WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina -- Bill Hayes, Winston-Salem State's energetic athletics director, knows how to deliver a good punch line when asked the right question.
When the topic was his interest in being the CIAA commissioner — a position that is open — he shuffled in his seat, looked up and said: "I would love to be the commissioner of the CIAA…."
Then, after an appropriate pause: "…I would love that challenge — in my next life."
Hayes, who just turned 69, gave a hearty laugh and then got back to discussing how much fun he's having running WSSU's athletics department.
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Wednesday, July 4, 2012
FAMU Battles the Heat in Summer Workouts
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- 59 days until FAMU kicks off the season in Nashville against Tennessee State. The Rattlers are in the midst of their summer offseason workouts, but are fighting more than just time until fall camp opens up.
"This is only going to make us better. The hotter it is, the better. Teams that come down here ain't going to be ready to play in this."
The heat. Throughout the week the Rattlers brave the high temperatures and the humidity to get stronger for the season.
"When they're tired, they're bending over, when their hands are on their knees, we're going to be standing up, just like this, ready to go. Ready for the next play."
Russell Barbarino has twenty years of athletic training experience. He is using the heat as an advantage to prepare for training camp in August.
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"This is only going to make us better. The hotter it is, the better. Teams that come down here ain't going to be ready to play in this."
The heat. Throughout the week the Rattlers brave the high temperatures and the humidity to get stronger for the season.
"When they're tired, they're bending over, when their hands are on their knees, we're going to be standing up, just like this, ready to go. Ready for the next play."
Russell Barbarino has twenty years of athletic training experience. He is using the heat as an advantage to prepare for training camp in August.
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Tuskegee University hires new athletic director
TUSKEGEE, Alabama -- Patric Simon, the former athletic director for Langston University in Oklahoma, has been chosen as Tuskegee's new athletic director. He will replace Alvin Jackson who had been the university's athletic director since February 2010. Simon will assume his responsibilities today. During his four-year tenure with Langston, Simon had a combined total of 10 conference championships in the Red River Athletic Conference and Central State Football League of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. His conference championships include: the RRAC championships for track and field in 2009 and 2010, consecutive championships for the Langston's women's basketball team in 2009, 2010 and 2011; championships for the Langston football team in 2008 and 2009 and a RRAC championship for the women's cross country team in 2010.
Under Simon, Langston was ranked the No. 1 Historically Black University and College in the NAIA in Director's Cup standings. In the 2011 standings for Learfield Sports, Langston University was the top school in both the Red River Athletic Conference and Central States Football League for a third consecutive year.
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Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Alcorn State declares independence from Capital City Classic
LORMAN, Mississippi – Alcorn President M. Christopher Brown II and interim Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dwayne White held a call-in with university stakeholders informing them of the decision to exercise Alcorn’s home game status for this year’s football contest. The regularly scheduled SWAC game between Alcorn State University and Jackson State University will be held November 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. in the Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium on the Lorman campus.Heralded by some alumni as “the return of the Soul Bowl”, campus officials detailed the decision of AD White, Alcorn’s 18th President Brown, and 18th Head Football Coach Jay Hopson to end the 18-year history of the annual matchup between the Braves and Tigers in the city of Jackson. AD White stated, “As an Alcorn alum and now administrator, I know firsthand the importance of hosting prospective students and high school athletes on campus to allow them to see the quality of the facilities. Alcorn has a beautiful campus with lots of new construction that never get showcased by playing annually in Jackson.”
Coach Hopson agreed, “It is time for this game to come home. Ole Miss and State used to play the Egg Bowl in Jackson, but realized that it was more beneficial to player morale, fan support, and finances to rotate the game between the two campuses.” Hopson offered details about the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University game at Veterans Stadium and the traditions that continue with the Golden Egg Trophy that now rotates between campuses based on who wins each year.
President Brown detailed the almost two-year process that led to the decision to discontinue the popular Capital City Classic. He reminded callers of the 2011 Study Group Report that recommended a forensic audit of all “Classic and ancillary events”, making certain that any decision caused no harm to Jackson State, requiring the reestablishment of a bicameral oversight committee, and determining the cost-benefit of the Jackson location for Alcorn State University. President Brown acknowledged the rich cultural history of the Jackson location, but stressed that the Ayers mandated transfer of Memorial Stadium from general state-ownership to Jackson State complicated the perceived neutral game field gridiron. He added that the inability to identify a title sponsor delimits the cost-benefit of the location.
President Brown said, “Shreveport offers significant dollars from the tax-base to support the Port City Classic, but much of the support in Jackson is in-kind. Absent a corporate sponsor, the diminution of revenues to cover stadium rent, game security, parking attendants, and travel logistics not to mention a growing list of extraneous events is not a conservative fiscal approach at a time when state universities must prudently spend every penny.”
CFO and Senior Vice President for Administration Betty Roberts agreed and stated, “When you look at best financial case scenarios, the money difference in Lorman edges out Jackson. DFA records show a clear decline in both ticket sales and turnstile attendance. The 2011 audit forecasted 25,000 tickets and only 22,733 people came through the turnstile. Spinks-Casem Stadium seats 22,500 not to mention our end-zones. Last year, Alcorn improved our parking operations and campus ingress and egress was timely, without incident. Facilities is prepared and we can host this game with minimal challenges.”
Marcus Ward, Vice President for Institutional Affairs advised callers that he has begun conversations with the ASU Foundation and campus facilities vendors to enhance the stadium appearance for the 2012 football season. “We had a number of film crews on campus since the President named the new AD and football coach. ESPN is scheduled to do filming throughout the season. It is imperative that we prepare our facilities for national exposure. If we are also hosting the Jackson State game, we will have to be on-point with the details, parking, signage, and concessions. Beautifying the stadium is central to advancing our image and brand.”
The overall response to the decision was extremely positive with several callers sighing in relief that a firm decision had been made. Alumni callers were also happy to hear the thorough description of how the decision was made and the actions that are already being taken to host a successful on-campus football visit from Jackson State for the first time in almost 20 years.
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Samuel White added his approval saying “This decision is a boon for our students. Annually, we have to transport band and football students to Jackson after classes have ended and return them campus to retrieve their belongings for Thanksgiving Break only to have them drive back out. Hosting Jackson State on campus is a great capstone to our football season.” Cheryl Ponder, the Vice President for Student Affairs stated, “It was unbelievable to me that Alcorn would not be holding such a major game on campus every other year. High profile athletics events have an ability to boost admissions applications and enrollments. Games like this also provide an important forum for student activities and campus events.”
“I have reviewed all the contracts going back through President Bristow. The dissolution of the independent Capital City Classic Committee poisoned the event, and we have been on life-support ever since. The time has come to pull the plug. This is Alcorn’s home game and we will play it at home”, President Brown said. “I have wrestled with the Capital City Classic – Soul Bowl issue since being named in 2010. As president, I have a fiscal and leadership responsibility to Alcorn State University and this decision is in our best long-term interest. It makes this most sense at this point in our history. All contracts for this Classic have expired and there is no viable offer on the table that makes sense for me to sign.”
Given the impending holiday, President Brown began his remarks paraphrasing the Declaration of Independence stating, “On tomorrow each of us will celebrate a great document that reads, ‘When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.’ This conference call is to discuss the history of the Capital City Classic and the reasons why it is no longer in Alcorn’s best interest to play the game in Jackson, under that name, and without a corporate sponsor. The facts are self-evident that the Lorman campus is an equal and adequate venue for ANY football game, including Jackson State. The time has come to declare our independence from hosting the Capital City Classic on our rival school’s home field.”
COURTESY ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY RELATIONS
Harvey steps down as TSU Head Men's Basketball Coach
Harvey ends TSU career with record of 56-72HOUSTON, Texas -- Texas Southern University has announced that head men’s basketball coach Tony Harvey has resigned from his position effective July 2, 2012. Coach Harvey determined that it was in his personal and professional interest to resign to pursue other goals.
Harvey became the head men’s basketball coach at TSU in 2008. While at the helm he helped orchestrate several significant achievements within the program on the court and in the classroom.
Under Harvey’s guidance, the team won the regular season SWAC Championship in 2011, played in the SWAC Tournament Championship game twice, while also qualifying to participate in the 2011 National Invitational Tournament (NIT). Harvey was named SWAC Coach of the Year during the 2010-11 season and was also named a finalist for the Ben Jobe Award.
In the classroom the program significantly raised its APR scores under Harvey’s guidance and as a result of these efforts the team will be penalty free for the upcoming academic year.
“We appreciate the hard work put in by Coach Harvey over the past several seasons and we wish him well in his future endeavors, said TSU Director of Athletics Dr. Charles McClelland. “It is our goal to maintain as much continuity as possible within the men’s basketball program as it relates to the student-athletes currently on the team and the coaching staff in place. Moving forward we will name an interim head coach who will serve in that capacity for the 2012-13 season. At the conclusion of the season we will conduct a national search to find a permanent replacement.”
COURTESY TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
SEC and SWAC must produce limited TV/licensing documents for Ed O'Bannon lawsuit
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- An Alabama federal judge recently ordered the SEC and SWAC to produce excerpts of their television and licensing contracts to ex-college athletes in a class-action lawsuit against the NCAA. But the ruling fell short of what the players sought.For months, lawyers representing players such as Ed O'Bannon, Bill Russell, Oscar Robertson, Tyrone Prothro and others have wrestled with conferences, schools and TV networks to acquire discovery against the NCAA, Collegiate Licensing Company and Electronic Arts, Inc. The players claim the NCAA and those companies violate federal antitrust laws by preventing players from getting paid based off their name and likeness even after leaving college.
U.S. District Judge Virginia Emerson Hopkins ruled June 15 in Alabama that within 30 days the SEC and SWAC must provide excerpts from football and men's basketball TV and licensing contracts since 2002. Those excerpts are limited to mentions of publicity or image rights for athletes and must identify the parties and sports involved in the particular agreement.
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Driven Driver: Campus Magnet lineman commits to Alabama A&M
QUEENS, New York - James Driver’s route to a Division I scholarship was as unpredictable as a wild Campus Magnet victory. The mammoth offensive tackle entered the Queens school with zero football experience. After a standout four-year career, he was headed to JUCO Lackawanna, not because of any academic shortcomings but lack of Division I interest.He entered the Empire Challenge, the annual all-star game pitting the top seniors from New York City against their Long Island counterparts, resigned to his situation. He didn’t feel any better after the city’s lopsided loss to Long Island.
Little did the 18-year-old from South Jamaica realize his life was about to change. A friend of Alabama A&M offensive coordinator Cedric Pearl was at the game and left impressed with the 6-foot-7, 315-pound Driver. Pearl saw film of the game and was equally taken with the offensive lineman. A week and a few phone calls later, Driver had the Division I scholarship he sought.
“Honestly, words can’t describe how surprised I am,” said The Post’s All-Queens first team selection who plans to study criminal justice and forensics at Alabama A&M. “I’ve had a smile on my face ever since [I committed]. It’s really happening. I’m loving this Division I dream.”
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Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign South Carolina State's Will Ford
WINNIPEG, Manitoba, Canada - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have added import running back Will Ford and import defensive lineman Youri Yenga to the practice roster.
Ford (5-8, 195, South Carolina State, DOB: December 15, 1986 in Travelers Rest, South Carolina) was a four-year starter for the Bulldogs, rushing for 4,688 yards and 35 touchdowns. He was named a first-team All-MEAC selection in 2009 one year after taking home the conference’s offensive player of the year award. Ford also spent time returning kicks and averaged 26.0 yards per return with one touchdown.
Twice, he earned All- America honors and was a finalist for the prestigious Walter Payton award, presented annually to the best offensive player in the Football Championship Subdivision.
Ford had a tryout with the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL in June 2010, but was released.
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Ford (5-8, 195, South Carolina State, DOB: December 15, 1986 in Travelers Rest, South Carolina) was a four-year starter for the Bulldogs, rushing for 4,688 yards and 35 touchdowns. He was named a first-team All-MEAC selection in 2009 one year after taking home the conference’s offensive player of the year award. Ford also spent time returning kicks and averaged 26.0 yards per return with one touchdown.
Twice, he earned All- America honors and was a finalist for the prestigious Walter Payton award, presented annually to the best offensive player in the Football Championship Subdivision.
Ford had a tryout with the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL in June 2010, but was released.
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Livingstone College names Andre Spring new director of athletics
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| Dr. Jimmy R. Jenkins, Sr. (L) and Mr. Andre Springs (R) (Photo Courtesy: Livingstone College Athletics Department) |
“We had to find a leader with the right chemistry,” Dr. Jenkins said. “Andre has camaraderie with the coaches and staff that will take Livingstone College Athletics to the next level.”
Springs is no stranger to Livingstone College or the CIAA. Springs started his second stint as a Livingstone employee in January 2010 when he was named the head men's golf coach and for the last six months has been working additionally as the Assistant Athletic Director for Fundraising.
“It's an honor and a blessing to be a part of the Blue Bear family,” Springs said. “Dr. Jenkins challenged me with improving this department overall and I stepped up to the challenge.”
Springs first came to Livingstone in 1979 as the head golf coach after playing four years at Fayetteville State and winning four CIAA Championships. Springs coached the Blue Bears for 10 years, helping put together a team that won three consecutive PGA Minority Golf Championships from 1987-89.
“When I left Livingstone the first time, I told myself that when I returned it would be as the Athletic Director,” Springs said. “Two years after I was hired as the golf coach, it's my time to lead this department.”
Springs spoke briefly of his plans to lead and elevate the athletic department by improving facilities and supporting the Livingstone student-athletes in their academic and athletic achievements.
Springs' future plans start with fundraising and during the press conference he received $3,000 in pledged donations from coaches and community leaders.
COURTESY LIVINGSTONE COLLEGE SPORTS INFORMATION
TSU's Price Selected to U.S. Paralympic Team
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana -- Tennessee State University's Markeith Price was selected to the U.S. Paralympics Track & Field team on Sunday. Price will represent the United States at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, Aug. 29 - Sept. 9.
Price, who is legally blind, won two events at the US Paralympic Trials at the campus of IUPUI over the weekend. The rising TSU senior leapt 6.25m (20-6 ¼) in the long jump.
The Baltimore native also claimed the 400-meter dash title in the T13/F13 category with a blistering speed of 51.64 seconds, which ties for fourth best in the world.
This is footage of the first of three 4x100m relay competitions in the 2012 United States versus Canada Visually Impaired Relay Project. The United States team is made up of David Brown, Lex Gillette, Josiah Jamison, and Markeith Price. The United States VI relay team captured the first win and a world leading time in this competition by running 43.90 seconds.
Price holds five other top-10 marks in the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) rankings: 100m T13 (8th in the world), 200m T13 (5th), long jump F13 (6th) and triple jump F13 (1st).
The selection to the U.S. Paralympic team is a first for Price and the second for Tennessee State. Price joins Ryan Fann, who won a gold medal in the 4x400m relay at the 2004 Summer Paralympic games.
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Price, who is legally blind, won two events at the US Paralympic Trials at the campus of IUPUI over the weekend. The rising TSU senior leapt 6.25m (20-6 ¼) in the long jump.
The Baltimore native also claimed the 400-meter dash title in the T13/F13 category with a blistering speed of 51.64 seconds, which ties for fourth best in the world.
This is footage of the first of three 4x100m relay competitions in the 2012 United States versus Canada Visually Impaired Relay Project. The United States team is made up of David Brown, Lex Gillette, Josiah Jamison, and Markeith Price. The United States VI relay team captured the first win and a world leading time in this competition by running 43.90 seconds.
Price holds five other top-10 marks in the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) rankings: 100m T13 (8th in the world), 200m T13 (5th), long jump F13 (6th) and triple jump F13 (1st).
The selection to the U.S. Paralympic team is a first for Price and the second for Tennessee State. Price joins Ryan Fann, who won a gold medal in the 4x400m relay at the 2004 Summer Paralympic games.
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Monday, July 2, 2012
Former Jackson State Tiger Michael Tinsley Makes Olympics
EUGENE, Oregon - Former Jackson State men's track and field standout Michael Tinsley made it to his first Olympics Sunday evening. Tinsley will participate as a member of the 2012 US Olympic team in London, England. The 2012 Olympics start July 27 with the opening ceremony and end August 12.
On day 11 of the US Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore., Tinsley won the men's 400 meter hurdles with a time of 48.33.
While at Jackson State, Tinsley placed his name on the national and world scene in 2006. He recorded with a sixth place finish at the USA Outdoor meet and a win at the NCAA Championships. With the win at the 2006 NCAA Outdoor Championships, Tinsley became the first Jackson State University track athlete to win an NCAA Division I title. To celebrate his win, JSU proclaimed Thursday, June 15, "Michael Tinsley Day" and publicly recognized him and his family with a reception held in the Walter Payton Health and Wellness Center on campus.
With wins in 2006, at the Texas Relays and the NCAA Championships, Tinsley continued his move up the national rankings (#4), and ended the year with his first ever T&FN top ten world ranking (#10).
In 2005, he gave a hint of what was to come with a third-place finish in the 400 m hurdles at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. He was ranked No. 7 at the end of the year, in the U.S. Track & Field News.
Tinsley won both the 110-meter and 400-meter hurdles titles at the 2004 SWAC Outdoor Championships. A multi-event athlete, he ran the second leg of the team that captured the 4x400m relay title at the 2004 SWAC Championships.
COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS MEDIA
On day 11 of the US Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore., Tinsley won the men's 400 meter hurdles with a time of 48.33.
While at Jackson State, Tinsley placed his name on the national and world scene in 2006. He recorded with a sixth place finish at the USA Outdoor meet and a win at the NCAA Championships. With the win at the 2006 NCAA Outdoor Championships, Tinsley became the first Jackson State University track athlete to win an NCAA Division I title. To celebrate his win, JSU proclaimed Thursday, June 15, "Michael Tinsley Day" and publicly recognized him and his family with a reception held in the Walter Payton Health and Wellness Center on campus.
With wins in 2006, at the Texas Relays and the NCAA Championships, Tinsley continued his move up the national rankings (#4), and ended the year with his first ever T&FN top ten world ranking (#10).
In 2005, he gave a hint of what was to come with a third-place finish in the 400 m hurdles at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. He was ranked No. 7 at the end of the year, in the U.S. Track & Field News.
Tinsley won both the 110-meter and 400-meter hurdles titles at the 2004 SWAC Outdoor Championships. A multi-event athlete, he ran the second leg of the team that captured the 4x400m relay title at the 2004 SWAC Championships.
COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS MEDIA
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Tougaloo College Coleman Receives GCAC A.D. of Year Award
TOUGALOO, Mississippi - The Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) recently announced its 2012 Athletic Director of the Year. Dr. James C. Coleman Athletic Director at Tougaloo College, received this prestigious honor voted on by his fellow ADs.Coleman, a 1961 graduate of Tougaloo College, will be celebrating 50 years of service as a longtime educator and administrator this year. Coleman began his journey in athletics as a coach and moved up to athletic director after serving in several other positions like sports information director and athletic trainer. After countless years in athletics, Coleman moved from athletics to take on other administrative duties. In 2005, Coleman accepted the position again. Under his leadership, the athletics department has soared to unexpected heights.
After accepting the job, one of Coleman first assignments was hiring head men's basketball coach Lafayette Stribling. Since hiring Stribling, the men's basketball program has brought home 4 regular season championships and 1 tournament championship. They have also been to the national tournament 5 out of the last 6 years, including 2 trips to the "Sweet Sixteen." Also under the leadership of Dr. Coleman, the program has brought international athletes, a new volleyball program, and a growing women's basketball and baseball program.
Coleman brought a women's volleyball program to Tougaloo in 2011. In only their second season, the Lady Bulldogs volleyball team finished 5th with a conference record of 5-5. Head Coach, Shandrea Taylor, received GCAC Coach of the Year and two players were on the All-Conference Team. In 2005, Coleman was honored for his longtime success in athletics with the naming of the outdoor athletic complex the Dr. James C. Coleman Athletic Complex, which includes the baseball field.
After receiving his bachelor's degree from Tougaloo, Coleman also received a master's degree from Tennessee State University and a doctorate of education from the University of Mississippi. Coleman is married to Dr. Marilyn Houston-Coleman and is the father of five children, all of whom graduated from Tougaloo College.
COURTESY TOUGALOO COLLEGE SPORTS INFORMATION
Dillard University Alum named Women's Basketball Associate Head Coach at Memphis
MEMPHIS, Tennessee -- The women's basketball staff at the University of Memphis solidified its coaching vacancy with the recent hiring of associate head coach Keila Whittington it was announced by head coach Melissa McFerrin Tuesday.
"We are excited to add someone with Coach Whittington's experience to our staff," McFerrin said. "She brings high level recruiting and coaching experience, including Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight experience. She also brings our staff some extensive contacts on the East Coast and in the upper Midwest, both important recruiting areas for us."
A Louisiana native, Whittington is a 1989 graduate of Dillard University in New Orleans, where she earned a degree in Health and Physical Education. She then went on to receive her M.A. in Physical Education from Delaware in 1993. Upon earning her Master's Degree, Whittington excelled and enjoyed her first collegiate coaching job as a graduate assistant at Delaware, where she coached from 1991-1993. That collegiate job followed a stint as the assistant varsity girls' coach at McDonogh #35 High School in New Orleans.
Photo Courtesy: DILLARD UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS AND ERIC EVANS
"I have been blessed to receive so many great Division I coaching opportunities as a Dillard University Alum," said Coach Whittington. "Anytime I am asked about where I attended college, I proudly say Dillard University in New Orleans, La. I was groomed for greatness as a Dillard student-athlete, and I will always be proud alum."
Whittington is not only heavily involved in basketball and coaching, but she has also donated her time and efforts to help those who are less fortunate than herself. She is responsible for organizing a supply relief drive consisting of non-perishable food items, water and toys that was sent to St. Bernard Parish in Chalmette, La., following Hurricane Katrina.
"We would like to congratulate her in another accomplishment in her career," said Kiki Barnes, Athletic Director at Dillard University. "She is a shining example of the kind of women that have come through the athletics program here at Dillard University."
She got her first full-time coaching job at Rhode Island (1993-1995). She worked her way up to the top assistant spot there and also served as the recruiting coordinator during the 1995 season.
Whittington has spent the last five seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Oregon, where she coached the post players and served as the Ducks' recruiting coordinator, helping Oregon land nationally-ranked recruiting classes, including a top-50 ranked class by ESPN Hoopgurlz in 2011. As a post coach, Whittington has coached three student-athletes to Pac-10 all-conference honors.
Prior to joining the Ducks in April of 2009, Whittington served as an assistant coach at Marist (2007-09), where she helped guide the Red Foxes to back-to-back NCAA tournaments. In her time at Marist, the Red Foxes posted a mark of 61-7 over two seasons, winning two Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) regular season and tournament championships.
Posting an undefeated MAAC regular season mark of 18-0 in 2008, Marist made a splash on the national scene, eventually finishing the season with a mark of 32-3, and finishing the season ranked No. 23 in the ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll. Similar to her experience with the Ducks, Whittington assisted in recruiting, helping land a top-50 ranked class in 2008, the program's first ever nationally-ranked recruiting class.
At Memphis, she will serve as the Tigers' post coach, inheriting a core of players that includes second team all-C-USA forward Nicole Dickson, junior KK Harvey, sophomore Ann Jones and newcomers Asianna Fuquay-Bey, Devin Mack and Courtney Powell. The Tigers will play the 2012-2013 seasons in Conference USA, then move to the Big East conference for the 2013-14 season.
COURTESY DILLARD UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
"We are excited to add someone with Coach Whittington's experience to our staff," McFerrin said. "She brings high level recruiting and coaching experience, including Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight experience. She also brings our staff some extensive contacts on the East Coast and in the upper Midwest, both important recruiting areas for us."
A Louisiana native, Whittington is a 1989 graduate of Dillard University in New Orleans, where she earned a degree in Health and Physical Education. She then went on to receive her M.A. in Physical Education from Delaware in 1993. Upon earning her Master's Degree, Whittington excelled and enjoyed her first collegiate coaching job as a graduate assistant at Delaware, where she coached from 1991-1993. That collegiate job followed a stint as the assistant varsity girls' coach at McDonogh #35 High School in New Orleans.
"I have been blessed to receive so many great Division I coaching opportunities as a Dillard University Alum," said Coach Whittington. "Anytime I am asked about where I attended college, I proudly say Dillard University in New Orleans, La. I was groomed for greatness as a Dillard student-athlete, and I will always be proud alum."
Whittington is not only heavily involved in basketball and coaching, but she has also donated her time and efforts to help those who are less fortunate than herself. She is responsible for organizing a supply relief drive consisting of non-perishable food items, water and toys that was sent to St. Bernard Parish in Chalmette, La., following Hurricane Katrina.
"We would like to congratulate her in another accomplishment in her career," said Kiki Barnes, Athletic Director at Dillard University. "She is a shining example of the kind of women that have come through the athletics program here at Dillard University."
She got her first full-time coaching job at Rhode Island (1993-1995). She worked her way up to the top assistant spot there and also served as the recruiting coordinator during the 1995 season.
Whittington has spent the last five seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Oregon, where she coached the post players and served as the Ducks' recruiting coordinator, helping Oregon land nationally-ranked recruiting classes, including a top-50 ranked class by ESPN Hoopgurlz in 2011. As a post coach, Whittington has coached three student-athletes to Pac-10 all-conference honors.
Prior to joining the Ducks in April of 2009, Whittington served as an assistant coach at Marist (2007-09), where she helped guide the Red Foxes to back-to-back NCAA tournaments. In her time at Marist, the Red Foxes posted a mark of 61-7 over two seasons, winning two Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) regular season and tournament championships.
Posting an undefeated MAAC regular season mark of 18-0 in 2008, Marist made a splash on the national scene, eventually finishing the season with a mark of 32-3, and finishing the season ranked No. 23 in the ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll. Similar to her experience with the Ducks, Whittington assisted in recruiting, helping land a top-50 ranked class in 2008, the program's first ever nationally-ranked recruiting class.
At Memphis, she will serve as the Tigers' post coach, inheriting a core of players that includes second team all-C-USA forward Nicole Dickson, junior KK Harvey, sophomore Ann Jones and newcomers Asianna Fuquay-Bey, Devin Mack and Courtney Powell. The Tigers will play the 2012-2013 seasons in Conference USA, then move to the Big East conference for the 2013-14 season.
COURTESY DILLARD UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Hampton Alum Wells, McCorory Qualify for Olympics in London
HAMPTON, Virginia - Hampton University alum Kellie Wells and Francena McCorory will both represent the U.S. during the upcoming London Olympics.
Wells, a former Hampton track and field standout, qualified for Team USA after finishing second in the women’s 100-meter hurdles with a time of 12.77 seconds during the U.S. Olympic Team Trials at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field on June 23. The Richmond, Virginia born pro hurdler is the current USATF Outdoor National Champion in the 100-meter hurdlers event.
Hampton, Virginia born McCorory, a three-time NCAA track champion, also qualified for Team USA after finishing third in the women’s 400-meter race at the U.S. trials. McCorory is most famous for winning the 2009 and 2010 NCAA Indoor Track and Field title, while also breaking a 19-year old record in the 400-meter event.
McCorory also qualified and competed in the 2011 World Championships in Athletics. She joins Wells and Johnson C. Smith University's Leford Green (400M hurdles) as the only HBCU alum who will take the Olympic track in London next month.
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Wells, a former Hampton track and field standout, qualified for Team USA after finishing second in the women’s 100-meter hurdles with a time of 12.77 seconds during the U.S. Olympic Team Trials at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field on June 23. The Richmond, Virginia born pro hurdler is the current USATF Outdoor National Champion in the 100-meter hurdlers event.
Hampton, Virginia born McCorory, a three-time NCAA track champion, also qualified for Team USA after finishing third in the women’s 400-meter race at the U.S. trials. McCorory is most famous for winning the 2009 and 2010 NCAA Indoor Track and Field title, while also breaking a 19-year old record in the 400-meter event.
McCorory also qualified and competed in the 2011 World Championships in Athletics. She joins Wells and Johnson C. Smith University's Leford Green (400M hurdles) as the only HBCU alum who will take the Olympic track in London next month.
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2012 Port City Classic Details Announced
SHREVEPORT, Louisiana - The 2012 Port City Classic featuring the Grambling State University Tigers taking on the Alcorn State University Braves will be held Saturday, September 1, at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana. Kick-off for the game is set for 6 p.m.Tickets are on sale at all Shreveport Federal Credit Union branches in Shreveport, Grambling and Bastrop, the Independence Bowl office and the State Fair of Louisiana office.
Ticket prices for the game are $125.00 for Club Suite Level Tickets, $20.00 for reserved seats, $15.00 for General Admission and $10.00 for Grambling and Alcorn students with a valid university ID. To purchase tickets by phone or for group rate pricing, contact the Grambling State University ticket office at (318) 274-2625 or the Alcorn State University ticket office at (601) 877-6822.
JCSU alumnus Leford Green qualifies for 2012 London Summer Olympics
KINGSTON, Jamaica - Johnson C. Smith alumnus Leford Green is headed to the 2012 London Summer Olympics after winning the 400 meter hurdles on Friday.
Green is the national champion in the event for the third consecutive year. He won the race with a season best time of 48.88. Green ran a strong race to secure the men's 400m hurdles final at the JAAA/SVL Jamaica National Senior Championships at the National Stadium in Kingston.
Green's time of 48.88 seconds, beat Josef Robertson and Roxroy Cato into second and third. Robertson clocked a time of 49.53 seconds, while Cato did 49.65 seconds. Olympic medallist Danny McFarlane did not make the cut this time around as he finished 4th in a time of 49.69 seconds.
While at Smith, Green won the indoor and outdoor NCAA Division II crowns in the 400-meter dash during his senior season. He ran his best time in the 400-meter hurdles (48.47) at the 2010 CAC Championships in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.
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Green is the national champion in the event for the third consecutive year. He won the race with a season best time of 48.88. Green ran a strong race to secure the men's 400m hurdles final at the JAAA/SVL Jamaica National Senior Championships at the National Stadium in Kingston.
Green's time of 48.88 seconds, beat Josef Robertson and Roxroy Cato into second and third. Robertson clocked a time of 49.53 seconds, while Cato did 49.65 seconds. Olympic medallist Danny McFarlane did not make the cut this time around as he finished 4th in a time of 49.69 seconds.
While at Smith, Green won the indoor and outdoor NCAA Division II crowns in the 400-meter dash during his senior season. He ran his best time in the 400-meter hurdles (48.47) at the 2010 CAC Championships in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.
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Shaun McCarty takes small-town toughness to Daytona Beach
COTTONWOOD, Arizona -- Ever since Shaun McCarty won the 2012 Rawlings Gold Glove award, his phone has been blowing up. University coaches from across the country were giving him offers to play ball.
In 41 games at shortstop for the Paradise Valley Pumas last season, McCarty posted a .975 fielding percentage with 71 put outs and 123 assists. He did it all with an injured glove wrist.
Maroon and gold will be the colors of his jersey next season, but he'll be playing in the Sunshine State, not the Valley of the Sun.
"Since he was nine years old, when I asked him what his goal was, he said, 'Dad, I want to play Division 1 baseball someday and I don't want my parents to pay for any of my college.' Shaun's goal remained true. He's going to end up playing Division 1 in Florida on a full-ride offer," said Tom McCarty. "He turned down probably 20 or 30 offers from colleges across the country. He finally found Bethune-Cookman out of Daytona Beach, so he loves the location, and they play all the tough Florida schools. Miami, Florida, Florida St."
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Denmark comes home to FAMU
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Beads of sweat were no longer on Brandon Denmark’s chiseled body soon after he settled inside the air-conditioned Florida A&M field house. The first day of off-season workouts was done for the former Rickards High School linebacker, who transferred to FAMU after two seasons at Illinois.“It wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be,” Denmark said. “I’m a real strong person so I’ve been working on speed and endurance.”
He got a good start on Thursday, lifting weights and running sprints in the blazing afternoon heat. Denmark was ahead of the rest of the players for most of the runs up and down the field. He hopes his off-season conditioning work would prepare him to compete for a spot on the Florida A&M depth chart. He decided to come home in hopes of gaining ...
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Saturday, June 30, 2012
FAMU Begins National Search for a New Director of Bands
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Florida A&M University (FAMU) has begun its national search for a new Director of Bands.
The university started the process today by posting an advertisement on its website, soliciting candidates for the position. The job description will also be posted in the Chronicle of Higher Education and Diverse Issues in Higher Education. The university’s goal is to hire a new band director before the end of the fall 2012 semester, said Larry Robinson, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. The new Director of Bands will play a lead role in implementing new policies and procedures that are critical to the future of the Marching “100,” which has been suspended for the 2012-13 academic year.
To head the nationwide search, Robinson appointed Rodner Wright, dean of the School of Architecture as chairman of the search committee, which will consist of 13 members and include faculty, staff, students and alumni.
“We want an individual with outstanding experience in band management, the proven ability to educate and inspire students to excel in the class room and in the traditions of FAMU’s renown performance style, and the capacity to lead and mentor faculty, staff and other colleagues,” said Robinson. “We desire someone with unrelenting commitment to our core values, particularly those related to anti-hazing. The ideal candidate would have the ability to promote the values of respect and dignity among all members of the Marching “100.”
The new director will report to the chairman of the FAMU Music Department. That is a change from the previous director, who also served as department chairman. Robinson explained that would add an extra layer of supervision. Qualifications include a degree in music and a minimum of five years experience directing bands at the collegiate level. It will be a full-time, tenure-track position and will be either an associate or full professor position, based on the person’s experience and expertise.
The new director will oversee all aspects of the marching and pep bands. Specific duties and responsibilities include overseeing all activities of band student organizations and ensembles; providing creative direction; recruiting students for membership; teaching the marching band courses and other courses as needed; planning and directing the summer high school band camp; fund raising; planning and executing the band's travel to athletics events and other events that have been approved by the University and functioning as the liaison between the Athletics Department, the Division of Student Affairs and the Department of Music.
The director will work closely with the Music Department Compliance Officer, a newly created position. Together, they will ensure that staff and members of the Marching and Pep Bands are made aware of and comply with the University's policies and procedures regarding anti-hazing, academic requirements, rehearsal hours and travel.
The university started the process today by posting an advertisement on its website, soliciting candidates for the position. The job description will also be posted in the Chronicle of Higher Education and Diverse Issues in Higher Education. The university’s goal is to hire a new band director before the end of the fall 2012 semester, said Larry Robinson, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. The new Director of Bands will play a lead role in implementing new policies and procedures that are critical to the future of the Marching “100,” which has been suspended for the 2012-13 academic year.
To head the nationwide search, Robinson appointed Rodner Wright, dean of the School of Architecture as chairman of the search committee, which will consist of 13 members and include faculty, staff, students and alumni.
“We want an individual with outstanding experience in band management, the proven ability to educate and inspire students to excel in the class room and in the traditions of FAMU’s renown performance style, and the capacity to lead and mentor faculty, staff and other colleagues,” said Robinson. “We desire someone with unrelenting commitment to our core values, particularly those related to anti-hazing. The ideal candidate would have the ability to promote the values of respect and dignity among all members of the Marching “100.”
The new director will report to the chairman of the FAMU Music Department. That is a change from the previous director, who also served as department chairman. Robinson explained that would add an extra layer of supervision. Qualifications include a degree in music and a minimum of five years experience directing bands at the collegiate level. It will be a full-time, tenure-track position and will be either an associate or full professor position, based on the person’s experience and expertise.
The new director will oversee all aspects of the marching and pep bands. Specific duties and responsibilities include overseeing all activities of band student organizations and ensembles; providing creative direction; recruiting students for membership; teaching the marching band courses and other courses as needed; planning and directing the summer high school band camp; fund raising; planning and executing the band's travel to athletics events and other events that have been approved by the University and functioning as the liaison between the Athletics Department, the Division of Student Affairs and the Department of Music.
The director will work closely with the Music Department Compliance Officer, a newly created position. Together, they will ensure that staff and members of the Marching and Pep Bands are made aware of and comply with the University's policies and procedures regarding anti-hazing, academic requirements, rehearsal hours and travel.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Queens' Norfolk State product Kyle O'Quinn heads to Orlando Magic as 49th overall pick in 2012 NBA draft
Center who lead Norfolk State Spartans past No. 2 Missouri in historic NCAA Tournament victory looks to make big impact at the next level
QUEENS, New York -- Kyle O’Quinn became the darling of the NCAA Tournament’s first weekend by leading No. 15-seeded Norfolk State to an upset win over No. 2 Missouri.
It was a great story for the 6-10 Queens product, whose only scholarship offer out of Campus Magnet High was from the Spartans. And now the story has another great chapter after he was selected by the Orlando Magic in the second round of the NBA draft Thursday night.
The 6-10 center’s selection (No. 49) rounded out a strong night for the borough of Queens, which had three players taken. St. John’s Maurice Harkless went at No. 15 to Philadelphia. Doron Lamb, shooting guard from national champion Kentucky, was selected in the second round by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 42nd pick.
Iona point guard Scott Machado, a fourth Queens product, did not see his dream realized. After leading the nation with 9.9 assists per game and piloting the Gaels to the NCAA Tournament, he went undrafted. Machado, who also averaged 13.6 points and won the Haggerty Award as the metro area’s top player last season, likely will end up in some team’s camp as a free agent.
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QUEENS, New York -- Kyle O’Quinn became the darling of the NCAA Tournament’s first weekend by leading No. 15-seeded Norfolk State to an upset win over No. 2 Missouri.
It was a great story for the 6-10 Queens product, whose only scholarship offer out of Campus Magnet High was from the Spartans. And now the story has another great chapter after he was selected by the Orlando Magic in the second round of the NBA draft Thursday night.
The 6-10 center’s selection (No. 49) rounded out a strong night for the borough of Queens, which had three players taken. St. John’s Maurice Harkless went at No. 15 to Philadelphia. Doron Lamb, shooting guard from national champion Kentucky, was selected in the second round by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 42nd pick.
Iona point guard Scott Machado, a fourth Queens product, did not see his dream realized. After leading the nation with 9.9 assists per game and piloting the Gaels to the NCAA Tournament, he went undrafted. Machado, who also averaged 13.6 points and won the Haggerty Award as the metro area’s top player last season, likely will end up in some team’s camp as a free agent.
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NSU's Kyle O'Quinn to Orlando Magic: 2nd Round, Pick 49
ORLANDO, Florida - Kyle O'Quinn isn't necessarily a household name, unless you're a fan of Missouri or Norfolk State basketball.O'Quinn played a major role in Norfolk State's upset of the No. 2 Missouri Tigers this past March, and that tournament performance has garnered him some well-deserved interest. At 6'10'' and 241 pounds, O'Quinn is a raw talent who can help solidify his team's frontcourt while also managing to spread the floor with his perimeter shooting abilities.
What O'Quinn Brings to the Team
O'Quinn is the type of player who can make an immediate impact coming off the bench with his above-average rebounding skills and his physical presence in the paint.
In the past two seasons at Norfolk State, O'Quinn has combined averages of 16.2 points and 10.7 rebounds per game. O'Quinn isn't going to have that kind of impact immediately against NBA talent, but there's no doubt that with time and the right coaching, he'll be able to mature into that kind of a player. He certainly has the work ethic and physical demeanor to do just that.
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Thursday, June 28, 2012
MSU, Mississippi Valley State Cancel 2013 Game
ITTA BENA, Mississippi -- Mississippi State's 2013 football game against Mississippi Valley State has been canceled due to MVSU's failure to meet NCAA-mandated financial aid guidelines.The teams were scheduled to meet in the season opener on Aug. 31, 2013, in Starkville. MSU athletics director Scott Stricklin said he has a "pretty good idea what we're doing to replace them but aren't ready to announce."
The game had to be canceled because playing Valley would not count toward bowl eligibility for MSU. Normally, Division I-A teams can have one game versus a I-AA foe count toward bowl eligibility. But for that to happen, the I-AA program must average 90 percent of the permissible maximum number of grants-in-aid in football over a rolling two-year period. Valley does not meet the requirement.
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CAU: Dutchtown’s Tanner back to old form
MCDONOUGH, Georgia -- Kelvin Tanner only swung once his entire senior season of baseball at Dutchtown High School. Now he swings a lot.At Dutchtown, he was on the shelf on the disabled list for the entirety of the 2010 season. His one at-bat was a tribute from coach Michael Breedlove, a surprise pinch-hitting appearance on Senior Night with strict guidelines — if Tanner made contact, he had to jog cautiously to first base to save his ACL injury from flaring up.
Nothing is holding back Tanner now. Completely healthy, the left-handed hitting first baseman and rising junior at Clark Atlanta has terrorized Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference pitching.
He’s coming off a first-team all-SIAC season as a sophomore, in which he hit .355 with 13 doubles, one home run and 36 RBIs. Which only served to validate his Freshman of the Year performance the previous season.
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Former Florida A&M Swimmer Dies In Afghanistan
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| Photo Courtesy Florida A&M University Athletics Department |
Private First Class Stevens is survived by his wife Monique and his three-month-old son Kairo, who was born just eight days after his deployment. Stevens never had the opportunity to see his son in person.
Stevens grew up in northwest Detroit and attended Detroit Technology High School. His wife Monique is from Pensacola, Florida.
Derek Horne, FAMU director of Athletics, expressed the sorrow of the Rattler nation in learning of the news.
"We are saddened to hear of the untimely sacrifice made by former Rattler student-athlete PFC Steven Stevens II. FAMU Athletics and the university as a whole became aware of his demise on today. Because of Stevens' competitive spirit and athleticism, we know that he was the perfect fit for our U.S. Marines and we are very proud of him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Monique, son Kairo and his entire family. The swimming records he earned while he was here may one day be broken, but the respect and admiration earned for making the ultimate sacrifice for his country will never subside. The Rattler nation salutes a fallen Rattler," Horne said.
Stevens came to FAMU on a swimming scholarship under Ian Lee. Lee would train Stevens and place him as a middle distance swimmer, as well as designate him the lead-off leg on some of the relay races.
His talent shined brightly in the Northeast Swimming Conference championship of 2007. Overall the Rattlers took third place in the meet. In the 200-yard medley, he swam a 29.44 split to lead off the Rattlers. In the 400-yard medley, Stevens swam a lead leg of 1:00.40 to take second place.
Individually, Stevens took fifth in the 400-yard IM, with a time of 5:22.99. He also took fifth in the 200-yard backtroke and seventh in the 500-yard freestyle.
He holds three FAMU swimming records. He ranks fourth in time for the 400-yard Individual Medley (4:56.18 - 2007), fourth as a member of the 400-yard medley (Stevens,Lowe, El-Amin,Barnett - 3:44.00 - 2007) and sixth in the 200-yard backstroke (2:12.81 - 2007)
Douglass Carrington was the assistant swimming coach during Stevens' tenure at FAMU, before becoming the head coach in 2008. "It was bad to hear the news. Steven was so young. He was a pretty bright kid, and one of our talented athletes. He was fun to be around and this is one of those things that's tough to talk about. We were tough on him to make the team better. When he first came he was unsure of his path, but he soon settled in and began to perform in the pool. The whole military life seemed uncharacteristic, because he seemed gentler than a soldier," Carrington said.
Stevens was a good swimmer, but always had a heart for art. His desire to travel the world prompted him to leave FAMU after two years. He would enlist in the U.S. Marines.
Stevens enlisted in the Marine Corps on June 1, 2009. He was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the NATO Medal-ISAF Afghanistan. This was Stevens' first tour in Afghanistan.
Stevens was assigned to the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. He died while conducting combat operations in the Helmand province in Afghanistan.
Funeral services for Pfc. Steven Stevens II are scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at Hope United Methodist Church, 26275 Northwestern Hwy., in Southfield. Viewings will be 4-8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. Saturday at the church, with family hour at 10 a.m.
The James H. Cole Home for Funerals in Detroit is handling other arrangements.
COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
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Paine Men's Basketball Coach to hold Basketball Camp
AUGUSTA, Georgia - Paine College Head Men's Basketball Coach, Jimmy Link will host the Inaugural Jimmy Link Basketball Camp. The camp is for youth ages 6-15, starting July 9- 12 at Riverview Park, North Augusta, SC. Sessions begin at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. each day.The purpose of the camp is to teach and develop basketball skills. This camp will highlight individual skill development and organized team play. Participants can aspire to increase shooting percentage, obtain more assists, improve defense techniques and gain confidence in their game.
“The coaches and I are committed to providing personalized and qualified instruction,” Link said. “This camp will provide a safe, welcoming environment where youth can learn the fundamentals of the game, enhance their skills, gain confidence and most importantly have fun!”
Each camp participant will receive a camp T-shirt and are eligible for contest prizes. Registration is now open for all sessions. To download and print a camp brochure, visit www.paineathletics.com.
For more information contact, Jimmy Link at (706) 945-1361 or jlink@paine.edu.
COURTESY PAINE COLLEGE SPORTS INFORMATION
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