State champions Moses and Calais sign with Xavier

Joseph Moses III

Carlie Calais

NEW ORLEANS — State track champions Joseph Moses III of Baton Rouge, La., and Carlie Calais of Breaux Bridge, La., signed athletic scholarships Wednesday with Xavier University of Louisiana.
   
Moses, competing for Christian Life Academy, was the Class 1A outdoor champion in the 100- and 200-meter dashes in 2013 and ran the first segment on the 800-relay squad which placed second. He is the son of XU track and cross country coach Joseph Moses.
   
This past week, Moses won District 6-1A titles in the 100 (10.77 seconds) and 200 (22.14).
   
Calais, competing for Cecilia High School, was the 2013 Class 4A outdoor champion in the 800-meter run and placed third in 2012. In February she placed eighth in the 800 at the Division I state meet. On Thursday she posted her best outdoor time in the 800, 2:19.78, in a victory in the Region II-4A meet. At the District 5-4A meet, she repeated as district champion in the 400 and placed second in the 800.
   
Calais is a 4.0 student and will be a pre-pharmacy major at Xavier. She also will compete in cross country for the Gold Nuggets.
   
"Carlie is a great student-athlete," Cecilia coach Logan Duplechein said. "Her work ethic is what separates her from others. She has truly gotten better on the track from year to year."
   
Moses and Calais are the first to sign with Xavier track for 2014-15.
Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
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XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
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MEAC Completes Day One of Track and Field Championships

GREENSBORO, North Carolina  --  The Florida A&M Lady Rattlers and the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats took the lead after the first day of competition of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships at the Irwin Belk Track on the campus of North Carolina A&T State University.

On the women’s side, the Lady Rattlers tallied 19 points to take the lead. Bethune-Cookman Lady Wildcats finished second with 17 points, while North Carolina A&T State followed in third with 15 points.

In the high jump, Coppin State’s Deandra Daniel, the 2013-14 Indoor Champion and defending champion in the event, set a new MEAC record with a leap of 1.82m (5-11.50 ft.) to capture first. Daniel replaces the 2006 record of Morgan State’s Brittany Robinson, who jumped 1.80m (5-10.75 ft.). Nakita Gray of North Carolina A&T placed second at 1.77m (5-09.75 ft.), while Bethune-Cookman’s Deidra Jordan jumped 1.67m (5-05.75) to finish third.

Sasha-Ann Lebert of Florida A&M won the discus with a toss of 45.67m (149-10 ft.). Kiara Howell of Norfolk State was second at 45.42m (149-00 ft.) and Shawnata Young of Maryland Eastern Shore placed third at 44.69m (146-07 ft.).

Morgan State of Ishakeema Swain won the 5,000m with a time of 18:16.69. Nayjock Pan of Bethune-Cookman placed second (18:31.42), while Florida A&M’s Effiey Kosgei finished third (18:22.07).

On the men’s side, Bethune-Cookman grabbed the early lead with 28 points, while Maryland Eastern Shore finished second with 26 points, followed by Florida A&M with 18.

Maryland Eastern Shore’s Dillon Simon finished first in the discus with a 55.85m (183-03 ft.) throw. Simon replaces South Carolina State’s Xavier Molette 2013 record with a throw of 51.16m. Emmanuel Stewart of Morgan State placed second at 52.16m (171-01 ft.). Molette finished third with 49.37m (162-00 ft.).

Bethune-Cookman senior Keron Stoute tallied 3,834 points during the first half of the decathlon. Nnamdi Davis was second with 3,658 points and Hampton’s Emmanuel Price was third with 3,649 points.

Rico Taylor of Maryland Eastern Shore won the high jump with a leap of 2.11m (6-11.00 ft.). Bethune-Cookman’s Ed’Ricus Williams placed second and teammate Michael Tiller was third.

The Men's and Women's Outdoor Track and Field Championships continue Friday, May 2, with the women's heptathlon and men's decathlon at 9 a.m. Other field events on Friday's slate includes the men's and women's long jump, high jump and shot put. The afternoon continues with the men's and women's semifinal in the 400m, 100m dash, 800m, 400m hurdles, 200m dash, women's 100m hurdles and men's 110m hurdles.

The competition wraps up Saturday at 9 a.m. with field events including: men's and women's pole vault, javelin, and triple jump. The women's and men's 4x100m relays will begin the running finals at 1 p.m. Rounding out the evening's events will be the men's and women's 4x400m relay race at 4:20 p.m. 

2014 MEAC TOURNAMENT RESULTS

Women's Results- 3 Scored Events
1.     Florida A&M                              19
2.     Bethune-Cookman                 17
3.     N.C. A&T                                     15
4.     Norfolk State                            14
5.     Coppin State                             13
6.     Morgan State                            10
7.     South Carolina State              9
8.     Maryland Eastern Shore       8
9.     Hampton                                    6.5
10.   N.C. Central                               4
11.   Howard                                       1.5

Men's Results- 3 Scored Events

1.     Bethune-Cookman                 28
2.     Maryland Eastern Shore       26
3.     Florida A&M                              18
4.     South Carolina State              12
5.     Howard                                       11
6.     N.C. A&T                                     10
7.     Morgan State                            8
8.     N.C. Central                               1

COURTESY MEAC MEDIA RELATIONS

Tennessee State Tigerbelles' Hughes Named OVC Outdoor Female Freshman of the Year

NASHVILLE, Tennessee --  Tennessee State hurdler and sprinter Amber Hughes was named the Outdoor Female Freshman of Year by the Ohio Valley Conference office on Thursday.

Hughes, a native of Atlanta, Ga., notched the second-fastest time in the league in the 100-meter hurdles (13.56) and placed fourth in the 400-meter hurdles (1:02.87). The Tigerbelles are also first in the conference in the 4x100 and 4x400 relay events.

The award is the second of its type this year for Hughes, as she was named Female Freshman of the year following the Indoor Season.

Hughes becomes just the second TSU track and field member to win OVC Outdoor Freshman of the Year, following Dominique Ward who took home the inaugural title in 2005.

The Tigerbelles and Flying Tigers will next travel to SIUE on May 2-3 for the conference outdoor championship.

 

COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

FAMU Graduating Senior Accepted into Six Medical Schools

Nellena Adekoya

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  --  Florida A&M University (FAMU) graduating senior Nellena Adekoya has a lot to smile about. On Saturday, May 3, she will be among more than 1,300 candidates who will receive diplomas during FAMU’s spring 2014 commencement ceremonies.

Behind Adekoya’s infectious smile is also the excitement of beginning her journey to obtain the title of doctor.

The Grayson, Ga. native has accomplished the phenomenal feat of being accepted into six medical schools: the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, the Meharry Medical College, the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, the Florida State University College of Medicine, the Indiana University School of Medicine and the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine. She’s decided to attend the Medical College of Georgia, which is located near her hometown.

With her sight’s set on becoming an OB-GYN, Adekoya, 21, said she believes what’s made her such an attractive candidate for medical school is simply her warm personality and passion for helping others.

“I think what helped me to standout was the interview process. I was able to show them that what I had to offer was more than what was on paper,” said Adekoya, who will graduate summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

Letina Banks, biology instructor and academic advisor, said she knows exactly why so many distinguished medical programs courted Adekoya.

“Nellena has been a superb student from start to finish. She is a shining star,” Banks explained. “No matter what, she always has a smile on her face, is always humble and displays a caring personality. She is a model student and has never been afraid to ask questions or ask for help. She truly has what it takes to be a great physician – she will be a great physician.”

Adekoya’s interest in practicing medicine stems back to before she was a kindergartener.

“Since I was a four-year-old I've wanted to become a doctor. I used to watch a show called ‘Rescue 911’ with my mother and I was inspired to help people in need,” said Adekoya. “From there I took science classes, shadowed physicians and volunteered. I’ve never had any other career option in mind.”

According to Adekoya, a self-proclaimed soccer enthusiast, who donates much of her free time to coaching area youth, FAMU has served as a foundation for her ability to excel in and out of the classroom. She was a recipient of FAMU’s Life Gets Better Scholarship, which offers a full-ride to National Achievement and Merit Semifinalists who maintain at least a 3.5 GPA in high school and major in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

“FAMU gave me every tool I needed, both academically and socially, to form a great foundation for medical school,” Adekoya said. “We have some of the most caring and available professors around. I'm very proud to be a Rattler.”

While Adekoya is poised to become one of the nation’s next leaders in medicine, she asserts that everything she has accomplished to get her to this point is not about her.

“My main goal is to help as many people as I can,” she said. “Once I'm established, I'd like to do my best to institute free or discounted medical care services every year. I'm not interested in fame or fortune, just impacting lives.”

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

Langston University Names Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller Head Women’s Coach

The legendary player says she's "right where I need to be."

LANGSTON, Oklahoma -- Cheryl Miller has officially been named head coach of women’s basketball at Langston University and was formally introduced to the team and the student body during center court ceremonies today (April 30) in Langston. Miller was a three-time national player of the year at the University of Southern California, leading the Women of Troy to national championships in both 1983 and ’84 and playing on the 1984 U.S. Olympic team. She went on to coach in the WNBA for four seasons before beginning a career as a national sports broadcaster.

“This is an historic moment for Langston University athletics as we welcome legendary player and coach Cheryl Miller as women’s basketball head coach,” said Langston President Dr. Kent Smith. “Securing a coach of the caliber and character of Coach Miller is a tribute to Athletic Director Mike Garrett’s stature in the sports world.”

“Coach Miller’s credentials as a player and coach are unsurpassed in women’s basketball. We are thrilled and honored to have her here wearing Lion blue on our courts,” said Mike Garrett, athletic director at Langston University. “Coach Miller has the skills and tools to lead our women’s basketball team to domination in the NAIA.”

The NCAA named Miller one of the top five collegiate basketball players in NCAA history. Miller was USC’s head women’s coach (44-14 and won the 1994 Pacific-10 conference title) for two years in the mid ’90s, and then coached (and General Manger)  the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA from 1997 to 2000.




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Jermane Clark: North Carolina A&T football player shot, killed

Clark was Winston-Salem native, attended Reynolds High School, Oak Ridge Military Academy and the University of Colorado before transferring to A&T.

GREENSBORO, North Carolina -- Two people were arrested in connection with the shooting death of a North Carolina A&T State University football player late Tuesday night.

Kendrick Louis Robinson, 22, and Lemiah Wyatt Sanders Jr., 20, both of Greensboro, were charged Thursday with first-degree murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon in connection with the death of Jermane Darnell Clark.

Clark, 22, was found shot just after 11 p.m. on the street outside his home at 425 Stedman St. just west of campus. The Winston-Salem native was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at Moses Cone Hospital.

Greensboro police allege Robinson and Sanders shot Clark and robbed him of $200, as well as 1/4 pound of marijuana. It's not yet known if the three men knew each other.

CONTINUE READING 

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N.C. A&T Men's Tennis Makes Its Return With Four Recruits

GREENSBORO, North Carolina  -- The North Carolina A&T State University men’s tennis is back. It was made official on Thursday when A&T head tennis coach Bruce Myers announced the first signings of men’s tennis players since 2005. 

“I was asked by our athletics director (Earl M. Hilton III) to field a men’s tennis team that would compete in the MEAC,” said Myers. “I believe our signings today will not only allow us to be competitive for the 2014-15 season, but will allow us to surprise conference opponents.”



Dreshaun Jarmon (Philadelphia, Pa./William Penn Chapter High School), John Wilson IV (Red Oak, Texas/Red Oak High School), Kyle Scott (Greensboro, N.C./Northwest Guilford High School) and Brett Caban (Drexel Hill, Pa./Upper Darby High School) is the historic class that will usher in the return.

Jarmon is slated to be the Aggies No. 1 player in the fall. He has wins over 2-star players, and he made it the finals of the ESCS Amateur B18s Tennis Classic finals.

“Dreshaun is a player who I think will excel at North Carolina A&T,” said Myers. “He is extremely athletic, and has not reached his full potential. He has a world-class forehand and with refining that will come in the weight room. He has a realistic opportunity to win a bunch of matches in the MEAC.”

Wilson is a two-star standout with four wins over 3-star players. He is the captain and No. 1 player on his varsity tennis team. Most valuable player honors have come his way two straight years, and he made history when he became the first ever state qualifier from Red Oak High School. Wilson eventually went on to win the first of three straight district championships.



Wilson has been a USTA Texas Super Champ since 11, and he has been ranked as high as 20^th in the state of Texas. In doubles, Wilson has reached the finals twice at USTA regional tournaments. Outside of tennis, Wilson is on the debate team, student council and National Honor Society. He is in the top seven percent of his graduating class.

“John is a humble young man who displays great leadership abilities and is a good role model for his four younger brothers,” said Myers. “He is an ambitious young man with high expectations for himself. Please look for great things to come from John W. Wilson IV.”

Scott is a 1-star player with wins over 2-star opponents. He played No. 2 singles at Northwest Guilford where he earned all-conference honors and advanced to the regionals. Scott’s parents are Aggies who met while attending A&T.

“I knew Kyle fell in love with North Carolina A&T as soon as he came for his first visit,” said Myers. “Kyle is another athletic player who will benefit from a structured training regimen and practicing and playing with Division I competition on a daily basis.”



Caban was recruited to A&T during Myers’ evaluation of Jarmon. He has wins over 1-star and 2-star players and was rated in the top-50 among Pennsylvania players.

“He will battle for every point and make his opponent earn everything,” said Myers. “He is someone who will benefit from getting in our program and ramping up his on and off-court training. I have no doubts that he will succeed on the court and in the classroom.”

COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Bethune-Cookman's Chris Cochran Released as Softball Head Coach Before MEAC Tournament

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida  --  Bethune-Cookman University announced earlier today the release of head softball coach Chris Cochran from the program effective immediately.

Cochran served for the past eight years as head softball coach at B-CU and was named Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Coach of the Year in 2013 – her second honor in the past four seasons. From 2010-12, she guided the Wildcats to three consecutive MEAC championships, in addition to three NCAA Regional berths.

“We are grateful to Coach Cochran for guiding our program to three championships,” said Lynn W. Thompson, B-CU Director of Athletics. “She has allowed our softball team to regain a place as a perennial MEAC power. However, as we seek to radically transform our program in every aspect, we must make tough decisions that are in the best interest of the university and our athletics program in order to enhance the total student-athlete experience.”

During her eight-year stint at B-CU, Cochran compiled an overall record of 196-252 with three straight MEAC titles from 2010-2012. She had a career MEAC Tournament record of 20-11, while last year the Wildcats were eliminated in the second round of the tournament. Currently, the Wildcats lead the MEAC Southern division with a 10-2 record, and this weekend travels to Florida A&M with a chance to clinch the Southern division crown and a top seed in next week’s MEAC Softball Tournament in Ormond Beach, Fla.



To complete the remainder of the season, Thompson has appointed Sandra Booker, Senior Associate Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator, to provide management oversight of the softball program and remaining staff. She assumes that role immediately and will lead the team into this weekend’s series at FAMU, as well as the upcoming conference tournament taking place May 8-10.

Bringing over 20 years of coaching experience to the B-CU program, Cochran began her coaching career at Clear Creek High School in Tiffin, Iowa, where her teams advanced to three consecutive state tournaments. In 1991, she was named District Softball Coach of the Year.

After her years at Clear Creek, she served as an assistant coach at Ball State (1992-1994) and Marshall (1995-1998), before being named head coach at Brown University (1998-2001). At Brown, she helped developed two Brown Female Athletes of the Year.

After her stint at Brown, she joined the Iowa State coaching staff where, in 2002, she was named associate head coach.

Just prior to arriving at Bethune-Cookman in 2006, Cochran served as an assistant coach at Rutgers. Cochran was a three-year letterwinner for the University of Iowa's softball team (1981-1984). During that time she earned the Women's Intercollegiate Athletics Award.

In 1986, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education with a minor in Health Education from the University of Iowa.

Record at B-CU (Years)............................................. 196-252 (8)
Conference Championships.................... 3 (2010, 2011, 2012)
MEAC Tournament Record.................................................. 20-11
NCAA Regional Record............................................................. 0-6

 

COURTESY BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Coahoma Big Man Graves Headed to Alcorn State

CLARKSDALE,  Mississippi — Coahoma Community College’s Xavier Graves just returned from Decatur, MS where he scored 11 points for his North Division squad during the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) All-Star weekend. The performance effectively ended his JUCO basketball career. However, on Wednesday afternoon, he officially began his career at the Division I level signing his paperwork to continue his career in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) at Alcorn State University.

Graves (Bassfield, MS) was a force inside for the Tigers this season nearly averaging a double-double. His 13 points and nine rebounds per game, along with two blocks, were a big reason that CCC advanced to the MACJC playoffs for the second consecutive season. Those stats, along with his performance in the classroom made him a desirable recruit for the Braves.

“He’s and outstanding student, and he’s an outstanding person,” said Alcorn Head Basketball Coach Luther Riley. “We believe that he has a lot of untapped basketball ability. His work ethic, drive to become better and his determination have separated him from a lot of the other players that we’ve been recruiting.”

Graves will be receiving his Associate’s Degree in Business Administration in just a few weeks during commencement ceremonies at Coahoma, and he will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Alcorn State’s Department of Heath, Physical Education and Recreation with a focus on coaching.

“We are very proud of Xavier, he is a young man that has really grown tremendously during his last two year’s at Coahoma,” said CCC Head Basketball Coach Ira Peterson. “He’s a fine young man, and an excellent basketball player. I know that Xavier’s best basketball is still in front of him.”

The Alcorn State Alumni family at CCC gathered around Graves Wednesday afternoon as he signed his scholarship paperwork — including Coahoma’s own President Dr. Valmadge Towner.

“It is always a wonderful thing to watch one of our students excelling and pursuing their dreams,” said Towner. “Coahoma strives to be a launching pad to a better future for its students, and Mr. Graves is an excellent example of one of our best. We wish him the very best.”

Press Release from Coahoma Community College Public Relations - Matthew E. Killebrew, Director

UAPB Celebrates New Chancellor - Unveils New Logo At Investiture Ceremony

Dr. Laurence B. Alexander
Photo Courtesy UAPB Media Communications

PINE BLUFF, Arkansas  --  The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) formally welcomed its newly appointed Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander as the 18th leader of the institution. The near capacity crowd at the Pine Bluff Convention Center gave him three standing ovations during the ceremony and rousing applause.

During his acceptance speech, Chancellor Alexander highlighted the history of the institution, its programs and prestigious alumni and vowed to take the institution to the next level. One of the ways he pledged to do this was to change the face of UAPB.

“Together, we can re-invent the land-grant vision of the nineteenth century to meet the global demands of the 21st Century. One of the ways we have chosen to reinforce this university’s past, present, and future is represented in our new brand.”

Created by The Design Group, a multicultural marketing firm based in Little Rock, Arkansas, the mark is a nod to the legacy of the institution using a combination of the landmark W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower and a contemporary approach to text configuration. Over the next six to eight weeks, the new brand identity will be applied to all communication outlets for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. The current logo a seal that depicts the bell tower and name changes for the institution - will be delegated for use in executive communications and affixed to formal documents (degrees, certificates, etc.).

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT PINE BLUFF MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

Ex-Bulldog Dante McDonald inks with UAPB

FAYETTEVILLE, North Carolina  -- Former Terry Sanford High running back Dante McDonald has signed with Arkansas-Pine Bluff, the school announced Wednesday.

"We were in need of a big back with a game experience. Dante fits the bill," said coach Monte Coleman. "He's a powerful runner, but also agile. He's also a versatile enough that we can pass him the ball coming from the backfield or line him up in the slot. With those combinations of skills, he should make quite an impact" in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

McDonald, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound running back played the past two seasons at ASA College in Brooklyn, N.Y. Last season, he finished second on the team with 383 rushing yards in seven games on 50 carries.

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ASU Barlow holds exit interviews with football players

MONTGOMERY, Alabama  -- Football coach Reggie Barlow spent last week going over "exit" interviews with his players, talking to each one about what is expected from them between now and when the team convenes for fall camp on July 31.

"We want to meet with every guy on the team – scholarship guys, non-scholarship guys, two-deep, three-deep -- and talk about academics and where they are and where they perceive themselves to be in classes, have they enrolled in summer school and I always like to hear how they thought they did this spring," Barlow said. "I have cards written up by each (position) coach, how they did, and of course I have my own opinion."

Which brings up the interesting question: Are the players ever more critical of themselves than the coaches?

"I think (quarterback Daniel) Duhart was not happy with his spring play," Barlow said. "I think we were all on the same page that we were hoping that we would have gotten a little more out of him this spring. But he was critical of himself.

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Williams Signs with Grambling State Lady Tiger Basketball Team

Myah Williams

GRAMBLING, Louisiana  -- The GSU Lady Tiger Basketball team has been busy on the recruiting trail as they have signed Myah Williams, a 5'9 Guard from John F. Kennedy High School out of Seattle, Washington

Williams helped to lead Kennedy Catholic High School to three consecutive Seamount League Titles and to the State Championships in her freshman, sophomore and senior years.  Williams was named Seamount League Player of the Year in 2013 and was also name 1st team District 8 All-Regional.  She went on to earn a spot on the Washington All-State 2nd Team. Williams averaged 19.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per game to go along with  6.8 assists and 7.3 steals during her senior year.  She was named Seattle Times All Regional Player as well as being named Auburn Riverside Tournament of Champions Most Valuable Player and named to the Comcast Holiday All-Tournament Team.

"We are blessed to have this young and energetic talent.," said Assistant Coach Chauncey Harris.   "The truth is Myah was sold on Grambling before she even spoke to us.  This young lady has roots in Louisiana and she looks forward to establishing herself as a immediate force in our conference.

Williams comes from a long line of great athletes as her father Guy, was an All-American Basketball player at Washington State University and a NBA player with the Washington Wizards and Golden State Warriors.  "Myah's mom and dad were instrumental in making sure that their

Myah plans on studying Biochemistry and wants to work in the medical industry when her athletic career is over.

daughter had an opportunity to pursue her dreams of playing for Grambling State University, said Coach Harris"  Her sister Aminah plays basketball for the University of Washington and younger brother Noah (class of 2019) is rated the #1 player in the Northwest.

COURTESY GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

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Danville's own Marty Miller now a member of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame

Marty L. Miller
Athletics Director
Norfolk State University
 

DANVILLE, Virginia  -- It’s just another Hall of Fame induction to add to the already impressive resume for Danville native Marty Miller.

The Norfolk State director of athletics — a long-time baseball coach for the Spartans — was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame Saturday night. Even though it is his fifth Hall of Fame, Miller feels grounded by the honor.

“It’s been a very humbling experience, and especially when I think about how I got started in athletics,” Miller said Monday. “As I indicated the other night, when I started, I was trying to play baseball.”

Miller, who always felt he had to prove himself in order to make baseball teams because he was small growing up, stumbled into the head coaching position at Norfolk State, a post he held for 32 seasons. Miller was a Norfolk State assistant coach in 1972 and became head coach in 1973.

“I’d had no coaching experience when I started coaching here at Norfolk State,” he said. “I was here in Norfolk, and they needed a baseball coach. So, I was approached, and I was working somewhere downtown, and they asked me if I would come over and coach the team for two weeks.”

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Brianna Hayes signs with Norfolk State

CHESTERFIELD, Virginia  -- Matoaca High School Track and Field standout Brianna Hayes has signed a letter of intent to compete for Norfolk State University next school year. Brianna will join the Norfolk State Division I team competing in the MEAC conference.

Brianna competes in the high jump, long jump and the 400 meters. She is the current school record holder in the high jump. Her personal best is 5’10”. She is the Regional Champion and is ranked in the top five female high school high jumpers in the State.

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Southern lacks enough players to makeup DH at Texas Southern

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana  --  The Southern baseball team will not play a makeup doubleheader against Texas Southern scheduled for May 8 in Houston because it won’t have enough players available.

When Southern failed to qualify for the Southwestern Athletic Conference tournament that begins May 14, coach Roger Cador gave 10 players who are from other countries or have long distances to travel home permission to leave after final exams, which end May 7. The cost for the families to change the flights would be prohibitive, Cador said.

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The SWAC was waiting until the completion of the regular-season this weekend to see if the makeups would be necessary. The Jaguars play a weekend series at Prairie View A&M.

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SWAC baseball tournament getting close to moving to New Orleans

SWAC tournament appears to have found home in New Orleans

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- The Southwestern Athletic Conference baseball tournament appears headed to New Orleans.

The director of the MLB Urban Youth Academy there said Wednesday that he was awaiting insurance paperwork in order to complete the booking. Eddie Davis III called the paperwork “a formality” and said he expected its arrival any time.

Time is of the essence because the eight-team tournament begins May 14.

The SWAC moved the tournament out of Fort Worth, Texas, because of safety issues at LaGraves Field, including an uneven playing surface.

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CFL team signs Former Saint Augustine's University OL Wells

JUSTIN WELLS
Courtesy Carolina Panthers

EDMONTON, AB Canada -- Former Saint Augustine’s University and Orlando Predators Justin Wells signed a contract with the Edmonton Eskimos of the Canadian Football League, the franchise announced this week.

Wells, a 6-foot-4, 325-pound offensive lineman, played six games for the Orlando Predators of the Arena Football League (AFL) this season. As a rookie in 2014, Wells helped produce the AFL’s top-ranked total offense (320.3 yards per game) while protecting quarterback Jason Boltus, who ranks first overall in total offensive touchdowns (53). Wells was placed on the AFL’s “Other League Exempt List” with this week’s signing.

"We built our program to be an environment in which young players can develop and perfect their skills," said Orlando Predators Head Coach Rob Keefe. "Justin is a player that took coaching well and applied those techniques to field. We are extremely proud to see Justin make the transition to the CFL and wish him the best of luck as he furthers his football career."

Prior to entering the Arena Football League, Wells was signed by the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 2012 and 2013. He was assigned to the Arizona Rattlers of the AFL before being acquired by the Predators via trade on Jan. 16.

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Tampa Bay brings back franchise extra point leader, Juan Bongarra (Albany State)

TAMPA, Florida -- The Tampa Bay Storm acquired kicker Juan Bongarra (Bone´-gah-rah), announced vice president of football operations Jeff Gooch. The team reassigned kicker Geoff Boyer.

“We are excited to have Juan back with the team,” said Gooch. “He brings the experience and professionalism that we look for in a Storm player.”

Bongarra (6-foot-3, 200 lbs., Albany State) enters his fourth season in the AFL and his third in a Storm uniform. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Bongarra holds the Storm all-time career record for extra points attempted (241), extra points made (207) and ranks third all-time in points scored – kicking (225). In 2012, Bongarra broke the Storm single-season record for extra points made with 116. He began his AFL career in 2011 with the Tulsa Talons. For his career, Bongarra has made 302-of-354 PATs and 17-of-42 field goal attempts.

Bongarra played collegiately at Scottsdale Community College (AZ) where he earned all-National Junior College Athletic Association honors. He would go on to transfer to Albany State (GA) where he was named an All-SIAC selection.

Boyer (5-foot-10, 170 lbs., Middle Tennessee State) joined the Storm three games into the 2014 season. He made 24-of-27 extra point attempts.

NCAA Regional Tennis Brackets Revealed, Chowan Men Take on Shaw, Women Face Indiana University of Pennsylvania

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana  --  With the unveiling of the NCAA DII Men's and Women's Tennis Championship brackets on Tuesday evening, the Hawks can prepare to continue their historic seasons at the NCAA DII Atlantic Regional Tournament.  Both programs will make their first-ever regional appearances this weekend.

On the men's side, 48 teams earned bids to this year's tournament (15 automatic qualifiers and 33 at-large bids).  Bluefield State and West Virginia Wesleyan will each serve as Atlantic Region site hosts, with the winners from each location advancing to the NCAA Finals May 14^th-17^th in Altamonte Springs, Florida.

The Hawks are making history after earning the institution's first-ever at-large bid in any program.  Despite falling to Shaw 5-1 in the CIAA Championship, Chowan maintained a fifth place ranking in the Atlantic Region, securing their spot as the fifth seed in this weekend's tournament.

The men's team will travel to Bluefield State on Sunday, May 4^th, and will take on the Shaw Bears, the number four seed, in a rematch of the CIAA Championship title match.  Chowan posts a 17-9 mark on the year, while Shaw is 14-5 on this season.  The winner will advance to take on the Bluefield State Big Blues on May 5^th.  Exact times will be released as they become available. 

West Virginia Wesleyan, Charleston (WV), Shaw, Edinboro, Kutztown all advanced to the Atlantic Regional Tournament as well.  For more details regarding the men's regional championship, click HERE.

48 women's teams earned bids to this year's tournament (17 automatic qualifiers and 31 at-large bids).  California University of Pennsylvania and Indiana University of Pennsylvania will serve as Atlantic Region site hosts, with the winners from each location advancing to the NCAA National Championship Tournament May 14^th-17^th in Altamonte Springs, Florida.

The women earned an automatic bid after clinching their first-ever CIAA Women's Tennis Championship with a 5-0 win over Virginia State University back on April 19^th.   The Hawks travel to Indiana University of Pennsylvania this Saturday, May 3^rd and enter the Atlantic Regional Tournament as the number seven seed.  They will compete against the Crimson Hawks of Indiana (PA), who captured an at-large bid after winning earning a runner-up finish at the PSAC Championship.  The Crimson Hawks, 17-9, are the number two seed in the Atlantic Region on the women's side.  The winner will take on Slippery Rock / West Viriginia State on May 4th.  Times will be released as they become available.

Chowan posts a program-best 23-7 overall record heading into regional play this weekend.    Cal-P, West Virginia State, Mercyhurst, West Liberty, and Slippery Rock round out Atlantic Region bracket on the women's side.  For more information about the women's regional championship, click HERE.



COURTESY CHOWAN UNIVERSITY HAWKS SPORTS INFORMATION

WSSU Names Tonia Walker Athletics Director

TONIA WALKER
WSSU ATHLETICS DIRECTOR

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  – Tonia Walker, associate director of athletics and senior woman administration at Winston-Salem State University, has been named the athletic director for the program effective immediately.

 

"Tonia has done an outstanding job in every role she has been given within the WSSU athletics program and has a wealth of knowledge of intercollegiate athletics beyond our campus," said Chancellor Donald J. Reaves.  "Having Tonia as the athletic director brings strong leadership to the program and provides stability for our players, coaches and staff.  Tonia has certainly earned this opportunity and I am absolutely delighted that she is moving into this position on a permanent basis."

 

Walker has been serving as interim athletic director since March 1 of this year and had previously served as interim director for nearly a year in 2009.  She joined the WSSU athletics staff in August 2000 as assistant director and head volleyball coach.  In 2002, she resigned her coaching duties to focus on her administrative role.  Walker began her career in athletics in 1993 at the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) headquarters.

 

As associate director of athletics, Walker was responsible for the internal operations of the department and was instrumental in fundraising efforts, the implementation of CHAMPS/Lifeskills programming, the Rams leadership Academy and other initiatives that supported the development of the student athletes and the athletics staff.

 

Walker has served on numerous committees both nationally and for the university, including serving in various positions with the CIAA and serving on the NCAA Division II Membership Committee.  She is currently a member of the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators (NACWAA) and of the Minority Opportunities Association, as well as the Black College Coaches and Administrators Association. 

 

Named the CIAA Senior Woman Administrator for 2003-2004, 2005-2006 and 2011-12, Walker was one of eight participants from throughout the country selected for the NCAA Fellows Leadership Development Program.  She is a graduate of the NACWAA HERS Institute and Executive Institute and was the 2008 recipient of the NACWAA Nell Jackson Award given annually to an athletic administrator who is a strong leader and an advocate for gender equity.

 

Walker earned a B.A. degree with honors in speech and language disorders from Hampton University and her M.S. degree in recreation and sports administration from Old Dominion University.  While at Hampton, Walker was a two-sport athlete, playing both basketball and softball.

 

COURTESY WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION 

South Carolinal State Women's Draw No.8 Florida

2014 SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY LADY BULLDOGS
COURTESY SCSU ATHLETICS
ROSTER 

GAINESVILLE, Florida   -- The defending women's Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Champion South Carolina State University will travel to the sunshine state to take on eight-seeded Florida in the first round of the NCAA Tennis Championship at the Linder Stadium Tennis Complex.

SC State (13-5) earned their 10^th consecutive and 11^th overall Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) championship will face the eight-ranked Lady Gators (19-5) in the 64-team draw, Friday May 9 beginning at 3 p.m. ET.

Ticket Information:
·         Tickets may be purchased in advance or on each day of the tournament.
·         An ALL-SESSION Pass is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for senior citizens, college students and children under 17.
·         SINGLE DAY tickets for Friday and Saturday are $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for senior citizens, college students and children under 17.
·         SINGLE DAY tickets for Sunday are $3.00 for everyone.
·         A Will Call window for the teams will also be located at the Ring Tennis Complex entrance.
·         Spectators interested in purchasing an advance ALL-SESSION Pass may do so by contacting:

o    Gator Ticket Office
o    Post Office Box 14485
o    Gainesville, FL  32604
o    352/375-4683, ext. 6800
o    352/372-5801 (fax)

Friday, May 9 * Women's NCAA First Round
12 p.m.	Oklahoma State vs. South Florida
3 p.m.	Florida vs. South Carolina State

COURTESY SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Alcorn State Selected To Face Texas A&M in NCAA Tournament

2014 ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY BRAVES
ROSTER
COURTESY ASU ATHLETICS

 BIRMINGHAM, Alabama  -- The Southwestern Athletic Conference 2014 Men's Tennis Champions, Alcorn State, were selected on Tuesday to face No. 8 Texas A&M University in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.

Texas A&M was one of 16 schools selected to host the first and second rounds of the tournament. ALCN (9-8,7-0) will head to College Station on May 10 to compete against the Aggies at 12:00 p.m. CT.

First round matches in College Station will begin on Saturday, May 10, with the Texas Tech facing Cal at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Panthers at 12:00 p.m. CT. The winners will face off at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, to determine which team advances to the NCAA Championships in Athens, Ga., May 16-20.

Under the leadership of Head COach Anthony Dodgen, the Panthers will head into the tournament unbeaten in SWAC play at 7-0.

NCAA Tournament Bracket

Ticket information:
$12 All-Session Reserved (Stadium Club)

$7 Single Day Reserved (Stadium Club)

$5 Single Day General Admission

$3 Single Day Student/Youth

Free for children under age two

COURTESY SWAC.ORG 

SCSU Bulldogs Draw North Carolina Tarheels In First-Round Of NCAA Tennis Championships

2014 SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY BULLDOGS
ROSTER
COURTESY S.C. STATE ATHLETICS

CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina — The South Carolina State Bulldogs is set to battle host No. 7 seed North Carolina in the opening round of the NCAA Division I Team Tennis Championship held Saturday at Cone-Kenfield Tennis Center.

Matches on Saturday, May 10 at the Cone-Kenfield Tennis Center will feature South Carolina (15-13) of the Southeastern Conference against Atlantic 10 Conference champion George Washington (17-6) at 9 a.m.

UNC (24-5) will face South Carolina State (9-7) at 12 noon in the second first round match.

The Tar Heels are  3-0 all-time against the Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs (10-7) currently earned their 7^th consecutive and 12^th overall Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) title and received the league's automatic bid to the NCAA field.  The Tar Heels (24-5) of the ACC is currently ranked seventh nationally by the ITA.

Tickets for the event are $5. Children 6 & under are free. Gates will open one hour prior to play on both Friday and Saturday.



COURTESY SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION  

JSU Lady Tigers Tabbed to Face No. 2 Alabama

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- After advancing to the final round of the 2014 Southwestern Athletic Conference, Jackson State University received an automatic bid to face No. 2 Alabama in the first round of the NCAA Women's Tennis Tournament by default. The 2014 SWAC Women's Tennis Champions, Southern University could not participate in the tournament due to ineligibility.

JSU (10-17) is making its first trip to the NCAA tournament since 2009 and will face UA for the first time in program history. The Lady Tigers are the automatic qualifier out of the Southwestern Athletic Conference. JSU will head into the tournament first in SWAC play with an 8-1 record.

Alabama, hosting for the third-straight year and third overall, will take on the Lady Tigers in its first-round match up on Friday, May 9, at 4 p.m. CT. That match will be preceded by the Arizona State/Princeton match that is set to begin at 1 p.m. CT. The winners of both matches will then meet in the second round on Saturday, May 10, at 1 p.m. CT.

NCAA Tournament Bracket

COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS & NCAA.COM