Saturday, August 24, 2013

A&M Noon Presser and the Anthony Jones radio show to debut on Monday, August 26

NORMAL, Alabama --  With football season just nine days away, the Alabama A&M football noon press conference will begin on Monday, August 26th in the George Hobson field house.

All members of the media are invited to attend.

The public is invited to witness the Dean of the SWAC coaches' premier in the 2013 Anthony Jones coaches show at 6 p.m. at Braumhower's at 4250 Balmoral Drive off of Airport Road that evening.

The broadcast will be live each week and everyone is invited to attend. There will be giveaways as well as an opportunity to speak with the head coach of the Alabama A&M Bulldogs.



If you can't make the broadcast you can listen to the show live at 90.9 FM WJAB.


CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 90.9 FM WJAB ON INTERNET

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

2013 Toyota SWAC Football Championship Tickets on Sale Now


BIRMINGHAM, Alabama  --  Tickets to the 2013 Toyota SWAC Football Championship are available now for presale purchase with general public on sale launching Monday, Aug. 26 at 10 a.m.  Ticket prices range from $15-$50 and may be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com, on the phone at 1-800-745-3000, or in person at the Reliant Stadium box office located inside Budweiser Plaza.  A limited number of seats at the $30 value will be made available for $20 to groups of ten or more who purchase by phone at 281-367-9717.

The 2013 Toyota SWAC Football Championship will feature a showdown with division leaders from the East and West at Reliant Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 1:00 p.m. and will be televised nationally on ESPNU.  Immediately following the championship football game, all ten of the conference's member institutions will participate in the Battle of the Bands.  Admission to see the band performances is included with the purchase of a game ticket.   Additional information may be found on the football championship's official website at www.swacfootball.org

Additional events around the football championship weekend will kick off with the SWAC Hall of Fame Reception on Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Westin Galleria Hotel.  In addition, SWAC will host official parties on Friday and Saturday night featuring top hip-hop talent and entertainers.  A full schedule of events will be available this fall.


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The 2014 Toyota SWAC Basketball Tournament will launch ticket sales to the general public on Nov. 8 in conjunction with the start of the college basketball season.  The tournament will run March 11-15 at Toyota Center and feature both men's and women's teams from member institutions.  Individuals interested in presale opportunities may receive more information by becoming a Toyota Center Insider at www.houstontoyotacenter.com.

With the move to Houston, the SWAC becomes the first conference in HBCU history to play both its football and basketball championships in professional facilities in the same city.  According to the Harris County – Houston Sports Authority's grant application to the State of Texas, over $25 million will be brought into the City of Houston from both events over the next three years.

"I would like to thank the City of Houston, Harris County, Reliant Stadium and Toyota Center for their warm welcome of the Toyota SWAC Football and Basketball Championships," SWAC Commissioner Duer Sharp said.  "The opportunity to play in professional venues fall in line with our mission of enhancing the championship experience for both our student athletes and our fans.  Now our next order of business is getting everyone to Houston to be a part of SWAC history."

Southwestern Athletic Conference
The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), established in 1920, is a college athletic conference headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., which is comprised of historically black universities in the Southern United States. It participates in the NCAA's Division I for its 18 sports (8 - men, 10 - women) and the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).


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COURTESY SOUTHWESTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (SWAC) MEDIA RELATIONS

Alabama State Home Opener To Be Televised Live on CSS; 11 of 12 Games Set for TV or Web



MONTGOMERY, Alabama  --  The Alabama State University football home opener in the New ASU Stadium against Jacksonville State will be televised live on Comcast Sports Southeast (CSS), the network announced today.

The game time will remain at 5 p.m. on August 31 in the season opener for both teams.

CSS is a regional sports cable network, broadcasting in 12 states in the southeastern United States in more than 5.5 million homes.

"Big game on a big station," said Alabama State head football coach Reggie Barlow of the home opener in the inaugural season at New ASU Stadium being televised live. "It's very exciting for our program and our University. It's always a blessing when we have the opportunity to tell our story on live television."

For the second consecutive season, all Alabama State football home games will be shown either on television or online.  HornetVision, the online channel for Alabama State Athletics, will provide a live free video stream of four home games this season. The 90th Turkey Day Classic will be televised live on ESPNU.

Currently, Alabama State will have 11 football games televised and/or webstreamed live this season. The November 3rd game at Kentucky will be televised live, with the network and kickoff time TBA. The Hornets' October 5 game at Texas Southern will be televised live in the Houston area, with a replay on Comcast Sports Net the following Tuesday to subscribers in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

WVAS 90.7 FM, the Voice of Alabama State University, will again have live radio broadcasts of all Alabama State football games this season.

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OPPONENT / DATEGAME TIMEBROADCAST TIME / NETWORK
Aug. 31 vs. Jacksonville St.5 p.m.Live on CSS – Comcast Sports Southeast
Sept. 7 at Jackson St.5 p.m.Live online at ESPN3.com / tape delay ESPNU at 9:30 CT
Sept. 14 at Arkansas-Pine Bluff4 p.m.Live online at ESPN3.com / tape delay ESPNU at 9:30 CT
Sept. 21 vs. Grambling St.5 p.m.Live online - HornetVision (bamastatesports.com/showcase)
Sept. 28 vs. Alcorn St.5 p.m.Live online - HornetVision (bamastatesports.com/showcase)
Oct. 5 at Texas Southern6 p.m.Live on KHOU – TV 11.2 (Houston)/ tape delay CSN 10/8 at Noon
Oct. 12 vs. Prairie View1 p.m.Live online - HornetVision (bamastatesports.com/showcase)
Oct. 26 vs. Alabama A&M
(72nd State Farm Magic City Classic
2:30 p.m.Live online at ESPN3.com / tape delay ESPNU at 9:30 CT
Nov. 2 at KentuckyTBATBA
Nov. 9 vs. Southern1 p.m.Live online - HornetVision (bamastatesports.com/showcase)
Nov. 28 vs. Stillman
(90th Turkey Day Classic)
3 p.m.Live on ESPNU

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY HORNETS SPORTS INFORMATION

Alabama State University Athletic Highlights of the 2012-13 Seasons

MONTGOMERY, Alabama  --  Some of the best sights, sounds and images of the 2012-13 Alabama State Athletics season.



COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS

Alabama State Hornets Hold Final Scrimmage

MONTGOMERY, Alabama  --  Alabama State University held their third and final scrimmage of preseason camp and the coaching started the day introducing the players to game day activities.

"It was an opportunity to come into our stadium and get another practice in," Head Coach Reggie Barlow said. "We went through a lot of game day type activities like how we come out. We needed to get that done."

The Hornets did go through a 90 minutes of heavy work their offense, defense and special teams.

"We wanted to run some more of our offense, defense and special teams," Barlow added. "We are also trying to find those 53 guys that are going to be heavy contributors for us and for the most part we have done that. There are still a couple of spots out there we are trying to sort out by game time."

The Hornets ended the practice working on their conditioning as the Hornets are continually looking to improve their conditioning as the first few games of the season will be played in the late summer heat.

"We need our big skill guys to perform a little faster," Barlow added. "I didn't get the energy and effort we wanted from them today, but we will improve by game time."

The Hornets will take Sunday off and get back on the field to begin game week Monday, Aug. 26 at 3 p.m.

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY HORNETS SPORTS INFORMATION

WSSU Athletics Announces 2013 C.E. "Big House" Gaines Hall of Fame

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  --  The Winston-Salem State University C.E. "Big House" Gaines Hall of Fame will welcome its 2013 class of inductees when eight individuals along with the 1977 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Champion Rams football team will take their place among the WSSU greats. The individual inductees and the team will be inducted into a ceremony on Friday, November 8th at the Anderson Conference Center located in the McNeil Banquet Room in Winston-Salem, N.C. and will be honored at halftime of the Winston-Salem Football Classic, featuring the Winston-Salem State University Rams versus Fayetteville State University on Saturday, November 9th.
 
"To an athlete, being enshrined into your university's athletic hall of fame is reaching the mountaintop. There is no higher honor," WSSU Director of Athletics, William "Bill" Hayes said. "On behalf of the entire WSSU Department of Athletics, congratulations to all inductees for reaching this milestone."
 
"We enshrine these individuals amongst the elite past and present hall of famers as we move to enhance the vision and growth of our future student-athletes," said C.E. "Big House" Gaines Athletic Hall of Fame Chair, Robert Weeks. "Let this greatness not be forgotten by our hall of famers, faculty, staff, students and friends of this great university. We must remember our financial commitment and physical support of the C.E. "Big House" Gaines Athletic Hall of Fame."

The 2013 C.E. "Big House" Gaines Hall of Fame Inductees:
Mr. Lesley Barley, Jr (Football) 
Class of 1997    

Les Barley earned NCAA DII Freshman All-American honors in 1986, and earned All-CIAA honors in 1988 and 1989, all while being named the Rams team captain.  He would go on to help guide the Rams to CIAA Championships in 1987 and ’88 before a successful professional career. He played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Baltimore Stallions of the Canadian Football League before embarking on a 10 year career, playing for five different teams during his AFL career, which began in 1992 with the Charlotte Rage. He was part of the 1993 Tampa Bay Storm team that won Arena Bowl VII over the Detroit Drive, and also won a MVP award when his Storm faced Orlando in Frankfurt, Germany. Barley was named first team All-Arena FB/LB while playing with the Connecticut Coyotes in 1995 and named to the inaugural All-Ironman team and second team All-Arena as a FB/LB in 1998 while in his second stint with the Storm. He finished his career with the Grand Rapids Rampage in 2000 and the Milwaukee Mustangs in 2001. He garnered team MVP awards for the Connecticut Coyotes in 1995 and the Charlotte Rage in 1998.
 
Ms. Mose' Belton (Meritorious Service)                              
Class of 1972    
 
An insurance agent by trade, Belton is a contributor to WSSU, and in 2009 was chosen as Ms. Alumni for Winston-Salem State. She is a member of the WSSU Local Alumni Association (Kimberley Park Chapter) and has served on WSSU Board of Visitors.
 
Mr. Billy R. Diggs (Football/Basketball)                
Class of 1979    
 
Billy Diggs, an operator with Luxfer Gas Cylinders, was a four year letterman in both football and basketball during his tenure at Winston-Salem State. In 1977, Diggs pulled a rare double championship as he was a member of both the WSSU Rams football and basketball teams that were CIAA Champions.
 
In 1978, he was named All-CIAA as a wide receiver, as would go on to be drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the ninth round of the 1979 NFL Draft. Diggs would go on to represent the WSSU Rams in the Black College All-Star Bowl Game, and was voted to the CIAA Sportswriters All-CIAA team.
 
Mr. Kelvin Farmer (Meritorious Service)             
Class of 1986    
 
Kelvin Farmer was a member of the 1982-1983 football team and has been associated with the University ever since. He is President and CEO of KE Farmer Enterprises, Inc, and is a life member of the NAACP.  Farmer is also a life member of the WSSU National Alumni Association, and has been on the WSSU Foundation Board since 2007.  He has also held the position of National Treasurer of the WSSU National Alumni Association (1994-1999).
 
Mr. Martin Hicks (Football)                       
Class of 2006    
Occupation: WS Fire Fighter/EMS/Search and Rescue
 
Martin Hicks was a 4-Year Letterman and 3-time All-CIAA running back for WSSU.  He was tabbed the 2005 CIAA Offensive Player of the Year, and finished his career as the #3 all-time rusher in WSSU history with 3,386 yards. He holds the WSSU all-time record for longest kickoff return of 97 yards vs NCCU in 2002. Hicks, is part of the record setting tandem that ranks as the only running backs from the same team to gain 1,000 yards in the same season. In the 2002 season, he was named All-CIAA as a kick returner, and in 2003 he was named to the Don Hansen’s All-South Region first team at running back. Hicks, is a Winston-Salem Fire Fighter, EMS and a member of the Search and Rescue team.
 
Mr. Ralph Jones (Basketball)
Class of 1973    
 
Ralph Jones was a member of the WSSU Basketball team under Coach “Big House” Gaines (1969-1972), where he averaged 14.2 points per game.  Jones, a retired New York City Department of Education worker, was a member of the CIAA Championship team in 1970, and was team captain on the 1971-72 Rams hoops team. He would go on to play in the Rucker Park League (amongst well known NBA players) and other city tournaments.
 
Mr. Steve Lindsay (Football/Meritorious Service)
Class of 1972
 
Steven Lindsay was a four year letterman and co-captain of the 1971 Southern Division Football Championship team. The retired public school teacher has spent his retirement years supporting various endeavors including the YMCA, the WSSU Athletics 1000 HORN$ Program, WSSU RAMS Varsity Club and the North Carolina Special Olympics.
 
1977 CIAA CHAMPIONSHIP FOOTBALL TEAM
Head Coach – BILL HAYES
Asst. Coaches: Herman Moye, Otis Hawkins, Al Harvey, William Peay, James Price, Charles Bailey, Capt. Floyd Griffin, Ron Bray & Al Roseboro
All-CIAA Team Members: Cornelius Washington (DB), Robert Weeks (C), Kermit Blount (QB), Timmy Newsome (RB), Gary Railford (OT), James Winbush (DT)
 
The 1977 WSSU Rams football team was the first in the school’s history to produce a regular season undefeated team and to win the CIAA Football Championship.  This team produced six All-CIAA players and two NAIA All-American team members.  They also had two Pittsburg Courier All-American team members and four of the Rams’ players went on to play in the NFL.
 
COURTESY WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

TSU Football Seniors Honored at Luncheon

2013 Senior Football Players Kickoff Luncheon
CREDIT: SAM JORDAN/TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

NASHVILLE, Tennessee  -- On Friday morning, the Tennessee State athletic department held the 2013 senior football players Kickoff Luncheon.

Big Blue supporters, fans, coaches, cheerleaders and even members of the band met at the Maxwell House Hotel at 11 a.m. for a catered meal to honor the 17 member senior class.

The luncheon was hosted by George Plaster and TSU head coach Rod Reed, Director of Athletics Teresa Phillips and President Glenda Glover were on hand and each spoke about the student-athlete’s accomplishments. They also wished them luck as Big Blue starts its season on Sept. 1 against Bethune-Cookman in the John Merritt Classic.

The event was part of a busy weekend for the TSU football program, a weekend that started with the John Merritt Press Conference on Thursday and will continue with Fan Day tomorrow at 3 p.m. in the Indoor Football Facility.

The 2013 senior Tigers are Tim Broughton, Deshawn Byrd, Kadeem Edwards, Vernon Frett, Jamin Godfrey,Marquaveus Jackson, Troy Jones, Demetrius Rhaney, Wilson Robinson, Wesley Samuels, Gregory Barksdale, Holt Claiborne, Antonio Harper, Michael Murphy, Andrew Taylor, David Van Dyke and Devin Wilson.

The seniors and the rest of the Tigers will play a scrimmage at 4 p.m. on Saturday immediately following Fan Day.

COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION 

Southern expecting new-look Houston offense

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- When the Southern defense takes the field for the opener against Houston on Aug. 30, there will be a feeling of uncertainty in what they will be facing.

The Cougars will open the season with a new offensive coordinator, a new starting running back and an on-going competition at quarterback that has yet to yield a starter for the opener.

Southern coach Dawson Odums said he is not anticipating anything unique out of the Cougars offense.

“They’re just going to do what they do,” Odums said. “I don’t think they’ll put together an elaborate game plan against us — just line up and go play football.”

Newly hired co-offensive coordinator Doug Meacham was brought in to run the offense this year, replacing Mike Nesbit who resigned after Houston fell to Texas State in an embarrassing 30-13 loss in last season’s opener. Texas State ranked 119th defensively last season in the Football Bowl Subdivision.

Travis Bush took over last season as the interim coordinator and will work alongside Meacham. Bush will also serve as the Cougars running backs coach this year.

Meacham had served as Oklahoma State’s inside receivers coach and passing coordinator for the past eight seasons.

SU FOOTBALL 2013

CONTINUE READING 

Recruit will commit to Alabama, Georgia ... or Southern?

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana  -- In recent years, the Southern football team has been able to bring in some of the highest ranked prospects in the school’s history.

Sophomores Willie Quinn and Corey White and freshman Chuck Baker were all highly sought-after recruits (Quinn and Baker signed with the Jaguars out of high school; White transferred from LSU).
Southern hopes to add to that list with the possible addition of another — Ouachita Parish High School star Cameron Sims.

Sims, who will announce his college decision Saturday, is down to five schools: Alabama, Georgia, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss and Southern.

The Jaguars are probably a long shot. But they at least have a shot.

247sports.com ranks Sims a four-star recruit and the No. 11 wide receiver prospect in the country.



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CIAA Football To Celebrate Division II 40th Anniversary During Coin Toss


HAMPTON, Virginia -- As part of a year-long celebration honoring student-athletes who have contributed to the growth and storied history of Division II Athletics, the coin toss will be conducted using a special NCAA 40th Anniversary coin. Each CIAA member institution will have one of these coins for use during its home games.

Earlier this year, three former CIAA student-athletes were selected to the 40th Anniversary Tribute Team. Barvenia Wooten-Cherry (Virginia Union women's basketball, 1980-83. Timmy Newsome (Winston-Salem State football, 1976-80) and Sheila Baxter (Virginia State women’s basketball, 1973-77) were recognized with 45 others as true representation of Division II’s commitment to providing its student-athletes a ‘Life in the Balance’ that extends beyond athletics.”

Division II gained its own unique intercollegiate athletics identity when Divisions I, II and III were formalized during a special NCAA Convention held in 1973. Prior to 1973, the NCAA was organized into two divisions - “University” and “College.”

The year-long 40th Anniversary celebration will feature several initiatives branded by Division II’s tradition, history and community influence. A special 40th Anniversary highlight video was unveiled to Division II membership during the 2013 NCAA Convention, officially kicking off the celebration.



COURTESY THE CENTRAL INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (CIAA)

Friday, August 23, 2013

Embattled big man Aaric Murray picks Texas Southern

Aaric Murray #24 Transfers to Texas Southern.
The 6'-10" 249lbs Center is from Philadephia, Pennsylvania.
HOUSTON, Texas -- Former West Virginia big man Aaric Murray will join the Texas Southern University basketball program, his third school, Tigers coach Mike Davis revealed to USA TODAY Sports Thursday.

Murray, who graduated last spring and is immediately eligible for the Tigers in 2013-14, was dismissed from the West Virginia team in July. He was arrested in December 2011 and charged with marijuana possession while sitting out as a transfer from La Salle and he was also suspended in 2012 by WVU coach Bob Huggins for a disciplinary violation.

"Aaric Murray will be a big addition to our team and he will give us a chance to compete at the highest level of the SWAC," said Davis, the former Indiana coach who took over a Texas Southern team hit hard by the NCAA for lying about imposing sanctions among other violations. The Tigers went 16-2 in conference play but were barred from the postseason.

Murray, in a statement to USA TODAY Sports, said, "First, I want to thank my mom, family and team for all of their support. "I am very fortunate to be afforded the opportunity to ...



Aaric Murray
HOUSTON, Texas -- Before the 2012-13 season began there were high expectations for then-West Virginia center Aaric Murray. Murray was coming off of a season away from game action after transferring in from La Salle, and the expectation was that the talented forward would help the Mountaineers successfully handle the switch from the Big East to the Big 12.

Unfortunately things didn’t work out that way as both Murray and the program at large struggled throughout the season. Murray averaged 8.8 points and 5.9 rebounds per game while also dealing with nagging disciplinary issues. Ultimately he was dismissed from the program, and with a college degree in tow the 6-10 Murray began looking for a school where he could play his final season.

He’s found a new home, as according to Dan Wolken of USA Today Murray has joined Mike Davis’ program at Texas Southern. Murray joins a program that missed out on postseason play last year due to low APR numbers, but it should be noted that the Tigers were the best team in the SWAC (16-2; 17-14 overall). With the loss of two of their top three scorers (Omar Strong and Fred Sturdivant), Texas Southern can use the talent to go along with fifth-year seniors Ray Penn and Lawrence Johnson-Danner.

TU's Dimitri Patterson understands shaky nature of NFL job

DAVIE, Florida  -- Dimitri Patterson has been in the NFL seven years, long enough to know that nobody’s job is truly secure, not even the guy whose name is atop the training camp depth chart.

So, he was not entirely surprised to learn Tuesday night that the Dolphins released cornerback Richard Marshall, elevating Patterson to starting cornerback opposite free agent acquisition Brent Grimes. He felt bad for Marshall, knowing how much work he put in following last season’s back injury, but he plans to make the most of the opportunity as he has since he entered the league in 2005 as an undrafted free agent out of Tuskegee University.

“There so much I’ve seen in this league, nothing surprises me,” Patterson said after practice Wednesday. “I’ve seen guys all over this league, quality, well-respected good players that leave teams, get released, whatever. Richard’s not the first, and he won’t be the last. That’s the nature of this business.

Telling someone they can no longer be with you when they dreamed of this since Pee Wee and college, I don’t know how nicely you can say that. Write them a postcard? I don’t know. … It’s brutal.

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Livingstone Blue Bears to Hold Football Scrimmage

SALISBURY, North Carolina  -- The Livingstone College football team will hold a scrimmage on Saturday, August 24 at 9:00 a.m. The scrimmage will take place at Alumni Memorial Stadium on campus. It will be free and open to the public.

The Blue Bears enter the 2013 season at the number 11 spot in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). Livingstone will kick-off their season with a home opener against the 7th pick Johnson C. Smith University, as they go head-to-head in the Commemorative Classic on September 7.

With only one All-CIAA preseason selection, linebacker Kenneth White, Jr., (Jr, Southport, NC) the Blue Bears are looking to play “alignment and assignment” football according to interim Head Coach Daryl Williams.

Coming off a 2-8 record last season, with Drew Powell being named the CIAA Offensive Rookie of the Year, Kenneth White being named to the All-CIAA first team and Tyheim Pitt being named to the All-CIAA second team, the Blue Bears will also be looking to play more fundamentally sound.


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COURTESY LIVINGSTONE COLLEGE ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

VUU to run the ball more in 2013

RICHMOND, Virginia  -- During the annual Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s football media day in July, an online viewer asked Virginia Union head coach Michael Bailey how VUU’s defense will look now having lost (Andre) Kates.

Bailey answered in part, “Kates is at the Ravens’ camp. The Ravens have to deal with him.”

Kates, a CIAA and second-team all-region player in 2012, was invited to the defending Super Bowl champions’ mini-camp as an undrafted free agent. Defensive end Kentrell Harris (Raiders) and defensive back Brian Smith (Jets) also attended mini-camps, although none of them advanced to training camp.

Forty-three former Panthers have played in the NFL or CFL, most recently two-time All-American David Mims, who is in camp with the Ravens.

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2013 SIAC Championship


Bowie State football expects a winning season

BOWIE, Maryland  -- Since Damon Wilson became Bowie State University’s football coach four years ago, he says he has instilled a fierce competitive drive amongst his players. And that mindset has carried over to his players’ dorm rooms — specifically their Playstation 3 and Xbox 360 video game consoles.

“I’m the best [NCAA 14] player hands down,” said senior quarterback Jared Johnston, who plays with Oregon because he “loves” the Ducks’ zone read option attack. “I mean, I may lose a few games, but I’m the best.”

Redshirt junior running back and Suitland High School graduate Keith Brown has another take on the virtual competition.

“I can’t say who is the best because that may get me in trouble, but I am versatile,” he said with a hearty laugh and smile. Brown, who thinks he would be rated 88 or 89 overall with 91 speed, 90 acceleration and 94 stiff arm ratings in the game, plays with Clemson and Oregon in NCAA and with Washington in Madden. “But I can give you the five best. I’m one of them along with [fellow Suitland graduate and starting linebacker] Antoine Young, Jared’s one, our all-conference defensive back Curtis Pumphrey and our new lineman [Henry A. Wise grad] Anthony [McDaniel].

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Thursday, August 22, 2013

SWAC moves Soccer Tournament to Houston

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- After announcing its football and basketball championships move to Houston, Texas, the Southwestern Athletic Conference relocated its soccer tournament to the city. The 2013 SWAC Soccer Tournament will be held at the Houston Amateur Sports Park from November 7 – 10.

The announcement was made on the day of the league's press conference formally celebrating its championship campaigns in Houston.

"We are pleased to join with the Houston Amateur Sports Park in moving the soccer championship to the city of Houston, said SWAC Commissioner Duer Sharp. The city of Houston has played host to many professional soccer events. The support of the city's soccer fans, businesses and community, coupled with a world-class facility in the Houston Amateur Sports Park, can only result in a tournament with a meaningful experience for our student-athletes."

The Houston Amateur Sports Park is in its second year of operation and the offices at the park opened October 2012. It consists of six fields, five of which are Bermuda grass and one which is turf.

In addition to being the premier park in Houston, it has a seventh field which is the training field for the MLS Houston Dynamo. The facility hosted major tournaments including: Copa Univision, Futbolito, and Copa Alianza.  For a consecutive year, it will welcome back the U.S. Soccer Development Finals.

The Houston Amateur Sports Park fields soccer, football, flag football, lacrosse, field hockey, rugby, and Ultimate Frisbee. It is also the home facility for the University of St. Thomas, Houston Women’s Soccer Association, Houston Football Association, Houston Athletic Rugby Club, Space City Ultimate Frisbee, and the training site for the Houston Aces.

The Southwestern Athletic Conference becomes the first NCAA Division I conference to host its soccer tournament and championship at HASP.

"The Houston Amateur Sports Park is very excited to host the Southwestern Athletic Conference soccer championship," said Adrian Moses, HASP General Manager. "It is our first Division I intercollegiate tournament at the park and we look forward to building a lasting relationship with the conference."

The SWAC held its soccer tournament the past two seasons at the Johnny Downs Soccer Complex in Alexandria, Louisiana.

"We would like to thank the Johnny Downs Soccer Complex for hosting the Southwestern Athletic Conference soccer tournament the past two years," added SWAC Assistant Commissioner for Championships, LaKitha Murray. "Houston Amateur Sports Park is a great facility that will assist us in providing the best championship experience for our student-athletes. Houston has embraced the sport of soccer and we (SWAC) want the fan base to share that experience."

The SWAC's soccer tournament agreement with the Houston Amateur Sports Park is set on a year-to-year basis.

Southwestern Athletic Conference
The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), established in 1920, is a college athletic conference headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., which is comprised of historically black universities in the Southern United States. It participates in the NCAA's Division I for its 18 sports (8 - men, 10 - women) and the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

COURTESY SOUTHWESTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE MEDIA RELATIONS

TSU Holds 2013 John Merritt Press Conference



NASHVILLE, Tennessee  -- The Tennessee State athletic department held the John Merritt Press Conference on Thursday morning at LP Field in preparation of Big Blue’s game against Bethune-Cookman on Sept. 1.

The event started with Howard Gentry welcoming the crowd of approximately 100 and introducing the emcee of the conference, Hope Hines.

Hines then opened the floor for TSU Director of Athletics Teresa Phillips to speak followed by Bethune-Cookman’s AD Lynn Thompson. The two exchanged playful barbs, but the amount of respect for each other’s program was evident.

Tiger head coach Rod Reed spoke next before BCU’s sports information director Bryan Harvey concluded the conference.

Reed and Thompson were later interviewed by a handful of Nashville’s media members and then lunch was provided by Jack’s BBQ.

The Tigers will square off against the Wildcats on Sunday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. at LP Field for the first game of the 2013 season.
 
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

JSU Season Tickets Still Available

JACKSON, Mississippi  --  The 2013 Jackson State football season tickets are still available at the JSU Athletic Ticket Office. Season tickets will be available until September 6. Contact the JSU Ticket Office at: 601- 979-2420 for information on any upcoming promotions.




COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

WSSU Rams are restocking wide-receivers corps

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  --  Winston-Salem State lost top receivers Jameze Massey, Jahuann Butler and Jamal Williams to spent eligibility after last season, and one of the coaching staff’s biggest challenges of the preseason has been finding the right replacements.

The three combined for 198 of the team’s 276 catches and 3,300 yards and 39 touchdowns during the run to the Division II championship game.

"We have some guys over there, but they haven’t quite caught on yet," Coach Connell Maynor said this week. "It’s a work in progress, and we’ve got a couple of guys with hamstring and ankle injuries, so that’s slowing us down a little bit."

Senior Tehvyn Brantley (28 catches, 4 touchdowns) will be expected to carry much of the load, but as a 5-8, 178-pound slot receiver, he’ll need help from others who can stretch the field.

CONTINUE READING

NC Central fires head football coach Henry Frazier III after arrest

DURHAM, North Carolina  — N.C. Central University has fired head football coach Henry Frazier III, who was arrested Monday and charged with violating a domestic violence protective order.

“Henry Frazier III’s contract was terminated effective today,” NCCU Athletic Director Dr. Ingrid Wicker-McCree said Thursday. “The University wants to thank coach Frazier for nearly three years of service to NCCU.”

Frazier was initially suspended with full pay, but his contract has been terminated and he is not entitled to any additional severance or a buyout of his remaining $450,000 for the two years left on his contract, according to the school.

The domestic violence protection order stated Frazier was not to have any contact with his ex-wife, including by phone, email and paper. Frazier’s lawyer has said it was a misunderstanding and that his client was trying to get a note to her saying he would pay for a ticket on their car.

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North Carolina Central fires Frazier, installs Foster as interim head coach

DURHAM, North Carolina  — North Carolina Central University is announcing leadership changes in the Athletics Department's football program. Effective immediately, Henry Frazier III, has been terminated from his position as head football coach. Dwayne Foster, assistant head football coach, will serve as interim head football coach.

The personal issues Coach Frazier is facing have caused the university to shift its focus from the priorities of student-athletes, the Athletics Department and the university. NCCU does not condone alleged conduct or behaviors that are counter to the institution's culture of providing a nurturing environment that supports student learning and academic success.

"As we work through this transition, we will concentrate on the four goals of our athletics department: academic success, competitive success, institutional control and student-athlete well-being," said Dr. Ingrid Wicker-McCree, NCCU Athletics Director. "I have full confidence in Coach Foster and his abilities to successfully serve as an effective and knowledgeable leader for our students and our football program," said Wicker-McCree.

Foster joined NCCU in 2011 as assistant head coach, recruiting coordinator and offensive line coach. Previously, he served as running backs coach at Prairie View A&M University, offensive line coach at Bowie State University and tight ends and running backs coach at Catholic University.

Dr. Debra Saunders-White, NCCU chancellor, said, "At NCCU, our No. 1 priority is student success, and for our student-athletes, we have an obligation to support them both inside the classroom and on the field. Our institution is committed to excellence and high ethical standards for our entire university community, and in particular, our campus leadership."

COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Former Godby star gets noticed at FAMU

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Montavius Williams is playing college football as a wide receiver at FAMU, a dream he thought was shattered twice.

First it was his left knee that required surgery to repair a torn meniscus. Three seasons later, his right knee required surgery because of a similar injury.

“I was wondering if I would play again, but when I got on my feet, I started working again,” said Williams, a former standout wide receiver at Godby. “I felt my feet back under me.”

Williams used them so well that he has earned a backup role, which he’s embracing at FAMU. It’s the reward for his hustle and consistency, said receivers coach Ernie Mills, who saw Williams work out for the first time when preseason camp started three weeks ago.

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Transfers could give FAMU Rattlers a big boost

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- FAMU offensive coordinator Quinn Gray didn’t have to say much when he received the phone call from wide receiver Casey Glines.

Glines, a 6-foot-6 junior college transfer from Utah, explained to Gray that he wanted to come play for the Rattlers. And once Gray confirmed that FAMU would have a scholarship waiting, Glines was ready to go.

“That’s all it took,” Gray said Tuesday, explaining how he got the junior college transfer to become a Rattler.

Linebacker Kevin Wilson wanted to transfer in to FAMU because it was closer to his home in Daphne, Ala. The move also was prompted after a coaching change at the University of Houston left him wondering about his football future, he said.

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DelState Hornet Fans Gear Up for Season Opener at Delaware



Date: Saturday, September 7, 2013 – 3:30 p.m.
Game will be televised live by NBC Sports Network

Game Time @ 3:30 pm
DSU vs UD Football
Delaware Stadium (Tubby Raymond Field)

DSU Hornets Fan Pride Tent
Saturday, September 7, 2013
University of Delaware
Hospitality Village
(Located off College Ave., near the Bob Carpenter Center)
1:00 – 3:00 pm
Game Time: 3:30 pm

Free admission, food and giveaways while supplies last!

Show your colors…assert your Hornet Pride!
For more information call 302.857.6050

Delaware State expects a big season for Gunter


RODNEY GUNTER

DOVER, Delaware — Kermit Blount has laid down a challenge for defensive lineman Rodney Gunter.

“I think he’s getting to the point where he is ready to dominate this conference,” Delaware State’s football coach said.

Blount makes sure to remind Gunter, a 6-foot-5, 305-pound junior, of that challenge and his lofty goals for him every practice.

“He tries to influence me every day to be great,” Gunter said.

With the Hornets preparing for their opener at Delaware on Sept. 7, Gunter is coming off a season where he finished seventh in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and first on the squad with 0.5 sacks per game (5.5 total).

He led the Hornet defensive line in unassisted tackles (27) and was named to the All-MEAC second team.

Those are impressive numbers, but Gunter and Blount know he has the potential for more.

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