CIAA Tournament Economic Impact Rises; Charlotte Becomes New Headquarters for CIAA Office

COURTESY CIAA MEDIA RELATIONS

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina -- The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament, hosted in Charlotte, North Carolina, produced an economic impact of $55.6 million in 2015 in spite of inclement weather. This figure is an increase of 19 percent from 2014.

Hotel occupancy also showed an increase from 2014 with a combined growth in Uptown Charlotte and overall Mecklenburg County hotels of 5.4 percent in 2015; according to the 2015 CIAA Basketball Tournament Economic Impact Study conducted by the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA).

“The CIAA Tournament contributes $30 million in direct visitor spending to Charlotte’s economy annually. Not only does the tournament boost the city’s economic base, but it also contributes to Charlotte’s reputation as a rising destination that embraces diverse audiences and offers a plethora of intellectual, cultural, social and recreational opportunities. The CIAA’s relocation to Charlotte is yet another example of the city’s appeal as a great place to live and work,” say CIAA Board of Directors Chairman and President of Johnson C. Smith University, Dr. Ronald L. Carter.

Fans can now purchase tickets and book hotel rooms for the 2016 CIAA Tournament, which will be held at the Time Warner Cable Arena, February 23-27, by visiting CIAATournament.org. Hotels can also be reserved by calling 1 (844) 293-6678 on Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. The newly designed website was re-launched to provide fans with an interactive experience and centralized hub for all news and official game and event information related to the annual tournament.

The CIAA established a new partnership with ConferenceDirect, a global meeting solutions company, to assist in improving the fan housing program, which was first introduced during last year’s tournament. The partnership was formed as a result of evaluating feedback shared in a survey the CIAA distributed to its fans shortly after the conclusion of the tournament. The CIAA listened and worked tirelessly through the new partnership with ConferenceDirect to provide individual incentives for fans who book through the housing program such as; discounts on room rates, special amenities, networking due to centralized location of available hotel options, reduced travel time and cost by providing access to hotels in close proximity of official tournament events, and guaranteed room reservations with a customer service team advocating for the fans if a problem arises with their hotel.

“We gauged the thoughts of our fans on areas we could improve their tournament experience. After evaluating the results, we found that customer service and communication with the housing program to be the main takeaway,” said CIAA Commissioner, Jacqie McWilliams.  “The conference reviewed several housing management companies and elected to move forward with ConferenceDirect, as they seemed to best fit our current needs for a fan base of our size and their overall industry experience.”

The CIAA officially opened their headquarters in Charlotte after last year’s announcement to move from Hampton, Virginia. The office is located at Two Piedmont Town Center in the Southpark area of Charlotte.  With 8 out of 12 member-institutions located in North Carolina, as well as 15 of their 16 championships and key sponsors, accessibility was a key factor in the decision to move to the Queen City.

“It’s been months in the making, but we’re so pleased to welcome the CIAA headquarters to the Charlotte region,” says Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority CEO Tom Murray. “We know that having Commissioner McWilliams and her team based here will help to enhance the tournament experience in the years to come. I have no doubt that our business leaders and the community as a whole will welcome them with the southern hospitality we’re so well-known for.”

For more information about the CIAA Conference visit TheCIAA.com. For more information on how to purchase tickets and book your hotels to the 2016 CIAA Tournament visit, CIAATournament.org.


About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first African American athletic conference and one of the most recognized conferences in Division II. The CIAA conducts 16 championships attended by more than 150,000 fans from around the country. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is governed by the Presidents and Chancellors of its 12 member-institutions: Bowie State University, Chowan University, Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Johnson C. Smith University, The Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, Livingstone College, Saint Augustine's University, Shaw University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University and Winston-Salem State University. For more information on the CIAA, visit theciaa.com. For more information on the CIAA Basketball Tournament, visit CIAATournament.org, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

 

 

About ConferenceDirect
Headquartered in Los Angeles, with offices located in Las Vegas, Toronto and Charlotte - ConferenceDirect is a full-service global meetings solution company whose portfolio of services includes: Site Selection & Contract Negotiation, Conference Management, Event Hotel Bookings, Registration Services, Mobile App Technology and Strategic Meetings Management Programs. Our 325+ Associates manage over 9,800 meetings, conferences and events annually for more than 2,500 customers. For more information, visit ConferenceDirect at www.conferencedirect.com.

 

Morgan State receiver Andrew King's work in community earns him Good Works Team nomination

BALTIMORE, Maryland -- Morgan State football coach Lee Hull likens Andrew King favorably to former Terp and current San Francisco 49er Torrey Smith, and it's not just because they're both wide receivers.

Like Smith, King is committed to making contributions off the field. Smith was nominated the Ravens' representative for the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year award last December for his self-named foundation beginning a reading initiative, giving 447 students in Baltimore-area schools access to more than 700 books and electronic readers, as well as a place to read them.

King, a redshirt senior who led the Bears in catches (42), receiving yards (508) and receiving touchdowns (six), helped the team capture a share of its first Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference title in 35 years last season and a berth in the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision playoffs. He has visited area elementary schools to talk to students about the lives of student-athletes.

King, a Columbia (Maryland) native who graduated from Atholton High School, also joined an effort organized by Hull to clean streets in neighborhoods close to Morgan State's campus and has volunteered at the program's youth football camp the past two summers.

CONTINUE READING 

AAMU Bulldogs, Woody Anderson Ford celebrate partnership

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- Amid a crowded showroom, officials with Woody Anderson Ford and Alabama A&M University celebrated their partnership during the Bulldog Community Kickoff.

The event featured gumbo from Wintzell's, hot dogs and hamburgers by Chef Henry and entertainment from the Marching Maroon & White and the Bulldog cheerleaders and Jr. Bulldogs.

PHOTO GALLERY

"It's an honor for us to participate with the athletic department," said Cathy Anderson, owner of the local Ford dealership. "Our hearts swell with pride."

She was joined at a special check presentation by Tony Watkins of Ford, A&M President Dr. Andrew Hugine Jr., Director of Athletics Bryan Hicks, A&M Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Kevin Rolle, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and members of the athletic department and Woody Anderson.

"Thank you so much for your support," Hicks said to Anderson. "We are very thankful for working together."

Hugine shared the university's appreciation, saying Woody Anderson Ford "exemplifies what it means to be a good partner in the community."

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Tennessee State Tiger Camp Update: First Scrimmage

NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- The Tigers defense walked away with bragging rights after the first scrimmage in 2015. The offense was able to put together a couple of lengthy drives, but their counterparts would hold them to two field goals on the day.

The two hour Saturday morning session displayed depth in the running game, as well as on the defensive side of the ball. The 85-play scrimmage also featured the battle at quarterback between junior Ronald Butler and redshirt-freshman O’Shay Ackerman-Carter.

Sophomore Latrelle Lee struck first for the defense with a sack of Ackerman-Carter on the first series. The quarterback would answer on the next play as he hit Rodney Morris for 13 yards and a first down, the first of the day. The drive would stall, bringing on the second team.



The Butler ran squad dealt with mishaps, like the first group, but the third-year notched his initial first down on a 10-yard completion to Isaiah Jeffries-Freeman. Yet again, the defense would step up and put another stop to a drive as defensive end Marvin Maddox batted down a pass at the line of scrimmage.

With the second unit starting the second sets of series, the defense continued its stellar play as freshman Trevion Duncan would energize the defense with a big hit on running back Erick Evans. Butler would follow with a 20-yard run on a keeper, moving the offense across midfield.

Penalties and a fumble would set up a third and 32, but a late hit by the defense allowed the offense a fresh set of downs. The second squad would move down to the 15 on a defensive personal foul and a 10-yard run by Butler. The junior signal-caller chose his own number two plays later and broke free for a 15-yard touchdown, but a holding penalty negated the score, making the squad settle for a Lane Clark 34-yard field goal.

The first unit returned to the field with Telvin Hooks picking up a first down on two carries for 13 yards. Later in the drive, Ackerman-Carter ran for 26 yards to the 29 after escaping the rush.

The story of the day continued to be costly penalties as a holding call erased a 28-yard pass from Ackerman-Carter to Morris, which would have led to a first and goal from the one. The defense took advantage of the miscue and produced another stop as defensive tackle Dinsdale Jackson knocked down a pass attempt.

Butler guided the second unit down the field, picking up three first downs. The junior earned the first on the ground with a 16-yard run and connected with Jeffries-Freeman and Quindell Cousins through the air for the next two. The drive ended as Clark’s 48-yard field goal attempt missed wide left.

On the day, Butler completed eight passes on 16 attempts for 72 yards, while Ackerman-Carter finished 7-for-12 and 67 yards.

The Tigers ran for just under 200 yards, led by Marcus Deanes who gained 78 yards on seven carries. The red-shirt freshman registered the longest run of the day with a 45 yard jaunt.

Arkeem Granger finished the scrimmage with 35 yards on five carries, Hooks carried nine times for 20 yards; Tom Smith ran for 10 yards on four attempts and Erick Evans 10 yards on two rushes.

The Tigers returned to the practice field Saturday evening with a concentration on special teams. The Big Blue will enjoy a day off on Sunday and return to the field on Monday at 9:15 a.m.

Scrimmage Quotes:

Senior, Offensive Lineman James Lewis -
“Overall we did a lot of good things, but there is still things we need to improve. I thought we started out slow on offense, but we started to pick it up at the end, started to make some big plays, especially in the run game. All in all, we did a lot of good things, but we can always get better at our craft. Overall it was a decent practice.”

Junior, Linebacker Vantavious Williams - 
“I circled everybody and told them we are the rock of this team. I felt like we came out today and we dominated. We are only get better day-by-day. We have two more weeks until the first game and we are going to take advantage of that.”



Scrimmage Photo Gallery

Schedule:
Sunday, Aug. 16 - OFF
Monday, Aug. 17 - 9:15-11:30 a.m. (Full)
Tuesday, Aug. 18 - 7:30-9:30 a.m. (Full), 5:15-7:15 p.m. (Shells)
Wednesday, Aug. 19 - 9:15-11:30 a.m. (Full)
Thursday, Aug. 20 - 7:30-9:30 a.m. (Full)
Friday, Aug. 21 - 9:15-11:30 a.m. (Helmets)
Saturday, Aug. 22 - 7:30-9:30 a.m. (Shells), 5:15-7:15 p.m. (*Scrimmage*)
Sunday, Aug. 23 - 2:00 p.m. (Helmets)

COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

PVAMU Football Training Camp: Day 9 Defensive Tackles Coach Jo Nixon Mic'd Up

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- Defensive tackles coach and recruiting coordinator Jo Nixon is mic'd up for training camp at Prairie View A&M on the team's second practice of two-a-days.

On Saturday, the Panthers will head to nearby Waller ISD Stadium for their first of three scrimmages. Tomorrow's scrimmage will be the lone one open to the public beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Prairie View A&M will hold media day on Saturday, Aug. 22 inside the William J. Nicks Building (The Baby Dome) from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Local and statewide media along with all Panther fans are invited to interact with the Panther football, volleyball and soccer student-athletes and coaches. There will also be a special appearance by the 2015-16 edition of the PVAMU Marching Storm Band.

Howard U. Men's Basketball Announces 2015-16 Schedule

WASHINGTON, D.C. --  The Howard University men's basketball team has announced its schedule for the upcoming 2015-16 season.

The Bison are coming off a 2014-15 campaign in which they posted 16 wins, the most in over a decade. They will play 15 games at home this season, the most in over three decades.

The season opens at UMass on November 13 and Rutgers on November 15 as part of the MGM Grand Main Event tournament.

Howard, which returns four starters, will then host Division III Medgar Evers College on Friday, November 20 at 6 p.m.. in Burr Gymnasium.

The team will then travel to Las Vegas for the Middleweight Bracket of the MGM Grand Main Event with a game against Texas Southern on November 23. The Bison will face Texas-San Antonio (UTSA) or Central Arkansas in either the Middleweight Championship Game or Consolation Game on November 25.

HU will return home for back-to-back matchups against The College of William & Mary on November 28 and USCAA member Central Penn College on November 30.

Howard opens Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) play at North Carolina A&T on December 5 and at North Carolina Central on December 7. A trip to Purdue follows on December 8, followed by home games against Radford and the University of Maryland Baltimore County on December 12 and 19, respectively. Those home contests will have special significance as the coaches of the two teams formerly played at Howard and served as assistant coaches here., HU alum Mike Jones is the head coach at Radford and Aki Thomas is the head man at UMBC.

Howard takes to the road again with non-conference games at Central Michigan, at Columbia and at the University of Hawaii in an 11-day span (December 21 to January 1).,The Bison are back home on January 6 when they host Cornell and on January 9 in a home MEAC tilt with Coppin State.

After traveling to Delaware State on January 11, the Bison will close out the non-conference schedule with an important home game against Harvard, marking the first time that the Crimson has played at Burr.,

From there, the Bison play seven of their last 10 MEAC games at Burr with Senior Night coming on February 22 against South Carolina State.

The MEAC Tournament gets underway on March 7 and runs through March 12 at the Norfolk Scope in Norfolk, VA.

HOWARD UNIVERSITY BISON 2015 MEN'S BASKETBALL SCHEDULE

Date	Opponent	Location	Time
MGM Grand Main Event
11/13/2015	UMass	Amherst, MA	7:00:00 PM
11/15/2015	Rutgers	Piscataway, NJ	4:00:00 PM
11/20/2015	Medgar Evers College	Washington, DC	6:00:00 PM
MGM Grand Main Event
11/23/2015	Texas Southern	Las Vegas, NV	TBA
11/25/2015	UTSA / Central Arkansas	Las Vegas, NV	TBA
11/28/2015	William & Mary	Washington, DC	4:00:00 PM
11/30/2015	Central Penn College	Washington, DC	7:00:00 PM
12/5/2015	North Carolina A&T	Greensboro, NC	2:00:00 PM
12/7/2015	North Carolina Central	Durham, NC	6:00:00 PM
12/9/2015	Purdue	West Lafayette, IN	7:00:00 PM
12/12/2015	Radford	Washington, DC	4:00:00 PM
12/19/2015	Maryland Baltimore County	Washington, DC	TBA
12/21/2015	Central Michigan	Mount Pleasant, MI	7:00:00 PM
12/28/2015	Columbia	New York, NY	4:00:00 PM
1/1/2016	Hawaii	Manoa, HI	TBA
1/6/2016	Cornell	Washington, DC	7:00:00 PM
1/9/2016	Coppin State	Washington, DC	7:00:00 PM
1/11/2016	Delaware State	Dover, DE	7:00:00 PM
1/16/2016	Harvard	Washington, DC	4:00:00 PM
1/23/2016	Florida A&M	Washington, DC	4:00:00 PM
1/25/2016	Bethune-Cookman	Washington, DC	7:30:00 PM
1/30/2016	Morgan State	Baltimore, MD	4:00:00 PM
2/1/2016	Maryland Eastern Shore	Princess Anne, MD	7:30:00 PM
2/6/2016	Norfolk State	Washington, DC	4:30:00 PM
2/8/2016	Hampton	Washington, DC	8:00:00 PM
2/13/2016	Coppin State	Baltimore, MD	4:00:00 PM
2/15/2016	Maryland Eastern Shore	Washington, DC	7:00:00 PM
2/20/2016	Savannah State	Washington, DC	4:00:00 PM
2/22/2016	South Carolina State	Washington, DC	7:00:00 PM
2/27/2016	Hampton	Hampton, VA	7:00:00 PM
3/1/2016	Norfolk State	Norfolk, VA	8:00:00 PM
3/7/2016	MEAC Tournament	Norfolk, VA	TBA

COURTESY HOWARD UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Savannah State Tigers Enthusiastic After First Scrimmage

SAVANNAH, Georgia -- There were two things very evident as the Savannah State University football team played its first limited intra-squad scrimmage at Savannah's Memorial Stadium early Saturday morning. The first thing noticeable was the enthusiasm from coaches and players, and the second could be summed up in the words of Tiger's head coach Earnest Wilson, III, …"We're big."

The Tigers entertained family, friends and community onlookers with the offense being led by quarterbacks' senior Ker-Sean Wilson and freshman David Handler. Between them, they ran over 100 plays on natural grass, rather than the artificial turf at Ted Wright Stadium, their home field.

Handler, a 6-5 player from Culver City, California, took most of the "reps", while Wilson took the rest. Only two of the SSU quarterbacks participated in the game, along with a full crew of NCAA officials, who at game's conclusion went over the new rules for the 2015 season.

"We're moving forward and need a lot of repetitions for all of the young players that will be playing Division I football for the first time," said Wilson. "We have over 40 freshmen, 29 sophomores and only seven seniors on the team this year. We have a lot of teaching to do," Wilson added.

The Tigers play a 10-game schedule with two of the teams being Bowl Championship Series (BCS) teams with the rest being from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) of which the Tigers are members.

"We don't want to be a team from Savannah that lies down and dies," said Wilson. "We're selling this program as a team that has gone from mostly 5-10 players to a lot of guys standing 6-4 or 6-5."

Handler is a tall rangy thrower with precise accuracy. He had a good day throwing as he tossed four touchdowns to various players. When asked if he (Wilson) had decided on a starter, Wilson said there was no timeline in his decision on who would open the season at that position.

The Tigers head into this season wearing t-shirts under their uniform with a simple phrase stating that to be successful, "Refuse To Be Overshadowed."

Junior running back Richard Williams seems to be the leading candidate at his position for the offense. The second-year back transferred to SSU from the University of Iowa last year via Memphis, Tennessee, where he was one of the best running backs coming out of high school in the nation.

On defense, Coach Anthony Pierce, the linebackers coach was animated with the success of his players as they kept the running backs in check. Defensive back coach Cordell Taylor stayed in the ear of the defensive backs, who consistently broke off the completion route of the offensive receivers. Defensive coordinator Mike Wallace stayed focused on the overall effort of the entire defense and seemed content with the progress of the defense, thus far.

SSU opens the season on September 5 at Colorado State University on the road in Fort Collins, Colorado. Their second BCS game will be two weeks later when they travel to Akron, Ohio to take on the University of Akron on September 19 in Ohio. Their first MEAC conference game will be the following week in Daytona Beach with Bethune-Cookman being the opponent. The first home game is October 3 against Florida A&M University.

COURTESY SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

UAPB offense scores five TDs in first preseason scrimmage

Click here for Scrimmage Photo Gallery

PINE BLUFF, Arkansas -- The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Football Team held their first scrimmage of preseason camp with Golden Lion offense scoring five TDs in the scrimmage.

The UAPB offense set the tone early as they scored on the very first play of the scrimmage on a 60-yard TD pass to Kyle Coleman from Marcus Terrell.

Terrell recorded a couple of big scampers for the Golden Lions offense as he rushed 35 yards on one carry and 20 another.

The UAPB offense scored their second TD of the scrimmage on a 15-yard TD pass to Rodney Stafford from Nolen Sorensen.

Both running backs Jamal Gladden and KeShawn Williams punched it into the end zone for the Golden Lion offense with Gladden scoring from six yards out and Williams from 30-yards out.

The tandem of Brandon Duncan and Cameron Williams scored the final TD of the scrimmage with an 84-yad TD pass to Williams from Duncan.

UAPB will open their 2015 campaign against South Carolina State in their 11th annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge present by Disney in Orlando, Fla., on Sunday, Sept. 6 at Florida Citrus Bowl in a 3:30 p.m. EST start broadcasted live on ESPN. For more information contact the UAPB Ticket Office at 870.575.8601.



COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS PINE BLUFF SPORTS INFORMATION

Statue to Honor TSU Coach Temple to be Unveiled Aug. 28

Coach Edward Stanley Temple
Courtesy: TSU Athletics 

NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- A 15-year effort to memorialize Ed Temple will conclude Aug. 28 when a statue of the legendary Tennessee State University track and field coach is dedicated near the right field entrance to First Tennessee Park.

The 9-foot statue on a 13,000-ton granite base is the product of a fundraising effort that drew contributions from 114 people, including more than 20 of Temple’s Tigerbelles. Donations ranged from $15 to $10,000.

Temple was the women’s track coach at Tennessee State University from 1953 to 1994, coach of the U.S. women’s Olympic track team in 1960 and 1964, and assistant coach in the U.S. women’s Olympic track team in 1980.

“The Coach Temple Statue Committee is grateful to those who have given. Each is now part of Nashville’s history and a part of Temple’s team,” committee member Bo Roberts said in a release. “The Coach’s impact on Nashville will forever be immortalized by this statue. We hope locals and visitors will come to this statue to learn about and honor one of the city’s most important citizens.”

The statue unveiling ceremony will take place 9:30 a.m. on Aug. 28 and will feature local politicians and dignitaries. The public is invited to attend.

The Nashville Sports Authority will own the statue site.

“Coach Ed Temple is one of the most impressive leaders in the history of sports. With strength and compassion, he led his Tigerbelles to unparalleled achievements on and off the track,” Mayor Karl Dean said. “His contributions to our city are immeasurable, and he is most deserving of this honor.”

Courtesy Nashville Post/David Boclair
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Riley named Coppin State M&W tennis coach

COACH WILL RILEY
COURTESY: COPPIN STATE ATHLETICS

BALTIMORE, Maryland – Coppin State has named Will Riley as its men's and women's tennis coach.

Riley, who believes in academics, student-athlete development, and achievement on and off the tennis courts, comes to Coppin State after a successful 23-year stint at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa (Alabama).

Riley amassed a combined 818-316 record along with five conference championships during his tenure as head coach of both the Stillman men's and women's tennis teams. He was also named the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Coach of the Year on five separate occasions.

This past spring, Riley guided the Stillman women to its third consecutive SIAC title and a berth in the NCAA Division II tournament. The Lady Tigers finished with a 24-2 overall record. Meanwhile, the Stillman men were conference championship runner-ups. More impressive is that Stillman had 10 student-athletes named to the SIAC All-Academic team in 2015.

"My goal has been to be a head coach at the Division I level," Riley said. "I am grateful for Coppin State for giving me the opportunity to lead its tennis program. One thing about me is I always stressed academics to my players. Seeing them graduate meant more to me than any accomplishments they had while playing tennis. Our program has produced three of the last six valedictorians at Stillman, and I look to carry that same focus to Coppin State."

Riley will have some talented players to work with once he gets settled.

On the men's side, the Eagles return sophomore Gavin Lewis, who led the team with four singles victories. The Coppin State men qualified for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Tournament for the fourth straight season. Meanwhile, on the women's side, the Lady Eagles return seniors Carentxa Goede, Ashley Milo and Miranda Taylor.

A 1993 Stillman graduate and native of Sallis (Mississippi), Riley played tennis at his alma mater where he was the 1992 and 1993 Player of the Year.

He is also an active member of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and still plays competitive tennis with several different leagues.

Riley was named Coach of the Year at Stillman in the 2003-2004 season and SIAC Coach of the Year in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. He has worked with several disadvantage groups, started a tennis camp at Stillman and provided free lessons to students and adults in the west Alabama community.

"My primary goal in coaching is to provide the kind of environment where players grow as people and learn life skills, not just sport skills," Riley said. "Coaching is a wonderful opportunity to have a positive influence on the lives of an outstanding group of individuals. To me, a positive influence means enhancing self-concept and building character, which includes an array of positive traits that I hope every tennis player takes into the world upon graduation."

Riley is married to Sabrina. He has four sons: Oliver (28), Brandon (24), Torrian (21), Kendrick (18) and one daughter Finesse (19).

By Rob Knox
COURTESY COPPIN STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Wiley assistant coach Biggs taking over as interim baseball coach

WILEY, Texas -- Wiley College Unit of Athletics has announced that assistant coach Kendrick Biggs will take over as interim head baseball coach at Wiley College.

Biggs, a 1993 Marshall High School graduate and a 1999 Wiley College graduate, replaces Ryan Goodwin. Biggs spent the last two seasons as an assistant baseball coach for the Wiley Wildcats.

"It's exciting," Biggs said. "It's a dream come true. I've coached a lot of baseball but I've never been the head coach at the college level. Being here two years under Ryan and being able to take over and have a rapport with a lot of the guys ­- It feels kind of good."

Returning to coach under Biggs is assistant coach Corben Green. Biggs has named Quintavious Drains pitching coach. Carlos Jimenez, who played last year will work as a student coach.

Before joining Wiley, Biggs coached several teams in the Marshall area including Marshall Junior High, an 8-year-old traveling team the Texas Drillers, the Marshall Longhorns, East Texas Sports and the Marshall Major All-Stars. In 2012, Biggs lead the Marshall Major All-Stars to the Texas Dixie High School State Championship and a third-place finish in the World Series in Guntersville, Alabama.

Biggs has been married to LeKeitha for 21 years and they have three children: Keith Biggs 20, Christian Biggs 15 and Kerrigan Biggs 10.

COURTESY WILEY COLLEGE WILDCATS SPORTS INFORMATION

Lincoln Countdown to Kickoff: Day 3 - Fall Camp Preview

JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri -- The 2015 Lincoln football season officially began on Friday (Aug. 15), as players reported to campus for the start of training camp.

It was a busy first day for the Blue Tigers, as players spent most of the day preparing for the start of another season. The day began with a compliance seminar, as Lincoln Athletic Director Betty Kemna went over the NCAA rulebook. Head strength & conditioning coach Heinrich Thomas went over the workout schedule for the fall while head athletic trainer Austin Matlock went over the training procedures. The players also began getting their paperwork in order for the weekend of Nov. 1, when Lincoln flies to Ellensburg, Wash. to play Central Washington.

After a brief break for lunch, the Blue Tigers joined other Lincoln students for orientation on top of the hill. The new players spent the day getting acquainted with the campus while the returners got ready to start another academic semester.

The players then reported for physicals and had their pictures taken before leaving for a cookout at Jefferson City's McClung Park. The Blue Tiger Quarterback Club helped prepare the first team meal of the season, ensuring all the players were well-fed before Saturday's (Aug. 16) first practice. The coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Jones, went over the practice schedule and team rules to get the athletes ready for the season.

The Blue Tigers will play 11 games this year, beginning on Sept. 6 with The Missouri Classic, a game against Langston that will be played at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Lincoln will then host Southwest Baptist in the first Great Lakes Valley Conference contest for both teams, as each is joining the GLVC this year as football-only members. It will be the first of five-straight conference games, as LU hosts Quincy (Sept. 20) and St. Joseph's (Oct. 11) while traveling to Truman State (Sept. 27) and William Jewell (Oct. 4). For Homecoming, Lincoln hosts Texas College on Oct. 18. The Blue Tigers then play Indianapolis (Oct. 25) before closing its non-conference slate with the Washington trip. Lincoln wraps up the season with a Senior Day home game against McKendree (Nov. 8) and a road trip to Missouri S&T (Nov. 15).

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

Norfolk State Women's Basketball Program Announces New Assistant Lou Hamilton

NORFOLK, Virginia -- Norfolk State women's basketball head coach Debra Clark announced Friday the hiring of Lou Hamilton as the Spartans' new assistant coach. Hamilton will work the Spartans' post players.

Hamilton replaces Patrena Trice-Hill, who accepted a similar position at Columbia University.

"I'm very excited about the addition of coach Hamilton to our staff," Clark said. "Coach Hamilton has a passion for and history of post player development. We're eager to get him in the gym to improve our players' individual skills, which will in turn improve our overall team. Coach Hamilton will also assist in recruiting top student-athletes who will enhance the women's basketball program at NSU."

Hamilton, who most recently was the recruiting coordinator and assistant coach in charge of post players at Delaware State, has five years of experience coaching at Division I HBCUs. He has also served stints at Grambling State University of the Southwestern Athletic Conference and North Carolina A&T of the MEAC.

Last season, Hamilton helped mentor a pair of double-digit scorers at DSU. Post player Tierra Hawkins earned All-MEAC first-team honors while ranking sixth in the MEAC in scoring (16.1 points per game), while frontcourt teammate Amber Bogard averaged 13.4 points per game. Thanks in part to the efforts of those two players, DSU led the MEAC in field goal percentage.

A former high school and AAU coach, Hamilton broke into the collegiate ranks on Patricia Cage-Bibbs' staff at North Carolina A&T in 2010. Hamilton spent two seasons on the Lady Aggies' bench, helping them compiled a 19-13 MEAC record. He served as recruiting coordinator and worked primarily with N.C. A&T's post players. While in Greensboro, Hamilton helped recruit several standout players, including Eboni Ross, who went onto win the MEAC Rookie of the Year Award in 2012-13. Ross was one of two future MEAC All-Rookie Team players recruited by Hamilton to North Carolina A&T.

Following the 2011-12 season, Hamilton moved along with Cage-Bibbs to Grambling State. After again serving as her recruiting coordinator and assistant in charge of post players in 2012-13, Hamilton was interim head coach for GSU in 2013-14 with Cage-Bibbs sidelined for health reasons. Grambling improved from ninth place in the SWAC standings in 2012-13 to seventh the following season, including a first-round SWAC Tournament victory.

Also while at Grambling, Hamilton helped the Lady Tigers sign a pair of Parade All-American high school performers.

Hamilton, a native of Greenville, S.C., was a three-sport athlete in high school. He began his collegiate career as a football student-athlete at Charleston Southern before transferring to Fayetteville State University to finish his collegiate career. Hamilton earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from Fayetteville State in 1995.

Hamilton is the father of two sons, Jamir Dogan-Hamilton (15) and Jeremiah Dogan (10). Hamilton and his wife, Latrondra, reside in Greensboro, N.C.

Matt Michalec, Asst. AD/Communications
COURTESY NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

NCCU Volleyball Scrimmage Video Highlights

DURHAM, North Carolina -- North Carolina Central University's women's volleyball team held a scrimmage at the Leroy T. Walker Complex on Saturday, Aug. 15. The NCCU Sports Network presents highlights and interviews with head coach Nicki Holmes and student-athlete Kelly Rossip about preparations for the new season.




COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Norfolk State Defense Starts Fast, Offense Finishes Strong

NORFOLK, Virginia -- In a football scrimmage that featured two contrasting halves, the Norfolk State defense flexed its muscle early, only to see the offense score five touchdowns in the second half on Saturday at Dick Price Stadium.

The 80-play scrimmage – the Spartans' first of preseason camp – included a pair of touchdown passes from junior quarterback Greg Hankerson Jr. and two touchdown runs by freshman Quintreil Chung. Saturday's session came eight days into camp and was the first of three intrasquad scrimmages before the Spartans open the season at Rutgers on Sept. 5.

The Spartans' defense – which head coach Latrell Scott described as being slightly ahead of the offense to begin camp – held the Spartan offense off the board for the first half of the scrimmage. Highlights for the defense included an interception by senior cornerback D'Metrius Williams and a two-drive span that included sacks by linebackers Jay Anderson and Raynard Revels and another by nose guard Shawn Fauntleroy Jr.

"We had a lot of penalties early that slowed our offense down. We can't put ourselves in 1st-and-20, 2nd-and-20 situations," Scott said. "Our defense made some big plays early, too, but our offense bounced back nicely."

The offense began to assert itself after Revels' sack forced a change of possession. Hankerson found Sangster for a 10-yard gain on 3rd-and-9. Three plays later, on 3rd-and-short, Hankerson hit senior Isaac White for a 21-yard touchdown pass.

That started a streak of four straight drives which ended in touchdowns. Chung capped the next possession with a 5-yard TD run and sophomore Shakeem Copeland had a 2-yard plunge on the ensuing march.

Hankerson got into the action again when he lofted an 18-yard TD pass to Sangster over the defense. Sangster tip-toed along the sideline and kept possession as he fell to the ground while being closely covered.

Chung capped the scrimmage a short while later with a 1-yard TD run in goal-to-go situations. He led all rushers with 32 yards, while Copeland had 22. Hankerson passed for 150 yards. Sangster caught four passes for 51 yards, while White had three grabs for 45 yards.

The Spartans return to their preseason practice schedule on Monday. Their second scrimmage is slated for a 3 p.m. start next Saturday at Dick Price Stadium.



Matt Michalec, Asst. AD/Communications
COURTESY NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

AAMU First scrimmage: Ballard No. 1; Harris 'jumps out'

NORMAL, Alabama  – After Alabama A&M's first scrimmage Saturday, Head Coach James Spady spilled the beans on the "worst kept secret" of the fall.

"No. 1 (quarterback) belongs to 'Tootie (De'Angelo Ballard),' " Spady said. "'Tootie' took some steps today.

"Right now, we're looking for a backup."

First scrimmage photos



He said all three quarterbacks (Ballard, Cody Lui-Yuen, PJ Garrett) had good showings in the nearly two-hour scrimmage which saw four touchdown passes by the offense and a fumble return for a TD and an interception by the defense.

A fourth quarterback, Damion May, has missed several practices for medical reasons but Spady expects him to be cleared this week.

A highlight of the scrimmage was a 75-yard pass from Ballard to tight end Kalias Robertson. Lui-Yuen completed a 30-yard touchdown pass to Tevin McKenzie after scrambling out of the pocket.

"They (quarterbacks) were making good reads," Spady said. "All three did well."

Spady said his staff still has to look at film from the scrimmage but "these guys got after each other ... It was a spirited competition."

Running back Harvey Harris' efforts "jumped out" at Spady. "Some stuff he did in the short runs really stood out."

He said All-SWAC defensive lineman Anthony Lanier "was his usual self" and he cited the defensive play of linebacker Bryan Brower and defensive back Dexter Reese, who had the lone interception of the day.

The Bulldogs are off Sunday and Monday and return to the practice field 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Their next scrimmage is Aug. 22 as the highlight of the annual Bulldogs Fan Day at Louis Crews Stadium. Fan Day starts at 11 a.m. and the scrimmage is scheduled for 2 p.m.

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

NCCU Men's Basketball Announces Coaching Additions

DURHAM, North Caolina -- North Carolina Central University's men's basketball program has added Eric Wilson.

NCCU men's basketball head coach LeVelle Moton is excited about the coaching additions, and what experience they bring to the program.

"Chuck is highly respected in the landscape of college basketball," Moton said.  "He's had success at all levels and his experience along with his recruiting ties will benefit our program immensely.

"Eric is a young, energetic coach that has excelled on the recruiting circuit in a short period of time. His ties to the Carolinas, Georgia, and other neighboring states will improve our program tremendously. We look forward to him serving as Recruiting Coordinator for our program."

Taylor comes to NCCU after five years as a head coach at Paris Junior College in Paris, Texas.  During his time there, he led the Dragons to a pair of conference titles, a regional title and a national tournament berth.  He earned Region 14 Coach of the Year honors twice in 2012 and 2014 and qualified his team for the conference tournament all five years of his tenure.

Taylor began his collegiate coaching career as an assistant and recruiting coordinator at Paris Junior College from 2000 to 2002, and then went to Texas A&M Corpus Christi from 2002 to 2005.  He had his first collegiate head coaching job at Richland College in Dallas, Texas during the 2005-06 season and his team finished the season ranked third in the NJCAA poll.

Taylor then returned to his role as an assistant at the University of North Texas for the 2006-07 season, and then went to the University of South Alabama from 2007 to 2010 and was promoted to Associate Head Coach in 2009.  He is a graduate of Wayne State University.

A four-year player and graduate of Western Carolina University, Wilson comes to NCCU after spending six years on the Catamount coaching staff.  From 2009 to 2010 he operated as a Director of Basketball Operations before becoming an Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator from 2010 on.

Prior to his time on the WCU coaching staff, Wilson was an Assistant Coach and Interim Head Coach at Truett McConnell Junior College in Cleveland, Georgia.

For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com.
wo assistant coaches to the staff for the upcoming season, Chuck Taylor and

Heating Up: S.C. State holds first scrimmage of preseason

ORANGEBURG, South Carolina -- In an effort to prepare the team for possible hot weather in the 3:30 p.m. season-opening kickoff in Orlando’s Citrus Bowl on the first Sunday of September, the South Carolina State Bulldogs coaching staff held the first scrimmage of the preseason in the heat of the afternoon on Saturday.

As is normally the case early in the preseason, the defense had the upper hand most of the afternoon. But, the Bulldogs' offense found ways to move the ball and score a few times, both with first-string redshirt junior quarterback Adrian Kollock Jr. behind center and with freshman quarterback Caleb York calling signals.

“In the first scrimmage, you always get some good, you get some bad and you get some ugly,” S.C. State head coach Buddy Pough said afterwards. “We had a little bit of all three.

“You can see some potential there. We’ve got to get our ...



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North Carolina Central Eagles eye bowl game opportunity

DURHAM, North Carolina — When C.J. Moore committed to play for the North Carolina Central University Eagles, a trip to a bowl game seemed as likely as a mission to Mars.

"When I got here, that wasn't even a realistic possibility," the senior defensive back said.

But now, the MEAC and SWAC are preparing for liftoff. Earlier this year, the conferences announced the inaugural Celebration Bowl, a relaunch of the old Pelican and Heritage bowls. The Celebration Bowl will pit the MEAC and SWAC champions against each other on Dec. 19 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.

Now all that's left is for the Eagles to get there.

“It’s kind of surreal,” Moore said. "Anytime you get the chance to be the first at anything, like to be the first team representing this conference in that, would be amazing. It's definitely something we strive for everyday."

The tradeoff is that only the bowl game winner earns an automatic berth into the Football Championship Series Playoffs.

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Elston King leaves SUNO after 41 years and countless memories

Elston King was a part of 566 wins at SUNO as either an assistant or
head basketball coach.

NEW ORLEANS -- In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina Elston King and his wife, Imogene, found themselves in the attic of their home; waters rising and in need of a rescue. Help did arrive, but they were only taking women, so King waded through the water with his wife on his back, getting her to safety. Eventually Elston King was lifted by helicopter off of the roof of his home and taken to Baton Rouge and reunited with his wife and with his other family; Southern University at New Orleans.

The recovery for both the Kings and SUNO started in those days and weeks while both were displaced in Baton Rouge. Elston and his wife in an apartment and SUNO temporarily housed by Southern University's flagship campus on the bluff. By 2005, Elston King had dedicated more than three decades to his beloved Knights and he wasn't about to let a storm wash all of that away. He thought about that time as his tenure at the University comes to a close. After 41 years as a student, coach and athletic director, Elston King is retiring.

"We stayed there [in Baton Rouge] for nine months but we knew we would come back", recalls King. "Out of everything I've done at SUNO, I think rebuilding the program after Katrina, from nothing, into a winning program...a program that can be respected, that's has to be right up there with anything I've done in my career."

It wasn't the first time that Elston King, who has been involved with Southern University at New Orleans since 1974, was asked to build something from nothing. After graduating from SUNO as a history major in 1981 he was tasked with restarting the women's basketball program at the university.

"Morris Bates found me coaching semi-pro ball and he asked for my help in bringing a women's basketball program back to SUNO", he added. "There wasn't any money in it (just $200 per month), but it was something I wanted to do."

"Things really changed when the great Harold Hunter came to SUNO in the mid-80's", said King. Hunter, who was the first African-American to sign an NBA contract, came to SUNO after successful stints at New Orleans' other two HBCU's (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), Xavier and Dillard. "Coach Hunter was taught by John McClendon (legendary coach enshrined in both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame), who was taught the game by James Naismith. I was able to work under him as a women's basketball assistant until he retired in 1989. It's funny, but I see Phil Jackson and other coaches talking about "the Triangle", and that was the offense we were running in 1985. Coach Hunter just knew the game."

Hunter's retirement brought uncertainty for King's future, but a meeting with the new men's basketball coach Earl Hill would quickly bring everything into focus.

King said of his first impression of Hill, "I just knew we had a great first meeting and he asked me to join him as an assistant for the men's team and I was by his side for 15 years. It was Coach Hill that taught me about creating pressure on defense and about how to make the most out of your practices. He didn't believe in wasting time."

"I learned so much from both of those men", King added. "Outside of my own mother and father, there haven't been any greater influences on my life, not only as a coach but as a man."

In 1998, Elston King became the women's head basketball coach while still serving as an assistant for the men. His first year he went 9-15.

"The program needed something and I think Coach Hill thought I could have an impact. We weren't very good that first year, but we turned it around pretty quick. In 1999 we went 23-5 and won our first GCAC championship. That team was something special."

Led by GCAC Player of the Year Andrea Watson (25.9 points per game), the 1999-2000 Lady Knights averaged 92.8 points per game while allowing their opponents to score fewer than 68. They were ranked 21st in the nation and made the school's first trip to the NAIA tournament.

While he was taking the women's program to new heights, the men's program kept rolling. From 1998 until 2006, the Knights won three regular season GCAC crowns and four tournament titles, advancing to the NAIA's "Sweet Sixteen" twice.

"I got to work with players like Toshay Harvey and Leon Mitchell and Karriem Reed. There was so much talent. It was a great time and we won a lot of ballgames", said King.

Then Katrina happened. Hill decided not to return to the program and King was thrust into the role of Athletic Director. The first question he faced was whether there would be a program to direct.

"There was no doubt in my mind that we would rebuild. I've given my life to SUNO. I think the reason that I can leave now is because the program is on solid ground. Our teams are competitive. The gym is finally being restored. We're in good shape."

Others will fill his jobs, with track and field coach Yhann Plummer assuming the role of athletic director and assistant Roshaun Ambrose taking over as women's basketball coach, but neither can be expected to replace Elston King.

As head coach, Elston King compiled a record of 250-154 and won two GCAC regular season (1999-2000, 2014-15) and tournament championships (2013, 2015). His win total is 94 more than SUNO's other four coaches combined and is only two behind his mentor Earl Hill for the most by any coach in school history. All told he has been a part of 566 SUNO victory celebrations.

He may have saved his best for last. The 2014-15 Lady Knights finished 23-5 and were the first team in school history to win both the GCAC regular season and tournament championships. They finished the year 16-1 against GCAC foes and won the school's first ever NAIA tournament game with a resounding 84-56 victory over Vanguard University.

"I've seen it all. The national championships (seven in track and field), the conference championships (20 total), the All-Americans. I hope that my legacy is that I maintained the respectability of the program that was started by Artis Davenport and that in the end I raised our level of competition."

"The funny thing is, the game hasn't changed. The kids haven't changed. I mean, they are better athletically, but at the end of the day you still gotta put the ball in the hole. You still gotta defend. What it comes down to is do you have players that have talent and that are willing to work. I been fortunate with both of those."

Asked what he is most proud of during his tenure the answer is easy for Elston King, "I most proud of the fact that since I've been head coach more than 90 percent of my [women's basketball] players have been able to graduate. This doesn't mean anything if we're not educating people. Across our programs we've stressed the importance of academics and being student-athletes. Especially in the last few years we've had a number of athletes graduate with the highest overall grade point average in their class or in their department. Graduation day is my favorite day each year."

"There's no magic trick to success. I think we've done good things because I treat these young people like human beings. They know I'll go through a wall for them. I treat them with respect and all I ask in return is the same."

Though he plans to be around the program, offering advice to the new athletic director as well as Coach Ambrose, he knows things won't be the same.

"I'm going to miss it. I'm going to miss practice. I going to miss going up against Bo (Browder, head women's basketball coach at Xavier University). He's special because his teams are just like him. Very competitive, very tough. They play hard all the time. He demands that from them but there's no arrogance there. We have a great relationship because our philosophies are so similar."

"I was 17 years old when I first got to SUNO. SUNO means everything to me. SUNO gave me a chance. I know that's what this place means to a lot of people. So I always tried to remember that. I may be leaving a job, but I'm not leaving SUNO. This is home."

COURTESY GULF COAST ATHLETICS CONFERENCE MEDIA RELATIONS

Tougaloo Billups adds six to Bulldogs' 2015-16 recruiting class

TOUGALOO, Mississippi -- The Tougaloo College men's basketball team has announced the signings of six student-athletes for the 2015-16 season.

Head Coach Thomas J. Billups led the Bulldogs to a 13-13 record last season (9-5 GCAC) last season, his first at Tougaloo.  The team advanced to the semifinals of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Tournament but lost six seniors including 2015 GCAC Newcomer of the Year Kelsey Howard, the team's leading scorer at 21 points per game.  Howard set the Tougaloo and GCAC scoring record with 49 points in an overtime defeat of Philander Smith College.  Coach Billups will be counting on this group of recruits to make up for the lost scoring punch and to continue to push the Bulldogs into the upper echelon of the GCAC.

Joining the Bulldogs for the 2015-2016 season are:

• Gregory Lee, a 6'0 junior guard from Jackson, Miss.  Lee is no stranger to the Bulldogs coaching staff, as he played for Coach Billups at Lanier High School. Lee will join the Bulldogs from Hinds Community College.  
• Denevian Tremaine Cunningham, a 6'5 junior forward from Southaven, Miss. Cunningham also joins the Bulldogs from Hinds Community College.
• Christopher Wallace, a 6'3 junior guard/forward from Jackson, Miss.  Wallace, who was a Wingfield High School standout during his high school career, will join the Bulldogs as a transfer from Henderson State University.  
• Ronald Ulmer-Kelly, a 6'6 junior forward from Maplewood, Minn.  Ulmer-Kelly will join the Bulldogs as a transfer from Century College.
• DeAndre Scott, a 6'3 senior guard from Yazoo City, Miss.  Scott will join the Bulldogs as a transfer from Southern Arkansas University.
• Mark Smith, a 6'7 junior forward from Memphis, Tenn.  Smith will join the Bulldogs as a transfer from Midsouth Community College.

These signees will join returning players Quintarius Porter, Andravious Smith, and Jarmell Anderson.  The Bulldogs will start their 2015-2016 season on the road November 3rd at William Carey University.

TOUGALOO BULLDOGS 2015-16 MEN'S BASKETBALL SIGNEES

Name	Yr.	Pos.	Ht.	Hometown	Previous School
Gregory Lee	Jr.	G	6-0	Jackson, Miss.	Hinds Community College
Denevian Tremaine Cunningham	Jr.	F	6-5	Southaven, Miss.	Hinds Community College
Christopher Wallace	Jr.	G	6-3	Jackson, Miss.	Henderson State University
Ronald Ulmer-Kelly	Jr.	G/F	6-6	Maplewood, Minn.	Century College
DeAndre Scott	Sr.	G	6-3	Yazoo City, Miss.	Southern Arkansas University
Mark Smith	Jr.	F	6-7	Memphis, Tenn.	Midsouth Community College

COURTESY GULF COAST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE MEDIA RELATIONS

Florida A&M Camp Report Weekly Wrap

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The Florida A&M Rattler football team finished a full week of activities feeling like it was a solid week of work. Dodging the inclement weather that plagued the team all week, head coach Alex Wood altered the schedule to make sure that the team could get in all the necessary practice time.

The Rattlers will hold a Saturday practice at 10:30 a.m. on tomorrow. Wood and his staff will look to see where the team is in it’s retention of the new offensive and defensive schemes that have been implemented since the Spring.

COUNTDOWN

The Rattlers are now just three weeks away from kickoff of the 2015 season. The season opens on Sept. 5, in Tampa, Fla. at Raymond James Stadium, as the Rattlers take on the Bulls of USF. The Rattlers were routed 70-17 the last time out against the Bulls, but look to put together a much better outing this time around. The USF game starts a three game road sweep, with the Rattlers traveling to Birmingham, Ala., on Sept 12, to face the Samford Bulldogs and Orangeburg, S.C. on Sept. 17, to face MEAC rival South Carolina State on a game to be broadcasted on ESPN. The Rattlers open their home slate on Sept. 26, in the Hall of Fame game against the “Big Blue” Tigers of Tennessee State.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

DEFENSE:

Akil Blount – Blount led the Rattlers in tackles last season. He has good physicality from the linebacker position. Voted to the 2015 MEAC Preseason All-MEAC team, Blount is expected to dominate from his position.

Kashawn Butler – Butler is one of the most underrated players on the Rattler squad. He showed flashes of his intensity last season, which was a breakout one for him. His energy in the Spring and in the Summer indicates that he could be ready to have a great season from the linebacker post.

OL/DL:

Mateo Kambui – The quiet leader on the offensive line, Kambui had a solid season last year at center. With quick hands and feet, Kambui is a dependable center both with the quarterback under center and in the shotgun.

Michael Lovejoy – Battling injuries last season, Michael Lovejoy wasn’t able to realize his full impact, but with a successful Spring and a healthy offseason, look for Lovejoy to impose his frame on offensive linemen and wreak havoc in the backfield.

OFFENSE:

Gerald Hearns – Running back Gerald Hearns took over the running back spot as a true freshman. With tough competition in the backfield this season, he looks to improve on last season. Behind a veteran offensive line, Hearns should be able to improve on his rushing stats, while providing a sure pair of hands out of the backfield.

Brandon Norwood – As a freshman, Norwood came in and anchored the receiving corps with his crisp routes and sure hands. Adding a few more pounds of muscle should serve Norwood well as the talented group of receivers on the offense look to have an explosive season.

FAN DAY

Come out and meet the Rattler players and coaching staff on Aug. 22. At Fan Day. The event starts at 2 p.m. and there will be posters and other collectibles for fans. The FAMU Ticket office will also be open, just in case you haven’t picked up your season tickets as of yet. There will be a photo booth and all types of activities for the whole family.

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Southern passing game has big scrimmage

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- Southern’s preseason camp ended the same way last season started: with the Jaguars cooling their heels while waiting to hit the football field.

Last season, they were stranded on the team bus while university officials sorted through which players would have to be left behind for the opener at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette because they lacked proper academic certification.

Saturday morning, the players waited 90 minutes for the buses that would transport them to the Louisiana Leadership Institute for the camp-closing scrimmage.

“It was a little joke in the locker room,” linebacker Demetrius Carter said with a laugh. “But it was nothing, just a little adversity. We’re used to it.”

A missed communication was cleared up, the buses arrived, and Southern’s 90-play scrimmage got under way at 10 a.m.

Photos: Fans mingle with players at Southern University's Fall Fan Fest Saturday

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