The "unofficial" meeting place for intelligent discussions of Divisions I and II Sports of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC).
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LANDIS, N.C. — Winston-Salem State's football program returns to its CIAA roots this fall, and South Rowan running back D'Andre Harris will be part of the excitement. Once Winston-Salem State found out D'Andre hadn't signed anywhere, he was an apple they were quick to grab," South coach Jason Rollins said. Harris had a tough recruiting experience. Rollins explained that North Carolina A&T offered a full ride pretty early. Harris — a productive back, solid citizen and strong student — wanted to wait to see what other options developed. Basically, that scholarship got pulled off the table and went elsewhere. It happens.
But what put Harris in a really difficult spot was that he appeared signed, sealed and delivered for A&T. Lots of schools had crossed him off their lists, and that helps explain why he was sort of a free agent longer than a player with his talent and transcript should've been. Fortunately, coaches still make the recruiting rounds in the spring. Sometimes they find a gem who finally made a decent SAT or ACT score after everyone had backed off. Sometimes they run across a player who got hurt and slipped through the cracks. Sometimes they discover a late-blooming lineman who's put on 30 pounds since football season ended.
Tuscaloosa, Ala. - - The Alabama softball team (49-9) opened NCAA postseason play with a convincing 9-0 victory over Alcorn State (24-25) Friday evening in game two of the Tuscaloosa Regional at the Alabama Softball Complex. With the win the Crimson Tide has run off 25 straight victories, tying the third longest winning streak in school history. “We talked about whoever we play, you play your best and respect the opponent by coming out and playing a great game,” UA head coach Pat Murphy said. “I think we did just that. Lauren Sewell did a really good job and Amanda Locke was awesome in the three batters she faced. We scored in every inning and that’s what we do.”
TUSCALOOSA | Alcorn State coach Kevin Montgomery figured his team's only chance against the University of Alabama softball team would be if the Crimson Tide took his Lady Braves lightly in the first round of the NCAA Tuscaloosa Regional. Fat chance. Alabama (49-9) needed less than an hour-and-a-quarter Friday to send Alcorn State (24-25) to the loser's bracket with a 9-0 victory, shortened to five innings by the mercy rule. The Crimson Tide, the No. 1 overall seed in the tournament, won for the 25th time in a row, extending the nation's longest winning streak.
“We talk about whoever we play — no matter the opponent, the situation, the site — you play your best and you respect the opponent by coming out and playing a great game,” Alabama coach Patrick Murphy said. “I think we did just that. “We scored in every inning. That's kind of like our … what we do. That's how we roll.” Alabama got rolling early against the Lady Braves, scoring two runs in the first inning and adding three in the second and three more in the third.
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Alcorn State will face the University of Alabama-Birmingham in an elimination game Saturday at 4 p.m.
Killen High School (Texas) Volleyball star Tiara McIver selected the GSU Lady Tigers over offers from Tarleton State, Texas Southern and Prairie View A&M. The 5-10/145 left-handed spiker plans to major in English/Language Arts Teacher Education.
After two months of waiting for a response — any response — Tiara McIver would've given Grambling State "another week or two weeks or so," the Killeen High senior, affectionately known as "Tree," said. McIver got the response she was looking for from Lady Tigers coach Kim Young. Then, the Lady Roos outside hitter received her invitation to visit the Grambling, La., campus and was finally offered her opportunity to play Division I volleyball, which she accepted Friday in the Killeen High School gymnasium by signing her national letter of intent.
"I thought she was going to e-mail the next day. I really did ... but she didn't," McIver said. "I would check my e-mail all the time, I asked my mom to check my e-mail all the time when I was in school. I thought she was going to contact me back right then. "As soon as I heard from her, it was just a sigh of relief," said McIver, who posted 198 kills, 22 aces, 254 digs and 87 blocks as a senior and Killeen's only all-district first team selection.
McIver assumed the delayed response was because of the Lady Tigers' Southwest Athletic Conference (SWAC) tournament finals appearance and other end-of-season requirements. Whatever the reason, McIver said she never gave up on earning a Division I scholarship, despite receiving numerous offers from smaller schools. That goal was made all the more difficult by the Lady Roos' struggles. Killeen hasn't made the playoffs since 2004 and has a combined six district wins (of 30) and one winning season in the last three years. So McIver created a profile on the website berecruited.com and contacted Young via e-mail shortly after her final prep season at Killeen, where she finished as a three-year starter and the District 16-4A MVP blocker as a sophomore.
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Tarvaris Jackson has taken plenty of heat for his performance, and physically he’s been hurt a lot too over four NFL seasons. Last summer, he was brushed aside for Brett Favre. For all Jackson has been beat up or bumped back, though, he can’t hide his smile. There it was, on Wednesday after practice with the Minnesota Vikings, spreading fast across his face when asked if he had a gut feeling about whether Favre will return or not.
"Yeah, I do. I’m not going to share it," Jackson said, flashing that grin. "But I think everybody has their feeling, and I think everybody is pretty much on the same page." That sure sounded like an expectation Favre will be Minnesota’s quarterback again this year. Jackson said he’s traded text messages a few times with the 40-year-old star, but insisted they talked only about "life stuff" and not football. Jackson said he "wouldn’t dare ask" the burning question about Favre’s status for 2010.
Profile: Tarvaris Jackson, #7, QB, Minnesota Vikings, Height: 6-2, Weight: 225 Age: 27, Born: 4/21/1983 Montgomery , AL; College: Alabama State University, Experience: 5th season; Contract: one year, $1.176 million tender as a restricted free agent; High School: Sidney Lanier HS (Montgomery, AL).
"That’s not even in my character," Jackson said. Well, how about Favre’s health, the left ankle he’s considering surgery on? "I don’t know," Jackson said, laughing. "I didn’t even know he was hurt." Jackson attempted 21 passes last season, the fewest since he turned pro and all in mop-up duty — "Every time I got in the game last year, the game was pretty much over with," he said, smiling again.
Former SSU Tigers coach Robby Wells was asked to resign for committing two NCAA secondary violations reports the Savannah Morning News.
As Savannah State University was preparing to join the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, former football head coach Robby Wells was responsible for two of three secondary violations within the football program that SSU self-reported to the NCAA, according to documents obtained by the Savannah Morning News through a Georgia Open Records Act request. Wells, who resigned Jan. 28 after two seasons, broke an NCAA rule on Jan. 20 when he invited an SSU student - a non-qualifier - to participate in weightlifting and conditioning drills with the football team.
SSU Assistant Athletics Director/Compliance Shed Dawson wrote in a report he submitted to the NCAA that, during a routine practice site visit, he observed the prospective athlete participating in the practice session. The athlete had been declared a non-qualifier by the NCAA Eligibility Center and was not eligible to participate in team practices or competition.
Grambling State football coach Rod Broadway isn't shy about telling you his dislike of putting Football Bowl Subdivision schools on his nonconference schedule. The Tigers have played the likes of Nevada and Oklahoma State lately, and while the university gets an added financial benefit to play in the games, the Tigers have been dealt lopsided losses with numerous injuries.
Broadway used this argument as his push to get more fans in the stands for football games when he spoke at Lake Bethlehem Baptist Church for the Shreveport leg of the GSU sports caravan Thursday night. "If we sold our home games out, we don't have to play teams like Oklahoma State," Broadway said to about 50 members of the Shreveport alumni chapter. "The Oklahoma States have 22 more scholarships than we do. That's just not fair."
Dr. Phillips High School (Orlando, Florida) senior WR Chris Gallon, a transfer this year from Oviedo High School, located in adjacent Seminole County, landed his second NCAA Division I-A scholarship offer Tuesday night from Colorado State, and also received an offer from Florida A&M University. His other D-I offer was from University of Memphis. Gallon will be looking to fill huge shoes this season for the Panthers with the graduation of Kenny Shaw, who is headed to Florida State. The 6-foot-4, 190-pound Gallon is ranked No. 20 on the Sentinel’s 2011 Central Florida Super60.
Dr. Phillips is the defending Metro Conference Champions. Gallon had over 450 yards receiving for Oviedo High and scored six touchdowns last season. "I'm transferring to Dr. Phillips, I think that's very good for me," Gallon said. "I'm having some family issues and I'm trying to do what's best for me." Gallon runs a 4.5 40-yard dash and is also being shown interest by Tennessee, Florida, and Miami.
The comments came from all over at any given time. He'd walk across campus and some-one thanked him. He'd walk into an office and someone thanked him. Sometimes Harry Williams (Potomac H.S.'06, Dumfries, VA) knew the well-wishers and other times he did not, but in either case what mattered most to him was they appreciated his dedication to the Coppin State baseball program. For four years, Williams has been face of an Eagle team that has gone through three coaches and two winless seasons. He's been the top hitter and played his share of different positions to help out wherever he could.
All-MEAC "Mr. Everything" Harry Williams, Jr. is batting .373 in leading the deserving Coppin State University Eagles to the 2010 MEAC Tournament. You gotta love the underdog--Eagles.
Still, it wasn't exactly the college baseball experience Williams hoped for when he signed with Coppin State, but he stuck with it, believing each new season brought a chance for improve-ment even if the end result was just the opposite at times. "All I can do is thank the people for noticing," Williams said. "It makes me feel good inside to see that they see all the hard work I've put in and what's going on." You take what you can take and Williams is pleased that this season was a breakout one for the Eagles.
For the first time since 2006, Coppin State is playing in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Tour-nament. The Eagles (13-31 overall, 7-11 in the MEAC) are seeded fifth and open up today against second-seeded North Carolina A&T at 10 a.m. Williams is the main reason the Eagles are at least competitive again. He earned second-team all-conference honors after finishing sixth in the league in hitting .373 while contributing two homers and 30 RBIs.
Hampton University has signed guard Chikilra Goodman to a National Letter of Intent to play for the Lady Pirates next season.
The top high school girls scorer in the nation is coming to Hampton University, where she'll follow in her mother's footsteps. Chikilra Goodman, a 5-foot-9 guard who averaged 36.6 points per game for Bodine High in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has signed a national letter of intent to play for the Pirates next season.
Lady Pirates coach David Six, who led HU to the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship last year in his first season at the helm, was tipped off to Goodman by an HU alumn who emailed him an impressive YouTube video highlight package. Upon further investigation, Six discovered that Chikilra's mother, Tondalaya, is Hampton's all-time leading rebounder with 1,608, and is tied for 10th in all-time points with 1,253. "I think her mom was pulling for her (to choose Hampton), but her mom made it clear that it was her decision," Six said. Six has signed three other recruits, including 6-foot-3, 250-pound center Sherena Abercrumbia out of Lon Morris College in Texas.
NCCU, your time is near but let us take a brief look back at the year that was at the Eagle's nest. This is the video that was played at "The Eddies" culminating a year of exciting moments at North Carolina Central University. The NCCU Eagles will officially join the MEAC as its 13th member, as voted on by the conference's Council of Chief Executive Officers (CCEOs), effective July 1, 2010. Eagle Pride! Eagle Pride! Welcome Home...
Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Commissioner, Dr. Dennis E. Thomas
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA. - The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) announces the 2010 Commissioner's All-Academic Team, recognizing 618 student-athletes from the conference's 12 member institutions who achieved academic success during the 2009-10 academic school year. The team honors student-athletes, including sophomores to seniors, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better.
"I am pleased to recognize 618 student-athletes who have maintained a 3.0 or better grade point average during the 2009-10 school year," said Commissioner Dennis E. Thomas. "In addition to these academic achievers, I applaud the athletic academic support staff and personnel, coaches, institutions, and parents for their contributions to success of these student-athletes."
Listed below are the 2010 Commissioner's All-Academic Award Winners by institutions:
BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY (54)
Women (27): Analisa Austin (WTR, Business Administration), Crystal Bardge (WTR, Mass Communications), Alexandria Condell (WTR, Physical Education), Jaquennee Flowers (WTR, Accounting), Marketa Ruffin (WTR, Music Performance), LaShondra Wilbon (WTR, Criminal Justice), Nickesha Williams (WTR, Criminal Justice), Jasmine Daniels (WBB, History), Demetria Frank (WBB, Physical Education/Recreation), Kimberly Roe (WBW, Elementary Education), Hanna Bews (WGO, Speech Communication), Brittani Austin (WSB, Sociology), Simone Ceasar (WSB, Business Administration/Marketing), Sabrina Ferguson (WSB, Psychology), Allison Garcia (Criminal Justice), Tameika Jonas (WSB, Physical Education), Briana Leverett (WSB, Nursing), Elizabeth Parish (WSB, Elementary Education), Cesley Tafoya (WSB, Computer Information Systems), Eva Hankova (WTE, Mass Communications), Stacey Lopez (WTE, Biology), Andrea Paez (WTE, Hospitality Management), Janeice Ward (WTE, Accounting), Linda Nwabuko (WVB, Biology), Shanick Reddick (WVB, Elementary Education), Daryl Rodriguez (WVB, Nursing), Chelle Ticeson (WVB, Physical Education/Recreation) .... Men (27): William Cosby (MTR, Psychology), Demetrius Douglas-Davis (MTR, Hospitality Management), Christopher Jackson (MTR, Mass Communications), Martin Embry (MTR, Physical Education/Recreation), Stephen Bertholet (MFB, Mass Communications), Jean-Gardy Fanor (MFB, Psychology), Christopher Perry (MFB, Criminal Justice), Joseph White (MFB, Biology), Emmanuel Castro (MBA, Physical education/Recreation), Justin Dahl (MBA, English), Jeremy Davis (Physical Education/Recreation), Ryan Durrence (MBA, Business Administration/Marketing), Rayan Gonzales (MBA, Biology), Justin Hoyte (MBA, Business Administration), Christopher Lauriello (Criminal Justice), Joseph Munoz (MBA, Hospitality Management), Alejandro Sanchez (MBA, Business Administration), Andrew Tilka (MBA, Educational Studies), Tyrel Adams (MBB, Criminal Justice), Kene Anusionwu (MBB, History), Sean Edey (MGO, International Business), Christian Cruz (MTE, Accounting), Kristofer Martin (MTE, Business Administration/Management Information Systems), Emil Vassilev (MTE, Hospitality Management), Richard Crow (MFB, Psychology), AnQelo Erilus (MFB, Computer Engineering), Ryan Griffin (MFB, History).
Women (68) Sade Bowen(WBB, Sports Sciences), Alexis Johnson(WBB, Criminal Justice), Samantha Koonce(WBB, Biology/Pre-Professional), Ashley Thompson(WBB, Physics), Jazmyne Hefflefinger(BO, Sports Sciences), Adriana Jaime(BO, Education), Tara McQueen (WBO,Computer Science), Brooke Peterson(WBO, Nursing), Samantha Scionti(WBO, Music Education), Courtney Varin (WBO, Biology), Kayln Washburn (WBO, English), Calis Emerson (WCC, Accounting), Capri Jones (WCC, Accounting), Kendra Mayers (WCC, Sports Sciences), Charnise McCombs (WCC, Biology), Brittany Roberson (WCC, Pre-Nursing), Ashley Blake (WTR, Education), Tracy Fan Fan (WTR, Pre-Nursing), Ayanna Kelly (WTR, Mass Communications), Victoria McGroary (WTR, Political Science), Krystina Muhammad (WTR, Sports Sciences), Marshae Richardson(WTR, Criminal Justice), Ashley Butler (WEQ, Management), Brittni Collins (WEQ, Agriculture), Caroline Foltz (WEQ, Agriculture), Amanda Hotz (WEQ, Agriculture), Jennifer McInnis (WEQ, Political Science), Jennifer Pierson (WEQ, Agriculture), Morgan Scuse (WEQ, Chemistry/Pre-Professional), Jessica Smith (WEQ, Agriculture), Elizabeth Tuttle (WEQ, Management), Chelsea Brown (WSO, Chemistry), Kelly Cheng (WSO, Sports Sciences), Brittany Curtis (WSO, Chemistry), Brianna Dingman (WSO, Management), Michelle Giorgilli (WSO, Forensic Biology), Ashlee Gourdine (WSO, Biology), Courtney Haas (WSO, Sports Sciences), Leah Hontz (WSO, Education), Kristin Mathis (WSO, Sports Sciences), Casey Beighley (WSB, Mass Communications), Janelle Lukens (WSB, Mass Communications), Leslie Pleasanton (WSB, Education), Twany Reeger (WSB, Chemistry), Jordan Reid (WSB, Criminal Justice), Allison Rubin (WSB, History), Sherelle Sheppard (WSB, History), JoCarol Shields (WSB, Sports Sciences), Andrea Waters (WSB, Political Science), Hannah Adewumi (WTE, Computer Science), Christina Andrade-Pires (WTE, Finance & Banking), Anna Kovtun (WTE, Criminal Justice), Cassandra Newton (WTE, Hospitality Tourism Management), Polina Razborova (WTE, Finance & Banking), Sonja Banicevic (WVB, Finance & Banking), Martina Ferrari (WVB, Political Science), Ashley Herman (WVB, Biology), Elisa Herman (WVB, Hospitality Tourism Management), Princess Puckett (WVB, Movement Science), Maja Rudolph (WVB, Mathematics), Erica Tajchman (WVB, biology/Pre-Professional), Jasmine Bolton (CH, Public Relations), Carlita Constant (CH, Psychology), Jasmine Cooper (CH, Accounting), Jessica Dickerson (CH, Political Science), Corrine Gramby (CH, Textiles & Apparels), Tynisha Hearne (CH, Music Education), Bethany Stewart (CH, History) .... Men (30): Scott Davis (MBA, Physical Education), Jordan Elliot (MBA, Sports Sciences), Joshua Harris (MBA, Physical Education), Keith Hernandez (MBA, Criminal Justice), Derrek Johnson (MBA, Psychology), Matthew Millman (MBA, Sports Sciences), Kevin Noriega (MBA, Marketing), Jose Portela-Berrios (MBA, Biology), Michael Rizzuto (MBA, Management), Joe Rush (\MBA, Sports Sciences), George Bansah (MFB, Undecided), Andre Carroll (MFB, Sports Sciences), BJ Conley (MFB, Criminal Justice), Mike Gable (MFB, Biology/Pre-Professional), Darryl Hicks (MFB, Criminal Justice), Byron Lewis (MFB, Criminal Justice), Calvin Miner (MFB, Criminal Justice), Nick Richmond (MFB,Sports Sciences), Steven Steinbacher (MFB, Management), Travis Tarpley (MFB, Management), Brandon Baylor (MBB, Psychology), James Marcellus (MBB, Management), Greg Smith (MBB, Movement Science), Trevor Welcher (MBB, Sports Sciences), Ryan Agan (MCC, Airway Sciences), Alan Laws (MCC, Sports Sciences), David Bruce (MTR, Sports Sciences), Brian Gelis (MTE, Computer Science), Roman Pitatelev (MTE, Accounting), Milos Velickovic (MTE, Management).
FAMU sophomore Derrick Shaw is getting in done in the classroom, in baseball and football. The 2010 first team All-MEAC infielder was named to the Louisville Slugger All-American team as a freshman; play the QB/DB position for Rattlers football; and has a 3.5 GPA in the classroom--majoring in Social Work.
FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY (26)
Women (8): Amanda Reyes (WSB, Architecture), Kierra Holiday (WTR, Criminal Justice), Tiffany Morrow (WTR, Criminal Justice), Ashley Melson (WBO, Criminal Justice), Danielle Anderson (WBB, Chemistry), Tameka McKelton (WBB, Criminal Justice), Kathline Durden (WTE, Computer Info), Jessica Bond (WVB, Business).... Men (18): Jack Dash (MSW, Engineering), Akie Smythe (MSW, Intem, Agriculture), Adeyemi Oluwatobiloba (MBA, Psychology), David Duncan (MBA, Undeclared), Darryl Evans Jr. (MBA, Criminal Justice), Isaac Brown (MBB, Journalism), Yannick Crowder (MBB, Business), Christopher Walker (MBB, Criminal Justice), Gallop Franklin (MGO, Pharmacy), Elijah Jackson (MGO, Pre-Med), Forrest Jenkins (MTE, Business), Micheal Moore (MTE, Political Science), Cameron Houston (MFB, Criminal Justice), Gregory Lee (MFB, African-American History), Cory McCloughen (MFB, History), Padric Scott (MFB, Biology), Derrick Shaw (MFB, Social Work), Isaac West (MFB, Criminal Justice)
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY (48)
Women (31): Mianna Armstrong (WVB, Biology), Tiffany Brents (WSB, Psychology), BreAnna Brown (WSB, Entrepreneurship), Tavonna Byrd (WSB, 5yr MBA), Lihi Elkayam (WVB, Psychology), Ashley Hampton (WBO, Business Management), Margaret Harris (WTR, Computer Engineering), Aaryn Harrison (WVB, Chemistry), Whitney Hill (WBB, Sociology), Whitney Hubbard (WVB, Public Relations), Jada Jeffries (WSB, Electrical Engineering), Jericka Jenkins (WBB, Criminal Justice), Kenya Jones (WTR, Sports Management), Sydnee Mack (WGO, Public Relations) Dara Martin (WBO, Marketing), Camille McGirt (WBB, Psychology), Choicetta McMillian (WBB, English), Jessi Mitchell (WGO, Broadcast Journalism), Brittani Reynolds (WBO, Business Management), Petrice Richards (WTR, Physical Education), Jazzmin Richey-Obey (WBO, Sociology), Jovanna Sangria (WTE, Public Relations), Kelsei Saunders (WSB, Communicative Science Disorders), Ivana Suput (WVB, Psychology), Brittany Thomas (WBB, Accounting), Racquel Vassell (WTR, Physical Education), Melanie Warner (WBB, Business Management), Jocelyn Watkins (WTR, Psychology), Dionne West (WGO, 5yr MBA), Kiara Williams (WBO, Pharmacy), Brittany Wynne (WVB, Psychology)....Men (17): Edson Alves (MTE, Business Management), Jahmal Blanchard (MFB, Art), Landon Collins (MFB, Biology), Damon Dixon (MTR, Finance), Ian Guagliardo (MSL, Aviation), Shane Horsford (MSL, Accounting), Darius Johnson (MFB, electrical Engineering), Winston Kennedy (MFB, Psychology), David Kimani (MTR, Nursing), Nelio Mattos (MTE, Business Management), Louis Preston (MFB, 5yr MBA), Marcelo Reda (MTE, Health/Physical Education), Jason Sherer (MGO, Biology), Bakari Taylor (MBB, Recreation), Gellert Varga (MTE, Finance), LaMar Veale (MTR, History), Andre Watkins (MFB, Art)
In Performance at The White House, Washington, D.C: The Howard University Choir, under the direction of J. Norris Weldon, sings "Lord, I Don' Done."Congratulation to the 2010 MEAC All-Academic Student-Athletes for an expectional job well done.
HOWARD UNIVERSITY (100)
Women (61): Carae Baulkman (WBB, Physical Education), Amanda-Gay Edwards (WBB, Biology), Courtney Fields (WBB, Physical Therapy), Jalisa Pullins (WBB, Radio/TV/Film), Shayla Haynes (WBW, Physical Therapy), Alesyn McCall (WBW, Radio/TV/Film) Brianna Uzzell (WBW, Administration of Justice), Desiree Cox (WLA, Leisure Studies), Eboni Farmer (WLA, Journalism), Ashley Foote (WLA, Communication and Culture), Ashley Lawrence (WLA, Human Performance), Amber Meeks (WLA, Communication and Culture), Imani Oakley (WLA, Biology), Ivy Pierce (WLA, Psychology), Lauren Rivers (WLA, Communication Sciences and Disorders), Chanel Bell (WSO, Sociology), Christina Bodison (WSO, Biology), Beatrice Charles (WSO, Human Performance), Camille Grayson (WSO, Journalism), Joslyn Johnson (WSO, Biology), Rachael Lee (WSO, Accounting), Stephanie McLean (WSO, Finance), Brittany Miner (WSO, Business Administration), Ciera Gordon (WSB, Biology), Jessica Hurston (WSB, Radio/TV/Film), Emily Johnson (WSB, Architecture), Trina Kindred (WSB, Biology), Rebecca Kirshner (WSB, Marketing), Morgan Plowden (WSB, Civil Engineering), Lorae Robinson (WSB, Biology), Candace Rogers (WSB, International Business), Nicole Saez (WSB, Administration of Justice),Christine Sborz (WSB, Political Science), Lauren Anthony (WSW, Fashion Merchandising), Polo Edwards (WSW, Human Performance), Monique Major (WSW, Psychology), Rochelle Smith (WSW, Communication and Culture), Anne Akhimien (WTE, Chemistry), Michelle Brown (MTE, Undecided), Amber Cuff (WTE, Fashion merchandising), Ashley Moore (WTE, Undecided), Caroline Snowden (WTE, Journalism), Alyssa Works (WTE, Health Science), Mya Aaten-White (WTR, Philosophy), Norell Abernathy (WTR, Radio/TV/Film), Shatima Aycock (WTR, Biology), Jami Hardy (WTR, Health Education), Ashley Hodges (WTR, Political Science), Brittany Jackson (WTR, Nursing), Krystal Jenkins (WTR, Spanish), Alexandria McKee (WTR, Political Science), Tamila Myles (WTR, Journalism), Brittany Stephens (WTR, Journalism), Jannelle Wallace (WTR, Marketing), Amelia Woodruff (WTR, Human Performance), Andrea Brown (WVB, Political Science), Oluwatosin Elebute (WVB, Health Science), Taylor Johnson (WVB, Undecided), Gabrielle Martin (WVB, Radio/TV/ Film), Monique McCoy (WVB, Human Development), Nia Moore (WVB, Journalism) ....Men (39): Nathaniel Cooper, Jr. (MBB, Economics), Paul Kirkpatrick (MBB, Human Performance), Kyle Riley (MBB, Leisure Studies), Mukole Tshimuanga (MBB, Leisure Studies), Kenneth Austin (MFB, Physical Education), Jermell Ellis (MFB, Leisure Studies), Patrick Jean-Mary (MFB, International Business), Lanny Kelly (MFB, Leisure Studies), Anthony Mendoza (MFB, Spanish), Xavier Rucker (MFB, Leisure Studies), Brandon Sherman (MFB, Leisure Studies), Dennis Wiehberg (Radio/TV/Film), Patrick Wolff (MFB, International Business), Chatman Young (MFB, Accounting), Gary Clark (MSO, Mechanical Engineering), Brian Cunningham (Supply Chain Management), Jamil Devers (MSO, Pre-Physical Therapy), Daniel Hernandez (MSO, Administration of Justice), Rotimi Iziduh (MSO, Systems and Computer Science), Harvey Livingston III (MSO, Leisure Studies), Mathew Marshall (MSO, Radio/TV/Film), Shamir Saddler (MSO, Computer Engineering), Christopher Southerland (MSO, Human Performance), Kelvin Goodman (MSW, Computer Engineering), Blair Matthews (MSW, Anthropology/Political Science), Omar McKenzie (MSW, Biology), Justin Morrison (MSW, Philosophy), Julian Moseley (MSW, Marketing), Damjan Strbac (MSW, Political Science), Christopher Brown (MTE, Radio/TV/Film), Eric Chavous (MTE, International Business), Tonique Merrill (MTE, Systems and Computer Science), Devard Wharton (Civil Engineering), Tyler Dragon (MTR, Political Science), William Gibbs (MTR, Finance), Marcus Harrison (MTR, Information Systems and Analysis), Mikael La Roche (MTR, Art), Tory McAlister (MTR, Mechanical Engineering), Benjamin Rosa (MTR, Economics)
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE (55)
Women (32): Rayna Brown (WBB, English/Sociology), Krystal Watson (WBB, Accounting), Latoya Coltrane (WTE, Criminal Justice), Latoya Jones-Stewart (WTE, Hotel and Restaurant Management), Ann Katenta (WTE, Biology), Kira Chapman (WTE, Hotel and Restaurant Management), Katherine Brown (WBW, Applied Design), Kristina Frahm (WBW, Accounting), Stacy Parsons (WBW, Business Administration/Marketing), Maria Rodriquez (WBW, Engineering), Maria Vilas (WBW/WTE, General Studies), Kaitlyn Young (WBW, Criminal Justice), Ebony Hann (WSB, English), Chelsea Logan (WSB, English Education), Britney Mcleod (WSB, Special Education), Kristi Miranda (Criminal Justice), Cy'Anna Scott (WSB, Environmental Science), Hadiyah Abdul-Saboor (WTR, Human Ecology/Business Administration), Jessica Abrantes (WTR, Criminal Justice/English), Cynthia Anais (WTR, Applied Design), Rashida Beckford (WTR, Human Ecology), Ariana Forbes (WTR, Criminal Justice), Amaris James (WTR, Physician Assistant) Tamica Thomas (WTR, Exercise Science), Zoe Bowens (WVB, English), Samantha Chukwura (WVB, Biology), Christine Edwards (WVB, Computer Science), Whitney Johnson (WVB, Exercise Science), Thonya Joseph (WVB, Sociology), Chelsea Myers (WVB, Exercise Science), Rebecca Prado (Human Ecology), Caylin Woodward (WVB, Social Studies Education) .....Men (23): Timothy Burns (MBB, General Studies), Reginald Hines (MBB, English), Lyvann Obame (MBB, Accounting), Mark Robertson (MBB, Accounting), Robert Tucker (MBB, General Studies), Rashad James (MTE, Sociology), Osvaldo Rivera (MTE, Music Education), Emmash Sudusinghe (MTE, Accounting), Richard Warren (MTE, Exercise Science), Elliott Alston (MBA, English), Elliott Arrington (MBA, Business Administration), Bryan Chaikowksy (MBA, Exercise Science), James Corriveau (MBA, Criminal Justice), Abraham Gonzalez-Loyola (MBA, History), Phillip Vaughn (MBA, Accounting), Nicholas Wiggins (MBA, Business Finance), Cameron Zimmerman (MBA, Aviation Science), Harrison Agbor-Eyong (MTR, Biology), Charles Elmer (MTR, Aviation Science), Thomas Keane Dawes (MTR, Business Administration/Marketing), Amon Kiprotich (MTR, Mathematics), Shadrack Maritim (MTR, Biology), Johan Welter (MTR, General Studies)
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (48)
Women (33): Danielle Gibson (CH, Information Systems), Tamera Lyons (CH, Telecommunications), Rashida Watson (CH, Speech), Corin Adams (WBB, Physical Education), Moneshia Davis (WBB, Sports Administration), Theresa Davis (WBB, Physical Education), Habibatou Diagne (WBB, Accounting), Brittany Dodson (WBB, Telecommunication), Pylicia Jones (WBB, Finance), Dekeisha Mathis (WBB, Biology), Brittany Noel (WBB, Management), Aaries Reed (WBB, Sociology), Tevonia Williams (WBB, Sociology), Corey Lissik (WBW, History), Keisheena Waldon (WBW, Mathematics), Lauren Campbell (WTR, Transportation), JaMia Robinson (WTR, Telecommunications), Kamice Smalls (WTR, Sociology), Porche Boddicker (WSB, Psychology), Kriston Gowan (WSB, English), Jaclyn Hall (WSB, Accounting), Hannah Montgomery (WSB, Physical Education), Angela Nunez (WSB, Health Education), Sakina Smith (WSB, Medical Terminology), Lydia Walther-Rodriquez (WSB, Finance), Viktoriya Lukyanenko (WTE, Accounting), Alexis McCoy (WTE, Psychology), Pola Olczak (WTE, Chemistry), Ivanti Bush (WVB, Family and Consumer Sciences), Delissa Carline (WVB, Industrial Engineering), Christa Rogers (WVB/WTE, Electrical Engineering), Rhyan Shy (WVB, Nursing), Hilary Tutman (WVB, Hospitality Management) ....Men (15): John Long (MB, Telecommunications), Tyron Benjamin (MTR, Physical Education), Salifu Cham (MTR, Business Administration), Jude Obiarinze (MTR, Accounting), Lawrence Brewer (MFB, Business Administration), Shaka Miller (MFB, Business Administration), Allen Stephens (MFB, Telecommunications), Jarvis West (MFB, Physical Education), Kevon Charles (MTE, Electrical Engineering), Dmitry Chehalatyy (MTE, Hospitality Management), Isaac Richardson (MTR, Industrial Engineering), Cabinere Whyte (MTR, Accounting), Justin Lawrence (MFB, Sociology), Troy Leftwich (MFB, Architecture), Terrell White (MFB, Business Administration).
North Carolina A&T State University's Ta'Wuana Cook (#5) had an All-American career for the Lady Aggies. The three time All-MEAC selection leaves A&T second in school history in scoring with 1723 points and as the all-time assist leader. Cook has been named first-team Division I all-state by the North Carolina Collegiate Sports Information Association. She is the first women's basketball player in school history to be named MEAC Rookie of the Year. Cook will receive her Bachelor's degree with honors in Sports Science.
NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY (46)
Women (28): Tyronnica Alford (WBB, Psychology), Bianca Alsobrook (WSB, Political Science), Amanda Breendan (WTR, Mech Engineering), Lillian Bullock (WSB, Accounting), Tangala Conover (WSB, Criminal Justice), Ta'Wuana Cook (WBB, Sports Science), Nakia DeBlanc (Elementary Education), Katherine Forrester (WTR, Accounting), Jerrine Foster (WTR, Civil Engineering), Jasmine Gurley (WSW, JOMC), Nina Henry (WTE, Computer Science), Ruth-Cassandra Hunt (WTR, Criminal Justice), Amber Inman (WVB, Sports Science), Jessie Larson (WSB, Animal Science), Jennifer Luper (WSB, JOMC), Bridget McCaskill (WVB, Biology), Keisha McDonald (WSW, Criminal Justice), Crystal Murdaugh (WBB, Social Work), Lashawn Nevins (WSB, Industrial Engineering), Danielle Nguyen (WSB, Sports Science), Winnie Quick (WTE, Accounting), Britney Reddick (WSB, JOMC), Kimona Smith (WTR, Accounting), Sarah Taylor (WBW, Liberal Studies), Tierra Thomas (WBB, Nursing), Antoinette Torres (WSB, Animal Science), Signe Waldbauer (WSW, Secondary Education), Czamille Wright (WSW, Elementary Education) ....Men (18): Julian Alford (MFB, Electrical Engineering), Jared Baldwin (MBB, Computer Engineering), Danzeto Cephas (MTR, Business Administration), Carvell Copeland (MBA, Sports Science), Jamel Fitzgerald (MFB, Electrical Engineering), Mathew Hamler (MFB, Marketing), Marc Hill (MBB, Graphic Communication Systems), James Howard (MBA, Industrial Technology), Akinwole Jordan (MTR, Graphic Communication Systems), Justin Kearny (MFB, Transportation), Giorgio Lowrance (MFB, Sports Science), Esterlin Paulino (MBA, Liberal Studies), Nicholas Rogers (MBA, Architectural Engineering), Alex Sanders (MTR, Marketing), Jonanthan Smith (MBA, Sports Science), Isaiah Thompson (Sports Science), Jamal Wardlaw (MFB, Sports Science), Jared Williams (MBB, Computer Science)
NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY (40)
Women (25): Breanna Allums (WVB, Health Services Management), Jennifer Astbury (WTE, Physical Education), Naeemah Brooks (WTE, Elementary Education), Genor Dalton (WBB, Computer Science), Antoinette Drakeford (WBW, Psychology), Danielle Drummer (WTR, Nursing), Brianiesha Eure (WSB, Information Technology), Brittany Foster ( WTE, Biology), Solange Monroe (WVB, Graphic Design), Tiffany Hunt (WBW, Computer Science), Aurelia Isham (WVB, Physical Education), Tanisha Jenkins (WTR, Political Science), Nicole Kessner (WVB, Kinesiotherapy), Tia Miles (WTR, Psychology), Alyssa Pickett (WTR, Kinesiotherapy), Casey Pomeroy (WSB, Accounting), Jaime Raab (WSB, Interdisciplinary Studies), Meghan Ramsey (WSB, Physical Education), Candace Shoates (MTR, Mass Communications), Shelia-Marie Smith (WBW, Sociology), Krystal Stevenson (WBW, Electrical Engineering), Danelle Tate (WBB, Business Management), Chengetayi Tsapayi (WTE, Accounting), Alyssa Velazquez (WSB, Business Management), Danielle Wright (WSB, Sociology) ....Men (15): Kyle Davis (MBA, Kinesiotherapy), Brett Dodd (MTR, Psychology), Jonathan Griffin (MTR, Sociology), Ryan Hathaway (MFB, Electronics Technology), Juan Herrera (MBA, Building Construction), Alex Moody (MFB, Mass Communications), Cameron Parsons (MBA, Accounting), Aleek Pauline (MBB, Mass Communications), Antoine Perry (MBB, Entrepreneurship), Terrance Pugh (MFB, Computer Science), Vincent Rono (MTR, Psychology), Anthony Taylor (MFB, Psychology), Anthony Tillman (MTR, Fine Arts), Ricardo Volcin (MFB, Sociology), Carnell Williams (MFB, Interdisciplinary Studies)
Howard University head basketball coach Kevin Nickelberry -- "I am not here to rebuild, I am here to renovate."
One of college basketball's most difficult rebuilding projects this offseason began with the new head coach making wholesale cosmetic changes, a first step toward refurbishing the perception of a program that has endured seven straight 20-loss seasons. "I'll show you all the stuff we just threw out of here," Nickelberry said. "We have someone coming to redo the floor, redo the walls, redo all of it. That's all part of the perception. I could talk, or come in here and do. I have to be the guy who is painting, I have to be the guy who is part of it. People around here need to see me knocking walls down."
Nickelberry's success with other reclamation projects -- most notably as an assistant at Holy Cross and Clemson, as a head coach at Hampton and with the Libya national team -- was a prime reason why the 45-year-old was tapped to return to his native city for what he has called a dream opportunity. But he is fully aware that he confronts his most daunting challenge as a head coach.
In addition to on-court struggles -- the Bison finished 7-25 last season -- Howard has been rendered irrelevant in the D.C. area. Nickelberry said there have also been concerns about the team's performance in the classroom, which he deems unacceptable at a school with an otherwise strong academic reputation.
Greensboro, NC -- Final preparations are underway at Ford Stadium Complex, where legendary track and field head coach, Roy W. Thompson Jr., is readying the Irwin Belk Track for senior football standouts from across the country, coming next weekend for a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to show their stellar physical abilities. North Carolina A&T State University is hosting the first annual HBCU & Small College Pro Combine this Friday, Saturday & Sunday: May 21 through 23, 2010.
Thompson believes his electronically timed 40-yard dash event will catapult participants onto the “fast track” to success. “I’m privileged to be a part of this event and am looking forward to the recognition and opportunities this is going to bring to the overlooked potential of HBCU athletes,” remarks Thompson.
“This includes two of our own,” adds Head Football Coach Alfonso Lee, "NC A&T is going to be represented by two outstanding young men: Nichols Clement, a 6 Ft., 205-lb. safety, and Andre Thornton, a 6 ft. 1 in., 240 lb. linebacker.”
Also lending a hand to oversee the pull-up station will be active duty SEALs and former NAVY SEALs, retired Captain Dave Morrison and Master Chief Petty Officer Mark Courrier. Co-founder of this event, Gene Washington, explains, “The SEALS are comprised of elite athletes with superior character and a desire to serve others in a way that not many can. Having the SEALs join us creates a unique and thrilling twist to our event.”
“These gifted athletes have some of the same unique characteristics - mature, focused, committed, self-motivated and driven, that make a good Navy SEAL”, says Morrison. “The HBCU Pro Combine is an excellent venue for us to educate these young athletes on a possible career in the SEAL Teams.”
For more information on the HBCU & Small College Pro Combine at North Carolina A&T State University, please contact info@procombine.com or call 336-937-5202. The downtown Greensboro Marriott hotel will be hosting the players, coaches, and scouts. The Combine is for draft eligible QBs, DBs RBs, TEs, LBs and Wide Outs. Running the three-day programs will be Director of Operations, Coach John Falvey, former Defensive Coordinator at Winston-Salem State University. Falvey will be assisted by the Director of Competition, Coach Alfonso Lee, Head Football Coach at NC A&T State University; and the Director of Logistics, Coach Robert Massey, Assistant Head Football Coach at Shaw University.
When they saw their name pop up on the television screen in the honors dormitory, the Alcorn State University softball team immediately ran the spectrum of emotions. "We were excited and shocked," said starting catcher Chelsie Dahlbeck, a 2008 graduate of Estero High School in Estero, Florida.
Excitement is understandable for the team from southwestern Mississippi that will be making its first appearance in the NCAA tournament. The shock factor can be attributed to Alcorn's first opponent in the 64-team field, which was announced Sunday night during a selection show on ESPNU. Alcorn, whose school's undergraduate enrollment is less than 2,700, will meet powerful Alabama, whose 48-9 record and Southeastern Conference title earned the Crimson Tide the tournament's No. 1 seed.
Dahlbeck knows a daunting task awaits Alcorn, but she said it's a challenge that the Lady Braves won't shy away from. "It's a good experience. I know they're looking at us as the underdog. I hope we do well," Dahlbeck said. The double-elimination Tuscaloosa Regional also includes Alabama-Birmingham and Atlantic Sun Conference champion Lipscomb.
Alcorn (24-24) generated a minor miracle just to get into the NCAA tournament. After losing its first game in the Southwestern Athletic Conference tournament, Alcorn had to reel off five straight wins -- including the title clincher against Mississippi Valley State -- to earn an automatic bid.
The former Atlanta Braves scout, Robert Lucus ends three stints with FAMU baseball with a 154-171-2 career record. The FAMU baseball program was provided below par support by the school's administration and less than six scholarships. The Rattlers are still operating without a permanent athletic director, since William "Bill" Hayes resigned from the post on October 2, 2009, that became effective on December 31, 2009. Hayes is now the A.D. at Winston Salem State University.
Florida A&M has fired Robert Lucas as head baseball coach, following the worst finish in the history of the program that left the Rattlers out of this week’s MEAC tournament. Lucas confirmed Sunday that he was put on administrative leave until August and said he was told his year-to-year contract won’t be renewed. Interim athletic director Mike Smith was in a meeting Monday and wasn’t immediately available to comment. Lucas, however, said that he was told his assistant Brett Richardson would stay on to handle the day-to-day operation of the program until a replacement is hired.
FAMU finished the season with a 10-31 record and 3-15 in conference play. One more conference win would have put the Rattlers into the tournament, but a 1-2 record against the University of Maryland Eastern Shore kept them out in favor of the Hawks, which also had a 3-15 conference mark. Lucas said he was on a recruiting trip when he was called by Smith, who later handed him his termination letter.
NFL Indianapolis Colts ProBowler Robert N. Mathis finally completed his degree requirements at AAMU and graduated with the Class of 2010. Mathis was drafted in 2003 in the 5th Round, Pick 138, after establishing himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in NCAA 1-AA history. The 4 year starter had 20 sacks at defensive end during his senior season with the Bulldogs.
Seven years after leaving Alabama A&M to get drafted in the 5th round by the Indianapolis Colts, Colts defensive stud and all-around cool guy Robert Mathis went back to college, finished his school requirements, and got his degree. "I always like to finish what I start," Mathis said in an interview with The Huntsville Times before walking with more than 500 other graduates. "It's been bothering me. I've been blessed enough to win the Super Bowl, go to two (Super Bowls) but you want that degree. "You were here four years, put in the work and the hard labor and you want to reap the benefits of your labor."
I hope we fans never get numb to this kind of stuff; seeing good guys do responsible, respectable things during a time of year while others are getting caught having sex with under-age hookers in a hotel room. It's just kind of cool to have a team full of players like Robert Mathis. Meet him in person and he's the nicest, most "real" player I've seen. He'll talk about anything, and loves to joke that his favorite thing to do in the entire world is sack Tom Brady.
Well, for one day at least, sacking Tom Brady took a back seat to getting a degree in Physical Education. Unlike the somewhat douchy guys who were my PE teachers in junior high and high school, I get the sense that if Robert Mathis ever had to run a class, it would be quite fun.
For more than a quarter of a century, University of Maryland Eastern Shore was recognized as a football powerhouse among Historically Black Colleges and Universities. From 1946 to 1970, UMES had a combined win-loss record of 142 wins, 36 losses and 7 ties or an astounding 76.8 winning percentage. In addition, UMES produced six (6) undefeated seasons during the period from 1947 to 1960. Then, UMES was known as Maryland State College from 1948 to 1970, and the name became the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, thereafter.
No one person was more instrumental in UMES’s success than Vernon “Skip” McCain. The history of UMES’s football program is inextricably linked to Coach McCain’s tenure. During his tenure Coach McCain had a phenomenal success record of 101 wins, 16 losses and 5 ties (1948-63). Those who knew him say Coach McCain was the embodiment of the teacher-coach. From 1948 to 1953, he was the most successful coach in the country. Coach McCain, himself a student of the game, did not miss many coaching clinics during his tenure.
In 1950, he was selected “Coach of the Year” by the Pigskin Club of Washington. Coach McCain’s dedication to understanding the deeper qualities and disciplines of the game laid the foundation for what many have called the “Golden Years of Hawk Athletics.” In addition to being head football coach, Coach McCain was also the head basketball coach and athletic director, thus, giving him almost total control over the UMES athletic budget and pool of athletic talent.
Vernon “Skip” McCain was inducted into the Hawk Hall of Fame in 1973. If only the ESPN television cameras and the national media had found their way to the eastern shore of Maryland and the tiny village of Princess Anne! What a story they would have uncovered!!! The entire nation would have discovered a football powerhouse that broke both racial barriers and the competitive spirit of the teams they played. Everyone would have known the name, Skip McCain. It is a shame that only a few do.
America would have recognized that this humble, 5-foot-5 man, who never cussed or missed church, who also had a higher winning percentage (83.7%) for a 16-year period than some of his most famous coaching contemporaries recorded during the same era -- men such as Woody Hayes of Ohio State University (74.3%), Bear Bryant at the University of Alabama (72.7%), and Eddie Robinson at Grambling State University. But, the 1950’s were a time when news of the exploits of Historically Black Colleges and Universities rarely escaped the confines of their own communities. And the Internet was not invented, nor cable television, nor exclusive sports networks in radio and television that we take for granted today.
UMES achievements on the gridiron included six (6) undefeated seasons, four (4) of which were perfect seasons in 1949, 1950, 1952, and 1955. When Coach McCain came to Maryland State College (MSC) in 1948, he was to serve as the head football coach, head basketball coach and the athletic director. It became apparent that this man could build winners no matter what the sport. While concentrating on his football duties, he directed the basketball team to a record of 76 wins and 11 losses from 1948 to 1952.
In 2006, Coach McCain finally got his due when he was inducted in the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, Indiana. Coach McCain touched the lives of hundreds of young men to whom he will always be remembered simply as “Coach.”
UMES Pro Football Hall of Famer, Art Shell
As a result, during the period from 1946 to 1970, over twenty-four (24) UMES student-athletes went on to pursue professional careers in the National Football League. In addition, several others went on to successful careers in the Continental and Canadian Football Leagues. The most notable of these athletes is Art Shell, eight (8) time Pro-Bowl player, NFL Hall of Fame Player, and the first African American head coach of the modern era of professional football with the Los Angeles Raiders (now the Oakland Raiders).
UMES Football Legends
Roger Brown, DT, Detroit Lions' Fearsome Foursome, Los Angeles Rams (1960-69), College Football Hall of Fame
Willie Belton, RB, Atlanta Falcons/St. Louis Cardinals (1970-74)
Earl Christy, CB/DB/HB, New York Jets (1966-68)
Moses Denson, RB, Washington Redskins (1974-75)
James "Jim" Duncan, CB/S, Baltimore Colts (1969-71)
Curtiss Gentry, CB, Chicago Bears (1966-68)
Douglas Goodwin, FB/RB, Buffalo Bills/Atlanta Falcons, (1966, 68)
Gerald Irons (M.B.A/J.D., Univ. of Chicago),DT/LB, Oakland Raiders (1970-79)
Arthur L. Laster, T, Buffalo Bills (1970)
Roy Kirksey, G, New York Jets/Philadelphia Eagles (1971-74)
Arthur "Art" Shell, OT, Oakland Raiders (1968-1982) Pro Football Hall of Fame
Robert "Bob" Taylor, DE/DT, New York Giants (1963-1964)
William Allen "Billy" Thompson, CB/S Denver Broncos (1969-1981)
Mack Alston, Jr., TE, Washington Redskins (1970-1980)
William Arthur "Bill" Belk, DE/DT, San Francisco 49ers (1968-1974)
Emerson Boozer, HB/RB, New York Jets (1966-1975), College Football Hall of Fame
Marsh Cropper, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers (1967-69)
Charles Stukes, CB, Baltimore Colts/Los Angeles Rams (1967-74)
Carl Hairston, DE/DT, Philadelphia Eagles/Cleveland Browns/Phoenix Cardinals (1976-1990)
Ray Hayes, FB, Minnesota Vikings (1961)
Anthony Jones, HB/TE, Washington Redskins/San Diego Chargers (1984-88)
Tennessee State University Male Athlete of the Year, Chris Seibel is one of five non-black players on the Tigers Golf Team.
Chris Seibel prefers blending in. He doesn't like standing out in a crowd. On the golf course it's benefited the Indianapolis native, who says he's developed a knack for sneaking up on opponents and catching them off guard. Not being noticed in school hasn't come so easy. He is a senior at Tennessee State and the first white male athlete of the year at the historically black university since the award was established in the 1950s. TSU's only white female athlete of the year was softball pitcher Shannon Hicks of Smyrna in 2004.
TSU senior golfer Chris Seibel
"I don't like to be noticed, I'd rather fly under the radar," Seibel said. "I like going into a golf tournament where nobody really knows who I am and then surprising them." At TSU, 72 percent of the undergraduate students are black and 21 percent are white. Seibel, whose stroke average is 72.8, was named to the All-OVC team after posting four top-five and six top-10 finishes in eight events. He shot 70 and took the first-round lead Monday in the OVC Championships at GreyStone Golf Club. He finished tied for 24th. Siebel is one of five white players on TSU's golf team. There is one black player.
When Robby Wells was hired at Savannah State in 2007, he became the first white head football coach in the school's 98-year history. Wells enjoyed moderate success in his first two seasons at the HBCU, but claims that he was forced to resigned in 2009, citing racial discrimination as the reason for his dismissal. "Outside the Lines'" Jemele Hill investigates the allegations of racism at Savannah State. Wells says he was fired earlier this year because he is white -- a charge the school, a historically black university, denies.
Dr. Earl G. Yarbrough Sr., President, Savannah State University president responds to ESPN “Outside the Lines” broadcast ...
Following his resignation from Savannah State University (SSU), former Head Football Coach Robert “Robby” Wells very regrettably leveled negative and false allegations of “ racism and lies” at the university and its administration. These false allegations formed the basis of an episode of the ESPN show “Outside the Lines,” which aired this morning. Several SSU staff members and I spoke with ESPN regarding Wells’ comments and our policies at SSU and, it is our hope that in the interest of balanced reporting, ESPN will have chosen to include these interviews in the Wells segment. Nevertheless, I want to re-state the university’s expectations and set the record straight for our supporters, alumni, friends and the community.
As university president, I have committed this administration to abide by all SSU academic policies and procedures, those of the University System of Georgia as well as NCAA Rules and Regulations. As SSU Athletics prepares to enter the national stage via our membership in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, as well as this ESPN airing, we must re-affirm these fundamental principles.
At Savannah State University:
1. We believe in diversity, as is amply demonstrated by a workforce that remains among the most ethnically and culturally diverse within the University System of Georgia and in the city of Savannah. 2. We firmly believe that our athletes must first be students and demonstrate character and integrity. 3. We insist that student athletic recruitment be a shared activity where ALL recruits are known and vetted by ALL involved coaches, the athletic and NCAA compliance directors as well as the administration. 4. We also insist, and have always insisted, that all student athletes being recruited to SSU receive fair and equal treatment regardless of race, color, gender or family background. discriminatory treatment of any kind has never been, nor will ever be, tolerated by this administration. Any claim of unjust treatment related to admission and/or scholarship offers must be reported immediately to the administration.
In light of the national broadcast concerning Savannah State University and its football program, the university must affirm that it acted legally and within the guidelines of the policy of the University System of Georgia with regard to the separation of former head football coach, Robert “Robby” Wells. With concern to not damage Mr. Wells’ future professional opportunities, however, the university has withheld specific information regarding his performance or any violations of department, university, University System of Georgia, and NCAA rules, procedures and/or guidelines. While SSU bears Mr. Wells no ill will, we will not waver from protecting the reputation of this university - its Athletic Department, student-athletes and alumni - regardless of the forum.
Former Savannah State University football coach Robby Wells is in the spotlight Sunday morning at 9 a.m. on ESPN’s “Outside the Lines”. Wells “resigned” from the Tigers program, but later says he was forced to resign. He accuses school officials of racism and lies. ESPN producer Arty Berko and reporter Jemele Hill interviewed Wells twice for the story and visited Savannah on two different occasions. They go in-depth looking for answers.
Release sent from ESPN: In 2007, Savannah State, a historically black university, hired Robby Wells as their first white head football coach in the school’s 98-year history. In his first season, Wells led Savannah State to a 5-7 record, the most wins since the program joined Division I in 2002. The team managed only 2 wins in 2009, and after just two seasons, Wells says he was forced to resign, even though he thought he had the confidence of the administration.
ORMOND BEACH, FL -- Five years ago, Bethune-Cookman was the darling of college softball. But when the Wildcats' head coach left for greener pastures shortly after they became the first Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference team to reach the NCAA super regionals, they fell off the map. Now they're back.
B-CU defeated North Carolina A&T 7-3 on Saturday at the Ormond Beach Sports Complex to win the MEAC softball championship and qualify for regional play for the first time since its amazing run to the Super Regionals in 2005. "I'm so glad we got this for the program," said B-CU pitcher Allison Garcia, who was named the tournament's outstanding player. Fourth-year coach Chris Cochran was named outstanding coach of the tourney.
"I'm so happy for Chris," B-CU athletics director Lynn Thompson said amid the Wildcats' celebration, noting B-CU was caught off-guard when former coach Laura Watten left the program for the University of Maryland just as the 2005-06 school year was about to begin. After a season under an interim coach, Cochran, a former head coach at Brown University, was hired in August 2006. "She had to come in here and rebuild it," Thompson said. "When we hired her we knew it would be a good fit, and it was. I'm just so proud of what Chris and what these kids have accomplished."
Jackson State athletic director Bob Braddy will stay on for one more year as the university looks for a replacement for outgoing president Ronald Mason. raddy had planned to retire July 1 and a search committee had already been formed, but administration did not want vacancies at both positions concurrently. Chief of staff Evola Bates and Braddy met Monday to discuss the situation.
The search for a new athletic director has been suspended and the new president will conduct the process once hired. "I had planned to play golf 3-4 times a week," Braddy said with a laugh. "A lot of my plans have been put on hold." Braddy will sign a one-year extension, but could step down earlier if the new president is ready to hire a successor before then.
UNCW new head women's basketball coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke has instantly put the Seahawks program on the map for star recruits.
If you don't believe having a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame coach (class of 2010) of the caliber of Cynthia Cooper-Dyke is worth its weight in gold for your athletic department, think again. Coach Cooper-Dyke left Prairie View A&M University on last Friday, and a less than a week later, highly regarded recruits that were committed to the Lady Panthers basketball program are following Coach Cooper-Dyke to her new job at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, a program with no history of winning.
Virgin Islands 6 foot-4 star center Aesha Peters has backed out of her PVAMU basketball scholarship, signed last month, to follow Coach Cooper-Dyke to UNC-W. Peters averaged 13 points/11 boards and 4 blocks per game, but defensively shuts down the paint area in games.
PVAMU initially won the recruiting battle for Peters services over Florida International, Nova Southeastern, Georgia, South Carolina, Mississippi and Radford. Peters, who has been the talk of the V.I. territory since she was in the tenth grade, had tons of schools interested in her services. Some of the schools that had shown serious interest were Howard University, Indiana University, Rutgers, Georgia, UCLA, Jackson State and Nova Southeastern.
PVAMU has made no decision on the replacement of Coach Cooper-Dyke. Top assistant coach Toyelle Wilson may be considered by the school as the interim head coach, appointed the head coach or may decide to following Cooper-Dyke to UNCW.
Now, the rest of the story...
CAHS star to join ex-WNBA standout in UNC-Wilmington ST. THOMAS, VI — Charlotte Amalie High School senior standout Aesha Peters accepted a full scholarship last month to play basketball at Prairie View A&M University and one of the main attractions, she said, was the chance to play under coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke. Cooper-Dyke, a two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player and one of the most decorated players in the history of women’s basketball, accepted the head coaching position at UNC-Wilmington last week. Peters announced Wednesday she plans to follow Cooper-Dyke to the Colonial Athletic Association school and hopefully become a member of her first Seahawk recruiting class.
“Coach Cooper has been through a lot and she brings that family atmosphere to the program,” said Peters, who tallied 13 points, 11.1 rebounds and four blocks a game during her senior year. “I’m very excited and I’m looking forward to playing for her.” Peters help lead the Lady Chickenhawks to an undefeated league record this past season and a third consecutive St. Thomas-St. John IAA title. She was named to the St. Thomas squad that competed at the 12th annual Sun Stroke All VI Hoop Classic on St. Croix last month. She is the only known player from the league so far to sign with a Division I school.
St. Croix Girls All-Stars' Veronique Llamos (L) has her shot stuffed by St. Thomas All-Stars' Aesha Peters, #2 blue. Peters is backing out of her national letter commitment to PVAMU to follow Cooper-Dyke to UNCW.
Cooper-Dyke, 47, turned around the program at Prairie View A&M in just five short years. She compiled an 85-72 overall record (64-26 mark in the Southwestern Athletic Conference) during her tenure and led the Panthers to the NCAA tournament in 2007 and 2009. At UNCW, Cooper-Dyke and Peters will face a similar challenge. The Seahawks have not earned an NCAA Tournament bid in the 24 years since competing in Division I. Meanwhile, CAA juggernauts Old Dominion and James Madison have stood atop the league standings in recent years.
“I’m excited to get out in the community, to create, to mentor, to mother, to lead these young women down the academic path to their degrees and, of course, down the path to a winning season, not only in the Colonial Athletic Association, but also nationally,” Cooper-Dyke said during a press conference Monday introducing her as the program’s ninth head coach.
It’s not known how many players from Cooper-Dyke’s initial recruiting class at Prairie View will follow her to UNCW. “The reality is that kids go to schools to play for certain coaches,” said CAHS coach Myron Corbett, who has assisted Peters throughout the recruitment process. “At the moment, Aesha has to do some paperwork with the NCAA. But she has been offered a full scholarship from Wilmington and is looking forward to playing in a more competitive league.” Corbett said Peters was aware of the possibility that Cooper-Dyke may land another job when she signed with Prairie View on April 15.
LANDIS, N.C. — Winston-Salem State's football program returns to its CIAA roots this fall, and South Rowan running back D'Andre Harris will be part of the excitement. Once Winston-Salem State found out D'Andre hadn't signed anywhere, he was an apple they were quick to grab," South coach Jason Rollins said. Harris had a tough recruiting experience. Rollins explained that North Carolina A&T offered a full ride pretty early. Harris — a productive back, solid citizen and strong student — wanted to wait to see what other options developed. Basically, that scholarship got pulled off the table and went elsewhere. It happens.
