SAU Women's Track and Field Wins Top USTFCCCA National Academic Honor

The Lady Falcons Took Care Of Business On The Track, The Field And In The Classroom In 2017-18

RALEIGH, North Carolina – Saint Augustine's University was named the NCAA Division II Women's Scholar Team of the Year for the 2017-18 outdoor track and field season by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) on Thursday.

The academic award is given to the men's and women's teams who places high at the NCAA DII Indoor and Outdoor Championships and has at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA). The Lady Falcons, who posted a 3.26 GPA, were national runner-ups at the 2018 DII Outdoor Championships in May. Their GPA is the best among the four DII schools – two men's and two women squads - who earned Scholar Team of the Year honors.

In addition to the team award, SAU collected seven USTFCCCA All-Academic individual honors. The award winners were Leah Barker (Sr./St. Michaels, Barbados), Amanda Crawford (So./Brooklyn, NY), Shakera Hall (Sr./Bridgetown, Barbados) and Magaly Tshipopo (Sr./Orleans, France) on the women's team and Najair Jackson (Fr./Spanish Town, Jamaica), Jamarc Steele (Fr./Charlotte, NC) and Justin Williams (Jr./Long Island, NY) on the men's squad.

To be eligible for the academic honor, an individual must have at least a 3.25 cumulative GPA and eitherqualified provisionally or automatically for the NCAA DII Indoor or Outdoor Championships. A total of 713 student-athletes – 308 men and 405 women – garnered All-Academic status.

To see the entire list of All-Academic honorees, go to ustfccca.org.

COURTESY: SAINT AUGUSTINE'S UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Trifonov Selected To Lead Lady Saints Volleyball

LIBERAL, Kansas – Following a national search, the Seward County athletic department has announced the hiring of Tony Trifonov to become the eighth head coach for the Lady Saints volleyball program.

“I am extremely grateful and feel very honored to be selected as the next head volleyball coach at Seward County Community College,” said Trifonov. “I would like to thank President Trzaska, Director of Athletics Roy Allen and the members of the search committee for this opportunity. I am looking forward to arriving on campus, meeting the team and the Liberal community, and of course, hit the ground running.”

Trifonov comes to Seward following a twenty-one-year stint with NCAA Division I Florida A&M University. Over his twenty-one-year career with the Rattlers, Trifonov accumulated a 378-218 overall record, while going a stunning 206-10 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, winning the MEAC nineteen times. From 2001-2008, the Rattlers won 112 consecutive conference matches, the third longest streak in NCAA history.

“We are extremely fortunate to have someone with Tony’s experience and success lead our volleyball program into the future,” said Director of Athletics Roy Allen. “To be able to bring someone to Seward County that has won 19 Conference Championships in 21 years at the Division I level has instantly bolstered the strength of our athletic team. Tony is passionate about his players and his program and will continue to elevate Lady Saints on the national stage.”

Trifonov has shown development of players on the court, producing 45 First-Team MEAC All-Conference selections, seven MEAC Players of the Year, four Rookies of the Year, two NCAA All-Americans and an Olympian. As a coach, he was awarded the MEAC Coach of the Year on six separate occasions.

CONTINUE READING

Appelt joins XU sports medicine staff

NEW ORLEANS — Rebecca Appelt has joined the Xavier University of Louisiana sports medicine staff as an athletic trainer. She will work primarily with XULA teams in volleyball, women's basketball and men's and women's track and field, plus the spirit groups.
     
The XULA athletic trainers are part of the partnership between XULA Athletics and Ochsner Health System's sports medicine division. XULA's other athletic trainer is Mark Armour, a member of the staff since July 2015.
     
Appelt received a bachelor of science degree in athletic training from Southeastern Louisiana University, where she was a student trainer for four years and worked with the men's basketball program as a senior. Appelt received a master of education degree from Northwestern Oklahoma State University with an emphasis on adult education/educational leadership. She was a graduate trainer there and worked with men's basketball and volleyball.
     
"I am beyond thankful to the coaches and administrative staff who afforded me the opportunity to become part of the sports medicine team at Xavier University," Appelt said. "I am excited to con
tribute to the success of the athletic programs and work with the coaches and athletes."
     
Appelt's certifications are ATC (certified athletic trainer) through the National Athletic Trainers' As
sociation, of which she is a member, and Louisiana Licensed Athletic Trainer.
     
"We are excited to welcome Rebecca to the Xavier Athletics family and Team Gold," said Director of Athletics & Recreation Jason Horn. "We believe Rebecca will be a great addition to the administrative team. Her prior experiences have prepared her very well for this opportunity to provide high quality sports medicine care for our student-athletes."
     
XULA teams compete in the NAIA as a member of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference.

Ed Cassiere, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications
XULAgold.com
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA 
twitter.com/xulagold
www.facebook.com/xulagold 

XULA's Pao, Chikhaoui, Niculescu are ITA Scholar-Athletes

NEW ORLEANS — For the fourth consecutive year, Xavier University of Louisiana has produced Intercollegiate Tennis Association Scholar-Athletes on its women's and men's teams. Earning that honor for 2017-18 were Yi Chen Pao of the Gold Nuggets and Samir Chikhaoui and Gabriel Niculescu of the Gold Rush. The ITA announced the awards Tuesday.
    
 ITA Scholar-Athletes must be varsity letterwinners and have a 3.50 GPA for the most recent academic year.
     
Pao, from Taichung City, Taiwan, was an XULA sophomore this past season. Chikhaoui was a sophomore from Lille, France, and in his first year at XULA after transferring from two-year Eastern Florida State College. Niculescu was a junior from Bucharest, Romania, and in his first XULA season after transferring from NCAA Division I Troy.
     
Niculescu was an ITA Scholar-Athlete in 2015-16 while at DI Chicago State.
     
"I am proud of what Yi Chen, Samir and Gabe have accomplished this year on and off the court," said Director of Tennis Alan Green, who coaches XULA's women's and men's teams. "They have put in the work to earn positions on the team, and it's incredible for them to maintain high grades at a school like Xavier. I can't speak highly enough of what an accomplishment this is."
     
During Green's 15 seasons as coach, eight women earned a collective 10 ITA Scholar-Athlete awards, and seven men received the honor a combined eight times.
     
Both XULA teams reached the semifinals of the NAIA National Championships in May. Both teams were No. 3 in the postseason coaches polls. Pao and Chikhaoui were All-Americans.

Ed Cassiere, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications
XULAgold.com
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA 
twitter.com/xulagold
www.facebook.com/xulagold 

DSU Names Eric Skeeters as New Head Men's Basketball Coach

DOVER, Delaware -- An assistant coach with the team that pulled off the biggest upset in the history of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament and Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference alum is the new head coach at Delaware State University.

DSU Director of Athletics Scott Gines has announced that Eric Skeeters, most recently an assistant at Maryland-Baltimore County (UMBC), has been appointed as the 13th head coach of the Hornets’ men’s basketball program. This is his first head coach position.

Prior to joining the Hornets, Skeeters served two seasons as an assistant under head coach Ryan Odom at UMBC from 2016-to-2018.

Last March, the Retrievers shocked the college basketball world and ruined millions of brackets with a historic 74-54 win over top-ranked Virginia, the first-ever win by a No. 16 seed against a No. 1 seed in 136 all-time NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament match-ups.

UMBC’s 2017-18 season was also highlighted by the second America East Tournament championship in team history and a school-record 25 wins (25-11).

“Eric Skeeters stood out among an outstanding group of candidates for head coach of the Delaware State men’s basketball team,” said Gines. "He’s a 21-year Division I assistant who has contributed to successful programs in highly competitive conferences, including the MEAC. During his career, Skeeters has played a key role in helping to rebuild programs, while serving on staffs that engineered two of the biggest upsets in NCAA Tournament history.”

According to Gines, Skeeters has the experience and leadership attributes the DSU men’s basketball program needs at this time, besides being a good fit for the school.

“Eric will resonate with our current players, community, and alumni. They will love his energy, drive, and devotion. He is well positioned to lead our men’s basketball team,” said the new Delaware State AD.

From 2013 to 2016, Skeeters was an assistant coach at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., and the previous four years he was a member of the University of South Florida coaching staff. While at South Florida, he helped lead the Bulls to their first NCAA Tournament bid in 20 years. USF made the most of its 2012 Big Dance appearance, defeating California and Temple before falling to Ohio in the round of 32.

Skeeters’ coaching career also includes a six-year stint at Towson University (Md.), in addition to assistant positions at Virginia Tech, Youngstown State, and his alma mater, Coppin State, also a member of the MEAC.

He was a young assistant coach for the 1996-97 Coppin State team that pulled a post-season upset of the University of South Carolina, marking the second victory by a No. 15 seed over a No. 2 in NCAA Tournament history.

"Delaware State University is a unique opportunity and I look forward to putting together a staff and team that will enable us to create something special,” said Skeeters. “As a MEAC grad, my goal from day one will be to recruit, coach and develop champions on the court, in the classroom and in the community."

Skeeters added, “My journey around the game of basketball has taught me to surround yourself with great people that you believe in. My meetings with Director of Athletics Dr. Scott Gines, DSU President Dr. Wilma Mishoe and the committee made a huge impact in the decision process. I would like to personally thank Dr. Mishoe & Dr. Gines for this opportunity because I was thoroughly impressed with their vision for DSU, the athletics department and our program."

Skeeters was awarded a bachelor's in management science from Coppin State in 1997. He and wife Marie have two sons, Evan and Miles.

What others are saying about Eric Skeeters

“I couldn’t be happier for Delaware State, Eric Skeeters and his family. Eric has worked extremely hard during his coaching career for an opportunity like is being presented at Delaware State. Coach Skeeters was a vital part of our historic run at UMBC this past season. I have seen first-hand the impact that he had on our players in helping them reach both their academic and athletic goals. Delaware State is getting an excellent coach, a proven motivator, an excellent recruiter and a guy who will excel in every aspect of the job.”
Ryan Odom, UMBC Head Men’s Basketball Coach

“Eric Skeeters is highly respected in the college basketball community. He has contributed a great deal at each stop in his coaching career, and brings impressive credentials as a teacher, leader and competitor to Delaware State. “Skeets” has an infectious personality that will win over his players and the university community. I’m excited for Eric and his family, along with the future of the Delaware State basketball program.”
Seth Greenberg, Former Virginia Tech Head Coach and current ESPN College Basketball Analyst

“I’ve known Eric Skeeters since our time together at Towson University. He’s a genuine guy who epitomizes all that’s good in coaching. Delaware State is getting a knowledgeable, successful coach who brings out the best in his players, on and off the court. Eric has earned this opportunity through hard work and doing things the right way. Congratulations to Delaware State on a great hire.”
Dr. James Clement, President Clemson University

“Eric Skeeters is an outstanding hire at Delaware State University. He is a talented, student-athlete focused individual who will lead the Hornet program with integrity, detail and discipline. Eric has always done things the right way as an assistant coach and I have no doubt that he is ready for this tremendous opportunity. I wish Coach Skeeters, his family and the University all the best. Congratulations!”
Dan Leibovitz, Associate Commissioner Southeastern Conference

“Eric and I go back to our coaching days at George Mason University. He has learned from some of the best coaches in the college game, and made a name for himself through hard work and attention to detail. He’s an outstanding teacher, recruiter and student of the game. I have no doubt that Eric has what it takes to successfully lead the Delaware State men’s basketball program.”
Paul Hewitt, NBA Scout (Los Angeles Clippers

DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

PVAMU Bookman Earns Gold Medal at FISU America Games

SAO PAULO, Brazil -- Deonca Bookman continues to represent the Lady Panthers, Prairie View A&M University, and Team USA as she captured the gold medal at the FISU America Games in the 400m hurdles.

Out of a field of nine athletes from Costa Rica, Brazil, Paraguay, Colombia, Chile and Argentina, Bookman posted the best time of 57.40 to cross the finish line first representing team USA in the 400m hurdles.

Bookman was also a part of 4x400m relay team, as USA placed third to receive the Bronze medal. This was the last of the events for the PVAMU Lady Panther this week.

Bookman will return home to finish her degree program in Kinesiology this August.

PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

PVAMU Hodge Signs NFL Free Agent Contract With L.A. Rams

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- Former Prairie View A&M University wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge has signed a free agent contract with the Los Angeles Rams.

Hodge, who spent part of the offseason with the team in May, officially signed with the team Tuesday and is slated to be on the field when the Rams have their first training camp practice Thursday at UC Irvine.



Hodge (6-2, 200; R-Sr., D'Lo Miss.) earned first-team All-SWAC honors, as well as Black College All-America accolades from both BOXTOROW and SBN/Power News Radio Network. Hodge was third in the SWAC in both receptions (48) and receiving yards (844), second in yards per catch (17.6) and first in touchdown receptions (12).

In his last seven games, he caught 39 passes for 746 yards and 11 touchdowns, posting three 100-yard receiving games and four multi-TD receiving games. Hodge broke Otis Taylor's 53-year old single-game receiving yards school record with 232 yards on eight receptions and three touchdowns vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Nov. 11. In his three-year career, Hodge caught 104 passes for 1,797 yards and 21 touchdowns.

PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

ASU's Williams named 2018 Administrator of the Year at the FCS level

JENNIFER LYNNE WILLIAMS
Courtesy: ALABAMA STATE ATHLETICS

MONTGOMERY, Alabama | Alabama State Interim Director of Athletics, Jennifer Lynne Williams, was chosen as the 2018 FCS Administrator of the Year by the Women Leaders in College Sports - the nation's premier women's athletic leadership association - as announced the Administrator of the Year Award and Nell Jackson Administrator of the Year Award recipients Tuesday afternoon.

"It's truly an honor to be recognized as Administrator of the Year, amongst all of the female administrators in collegiate athletics at the FCS level," Williams said. "This would not be possible without the support of my husband, Valdez Williams; President Ross, my staff, coaches, and student-athletes who continued to believe in my vision and trust in me during this last year at Alabama State University. I would not be in this position if not for all of them. I would also like to thank Patti Phillips and Women Leaders in College Sports for this wonderful recognition, and would like to congratulate all of the other winners at the various levels."

The recipients will be honored Tuesday, October 16 at the Jostens Administrator of the Year Luncheon at the 2018 Women Leaders National Convention in Atlanta—which will be emceed by Maria Taylor, college sports analyst and reporter for ESPN. Nominated by their peers and selected by the Women Leaders Awards Committee for their service during 2017-2018, Williams joins a list of seven other award winners that include: Maggie McKinley, Executive Senior Associate Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator, University of Cincinnati (NCAA Division I FBS), Dena Freeman-Patton, Deputy Athletics Director, California State University, Bakersfield (NCAA Division I), Carrie Michaels, Associate Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator, Shippensburg University (NCAA Division II), Stevie Baker-Watson, Associate Vice President for Campus Wellness & Theodore Katula Director of Athletics and Recreational Sports, DePauw University (NCAA Division III), Val Ackerman, Commissioner, Big East Conference (Association/Organization), Jill Jokerst-Harter, Director of Athletics, St. Louis College of Pharmacy (NAIA/NJCAA/CC) and Dr. Amy Wilson, Director of Inclusion, National Collegiate Athletic Association (Nell Jackson award winner).

"The commitment these women have to intercollegiate athletics and the advancement of women in our profession is unparalleled," says Patti Phillips, CEO of Women Leaders in College Sports. "Women Leaders in College Sports is honored to celebrate these extraordinary women at the National Convention in Atlanta—for their outstanding leadership and service, and for their tireless commitment to championing their student-athletes, colleagues, institutions, and conferences."

Williams was elevated to interim director of athletics at Alabama State University (ASU) in October 2017. Previously, she served as the Deputy Athletic Director for the Hornets for the 2016-17 academic year. In her first year as the Interim Director of Athletics, Williams was selected to the Division I Council and also serves on the Football Oversight Committee as part of her council duties. She also served as a panelists at the most recent NACDA Convention in our nation's capital. Under the guidance of Williams, Alabama State captured their fifth consecutive Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Commissioner's Cup by winning eight conference championships. The Hornets' program also captured five regular season conference (or divisional) championships, and had three teams finish as conference runner-up and another finish in the top four in postseason tournaments.

This past season Alabama State had 37 student-athletes recognized as all-conference, won multiple coach of the year awards and had a Google Cloud Academic All-America selection this season. Alabama State teams played 27 opponents across the board that qualified for the postseason, including eight teams who made the Elite Eight and three others who finished as national runner-up. Not only did Alabama State shine on the field, but they also did in the classroom as well as every team reached the threshold to be eligible for postseason play according to the NCAA APR results. Two of the teams scored a perfect 1000 - women's cross country and bowling - and three others scored 990 or better. The success continued off the field for the Hornets as several members of the department presented at national conventions, and members of the communications/creative services teams were honored nationally for the work.

The Hornet Club - the official fundraising arm of athletics - has seen significant growth and has secured our largest corporate sponsorship of the academic year, and tripling the donations received on 'Giving Tuesday' - our designated day of giving (compared to 2016). Meanwhile, the Hornet Sports Network to cover multiple sports in 2017-18, touching a little more than 54,000 listeners/viewers throughout the year. As the Deputy Director of Athletics, she managed the day-to-day operations of Hornet athletics and led the division's external and community relations initiatives. She currently serves on the Executive Board of the National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD).

"Our ASU family is extremely proud of Interim Athletic Director Jennifer Williams and this prestigious honor," Alabama State University President Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr. said. "Mrs. Williams epitomizes strong leadership and commitment to ASU's student athletes and intercollegiate sports."

The Administrator of the Year Award is presented to Women Leaders in College Sports members for significant contributions made as an administrator of intercollegiate athletics. This award, recognizing administrative excellence, is presented annually to members in each NCAA division: Division I, FBS, FCS, Division II, Division III, NAIA/NJCAA or Conference/Organization.

The Nell Jackson Administrator of the Year Award is presented annually to an athletics administrator who exemplifies the personal qualities and professional accomplishments of Dr. Nell Jackson. This award is given to an individual who demonstrates qualities such as courage, conviction, and perseverance, and who is an advocate for gender equity and diversity. This award honors athletics administrators who are NCAA/Women Leaders in College Sports Institute for Administrative Advancement graduates, and demonstrate vision and outstanding leadership.

Winners will be honored Tuesday, October 16 at the Jostens Administrator of the Year Luncheon at the 2018 Women Leaders National Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. The National Convention is the premier conference for women working in intercollegiate athletics, offering unparalleled leadership and professional development, industry training, and networking opportunities.

Follow the Hornets
For complete coverage of Alabama State University athletics, follow us on social media at @BamaStateSports (Twitter), /BamaStateSports (Facebook), and @BamaStateSports (Instagram) or visit the official home of Alabama State University athletics at BamaStateSports.com.

ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

Kennesaw State-Alabama State to air on ESPN+ in September

The game will mark the first time Alabama State will be featured on ESPN+

MONTGOMERY, Alabama | Alabama State will appear on ESPN+ for the first time in school history when they visit Kennesaw State September 15, with kick set for 5 pm (est).

ESPN+ is now the exclusive streaming home of Big South Network productions. A minimum of 900 Big South Network events will air annually on ESPN+, the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company's Direct-to-Consumer and International division in partnership with ESPN. It offers fans thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN's linear TV or digital networks. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year). ESPN+ is an integrated part of the completely redesigned ESPN App.

ESPN3 is ESPN's live multi-screen sports network, a destination that delivers thousands of exclusive sports events annually. It is accessible on computers, smartphones, tablets and connected devices through the ESPN App. The network is currently available nationwide at no additional cost to fans who receive their high-speed Internet connection or video subscription from an affiliated service provider. It is also available at no cost to U.S. college students and U.S.-based military personnel via computers, smartphones and tablets connected to on-campus educational and on-base military broadband and Wi-Fi networks.

Alabama State, who was picked to finish second in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) East Division and had six players chosen all-conference, opens the season at home against Tuskegee September 1 in the Labor Day Classic, with kick set for 5 pm. Season tickets and single game tickets are now sale for the 2018 season. The Hornets play four home games during the campaign with Jackson State, Texas Southern and Mississippi Valley State joining Tuskegee. Several options are available for fans this season, including a Young Alumni package and group rates. For more information, call (334) 229-4551 or visit BamaStateSports.com.

Follow the Hornets
For complete coverage of Alabama State University football, follow us on social media at @BamaStateFB (Twitter), /BamaStateSports (Facebook), and @BamaStateSports (Instagram) or visit the official home of Alabama State University athletics at BamaStateSports.com.

ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

Morgan State Varsity “M” Club, Inc. Announces 2018 Athletic Hall of Fame Class

BALTIMORE, Maryland – The Morgan State University Varsity "M" Club, Inc., has announced its 2018 Athletic Hall of Fame class of inductees. The distinguished six member class includes Elvis Franks (Footballl), Guy Goodwin (Track & Field), Monica Scott Haynes (Volleyball), Yarharbrough Roberts (Basketball), Jakaria Stewart (Volleyball), and Ethlyn Tate (Track & Field).

The Hall of Fame Committee will also recognize two teams as Team of Distinction Award honorees: the 1975 Morgan men's lacrosse team that recorded one of the greatest collegiate upsets by defeating #1 ranked Washington & Lee University, and was part of the first historically black college or university lacrosse programs in NCAA history; and the 1981 Morgan women's 4 x 220 yard relay track and field team which set two American records in 1980 and 1981.

The Varsity 'M" Club 2018 Athletic Hall of Fame banquet will be held on Friday, October 19, 2018, at 6:00 PM at the Morgan State University Student Center's Calvin and Tina Tyler Ballroom. Banquet tickets are $60 per person and can be purchased online at www.morganstatevarsitymclub.com.

Here's a quick look at Varsity "M" Club, Inc. Athletic Hall of Fame 2018 Class:



Elvis Franks, Football, (1976 – 1979)
A two time All-MEAC performer at defensive end and a 1979 Pittsburgh Courier All-American selection, Franks set and still holds the school records for most tackles in a season (147) and in a career (348).

Guy Goodwin, Track & Field (1980 – 1984)
Goodwin was the NCAA Division II 400m champion and ran the anchor leg for the NCAA Division II champion 4x400m relay team for Morgan. A six time All-American selection, Goodwin helped set eleven school relay team records, three of which still stand today.

Monica Scott Haynes, Volleyball (1995 – 1998)
The MEAC's 1995 MEAC Rookie of the Year, Haynes was a two time All-MEAC first team selection and standout performer for the Lady Bears' volleyball program finishing her career as the all-time leader in career assists (currently in second place) and third all time in career digs (currently in tenth place).

Yarharbrough Roberts, Basketball (1979 – 1983)
Roberts had an outstanding career at Morgan, finishing third on the all-time scoring list with 1,820 points and fifth on the career scoring average list (18.6 ppg). The 1983 Baltimore Sun College All-State team honoree also led the Bears in scoring three consecutive seasons (1980-83) and rebounding for two consecutive seasons (1979-81) while the Bears were not affiliated with an athletic conference.

Jakaria Stewart, Volleyball (1994 – 1997)
A two time All-MEAC first team selection and the 1997 MEAC Tournament Outstanding Performer, Stewart had a record setting career as a Lady Bear finishing her career first on the all-time career digs list (currently second) and second on the all-time career kills list (currently fifth).

Ethlyn Tate, Track & Field (1986 – 1990)
A six time Division I All-American performer for the Bears' track & field program, Tate was a three-time MEAC champion for individual events (100m and 200m races) and ran the anchor leg for the record breaking 4x100m Penn Relay and College Women Championship of America relay teams.

MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

Albany State Women's Soccer to join Peach Belt as Associate Member

Golden Rams Will Be The First Associate Member in Women’s Soccer

ALBANY, Georgia -- The Peach Belt Conference will welcome Albany State University as an associate member in women's soccer beginning in the fall of 2019.

"We're thrilled to welcome Albany State as an associate member," said commissioner David Brunk from the league office in Augusta. "Athletics Director Sherie Cornish Gordon and head coach Alexandria Pickrell have done an outstanding job of creating a program that will be a good fit for our conference."

Albany State is a member of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) but the league does not sponsor women's soccer. Peach Belt Conference women's soccer is among the best in all of NCAA Division II. In 2017, three different PBC teams were ranked among the top 25 during the season and the league sent three teams to the NCAA Tournament. PBC women's soccer teams have won the NCAA Southeast Region in five of the last seven years; Columbus State has reached the NCAA final four in two of the last three years including an appearance in the 2015 national championship game.

"We are ecstatic to join the Peach Belt Conference as an associate member," says Athletics Director Sherie Gordon. "It has been a strategic priority since the fall of 2016 to identify a home for the women's soccer program. Our goal is to provide great opportunities for our athletic teams to compete for conference championships and joining the PBC strategically positions our women's soccer team with a great opportunity. We look forward to working with Commissioner Brunk, his staff, and the fellow institutions of the PBC."

ASU head coach Alex Pickrell, who played collegiate soccer at West Florida, was a part of two UWF team that competed at the 2012 and 2013 National Championships hosted by the Peach Belt. West Florida won the national title in 2012.

"On behalf of our student-athletes and staff, we are very excited and honored to join the Peach Belt Conference," states Pickrell who will be entering her second season at the helm of the ASU program. "The PBC is an outstanding conference with a tradition of excellence in soccer that the Golden Rams are proud to become a part of. We are excited and would like to thank Commissioner Brunk and our Athletics Director Sherie Gordon for their support of the women's soccer program at ASU."

As a full NCAA Division II member institution, the Albany State women's soccer team will immediately eligible to receive the NCAA automatic bid, given to the tournament champion. The Golden Rams will play a full conference schedule in the fall of 2019; ASU student-athletes will be eligible for all conference honors and awards.

Albany State is now one of twelve schools playing women's soccer in the Peach Belt. Albany State added women's soccer as a sport last season (2017-18) and will be one of four institutions that holds an associate membership in the Conference. Embry-Riddle, Nova Southeastern, Florida Institute of Technology are associate members in men's and women's track and field.

Albany State faced three members of the Peach Belt during their inaugural campaign last season, Clayton State, Georgia College and Young Harris College.

The Peach Belt Conference enters its second quarter-century as one of the premier leagues in NCAA Division II. The league is home to 36 national championships and 28 national finalists. The conference currently holds championships in 15 sports, seven for men and eight for women. They are men's and women's cross country, men's and women's soccer, volleyball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's tennis, baseball, softball, men's and women's golf and men's and women's track and field.

ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

George L. Bright Named ECSU’s New Athletic Director

ELIZABETH CITY, North Carolina -- Elizabeth City State University has a new Athletic Director. According to an announcement made by ECSU Interim Chancellor Dr. Karrie Dixon, George L. Bright will lead the Viking athletic department starting July 31.

“I look forward to the future of our athletic program with George at the helm. He is a proven leader who is forward thinking and brings with him the right tools to fortify our program,” said Dixon.

Bright was most recently Director of Athletics and Recreation at Moravian College , in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania from 2015 to 2017. As director he developed, implemented, and supervised the administration of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) compliance, strategic planning, fundraising, and all aspects of the athletic program.

Prior to his role at Moravian College, Bright worked as the Associate Director of Athletics from 2001 to 2015, and Assistant Director of Athletics from 1993 to 2001, for Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania.

Bright is a member of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics, the Collegiate Athletics Business Management Association, and Minority Opportunity and Interests Committee for the NCAA. He has served on the board of directors for a number of community organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club and the Easton Area School District.

Bright holds a Bachelor of Arts in music performance from Claflin University; a Master of Arts in rehabilitation counseling from South Carolina State University; and is currently working on his doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania.

“It took a collective effort to successfully complete this search. We appreciate the search committee, the campus, and the university community for their participation in this process,” said Dixon.

AUTHOR: Robert Kelly-Goss, ECSU Media Commnications

FAMU Alumna, 30-year-old Mareena Robinson Snowden is the first black woman to earn a PhD in nuclear engineering from MIT

CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts  -- When Mareena Robinson Snowden walked across the commencement stage at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) on June 8th, she became the first black woman to earn a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from the storied university.

For her, there was one particular word that the experience brought to mind: grateful.

"Grateful for every part of this experience — highs and lows," she wrote on Instagram. "Every person who supported me and those who didn't. Grateful for a praying family, a husband who took on this challenge as his own, sisters who reminded me at every stage how powerful I am, friends who inspired me to fight harder. Grateful for the professors who fought for and against me. Every experience on this journey was necessary, and I'm better for it."

Snowden's Ph.D. was the culmination of 11 years of post-secondary study. But the 30-year-old tells CNBC Make It that a career in STEM wasn't something she dreamed of as a child.

"Engineering definitely was not something I had a passion for at a young age," she says. "I was quite the opposite. I think my earliest memories of math and science were definitely one of like nervousness and anxiety and just kind of an overall fear of the subject."

When Mareena Robinson Snowden walked across the commencement stage at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) on June 8th, she became the first black woman to earn a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from the storied university.

For her, there was one particular word that the experience brought to mind: grateful.

"Grateful for every part of this experience — highs and lows," she wrote on Instagram. "Every person who supported me and those who didn't. Grateful for a praying family, a husband who took on this challenge as his own, sisters who reminded me at every stage how powerful I am, friends who inspired me to fight harder. Grateful for the professors who fought for and against me. Every experience on this journey was necessary, and I'm better for it."

Snowden's Ph.D. was the culmination of 11 years of post-secondary study. But the 30-year-old tells CNBC Make It that a career in STEM wasn't something she dreamed of as a child.

"Engineering definitely was not something I had a passion for at a young age," she says. "I was quite the opposite. I think my earliest memories of math and science were definitely one of like nervousness and anxiety and just kind of an overall fear of the subject."

She credits her high school math and physics teachers with helping to expand her interests beyond English and history, subjects she loved.

"I had this idea that I wasn't good at math and they kind of helped to peel away that mindset," she explains. "They showed me that it's more of a growth situation, that you can develop an aptitude for this and you can develop a skill. It's just like a muscle, and you have to work for it."

When Snowden, who grew up in Miami, was in the 12th grade and studying physics, she and her dad were introduced to a friend of a friend who worked in the physics department at Florida A&M University. At the time, she says, she was considering colleges and decided to make a visit to the campus.

"We drove up there and it was amazing," says Snowden. "They treated me like a football player who was getting recruited. They took me to the scholarship office, and they didn't know anything about me at the time. All they knew was that I was a student who was open to the possibility of majoring in physics."

CONTINUE READING

Norfolk State Roberts Signs With Swedish Club BK Marbo

NORFOLK, Virginia – The next step in Kayla Roberts' basketball career figures to be a long one. At the end of August, Roberts will take a nearly 5,000-mile journey to Sweden, where she will begin her professional career with Mark Basket Marbo.

Also known as BK Marbo, the club is located in Kinna, Sweden – a town of roughly 15,000 people located in the southwest part of the country. BK Marbo competes in the Damligan, Sweden's domestic women's basketball league.

"I have to take that leap of faith because I am nervous about it," Roberts said. "I think it will be a good experience for me."



Roberts' path to Sweden began in late March, when she participated in a scouting combine at the 2018 Women's Final Four in Columbus, Ohio. Once she signed with an agent, it took three weeks to receive an offer from BK Marbo.

"I wanted to get in to a good league and make an immediate impact," Roberts said. "I wanted to get my foot in the door and work my way up."

The Miami, Florida native looked to her family for guidance before signing. Cleandra Roberts, a cousin who played professionally in Turkey for two seasons, read the contract before giving her approval to Roberts.

The 6-1 guard/forward has spoken with her new head coach, Joey Cafferky Jr., by phone. Cafferky Jr. was hired by BK Marbo in early June. The 29-year-old has an American father but has lived in Sweden his entire life.

Cafferky Jr. plans to play Roberts at multiple positions to create mismatches on the floor. In her four years at Norfolk State, Roberts showcased her versatility and ranks eighth in career points (1,398), third in total rebounds (985) and first in blocked shots (152). The three-time All-MEAC honoree averaged 14.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.0 assists last season while chipping in 47 steals and 42 blocks.

BK Marbo struggled last season, posting a 6-16 record and finishing ninth out of 10 teams. Roberts is no stranger to program rebuilds and believes she can use her experience to instill a winning culture. The Spartans started the 2015-16 season on a 16-game losing streak, prompting Larry Vickers to assume head coaching responsibilities for the remaining 11 games. In Roberts' final two seasons, NSU went a combined 33-26.

Roberts realizes the difficulties of playing professional basketball while relocating to another country but vows to persevere. She sees herself playing for at least five more years.

"I really don't want a regular job," Roberts said. "I want to play as long as my body will let me."

Roberts joins Siobhan Beslow as the only other Spartan currently playing professional basketball. Beslow completed last season with APOEL B.C. in Nicosia, Cyprus.

NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Hampton football welcomed to Big South for kickoff event

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina -- There were no all-conference selections and no mention in the preseason poll. All that will have to wait another year.

But Hampton University, one of the Big South Conference’s new members, had a real presence Tuesday at the league’s football media day event in Charlotte.

Hampton was the first of the conference’s eight football-playing schools to be grabbed by the ESPN crew for interviews. And several Big South coaches talked about the significance of having a school with Hampton’s history joining the league.



The Pirates’ new head football coach, Robert Prunty, took it all in with a smile.

“I’ll tell you what,” he said. “I can’t wait.”

Hampton will have to wait, however, as it doesn’t play a full Big South schedule in football until 2019. But Hampton faces three conference opponents this year, and the Pirates say they’ll use that as a cornerstone for the 2018 campaign.

“Even though we don’t have a full Big South schedule, we get to test ourselves against three conference teams,” said senior defensive back Chaka Diarrassouba.

CONTINUE READING

OVC Football Media Day Central

PHOTO GALLERY - By Sam Jordan 

Quotes from TSU's Ohio Valley Conference Football Media Day attendees

Head Coach Rod Reed“It’s been really exciting to be at Tennessee State University to try to carry on the legacy. Our next step is to try to win the Ohio Valley Conference Championship. We’ve done all but that at Tennessee State. We’re really excited about the challenge.”
- On entering his ninth season as TSU’s Head Coach

 “We play an HBCU schedule, and that’s our heritage. We wouldn’t have it any other way. It just works out this year that we’re going to play a bunch of road games. We’ve got to be road warriors. Our kids are up for the challenge. The lines are the same on all of those fields. You’ve just got to travel.”
- On playing six-consecutive road games

“We’re always going to be okay on defense. We’ve made some moves on defense to get some guys in. We’ve got a couple JUCO guys coming in on the defensive line. Mekhi Brown transferred in from Alabama. We feel pretty good about that position. Blair Edwards is a linebacker that played our ‘WIL’ last year. He’s back for his senior campaign. Also, Christion Abercrombie is a guy that we’re really high on. He transferred in from Illinois. He’s a kid out of Atlanta that we recruited out of high school. We’re excited about those guys. James Green was a kid that played as a freshman at the ‘SAM’ so he does have some experience at the linebacker spot. Terry Straughter is a kid out of Miami that got here, he was a spring enrollee that had a good spring. I think that one that could be a surprise is Jahsun Bryant out of Cane Ridge. We think he’s going to mature quickly. He definitely has the athletic ability to come in and play as a freshman. We just need to see how quick he can catch on to the defensive scheme.”
- On the defense

“It’s going to be a competition. Those guys battled all spring. I saw good things out of both of those guys. One of the good things is when you have two good players at a position, it brings the best out of them. Those guys are competing really hard. What I’ve seen from Mike (Hughes) this season is that he’s taking a more cerebral approach to the game. He’s studying a lot of film, and I think in addition to his talent, that will bode well for him. Demry (Croft) is a really athletic kid. He showed in the spring that he has a big arm just like Mike. It’s going to be great going into a season with multiple quarterbacks that are very capable of winning game for you.”
- On quarterbacks Micheal Hughes and Demry Croft

“We need to get the ball to (Steven Newbold) as much as possible. When Steve gets the ball in his hands, he makes plays. We will try to do that. We have some other weapons. Treon Harris is moving to receiver. Major Bellamy is a junior college kid from Georgia Military. He’s very explosive. DeVon Johnson, Chris Rowland – so we have some weapons and we need to use all of them.”
- On Steven Newbold and the receivers

 Steven Newbold

“I chose Tennessee State, because when I went there, I liked the energy. The coaches showed me a lot of love. I just liked the environment. I never thought that I’d be in Tennessee growing up. It’s pretty nice. I’d never seen snow before. I saw here, so it’s pretty cool.”
- On his decision to attend Tennessee State

“It’s a lot of fun, especially the John Merritt Classic. You never know who you’re going to play. The environment there, it’s just so exciting. Everyone’s coming out to have a good time and the game is good. It’s a really good atmosphere.”
- On playing in Classic Games

“There’s a big chip on our shoulder. To be picked number six, we’ve got a chip on our shoulder because we’ve got something to fight for.”
- On being selected sixth in the OVC preseason poll

“I’m a playmaker. I’ve been making plays since I was little. If you go look up any of my film, you’ll see me making plays. It’s nothing new.”
- On his big-play ability

“This summer I can see it. This team we have this year - we are one. We almost do everything together. I can tell that this year, we’ll be one team, one unit.”
- On how the team is coming together

 LaQuarius Cook

“Today has been fun. I’ve met a lot of people, and I’ve been introduced to a lot of new people. When you first step up for your first question, it’s a little nerve racking, but after a couple of questions, it was good.” 
- On how Media Day went

“That just comes with not being complacent. We need to always want more no matter how well we start the season, we have to always want more. We can’t settle for just a couple wins. Just keep on going up.”
- On finishing the season strong after a fast start

“Of course I’d love to get an OVC Championship before I leave. As a senior, I need to instill in our guys, finish. No matter what. We’ve lost some close games, and we just need to finish better. If we do that, we should be pretty good.”
- On what message he can give as a senior

TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

TSU Tigers Picked Sixth by OVC, Fourth by Media

NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- Tennessee State was picked to finish sixth in the Preseason Poll announced by the Ohio Valley Conference to begin Media Day on Monday. The Tigers are coming off a 6-5 season, 2-5 in conference play, and their fifth non-losing season in the past six seasons.

The Tigers fared better in the Media Poll, finishing fourth behind defending conference champion Jacksonville State, Austin Peay and UT Martin.

Junior wide receiver Steven Newbold, junior cornerback Dajour Nesbeth and sophomore safety Vincent Sellers were named to the Preseason All-Ohio Valley Conference team.

Newbold caught 34 passes for 627 yards and four touchdowns during his sophomore season. The receiver highlighted the season by being named player of the game at the Tampa Classic versus Florida A&M (9/17) after catching five passes for 117 yards, including an ESPN Top 10 – 44 yard touchdown where he eluded eight defenders.

Sellers had a stellar freshman season being named a 2017 HERO Sports FCS Freshman All-America Team Honorable Mention selection. Sellers also earned spots on the All-OVC Second Team and OVC All-Newcomer squad. The sophomore finished 15th in the STATS FCS Jerry Rice Award race after playing in all 11 games, starting 10, at safety. Sellers collected 49 tackles, 36 solo, 2.0 for loss, two interceptions, five pass breakups, a safety and a blocked punt. The Sarasota, Fla. product was named STATS Freshman Player of the Week (10/9) for his outing two pick-six performance at Eastern Kentucky.

Nesbeth started all 11 games at cornerback, picking off two passes, breaking up nine passes and made 48 stops. The junior collected 33 solo tackles and 1.5 for loss. Nesbeth secured the win in the season opener over FBS opponent Georgia State with an interception in the final minute of the game.

The Tigers open camp on Saturday, Aug. 3, in preparation for the season opener on Sept. 1 against Bethune-Cookman in the John Merritt Classic.

2018 OVC Preseason Football Predicted Order of Finish

1. Jacksonville State (14 first-place votes) 126

2. Austin Peay (4) 112

3. UT Martin 95

4. Eastern Illinois 73

5. Eastern Kentucky 69

6. Tennessee State 64

7. Southeast Missouri 62

8. Murray State 24

9. Tennessee Tech 23

Preseason Offensive Player of the Year: Marquis Terry (RB), Southeast Missouri
Preseason Defensive Player of the Year: Marlon Bridges (DB), Jacksonville State

OFFENSE
QB Jeremiah Oatsvall, Austin Peay, So.
RB Marquis Terry, Southeast Missouri, Sr.
RB Ladarius Galloway, UT Martin, Sr.
WR Alexander Hollins, Eastern Illinois, Sr.
WR Steven Newbold, Tennessee State, Jr.
TE Dan Paul, Eastern Kentucky, Sr.
C Tyler Scozzaro, Jacksonville State, Sr.
OG B.J. Autry, Jacksonville State, Sr.
OG Ryan Rockensuess, Austin Peay, Sr.
OG Darius Anderson, Jacksonville State, Jr.
OT Drew Forbes, Southeast Missouri, Sr.
OT Kyle Anderton, Austin Peay, Sr.

DEFENSE
DL Randy Robinson, Jacksonville State, Sr.
DL Jaison Williams, Austin Peay, Jr.
DL Aaron Patrick, Eastern Kentucky, R-Jr.
DL Kenney Wooten, Murray State, Sr.
DL Tim Collins, Tennessee Tech, Sr.
LB Zach Hall, Southeast Missouri, Jr.
LB James Gilleylen, UT Martin, Sr.
LB Gunnar Scholato, Austin Peay Sr.
DB Vincent Sellers, Tennessee State, So.
DB Marlon Bridges, Jacksonville State, Jr.
DB Mark Williams, Eastern Illinois, So.
DB Dajour Nesbeth, Tennessee State, So.

SPECIALISTS
K Cade Stinnett, Jacksonville State, Sr.
K Gabriel Vicente, Murray State, Jr.
P Nick Madonia, Tennessee Tech, Sr.
RS LJ Scott, Eastern Kentucky, Sr.
RS Peyton Logan, UT Martin, So.

2018 Media OVC Preseason Football Predicted Order of Finish

1. Jacksonville State (14 first-place votes) - 134 points
2. Austin Peay (1) - 114
3. UT Martin - 96
4. Tennessee State - 91
5. Eastern Illinois - 83
6. Eastern Kentucky - 64
7. Murray State - 39
8. Southeast Missouri - 35
9. Tennessee Tech – 19

TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS

TEAMING UP FOR NAMING RIGHTS: SIAC, with OVG, looks to sell deal across venues at conference schools

ATLANTA, Georgia -- The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference has signed a deal with Oak View Group to sell naming rights for sports facilities across the league’s 14 schools, which will include Savannah State after it joins the conference in 2019.

The strategy is to combine all assets among the members’ football, basketball and other sports venues into one comprehensive naming-rights package to bring greater value to the Division II league, said Dan Shell, head of OVG Collegiate, the division of the company working with the conference. (OVG also owns VenuesNow).

The SIAC, a 105-year-old organization whose headquarters are in Atlanta, represents the largest group of historically black colleges and universities in the country. The 14 schools cover major markets such as Atlanta, Birmingham and Nashville, among other Southeast cities.

In addition to Savannah State, conference schools are Albany State, Benedict College, Central State University, Clark Atlanta University, Fort Valley State, Kentucky State, Lane College, LeMoyne-Owen College, Miles College, Morehouse College, Paine College, Spring Hill College and Tuskegee University. Clark Atlanta and Morehouse are both Atlanta-based institutions.

The deal falls in line with other leaguewide sponsorships that the conference has signed over the past 10 years to generate incremental revenue and boost its exposure, Commissioner Greg Moore said.

CONTINUE READING

Auburn opponent early scouting report: Alabama State

Alabama State

Game date & time: Jordan-Hare Stadium, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. CT on SEC Network Alternate

2017 record: (5-6, 4-3 SWAC)

Coach: Donald Hill-Eley, first year (5-1 as interim)

Betting line: N/A

Returning starters: 10 offense, 9 defense, 2 specialists

Most important returning players: QB Daryl Person Jr., RB George Golden, OT Tytus Howard, DL Christian Clark, LB Darron Johnson, CB Jeffrey Hill

Most critical departures: WR Willis White, CB Ronnie Scot

Alabama State story lines:

• Hill-Eley's first full season
  Donald Hill-Eley turned ASU's season around last year and while this is his fourth season with the Hornets it's his first full year as head coach.
• First time everThis will be Alabama State's first ever game at Auburn. Notable as that is, health is just as important for Alabama State as it is for Auburn in this game. The Hornets are trying to compete in the SWAC and getting beat up by an SEC team does nothing to help accomplish the team's goals.

CONTINUE READING

UAPB faces crucial decision in AD hunt

Dr. LAURENCE B. ALEXANDER
Chancellor, UAPB

PINE BLUFF, Arkansas -- Laurence Alexander should be the happiest person in the state right now.

Alexander is the chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and as the search for a new athletic director heads home, there is a lot of interest in who will be named.

Apathy is never a good thing. Interest and caring are.

Granted, Alexander and UAPB have not put out a lot of information about the search, so it is likely more people would have been interested in a decision that affects the future of the school.

These days, for whatever reason, chancellors want to control searches in areas where they have no expertise.

Alexander is a brilliant man with a strong academic background. He has a master's degree in journalism from the University of Florida, so he should know the importance of transparency; a Ph.D. in higher education from Florida State; and a law degree -- he is a licensed attorney in Louisiana -- from Tulane.

That is a powerful academic background.

But that doesn't always translate into good athletic decision-making.

CONTINUE READING