The "unofficial" meeting place for intelligent discussions of Divisions I and II Sports of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC).
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To be eligible for the honor, a student-athlete must have completed at least one academic year at their institution, have at least a cumulative 3.2 grade point average and have competed in at least 50 percent of their team's contests. The student-athletes on the list are from spring sports and freshmen/transfers from all conference-sponsored sports throughout the 2014-15 academic year.
Men's Golf David Keenan (Caitlin, Ill./Caitlin), Sr.
Dan Patkunsa, Sr. Drew Vannoy (Mahomet, Ill./Mahomet Seymour), Sr.
Women's Golf Tali Letoi (Lakeside, Calif./El Capitan), So. Casey MacNeil (Massey, Ontario/Espanola), Jr. Taneka Sandiford (Nassau, Bahamas/St. John's College High School), Jr. Fernanda Valdes Solis (Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico/Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey), Jr.
Men's Basketball Jawad Adekoya (Tinley Park, IL/Victor J. Andrew High School), Jr. Anthony Glover (Toledo, OH/St. John's Jesuit), Fr. Trayvon Palmer (Milwaukee, WI/Brown Deer), Jr.
Women's Cross Country Daeja Hooks (Chicago, IL/UIC Prep), Fr.
Men's Golf Austin Egbers (Bloomington, Ill./Bloomington Central Catholic), Jr.
Women's Golf Pia Serrano (San Antonio, Texas/Antonian College Preparatory), Fr.
GRAMBLING, Louisiana -- Grambling's men's basketball team has dealt with its fair share of struggles by failing to record a winning record in 10 seasons, but the program hit a new low Monday when the NCAA announced its annual attendance report.
Grambling finished with an average attendance of 305, the lowest among 351 teams, on the heels of a 2-27 season in 2015, which included a winless campaign against Division I teams.
The Tigers' latest home average is the lowest since they joined the Division I ranks in 1978. The previous low was 852 in 2002, and the program even averaged 1,713 fans during an 0-28 campaign.
It also marks the second-lowest average in the country since 2005. St. Francis (N.Y) averaged 297 people in 2007. Nicholls State averaged 316 people in 2007.
"We gotta put a good product on the floor," Grambling coach Shawn Walker said.
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana -- NCAA men’s basketball saw a slight bump in overall attendance for the 2014-15 season as 32,510,647 fans came to watch student-athletes in Divisions I, II and III.
Compared to last year, 480 more fans attended games, making this past season the eighth highest attendance in NCAA history. The record of 33,396,316 fans in a single season was set in 2007-08.
In Division I, attendance totaled 27,422,615 for the year. Although it was down slightly from a season ago, the attendance is the ninth highest total in history. However, the NCAA tournament total attendance increased. The tournament earned its third-highest attendance in history with 739,798 fans. The record-setting total of 800,377 came in 2012-13.
With the addition of Maryland and Rutgers, the Big Ten Conference led the way among conferences with a home and conference tournament total of 3,195,137, the second-highest total number of any conference in history. The all-time record of 3,259,992 was set by the 16-team Big East Conference in 2006-07.
Syracuse slightly edged Kentucky for the home attendance title for the second year in a row, as the Orange averaged 23,854 while the Wildcats brought in 23,572 a game. Kentucky led the nation the previous eight seasons. Louisville was third with 21,386 per game. North Carolina was fourth with 19,582; and Wisconsin finished in the top five with 17,279.
“NCAA college basketball attendance remains remarkably consistent across the country and all three NCAA divisions, as fans and alumni support their favorite teams from the largest arenas to the smallest gyms,” said Dan Gavitt, NCAA vice president for men’s basketball championships. “NCAA Division I games were attended by over 27 million fans for the ninth consecutive year, and March Madness was experienced by the third highest fan attendance in history for the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship.”
• Kentucky led the nation in total home attendance with 447,874 fans at its games this season at Rupp Arena. The other two schools to reach at least 400,000 were Syracuse (429,378) and Louisville (406,338).
A total of 41 schools averaged more than 10,000 fans per game, including 11 from the Big Ten.
• The Big Ten also led all conferences in average attendance with 12,781 fans, ahead of the Atlantic Coast Conference (11,368), Southeastern Conference (10,819), Big 12 Conference (10,181) and Big East Conference (9,853). It marks the 39th consecutive season the Big Ten has led the nation in average attendance.
• There were 24 schools that had an increase of more than 1,000 fans from the 2013-14 season, led by North Carolina State, which saw attendance increase by 2,795 fans a game from 12,641 in 2013-14 to 15,436 in 2014-15.
• Kentucky led the nation in overall attendance as 845,594 fans saw the Wildcats play at home, on the road and in neutral sites. Wisconsin was second with 711,115 and Duke placed third with 664,146.
• Division II attendance was up 37,373 fans from a season ago with a total of 2,785,383, the most since 2011-12.
• For the eighth consecutive year, Northern State led Division II in attendance with 3,402 fans per game. Augustana (S.D.) was second (2,697), Fort Hays State was third (2,656), Central Missouri fourth (2,647) and fifth place went to Dixie State (2,607).
• For Division II conferences, the Mid-America Intercol
legiate Athletic Association had the highest home attendance average for the sixth consecutive year with an average of 1,514. The Lone Star Conference (1,169) also averaged more than 1,000 fans per game.
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) announced that iconic television personality Pam Oliver will address graduates at the University’s 2015 summer commencement ceremony.
Oliver is a renowned sports broadcaster with more than 30 years of experience. She received her bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from FAMU in 1984. Currently, she is entering her 21st season as a sideline reporter for FOX Sports’ award-winning presentation of National Football League games. She was originally a reporter with ESPN during the early 1990s before joining FOX Sports in 1995. In recent years, she also has done courtside reporting on TNT during the first two rounds of the NBA Playoffs.
Oliver, who started in agricultural journalism and later migrated to space and science reporting, credits FAMU with giving her the support needed to go outside her comfort zone and discard fears of moving to unfamiliar places. She says, “FAMU was almost my agent in the beginning when they said, ‘There is an opening here, and we think you should go for it.’”
Oliver, who grew up in Niceville, Fla. was a college All-American in both the 400-meter and the mile relay while attending FAMU. She was inducted into the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.
“I am grateful that Pam Oliver has agreed to share her experience and vision with our graduates," said FAMU President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. "Her story is so inspirational and uplifting. She is a living testament to the value of courage, hard work, perseverance, and dedication. These are values that we strive to instill in our students every day at FAMU.”
Summer commencement will be held at 4 p.m. on August 7 at the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium that is located at 1800 Wahnish Way, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
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COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
MILTON OVERTON DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- New FAMU Athletic Director Milton Overton Jr. has hit the ground running, and has already made plans to make his official start on Aug. 3 as smooth as possible.
Overton on Monday said he's going to release a football-heavy survey within the next two weeks to gauge where Rattler Nation wants the athletic department to go.
"I want people to understand, what I want to be about is a collective vision and making sure we listen," he said via phone.
"We want to respond to all of our constituents. The survey is going to go out to everyone. I want to hear from everyone.
"People want to see change. I get it. I understand it. I've got to make sure everyone has some input. The survey is going to be 75 percent about football. The other 25 percent is going to ask, 'What do you want from your athletic department?' That's going out to everyone who matters, and everyone matters."
KEN LUCUS ASSISTANT HEAD COACH MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL
BALTIMORE, Maryland -- Running backs coach Ken Lucas has been promoted to assistant head coach, announced today by Morgan State head football coach Lee Hull.
"Coach Lucas has done a fantastic job in his first year," said Hull. "His experience as a college coach and head coach in high school brings a wealth of knowledge to our program."
Morgan State's ground attack flourished in 2014 and helped lead the Bears to its first MEAC Championship since 1979, including its first ever appearance in the NCAA Division I Playoffs. The Bears completed the season ranked second in the MEAC with 208.5 rushing yards per game (ranked No. 26 in FCS) and produced 29 rushing TDs, the second most in the MEAC ¾ and the most for the Bears since 2004.
The unit was led by sophomore Herb Walker Jr., who produced a school single-season rushing record with 1,408 yards (ranked No. 14 in FCS), averaged 117.3 yards per game (ranked No. 12 in FCS) and accounted for 15 touchdowns (13 rushing). Walker, who also posted a school single game record of 271 rushing yards (ranked No. 5 in FCS), capped the season being named to the All-MEAC first team.
Prior to joining the Bears, Lucas spent seven seasons as the head coach at Annapolis Christian School (AACS). Previous to AACS, he spent six seasons as head coach at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, D.C.
Lucas was an assistant coach at Georgetown University (1997-2000), was head coach at Archbishop Carroll High School (1995-96), and was the Assistant Director of Sports and Coaches' Education for D.C. Special Olympics from 1990-95.
Lucas graduated in 1988 from the University of Delaware, where he was a three-year letterman for the Blue Hens and was named an Associated Press All-American 1986-1987.
The Bears will open their 2015 season on Sept. 5 at Air Force. MSU's home-opener at Hughes Stadium will be on Sept. 19 against Virginia-Lynchburg.
COURTESY MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Dr. Freddie Vaughns Will Be Remembered for His Dedication to Promoting Student Success
BOWIE, Maryland -- Dr. Freddie Vaughns, assistant vice president for academic affairs, assistant professor of child and adolescent studies, and faculty athletic representative at Bowie State University, has died.
“Dr. Vaughns was a beloved administrator and faculty member who will be deeply missed by the Bowie State University community,” said President Mickey L. Burnim. “He worked tirelessly to promote student success and graduation. He always demonstrated his passion for his work in his interactions with all members of the university community.”
As assistant vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Vaughns worked closely with the provost on student concerns ranging from academic difficulties to retention and graduation efforts. He was also tenured faculty in the child and adolescent studies program.
Many first-time students know Dr. Vaughns as the head of the Bulldog Academy, a summer program for incoming freshmen that is designed to ease their transition into college.
Earlier this year, Dr. Vaughns was honored by the White House as a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) Champion of Change, along with 10 other HBCU administrators and faculty. The award recognizes their outstanding work to cultivate a rich learning environment and build initiatives to promote post-baccalaureate success.
"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the loss of one of our CIAA family members, Dr. Freddie Vaughns. Dr. Vaughns' extensive work and commitment to support the Conference, his passion for students, his sense of humor and his love of the CIAA will be missed and can never be replaced," said Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams. "Our prayers are in abundance for the Vaughns and Bowie State University family."
Dr. Vaughns served instrumental roles in the CIAA Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) Association and its’ symposiums; along with appointments on numerous CIAA and NCAA committees. On the campus of Bowie State University, Dr. Vaughns was also the assistant vice president for academic affairs and assistant professor of child and adolescent studies.
Information about the funeral arrangements will be announced.
COURTESY BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY AND THE CIAA MEDIA RELATIONS
LAFAYETTE, Louisiana -- Drew Moore is transferring to Texas Southern after having spent his freshman year at Louisiana-Lafayette.
The former University Lab standout was on his way to Houston on Sunday, father Tony Moore confirmed.
"Drew decided he wanted to explore his options after recovering from quad injury last summer," Tony said. "Texas Southern immediately expressed interest and we felt this was the right time for a transition."
Drew Moore, a former all-district performer for the Cubs, will be immediately eligible and maintain four years of eligibility after missing his lone season with the Ragin' Cajuns with the injury.
The 6-foot-3, 265-pound lineman expects to push for a starting role at center this fall for the SWAC program.
Ritz to pay refunds to consumers who paid extra charge, donate $75,000 for CIAA scholarships
Raleigh, North Carolina -- The Ritz-Carlton will pay refunds to consumers, fund college scholarships and clearly notify customers about any future special service fees under an agreement announced today between the Ritz, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association and the Office of Attorney General Roy Cooper.
“Being upfront with consumers about fees is always the best way to do business,” Cooper said.
Consumers who visited the Lobby Lounge at the Ritz in Charlotte during the CIAA Basketball Tournament in late February, 2015 complained that an extra service charge was unexpectedly added to their bills. Following complaints from consumers, the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division launched an investigation into the charge. Today’s agreement resolves that investigation.
About the agreement
Under the agreement, the Ritz will:
• Pay refunds to consumers who paid the service charge.
• Notify customers if a special service charge will be applied to their bill by disclosing the fee in writing in the menu and having servers remind customers about the charge.
• Donate $75,000 to the CIAA Scholarship Fund.
• Pay $5,000 to the NC Department of Justice for consumer protection efforts.
How to claim refunds
Eligible consumers have 90 days to apply to get money back. Consumers who believe they are eligible for a refund should take the following steps: • File a consumer complaint with the Consumer Protection Division online at ncdoj.gov, call 1-877-5-NO- SCAM toll-free within North Carolina to request a complaint form in the mail, or send a letter requesting a refund to:
Consumer Protection
Attorney General's Office
Mail Service Center 9001
Raleigh, NC 27699-9001
• Include a copy of your bill, credit card or bank statement, or some other record that indicates the amount of service charge paid.
The Attorney General’s Office will forward all requests for refunds to the Ritz. Consumers who have previously filed a complaint with the Attorney General about Ritz service charges do not need to file a new complaint.
“I encourage consumers to apply immediately if they believe they’re due a refund,” Cooper said. Release date: 7/6/2015, North Carolina Department of Justice, Office of Consumer Protection
TUSKEGEE, Alabama -- Second-year Tuskegee University head men's basketball coach Jerry Dunn announced the addition of six student-athletes for the 2015-16 basketball season this week. This group will join Joshua Culver, who joined the Golden Tigers during the early signing period.
Joshua Culver, 6'-9 1/2, Freshman Forward, Berkmar High School (Lilburn, Ga.)
I am impressed with his skill set and inside presence that he brings to our team," said Head Coach Jerry Dunn. "He is a big guy that has great hands, runs the floor very well and likes playing inside. More important, Josh is a high character young man and a great teammate."
Austin Cherry, 6-2, Freshman, Combo Guard, Hoover High School (Birmingham, Ala.)
As a senior, Cherry averaged 19 points per game, three assists and five rebounds per game. An Honorable Mention pick for the Birmingham All-Area team, led Hoover in the state championship game with 14 points and nine rebounds in 29 minutes of play. He was selected as the Class 7A AHSAA State Tournament Most Valuable Player in the Final Four.
"Austin can play both guard positions as well as score the basketball with consistency," Dunn said. "He brings experience at a high level as he was the MVP of his state championship team."
Andrew Jimenez, 5-11, Sophomore, Point Guard, Barton College (Kennesaw, Ga.)
Jimenez played in 19 games last season at Barton College, shooting 45.5 percent from beyond the arc and 75 percent from the free throw line. The sophomore guard, a product of Kennesaw Mountain High School, will be eligible immediately for the Golden Tigers. As a senior at Kennesaw Mountain High School, Jimenez averaged 21 points and four assists per game, while shooting 45 percent from the floor.
"Andrew is a heady lead guard who is a pass-first player," Dunn said. "He makes others better, but is a capable scorer and competitor."
James Eads, 6-4, Freshman, Guard/Forward, Edgewater High School (Orlando, Fla.)
During his senior season, Eads played in 30 games for Edgewater High School, averaging 15 points per game. He also averaged 1.6 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. The incoming freshman connected on 50 (156-of-313) percent of his shots from the floor, and connected on 16 3-pointers during his senior season.
"James is explosive and skilled," Dunn said. "He can play multiple positions that will help us and is tough, tough competitor."
Thomas Massey, 6-9, Freshman, Forward/Center, Shiloh High School (Snellville, Ga.)
Massey comes to Tuskegee with four years of eligibility remaining after sitting out last season.
"Thomas is a skilled big man with a huge upside," Dunn said. "He is capable of scoring in the paint or from the perimeter, and he is just scratching the surface of his potential."
DANIEL ROACH 6-6 FRESHMAN FORWARD
Daniel Roach, 6-6, Freshman, Forward, Collins Hill High School (Suwannee, Ga.)
Roach ended his prep career by averaging 12.7 point per game for Collins Hill High School. He also averaged 6.3 rebounds and 3.3 steals, to go along with one block and one steal per game as senior.
"Daniel is a multiple position player who is still growing," Dunn said. "He is a skilled player that has great potential, with his best years ahead of him."
CHRIS STEELE 6-2 FRESHMAN GUARD
Chris Steele, 6-2, Freshman, Guard, St. Francis High School (Alpharetta, Ga.)
Steele averaged six points per game as senior, while playing in 32 games and leading his team to a state championship. He connected on 45 (68-of-152) percent of his field goal attempts, while also connecting on 38 (31-of-82) percent of his 3-point attempts.
"Chris is a good shot maker who can score the ball in a variety of ways," Dunn said. "He is a good teammate who understands how to play the game of basketball. Chris will bring the leadership and determination to win from his senior season as he helped lead his team to the state championship."
Tuskegee (15-13, 11-8 SIAC) is coming off of a quarterfinal appearance in the SIAC Tournament last season, and will return six players from last season to go along with the seven signees for 2015-16.
For more information and up-to-the minute updates, follow Tuskegee Athletics on Twitter @MyTUAthletics, or like us on Facebook.
INSTITUTE, West Virginia -- Former West Virginia State University (WVSU) pitching star Tyler Thompson has signed a Minor League baseball contract with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks of the American Association of Independent Baseball.
Thompson saw his first action for the RedHawks Thursday, July 2.
This year's Mountain East Conference tournament MVP tossed two innings of scoreless relief allowing just one hit while striking out two as the North Dakota based RedHawks defeated Gary, Indiana, 3-1.
Thompson finished his WVSU career with a record of 25-6 and struck out 221 batters in 203.2 innings while playing an important role on conference champion teams in 2014 and 2015.
CENTRAL ISLIP, New York – The East Coast Conference media relations office recently released its 2014-15 "Year in Review" featuring summaries of all 17 sport seasons as well as all conference-wide community service initiatives. (Click HERE for 2014-15 ECC Year in Review).
The University of the District of Columbia athletic highlights in this review were one regular season ECC champion (women's basketball), one ECC runner-up (women's outdoor track & field), two NCAA Division II Tournament teams (women's basketball and men's tennis), three ECC playoff contenders (women's basketball, women's tennis and men's tennis), a rookie of the year in both men's and women's tennis (Diego Pinto and Laura Dimante), a Defensive Player of the Year in women's basketball (Denikka Brent) and an Athlete of the Year in women's outdoor track & field (Simone Grant).
UDC was also recognized in the review for its involvement in two conference-wide community service initiatives: ECC Team-Up to Clean-Up and the ECC Spirit Showcase. Additionally, a conference-high three Firebird student-athletes earned ECC Scholar-Athlete awards in their respective sports.
Read more by following this link, and follow East Coast Conference news by going to www.eccsports.org.
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SPORTS INFORMATION
O'Quinn has agreed on a four-year, $16 million deal with a player option for the fourth year.
NEW YORK -- Kyle O'Quinn hasn't produced much yet in the NBA. In irregular minutes as a Magicman, he showed the basic dexterity and willingness to do most things, but never quite embraced a role. Over the next 3-4 years in New York, O'Quinn will hopefully earn more stable work, and find an effective niche for himself in the process.
O'Quinn is 25. He is a large gentleman -- around 6'10 and easily 250 pounds, with broad shoulders, a 7'5 wingspan, and often sports a beard you or I could comfortably sleep inside. He smiles constantly.
I am extremely honored to have been selected as the 9th President of Grambling State University! As you ALL know, Grambling is an exceptional, innovative, creative, and outstanding university. I know our university will only get better and better!
I call upon each of you to work with me as a team and embrace and confront the challenges and expand and create new and innovative opportunities to return our beloved institution to the highest level of greatness. As my wife and I drove onto campus, a breath of fresh air welcomed us as we surveyed our new citadel of greatness–Grambling!
As I reflected on the selection and recruitment process, I knew, in every ounce of my being, that Grambling needed me as much as I needed Grambling. I have come home; but my stay will be marked by how much we ALL can do together to restore Grambling to that once great roar!
Grambling State is hallowed grounds and many iconic legends have walked across our campus and many more will in the future. You and I have a great opportunity before us to build on past successes. Although it will not always be easy, I am asking all Gramblinites to embrace a new tomorrow; a new day has come to our beloved institution–THE Grambling State University Tigers!
To achieve our ends, our duty, our goal is simple: to embrace and grow the university and establish a robust resource acquisition strategy. We will ask Grambling men and women, faculty, staff, administrators, and alumni to give as they have never given before!
And rest assured that every penny will be accounted for and every resource will be for the healing of dear ole’ Grambling. My administration will be transparent and transformative as we re-brand Grambling as a phoenix Tiger rising again in the higher education arena. We will expand the university’s reach and continue to attract a broader array of talented, motivated, and achievement-oriented students.
In addition to elevating the academic standards on campus, we will rebuild our athletic prowess, and claw our way to greatness as we place competitive gamesmanship and fear into the hearts and minds of our opponents as they serve as our honored competitors. We will be both scholars and fierce competitors to all those we encounter.
The ultimate goal is to become one of the top universities in the country. Remember, we are “ONE GRAMBLING: Honoring History, Keeping Promises, and Fulfilling Dreams.”
Come join me as we begin the process of rebuilding a dynasty of excellence–in all that we do! In order for us to accomplish our shared vision, we must all push and pull in the same direction. We are family and we must work together.
Stay tuned, as you will hear more from me in the days, weeks, and months to come.
Again, thank you for welcoming me to the Grambling State University Family and allowing me to become a “G.”
With Great Enthusiasm,
Willie D. Larkin, Ph.D.
President
Grambling State University.
Biographical Sketch
As the son of sharecropper parents who never had the chance to go to college, Dr. Willie D. Larkin recognized the value of higher education from an early age and has always strived to help others achieve their dream of a college education. As the ninth president of Grambling State University, he vows to continue the university’s historic commitment to put students first and prepare them to become leaders, pioneers and innovators.
Dr. Larkin has served as Chief of Staff to leaders of Morgan State University and the University of Wisconsin Colleges, where he worked directly with the chancellor, and the president at Morgan State University, to provide oversight of nearly 3,000 employees and an operating budget of more than $300 million. At Auburn University, he was the faculty advisor to the university’s Board of Trustees and the first African American to chair the university’s 90-member University Senate.
With his extensive experience in education, Dr. Larkin began his career by working more than 20 years as a leadership and organizational development specialist at the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, where he created leadership and economic development initiatives for the state of Alabama. Dr. Larkin is also a nationally recognized motivational speaker, trainer, consultant and writer who delivers high-impact speeches and seminars on personal and professional empowerment, leadership, conflict resolution and diversity in the workplace.
Dr. Larkin is a former Kellogg Fellow who earned his doctorate in Agricultural Education Extension from The Ohio State University, where he specialized in 4-H and Youth Development. He earned both a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and a master’s degree in Extension Education from Tuskegee University.
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COURTESY GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS
CATHERINE FAKLER AND COACH JOSEPH MOSES RECEIVES ALL-LOUISIANA RECOGNITION BY THE LSWA
NEW ORLEANS — Joseph Moses and Catherine Fakler are Xavier University of Louisiana's representatives on the 2015 All-Louisiana women's track and field team sponsored by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and announced late Saturday.
Moses, who led the Gold Nuggets to a third consecutive Gulf Coast Athletic Conference outdoor team championship, was voted Coach of the Year by an LSWA panel of track sports information directors. Fakler qualified for the team in two events as the state's No. 3 performer this year in the 1,500 and 5,000-meter runs.
Moses, 47, produced qualifiers for the NAIA National Outdoor Championships in four events, and one — long-jumper Devinn Rolland — earned All-America for the third time in four years. Rolland and Fakler were Xavier's first-ever first-team CoSIDA Academic All-Americans.
This is the first time for Moses to be named Louisiana Coach of the Year in track and field. He has won the LSWA award a combined nine times in men's and women's cross country. Runner-up for women's Coach of the Year was LSU's Dennis Shaver, who won or shared the honor eight of the past nine seasons.
Moses is the first from a non-NCAA university to be named Louisiana Coach of the Year in track and the second from an HBCU. Southern's Johnny Thomas won the men's award in 2003.
Fakler, from Phoenix, Ariz., and a graduate of Xavier College Preparatory High School, was All-Louisiana in two events for the second time in three years. She qualified with a time of 4 minutes, 51.07 seconds in the 1,500 and 18:54.34 in the 5,000. In April she four individual events and anchored a winning relay at the GCAC Championships, and in May she became the first XU student-athlete on record to graduate with a cumulative 4.0 GPA.
Fakler is Xavier's first student-athlete to be named All-Louisiana in cross country and track. She was an all-state harrier each of the past two autumns.
The top three performers in each event, based on times compiled by the NCAA and NAIA, earn All-Louisiana.
It's the third straight year that the Gold Nuggets were represented on the All-Louisiana team. Hannah Finnegan qualified in 2014 with the No. 1 time in the 3,000 steeplechase.
Although neither made the team, sprinter Joseph Moses III — the son of the coach — and hurdler Tylor Row were runners-up in Freshman of the Year voting.
ROCKY POINT, North Carolina -- Going into his junior year of high school, Desmond Jordan got the chance to become a pioneer in a sport he loved: football.
Now, he's charting a new path in life with a different sport: rugby.
With Trask High School about to open in his hometown of Rocky Point, Jordan transferred there from Pender High, where his parents and older brother went to school, and although he was a member of Trask’s second graduating class, he was involved in plenty of firsts on the football field.
“I was the first football carrier. I was the first 300-yard guy at Trask. I was the first 1,500-plus-yard guy at Trask,” Jordan said. “There not too many times you can look in the yearbooks and say ‘I was on the first team here.'”
After high school, Jordan played football for Guilford College in Greensboro. Before his junior season, coach Mike Ketchum left for Winston-Salem State University, and Jordan decided to follow him, playing at Winston-Salem State for two years while the school was transitioning to the MEAC conference.
Coming out of college Jordan searched for opportunities to ...
ASSISTANT COACH ANDREW BROWN WSSU RAMS MEN'S BASKETBALL
WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina --
The Winston-Salem State University men's basketball program is proud to announce that Andrew Brown has joined the coaching staff for the 2015-16 season.
Andrew Brown joins the Rams coaching staff after spending three seasons as the head coach at St Andrew's University in Laurinburg, N.C. He comes to WSSU with a wealth of experience and will be a benefit for the program with his wealth of knowledge and sheer energy.
The Pontiac, Michigan native took over a program that was in transition into the NAIA in 2012 and has continued to build it up by incrementally increasing their win total every season during his time at the school. In the 14-15 season Brown lead the Knights to a 9-14 record and a 6-12 mark in the Appalachian Athletic Conference . St. Andrews's nine wins and six conference wins are the most for the program since 2011. In his first year in 2012, the Knights finished 2-25 overall and 1-15 in the AAC, and in year two they were 5-19 overall and 3-15 in conference. Two St. Andrews players who Brown assisted in the development into 2nd team All-Conference players were sophomore Guard Titus Gary from Fayetteville and senior Guard Aaron Smith from Raleigh. Brown served as an assistant coach for St Andrews in 11-12 season under former head coach and current ESPN 3 commentator Richie Schueler.
Brown gained valuable coaching experience at the D-I level while he was a Graduate Assistant Coach at Mercer University for two seasons (08-09 and 09-10) under Bob Hoffman. He was heavily involved with a variety of administrative duties within the program. He helped with community functions, severed as camp director for Mercer basketball camps, coordinated and participated in educational programs in the Bibb County School District. In addition he assisted with day-to-day office operations under the guidance of the director of basketball operations. In 2009-10 the Mercer Bears team advanced all the way to the title game of the Atlantic Sun Conference championships losing to eventual champion East Tennessee State. The team finished 16-17 overall and was 10-10 in the A-Sun. After the season Brown trained aspiring professional basketball players included three former Mercer Bears, Daniel Emerson (All-Atlantic Sun conference member), James Florence (Mercer's all-time leading scorer and current professional basketball player) and retired professional basketball player EJ Kusnyer (ranked second in the NCAA in 3pt Field Goals made in 2009-10).
In addition Brown was an assistant coach under John Meeks at Wallace Hanceville CC during the 10-11 season. Prior to coaching at Mercer, Brown aided the Bears of Mercer University (Macon, GA) on the court for three seasons by leading his team in scoring at 15.5ppg during his senior campaign. Brown played one season at Owens Community College (Toledo, OH); where he played an instrumental role in his team finishing with a overall record of 28-6 and ranked #4 in the Final poll of National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II.
Andrew Brown had a brief professional career when he played in Germany in the 2nd league division and when he toured overseas to the Czech Republic and Bulgaria with Athletes In Action in 2008.
Brown holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education degree from Mercer University.
COURTESY WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
COACH LESLIE NOBLES BRONCOS FOOTBALL FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY
FAYETTEVILLE, North Carolina --Fayetteville State University head football coach Lawrence Kershaw has appointed Leslie Nobles to serve as the running backs coach for the upcoming 2015 season. This will be Nobles second season on the Broncos’ football coaching staff. He joined the staff in 2014 as the volunteer assistant wide receivers coach.
Nobles immediately made his impact felt on the coaching staff last season. In his first season, Nobles’ efforts contributed to Fayetteville State reaching their second consecutive 5-2 record in the CIAA. The Broncos won five of their last six games and competed for the CIAA Southern Division title in the season finale.
Three Broncos’ receiver all reached season-highs for their career under Nobles’ tutelage in 2014. Rising senior Chris Hubert (Apex, NC) amassed 46 catches for 574 receiving yards and five touchdowns. In his senior season, Kasunn Williams (Rocky Mount, NC) recorded 483 receiving yards off a career-high 34 receptions and three TDs. Ricardo White (Monroe, NC) closed out his senior campaign with career-highs in receptions (37), receiving yards (473), and receiving touchdowns (5).
“This opportunity is a dream come true for me,” said Nobles. “Football has been a part of my life since the age of five. I knew when I left the army that coaching is my passion. Opportunities like these don’t come often and I appreciate Coach Kershaw giving me a chance to prove my worth.”
Nobles has aligned with the Broncos football program after spending over 14 years as a United States Army Officer. He brings experience as a leader, proven coach, instructor, and mentor of diverse and intellectually gifted student-athletes.
“I expect our running backs to be leaders for the team; on the field, in the classroom, and in the community,” continued Nobles. Nobles is a graduate of Alabama A&M University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. He spent four seasons playing wide receiver at Alabama A&M for Coach Kenneth Pettiford. A native of Prichard, AL, Nobles attended Mattie T. Blount High; where he won a 5A State Championship as a captain for Hall of Fame Coach Ben Harris. Nobles obtained a master’s degree in Sports Management from American Military University. He is an active member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), Fellowship of Christians Athletes and St. Luke AME Church (Fayetteville, NC). Nobles’ is also a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. He resides in Fayetteville with his wife, the former Joy Belle. The couple has two children, one daughter (Lauryn) and a son (Leslie Jacob).
“I expect our running backs to be leaders for the team; on the field, in the classroom, and in the community,” continued Nobles.
Nobles is a graduate of Alabama A&M University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. He spent four seasons playing wide receiver at Alabama A&M for Coach Kenneth Pettiford. A native of Prichard, AL, Nobles attended Mattie T. Blount High; where he won a 5A State Championship as a captain for Hall of Fame Coach Ben Harris.
Nobles obtained a master’s degree in Sports Management from American Military University. He is an active member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), Fellowship of Christians Athletes and St. Luke AME Church (Fayetteville, NC). Nobles’ is also a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated.
He resides in Fayetteville with his wife, the former Joy Belle. The couple has two children, one daughter (Lauryn) and a son (Leslie Jacob).
COURTESY FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
DURHAM, North Carolina – Thirteen-year college football coach Carl Funderburk has joined the North Carolina Central University football staff as tight ends coach.
Funderburk replaces Mike McCarthly who accepted a position in the NFL on the Cleveland Browns coaching staff.
A native of Durham, North Carolina, Funderburk's last coaching stop was with the Fayetteville Force of the Southern Indoor Football League as offensive line and defensive line coach during the 2011 season.
He spent the 2010 season in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference as offensive line coach at Savannah State University, and the 2009 campaign as offensive line coach at Winston-Salem State University.
Funderburk coached seven years (2002-08) at Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he served as the offensive line coach and travel coordinator. During his tenure, the Monarchs posted their second-best campaign in program history with an overall record of 8-2 in 2005.
Prior to coaching at Methodist, he spent three seasons (1999-2001) at Bacone College in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where he served as the assistant head coach, special teams coordinator and offensive line coach.
His first college coaching job was working with the offensive line at Kemper Military Junior College in Booneville, Missouri in 1998.
A 1989 graduate of Elon University, Funderburk served his country in the United States Marine Corps as a Corporal and Squad Leader from 1980-1983.
He and his wife Eileen reside in Durham, North Carolina, and are the proud parents of a daughter, Ashley.
Carl Funderburk
At A Glance
Born: March 14, 1963 in Lantana, Florida
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
Education: Elon University (1989)
Bachelor of Arts in History
Coaching Experience:
Fayetteville (N.C.) Force (Southern Indoor Football League), 2011 (1 season)
Offensive Line/Defensive Line Coach
Savannah State University, 2010 (1 season)
Offensive Line Coach
Winston Salem State University, 2009 (1 season)
Offensive Line Coach
Methodist University, 2002-2008 (7 seasons)
Offensive Line Coach
Bacone College, 1999-2001 (3 seasons)
Offensive Line Coach/Special Teams Coordinator/Assistant Head Coach
Kemper Military Junior College, 1998 (1 season)
Offensive Line Coach
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
ITTA BENA, Mississippi -- Elaine Derricott has joined the Department of Athletics as the Assistant Track and Field Coach.
Before coming to Mississippi Valley, Derricott served one year as a Graduate Assistant Coach at Eastern Kentucky University. Under her tutelage, she coached six All-Conference athletes and one conference champion in multi-events, jumps and hurdles.
Derricott hails from Richmond, Virginia, attended Radford University, where she became the first pentathlon champion in school history. Her freshman year was explosive; she set the indoor conference pentathlon record en route to be named "Freshman of the Year."
Derricott transferred to Marshall University, where she received her Bachelors Degree in Sports Management and Marketing in 2014. Prior to graduating, she became the first Outdoor Conference Champion in school history. She also received All-Conference honors 13 times; this includes seven top three finishes.
COURTESY MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
JACKSON, Mississippi -- The Jackson State University football team begins year two of the Harold Jackson era in Tigers football. While the Tigers finished with a disappointing 5-7 (3-6) record, JSU finished the 2014 season with a two game winning streak and bright spots on both sides of the ball to build on.
The Offense
Timmy Chang, JSU’s offensive coordinator, enters his second year at the helm of JSU’s fast break, run-and-shoot offense. In the first season running the offense scheme, JSU had moments where it looked like it would set records and other times the offense had struggled to stay on the field. The unit’s inconsistent play was due to a combination – inexperience in the system and injuries along the offensive line.
“It takes a couple years to learn this offense,” said Chang. “As the team got more and more comfortable with the system, we began to play better. We also went through a rough patch on the offensive line. Once those two areas – getting more comfortable in the system and consistency along the line – we played better and that could be seen with us winning the final two games of the season.”
Quarterbacks
Lamontiez Ivy (6-3, 215, Jr.) quietly posted one of the best passing seasons in JSU history. His 64.0 completion percentage not only led the SWAC but was also the best single season performance by a JSU signal caller. Ivy completed 270 of his 420 pass attempts for a league high 3,209 passing yards and 22 touchdowns. Only eight QBs in JSU history have thrown 20 or more touchdowns and only three have passed for 3,000 or more yards (the other two were Robert Kent and Casey Therriault). Following another solid spring, Ivy is poised to lead the Tigers offense into the 2015 season.
Should Ivy falter or go down with injury JSU coaches have two solid QB options in addition to Ivy. Returner Brent Lyles (6-2, 195, R-Fr.) and UNLV transfer Jarin Morikawa (6-0, 190, So.) will both compete for the starting job. Lyles sat out as a redshirt last season and Morikawa did not take the field for UNLV last season.
Wide Receivers/Tight Ends
Jackson State quarterbacks will have a deep talent pool of pass catchers, with a good mix of possession receivers and speedsters who can take the top off of a defense. Daniel Williams (6-3, 200, Jr.) returns as one of the top receivers in FCS play. Last season he became only the seventh Tiger to record 1,000 or more pass receiving yards, while becoming one of the youngest in JSU history to do so - accomplishing the feat as a sophomore. He led the SWAC in receptions with 72 and was second in the league in receiving touchdowns (9) and third in receiving yards (1,004). Williams’ outstanding season saw him being selected as a nominee for the C Spire Conerly Trophy (best collegiate football player in Mississippi). Jairus Moll (5-9, 180, Sr.) finished 2014 as the second leading receiver as he caught 34 passes for 485 yards and six touchdowns. Devin Fosselman (5-11, 190, Sr.) caught 32 passes for 292 yards and a touchdown. DeSean McKenzie (6-3, 190, Sr.) caught 22 passes for 356 yards and three touchdowns. LaCorey Tucker (6-1, 185, Sr.) had 15 receptions for 157 yards and a touchdown. Tight ends Jabari Payton (6-5, 250, Sr.) and Tevin Garrett (6-4, 250, Jr.) also return from last year’s team. Payton caught 12 balls for 120 yards while Garrett saw limited action. Other receivers expected to make significant contributions include Romello Shumake (5-10, 170, So.), Will Golston (6-2, 190, Jr.), Carzell Vickers (6-4, 185, Jr.) and Shaquille Ward (6-3, 185, So.).
Running backs/Full backs
JSU will have a good group in its backfield. Jarius Moore (5-11, 205, Jr.) and Robert Johnson, IV (6-0, 225, So.) return as the leading rushers for the Tigers. Moore rushed for 380 yards and three touchdowns on 77 carries and Johnson had 304 yards and a touchdown on 64 attempts. Each player has the size and speed to run between the tackles to pick up tough yards, or bounce it to the outside and go the distance. Both players are also solid pass catching options out of the backfield. Moore caught 12 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown and Johnson caught 12 passes for 112 yards. This duo should be a potent one-two punch for the Tigers. Rashard Frye (5-9, 175, Fr.) - a quick, shifty speedster, Derrick Wilkerson (5-9, 200, Fr.) – a hard runner with speed, and Alexander Montgomery (5-10, 190, Jr.) – a veteran who can pick up tough yards, all add talent and depth to the JSU back field. Derrian Johnson (5-11, 220, Jr.) who has been utilized as a blocking back will look to get more carries this season. Last season he caught two passes for seven yards.
Offensive Line
The offensive line will be a key piece of the puzzle for the Tigers. Markus Cook (6-3, 285, Jr.), Christian Marshall (6-5, 290, Jr.) and Marcus Murphy (6-4, 305, Jr.) all will compete for starting jobs this season. Newcomers Vincent Hunter (6-4, 325, Jr.), Alem Amores (6-2, 290, Jr.), Zechariah Ray (6-7, 325, Jr.) and Kenneth Taylor (6-4, 335, Jr.) will all add depth to the unit.
Defense
Alonzo Lee, a veteran head coach and defensive coordinator, will lead the JSU defense in 2015. The Tigers will play a 4-3 base defense under Lee. Over his coaching career, Lee consistently produced quality defenses.
Defensive Line
A lack of depth along the defensive line was a weakness for the Tigers last season. Head coach Harold Jackson and his staff addressed that need – bolstering the unit with size and talent. Two of JSU’s more talented and experienced defenders – Teddrick Terrell (6-3, 225, Sr.) and Javancy Jones (6-2, 225, Jr.) return to the defensive line, after playing linebacker in JSU’s 3-4 defense last season. Jones finished last season as the team’s leading tackler with 107 total tackles. He also led the team in tackles for loss (18 for 68 yards) to go along with three sacks, a pass deflection, four QB hurries and a forced fumble. Terrell finished with 27 tackles, three tackles for loss, two pass break ups and a forced fumble. Cornelius Henderson (6-3, 305, Jr.) emerged as a solid run stopper last season as he finished with 50 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. Keontre Anderson (6-4, 230, So.) had a stellar freshman campaign last season. He finished with 36 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, a pass deflection and a forced fumble. Coleman Johnson (6-2, 290, Jr.) missed all of last season due to injuries and the JSU coaching staff is looking for him to return to his 2013 form when he emerged as an outstanding defensive tackle. Frank Carter (6-3, 330, So.) and Lavaka Maile (6-5, 270, Sr.) are two other returners who will look to make significant contributions.
Transfers Vallemond German (6-3, 255, Jr.), Yacoub Hammoudeh (6-5, 300, Jr.), Demaris Peppers (6-3, 387, So.), James Reid (6-3, 280, Jr.), Nijee Smith (6-3, 225, Jr.) and Brandon Wright (6-2, 326, Jr.) will all look to make significant contributions.
Linebackers
The linebackers will be led by Stacy Nobles (6-0, 230, Jr.) and Kwame Bowens (6-0, 220, Jr.). Nobles was the fourth leading tackler on the team with 65. He also had 5.5 tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries. Bowens saw action in seven games and recorded 35 tackles. Shawn Bishop (6-0, 235, So.) Jonathan Burnett (6-4, 220, So.) and Andre’ Lloyd (6-3, 210, So.) all look to have breakout seasons. Other key contributors should include Terry Harper (5-10, 210, So.), Tre Jester (5-11, 211, Jr.), Justin Morgan (6-4, 235, Jr.), Rodney Shorter, II (6-1, 230, So.) and Hector Stanback (6-0, 190, So.).
Secondary
JSU will have a solid secondary in 2015. The unit will be led by Robert Porter (6-0, 188, Sr.) and Brandon Smith (6-1, 200, Sr.) are projected to help lead the unit. Last season Porter recorded 61 tackles and a team high eight pass breakups to go along with an interception (TD). Smith posted 46 tackles, an interception and three pass breakups. Joshua Edet (6-0, 180, Sr.), Jamal Hawkins (6-0, 185, So.), Preston Hughes (6-0, 190, Jr.), Justin Jemison (6-3, 190, Jr.) and Demory Monroe (5-11, 180, So.) will all look to make significant contributions. Transfer Zavian Bingham (5-10, 190, Jr.) will also look to make an impact in the JSU secondary.
Special Teams
The special teams unit will be rock solid once again in 2015. Ryan Deising (5-8, 170, Sr.) returns as one of the best place kickers in the SWAC. Last season he was a perfect 32-32 in PAT kicks and went 18-23 in field goal attempts. Darcy Williamson (5-11, 180, Jr.) is one of the top punters in the SWAC. Last season he recorded 2,274 yards on 57 punts, for a 39.9 yards/punt average. He had five touchbacks, eight fair catches and landed 15 inside the 20-yard line. Christian Jacquemin (5-11, 190, RFr.) did not play last season but has a strong leg. Moll, Frye and Canard Brown (5-11, 180, Jr.) will serve as the main return men for the Tigers.
Schedule
JSU (5-7, 3-6 SWAC) opens the season with three straight road games. The Tigers travel to Murfreesboro, Tenn. to take on Middle Tennessee State from Conference USA on Sept. 5. The following week, JSU travels to Memphis, Tenn. to square off against non-conference rival Tennessee State in the Southern Heritage Classic. On Sept. 19 JSU travels to Baton Rouge, La. to face Southern before a two game home stand.
The Tigers will host Texas Southern for the W.C. Gorden Classic in their home opener on Sept 26. On Oct. 3 JSU will host Grambling State for a second consecutive season. Following their first open week of the season, the Tigers will head to Huntsville, Ala. to face Alabama A&M on Oct. 17.
On Oct. 24 JSU squares off against Arkansas Pine Bluff for the homecoming football game. The following week JSU travels to Itta Bena, Miss. to face Mississippi Valley State. The Tigers welcome Alabama State to Jackson on Nov. 7. JSU’s final open week is set for Nov. 14 and on Nov. 21 JSU travels to Prairie View, Tex. to face Prairie View AA&M. The regular season ends on Nov. 28 when the Alcorn State returns to Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium.
COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS
CENTRAL ISLIP, New York -- East Coast Conference Commissioner, Dr. Robert Dranoff, announced today the addition of women's bowling as the league's 18th championship sport. The ECC will become the seventh NCAA conference to sponsor women's bowling and the second comprised of only Division II institutions.
Six schools will join the conference and compete in the inaugural 2015-16 season. Full-time ECC members, Daemen College (Amherst, N.Y.) and Molloy College (Rockville Centre, N.Y.), will be joined by four associate members, Adelphi University (Garden City, N.Y.), Cheyney University (Cheyney, Pa.), Franklin Pierce University (Rindge, N.H.), and Kutztown University (Kutztown, Pa.).
Adelphi and Kutztown were previously associate members of the Northeast Conference, while Cheyney and Franklin Pierce competed as independents. Daemen and Molloy will field a team for the first time in school history in 2015-16.
"The ECC is excited to be working with these schools and this new conference sport," said Dranoff. "We look forward to having an opportunity to help grow intercollegiate bowling and to create a positive conference championship experience for the women who participate."
The NCAA has sponsored women's bowling as a sport since 2004. Unlike other NCAA sponsored sports, institutions from Division I, II, and III compete together to determine a National Champion.
The ECC is working on plans for a post-season conference championship in March and will have weekly and postseason awards beginning in the Fall of 2015. More information will be available on www.eccsports.org in the coming weeks.
About the ECC
Founded as the New York Collegiate Athletic Conference in 1989 and rechristened the East Coast Conference in July 2006, the ECC was formed to enhance intercollegiate athletic competition among member institutions and to assist them in integrating athletics into their academic program in a fiscally sound way. The ECC is committed to the highest standards of scholarship, sportsmanship, teamwork, and citizenship. Its mission is to promote the total person concept in its student-athletes, which stresses the abilities to excel in academic achievement, athletic competition, and positive character traits. East Coast Conference members include: University of Bridgeport (Bridgeport, Conn.); University of the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.); Daemen College (Amherst, N.Y.); Dowling College (Oakdale, N.Y.); LIU Post (Brookville, N.Y.); Mercy College (Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.); Molloy College (Rockville Centre, N.Y.); New York Institute of Technology (Old Westbury, N.Y.); Queens College (Flushing, N.Y.); Roberts Wesleyan College (Rochester, N.Y.) and St. Thomas Aquinas College (Sparkill, N.Y.). Associate Members include: Chestnut Hill College (Philadelphia, Pa.), Cheyney University (Cheyney, Pa.), Dominican College (Orangeburg, N.Y.), Franklin Pierce University (Rindge, N.H.), Georgian Court University (Lakewood, N.J.) and Kutztown University.
The ECC sponsors the following championship sports: baseball; men's and women's basketball; women's bowling; men's & women's cross country; men's and women's lacrosse; softball; men's and women's tennis; men's and women's indoor track and field; men's and women's outdoor track and field; men's and women's soccer; and women's volleyball.
The East Coast Conference is a proud member of the NCAA and Division II. Division II is a dynamic and engaging group of colleges, institutions and conferences of varying sizes and educational missions. Division II members encourage and support diversity; value sportsmanship, fairness and equity; and place the highest priority on the overall educational excellence of the student-athlete.
GREENSBORO, North Carolina -- To pay or not to pay — that is the question.
The Power Five college conferences will start to offer full cost-of-attendance athletics scholarships this fall, but other schools also are facing a dilemma on providing extra money to their athletes. Figures vary, but the cost runs from $1,500 to $6,000 per scholarship per school year.
So far, many schools below the Power Five are not biting. There are a bevy of reasons, but one is significant: They don’t know where they’d get the money.
“It makes no sense to me to get into that kind of game,” MEAC commissioner Dennis Thomas said. “It’s just not prudent from my perspective.”
The schools of the MEAC and the Southern Conference, which contain N.C. A&T and UNC-Greensboro, respectively, have no plans to provide full cost of attendance anytime soon.
