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Post by Local Sports on Aug 12, 2011 5:31:27 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry Tabbed as Union College Interim Director of Athletics Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union College named Tim Curry as the interim Director of Athletics, acting President Dr. Tom McFarland announced Thursday. "Tim has long been a valued member of our coaching staff," said McFarland. "He has shown extraordinary leadership on and off the field of play during his decade of service here at Union. We have the utmost confidence in Tim to lead the athletic department during this transitional period." Curry duties as the interim Director of Athletics on Monday. He takes over for Dr. Darin S. Wilson, who recently resigned to take a similar position at Georgia Gwinnett College. "I am excited to have been given this opportunity," said Curry. "Darin has done an outstanding job in building and shaping our athletic department to what it is today. It is my desire to not just continue down the path we've been on but to take us to bigger and better things." In addition to being the interim Director of Athletics, Curry will continue to serve as the head coach of the Lady Bulldog basketball program, a position he has held since the 2001-02 campaign. In 10 years at the helm, Curry has won three Appalachian Athletic Conference tournament championships and two regular-season crowns. The Lady Bulldogs advanced to the NAIA National Championship three times as well. Curry is the program's all-time winningest coach, boasting a record of 184-138. Union posted five of its six 20-win seasons with Curry manning the sidelines. During his tenure, Curry also served as the head coach for the softball and women's golf programs. For the past few years, he has been an assistant athletic director before being named Associated Athletic Director for Internal Operations earlier this summer.
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Post by Local Sports on Aug 22, 2011 12:53:23 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Smith Continuing Strong Preseason with Browns
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Former Union running back Armond Smith posted another strong showing, rushing for 90 yards and a touchdown in the Cleveland Browns' 30-28 loss to Detroit in NFL preseason action Friday. Smith's big highlight of the evening came early in the second half when he broke loose for an 81-yard touchdown run. The touchdown put Cleveland up 28-13 with 12:19 to play in the third. However, Detroit accounted for the game's final 17 points to pull out the two-point decision. Smith finished the evening with 90 yards rushing on six carries and caught one pass for 10 yards. Through two preseason games, he has tallied 131 yards rushing on 16 attempts. Cleveland's next preseason game is Thursday at Philadelphia.
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Post by ClayLive on Aug 25, 2011 16:57:30 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Union Athletics Adds In-Game Twitter Feed
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - The Office of Sports Communications created recently a new Twitter account which will be dedicated solely for in-game updates. In the past, updates were posted on the primary Union Athletics Twitter account as well as the official Facebook fan page. However, in-game updates will only be posted at the UBulldogsInGame Twitter account at: twitter.com/#!/UBulldogsInGame Followers of the primary Twitter and Facebook accounts need not to worry. Both will continue to post the final scores as well as news links and features. The in-game Twitter feed was created to help reduce the amount of updates streaming from the other accounts. The in-game account will provide updates live updates of all the home events of the men's and women's soccer, volleyball, football, men's and women's basketball, baseball and softball events. When possible, updates from road games will also be tweeted out.
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Post by ClayLive on Aug 31, 2011 21:23:30 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Kevin Harrington Named Assistant Coach for Men's Basketball
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. -- Union College men's basketball coach Sean Gillespie has announced that Kevin Harrington has been hired as an assistant coach in the Bulldog program. Harrington replaces Jerrod Stanford, who left earlier in the summer to take a position at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas. "I am pleased that Coach Harrington has joined the men's basketball staff," said Gillespie. "He brings a wealth of basketball experience from his playing days in college and overseas, and I expect he will be a great asset for us both on and off the court. I am looking forward to working with him as we continue to move the program forward." Harrington comes to Barbourville from Peachtree High School in Atlanta, where he served as an assistant boys basketball coach for the last two seasons. Before that, Harrington spent one season as the head coach of the American Basketball Association's Atlanta Vision. Before entering the coaching ranks, Harrington played professionally in China and Mexico for two years, and also played a season for the ABA's Vermont Frost Heaves. Harrington played collegiately at USC Upstate in Spartanburg, S.C. for four years, earning a degree in criminal justice from the university in 2004. In his senior season, Harrington started and played in all 28 games the Spartans took part in on the year, averaging 14.5 points per game. In his time in the Atlanta area, Harrington was the master trainer for basketball at the Suwanee Sports Academy in Suwanee, Ga. for four years as well.
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Post by ClayLive on Sept 1, 2011 14:26:16 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Turnovers Prove Costly in 30-14 Loss to Tigers
CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - Turnovers proved to be Union's downfall Thursday as the Bulldogs suffered a 30-14 season-opening defeat to host Campbellsville (Ky.). Union (0-1 overall) committed six turnovers. On the positive side, the miscues only resulted in nine Campbellsville (1-0 overall) points. Yet, two potential Bulldog scoring drives were halted by interceptions in the end zone. Last season, Union opened the year with a 47-36 loss to Campbellsville as it committed six turnovers in that contest. The Brown brothers turned in a stellar performance, though. Rob Brown (Daytona, Fla.) rushed for a career-high 161 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries and added one catch for 19 yards and returned one kick for 29 yards. By breaking the century mark, Brown became the 11th member of the 1,000-yard club as he now has 1,068 career rushing yards. His twin, Bert Brown (Daytona, Fla.), recorded two solo tackles but intercepted a pass and returned a fumble 31 yards for a touchdown. He also returned two kicks for 56 yards. Union returns to action Sept. 10 when it plays host to Kentucky Christian at 12 p.m. The Bulldogs struggled to get any offense going early on as the Tigers held the ball for over 10 minutes in the first quarter as it built a 10-0 lead. The tide appeared to be turning in the second when Rob Brown capped an 11-play, 87-yard drive with a 32-yard scamper to pull Union within 10-7 with 11:43 to go in the half. A few minutes later, Bert Brown scooped up a Joe Blackstone fumble and sprinted 31 yards for the end zone in lifting the Bulldogs to a 14-10 advantage with 8:25 left. Late in the second, Campbellsville was aided by a bad snap on a punt attempt. Chad Boyington (Stockbridge, Ga.) was able to corral the ball and quickly punted the ball, but it went for a minus-6 yards to give the Tigers the ball on the Union 42. Campbellsville scored the very next play as Nathan Cooper hit Dem Gibson to make it 17-14 with 2:22 remaining. The Tigers struck again right before the half, scoring on a 22-yard pass play to Diaz Bolden with :00.9 left on the clock to take a 24-14 halftime lead. In the second half, Campbellsville forced four turnovers but managed to score just six points on 23- and 19-yard field goals by David Hon to make the final 30-14. Union had a hard time getting its passing game going, especially after Mike Brinkley (Anthony, Fla.) left the game with an injury late in the second quarter. Brinkley finished 1-for-6 for 52 yards, while Colton Phelps (Austin, Ky.) went 5-for-12 for 58 yards and Ryan Moses (Williamsburg, Ky.) went 3-for-7 for 51 yards. The Bulldogs tallied 366 yards in total offense with 185 coming on the ground. Campbellsville racked up 466 yards overall with Cooper completing 20-of-30 passes for 251 yards and a two scores. Wayne Coffee rushed for 143 yards and a touchdown on 20 tries.
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Post by ClayLive on Sept 5, 2011 18:43:26 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Former Bulldog Smith Makes the Cut
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Former Union running back Armond Smith made the grade and landed a spot on the Cleveland Browns' 53-man roster, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. Smith, an undrafted free agent, will be listed as the Browns' third running back because of Brandon Jackson's toe injury and the release of Quinn Porter. Smith led the team with 192 yards 6.2 yards per carry during the preseason. He also had touchdown runs of 81 and 6 yards. Smith led the Mid-South Conference in rushing last season, averaging 125.1 yards per game en route to being named MSC West Offensive Player of the Year. He also led all running backs with 16 rushing touchdowns. Smith was MSC Offensive Player of the Week twice during the season and MSC Special Teams Player of the Week once. During the season, Smith set numerous program records including most rushing yards in a game (312), most rushing yards in a season (1,376), most rushing touchdowns in a game (five), most rushing touchdowns in a season (16), most points scored in a game (30) and most points scored in a season (102 - 16 rushing touchdowns and one kickoff return touchdown). In addition, Smith landed on the 2010 Victory Sports Network All-American Team. The Browns open the season at home against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at 1 p.m.
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Post by ClayLive on Sept 16, 2011 15:46:17 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
NCAA FCS Skyhawks Soar Past Bulldogs, 63-0
MARTIN, Tenn. - A big third quarter broke the game open for host UT Martin as Union fell 63-0 on Thursday to the NCAA FCS squad. Despite struggling offensively in the first half, the Bulldogs (1-2 overall) kept the Skyhawks within reach as they trailed 21-0 at the break. UT Martin, though, reeled off 28 third-quarter points to extend the margin to 49-0 en route to the 63-0 decision. UT Martin (1-1 overall) tallied 570 yards in total offense while limiting Union to 151 yards. Field position was a major factor in the outcome with the Bulldogs' average starting spot was their own 22 and the Skyhawks beginning their drives on own 47. Three Bulldog quarterbacks combined to go 10-of-23 passing for 82 yards, and Xavier Robinson (Gainesville, Ga.) led the ground game with 36 yards on seven carries. Defensively, Bert Brown (Daytona, Fla.) and Darrin Greene (Cherrylog, Ga.) led the way with both recording seven total tackles. Brown also picked off a pass, giving him two interceptions on the season and six for his career. Josh Nixon (Pensacola, Fla.) also intercepted a pass. Union returns to action Sept. 24 at UVa-Wise. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.
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Post by ClayLive on Oct 2, 2011 6:02:58 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Union Defeats Patriots, 24-19; Brings Brass Lantern Home Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - It had been a long time coming, but it was well worth the wait as Union defeated visiting Cumberlands 24-19 Saturday to bring home the Brass Lantern for the first time since 2005. The Patriots won the last five meetings and still own a 23-10 lead in the series. However, it was the Bulldogs' time to shine on Saturday with the five-point victory to improve to 2-3 overall and 1-0 in Mid-South Conference West play. "It's an awesome feeling," said Union head coach Tommy Reid on getting the win. "It's obviously a big rivalry game and our kids have been jacked up about it all week, and to be able to come out on top is an awesome feeling." The loss drops Cumberlands to 2-3 overall and 0-2 in MSC West play. The Patriots have now lost three games in a row. Union's defense came up huge all afternoon, stopping Cumberlands four times in the red zone in six attempts. Twice the Bulldogs came up with big fourth-down stops in the red zone, and on two other occasions, Union picked off the Patriots deep in its territory. "The first thing I said to our guys after the game, 'Time and time again, our defense bailed us out.' When we had to have big plays, they came up with them," said Reid. "Gosh, I'm tickled to death with their effort." The Bulldog defense limited the Patriots to 300 yards in total offense with 188 yards coming on the ground. Cumberlands turned the ball over three times and went 4-of-11 on third down. Senior linebacker William Roundtree (Ocala, Fla.) led the way with 11 total tackles with one going for a loss of four yards. He also picked off a pass inside the Bulldog 10, preventing a potential Patriot touchdown. Conversely, Union racked up 434 yards in total offense with sophomore quarterback Ryan Moses (Williamsburg, Ky.) going 18-of-24 for 310 yards and three touchdowns, both of which are career highs. "Ryan's gotten better every week," said Reid. "And if he continues that we'll be in good shape. Union hits the road next week when it takes on Bethel (Tenn.) in another MSC West battle. Game time is set for 5 p.m. Tied at 7-7 in the second, Cumberlands grabbed the lead thanks to a Justin Pritchett 7-yard run. Justin Dyer's PAT attempt sailed just wide left to keep it a 13-7 contest with 1:47 to play in the half. Undaunted, Union pieced together a nine-play, 83-yard drive to seize the lead just before halftime. Moses hit Domonique Jefferson (Lawrenceville, Ga.) on a fade route in the left corner of the end zone from the 6-yard line with 17 seconds on the clock. After Chad Boyington's (Stockbridge, Ga.) PAT, the Bulldogs led 14-13 at the half. Moses went 5-for-5 passing for 59 yards and ran for 14 more on the scoring drive. On its first possession of the second half, Union found itself starting on its own 12. Aided by a personal foul penalty on the Patriots and a 33-yard pass to Tyler Ross (Pensacola, Fla.), the Bulldogs moved the ball down to the Patriot 3. Union settled for a Boyington 20-yard field goal to up the margin to 17-13 with 6:19 to play in the third. Facing third-and-5 on the Union 40 on its next possession, Moses hit a wide-open Jefferson down the left sideline for a 60-yard scoring strike to put the Bulldogs up 24-13 with 2:15 left in the third. Midway through the fourth, Cumberlands began to mount a comeback. Forcing and recovering a fumble, the Patriots took over on their own 24. A 39-yard pass to Deyonte Shannon quickly moved Cumberlands down to the Union 37. After a 27-yard pass to Stroub, Shannon ran the ball in from 10 yards out to make cut Union's lead to 24-19 at the 6:06 mark. The Patriots went for 2, but the quarterback was sacked on the conversion attempt. The Bulldogs appeared to be on their way to a score to seal the win as they were moving the ball quickly down the field. However, Jared Stippert stripped the ball from a Union runner on the Cumberlands 32 and returned it to the Union 20 with 3:19 to play. Cumberlands faced a fourth-and-2 from the 12 when it was called for a false start. Then, on fourth-and-7 from the 17, Isiah Anderson (Boston, Mass.) sacked Andrew Brunnert for a 6-yard loss, giving the Bulldogs the ball on the Union 23 with 1:40 to go. A Rob Brown (Daytona, Fla.) 10-yard run gave Union a first down at the Bulldog 35, and Union was able to take a knee three times to wrap up the five-point win. Moses hit nine different receivers with Demetrius Hicks (Frankfort, Ky.) leading the way with four catches for a 107 yards. Josh Winkle (Christianburg, Va.) had three for 24 yards, while four Bulldogs had two catches, including Jefferson who hauled in two for 66 yards and two scores. Brown led the ground game with 65 yards on 17 carries and had two receptions for 29 yards. Chandler Priest (Loganville, Ga.) pounded his way to 33 yards on six attempts. Union struggled early on offensively, collecting just eight yards on 15 plays in the opening quarter. But in the second period, the Bulldogs reeled off 192 yards and scored 14 points to take a one-point edge into the half. After Roundtree, Jacob Crothers (Fort Thomas, Ky.) led Union defensively with eight tackles and one interception, picking off a pass at the Bulldog 2 to save a potential Patriot score. Fred Brown (Jacksonville, Fla.) helped out with six total tackles and a sack. For Cumberlands, Phillip Wells and Terrence Cobb led the Patriot ground game with both rushing for 44 yards. Brunnert completed 5-of-11 passes for 89 yards.
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Post by Press Release on Oct 4, 2011 16:47:08 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Live Mascot Making a Return at Union Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union College hasn't had a real doghouse on campus for the past eight years. But that will soon change when Mack the Bulldog, a character more consistently known as an illustration on Union's athletics logo, makes a live comeback. With the help of two Common Partners students, Austin Sebald and Shawn Sthingy, along with the Common Partners program, the English Bulldog will soon be returning. The two young men decided this summer that Union needed a mascot again after finding an old picture of Mack with a few basketball players. "The return of Mack would boost the morale of Union's campus and serve as a way for the administration to give back to the students," said Sthingy, public relations intern with Common Partners. "This is also a way for the Common Partners program on campus to give back to Union. It will be both a service and privilege to house and take care of Mack." Sebald, who is the head intern with Common Partners, agrees that bringing a live mascot back to campus will be a positive move. "We've kept at this because we want to change Union for the good, and we will start by bring back Mack," he said. After creating a proposal, Sebald and Sthingy made a presentation first to the Student Government Association and then to the college's administration about getting a live bulldog mascot. Both committees approved Mack's return. "The Student Government Association is currently creating an account for Mack that alumni and anyone else can donate to in order for us to keep it going," said Juleda Hyde, SGA vice president of business affairs. The new Mack will be a male who will hopefully be used to breed more Union mascots down the road. The breeder Mack will be coming from is in Pineville and has agreed to assist in helping choose what should be considered the most impressive male. Like the University of Georgia's Uga, Union's Mack will be represented for generations to come by the same bloodline. By breeding the current Mack to their female, "we'll get pick of the litter for future Macks," said Gabrielle Mellendorf, director of Common Partners. Mack will be staying in the Common Partners service house where privileged seniors in the program will care for him. When school isn't in session, Mellendorf will continue Mack's care. Additionally, Knox County Veterinary Services, Inc., has donated veterinary care. Personnel there view Mack's return an important event that expands beyond Union College. They believe Mack serves as a mascot to the entire Barbourville community. As for Mack's arrival to campus, it will not be until late November or early December when he is able to leave his mother. Once on campus, Mack will be involved in a lot of activities and athletic events. "Mack will be a positive addition to Union as a whole, not just athletics," said Mellendorf. "He will be able to travel and visit alumni, attend orientations, athletic events, local schools and other community partners, nursing homes, and used in animal shelter promotions. He will be a working dog along with being the new face of Union." Union College is a four-year liberal arts institution related to the United Methodist Church. For more information, visit unionky.edu.
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Post by ClayLive on Oct 12, 2011 5:40:23 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
UC, Big Blue All-Stars Entertain Sold Out Crowd in Somerset
SOMERSET, Ky. -- The Union College men's basketball team unofficially opened their 2011-12 season on Tuesday night on a large stage, as they faced off with the Big Blue All-Stars, a traveling group of NBA players with ties to the Commonwealth. The game was played in front of an overflow crowd at Pulaski County High School, and was also showed to a statewide television audience on the Wazoo Sports Network. In the end, Union dropped the game 125-104, as current Sacramento King, and former Kentucky standout DeMarcus Cousins led the Big Blue All-Stars with 40 points. Regardless of the result, many lessons were learned by the young Bulldog team as they went toe-to-toe with some of the best basketball players in the world. "We had a great time tonight" said head coach Sean Gillespie. "It was a great atmosphere in here. It was great to see where we're at, as we've only had 10 practices so far. "The bottom line is, our players are going to remember this for as long as they live, and this was a great stage to show off our program and Union College." In the first four minutes of action, the Big Blue All-Stars took control of the contest at the outset, racing out to a 19-7 lead. Union did tie things up right at the beginning of the game, as Ryan Young (Waynesburg, Ky.) broke away for a lay-in to make it 2-2 early on. The Big Blue All-Stars then went on a 13-4 run over the next four minutes to take a 32-11 lead, then went on a 11-2 tear to open a 30-point lead at 43-13 with 7:22 left in the first half. The run continued for most of the half, as the Big Blue All-Stars led 61-39 at the break. The squad was paced by Cousins who had 24 points in the first 20 minutes. The lone bright spots for Union in the first half were made by Young, who had eight points, and freshman Tyler Wagner (Corbin, Ky.), who came off the bench and sank back-to-back three-pointers in his first action as a Bulldog, finishing the period with eight points, as well. In the second half, Union came out with much more fire, outscoring the Big Blue All Stars 21-19 in the first six minutes of the period to cut the lead down to 80-60. The Big Blue All-Stars then put the game effectively out of reach over the next few minutes, eventually opening up a 93-68 lead. The rest of the contest saw the All-Stars put on a show for the fans in attendance, notably by Morehead State alum Kenneth Faried (now a member of the Denver Nuggets) who finished off several punishing dunks, scoring 22 points on the night. At the end of the night, Wagner continued his impressive play in the second half, scoring 18 points to lead the Bulldogs in a losing effort. Young finished with 14, while Brent Cork (Saginaw, Mich.) and Cody Miller (Barbourville, Ky.) each had 10 points to round out the Union double-digit scorers on the night. Union also became the first team of the Big Blue All Stars' tour to break the 100-point barrier. The Bulldogs officially open their season on Oct. 29 when they travel to Pikeville, the defending NAIA Division I National Champions. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.
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Post by ClayLive on Oct 13, 2011 19:14:24 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Former Bulldog Mackey Signs With Defending AFL Champs Union College Press Release
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Former Union wide receiver Sean Mackey will continue his playing career as a member of the Jacksonville Sharks of the Arena Football League, the team announced Wednesday. Mackey played two seasons for the Bulldogs and ranks among the all-time receiving leaders in program history. He registered 62 career catches, placing him 19th in program history. Mackey amassed 804 total receiving yards for an average of 13.0 yards per catch. His 15 career touchdown receptions ranks Mackey fifth all-time. In 2009, Mackey caught 21 passes for 199 yards in his first year at the school. As a senior in 2010, Mackey broke out as one of the Bulldogs' top offensive threats, leading the team in receptions (41) and receiving touchdowns (11) while ranking second in both yards (605) and yards per game (55.0). He was the 16th player in Bulldog history to record at least 40 catches in a season, and the 11 touchdown catches are second most. The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the Arena Football League (AFL). The ArenaBowl XXIV and back-to-back South Division Champions play all home games on Sea Best Field at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena.
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Post by Press Release on Oct 21, 2011 15:53:57 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Gillespie Trades Khakis for Fatigues, Enlists in Guard
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - The summer months are usually a slow time of the season for a college basketball coach. It's a time to reflect, recruit, and rest up in the ever ending preparation one goes through in the building of a successful program. Union head men's basketball coach Sean Gillespie, however, didn't do any of that this past summer. In fact, he found himself away from campus, his team, and most importantly his family, in fighting for a bigger cause: his country. Earlier this year, Gillespie, 42, enlisted in Army National Guard basic training, fulfilling a dream he envisioned for many years. The Call to Serve Gillespie always had an idea he would someday volunteer his services to protect our country. Members of Gillespie's family served in the military (service in three Wars), including his father who was enlisted for 22 years. Gillespie also described himself as an "Army Brat", but, chose a different career path after college in coaching. However, it was one event that rocked the foundation of our country that pushed Gillespie into service. "The point for me was 9/11," said Gillespie. "I was 32 at the time, and that point, I felt a little patriotic and wanted to serve. So, really from 9/11, until now, the last 10 years, I've been involved in it, while trying to climb the career ladder." That career path took Gillespie from Turkey, to Sterling College in Kansas, to here at Union in 2009. When he arrived in southeastern Kentucky, he finally acted on a promise he made to himself back on that dark day in 2001 and enlisted in the National Guard. He needed permission from one important person first though. "Over these last 10 years, my wife and I have had some deep discussions about it," he said. "So, finally in last October, I was doing some research online, and I learned that 42 was the age cutoff. So, from that point on, I told myself if I want to do this. "I wasn't going to look back when I'm 45, 50, 55, and have any regrets about not doing it. At that point, I decided that I needed to make this happen." Gillespie goes to Camp
So, on Easter Sunday in April, Gillespie packed up shop and headed to basic training at Ft. Benning outside of Columbus, Ga. There, Gillespie went through a grueling daily routine, much different from his own as a civilian. Gone was his usual attire of a polo shirt and pressed pants, and on came Army fatigues. His weapon of choice was not a dry erase board and maker, but an actual weapon - a rifle. Instead of coaching young men, he was being drilled to the ground by a sergeant younger than he was. "It was a little different at first," said Gillespie. "I'm 42 years old, having lived a civilian life, meaning that I choose when I eat, or use a restroom. When I got there, I learned real quick that the drill sergeants choose those times for you." Gillespie, regardless of the age difference, still took his orders from his drill sergant, and eventually completed the program, losing over 30 pounds in the process after going through a rigourous training program. Camp Difficult on Everyone
One of the common questions asked of Gillespie before he went off to basic training was how he was going to try to run two things while being away from Barbourville for so long: his program at Union, and his family. Thankfully, Gillespie had a tremendous support system both on campus, and in his household. "We just worked ahead," he said. "First, we accelerated our recruiting process, I got guys committed, and tried to knock a lot of that out right away. Second, our assistant coaches here kept the ball rolling in terms of recruiting. Coach (Jerrod) Stamford, who's now at Fort Hayes State, did a great job of keeping things going while I was gone." At home, the results were very similar. "My wife did a great job," he said. "She became the mom and the dad of the house. It was a challenge at times, I know she said when I came back that it was nice to have two adults in the house now to help take care of the kids. Having 7- and 14-year old daughters, it was a challenge. "But, they did well. The military does a good job of having a support system built in. My wife was connected online with a support group, so they do a great job in supporting the spouses left behind." Being an Inspiration to Others, while Defending the Homeland
At the end of the day, Gillespie's ultimate goal in going to basic training at this stage in his life was to not only serve our country but to show others that it can be done despite "real world" problems. "I want to utilize this as a platform," he said. "At first, I kind of shied away from it. When people first heard I was going to basic, they'd shake my hand and thank me for what I've done for my country. I really feel like I haven't done anything yet. I really haven't, I only went through basic training. "Think of the guys who are on the front lines right now." Lastly, Gillespie firmly believes his time in basic training will help him, both on the court when the Bulldogs open their 2011-12 campaign and off of it. "It can be a great example for our young men and lead in our basketball program," he said. "It shows that a guy that's 42, has a family and is comfortable in his career, made some sacrifices to serve. Hopefully they see some differences in me as a person and a leader. There are some things I learned in basic training, and not just the physical part stuff. "There are some things that I learned that hopefully will make me a better coach, and husband and father to my kids." Union opens the 2011-12 season Nov. 1 at Lindsey Wilson (Ky.).
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Post by Press Release on Nov 16, 2011 17:59:31 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Hedrick Tabbed NAIA Preseason All-American Union College Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Union senior Brandon Hedrick is one of 17 to be named the 2012 Baseball Preseason All-America Team, the NAIA announced recently. The 17-member team was selected by the NAIA-Baseball Coaches Association All-America Selection Committee. Headlining the team are a trio of 2011 First-Team All-Americans in Lubbock Christian (Texas) second baseman Richard Bohlken, outfielder Brady Wathen of Grand View (Iowa) and Madonna's (Mich.) starting pitcher Jeremy Gooding. Designated hitter Mike Mandarino of Cumberland (Tenn.), who was a Second-Team selection a year ago, was also selected to the preseason team. Ten All-America Honorable Mentions from last season also garnered the preseason accolade. Last season, Hedrick (Corbin, Ky.) was named a NAIA All-American Honorable Mention as well as the Appalachian Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Year. He posted a 11-3 record with a 2.78 ERA, four complete games and two shutouts. Hedrick fanned 103 batters. At the plate, he batted .336 with four home runs and 45 RBIs. Hedrick already holds the program record for shutouts in a career with five, but he is also close to a few other school records. At 25-4, he is two wins away from tying Nate Zettler for most career victories, and he is 10 starts away from equaling Zettler's mark of 45. He is currently tied with Zettler for most career strikeouts at 236. Union went 48-12 in 2011, won the AAC regular-season championship and advanced to the NAIA National Championship Opening Round for the third year in a row.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 17, 2011 18:18:46 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Bulldogs Favored to Win 2012 AAC Baseball Championship Union College Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Union is the team to beat for the 2012 Appalachian Athletic Conference baseball championship, according the the AAC Coaches' Poll released Tuesday. Union (48-12 overall in 2011) received eight first-place votes for a total of 64 total points. Tennessee Wesleyan (40-21 overall in 2011) collected the other first-place vote and came in second with 57 points. Last season, Union won the AAC regular-season championship, but Tennessee Wesleyan won the tournament title. Milligan (Tenn.) came in third with 47 points with Bluefield (Va.) not far behind with 43 points. Bryan (Tenn.) is fifth at 36 points, Reinhardt (Ga.) sixth at 27, and Montreat (N.C.) seventh at 22 points. Newcomer Point (Ga.) and Virginia Intermont tied for eighth with both receiving 15 points. The AAC Tournament is set for May 1-4 at Hunter Wright Stadium in Kingsport, Tenn.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 19, 2011 18:23:32 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Lady Bulldogs Net Third Win in Row
BEREA, Ky. - Union notched its third win in a row with a 67-51 decision over host Berea (Ky.) in the Berea Pepsi Classic on Friday. Junior transfer Lindsey Waters (Stearns, Ky.) continued her hot play with a 22-point, nine-rebound performance. Waters hit eight of her 15 shots from the floor. With the win, Union improves to 3-1 overall. Berea falls to 0-7 after the loss. Play was tight and slow going early on as Union held a 13-11 edge with 7:39 left in the first half. However, the Lady Bulldogs closed out the period on an 18-4 rally to open up a 31-15 halftime cushion. Waters had seven point during the run with Brooke Hill (Sparta, Ky.) chipped in five. Union led by as much as 19 points during the second half, but Berea tried to mount a comeback. K-osha Puenta sank a pair of free throws to pull Berea within 55-47 with 3:52 remaining. Yet it wasn't enough as Union ended the game on a 10-4 surge to secure the 16-point victory. After Waters, Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) followed with 16 points and seven rebounds. Union narrowly won the battle on the boards, out rebounding Berea 51-49. Emily Hinkson paced Berea with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 20, 2011 7:05:57 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Waters' Double-Double Paces Union to 83-65 Win
BEREA, Ky. - Union junior Lindsey Waters poured in her third double-double of the season to help lead the Lady Bulldogs to an 83-65 victory over Alice Lloyd (Ky.) at the Berea Pepsi Classic on Saturday. Waters (Stearns, Ky.) posted a team-high 20 points and 10 rebounds as Union netted its fourth win in a row to improve to 4-1 on the season. The Lady Bulldogs were in control from the opening tip. Up 30-25 with 4:13 left in the first half, Union closed out the period 13-6 rally to take a 43-31 into the break. The Lady Bulldogs led by as much as 27 points during the second half as it coasted to the 83-65 decision. After Waters, Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) and Alyson Roberts (Baxter, Tenn.) paced Union with 13 points each. For Alice Lloyd (0-8 overall), Ariel Nickell poured in 29 points on 13-of-21 shooting with Gemma Gray chipping in 11. Union will next play at Indiana Southeast on Tuesday. The tip is set for 7 p.m.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 23, 2011 9:26:03 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Second-Half Surge Sends No. 19 IUS Past Union
NEW ALBANY, Ind. - Host and No. 19 Indiana Southeast used a strong offensive push to close out the game to rally for a 71-59 win over Union on Tuesday. The loss drops Union to 4-2 on the year, while IUS improves to 4-3. With 8:30 remaining, Alyson Roberts (Baxter, Tenn.) drained a 3-pointer to put Union up 54-45. However, IUS regrouped and reeled off 14 consecutive points for a 59-54 lead at the 3:15 mark. Megan Murphy scored five of her 12 points during the rally. A Lindsey Waters (Stearns, Ky.) bucket pulled Union within three points with 2:53 to play. Yet, IUS scored 12 of the final 15 points to seal the 71-59 decision. Waters finished with her fourth double-double of the season with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) helped out with 12 points and seven assists. Ashmere Woods led IUS with 17 points, while Murphy hauled in 17 rebounds to go with her 12 points. Heather Wheat chipped in 10 points. Up next for Union is its home opener when the Lady Bulldogs play host to Berea (Ky.) Saturday at 4 p.m.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 23, 2011 22:21:53 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Help Support Local Food Pantry, Watch UC Hoops
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Need a place to unwind after Thanksgiving dinner and Black Friday shopping? Want to help support a local food pantry? Then, Union has the solution for you. On Saturday, you can enjoy not one but two basketball games for a mere donation of two can food items. That's it. The Lady Bulldogs will play host to Berea (Ky.) at 4 p.m., while the Bulldogs will open Appalachian Athletic Conference play against Reinhardt (Ga.) at 6 p.m. Union and Reinhardt met in a thrilling AAC Tournament championship game, which the Bulldogs won 68-67 back in February. All of the donated food items will be given to the Christian Life Food Pantry in Barbourville. Union is competing against a number of other colleges and universities to see which institution can collect the most canned food items for local food pantries. Among the other schools participating are Cumberlands (Ky.) and Eastern Kentucky. The school which collects the most cans will win the Golden Can.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 24, 2011 21:26:22 GMT -5
Union College Bulldogs to Host Pitcher/Catcher Camp on December 11 Bart OsborneBARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union head baseball coach Bart Osborne announced recently the Bulldogs will host their annual Pitcher/Catcher Camp on Dec. 11 at Robsion Arena. The camp is a one-day event from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11. It is open to boys ages 7 through high school senior and will be held at Robsion Arena on Union's campus. The camp includes pitching and catching fundamentals and drill work specifically designed to improve pitching and catching skills, along with personalized instruction from the Union coaching staff. Cost is $50 per person with discounts for siblings and teams of 10-plus players. For more information, click here or call the Union Baseball Office at 606.546.1713. Also, individual hitting and pitching lessons are available. For more information, call 606.546.1713.
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Post by Press Release on Nov 26, 2011 22:05:57 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Lady Bulldogs Wins Physical Battle over Berea, 83-72 Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Four Lady Bulldogs scored in double figures Saturday as Union won its home opener over Berea (Ky.) in what was a physical clash. A total of 48 fouls were called, and teams combined to shoot 77 free throws. In fact, Union scored nearly half of its points at the line as it went 41-for-49 (83.7 percent). Two Lady Bulldogs - Lindsey Waters (Stearns, Ky.) and Kara Pile (Fairdale, Ky.), made 12 free throws with Pile going a perfect 12-for-12. With the win, Union improves to 5-2 on the year. Berea is now 0-10. In the first half, Union had trouble shaking Berea. The Lady Bulldogs built a 17-5 lead with 13:16 to go in the first half, but Lady Mountaineers put together a 15-2 run to seize a 20-19 lead at the 9:10 mark. Waters hit a pair of free throws to put Union up one to fuel an 8-2 surge as Union grabbed a 27-22 lead with 3:53 to play. Berea clawed its way back to make it 36-35 Union at the half. Union quickly built a 48-39 lead in the second half, seizing the nine-point edge after a Laura Perkins (Myra, Ky.) layup with 13:48 remaining. Berea countered with seven points in a row to make it 48-46 at the 12:18 mark. But that was as close as Berea could get. The Lady Bulldogs responded with an 8-0 run to build a 56-46 cushion with 10:31 to play. Marah Rice (Scottsville, Ky.) scored five of the points of run with a 3-pointer and two free throws. Berea still would not go away, slowly whittling the margin to 62-58 following a pair of Shelby Romine free throw with 4:59 left. An 8-2 run propelled Union to a 70-60 advantage with 3:17 on the clock with Pile scoring the final four points from the foul line. Berea never got within eight points the rest of the as Union held on for the 83-72 victory. Waters paced Union with 20 points and nine rebounds with Pile following with 18 points and five assists. Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) chipped in 16 points and had six steals, and Perkins came off the bench to net 11 points. Romine led Berea with 20 points and nine rebounds, while Annie Garland and K-osha Puente added 13 and 11 points, respectively. Union struggled from the field, making just 17-of-53 shots (32.1 percent) and 8-of-29 (27.6 percent) from 3-point range. However, the Lady Bulldogs went 41-for-49 (83.7 percent) from the foul line. Berea shot 39.7 percent (23-of-58 shots) from the floor and went 5-for-12 (41.7 percent) from long range. At the line, the Lady Mountaineers connected on 21-of-28 (75 percent) attempts. The Lady Bulldogs will open Appalachian Athletic Conference play Wednesday at Bluefield (Va.). Tipoff is set at 5:30 p.m.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 1, 2011 6:06:24 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Union Pulls Out 72-69 AAC Victory at Bluefield Union College Press Release
BLUEFIELD, Va. - Lindsey Waterspoured in a season-high 27 points and Amber Tayloradded 18 points and eight rebounds to help lead Union past Bluefield (Va.) 72-69 on Wednesday in Appalachian Athletic Conference action. With the win, the Lady Bulldogs are 6-2 overall and 1-0 in conference play. The Lady Rams are 3-4 overall and 0-1 in the AAC. Union led 39-30 at the half, but Bluefield rallied and owned a 67-60 lead with 4:05 left after a Takieya Rouse basket. The Lady Bulldogs pieced together an 8-0 run to take a 68-67 lead following a Waters (Stearns, Ky.) free throw with 1:48 remaining. Rouse put Bluefield back up one with 1:22 to play, but Union scored the final four points of the game to escape with the 72-69 decision. Waters scored with 1:08 left to put Union ahead 70-69, and Kara Pile (Fairdale, Ky.) added a pair of free throws with 13 seconds on the clock to seal the win. Waters hit 10-of-16 shots from the floor in recording her game-high 27 points. Taylor grabbed eight rebounds to go with her 18 points. Laura Perkins (Myra, Ky.) also scored in double figures, finishing the game with 10 points. For Bluefield, Rouse set the tone with 23 points with Antonia Cataldi chipping in 12. Union returns home Saturday to host No. 8 Tennessee Wesleyan in another AAC showdown. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 4, 2011 21:33:31 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Union Upends Number eight TWC, 63-55 Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union had only four players to crack the scoring column, but it led from wire-to-wire in upsetting visiting No. 8 Tennessee Wesleyan 63-55 Saturday in Appalachian Athletic Conference action. Junior Lindsey Waters (Stearns, Ky.) posted her fifth double-double of the season with 25 points and 11 rebounds, while Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) followed with 20 points and seven rebounds. Kara Pile (Fairdale, Ky.) knocked in 15 points. Courtney Thomas (Glasgow, Ky.) accounted for Union's remaining three points as she grabbed eight rebounds. She now has 458 career rebounds, moving her into eighth place on the Lady Bulldog all-time rebounding list. With the win, Union improves to 7-2 overall and 2-0 in the AAC. Tennessee Wesleyan is now 5-4 overall and 1-1 in league play. The loss snapped Tennessee Wesleyan's 23-game win streak within the conference. Six of the victories came during the last two conference tournaments as Tennessee Wesleyan won both. Tennessee Wesleyan had not lost to an AAC opponent since dropping a 51-48 decision at Bluefield (Va.) on Feb. 13, 2010. Union opened the game by scoring the game's first 11 points. Tennessee Wesleyan struggled to get its offense going as Union's lead grew to 22-7 after a Taylor layup with 6:39 left in the period. The visitors got the margin to eight, but Union took a 32-20 lead into the half. In the second half, Union's lead hovered around 10 points for much of the period. But a 5-0 run pulled Tennessee Wesleyan within 47-41 with 6:10 to play. Cody Houck scored all five points of the rally. A Pile 3-points capped a 7-0 Union surge to make it 54-41 at the 4:29 mark. Still, Tennessee Wesleyan would not go away. A Heather Gibson jumper with 1:28 remaining sliced the margin down to 57-53. Union then proceeded to score the next six points, all at the foul line, to give it a 63-53 cushion with 15 seconds to play. Houck scored at the buzzer for Tennessee Wesleyan to make the final 63-55 in Union's favor. Houck paced Tennessee Wesleyan with 19 points. Leah Frazier was next in line with nine points. Union outrebounded Tennessee Wesleyan 37-34 and hit 44.7 percent (21 of 47 shots) from the floor and 86.4 percent (19 of 22) from the foul line. Tennessee Wesleyan connected on 37.1 percent (23 of 62) from the field and was 7-for-15 (46.7 percent) from the free-throw line. Up next for Union is the Lady Bulldog Classic next Friday and Saturday. Union will play host to Tennessee Temple at 8 p.m. Friday before taking on Emmanuel (Ga.) at 4 p.m. on Saturday.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 8, 2011 5:33:43 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Lady Bulldogs Enter NAIA Top 25 Poll at No. 18 Union College Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Bolstered by three consecutive wins including an eight-point win over then-No. 8 Tennessee Wesleyan, Union cracked the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll, landing at No. 18 the national office announced Monday. The Lady Bulldogs are currently on a three-game win streak, including a 63-55 Appalachian Athletic Conference victory over Tennessee Wesleyan, snapping its 23-game conference winning streak. Union received 125 total points, placing it 31 behind No. 17 Grace (Ind.) and 22 ahead of No. 19 Saint Mary (Neb.). Indiana Wesleyan is a unanimous No. 1 for a second-straight week. The Wildcats garnered all 13 first-place votes and 343 points in the second regular-season edition of the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll. Indiana Wesleyan, led by 13th-year head coach Steve Brooks, are off to a 9-0 start, including a 3-0 Mid-Central College Conference (MCCC) mark. Indiana Wesleyan has dominated in its three games versus ranked opponents, cruising by then-No. 16 (NAIA DI) Xavier (La.), then-No. 14 Cornerstone (Mich.) and then-No. 20 Grace (Ind.). 6-foot-1 senior center Krystal Stoneking leads the Wildcats in both points per game with 17.9 and rebounds per game with 7.7. As a team, Indiana Wesleyan ranks first in the NAIA in three key categories: assist-to-turnover ratio (1.198), scoring margin (27.0) and scoring defense (47.9). Briar Cliff (Iowa) remains at No. 2 with 332 points thanks to a 9-1 record. The Chargers' only loss came to then-No. 20 Grand View (Iowa) on Nov. 5. Concordia (Mich.) moves up one spot to No. 3 with 320 points due to a perfect 10-0 start with wins over then-No. 13 Huntington (Ind.) and then-No. 24 Grace (Ind.). No. 4 College of the Ozarks (Mo.) moves back one spot with 309 points, while Morningside (Iowa) and Davenport (Mich.) tied for fifth with 292 points each. No. 9 Bethel (Ind.) is the biggest mover this week after going unranked in the first two polls of the season. The Pilots last appeared in the Top 25 on Jan. 10 last season. Bethel cracks the top 10 on the strength of a 10-1 record and six-straight wins. Morningside fell to 13th last week after being tabbed No. 2 in the preseason poll, but is back in the top five after defeating then-No. 6 Grand View (Iowa), 81-70, on Nov. 30. No. 11 Mount Mercy (Iowa) also makes a huge leap one week after falling out of the poll. The Mustangs also topped Grand View this past week, 80-63. No. 18 Union, No. T-20 Indiana Southeast, No. T-20 Northwestern (Iowa), No. 22 Cornerstone (Mich.), No. 23 Marian (Ind.), No. 24 Warner Pacific (Ore.) and No. 25 Southwestern (Kan.) join Bethel and Mount Mercy as schools who are new to the poll this week. The nine teams that fell from the Top 25 are: Tennessee Wesleyan, Huntington (Ind.), St. Ambrose (Iowa), Corban (Ore.), Saint Francis (Ind.), Indiana Tech, St. Thomas (Fla.), Sterling (Kan.) and Daemen (N.Y.). No. 14 Grand View experienced the biggest drop within the rankings, free-falling from No. 6 a week ago. The Great Plains Athletic Conference placed the most teams of any league in the poll with five: Briar Cliff, Morningside, No. 7 Concordia (Neb.), No. 8 Hastings (Neb.) and No. 20 Northwestern (Iowa). The MCCC was second with four ranked teams: Indiana Wesleyan, Bethel, No. 17 Grace and No. 23 Marian (Ind.). The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conferences and independents. The second regular-season poll will be announced on Dec. 12. Union is 7-2 overall and 2-0 in the AAC. The Lady Bulldogs return to action Friday when it plays Tennessee Temple at 8 p.m. in their own classic.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 8, 2011 19:22:21 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Popham Now Member of Twins Organization Union College Press Release
DALLAS - Former Union pitcher Marty Popham is now a member of the Minnesota Twins organization after being selected by the Twins during the Major League Baseball Rule 5 Draft on Thursday. Popham, who was drafted in the 20th round of the 2008 MLB First-Year Draft by Cleveland, had been a part of the Indians organization the past four seasons. During his minor-league career, Popham has played at all levels the rookie league to Triple-A, compiling a 20-11 record with a 3.72 ERA, 327 strikeouts and 70 walks in 336.2 innings pitched. In 2011, the 6-foot-6, 235-pounder, went 6-3 with a 4.58 ERA last season across Class-A, Double-A and Triple-A. Popham also had 106 strikeouts and 25 walks in 112 innings of work. Popham helped the Bulldogs get to the 2008 NAIA World Series as he led the NAIA in wins with a 17-1 overall record. The right-hander posted a 2.27 earned-run average and set seven single-season records. The marks Popham set were for wins (17), games started (18), complete games (12), shutouts (3), innings pitched (123.0), strikeouts (133) and winning percentage (.944 with a 17-1 record). In addition to the single-season records, Popham also holds the career mark for winning percentage (.852 with a 23-4 record). In 2008, Popham was a NAIA First Team All-American as well as the Appalachian Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Year.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 10, 2011 10:36:03 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
No. 18 Union Rolls to 81-50 Win Over TTU Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Junior Lindsey Waters scored 21 points and hauled in 15 rebounds for his sixth double-double of the season as host No. 18 Union defeated Tennessee Temple 81-50 Friday in Lady Bulldog Classic. With the win, Union improves to 8-2 overall, while Tennessee Temple falls to 0-11. Union will face Emmanuel (Ga.) on Saturday at 4 p.m. Emmanuel dropped a 59-55 decision to Milligan (Tenn.) in the opener. Milligan and Tennessee Temple with tip off at 2 p.m. Saturday. Only seeing 24 minutes of action, Waters (Stearns, Ky.) hit 10-of-20 shots in registering the game-high 21 points. In addition to her 15 rebounds, she blocked three shots. In all, the Lady Bulldogs recorded six total blocks with Brooke Hill (Sparta, Ky.) having two and Kaley Griffin (McHenry, Ky.) one. All but one Lady Bulldog cracked the scoring column, but the lone non-scorer, Jennifer Johnson (Bowling Green, Ky.), dished out a career-high five assists. After Waters, only two others broke double figures in scoring with Alyson Roberts (Baxter, Ky.) and Kara Pile (Fairdale, Ky.) helping out with 11 and 10 points, respectively. After jumping out to a 9-0 lead, Union saw the margin dwindle to 12-10 after Channetta Newby jumper with 11:44 remaining. The Lady Bulldogs then righted the ship, closing the half on a 22-9 run to take a 34-19 advantage into the break. Union steadily added to its lead during the second half, building a 73-41 cushion with 5:09 to play. The teams traded points down the stretch as Union wrapped up the 81-50 victory. The Lady Bulldogs outrebounded the Lady Crusaders 48-42. Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) dished out a team-high seven assists. For Tennessee Temple, Briana Reeves led the way with 11 points, while Jessica Salera nearly had a double-double with eight points and 10 rebounds. MILLIGAN 59, EMMANUEL 55 Milligan trailed by as much as nine in the second half, but the Buffaloes rallied for the four-point victory. Down 34-35 with 13:10 to play, Milligan chipped away at the lead, eventually tying the game at 55-55 with 2:29 remaining. The Buffaloes scored the final four points of the game to escape with the win. Alisha Mainer paced Milligan (6-5 overall) with 20 points, while Dorian Freeman added 14 points and 11 rebounds. For Emmanuel (4-7 overall), Kaylyn Young set the tone with 16 points.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 11, 2011 17:53:15 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Waters' 7th Double-Double Leads Union to 66-55 Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - No. 18 Union received a 27-point, 20-rebound performance from junior Lindsey Waters as it posted a 66-55 victory over Emmanuel (Ga.) Saturday in the Lady Bulldog Classic. The win is Union's fifth in a row as it improved to 9-2 overall. Emmanuel falls to 4-8 on the year. In the other game, Milligan (Tenn.) defeated Tennessee Temple 83-52. Waters (Stearns, Ky.) went a perfect 15-for-15 at the foul line and hauled in a 18 defensive boards in posting her seventh double-double of the season and third in a row. After her, Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) had 10 points and six assists. Laura Perkins (Myra, Ky.) went 3-for-4 from long range to finish with nine points. Union led 33-27 at the half and maintained at least a five-point cushion throughout the second half en route to the 11-point win. The Lady Bulldogs struggled from the field, shooting 29.6 percent (16 of 54 shots). However, Union went 27-of-34 from the free-thrown. Emmanuel shot 30.8 percent (20 of 65 shots) and went the line only 18 times but made 14. Kaylyn Young paced the Lady Lions with 20 points with Kayla Eaton adding 12. Union returns to action Dec. 29-30 when it holds the Union College Holiday Classic. The Lady Bulldogs will play Indiana Southeast on Dec. 29 at 8 p.m. and Pikeville (Ky.) on Dec. 30 at 4 p.m. MILLIGAN 83, TENNESSEE TEMPLE 52 Alisha Mainer scored 19 points to go with her 13 rebounds as Milligan recorded the 83-52 victory. The Buffaloes are now 7-5 overall, while Tennessee Temple is 0-12.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 13, 2011 20:24:01 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Lady Bulldogs Remain Ranked in NAIA Top 20 Union College Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Union remains entrenched in the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll, but the Lady Bulldogs slipped one spot to No. 19, the NAIA announced Monday. Union (9-2 overall, 2-0 Appalachian Athletic Conference) is in the midst of a five-game winning streak. Yet, that was not enough to keep the Lady Bulldogs from slipping in the poll. Union collected 157 points to come in 19th and is five points behind No. 18 Cardinal Stritch (Wis.). Union is also only three points ahead of No. 20 Northwestern (Iowa). AAC rival Montreat (N.C.) (9-2 overall, 2-0 AAC) received 227 total points to stay put at No. 13 for the second week in a row. Two other AAC squads received votes. Tennessee Wesleyan (6-4 overall, 1-1 AAC) picked up 60 points to land just outside of the top 25 at No. 26. Milligan (Tenn.) (7-5 overall, 1-1 AAC) got four votes to come in 37th. For the third time in as many weeks, Indiana Wesleyan unanimously topped the NAIA Coaches' Top 25 Poll. The Wildcats, who are off to an 11-0 start, racked up 14 first-place votes for 374 points. College of the Ozarks (Mo.) took over at No. 2 with 355 points after spending last week at No. 4. Following an 89-87 setback to seventh-ranked Concordia (Neb.), Briar Cliff (Iowa) dropped back to third with 350 points. Davenport (Mich.) shifted up to fourth with 342 points to separate itself from Morningside (Iowa), who is listed fifth with 320 points. Nine teams retained their position among the Top 25, four of which were in the top 10: Indiana Wesleyan, Morningside, Concordia and No. 8 Hastings (Neb.). Seven squads improved their rank, highlighted by a three-spot jump by Saint Mary (Neb.) from 19th to 16th. Indiana Southeast took the biggest tumble backwards, dropping from No. 20 to 25. Corban (Ore.) and St. Thomas (Fla.) return to the poll at Nos. 22 and 23 (tie), respectively, while No. 23 (tie) Daemen (N.Y.) makes its debut on the poll this season. The trio of newcomers replaces previously listed No. 22 Cornerstone (Mich.), No. 24 Warner Pacific (Ore.) and No. 25 Southwestern (Kan.). The Great Plains Athletic Conference placed the most teams of any league in the poll with five: Briar Cliff, Morningside, Concordia, Hastings and No. 20 Northwestern (Iowa). The Mid-Central College Conference was second with four ranked teams: Indiana Wesleyan, No. 10 Bethel (Ind.), No. 17 Grace (Ind.) and No. 23 Marian (Ind.). The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conferences and independents. The next poll will be announced on Jan. 9, 2012. The Lady Bulldogs returns to action on Dec. 29-30 when they host the Union College Holiday Classic.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 27, 2011 19:36:57 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Director of Athletics
Bulldogs Unveil 2012 Baseball Schedule Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union head coach Bart Osborne announced the 2012 Bulldog baseball schedule, which includes a 24-game Appalachian Athletic Conference slate and matchups against three NAIA Top 25 squads. Former Clay County Tigers Corey Nicholson and Tyler Young are members of the baseball team. The 2012 campaign will begin on Feb. 12 when Davenport (Mich.) comes to Jerry W. Carey Stadium for a doubleheader. In all, the 12th-ranked Bulldogs are set to host 36 games with 20 road games. Union will face three teams ranked in the 2012 NAIA Baseball Coaches' Preseason Top 25 Poll. The Bulldogs will play at No. 3 Lee (Tenn.) on Feb.15, play host to No. 25 Taylor (Ind.) for a three-game set on March 2-3, and at AAC rival and No. 18 Tennessee Wesleyan on March. 17-18. In addition, Union will play four other programs which received votes in the NAIA preseason poll. Those teams are Campbellsville (Ky.), Iowa Wesleyan, Indiana Tech and Shawnee State. The Bulldogs will open the conference portion of their schedule at home against Bryan (Tenn.) on March 9-10. Besides the Lions, Union will host Point (Ga.), Montreat (N.C.) and Virginia Intermont in conference play, while visiting Tennessee Wesleyan, Bluefield (Va.), Reinhardt (Ga.) and Milligan (Tenn.). The AAC Tournament is set for May 1-4 at Hunter Wright Stadium in Kingsport, Tenn. Union won the 2011 AAC regular-season championship, finishing the year ranked No. 8 and as the No. 1 seed in the NAIA Baseball National Championship Opening Round - Kingsport Bracket. The Bulldogs went 48-12 overall and 19-2 in the AAC. www.ucbulldogs.com/schedule/0/6.php
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Post by Press Release on Dec 28, 2011 16:34:41 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Lady Bulldogs to Host Union College Holiday Classic Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - The 19th-ranked Lady Bulldogs will play host to a number of top quality teams in the Union College Holiday Classic, held on Thursday and Friday. Joining Union (9-2 overall, 2-0 Appalachian Athletic Conference) will be No. 25 Indiana Southeast (11-4 overall, 2-0 Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference), Pikeville (Ky.) (4-9 overall, 0-4 Mid-South Conference) and league rival Tennessee Wesleyan (6-4 overall, 1-1 AAC). The tournament will begin Thursday with Tennessee Wesleyan against Pikeville at 6 p.m. with Union taking on Indiana Southeast at 8 p.m. On Friday, Tennessee Wesleyan will battle Indiana Southeast at 2 p.m., while Union will play Pikeville at 4 p.m. Indiana Southeast defeated Union earlier this season 71-59. Ashmere Woods leads IUS in scoring with a 14.3 point-per-game average with Megan Murphy close behind at 13.9 PPG. Heather Wheat helps out with 10.5 PPG. Murphy is the team's top rebounder at 11.9 per game. For Pikeville, Whitney Jackson leads the way with 13.2 PPG and 6.6 rebounds per game. Brogan Conley is averaging 12.8 PPG, and Megan Mosley leads the Lady Bears with 44 assists. Heather Gibson leads Tennessee Wesleyan with 10.8 PPG with Michelle Davis and Leah Frazier hot on her heels at 10.7 and 10.6 PPG, respectively. Davis leads the team with a 5.5 rebounds-per-game average, and Frazier leads TWC with 33 assists with Candace Cain helping out with 31. Tennessee Wesleyan is sitting on the outside of the NAIA Division II Top 25 as it received 60 total points to come in 26th. Union is paced by Lindsey Waters (Stearns, Ky.), who not only leads the team but the conference as well in scoring (21.3 PPG), rebounding (11.8) and blocks (2.91). Amber Taylor (Clinton, Tenn.) is averaging 12.0 PPG with Kara Pile (Fairdale, Ky.) chipping in 10.1 PPG. Taylor and Pile also lead the team in assists with 33 and 29, respectively.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 30, 2011 6:48:10 GMT -5
Tim Curry, Union College Women's Basketball Coach
Pile, Waters Pace No. 19 Union to 79-62 Victory Union College Press Release
BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Senior Kara Pile netted a team-high 20 points and juniorLindsey Waters recorded her eighth double-double of the season as No. 19 Union defeated visiting No. 25 Indiana Southeast Thursday in the Union Holiday Classic. The Lady Bulldogs improve to 10-2 overall, while IU Southeast falls to 11-5 on the year. In the other game, Tennessee Wesleyan (7-4 overall) downed Pikeville (Ky.) 67-58. Friday, Union will play Pikeville at 4 p.m., while IU Southeast and Tennessee Wesleyan will square off at 2 p.m. Pile (Fairdale, Ky.) hit 4-of-5 shots from 3-point range in posting her 20 points. She now has 990 career points, putting her 10 points away from becoming the 15th Lady Bulldog to score 1,000 points. Waters (Stearns, Ky.) followed with 19 points and 10 rebounds for her fourth double-double in a row. She also had four assists and two blocks to her credit. Courtney Thomas (Glasgow, Ky.) hauled in a team-best 12 rebounds to go with three assists. The senior guard/forward is 20 rebounds away from being the eighth Lady Bulldog to amass 500 career rebounds. Union led from wire-to-wire, maintaining a double-digit cushion for much of the contest. Up 20-18 with 7:59 to go in the first half, Alyson Roberts (Baxter, Tenn.) hit a 3-pointer to fuel a 16-3 run as the margin grew to 36-21 with 2:54 left. The Lady Bulldogs ended up taking a 39-29 lead into the break. Scoring the first 11 points of the half, Union quickly jumped out to a 50-29 advantage following another Roberts 3-pointer at th 17:49 mark. IU Southeast tried to rally on a number of occasions but never got any closer than 11 points as Union held on for the 76-62 victory. Roberts added 18 points and seven rebounds for the Lady Bulldogs. Heather Wheat paced IU Southeast with 24 points, while Ashmere Woods knocked in 13 points to go with her 15 rebounds. Megan Murphy chipped in 12 points and 10 rebounds. From the field, Union struggled as it made 36.5 percent (19 of 52) of its shots. However, the Lady Bulldogs nailed 11-of-21 shots (52.4 percent) from long range. Union went 27-of-31 from the foul line. Conversely, IU Southeast shot 28.4 percent from the field, 14.3 percent from 3-point range and made 17-of-20 free throws. Tennessee Wesleyan 67, Pikeville 58
Heather Gibson scored 13 points and Leah Frazier followed with 12 to pace Tennessee Wesleyan past Pikeville 67-58. Jennifer Grant led Pikeville with 12 points, while Whitney Jackson added 10.
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