, GA
October 13 Miles College (Homecoming) Frankfort, KY
October 20 Tuskegee University Tuskegee, AL
October 27 Lane College Frankfort, KY
November 3 Morehouse College Atlanta, GA
COURTESY KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Kentucky State University Women's Basketball Announces 2012-2013 Recruiting Class
Palmer, a 5'10” guard from Hancock Central High School in Milledgeville, Georgia, averaged 16 points and seven rebounds per game. King-Coleman, who is looking forward to Palmer being able to stretch the defense with her shooting range, stated, “Ikiah is a tall guard and will add size to the perimeter. Not only does she have a great shooting range, she is also a good defender.”
Sanders, a four-year starter for the Lawrence Central High School Bears (Indianapolis, Ind.), averaged 15.5 points, 4.5 assists and 3.7 steals per game. The point guard, who signed with the Thorobrettes during the early signing period, scored over 1,300 points during her high school career. “Taylor is a quick, true point guard who can help elevate our level of play,” affirmed King-Coleman. “She has a high basketball IQ, along with accurate passing and the ability to score.”
Tazzie Shaw, who hails from West Chester, Ohio, is a 6'1” forward who originally verbally committed to Marshall University in West Virginia. An exciting and versatile post player, King-Coleman stated Shaw will “add athleticism and strong rebounding, as well as the ability to score from beyond the arc and in the paint.” The Brettes will look for Shaw to create favorable mismatches against opposing defenders.
KSU's three freshmen will be joined by four transfers in Harper Jackson, King and West. Harper, a 5'8” junior coming from West Virginia University Institute of Technology, is from Cincinnati, Ohio. “We are looking for Style to be a vocal leader,” King-Coleman stated. “She is a physical, high-intensity player with the ability to get to the basket and finish while creating contact.”
Jackson is a 5'10 junior transfer from Marshalltown Community College. “Kadera will give us athleticism and defensive presence in the paint,” King-Coleman advised. The Milwaukee, Wisconsin native and forward runs the floor exceptionally well and, according to Coach King-Coleman, “has an uncanny sense for getting offensive rebounds and put-backs.” Jackson finishes well around the basket and will bring experience to the post position.
King, who stands at 6'3”, will give the Brettes immediate strength in the post with her size and physical prowess in the paint. The junior, center transfer from Lakeland Community College, averaged will also add to KSU's rebounding and scoring in the paint. The Brettes are gaining a student-athlete who was ranked in the top ten in the NJCAA Division II in three categories: 20.2 points per game (9th), 16.4 rebounds per game (2nd) and 57.6 field goal percentage (8th).
Rounding out this year's class is West, a Southfield, Michigan native transferred from Siena Heights University. A 5'9” junior, guard, West sets the tone defensively and is able to go to the basket with strength to draw contact. “LaShell will bring size and quickness to the perimeter,” said King-Coleman. “She fits well into our up-tempo style of play with her speed and has the knack to anticipate in passing lanes.”
With a solid recruiting class, the Thorobrettes look to contend for the 2013 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Title.
“We have a great group of young ladies coming in this year,” King-Coleman acknowledged. “They have bought into our program, and with hard work, we will continue to improve and compete for the conference title.”
COURTESY KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Tamika Louis introduced as new Delaware State Hornets Women's Basketball Head Coach
DOVER, Delaware - A new era has begun for the Delaware State University women's basketball team as President Harry L. Williams introduced Tamika L. Louis, a former championship junior college head coach and Division I assistant coach, as the new head coach at a May 31, 2012 press conference.
Dr. Williams stated that he is "very happy" that Coach Louis has decided to become a member of the One Hornet Nation family.
"I expect that she will bring a high-level energy and excitement to our women's basketball program," Williams remarked.
Louis arrives at Delaware State with 14 years of coaching and recruiting experience on the NCAA Division I, Junior College and high school levels. Most recently, she served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator during the 2011-12 season at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
Louis commented that, "as the Lady Hornets' head coach, I will be a servant-leader and hope that my energy, dedication and work ethic will be infectious to the young ladies on the team."
"We will establish a winning culture here with an expectation to excel in the classroom and on the court, resulting in MEAC championships," Louis stated. "Just as important, we will develop future leaders who, upon graduation, will make an immediate impact in our global society and positively represent DSU."
The decision to hire Coach Louis culminated a two-month search process that began in late March upon the retirement of former head coach Ed Davis. Serving on the search committee for the head coaching post were committee chair Dr. Gwendolyn Scott-Jones (chair of the Department of Psychology), Dr. Jan Blade (faculty athletics representative), Candy Young (interim senior associate athletics director and senior woman administrator), Dr. Joe Amoako (professor of English and member of the Athletics Council), Dr. Josette McCollough (DSU Alum and former women's basketball student-athlete), Dr. Sonja McCoy (associate director of mentoring and advising) and current women's basketball senior Kianna D'Oliveira.
Eric Hart, Interim DSU Director of Athletics, praised the search committee for their hard work and expressed great hopes for the Lady Hornet basketball program under Louis.
"We are starting a new chapter in women's basketball and I am confident that Coach Louis will be able to build upon a strong basketball legacy here at Delaware State University," remarked Hart. "Coach Louis has built a reputation on the Division I landscape as being a fierce recruiter and has built top tier programs at Illinois and St. John's in addition to being on her way to building a strong class at George Washington University."
From 2009-11, Louis was an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for St. John's University, where she was in charge of organizing all recruiting initiatives, game scouting, overseeing player academic progress and of-court mentoring. Additionally, she was responsible for the development of the Red Storm guards, including Second Team All-Big East and Freshman All-American Shennieka Smith.
Prior to her time at SJU, Louis served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of Illinois from 2007-09 where she was instrumental in signing the No. 2 and No. 3 ranked players in the 2009 class in the country, according to ESPN Hoop Girl and Blue Star rankings, in All-Americans Destiny Williams and Karisma Penn.
From 2002-05, she was the head women's basketball coach at Mott Community College in Flint, Mich., where she led her squad to a 58-33 overall record during her tenure. The 2004-05 squad boasted a 16-0 conference record and was 27-7 overall en route to a NJCAA Region XII championship and bid to the NJCAA Tournament. For her efforts during this stellar season, Louis was named the Michigan Community College Athletic Association and Region XII Coach of the Year.
Before joining the collegiate coaching ranks, Louis had stints as an assistant and associate basketball coach at Central High School in Fresno, Calif., Rhodes High School in Cleveland, Ohio and Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio.
After playing her freshman year (1993-94) at West Virginia University, Louis transferred to Fresno State, where she was the starting point guard and captain from 1995-98. A native of Flint, Mich., she earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees in communications from Fresno State University.
COURTESY DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS
Dr. Williams stated that he is "very happy" that Coach Louis has decided to become a member of the One Hornet Nation family.
"I expect that she will bring a high-level energy and excitement to our women's basketball program," Williams remarked.
Louis arrives at Delaware State with 14 years of coaching and recruiting experience on the NCAA Division I, Junior College and high school levels. Most recently, she served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator during the 2011-12 season at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
Louis commented that, "as the Lady Hornets' head coach, I will be a servant-leader and hope that my energy, dedication and work ethic will be infectious to the young ladies on the team."
"We will establish a winning culture here with an expectation to excel in the classroom and on the court, resulting in MEAC championships," Louis stated. "Just as important, we will develop future leaders who, upon graduation, will make an immediate impact in our global society and positively represent DSU."
The decision to hire Coach Louis culminated a two-month search process that began in late March upon the retirement of former head coach Ed Davis. Serving on the search committee for the head coaching post were committee chair Dr. Gwendolyn Scott-Jones (chair of the Department of Psychology), Dr. Jan Blade (faculty athletics representative), Candy Young (interim senior associate athletics director and senior woman administrator), Dr. Joe Amoako (professor of English and member of the Athletics Council), Dr. Josette McCollough (DSU Alum and former women's basketball student-athlete), Dr. Sonja McCoy (associate director of mentoring and advising) and current women's basketball senior Kianna D'Oliveira.
Eric Hart, Interim DSU Director of Athletics, praised the search committee for their hard work and expressed great hopes for the Lady Hornet basketball program under Louis.
"We are starting a new chapter in women's basketball and I am confident that Coach Louis will be able to build upon a strong basketball legacy here at Delaware State University," remarked Hart. "Coach Louis has built a reputation on the Division I landscape as being a fierce recruiter and has built top tier programs at Illinois and St. John's in addition to being on her way to building a strong class at George Washington University."
From 2009-11, Louis was an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for St. John's University, where she was in charge of organizing all recruiting initiatives, game scouting, overseeing player academic progress and of-court mentoring. Additionally, she was responsible for the development of the Red Storm guards, including Second Team All-Big East and Freshman All-American Shennieka Smith.
Prior to her time at SJU, Louis served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of Illinois from 2007-09 where she was instrumental in signing the No. 2 and No. 3 ranked players in the 2009 class in the country, according to ESPN Hoop Girl and Blue Star rankings, in All-Americans Destiny Williams and Karisma Penn.
From 2002-05, she was the head women's basketball coach at Mott Community College in Flint, Mich., where she led her squad to a 58-33 overall record during her tenure. The 2004-05 squad boasted a 16-0 conference record and was 27-7 overall en route to a NJCAA Region XII championship and bid to the NJCAA Tournament. For her efforts during this stellar season, Louis was named the Michigan Community College Athletic Association and Region XII Coach of the Year.
Before joining the collegiate coaching ranks, Louis had stints as an assistant and associate basketball coach at Central High School in Fresno, Calif., Rhodes High School in Cleveland, Ohio and Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio.
After playing her freshman year (1993-94) at West Virginia University, Louis transferred to Fresno State, where she was the starting point guard and captain from 1995-98. A native of Flint, Mich., she earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees in communications from Fresno State University.
COURTESY DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS
Rox add three more for summer of 2012
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| MICHAEL ROMANO N.C. Central University Eagles |
Perna, who is expected to be selected in the 2012 MLB Draft, joins the Rox for the summer of 2012 after spending two seasons at Jones County Junior College in Ellisville, Miss. This past season, the towering right-handerwent 10-1 for the Bobcats with one save and a 2.03 ERA, while striking out 68 batters in 75.1 innings of work. The Laurel, Miss. native excelled as an infielder as well, hitting .358 (68-for-190) at the dish with 10 doubles, seven homers, 52 RBI, 18 walks, three stolen bases, and 32 runs scored. His success helped the Bobcats clinch their third straight Mississippi Association of Community & Junior College (MACJC) South Division title.
As a freshman in 2011, Perna earned First Team All-MACJC and First Team All-Region honors, while helping Jones County Junior College clinch the 2011 MACJC State Championship, as well as its first-ever Region 23 Championship. The Bobcats eventually finished as the runner-up in the 2011 NJCAA Division II College World Series after falling to Western Oklahoma State University in the title game.
Romano appeared in 15 games for the Division I Eagles of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) as junior in 2012. He made seven starts for North Carolina Central University, finishing with a 3-3 record to go along with one save and a 5.24 ERA through 56.2 innings of work. The southpaw fanned 31 batters while walking just 15. A native of Spotsylvania, Va., Romano transferred from Essex Junior College where he finished with a 3.60 ERA and 10 strikeouts through 20 innings pitched in 2011. Prior to that, Romano attended Riverbend High School, where he helped his team reach the Regional Semifinals in 2007 and was named Second Team All-Region along the way.
Lardo redshirted for the Division I Terrapins of the Atlantic Coast Conference as a freshman in 2012. Before his time with the University of Maryland, the Baldwin, Md. native attended high school at Loyola Blakefield in Towson, MD, where he hit .495 as a senior. Lardo was named Baltimore Sun All-Met team in 2011, while also being named to First Team All-Region in 2011 as an outfielder. He earned Louisville Slugger All-American honors and was also named to the Preseason All-State team in 2010.
COURTESY BROCKTONROX.COM
Sam Houston State holds off Prairie View
HOUSTON, Texas — Sam Houston State capitalized on two errors by Prairie View A&M during a three-run fifth inning and held on for a 4-2 win Saturday in an elimination game in the Houston Regional.Justin Jackson (9-4) allowed two runs — no earned— on eight hits with two strikeouts in eight-plus innings for Sam Houston State (39-21).
“Prairie View was putting the ball in play early in the count, but our defense did a great job behind me,” Jackson said.
SHSU reliever Michael Burchett worked out of a bases-loaded jam with no outs in the ninth without giving up a run for his ninth save.
“I just wanted to throw strikes and get some ground balls,” Burchett said. “That strikeout for the second out was really a tough at-bat. We’re just excited to still be playing.”
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Bethune-Cookman eliminated from NCAA baseball tournament
GAINESVILLE, Florida - Hits were almost as hard to come by for Bethune-Cookman on Saturday as they were Friday night as the Wildcats lost their second consecutive game in the Gainesville Regional. On the heels of Jonathon Crawford's no-hitter in Florida's 4-0 win over B-CU on Friday, the College of Charleston's Matt Pegler held the Wildcats to just two hits Saturday in an 8-2 victory.
The loss knocked B-CU (34-27) out of the NCAA tournament after two games for the seventh consecutive year.
"Tough way to end the season, no doubt," said B-CU's first-year coach, Jason Beverlin. "With as many strides as we've made as a team, I felt it was pretty disappointing that we didn't come out with a little more energy and fight in us than we had (Saturday)."
ESPN3 REPLAY: BETHUNE-COOKMAN VS. COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON
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Winston-Salem State University student fee hike could pay for Bowman Gray Stadium purchase
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| WILLIAM "BILL" HAYES DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY |
WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina - Winston-Salem State University has officially made an offer to buy Bowman Gray Stadium, but the school is considering raising student fees 5 percent in order to do that.
The City of Winston-Salem has valued the 17,000-seat stadium at $10 million. WSSU officials said the student fee increase would raise $7.5 million over the next 20 years.
The increase would add another $110 to the bill of full-time students, raising total student fees to $2,100 a year.
"We can't go to the state and say, 'Would you buy us a football stadium?' It has to come from auxiliary sources, and those sources have historically been student fees," said Owen Cooks with WSSU.
A bill that would authorize the stadium's purchase is currently heading through the General Assembly. If passed, a deal could be ready to be signed by the fall. The student fee increase would be implemented this fall as well.
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Jordan signs with the Albany State Rams
THOMASTON, Georgia - One of the fastest athletes to ever attend Upson-Lee High School will continue to his education for free, thanks in part to his speed on the track and his performance in the classroom.
Senior Jared Jordan signed to run on the Albany State University track team Thursday morning. Jordan is the school’s record holder in the 200 meters (21.67 seconds), and was a key member of the Knights’ record breaking 4x100m relay team. The 2012 4x100m relay team finished second in the state in class AAAA, and posted the third fastest time in the state in any classification with a time of 41.73 seconds, a mark which also set a school record.
“This is a great day for our track program,” said UL Athletic Director Eddie Payne. “Since I have been here, Jared is the first person to earn a scholarship for track. Jared is an outstanding young man, who is looked up to by many in our school, which come from a humble personality and great upbringing by parents who were involved with his athletic and academic achievements.”
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Senior Jared Jordan signed to run on the Albany State University track team Thursday morning. Jordan is the school’s record holder in the 200 meters (21.67 seconds), and was a key member of the Knights’ record breaking 4x100m relay team. The 2012 4x100m relay team finished second in the state in class AAAA, and posted the third fastest time in the state in any classification with a time of 41.73 seconds, a mark which also set a school record.
“This is a great day for our track program,” said UL Athletic Director Eddie Payne. “Since I have been here, Jared is the first person to earn a scholarship for track. Jared is an outstanding young man, who is looked up to by many in our school, which come from a humble personality and great upbringing by parents who were involved with his athletic and academic achievements.”
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Saturday, June 2, 2012
Three African-Americans Earn Doctorates in Chemistry, Set UM Record for Single Year
OXFORD, Mississippi - Less than a year after launching an aggressive initiative to increase the number of graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields, the University of Mississippi has recorded an impressive national achievement.
Friday evening (May 11, 2012), the university graduated three African-American students with doctorates in chemistry, an exceptional number for any university.
“On average, about 50 African-American students receive Ph.D.s in chemistry nationwide each year, so UM produced 6 percent of the national total,” said Maurice Eftink, associate provost and professor of chemistry and biochemistry.
The history-making candidates who received their degrees were Kari Copeland of Coldwater, Margo Montgomery of New Orleans and Jeffrey Veals of Gloster. And a fourth African-American student, Shanna Stoddard of Louisville, Kentucky, is on track to earn her doctorate in chemistry in December.
“This is a significant achievement for these three graduates and their families, and it is also significant for the university,” Chancellor Dan Jones said. “UM 2020, our new strategic plan, calls on us as the flagship university of our state to lead our state and region in preparing professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, especially from underrepresented groups.”
It is the second time in recent years that UM has set a benchmark in STEM fields. The university produced four African-American Ph.D.s in mathematics in 2006.
“That was an even more outstanding achievement given that there are only 15-to-30 African-American Ph.D.s in math granted each year. But the current achievement is still pretty noteworthy,” Eftink said.
Charles Hussey, UM chair of chemistry and biochemistry, lauded his faculty for their support.
“Our three students represent a significant proportion of the national graduates,” he said. “This department and its faculty are absolutely devoted to the success of minority students, regardless of whether they are undergraduate or graduate students.”
Besides the three African-Americans, four more UM students were awarded doctoral degrees in chemistry and biochemistry this commencement: Rajesh Kota of India, Debra Jo Scardino of Moss Point, Lei Wang of China and Ashley Wright of Texarkana, Texas.
Overall enrollment of minority graduate students in chemistry and biochemistry at UM has been noteworthy over the years. In addition to the three students who graduated, four more minority students have passed their prospectus and are moving on to begin Ph.D. work.
“Hopefully, these graduates will view their UM experiences as positive and will spread the word, so that others may become interested in taking advantage of similar opportunities,” Hussey said.
The newest alums have already begun cheering for their alma mater.
“I am elated to earn my doctoral degree from the University of Mississippi,” Dr. Copeland said. “I feel my degree is just as worthy as a degree from Harvard or any other Ivy League institution.”
“I am truly honored to become an Ole Miss grad,” Dr. Montgomery said. “I hope to become a role model for future scientists. I want to remind students that no matter how impossible things may seem at times, if you continue to study and work hard, everything and anything is possible.”
Dr. Veals said receiving his degree felt “surreal, but great.”
“If you would have asked me nine years ago as a freshman if I would have a Ph. D. by the time I was 27, I would have laughed and said, ‘Yeah, right,’” he said. “Ole Miss has grown on me over the years, so it does feel good to have received it from here.”
Faculty advisers said each student was exceptional in his or her respective field of study.
“Kari’s general area is computational quantum chemistry,” said Greg Tschumper, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry and Copeland’s adviser. “She worked on characterizing the subtle interactions between molecules that influence many important processes in chemistry and biology, including how molecules in our bodies – proteins and DNA, for example – recognize each other.”
Copeland completed both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biochemistry from UM. Her immediate plans are to continue research at Jackson State University as a post-doctoral researcher.
Walter Cleland, assistant chair and associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, and Montgomery’s adviser, said she proved herself during four years of teaching at UM and already has tenure track offers from several colleges, including one in Mississippi.
“Margo has had a long road to this achievement,” Cleland said. “She has endured a lot and is one of the bright spots in our program. Her research in bio-organic chemistry is exceptional, but she is very interested in teaching. She’s done a fantastic job with the students she has mentored. We’re terribly proud of her.”
Veals, whose field is computational chemistry, used computational methods to explore the possibilities of storing and releasing energy using strained molecular structures.
“Working with Jeffrey was every research adviser’s dream,” professor Steven Davis said. “He was very independent, hardworking and creative. One of the most memorable interactions was when he proposed a new method of interpreting strain energy in molecules that I had not even considered. It worked out remarkably well and will be used in one of our publications.”
Dr. Copeland is a Southern Regional Education Board Scholar. One of the organization’s initiatives is to increase faculty diversity in America’s colleges and universities. “In light of this, I plan to eventually seek a faculty position,” Copeland said.
Dr. Montgomery holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana. Her dissertation was on “Synthesis and Characterization of Nickel Complexes with Relevance to Acireductone Dioxygenase.” She hopes to develop a summer science academy where students from all walks of life are exposed to the sciences in a nontraditional manner.
“Creating an interest for science at an early age will hopefully encourage more minorities to study science in college and beyond,” Dr. Montgomery said. “No longer will it be a phenomenon to have three African-Americans graduate with a doctoral degree in chemistry, but rather routine.”
Dr. Veals, who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UM, is to be a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Missouri. His long-term goal is to become a chemistry professor.
“I think many otherwise qualified prospective African-American students in Mississippi may think that a Ph.D. in chemistry is beyond their grasp,” Hussey said. “Our graduates speak loudly to them and say, ‘Yes, you can do it!’ Have courage. You can succeed at the highest educational level in the sciences.”
For more information about chemistry and biochemistry education at UM, visit http://www.olemiss.edu/depts/chemistry_biochemistry/.
COURTESY OLE MISS OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS
Aiken's Payton signs with Prairie View A&M University
AIKEN, South Carolina - Justin Payton and the Aiken High tennis team came up one win short of a state title this year, but Payton's tennis career is far from over. The Hornet senior signed his letter of intent Wednesday to play at Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas.Payton said that he chose the Division I Panthers over Florida A&M, Coastal Carolina, Xavier University of Louisiana and Benedict College because of how the team can help him improve as a player.
"I really liked the campus," he said. "I feel like the team is going to make me better." Payton said the coaching staff guaranteed him a spot in the Panthers' top five. He added the combination of experienced players at Prairie View and his deep playoff runs with the Hornets will help the Panthers' pursuit of Southwestern Athletic Conference titles.
"I feel like me going to the university as a freshman, and the team has a bunch of leaders," he said of the Panthers, who will only lose one senior from this year's team.
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Rice edges Prairie View A&M 3-2 in NCAA regionals
HOUSTON — Michael Fuda hit a solo home run in the seventh inning to give Rice the go-ahead run and the Owls held on to beat Prairie View A&M 3-2 in the opener of the Houston Regional on Friday night.
The Owls (41-17) scored one run in the second inning on a sacrifice fly by Ford Stainback and another in the third inning when Michael Ratterree tripled to score J.T. Chargois. The game remained tied until Fuda's home run.
Prairie View A&M (28-24) had a brief 2-0 lead after scoring in the second on Colby Hines' two-run double.
Rice starter John Simms (6-0) went seven innings, and allowed two runs — one earned — and two hits, while striking out seven and walking three. Tyler Duffey earned his seventh save by pitching two scoreless innings and striking out three.
Prairie View starter Derrick Mitchell allowed two earned runs in 6 2/3 innings.
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
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Florida's Crawford throws no-no vs Bethune-Cookman
GAINESVILLE, Florida -- Jonathon Crawford was nearly perfect for Florida. Turned out the Gators right-hander was plenty good enough to make some college baseball history. Crawford threw the seventh no-hitter ever in the NCAA tournament, shutting down Bethune-Cookman in a 4-0 victory in the opener of the Gainesville Regional on Friday night. "When I came out for the eighth, I got really nervous and excited and that's when it hit me that I could get a no-hitter," Crawford said. "I was pumped. It was crazy, but a lot of fun. I guess it's a pretty big deal." No doubt about it.
Crawford, a sophomore who wasn't even part of the Gators' three-man weekend rotation this season, faced the minimum 27 batters. The only player to reach base was Bethune-Cookman's Jake Welch on a walk in the third inning, and Florida catcher Mike Zunino threw him out trying to steal.
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'Historic' Class for ASU Basketball
ALBANY, Georgia -- The deadline for the college basketball signing period has passed, but the Albany State Golden Rams are still very much alive.
ASU Head Coach Chris Cameron gave this 2012 signing class the label of historic. Cameron is certainly confident in their talent (and his recruiting abilities), but the high praise stems from their South Georgia roots.
Local talent has been missing from the Albany State roster in the past, but not anymore- three of the four players in the 2012 class hail from Southwest Georgia.
The Golden Rams inked Thomasville point guard Trey Gosier, Worth County-native Jerome Hamilton and Americus-Sumter’s Shaquille Harris to round out their southern sweep.
Cameron believes bringing the “229” area code back to the Golden Rams should bring the team closer together.
“One of the things it does for us is it provides a team full of chemistry...guys that like each other. I think that's one of the biggest things that we're going to have on the upcoming team that we haven't had in the past- (these) guys have played against each other in high school and know each other,” Cameron said.
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ASU Head Coach Chris Cameron gave this 2012 signing class the label of historic. Cameron is certainly confident in their talent (and his recruiting abilities), but the high praise stems from their South Georgia roots.
Local talent has been missing from the Albany State roster in the past, but not anymore- three of the four players in the 2012 class hail from Southwest Georgia.
The Golden Rams inked Thomasville point guard Trey Gosier, Worth County-native Jerome Hamilton and Americus-Sumter’s Shaquille Harris to round out their southern sweep.
Cameron believes bringing the “229” area code back to the Golden Rams should bring the team closer together.
“One of the things it does for us is it provides a team full of chemistry...guys that like each other. I think that's one of the biggest things that we're going to have on the upcoming team that we haven't had in the past- (these) guys have played against each other in high school and know each other,” Cameron said.
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ASU Tees Off for Title Drive
ALBANY, Georgia -- The Albany State football team is prepping for a drive to the SIAC title with summer workouts. On Friday, Boosters of the “Blue and Gold” did some driving and pitching to fundraise for the ASU program.
The Golden Rams held their 10th annual at the Flint River Golf Course raising money for the program. The ASU athletes on the football field are working to reclaim the SIAC championship after falling to Miles College in the inaugural championship game last season.
ASU Head Coach Mike White talked about how his team handled that first championship game and how it will be different this season.
“(We) kind of know what to expect this year...how that's all going to work out. There won't be any changes in the middle of the year like it was last year, but we expect to be right back in the hunt and just kind of understand how you play your cards this time,” Coach White said.
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The Golden Rams held their 10th annual at the Flint River Golf Course raising money for the program. The ASU athletes on the football field are working to reclaim the SIAC championship after falling to Miles College in the inaugural championship game last season.
ASU Head Coach Mike White talked about how his team handled that first championship game and how it will be different this season.
“(We) kind of know what to expect this year...how that's all going to work out. There won't be any changes in the middle of the year like it was last year, but we expect to be right back in the hunt and just kind of understand how you play your cards this time,” Coach White said.
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XU All-Americans: Didavi 1st team, Taylor again 2nd team
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| Zach Taylor |
NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana's Loic Didavi is a 2012 NAIA Men's Tennis All-America first-team selection, and doubles partner Zach Taylor made the second team for the second straight year.
Earning honorable mention was XU's Viktor Svoboda.
Taylor is Xavier's first two-time men's tennis All-American of the modern era. But Didavi made the team for the third straight year — he was second team in 2011 and 2010 at Auburn Montgomery.
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| Loic Didavi |
Didavi, a junior from Cotonou, Benin, was 25-6 in singles and 27-8 doubles and earned top-10 rankings in singles and doubles from the Intercollegiate Tennis Association. He was ITA/NAIA South Regional champion in singles and doubles (with Taylor) in October and was NAIA Player of the Week for April 2-8.
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| Viktor Svoboda |
Svoboda, a sophomore from Kamenice, Czech Republic, and a transfer from Lewis-Clark State, was 18-12 in singles and 19-10 in doubles in his XU debut. He recorded three singles victories and three doubles victories (with Corey Huggins) against NCAA Division I opponents.
Xavier was 18-8 this season, winning a conference/group championship for the seventh consecutive season, setting a school record for season victories and qualifying for the NAIA National Championship for the fourth straight year. The Gold Rush reached the quarterfinals at nationals and became the first XU team in any sport to advance that far since 1973.
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
VISIT: XULAATHLETICS
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