CIAA coaches pick WSSU Rams to win 3rd straight title

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  --  Winston-Salem State is the popular pick to win a third straight CIAA football championship.         

A coaches poll released Thursday during the CIAA Football Round-Up at WSSU had the Rams first overall and first in the Southern Division. Elizabeth City State (8-4, 6-1 last season) was picked to finish second overall and first in the Northern Division.

WSSU went 10-0 during the 2012 regular season and defeated Elizabeth City State 34-19 to win its second straight CIAA championship game. The Rams rolled through the first three rounds of the Division II playoffs before losing to Valdosta State 35-7 in the national-championship game.

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Wilson Announces SSU Football Coaching Staff

SAVANNAH, Georgia  --  First-year Savannah State head football coach Earnest Wilson III has announced his coaching staff for the 2013 season.

Wilson, who replaces Steve Davenport, will be his own offensive coordinator.

The returning coaches are Corey Barlow and David Roberson. Barlow will serve as the defensive coordinator and will also coach the defensive backs. Roberson will work with the outside linebackers and will act as recruiting coordinator.

Among the new assistants is former SSU player and coach Michael Wallace (inside linebackers and special teams). The other new assistants are Willard Scissum (associate head coach/offensive line), who comes to SSU from Alabama State; Mister Askew (running backs) who spent last season at Central State; Jonas Jackson (defensive line and assistant recruiting coordinator), a former assistant at Assumption; Lawrence Livingston  (quarterbacks) who comes to SSU from Albany State and Chris Buckner (wide receivers), who comes to SSU from Jackson State.

Wallace, a Clyo, Georgia native, comes to SSU from Benedict where he coached the defensive backs. Wallace was a four-year starter in the secondary while at SSU, playing for the legendary William “Bill” Davis. Wallace was an All-SIAC performer during the 1988 and 1989 seasons and was a member of the SSU squad that finished with a 8-1 record in 1989. Entering his 24^th year in the collegiate ranks, Wallace has also coached at Lane, Stillman, Clark Atlanta and Morris Brown. The 1991 SSU graduate started his coaching career in 1990 at Savannah State that lasted until 2001. As a defensive coordinator in 1995, Wallace lead the Savannah State Tigers to a No. 1 ranking in pass defense and pass efficiency defense. In 1996, it was No. 1 in the nation in take-a-ways with 45. On the offensive side of the ball, Wallace's team never finished lower than fourth in total offense before SSU left the SIAC in 2000.

Scissum coached one year at Alabama State and spent three years as an assistant at Alcorn State. Scissum, who was  four-year starter at Alabama under Paul “Bear” Bryant, coached the offense line for NFL Europe's Berlin Thunder and Ft. Valley State (2007). He spent six seasons at Morehouse College; first as offensive line coach (1998-2000) and later as head coach (2002-05), sandwiched around a brief stint as co-offensive coordinator at Morris Brown (2001) . The Huntsville, Alabama native played professionally for four seasons (1985-88), playing in both the National Football League (Denver Broncos and the Washington Redskins) and Canadian Football Leagues (Calgary Stampede and British Columbia Lions).

Askew comes to SSU from Central State where he was the Marauders wide receivers coach last season. Prior to CSU, Askew was the head coach for the Dayton Silverbacks (2011-12), a professional indoor football team, and the wide receivers coach at Kenyon College (2010).  In the 2008-09 season, the Cincinnati, Ohio native served as the assistant coach and offensive coordinator for Mifflin High School.  Askew was the running backs coach and strength and conditioning coordinator at Bethany College (2004-2007).  In 2005, Askew was the running back for the professional indoor football team the Ohio Valley Greyhounds. During the 2003-04 season, he was the running backs coach for Benedict College. He also served as the running backs coach and strength and conditioning coordinator at St. Augustine's College. In 2000, the former Elizabeth City State fullback was the running backs and linebacker's coach for the Carolina Rhino's in the Arena Football League.

Jackson was a linebacker coach at Assumption College before landing at Savannah State. Before that he spent two years as head coach at West Virginia Wesleyan. In two seasons at Wesleyan, Jackson finished with a 12-10 record. He has the most wins in the first two seasons of any coach in Wesleyan history  since the Bobcats joined the WVIAC in 1924. Jackson had been on the football staff since 2009. He was promoted to head coach during the summer of 2011. Prior to be named the head coach Jackson was the defensive coordinator/defensive line coach. Jackson spent one season as the defensive line coach at Illinois State. During the 2006-07 seasons Jackson was the defensive coordinator at LaSalle University. Jackson spent two seasons coaching the defensive line at Temple University. Jackson spent a year in France as the Head Coach of the Elancourt Templiers. Prior to his trip overseas the Boston native was the offensive skill coach at Arizona Western College. Jackson was a two-year letter winner at Eastern Michigan where he was a two-way player at tight end and on the defensive line.

Livinston was the offensive line coach at Albany State (GA). Before that, he worked at Morgan State University, where he served two seasons as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Prior to his stint at Morgan State, Livingston coached the offensive line at Delaware State University for two seasons, and was assistant head coach and offensive line coach at the University of Texas at El Paso from 2004 until 2008. The Dover, Delaware native served as the head coach and offensive coordinator at Earlham College in 2003. Livingston also coached with the University of Wyoming, the University of Arizona, and helped the Texas A&M University Aggies to the Big 12 conference championship and a Sugar Bowl appearance. He coached at Washington State University, which won the Pac 10 championship and a Rose Bowl appearance during his tenure. Livingston began his coaching career as an assistant offensive line coach as his alma mater, Weber State College. He also coached at the U.S. Military Academy in 1988.

Buckner was a member of the Jackson State football staff for three seasons. He started out as a graduate assistant, working with the wide receivers but was promoted to a  full-time member of the coaching staff as the receivers coach. Buckner was a four year letterman (2006-09) at New Mexico State, where he started as a wide receiver. The Arlington, Texas native earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from New Mexico State in 2009. He is currently working on a graduate degree in Industrial Technology.

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Claflin Names Ricky Jackson Head Men’s Basketball Coach

ORANGEBURG, South Carolina  --  Claflin University named Ricky B. Jackson its head men’s basketball coach on Wednesday, announced Athletic Director Dr. Jerome Fitch. Jackson is joining the Panther staff after serving five years as the top assistant to the men’s basketball coach at Shaw University in Raleigh, N. C.

“We believe Coach Jackson is the right fit for Claflin University,” Fitch said. “He brings outstanding credentials as a head coach and a mentor for student-athletes. He is a passionate student of the game and I have every confidence that our program will continue a tradition of excellence under his leadership.”

Winning has been a constant where Jackson has coached. Before joining the staff at Shaw in 2008, Jackson spent the previous 12 years at Gloucester County College of Sewell, N. J., the last eight as head coach. During his tenure as head coach, Gloucester won seven consecutive Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC) Northern Division titles.



His teams were Region XIX champions three times and Jackson captured Coach of the Year honors three times each by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) District 6 and Region XIX. He ended his head coaching career at Gloucester with a 183-35 record, a remarkable .839 winning percentage.

In recent years, Shaw has shifted its national prominence upward. The Bears won the CIAA title in 2011 and have been a mainstay in national and regional polls, ranking as high as No. 7 in the NCAA Division II final poll in 2011-2012.

Jackson graduated from Virginia Union University of Richmond, Va., in 1991 and earned a master’s in human services from Springfield College of Springfield, Mass., in 2001.

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UAPB Golden Lions Mourning Loss of Student- Athlete

Lydell Hartford

WAGGAMAN, Louisiana  --  Lydell Hartford, Jr., freshman linebacker for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff football team died yesterday in a fatal accident in Waggaman, Louisiana. Coaches and administrators at UAPB are saddened by the details of the accident released by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office (JPSO).

According to authorities, a 16-year-old boy identified as Hartford's friend was playing with a gun and accidentally shot and killed him early Tuesday morning. Hartford, 20, was pronounced dead after suffering a gunshot wound to the neck, according to Glen T. Boyd, spokesman for the JPSO.

Hartford and the teen were inside of a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro belonging to Hartford's mother. The car was parked in the driveway of Hartford's home, Boyd said. The teen discovered a .38-caiber pistol that also belonged to Hartford's mother inside the car and began to remove the bullets. Hartford warned him to stop, but the teen ignored Hartford and kept unloading bullets until he thought the gun was empty. The boy squeezed the trigger three or four times until the pistol fired a bullet that hit Hartford in the neck. The teen pulled him out of the vehicle and laid him on the driveway. Hartford died about an hour later, Boyd said. The 16-year-old boy was arrested and booked with negligent homicide. The Sheriff's Office is not identifying the teen because he is a juvenile.

"It is a shock to us all," said UAPB Chancellor Dr. Laurence Alexander. "We are saddened by the news of his death and offer our condolences, thoughts, and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time."

"We are all shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Lydell Hartford, Jr. Although he was part of our athletics program for a short time, he will be missed," said UAPB Athletics Director Lonza Hardy. "Our heartfelt condolences are extended to Lydell's family. The counseling services at UAPB will be available to any student and staff member who may need it."

"Our hearts and prayers really go out to Hartford and his family," said Head Football Coach Monte Coleman. "He was proud to be a part of the team-I am sad to see another young person leave this earth too soon. He will be missed."

UAPB Offensive Coordinator Eric Dooley, also a New Orleans native, knew the school Hartford came from and is well acquainted with his family. He didn't work directly with him at practices and games, but noticed he did everything you asked of him.

UAPB Defensive Coordinator Earl Buckingham worked directly with Hartford and will remember him for his dedication to the team.

"He was a good kid and loved being on the team," said Buckingham. "Our team is hurting and offers our condolences to his family and all those that knew him."

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New Virginia State University basketball coach named

Lonnie Blow, Jr.
Head Men's Basketball Coach
Virginia State University

ETTRICK, Virginia -- Virginia State University's new men's basketball head coach will have little trouble learning the CIAA - he already coaches there. This morning, Lonnie Blow Jr. was introduced as the new Trojans coach, leaving fellow CIAA member St. Augustine's University after two years.

"I'm excited that I'm here now and I want to build a successful basketball program that we all can be proud of," Blow said. He compared building a stronger program to cooking a great Sunday dinner.

After 21 years coaching at the high school level, Blow began his college career as an assistant at Hampton University in 2005-06. Since then, he assisted at Norfolk State, served as head coach at St. Augustine's, assisted at Old Dominion then returned to become head coach again at St. Augustine's in Raleigh, NC.

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Southern U. Football 2013 Preview: A New Dawn Approaches

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- 2012 season by posting a 4-5 record which included wins over Jackson State, Florida A&M and Grambling, Dawson Odums proved he deserved the chance to resurrect Southern’s football program.

The university removed the interim tag in mid-December and handed the wheels to the program to Odums. Odums immediately added experienced coaches to his staff to help tranform the mindset and culture of the Southern program. With the addition of OL Coach Chennis Berry, WR Coach Chris Coleman and LB Coach Lorick Atkinson, Odum is set to usher in a new dawn in the storied history of Jaguar football.
 

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THE OFFENSE

On the heels of a career season in 2012, Dray Joseph is creating expectations for an encore performance in 2013 that could possibly lead Southern to the SWAC Championship in Houston. Joseph (5-11, 215) excelled as the unquestioned leader of the Jaguar offense as a junior, passing for 2,511 yards and 25 TDs. The West St. John product completed 58.5 percent of his pass attempts on his way to earning a spot on the All-SWAC second team. Joseph punctuated his stellar season by leading the conference in passing average (228 ypg) and total offense (2,640 yards).

With the emergence of redshirt freshman and Baton Rouge native Lenard Tillery (5-10, 181), Southern will look to strengthen its ground attack and produce its first 1,000-yard rusher since the 2003 SWAC championship season. Tillery, a McKinley High product, sat out in 2012 but showed flashes of his explosive play-making ability during fall and spring practice. 

Senior Darrius Clayton, who filled in admirable for injured starter Sylvester Nzekwe, returns to aid Tillery in shouldering the load in the backfield after rushing for 183 yards in 2012. Senior Brian McCain and redshirt junior Lee Mitchell provide veteran leadership and stability at the fullback position.

The lone question mark for a Southern offense that returns seven starters is at wide receiver. New Orleans native Lee Doss (6-2, 175) returns as the Jaguars leading receiver after a career season in 2012 but the void left after the departures of Charles Hawkins and Mike Berry will quickly need to be filled. Doss’ 65 receptions and 703 yards placed him among the SWAC’s elite receiver and earned him All-SWAC honors.

With a bevy of inexperienced candidates abound, a viable receiving target must emerge from a unit which includes junior college transfer Sam Altman and redshirts freshman Justin Morgan. Both players could provide the dynamic, shifty scoring threat while freshman Chuck Baker (6-2, 190), a Rivals 3-star athlete who was a LSU commitment, could enhance the Jaguars vertical passing attack.

In the trenches, Berry’s addition has infused new life to an offensive line that is charged with protecting Joseph and churning yards on the ground. D’Wayne Houston, who doubled as the SWAC’s Top Male Field Performer in indoor and outdoor track this spring, and Anthony Mosley, a converted defensive lineman, continues to get stronger and have emerged as the unit’s hardest workers. LSU transfer and Capitol High star Corey White is going to provide depth to the offensive line while center Aaron Hall works his way back from a season-ending knee injury in 2012.


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THE DEFENSE

Under Odums, Southern’s 3-4 scheme saw vast improvements from the previous season but still faltered late in close games resulting in four losses by a combined 11 points. In 2013, Southern return eight starters, many whom gained valuable playing experience in those close loses.

With seven players returning, the defensive line possess the potential for a dominant season led by two experienced pass rushers in senior Kadeem Lewis and junior Arthur Miley. Dion Palmer is posed to have a breakout year after rehabbing a knee injury the forced him to sit out. Sophomores Gabe Echols and Justin Woods replace Casey Narcisse on the interior and will look to improve upon the teams 21 sacks from a year ago.

Spearheading the linebacker corp is Anthony Balancier, the teams leading tackler in 2012. Balancier, who flourished in his return to his natural position after an unsuccessful stint at safety in 2011, led the Jaguars in sacks (4.5) and tackles-for-loss (11.5). Juniors Daniel Brown, Detrane Lindey and Franchot West solidify the group as the strength of the defense and the most experienced unit.

Freshman Jarkeith Ruffin raw athleticism and intense physicality has him touted as “not you average freshman” by Odums.

Though the most inexperienced unit, gone are the days of the 5’9-sized defensive backs. Three-year starter and return specialist Virgil Williams remains the groups most versatile and fundamental sound player. Williams, a Shreveport native, finished tied for second in tackles with 62. Dionte McDuffy, a South Alabama transfer and William’s Evangel Christian teammate, joins returning staring corner Johnathan Mack in the secondary. Omar Cook, a walk-on from California, has worked his way into filling Levi Jackson’s vacant safety spot.

THE SCHEDULE

Odums makes his Southern head coaching debut since having the interim tag removed against the University of Houston Aug. 30 in Reliant Stadium to open the 2013 football slate. The game will air live on ESPN3 at 7:30 p.m.

The Jaguars contest against the Cougars will be the second consecutive season opener against a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) member for Southern and the second meeting between the two schools. Houston defeated the Jaguars 55-3 in the first-ever meeting in 2008.

Southern will also renew a familiar rivalry with in-state rival Northwestern State Sept. 7 in Natchitoches. The Southern-Northwestern State series began in 1993 and served as the coaching debut and first Southern win for Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame coach Pete Richardson in the Louisiana Superdome. The series is tied at 5-5.

On Sept. 14, Southern welcomes Prairie View A&M for its 2013 home and Southwestern Athletic Conference opener in A.W. Mumford Stadium before traveling to Itta Bena, Miss. to face Mississippi Valley State Sept. 21.

The Jaguars will enjoy a two-game homestand when they host Jackson State Sept. 28 and Alabama A&M Oct. 12. Defending SWAC champion Arkansas Pine-Bluff will host Southern in Pine Bluff, Ark. Oct. 19.

Alcorn State will serve as the Jaguars' homecoming opponent on Oct. 26 before Southern concludes the 2013 campaign with four November games. The Jaguars will embark upon back-to-back road trips at Texas Southern in Houston and Alabama State in Montgomery, Ala. on Nov. 2 and Nov. 9 respectively.

Clark Atlanta, where Odums served as interim head coach in 2004, will travel to Baton Rouge on Nov. 17 for the first-ever meeting between the two schools.

Southern concludes the 2013 campaign looking to extend it Bayou Classic win streak to two over archrival Grambling State in the 40th annual Bayou Classic on Nov. 30.
 

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REPORT: Appalachian State's Holloway Transfers to Florida A&M

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina  --  Asheville High alum Tysean Holloway confirmed this morning that he has left the Appalachian State football program and transferred to Florida A&M.

Holloway redshirted as a freshman for the Mountaineers in 2012 and was expected to compete for a starting job at running back.

“I really enjoy everything down at (Florida A&M),” Holloway said.



“I like the coaching staff. I think we’ve got all the pieces. Football was wonderful at Appalachian State, but I just didn’t enjoy Appalachian State outside of the football experience.”

Holloway said he expects to major in Criminal Justice at Florida A&M.

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Tysean Holloway, 6'-1"/193 lbs.
Running Back
 

The Tysean Holloway (Courtesy: Appalachian State Sports Information)

Highly touted true freshman graduated from Asheville H.S. a semester early and has been on campus since January ... has a leg up on most of his classmates due to the fact that his early enrollment allowed him to participate in all of the team’s offseason activities, including spring practice ... impressed observers in spring ball with his speed and skill ... will push upperclassmen Steven Miller, Rod Chisholm and Michael Frazier for playing time during fall camp.

High School: Graduated early from Asheville H.S. in December 2011 and enrolled at ASU as a true freshman in January 2012 ... rated as a two-star recruit by Rivals.com ... rushed for 4,844 yards and 77 touchdowns during his three-year prep career ... named 2011 Mountain Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year after rushing for 1,405 yards and 24 touchdowns as a senior ... versatile athlete also caught 16 passes for 233 yards and threw for 99 yards and a score as a senior ... enjoyed his best statistical campaign as a junior in 2010 when he amassed 1,891 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns ... helped Asheville compile a sparkling 30-6-1 overall record and three state quarterfinal appearances from 2009-11 ... participated in 2011 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas ... coached by Danny Watkins ... attended same high school as current ASU teammate Mark Powell.

Personal: Full name is Tysean Holloway 

Report: MVSU head coach Chico Potts reinstated

ITTA BETA, Mississippi  -- Chico Potts has been reinstated as the head coach of Mississippi Valley State, according to reports.

Potts was arrested and charged with domestic violence, a misdemeanor, in early July, getting suspended with pay by the university on July 12th. But he was found not guilty on July 18th, and the school has since lifted his suspension.

“I am thankful the legal process has concluded and look forward to returning to my responsibilities as head men’s basketball coach at Mississippi Valley State University,” Potts said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the students and fellow coaches as we prepare for the upcoming season.”

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Ram Ramblings: CIAA media day coming to WSSU on Thursday

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  -- I’m sorry I’m going to miss the CIAA’s annual football media day on Thursday when it takes place at the new Donald Reaves Activities Center on WSSU’s campus. First of all, I wanted to see the activities center because I’ve heard it’s a tremendous addition to WSSU.       

The other reason why I wanted to be there was it’s always good to hear what Coach Connell Maynor says to other reporters. I guess I’ve been spoiled because I’ve heard Maynor for the last three seasons and I’m used to his point-blank opinions.

The family and I will be on vacation later this week on ...



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SIAC Kickoff Luncheon Set for August 6th in Atlanta

ATLANTA, Georgia  -- The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) will host its 2013 Football Kickoff Luncheon on Tuesday, August 6  at the Holiday Inn Perimeter located on 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Road in Atlanta, GA. The event will be streamed live, via Live U on the SIAC's website(www.thesiac.com) starting at 12:30 p.m. (EST).

The football media day will feature each SIAC head football coach and two-student athletes, who will provide insight on their respective programs for the upcoming 2013 season.

In addition, the SIAC will announce its 2013 Preseason All-SIAC teams and predicted order of finish, as voted by the SIAC Coaches Association.

Former Fort Valley State football player Tyrone Poole, a recent Division II Football Hall of Fame inductee and two-time Super Bowl Champion, will serve as keynote speaker for the event. Radio and Television personality, Doug Stewart, of the "2 Live Stews", will emcee the Kickoff luncheon.

A limited number of tickets are available to the public for the press luncheon and can be purchased by calling SIAC Associate Commissioner Ruben Perez at (404) 221-1041. Tickets are $15.00 per seat and must be purchased by Friday, August 2.

For members of the media who will be attending, please apply for credentials by visiting www.thesiac.com to complete the online application. All request will be accepted up until 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 1.

Kickoff for the 2013 SIAC season will commence Thursday evening, September 5, when Miles College will travel on the road against The University of North Alabama of the Gulf South Conference. Another marquee non-conference game will be Fort Valley State University against defending Division II National Champions Valdosta State University, also from the Gulf Soth Conference, Saturday, September 7th in Macon, GA for the Music City Classic.

In the only SIAC conference matchup of the weekend, Central State University will make its debut against Benedict College. Other SIAC teams in action include defending SIAC Champions Tuskegee University in the Louis Crews Classic against SWAC foe Alabama A&M, and Albany State University will play North Greenville University on the road. Stillman College will have its home opener against Concordia-Selma, while Lane College and Clark Atlanta University will start its season on the road against University of Virginia-Lynchburg and West Alabama respectively.

Morehouse College will close out the SIAC opening weekend against MEAC opponent Howard University at the 3rd Annual Nation's Classic in Washington, DC.

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TSU Tigers Predicted to Place Third at OVC Media Day

NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- The Tennessee State football team was picked to finish third in the Ohio Valley Conference at Monday’s Media Day. The Tigers received a pair of first-place votes and 90 total points in the 2013 poll which is a vote of league head coaches and sports information directors.

 

The Tigers’ preseason ranking is the highest for the team since the 2002 season.

 

TSU got more good news when redshirt junior cornerback Steven Godbolt III was selected as the conference’s Preseason Defensive Player of the Year. Last season, Godbolt ranked first nationally in interception per game (0.60), and hauled in six picks to go along with 45 tackles and six pass break ups.

 

Godbolt was also chosen to the Preseason All-OVC Team and joining him on the defensive side of the ball are senior defensive end Antonio Harper, junior linebacker Nick Thrasher and junior safety Daniel Fitzpatrick. Thrasher led the team in tackles last year (105) and tackles-for-loss (9.0) last season while Harper was second on the squad in sacks (3.5) and Fitzpatrick was first in pass breakups (8) and second in tackles (61).

 

On the offensive side, the Tigers had three players selected including preseason All-American tight end A.C. Leonard. Leonard had 51 catches for 733 yards and six touchdowns a year ago. Also on the team are senior left guard Kadeem Edwards and senior center Demetrius Rhaney.

 

Big Blue will open camp on Aug. 4 in preparation for the John Merritt Classic versus Bethune-Cookman on Sept. 1.

 

 

2013 OVC Preseason Football Predicted Order of Finish

1.  Eastern Illinois (12 first-place votes) - 122 points
2.  Eastern Kentucky (4) - 114
3. Tennessee State (2) - 90 
4. Jacksonville State - 87
5. UT Martin - 78
6. Murray State - 53
    Tennessee Tech - 53
8. Southeast Missouri - 35
9. Austin Peay – 16

 

2013 Preseason All-OVC Football Team

Preseason Offensive Player of the Year: Erik Lora (WR), Eastern Illinois
Preseason Defensive Player of the Year: Steven Godbolt III (CB), Tennessee State

 

OFFENSE
QB - Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois
RB - DaMarcus James, Jacksonville State
RB - Jaamal Berry, Murray State
WR - Erik Lora, Eastern Illinois
WR - Walter Powell, Murray State
TE - A.C. Leonard, Tennessee State
C - Demetrius Rhaney, Tennessee State
OG - Kadeem Edwards, Tennessee State
OG - Collin Seibert, Eastern Illinois
OT - Ben Stansfield, Austin Peay
OT - Tarik Milner, Jacksonville State
OT - Wesley Sherrill, Tennessee Tech

 

DEFENSE
DL - Pat Wertz, Eastern Illinois
DL - Shawn Shupperd, Eastern Kentucky
DL - Antonio Harper, Tennessee State
DL - DJ Roberts, UT Martin
LB - Anthony Brown, Eastern Kentucky
LB - Ben Johnson, UT Martin
LB - Ichiro Vance, Eastern Kentucky
LB - Nick Thrasher, Tennessee State
DB - Nick Beard, Eastern Illinois
DB - Steven Godbolt III, Tennessee State
DB - Brandon Stanley, Eastern Kentucky 
DB - Daniel Fitzpatrick, Tennessee State

 

SPECIALISTS
K - Cameron Berra, Eastern Illinois
P - Chad Zinchini, Tennessee Tech
RS - Walter Powell, Murray State

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Vote: MEAC/SWAC Challenge Walter Payton Achievement Award

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama  --  As part of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge on September 1 in Orlando, one player from each team will be awarded the Walter Payton Achievement Award for academic and on-field excellence. Who should receive the honor from Florida A&M University and Mississippi Valley State University?

MVSU's Kevin Eugene, Robert Simpson and Julian Stafford are on the ballot. Cast your vote now!

 CLICK HERE 

 

Courtesy SWAC.org
 

Alabama A&M's Tompkins resigns as Head Baseball Coach

HEAD COACH MICHAEL TOMPKINS

NORMAL, Alabama --  Second year head baseball coach Michael Tompkins has decided to resign to pursue other interest.

"I will be forever grateful for the opportunity that I was given here on "The Hill" by Bryan Hicks and the administration," said Tompkins. "I want to thank all of the players for all of the hard work that they put in and I wish them all of the best in their future endeavors."

"I will be pursuing a business opportunity in my home state of Washington with my wife Becky and be around family as we welcome our daughter Bailee next month. This was not an easy decision to make but a decision based on the well-being of my family."

In two years the youngest head coach in America improved the facilities at Bulldog baseball field adding a maroon wooden fence, railings in front of the dugouts, a covered hitting cage for the players and fencing around the home dugout area.

"I would like to thank Coach Michael Tompkins for his outstanding contributions to our baseball program," Director of Athletics Bryan Hicks mentioned. "We wish him and his family much success in his future endeavors."

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College Sports Madness: Arkansas Pine Bluff Football Preview

PINE BLUFF, Arkansas  --  Arkansas-Pine Bluff had an amazing 2012 campaign, culminating in a thrilling overtime win over Jackson State in the SWAC Championship. Coach Monte Coleman’s squad lost just two games and both of those were way back in September. The Golden Lions were simply on a roll. Now Coach Coleman has to keep that momentum heading in 2013.

2012 Record: (10-2, 8-1)
2012 Postseason: SWAC Championship
Coach: Monte Coleman (29-27 at Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 29-27 overall)
Offensive Coordinator: Eric Dooley
Defensive Coordinator: Monte Coleman

Returning Leaders:
Rushing: Justin Billings, RB, 852 yards
Passing: Benjamin Anderson, QB, 2,346 yards
Receiving: Ladarius Eckwood, WR, 787 yards
Tackles: Xavier Lofton, LB, 107
Sacks: Damien Lee, DE, 5.5
Interceptions: David Watson, DB, 2

Other Key Returnees: WR Dezmond Beverly, LB Jer-ryan Harris, DB Gyovanni Harvey, DB Ryan Shaw, WR Willie Young.


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Tennessee State picked third in OVC; QB still suspended

NASHVILLE, Tennessee  --  Tennessee State was picked to finish third Monday at Ohio Valley Conference Football Media Day, and Mike German was listed as the Tigers starting quarterback.

As coach Rod Reed enters his fourth season he’s looking at both as nothing more than projections.

“Mike German is listed as the starter on paper and we’re ranked No. 3 on paper,” Reed said. “But that paper doesn’t mean anything.”

German’s status is still in limbo two weeks before the start of practice. He was suspended in March after being charged with felony vandalism. Reed said German and defensive back Joseph Johnson were charged with doing several thousand dollars worth of damage to a 2011 Ford Fiesta by dancing on its roof.

Johnson is no longer on the roster.



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FCS Executive Director of the Sports Network, discusses the state of FCS football and the OVC

NASHVILLE, Tennessee  --  Craig Haley, the FCS Executive Director of the Sports Network, discusses the state of FCS football and the OVC at the OVC Football Media Day on July 22.



TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY

Fourth-year head coach Rod Reed has helped his alma mater improve in each of his first three seasons at Tennessee State.

 

Last year the Tigers started the season 7-0 and rose to as high as 17th in the national rankings before losing an overtime game at Jacksonville State. The team finished the season 8-3 overall, marking just the third eight-win campaign for the program over the last 13 years.

 

Reed, a linebacker while playing at TSU, will have another strong defensive unit this season after his team led the OVC in total defense (361.64 yards/game) last year. All 11 starters return from last season including Preseason OVC Defensive Player of the Year Steven Godbolt III. The junior cornerback ranked first nationally in interceptions/game (0.60), hauling in six picks to go along with 45 tackles, six pass breakups and two forced fumbles in 10 games last year.

 

Three other TSU defensive players were named preseason All-OVC, including senior lineman Antonio Harper, junior linebacker Nick Thrasher and junior defensive back Daniel Fitzpatrick. Thrasher led the team in tackles (105) and tackles-for-loss (9.0) last season while Harper was second in sacks (3.5) and Fitzpatrick was first in pass breakups (8) and second in tackles (61). Among the returning offensive players is All-American tight end A.C. Leonard, who had 51 catches for 733 yards last season, and preseason All-OVC offensive linemen Demetrius Rhaney and Kadeem Edwards.

Complete Preseason Release (PDF)  | Preseason All-OVC Team | 2013 OVC Football Media Guide | Media Day Photo Gallery

Preseason Q&A with SWAC Commissioner Duer Sharp

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama  --  I got the chance to sit down with Southwestern Athletic Conference Commissioner Duer Sharp earlier this week. Check out what he had to say about moving the SWAC football championship from Birmingham to Houston, the state of the league and what he thinks the next step for the SWAC is in this Q&A.

Obviously, the big news was you guys moving the (conference championship) football game to Houston. But my question is, 'Because you've got the Magic City Classic here, which is the biggest game in all of black college football, did it make sense to try to expand the brand elsewhere since you've already got that game that's such a huge draw (in Birmingham)?

Sharp: "Well, you have brand in Houston too because we have ...

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CIAA South has some questions

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina  --  CIAA football is right around the corner.

The league’s coaches and players will gather on July 25 at Winston-Salem State for the annual preseason media day. While a good bit of the discussion will center on who has what, the consensus is likely that Winston-Salem State is the team to beat on a conference and national level. The Rams, who open the season on Sept. 5 with a nationally televised game at UNC-Pembroke, are going for their third straight CIAA championship. As a result, the South Division has not only the league’s best team but the most intrigue. Here’s an overview of its programs and the question that has to be answered for a successful season:

Winston-Salem State The Rams, as has been the case since ...

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Hampton Pirates tabs Ferebee as offensive coordinator

HAMPTON, Virginia  --  Glen Ferebee loved coaching football and was obviously successful, but as a substitute teacher at Lakeland High supplemented only by a coaching stipend the past two years, he wondered if he would have to give up the profession in order to support his family.

Hampton University's Donovan Rose took notice of Lakeland's back-to-back playoff seasons under Ferebee in 2011 and '12 and hired him last winter as quarterbacks coach as part of a staff shakeup. Six months later, the 35-year-old Virginia Beach native is running the Pirates' offense.

"This was something I always wanted to do," Ferebee said Tuesday. "I enjoyed coaching high school, but I wanted to get to the next level and I appreciate Coach Rose giving me the opportunity. I didn't think I'd become an offensive coordinator this quickly, but I'm going to work just as hard as I can."

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NSU Football Mini Season Ticket Packages Now on Sale

NORFOLK, Virginia  --  Norfolk State University's 2013 football mini season ticket packages are now on sale!

The four-game package includes tickets to the season-opener with Maine (Aug. 31), the Battle of the Bay game with Hampton (Oct. 19), the contest with cross-town opponent Old Dominion (Oct. 26) and the homecoming game with Florida A&M (Nov. 2). Tickets for the four-game package are $110 for reserved seats and $90 for general admission. The prices reflect a $10 savings over buying tickets to the four games individually.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.nsuspartanstickets.com or through the NSU Ticket Center on campus between the hours of 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Season ticket packages for all seven home games are still on sale through the ticket web site and on campus at the NSU Ticket Center. Single-game tickets will go on sale July 29. For more information, click here.

By Matt Michalec, Asst. AD/Communications
Norfolk State University
NSUSPARTANS.COM

All-star running back Paul Robertson possible impact freshman at Hampton University

HAMPTON, Virginia -- Hampton University's three returning tailbacks rushed for a combined 307 yards on 69 carries last season. Paul Robertson ran 32 times for 426 yards in one game.

Now there's no overstating the jump from high school to college football, but those jarring numbers illustrate the impact Robertson could have as a true freshman at Hampton this year after a breakout 2012 at L.C. Bird High School near Richmond.

"Paul has a great opportunity," Pirates coach Donovan Rose said. "It's a matter of who comes in and is ready to go. We don't start practice until July 31. I can tell you a little more once I see him in a Hampton uniform."

Fans can catch Robertson in uniform ...


Paul Robertson (5-10/190) rushed for 2,935 yards (14 games) for undefeated L.C. Bird High School, Richmond during the 2012 season, winning Virginia's Division 6 (highest classification) State Championship.  Robertson was named player of the year by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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MEAC Announces 2013 Football Television Schedule

NORFOLK, Virginia  -- The MEAC announced its 2013 television football slate today featuring seven exciting matchups scheduled to telecast on ESPN, ESPNU, ESPN News, ESPN3 and ESPN Classic. The nationally televised games are a part of the MEAC’s ongoing partnership with ESPN.

“We are excited to feature a competitive 2013 MEAC football television schedule on the ESPN networks,” said MEAC Commissioner Dennis Thomas.  “The MEAC’s partnership with ESPN offers unique opportunities to highlight our talented student-athletes, coaches, and institutions on a global landscape.”

The 2013 television scheduled kicks off with the ninth annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge presented by Disney featuring Florida A&M and Mississippi Valley State on Sunday, Sept. 1 in Orlando, Fla..  The game will air live at 11:45 a.m. ET on ESPN.

The ESPNU Thursday night lineup kicks off with Howard at North Carolina A&T at Aggie Stadium on September 26.  South Carolina State will travel to Durham, North Carolina on October 10 to face North Carolina Central in the second Thursday night matchup.  The Bulldogs will host Morgan State in Orangeburg, South Carolina in the final Thursday night game on November 14.  All ESPNU Thursday night matchups are televised live at 7:30 p.m.

The Saturday slate begins with Hampton at South Carolina State on September 28 live on ESPN3 at 2 p.m.  The game will also air on Sunday, September 29 at 8 a.m. on ESPNU.  The Bulldogs face North Carolina A&T in the Atlanta Football Classic on October 5.  The game will kickoff at 4 p.m. live on ESPN3 and air on ESPNU at 10:30 p.m.

Bethune-Cookman will take on North Carolina Central on November 2 live beginning at noon on an ESPN News.

The 2013 MEAC football television schedule wraps up with the Florida Classic featuring Bethune-Cookman and Florida A&M.  The game will air live on ESPN Classic and will re-air on ESPNU on November 24. 

All games will also be available on computers, smartphones, tablets, Xbox and Apple TV via WatchESPN .


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2013 MEAC Television Schedule

Date                Game               Network                      Broadcast        Time

Sept. 1	Florida A&M v. Mississippi Valley State  (MEAC/SWAC Challenge)	ESPN	11:45 a.m.
Sept. 26	Howard at North Carolina A&T	ESPNU	7:30 p.m.
Sept. 28	Hampton at South Carolina State	ESPNU/ESPN3	2:00 p.m.*
Oct. 5	South Carolina State vs. North Carolina A&T	ESPNU/ESPN3	4 p.m.**
Oct. 10	South Carolina State at North Carolina Central	ESPNU	7:30 p.m.
Nov. 2	Bethune-Cookman at North Carolina Central	ESPN News	Noon
Nov. 14	Morgan State at South Carolina State	ESPNU	7:30 p.m.
Nov. 23	Bethune-Cookman vs. Florida A&M	ESPN Classic/ESPNU	2 p.m.***

* Game will be available live on ESPN3 at time listed; will air on ESPNU tape-delayed Sept. 29 at 8 a.m.

**Game will be available live on ESPN3 at time listed; will air later that day on ESPNU at 10:30 p.m.

***Game will be available live on ESPN Classic; will air on ESPNU tape-delayed Nov. 24 

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Kentucky transfer running back likes what he sees in S.C. State football

ORANGEBURG, South Carolina  --  The University of Kentucky transfer, who has four years of eligibility, is determined to do what’s necessary to make an immediate impact with the Bulldogs.

“Versatile and a lead back,” said Taylor about his role. “I’m here to get it. They know I’m here to get it and I’m here to help this team win.”


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Before stepping foot in Orangeburg, the 5-10, 208-pound Atlanta native made it clear he would do more than lead by example. With last year’s leading rusher Jalen “Scoot” Simmons out following shoulder surgery and joining a team that had its worst showing under head coach Buddy Pough, Taylor has looked to inspire his fellow Bulldogs during summer workouts.

“So far, I’ve been in the weight room grinding with my team,” he said. “I give words of wisdom after we’re done working out. I tell them that I’m here for them. Whatever they need, I’ve got it for them. We’ve just been putting in the work together. I’ve been showing them that I’m here to help them.”

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Southern U's Banks to speak at LHSCA Coaches Clinic Tuesday

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana  --  Southern University men's basketball coach Roman Banks has been selected to serve as a guest speaker Tuesday, July 23 during the 2013 Louisiana High School Coaches Association Coaches Clinic at the Baton Rouge Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Banks will address attendants of the 2-day LHSAA sponsored clinic during a 10 a.m. session entitled Building a Program: Daily Operations Classroom to Court Work.

The Shreveport native guided the Southern men's basketball program from NCAA sanctioned academic penalties in 2011 to a SWAC Tournament title in 2013. Banks, along with his coaching staff, served as academic liaisons managing every aspect of the team's academic success from setting class schedule to monitoring mandatory study hall.

For more info on the 2013 LHSCA Coaches Clinic, log on to lhsaa.org.

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Drum Corps International to blast away at Alabama A&M

NORMAL, Alabama  --  Pride, pageantry and pure guts. The exciting sights and sounds of DCI International (DCI) soon will blast the stands of Louis Crews Stadium at Alabama A&M University.

The 2013 DCI Tour will visit North Alabama on July 27 at 6:30 p.m. The schedule offers an impressive lineup of corps with marching bands' elite musicians and performers.

Among the groups in the tour lineup, two corps promise to be hometown favorites. Spirit of Atlanta, based in its namesake city, and Music City Drum & Bugle Corps of Nashville consistently have members who are from the Tennessee Valley.

Other corps include Blue Knights, Denver, Colo.; Blue Stars, La Crosse, Wis.; Boston Crusaders, Boston, Mass; Cascades, Seattle, Wash.; Colts, Dubuque, Iowa; Crossmen, San Antonio, Texas; Jersey Surf, Camden County, N.J.; Madison Scouts, Madison, Wis.; Oregon Crusaders, Portland, Ore.; Pacific Crest, Diamond Bar, Calif.; Pioneer, Milwaukee, Wis.; The Academy, Tempe, Ariz.; and Troopers, Casper, Wyo.

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. with show time at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $25 to 35. Groups of 20 or more will receive a $5 discount. Prices increase by $5 on show day.

DCI first organized more than 30 years ago. The nonprofit organization has influenced many thousands of youth in musical and educational growth. Practically every high school band in the Southeast now has adopted the corps style of uniforms, music and entertaining marching patterns and high-energy shows.

More than 8,000 youth audition each year for less than 3,500 positions in DCI organizations. Most corps members are male (66 percent). A corpsman's average age is just over 19 years old. Full-time college students, many pursuing music education degrees, account for 72 percent of memberships.

For seating information for persons with disabilities, call DCI offices at 317-275-1212. To purchase tickets, visit dci.org/huntsville.
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