While the Big XII got most of the headlines in the conference realignment campaigns, there is still plenty of action going on, with both the Lone Star Conference and the Southland Conference likely to undergo major changes in the near future.
In the Southland Conference, both Texas State and UTSA are seriously planning to move to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Sam Houston State has recently developed a survey to help determine the feasibility of such a move and Central Arkansas is also rumored to be looking into moving up. That leaves 7 schools - Lamar, Stephen F. Austin, Southeastern Louisiana, McNeese State, Nicholls State, and Northwestern State. That brings up another possibility - that several of Louisiana's universities are in serious financial trouble. According to the Times-Picayune, the result of stimulus funds not being replaced by state tax dollars could result in program closures and elimination of athletic programs. Rumor has it the McNeese, Nicholls and Northwestern State fall into the troubled institution category.
In the Lone Star Conference, there are expected be movements as well. However, at this time, no program is discussing changing divisions, just conferences. Central Oklahoma and Northeastern State have expressed interest in joining the MIAA conference, along with Nebraska-Kearney and Lindenwood (MO). Also looking to leave are East Central University, Southeastern Oklahoma, and Southwestern Oklahoma. They are discussing forming a new conference with six Arkansas universities currently in the Gulf South Conference. Not to be outdone, Eastern New Mexico is studying a possible move, either to the Rocky Mountain Conference or the new Oklahoma-Arkansas conference. ENMU president, Steven Gamble told the Portales News-Tribune that an increase in LSC membership fees - from $15,000 annually to $50,000 - is a reason the schools are considering leaving. It is unclear if Cameron and Texas Woman's University have any plans to leave the LSC (neither have football programs). If all of the non-Texas schools do leave, that would leave the LSC with 8 football playing schools - Abilene Chrisitan, Angelo State, Incarnate Word, Midwestern State, Tarleton State, Texas A and M-Commerce, Texas A and M-Kingsville and West Texas A and M. schools.
The non-Texas schools have had some success in football, but not sustained and not recently. Central Oklahoma has been the most successful and longest tenured of the Oklahoma schools, the Bronchos have won or shared 2 LSC football titles, advanced to the NCAA playoffs 4 times, but just once in the past 11 seasons. Northeastern State has also won or shared the LSC title twice, and made the playoffs twice (both in 1999 and 2000, advancing to the national semifinals in 1999). They have not had a winning record since the 2000 season. Southeastern Oklahoma shared on LSC title in 1999, and made the playoffs once, in 2004. They have been consistent, with winning records in 7 of the last 8 seasons (53-30 over that period). Southwestern Oklahoma has no LSC titles or playoff appearances. The Bulldogs have four winning seasons since joining the LSC and sport an overall 45-81 record. East Central also has no LSC titles or playoff appearances. They have had two winning seasons since 2001, with an overall 28-67 record. Eastern New Mexico has one LSC title (1991) but has never made the NCAA playoffs. They have not had a winning season since 2004 , and are 18-36 overall since then. They have not won an LSC South game since October 2006, a streak of 19 games.
Got all that? OK, now that we know where we are now (kind of), what are the possibilities for the future (assuming all the non-Texas schools secede)?
1. LSC schools move up to FCS. Could the LSC replicate their move from NAIA to the NCAA thirty years ago? Are all of the schools in a position to pull this off financially? Are any of them? If they did move to FCS, could the LSC and Southland merge and form a compact (by today's standards) conference?
2. LSC schools stay in Division 2, and McNeese State, Nicholls State and Northwestern State drop down to D2 and join the LSC. Could UT-Pan American drop to D2 and start a football program?
3. Current D3 programs such as Trinity, Mary Hardin Baylor or Hardin Simmons make the move to D2. All have solid programs at their current level, and may be reluctant to shake things up.
4. Current D2 schools such as St. Marys, Texas A and M-International, St. Edwards, UT-Permian Basin or NAIA Wayland Baptist start football programs and join the LSC.
5. Maintain the status quo. The LSC is a premier conference, competitive nationally in all sports and would not need to add new members. Football would have a challenge to fill 3-4 non-conference games, but that is also an opportunity to develop some great rivalries with MIAA or GSC schools. Who wouldn't want to see a North Alabama-WTAM matchup, or Pittsburg State and Tarleton State? How about a rematch of the 2002 national semifinal game between Valdosta State and TAMK? Delta State-ACU anyone? Northwestern Missouri and Midwestern State, or Nebraska-Omaha and TAMC? It looks pretty good to us too.
Be sure to go to www.lscscoop.com for the most complete news coverage of the Lone Star Conference.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-30
MSU grad returns as women's assistant
Times Record News
Christopher Reay, a member of the Midwestern State men’s basketball team from 2005-08, is returning to his alma mater to be an assistant coach for the women’s basketball program.
Reay has spent the last three seasons competing professionally in the New Zealand National Basketball League.
“Chris brings so many things to the basketball program that will only move it forward,” MSU coach Noel Johnson said. “With his experience here at MSU as a student-athlete and his professional experience as a player, I know he knows how to win and how to prepare to win.”
Times Record News
Christopher Reay, a member of the Midwestern State men’s basketball team from 2005-08, is returning to his alma mater to be an assistant coach for the women’s basketball program.
Reay has spent the last three seasons competing professionally in the New Zealand National Basketball League.
“Chris brings so many things to the basketball program that will only move it forward,” MSU coach Noel Johnson said. “With his experience here at MSU as a student-athlete and his professional experience as a player, I know he knows how to win and how to prepare to win.”
Here are some more reported, but unconfirmed signings that we have come across.
ACU - WR - Joseph Florence (So) - 6'4", 200 lbs out of LaMarque TX HS - 11 receptions, 118 yds, 4 TDs (Florence was a 2007 Houston Cougar signee, 2 Star Rivals and Scout)
ENMU - WR - Noelin Henry (Jr)- 5'11" 195 lbs out of Boyd Anderson, FL HS - 3 receptions, 32 yds, 0 TDs
From Pierce College:
ACU - CB - Brandon Turner (Jr) - 5'11" 185 lbs out of Los Angeles Hamilton HS - 50 tackles, 4 Interceptions, 16 passes broken up, also 14 kick returns for 244 yds (17.4 avg.) - Region IV first team selection
Off-Topic
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-29
WTAM Football Roster additions
While checking out the newly spiffed up WTAM athletics website, we noticed some new additions to the Buffalo football roster. At least one of the below additions had been reported on, but nothing official had come from the university.
RB - Thomas Hampton - Los Medranos CC - 1st All-COA, 2,410 yds rushing in two seasons
WR - Myron Dillard - Los Medranos CC
WR - Ray Magee - Fullerton CC (Originally a Utah commit)
OL - Justin Brown - Saddleback CC 2007 (UCLA commit in 2005)
OL - James Otero - NMMI/Delta State
OL - Frank Arriola - Orange Coast CC
DL - Jacob Davis -
DL - Dishon Robertson - Hinds CC
DL - Justin Williams - Navarro JC (Kansas State commit)
DL - Drew Jones - Blinn JC
Rams sign Sims
Former West Texas A&M defensive end Eugene Sims signed a four-year contract with the St. Louis Rams, the team announced Monday.
TAMK Athletic Department Wins Community Engagement Award
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS – The Texas A&M-Kingsville athletic department was honored as the Lone Star Conference Community-Engagement Award of Excellence winner for 2009-10 at the recent Division II Chancellors and Presidents Summit in Indianapolis.
The award-winning event was the women’s basketball team’s Take A Kid to the Game event that was sponsored by Christus Spohn Hospital-Kleberg.
By winning the Lone Star Conference award, the Javelina athletic department was awarded with $500 and was considered for the national NCAA Division II award that was won by Benedict College.
This is the second LSC award the Kingsville athletic department has won this year joining the Best Game Day Environment award that was won in the fall.
Elder announces MSU's 2010 signing class
MSU Sports Information
WICHITA FALLS, Texas - Midwestern State coach Doug Elder announced the 2010 signing class Monday afternoon with the addition one junior college transfer while signing seven prep players to National Letters of Intent.
"If this group comes in fit, strong and mentally ready, they could all see time next year to help defend our conference championship and make a run at another postseason appearance," Elder said.
The class includes four midfielders, two defenders and a pair of goalkeepers.
Midfield
Chris Dwyer, a 6-2, 180-pound transfer from Western Texas College, garnered NSCAA first-team All-America honors after scoring 15 goals and adding 13 assists for the Westerners as a sophomore in 2009.
"Chris is a versatile playmaker," Elder said. "If he gets fit to play in our system, he should be a presence for us next year.'
The English native tallied 30 goals during his junior college career.
The Mustangs also added depth in the midfield with the signing of a trio of prep stars in Manmeet Bhogal, Luke Chapman and Patrick Murray.
Bhogal (5-9, 155) garnered first-team all-district honors at Cy-Fair High School as a senior this spring and competes with Reading FC in club play.
"Manny is a skilled and composed midfielder who comes from a good club and has experience playing overseas," Elder said.
Chapman (6-2, 200) garnered first-team Class 5A Front Range League honors as a senior this spring after leading Loveland High in scoring. He competes for the Colorado Rapids Academy club side.
"Luke is a hard-nosed, smart and hardworking midfielder," Elder said.
Murray (5-11, 160) earned all-region honors as a senior in 2010 at Legacy High School in Mansfield, Texas. He is a member of the Solar '92 Red club team and competes on overseas teams in Ireland.
"Patrick has experience from a good club and had a great high school career," Elder said. "He should bring skill and experience to the team."
Defenders
Kevin Cabello and Sam Bartek give the Mustangs a pair of solid options on the back line.
Cabello (6-5, 203) garnered Oklahoma Defensive Player of the Year honors this season and is a four-time All-Oklahoma defender at Putnam City North High School. He has competed for Norman Celtic '91 at the club level for each of the last nine seasons.
"Kevin is a big presence in the back who should come in and fight for playing time right away as a true freshman," Elder said.
Bartek (5-9, 160) was a first-team Texas Class 4A all-state performer this spring at Dripping Springs (Texas) High School. He helped his Lonestars 92B Red club side to a Dallas Cup finalist showing in 2009.
"Sam can play outside or at center back," Elder said. "He brings toughness to the back line."
Goalkeepers
Midwestern State added a pair of stellar prep options in Bryan Byars and Noah Fazekas to fight for playing time behind returning All-America goalkeeper Raul Herrera.
Byars (6-2, 180) earned NSCAA/adidas All-America honors as a sophomore in 2008 and was an Oklahoma Class 6A all-state selection as a senior. He has served as team captain of his Edmond Soccer Club '92 Black side for each of the last six seasons.
"Bryan has enjoyed a good high school and club career," Elder said. "He has good size and great hands. He should compete for time as a freshman behind Raul."
Fazekas (6-0, 190) gained first-team all-district honors at keeper as a junior and senior after earning second-team honors as a sophomore at Mansfield (Texas) High School.
"Noah is a tough, fearless goalkeeper who should gain experience quickly," Elder said.
Midwestern State kicks of its 2010 campaign with eight of its first 10 matches at the MSU Soccer Field beginning Sep. 2 against Texas A and M International.
Off-Topic
Report: Dwyane Wade to meet with Mavericks, thinks he can pull Chris Bosh, LeBron James
Venus upset in Wimbledon quarterfinals
Andy Roddick was not in the mood to suffer fools following his five-set defeat
FIFA to reopen debate on video replay
While checking out the newly spiffed up WTAM athletics website, we noticed some new additions to the Buffalo football roster. At least one of the below additions had been reported on, but nothing official had come from the university.
RB - Thomas Hampton - Los Medranos CC - 1st All-COA, 2,410 yds rushing in two seasons
WR - Myron Dillard - Los Medranos CC
WR - Ray Magee - Fullerton CC (Originally a Utah commit)
OL - Justin Brown - Saddleback CC 2007 (UCLA commit in 2005)
OL - James Otero - NMMI/Delta State
OL - Frank Arriola - Orange Coast CC
DL - Jacob Davis -
DL - Dishon Robertson - Hinds CC
DL - Justin Williams - Navarro JC (Kansas State commit)
DL - Drew Jones - Blinn JC
Rams sign Sims
Former West Texas A&M defensive end Eugene Sims signed a four-year contract with the St. Louis Rams, the team announced Monday.
TAMK Athletic Department Wins Community Engagement Award
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS – The Texas A&M-Kingsville athletic department was honored as the Lone Star Conference Community-Engagement Award of Excellence winner for 2009-10 at the recent Division II Chancellors and Presidents Summit in Indianapolis.
The award-winning event was the women’s basketball team’s Take A Kid to the Game event that was sponsored by Christus Spohn Hospital-Kleberg.
By winning the Lone Star Conference award, the Javelina athletic department was awarded with $500 and was considered for the national NCAA Division II award that was won by Benedict College.
This is the second LSC award the Kingsville athletic department has won this year joining the Best Game Day Environment award that was won in the fall.
Elder announces MSU's 2010 signing class
MSU Sports Information
WICHITA FALLS, Texas - Midwestern State coach Doug Elder announced the 2010 signing class Monday afternoon with the addition one junior college transfer while signing seven prep players to National Letters of Intent.
"If this group comes in fit, strong and mentally ready, they could all see time next year to help defend our conference championship and make a run at another postseason appearance," Elder said.
The class includes four midfielders, two defenders and a pair of goalkeepers.
Midfield
Chris Dwyer, a 6-2, 180-pound transfer from Western Texas College, garnered NSCAA first-team All-America honors after scoring 15 goals and adding 13 assists for the Westerners as a sophomore in 2009.
"Chris is a versatile playmaker," Elder said. "If he gets fit to play in our system, he should be a presence for us next year.'
The English native tallied 30 goals during his junior college career.
The Mustangs also added depth in the midfield with the signing of a trio of prep stars in Manmeet Bhogal, Luke Chapman and Patrick Murray.
Bhogal (5-9, 155) garnered first-team all-district honors at Cy-Fair High School as a senior this spring and competes with Reading FC in club play.
"Manny is a skilled and composed midfielder who comes from a good club and has experience playing overseas," Elder said.
Chapman (6-2, 200) garnered first-team Class 5A Front Range League honors as a senior this spring after leading Loveland High in scoring. He competes for the Colorado Rapids Academy club side.
"Luke is a hard-nosed, smart and hardworking midfielder," Elder said.
Murray (5-11, 160) earned all-region honors as a senior in 2010 at Legacy High School in Mansfield, Texas. He is a member of the Solar '92 Red club team and competes on overseas teams in Ireland.
"Patrick has experience from a good club and had a great high school career," Elder said. "He should bring skill and experience to the team."
Defenders
Kevin Cabello and Sam Bartek give the Mustangs a pair of solid options on the back line.
Cabello (6-5, 203) garnered Oklahoma Defensive Player of the Year honors this season and is a four-time All-Oklahoma defender at Putnam City North High School. He has competed for Norman Celtic '91 at the club level for each of the last nine seasons.
"Kevin is a big presence in the back who should come in and fight for playing time right away as a true freshman," Elder said.
Bartek (5-9, 160) was a first-team Texas Class 4A all-state performer this spring at Dripping Springs (Texas) High School. He helped his Lonestars 92B Red club side to a Dallas Cup finalist showing in 2009.
"Sam can play outside or at center back," Elder said. "He brings toughness to the back line."
Goalkeepers
Midwestern State added a pair of stellar prep options in Bryan Byars and Noah Fazekas to fight for playing time behind returning All-America goalkeeper Raul Herrera.
Byars (6-2, 180) earned NSCAA/adidas All-America honors as a sophomore in 2008 and was an Oklahoma Class 6A all-state selection as a senior. He has served as team captain of his Edmond Soccer Club '92 Black side for each of the last six seasons.
"Bryan has enjoyed a good high school and club career," Elder said. "He has good size and great hands. He should compete for time as a freshman behind Raul."
Fazekas (6-0, 190) gained first-team all-district honors at keeper as a junior and senior after earning second-team honors as a sophomore at Mansfield (Texas) High School.
"Noah is a tough, fearless goalkeeper who should gain experience quickly," Elder said.
Midwestern State kicks of its 2010 campaign with eight of its first 10 matches at the MSU Soccer Field beginning Sep. 2 against Texas A and M International.
Off-Topic
Report: Dwyane Wade to meet with Mavericks, thinks he can pull Chris Bosh, LeBron James
Venus upset in Wimbledon quarterfinals
Andy Roddick was not in the mood to suffer fools following his five-set defeat
FIFA to reopen debate on video replay
Monday, June 28, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-28
More conference realignment news.....
MIAA might be looking to expand
MSSU, PSU cast opposite votes on expansion
Announcement expected by August on Arkansas D-IIs
UNK pondering move from RMAC to MIAA
MIAA may add 4 teams--from Oklahoma, Nebraska, Missouri
Realignment not just a Division I issue
ENMU weighing options on Lone Star Conference
Portales News-Tribune
Eastern New Mexico University President Steven Gamble raised concerns Saturday about the future of the athletic conference ENMU competes in with Texas and Oklahoma schools.
During ENMU’s Board of Regents meeting in Portales, Gamble said the Lone Star Conference is “unraveling before our eyes,” and said the university may soon have to hunt for a new conference to call home.
“Two Oklahoma schools have already pulled out and three others have said they are going to,” Gamble said. “It really (could result in) the demise of the Lone Star Conference.”
Gamble wouldn’t identify the schools, but the Muskogee Phoenix reported that Northeastern State and Central Oklahoma sent letters of inquiry to the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association.
Also, lscscoop.com has reported that Southeastern Oklahoma State, Southwestern Oklahoma State and East Central University may be considering forming a new league with a group of Arkansas Division II schools.
Shake-up could be looming in LSC
Joey Richards
Scripps Texas Newspapers
It appears more likely there will be a shake-up in the Lone Star Conference.
In fact, as many as five Oklahoma schools competing in the LSC could be on the move for the 2011-12 season.
Central Oklahoma confirmed last week that it’s considering moving to the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association.
Joe Muller, the Central Oklahoma athletic director, told LSCscoop.com in a prepared statement Wednesday that the school is interested in joining the MIAA.
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association in an effort to learn more about the conference and its member institutions,” Muller wrote. “The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is the best interests of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically.”
Gholson: Oklahoma schools should go
Nick Gholson
Times Record News
To all of the Oklahoma schools who decide to leave the Lone Star Conference, I have just one thing to say.
Don’t let the door hit you in the butt.
The way I see it, this is one of those “if you can’t beat ’em, leave ’em” deals.
The Okies certainly didn’t beat many Texas schools from the conference last year.
ASU TRACK and FIELD: ASU's Adams places 6th in heptathlon at U.S. championships; Ruiz takes 14th
San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, Texas — Angelo State senior Aisha Adams finished sixth in the heptathlon at the U.S. Track and Field Championships Saturday in Des Moines, Iowa. Adams finished with 5,708 points, 87 points off of her NCAA Division II record of 5,795 points.
Off-Topic
German star: England didn't play as a team
Solomon: U.S. team still a work in progress
After day off, Wimbledon to resume on busy Monday
MIAA might be looking to expand
MSSU, PSU cast opposite votes on expansion
Announcement expected by August on Arkansas D-IIs
UNK pondering move from RMAC to MIAA
MIAA may add 4 teams--from Oklahoma, Nebraska, Missouri
Realignment not just a Division I issue
ENMU weighing options on Lone Star Conference
Portales News-Tribune
Eastern New Mexico University President Steven Gamble raised concerns Saturday about the future of the athletic conference ENMU competes in with Texas and Oklahoma schools.
During ENMU’s Board of Regents meeting in Portales, Gamble said the Lone Star Conference is “unraveling before our eyes,” and said the university may soon have to hunt for a new conference to call home.
“Two Oklahoma schools have already pulled out and three others have said they are going to,” Gamble said. “It really (could result in) the demise of the Lone Star Conference.”
Gamble wouldn’t identify the schools, but the Muskogee Phoenix reported that Northeastern State and Central Oklahoma sent letters of inquiry to the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association.
Also, lscscoop.com has reported that Southeastern Oklahoma State, Southwestern Oklahoma State and East Central University may be considering forming a new league with a group of Arkansas Division II schools.
Shake-up could be looming in LSC
Joey Richards
Scripps Texas Newspapers
It appears more likely there will be a shake-up in the Lone Star Conference.
In fact, as many as five Oklahoma schools competing in the LSC could be on the move for the 2011-12 season.
Central Oklahoma confirmed last week that it’s considering moving to the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association.
Joe Muller, the Central Oklahoma athletic director, told LSCscoop.com in a prepared statement Wednesday that the school is interested in joining the MIAA.
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association in an effort to learn more about the conference and its member institutions,” Muller wrote. “The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is the best interests of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically.”
Gholson: Oklahoma schools should go
Nick Gholson
Times Record News
To all of the Oklahoma schools who decide to leave the Lone Star Conference, I have just one thing to say.
Don’t let the door hit you in the butt.
The way I see it, this is one of those “if you can’t beat ’em, leave ’em” deals.
The Okies certainly didn’t beat many Texas schools from the conference last year.
ASU TRACK and FIELD: ASU's Adams places 6th in heptathlon at U.S. championships; Ruiz takes 14th
San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, Texas — Angelo State senior Aisha Adams finished sixth in the heptathlon at the U.S. Track and Field Championships Saturday in Des Moines, Iowa. Adams finished with 5,708 points, 87 points off of her NCAA Division II record of 5,795 points.
Off-Topic
German star: England didn't play as a team
Solomon: U.S. team still a work in progress
After day off, Wimbledon to resume on busy Monday
Friday, June 25, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-25
Four schools involved in MIAA expansion talks
Joplin Globe
Jim Henry
Expansion talk has surfaced again in the MIAA, and membership could rise to 16 teams.
During the NCAA Division II presidents meeting last week in Indianapolis, MIAA presidents met and — by an 8-3 vote with one abstention — decided to pursue expanding the league to 16 teams. Current membership is 12 teams with Lincoln’s return this year, but Lincoln won’t play a conference football schedule until 2012.
Published reports in Oklahoma City say Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla., and Central Oklahoma in Edmond are leaving the Lone Star Conference to join the MIAA. The exits could occur as soon as the 2011-12 school year because they have to give the conference a year’s notice before they can leave.
Central Oklahoma athletics director Joe Muller issued a statement to the Web site lscscoop.com on Wednesday about the school sending a letter of interest to the MIAA.
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association in an effort to learn more about the conference and its member institutions,” the statement read.
“The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA opportunity to determine what is in the best interest of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO both academically and athletically.”
Lindenwood University in St. Charles and Nebraska-Kearney are the other two schools in expansion talks. Should Nebraska-Kearney join the league, that would leave Wayne State (Neb.) as the only former Central States Intercollegiate Conference member not in the MIAA.
Three ASU tracksters struggle at USA meet
San Angelo Standard Times
It was a tough day Thursday at the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships for three Angelo State University athletes. Andria Nussey, Celethia Byrd and James Howell all failed to qualify past the preliminary round in their three events. Nussey ran a 2:07.82 in the 800 to take 24th place, Byrd clocked a 53.96 in the 400 to finish in 17th, and Howell ran a 46.83 to take 23rd in the 400. The top 16 times qualified for the semifinals.
Aisha Adams and Chrystal Ruiz will begin the heptathlon today with the high jump at 9:45 a.m. Adams will also compete in the 400 hurdles at 5:30 p.m.
Eldridge Small
From Fred Nuesch - TAMK
We received word this morning at Eldridge Small has suffered a heart attack and is in a Houston hospital. Eldridge is one of the all-time best wide receivers in the Lone Star Conference and played with the Javelinas in 1968-71. He was a first-round draft choice of the New York Giants. Please keep Eldridge and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
TAMC Athletic Director Named to D2 Athletic Director's Association Executive Board of Directors
At the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics meeting in Anaheim, California, Texas A&M University-Commerce athletic director Carlton Cooper was named to the Division II Athletic
Director's Association Executive Board of Directors for a four-year term.
The Board of Directors is made up of 22 NCAA Division II athletic directors representing each conference and the 282 NCAA Division II member institutions. The selection of Cooper marks the first time in the program’s history that A&M-Commerce has been represented on the executive board.
The purpose of the Division II Athletic Director's Association is that the corporation has been organized is to explore mutual problems and opportunities encountered by colleges and universities that participate in NCAA Division II athletics programs, to facilitate the administration of college and university athletics, and to promote and elevate the standards of athletic administration.
Some Tarleton State news:
Baseball still going on for many Texan players
Texans add guard
TexAnns softball inks transfer
Goings on at Commerce:
A&M-Commerce Women's Basketball Camp for June 25-26 Has Been Cancelled
Enhancements to Memorial Stadium Begin
Off-Topic
Wimbledon's Marathon - Isner wins 70-68 in the fifth set
World Cup - How is Team USA handling its quick turnaround before facing Ghana?
NBA draft 2010: Winners and Losers
Ranger's win streak now at 11
Joplin Globe
Jim Henry
Expansion talk has surfaced again in the MIAA, and membership could rise to 16 teams.
During the NCAA Division II presidents meeting last week in Indianapolis, MIAA presidents met and — by an 8-3 vote with one abstention — decided to pursue expanding the league to 16 teams. Current membership is 12 teams with Lincoln’s return this year, but Lincoln won’t play a conference football schedule until 2012.
Published reports in Oklahoma City say Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Okla., and Central Oklahoma in Edmond are leaving the Lone Star Conference to join the MIAA. The exits could occur as soon as the 2011-12 school year because they have to give the conference a year’s notice before they can leave.
Central Oklahoma athletics director Joe Muller issued a statement to the Web site lscscoop.com on Wednesday about the school sending a letter of interest to the MIAA.
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association in an effort to learn more about the conference and its member institutions,” the statement read.
“The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA opportunity to determine what is in the best interest of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO both academically and athletically.”
Lindenwood University in St. Charles and Nebraska-Kearney are the other two schools in expansion talks. Should Nebraska-Kearney join the league, that would leave Wayne State (Neb.) as the only former Central States Intercollegiate Conference member not in the MIAA.
Three ASU tracksters struggle at USA meet
San Angelo Standard Times
It was a tough day Thursday at the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships for three Angelo State University athletes. Andria Nussey, Celethia Byrd and James Howell all failed to qualify past the preliminary round in their three events. Nussey ran a 2:07.82 in the 800 to take 24th place, Byrd clocked a 53.96 in the 400 to finish in 17th, and Howell ran a 46.83 to take 23rd in the 400. The top 16 times qualified for the semifinals.
Aisha Adams and Chrystal Ruiz will begin the heptathlon today with the high jump at 9:45 a.m. Adams will also compete in the 400 hurdles at 5:30 p.m.
Eldridge Small
From Fred Nuesch - TAMK
We received word this morning at Eldridge Small has suffered a heart attack and is in a Houston hospital. Eldridge is one of the all-time best wide receivers in the Lone Star Conference and played with the Javelinas in 1968-71. He was a first-round draft choice of the New York Giants. Please keep Eldridge and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
TAMC Athletic Director Named to D2 Athletic Director's Association Executive Board of Directors
At the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics meeting in Anaheim, California, Texas A&M University-Commerce athletic director Carlton Cooper was named to the Division II Athletic
Director's Association Executive Board of Directors for a four-year term.
The Board of Directors is made up of 22 NCAA Division II athletic directors representing each conference and the 282 NCAA Division II member institutions. The selection of Cooper marks the first time in the program’s history that A&M-Commerce has been represented on the executive board.
The purpose of the Division II Athletic Director's Association is that the corporation has been organized is to explore mutual problems and opportunities encountered by colleges and universities that participate in NCAA Division II athletics programs, to facilitate the administration of college and university athletics, and to promote and elevate the standards of athletic administration.
Some Tarleton State news:
Baseball still going on for many Texan players
Texans add guard
TexAnns softball inks transfer
Goings on at Commerce:
A&M-Commerce Women's Basketball Camp for June 25-26 Has Been Cancelled
Enhancements to Memorial Stadium Begin
Off-Topic
Wimbledon's Marathon - Isner wins 70-68 in the fifth set
World Cup - How is Team USA handling its quick turnaround before facing Ghana?
NBA draft 2010: Winners and Losers
Ranger's win streak now at 11
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Reisman: LSC at most critical juncture in its history
By BRAD KEITH
Sports Editor
Tarleton State athletic director Lonn Reisman believes the Lone Star Conference is at the most critical juncture in its history.
Talks of an exodus of the Oklahoma members of the LSC have exploded in recent weeks, with widespread reports that Central Oklahoma and Northeastern State will be joining the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association(MIAA), while Southwestern Oklahoma State, Southeastern Oklahoma State and East Central are looking to form anew conference with six Arkansas schools.
Any such realignment would not take place before the 2011-12 academic year.
There are a wide variety of opinions concerning what the potential moves would mean for the LSC and its remaining members, and Reisman is among those who would prefer at least some of the Oklahoma schools remain with the league.
"The LSC is in a period of transition. We've seen this begin in Division I, and now we're starting to see it trickle down toDivision II," said Reisman, who is the longest tenured athletic director in the conference. "I think we'll see Central Oklahoma and Northeastern State leave the LSC. I would hate to lose schools of their caliber, but they have to do what they feel is best for their athletic departments and their universities."
Reisman was once an assistant coach at Southeastern Oklahoma, and has served Tarleton as head men's basketball coach for 22 years and athletic director for 18.
"I have a handle on a lot of the history of this conference, and this is a very critical time," Reisman said. "Over the next few days and weeks some very critical decisions will have to be made concerning the future of the conference and where it goes from here. I for one hope we can take this conference to a very high level."
Central Oklahoma athletic director Jim Muller released a statement saying the school has submitted a letter of interest to MIAA commissioner Jim Johnson.
"The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interests of both parties moving forward," Muller said in the statement. "Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it's important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically."
A source close to the situation admits Northeastern State is also exploring its options.
East Central athletics director Brian DeAngelis spoke to the Ada Evening News concerning the issue.
"If (UCO and NSU) jump ship, here the other three of us are in Oklahoma with eight Texas schools. That's just not a good situation, so we have to look at our options," DeAngelis said, according to the report. "We would rather not do anything, but history has shown that people who don't do anything when times change fall behind."
Reisman understands why UCO and NSU are exploring the option of joining the MIAA.
"Central and Northeastern want to be part of a high-caliber conference, and the MIAA certainly fits that philosophy," he said. "The Lone Star does, too, but I think they are looking at things like travel concerns and seeing that (the MIAA) might be a better fit for them."
A better fit, Reisman says, is exactly why the remaining Oklahoma schools are looking at other options.
"At the same time that all this is going on with Central and Northeastern, we've heard that the Gulf South Conferencecould be splitting up," Reisman said. "The Oklahoma and Arkansas schools have old traditional rivalries and they share similar philosophies. I think they are all looking for a better fit."
But Reisman also believes that some of the Oklahoma schools, Southeastern in particular, fit well in the LSC.
"When you look at a school like Southeastern that is right on the (Texas-Oklahoma) border, you see that they recruit a lot of Texas kids and have a lot of Texas ties," he said. "They could stay in the LSC and be fine. Personally, I would hate to see them all split."
As for how the potential departure of the Oklahoma schools would affect Tarleton specifically, Reisman has mixed emotions.
"There are positives and negatives," he said. "Scheduling and travel concerns me the most. Will the Oklahoma schools still play us if it's not mandated because we're in the same conference? I'm not sure they would."
Reisman believes such big decisions will be made quickly because schools are required to notify the conference byAug. 1 if they plan to make a move the following year.
"I think we'll see something happen very soon," he said. "I just don't know exactly what it will be."
LSC Roundup 6-24
More conference movement links...
NSU inquires about conference change
Muskogee Daily Phoenix
Mike Kays
Conference realignment isn’t just a topic among Division I schools.
The Lone Star Conference om Division II appears to be on the way to a breakup as well and that could include Northeastern State, which on Wednesday sent a letter of inquiry to the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA), along with Central Oklahoma.
“Northeastern State University has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association in an effort to learn more about this NCAA Division II conference and its member institutions,” NSU athletics director Jeff Konya said in a written statement issued on Wednesday.
“The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will allow NSU and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interest of all concerned parties moving forward. We recognize there have been recent shifts in conference alignments in the NCAA over the past few weeks. It is important that NSU continues to seek opportunities which are in its best interest as an institution both academically and athletically.”
UCO to leave LSC?
Eric Spruill
CNHI News Service
EDMOND — Multiple news outlets are reporting that the University of Central Oklahoma along with fellow Lone Star Conference member Northeastern State University are leaving the conference to join the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association.
Three other Oklahoma schools are reportedly also in discussions about leaving the conference if UCO and NSU leave. East Central, Southwestern and Southeastern, would likely jump ship. Cameron University would be the only Oklahoma school to remain in the LSC.
EDMOND — Central Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Muller issued a statement to lscscoop.com on Wednesday afternoon telling the website that the university had sent a letter of interest to the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association.
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association in an effort to learn more about the conference and it’s member institutions,” the statement read.
“The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interest of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically.”
Hot topic: Will they stay or go?
Times Daily
Gregg Dewalt, Sports Editor
UCO's Shrum qualifies for U.S. Public Links Championship
Mike Kirk
UCO Sports Information
OKLAHOMA CITY (July 23) -- Central Oklahoma golf standout Colby Shrum earned a spot in the United States Amateur Public Links Championship Tuesday by winning a qualifying tournament at Lincoln Park Golf Course(West).
Shrum had rounds of 68-70 for a two-round total of four-under-par 138 to take one of just two qualifying spots available in the tournament. Taylor Gooch, an Oklahoma State signee, finished a shot behind Shrum at 139.
Two other UCO golfers came up three strokes short, with both Andrew Green and Baer Aneshansley finishing with even-par 142 totals.
Shrum, a senior-to-be from Perry, advances to the U.S. Public Links Championship that will be held July 12-17at Bryan Park Golf Club in Greensboro, N.C.
A two-time All-American and the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year in both 2008 and '09, Shrum sat out a redshirt year with the Bronchos in 2009-10.
New WTAM recruit report
Running back Thomas Hampton rushed for more than 1,700 yards last year for the Mustangs.
ASU TRACK and FIELD: Sprint to nationals
San Angelo Standard Times
Mike Whitson
SAN ANGELO, Texas — Angelo State University will be well represented this week on one of the biggest stages in the track and field world as five of its athletes are set to compete at the 2010 national championships in Des Moines, Iowa.
Aisha Adams, Chrystal Ruiz, Andria Nussey and Celethia Byrd from ASU’s national champion women’s team, and James Howell of the men’s team, will line up against some of the top names in the country for their respective events.
This will mark the second appearance at the U.S. Track and Field Championships for Adams, who last year placed ninth in the heptathlon out of 19 competitors. She was the only Division II athlete in the field.
Five To Be Inducted Into Southeastern HOF
KTUL
Kevin King
Tulsa (AP) - Five new members will be inducted into the Southeastern Oklahoma State Athletics Hall of Fame, the school announced Tuesday.
The inductees include baseball coach Mike Metheny, former basketball coach Vicki Hudson, three-sport athlete Joanie Kitchens Goss, All-American baseball player Billy Jack Bowen and former Sports Information Director Harold Harmon.
"We are excited about the opportunity to honor these Southeastern greats," said athletic director Keith Baxter, "These people have built and maintained a high standard of success that the rest of us can aspire to."
Off-Topic
College World Series: 8-run eighth inning propels TCU, 11-7
Longest match ever
Donovan: Best Ever
American fans celebrate WC success
NSU inquires about conference change
Muskogee Daily Phoenix
Mike Kays
Conference realignment isn’t just a topic among Division I schools.
The Lone Star Conference om Division II appears to be on the way to a breakup as well and that could include Northeastern State, which on Wednesday sent a letter of inquiry to the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA), along with Central Oklahoma.
“Northeastern State University has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association in an effort to learn more about this NCAA Division II conference and its member institutions,” NSU athletics director Jeff Konya said in a written statement issued on Wednesday.
“The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will allow NSU and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interest of all concerned parties moving forward. We recognize there have been recent shifts in conference alignments in the NCAA over the past few weeks. It is important that NSU continues to seek opportunities which are in its best interest as an institution both academically and athletically.”
UCO to leave LSC?
Eric Spruill
CNHI News Service
EDMOND — Multiple news outlets are reporting that the University of Central Oklahoma along with fellow Lone Star Conference member Northeastern State University are leaving the conference to join the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association.
Three other Oklahoma schools are reportedly also in discussions about leaving the conference if UCO and NSU leave. East Central, Southwestern and Southeastern, would likely jump ship. Cameron University would be the only Oklahoma school to remain in the LSC.
UCO sends letter of interest to MIAA
EDMOND — Central Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Muller issued a statement to lscscoop.com on Wednesday afternoon telling the website that the university had sent a letter of interest to the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association.
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association in an effort to learn more about the conference and it’s member institutions,” the statement read.
“The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interest of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically.”
Hot topic: Will they stay or go?
Times Daily
Gregg Dewalt, Sports Editor
The future of the Gulf South Conference is sure to be a hot topic today as the conference meetings continued in Hoover.
Although commissioner Nate Salant doesn’t expect the six Arkansas schools to officially make their intentions known as to whether they are staying put or exiting the conference this week, the topic is expected to be broached today when the athletic directors meet and Friday when the presidents meet.
UCO's Shrum qualifies for U.S. Public Links Championship
Mike Kirk
UCO Sports Information
OKLAHOMA CITY (July 23) -- Central Oklahoma golf standout Colby Shrum earned a spot in the United States Amateur Public Links Championship Tuesday by winning a qualifying tournament at Lincoln Park Golf Course(West).
Shrum had rounds of 68-70 for a two-round total of four-under-par 138 to take one of just two qualifying spots available in the tournament. Taylor Gooch, an Oklahoma State signee, finished a shot behind Shrum at 139.
Two other UCO golfers came up three strokes short, with both Andrew Green and Baer Aneshansley finishing with even-par 142 totals.
Shrum, a senior-to-be from Perry, advances to the U.S. Public Links Championship that will be held July 12-17at Bryan Park Golf Club in Greensboro, N.C.
A two-time All-American and the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year in both 2008 and '09, Shrum sat out a redshirt year with the Bronchos in 2009-10.
New WTAM recruit report
Running back Thomas Hampton rushed for more than 1,700 yards last year for the Mustangs.
ASU TRACK and FIELD: Sprint to nationals
San Angelo Standard Times
Mike Whitson
SAN ANGELO, Texas — Angelo State University will be well represented this week on one of the biggest stages in the track and field world as five of its athletes are set to compete at the 2010 national championships in Des Moines, Iowa.
Aisha Adams, Chrystal Ruiz, Andria Nussey and Celethia Byrd from ASU’s national champion women’s team, and James Howell of the men’s team, will line up against some of the top names in the country for their respective events.
This will mark the second appearance at the U.S. Track and Field Championships for Adams, who last year placed ninth in the heptathlon out of 19 competitors. She was the only Division II athlete in the field.
Five To Be Inducted Into Southeastern HOF
KTUL
Kevin King
Tulsa (AP) - Five new members will be inducted into the Southeastern Oklahoma State Athletics Hall of Fame, the school announced Tuesday.
The inductees include baseball coach Mike Metheny, former basketball coach Vicki Hudson, three-sport athlete Joanie Kitchens Goss, All-American baseball player Billy Jack Bowen and former Sports Information Director Harold Harmon.
"We are excited about the opportunity to honor these Southeastern greats," said athletic director Keith Baxter, "These people have built and maintained a high standard of success that the rest of us can aspire to."
Off-Topic
College World Series: 8-run eighth inning propels TCU, 11-7
Longest match ever
Donovan: Best Ever
American fans celebrate WC success
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
BREAKING NEWS - UCO Letter of Interest sent to MIAA
The LSC Scoop just received the following statement from Central Oklahoma Athletic Director Joe Muller:
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) in an effort to learn more about the conference and its member institutions. The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interests of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically.”
“The University of Central Oklahoma has submitted a letter of interest to the commissioner of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) in an effort to learn more about the conference and its member institutions. The dialogue that will occur over the next few weeks will give UCO and the MIAA an opportunity to determine what is in the best interests of both parties moving forward. Given the shifts in conference alignment in the NCAA recently, it’s important that we continue to explore opportunities which are best for UCO, both academically and athletically.”
LSC Roundup 6-23
Very interesting audio clip from an interview with MIAA Commissioner Jim Johnson regarding the Division 2 conference realignment.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-22
Just about all of the newspapers have weighed in on the possible exodus now...
Bye, bye Lone Star?
Bob Forrest
Bye, bye Lone Star?
Bob Forrest
Ada Evening News
Ada — The Big 12 might be alive and well after some of the league’s traditional powers decided last week not to jump to the Pac 10, but a big shake-up appears to be in the works for the Lone Star Conference.
UCO and Northeastern, two of the six teams in an LSC North Division that also includes East Central University, have reportedly decided to join the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association, and the LSC’s other three Oklahoma schools — ECU, Southwestern and Southeastern — might be next out the door.
Athletic director Brian DeAngelis confirmed Friday that ECU, while not eager to leave the LSC, will be in a tough position if the conference becomes ‘bottom-heavy’ with Texas schools. For that reason, he said, his school could also be part of another league in 2012.
“It boils down to big money at the Big 12 level with TV, and if UCO and Northeastern go to the MIAA, it will be less travel and more notoriety for them,” DeAngelis said. “If those two jump ship, here the other three of us are in Oklahoma with eight Texas schools. That’s just not a good situation, so we have to look at our options.
“We would rather not do anything,” he added. “But history has shown that people who don’t do anything when times change fall behind. It’s not a bad situation if UCO and Northeastern stay; if those two leave, instead of us going to UCO to play football two years down the line, we could very well find ourselves hiking to Kingsville or Tarleton just to get in a full conference schedule. That obviously drives up our costs considerably. You have to be thinking ahead about how things affect East Central, and we would definitely be affected if those two schools leave the conference.”
Off-Topic
TCU falls to Cole, UCLA in College World Series
McLane: Astros open to deal before trade deadline
Cowlishaw: Why the Rangers should trade for a big arm
Rangers eye Seattle's Lee
Rangers show interest in Oswalt
Ada — The Big 12 might be alive and well after some of the league’s traditional powers decided last week not to jump to the Pac 10, but a big shake-up appears to be in the works for the Lone Star Conference.
UCO and Northeastern, two of the six teams in an LSC North Division that also includes East Central University, have reportedly decided to join the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletic Association, and the LSC’s other three Oklahoma schools — ECU, Southwestern and Southeastern — might be next out the door.
Athletic director Brian DeAngelis confirmed Friday that ECU, while not eager to leave the LSC, will be in a tough position if the conference becomes ‘bottom-heavy’ with Texas schools. For that reason, he said, his school could also be part of another league in 2012.
“It boils down to big money at the Big 12 level with TV, and if UCO and Northeastern go to the MIAA, it will be less travel and more notoriety for them,” DeAngelis said. “If those two jump ship, here the other three of us are in Oklahoma with eight Texas schools. That’s just not a good situation, so we have to look at our options.
“We would rather not do anything,” he added. “But history has shown that people who don’t do anything when times change fall behind. It’s not a bad situation if UCO and Northeastern stay; if those two leave, instead of us going to UCO to play football two years down the line, we could very well find ourselves hiking to Kingsville or Tarleton just to get in a full conference schedule. That obviously drives up our costs considerably. You have to be thinking ahead about how things affect East Central, and we would definitely be affected if those two schools leave the conference.”
Off-Topic
TCU falls to Cole, UCLA in College World Series
McLane: Astros open to deal before trade deadline
Cowlishaw: Why the Rangers should trade for a big arm
Rangers eye Seattle's Lee
Rangers show interest in Oswalt
Monday, June 21, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-21
Greyhound Basketball to Visit "The Pit" for Exhibition Against Lobos
PORTALES, N.M. - The Eastern New Mexico University men's basketball coach Andrew Helton has announced that the Greyhounds will travel to Albuquerque, N.M., on Wednesday, November 3rd, for an exhibition game against the 2009-10 regular-season Mountain West Conference champion, University of New Mexico.
"This is a great game for our team to play," said Helton. "Being able to go against the top Division I program in your state and a school that advanced in the NCAA Tournament last year will only help prepare our team for the great competition we will see in the Lone Star Conference. Coach Alford and his staff have done a great job with the Lobo program and we look forward to going to the Pit to compete against them."
The contest will mark the Greyhounds first competition against the Lobos at the Pit since November 2, 2007. UNM registered a 30-5 record last year and used their explosive offense to place in the top 10 in the nation in points per game and remain in the top-25 rankings for most of the season. The Lobos defeated University of Montana to advance to the second round of the NCAA Championships. New Mexico head coach Steve Alford was selected as the MWC Coach of the Year, while junior Darington Hobson was picked as Player of the Year.
In the 2009-10 season, Eastern more than doubled their win total from the previous season, earning wins over Lone Star Conference participant West Texas A&M and earning season-sweeps over Abilene Christian and Texas A&M-Kingsville.
The full Eastern New Mexico University men's basketball schedule will be released at a later date.
Padres' Adams prospers in set-up role
Mike Adams has carved out a niche in the San Diego Padres bullpen as not just a set-up man, but a pitcher who can protect a lead.
Adams was credited with two holds this week — not an official Major League Baseball statistical category, but one tracked by companies such as STATS Inc. — to give him a career-high 17 this season. That total leads the majors.
A STATS Inc. hold is earned by recording at least one out while protecting a lead of three runs or less or having the tying run at least in the on-deck circle. Pitching three innings while protecting the lead also earns a hold. A pitcher cannot get a hold if they win or save the game.
That stat suits Adams’ role. Over the past three seasons, the former Sinton High School and Texas A&M-Kingsville right-hander has emerged as one of the game’s best at holding leads. Adams’ ERA over the past three seasons is 1.67, and he has 42 holds and five blown saves in 121 appearances.
Off-Topic
McDowell holds off Big 3 to win US Open
Johnson wins Sonoma after Ambrose gaffe
FIFA does the right thing
Federer, Nadal get tough Wimbledon draws
Say hey, discovered - Amid intrigue, 17-year-old Willie Mays was signed by the Giants 60 years ago today.
PORTALES, N.M. - The Eastern New Mexico University men's basketball coach Andrew Helton has announced that the Greyhounds will travel to Albuquerque, N.M., on Wednesday, November 3rd, for an exhibition game against the 2009-10 regular-season Mountain West Conference champion, University of New Mexico.
"This is a great game for our team to play," said Helton. "Being able to go against the top Division I program in your state and a school that advanced in the NCAA Tournament last year will only help prepare our team for the great competition we will see in the Lone Star Conference. Coach Alford and his staff have done a great job with the Lobo program and we look forward to going to the Pit to compete against them."
The contest will mark the Greyhounds first competition against the Lobos at the Pit since November 2, 2007. UNM registered a 30-5 record last year and used their explosive offense to place in the top 10 in the nation in points per game and remain in the top-25 rankings for most of the season. The Lobos defeated University of Montana to advance to the second round of the NCAA Championships. New Mexico head coach Steve Alford was selected as the MWC Coach of the Year, while junior Darington Hobson was picked as Player of the Year.
In the 2009-10 season, Eastern more than doubled their win total from the previous season, earning wins over Lone Star Conference participant West Texas A&M and earning season-sweeps over Abilene Christian and Texas A&M-Kingsville.
The full Eastern New Mexico University men's basketball schedule will be released at a later date.
Padres' Adams prospers in set-up role
Mike Adams has carved out a niche in the San Diego Padres bullpen as not just a set-up man, but a pitcher who can protect a lead.
Adams was credited with two holds this week — not an official Major League Baseball statistical category, but one tracked by companies such as STATS Inc. — to give him a career-high 17 this season. That total leads the majors.
A STATS Inc. hold is earned by recording at least one out while protecting a lead of three runs or less or having the tying run at least in the on-deck circle. Pitching three innings while protecting the lead also earns a hold. A pitcher cannot get a hold if they win or save the game.
That stat suits Adams’ role. Over the past three seasons, the former Sinton High School and Texas A&M-Kingsville right-hander has emerged as one of the game’s best at holding leads. Adams’ ERA over the past three seasons is 1.67, and he has 42 holds and five blown saves in 121 appearances.
Off-Topic
McDowell holds off Big 3 to win US Open
Johnson wins Sonoma after Ambrose gaffe
FIFA does the right thing
Federer, Nadal get tough Wimbledon draws
Say hey, discovered - Amid intrigue, 17-year-old Willie Mays was signed by the Giants 60 years ago today.
Friday, June 18, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-18
UCO, Northeastern State set to split from Lone Star Conference
The University of Central Oklahoma and Northeastern State have decided to leave the Lone Star Conference and join the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association, sources close to UCO told The Oklahoman Thursday.
UCO and NSU would join 10 schools in the MIAA spread across Missouri and Kansas in their new conference. There is no word on when the changes would begin. UCO became a member of the LSC in 1987. NSU joined in 1995. In that time UCO has won two conference championships in football and advanced to the national playoffs four times.
NSU and UCO are not the only institutions looking into realignment. Southwestern Oklahoma State, Southeastern Oklahoma State and East Central University are also reportedly looking for a new conference.
LSC picks 2010 Hall of Honor inductees
RICHARDSON, Texas – The most recent inductees to the Lone Star Conference Hall of Honor include a former track & field star and former football standout league officials announced on Thursday.
Amy Bippert-Bohensky of Angelo State University and Harvey Martin of Texas A&M-Commerce make up the 2010 class of inductees for the LSC Hall of Honor, which recognizes outstanding individuals who have brought pride and honor to the conference through their contributions as an athlete or who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the betterment of the conference as a coach or administrator.
The inductees were chosen by a panel of athletic administrators throughout the league.
“Both Amy and Harvey are excellent additions to the LSC Hall of Honor,” said Stan Wagnon, LSC commissioner. “Both excelled not only as Lone Star Conference athletes, but also Amy was an Academic All-American and Harvey went on to a high-profile professional career. It’s special to see these two former greats take their rightful spots among the very best in LSC history.”
Each of the inductees will receive the LSC’s signature Hall of Honor award, a 15-inch custom-sculpted eagle figurine mounted on a cherrywood base. The awards for Bippert-Bohensky and Martin are to be presented this fall with ceremonies at each recipient’s institution.
Here’s a closer look at each of the 2010 inductees to the LSC Hall of Honor:
Amy Bippert-Bohensky, Track & Field, Angelo State: Bippert-Bohensky was a nine-time NCAA Division II All-American during her career from 1994-97 for the ASU track and field team. During the Rambelles run to a sixth-place finish at the national championships in 1997, she scored 19 of the Rambelles’ 37 points. Bippert-Bohensky became ASU’s fourth female track and field national champion claiming the title in the heptathlon. She added a second-place finish in the high jump and an eighth-place finish in the 100-meter hurdles. Bippert-Bohensky left ASU as the school record holder in the heptathlon (5,268 points) and in the triple jump (42’4.25”) and had the fourth-best ever performance by a Rambelle in the high jump (5’6.5”) during her senior season.
In addition, she finished her career with six of the top 10 all-time performances in the 100-meter hurdles. After her senior season, Bippert-Bohensky was named the LSC women’s track and field athlete of the year. She earned at least one All-American certificate each of her four years as a Rambelle. She was a four-time NCAA Division II All-American in the triple jump (1994-97), earned three certificates in the heptathlon (1995-97) and earned honors twice in the 100-meter hurdles (1996-97).
Bippert-Bohensky was also recognized for her work in the classroom while at ASU. She was honored as a two-time Academic All-American earning Academic Athlete of the Year for at-large sports as a senior. After her athletic career, she collected the prestigious NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, become the first ASU athlete to earn the honor. Bippert-Bohensky was inducted into the ASU Athletics Hall of Honor in 2006.
Harvey Martin, Football, Texas A&M-Commerce: Martin is one of the most recognized names in the history of A&M-C athletics. He starred at South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas before beginning his collegiate football career with the Lions.
As a senior in 1972, Martin was selected as an Associated Press Little, Football News and NAIA All-American en route to leading the Lions to a national title. He went on to become a third-round selection by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1973 NFL Draft. He was a four-time Pro Bowler (1976-1979) and a four-time all-pro selection (1976, 1977, 1979, and 1982). Martin was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 1970’s and was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1977. In Super Bowl XII, he was named the game’s MVP along with teammate Randy White.
He was inducted into the A&M-C’s Hall of Fame in 1987. In 2007, he was selected to the LSC’s 75th Anniversary Football Team and was named the LSC Defensive Player of the Decade for the 1970’s. A&M-C hosted the inaugural Harvey Martin Classic in his honor in 2008 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. In 2009, Martin became the first A&M-C athlete to be inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.
UCO names baseball coach
EDMOND, Okla. (June 17) – Central Oklahoma athletic director Joe Mueller announced Thursday that the Bronchos had named Dax Leone as head baseball coach.
Loene comes to UCO after serving the past year as an assistant coach at Division I power Oklahoma State following previous stints as an assistant coach on the NAIA, Division I and Division II levels.
A product of Shawnee High School who played at Seminole State College and the University of Texas, Leone replaces legendary coach Wendell Simmons, who announced his retirement in April after 19 years at the UCO helm.
“As a native Oklahoman, Dax has a healthy appreciation for the caliber of baseball played in this state,” Muller said. “That, combined with his knowledge of the game through coaching at a variety of levels and his experience in recruiting, make him uniquely qualified to lead our program. We’re excited about the future of UCO baseball.”
Leone, who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at East Central, started his coaching career as a student and graduate assistant with the Tigers. He helped lead ECU to its only Lone Star Conference North Division championship during a three-year stint there before moving on to St. Gregory’s.
Leone served as pitching coach for one year at SGU before becoming pitching coach and recruiting coordinator at Seminole. He was with the Trojans for one season, directing a staff that led the NJCAA in strikeouts and had seven pitchers sign Division I scholarships.
Leone went from Seminole to Division I Louisiana-Monroe, spending two and a half years there as pitching coach and recruiting coordinate. He helped lead ULM to a Sun Belt Conference championship before spending the past year at OSU.
Leone becomes just the third baseball coach since the early 1960s for UCO, following lengthy tenures by Bobby Hunt and Simmons.
Lightfoot Signs With Abilene Christian
BRYAN, TX -- Brazos Christian graduating senior Jordan Lightfoot signed a letter of intent to play college football at Abilene Christian University.
Today the Eagle lineman signed his letter of intent.
Lightfoot was a second team all state selection, and totaled 46 tackles last season including 3 and a half sacks.
Jordan will not only play defensive tackle for the Wildcats, but is also expected to help out on Special Teams at deep snapper
Off Topic
Lakers rally by Celtics in Game 7
Woods, Lefty fail to birdie in 1st round
US seeks key victory against Slovenia
Utah accepts invitation to join Pac-10
Sherrington: A chance to settle some Big 12 scores
Deion Sanders: I'm willing to bet WR Roy Williams has a great year
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The 2010 summer edition of Dave Campbell’s Texas Football is now on racks at stores near you! Head to any store that vends magazines — Wal-Mart, Borders, Barnes and Noble, CVS, etc. — to check out the newest edition in our annual publication, or head to www.TexasFootball.com to read more.
The University of Central Oklahoma and Northeastern State have decided to leave the Lone Star Conference and join the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association, sources close to UCO told The Oklahoman Thursday.
UCO and NSU would join 10 schools in the MIAA spread across Missouri and Kansas in their new conference. There is no word on when the changes would begin. UCO became a member of the LSC in 1987. NSU joined in 1995. In that time UCO has won two conference championships in football and advanced to the national playoffs four times.
NSU and UCO are not the only institutions looking into realignment. Southwestern Oklahoma State, Southeastern Oklahoma State and East Central University are also reportedly looking for a new conference.
LSC picks 2010 Hall of Honor inductees
RICHARDSON, Texas – The most recent inductees to the Lone Star Conference Hall of Honor include a former track & field star and former football standout league officials announced on Thursday.
Amy Bippert-Bohensky of Angelo State University and Harvey Martin of Texas A&M-Commerce make up the 2010 class of inductees for the LSC Hall of Honor, which recognizes outstanding individuals who have brought pride and honor to the conference through their contributions as an athlete or who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the betterment of the conference as a coach or administrator.
The inductees were chosen by a panel of athletic administrators throughout the league.
“Both Amy and Harvey are excellent additions to the LSC Hall of Honor,” said Stan Wagnon, LSC commissioner. “Both excelled not only as Lone Star Conference athletes, but also Amy was an Academic All-American and Harvey went on to a high-profile professional career. It’s special to see these two former greats take their rightful spots among the very best in LSC history.”
Each of the inductees will receive the LSC’s signature Hall of Honor award, a 15-inch custom-sculpted eagle figurine mounted on a cherrywood base. The awards for Bippert-Bohensky and Martin are to be presented this fall with ceremonies at each recipient’s institution.
Here’s a closer look at each of the 2010 inductees to the LSC Hall of Honor:
Amy Bippert-Bohensky, Track & Field, Angelo State: Bippert-Bohensky was a nine-time NCAA Division II All-American during her career from 1994-97 for the ASU track and field team. During the Rambelles run to a sixth-place finish at the national championships in 1997, she scored 19 of the Rambelles’ 37 points. Bippert-Bohensky became ASU’s fourth female track and field national champion claiming the title in the heptathlon. She added a second-place finish in the high jump and an eighth-place finish in the 100-meter hurdles. Bippert-Bohensky left ASU as the school record holder in the heptathlon (5,268 points) and in the triple jump (42’4.25”) and had the fourth-best ever performance by a Rambelle in the high jump (5’6.5”) during her senior season.
In addition, she finished her career with six of the top 10 all-time performances in the 100-meter hurdles. After her senior season, Bippert-Bohensky was named the LSC women’s track and field athlete of the year. She earned at least one All-American certificate each of her four years as a Rambelle. She was a four-time NCAA Division II All-American in the triple jump (1994-97), earned three certificates in the heptathlon (1995-97) and earned honors twice in the 100-meter hurdles (1996-97).
Bippert-Bohensky was also recognized for her work in the classroom while at ASU. She was honored as a two-time Academic All-American earning Academic Athlete of the Year for at-large sports as a senior. After her athletic career, she collected the prestigious NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, become the first ASU athlete to earn the honor. Bippert-Bohensky was inducted into the ASU Athletics Hall of Honor in 2006.
Harvey Martin, Football, Texas A&M-Commerce: Martin is one of the most recognized names in the history of A&M-C athletics. He starred at South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas before beginning his collegiate football career with the Lions.
As a senior in 1972, Martin was selected as an Associated Press Little, Football News and NAIA All-American en route to leading the Lions to a national title. He went on to become a third-round selection by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1973 NFL Draft. He was a four-time Pro Bowler (1976-1979) and a four-time all-pro selection (1976, 1977, 1979, and 1982). Martin was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 1970’s and was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1977. In Super Bowl XII, he was named the game’s MVP along with teammate Randy White.
He was inducted into the A&M-C’s Hall of Fame in 1987. In 2007, he was selected to the LSC’s 75th Anniversary Football Team and was named the LSC Defensive Player of the Decade for the 1970’s. A&M-C hosted the inaugural Harvey Martin Classic in his honor in 2008 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. In 2009, Martin became the first A&M-C athlete to be inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.
UCO names baseball coach
EDMOND, Okla. (June 17) – Central Oklahoma athletic director Joe Mueller announced Thursday that the Bronchos had named Dax Leone as head baseball coach.
Loene comes to UCO after serving the past year as an assistant coach at Division I power Oklahoma State following previous stints as an assistant coach on the NAIA, Division I and Division II levels.
A product of Shawnee High School who played at Seminole State College and the University of Texas, Leone replaces legendary coach Wendell Simmons, who announced his retirement in April after 19 years at the UCO helm.
“As a native Oklahoman, Dax has a healthy appreciation for the caliber of baseball played in this state,” Muller said. “That, combined with his knowledge of the game through coaching at a variety of levels and his experience in recruiting, make him uniquely qualified to lead our program. We’re excited about the future of UCO baseball.”
Leone, who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at East Central, started his coaching career as a student and graduate assistant with the Tigers. He helped lead ECU to its only Lone Star Conference North Division championship during a three-year stint there before moving on to St. Gregory’s.
Leone served as pitching coach for one year at SGU before becoming pitching coach and recruiting coordinator at Seminole. He was with the Trojans for one season, directing a staff that led the NJCAA in strikeouts and had seven pitchers sign Division I scholarships.
Leone went from Seminole to Division I Louisiana-Monroe, spending two and a half years there as pitching coach and recruiting coordinate. He helped lead ULM to a Sun Belt Conference championship before spending the past year at OSU.
Leone becomes just the third baseball coach since the early 1960s for UCO, following lengthy tenures by Bobby Hunt and Simmons.
Lightfoot Signs With Abilene Christian
BRYAN, TX -- Brazos Christian graduating senior Jordan Lightfoot signed a letter of intent to play college football at Abilene Christian University.
Today the Eagle lineman signed his letter of intent.
Lightfoot was a second team all state selection, and totaled 46 tackles last season including 3 and a half sacks.
Jordan will not only play defensive tackle for the Wildcats, but is also expected to help out on Special Teams at deep snapper
Off Topic
Lakers rally by Celtics in Game 7
Woods, Lefty fail to birdie in 1st round
US seeks key victory against Slovenia
Utah accepts invitation to join Pac-10
Sherrington: A chance to settle some Big 12 scores
Deion Sanders: I'm willing to bet WR Roy Williams has a great year
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The 2010 summer edition of Dave Campbell’s Texas Football is now on racks at stores near you! Head to any store that vends magazines — Wal-Mart, Borders, Barnes and Noble, CVS, etc. — to check out the newest edition in our annual publication, or head to www.TexasFootball.com to read more.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
LSC Roundup 6-17
We have requested comments from the three schools reported to have plans of becoming part of a new conference with the Arkansas-based Gulf South Conference schools.
So far we have received the following...
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Football players discover yoga world
By Alexx Reger
“At first I thought we would stretch for 30 minutes and then get out of there. I thought it was kind of a joke. After the first five minutes of class I’m dripping with sweat and thinking what did I get myself into?”
That’s Tucker Cason, a 212-pound linebacker on the University of Central Oklahoma football team. He is not talking about football practice.
He is talking about yoga.
Father's Day: Juan and Greg Castillo
EACH MORNING, he'd leave his house no later than 3:15 a.m. and think nothing of it. Juan Castillo realized this was the only way he could spend time with his son. By starting work at the NovaCare Complex this early, the Eagles' offensive line coach could leave by 4:30 p.m. At which point, he would hustle home to a football field at Lenape High School and the fun began.
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS – What many have called one of the greatest college football teams in history, at any level, will be inducted into the Javelina Hall of Fame on September 18 at Texas A&M-Kingsville’s Memorial Student Union Building. The 1976 Javelina squad is the most celebrated in school history.
The 1976 team accomplished a number of outstanding feats throughout the year. They went 13-0-0 winning their third straight Lone Star Conference and NAIA National Championships and extended their winning streak to 39 games. During the season they defeated the University of Hawaii in Aloha Stadium in Honolulu and Texas Southern in the Astrodome in Houston.
The Javelinas were invited, along with Henderson State, to participate in a three-week exhibition tour in Europe in May and June to introduce American-style football to the European continent. They played games in Berlin, West Germany; Vienna, Austria; Paris, France; Mannheim, West Germany and Nuremburg, West Germany. The Hoggies swept the series.
The Javelinas opened the regular season with a 36-20 win over Texas Southern in the Astrodome. In the home opener, the Javelinas hosted Slippery Rock University, a team that received a lot of national attention because of its name. The University of Texas public address announcer gave the Slippery Rock score each week during Longhorn games. The Javelinas defeated The Rock, 58-7.
In the third game, the Javelinas returned to Hawaii for a second consecutive year and beat the Rainbow Warriors, 56-21. The squad rolled through the remainder of the regular season racking up scores like 77-7 against Stephen F. Austin, 63-2 against Western New Mexico and 44-6 against Southwest Texas in the finale.
The Javelinas finished the regular season No. 1 in the NAIA poll and then had little trouble in the playoffs beating Western State, 57-14, in the semifinals and Central Arkansas, 26-0, in the championship game.
The Javelinas were led by legendary head coach Gil Steinke and Associated Press Little All-America first team picks Richard Ritchie at quarterback and Larry Grunewald at linebacker. They also boasted a 1,000-yard rusher in Larry Collins and 1,000-yard receiver in Glenn Starks, the only time in school history. Overall, the team set numerous records with many still standing.
The 1976 team becomes the second football squad to be inducted in the Javelina Hall of Fame joining the 1959 national championships team that was inducted last fall. The 1969 golf team will also be inducted at the September 18 event. Individual inductees will be announced at a later date.
ECU men's basketball inks Avant
Off Topic
End-of-era feel adds gravity to Game 7 of NBA Finals
Celtics, Lakers feel electricity of Game 7
Fan's anger leads to heated voicemail from A&M's Byrne
So far we have received the following...
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Football players discover yoga world
By Alexx Reger
“At first I thought we would stretch for 30 minutes and then get out of there. I thought it was kind of a joke. After the first five minutes of class I’m dripping with sweat and thinking what did I get myself into?”
That’s Tucker Cason, a 212-pound linebacker on the University of Central Oklahoma football team. He is not talking about football practice.
He is talking about yoga.
Father's Day: Juan and Greg Castillo
EACH MORNING, he'd leave his house no later than 3:15 a.m. and think nothing of it. Juan Castillo realized this was the only way he could spend time with his son. By starting work at the NovaCare Complex this early, the Eagles' offensive line coach could leave by 4:30 p.m. At which point, he would hustle home to a football field at Lenape High School and the fun began.
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS – What many have called one of the greatest college football teams in history, at any level, will be inducted into the Javelina Hall of Fame on September 18 at Texas A&M-Kingsville’s Memorial Student Union Building. The 1976 Javelina squad is the most celebrated in school history.
The 1976 team accomplished a number of outstanding feats throughout the year. They went 13-0-0 winning their third straight Lone Star Conference and NAIA National Championships and extended their winning streak to 39 games. During the season they defeated the University of Hawaii in Aloha Stadium in Honolulu and Texas Southern in the Astrodome in Houston.
The Javelinas were invited, along with Henderson State, to participate in a three-week exhibition tour in Europe in May and June to introduce American-style football to the European continent. They played games in Berlin, West Germany; Vienna, Austria; Paris, France; Mannheim, West Germany and Nuremburg, West Germany. The Hoggies swept the series.
The Javelinas opened the regular season with a 36-20 win over Texas Southern in the Astrodome. In the home opener, the Javelinas hosted Slippery Rock University, a team that received a lot of national attention because of its name. The University of Texas public address announcer gave the Slippery Rock score each week during Longhorn games. The Javelinas defeated The Rock, 58-7.
In the third game, the Javelinas returned to Hawaii for a second consecutive year and beat the Rainbow Warriors, 56-21. The squad rolled through the remainder of the regular season racking up scores like 77-7 against Stephen F. Austin, 63-2 against Western New Mexico and 44-6 against Southwest Texas in the finale.
The Javelinas finished the regular season No. 1 in the NAIA poll and then had little trouble in the playoffs beating Western State, 57-14, in the semifinals and Central Arkansas, 26-0, in the championship game.
The Javelinas were led by legendary head coach Gil Steinke and Associated Press Little All-America first team picks Richard Ritchie at quarterback and Larry Grunewald at linebacker. They also boasted a 1,000-yard rusher in Larry Collins and 1,000-yard receiver in Glenn Starks, the only time in school history. Overall, the team set numerous records with many still standing.
The 1976 team becomes the second football squad to be inducted in the Javelina Hall of Fame joining the 1959 national championships team that was inducted last fall. The 1969 golf team will also be inducted at the September 18 event. Individual inductees will be announced at a later date.
ECU men's basketball inks Avant
ADA - New East Central University men's basketball coach Joe Redmond has announced the signing of 6-foot, 4-inch, 190-pound guard Eric Avant to a national letter of intent for the 2010-11 season. Avant, who will be a junior, transfers in from theUniversity of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kan., where he averaged 20 points and nine rebounds while picking up a unanimous First Team All-Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference honor this past season.
He also earned an NAIA Division II All-American honorable mention award as well as being named KCAC Newcomer of the Year this past season after transferring to Saint Mary fromNeosho Community College (Kan.). Avant averaged six points and five rebounds as a freshman atNeosho. Avant was once named NAIA Division II National Player of the Week on Feb. 10 after averaging 30 points and 12 rebounds while shooting 55 percent from the floor in three games for the Spires.
He played his high school basketball at Olathe South (Kan.) where he was a third team all-conference pick after averaging 13 points and eight boards. Avant played nine years of AAU basketball, several of which came under the direction of his father Vernon Avant, who served as head coach. Avant's mother is Julie Avant.
Off Topic
End-of-era feel adds gravity to Game 7 of NBA Finals
Celtics, Lakers feel electricity of Game 7
Fan's anger leads to heated voicemail from A&M's Byrne
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