Inaugural Celebration Bowl will be featured on ABC

ATLANTA, Georgia -- ESPN Events, a subsidiary of ESPN, announced today that the inaugural Celebration Bowl will be televised live on ABC. The new postseason college football bowl game will kick off at noon ET Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.

The Celebration Bowl, which showcases the legacy, values and traditions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, will pit the conference champion from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference against the Southwestern Athletic Conference champion.

“We could not be more pleased to have the Celebration Bowl kicking off the college football bowl season on ABC,” said Pete Derzis, senior vice president, ESPN Events. “Not only will the first annual Celebration Bowl deliver a first-class postseason experience to the teams, their fans and their alumni; the live telecast on ABC will bring the thrill and pageantry of the bowl to fans across the nation.”



“We are excited about today’s announcement that the Celebration Bowl will be telecast on ABC,” said Dennis Thomas, commissioner, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

“We are eagerly looking forward to participating in this wonderful opportunity to showcase our student-athletes, coaches, institutions and our conference on this national stage. We are appreciative to ESPN for their continued partnership and commitment to this postseason experience.”

“The SWAC is excited about the announcement of the inaugural Celebration Bowl being televised on ABC,” SWAC Commissioner Duer Sharp said. “This stage will provide the nation with a front-row seat into the passion, pride and heritage of the SWAC and HBCU football. Our coaches, student-athletes and SWAC fans across the nation look forward to meeting in ATL on December 19.

“The SWAC appreciates ESPN and their family of networks for their continued support and for providing our fans and student athletes the opportunity to perform on this national platform.”

“We are excited to collaborate with ESPN to launch the Celebration Bowl and continue our longstanding tradition of delivering an annual HBCU college football showdown to fans in Atlanta,” said John Grant, Chief Executive Officer, 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc. “Having the game televised on ABC will showcase the best in HBCU football on a national stage.”

ESPN Events also manages the college football season-opening MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney, another game that features these two conferences and highlights the traditions of HBCUs, which kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET Sunday, Sept. 6, at the Orlando Citrus Bowl, live on ESPN.

Celebration Bowl (Atlanta)

MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney (Orlando, Fla.)

“Faith” No More: NCAA Cracks Down on Non-Countable Opponents

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana -- The infamous D2 football single-game records set by Tusculum last season will be a thing of the past after the the NCAA released a list of non-countable opponents Friday.

The memo, issued by NCAA media coordination and stats director David Worlock, lists 34 schools whose accreditation (or lack thereof) does not meet NCAA standards, including the three branches of the controversial online-only “College of Faith” campuses in Arkansas, Florida and North Carolina. Statistics in games against non-countables in all sports, including football, will not be recognized by the NCAA.

“On closer examination, it is evident these schools are focused solely on fielding athletics teams,” Worlock said. “We have found many of them offer exclusively online courses and have questionable curriculum and/or no academic mission.”

Effective August 1, a non-NCAA opponent must meet the following requirements to be considered a “countable” opponent for statistical purposes:

• The institution must be a four-year, degree-granting institution.
• The opponent must be considered both a varsity intercollegiate team and countable competition as defined by NCAA bylaws.

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The NCAA changes standards for what is a ‘countable opponent’

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana -- The NCAA is changing the way that they determine countable games for season-long statistics and team records.

From this point forward, in order for a team to be considered a real game and not simply an exhibition, the program must be a four-year, degree-granting school with sports teams that operate at a varsity level. Then it also must be a member of the NCAA, the NAIA, the NCCAA or one of its Canadian counterparts, or it must be accredited.

The goal?

To rid Division I of the practice of showing up to get absolutely pummeled in exchange for a game-check. Remember when Champion Baptist lost to Southern University, a program in the SWAC, 116-12? Well, that won’t be happening anymore, as Champion Baptist is one of 32 schools that the NCAA has banned from counting as real games. Faith Baptist Bible, the team that Grinnell’s Jack Taylor scored 138 points against back in 2012, is not on the list, but ...

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Iowa State hires Murray State's Steve Prohm as Fred Hoiberg's replacement

Iowa State hires Prohm over North Carolina Central's  LaVelle Moton

AMES, Iowa -- Iowa State has hired Murray State's Steve Prohm as its men's basketball coach.

Cyclones athletic director Jamie Pollard confirmed Monday that Prohm will replace Fred Hoiberg, who left last week after five seasons to take over the Chicago Bulls.

The 40-year-old Prohm was 104-29 in four years at Murray State. He led the Racers to 29 wins, including a 16-0 regular-season mark in the Ohio Valley Conference in 2014-15.

Prohm takes over an Iowa State team that could open next season ranked in the top 10. The Cyclones return six of their top eight scorers from last season, when they won their second consecutive Big 12 tournament.

Prohm, who has agreed to a five-year deal with a base salary of $1.5 million per year, will be introduced at a news conference on Tuesday.

"Steve's personal values, style of play and proven success as a head coach make him an outstanding choice to be our next coach," Pollard said. "He is a proven winner who is widely respected by his current and former players. We feel Steve is the ideal coach to continue the incredible success that Coach Hoiberg and his players have achieved during the past several years.

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Winston-Salem State Athletics Announces 2015 Hall of Fame Class

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina -- The Winston-Salem State University Athletic Hall of Fame Committee has announced the 2015 inductees into the Clarence E. "Big House" Gaines Athletic Hall of Fame. Seven individuals and one team will take their place among the WSSU greats. The individual inductees and the team will be inducted in a ceremony on Friday, October 9th at the Benton Convention Center located in downtown Winston-Salem, N.C. and will be honored at halftime of the Winston-Salem State versus Johnson C. Smith football game on Saturday, October 10th at Bowman Gray Stadium.

"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, Tonia Walker 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 Winston-Salem State University Clarence 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 Winston-Salem State University Clarence E. "Big House" Gaines Athletic Hall of Fame."

2015 WSSU HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

Mae Godette – Meritorious Service

Mae Godette is a lifetime member of the WSSU national Alumni Association and an athletics liaison to the NAA. She is a member of the WSSU Board of Visitors, WSSU Grassroots Volunteer, WSSU Amon Booster Club (1st President & Advisory Board Member), Team Captain for WSSU Athletic Department's – She's got It Covered, A Classy hat Affair, WSSU Heritage Society, Member of WSSU Athletics Horn$ Club, HOOPs, Inc for WSSU Athletics, WSSU Athletic Advisory Committee and NCAA DI Steering Committee. Godette is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She is currently a Supervisor for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services in Guilford County, NC.

Linwood Jerald – Meritorious Service

Linwood Jerald holds a position as a Winston-Lake Family YMCA Board Member and the National Football Foundation as a Board Member. He is also a member of the Winston-Salem Sportsmen Club, a member of the WSSU Football Game Day operations and a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Jerald is currently the Director of Athletics at Parkland Magnet High School.

Bobby Garner – Football/Basketball

Bobby Garner was a member of the 1970 CIAA Championship Basketball team, as well as a member of the 1971 CIAA Football Championship team. Garner was named Outstanding Player of the Week once during the 1971 season. He was named to the All-Tournament team (Basketball) in 1972. Garner was a 17th round pick of the New Orleans Saints in the 1973 NFL Draft. He was also named one of the Outstanding College Athletes of America in 1973 for his football acumen.

Melvin Fair – Coach

Melvin Fair was a four-time CIAA Coach of the Year (1987-1990) and coached the WSSU Rams to three consecutive CIAA Wrestling Championships (1988-90). His Rams teams are a two-time Mid-South Wrestling Association Team Champions (1989-90).Had three individual NCAA Division II All-Americans, and one guided his team to a national ranking of 15th in the nation. Fair is a member of the NC Teachers Retirement Association, High Point YMCA, High Education Committee of Holmes Grove United Methodist Church, and is a member of the Holmes Grove United Methodist Church, as well as being a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Pete Richardson – Coach

Pete Richardson was the head coach of the WSSU Rams from 1988 through 1992. During that time his Rams team amassed a record of 41 wins, 14 losses and one tie. They won three CIAA Championships (1988, 1990, 1991). He went on to coach 17 years at Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., where he won five Southwestern Athletic Conference titles, including a three-peat from 1997-99 (the school's first consecutive SWAC titles since 1959-60), four black college national titles (1993, 1995, 1997 and 2003) and four Heritage Bowl titles. Richardson was 12-5 in the Bayou Classic and is the only SWAC coach never to have lost to the legendary Eddie Robinson. His winning percentage of 68.4 percent in 17 seasons (134-62) at the school is second in Southern history. Richardson was a seventh-round draft pick of the Buffalo Bills in 1968, and he played defensive back from 1969-71. He had eight interceptions and five fumble recoveries in 39 career games. He was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2012. Richardson is currently retired from coaching and he and his wife Lillian, reside in Baton Rouge, La.

Freager Richard Sanders, Jr – Football/Boxing

Freager Richard Sanders, Jr was a four year letterman on the WSSU football team from 1946-50. He was also a four year letterman on the boxing team, and earned All-CIAA honors in both sports. From 1946 to 1950 Sanders was also a member of the University choir, before going on to become a member of the US States Army Boxing Team from 1950-52. Sanders was a former educator, before his passing.

Valonda Bruinton Calloway – Cheerleading

Valanda Calloway was a four year letter-winner and varsity cheerleader for the WSSU Rams from 1990-94. She is a member of a number of public service organizations, including the Raleigh Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the Wake County Chapter of the Winston-Salem State University Alumni Association. Whether mentoring middle school girls, serving as a volunteer cheerleading coach or participating in fundraisers, Valonda embraces the verse, "To whom much is given, much is required." In 2013 Valonda was inducted into the first class of Winston-Salem State University's 40 under 40 club in recognition of her public service and career milestones. A dancer and cheerleader since her early years, Valonda went on to cheer professionally for the Washington Redskins. She loves fashion and in 2013 Carolina Style Magazine named Valonda one of the 25 Most Stylish People In The Triangle. She is currently the host of My Carolina Today on WNCN, the NBC affiliate in Raleigh, a dance teacher at North Carolina Dance Institute and Emcee and Day-Of Wedding Coordinator for 360 Elite Entertainment.

1984-86 WSSU Softball Team

The 1984-86 Winston-Salem State University Softball team was one for the ages. Nicknamed the "Red Machine", the1984 team won the 1st CIAA championship in WSSU School history, and then went on to win three consecutive CIAA Titles. These teams accomplished the first three-peat in WSSU women's sports and also won the CIAA's inaugural fast pitch championship. The team, coached by Tim Grant, had a combined record of 70-18 while also having four consecutive Conference Player of the Year Awards.

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FAMU Baseball Coach Jamey Shouppe talks recruiting

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Florida A&M head baseball coach Jamey Shouppe talks about the team's experience in the NCAA tournament and recruiting efforts.

NCCU's LeVelle Moton Interviews with Iowa State

DURHAM, North Carolina -- In late March 2014, LeVelle Moton took his No. 14 seeded North Carolina Central Eagles to San Antonio to face No. 3 seed Iowa State in the NCAA Tournament. At 28-6 overall and 15-1 in the MEAC, Moton’s team was far from a push-over, despite the 18-point loss to the Cyclones.

On Sunday, WRAL confirmed Moton has interviewed for the Iowa State job recently vacated by Fred Hoiberg as he pursues an NBA job with the Chicago Bulls.

Moton has not yet been offered the position in Ames, but this is not the first time his name has been called in promotion circles.

In six seasons at NCCU, Moton has boasted a 114-75 overall record, including a 56-8 conference record in the MEAC. Moton, has been courted nearly every offseason since returning to his alma mater in 2009, most notably by George Mason at the end of this season’s NIT appearance.



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FAMUan James Dekle named Black Cultural Center choral director, Purdue University

J. Dekle
Hometown: Statesboro, GA

WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana -- James Dekle, the new Black Cultural Center choral director, Purdue University, remembers his first experience with music well.

His father kept a well-used trumpet in a closet in his bedroom. It was one of several instruments that his father used in his cover band that played funk and R&B. His father had dreams of becoming a big-time professional singer and performer. Dekle had the privilege of watching his father drift away with the intense, happy, metallic sound that would escape from the trumpet during his father’s home-performances and cherished the moments when his father would allow him to attempt to play it.

Ironically, Dekle chose to play the saxophone when he joined the school band, but his father passed his love of music and the aspiration of becoming a professional singer and performer onto him. By the time Dekle was 11 years old, he was trying his hand at songwriting and participated in local and statewide Georgia music festivals throughout middle and high school. While in college, he joined the world-renowned FAMU Marching ‘100’ and the FAMU Concert Choir.

Dekle is no stranger to music education, having graduated magna cum laude with his bachelors of science in music education from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (2006) in Tallahassee, Florida, and obtaining a master of music education degree from Winthrop University (2011).

Through his years of experience in performance and education, Dekle hopes to fulfill his personal motto: “If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain,” while working with students at Purdue.

“I hope to ignite the spirit of artistry in each individual student. Through music, I hope to stimulate their life’s purpose to be the best human being they can be at whatever they are seeking to be,” Dekle said. “My joy and purpose in life is to make someone else’s life a little easier or better.

It was an easy decision for Dekle when he was given the opportunity to become the choral director at Purdue.








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“Early on during my undergraduate matriculation, I knew that I had a desire to be a conductor at the university level. I did not know that my first opportunity would be a university of Purdue’s status or prestige,” Dekle said. “It definitely made the decision easier.”

According to the director of the Black Cultural Center, Renee Thomas, Dekle was selected to serve as the new choral director for the Black Voices of Inspiration choir, “because of his remarkable experience as a choral director, teacher and clinician.”

“I anticipate Dekle will expose the campus community to compositions by African American composers into the total fabric of our musical culture and cultivate new audiences for the Black Voices of Inspiration choir,” Thomas said. “He will serve as an essential and indispensable link in the preservation of our musical heritage.”

Dekle plans to do just that.

As the new choral director, Dekle hopes to “strengthen” the legacy of the Black Voices of Inspiration choir by creating a “world class performing ensemble.” He hopes to achieve this by recruiting students of all ethnic backgrounds to the ensemble, seeking performances on a state, national and international stage and recording a CD.

Dekle hopes to “enhance” the current music program by exposing audiences to the vast array of genres within African American choral music.

“It is too often assumed that African American choral music is just spirituals and gospel music. This assumption is incorrect. African American composers have composed sacred and secular music (that includes) jazz, pop and other uncategorized works as well as gospel and spirituals,” Dekle said. “It is my hope that our audience leaves our concerts with a deep appreciation of African American choral music and a desire to experience it more often.”

By KALEY HIGGINS Summer Reporter, Purdue University
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Four HBCU Players Named to 2015 Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American Team

TUCSON, Arizona — The 2015 Louisville Slugger Freshmen All-American team, selected by Collegiate Baseball newspaper, features a wealth of baseball talent.

The team is headed by Collegiate Baseball’s Freshman Pitcher of The Year RHP Alex Lange of LSU and Freshmen Players of The Year Brendan McKay of Louisville and JJ Schwarz of Florida.

Lange was 11-0 with a 1.76 ERA and 110 strikeouts in 97 innings.

Louisville’s McKay had a remarkable season as a multiple position athlete as he hit .315 with 14 doubles, 3 homers and 32 RBI. As a pitcher, he was 8-3 with 4 saves, 1.71 ERA and 108 strikeouts over 89 2/3 innings.

Florida’s Schwarz hit .320 with 16 doubles, 15 homers, 3 triples and 66 RBI.

Here is a rundown on the HBCUs 2015 Louisville Slugger Freshmen All-Americans.

Catchers
Adan Ordonez, North Carolina A&T: Ordonez was a first team Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference pick and Rookie of The Year in the league. He hit .341 with 10 doubles and 13 RBI.

First Basemen
P.J. Harris, Alabama State: Harris hit .308 with 6 doubles, 5 homers and 33 RBI. He also walked 33 times.

Second Basemen
Yamil Pagan, Alabama State: Pagan hit .321 with 7 doubles, 3 triples, 4 homers and 30 RBI. He also had 8 stolen bases.

Third Basemen
Jesus Santana, Jackson State: He was a first team Southwestern Athletic Conference pick and Freshman of The Year in the league with a .283 batting average, 12 doubles, 2 triples, 12 homers and 48 RBI.

VIEW ENTIRE LIST OF FRESHMEN ALL-AMERICANS

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Yoga is big part of WSSU football program

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina -- Upward-facing dog. Downward-facing dog. Warrior pose. Pigeon pose and frog.

Those aren’t the name of plays the Winston-Salem State football team will run this fall — but they are important terms to know this summer.

Strength coach Mark Heinecke has been putting several of the players through yoga sessions that sound easy enough. It’s a break from lifting weights but the 45-minute session that 10 players went through on Friday was invigorating — and important.

“It’s the hardest part of the week,” said defensive end Michael Bloomfield. “I’ve done this every week in summer school and it’s proven to help you stay flexible. It helps prevents injury and really keeps you in great shape.”

Bloomfield, a candidate for the CIAA’s defensive player of the year this fall, is ...

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WVSU Football's Satterfield-Rowe, Jackson to Represent USA at fifth IFAF World Championship

INSTITUTE, West Virginia -- Former West Virginia State University running back Talir Satterfield-Rowe is one of just 45 players selected to represent the United States in the fifth International Federation of American Football World Championship.

He will be joined on the roster by WVSU assistant coach Isaiah Jackson who will be serving as the squad's linebacker's coach.

Players from 24 states make up the U.S. National Team that will compete against national teams from Brazil, Australia, France, Japan, Mexico, and South Korea July 9-18 in Canton, Ohio. The IFAF World Championship has been held every four years since 1999. The United States competed for the first time in 2007 winning 23-20 in double-overtime over Japan in Kawasaki, Japan. IFAF works with 78 countries spanning six continents that possess national federations dedicated solely to American football.

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Dan Hawkins, former Boise State and Colorado head coach, leads the U.S. squad which was selected by Indianapolis based USA Football, the sport's national governing body. Hawkins was 53-11 at Boise State from 2001-05, winning four consecutive Western Athletic Conference titles. His teams compiled a 31-game WAC winning streak, the longest in conference history. His five seasons at Colorado (2006-10) included a win over No. 3 Oklahoma in 2007, the same year he led the Buffaloes to the Independence Bowl.

Prior to Boise State, Hawkins coached Willamette University in Salem, Ore., to a 40-12-1 record from 1993-97, earning two conference titles and a 1997 NAIA championship game berth. Currently serving as a college football analyst for ESPN and SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Hawkins was the head coach of the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League in 2013.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) granted IFAF provisional recognition in December 2013. Provisional recognition is the initial step toward permanent IOC membership, which IFAF could attain as early as 2016. IFAF’s permanent IOC membership would make American football eligible for a future vote to become part of the Summer Olympics lineup.

All games will be played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium and available via live stream or ESPN3.  Matchups are July 9, 12 and 15 with consolation games and the medal round on Saturday, July 18. Kickoffs are noon, 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on July 9, 12, 15 and 18 to determine gold, silver and bronze medal winners.

Learn more about the tournament, including ticket information, at http://ifafworldchampionship.org.

USA Football is the sport’s national governing body in the United States.

Click here to see entire roster

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B.C. Lions QB hopeful Greg McGhee (Howard U.) sees a benefit in being a multi-sport athlete

Greg McGhee, QB
College: Howard University

KAMLOOPS, British Columbia -- Greg McGhee may have immersed himself in the position of quarterback, but he credits his time on the basketball court for making him a better athlete on the football field.

Based on his observations, being a multiple-sport athlete wasn’t just a benefit to him, but others playing football, as well.

“It’s not that I judge a lot of athletes, but a lot of athletes that played multiple sports, such as basketball or baseball, you can tell who does on the football field,” said McGhee, one of five quarterbacks at B.C. Lions training camp this week, with John Beck out due to illness.

“A lot more people are probably a lot more agile or they run smoother, or more athletic than some.”

McGhee believes both basketball and baseball — Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is a Texas Rangers draft pick — are the two sports that best tie into football, especially when it comes to speed and acceleration, the ability to jump and hand-eye coordination.

Growing up, McGhee played both basketball and football, though he said he actually quit the latter in Grade 8, before giving it another try when he got to high school.

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Florida A&M Announces 2015 Sports Hall Of Fame Class

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The Florida A&M University Sports Hall of Fame announced this week that seven persons would enshrined this fall during the 40th Sports Hall of Fame Weekend, Friday and Saturday, September 25-26, 2015.

Five athletes and two supporters of athletics will be honored during the Induction Ceremonies on Friday, September 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Al Lawson Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium.

The 40th Sports Hall of Fame class features former All-American gridders Wally Williams, a stellar offensive lineman, who played 10 seasons in the NFL; scintillating sprinter and return specialist Howard Huckaby, and record-setting punter Vaughn Wilson, along with basketball scoring ace John Andrews and track and field All-America Kenneth Thompson.

Also being enshrined are two persons as Supporters of Athletics, longtime athletic trainer Akima Abrakata Dina, and former FAMU and NFL cheerleader Latricia Allen, who will be inducted posthumously.

This year’s Enshrinement, on Friday, September 25, will open with a Parade Of Rattler Legends, recognizing previous inductees present at the event, followed by the Induction Ceremony and Dinner.

On Saturday morning, September 26, the annual President’s Breakfast and Wall Of Distinction Plaque Unveiling will be held at the Hansel E. Tookes Recreation Center at 9:00 a.m.

The 2015 Enshrinement Class members will be honored during pregame ceremonies at the FAMU-Tennessee State Game at Bragg Memorial Stadium.

For further information, contact Hall of Fame Steering Committee chair Dr. Joseph P. Ramsey at (850) 545-3725.

A limited number of tickets will go on sale at the FAMU Athletic Box Office in the Lawson Center beginning July 15.

Tickets are $50 each and tables seating eight (8) are available for $400..

The FAMU Sports Hall of Fame was founded by the late Hansel E. Tookes, former athletic director, in 1976, when it inducted its’ first class of honorees.


2015 FAMU SPORTS HALL OF FAME BIOS

Athletes

ANDREWS, JOHN (Basketball, 1970-1974) – A native of nearby Havana, Florida, Andrews was a sharpshooting guard who led the team in scoring three straight seasons, finishing his career #3 all-time in FAMU history, with 1,726 points in 97 games, for a nifty 17.8 career scoring average… He was a first-team All-SIAC selection in 1972, when he averaged 21.8 points per game in 28 games, finishing with 610 points… In 1973, he was a second-team All-SIAC pick after averaging 22.5 points per game in 26 games… As a senior in 1974, Andrews averaged 18.7 points per game in 25 games…

HUCKABY, HOWARD (Football, Track, 1985-89) – A blazing speedster from the Bayou State of Louisiana, where he was a track phenom in the U.S. Junior Olympics, Huckaby became a record-setting return man for the Rattler Football team, as well as a dominant sprinter for the FAMU Men’s Track Team…. In track, Huckaby was scintillating in the sprints and relays, earned Most Outstanding Performer honors at the 1987 MEAC Outdoor Championships as a sophomore, helping lead the Rattlers to Indoor and Outdoor titles in 1988 and 1989… In Football, he excelled as a return man, shattering numerous NCAA punt return standards in 1998, he led the nation with an 18.1-yard average per runback, with 478 returns yards and an NCAA record four (4) TDs… The three-time All-MEAC return ace also led the team in kickoff returns all four years he played, highlighted by a sizzling 1987 campaign, during which he led the nation, averaging an amazing 30.1 yards per return, compiling 602 returns yards on 30 attempts, all national bests that season.

THOMPSON, KENNETH L. (Track and Field * 1971-74) – A standout performer under Coach Bobby Lang for the FAMU track team in the early 1970s, Kenneth Thompson was a key member of the Rattler relay teams, in addition to his individual successes as a sprinter. Prior to donning the Orange and Green, Thompson was a standout performer collegiately at North Carolina Central, where he earned Track and Field All-America honors before transferring to FAMU. At FAMU, Thompson’s hard work garnered him the Coaches’ Workhorse Award in 1972 and the Ironman and Most Outstanding Awards in 1973, and he served as team captain in 1974.

A stellar high school athlete, Thompson was a member of the Miami Killian High state championship teams in the 4x400 and the 4x220, which set state records in 1970... Thompson, who currently resides in Havana, Florida, owns the popular printing and novelty business, Kenny T’s, noted for cutting edge designs in T-shirts and athletic apparel...He also served as an assistant track coach at FAMU from 1993 to 1998 under Coach Bobby Lang, and he has been an avid supporter of FAMU Athletics through the Rattler Boosters, Inc., and direct financial support to basketball, baseball, softball, track and tennis.

WILSON, VAUGHN (Football, 1985-88) – A two-time All-America kicker for FAMU, Wilson’s punting prowess was key for the Rattlers’ MEAC co-championship run in 1988... The former Baby Rattler, who also played baseball at FAMU, and spent his first two seasons as a long snapper on special teams, became the team’s regular punter in 1987...Wilson averaged 39.6 yards per kick on 70 attempts, earning first-team All-MEAC and Black College All-America honors in 1987...He followed that performance with a school record 2,812 punting yards, good for a 42.6 average on 66 attempts, which yielded him a second All-MEAC selection and All-American selection both as first team Sheridan All-American and second team Associate press All-American. He capped his career being voted the Florida Classic MVP in Tampa in 1988.

WILLIAMS, WALLY (Football, 1989-92) – A multi-talented athlete, whose quickness, tremendous agility and strength caught the eyes of numerous college scouts, Wally Williams chose Florida A&M, becoming the anchor for an offensive front that would pave the way for the All-America running backs like Amir Rasul (1990) and Chuck Duffey (1991), while giving quarterbacks time to hit their talented cadre of receivers, led by All-America Terry Mickens (1992)… A three-time All-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference performer at center primarily, Williams played an integral role in the Rattlers’ 1990 MEAC Championship, and helped them to a stunning 28-17 season-opening road upset of national power Georgia Southern, on the way to an appearance in the 1992 Heritage Bowl against Grambling… Williams’ abilities drew professional interest, and the former Rickards High star embarked on a 10-year career beginning with the Cleveland Browns (1993-95), later moving with them to Baltimore, where they became the Ravens (1996-98). He finally settled in New Orleans, playing guard for the Saints from 1999 until his retirement following to 2003 season.

Supporters

ALLEN, LATRICA LAFAYE (Cheerleader, 1984-87) – Latricia Lafaye “Trish” Allen served as a FAMU Cheerleader from 1984 to 1987. Blessed with an outgoing personality that made her a fan favorite, Allen was also a member of the FAMU Epicurean Modeling Troupe and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., representing FAMU in a positive light in the community...A native of St. Joe, Florida, Allen graduated with a degree in computer information systems in 1988, and earned a master’s in public administration from FAMU in 1990. After obtaining her master’s degree, Allen began work for the Florida Department of Corrections as a Programming Analyst for eight years, then in 1995, she became a member of the inaugural class of the Jacksonville Jaguars’ “Roar” cheerleading squad, serving with that group for three years, also appearing in community service events...She served the three years with the Jaguars’ cheering squad while commuting several times a week from Tallahassee, eventually becoming a squad mentor...In 2000, Allen married Sherman Ledet and became the mother of two daughters, Zoe and Kyra. However, in late 2010, she was diagnosed with cancer, and passed from this life in May of 2011.

DINA, AKIMA A. (Athletic Trainer, 1988-Present) - Akima Abrakata Dina has worked 20 years as Head Athletic Trainer at Florida A&M, serving as the primary coordinator of FAMU’s Sports Medicine services for all sports. She has been an integral part of the school’s Sports Medicine program since 1988, serving in virtually every capacity from graduate assistant to head trainer...
A native of Nigeria, Abrakata Dina was a former track All-American at Lincoln (Mo.) University in 1981 and 1982, performing in the javelin and high jump. She graduated from Lincoln with a B.S. in Health and Physical Education in 1985...She obtained a master’s in Sports Medicine, from the United States Sports Academy in Mobile, Alabama and received her formal certification as an athletic trainer by the National Athletic Trainers’Association (NATA) in November 1993...The personable Abrakata Dina began her sports medicine career at the University of South Alabama as a graduate assistant trainer (1987-88), before coming to Florida A&M in the fall of 1988 to fill a similar role for one year. She was then elevated to Assistant Athletic Trainer in August of 1989...Prior to her permanent promotion to Head Athletic Trainer in 1994, she had twice served as the interim head athletic trainer in the 1989-90 school year and again in the winter and spring of 1993-94.

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Hornets Open Draft Workouts with 6 in on June 3: Kendall Gray, Delaware State

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina -- In preparation for the 2015 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets held their first draft workout on Wednesday, June 3 with center Kendall Gray (Delaware State), forward JJ O’Brien (San Diego State) and guards D.J. Newbill (Penn State), Antonio Robinson (East Carolina), James Sinclair (Western Carolina) and Ralston Turner (North Carolina State) in to showcase their skills in front of the Hornets basketball operations staff.

PHOTO GALLERY: Behind the Scenes of June 3 Workout

Kendall Gray was named MEAC Player-Of-The-Year and Defensive Player-Of-The-Year after averaging 11.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocks for Deleware State. He ranked no. 1 among all NCAA Division I players in rebounding and defensive rebounds (8.8 defensive rebounds per game). He tallied career-highs of 33 points (12-for-13 FGs) and 30 rebounds vs. Coppin State in regular season finale (Mar. 5) becoming first player to do so since 2000.

2015 Draft Workouts | Kendall Gray - 06/03/15

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Lincoln Women's Basketball Signs Five for 2015-16

JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri -- Head coach Nicole Collier announced that five players have signed National Letters of Intent to join the Lincoln women's basketball team in 2015-16.

Kierra Adams (West Memphis, Ark./Mid-South Community College), Azaria Nave (San Antonio, Texas/Dodge City Community College) and Narel Santos (Itapema, Brazil/North Central Missouri College) will each enter as juniors with two years of eligibility. Bri'anna Ervin (Kansas City, Mo./Hogan Prep) and Tempary Gunter (Tuscumbia, Mo./Tuscumbia) will join the Blue Tigers as freshmen with four seasons of eligibility.

These five athletes join a Lincoln team that won 12 games and qualified for the MIAA tournament for the third time in the past four seasons.

"I am excited about this incoming recruiting class," Collier said. "I believe that we have filled our deficiencies from the 2014-15 year."

Adams is coming off a sophomore season in which she averaged a double-double as an every-game starter at Mid-South Community College. A 6-1 post player, Adams shot .563 from the floor and averaged 21.6 points with 12.3 rebounds. Adams also averaged a double-double as a freshman, scoring 20.9 points with 10.6 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while leading the Lady Greyhounds to the first regional championship in program history.

Adams also was named the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II Player of the Week during her freshman campaign and was twice selected all-region. During her high school career at West Memphis, Adams was a two-time all-conference honoree who led the team in scoring, rebounding and blocks her senior season. Adams also led the Lady Blue Devils to the state tournament as a senior, earning all-state honors in the process.

"Kierra is very talented post player that has the size and ability to finish at a high percentage and provide us a much needed presence inside," Collier said. "We look for Kierra to make an immediate impact."

A 5-5 guard, Nave averaged 14.2 points and was a .360 shooter from long range during her sophomore season at Dodge City Community College. Nave appeared in all 31 of the team's games, including making 26 starts, and averaged 3.7 assists while posting a team-best 1.7 assist-to-turnover ratio. That followed a freshman campaign in which she finished second on the team with 11.9 points and 3.8 assists per game. Nave played her high school ball at San Antonio's East Central, where she was a first team all-district selection.

"Azaria is a combo guard with a high motor and IQ that will fit perfectly into our offense," Collier said. "She is a natural scorer with exceptional court vision as well."

Santos, a 6-3 post player, averaged 9.6 points and 7.1 rebounds during her lone season at North Central Missouri College. Santos started 30 games and led the Lady Pirates to a 20-12 record and a berth in the District P Championship. Santos spent her freshman season at State Fair Community College, appearing in 25 games on a team that went 21-10 in 2012-13.

"Narel brings a wealth of experience with her ability to shoot the three, put her back to the basket and distribute the ball," Collier said. "Her versatility will bring a new dynamic to our style of play."

A 5-9 forward, Gunter averaged 15.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.3 steals and 1.9 assists per game during her three varsity seasons at Tuscumbia. Gunter averaged double-digit points all three years, including tallying 16.5 points and 7.1 rebounds as a junior. During her senior campaign, Gunter led the Lady Lions to a 28-4 record and a third-place finish in the Class 1 state tournament. Gunter, who scored more than 1,000 points during her high school career, earned first team all-district honors as a senior and second team all-league accolades as a junior.

Ervin, a 5-8 shooting guard, averaged 15 points as a senior at Hogan Prep. During that season, Ervin also averaged seven points, six assists and four steals. Ervin shot .420 from the field and .650 from three-point range.

"Tempary and Bri'anna will add size to our guard position with tremendous work ethics and the ability to play multiple positions," Collier said. "Both guards will contribute to our growing foundation in LU basketball and our continued progress toward success. We are excited about the future of LU Basketball."


Dan Carr, Assistant AD for Media Relations
COURTESY LINCOLN UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

WSSU Rams get it Wright

MT. AIRY, North Carolina -- North Surry’s Casey Gray Wright has committed to play college baseball at Winston-Salem State, joining a Rams program that was just two wins away from reaching the Division II College World Series this season.

Wright is the third player from this year’s historic Greyhounds team who has announced plans to play ball at the next level. Senior catcher Nick Wilson committed to the University of Charleston (West Virginia) and senior outfielder Nolan Stanley will play for the Surry Community College Knights.

Wright said North Surry assistant baseball coach Daryll Johnson reached out to Rams hitting coach Rob Woodall, who came to see the senior first baseman play this season.

Soon after that, Wright visited the Winston-Salem State campus, which felt a lot like home.

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North Carolina A&T's Coach Rod Broadway Dances For A Cause

HEAD COACH ROD BROADWAY
NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY

GREENSBORO, North Carolina -- North Carolina A&T football coach Rod Broadway will participate in The Arc of Greensboro’s Dancing on the Diamond event at New Bridge Bank Park (408 Bellemeade Street), home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers minor league baseball team, on June 13 at 6 p.m.

The Arc of Greensboro was organized in 1953 by parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The initial focus of this grassroots effort was changing public perception of children with mental retardation as well as educating the community about the extraordinary potential of this special population. Much time and effort was spent advocating for services for children and adults who were denied access to day care, preschool, education and vocational training programs.

The organization promotes and advocates for opportunities that empower people with developmental disabilities to have choices as they live their lives in the community. The organization strives to recruit directors and staff who are sensitive to the community’s racial and ethnic diversity, as well as the special concerns of people with disabilities.

Broadway will join Greensboro mayor Nancy Vaughn for the important cause. Broadway’s dance partner will be Katie Steele. Visit the Greensboro of Arc website to see Broadway and his dance partner. Tickets for the event are $35. Email Maryann Kingsmill for more information.

COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

B-CU Rallies Around Former Punter Zach Adrian

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DAYTONA BEACH, Florida -- As former punter Zach Adrian begins a week-long series of chemotherapy, the Bethune-Cookman University Athletic Department family encourages the Wildcat nation to help him both spiritually and financially.

A gofundme.com page has been established to help Zach and his wife, Melissa with their temporary needs as Zac heads to Gainesville for a series of five sessions that will bring the overall total to 300 chemo therapies since he was diagnosed over two years ago. In addition, Zach has had major surgeries on his hip and femur as well as 32 radiation treatments.

Zach Adrian played at B-CU from 1998-2001 and after graduating from B-CU he followed in his father’s footsteps as an educator and high school coach. His father, Pete was a defensive coordinator for the Wildcats before moving to Norfolk State as the Spartans' Head Coach and both have remained in touch with the university and staff in Wildcat Athletics.

"Once a Wildcat…always a Wildcat and Zach and Pete are a part of the Bethune-Cookman University family. We now ask for all Wildcats to rally around this great family and show them how much we love them by praying, serving and giving to the Adrian’s in their greatest hours of need," said B-CU Athletic Director Lynn Thompson, who made his personal contribution weeks ago.

Pete Adrian said that his son was incredibly appreciative to learn that B-CU is joining in the support.

"His spirits remain high and he's a fighter, so that's a big thing," Pete Adrian said. "He'll be wore out after this week, but we're hoping for the best."

COURTESY BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Tulane adds Southern, UMass to 2016 football schedule

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana -- Tulane completed its 2016 football schedule Thursday with the addition of a home game against Southern and the opening game of a home-and-home series against Massachusetts.

The Green Wave and the Jaguars will play each other for the third time when they meet at Yulman Stadium at a date and time to be determined. Tulane won the first two meetings, which were in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome (48-17 in 2001 and 37-19 in 2002).


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The 2016 game between the Green Wave and the Minutemen will be played in Gillette Stadium, home of the defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots. Tulane and Massachusetts will meet again in 2022 at Yulman Stadium.

“The addition of UMass, along with the chance to play in Gillette Stadium, will be a fun and accessible game for our northeast fans, while hosting Southern is consistent with our goal of playing an in-state opponent on a regular basis,” Green Wave Athletic Director Rick Dickson said in a statement. “With the schools in such a close proximity, the game should feature a fun and festive atmosphere.”

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Texas Southern Releases 2015 Home Football Game Promotions

HOUSTON, Texas -- Texas Southern Athletics has announced its home game promotions for the upcoming 2015 Tigers football season which will be played at BBVA Compass Stadium.

The Tigers will open the home portion of their schedule on Sept. 5 in the Labor Day Classic versus Prairie View A&M.

Texas Southern will host "First Responders Day" the following week when Texas Southern host Bacone College on Sept. 11. All first responders and military personnel will be allowed complimentary admittance into the game.

The Tigers will host "Five Dollar Thursday" at their next home game on Oct. 1 versus Alabama State. Five dollar tickets will be available to fans and youth.

Texas Southern is slated to play the Southern Jaguars on Oct. 24 for "Homecoming". Texas Southern had initially planned to face the College of Faith for Homecoming (Oct. 31) but TSU administrators decided a change in date and opponent would better help maximize overall attendance and exposure of the event.

On Oct. 31 Texas Southern will host "Senior Citizens Night" when the Tigers face the College of Faith. All senior citizens will be allowed reduced ticket admission ($5) into the game. TSU will host its last home game on Nov. 14 versus Alcorn State as that final regular season home contest has been tabbed "Senior Day".

"We want to continue to enhance our overall fan experience this upcoming season," said TSU Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Charles McClelland. "We're excited to offer an exciting slate of themed home games this year in addition to the Labor Day Classic, Homecoming, and Senior Day. This should be a very exciting season of Tigers football and we encourage all of our fans to purchase seasons tickets when they become available later today."

Season tickets sales for the upcoming football season are available beginning at $105. Fans have the option to purchase season tickets online, by mail, or by visiting the TSU Athletics Department. Please continue to visit www.tsusports.com for the latest breaking news about TSU Tigers Football.

COURTESY TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

PVAMU Department of Athletics Announces The Debut Of The Athletic Director's Club

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas  --  The Prairie View A&M Department of Athletics is proud to announce the formation of the Athletic Director's Club. The club is the official fundraising arm of PVAMU Athletics with a mission to raise funds to support more than 350 Panther and Lady Panther student-athletes in competition on and off the field.

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A link to the club's frequently asked questions and membership levels has been provided above as the club offers members an opportunity to participate in athletic functions, receive apparel discounts, rights to purchase primary seating, public recognition and team travel based on the level of giving. Membership levels vary, starting with annual gifts from $50 all the way up to $15,000. Each level of membership comes with its own unique membership benefits as discounts will be offered for PVAMU National Alumni Association Life Members and campus employees.

For more information, please contact Associate Athletic Director Monique Carroll at (936) 261-9141 or mvcarroll@pvamu.edu.

COURTESY PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION 

Shaw University Athletics to Introduce New Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Joel Hopkins

RALEIGH, North Carolina -- Shaw University's Athletics Department will introduce Joel Hopkins as its new head coach of men's basketball at a press conference on Tuesday, June 9, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in Shaw's Estey Hall's president conference room. Media coverage is invited.

Hopkins returns to lead a program that he guided to the top of the CIAA conference from 2000-2002, with a record of 43-15. His 2001-2002 season at Shaw, culminated with a 2002 men's basketball CIAA Tournament Championship and a 2002 NCAA Elite Eight semi-final appearance. A graduate of North Carolina Central University (NCCU), Hopkins was a member of NCCU's 1989 NCAA Division II National Championship team. He succeeds Cleo Hill, Jr., whose contract was not renewed.

COURTESY SHAW UNIVERSITY BEARS SPORTS INFORMATION

Florida A&M Signs TE Trey Trzaska, Mosley High School.

Trey Trzaska 
 TE, 6'-3"/190 lbs. 

LYNN HAVEN, Florida -- A trio of Dolphins joined an impressive group of senior signees from the Class of 2015 at Mosley High School.

Football's Trey Trzaska and baseball's Jimmy Nolan and Sam Wittkopf make for an even 20 student athletes who have signed letters of intent to continue their careers at the collegiate level.

After serving a key role on both sides of the ball for the 'Fins in 2014, Trzaska's headed to Tallahassee to play FCS ball as a tight end at Florida A&M. This past season, Trey had 29 receptions for 419 yards and three touchdowns. On defense, he had 42 tackles (23 solo), three for a loss, and two forced fumbles.

"I feel like I can bring a lot to the program, but I'll have to just show them once I get there," said Trzaska. "All I need is a shot, that's all you can really ask for, and that's what FAMU is giving me."



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SSU's Cedric Baker Named District 15 Coach of the Year

COACH CEDRIC BAKER
Courtesy: Savannah State University Athletics

SAVANNAH, Georgia -- The post-season honors continue to roll in for Savannah State University head women's basketball coach Cedric Baker.

Baker's latest honor is being named the National Association of Basketball Coaches District 15 Coach of the Year.

The Columbus, Georgia native who has been the SSU coach since July 2003, led the 2014-15 Savannah State team to a 21-11 overall record. SSU also captured the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Tournament and earned a berth in the NCAA National Tournament.

It was the Lady Tigers first trip to a NCAA tournament since receiving an at-large bid
back in 1994-95. The 21 wins was the program's first 20-win season since the team posted a 23-5 record in 1994-95. The MEAC title was their first conference title since 1976.

Baker, who just wrapped up his 22nd year of being a head coach, was also named the 2015 MEAC Coach of the Year and earned the tournament's Most Outstanding Coach honor.

COURTESY SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

AT&T Classic, Military Bowl to Highlight College Football Season

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The football fields are vacant now, but the D.C. area's collegiate players are already preparing for the beginning of their 2015 seasons. The upcoming campaign will bring two special football games to the area: the AT&T Nation's Football Classic and the Military Bowl.

Howard and Hampton will face off in the fifth annual AT&T Nation's Football Classic at 7 p.m. Sept. 18 at RFK Stadium. The Classic matches two Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference rivals in the continuation of a series that began in 1908. Hampton, which leads the series, 47-43-1, recorded 14 straight victories against Howard from 1997-2010, but the Bison have prevailed during the past four seasons.

The teams played two of the most exciting games in series history during the last two seasons. Howard edged the Pirates, 42-39, during a 2013 double-overtime classic and kicked a late field goal to beat Hampton, 30-29, during the regular-season finale at Greene Stadium Nov. 22, 2014.

While the Pirates and Bison played several times at RFK in the 1990s, this will be their first meeting in the AT&T Nation's Football Classic, which is designed to bring together teams from historically black colleges and universities. The first four Classic games featured Howard and Morehouse.

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