Pre-Season Basketball: Oklahoma 85 - MTSU 65
November 20, 2008
No. 2 Oklahoma kept its distance with four players in double-figure scoring but the Sooners could not stop Middle Tennessee’s Alysha Clark and her double-double, as Oklahoma tallied an 85-65 victory Wednesday evening in second round action of the Preseason WNIT inside the Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Oklahoma.
Middle Tennessee will return home to play host to Indiana at 7 p.m. Saturday inside the Murphy Center, also in the Preseason WNIT. The game is not part of the regular-season ticket package; therefore, MT fans will need to call 1-888-YES-MTSU to reserve tickets. Oklahoma also continues play in the Preseason WNIT, and will welcome Arizona State to Norman in a winner’s bracket matchup at 7 p.m. Friday.
Photo ID: Junior Alysha Clark scored a game-high 31 points and added a game-best 16 rebounds for her first MT double-double.
MTSU’s David DeFatta Sun Belter Player of the Week
November 17, 2008
Middle Tennessee’s David DeFatta was honored today by the Sun Belt Conference as the Special Teams Player of the Week. It was the junior’s fourth career player of the week award and the second this season.
DeFatta punted six times at WKU for a 46.7-yard average and placed two inside the 20-yard line. The Franklin, Tennessee, native had a game-changing play in the third quarter when he boomed a career long 71-yard punt that was downed at the WKU 4-yard line. The 71-yard kick equaled the fourth longest in school history.
The Blue Raiders will play their final home game of the 2008 season on Saturday when it takes on North Texas in the annual Salute to Veterans Day. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 PM at Floyd Stadium.
(Photo: David DeFatta kicked a 71-yard punt at Western Kentucky last Saturday)
Oakland & Smyrna Battle For The Final Four
November 17, 2008
It’s a battle for one of the best four prep football teams in 5-A this Friday night. The Oakland Patriots will host the Smyrna Bulldogs at Freedom Field this week. The winner will advance to the 5-A semi-finals, a game away from the Blue Cross Bowl. Oakland coach Thomas McDaniel says the Bulldogs will be a big challenge, but they’re ready…
Smyrna coach Matt Williams believes while they lost to Oakland October 3rd in four overtimes, that will give his team confidence…
The game begins at 7pm from Oakland and our WGNS broadcast at 6:30. The winner will play at either Farragut or Ooltewah November 28th, the day after Thanksgiving.
Women’s Basketball: MTSU 85 - Lafayette College 47
November 16, 2008
Middle Tennessee forced 38 turnovers with 26 before the half in cruising to an 85-47 victory in its women’s basketball season opener Saturday evening against LafayetteCollege in the Preseason WNIT inside the MurphyCenter.
MT clamped down on the defensive end, holding a 68-to-36 edge on field goal attempts and forcing the Leopards into 38 ball changes, including seven apiece by starters Cristin Zavocki and Jessica Spicer.
The game started close with the Leopards claiming an early, 6-2, lead at 16:51 of the first half. However, it would be the largest lead the rest of the game for Lafayette (0-1), who stay within two, 12-10, on an Elizabeth Virgin jumper at 13:42 after the Blue Raiders stormed back to take the lead.
The victory also gave the Lady Raiders consecutive home-opening triumphs following an 89-62 win versus Tennessee Tech a year ago.
Photo ID: Anne Marie Lanning hit four 3-pointers among her 16 points in the win over Lafayette College Saturday
MT advances to the second round of the Preseason WNIT to face No. 4/7 Oklahoma at 7 o’clock Wednesday night at the Lloyd Noble Center in Norman, Oklahoma. Lafayette enters the Consolation Bracket, hosted by Western Carolina Friday and Saturday in Cullowhee, North Carolina, with an opponent yet to be determined.
Note: The WGNS Good Neighbor Network is your Blue Raider connection. Tune to FM 100.5; FM 101.9; AM 1450; over the air TV channel 11; and streaming worldwide on the internet at www.WGNSradio.com
MTSU downs Western Kentucky 21-10
November 15, 2008
Middle Tennessee will return home seeking three straight wins and has put itself back in strong position to become bowl eligible following an impressive 21-10 win against Western Kentucky here Saturday afternoon. Photo ID: Phillip Tanner uses the block of Mark Fisher to get outside on his way to a 29-yard touchdown run.
Senior quarterback Joe Craddock completed 19-of-29 passes for 212 yards and threw two touchdowns with no interceptions to key a 212-yard passing attack; however, it was great balance and play-calling that kept WKU on its heels. The Blue Raiders ran for 101 yards and rode the strong back of junior Phillip Tanner in a smash-mouth type approach. Tanner responded with a season-high 92 yards that included a 29-yard touchdown. Middle Tennessee’s offense finished with 313 total yards.
Outstanding freshmen receivers Sancho McDonald and Malcom Beyah were on the receiving end of Craddock’s touchdown passes. McDonald finished with four receptions for 56 yards, including a 33-yard scoring pass that essentially sealed the deal. Beyah finished with three catches for 55 yards and the game’s first touchdown. The defense also was impressive, keeping WKU out of the end zone until midway through the fourth quarter.
With back-to-back wins in hand, Middle Tennessee returns home to face North Texas in the home finale Saturday at 2 p.m. It will also be “Salute to Veterans” at Floyd Stadium. Hear the game on the WGNS Good Neighbor Network (FM 100.5; FM 101.9; AM 1450; over-the-air TV 11; and on this website.
MTSU Women’s Basketball Saturday Night
November 13, 2008
Middle Tennessee women’s basketball will open its 2008-09 regular season at 7:00 o’clock this Saturday night. Pack the Murphy Center when the Lady Raiders host Lafayette College. in a Preseason WNIT match-up will mark the first meeting between the two schools.
Women’s Basketball Coach Rick Insell (left photo) said, “We are improving every day. Overall, we’re passing the ball better than any time I’ve had since coming to Middle. We’re shooting extremely well and I like the chemistry of our team”
MT completed a successful 2-0 exhibition campaign with wins over Kentucky Wesleyan and Lincoln Memorial. The Lady Raiders started Nov. 3 with an 82-51 triumph over Kentucky Wesleyan with junior transfer Alysha Clark leading all players with a double-double of 30 points and 11 rebounds in her first Middle Tennessee action. The two-time player of the year in the Atlantic Sun, Clark sat out last season due to NCAA transfer regulations, but will wear the blue and white for Insell’s squad this season.
Tickets for the Preseason WNIT game are $11 for adults and $4 for students. Call the MT ticket office at 1-888-YES-MTSU for more information.
WGNS and the Good Neighbor Network are your sources for MTSU sports. Hear the coach’s shows, the games and Blue Raider talk every afternoon from 4:00 to 5:00. WGNS Good Neighbor Network is FM 100.5; FM 101.9; AM 1450; over-the-air TV 11; and worldwide on the internet at www.WGNSradio.com
Rutherford Co. Makes Up District 7-AAA
November 13, 2008
Big changes for prep sports starting next school year. And for Rutherford County fans, it’s a change that brings teams together in all T-Double-S-Double-A sports. The group’s Board of Control voted to put all Rutherford County large schools in the same district. Blackman, La Vergne, Oakland, Riverdale, Siegel and Smyrna will all be in District 7-Triple-A for baseball, basketball, football, softball and volleyball from 2009 to at least 2012.
Eagleville and Middle Tennessee Christian will be in District 9-A with Huntland, Moore County, Cascade, Community and Forrest.
Go Big Blue…Roundball In Two-Days!
November 13, 2008
Middle Tennessee will begin the anticipated 2008-09 men’s basketball season in just two days but head coach Kermit Davis (left photo) got a head start on the program’s future Wednesday (11/12/08).
The Blue Raiders signed five players to National Letters of Intent as the NCAA Early Signing Period began Wednesday, and the list includes quality players with impeccable credentials. The class includes four prep standouts and one junior college transfer.
The group includes James Gallman, 5-11, 185, guard, Fulton (TN) HS; John David Little, 6-3, 180, guard, Olive Branch (MS) HS; David Murray, 6-4, 200, guard, Leeds (AL) HS; Trevor Ottley 6-9 ½, 215, forward, Garden City (KS) JC; and J.T. Sulton, 6-7, 195, forward, Yazoo City (MS) HS.
All signing classes are important but Davis said this one had even greater significance.
“This recruiting class is a critical class because of the players we lose” Davis said. “We wanted to focus on high school (prospects) and we did that. The one junior college player we signed (Trevor Ottley) was a predictor out of high school as a good student. Academically, I feel very good about all of them and we filled a lot of needs from guards, to size and athletic ability. Our assistant coaches worked very hard in the process.”
All of the players possess ability in respective areas but qualities that stand out with all of them are character and each plays for quality programs which compete at a championship level. Once again, the WGNS Good Neighbor Network is your connection to MTSU sports with the coach’s call-in show 7PM Monday nights and most of the games (FM 100.5; FM 101.9; AM 1450; over-the-air TV 11; and worldwide on this internet site.
TSSAA Meeting Results from Wednesday in Murfreesboro
November 13, 2008
Official outline of Wednesday’s meeting for the TSSAA. The meeting was held at the new Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center on Medical Center Parkway in Murfreesboro.
UPDATE:BOARD OF CONTROL MINUTES (See meeting outline below)
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
November 12, 2008
1. Approved Minutes of Last Meeting
2. Voted to direct the state office to conduct the draw for the state wrestling tournament.
3. Reviewed proposals discussed at the 2008 Regional Meetings.
4. Reviewed 2008 Fall Sports Tournaments.
5. Denied proposal from District 14AAA and Bolton High School in Regard to Football Playoffs.
6. Approved proposal for change in subdivisions in Football Playoffs from Henry County High School and Morristown East High School.
The proposal is that subdividing should take place at the first point when schools are placed in the three classes. Schools would then still have the opportunity to move up but the moving up would not cause a school to be bumped from 5A to 6A or from 3A to 4A.
7. Denied appeal of Sullivan Central regarding AAA classification.
8. Approved request of River City High School of Leadership & Service for membership in TSSAA. Membership is effective immediately.
9. Denied Knoxville Christian School’s request for an exception to the Cooperative Programs Rule.
10. Approved resolution for Medigap Insurance Option for Retired Employees of TSSAA.
11. Selected the city of Chattanooga to host the Girls’ State Soccer Tournament in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012.
12. Denied appeal of South Greene High School and enrollment numbers.
13. Approved memberships of all TSSAA member schools.
14. Heard report of girls’ wrestling tournament for 2008-09. Voted to allow girls during the regular season to participate against boys in wrestling. At the close of the regular season, they must choose to participate in either the girls’ only tournament or continue to wrestle with the boys in the post season.
Minutes from the November 12 TSSAA meeting that was held at the Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro:
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of Minutes of Last Meeting
3. Drawing for State Wrestling Tournament
4. 2008 Regional Meetings
5. Review of 2008 Fall Sports Tournaments
6. Proposal from District 14AAA and Bolton High School in Regard to Football Playoffs
The basic proposal is that no team that has not won five games could qualify for the football playoffs.
7. Proposal for Change in Subdivisions in Football Playoffs from Henry County High School and Morristown East High School
In the new classification format we have placed all schools in Division I in Class A, AA, and AAA. After schools moved up, we then subdivided each classification so that A has 1A and 2A in football; AA has 3A and 4A in football; and AAA has 5A and 6A in football.
The proposal from Henry County and Morristown East is that subdividing should take place at the first point when schools are placed in the three classes. Schools would then still have the opportunity to move up but the moving up would not cause a school to be bumped from 5A to 6A or from 3A to 4A.
8. Sullivan Central Appeals Classification AAA
9. River City High School of Leadership & Service Requests Membership in TSSAA
10. Knoxville Christian School Requests an Exception to the Cooperative Programs Rule
11. Proposed Resolution for Medigap Insurance Option for Retired Employees of TSSAA
12. Proposals to Host Girls’ Soccer Tournament in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012
Letters were sent to anyone interested and all major cities regarding interest in hosting the Girls’ State Soccer Tournaments for 2009-2012. Proposals are from Murfreesboro, Chattanooga, and a letter from Mr. Dave LeMarbre, Director, Hendersonville Parks & Recreation Department.
13. Placing Schools in Districts and Regions in all Sports for the 2009-2010, 2010-2011, 2011-2012, and 2012-2013 Classification Period
The Board will be responsible for placing all schools in districts and regions in all sports in both divisions for the 2009-2013 classification period. Supplement #9 contains all of the letters of input we have received from schools in regard to district alignments. Members of the Board should go through and read all of these letters from schools throughout the state.
We will begin the classification process of placing in districts and regions on Thursday, November 13, at 9:00 a.m.
14. For the Good of the Order
15. Litigation Report
16. Hardships
Chattanooga Keeps TSSAA Girls Soccer Tournament
November 12, 2008
The board for the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association met Wednesday (11/12/08) at Murfreesboro’s Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center. One of the items on the agenda was the location of the Girls State Soccer Tournament. For the past several years it has been held in Chattanooga. Only Murfreesboro and Chattanooga were making an effort to secure the tournaments for the years 2009 through 2012. The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Tourism Mona Herring said both proposals were very similar. She told WGNS News that it appeared the coaches were comfortable with the accommodations in Chattanooga. Because of that, the TSSAA board voted not to make any changes.
Oakland Has A Mr. Football Finalist
November 11, 2008
The Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Awards will be presented to the top 14 backs and linemen in seven classifications of the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association on Monday, December 1, 2008, at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center here in Murfreesboro.
One of the 45 student-athletes honored, for 5-A Lineman of the Year, Oakland’s Tim McAdoo. For a complete list of finalists, log-on to wgnsradio.com, keyword Mr. Football.
2008 Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Finalists
1A LINEMAN
Brent Ford, Trousdale County
Preston Gilbreath, Mt. Pleasant
Tyler Richardson, Grace Christian
2A LINEMAN
Michael Baker, Westmoreland
Tyler Robinson, Alcoa
Mason Sharp, Lewis County
3A LINEMAN
Blaine Boone, White House
Daniel Hood, Knoxville Catholic
Evan Webb, David Lipscomb
4A LINEMAN
Romario Cathey, Maplewood
Kevin Revis, Rhea County
Justin Smith, Maryville
5A LINEMAN
Will Jackson, Farragut
Tim McAdoo, Oakland
Jacques Smith, Ooltewah
DII-A LINEMAN
Blair Arrington, Davidson Academy
Don Gant, First Assembly Christian
Will Rikard, Harding Academy
DII-AA LINEMAN
Wesley Johnson, MBA
Austin Long, Briarcrest
Thad McHaney, Brentwood Academy
1A BACK
David Jones, South Pittsburg
James King, Manassas
Colton Speed, Union City
2A BACK
Kane Crowell, Lewis County
Ben Cunningham, Goodpasture
Jake Overbey, USJ
3A BACK
Demario Carter, Sheffield
Hunter Poteete, Dekalb County
Zach Rogers, David Lipscomb
4A BACK
Will Gilchrist, Hardin County
Eric Gordon, Hillsboro
Marsalis Teague, Henry County
5A BACK
Tausean Holmes, Millington
Graham Nichols, Franklin
Chaz Scales, Centennial
DII-A BACK
Marlon Brown, Harding Academy
Ryan Dubois, SBEC
Justin Williams, Davidson Academy
DII-AA BACK
Barry Brunetti, MUS
Tavarres Jefferson, Ensworth
Spencer Wise, MBA
KICKER OF THE YEAR
Josh Davis, Rhea County
Danny Kim, Camden
Jared White, Trousdale County
Blue Cross Bowl - Updates
November 11, 2008
The road to the Blue Cross Bowl continues. Thanks to Matthew Gillespie, here’s a little history for you…
BlueCross Bowl Division I & II:
HISTORY OF CHAMPIONSHIPS:
1950 - The Nashville Area Junior Chamber of Commerce establishes the Clinic Bowl as a Middle Tennessee high school football bowl game benefiting Vanderbilt Physical Therapy Clinic.
1969 - First year of playoffs. Four teams from each of the three classifications play in a two-round playoff.
1972 - Playoff format expands to eight teams from each classification.
1977 - Playoff format expands to 16 teams from each classification.
1982 - TSSAA selects the Clinic Bowl as host for the Division 1A, 2A and 3A state high school football championships. It is the first time all three games are played on the same day at the same location.
1985 - Playoff format expands to 32 teams from each classification.
1993 - High school football classification expands from three to five classes and the state championships are expanded to a two-day event for 1A-5A title games.
1994 - For the first time, the Clinic Bowl is televised on network television in Nashville and Memphis.
1997 - Schools divided into two divisions based on whether or not financial aid is part of the school’s athletic program. Schools offering financial aid are placed in Division II, while the remaining schools are placed in Division I. This creates seven championships, five for Division I and two for Division II.
2000 - The Division I Championships are named the BlueCross Bowl and relocated to MTSU’s Floyd Stadium.
2005 - BlueCross signs on as title sponsor of the Division II Championships (renamed BlueCross Bowl) and the games relocate to MTSU’s Floyd Stadium.
2007 - The BlueCross Bowl Division II Championship reorganizes from three classes to two classes.
PAST CHAMPIONS:
2007 Division II Champions
A - St. George’s
AA - MBA
2007 Division I Champions
1A - South Pittsburg
2A - Alcoa
3A - David Lipscomb
4A - Maryville
5A - Smyrna
For up to date information visit:
www.tssaa.org - Results, scores
www.thssn.net - Live audio broadcasts, video streaming
www.HealthyCompetitionTN.org - Healthy Competition
www.bcbst.com - BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
TSSAA - naming of Mr. Football today
November 11, 2008
The 2008 Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Finalists will be announced this afternoon. WGNS will update you as we learn more.
Blackman Football Coach Bobby Wells Fired
November 10, 2008
Bobby Wells has been fired as the head football coach of the Blackman Blaze. In July, he underwent quintuple bypass surgery. And he came back to coach the Blaze in August and led them to a 5-and-5 record in his fourth year. Wells put together an 11-and-29 record at Blackman after leaving the Smyrna staff as an assistant.
Homecoming Victory: MTSU 24 - ULM 21
November 8, 2008
Football players at Middle Tennessee made sure the students and alumni enjoyed a happy Homecoming as the Blue Raiders raced out to a fast start and held on for a 24-21 win against the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) at Floyd Stadium Saturday afternoon (11/8/08).
Senior quarterback Joe Craddock (left photo) stepped up in the Homecoming contest, completing 13-of-20 passes for 216 yards and a touchdown. Sophomore signal-caller Dwight Dasher also had an efficient game with 62 yards passing, including a touchdown. He led a pair of first-half scoring drives. Seven different players caught passes, led by Patrick Honeycutt’s four receptions for 67 yards. Honeycutt and junior Eldred King each hauled in touchdown passes.
The Warhawks got on the scoreboard for the first time when Frank Goodin scored from 15 yards out to pull the visitors within 17-7 with less than five minutes remaining in the half. Lancaster’s 27-yard pass play to Zeek Zacharie moved the Warhawks into Blue Raider territory for the first time since their opening drive. It also enabled the Warhawks to stay within striking distance going into the half.
ULM continued its momentum into the third quarter and took advantage of a critical Middle Tennessee turnover and the team’s inability to move the ball. The Warhawks pulled to within 17-14 when Kinsmon Lancaster hooked up with Anthony McCall for an 18-yard touchdown with 8:57 remaining in the third quarter. The ULM drive started after it recovered Honeycutt’s fumble on a punt return near midfield.
The Warhawks missed an opportunity to tie the game when kicker Radi Jabour missed left on a 32-yard field goal attempt as time expired in the third quarter.
Middle Tennessee faces rival Western Kentucky at noon next Saturday (11/15/08) in Bowling Green. And yes, you’ll hear that game on your WGNS Good Neighbor Network (FM 100.5; FM 101.9; AM 1450; over-the-air TV 11; and www.WGNSradio.com).
Highest paid athletes 2008
November 6, 2008
The economic crisis has many people worried about their jobs, their homes and their bills, but professional athletes certainly aren’t losing any sleep. USA Today has compiled a list of the top 20 highest paid NFL players.Here’s the list of players and their 2008 salaries:
1. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh $27,701,920
2. Defensive end Jared Allen, Minnesota $21,119,256
3. Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona $17,103,480
4. Quarterback JaMarcus Russell, Oakland $16,872,400
5. Running back Michael Turner, Atlanta $16,003,840
6. Guard Chris Snee, N.Y. Giants $14,890,000
7. Cornerback Asante Samuel, Philadelphia $14,145,000
8. Wide receiver Randy Moss, New England $14,006,720
9. Tackle Flozell Adams, Dallas $14,005,760
10. Defensive tackle Tommy Kelly, Oakland $13,978,480
11. Wide receiver Terrell Owens, Dallas $13,731,560
12. Wide receiver Bernard Berrian, Minnesota $13,705,000
13. Tackle Michael Roos, Tennessee $13,505,520
14. Center Jeff Faine, Tampa Bay $13,105,760
15. Defensive end Will Smith, New Orleans $12,950,000
16. Quarterback Tony Romo, Dallas $12,886,600
17. Guard Travelle Wharton, Carolina $12,850,000
18. Defensive end Antwan Odom, Cincinnati $12,800,000
19. Corner back Terence Newman, Dallas $12,611,240
20. Running back Marion Barber, Dallas $12,522,400
Fulmer Out at UT
November 3, 2008
Phillip Fulmer will not return as the Volunteers’ coach next year after 17-years at the helm…
The Vols…3-6, 1-5 in the SEC… have lost three of their past four games and are in danger of posting their second losing season in the last four years. The Vols won the national title in 1998 and were one of the top programs in all of college football in the 1990s, but the program hasn’t been the same this decade. They’ve lost 31 games since the end of the 2001 season.
MTSU Women’s Basketball Exhibition Game Monday
November 2, 2008
After more than two weeks of preseason practice the Middle Tennessee women’s basketball team finally will get to play a real game. That the outcome and stats do not count is irrelevant where the players are concerned.
The Blue Raiders face Lincoln Memorial in their first of two exhibition games at Murphy Center Monday night (11/3/08) at 7:00 o’clock.
Sophomore forward Emily Queen said, “We are ready to get started. Our team is still learning and getting better. We have some good new players who are going to be asked to contribute early so we are all still working to get on the same page and develop chemistry. We are not where we need to be but we are still ready to get out there in a game against a different team and see exactly where we are and where we need to go from here.” As you recall, last year Emily was SunBelt’s “Freshman of the Year”.
The Blue Raiders are going for their sixth consecutive postseason appearance in 2008-09, including a fourth straight for fourth-year Head Coach Rick Insell, but the veteran coach says his team is not ready to think about the long term because they have a lot of work yet to accomplish in the short term.
Oakland, Smyrna, Siegel & MTCS In Football Playoffs
October 31, 2008
The prep football playoff picture is complete with four Rutherford County teams in the post-season. In Class 5-A, the number one seed Oakland Patriots will host Warren County next Friday night after winning the 4-5A title. Defending two-time state champion Smyrna will host Franklin County and Siegel will travel to Cookeville. WGNS will broadcast the Siegel game on the plateau…the first-ever playoff appearance for the Stars.
Middle Tennessee Christian School is in the playoffs in Single-A for the first time in school history too. They defeated Forrest last Friday night for the last playoff spot in their region. They’ll play at Wayne County.
All playoff football games will begin at 7pm. WGNS will be on the air at 6:30pm next Friday with Siegel at Cookeville.
NASHVILLE SOUNDS SOLD!
October 30, 2008
The Nashville Sounds have agreed to be sold. A holding company based in New York, AmeriSports Companies, LLC, have agreed to purchase the Nashville minor league baseball team. The new owners will likely take over operations before next year’s season. AmeriSports has already discussed a lease extension with the Nashville Metro Government for the Greer Stadium. Reports indicate the team will remain in Nashville.
Still Undefeated: Titans 31 - Colts 21
October 27, 2008
The Tennessee Titans are the only NFL team that still has a perfect record. Former UT favorite Peyton Manning couldn’t even stop the winning Titans. In fact, the Titan’s Kerry Collins outplayed Manning. He threw 193 yards with no interceptions. The Titan’s 7-0 win-loss record now places them in the lead of the AFC South. This marks the second best winning streak in the franchise’s history. Let’s see, how do you spell Super Bowl? Does it start with a T?
Braves Hall of Fame Member Pete Van Wieren Announces His Retirement
October 21, 2008
Pete Van Wieren, a member of the Braves Hall of Fame, has announced his retirement, ending his 33 years as a play-by-play broadcaster for the Atlanta Braves. He spent this past season doing radio exclusively for the Braves Radio Network, but had been a part of the Braves broadcasts on TBS for many of those 33 years. Van Wieren says he wants to spend more time with his family, without the restrictions of a baseball schedule.
Since joining the Braves network in 1975, “The Professor” as he is known throughout baseball, has also covered the Atlanta Flames of the National Hockey League, the Hawks and the Atlanta Falcons NFL pre-season football. He also served as a sports reporter for CNN and served as a play-by-play announcer on TBS’s Big Ten Conference college football games.
In 2004, Van Wieren was inducted into the Braves Hall of Fame, along with fellow announcer Skip Caray, who passed away this past August.
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FOOTBALL STADIUM RANKINGS
October 16, 2008
BRETT FARVE might not be a Green Bay Packer anymore, but fans in Titletown still love their team and their stadium. Green Bay’s Lambeau Field is number one for the second consecutive year in a new Sports Illustrated ranking of the best and worst stadiums in the NFL.SI conducted an online survey of football fans and asked them to rank their hometown stadium on affordability, food, tailgating, team quality, stadium atmosphere and accessibility. The survey certainly reflects the opinion of die-hards — nearly a third of respondents were season-ticket holders and the average number of games attended each year of all respondents was 3.23. Individual category numbers were crunched to come up with an overall ranking.
Here are the NFL stadium rankings from best to worst:
1. Packers - Lambeau Field
2. Steelers - Heinz Field
3. Broncos - Invesco Field At Mile High
4. Ravens - M&T Bank Stadium
5. Jaguars - Municipal Stadium
6. Colts - Lucas Oil Stadium
7. Seahawks - Qwest Field
8. Bills - Ralph Wilson Stadium
9. Titans - LP Field
10. Eagles - Lincoln Financial Field
11. Patriots - Gillette Stadium
12. Chiefs - Arrowhead Stadium
13. Panthers - Bank of America Stadium
14. Browns - Cleveland Browns Stadium
15. Saints - Louisiana Superdome
16. Texans - Reliant Stadium
17. Bears - Soldier Field
18. Buccaneers - Raymond James Stadium
19. Chargers - Qualcomm Stadium
20. Cowboys - Texas Stadium
21. Cardinals - University of Phoenix Stadium
22. Giants - Giants Stadium
23. Raiders - McAfee Coliseum
24. Falcons - Georgia Dome
25. Redskins - FedEx Field
26. 49ers - Candlestick Park
27. Bengals - Paul Brown Stadium
28. Dolphins - Dolphin Stadium
29. Jets - Giants Stadium
30. Vikings - Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
31. Lions - Ford Field
32. Rams - Edward Jones Dome
MTSU Basketball Teams Predicted To Win It All
October 13, 2008
MTSU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams are predicted to win the Sun Belt Conference this year. They’re the pre-season number ones. It marks the first time the men have been voted number one on the men’s side and the first time both the men’s and women’s teams have been chosen together. The Raiders have been in the Sun Belt since 2001.
This time last year Middle Tennessee’s Desmond “Boogie” Yates wasn’t even on the preseason All-SBC third team.
He evidently gained a great deal of respect from the league’s coaches in a one-year span because they voted the Blue Raider junior forward the Sun Belt’s Preseason Player of the Year after a breakout sophomore campaign that saw him earn first-team All-SBC honors and help lead Middle Tennessee to the conference tournament championship game.
If Yates remembers what got him to this point Middle Tennessee coach Kermit Davis believes his talented front court performer who presents major mismatch problems for opponents can have another sensational season.
All-SBC Preseason Team
First Team
Carlos Monroe, FAU
Russell Hicks, FIU
Desmond Yates, MT
Josh White, NT
Brandon Davis, USA
Second team
Tony Hooper, ULM
Kevin Kanaskie, MT
Collin Dennis, NT
Domonic Tilford, USA
Jeremy Evans, WKU
Third team
Steven Moore, UALR
Paul Graham III, FAU
Chris Gradnigo, ULL
Kyndall Dykes, UNO
A.J. Slaughter, WKU
Player of the Year
Desmond Yates (MT, Jr., F)
On the women’s side…Despite being picked by coaches to win the East Blue Raider junior guard Chelsea Lymon was the only Middle Tennessee player named to the preseason All-SBC team. She was a second-team selection. Middle Tennessee is the only team among the top four contenders (two on each side) to have just one player selected and it is the only school of the top four to have just one player selected overall.
Perhaps the reason is this year’s Blue Raiders expect to be a more balanced scoring team than the previous two years when Chrissy Givens and Holt handled the bulk of the offensive load, respectively.
Preseason All-SBC
First Team
Anshel Cooper (UALR, Jr., G)
Kim Sitzmann (UALR, Jr., G)
Veronica Smith (Arkansas State, Jr., G)
Amber Jackson (North Texas, Sr., F)
Dominique Duck (WKU, Sr., F)
Second Team
Monika Bosilj (FIU, Jr., G)
Chelsia Lymon (Middle Tennessee, Jr., G)
Brittany Helm (New Orleans, Jr., G)
Brittney James (North Texas, Jr., G)
Arnika Brown (WKU, So., F)
Third Team
Shay Scott (Arkansas State, So., F)
Lottie Moore (ULM, Sr., G)
Shakira Nettles (South Alabama, Jr., G)
Kylie Morrissy (Troy, Sr., G/F)
Kenzie Rich (WKU, Jr., G)
Preseason Player of the Year
Dominique Duck (WKU, Sr., F)
This Week in Sports
October 13, 2008
MTSU’s Sun Belt championship hopes took a devastating blow Saturday with a 31-21 loss at Florida International. That drops the Raiders to 2-4 overall and 1-3 in conference play. MTSU will travel to Kentucky Saturday to battle the University of Louisville. You can listen to the game beginning at 1:30 for the Blue Raider Network pregame, 2:30 kickoff.
Middle Tennessee’s October 25th football game at Mississippi State has been selected as part of the Southeastern Conference television package and will be shown on ESPNU. So, kickoff for the game has been moved to 6 p.m. local time.
Earlier in the day on the 25th, WGNS will broadcast the Rutherford County Middle School Championship football game. Pregame begins at 1:15 with a 1:30 kickoff from Smyrna’s Robert Raikes Stadium. Opponents will be decided just days before the game because of the close league play. The game will feature Central Middle, Siegel Middle or LaVergne Middle. Two of those three.
Region 4-5A football teams return to action this Friday night, after being off last Friday for fall break:
LaVergne at Smyrna
Oakland at Lebanon
Riverdale at Wilson Central
Blackman at Siegel (on WGNS)
In Region 5-1A play:
MTCS at Community
Eagleville at McEwen
Tiger Woods has the power - who else does?
October 7, 2008
Tiger Woods’ swing isn’t the most powerful thing about him. Woods has topped BusinessWeek magazine’s list of the Power 100, ranking the 100 most powerful people in sports. The list was created by a panel of 35 experts who judged athletes on how they fare against their colleagues, how much money they control, generate or influence, and how great their impact is. Here’s a look at the top 10:
1. Tiger Woods - golfer
2. Roger Goodell - NFL commissioner
3. David Stern - NBA commissioner
4. George Bodenheimer - ESPN president
5. Dick Ebersol - NBC Sports chairman
6. Phil Knight - Nike chairman
7. Bud Selig - Major League Baseball commissioner
8. Brian France - NASCAR chairman and CEO
9. Michael Jordan - NBA great and Charlotte Bobcats minority owner
10. Sean McManus - CBS News and Sports president
Here’s a look at where some other notable names landed on the list:
15. Lance Armstrong - cyclist
17. LeBron James - Cleveland Cavaliers forward
28. Kobe Bryant - Los Angeles Lakers guard
29. Peyton Manning - Indianapolis Colts quarterback
34. Tom Brady - New England Patriots quarterback
42. Michael Phelps - swimmer
45. Alex Rodriguez - New York Yankees third baseman
50. Danica Patrick - Indy Racing League driver
51. Derek Jeter - New York Yankees shortstop
54. John Madden - NFL commentator and video game icon
57. Tony Hawk - skateboarder video game icon
58. Earvin “Magic” Johnson - NBA Hall of Famer and business mogul
65. Wayne Gretzky - Hockey great who’s part-owner and head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes
80. Richard Petty - NASCAR legend and team owner
100. Serena Williams - tennis champ
Tennessee Athletic Commission Approves Four Amateur Sanctioning Organizations
October 2, 2008
Nashville, TN - - The Tennessee Athletic Commission recognized and approved four amateur sanctioning organizations at its meeting on September 30, 2008. These organizations are USA Boxing, the World Karate Association, the International Kickboxing Federation and the International Sport Kickboxing Association.
Any amateur event not conducted by a school, college or university would be illegal unless the event is sanctioned by and the amateur combatant is registered with one of the four amateur sanctioning organizations recognized and approved by the Commission.
The Commission has appointed a committee to review and recommend criteria to recognize and approve additional amateur sanctioning organizations. Additional information regarding the first meeting of the committee will be announced shortly.
At the September 30 meeting the Commission also approved proposed emergency rules for the regulation of professional events. The proposed emergency rules are to be submitted to the Attorney General’s office for approval as to form and legality and do not take effect until submitted to and accepted by the Secretary of State.
Additional information on the final approval of the emergency rules and the licensing and permitting requirements for professional events will be posted when approved.
MTSU Men’s Tennis - UPDATE
October 2, 2008
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - The Middle Tennessee men’s tennis team will compete in both the ITA All-American Championships and the Georgia Tech Fall Invitational this weekend.
· Complete ITA All-American pre-qualifying draw
Selected members of the team have qualified for the ITA All-American pre-qualifying and qualifying play in Tulsa, Okla., which is set to begin on Friday Oct. 3 and run through Oct. 8. The main draw for the tournament will be played Oct. 9-12.
Sophomore Richard Cowden will begin pre-qualifying action at noon on Friday when he faces Jorge Rodriquez of Ball State.
Junior Alex McCann received a bye in the first round of pre-qualifying. McCann will play the winner of Scott McCormick (Wichita State) and Patrick Bandy (Kentucky) at 8 a.m. on Saturday.
Other members of the team will travel to Atlanta to compete in the Georgia Tech Fall Invitational on Friday, Oct. 4 through Sunday, Oct. 6.
The tournament will feature 64-players representing 14 different schools divided into two 32-player singles draws and two doubles draws.
The beginning rounds of singles and doubles will begin on Friday with two singles rounds and one doubles round being played on Saturday. All finals matches will be played on Sunday.
A few of the teams competing in the event include Auburn, Georgia, Vanderbilt, host Georgia Tech and Clemson.
Results from both the ITA All-American and Georgia Tech Fall Classic will be posted on www.goblueraiders.com as soon as they become available.
SPORTS RULES IN COLUMBUS, OHIO
October 2, 2008
Columbus, Ohio is the sports capital of America. Sports fan research firm Scarborough Sports Marketing has conducted a study which found the city is home to the highest percentage of avid sports fans. People were asked if they’re fans of 29 different sports, including, professional team sports, college sports, auto racing, minor league sports and the Olympics. According to the study, 56 percent of all adults consider themselves avid sports fans.Here’s a look at the top sports cities, along with the percentage of people in each city who consider themselves avid sports fans:
1. Columbus, Ohio - 66%
2. Boston - 64%
3. (tie) Buffalo - 63%
3. (tie) Pittsburgh - 63%
5. (tie) Green Bay/Appleton, Wisconsin - 62%
5. (tie) Providence, Rhode Island/New Bedford, Massachusetts - 62%
5. (tie) Denver - 62%
5. (tie) Rochester, New York - 62%
5. (tie) Louisville, Kentucky - 62%
5. (tie) Cleveland/Akron, Ohio - 62%
5. (tie) San Antonio - 62%
5. (tie) Birmingham, Alabama - 62%
Here’s a look at the highest percentage of people in cities who are fans of specific teams:
1. 81% of people in Green Bay, Wisconsin root for the NFL’s Packers
2. 75% of people in Pittsburgh root for the NFL’s Steelers
3. (tie) 72% of people in St. Louis root for Major League Baseball’s Cardinals
3. (tie) 72% of people in Indianapolis root for the NFL’s Colts
5. (tie) 71% of people in Columbus, Ohio root for Ohio State’s University’s football team
5. (tie) 71% of people in Boston root for Major League Baseball’s Red Sox
5. (tie) 71% of people in Milwaukee, Wisconsin root for the NFL’s Green Bay Packers
8. 70% of people in New Orleans root for the NFL’s Saints
9. 68% of people in San Antonio root for the NBA’s Spurs
10. 66% of people in Lexington, Kentucky root for the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team
MTSU WINS - hear the final seconds of last nights game now
October 1, 2008
The Blue Raiders had everyone on the edge of their seats throughout Tuesday (9/30/08) night’s game in Murfreesboro. MTSU downed Florida Atlantic 14 - 13. The Blue Raider Network highlights the final seconds from last night…
This was the first nationwide TV broadcast of a home game from Middle Tennessee State University. All of the Blue Raider games are broadcast on the WGNS Good Neighbor Network (FM 100.5; FM 101.9; AM 1450; over the air TV channel 11; streaming on internet at www.WGNSradio.com).
(PHOTO ID: Monte Hale, Jr. and Tim Tackett broadcast All Sports Talk prior to the Raiders defeat of FAU)
Bishop ties career low in first round of Johnie Imes Invite
September 29, 2008
By Tony Stinnett: The Middle Tennessee women’s golf team got off to a strong start at the Johnie Imes Invitational, hosted by Missouri, and is tied for fourth after the first round at The Club at Old Hawthorne in Columbia, Mo.Middle Tennessee shot a 15-over 303 and is tied with UALR in fourth, three shots off the pace of co-leaders Mississippi and Missouri. They shot 12-over in the first round and Iowa was third after 18 holes with a 13-over 301. The Blue Raiders closed the first round just in front of Kansas, Mississippi State and SBC contender Florida International.
“It’s a tough course and it’s playing pretty difficult but I’m proud of how the girls have battled through the opening round and put themselves in position to contend against a tough field,” Middle Tennessee head coach Chris Adams said.
Senior Mallory Bishop tied her career low with a 1-under 71 to lead Middle Tennessee’s first round scoring. The savory start has her tied for third overall in the 54-hole event. She managed the course with three birdies and had just the two bogeys.
Freshman Steph Gough continues to play well early in the season and is tied for 19th with a 4-over 76, followed by Leigh Wilkins and Clara Leathers tied for 31st at 6-over 78. Karisa Akin was 10-over in the first round.
The second round of the Johnie Imes Invitational was being played Monday afternoon and early evening and the event concludes with the final round Tuesday.
Johnie Imes Invitational
The Club at Old Hawthorne, Par-72
First Round Team Scores
T1 Mississippi 300 +12
T1 Missouri 300 +12
3 Iowa 301 +13
T4 Middle Tennessee 303 +15
T4 UALR 303 +15
T6 Kansas 306 +18
T6 Mississippi State 306 +18
8 Florida International 308 +20
9 Princeton 310 +22
10 Texas State 313 +25
11 Missouri 316 +28
12 Missouri State 318 +30
13 UMKC 319 +31
T14 Redlands College 322 +34
T14 Bradley Univ. 322 +34
16 Southern Illinois 326 +38
17 Drury 337 +49
18 Memphis 338 +50
T4 MT Scores 303
Mallory Bishop 37-34 71 -1
Steph Gough 40-36 76 +4
Leigh Wilkins 36-42 78 +6
Clara Leathers 38-40 78 +6
Karisa Akin 38-44 82 +10
Blue Raiders suffer Sun Belt road setback
September 20, 2008
Middle Tennessee has dominated the football series against Arkansas State with wins in eight of the first nine meetings; however, the 10th gridiron clash between the teams is one the Blue Raiders would likely prefer to forget.
Arkansas State (3-1, 1-0) was too much for Middle Tennessee in a 31-14 win on Homecoming at ASU Stadium here Saturday night. The Red Wolves dominated from the outset and took control in the first half on the way to a 17-0 halftime advantage. They provided the dagger when quarterback Corey Leonard threw his third touchdown of the game - a 2-yard pass to David Johnson - to cap a 13-play, 74-yard drive that consumed 8:35 on the opening second half drive. (PHOTO ID: Desmond Gee tries to break free from a tackle during Middle Tennessee game at Arkansas State)
Leonard threw a pair of first-half scores. His 17-yard pass to tailback Reggie Arnold started the scoring with 326 remaining in the first quarter. Josh Arauco added a 35-yard field goal to extend the lead to 10-0 with 8:30 remaining in the first half before Leonard found Johnson for a 14-yard scoring strike with 36 seconds remaining before intermission.
Middle Tennessee (1-3, 0-2) finally got on the scoreboard late in the third quarter when Phillip Tanner plunged in from the 2 to cap a nine-play, 76-yard drive and narrow the margin to 24-7 with 2:19 remaining in the third quarter.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed as Arkansas State methodically answered the Blue Raider scoring drive with a nine-play, 88-yard drive capped with Derek Lawson’s 2-yard run with less than 13 minutes remaining for a 31-7 advantage.
The Blue Raiders wouldn’t go quietly. They pulled to within 31-14 when Dwight Dasher connected with Patrick Honeycutt for a 3-yard touchdown pass with 9:17 remaining. Honeycutt turned in a career-best performance with a personal-best 11 receptions for 94 yards and his first score of the season and second of his career.
What had been an efficient Middle Tennessee offense struggled in its first Sun Belt road encounter of the season. The Blue Raiders had 315 yards total offense led by quarterback Joe Craddock’s 25-of-35 for 268 yards passing. The unit had two first-half interceptions with Craddock and Dwight Dasher each throwing one.
Middle Tennessee squandered several first-half opportunities. The Blue Raiders had the ball at midfield or the plus side of the field three times in the first half and failed to get any points out of opportunities generally set up by excellent special teams play and near touchdown-breaking returns from Desmond Gee.
Gee’s first long return to the Blue Raider 48 was negated when Dasher was intercepted at the Arkansas State 7. Another long return didn’t result in points after Craddock was picked off the Arkansas State 3 on a second-and-8 from the ASU 18.
The Blue Raiders finally got their offense untracked in the second half but the deficit was already too large.
Middle Tennessee will return to action when it plays host to Florida Atlantic in the "Blackout Night" game, Sept. 30.
Middle Half Marathon Nears
September 18, 2008
The Murfreesboro Half Marathon is nearing. It will be held October 11th. Race Director Melinda Tate says all of the major plans for the Middle Half are already in place…
The last day to register is Tuesday, September 30th. All forms - even those mailed in - must be received by the 30th. Go to WGNSRadio.com, keyword half marathon, for all of the details.
Link: Murfreesboro Half Marathon
Women’s tennis a BIG HIT at MTSU
September 18, 2008
The Middle Tennessee women’s tennis team will begin fall play this weekend, Friday, Sept. 19 through Sunday, Sept. 21 with the 25th annual Steve Baras Fall Classic hosted by UT-Chattanooga.
This season’s Blue Raider squad looks completely different as only two return from the 2007-08 season. Seniors Marlene Chemin and Andrea Herrera will anchor a small squad that features two juniors and three freshmen.
Natalie Araya and Anna Djananova join the Blue Raiders after winning the doubles junior college national championship for LeeCollege.
Marietta Bigus, Taylor Coffey and Alexandra Dachos round out the newcomers for the Blue Raiders this season. Bigus is a native of Rumia, Poland while Coffey hails from Cartersville, Ga. Dachos is a native of Florence, Mass.
The UTC Steve Baras Fall Classic is hosted by the Mocs men’s and women’s tennis teams and will feature 24 regional and state collegiate teams at the Champions Club in Hixson, Tenn.
Admission to the tournament is free. Results of the Blue Raiders’ matches will be available on www.goblueraiders.com as soon as it becomes available.
MTSU Baseball Fish Fry Date Set
September 16, 2008
Middle Tennessee head baseball coach Steve Peterson has announced the annual Grand Slam Fish Fry fundraiser will take place on
Monday, October 20, at 6 p.m. at the Tennessee Livestock Center on the Middle Tennessee campus.
As always, the event will feature country whole fried catfish with all the trimmings prepared by Shelbyville’s own “Big Hoss” Cartwright; authentic cajun gumbo by our Louisiana transplant, Blue Raider legend John Stanford; as well as hot dogs for the kids.
“We fried over 600 pounds of catfish and 50 gallons of gumbo last year,” head coach Steve Peterson said.
Russ & Becky Jeffers Country Band from Jack Daniels Distillery will be on hand for the evening’s entertainment.
“The Fish Fry is one of our biggest events of the year, an annual event we’ve been hosting since 1984. It’s a great way to socialize with everyone and raise money for the baseball program. It’s great food, fun and entertainment, and certainly an event you don’t want to miss,” Peterson said.
Tickets are $20. Children six and under are admitted free of charge.
Tickets are available at the Middle Tennessee Ticket Office located at Gate 1A of Floyd Stadium and through the Middle Tennessee BRAA office.
Patrons wishing to pay by mail can make checks payable to Middle Tennessee Baseball Fish Fry and can send their payment to Steve Peterson, MTSU Box 90, Murfreesboro, TN, 37132. For more information, please call 615/898-2450. Proceeds from the Grand Slam Fish Fry benefit the Blue Raider baseball program.
Local Sports Coverage on WGNS
September 15, 2008
It’s back to region play Friday night for local high school football teams. It’s also the fifth game of the ten game regular season for the 4-5A teams. Undefeated Oakland travels to Wilson Central, Riverdale is at Siegel, LaVergne at Lebanon and on WGNS, Blackman at Smyrna. In Single-A ball, MTCS travels to Jo Byrns and Eagleville is at White House Heritage. WGNS coverage of the Blaze at the Bulldogs begins at 7 Friday night.
The MTSU Blue Raiders will head for the road again this week as they step back into conference play to face Arkansas State. Kickoff is set for 6 PM in Jonesboro. Blue Raider Network pregame coverage begins at 5 on WGNS.
Craddock Honored by Sun Belt
September 15, 2008
For the second week in a row, quarterback Joe Craddock has been named the Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Week. It marks the third career honor for the Blue Raider signal-caller.
Craddock, a senior from Birmingham, recorded his second career 300-yard passing game when he torched the Kentucky secondary on Saturday for 352 yards on 21 of 37 passes. Craddock hit nine different receivers on Saturday and had completions of 62, 61, and 52 yards.
He nearly completed a miracle finish for the Blue Raiders as he hit Eldred King with a Hail Mary as time expired and King came up just one-yard short of the endzone.
After three games, Craddock ranks 15th nationally in passing yards per game and 18th in completions per contest. He has connected on 69 of 109 passes for 808 yards which is the most after three games since Clint Marks had 859 yards in 2004.
Craddock and the Blue Raiders will head for the road again this week as they step back into conference play to face Arkansas State. Kickoff is set for 6 PM in Jonesboro.
Case hired as assistant on MTSU men’s basketball staff
September 9, 2008
Win Case followed the advice of a former college teammate who became a highly-successful head coach when pursuing the vacant Middle Tennessee men’s basketball assistant coach position, and he’s glad he did.
Case, who has been part of four national championships at the college level, has been hired as an assistant on the Blue Raiders’ staff, head coach Kermit Davis announced Monday.
“Win is a proven head coach and he won two national championships as a head coach, which speaks for itself,” Davis said. “Win has had a lot of opportunities to get to this level. He came on an interview and was blown away by the community, the school, the commitment and he just thought this would be a good place for him and his family.”
Case said a phone call from Kansas head coach Bill Self stimulated his interest in the vacant position on Davis’ staff. Case and Self were teammates at Oklahoma State and Case’s son, Jeremy, was a member of Kansas’ national championship team in 2008 and is currently on the Jayhawks staff as a graduate assistant.
“When I was trying to decide if I was going to pursue this position I got a call from Bill Self and he just raved about coach Davis,” Case said. “(Self) told me coach Davis was one of the best and he told me I needed to look hard at the position. At that time the position had not been offered but what coach Self said certainly appealed in terms of having an opportunity to work with a coach who has that type of reputation. Coach Davis has a reputation around the country that is second to none.”
An opportunity to work for Davis spurred his interest in the opening and then Case arrived on campus.
“First and foremost was the chance to work for one of the best coaches in the country,” Case said of his decision to work at Middle Tennessee. “That got my initial interest and then once I came here and saw this University I was blown away with what they have with the facilities and how everything is run first class.”
Case’s responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, recruiting, scouting, and day-to-day preparation of the Blue Raider basketball team.
“Win has a great personality and I love his positive, upbeat attitude,” Davis said. “I believe it will help us in recruiting and (Case) will help us on the court.”
Case compiled a 364-138 record in 16 seasons as a head coach. He won two national championships as head coach at Oklahoma City University. He said looks forward to recruiting to what he believes is a great University with an immense amount to offer.
“Recruiting is so important, not only the type of players in terms of athleticism, but also good people and I think the one thing I can bring to the table is that I am a people person and recruiting is all about relationships,” Case said. “I want to build upon those relationships because it is so important to having a successful basketball program.”
Case said he has been impressed with Middle Tennessee’s players during 4-on-0 workouts but he has been even more delighted at the type of people they are.
“I’ve been to a lot of different places and I have never been to a school and program where every single kid in the program is low maintenance,” Case said. “These are really good kids and I made a comment to coach Davis after I met with all of them and had a chance to talk with them that I had never seen this before. Not only are they good players on the court but they also are good kids and it’s a joy for me to work with them.”
Case brings a wealth of experience and success to Middle Tennessee. He most recently was head men’s basketball coach at Redlands College. Case was at Redlands one season and his team posted a 21-11 mark in 2007-08. Prior to that he spent two seasons at Eastern Oklahoma State College where he served as head men’s basketball coach and athletics director.
Case was head coach at Oklahoma City University for 15 years, posting a 343-127 record and winning the NAIA National Championship in 1994 and 1996. Prior to his 15 years as head coach at Oklahoma City, Case served as an assistant there and was part of two national championships (1991, 1992). The 1992 squad was 38-0.
Case played two seasons at Seminole Junior College and led the team to a runner-up finish in the NJCAA national championship game. Following two years of junior college, Case played two years at Oklahoma State, where he averaged 10.7 points as a senior.
Case began his coaching career as an assistant at Oklahoma Baptist in 1987. He spent two seasons as an assistant at Eastern Oklahoma before joining the staff at Oklahoma City University.
Case has two children - Jeremy (24) and Tiffany (25). He is married to the former Ronda Crowe.
MTSU Game on Saturday, by Danny H. Page
September 8, 2008
The Blue Raiders made the Maryland Terrapins look just that way! SLOW! The undersized line of MTSU simply man handled the ACC opponents on both sides of the ball. If you look back at the game ,and I have, you will see that Maryland scored on two of their three big plays. The offensive line of Middle is Freshmen dominated. How good can they be next year? How good can they be next week?
The fun thing about this is we now know that the potential of this football team is getting to the point that Coach Stockstill promised. We have an opportunity to be the next Louisville in Football. I guess that means if we beat them , that maybe we are!We have for two straight weeks put over 22,000 people in the stands. We need to do the same thing when FAU comes in here at the end of the month! It used to be the talk was that the students want come. That scenario has changed and it is now that we need the residents of Murfreesboro to step up and bring their family to by far the best show in town on a home game night.We have our very first nationally broadcast MTSU game coming up on September 30 against a conference foe. This is a great opportunity to have our very first sell out. I would love to be a part of that! This is going to be an opportunity to show the entire country how a so called Mid-Major School from Tennessee can warrant being shown on National TV. Let’s make sure that MTSU and Murfreesboro is not embarrassed. Let’s show them how to be Loud, Proud and BLUE!!!
Riverdale vs. Blackman Highlights and Player of the Game Interview
September 5, 2008
The Riverdale Warriors beat Blackman 21-13 Friday night to improve to 2-and-1 on the season.
Highlights of the Game (Bryan Barrett and Jon Dinkins)
Player of the Game (Riverdale’s Dequinton Sherrill with Donnie Johnson)
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