Alabama State considered ‘no joke’ among power programs

TALLAHASSEE, Florida — Alabama State knows exactly what mixed emotions felt like Saturday afternoon.

The Hornets left Dick Howser Stadium on Saturday afternoon with the disappointment of a 0-2 performance in the program’s first NCAA regional appearance but also knowing they’ll likely be back as soon as next year.

The message has been changed from the players in their dugout and in the opposing dugout as well: This isn’t the same Alabama State baseball anybody is familiar with anymore.

“The future is bright,” Alabama State head coach Mervyl Melendez said after Saturday’s 6-3 loss to South Alabama. "We have a lot of freshmen that stepped up and they weren't intimidated. They have a good mindset."

ASU’s lineup Saturday consisted of six players guaranteed to return and three juniors who will have the option to return after the draft is completed next weekend.

“I was doing everything I could for the team,” Alabama State pitcher Angel Alicea said Saturday after a 120-pitch no-decision.



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Jackson State Tigers Look To Build On "Contract" 2015-16 Season

JACKSON, Mississippi -- Wayne Brent knew he was under the gun last season. The third-year Jackson State coach had led the Tigers to consecutive 11-win seasons and was working under a contract set to expire at season’s end. But this wasn’t something he shied away from.

"You come into a situation and you have three years on a contract and you start counting," Brent told Jackson’s WJTV12 in March. "Year one, 11-20. Year two, 11-21. You come back your third year and you say okay, if this is going to work, we’re going to have to win. That was something we talked about and I thought our guys responded well to the adverse situation we were placed in."

That pressure may have played a role in a 20-win season that featured the Tigers first postseason victory since 1993. After losing to Southern 54-53 in the SWAC tournament final, Jackson State beat Sam Houston State in the first round of the CIT before bowing out to Grand Canyon on the road. The 20 wins were the program’s most since 2006-07, and represented just the fourth 20-win season since 1977.

Unsurprisingly, Brent was rewarded with a contract extension shortly after the season. He not only has job security going into next year, but also a roster talented and experienced enough to challenge for a SWAC title.

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BCU Diamoncats' Season Ends With 12-3 Georgia Tech Loss

GAINESVILLE, Florida -- Bethune-Cookman’s 15th NCAA Regional appearance ended with a 12-3 loss to Georgia Tech Saturday afternoon at McKethan Stadium at the University of Florida.

Demetrius Sims posted two hits and Nathan Bond drove in two runs for the Wildcats, who erased a 3-0 deficit to manage a 3-3 tie on Michael Cruz’s RBI single in the fourth.

Georgia Tech regained the lead with a three-run fifth, and the Yellow Jacket pitchers would limit the Wildcats to two base runners over the final five innings to remain alive in the double-elimination tournament.

A six-run ninth, highlighted a three-run Tristen English three-run homer, pushed Georgia Tech’s lead to 12-3.

After Georgia Tech took an early 3-0, B-CU came back with two runs in the third. Cruz walked, Danny Rodriguez singled and Bond stroked a two-out double to right.

The Wildcats used a two-out rally in the fourth to tie it with Rakeem Quinn, Sims and Cruz hitting consecutive singles.

Alex Seibold, who had relieved German Hernandez and got the Wildcats out of a third-inning jam and had a solid 1-2-3 fourth, finally gave up a run after three consecutive scoreless relief appearances, including the 1-0 victory over Norfolk State in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tournament final.

Jameel Edney also had a hit for the Wildcats. Ivan Coutinho had two scoreless innings of relief before getting reached for two runs in the ninth.

Bethune-Cookman finishes the season 29-27.

Follow Bethune-Cookman Athletics on Facebook (www.facebook.com/BCUathletics), Twitter (www.twitter.com/BCUDiamondCats) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/BCUBaseball) for all of the latest news and updates. Fans also receive timely information, including special offers and giveaways throughout the year, via the social media outlets or www.BCUathletics.com.

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ASU Historic Baseball Season Ends With Loss To South Alabama In NCAA Tournament

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The Alabama State baseball team saw its historic championship season come to an end with a 6-3 loss to South Alabama in an NCAA Tournament elimination game Saturday in the Tallahassee Regional.

The Hornets, who won their first SWAC Championship in legendary fashion in going unbeaten in 28 games against conference opponents in setting a school record for wins (38-17), got home runs from Eriq White and Ray Hernandez, but it was not enough to withstand a late-game rally by South Alabama (41-21).

White's 2-run homer to left field in the second inning, his third of the season, came on the first pitch of the at-bat and scored Hunter Allen for a 2-0 lead.

Leading 2-1 in the fourth, Hernandez hit an 0-2 pitch over the wall in left to give the Hornets a 3-1 lead. It was his 16th homer of the season, adding to his school-record total.

However, Alabama State would not score again. South Alabama chipped away at its deficit, adding single runs in the fourth and seventh to tie the game at 3-3. The Jaguars scored three runs in the eighth to take their first and only lead of the game.

Angel Alicea pitched seven innings for the Hornets, allowing 10 hits and three runs, walking three and striking out five on a career-high 120 pitches.

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COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

HU's Holloway has already made history, but he wants more

HAMPTON, Virginia — Hampton University track coach Maurice Pierce hadn't considered the possibility until someone brought it up. But it's true: Senior Trey Holloway became the Pirates' first male athlete to qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in four consecutive years.

Holloway, who will be competing in the 110-meter hurdles, is proud of that. But he wants more.

"It wasn't my ultimate goal, but I'm proud to accomplish that by going all four years and making it to the national championships," Holloway said. "I've been taking the best opportunity I have with Coach P and making the best of my training. My main goal is to go ahead and get a national title for the school. The last one hasn't been since Francena (McCorory)."

McCorory won the 400 meters (indoor and outdoor) in 2010. HU's only other national champion was Yvette Lewis, now an assistant coach with the Pirates.



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SAU's Ellis, Jr., Williams Win NCAA Division II National Track Athlete, Coach of the Year Honors

RALEIGH, North Carolina -- Standout sprinter Burkheart Ellis, Jr. (Sr./Raleigh, NC) of Saint Augustine's University was named NCAA Division II National Men's Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year and legendary Head Coach George Williams of Saint Augustine's University was chosen NCAA Division II National Men's Outdoor Track and Field Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) on Thursday, June 2, 2016.

Ellis led the Falcons to their fourth consecutive men's outdoor national crown this past weekend. He won the national title in the 200 dash, placed second in the 100 dash and was part of the national champion 4x100 relay squad. Ellis posted the seventh-best 200 time (20.46) and seventh-fastest 100 time (10.17) in Division II history at the 2016 NCAA Outdoor Championships. During the regular season, Ellis ranked first in the 200 with a time of 20.36, which is third-fastest in Division II history.

This is the second national honor for Ellis in two days. On Wednesday, the Saint Augustine's University graduate won the High Point Scorer Award for scoring the most men's points at the outdoor championship meet (20.5). Last week, he was named Atlantic Region Men's Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year.

Williams won his fourth straight USTFCCCA national coaching honor and fifth in seven years after guiding the Falcons to their 15th men's outdoor national title. Williams has captured 18 national coaching honors (men and women, indoor and outdoor combined) since the USTFCCCA first handed out the awards in 1994.

The Falcons scored all their points on the final day to rout co-runner-ups Tiffin University and Texas A&M University-Kingsville 85-36. Saint Augustine's University nearly won the women's team title as well, falling by one point 52-51 to national champion Pittsburg State University. In April, the Falcons claimed their 19th straight CIAA men's title by outscoring Virginia Union University 203-139.83.

Saint Augustine's University has won 38 NCAA national track and field titl
es under Williams. He has won the most NCAA track and field championships of any collegiate coach.

COURTESY SAINT AUGUSTINE'S UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

from THE EDITOR Dwight Floyd: Summation of Life & Leadership of FAMU's Presidents, Series Part 6 [1944-1949]:

DWIGHT FLOYD
the EDITOR

About the Series

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- William H. Gray Jr. was born in 1911 to Reverend William H. and Mary Smith Gray. In 1933 he received a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Bluefield State College and in 1934 a Master’s Degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He worked seven years as Professor of Education, Principal of the Demonstration Schools, and Field Director of Extension Services at Southern University. In 1942 he received a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. Education and experience in hand, Gray was later appointed President of the Florida Normal and Industrial College, a private Baptist college in St. Augustine (now Florida Memorial).

It did not take the Board of Control long after J.R.E. Lee’s death to select Gray as FAMC’s next president. Beside impressing the Board during his interview, Gray received support from the prominent Doak S. Campbell, President of Florida State University and D. E. Williams, Supervisor of Negro Education. At 33 years of age there was concern over whether Gray would be mature enough to maintain the role. After a brief background check Gray was appointed at a salary of $4,600.00 a year. Gray was successful in expanding the fiscal boundaries of the college and laying ground for important physical plant expansion. He resigned amid a financial scandal that he was cleared of to take a position he considered to be a higher calling.

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VSU Renews Coach Blow's Contract Through 2021

ETTRICK, Virginia -- Virginia State University is proud to announce that Trojans' head men's basketball coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. has signed an extended contract with the University and will remain as head coach through 2021.

Coach Blow joined the VSU Trojan family in 2013. During his three seasons as head coach, he led VSU to an overall record of 56-24 and extended his career coaching record to 118-54. Under Blow's leadership, the Trojans finished the 2015-2016 season as the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Northern Co-Divisional Champions and clinched the 2016 CIAA Basketball Tournament Title. "Coach Blow is a true leader for our men's team," said VSU President, Dr. Makola Abdullah. "Not only does he motivate them to excel on the court, but in the classroom as well. We are excited that he will remain an integral part of our Trojan family."

Blow's superb coaching skills during the regular season led to him being named the "2016 CIAA Men's Basketball Coach of the Year" and "2016 Mid-Major Coach of the Year." The Trojans advanced to the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Playoffs, progressing to the second round. Before falling short to West Liberty University in the semifinals of the NCAA Playoffs, the Trojans went on their longest winning streak of the season with eight consecutive wins. "It is an honor to remain a member of the Trojan family," says Coach Lonnie Blow. "I am excited about the future of our program and look forward to continuing the legacy that we have begun here."

"Virginia State University is fortunate to have a head men's basketball coach of the caliber of Lonnie Blow, Jr.," says VSU Director of Athletics Peggy Davis. "His leadership ability, coaching style, and all around commitment to our student-athletes' academic success makes him the right fit for Virginia State University. We are proud that Coach Blow has made the commitment to continue to lead our men's basketball team."

For more information on VSU Trojans men's basketball, follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports, or call 804-524-5030.

COURTESY VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Anita Howard Tabbed to Lead Columbus State Lady Cougars

COLUMBUS, Georgia  –  Columbus State University Director of Athletics Todd Reeser introduced Anita Howard as the next head coach of the Lady Cougar basketball program at a press conference Friday morning.

Howard becomes the third head coach in program history, following Jonathan Norton and Jay Sparks.

"I am pleased to attract a rising star in the basketball coaching profession inAnita Howard to lead our highly successful women's basketball program," CSU Director of Athletics Todd Reeser said. "Anita brings a passion for people and coaching, and her proven ability to recruit and develop young women for success, on and off the court, makes her the perfect choice to lead our program forward.



"I could not be more excited for the future of Columbus State women's basketball."

Howard comes to Columbus State after a pair of winning seasons at NCAA Division II Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C. Howard guided the Lady Blue Bears to a 41-14 record achieving a top-five ranking for the first time in program history. In 2014-15, Howard led Livingstone to a 26-2 overall mark, including winning 23 consecutive games to set the longest winning streak in HBCU history.

"I am thrilled to be the new head coach of the Columbus State University women's basketball program," Howard said. "I have to thank God, my family, President Markwood and Todd Reeser for allowing me this outstanding opportunity. Columbus State has a long tradition of success and it is my goal to take that success to the next level.

"Columbus State has a great foundation that has been laid by my predecessors and I'm looking forward to the challenge of building upon their successes and leading the Lady Cougars to the ultimate goal of a national championship."

Before Livingstone, Howard coached at Division III Salem College in Winston-Salem, N.C. for two seasons. In her first season, Howard turned around Salem leading the Spirits to a 13-win improvement from the season prior and a 17-11 overall record. She was named the Great South Athletic Conference Coach of the Year for her efforts. Just a year later, Howard won Salem's first GSAC Championship with a 22-5 record sending the Spirits to their first ever NCAA Tournament appearance.

Overall, Howard's career coaching record is 79-30, a .724 winning percentage, in four seasons.

Prior to her head coaching stints, Howard was an assistant coach at Winston-Salem State University, Shaw University and Saint Augustine's University. She helped each program find success in her tenure.  At Shaw, Howard helped the Lady Bears to a CIAA Championship and a trip to the Division II Final Four in 2010-11. As the associate head coach at Saint Augustine's, the Lady Falcons became one of the top defensive teams in Division II while she also help to produce the 2012 CIAA Player of the Year. At her first coaching stop at Winston-Salem State, Howard helped the team transition into the Division I game ushering in a new era in their women's basketball history.

Howard was a stellar player herself in her collegiate days. She played three seasons from 1998-2001 at Fort Valley State willing FVSU to two Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference titles. She was named the SIAC's Defensive Player of the Year in all three seasons while also earning a spot on the Dean's List twice. Howard wrapped up her playing days at fellow Peach Belt Conference school Armstrong State where she continued her success. Howard helped the Pirates to their first ever PBC title in 2003 with a 27-3 record. She graduated from Armstrong Magna Cum Laude in 2003 with a bachelor's degree in fine arts design.

Following college, Howard began coaching at the high school and AAU level in Georgia. She took Savannah High School to the school's first state playoff appearance in 25 years. She served as the head coach of the Peach State Elite travel team, coaching several All-State players.

Howard was born in Montgomery, Ala. and is married to Theo Howard. They have three children – Jason, Thallan and Theo II.

What They're Saying

"Columbus State has found a winner in Anita Howard.  She brings a wealth of coaching experience to the table and I know she will continue to excel and raise the bar just as she has on every step of her head coaching journey leading up to this new position. Anita has a passion for the game, relates well to her student-athletes, and is a competitor.  I know she is excited to be back in her home state and I look forward to watching her do great things at Columbus State."
-Joni Taylor
University of Georgia Head Women's Basketball Coach

"Anita is a rising star in women's basketball! Her love and passion for the game is evident when you meet her! She is a great role model and a hardworking coach that will have an instant impact at Columbus State!"
-MaChelle Joseph
Georgia Tech Head Women's Basketball Coach

"Congratulations to Columbus State University for hiring Anita Howard as its new head women's basketball coach. I've observed unparalleled energy and passion in her leadership.  She is a true winner and a great person!"
-Dwight Howard (No Relation)
Eight-Time NBA All-Star

"Columbus State has made an excellent hire in Anita Howard. Anita prides herself on her faith, family, friendships and the future of the young women that she impacts on a daily basis. Anita is a player's coach! Her knowledge and passion for the game is contagious to all who come in contact with her. Anita is a proven winner and competitor. Her team will play with passion, discipline and a competitive spirit. She is a tireless worker who will continue the winning tradition at Columbus State while embarking on establishing an even bigger winning tradition of her own."
-Natasha Adair
Georgetown University Head Women's Basketball Coach

"I am very happy for Anita! She is a great coach looking to make a impact on the student-athlete on and off the court!"
-Josh Howard (No Relation)
Ten-year NBA Veteran

"Congratulations to both Columbus State and Anita Howard on Anita's recent appointment as Head Women's Basketball Coach.  I have enjoyed getting to know Anita over the last several years with her involvement in our summer camps.  She is a fabulous teacher and a rising star full of energy and enthusiasm for this game we all love.  The swift turn-around she led at Salem College was remarkable and I am sure the Cougars will benefit from the guidance of this bright young coach immediately."
-Jen Hoover
Wake Forest University Head Women's Basketball Coach

"I applaud Columbus State for finding and recognizing what a wonderful coach, mentor, and person Anita Howard is. She has helped Livingstone reach amazing milestones and I know she will do an outstanding job leading the women's basketball team at Columbus State. You have secured a proven winner and rising star in our profession!"
-Jackie Carson
Furman University Head Women's Basketball Coach

"Anita Howard is the consummate professional. She is definitely a rising star in the women's game. Her passion translates into creating a winning culture both on and off the court. I'm excited to see her footprint on the program at Columbus State. You have a true winner on your hands!"
-Charlotte Smith
Elon University Head Women's Basketball Coach

"I am excited to learn of Coach Howard's hiring as head basketball coach.  Her energy and passion should positively impact Columbus State for years to come."
-Matt Doherty
Former Division I Head Coach and current NBA Scout

COURTESY COLUMBUS STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Miami Hurricanes 2016 Schedule Preview: Florida A&M Rattlers

MIAMI, Florida -- As part of the dwindling offseason, SOTU will preview each game on the Canes' schedule. During the season there will be much more in-depth previews the week before each game, but these will serve to get you ready for what is to come. Enjoy!

The 2016 Miami Hurricanes football season will start as many do for Power 5 teams: by playing and FCS school. This year, the Canes schedule gets started with a team who has been the early season matchup several times in recent years, when the Florida A&M Rattler visit a renovated Sun Life Stadium on September 3rd.

Still Rebuiding

Once a pillar of HBCU football, FAMU has fallen on hard times recently.

The Rattlers have not appeared in the FCS playoffs since 2001, and that streak probably will not be broken in 2016. Coming off a 1-10 season in 2015, the Rattlers are simply trying to become a mediocre team in the 2016 season.

Now, to be fair, the Rattlers played several close games in 2015, losing to Tennessee St 24-14, Savannah State 37-27, North Carolina Central 27-24, and Morgan State 21-7. The above listed team are okay to poor at the FCS level, and FAMU played them close but couldn't win.

Maybe the Rattlers start winning a few of those games in this and future years, but they're quite a way from being the kind of team who can compete with Miami for more than maybe a quarter.

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Alabama State Hornets Lose NCAA Tournament Opener To Florida State

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The 2016 SWAC Champion Alabama State baseball team lost its NCAA Tournament opening game to Florida State 18-6 Friday night at Dick Howser Stadium.
 
The Hornets (38-16) will face South Alabama (40-21) in an 11 a.m. CT elimination game Saturday with a live radio broadcast on bamastatesports.com/showcase and a live video stream on ESPN3.com.
 
Florida State (38-20) took advantage of three first-inning errors by Alabama State to take a 7-0 lead.
 
Trailing 10-1 after four innings, the Hornets rallied in the seventh. Ray Hernandez led off with a single. With two outs, pinch hitter Hunter Allen singled to left field, scoring Hernandez. Yamil Pagan then doubled to left center, scoring Allen. Diandre Amion then homered on a 3-2 pitch to right field, cutting the ASU deficit to 10-6.
 
However, two seventh-inning Alabama State errors contributed to seven Florida State runs.
 
Hernandez, Dillon Cooper, and Chris Biocic each had two hits for the Hornets, who will face South Alabama for the third time this season. The Jaguars won 4-3 in 10 innings in Mobile on Feb. 24, while Alabama State won 12-7 in Montgomery on April 5.

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Florida offense pounces early in NCAA baseball region victory over Bethune-Cookman

GAINESVILLE, Florida — Former Plant High standout Peter Alonso hit two home runs in his first game since returning from a broken hand as host and top national seed Florida beat Bethune-Cookman 9-3 Friday in the first day of the NCAA baseball tournament's Gainesville Region.

Alonso hadn't played since May 13, when a bone in his left hand was broken by a 95 mph fastball from Vanderbilt's Jordan Sheffield. On Friday, Alonso delivered a two-run homer in the first inning and a solo shot in the fourth, giving him 11 on the season. He also singled in the eighth.

UF ace Logan Shore (11-0) allowed two earned runs in 61/3 innings. Tyler Norris surrendered six runs, four earned, in 22/3 for the Wildcats, the MEAC tournament champion.

The Gators (48-13), who improved to 31-0 all time against Bethune-Cookman, face Connecticut today at 6 p.m. in the winner's bracket of the double-elimination region. UConn, the No. 3 seed and American Athletic Conference tournament champion, defeated Georgia Tech 7-6. Bethune-Cookman (29-26) faces the Yellow Jackets today at noon in an elimination game.



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SC State Women''s Basketball Adds Three More For 2016-17 Season

ORANGEBURG, South Carolina – South Carolina State head women's basketball coach Doug Robertson announced Friday the signing of three more student-athletes who will play for the Lady Bulldogs in the upcoming season.

Robertson welcomes five-foot-nine forward Schekinah Bimpa (Kinshasa, Congo/Loganville HS (Ga.)), 5-4 point guard Bryeasha Blair (Chicago, Ill./University of Central Florida), and 5-9 guard Chantel Williams (Charlotte, N.C./Mallard Creek HS).

Bimpa averaged 13.4 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.3 steal per game as a senior last season at Loganville High School in Loganville, Ga. She helped the Red Devils to a 21-9 overall record during the 2015-16 season and a 12-2 mark in regional play.



"Schekinah is a tough inside player who can score the ball, crash the boards and create turnovers", Robertson said.

Blair played two seasons at the University of Central Florida and graduated with a bachelor's degree in interpersonal communications in May 2015. She will work towards an MBA at SC State and will have two years of eligibility with the Lady Bulldogs. Prior to UCF, she was a four-year player at Whitney Young High School in Chicago, Ill., leading her team to the 2008 Illinois State Championship and the Chicago City Championships in 2009 and 2010.

"Bryeasha has previous Division I playing experience that will help us tremendously at the point guard position", said Robertson.

Williams played in 28 games this past season as a senior at Mallard Creek High School in Charlotte, N.C. She averaged 11.9 points, seven assists, five rebounds and four steals per game while helping the Mavericks to a 26-2 overall record. As a sophomore, she tallied 14.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and two steals per game.

Williams Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/7140969/chantel-williams

"Chantel is a quick guard who will create scoring options for us", Robertson said.

Bimpa, Blair and Williams join 6-1 power forward Alexis Scott (Anderson, S.C./West Side HS) who signed during the early period. Scott helped the Lady Rams to an 18-5 overall record and an appearance in the 2015 SC HS Class AAAA playoffs during the 2014-15 season. Scott also led WHS to the Region 1-AAAA title while averaging 14.7 points and 12.7 rebounds per game in 2014-15.

Scott Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/4802227/highlights/244149376

"Alexis is great athlete we were fortunate to sign in the early period," Robertson said. "She will give our game an added dimension in the paint with her ability to score and defend the basket."

COURTESY SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

City of Houston makes offer to move SWAC headquarters here

HOUSTON, Texas -- The City of Houston has made an offer to the Southwestern Athletic Conference to move its headquarters from Birmingham, Ala. to Houston.

“We’re trying to move them here from Alabama and set them up in the city of Houston,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner in an interview with FOX 26 Sports.

“We have made an offer for them to consider, and they are taking a look at it. Hopefully, we can get them here.

The SWAC headquarters has been located in Birmingham, Alabama since 1999. Before that the conference headquarters was in New Orleans.

“If they accept our offer we have told them where they would be,” Turner said. “Their offices would be in the downtown area. We’ve given them a pretty good deal from a financial point of view, much, much better than where they are right now.”

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from THE EDITOR Dwight Floyd: From football coach to acting president

SUMMATION OF LIFE & LEADERSHIP OF FAMU’S PRESIDENTS, SERIES PART 5: JUBIE B. BRAGG, ACTING [1944]

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA -- Jubie B. Bragg was born in Twiggs County Georgia in 1876. He lived with his parents in Macon, Georgia from 1881 to 1886. For that period his parents taught him how to spell simple words. He expanded his vocabulary by using a Webster’s Blue-Book Speller. He attended school on a limited basis until 1886 when at the age of only 10 years old both parents died within ten days apart.

He lived in different places and took on odd jobs that didn’t make much money. He tried to stay afresh of the things he had learned. At twelve years of age he went to live with his uncle and further developed a work ethic on his uncle’s farm. Two months of the year he attended school. After three years he returned to his home town of Macon, Georgia. Later on he was encouraged by young men who had attended Tuskegee Institute in Alabama to consider going to school there, Bragg discussed the idea of furthering his education with family members. He was discouraged from attending Tuskegee because the family members felt strongly his current education would suffice. Acting against the will of family members Bragg entered Tuskegee Institute on September 11, 1893.

Bragg had no money for tuition or living expenses and relied on the school providing work to pay expenses. He attended night school and eventually chose wheelwrighting as his primary study. He would also take academic courses. As each year progressed he was successfully promoted. About his initial experience in educational leadership J. B. Bragg writes:

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Holt Joins ASU Women's Basketball Coaching Staff

MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- Alabama State head coach Freda Freeman-Jackson most definitely has done some changing to her back-to-back championship team, by adding a little more expertise to her coaching staff with bringing in veteran coach Dexter Holt as a new assistant.

Holt just completed his fifth season as an assistant men's basketball coach at Alabama A&M University and his 16th season overall as a full-time assistant coach with the Bulldogs. He has more than 20 years of collegiate coaching experience with Alabama A&M - 11 seasons with women's basketball and 11 seasons with the men's team in some capacity.

"I am excited with the hiring of Dexter," said Freeman-Jackson. "I have been observing him as a coach for so many years when he was with the women's team over at Alabama A&M. He's a class act he had an opportunity once he left with the women's team to join us, but he decided to stay at AAMU and join the men's team as an assistant coach and that's where I got him from. Dexter had been with the men's team for about five years and I have been watching his professionalism, especially when he's on the road recruiting. He knows his job and I think he will fit right in the scheme of things of what we are doing as far as our quest to continue to win championships here at Alabama State."

Holt is no stranger to the SWAC as his bio reads. He began his career in 1993 on then-men's Head Coach Vann Pettaway's staff as a student assistant. Those teams won three consecutive regional championships and went to three consecutive NCAA Elite Eight appearances (1993-1996).

"One thing I know for sure is that Coach Holt is already accustomed to the SWAC and winning," Freeman-Jackson said. "With him coming from a sister school this will be an easy transition for him as well as for us."

In 2000, then-Alabama A&M women's Head Coach Press Parham sought the up-and-coming young coach to become part of his coaching staff as a full-time assistant. Holt went on to become the top assistant for Parham's final two seasons.

Holt was so dedicated to the university that, in 2002, under a new head coach that she decided to keep him on her staff as her top assistant. Their personalities fit well and the program flourished under their leadership as the team finished .500 or better six out of nine seasons, including several top five SWAC finishes.

During his coaching career with the women's team, Holt recruited and developed many All-SWAC performers as well as two SWAC Players of the Year. Some of those players were guards and they led the SWAC in scoring three consecutive years (2009, 2010, and 2011). Holt is well-respected throughout the Southeast as being a great recruiter. He recruited several state Players of the Year and several under-the-radar players who developed into All-SWAC performers.

"Between Coach Harris (Associate Head Coach of ASU women's team) and Dexter I know that we will be brining in some top notch guards," said Freeman-Jackson. "That's one thing that I am most impressed with about Dexter, when he was at AAMU they have always had great guards and I feel like in the next couple of years that we will have much better guards in place. He can really recruit some guards and I feel like he's a great hire for us."

Athletically, Holt was a standout outside shooter in his playing days at Lee High School in Huntsville, AL, under legendary Head Coach Jerry Dugan and at Snead State Community College where he played for Gid Riddle and Craig Roden. After leaving Snead, Holt decided to work on his dream of coaching so he came back to his hometown, received his degree in 1996 at AAMU and then joined the staff. Holt has always been a person who will go out of his way to help other programs at the university, such as football, volleyball etc.

Dexter and Tabatha, his wife of 17 years, are the proud parents of Diamond Samoan and Dexter Jr. "DJ".

"I am very excited about joining the Lady Hornets it's an easy transition for me coming from Alabama A&M," said Holt. "Of course everyone knows about the rivalry, but this is an awesome experience as well as opportunity for me as a coach and my family."

"I look forward to being part of Coach Freeman-Jackson's staff. I have admired her from a far for a while and I am excited to be working with her and the other members of the staff. She has been around the SWAC for some time and her winning mind-set is one of the reasons why I am here.

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Margaret Richards Named Women's Head Basketball Coach at Alabama A&M

MARGARET RICHARDS

NORMAL, Alabama -- Alabama A&M Director of Athletics, Bryan Hicks, has announced the hiring of Margaret Richards as the Lady Bulldogs head women's basketball coach.

"We are excited to have Margaret Richards as our new Head Women's Basketball Coach. Margaret is a rising star in women's basketball," said Hicks. "Her leadership skills, and her enthusiastic approach to the game of women's basketball will serve our program well. She is recognized as an excellent, relentless and proven recruiter, and we are glad to have her leading our women's basketball program."

Richards comes to The Hill after one season at Clemson. Prior to that, she was head coach at St. Augustine College (2008-10); assistant coach at North Texas (2010-11); assistant coach at Weber State (2011-12); and assistant coach at Western Kentucky (2012-15).

"I would like to first thank God for this wonderful opportunity. I would also like to thank President Dr. Andrew Hugine and Athletic Director Bryan Hicks for selecting me to lead their women's basketball program," said Richards. "I'm truly looking forward to being a part of the Bulldog family and community. This is such an amazing honor and opportunity and I plan to put in the work, time and energy to enhance the program on the court and in the classroom."

While at Western Kentucky, Richards helped guide the Hilltoppers to two NCAA Tournament appearances, two Conference USA tournament titles and one conference regular-season title. WKU won 20-plus games all three seasons she was there, including a 30-5 record in 2014-15. At St. Augustine, the team won the CIAA Western Division title in 2010.

She was a four-year letter-winner at the University of Nebraska and ranked among the nation's top 25 scorers in her senior season. Richards received her degree in communication studies from Nebraska in 2003.

A native of Louisville, Ky., Richards was an all-state honoree at Louisville Central High School, averaging 35.5 points per game as a senior.

A press conference/meet and greet will be held Monday, June 6 at 11 am in the Clyde Foster Multi-Purpose Room in the school of business on the campus of Alabama A&M University.

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Big Success = Big Upgrades For Florida A&M Baseball

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- College baseball teams kick off Regional play this weekend, but for Florida A&M, the season came to a close when they fell in the MEAC Tournament.

This year was no slouch for the Rattlers, as they boasted their best finish in regular season MEAC play ever, and because of their success, the future is looking even better.

"Athletics are the window a lot of people see a University through, and that window's looking pretty good right now," said head coach Jamey Shouppe.

That window to Moore-Kittles field hasn't looked better, as big success translates to big support, which means the Rattlers are getting some much needed updates. Those updates range from from special seating for boosters, to a locker room, and Shouppe has bigger ideas in the works.

"We're hoping to put a grandstand in, have a covered place that people can actually buy a season ticket," he said. "We're hoping to get a new scoreboard up. One thing we've said from day one is the money that's contributed to FAMU baseball is not my money, it's not the coaches money, but it's money that we'll use to upgrade these facilities."

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B-CU And FAMU Selected as the 2016 All-Sports Award Winners

NAPLES, Florida – Bethune-Cookman University swept both the Mary McLeod Bethune and Talmadge Layman Hill awards, announced at a special dinner ceremony during the annual Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) summer meetings at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida. The sweep was the first time a single institution has swept at least a share of both awards since Hampton in 2004.

Bethune-Cookman won its third consecutive Talmadge Layman Hill Men’s Award, while the Wildcats shared the Mary McLeod Bethune Women’s Award with Florida A&M. For B-CU, it was the first time the Maroon and Gold has ever won the Mary McLeod Bethune Women’s Award in school history.

“What a tremendous moment for our program,” expressed Lynn. W. Thompson, B-CU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. “These awards validate the shared vision and commitment of our university and the great work of every student-athlete, coach and administrator.”

The All-Sports Award are indicators of the overall strengths of the conference’s men’s and women’s athletic programs. Each institution was presented with a $20,000 check during a reception at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida on Wednesday evening.

“I would like to congratulate Bethune-Cookman University including President Dr. Edison Jackson, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Lynn Thompson, and the administrators, coaches, student-athletes and support staff for winning the 2016 Talmadge Layman Hill Award and sharing the Mary McLeod Bethune Women’s All-Sports Award,” said MEAC Commissioner Dr. Dennis E. Thomas.

“I also extend congratulations to Florida A&M University and President Dr. Elmira Mangum, Director of Athletics Milton Overton and all of the outstanding individuals including staff, coaches and student-athletes who were involved in the women’s programs sharing the Mary McLeod Bethune Award.”

Coaches present at the awards ceremony from Bethune-Cookman was head football coach Terry Sims, head women’s basketball coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis, and director of track & field Donald Cooper. B-CU Associate Athletic Directors Sandra Booker and Robert “Tony” O’Neal were also present, alongside Assistant Athletic Director Reginald Thomas and Faculty Athletics Representative Carla Lester.

Bethune-Cookman and Florida A&M totaled 92.8 points to share top honors in the All-Sports tally. The Rattlers won conference titles in Cross Country and Outdoor Track and Field, while the Wildcats had top finishes in Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis and Softball.

North Carolina A&T State took third place with 86 points to edge out Hampton University with 85.5 who finished fourth and Maryland Eastern Shore took fifth with 77.5 points.

On the men’s side Bethune-Cookman continues to strengthen its programs, totaling 94.6 points for its third straight overall All-Sports trophy. The Wildcats earned a share of the football title and finished first in Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field along with a second place finish in Golf.

North Carolina A&T State took second on the men’s side with 74.3 points to edge out Norfolk State who was third with 74 points. Hampton finished fourth (70) and North Carolina Central (62.3) rounded out the top five finishers.

Points are awarded in a descending order beginning with 14 points for champions or first place regular season finishes. The second place team receives 12 points. Tied teams split the point total.

“The Wildcats Nation should be proud of this history-making accomplishment,” continued Thompson.

The Mary McLeod Bethune and Talmadge Layman Hill Awards

The Mary McLeod Bethune Award, named after the founder of Bethune-Cookman College, awards the top overall women’s athletic program during the course of one full academic year. The first Mary McLeod Bethune award was giving in 1987 to Delaware State University. Hampton leads all MEAC schools with 14 Women’s Awards. The men’s All-Sports Award is named after the late Talmadge Layman Hill, a former player and coach at Morgan State, and former Chairman of the MEAC Steering and Planning Committee, as well as the conference’s first President. Howard University was the recipient of the first Talmadge Layman Hill Award in 1972. South Carolina State holds the men’s record with 11 awards from 1973-84.

Follow Bethune-Cookman Athletics on Facebook (www.facebook.com/BCUathletics), Twitter (www.twitter.com/BCUathletics) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/BCUathletics) for all of the latest news and updates. Fans also receive timely information, including special offers and giveaways throughout the year, via the social media outlets or www.BCUathletics.com.

COURTESY BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

FAMU's Rudy Hubbard and MVSU's Vincent Brown lead HBCU stars on 2017 ballot for College Football Hall of Fame

COACH RUDY HUBBARD (Aug. 24, 1984) WITH FAMU FOOTBALL PLAYER
Courtesy:  Deborah Thomas Collection

IRVING, Texas – The National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame announced today the names on the 2017 ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, including 75 players and six coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision and 95 players and 29 coaches from the divisional ranks.

“It’s an enormous honor to just be on the ballot when you think that more than 5.12 million people have played college football,” said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell. “The Hall’s requirement of being a First-Team All-American creates a much smaller pool of only 1,500 individuals who are even eligible to be on the ballot, so being in today’s elite group means an individual is truly among the greatest to ever have played the game, and we are proud to announce their names. We look forward to announcing the 2017 Hall of Fame Class on the Friday before the College Football Playoff National Championship in Tampa.”

The ballot was emailed this week to the more than 12,000 NFF members and current Hall of Famers whose votes will be tabulated and submitted to the NFF’s Honors Courts, which deliberate and select the class. The FBS Honors Court, chaired by NFF Board Member and College Football Hall of Famer Archie Griffin from Ohio State, and the Divisional Honors Court, chaired by former Marshall head coach, longtime athletics director and NFF Board Member Jack Lengyel, include an elite and geographically diverse pool of athletic administrators, Hall of Famers and members of the media.

“Having a ballot and a voice in the selection of the inductees is one of the most cherished NFF member benefits,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning, a 1989 Hall of Fame inductee from Mississippi. “There is no group more knowledgeable or passionate about college football than our membership, and the tradition of the ballot helps us engage them in the lofty responsibility of selecting those who have reached the pinnacle of achievement in our sport.”



The announcement of the 2017 Class will be made Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, in Tampa, Fla. The city is serving as the host for the CFP National Championship, which will be played Jan. 9 at Raymond James Stadium. Some of the inductees will be on site at the press conference to represent the class and share their thoughts on the announcement. The Jan. 6 announcement will be televised live, and specific viewing information will be available as the date draws near. Inductees will also participate in the pregame festivities and the coin toss on Jan. 9.

Coach Rudy Hubbard, who led Florida A&M to Division I-AA national championships in 1977 and 1978, was named to the ballot for the second straight year.  When Hubbard is inducted in the Hall, he will join Rattlers legends -- Coach Jake Gaither (1975), Tyrone McGriff (1996), Willie Galimore (1999) and Coach Billy Joe (2007) in college football immortality.

It is strange that Black College Football Hall of Fame and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Bob Hayes is not on the short list for enshrinement in the College Football Hall of Fame.  Hayes is one of the greatest athletes ever from Florida A&M and is the only man to win both an Olympic gold medal and a Super Bowl.

A coach becomes eligible three full seasons after retirement or immediately following retirement provided he is at least 70 years of age. Active coaches become eligible at 75 years of age. He must have been a head coach for a minimum of 10 years and coached at least 100 games with a .600 winning percentage.

Listed on the ballot are the following coaches and players that made their hall of fame mark on the gridiron at Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU):

Rudy Hubbard-Florida A&M (1974-85)-Captured back-to-back national championships, 1977 and 1978, including the inaugural NCAA Division I-AA National Title in 1978…Led A&M to back-to-back SIAC championships.

Joe Taylor-Howard (1983), Virginia Union (1984-91), Hampton (1992-07), Florida A&M (2008-12)-Winningest coach in Hampton history (74%), leading Pirates to four Black College National Championships…Led teams to 10 conference titles and 10 playoff appearances throughout career…Four-time MEAC Coach of the Year.

Dwight Reed-Lincoln (Mo.) (1949-71)-Teams won three conference titles…Coached 93 All-Americans in four sports…The football stadium at Lincoln University was named for him.

Vincent Brown, Mississippi Valley State-Linebacker-1987 First Team All-American, leading the NCAA in tackles in 1986 and 1987…Set NCAA All-Divisions record with 570 career tackles…Three-time All-SWAC selection who led MVSU in tackles his last three seasons.

Parnell Dickinson, Mississippi Valley State-Quarterback-1975 First Team All-American and Pittsburgh Courier National Player of the Year…Four-time All-SWAC selection and conference Player of the Year as a senior…Finished career as SWAC’s all-time leader in total offense (7,442 yards).

Billy Thompson, Maryland Eastern Shore-Defensive Back-1968 First Team All-America selection…Four-year letterman, who was named team MVP as a senior…Three-time CIAA All-Conference selection…1984 UMES Hall of Fame inductee.

William Dillon, Virginia Union-Free Safety-Three-time First Team All-America selection (1980-82)…Tallied 16 interceptions in 1983…1983 Black College Player of the Year…Two-time First Team All-Conference selection and Player of the Year (1981-82).

About The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame
Founded in 1947 with early leadership from General Douglas MacArthur, legendary Army coach Earl "Red" Blaik and immortal journalist Grantland Rice, The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame is a non-profit educational organization that runs programs designed to use the power of amateur football in developing scholarship, citizenship and athletic achievement in young people. With 120 chapters and 12,000 members nationwide, NFF programs include FootballMatters.org, the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, The William V. Campbell Trophy presented by Fidelity Investments, annual scholarships of more than $1.3 million and a series of initiatives to honor the legends of the past and inspire the leaders of the future. NFF corporate partners include Delta Air Lines, Fidelity Investments, Herff Jones, New York Athletic Club, Pasadena Tournament of Roses, PrimeSport, the Sports Business Journal and Under Armour. Learn more at www.footballfoundation.org.

Bruins earns XU's 6th NAIA Scholar award of 2015-16

NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana's Sha'Nel Bruins has been named a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete in women's tennis.

Bruins — a junior accounting major from Colfax, La., and a graduate of Grant High School — is among 107 from 53 schools in this sport to receive the NAIA honor this season. Bruins is the only representative from the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference or Louisiana.

To qualify for Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete, student-athletes are nominated by their institution, must maintain a minimum grade-point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved junior academic status.

Bruins is the fifth XU student-athlete of 2015-16 to be named NAIA Scholar-Athlete. The others were Brent Kitto — a double recipient in men's cross country and track and field — and Jodi Hill, Kayla Jones and Franziska Pirkl in women's volleyball. Sixteen student-athletes from eight XU sports have earned 30 NAIA Scholar-Athlete awards, all in the last 14 seasons. During the past two seasons, 10 from Xavier have received 17 of those awards.

Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
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from THE EDITOR Dwight Floyd: Summation of Life & Leadership of FAMU's Past Presidents, Series Part 4: J.R.E. Lee [1924-1944]

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- J.R.E. Lee was born in 1864 to John and Mary Lee in Sequin, Texas, prior to the end of the Civil War. John and Mary pinned their hopes on J.R.E getting a strong education. To that end he attended elementary school in Sequin and as a young adult became broadly educated. Lee was a brilliant student. At the age of 19 he entered Bishop College in Marshall, Texas as a second year student.

Two years later he was appointed Student Assistant to the Academic Faculty. In 1889 he became only the third person in the college’s 10-year history to receive an A.B. degree, graduating with high honors. Gaining valuable experience that would one day help him in his future role at FAMC, Lee taught for two years at a public school and thereafter was appointed Dean of Men and Professor of Latin and Mathematics at Bishop College.

In 1901 he accepted a teaching position at Tuskegee Institute and after serving two years he became the Professor of Mathematics at Benedict College. In 1805 he returned to Tuskegee and for the next ten years served as the Director of the Academic Department. From 1915 to 1921 he was principal of Lincoln High School in Kansas, City, Missouri. His final stop before coming to FAMC was as Extension Secretary of the National Urban League, a position he held from 1921 to 1924.

Lee was appointed to FAMC at the recommendation of Jackson T. Davis, Secretary of the General Education Board, a philanthropic organization established by John D. Rockefeller, Sr. Davis himself was a reputable individual who dedicated his life to the education and betterment of Africans in the African content and African Americans. He helped steer the Rockefeller Foundation and the Jeanes Foundation, both of which contributed millions toward educating blacks. He also helped to establish the United Negro College Fund.

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FAMU's "Marching 100" Celebrates 70 Years

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Florida A&M University's marching band reached a milestone Wednesday. "The Marching 100" celebrated its 70th anniversary.

The band also recently welcomed a new director.

Dr. Shelby Chipman says he's "blessed" to lead this group, which has been a hallmark at the university now for seven decades.

"The Marching 100" was founded on June 1, 1946, under the direction of Dr. William P. Foster.



The band grew over the years, making a number of national and international performances, including Super Bowl appearances and the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Chipman says his time marching with the band as a student was special.

"Those were great times," he said, "and I never thought being here as a young pup, trying out for 'The Marching 100' in 1982 would lend itself to me being in the position I am."

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10 most intriguing SWAC games of 2016

JACKSON, Mississippi -- Only three months stand between now and the start of the college football season for the SWAC.

Jackson State will be the first conference team to strap up the pads when it hits the road to face UNLV on Sept. 1.

With football season getting closer and closer, The Clarion-Ledger has decided to take a look at the 10 most intriguing SWAC conference games coming up this fall.

1. Alcorn State at Grambling, Sept. 24: Defending SWAC champion Alcorn State lost coach Jay Hopson, and conference runner-up Grambling lost quarterback Johnathan Williams, who was the conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2015. Despite the losses, these two programs will likely be projected to be in the SWAC title game in December, so this game could serve as an early preview.

2. Prairie View A&M vs. Grambling, at Dallas, Oct. 1: In terms of offensive fireworks, the State Fair Classic provided plenty when the Tigers beat the Panthers 70-54 last season. It could be more of the same this season if Prairie View A&M, which went 8-2 last season, finds a replacement for standout running back Johnta' Hebert.

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Seminoles should take ASU seriously

MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- Here’s the other side of Alabama State’s historic 28-0 SWAC championship run that led to a first-ever trip to the NCAA Tournament – 10-15.

That’s how the Hornets fared in their remaining 25 games this season.

So Florida State could look at that latter number and take ASU (38-15) lightly Friday, but that might not be a wise move for the top-seeded Seminoles (37-20) in the Tallahassee Regional.

Last season, ASU had Florida State down by two runs heading into bottom of the seventh inning before surrendering three runs in an 8-7 loss in Tallahassee. That’s even more reason for the Seminoles to take the Hornets seriously, but ASU suffered lopsided losses at Auburn this season.

The Tigers outscored ASU, 22-2, in the two games. Power 5 programs are expected to beat schools from smaller conferences, but Auburn won just 22 games this season. If ASU couldn’t hang with one of the SEC’s worst teams, the chances of it knocking off one of the ACC’s best teams aren’t good.

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