Alabama A&M Head Coach Semeka Randall Announces Coaching Staff

Head Coach Semeka Randall
(Courtesy AAMU Athletics) 

(L) Coach Powell, (R) Coach Palmer
(Courtesy AAMU Athletics)
 

NORMAL, Alabama --  It's been a busy first 30 days on the job for Head Women's Basketball Coach, Semeka Randall. Coach Randall has talked to all of the players, monitored their progress in summer school, gotten them acclimated to her expectations and intensity during workouts and individuals, and met with coaches and Bulldog supporters in the Huntsville and Birmingham areas. She recently completed her coaching staff with the hiring of Elaine Powell and Terry Palmer.

Elaine Powell is no stranger to the SWAC. Coach Powell was an assistant coach at Grambling State University from 2008-2012. She joined Coach Randall's staff at Ohio University as an assistant in 2012-2013. Prior to her coaching career, Powell spent almost a decade playing professionally with the ABL, WNBA, and the European League. She is a 3-time WNBA Champion with the Detroit Shock (2003, 2006, and 2008) and was drafted by the Orlando Miracle in 1999, the first player in the history of LSU Women's Basketball to be drafted by a WNBA team.

"Coach Powell brings a weaalth of experience to Bulldog Basketball," said Head Coach Semeka Randall. "Not only is she familiar with the SWAC; she has played and won at the highest level of basketball; she is a great recruiter and developer of talent; and she's a player's coach."

Powell is a 2002 graduate of LSU and was a 2-time All-SEC player while a member of the Lady Tigers Basketball from 1995-1997.

Terry Palmer has made his mark coaching women's basketball at several SIAC schools. Coach Palmer is also quite familiar with Alabama A&M University because of the friendly battles he had when the Bulldogs were in the SIAC.

Coach Palmer has spent time at Tuskegee University, Lane College in Jackson, TN, and Paine College in Augusta, GA. Palmer spent nine successful seasons (2002-2010) as an assistant basketball coach, Head Softball Coach, and Interim Head Women's Basketball Coach at Paine. The Paine Lions captured back-to-back SIAC Women's Basketball Conference Championships in 2005 and 2006 and competed in the NCAA Division II basketball tournament during Coach Palmer's tenure.

"Coach Palmer is a seasoned coach and balances the dynamics of my coaching staff," said Randall. "He is very familiar with the Tennessee Valley area in terms of recruiting and we'll rely heavily on his contacts and ability to navigate the processes here at A&M."

Coach Palmer graduated from Paine College in 1994 and received his master's from Tuskegee in 1999. He joins the Bulldogs from Benedict College in Columbia, SC, where he was an academic counselor and assistant women's basketball coach.

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Albany State Rams snag ex-Westover star Greene, top RB prospect from Detroit

ALBANY, Georgia — Albany State is still looking for its quarterback for next season, but in the meantime Rams coach Mike White might have found his running backs of the future.

On Saturday, White confirmed to The Herald that two top running backs — Westover’s Dalviness Greene and Detroit native Ryan Knuckles — will compete for spots in the backfield next season.

 

Greene, a Herald Dynamite Dozen selection last year, has signed with the Rams, while Knuckles, who — out of high school — received offers from the University of Miami, the University of Michigan and Michigan State, will walk on at Albany State after being ruled academically ineligible at the Division I level.

 

Both will help solidify a backfield that lost star runner Nathan Hoyte to graduation and doesn’t return a running back that gained more than 61 yards last season.

 

CONTINUE READING

TSU women’s basketball adds transfer Stephanie Myers

NASHVILLE, Tennessee  --  The Tennessee State University women’s basketball team has announced the addition of Middle Tennessee transfer Stephanie Myers to the Lady Tiger program.

Myers will sit out the upcoming 2013-14 season due to NCAA transfer guidelines and will be eligible to play for the 2014-15 campaign as a graduate student with one year of eligibility.

“We’re very excited about Stephanie coming to our program,” commented head coach Larry Inman. “She brings some experience, which we need, and she might be one of the tallest players to ever play here at Tennessee State University. She’s going to give us a great inside presence. She’s a great young lady and a great asset to our program based on a lot of things but mostly her integrity as an individual and her work ethic.”

Myers played two years with Middle Tennessee after redshirting her freshman season. When she joined the program, the 6-5 native of Chicago was listed as the tallest player to ever sign with the Blue Raiders.

Prior to attending Middle Tennessee, Myers played four years at LaVerne High School. She was ranked as the No. 25 post player by ESPN while also ranking among the Top 100 players nationally by Dan Olsen’s Collegiate Girls Basketball Report.

The Chicago, Illinois native was selected to the All-District 7 3A Team at the conclusion of her senior year. She was also named the Daily News Journal’s Female Athlete of the Week (Feb. 2, 2010).

Follow TSU Athletics on Facebook.com/TSUTigers http://www.facebook.com/tsutigers  and Twitter @TSU_Tigers  http://www.twitter.com/tsu_tigers
 
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION 

Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions Well Represented in Collegiate Summer Leagues

PINE BLUFF, Arkansas  --  The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff baseball team is well represented in summer collegiate baseball leagues as 19 past, current, and future members are suited-up for various summer teams across the country.

Two current Golden Lions started their summer off with the Falmouth Commodores in the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League: Isias Alcantar, the 2013 SWAC Player of the Year, and Jim Ploeger. Both have since moved on to the Far West League and Hamptons Collegiate Baseball League, respectively. Three players are competing in the Alaskan Baseball League as Andrew Buehler and Mikey Ramirez represent the Alaska Goldpanners and Mike Wieland is playing for the Peninsula Oilers.

See below as it relates to additional Golden Lions and their whereabouts this summer.

2013-2014 Golden Lions in Summer Collegiate Baseball Leagues

Alaska Baseball League
Alaska Goldpanners: Andrew Buehler and Mikey Ramirez
Peninsula Oilers: Mike Wieland

Far West League
San Francisco Seals: Isias Alcantar, Tyler Oertle, and Humberto Zavala
Top Speed: Cody De Mera

Hamptons Collegiate Baseball League
Westhampton Aviators: Jim Ploeger and Kyle Schwartz

Midwest Collegiate Baseball League
Northwest Indiana Oilmen: Rashawn Tillman

M.I.N.K. Collegiate Baseball League
St. Joseph Mustangs: Redmond Floyd, Stanten Jones, and Dixon Marble

New York Collegiate League
Geneva Twins: Kirby Campbell, Josh Cassidy, and Tommy Haas

Ohio Valley Summer Collegiate Baseball League
Dubois County Bombers: Andre Davis

Westhchester Baseball Association:
New Rochell Robins: Fabian Chirino and Vladimir Gomez

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS PINE BLUFF SPORTS INFORMATION

Julian Stafford, MVSU Delta Devils have matured

 ITTA BENA, Mississippi -- Julian Stafford has Sept. 1 circled on his calendar.

The 5-foot-9, 185-pound redshirt sophomore expects to be lined up at wide receiver for Mississippi Valley State when the Delta Devils open the football season by taking on Florida A&M University in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney. The Memphis, Tenn., native is coming off a stellar season where he caught 52 passes for 800 yards and four touchdowns -- an impressive feat when you consider he had 57 yards as a freshman.

"Once he gets going, a player of his caliber is hard to slow down," says Coach Karl Morgan, who recalled the game against Grambling State last October, when Stafford amassed 262 all-purpose yards and two kick return touchdowns.



CONTINUE READING

Return of Florida A&M Marching 100 help football ticket sales

WATCH IN HD

Season Ticket Brochure and Order Form

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  --  FAMU football has gotten its 12th man back with the announcement last week that the Marching 100 band has been reinstated.

But while head football coach Earl Holmes said he is glad to have the return of the band because it should serves as a motivator for his players, FAMU athletic department could stand to benefit even more financially. Athletic administrators have said repeatedly that the band is the brand that sells.

“The plus for everybody is the band is a talent. A part of the university program that everybody enjoys,” said interim athletic director Michael Smith.

“It’s another marketing tool, another recruiting tool for the university. We welcome the band’s return and all the opportunities that it brings because it’s a part of the university’s fabric and its culture and it’s success, not just in athletics.

Just how vital the band is to FAMU athletic has been evident at ...

Season Ticket Brochure and Order Form

CONTINUE READING


WATCH IN HD

SHARE/E-MAIL FAMU 2013 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE TO FRIENDS

FLORIDA A&M 2013 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (.html)

Season Ticket Brochure and Order Form

DATE OPPONENT LOCATION MEAC EVENT TIME

9/01 @Mississippi Vally State, Orlando, FL, (MEAC/SWAC Challenge) 11:45AM

9/07 Tennessee State, Tallahassee, FL, (Hall of Fame Weekend), 2:00 PM
9/14  Samford U., Tallahassee, FL (Youth Day)&, 2:00 PM

9/21 @Ohio State, Columbus, Ohio, Ohio Stadium, TBA
9/28  OPEN
10/05 @*Morgan State, Baltimore, MD, Hughes Stadium, 1:00 PM
10/12 @*Savannah State, Savannah, GA, Ted Wright Stadium, 6:00 PM
10/19    *Howard U., Tallahassee, FL, (FAMU Homecoming 2013), 2:00 PM 
10/26     *North Carolina A&T, Tallahassee, FL, (Parent's Weekend), 2:00 PM

11/02  @*Norfolk State, Norfolk, VA, Dick Price Stadium, (NSU homecoming) 2:00 PM
11/09  @*South Carolina State, Orangeburg, SC, Oliver C. Dawson Stadium, 1:30 PM
11/16      *Delaware State, Tallahassee, FL, 2:00 PM
11/23   @*Bethune-Cookman, Orlando, FL (Florida Classic), TBA

& The Samford game will be part of a two-game series between the two programs. Florida A&M will travel to Seibert Stadium, Birmingham, Alabama for a game on Sept. 12, 2015.

*MEAC Game
BOLD: Home Game
GREEN: In-State Florida Classics 

Season Ticket Brochure and Order Form

MEAC/SWAC Challenge Weekend
SEPT. 1, 2013, ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Florida A&M Rattlers vs. Mississippi Valley Delta Devils

Rattler fans! Be sure to partake in the ancillary activities surrounding the 2013 MEAC/ SWAC Challenge Presented by Disney.  Accompany your FAMU Football season opener purchase with tickets to the Pep Ralley hosted at Downtown Disney, Band Showcase at Disney's Epcot or any other Official MEAC/SWAC Challenge weekend list of events.  The 2013 MEAC/ SWAC Challenge game tickets are currently on sale.  Visit www.MEACSWACCHALLENGE.com for more details. 

Season Ticket Brochure and Order Form



COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

JCSU Football Releases the Final 2013 Schedule

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina  –  The Johnson C. Smith University Department of Athletics has released their 10-game football schedule for the 2013 season. JCSU concluded last season with a record of 6-4 overall and 5-2 in the CIAA; their second consecutive winning season since the 1972-73 seasons.

The Golden Bulls will change up their annual routine of playing the Commemorative Classic at the end of the regular season and switch the game to the opener. JCSU opens the year on Saturday, September 7th against Livingstone College at Charlotte Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. in this CIAA divisional clash. Johnson C. Smith is 4-0 since branding this contest as the Commemorative Classic in 2009; including a 57-6 routing to finish the 2012 year.

The following week, JCSU will stay in Charlotte but move to their home stadium of the Irwin Belk Complex. The Golden Bulls will face Bowie State University on Saturday, September 14th at 2:00 p.m. in the annual Eddie C. McGirt Classic. This will be the 23rd meeting between these two teams in a series that dates back to 1981. The Bulldogs won the last meeting 14-13 in Charlotte during the 2006 season. JCSU holds a narrow 12-10 advantage in this matchup. This contest will not count towards either team's conference standings.

JCSU will play a third consecutive week in Charlotte and a second game in the Irwin Belk Complex. The Golden Bulls will take on the Wildcats of nearby Davidson College on Saturday, September 21st at 2:00 p.m.  This will be the fourth all-time between JCSU and Davidson. Johnson C. Smith won the first meeting 18-15 in Memorial Stadium during the 1989 season. Davidson avenged the loss the following season (1990) with a 17-7 victory on the Wildcats' home field. JCSU lost the tiebreaker 35-7 during the 2011 season in Davidson. The annual Festi-Bull celebration will take place during pre-game from 12 noon until 1:30 p.m.

The Golden Bulls' cross divisional games will be against Virginia State in Petersburg, VA on September 28th and then Lincoln (PA) in Charlotte at the Irwin Belk Complex on October 5th. JCSU has edged the Trojans by a touchdown in the last two meetings; both at home. The Lions won a shoot-out last year (55-53) on their home field for one of the two CIAA losses for JCSU.

Divisional play will start against the defending two-time CIAA Champions Winston-Salem State on Saturday, October 12th at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, NC at 1:30 p.m. The Rams will be hosting the Golden Bulls as their homecoming opponent. JCSU will return to Charlotte for back to back divisional home games versus Fayetteville State (October 19th) and Shaw (October 26th).

Johnson C. Smith will host Homecoming 2013 on October 26th against the Bears of Shaw University at 1:00 p.m. on McGirt Field at the Irwin Belk Complex. JCSU has topped Shaw in their last two meetings, including a 35-20 win last season as the Bears' homecoming opponent.

The regular season will come to a close after a November road schedule of Saint Augustine's University and Central State University. JCSU will play the Falcons on Saturday, November 2nd at 1:30 p.m. in Raleigh, NC and then travel to Wilberforce, OH to challenge the Marauders of CSU on November 9th at 1:30 p.m.
The 2013 CIAA Football Championship will take place on November 16th at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, NC.

2013 JCSU FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

9/7    Livingstone College$ (Commemorative Classic), Charlotte Memorial Stadium   1PM
9/14  Bowie State (McGirt Classic), Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, 2 PM
9/21  Davidson College, Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, 2 PM
9/28  @Virginia State$, Petersburg, VA, 3 PM
10/5   The Lincoln University$,  Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, 2 PM
10/12 @Winston-Salem State$, Bowman-Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem, NC 1:30 PM
10/19 Fayetteville State$, Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, 2 PM
10/26 Shaw University$ (Homecoming) Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, 1 PM
11/2   @Saint Augustine's University$, Raleigh, NC, 1:30 PM
11/9   @Central State University, Wilberforce, OH,  1:30 PM
11/16 @CIAA Football Championship#, Bowman-Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem, NC

BOLD:  Home Games
$ CIAA Conference Game
# Conference Championship  Game, Teams To Be Determined

COURTESY JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

New Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Logo Launched

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana --  The NCAA's Branding and Fan Experience Group has recently launched a new logo for the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

The new logo is intended to raise awareness of FCS football, the level of Division I football in which the Ohio Valley Conference (Tennessee State), Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) competes amongst other traditional powers.

The SWAC does not participate in the FCS playoffs and holds its own football championship game, like NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) conferences. The SWAC football championship game will be held at Reliant Stadium (Houston, Texas) on Saturday, December 7, 2013, and will include the Battle of the Bands competition with all ten of the conference’s member institutions participating.  The contest will begin immediately following the football championship game at Reliant Stadium and admission is included with purchase of a game ticket. 

The FCS new logo is part of the new "Every Down. Every Day." promotional campaign that will kick off during the 2013 season.

This 2013 season marks the first of an expanded 24-team playoff bracket, up from 20 teams a year ago. The first round will feature 16 teams in eight matchups with the winners advancing to the second round to play eight teams who have received a bye. This year the FCS playoffs will begin on Saturday, November 30 and conclude with the National Championship game on Saturday, January 4 in Frisco, Texas.



COURTESY NCAA.com and SWAC. org

Judge: No deal in limiting sentence of FAMU hazing defendant Jessie Baskin

Jessie Baskin is facing 21 years
prison sentence, if convicted of
all charges in Champion death.
 

ORLANDO, Florida  --  The Orange County judge presiding over the FAMU hazing cases was unwilling Tuesday to cap at three years a possible prison sentence for an ex-band member charged with felony hazing and manslaughter in the death of Marching 100 drum major Robert Champion.

Circuit Judge Marc Lubet said he wanted to hear from Champion's parents, Pamela and Robert Champion, before weighing a request to limit punishment facing Jessie Baskin, 22, of Miami, whom prosecutors have categorized as a "beater" in the fatal hazing that occurred Nov. 19, 2011, in Orlando.

Baskin, who has pleaded not guilty, could be sentenced to 21 years in prison if convicted of all charges and sentenced to the maximum for each offense.

Baskin, identified by Champion's fellow drum majors as ...

CONTINUE READING

PGA Minority Championship Highlight Show To Air July 3rd On the Golf Channel

JESSICA PEATROSS
Women's Golf Team
CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY COUGARS

CHICAGO, Illinois  --  Last May 10-12 the Chicago State University women's golf team participated in the 2013 PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship presented by Brown Capital Management. The event was held in Port St. Lucie, Fla. at the PGA Golf Club's Ryder Course.  On July 3 at 8:00 p.m. CT/9:00 p.m. ET, the Golf Channel will air a highlight show of the tournament.

The Cougars finished third with a three-round total of 935 (318-308-309).

The show will also feature footage from course and the tournament's other events. Senior Jessica Peatross (Lansing, Mich./Holt) received the $1,000 Joe Stewart/Earnie Ellison Scholarship at the pre-tournament banquet.

The show will also re-air Tuesday, July 9 at 1 p.m. CT/2 p.m. ET and Tuesday, July 23 at 1 p.m. CT/ 2:00 p.m. ET.

The 2013 PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship field featured more than 200 participants, consisting of four team divisions — NCAA Men’s Division I, II and NAIA as well as a Women’s Division.

In addition to the team competition, the PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship featured a men's and women's Individual Invitational that is open to collegiate golfers who are African-American, Hispanic-American, Native or Alaskan American, Asian or Pacific Island American.

COURTESY CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

The Missouri Classic Tickets Now on Sale: Grambling State University Tigers vs. Lincoln University of Missouri Blue Tigers

GRAMBLING, Louisiana  --  Grambling Football has a great history in Kansas City. Legends such as Ernie Ladd, Buck Buchanan and Albert Lewis all played for the Kansas City Chiefs and provided some great memories. As a matter of fact just outside the Chiefs locker room is a large picture of Buck Buchanan during his playing days with the Chiefs. A replica of the same picture hangs in the hallway just outside the weight room in the Robinson Stadium Support Facility.

While there is great history between Grambling and the Chiefs, it has been more than 30 years since the Tigers have played a college football game in Kansas City.

The Tiger Football team will make a visit to Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City Missouri, on Saturday, September 14^th at 4 p.m. to face the Lincoln University Blue Tigers in The Missouri Classic. The week will begin with a pep rally on Sunday, September 8th at historic 18th and Vines.

On Monday, September 9th a press conference will be held at City Hall. During the week, the GSU "World Famed" Tiger Marching Band is scheduled to make an appearance. They will also be playing for the Chiefs home opener on Sunday, September 15th.

Tickets for the game are $27 for General Admission and $45 for the club level. Tickets for GSU students are $18 with a university ID. Individuals with student tickets must show their student ID upon entering the stadium on game day. For group ticket information on this game, contact 214-943-2893. Suites are also available for the game by contacting Brandon Stec with the Chiefs at 826-920-4826 or Derek Schlesinger at 816-920-4845.

Other events are still being finalized and fans can get the latest news on the classic by going to the official website of the classic at www.themissouriclassic.com.


WATCH IN 720p or 1080p HD, Full Screen

COURTESY GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Grambling State Hall of Famer Becomes Interim Athletic Director

AARON JAMES
Interim Athletic Director
Grambling State University

GRAMBLING, Louisiana  --   Aaron James, a 2012 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame member and a member of the Grambling Legends Sports Hall of Fame, is assuming the role of interim athletics director at Grambling State University, effective Monday. It is his second stint as interim AD.

“We’re so blessed to have someone like Aaron on staff at our institution,” said President Frank G. Pogue. “He’s a star in his own right, on the basketball court, in college sports generally and in higher education administration. He’s a flexible, smart, knowledgeable administrator and leader capable of filling any of several roles, and we’re happy that he’s agreed to help us once again.”

James succeeds Percy “Chico” Caldwell, who was named AD at Grambling State University in February 2012 after an exhaustive search that yielded at least 50 candidates, a pool that was narrowed to seven finalists before Caldwell was selected. Caldwell gave Pogue his resignation on Tuesday.

Caldwell, a former student-athlete, earned his doctorate from Iowa State University, a master’s degree in health, fitness and recreation from the University of Alabama and a bachelor’s degree in sociology/psychology from Miles College. He put a lot of emphasis on student athlete academics and team academic standings during his tenure, and he started an athletic fundraising effort called the 250 Club. “I thank Dr. Caldwell for his service and wish him the best of success in the future,” added Pogue.

James, an associate athletic director for marketing and promotion, was recently assigned as the university’s interim development director with an office in the Institutional Advancement building. He will return to the Hobdy Assembly Center and lead Grambling State’s 15 sports programs: men’s football, basketball, baseball, cross country, track and field/outdoor; women’s basketball, bowling, track and field indoor/outdoor, cross country, tennis, soccer, softball and volleyball.

James was interim AD from late June 2011, after then-AD J. Lin Dawson left, until early 2012.

“I’m a Gramblinite, committed to my school, sports and higher education,” said James, 60, who lives in Ruston. “Whatever I need to do, I will do to help dear ole Grambling.”

COURTESY GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS

2013 LABOR DAY CLASSIC: TSU vs. PVAMU

WATCH IN 1080p HD, Full Screen

TSU TICKET INFORMATION

PVAMU's Brown Named Interim Head Women's Basketball Coach

DAWN BROWN
Interim Head Coach, Women's Basketball
PVAMU Lady Panthers

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas  --  Prairie View A&M Athletic Director Ashley Robinson named Prairie View A&M women's basketball assistant coach Dawn Brown as the interim head coach. She replaces Toyelle Wilson who announced her resignation last week.

"Coach Brown brings a good level of expertise and consistency to the program," Robinson said. "She has helped recruit some key players over the last few years and understands the culture of our program."

Brown experienced success in her three years under Wilson, playing an integral role in winning three-consecutive Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament Championships. She took on the role as recruiting coordinator for the 2012-13 season. Prior to that, Brown recruited 2012 SWAC All-Tournament center Larissa Scott, 2013 SWAC Tournament MVP Kiara Etienne and do-it-all forward JaQuandria Williams, who contributed heavily to the Lady Panthers last two SWAC Tournament Championships. Brown recently recruited and signed National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-American forward Cameron Vaughn.

"I am excited to help carry on the tradition of winning at Prairie View A&M," Brown, who was named an assistant coach in July 2010, said.  "The fans, alumni and supporters are the backbone of our program and that support doesn't waiver whether we are winning or losing. I am inspired by their support and will work hard to make sure that the product they see on the hardwood is one that they will be proud of."

Brown starts the 2013-14 season with a roster full of recruits she had a hand in securing.

"This team – from student-athletes to the managers and coaches – are ready to continue the legacy that has been created here on "The Hill," Brown said.

 Prior to coaching at PVAMU, Brown spent four seasons as an assistant coach at Tougaloo College. With the Bulldogs, Brown played a major part in turning the program around as the Lady Bulldogs finished the 2009-10 season with their best record in 12 years and advanced to the semifinal round of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Tournament.

A 2005 graduate of Jackson State University, she had a two-year career as a student-athlete with the Lady Tigers and helped capture the 2002-03 SWAC Regular Season Co-Championship and a SWAC Tournament semi-final berth.

Before her playing days at Jackson State, Brown a two-time captain at Atlanta Metropolitan College, led the team to two-straight GJCAA Tournament appearances as she was a part of the inaugural team in 2000.


WATCH IN 1080p HD FULL SCREEN

COURTESY PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

FAMU Rattlers get head start with voluntary passing drills

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  --  What was supposed to be a 7-on-7 workout for a handful of defensive players, quarterbacks and receivers turned into a session that had the feel of a full-fledged practice for the FAMU football team late Wednesday afternoon.

Almost every player on FAMU’s defense was there. And on offense, receivers, tight ends, running backs ... and, yes, offensive linemen showed up.

“It’s basically a fun day,” said junior quarterback Damien Fleming. “We get to see who has been in their playbooks and who has been working out while they were home. It’s exciting for me because I want to see what talent the guys bring and work with the chemistry from the guys who are coming back.”

The day’s workout was the first of several unsupervised drills that ...



CONTINUE READING

Howard University academic deans allege ‘fiscal mismanagement’

WASHINGTON, D.C.  --  Senior academic leaders at Howard University have charged that “fiscal mismanagement is doing irreparable harm” to the school in Northwest Washington and urged the dismissal of Howard’s chief financial officer, asserting that his actions have put its survival at risk.

Howard’s Council of Deans alleged that staff cuts at the university have been based on “inaccurate, misleading” data, lamented a decline in research expenditures and contended that a “burdensome” tuition increase has driven away students.

In a letter obtained by The Washington Post, the deans said Howard’s external auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers, had cited “grave concern about the quality of fiscal decision-making” recently as it terminated its work for the university. Above all, the deans blamed the “fiscal direction” of Robert M. Tarola, an independent contractor who serves as the university’s senior vice president for administration, chief financial officer and treasurer.

“We believe this direction places ...

CONTINUE READING

Former FAMU head drum major gets probation in deadly hazing

ORLANDO, Florida  --  The former head drum major of FAMU's marching band has been sentenced to probation in the hazing death of Robert Champion.

Jonathan Boyce, 26, the student leader of the Florida A&M University band when Champion died, pleaded no contest Friday to felony hazing as part of an agreement with prosecutors who dropped a companion charge of manslaughter in the fatal hazing.

Another ex-band-member, Jessie Baskin, 22, is expected to change his not-guilty plea today.

Boyce, who was hazed on the bus years ago, was ordered to serve a five-year term of probation by Circuit Judge Marc Lubet.

The judge agreed to withhold adjudication, which spares the drum major a criminal conviction. Boyce was characterized by prosecutors as a "helper" in the ritual.

CONTINUE READING 

Three TSU Tigers Chosen to TSN FCS All-American Teams

NASHVILLE, Tennessee  --  Three Tennessee State football players were selected to the Sports Network FCS Preseason All-American Team, released Monday.

Tight end A.C. Leonard and cornerback Steven Godbolt III were chosen on the First Team, while guard Kadeem Edwards earned a spot on the Third Team.

The announcement comes shortly after the Beyond Sports Network honored all three players, plus kicker Jamin Godfrey, on its All-American lists.

Last season, Leonard led all OVC tight ends and underclassmen in receiving yards (733). He was also selected an FCS All-American at the conclusion of last season.

For Godbolt, his inclusion on the list also comes as no surprise as the redshirt junior was also an FCS First Team All-American last year. Godbolt was a key part of the Tigers’ OVC-leading pass defense from a year ago.

Edwards follows former TSU offensive lineman Sherman Carter and Rogers Gaines in garnering national buzz. Edwards, a senior from Sanford, Fla. will be in the spotlight this year, as he will be called upon to continue Tennessee State’s running-game dominance (175.7 ypg).

The Sports Network, North America's foremost international real-time sports wire service, furnishes a wide range of content on a 24/7 basis utilizing state-of-the-art technology which sets the tone and standard for the entire industry. From statistics to news, weather and injury reports to instant scores, branded product and gamecasts to photography and complete fantasy coverage data, domestic or world-wide, radio or TV, print or Internet, mobile to signage, TSN leads the way.

 

COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Texas Southern Lady Tigers Basketball Unveils Complete 2013 Recruiting Class

HOUSTON, Texas  --  The Texas Southern University Head Women's Basketball Coach Johnetta Hayes-Perry has released her complete 2013 recruiting class.

TSU has announced that Kiana Ingram (Houston, Texas) Miracle Davis (Tulsa, Oklahoma), Dana Jones (Gulfport, Mississippi), Sarah Williams (Roanoke, Virginia) Tashara Jones (Douglasville, Georgia), Ashley Ferguson (Arlington, Texas) and Jazzmin Parker (Houston, Texas) have each signed National Letters of Intent (NLI) to continue their education and basketball careers at the Texas Southern University.

"I think our staff did a great job this year of recruiting quality student-athletes that will help our program to continue to grow," said TSU head women's basketball coach Johnetta Hayes-Perry. "Overall we feel like we've filled our major needs going into next season."

Last season the Texas Southern Lady Tigers basketball program won their first ever Southwestern Athletic Conference title after dominating league play throughout the year. TSU reeled off a school record 15 consecutive wins en route to claiming the number one seed in the 2013 SWAC Basketball Tournament.

"The young ladies that we have signed all have one thing in common they are all competitors," said Hayes-Perry. "I believe that each of these ladies possess the skill sets needed to step in and make immediate impacts within our program."

The Lady Tigers 2013 recruiting class features a total of three freshman and four college/JUCO transfers. The seven student-athletes hail from five states (Virginia, Oklahoma, Georgia, Mississippi, and Texas) and all of them arrive to TSU after competing on quality basketball programs prior to their arrival.

"Hopefully we can be a melting pot," said Hayes-Perry. "With seven new faces on the team it is important that our team chemistry is good. I certainly feel this will be a direct affect on how well our incoming student-athletes are able transition and pickup our teams' philosophies and goals. This all will play a major role in the amount of success we're able to have this upcoming season. We feel like we've put together a quality team with our new additions and the return of several key players from our squad last year."

Sarah Williams
5'6 Guard
Roanoke, Virginia
Tallahassee CC

Started in 11 games a Tallahassee Community College while participating in a total of 17 contests due to a severe ankle injury. Played a total of 417 minutes averaging 5.8 points per game along with 2.4 rebounds per outing. Tallied 33 assists and 24 steals. Played on average 24.5 minutes per contests while contributing 99 points. Initially verbal to Virginia Tech.

Coach Hayes-Perry on Sarah Williams:
"Sarah is a smart point guard and she has shown the ability to lead a team. She distributes the ball well and she also defends well. We will look for her to be our floor general for our team."



Miracle Davis
5'11 Guard/Forward
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Allen CC

Davis was as an Honorable Mention selection for Allen Community College after posting impressive numbers. She started 23 out of 26 games tallying 176 points scoring on average 6.8 points per game. She also contributed to her team on the defensive end of the floor racking up 52 steals and 3 blocked shots. Davis averaged 6.6 rebounds per outing to go along with 112 assists. She shot 35.5 percent from the floor and was one of her teams' key scoring threats offensively.

Coach Hayes-Perry on Miracle Davis:

"Miracle Davis is a JUCO transfer that is extremely versatile as she can play positions one through three. She is a solid player, very vocal and a good defender."

Kiana Ingram  (VIDEO)
5'7 Guard
Houston, Texas
Kempner High School

Ingram scored a season high 35 points during her senior season against Stratford High School. During her senior campaign Ingram averaged 15.9 points per game along with 3.5 rebounds. She also contributed 3.5 steals per contest on the defensive end of the floor while dishing out 2.3 assists a game offensively. She was one of her teams' premier scoring threats while proving valuable team leadership on and off the court.

Coach Hayes-Perry on Kiana Ingram:

"Kiana is a combo guard defensively she is aggressive on the ball, she is a very long build which should be great going thru passing lanes. Offensively she looks to get her teammates in positions to score easy baskets.''

Tashara Jones
5'10 Guard
Douglasville, GA
Lithia Springs High School

Tashara Jones attended Lithia Springs High School. She was named 2011-12 Douglas County Sentinel Girls' Co-Player of the Year. Jones, who served as a team captain, was the shining star for Lithia Springs. Her individual accolades include leading the county in scoring with 18.8 points per game and dropping a career-high 42 points versus Kell. She finished her junior campaign as the team's leading scorer and third leading rebounder. A native of Pensacola, Florida, Jones' athletic talents have also been on display playing with the AAU Atlanta Celtics. Tashara chose Texas Southern over Miami, Clemson, Auburn, and Prairie View A&M.

 Coach Hayes-Perry on Tashara Jones:
"Tashara will be a great addition to our program, not only can she score the ball but she also has very good vision. She played point guard in high school but we plan to utilize her at the wing position. She is a rebounding guard that is capable of being a good defender"

Jazzmin Parker
5'8 Guard
Houston, TX
TCU/Blinn JC

Jazzmin Parker played at Mayde Creek High School. She was named team MVP in 2009, 2010 and 2011. Parker was also named all-state in 2010 and 2011 by the TABC. She was named 3-Time 1st All-District honoree, 2-Time TABC All-Region, District MVP and Houston Girls Coaches Association All-Star Selection in 2011. Parker was ranked the 34th best guard in the nation by ESPN HoopGurlz, 7th best guard in Texas by Premier Basketball Report, and the No. 18 ranked player in Texas. Parker was also ranked as the No. 96th ranked player in the country by Dan Olson of the Collegiate Girls Report. Parker averaged 23 pts, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists in her senior campaign. She closed her school career owning a total of six school records, including career points (1,892), most points in a single season (750), and best career average (19.5). Jazzmin signed with TCU in 2011 before transferring to Blinn JC.

Coach Hayes-Perry on Jazzmin Parker:

"Jazzmin Parker is a transfer that we expect to contribute to our team immediately. She is a prolific scorer and she has one of the best mid range jumper that I've seen in a long time in women's basketball. She can score the ball from just about anywhere on the court and she has a solid three point shooter."

Ashley Ferguson
6'1 Forward
Arlington, TX
Bowie High School

Ashley Ferguson will arrive on the Texas Southern campus after an impressive career at Arlington Bowie High School. She was inducted into the Arlington Wall of Fame. She was named District Newcomer of the Year her sophomore season. She was named 1st Team All-District as a junior/senior year. District MVP her junior/senior year as well. Ferguson averaged 13 points, 11 rebounds, 1 block, and 1 steal per game as a junior. As a senior she averaged 17.5 pts, 11 rebound, 2 blocks a game. She was also named to the All-District team. Ferguson chose Texas Southern over Southern Mississippi and University of Alabama-Birmingham, and ORU.

Coach Hayes-Perry on Ashley Ferguson:
"Ferguson has great hands and a knack for getting her hands on the ball defensively. She has shown the ability to make smart plays both offensively and defensively." Looking forward to working with her around the basket.

Dana Jones
6'0 Forward

Gulfport, Miss.
East Carolina University

As a Freshman at ECU (2011-12): Played in 25 contests during her rookie campaign. Missed five games from Jan. 6-28 due to a foot injury. Ranked third on the squad in free throw percentage (.756). Netted a career-best 19 points against Virginia Intermont (11/17) while setting her personal high in rebounds with six versus Elon (11/27). Shot 5-for-7 from the field and 7-for-10 from behind the free throw line against the Cobras. Pulled down three offensive rebounds at Southern Miss (2/5). Averaged 12.3 points per game as a senior at Gulfport High School, where she helped revive the Lady Admiral program. The versatile athlete was named Gulfport's most valuable player the last two seasons and earned a plethora of honors - including selection to the Division 8 6A All-Tournament Team, All-South Mississippi 6A accolades and All-Division 8 6A laurels. Was also tabbed to the All-Sun Herald Coast Team. As a senior, was listed as the 37th-best prospect out of Mississippi by FILA.

Coach Hayes-Perry on Dana Jones:

"Dana Jones will bring a lot of versatility to our team as she passes the ball well and is a solid scoring option. She can play the three or four positions and does a great job rebounding the ball. She will be a solid addition to our team."


By Andrew Roberts, Sports Information Director W Sports
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY 

Tuskegee University to regain property from Veterans Affairs

United States Department of Veterans Affairs to return 65 acres donated by school 90 years ago

WASHINGTON, D.C.  —  The Department of Veterans Affairs will donate 65 unused acres and about 20 buildings to dramatically expand Tuskegee University under a property transfer that is awaiting congressional approval.

Tuskegee said it plans to use the area for more classrooms, dorms, research labs and faculty offices for several new degree programs.

Legislation sponsored by Rep. Mike Rogers of Saks and endorsed by the entire Alabama House delegation is part of an ongoing effort to return the property that the college originally gave up 90 years ago for the creation of a medical facility for black war veterans.

In 1923, the Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute donated 300 acres for what would eventually become the Tuskegee VA Medical Center. But now, the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System — created in 1997 through a merger of the VA medical centers in Montgomery and Tuskegee — no longer needs the property.

“The ... transfer would allow CAVHS to provide these unutilized, empty buildings for job creation in a severely economically depressed local community while at the same time providing CAVHS and the community access to future clinical interns for the CAVHS system,” said Tracy Boleware, a spokeswoman for Tuskegee University.

CONTINUE READING

Mount Tabor’s Long signs with WSSU

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  -- Nate Long, a 6-4 guard who recently graduated from Mount Tabor, has signed to play basketball at Winston-Salem State.

Long was originally going to go to Cape Fear Community College but decided on WSSU to be closer to home.

“My mom got sick and it was just better for me to be close to home. Winston-Salem State is a perfect fit for me,” Long said by telephone Thursday morning.


Nate Long, #15 -- WATCH IN HD 1080p

Long was a key player for Coach Andy Muse and the Spartans as they went 27-4 this past season and made it to the 4-A Western Regional final before losing to Charlotte Olympic 69-64.

Long averaged 14 points, 6.5 rebounds and four assists a game for the high-scoring Spartans.

CONTINUE READING

Tuskegee University selects Campbell as new Athletic Director

Curtis Campbell
Athletic Director
Tuskegee University
(Photo Courtesy: Stillman College Athletics)
 

TUSKEGEE, Alabama  --  Curtis Campbell has been chosen to serve as Tuskegee University's new athletic director after an extensive search and interviews with an array of highly qualified finalists, starting today. For six years, he was the athletic director at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. An experienced athletic administrator, Campbell has 14 years of service in intercollegiate athletics.

While at Stillman, he oversaw several major athletic projects. In 2009, Campbell was instrumental in the opening of the Stillman College Tennis Facility. During his tenure, there were extensive renovations to Birthright Alumni Hall, home of the basketball and volleyball programs. As an administrator, he also worked to increase operational and scholarship funds for each of Stillman's 12 sports.

During his time, Stillman posted a number of first-time events in competition: the school's first NCAA national outdoor track and field champion, the department's first SIAC tennis titles, the men's basketball team reached the South Region final – the best an SIAC school had accomplished in recent history; and the baseball team won their first game in NCAA region play and reached the South Region final for the first time in program history.

Campbell also upgraded the attention to student-athlete welfare at Stillman. He organized the department's Student Athlete Advisory Committee and initiated the development of the school's chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He also initiated a successful academic enrichment program, "Grades First," that was a requirement for the maintenance of athletic eligibility. As a result, 10 student athletes graduated with honors at the 2013 commencement service. Under his leadership, two of the last three valedictorians at the college were student-athletes.

Prior to his position at Stillman, he served for two years as athletic director at Division III Blackburn College in Carlinville, Illinois. At Blackburn, Campbell completely renovated the weight room and improved the operation of the sports information office. During his tenure, Blackburn also successfully hosted the 2006 St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) men's basketball tournament and the 2006 SLIAC sportsmanship summit. He also worked to improve athletic-academic relations at Blackburn while streamlining the efficiency of the athletic department.

Campbell has extensive experience with Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference schools. He also worked at Kentucky State University for four years, where he served as assistant athletic director for compliance and later served as interim athletic director. While at KSU, he also monitored athletic scholarships, assisted with game-day operations, coordinated tickets and ticket sales, and assisted with the management and development of the athletic budget.

Prior to his time at KSU, Campbell served as coordinator of student-athlete development at the University of Minnesota, where he assisted in the development and implementation of a comprehensive CHAMPS Life Skills Program for 700 student-athletes. He also coordinated the community service program for student-athletes.

In addition to his administrative background, Campbell has teaching experience and served on numerous committees including being chair of the SIAC football and baseball committees and a member of the Division II/NCAA bylaws/legislation committee. He is a 1990 graduate of Longwood University and holds a Bachelor of Science in social work. In 1999, he earned a master's degree in student affairs administration from Radford University.

COURTESY TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION 

WSSU baseball adds four players

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina --  Coach Kevin Ritsche of the Winston-Salem State baseball team announced the signing of four more players to this fall’s recruiting class.

The Rams, coming off a school-record 39 victories, have added UNC Greensboro transfer Ray Crawford , who played at Dudley High School; outfielder Gavin Culler , who played at West Forsyth; first baseman Brad Miller from Largo, Fla. and pitcher Eric Corlett , who played at East Forsyth.

Ritsche says that Culler is a leadoff hitter who led the state of North Carolina in stolen bases during his junior season at West Forsyth.

Crawford, who will join ...

CONTINUE READING 

Wells, assistant at WSSU, going to Arizona State

Coach Tim Wells
(Courtesy: WSSU Athletics)

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  --  Tim Wells, an assistant basketball coach at Winston-Salem State, has accepted a similar position at Arizona State.     

Wells, 35, spent the last five seasons as an assistant for Coach Bobby Collins, helping the Rams with recruiting, scouting of opponents and working with inside players.
 Wells, a Carver graduate and Winston-Salem native, played four seasons at N.C. State and graduated in 2000.

Collins said that Wells was instrumental in the success of the program. The Rams have averaged 20 wins over the last three seasons and won a CIAA title; they have been to the NCAA Division II Tournament three straight seasons.

CONTINUE READING