Charlotte 49ers sophomore forward K.J. Sherrill will make his season debut tonight against Tennessee according to a source close to the situation.
Sherrill tore the lateral meniscus in his left knee during "Major Madness" back in October and has missed Charlotte's first 10 games. It's not determined in what capcity he'll play.
Tip for the game is at 8 p.m. at Time Warner Cable Arena
Friday, December 17, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Winthrop pregame notes
The Charlotte 49ers have been in a state of turmoil in the early going in the 2010-11 campaign. The task won't get much easier tonight as the Winthrop Eagles pay a visit to Halton Arena at 7:30 p.m. Here are some pregame notes and things to watch for in tonight's match-up.
Dewhurst out, again: Charlotte senior Charles Dewhurst hasn't caught any breaks in his career at Charlotte, and on Monday, he was dealt another untimely blow. Dewhurst had just been cleared to play after coming off a knee injury and was probable for tonight's game. But just hours later, he broke his left index finger in practice and has been ruled out indefinitely.
Sherrill closer: Charlotte sophomore small forward K.J. Sherrill tore the lateral meniscus in his left knee during Major Madness and was ruled out for 8-12 weeks. Sherrill is on the mend though and is back on the court working out individually. He hopes to be back by January.
Corbin returns: Winthrop will get some timely rebounding help tonight with the return of 6-7 forward Charles Corbin. Corbin hasn't played this season due to a violation of team rules as he was present at a party where a marijuana arrest was made. He averaged 6.7 ppg and 5.1 rpg last season and can create space around the basket with his muscular build.
Scorching the nets: Winthrop sophomore guard Robbie Dreher had a tough freshman season, hitting only 29 percent of his shots from the field and just 20 percent from beyond the arc. You might say he's turned things around in 2010. Dreher is averaging 17 points per game, including three 20+ point performances. He's also averaging 49 percent from the field and 52 percent from deep. Charlotte must contain Dreher if they want to get that elusive fourth win.
Dewhurst out, again: Charlotte senior Charles Dewhurst hasn't caught any breaks in his career at Charlotte, and on Monday, he was dealt another untimely blow. Dewhurst had just been cleared to play after coming off a knee injury and was probable for tonight's game. But just hours later, he broke his left index finger in practice and has been ruled out indefinitely.
Sherrill closer: Charlotte sophomore small forward K.J. Sherrill tore the lateral meniscus in his left knee during Major Madness and was ruled out for 8-12 weeks. Sherrill is on the mend though and is back on the court working out individually. He hopes to be back by January.
Corbin returns: Winthrop will get some timely rebounding help tonight with the return of 6-7 forward Charles Corbin. Corbin hasn't played this season due to a violation of team rules as he was present at a party where a marijuana arrest was made. He averaged 6.7 ppg and 5.1 rpg last season and can create space around the basket with his muscular build.
Scorching the nets: Winthrop sophomore guard Robbie Dreher had a tough freshman season, hitting only 29 percent of his shots from the field and just 20 percent from beyond the arc. You might say he's turned things around in 2010. Dreher is averaging 17 points per game, including three 20+ point performances. He's also averaging 49 percent from the field and 52 percent from deep. Charlotte must contain Dreher if they want to get that elusive fourth win.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Spears suspended
Charlotte 49ers senior forward Shamari Spears has been suspended indefinitely by head coach Alan Major for a violation of team rules, a team spokesperson announced before Charlotte's game against Radford.
This is Spears' second suspension of the season as he also missed the season opener for a violation of team rules. Spears was also suspended for the season opener last season. He was a preseason second team All-A-10 player.
This is Spears' second suspension of the season as he also missed the season opener for a violation of team rules. Spears was also suspended for the season opener last season. He was a preseason second team All-A-10 player.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
My turkeys of the year in sports
There were a lot of great sporting accomplishments in 2010. However, there were also some turkeys in the wide world of sports. Here's a small list I've formulated in no particular order.
Jim Joyce: Joyce robbed the sports world of one of its most exciting moments. Joyce cost Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga a perfect game when he called Jason Donald safe at first on what would have been the 27th out. A full-time major league umpire for more than 20 years, Joyce was the biggest turkey in baseball in 2010. "I just cost that kid a perfect game," he said. "I thought he beat the throw. I was convinced he beat the throw, until I saw the replay. It was the biggest call of my career."
New Jersey Devils front office: The Devils gave Ilya Kovalchuk a 15-year contract worth $102 million. How does Kovalchuk repay the Devils? He's on pace for a smashing 39 points this season. Set to be paid $6.666 million this season, Kovalchuk would be paid $170,940.16 per point if he reaches the 39-point plateau. Yep, that contract looks well worth it so far.
Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens: Batman and Robin have taken Cincinnati by storm by piling up an AFC-worst 2-8 record and a league-high seven-game losing streak. On a lighter note, the two receivers have combined for 12 touchdowns and landed a TV show on the king of all sports networks; Versus.
Brett Favre: Need I say anything more?
Tiger Woods: Everyone remembers where they were when Tiger had his car accident last Black Friday. A year later, Tiger's been through the worst year of his professional career. In one foul swoop, he lost his kids, his wife and his golf game. Countless mistresses emerged and Woods admitted to having a one-night stand with his neighbor's 21-year-old daughter, whom he had known since she was 14. Tiger's divorce with his wife Elin became official on Aug. 23.
LeBron James: Last but not least, The King--of all turkeys. The Decision, as it was called on ESPN was one of the biggest jokes in recent memory and led to one of the most overused quotes of all time. “In this fall, this is very tough, in this fall I’m going to take my talents to South Beach and join the Miami Heat." James' "Decision" locked up the No. 1 spot on my turkey list. The negative energy LeBron created has followed him to Miami, where the 8-7 Heat have lost three straight and look pretty average. His betrayal of Cleveland is second only to Art Modell's relocation of the Browns to Baltimore and has made him one of the most hated men in sports.
Some honorable mentions:
1. Lane Kiffin for skipping out on Tennessee in the middle of the night.
2. Tony Parker cheating on Eva Longoria--really?
3. Reggie Bush became the first player to ever return the Heisman Trophy.
4. Roger Goodell--These fines are getting out of hand. And oh by the way, a lockout is looming.
5. Bruce Pearl--Apparently the cheating in Knoxville doesn't stop at football.
Who do you think should be on the list? Did I leave anyone out? Comments welcome.
Jim Joyce: Joyce robbed the sports world of one of its most exciting moments. Joyce cost Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga a perfect game when he called Jason Donald safe at first on what would have been the 27th out. A full-time major league umpire for more than 20 years, Joyce was the biggest turkey in baseball in 2010. "I just cost that kid a perfect game," he said. "I thought he beat the throw. I was convinced he beat the throw, until I saw the replay. It was the biggest call of my career."
New Jersey Devils front office: The Devils gave Ilya Kovalchuk a 15-year contract worth $102 million. How does Kovalchuk repay the Devils? He's on pace for a smashing 39 points this season. Set to be paid $6.666 million this season, Kovalchuk would be paid $170,940.16 per point if he reaches the 39-point plateau. Yep, that contract looks well worth it so far.
Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens: Batman and Robin have taken Cincinnati by storm by piling up an AFC-worst 2-8 record and a league-high seven-game losing streak. On a lighter note, the two receivers have combined for 12 touchdowns and landed a TV show on the king of all sports networks; Versus.
Brett Favre: Need I say anything more?
Tiger Woods: Everyone remembers where they were when Tiger had his car accident last Black Friday. A year later, Tiger's been through the worst year of his professional career. In one foul swoop, he lost his kids, his wife and his golf game. Countless mistresses emerged and Woods admitted to having a one-night stand with his neighbor's 21-year-old daughter, whom he had known since she was 14. Tiger's divorce with his wife Elin became official on Aug. 23.
LeBron James: Last but not least, The King--of all turkeys. The Decision, as it was called on ESPN was one of the biggest jokes in recent memory and led to one of the most overused quotes of all time. “In this fall, this is very tough, in this fall I’m going to take my talents to South Beach and join the Miami Heat." James' "Decision" locked up the No. 1 spot on my turkey list. The negative energy LeBron created has followed him to Miami, where the 8-7 Heat have lost three straight and look pretty average. His betrayal of Cleveland is second only to Art Modell's relocation of the Browns to Baltimore and has made him one of the most hated men in sports.
Some honorable mentions:
1. Lane Kiffin for skipping out on Tennessee in the middle of the night.
2. Tony Parker cheating on Eva Longoria--really?
3. Reggie Bush became the first player to ever return the Heisman Trophy.
4. Roger Goodell--These fines are getting out of hand. And oh by the way, a lockout is looming.
5. Bruce Pearl--Apparently the cheating in Knoxville doesn't stop at football.
Who do you think should be on the list? Did I leave anyone out? Comments welcome.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
A few things to watch against Oregon State
The Charlotte 49ers have had a rough start to the season, Now, the task won't get any easier as the 49ers head out to Corvallis to face the Oregon State Beavers tonight at 10 p.m. Here are a few things to watch in tonight's match-up.
Zone Defense: Oregon State head coach Craig Robinson runs a tenacious 1-3-1 zone defense--something Charlotte should be familiar with. After Charlotte built a 14-point lead in the first half on Sunday against Coastal Carolina, the Chanticleers switched to a 1-3-1 zone late in the first half. Coastal went on a mini-run to close the half and eventually beat Charlotte in double overtime.
Green's Slow Start: Charlotte 2 guard Derrio Green has struggled early on this season. Green assist-to-turnover ratio isn't terrible at 1.44 but he's struggling in the scoring column. Green is shooting just 32 percent from the field and 23 percent from behind the arc. He's also just 68 percent from the foul line through five games. I expect Green to step it up against an Oregon State back court that has struggled early this season.
Long Trip: This game may provide more of a mental challenge than anything. Oregon State doesn't look great on paper; losing to Seattle and Texas Southern, but any cross-country trip presents a tall challenge. These players know what they're signing up for, but playing a game in a different time zone and the day before Thanksgiving will make tonight's game that much more difficult.
Zone Defense: Oregon State head coach Craig Robinson runs a tenacious 1-3-1 zone defense--something Charlotte should be familiar with. After Charlotte built a 14-point lead in the first half on Sunday against Coastal Carolina, the Chanticleers switched to a 1-3-1 zone late in the first half. Coastal went on a mini-run to close the half and eventually beat Charlotte in double overtime.
Green's Slow Start: Charlotte 2 guard Derrio Green has struggled early on this season. Green assist-to-turnover ratio isn't terrible at 1.44 but he's struggling in the scoring column. Green is shooting just 32 percent from the field and 23 percent from behind the arc. He's also just 68 percent from the foul line through five games. I expect Green to step it up against an Oregon State back court that has struggled early this season.
Long Trip: This game may provide more of a mental challenge than anything. Oregon State doesn't look great on paper; losing to Seattle and Texas Southern, but any cross-country trip presents a tall challenge. These players know what they're signing up for, but playing a game in a different time zone and the day before Thanksgiving will make tonight's game that much more difficult.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Charlotte dumps Iona 72-40
The Charlotte 49ers women's basketball squad kicked off its regular season with an impressive 72-40 win over the Gaels of Iona in the first round of the Women's NIT. Charlotte will play a road game at Florida--who beat UCF 77-67--in the second round on Monday.
Charlotte got off to a hot start and never looked back. Following an opening 3-pointer by Iona's Anda Ivkovic, Charlotte went on a 13-0 run, powered by four points from Paige McCallum. The 49ers used a suffocating man defense to thwart any chance Iona had offensively and crashed the offensive boards early and often. Charlotte was out rebounded 18-16 in the first half but used 10 steals to take a 33-22 lead into the halftime break.
Building on its 11-point halftime lead, Charlotte used a 16-4 run to start the second half to push the margin to 23 at 49-26.
Prior to the season, Karen Aston noted that the biggest difference between this last season's squad and this one was the depth she had in the front court. That difference was made evident on Saturday as Charlotte outscored Iona 20-8 in the paint in the first half and 32-18 for the game.
Charlotte was led offensively by the sister duo of McCallum and her older sister, Shannon. Paige contributed 13 points while Shannon added 21 of her own.
Charlotte returns to action on Monday when they play Florida in the second round. Time for the game has yet to be announced.
Charlotte got off to a hot start and never looked back. Following an opening 3-pointer by Iona's Anda Ivkovic, Charlotte went on a 13-0 run, powered by four points from Paige McCallum. The 49ers used a suffocating man defense to thwart any chance Iona had offensively and crashed the offensive boards early and often. Charlotte was out rebounded 18-16 in the first half but used 10 steals to take a 33-22 lead into the halftime break.
Building on its 11-point halftime lead, Charlotte used a 16-4 run to start the second half to push the margin to 23 at 49-26.
Prior to the season, Karen Aston noted that the biggest difference between this last season's squad and this one was the depth she had in the front court. That difference was made evident on Saturday as Charlotte outscored Iona 20-8 in the paint in the first half and 32-18 for the game.
Charlotte was led offensively by the sister duo of McCallum and her older sister, Shannon. Paige contributed 13 points while Shannon added 21 of her own.
Charlotte returns to action on Monday when they play Florida in the second round. Time for the game has yet to be announced.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Breaking down Gardner-Webb
Two men will be making their head coaching debuts on Friday at Halton Arena. Most notably, Charlotte coach Alan Major. But Gardner-Webb will also begin a new era under seasoned veteran Chris Holtmann, who is just a year removed from helping Ohio University to an upset NCAA Tournament win over Georgetown. After 12 years of calling the shots from the bench—5 years at Gardner-Webb—he’ll finally get a chance to be the man running things.
Holtmann might have a bit of a problem in his first game at the helm when he faces Charlotte. The Bulldogs return three starters from last year’s 8-21 team, but only one of those three averaged more than five points per game a season ago and just one averaged more than four rebounds.
The Bulldogs’ most notable returner will be 6-4 senior wing Jonathan Moore (10.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg), who worked his way up from a walk-on to earning 17 starts a year ago.
Nailing down the point guard spot for the Bulldogs will probably be freshman Luke Davis (11.6 ppg, 6.0 apg at Ravencroft School in Raleigh). He was rated just outside of ESPN.com’s top 100 point guards and was very productive in the same league that produced Washington Wizards rookie John Wall.
Helping Davis out in the backcourt will be junior transfer Laron Buggs. The 6-2 combo guard is strong on the defensive end and transferred from Murray State College where he averaged 4.3 points per game and earned all-region honors.
The Bulldogs’ frontcourt will see a size improvement with the addition of 6-foot-10-inch, 230 pound freshman center Mike Byron, who averaged 10.0 ppg and 7.0 rpg at Churchill High School in San Antonio. Byron was ranked as the No. 105 center prospect by ESPN.com and will provide a big body in the middle for the Bulldogs.
With suspension rumors circulating, Byron could prove to be a match up problem depending on which players sit out.
Rounding out the starting lineup for Gardner-Webb will be 6-foot-6-inch small forward Stefon Johnson. Johnson provides some athleticism for the Bulldogs and came on late last season, scoring in double figures in two of the final four games. He scored 12 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in a road game against Winthrop.
The most experienced player returning for the Bulldogs will be 6-3 junior power forward Josh Henley (4.8 ppg, 7.3 rpg), who will be the Big South’s second leading returning rebounder from a year ago.
Charlotte lacked some defensive intensity near the end of last season, so expect Major to implement a suffocating man-to-man defense. Expect the turnover rate to be high for a young Bulldog squad and look for Charlotte to capitalize on transition opportunities.
This game has match-up problems written all over it for Gardner-Webb. Charlotte has the upper hand based purely on experience and size, but that size advantage could be diminished depending on suspensions. Even with the possibility of Charlotte losing some starting members of the frontcourt, I expect them to take care of business against a young, inexperienced Gardner-Webb team.
Holtmann might have a bit of a problem in his first game at the helm when he faces Charlotte. The Bulldogs return three starters from last year’s 8-21 team, but only one of those three averaged more than five points per game a season ago and just one averaged more than four rebounds.
The Bulldogs’ most notable returner will be 6-4 senior wing Jonathan Moore (10.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg), who worked his way up from a walk-on to earning 17 starts a year ago.
Nailing down the point guard spot for the Bulldogs will probably be freshman Luke Davis (11.6 ppg, 6.0 apg at Ravencroft School in Raleigh). He was rated just outside of ESPN.com’s top 100 point guards and was very productive in the same league that produced Washington Wizards rookie John Wall.
Helping Davis out in the backcourt will be junior transfer Laron Buggs. The 6-2 combo guard is strong on the defensive end and transferred from Murray State College where he averaged 4.3 points per game and earned all-region honors.
The Bulldogs’ frontcourt will see a size improvement with the addition of 6-foot-10-inch, 230 pound freshman center Mike Byron, who averaged 10.0 ppg and 7.0 rpg at Churchill High School in San Antonio. Byron was ranked as the No. 105 center prospect by ESPN.com and will provide a big body in the middle for the Bulldogs.
With suspension rumors circulating, Byron could prove to be a match up problem depending on which players sit out.
Rounding out the starting lineup for Gardner-Webb will be 6-foot-6-inch small forward Stefon Johnson. Johnson provides some athleticism for the Bulldogs and came on late last season, scoring in double figures in two of the final four games. He scored 12 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in a road game against Winthrop.
The most experienced player returning for the Bulldogs will be 6-3 junior power forward Josh Henley (4.8 ppg, 7.3 rpg), who will be the Big South’s second leading returning rebounder from a year ago.
Charlotte lacked some defensive intensity near the end of last season, so expect Major to implement a suffocating man-to-man defense. Expect the turnover rate to be high for a young Bulldog squad and look for Charlotte to capitalize on transition opportunities.
This game has match-up problems written all over it for Gardner-Webb. Charlotte has the upper hand based purely on experience and size, but that size advantage could be diminished depending on suspensions. Even with the possibility of Charlotte losing some starting members of the frontcourt, I expect them to take care of business against a young, inexperienced Gardner-Webb team.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Brewster guard picks up offer
Brewster (NH) guard Eli Carter has picked up an offer from South Florida and is now considering them. A 2011 point guard, Carter is also considering Charlotte, Seton Hall, Oregon State and now the Bulls.
Carter went on an official visit to Oregon State and was visited at Brewster by Charlotte coach Alan Major on Wednesday. Seton Hall visited Carter Thursday while Oregon State was in the house today.
Carter originally committed to St. Bonaventure last year but has since re-opened his recruitment.
Carter went on an official visit to Oregon State and was visited at Brewster by Charlotte coach Alan Major on Wednesday. Seton Hall visited Carter Thursday while Oregon State was in the house today.
Carter originally committed to St. Bonaventure last year but has since re-opened his recruitment.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
"Secret" scrimmage happening Saturday
Charlotte will be playing Virginia Tech in a "secret" scrimmage on Saturday in Blacksburg, VA. A number of teams from around the NCAA participate in these scrimmages with some teams playing in more than one.
Seth Greenburg's Hokies paid a visit to Halton Arena last season. The Hokies are ranked 21st in the AP poll and 23rd in the coaches poll.
Here's a list of other secret scrimmages from around the A-10:
Oct. 30:
Fordham at Villanova
George Mason at Richmond
Kent State at St. Bonaventure
VCU at La Salle
Oct. 31
UMass at Harvard
Temple at Penn State
Nov. 5
St. Peter’s at Fordham
Nov. 6
Charlotte at Virginia Tech
Drexel at Temple
Seth Greenburg's Hokies paid a visit to Halton Arena last season. The Hokies are ranked 21st in the AP poll and 23rd in the coaches poll.
Here's a list of other secret scrimmages from around the A-10:
Oct. 30:
Fordham at Villanova
George Mason at Richmond
Kent State at St. Bonaventure
VCU at La Salle
Oct. 31
UMass at Harvard
Temple at Penn State
Nov. 5
St. Peter’s at Fordham
Nov. 6
Charlotte at Virginia Tech
Drexel at Temple
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Voncina ineligible
Charlotte 49ers freshman point guard Luka Voncina has been ruled ineligible by the NCAA for tonight's exhibition game against Queens.
Voncina, who has been cleared by the NCAA to practice, will remain ineligible pending a possible review of documentation.
Voncina was expected to play second fiddle to starting point guard Jamar Briscoe. Expect to see some additional minutes for Derrio Green and Briscoe in tonight's match-up.
Voncina, who has been cleared by the NCAA to practice, will remain ineligible pending a possible review of documentation.
Voncina was expected to play second fiddle to starting point guard Jamar Briscoe. Expect to see some additional minutes for Derrio Green and Briscoe in tonight's match-up.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Soccer ranked 16th
The Charlotte 49ers men's soccer team reached No. 16 in the national polls this week following a 3-1 win over Saint Louis over the weekend.
The NSCAA poll, released Tuesday, has Charlotte ranked 16th behind the likes of Louisville, Maryland and North Carolina. Akron tops the rankings at No. 1.
While just 16th in the national ranks, the Niners find themselves first in the Mid-Atlantic region followed by Colgate and the U.S. Naval Academy.
Charlotte, currently on a seven-game winning streak, is in the midst of a five-game homestand that will close out the regular season with senior day against Rhode Island on Nov. 7 at 1 p.m. During their seven-game streak, the Niners have outscored opponents by a margin of 13-3.
Charlotte is back in action Friday night at Transamerica field against St. Joseph's at 7 p.m.
The NSCAA poll, released Tuesday, has Charlotte ranked 16th behind the likes of Louisville, Maryland and North Carolina. Akron tops the rankings at No. 1.
While just 16th in the national ranks, the Niners find themselves first in the Mid-Atlantic region followed by Colgate and the U.S. Naval Academy.
Charlotte, currently on a seven-game winning streak, is in the midst of a five-game homestand that will close out the regular season with senior day against Rhode Island on Nov. 7 at 1 p.m. During their seven-game streak, the Niners have outscored opponents by a margin of 13-3.
Charlotte is back in action Friday night at Transamerica field against St. Joseph's at 7 p.m.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Sherrill out 8-12 weeks
Charlotte 49ers sophomore small forward KJ Sherrill will be sidelined for 8-12 weeks after he tore the lateral meniscus in his left knee. Sherrill injured the knee during "Major Madness" on Thursday night.
This is the second meniscus that has been torn by a Charlotte player in less than a week as Charles Dewhurst tore his in practice and is expected to miss 4-7 weeks.
This is the second meniscus that has been torn by a Charlotte player in less than a week as Charles Dewhurst tore his in practice and is expected to miss 4-7 weeks.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Charles Dewhurst out 4-7 weeks
Fifth-year senior Charlotte 49er guard Charles Dewhurst is out for four-to-seven weeks with a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Dewhurst injured the knee in practice after just returning for a fifth and final season after graduating in May. Dewhurst has one year of eligibility remaining.
Dewhurst tore the ACL and MCL in the same knee back in January of 2009 in a loss to Maryland. Dewhurst could be back in action as soon as the 49ers' appearance in the Charleston Classic on Nov. 18.
Dewhurst injured the knee in practice after just returning for a fifth and final season after graduating in May. Dewhurst has one year of eligibility remaining.
Dewhurst tore the ACL and MCL in the same knee back in January of 2009 in a loss to Maryland. Dewhurst could be back in action as soon as the 49ers' appearance in the Charleston Classic on Nov. 18.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Recruits in Charlotte
Several Charlotte recruits are currently at Major Madness.
Tyler Lewis, a 2012 point guard and brother of current Niner Colby Lewis is in the house. Alongside Lewis is E. Victor Nickerson, a 2011 small forward from Norcoss, Ga.
Charlotte commit Terrence Williams is also in the house tonight.
Tyler Lewis, a 2012 point guard and brother of current Niner Colby Lewis is in the house. Alongside Lewis is E. Victor Nickerson, a 2011 small forward from Norcoss, Ga.
Charlotte commit Terrence Williams is also in the house tonight.
Spears; Braswell honored in A-10 polls
Two members of Charlotte's prominent front court earned A-10 honors from the A-10 media and coaches. Senior Shamari Spears was voted second team all-Atlantic 10 while Braswell earned third team all-Atlantic 10 in the preseason polls.
Speas earned third team all-Atlantic 10 honors last season after averaging 16 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. A three-time Rookie of the Week, Braswell was on the conference all-Rookie team last season.
Charlotte finished fifth last season with a 19-12 overall record and was picked to finish seventh as a team.
Temple was picked to win the conference followed by Xavier, Richmond and Dayton.
First team all-Atlantic 10:
Lavoy Allen, Temple
Kevin Anderson, Richmond
Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure
Damian Saunders, Duquesne
Chris Wright, Dayton
Preseason Poll:
1--Temple
2--Xavier
3--Richmond
4--Dayton
5--Rhode Island
6--St Louis
7--Charlotte
8--Duquesne
9--La Salle
10--George Washington
11--UMass
12--St. Joseph's
13--St. Bonaventure
14--Fordham
Speas earned third team all-Atlantic 10 honors last season after averaging 16 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. A three-time Rookie of the Week, Braswell was on the conference all-Rookie team last season.
Charlotte finished fifth last season with a 19-12 overall record and was picked to finish seventh as a team.
Temple was picked to win the conference followed by Xavier, Richmond and Dayton.
First team all-Atlantic 10:
Lavoy Allen, Temple
Kevin Anderson, Richmond
Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure
Damian Saunders, Duquesne
Chris Wright, Dayton
Preseason Poll:
1--Temple
2--Xavier
3--Richmond
4--Dayton
5--Rhode Island
6--St Louis
7--Charlotte
8--Duquesne
9--La Salle
10--George Washington
11--UMass
12--St. Joseph's
13--St. Bonaventure
14--Fordham
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
49ers add home game
The Charlotte 49ers announced today that they have filled their final available spot on the 2010-11 schedule by adding the Gardner Webb Bulldogs to the home schedule.
Gardner Webb will play in Halton Arena on Friday Nov. 12 at 4 p.m.
In addition, Charlotte has moved it's exhibition opener against Queens University to Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Including the exhibition game, the Niners will now have 15 home games and will play a full schedule.
Charlotte volleyball will play a home match against Rhode Island following the Gardner Webb game for their senior night. Fans can remain for the match for no extra charge.
Gardner Webb will play in Halton Arena on Friday Nov. 12 at 4 p.m.
In addition, Charlotte has moved it's exhibition opener against Queens University to Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Including the exhibition game, the Niners will now have 15 home games and will play a full schedule.
Charlotte volleyball will play a home match against Rhode Island following the Gardner Webb game for their senior night. Fans can remain for the match for no extra charge.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
McMurray wins at Charlotte
On a night when championship point racing was at a premium, a non-chaser stole the show at the Bank of America 500. Jamie McMurray picked up his third win of the season after overtaking Kyle Busch on a restart with 20 laps to go and never looked back.
McMurray had already picked up two big wins this season. Scoring a win at the Daytona 500 to open the season and adding another 500-mile win when he kissed the bricks at Indianapolis.
Busch was the man to beat all night long, leading a race-high 218 laps, but fell victim again to a late-race caution, finishing second.
“It was a really great race for us,” Busch said. “A great feeling there up until about 20 to go. I apologize to everybody at Joe Gibbs Racing for not being able to bring it home tonight. I don’t know what the caution was for—apparently a mouse ran across the race track or something.”
Point leader Jimmie Johnson had another stellar finish at Charlotte by coming home in third, but it wasn’t as easy as the result might have implicated.
Following a four-tire stop, Johnson got a scare on lap 34 when he spun coming out of turn two due to a flat left rear tire. After restarting in 37th, Johnson picked off opposing drivers one-by-one and found himself back in the top 3 in just 100 laps.
“The finish was great but the first half of the race was a disaster for us,” Johnson said. “I’m so relieved. I’m so glad to be sitting in here after a third place finish and still leading the points. I hope that tonight’s performance will lead us to a championship.”
Other drivers’ championship hopes didn’t receive the shot in the arm that they needed. Tony Stewart, who entered Saturday’s race in fifth place and just 107 points behind Johnson, was involved in an early incident and never recovered, finishing 21st. Stewart lost 70 points to Johnson and now sits 177 behind, a seemingly insurmountable number with just
Jeff Gordon sat on the pole and entered the night in fourth place in the standings, just 85 points behind his Hendrick Motorsports teammate. Gordon had alternator and battery problems though, and faltered to a disappointing 23rd place finish. Gordon is now 156 points behind Johnson in the championship standings.
Gordon hasn’t won since an early-season victory at Texas in 2009, a streak that has now reached 60 races. After finally working his way back into the top 20, Gordon was penalized for entering the pits too fast on lap 291.
Denny Hamlin, who began the night 36 points behind Johnson, made a 19-spot improvement from the start and finished fourth. Hamlin now stands 41 points behind Johnson for the championship point lead.
Either Hamlin or Johnson have won the last eight races at Martinsville, setting up a showdown at next week’s stop.
Kevin Harvick fought his No. 29 Penzoil Chevrolet all night long but maintained his third-place point standing by finishing eighth and now finds himself 77 points behind Johnson heading to Martinsville.
Following Saturday’s race, it looks like a three-man hunt for the championship with only five races to go, as only Hamlin (41) and Harvick (77) are within 150 points of Johnson.
McMurray had already picked up two big wins this season. Scoring a win at the Daytona 500 to open the season and adding another 500-mile win when he kissed the bricks at Indianapolis.
Busch was the man to beat all night long, leading a race-high 218 laps, but fell victim again to a late-race caution, finishing second.
“It was a really great race for us,” Busch said. “A great feeling there up until about 20 to go. I apologize to everybody at Joe Gibbs Racing for not being able to bring it home tonight. I don’t know what the caution was for—apparently a mouse ran across the race track or something.”
Point leader Jimmie Johnson had another stellar finish at Charlotte by coming home in third, but it wasn’t as easy as the result might have implicated.
Following a four-tire stop, Johnson got a scare on lap 34 when he spun coming out of turn two due to a flat left rear tire. After restarting in 37th, Johnson picked off opposing drivers one-by-one and found himself back in the top 3 in just 100 laps.
“The finish was great but the first half of the race was a disaster for us,” Johnson said. “I’m so relieved. I’m so glad to be sitting in here after a third place finish and still leading the points. I hope that tonight’s performance will lead us to a championship.”
Other drivers’ championship hopes didn’t receive the shot in the arm that they needed. Tony Stewart, who entered Saturday’s race in fifth place and just 107 points behind Johnson, was involved in an early incident and never recovered, finishing 21st. Stewart lost 70 points to Johnson and now sits 177 behind, a seemingly insurmountable number with just
Jeff Gordon sat on the pole and entered the night in fourth place in the standings, just 85 points behind his Hendrick Motorsports teammate. Gordon had alternator and battery problems though, and faltered to a disappointing 23rd place finish. Gordon is now 156 points behind Johnson in the championship standings.
Gordon hasn’t won since an early-season victory at Texas in 2009, a streak that has now reached 60 races. After finally working his way back into the top 20, Gordon was penalized for entering the pits too fast on lap 291.
Denny Hamlin, who began the night 36 points behind Johnson, made a 19-spot improvement from the start and finished fourth. Hamlin now stands 41 points behind Johnson for the championship point lead.
Either Hamlin or Johnson have won the last eight races at Martinsville, setting up a showdown at next week’s stop.
Kevin Harvick fought his No. 29 Penzoil Chevrolet all night long but maintained his third-place point standing by finishing eighth and now finds himself 77 points behind Johnson heading to Martinsville.
Following Saturday’s race, it looks like a three-man hunt for the championship with only five races to go, as only Hamlin (41) and Harvick (77) are within 150 points of Johnson.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Spangler escapes death again
A father-son duo escaped death Saturday after a pre-race stunt went wrong on the front stretch.
Nearly two hours prior to the start of the Bank of America 500, known daredevil Spanky Spangler drove around the 1.5 mile oval driving a beat up RV with, 'Hold my beer, watch this' spray-painted on one side.
Hot in pursuit was his son Bryan Spangler, driving a patrol car. A series of planned explosions went off just before the cars reached the jump. The bottom of Spangler's RV caught fire just as he went off the ramp, sending his RV nose-first into a pile of junk cars.
It took several minutes for rescue personnel to extricate the elder from the RV. He walked to an ambulance and was released from the infield care center.
Here's a link to Spanky's past antics.
http://tinyurl.com/24h24jp
Nearly two hours prior to the start of the Bank of America 500, known daredevil Spanky Spangler drove around the 1.5 mile oval driving a beat up RV with, 'Hold my beer, watch this' spray-painted on one side.
Hot in pursuit was his son Bryan Spangler, driving a patrol car. A series of planned explosions went off just before the cars reached the jump. The bottom of Spangler's RV caught fire just as he went off the ramp, sending his RV nose-first into a pile of junk cars.
It took several minutes for rescue personnel to extricate the elder from the RV. He walked to an ambulance and was released from the infield care center.
Here's a link to Spanky's past antics.
http://tinyurl.com/24h24jp
Drivers to watch
It's under an hour until the start of the Bank of America 500, so here's a look at three drivers to watch in tonight's race.
Jimmie Johnson: What's not to like about Johnson at Charlotte? Sure, he finished 37th in May, but you can't doubt Johnson with his previous record at this track. He has only one win at Charlotte since 2005, but still has amassed six career wins at the 1.5 mile oval. Expect Johnson to be a big factor in tonight's race.
Kurt Busch: Can you say domination? Busch dominated in May, winning the Sprint All-Star Race and the Coca-Cola 600 in impressive fashion. With a win tonight, Busch can become the first driver ever to sweep all three Charlotte races in one season.
Jeff Gordon: Is tonight the night the Dupont Chevrolet will finally roll into victory lane? There's a pretty good chance. Gordon has five career victories at Charlotte and will be starting on the pole for the first time in 2010. Gordon won this race back in 2007 and has four top-10 finishes in his last six starts at Charlotte.
Jimmie Johnson: What's not to like about Johnson at Charlotte? Sure, he finished 37th in May, but you can't doubt Johnson with his previous record at this track. He has only one win at Charlotte since 2005, but still has amassed six career wins at the 1.5 mile oval. Expect Johnson to be a big factor in tonight's race.
Kurt Busch: Can you say domination? Busch dominated in May, winning the Sprint All-Star Race and the Coca-Cola 600 in impressive fashion. With a win tonight, Busch can become the first driver ever to sweep all three Charlotte races in one season.
Jeff Gordon: Is tonight the night the Dupont Chevrolet will finally roll into victory lane? There's a pretty good chance. Gordon has five career victories at Charlotte and will be starting on the pole for the first time in 2010. Gordon won this race back in 2007 and has four top-10 finishes in his last six starts at Charlotte.
NASCAR announces new fuel for 2011
NASCAR announced today that it will race with E15 fuel in its three national series, beginning in 2011. Sunoco Green is a 15 percent ethanol blend using American-made ethanol from corn grown by farmers.
“NASCAR is committed to being an environmental leader, and the sport has taken significant steps over the years towards conservation by introducing measurable, best-in-class initiatives in recycling, alternative energy and carbon mitigation,” said NASCAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian France.
Team engine builders have been testing the new fuel for several months, and so far, reviews have been very positive. NASCAR will begin using the fuel at Daytona in February. The new fuel with be 15 percent ethanol, 85 percent gasoline.
Because of the 15 percent blend, gas mileage shouldn’t be affected. Sunoco has been NASCAR’s official fuel since 2004.
“NASCAR is committed to being an environmental leader, and the sport has taken significant steps over the years towards conservation by introducing measurable, best-in-class initiatives in recycling, alternative energy and carbon mitigation,” said NASCAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian France.
Team engine builders have been testing the new fuel for several months, and so far, reviews have been very positive. NASCAR will begin using the fuel at Daytona in February. The new fuel with be 15 percent ethanol, 85 percent gasoline.
Because of the 15 percent blend, gas mileage shouldn’t be affected. Sunoco has been NASCAR’s official fuel since 2004.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
SLU Update
As reported last night by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, SLU basketball players Willie Reed and Kwamain Mitchell are currently not enrolled in school stemming from a sexual assault charge from May 1.
This is for certain, SLU will be without the two players to start the season and likely until January. It was recommended by the school's conduct committee that both players be suspended for one year.
That recommendation was set aside by the university and both players will be allowed to return to school in January if they meet certain conditions. According to Mitchell's attorney, he intends to return in January, but Reed, who insists he did nothing wrong, doesn't plan on returning.
Willie Reed Sr. said his son plans to ask SLU for a release from his athletic scholarship so he can play elseware.
The departures come at a time when the Billikens were looking at their best squad in years after they had planned on returning all five starters from their 2009 squad.
This is for certain, SLU will be without the two players to start the season and likely until January. It was recommended by the school's conduct committee that both players be suspended for one year.
That recommendation was set aside by the university and both players will be allowed to return to school in January if they meet certain conditions. According to Mitchell's attorney, he intends to return in January, but Reed, who insists he did nothing wrong, doesn't plan on returning.
Willie Reed Sr. said his son plans to ask SLU for a release from his athletic scholarship so he can play elseware.
The departures come at a time when the Billikens were looking at their best squad in years after they had planned on returning all five starters from their 2009 squad.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
A-10 News
Some big news came out of St. Louis today as it was reported that point guard Kwamain Mitchell and center Willie Reed are currently not enrolled at SLU because of a reported sexual assault that occurred on May 1.
The 6-foot-9-inch Reed averaged 12.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game while Mitchell averaged 15.9 points and three assists per game.
Federal law did not allow the school to release any additional information without the consent of the students that were involved.
SLU finished fourth in the regular season last year in the A-10 as the second-youngest team in the nation and looked prime for a big season. This news could be a big blow to Rick Majerus' 2010 season.
The 6-foot-9-inch Reed averaged 12.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game while Mitchell averaged 15.9 points and three assists per game.
Federal law did not allow the school to release any additional information without the consent of the students that were involved.
SLU finished fourth in the regular season last year in the A-10 as the second-youngest team in the nation and looked prime for a big season. This news could be a big blow to Rick Majerus' 2010 season.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Niners back in top 25
Following two wins to start the conference season against St. Bonaventure and Duquesne, that Charlotte 49ers men's soccer team has vaulted back into the national top 25 at #23.
Charlotte has won four straight overall including two on the road to begin A-10 play. The Niner defense has been stout to say the least. The Niners have posted two shutouts over the last five games and have allowed only three goals over the past 490 minutes of play.
Tyler Gibson and Donnie Smith were both named to TopDrawerSoccer.com's National Team of the Week and are both tied for the team lead with three goals.
The Niners travel to George Washington and Richmond this weekend (Oct. 15-17) for their final road games of the regular season.
Charlotte has won four straight overall including two on the road to begin A-10 play. The Niner defense has been stout to say the least. The Niners have posted two shutouts over the last five games and have allowed only three goals over the past 490 minutes of play.
Tyler Gibson and Donnie Smith were both named to TopDrawerSoccer.com's National Team of the Week and are both tied for the team lead with three goals.
The Niners travel to George Washington and Richmond this weekend (Oct. 15-17) for their final road games of the regular season.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Chattanooga Classic Update
Three former Charlotte 49er golfers are competeting in this week's Chattanooga Classic on the Nationwide Tour.
Jeff Curl leads the way for the former Niners in a tie for 13th at 5-under-par thru three holes today, he fired a 4-under-par 68 in round one. Former all-America Corey Nagy carded a 1-under-par 71 in round one and is currently tied for 63rd, his second round tee time is 2:30 p.m. off the 10th tee.
Trevor Murphy, who made a nice run at the U.S. Open at Bethpage Black was disqualified after a 6-over-par 78 in round one. Todd Dempsey leads after round one with a 10-under 62. The projected cut is currently at 2-under-par.
Live scoring for the event is on pgatour.com
--Josh Carpenter
Jeff Curl leads the way for the former Niners in a tie for 13th at 5-under-par thru three holes today, he fired a 4-under-par 68 in round one. Former all-America Corey Nagy carded a 1-under-par 71 in round one and is currently tied for 63rd, his second round tee time is 2:30 p.m. off the 10th tee.
Trevor Murphy, who made a nice run at the U.S. Open at Bethpage Black was disqualified after a 6-over-par 78 in round one. Todd Dempsey leads after round one with a 10-under 62. The projected cut is currently at 2-under-par.
Live scoring for the event is on pgatour.com
--Josh Carpenter
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Golf update
Corey Nagy leading the way for former Niners at the Nationwide Tour event in Chattanooga. Nagy is currently even par thru 12 holes, Trevor Murphy is struggling at 6-over-par thru 12 holes and Jeff Curl will tee off at 2:10 p.m.
Stay tuned for an update later
Stay tuned for an update later
Niners announce 3rd football opponent
The Charlotte 49ers announced Thursday morning via its critically acclaimed website show "Panning for Gold" that Charlotte will play Charleston Southern in a home-and-home series beginning in 2013.
The Niners will play at Charleston Southern on Oct. 26, 2013 while the Bucs will make the trip to Charlotte on Sept. 27, 2014. Charlotte already has Campbell lined up for the inaugural home opener on Aug. 31, 2013 and will also play a home-and-home series with Morehead State beginning on Nov. 23, 2013.
The Niners will play at Charleston Southern on Oct. 26, 2013 while the Bucs will make the trip to Charlotte on Sept. 27, 2014. Charlotte already has Campbell lined up for the inaugural home opener on Aug. 31, 2013 and will also play a home-and-home series with Morehead State beginning on Nov. 23, 2013.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Aston lands 2012 PG
Charlotte 49ers women's basketball coach Karen Aston got a verbal commitment Monday from 2012 guard Celina Rodrigo of Marietta, Ga.
A 5-foot-8-inch point guard, Rodrigo chose Charlotte over Xavier, Cincinnati, Wake Forest and Southern Mississippi after several visits to the school. Rodrigo is ranked as the 40th best point guard in the 2012 class by ESPN.
Stay tuned for more on this story.
A 5-foot-8-inch point guard, Rodrigo chose Charlotte over Xavier, Cincinnati, Wake Forest and Southern Mississippi after several visits to the school. Rodrigo is ranked as the 40th best point guard in the 2012 class by ESPN.
Stay tuned for more on this story.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Nagy qualifies for Nationwide event
Former Charlotte 49ers all-American golfer Corey Nagy qualified for this week's Chattanooga Classic on the Nationwide Tour by placing second in the Monday qualifier.
Nagy carded five birdies on his first 10 holes to go along with just one bogey to earn his spot in the event. Matt Savage won the event at 6-under-par.
Nagy was one of seven players that qualified out of the field of 79. Former Niners Jeff Curl and Trevor Murphy will also be participating in the event.
Nagy carded five birdies on his first 10 holes to go along with just one bogey to earn his spot in the event. Matt Savage won the event at 6-under-par.
Nagy was one of seven players that qualified out of the field of 79. Former Niners Jeff Curl and Trevor Murphy will also be participating in the event.
Cuero receives honors
Charlotte 49er men's soccer senior forward Andres Cuero was named to College Soccer News' National Team of the Week for his performance against Clemson.
Cuero scored both goals in Charlotte's come from behind 2-1 double overtime win over the Clemson Tigers. He is the first 49er to be named to the National Team of the Week this season.
Cuero's multi-goal game against the Tigers was his first of the season and third of his stellar career. Cuero and the Niners begin conference play on the road this weekend when they take on St. Bonaventure on Friday
Cuero scored both goals in Charlotte's come from behind 2-1 double overtime win over the Clemson Tigers. He is the first 49er to be named to the National Team of the Week this season.
Cuero's multi-goal game against the Tigers was his first of the season and third of his stellar career. Cuero and the Niners begin conference play on the road this weekend when they take on St. Bonaventure on Friday
Friday, October 1, 2010
Charlotte downs UMass
The Charlotte 49ers women's soccer team picked up another win today, continuing their long road swing. Charlotte defeated UMass 2-1 on goals by Oni Bernard and Macky Wingo.
The Niners moved to 44-5-3 all-time in the Atlantic 10 and are now 21-0-2 in the conference over the last two plus seasons. The Niners will travel to play Rhode Island on Sunday at 1 p.m. before returning home for a battle with St. Bonaventure on Oct. 8, their first home game in nearly a month.
The Niners moved to 44-5-3 all-time in the Atlantic 10 and are now 21-0-2 in the conference over the last two plus seasons. The Niners will travel to play Rhode Island on Sunday at 1 p.m. before returning home for a battle with St. Bonaventure on Oct. 8, their first home game in nearly a month.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Charlotte wins thriller over Clemson
After pilfering Clemson goalkeeper Cody Mizell with 27 shots, the hard work finally paid off for the Charlotte 49ers Tuesday night. Andres Cuero scored at the 4:05 mark of double overtime to give Charlotte a well-deserved 2-1 win over the Tigers and put Charlotte back to .500 for the season at 4-4.
“At one point I think it looked like their keeper had a cape on,” said 49ers head coach Jeremy Gunn in reference to Mizell’s outstanding effort. “It would have been really easy for us to cave and just get upset at ourselves and not keep pushing.”
Cuero had been kept off the scoreboard for the first seven games of the season, but Tuesday night, he broke out. After Jack Metcalf had given the Tigers an early lead, Cuero responded just four minutes later at the 23 minute mark of the first half when Charlotte was awarded a free kick after Cuero had been illegally tackled. On the ensuing free kick by Donnie Smith, Cuero placed a perfect header into the back of the net to knot the game at one from five yards out.
Charlotte dominated both periods and held a 16-3 shot advantage at the intermission. For the game, Charlotte outshot Clemson 28-6 as Cuero and Evan James both had six shots to lead Charlotte.
Cuero cashed in again when it counted most. After taking a Justin Tucker pass, Cuero turned on a dime and blasted one past Mizell from 30 yards out. Mizell got a finger on the shot but couldn’t keep it out of the net.
“As a striker you get tunnel vision when you’re in front of the goal,” Cuero said of his game-winning tally. “I got it in front of the goal and decided to take it. Went with my instinct and luckily it went in.”
The loss dropped Clemson to 1-5-1 on the season. Gavin Dawson got his first win of the season for Charlotte, making six saves in the process. Charlotte returns to action on Saturday when they take on another Palmetto state rival—the Furman Paladins—at 7 p.m. at Transamerica Field.
“At one point I think it looked like their keeper had a cape on,” said 49ers head coach Jeremy Gunn in reference to Mizell’s outstanding effort. “It would have been really easy for us to cave and just get upset at ourselves and not keep pushing.”
Cuero had been kept off the scoreboard for the first seven games of the season, but Tuesday night, he broke out. After Jack Metcalf had given the Tigers an early lead, Cuero responded just four minutes later at the 23 minute mark of the first half when Charlotte was awarded a free kick after Cuero had been illegally tackled. On the ensuing free kick by Donnie Smith, Cuero placed a perfect header into the back of the net to knot the game at one from five yards out.
Charlotte dominated both periods and held a 16-3 shot advantage at the intermission. For the game, Charlotte outshot Clemson 28-6 as Cuero and Evan James both had six shots to lead Charlotte.
Cuero cashed in again when it counted most. After taking a Justin Tucker pass, Cuero turned on a dime and blasted one past Mizell from 30 yards out. Mizell got a finger on the shot but couldn’t keep it out of the net.
“As a striker you get tunnel vision when you’re in front of the goal,” Cuero said of his game-winning tally. “I got it in front of the goal and decided to take it. Went with my instinct and luckily it went in.”
The loss dropped Clemson to 1-5-1 on the season. Gavin Dawson got his first win of the season for Charlotte, making six saves in the process. Charlotte returns to action on Saturday when they take on another Palmetto state rival—the Furman Paladins—at 7 p.m. at Transamerica Field.
Charlotte lands Williams
Charlotte head coach Alan Major has landed his second commitment. 6-4 shooting Guard Terrence Williams of West Mecklenburg High committed to Charlotte today.
Williams averaged 25 points and 12 board per game in his junior season. Williams chose Charlotte over Tulane, East Carolina, Northeastern and College of Charleston. He had recently narrowed his decision to either Charlotte or ECU.
Williams comes after Major landed Mike Thorne, a 6-foot-10-inch center last week.
Williams averaged 25 points and 12 board per game in his junior season. Williams chose Charlotte over Tulane, East Carolina, Northeastern and College of Charleston. He had recently narrowed his decision to either Charlotte or ECU.
Williams comes after Major landed Mike Thorne, a 6-foot-10-inch center last week.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Niners in 5th after two rounds
Charlotte junior Olafur Loftsson fired a 3-under-par 69 in the second round of the VCU Shootout to land the Niners in a tie for 5th at +7. The first and second rounds were played Monday with the final round slated for tomorrow.
After an even par round one, Loftsson carded a three under 69 to vault into a tie for 5th individually. Charlotte, which was recently ranked 10th nationally by Golfweek, is also in a tie with UNC Greensboro. After a 1-over-par first round, the Niners shot +6 in round two.
UNC Wilmington leads at 12-under-par and is followed in second by East Carolina (-5). After an opening round of 2-under-par 70, junior Paul Ferrier faltered on his way to a second-round 77.
Gastonia native Harold Varner (ECU) is tied for the individual lead at -7 with Nate McCoy (Iowa State).
After an even par round one, Loftsson carded a three under 69 to vault into a tie for 5th individually. Charlotte, which was recently ranked 10th nationally by Golfweek, is also in a tie with UNC Greensboro. After a 1-over-par first round, the Niners shot +6 in round two.
UNC Wilmington leads at 12-under-par and is followed in second by East Carolina (-5). After an opening round of 2-under-par 70, junior Paul Ferrier faltered on his way to a second-round 77.
Gastonia native Harold Varner (ECU) is tied for the individual lead at -7 with Nate McCoy (Iowa State).
Niners in the news
-Macky Wingo, a junior midfielder for John Cullen's Charlotte 49ers women's soccer team, was named Atlantic 10 co-Player of the Week. Wingo had two goals and an assist over the weekend as the Niners went 2-0m with wins over High point (4-0) and Francis Marion (1-0).
Wingo had a goal and an assist in the shutout win over High Point on Friday and tacked on the only goal in Sunday's win over Francis Marion. Charlotte opens A-10 play in Amherst, Mass. on Friday with a match-up with UMass.
-In other news, the Charlotte golf team was recently ranked 10th nationally by Golfweek, the highest ranking since reaching No. 1 in the fall of 2007.
Charlotte is competing in the VCU Shootout in Richmond, Va. today and tomorrow. The Niners finished Monday's play at 1-over-par and a tie for 6th place. Junior Paul Ferrier is tied for 5th individually after a round of 2-under-par.
Stay tuned for an update following the final round.
Wingo had a goal and an assist in the shutout win over High Point on Friday and tacked on the only goal in Sunday's win over Francis Marion. Charlotte opens A-10 play in Amherst, Mass. on Friday with a match-up with UMass.
-In other news, the Charlotte golf team was recently ranked 10th nationally by Golfweek, the highest ranking since reaching No. 1 in the fall of 2007.
Charlotte is competing in the VCU Shootout in Richmond, Va. today and tomorrow. The Niners finished Monday's play at 1-over-par and a tie for 6th place. Junior Paul Ferrier is tied for 5th individually after a round of 2-under-par.
Stay tuned for an update following the final round.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Nagy wins pre-qualifying tournament for Q School
Former Charlotte 49er all-America Corey Nagy shot an 8-under-par 280 to win his pre-qualifying tournament for PGA Tour Q School.
Nagy tore through the Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta, Ga. with rounds of 74-67-68-71 to win the event by two strokes. After carding a 2-over-par 74 in round one, Nagy bested par in his final three rounds.
Nagy was a two-time individual A-10 Champion and became the first athlete in 49ers history to earn all-America honors in each of his four years.
Nagy's next step in his quest for the Tour will be in the first stage of qualifying at a course to be determined.
Nagy tore through the Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta, Ga. with rounds of 74-67-68-71 to win the event by two strokes. After carding a 2-over-par 74 in round one, Nagy bested par in his final three rounds.
Nagy was a two-time individual A-10 Champion and became the first athlete in 49ers history to earn all-America honors in each of his four years.
Nagy's next step in his quest for the Tour will be in the first stage of qualifying at a course to be determined.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Niners fall to Wake in 3
The Charlotte 49ers volleyball team dropped to 9-6 Tuesday night when they fell to the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (7-4) in three sets: 25-23, 25-22 and 25-15 at Halton Arena. Charlotte opens conference play when they take on the George Washington Colonials on Saturday.
“I’ve been really proud of our team throughout the entire non-conference season,” said Charlotte head coach Chris Redding. “I think we have to do a few things better with our communication but overall I think we’re doing a great job.”
The two teams started the match on an even basis and found themselves tied at six, before Wake forest ripped off five of the next six points to take an 11-7 first-set lead. Charlotte didn’t waste any time in countering though. Fueled by a Kara Raker kill, the Niners went on a 6-0 scoring run and found themselves with a 13-11 lead that caused a Wake Forest timeout.
Following the timeout, Wake Forest pulled ahead and looked to be in control of the set with a 23-19 lead. However, a service error by Wake’s Kadija Fornah gave Charlotte hope and brought the Niners to within three. Following Fornah’s error, Charlotte tallied the next three points to tie the set at 23. An attack error by Charlotte’s Leah Leventhal and a kill by Wake’s Carlin Salmon gave the Deacons the first set 25-23.
Redding preached prior to the season that the Niners would play fast volleyball, and Tuesday night, he thinks they did.
“We’re doing pretty good in that department,” Redding said. “I would almost say it’s like the spread offense in football. We’re trying to come at them in a lot of different ways and that will be an ever-growing process through the entire season. We’ve got to keep getting better and keep getting smarter.”
Charlotte again played tough volleyball in the second set and matched the Demon Deacons point-for-point until the two teams found themselves tied up at nine. The Niners fell in a bit of a hole after a 4-0 run by the Deacons but again clawed their way back into the set and tied it up at 20 on a kill by Leventhal, courtesy of a Sheri Davis assist. Charlotte took the lead on Wake at 21-20, but lost five of the next six points and dropped the set 25-22.
The Niners once again fell behind at the start of the third set behind a rash of service and attack errors. The Niners were only tied once, at 1-1, and fell into a deep 8-3 hole to start the set. The Demon Deacons proceeded to put the clamps down on the Niners, never allowing Charlotte to get within less than six (17-11). Wake Forest won eight of the final 12 points to drop the Niners to 9-6 and give them their first loss in Halton Arena this season.
Charlotte was once again led in the kill department by specialist Bianca Rouse, who accounted for 10 of the Niners’ 32 kills on the night—she also added seven digs. Junior libero Abbie Rees led the Niners in digs for the night with 12 but was followed closely by Sheri Davis with 11.
Kristen White led the Demon Deacons with a double-double, accounting for 12 kills and 10 digs. Fornah also contributed nicely for Wake, scoring seven kills and 11 digs. Libero Megan Thornberry had a match-high 13 digs for Wake Forest.
Even with the sour taste left in their mouth to end the non-conference season, Redding is staying positive heading into Saturday’s match-up with the Colonials.
“Right now in my mind we’re 0-0 heading into conference play,” Redding said. “I feel great about our group. We have a very special group of players, they respond to everything I tell them, even when I’m dumb and don’t do a good job. Preseason is over now, now it’s time for conference and postseason play.”
“I’ve been really proud of our team throughout the entire non-conference season,” said Charlotte head coach Chris Redding. “I think we have to do a few things better with our communication but overall I think we’re doing a great job.”
The two teams started the match on an even basis and found themselves tied at six, before Wake forest ripped off five of the next six points to take an 11-7 first-set lead. Charlotte didn’t waste any time in countering though. Fueled by a Kara Raker kill, the Niners went on a 6-0 scoring run and found themselves with a 13-11 lead that caused a Wake Forest timeout.
Following the timeout, Wake Forest pulled ahead and looked to be in control of the set with a 23-19 lead. However, a service error by Wake’s Kadija Fornah gave Charlotte hope and brought the Niners to within three. Following Fornah’s error, Charlotte tallied the next three points to tie the set at 23. An attack error by Charlotte’s Leah Leventhal and a kill by Wake’s Carlin Salmon gave the Deacons the first set 25-23.
Redding preached prior to the season that the Niners would play fast volleyball, and Tuesday night, he thinks they did.
“We’re doing pretty good in that department,” Redding said. “I would almost say it’s like the spread offense in football. We’re trying to come at them in a lot of different ways and that will be an ever-growing process through the entire season. We’ve got to keep getting better and keep getting smarter.”
Charlotte again played tough volleyball in the second set and matched the Demon Deacons point-for-point until the two teams found themselves tied up at nine. The Niners fell in a bit of a hole after a 4-0 run by the Deacons but again clawed their way back into the set and tied it up at 20 on a kill by Leventhal, courtesy of a Sheri Davis assist. Charlotte took the lead on Wake at 21-20, but lost five of the next six points and dropped the set 25-22.
The Niners once again fell behind at the start of the third set behind a rash of service and attack errors. The Niners were only tied once, at 1-1, and fell into a deep 8-3 hole to start the set. The Demon Deacons proceeded to put the clamps down on the Niners, never allowing Charlotte to get within less than six (17-11). Wake Forest won eight of the final 12 points to drop the Niners to 9-6 and give them their first loss in Halton Arena this season.
Charlotte was once again led in the kill department by specialist Bianca Rouse, who accounted for 10 of the Niners’ 32 kills on the night—she also added seven digs. Junior libero Abbie Rees led the Niners in digs for the night with 12 but was followed closely by Sheri Davis with 11.
Kristen White led the Demon Deacons with a double-double, accounting for 12 kills and 10 digs. Fornah also contributed nicely for Wake, scoring seven kills and 11 digs. Libero Megan Thornberry had a match-high 13 digs for Wake Forest.
Even with the sour taste left in their mouth to end the non-conference season, Redding is staying positive heading into Saturday’s match-up with the Colonials.
“Right now in my mind we’re 0-0 heading into conference play,” Redding said. “I feel great about our group. We have a very special group of players, they respond to everything I tell them, even when I’m dumb and don’t do a good job. Preseason is over now, now it’s time for conference and postseason play.”
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Charlotte tames Tigers
Charlotte seniors Whitney Weinraub and Sam Huecker took care of business Friday afternoon. The duo both scored goals to lead the Niners’ soccer team to a 2-1 victory over the Towson Tigers in the first game of the Villanova Classic.
Weinraub’s 23rd-minute tally was her second of the season and 33rd of her stellar career—leaving her just three goals shy of the all-time program record.
"We played really good soccer in the first half," Charlotte coach John Cullen said. "We came out and jumped on Towson right from the start. We got quality goals from Whitney Weinraub and Sam Huecker. In the second half, Towson put us under some pressure and they scored a goal off a free kick to cut our lead in half. We need to learn how to finish off games better. However, a win is a win and now we look forward to playing Villanova on Sunday."
Charlotte senior Whitney Bryant set up the game’s first goal when she sent a perfect cross into the box. Weinraub executed the play perfectly and headed the ball over the Town goalkeeper to give the Niners a 1-0 lead.
Just five minutes later, Huecker gave the Niners a 2-0 advantage. The Crestwood, KY native scored for the first time since the season-opening win over Davidson when she took a Megan Minnix pass and blasted it into the left side of the net to put the Niners up by two.
The Niners totaled seven shots in the first stanza with Kirby Stenard, Jonna Handra, Weinraub and Minnix all accounting for scoring chances. Huecker and Macky Wingo both started the second half with a pair of shots that were either saved or went wide of the target.
Towson showed life in the 79th minute when Melissa Gomes scored off of a free kick from 35 yards out. That was all the Tigers could muster though as the Niner defense clamped down to secure the win.
Charlotte finished the game with a 15-9 shot advantage and 4-3 edge on corner kicks. Eight different Charlotte players accounted for shots with Wingo and Huecker both leading the Niners with three.
Cullen has been alternating between Freshman Alex Kubrick and Natalie LaVigne in net through the first seven games. Kubrick got the nod in net for Charlotte Friday and made three saves on four shots on target.
Weinraub’s 23rd-minute tally was her second of the season and 33rd of her stellar career—leaving her just three goals shy of the all-time program record.
"We played really good soccer in the first half," Charlotte coach John Cullen said. "We came out and jumped on Towson right from the start. We got quality goals from Whitney Weinraub and Sam Huecker. In the second half, Towson put us under some pressure and they scored a goal off a free kick to cut our lead in half. We need to learn how to finish off games better. However, a win is a win and now we look forward to playing Villanova on Sunday."
Charlotte senior Whitney Bryant set up the game’s first goal when she sent a perfect cross into the box. Weinraub executed the play perfectly and headed the ball over the Town goalkeeper to give the Niners a 1-0 lead.
Just five minutes later, Huecker gave the Niners a 2-0 advantage. The Crestwood, KY native scored for the first time since the season-opening win over Davidson when she took a Megan Minnix pass and blasted it into the left side of the net to put the Niners up by two.
The Niners totaled seven shots in the first stanza with Kirby Stenard, Jonna Handra, Weinraub and Minnix all accounting for scoring chances. Huecker and Macky Wingo both started the second half with a pair of shots that were either saved or went wide of the target.
Towson showed life in the 79th minute when Melissa Gomes scored off of a free kick from 35 yards out. That was all the Tigers could muster though as the Niner defense clamped down to secure the win.
Charlotte finished the game with a 15-9 shot advantage and 4-3 edge on corner kicks. Eight different Charlotte players accounted for shots with Wingo and Huecker both leading the Niners with three.
Cullen has been alternating between Freshman Alex Kubrick and Natalie LaVigne in net through the first seven games. Kubrick got the nod in net for Charlotte Friday and made three saves on four shots on target.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
James terrorizes Demon Deacons
Charlotte—Wake Forest brings out the best in Evan James. The Charlotte forward tallied the Niners’ second goal and was instrumental in the game-winner during Charlotte’s 2-0 win over the Demon Deacons Tuesday night at Transamerica Field.
“Coach told us to come out strong because Wake Forest is a great team,” James said. “I don’t want to say that playing good teams brings the best out in me, but your biggest adversary is your best friend, it brings the best out of you.”
Nearly a year ago, the Niners traveled to Winston-Salem for a battle with the 3rd-ranked Demon Deacons. The outcome then wasn’t dissimilar to Tuesday’s heavyweight bout, as James scored Charlotte’s first goal to lead the Niners to a 3-1 victory.
That win broke Wake Forest’s 46-game unbeaten streak against non-conference opponents, which was then the longest in the nation.
“He really likes playing against this team,” Charlotte coach Jeremy Gunn said of James’ performance. “He absolutely terrorized them last year with a phenomenal goal and set up an incredible goal as well. He comes alive and he gets excited. He had a phenomenal night tonight.”
Charlotte didn’t waste much time Tuesday night in pilfering Wake Forest keeper Akira Fitzgerald with a number of scoring opportunities. Just 16 minutes in, Charlotte forward Jennings Rex missed a prime opportunity. Charlotte senior Andres Cuero fed the ball to Rex who then sidestepped Fitzgerald, leaving a wide open net. Rex’s shot went just a bit outside though, and the game remained scoreless.
In the 32nd minute, the Niners generated another quality attempt when T.J. Beaulieu broke in undetected on the Wake Forest keeper. Fitzgerald made a diving stop and kept the game scoreless. Just a minute later however, the Niners would strike.
After a series of defensive stops, Charlotte counter attacked. James got the ball near midfield and went streaking down the right side, after deking around a Demon Deacon defender, James sent in his cross, the ball deflected off a Wake Forest defender and off Fitzgerald, into the net. James didn’t receive credit for the tally, but made the play happen.
Charlotte could have been happy with heading into the break with a 1-0 lead, but they didn’t take the foot off the gas pedal. After setting up the first goal, James officially found the back of the net in the 41st minute. After taking a pass from Tyler Gibson, sophomore forward Donnie Smith blazed a trail down the left side and sent a cross to a waiting James, who deposited it into the back of the old onion bag for his second goal of the season.
After returning from a road trip to play games at UAB and Memphis, it would have been easy for the Niners to come out flat. But that didn’t happen. Charlotte carried play for the majority of the first half and led in the shot department 7-5 at the mid-way point.
“It was phenomenal with the intensity. We really took the game to Wake Forest and created great chances right from the start,” Gunn said of Charlotte’s hot start. “You couldn’t have wished for a better performance. We played Friday and Saturday and had a really long road trip. It would have been easy for us to come out tonight and try and ease our way into things.”
Wake Forest came out with a little more fire in the second half, but Charlotte starting goalkeeper Patrick Eavenson and the Niner defense didn’t budge. Eavenson made five saves on the way to the win. Defenders Charles Rodriguez and Isaac Cowles both contributed to Charlotte’s strong defensive play and didn’t allow the Demon Deacons to garner a legitimate scoring opportunity.
“Pat [Eavenson] showed great confidence tonight and dominated his area,” Gunn said of Eavenson’s strong play in net. “He made a couple of great saves, his distribution was fantastic, he was talking to the players and really settled the ship. It was a great first start for him so he’s got to be real proud of himself.”
Both teams ended the game with 12 shots on goal as James led the way for the Niners with four shots while Beaulieu followed closely with three of his own. Fitzgerald recorded three saves for the Demon Deacons and midfielder Ben Newman recorded three shots to lead Wake Forest. Charlotte has outscored Wake Forest 5-1 in the last two meetings between the teams.
The Niners return to the pitch on Saturday in Buies Creek, N.C. for a 7 p.m. match-up with Campbell.
“Coach told us to come out strong because Wake Forest is a great team,” James said. “I don’t want to say that playing good teams brings the best out in me, but your biggest adversary is your best friend, it brings the best out of you.”
Nearly a year ago, the Niners traveled to Winston-Salem for a battle with the 3rd-ranked Demon Deacons. The outcome then wasn’t dissimilar to Tuesday’s heavyweight bout, as James scored Charlotte’s first goal to lead the Niners to a 3-1 victory.
That win broke Wake Forest’s 46-game unbeaten streak against non-conference opponents, which was then the longest in the nation.
“He really likes playing against this team,” Charlotte coach Jeremy Gunn said of James’ performance. “He absolutely terrorized them last year with a phenomenal goal and set up an incredible goal as well. He comes alive and he gets excited. He had a phenomenal night tonight.”
Charlotte didn’t waste much time Tuesday night in pilfering Wake Forest keeper Akira Fitzgerald with a number of scoring opportunities. Just 16 minutes in, Charlotte forward Jennings Rex missed a prime opportunity. Charlotte senior Andres Cuero fed the ball to Rex who then sidestepped Fitzgerald, leaving a wide open net. Rex’s shot went just a bit outside though, and the game remained scoreless.
In the 32nd minute, the Niners generated another quality attempt when T.J. Beaulieu broke in undetected on the Wake Forest keeper. Fitzgerald made a diving stop and kept the game scoreless. Just a minute later however, the Niners would strike.
After a series of defensive stops, Charlotte counter attacked. James got the ball near midfield and went streaking down the right side, after deking around a Demon Deacon defender, James sent in his cross, the ball deflected off a Wake Forest defender and off Fitzgerald, into the net. James didn’t receive credit for the tally, but made the play happen.
Charlotte could have been happy with heading into the break with a 1-0 lead, but they didn’t take the foot off the gas pedal. After setting up the first goal, James officially found the back of the net in the 41st minute. After taking a pass from Tyler Gibson, sophomore forward Donnie Smith blazed a trail down the left side and sent a cross to a waiting James, who deposited it into the back of the old onion bag for his second goal of the season.
After returning from a road trip to play games at UAB and Memphis, it would have been easy for the Niners to come out flat. But that didn’t happen. Charlotte carried play for the majority of the first half and led in the shot department 7-5 at the mid-way point.
“It was phenomenal with the intensity. We really took the game to Wake Forest and created great chances right from the start,” Gunn said of Charlotte’s hot start. “You couldn’t have wished for a better performance. We played Friday and Saturday and had a really long road trip. It would have been easy for us to come out tonight and try and ease our way into things.”
Wake Forest came out with a little more fire in the second half, but Charlotte starting goalkeeper Patrick Eavenson and the Niner defense didn’t budge. Eavenson made five saves on the way to the win. Defenders Charles Rodriguez and Isaac Cowles both contributed to Charlotte’s strong defensive play and didn’t allow the Demon Deacons to garner a legitimate scoring opportunity.
“Pat [Eavenson] showed great confidence tonight and dominated his area,” Gunn said of Eavenson’s strong play in net. “He made a couple of great saves, his distribution was fantastic, he was talking to the players and really settled the ship. It was a great first start for him so he’s got to be real proud of himself.”
Both teams ended the game with 12 shots on goal as James led the way for the Niners with four shots while Beaulieu followed closely with three of his own. Fitzgerald recorded three saves for the Demon Deacons and midfielder Ben Newman recorded three shots to lead Wake Forest. Charlotte has outscored Wake Forest 5-1 in the last two meetings between the teams.
The Niners return to the pitch on Saturday in Buies Creek, N.C. for a 7 p.m. match-up with Campbell.
Charlotte golf finishes 4th
The Charlotte 49ers golf team has gotten off to another strong start to being the season. The Niners, who have made the NCAA Tournament in five consecutive years, took s fourth place finish at the Gopher Invitational in Wayzata, Minn.
Held at the prestigious Spring Hill Golf Club, the Niners finished the tournament with a three-day total of +26, 890. Paul Ferrier, now in his junior campaign, led the way for the Niners. The Edinburg, Scotland native compiled a three-round total of 2-over-par, 218 to place in sixth place individually. It was Ferrier’s first top-10 finish since he placed fifth at the 2009 A-10 Championship Tournament.
“Arguably the best tournament of his career,” 49er head golf coach Adam Pry said on Ferrier’s performance. “The fifth at conference was certainly good but he just played fantastic up there. It’s a testament to what he’s been working on over the last year.”
Ferrier shot a 4-over-par 76 in the final round while another junior—Olafur Loftsson—fired a team-best score of 1-over-par 73. Loftsson finished the tournament in a tie for 21st place at 9-over-par, 225. Alongside Loftsson in 21st were Will Golden and Nebraska State Amateur Champion Andy Sajevic.
“I wouldn’t say any of them felt great about the way they played but they really competed hard,” Pry said. “You’re not always going to have your best game—like Paul did—but as long as you go out there and you compete hard, make good decisions and fight from the first hole to the last, that’s all you can ask for.”
Charlotte’s three-day total of +26, 890 was just one stroke behind third-place Arkansas and two strokes ahead of fifth-place finisher Lamar (+28, 892). LSU took home the tournament title with a three-round total of +5, 869, 11 strokes clear of second-place finisher Kent State (+16, 880).
Ferrier strung together rounds of 72-70-76 for his 54-hole total. The second round of 2-under-par was the lowest score of his collegiate career.
Loftsson rebounded with his third-round 73 after stumbling out of the gate with back-to-back rounds of 76. Sajevic played consistent golf on day one, stringing together two rounds of 2-over-par 74, but faltered with a final round 77.
Golden, the only senior on Charlotte’s 2010-11 roster, shot a final round 76 after rounds of 72-77 on day one. Junior Tyler Mitchell rounded out the Charlotte scoring with a three round total of +18, 234.
Charlotte returns to action at the VCU Shootout in Richmond, Va. on Sept. 27-28. Charlotte all-American Corey Nagy won the event last year as a senior while the Niners placed ninth place out of 14 teams.
“As we always do here, we’ll re-qualify so none of the guys are exempt into the next one (tournament),” Pry said. “I think we’re definitely a deeper team this year. We’re probably as deep as we’ve been in three years. I think we’ve got some guys at home that are chomping at the bit.”
Held at the prestigious Spring Hill Golf Club, the Niners finished the tournament with a three-day total of +26, 890. Paul Ferrier, now in his junior campaign, led the way for the Niners. The Edinburg, Scotland native compiled a three-round total of 2-over-par, 218 to place in sixth place individually. It was Ferrier’s first top-10 finish since he placed fifth at the 2009 A-10 Championship Tournament.
“Arguably the best tournament of his career,” 49er head golf coach Adam Pry said on Ferrier’s performance. “The fifth at conference was certainly good but he just played fantastic up there. It’s a testament to what he’s been working on over the last year.”
Ferrier shot a 4-over-par 76 in the final round while another junior—Olafur Loftsson—fired a team-best score of 1-over-par 73. Loftsson finished the tournament in a tie for 21st place at 9-over-par, 225. Alongside Loftsson in 21st were Will Golden and Nebraska State Amateur Champion Andy Sajevic.
“I wouldn’t say any of them felt great about the way they played but they really competed hard,” Pry said. “You’re not always going to have your best game—like Paul did—but as long as you go out there and you compete hard, make good decisions and fight from the first hole to the last, that’s all you can ask for.”
Charlotte’s three-day total of +26, 890 was just one stroke behind third-place Arkansas and two strokes ahead of fifth-place finisher Lamar (+28, 892). LSU took home the tournament title with a three-round total of +5, 869, 11 strokes clear of second-place finisher Kent State (+16, 880).
Ferrier strung together rounds of 72-70-76 for his 54-hole total. The second round of 2-under-par was the lowest score of his collegiate career.
Loftsson rebounded with his third-round 73 after stumbling out of the gate with back-to-back rounds of 76. Sajevic played consistent golf on day one, stringing together two rounds of 2-over-par 74, but faltered with a final round 77.
Golden, the only senior on Charlotte’s 2010-11 roster, shot a final round 76 after rounds of 72-77 on day one. Junior Tyler Mitchell rounded out the Charlotte scoring with a three round total of +18, 234.
Charlotte returns to action at the VCU Shootout in Richmond, Va. on Sept. 27-28. Charlotte all-American Corey Nagy won the event last year as a senior while the Niners placed ninth place out of 14 teams.
“As we always do here, we’ll re-qualify so none of the guys are exempt into the next one (tournament),” Pry said. “I think we’re definitely a deeper team this year. We’re probably as deep as we’ve been in three years. I think we’ve got some guys at home that are chomping at the bit.”
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Charlotte announces schedule
Charlotte 49er head men's basketball coach Alan Major is taking on a heavy schedule for his first year as head coach. Major will lead the Niners against eight teams that participated in the NCAA Tournament a year ago. Charlotte will play four home games against NCAA Tournament teams, as well as a fifth against NIT Tournament Champion Dayton.
“The schedule is challenging with teams like Tennessee, which could be a top 15 team, and going to Oregon State and to the Charleston Tournament for three games in four days where we will be tested by teams like Georgetown and NC State. It’s definitely a schedule that has some BCS flavor,” Major said of the non-conference slate. “You want to put yourself in position by the end of the year that you’ve seen every scenario. I think this schedule is set up that way. We have strong home and road games, a multiple-game format, a cross country trip – hopefully this will put us in the position that we have seen a lot by the time late February, early March rolls around.”
In addition to Tennessee, Xavier and Dayton, the Niners will also play home games against NCAA Tournament participants Richmond and Winthrop.
Charlotte will travel and play in the Charleston Classic, which will be aired nationally on ESPN. The eight-team tournament currently consists of Charlotte, N.C. State, Georgetown, Wofford, George Mason and East Carolina. There are still two teams to be determined to complete the field.
Charlotte will also play four road games against NCAA Tournament teams including Temple, Georgia Tech, Xavier and Richmond.
“The goal of this team is to be playing in March and with this schedule we put ourselves in position to do just that,” Major added.
The non-conference portion of the schedule will be highlighted by Charlotte's bout with Tennessee on Dec. 17. The game will be played at Time Warner Cable Arena and will be aired nationally on CBS College Sports.
Charlotte opens the season on Nov. 13 against South Carolina State before heading to the Charleston Classic, Nov 18-21.
After returning from the Charleston Classic, the Niners will head west and play at Oregon State on Nov. 24 before returning home to face Radford on the 27 to close out the first month of play.
Charlotte will head to Greenville, N.C. to take on East Carolina on Dec. 1 before returning to Halton Arena to face Winthrop.
Charlotte will gain play in the Hornet's Nest Rivalry when they play at the Davidson Wildcats on Dec. 11. Following Charlotte's game with the Volunteers, the Niners will play host to Wright State on Dec. 22 and will close out the non-conference schedule with games at Mercer (Dec. 30) and at Georgia Tech (Jan. 2).
Charlotte will open conference play with a pair of road games against Richmond (Jan. 5) and St. Bonaventure (Jan. 8). Charlotte hosts Fordham in their conference home opener on Jan. 15 and will stay in town to take on UMass on the 19th.
Charlotte will then hit the road again as they take on Duquesne (Jan. 22) and Temple (Jan. 26) before starting a three-game homestand against La Salle (Jan. 29), Xavier (Feb 2.), and George Washington (Feb. 5).
Charlotte heads up to the great white north to take on Rhode Island on Feb. 12 and returns to Halton for a match-up with Dayton on Feb. 16.
The Niners will play two of their final three regular season contests in the friendly confines of Halton Arena, squeezing a road game at Xavier (Mar. 2) between home contests against Richmond (Feb. 26) and the season finale against St. Josephs (Mar. 5).
The A-10 men's basketball tournament will be held on March 8, 11-13. Opening round games will be held at campus sites while the final rounds will be held at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.
“The schedule is challenging with teams like Tennessee, which could be a top 15 team, and going to Oregon State and to the Charleston Tournament for three games in four days where we will be tested by teams like Georgetown and NC State. It’s definitely a schedule that has some BCS flavor,” Major said of the non-conference slate. “You want to put yourself in position by the end of the year that you’ve seen every scenario. I think this schedule is set up that way. We have strong home and road games, a multiple-game format, a cross country trip – hopefully this will put us in the position that we have seen a lot by the time late February, early March rolls around.”
In addition to Tennessee, Xavier and Dayton, the Niners will also play home games against NCAA Tournament participants Richmond and Winthrop.
Charlotte will travel and play in the Charleston Classic, which will be aired nationally on ESPN. The eight-team tournament currently consists of Charlotte, N.C. State, Georgetown, Wofford, George Mason and East Carolina. There are still two teams to be determined to complete the field.
Charlotte will also play four road games against NCAA Tournament teams including Temple, Georgia Tech, Xavier and Richmond.
“The goal of this team is to be playing in March and with this schedule we put ourselves in position to do just that,” Major added.
The non-conference portion of the schedule will be highlighted by Charlotte's bout with Tennessee on Dec. 17. The game will be played at Time Warner Cable Arena and will be aired nationally on CBS College Sports.
Charlotte opens the season on Nov. 13 against South Carolina State before heading to the Charleston Classic, Nov 18-21.
After returning from the Charleston Classic, the Niners will head west and play at Oregon State on Nov. 24 before returning home to face Radford on the 27 to close out the first month of play.
Charlotte will head to Greenville, N.C. to take on East Carolina on Dec. 1 before returning to Halton Arena to face Winthrop.
Charlotte will gain play in the Hornet's Nest Rivalry when they play at the Davidson Wildcats on Dec. 11. Following Charlotte's game with the Volunteers, the Niners will play host to Wright State on Dec. 22 and will close out the non-conference schedule with games at Mercer (Dec. 30) and at Georgia Tech (Jan. 2).
Charlotte will open conference play with a pair of road games against Richmond (Jan. 5) and St. Bonaventure (Jan. 8). Charlotte hosts Fordham in their conference home opener on Jan. 15 and will stay in town to take on UMass on the 19th.
Charlotte will then hit the road again as they take on Duquesne (Jan. 22) and Temple (Jan. 26) before starting a three-game homestand against La Salle (Jan. 29), Xavier (Feb 2.), and George Washington (Feb. 5).
Charlotte heads up to the great white north to take on Rhode Island on Feb. 12 and returns to Halton for a match-up with Dayton on Feb. 16.
The Niners will play two of their final three regular season contests in the friendly confines of Halton Arena, squeezing a road game at Xavier (Mar. 2) between home contests against Richmond (Feb. 26) and the season finale against St. Josephs (Mar. 5).
The A-10 men's basketball tournament will be held on March 8, 11-13. Opening round games will be held at campus sites while the final rounds will be held at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Niners host Sun Devils
The Charlotte 49ers are off to another great start. No stranger to getting off on the right foot to start the soccer season, the Niners haven’t disappointed through two contests this season.
John Cullen led his women’s soccer team to a 1-0 victory in the season opener against the Davidson Wildcats and then took to the road and defeated the N.C. State Wolfpack 2-1 in overtime on Sunday afternoon.
Even with the 2-0 start to the new campaign, the Niners have still had to fight through adversity. Charlotte lost senior captain Katie Davies on defense because of a broken ankle before the season began and have started freshman, Alex Kubrick, in goal.
"Obviously it's been a good weekend for us," Cullen said. "Through two games we've learned to win from in front against Davidson and then obviously we went on the road, fell behind and came back and won. It's a learning curve, you've got to learn to win the games in different ways."
Kubrick hasn’t looked like a freshman though, combining for 10 saves in the opening week and recording her first career shutout Friday against the Wildcats. She also earned A-10 Rookie of the Week honors for her efforts between the pipes.
The 49ers opened 2009 in a similar fashion, scoring a combined eight goals en-route to a 2-0 start but dropped their third game to the Villanova Wildcats, 3-2. Charlotte again welcomes a non-conference opponent to Transamerica Field for their third game when the Arizona State Sun Devils come to town Friday night.
Equally impressive to Charlotte, the Sun Devils are also off to a 2-0 start and have combined for seven goals over the first two games in wins over Baylor and Northern Arizona.
"We definitely have to bring a defensive intensity, they have obviously come out of the gates flying," Cullen said. "They have scored seven goals in the first two games so they're obviously hitting the back of the net. We've got to make sure our concentration levels are pretty high and we've got to have that defensive intensity but at the same time we still have to go out and play our game and our style."
Charlotte and Arizona State last met in the 2007-08 season when the Niners traveled to Tempe as part of a two-game road trip. The 49ers suffered a hard-fought, 1-0 defeat. The Sun Devils’ Karin Volpe scored the game-winning goal in that particular match as a freshman and will now visit Charlotte as a senior. Volpe entered 2010 with 19 career goals and 46 points and has already tallied two goals in Arizona State’s first two games, including the game-winner with just one minute left in the season opener.
"Obviously we need to be aware of her presence on the field at all times," Cullen said. "I think when you focus on one player you can lose sight of the other dangerous players that they bring. Ultimately we just tell our players that every player is a threat, especially in and around our box. We just talk about attention to detail and focus on picking up the dangerous players."
Charlotte senior Whitney Weinraub hasn’t found the back of the net yet in 2010, but she is due for a breakout at any moment. Weinraub entered 2010 with 31 career goals, which is tied for the third highest total in Charlotte history. She needs just six more tallies to break the all-time program record.
Charlotte is known for its passing efficiency and strong defensive play and will surely be tested when the high-scoring Sun Devils visit the Queen city. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
John Cullen led his women’s soccer team to a 1-0 victory in the season opener against the Davidson Wildcats and then took to the road and defeated the N.C. State Wolfpack 2-1 in overtime on Sunday afternoon.
Even with the 2-0 start to the new campaign, the Niners have still had to fight through adversity. Charlotte lost senior captain Katie Davies on defense because of a broken ankle before the season began and have started freshman, Alex Kubrick, in goal.
"Obviously it's been a good weekend for us," Cullen said. "Through two games we've learned to win from in front against Davidson and then obviously we went on the road, fell behind and came back and won. It's a learning curve, you've got to learn to win the games in different ways."
Kubrick hasn’t looked like a freshman though, combining for 10 saves in the opening week and recording her first career shutout Friday against the Wildcats. She also earned A-10 Rookie of the Week honors for her efforts between the pipes.
The 49ers opened 2009 in a similar fashion, scoring a combined eight goals en-route to a 2-0 start but dropped their third game to the Villanova Wildcats, 3-2. Charlotte again welcomes a non-conference opponent to Transamerica Field for their third game when the Arizona State Sun Devils come to town Friday night.
Equally impressive to Charlotte, the Sun Devils are also off to a 2-0 start and have combined for seven goals over the first two games in wins over Baylor and Northern Arizona.
"We definitely have to bring a defensive intensity, they have obviously come out of the gates flying," Cullen said. "They have scored seven goals in the first two games so they're obviously hitting the back of the net. We've got to make sure our concentration levels are pretty high and we've got to have that defensive intensity but at the same time we still have to go out and play our game and our style."
Charlotte and Arizona State last met in the 2007-08 season when the Niners traveled to Tempe as part of a two-game road trip. The 49ers suffered a hard-fought, 1-0 defeat. The Sun Devils’ Karin Volpe scored the game-winning goal in that particular match as a freshman and will now visit Charlotte as a senior. Volpe entered 2010 with 19 career goals and 46 points and has already tallied two goals in Arizona State’s first two games, including the game-winner with just one minute left in the season opener.
"Obviously we need to be aware of her presence on the field at all times," Cullen said. "I think when you focus on one player you can lose sight of the other dangerous players that they bring. Ultimately we just tell our players that every player is a threat, especially in and around our box. We just talk about attention to detail and focus on picking up the dangerous players."
Charlotte senior Whitney Weinraub hasn’t found the back of the net yet in 2010, but she is due for a breakout at any moment. Weinraub entered 2010 with 31 career goals, which is tied for the third highest total in Charlotte history. She needs just six more tallies to break the all-time program record.
Charlotte is known for its passing efficiency and strong defensive play and will surely be tested when the high-scoring Sun Devils visit the Queen city. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Who I got and why: South Carolina-Southern Miss
College football season is finally here. Although the first complete slate of games won't happen until Saturday, there is still a little game down in Columbia Thursday night. Here are my thoughts on tonight's match-up.
Southern Miss (0-0) at South Carolina (0-0) Sept. 2 7:30 p.m. ESPN
This will be the third consecutive year that the Gamecocks have opened the college football season before a prime time television audience. It will also be the third straight year that people will wonder if Steve Spurrier will return to "Old Ball Coach" form and help the Gamecocks challenge for the SEC East title. Thursday night shouldn't be a problem when they welcome Southern Miss into Columbia.
Why South Carolina will win: The Golden Eagles could be a potential roadblock for the Gamecocks, but Spurrier will have his team ready. Southern Miss is inexperienced on defense and Gamecock quarterback Stephen Garcia should have his way with Tori Gurley and Alshon Jeffrey at the receiver spots. Southern Miss will also have four new starters on the offensive line, which could prove disastrous against a stout Gamecock defense.
South Carolina's offense doesn't have a lot of firepower by any means, but expect the South Carolina defense to dial up some pressure and force two or three turnovers to set up Garcia in prime position. Close game in the first half but the Gamecocks pull away in the third.
Prediction: South Carolina 31 Southern Miss 17
Southern Miss (0-0) at South Carolina (0-0) Sept. 2 7:30 p.m. ESPN
This will be the third consecutive year that the Gamecocks have opened the college football season before a prime time television audience. It will also be the third straight year that people will wonder if Steve Spurrier will return to "Old Ball Coach" form and help the Gamecocks challenge for the SEC East title. Thursday night shouldn't be a problem when they welcome Southern Miss into Columbia.
Why South Carolina will win: The Golden Eagles could be a potential roadblock for the Gamecocks, but Spurrier will have his team ready. Southern Miss is inexperienced on defense and Gamecock quarterback Stephen Garcia should have his way with Tori Gurley and Alshon Jeffrey at the receiver spots. Southern Miss will also have four new starters on the offensive line, which could prove disastrous against a stout Gamecock defense.
South Carolina's offense doesn't have a lot of firepower by any means, but expect the South Carolina defense to dial up some pressure and force two or three turnovers to set up Garcia in prime position. Close game in the first half but the Gamecocks pull away in the third.
Prediction: South Carolina 31 Southern Miss 17
Monday, August 30, 2010
Kubrick named Rookie of the Week
Charlotte 49ers freshman goalkeeper Alex Kubrick was named the A-10 Rookie of the Week for her efforts in Charlotte's 2-0 start to the season. Kubrick is the first Niner to earn A-10 Rookie of the Week honors since Lacey McGowan accomplished the feat in October of last year.
Kubrick made her collegiate debut against Davidson on Friday night and in the process recorded her first career shutout in Charlotte's 1-0 victory over the Wildcats. Kubrick was outstanding again on Sunday when she helped the Niners to a 2-1 overtime victory over ACC foe N.C. State on the road. Kubrick has a combined 10 saves over the two games.
The team returns to action on Friday night against Arizona State.
Kubrick made her collegiate debut against Davidson on Friday night and in the process recorded her first career shutout in Charlotte's 1-0 victory over the Wildcats. Kubrick was outstanding again on Sunday when she helped the Niners to a 2-1 overtime victory over ACC foe N.C. State on the road. Kubrick has a combined 10 saves over the two games.
The team returns to action on Friday night against Arizona State.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
49ers move to 2-0
The Charlotte 49ers women's soccer team built upon their strong showing Friday night against Davidson with a comeback win over ACC foe N.C. State Sunday afternoon.
Senior Whitney Bryant buried the winning goal just four minutes into overtime to give the Niners a 2-1 win and a pair of coveted wins over two in-state rivals.
The Wolfpack out shot Charlotte 10-9 for the game but only garnered two attempts on net after halftime. Charlotte was equally impressive in both stanzas, getting four shots on net in the first half and five in the second, including two goals.
The Wolfpack carried play to begin the game, but the goalkeeping of Niner freshman Alex Kubrick kept Charlotte in the game. Kubrick made five saves in the first half, and the two teams entered the mid-way point deadlocked at zero.
Things didn't stay that way for very long in the second half though, as NC State finally got on the board when Paige Dugal found the back of the net from 35 yards out to give the Wolfpack a 1-0 lead in the 48th minute.
Less than a minute later, the Niners answered. Following a Sam Huecker corner kick, senior forward Whitney Weinraub corralled the ball out of a scrum in front of the net and sent it to Lacey McGowan, who connected from close range to tie the score at 1-1.
The two teams combined for 11 shots the rest of the second half but neither could find the back of the net. Just four minutes into the extra period, it was another loose ball that went in Charlotte's favor. Following a Megan Minnix free kick, Bryant gathered the loose ball and buried it in the back of the net to secure a 2-0 start for the Niners. Freshman Sarah Ann Waugh garnered an assist on the play for her first career point.
Charlotte returns to Transamerica Field on Friday for a primetime match-up with Pac-10 member Arizona State. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
Senior Whitney Bryant buried the winning goal just four minutes into overtime to give the Niners a 2-1 win and a pair of coveted wins over two in-state rivals.
The Wolfpack out shot Charlotte 10-9 for the game but only garnered two attempts on net after halftime. Charlotte was equally impressive in both stanzas, getting four shots on net in the first half and five in the second, including two goals.
The Wolfpack carried play to begin the game, but the goalkeeping of Niner freshman Alex Kubrick kept Charlotte in the game. Kubrick made five saves in the first half, and the two teams entered the mid-way point deadlocked at zero.
Things didn't stay that way for very long in the second half though, as NC State finally got on the board when Paige Dugal found the back of the net from 35 yards out to give the Wolfpack a 1-0 lead in the 48th minute.
Less than a minute later, the Niners answered. Following a Sam Huecker corner kick, senior forward Whitney Weinraub corralled the ball out of a scrum in front of the net and sent it to Lacey McGowan, who connected from close range to tie the score at 1-1.
The two teams combined for 11 shots the rest of the second half but neither could find the back of the net. Just four minutes into the extra period, it was another loose ball that went in Charlotte's favor. Following a Megan Minnix free kick, Bryant gathered the loose ball and buried it in the back of the net to secure a 2-0 start for the Niners. Freshman Sarah Ann Waugh garnered an assist on the play for her first career point.
Charlotte returns to Transamerica Field on Friday for a primetime match-up with Pac-10 member Arizona State. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Charlotte hosts Davidson in season opener
The Charlotte 49ers women's soccer team will kick off their season tonight when they take on their bitter rival-the Davidson Wildcats-at 7 p.m. at Transamerica Field.
The Charlotte athletic department will be holding a School Tools Drive prior to the match. Any fan bringing a school supply that benefits the drive will receive free admission into the game. A donation box will be located in front of the ticket office at Transamerica Field
Charlotte head coach John Cullen doesn't have many holes to fill as his team returns nine starters and 19 letterwinnners off a 2009 squad that won 16 games and reached a third consecutive A-10 championship game.
The seniors for Charlotte will be anchored by Whitney Bryant, Danielle Mayeaux, Ashley Roberto and Kirby Stenard and will play a substantial role in the 49ers success in 2010. Unfortunately, the Niners will have to push through without the help of senior captain and defensive stalwart Katie Davies, who suffered a broken ankle in a scrimmage last week.
The Niners come into Friday's match-up with the Wildcats sporting a 12-4 all-time record in season openers, including a 1-0 home triumph over Appalachian State in 2009. Friday's tilt will mark the 15th all-time match-up between the bitter rivals, with Charlotte holding a 10-3-1 series lead. The Niners blanked Davidson 2-0 in last season's match-up, but have lost three of the last four decisions to Davidson.
The Wildcats opened the season with a 2-0 shutout win on Sunday over UNC Wilmington. The Wildcats return 16 letterwinners and eight starters from last year's NCAA Tournament team. Dating back to 2009, the Wildcats are riding an eight-game unbeaten streak of 7-0-1.
The Charlotte athletic department will be holding a School Tools Drive prior to the match. Any fan bringing a school supply that benefits the drive will receive free admission into the game. A donation box will be located in front of the ticket office at Transamerica Field
Charlotte head coach John Cullen doesn't have many holes to fill as his team returns nine starters and 19 letterwinnners off a 2009 squad that won 16 games and reached a third consecutive A-10 championship game.
The seniors for Charlotte will be anchored by Whitney Bryant, Danielle Mayeaux, Ashley Roberto and Kirby Stenard and will play a substantial role in the 49ers success in 2010. Unfortunately, the Niners will have to push through without the help of senior captain and defensive stalwart Katie Davies, who suffered a broken ankle in a scrimmage last week.
The Niners come into Friday's match-up with the Wildcats sporting a 12-4 all-time record in season openers, including a 1-0 home triumph over Appalachian State in 2009. Friday's tilt will mark the 15th all-time match-up between the bitter rivals, with Charlotte holding a 10-3-1 series lead. The Niners blanked Davidson 2-0 in last season's match-up, but have lost three of the last four decisions to Davidson.
The Wildcats opened the season with a 2-0 shutout win on Sunday over UNC Wilmington. The Wildcats return 16 letterwinners and eight starters from last year's NCAA Tournament team. Dating back to 2009, the Wildcats are riding an eight-game unbeaten streak of 7-0-1.
49ers release first football series
The Charlotte 49ers, who received the final aproval for a football program earlier this month, have scheduled their first football series, beginning in 2013.
The Niners have scheduled a home-and-home series with the Morehead State Eagles of the Ohio Valley Conference. The Eagles' football team plays in the Pioneer League, their basketball teams play in the Ohio Valley Conference. Charlotte will visit the Eagles on Nov. 23, 2013 and then will play host on Nov. 22, 2014 in their on-campus stadium.
“The formal announcement that we are starting football in 2013 with no uncertainty was very exciting,” said 49ers Director of Athletics Judy Rose. “We quickly moved forward to begin scheduling and we are off and running. We are pleased to announce that we have scheduled the Charlotte 49ers first home and home series against Morehead State. There are many more games to schedule, including our inaugural game, but it’s exciting to report that we have our first contract in hand.”
The Niners have scheduled a home-and-home series with the Morehead State Eagles of the Ohio Valley Conference. The Eagles' football team plays in the Pioneer League, their basketball teams play in the Ohio Valley Conference. Charlotte will visit the Eagles on Nov. 23, 2013 and then will play host on Nov. 22, 2014 in their on-campus stadium.
“The formal announcement that we are starting football in 2013 with no uncertainty was very exciting,” said 49ers Director of Athletics Judy Rose. “We quickly moved forward to begin scheduling and we are off and running. We are pleased to announce that we have scheduled the Charlotte 49ers first home and home series against Morehead State. There are many more games to schedule, including our inaugural game, but it’s exciting to report that we have our first contract in hand.”
Monday, August 23, 2010
Charlotte announces non-conference schedule
The Charlotte 49ers women's basketball team has released their non-conference schedule for the 2010-11 season. Charlotte will begin play in the preseason WNIT, which features 13 postseason teams from a year ago.
Karen Aston's 49ers made their eighth consecutive postseason appearance last year when they made it to the second round of the WNIT. Not including the preseason WNIT, the Niners will face off with six different teams that played postseason basketball last season.
The preseason WNIT field consists of 2010 postseason tournament participants Austin Peay, Charlotte, DePaul, Florida, Hampton, Iona, James Madison, Lamar, Missouri State, Purdue, Toledo, South Dakota State and St. Francis (Pa.). Charlotte is guaranteed to play at least three games in the WNIT.
The Niners will play seven non-conference games in Halton Arena this season, where they are an impressive 103-22 over the last nine seasons.
Charlotte hosts Iona in the first round of the preseason WNIT and will also play host to non-conference foes Duke, Virginia Tech, East Carolina and VCU. Charlotte's road non-conference schedule features tilts with NC A&T, Arkansas State and a Christmas tournament in New Orleans hosted by Tulane. The Niners will face Tulane, an NCAA Tournament team from last year as well as Old Dominion.
November
13 IONA (Preseason WNIT) Charlotte, NC
14-15 Second Round Preseason WNIT
17-21 Preseason WNIT Semfinals & Championship
23 SAVANNAH STATE Charlotte, NC
27 DUKE Charlotte, NC
30 at North Carolina A&T Greensboro, NC
December
2 at UNC Wilmington Wilmington, NC
5 EAST CAROLINA Charlotte, NC
8 at Western Carolina Cullowhee, NC
11 VCU Charlotte, NC
19 at Arkansas State Jonesboro, AR
22 MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE Charlotte, NC
28-29 at Tulane Christmas Tourney New Orleans, LA
28 vs. Old Dominion
29 vs. Nicholls State/Tulane
January
2 VIRGINIA TECH Charlotte, NC
Karen Aston's 49ers made their eighth consecutive postseason appearance last year when they made it to the second round of the WNIT. Not including the preseason WNIT, the Niners will face off with six different teams that played postseason basketball last season.
The preseason WNIT field consists of 2010 postseason tournament participants Austin Peay, Charlotte, DePaul, Florida, Hampton, Iona, James Madison, Lamar, Missouri State, Purdue, Toledo, South Dakota State and St. Francis (Pa.). Charlotte is guaranteed to play at least three games in the WNIT.
The Niners will play seven non-conference games in Halton Arena this season, where they are an impressive 103-22 over the last nine seasons.
Charlotte hosts Iona in the first round of the preseason WNIT and will also play host to non-conference foes Duke, Virginia Tech, East Carolina and VCU. Charlotte's road non-conference schedule features tilts with NC A&T, Arkansas State and a Christmas tournament in New Orleans hosted by Tulane. The Niners will face Tulane, an NCAA Tournament team from last year as well as Old Dominion.
November
13 IONA (Preseason WNIT) Charlotte, NC
14-15 Second Round Preseason WNIT
17-21 Preseason WNIT Semfinals & Championship
23 SAVANNAH STATE Charlotte, NC
27 DUKE Charlotte, NC
30 at North Carolina A&T Greensboro, NC
December
2 at UNC Wilmington Wilmington, NC
5 EAST CAROLINA Charlotte, NC
8 at Western Carolina Cullowhee, NC
11 VCU Charlotte, NC
19 at Arkansas State Jonesboro, AR
22 MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE Charlotte, NC
28-29 at Tulane Christmas Tourney New Orleans, LA
28 vs. Old Dominion
29 vs. Nicholls State/Tulane
January
2 VIRGINIA TECH Charlotte, NC
Sunday, August 22, 2010
49ers tie Coastal Carolina in exhibition opener
The Charlotte 49ers men's soccer team played to a 0-0 tie against the Coastal Carolina University Chanticleers. It was Charlotte's first game at Transamerica Field since losing in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament in November to UNC Wilmington.
Scoring chances were few and far between during the defensive slugfest that garnered no goals for either team. Charlotte scored a goal late in the first half but it was disallowed due to an offside call. Junior forward Evan James came up with the Charlotte's other prime scoring chance when he sent a point-blank shot soaring over the crossbar midway through the first half.
Charlotte maintained possession for much of the game and held a 15-10 shot advantage when things were all said and done. The Niners also had six corner kicks compared to just one for Coastal.
"I thought we came out and played very well in the first half, we took the game to Coastal and created some great chances," Charlotte head coach Jeremy Gunn said. "Coastal is a team that's renowned for defending very well and they kept it real tight in the second half."
Nuggets
Three different players saw time in net for the Niners.
In all, 22 Charlotte players saw the pitch Sunday night.
Charlotte travels to Winthrop for it's final exhibition game on Thursday at 7 p.m.
Scoring chances were few and far between during the defensive slugfest that garnered no goals for either team. Charlotte scored a goal late in the first half but it was disallowed due to an offside call. Junior forward Evan James came up with the Charlotte's other prime scoring chance when he sent a point-blank shot soaring over the crossbar midway through the first half.
Charlotte maintained possession for much of the game and held a 15-10 shot advantage when things were all said and done. The Niners also had six corner kicks compared to just one for Coastal.
"I thought we came out and played very well in the first half, we took the game to Coastal and created some great chances," Charlotte head coach Jeremy Gunn said. "Coastal is a team that's renowned for defending very well and they kept it real tight in the second half."
Nuggets
Three different players saw time in net for the Niners.
In all, 22 Charlotte players saw the pitch Sunday night.
Charlotte travels to Winthrop for it's final exhibition game on Thursday at 7 p.m.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Niners host Coastal Carolina in exhibition opener
The Charlotte 49ers men's soccer team will host Coastal Carolina Sunday night at 6:30 in an exhibition opener at Transamerica Field. The Niners participated in the NCAA Tournament for the sixth time in program history in 2009 and are currently ranked inside the top 25.
Charlotte returns seven starters to a squad that reached the NCAAs for the first time under head coach Jeremy Gunn and the first time since 1997. Charlotte won 11 games under Gunn last season and are 18-2-5 at home under the Harrogate, England native.
The Niners head to UNC Greensboro on Wednesday Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. to kick off the regular season.
Charlotte returns seven starters to a squad that reached the NCAAs for the first time under head coach Jeremy Gunn and the first time since 1997. Charlotte won 11 games under Gunn last season and are 18-2-5 at home under the Harrogate, England native.
The Niners head to UNC Greensboro on Wednesday Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. to kick off the regular season.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
National title or Rose Bowl for the Buckeyes?
The Ohio State Buckeyes finally won a big BCS game against a big-time team in the 2009 Rose Bowl against Oregon. Will they make another appearance in the New years Day game, or take a step to the next level and win another national title for Jim Tressel. Here's a quick look at the 2010 Buckeyes.
The Offense: When quarterback Terrelle Pryor is on, the Buckeyes are a tough test, exemplified by their overwhelming victory in the Rose Bowl. But when he's off, it makes it that much tougher on the Buckeye offense. Pryor doesn't have to be Joe Montana every week for OSU to win the Big Ten, but if the Bucks want contend for a national title, he needs to be on the money each and every week.
The Defense: OSU's defense was solid against the run last year, never allowing more than 200 yards. And to be solid again, they'll need to rely on some solid young prospects. The play of guys like John Simon, Dorian Bell and Nathan Williams could make the difference between a nice bowl win or national title game berth.
The Schedule: Ohio State's schedule sets up for an undefeated run (as it usually does), but there are some potential landmines with games against a strong Miami team and an up and coming Northwestern squad. The real test for OSU will come when they play Penn State and Iowa in back-to-back weeks.
--Josh Carpenter
The Offense: When quarterback Terrelle Pryor is on, the Buckeyes are a tough test, exemplified by their overwhelming victory in the Rose Bowl. But when he's off, it makes it that much tougher on the Buckeye offense. Pryor doesn't have to be Joe Montana every week for OSU to win the Big Ten, but if the Bucks want contend for a national title, he needs to be on the money each and every week.
The Defense: OSU's defense was solid against the run last year, never allowing more than 200 yards. And to be solid again, they'll need to rely on some solid young prospects. The play of guys like John Simon, Dorian Bell and Nathan Williams could make the difference between a nice bowl win or national title game berth.
The Schedule: Ohio State's schedule sets up for an undefeated run (as it usually does), but there are some potential landmines with games against a strong Miami team and an up and coming Northwestern squad. The real test for OSU will come when they play Penn State and Iowa in back-to-back weeks.
--Josh Carpenter
Monday, August 9, 2010
Can LSU challenge for the SEC West?
It hasn't been the same LSU over the last two years since the Tigers took home the national championship, but with the potential of good young prospects on offense and a renewed offensive line, LSU just might be able to challenge for the SEC West title. Here's a quick look at some key pieces for Les Miles' squad.
The Offense: Known for having very athletic players at the skill positions, the Tigers have set themselves up for 2010. Receiver Terrence Toliver is a known commodity, but junior tight end Deangelo Peterson might be a player to keep an eye on. Also keep an eye on running back Michael Ford, who has had a phenomenal spring.
The Defense: LSU will have two new starters at the outside linebacker spots. Kelvin Sheppard will be the anchor in the middle, but the Tigers need to get some solid play from Stefoin Francois and Ryan Baker. To be successful, LSU needs to get more pressure on the quarterback from all defensive positions.
The Schedule: No team could run through this schedule unblemished, but LSU got a bit of a break with some huge home games. If the Tigers can get past North Carolina in the opener, they have the potential to start 5-0 after playing at Vanderbilt, but getting Mississippi State, Tennessee and West Virginia in Death Valley. If they do start 5-0, they'll be heading to the swamp in what might be an SEC Championship preview. Road games at Arkansas and Auburn are potential landmines to LSU's season.
The Offense: Known for having very athletic players at the skill positions, the Tigers have set themselves up for 2010. Receiver Terrence Toliver is a known commodity, but junior tight end Deangelo Peterson might be a player to keep an eye on. Also keep an eye on running back Michael Ford, who has had a phenomenal spring.
The Defense: LSU will have two new starters at the outside linebacker spots. Kelvin Sheppard will be the anchor in the middle, but the Tigers need to get some solid play from Stefoin Francois and Ryan Baker. To be successful, LSU needs to get more pressure on the quarterback from all defensive positions.
The Schedule: No team could run through this schedule unblemished, but LSU got a bit of a break with some huge home games. If the Tigers can get past North Carolina in the opener, they have the potential to start 5-0 after playing at Vanderbilt, but getting Mississippi State, Tennessee and West Virginia in Death Valley. If they do start 5-0, they'll be heading to the swamp in what might be an SEC Championship preview. Road games at Arkansas and Auburn are potential landmines to LSU's season.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Alabama's road to the National Championship
College football is nearly upon us. So with the season looming large and the Alabama Crimson Tide poised to repeat as national champions, I'll take a look at a few key games and players to look at for the 2010 season.
Offensive Expectations: The Tide should be more balanced on offense this season as Greg McElroy now has a national title under his belt and more experience, not to mention the loaded receiving corps that includes Julio Jones. Expect Alabama to still rely heavily on the run with Heisman winner Mark Ingram and a punishing Ton, but Nick Saban's crew should feed off of that and average more than 200 yards per game.
The Defense: The defense shouldn't have that much of a drop off from last season, but with the loss of Terrence Cody and Roland McClain will definitely have an effect. Even with the loss of those players, Alabama's defense is still heavy with NFL-quality players and should be just fine.
Schedule: Alabama won't be playing in the kickoff game this year but will be playing in a big non-conference game early in the season, playing host to Penn State in just the second week. The obvious game to watch would be against Florida on Oct. 2, but keep a close eye on the Sept. 25 game at Arkansas for the Tide to slip up. The Hogs return Ryan Mallett and an explosive offense, and could pose the first real threat to Alabama's defense.
--Josh Carpenter
Offensive Expectations: The Tide should be more balanced on offense this season as Greg McElroy now has a national title under his belt and more experience, not to mention the loaded receiving corps that includes Julio Jones. Expect Alabama to still rely heavily on the run with Heisman winner Mark Ingram and a punishing Ton, but Nick Saban's crew should feed off of that and average more than 200 yards per game.
The Defense: The defense shouldn't have that much of a drop off from last season, but with the loss of Terrence Cody and Roland McClain will definitely have an effect. Even with the loss of those players, Alabama's defense is still heavy with NFL-quality players and should be just fine.
Schedule: Alabama won't be playing in the kickoff game this year but will be playing in a big non-conference game early in the season, playing host to Penn State in just the second week. The obvious game to watch would be against Florida on Oct. 2, but keep a close eye on the Sept. 25 game at Arkansas for the Tide to slip up. The Hogs return Ryan Mallett and an explosive offense, and could pose the first real threat to Alabama's defense.
--Josh Carpenter
Friday, August 6, 2010
49ers ranked in preseason poll
Jeremy Gunn's Charlotte 49ers men's soccer team is ranked 25th in the College Soccer news preseason poll. Charlotte was ranked in the top 25 for much of last season and were ranked as high as ninth in late Oct. after defeating 3rd-ranked Wake Forest.
The Niners return nine starters and 15 letterwinners from a 2009 squad that hosted a first round NCAA Tournament game. Charlotte's non-conference schedule for 2010 is one of the toughest in the A-10 as Charlotte hosts the likes of Wake Forest, Clemson, South Carolina and Furman at Transamerica Field. Charlotte will also travel on the road to face UNC Greensboro and UAB.
Charlotte plays Coastal Carolina in an exhibition game on Sunday, Aug. 22. They open the regular season on the road against UNC Greensboro on Sept. 1.
--Josh Carpenter
The Niners return nine starters and 15 letterwinners from a 2009 squad that hosted a first round NCAA Tournament game. Charlotte's non-conference schedule for 2010 is one of the toughest in the A-10 as Charlotte hosts the likes of Wake Forest, Clemson, South Carolina and Furman at Transamerica Field. Charlotte will also travel on the road to face UNC Greensboro and UAB.
Charlotte plays Coastal Carolina in an exhibition game on Sunday, Aug. 22. They open the regular season on the road against UNC Greensboro on Sept. 1.
--Josh Carpenter
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Cullen's Niners picked second
The Charlotte 49ers women's soccer team was picked to finish second in the A-10 in a preseason vote by the league's coaches. Dayton, winner of last year's championship, was picked ahead of Charlotte. The Niners have won three of the last four regular season titles.
Charlotte has a 23-game regular season unbeaten streak in conference play and return nine starters from the 2009 squad. Charlotte finished 16-3-2 and 9-0-2 in the A-10. Charlotte opens the season on Aug. 29 at N.C. State and open their campaign at Transamerica Field on Sept. 3 against the Arizona State Sun Devils.
--Josh Carpenter
Charlotte has a 23-game regular season unbeaten streak in conference play and return nine starters from the 2009 squad. Charlotte finished 16-3-2 and 9-0-2 in the A-10. Charlotte opens the season on Aug. 29 at N.C. State and open their campaign at Transamerica Field on Sept. 3 against the Arizona State Sun Devils.
--Josh Carpenter
Friday, July 30, 2010
Sajevic wins Nebraska State Amateur
Charlotte 49ers sophomore Andy Sajevic won the Nebraska State Amateur title Thursday, defeating Ryan Nietfeldt by two shots. Paired with Nietfeldt in the final round, Sajevic overcame a five-shot deficit with 16 holes to play with his 2-under-par 69.
This is the second state title the Sajevic family has won, as Andy's father John won the event in 1989-and finished tied for third this year. Sajevic also won the Nebraska Junior Amateur in 2009 as well as the Nebraska Junior Match Play title. He placed 7th in the Nebraska Amateur last year.
This is the second state title the Sajevic family has won, as Andy's father John won the event in 1989-and finished tied for third this year. Sajevic also won the Nebraska Junior Amateur in 2009 as well as the Nebraska Junior Match Play title. He placed 7th in the Nebraska Amateur last year.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Next stop for Brind'Amour, Toronto
In the National Hockey League, you have two types of players. The flashy, first-line guys that light up the scoreboard every night (see Alex Ovechkin), and the not-so-flashy second and third liners that consistently win faceoffs and cycle the puck down low. Look up the definition of that second group in the dictionary and you'll find Rod Brind'Amour.
The Ottawa native known as "Rod the Bod" was known for his intense workout sessions, often heading straight to the gym after the game and staying there until the lights went out. Brind'Amour spent his lone college season with the Michigan State Spartans after being drafted 9th overall in the 1988 entry draft by the St. Louis Blues.
Brind'Amour joined the Blues at the end of the collegiate hockey season for the 1989 playoffs. He made his debut against the Minnesota North Stars in game 5 of the Blues' divisional semifinal and scored on his first career shot on goal. Following the 1990-91 season, Brind'Amour was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he would become one of the Flyers' most popular players. It was there that Brind'Amour cemented himself as one of the NHL's career iron men, starting in a franchise record 484 consecutive games.
Following an ankle injury during the 1999-2000 season, Brind'Amour was traded to Carolina for Keith Primeau. Neither player was happy with the trade at the time, but during the 2001-02 season Brind'Amour officially put the Hurricanes on the map. He teamed up with Bates Battaglia and Erik Cole to form the infamous "BBC line," leading the Hurricanes on a Cinderella run to the Stanley Cup Finals before falling to Detroit in five games.
Brind'Amour never scored the flashy goal. In fact, his most famous tally might have been the go-ahead goal in game one of the 2006 Stanley Cup Finals. After the Hurricanes overcame a 3-goal deficit to tie the game late, Oilers goalie Dwayne Roloson misplayed the puck behind his net with under a minute remaining. Right on cue, "Rod the Bod" was there, stealing the puck from Roloson, scoring the empty net goal and changing the entire complexion of the series.
For most Hurricanes fans, the one memory that will always be etched in their minds will be seeing an emotional Brind'Amour hoisting the Stanley Cup at the end of that seven game series. Brind'Amour tore his ACL during the 2007-08 season but returned to the Hurricanes in 2008-09 to lead them to the eastern conference finals, exemplifying his dedicated work ethic.
Brind'Amour's career was characterized by gritty, classy play. He showed younger players the ropes and set the standards in the dressing room. When his playing career was winding down, he gave up his captain's "C" to a younger Eric Staal, knowing that he had solidified his legacy and couldn't play the game he loved forever.
Brind'Amour was a classic hockey player and set the standard for how the game should be played. He might not be on the ice next season, but after accepting a job with the Hurricanes' front office, he'll be around.
Brind'Amour played in the NHL for a remarkable 21 seasons, and when he receives that call from the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, he'll be remembered forever.
Nagy, Beam sweep A-10 awards
Even in the off-season, the Charlotte 49ers are making headlines. Senior Corey Nagy of men's golf and senior Hailey Beam of women's soccer were named the A-10's Male and Female Scholar-Athletes of the Year for their outstanding accomplishments both on and off the playing field. The voters were comprised of the athletic directors of the A-10.
This marks just the fourth time in conference history that one school has swept the awards and the first time since the 2001-02 season. With the sweep, Charlotte now has five award winners in just five years in the league.
Nagy, who was the first Niner athlete to earn All-American honors in each of his four years, was voted as a second team all-America by Golfweek and the GCAA. A psychology major, Nagy graduated cum laude with a cumulative 3.60 GPA while leading the Niners to four straight A-10 titles and four straight NCAA appearances. Nagy was instrumental in Charlotte's back-to-back NCAA top 10 finishes in 2007 and 2008 and was part of the team that was ranked as a consensus No. 1 in the fall of 2007. Nagy finished his 49er career as the most decorated golfer in program history.
Beam, the women's soccer program's first consensus all-America selection, was also a two-time A-10 Midfielder of the Year and two-time A-10 Women's Soccer Student-Athlete of the Year.
She finished her Niner career with 103 total points. Her 36 goals equal the 49ers all-time record and her 31 career assists rank her second in the program's history. Beam graduated magna cum laude with a 3.81 GPA in finance and marketing.
This marks just the fourth time in conference history that one school has swept the awards and the first time since the 2001-02 season. With the sweep, Charlotte now has five award winners in just five years in the league.
Nagy, who was the first Niner athlete to earn All-American honors in each of his four years, was voted as a second team all-America by Golfweek and the GCAA. A psychology major, Nagy graduated cum laude with a cumulative 3.60 GPA while leading the Niners to four straight A-10 titles and four straight NCAA appearances. Nagy was instrumental in Charlotte's back-to-back NCAA top 10 finishes in 2007 and 2008 and was part of the team that was ranked as a consensus No. 1 in the fall of 2007. Nagy finished his 49er career as the most decorated golfer in program history.
Beam, the women's soccer program's first consensus all-America selection, was also a two-time A-10 Midfielder of the Year and two-time A-10 Women's Soccer Student-Athlete of the Year.
She finished her Niner career with 103 total points. Her 36 goals equal the 49ers all-time record and her 31 career assists rank her second in the program's history. Beam graduated magna cum laude with a 3.81 GPA in finance and marketing.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
College Player Watch: John Brantley
John Brantley could have started at quarterback anywhere else for the last two years. Problem was, he was on the same depth chart as Tim Tebow. But Brantley always wanted to be a Florida Gator, as both his father and brother attended UF. Brantley might not have the inspiring words of Tebow, but something he does have that Tebow lacked is a pocket presence.
The 6-foot-3-inch, 218-pound Brantley has the pro-style arm that Tebow was without but still has the ability to make the occasional play on the ground. Brantley is unproven, and it will be a tough task taking over for one of the most accomplished players in the history of college football. Brantley finished his high school career with a FHSAA record 99 career touchdown passes, one more than the aforementioned Tebow.
Photo courtesy of MCT Campus
Sunday, June 6, 2010
College Player Watch: Stephen Garcia
Garcia was a hot recruit coming out of high school, and some might say he's underachieved. At 6-foot-2, 230 pounds, he has a big arm and good mobility, and showed the ability to make plays from inside the pocket and with his feet.
An average season in 2009, Garcia completed just 55 percent of his passes while throwing for 2,862 yards, 17 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. After getting off to a strong start, including a win over fourth-ranked Ole Miss, the Gamecocks floundered down the stretch. Behind a dismal offensive line, Garcia threw eight interceptions over the final eight games and ended the season with an ugly loss to UConn in the Papa John's Bowl
Garcia didn't have any time to make plays in 2009, but behind an improved offensive line he'll have the full reigns to Steve Spurrier's offense in 2010. While he can run (186 yards and four touchdowns), he isn't the perfect fit for Spurrier's complex offense and probably won't be able to accomplish everything the old ball coach wants to. If Garcia can't produce in the early-going, Spurrier won't hesitate to pull the plug and make some dramatic changes.
Photo courtesy of MCT Campus
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Busch goes back-to-back
Another Coca-Cola 600, another dominant performance for the winning car. Kurt Busch backed up last week’s All-Star win with a dominating performance Saturday night at Charlotte Motor Speedway to win NASCAR’s longest race. Busch became only the seventh driver to win the All-Star Race and the Coca-Cola 600 in back-to-back weeks, joining the ranks of Dale Earnhardt and Darrel Waltrip. Busch led for a race-high 256 laps with the next highest number of laps led by a driver being Jimmie Johnson with 36 laps led.
“This has been a dream come true to be able to wrap up this special weekend,” Busch said. “This was a fantastic job by my guys to keep us up front all day. This was a race for the ages. To have a car as good as it was in the daytime, I was afraid of what it would do at night. It’s unbelievable that we swept both races.”
“It’s a prestigious race, it’s a tough race, and most important, it’s a team race.”
For a while, it looked like Kyle Busch might score another comeback win. Busch came from almost three laps down in Saturday’s Nationwide Series to get his fifth win in six tries at Charlotte. Sunday night, it looked like he might do it again. While leading, Busch got tangled up with Brad Keselowski on lap 168 after a two-tire stop and seriously damaged his No. 18 M&M’s Toyota. Busch meticulously made his way through the field though and worked his way up to a third-place finish to move within 29 points of series leader Kevin Harvick.
“We had a really good race car, I thought we were one of the best to be able to keep up with the two and the one,” Busch said. “We made a lot of changes to it (the car), we kept making swings at it to try and make it better, and we got a third place finish out of it.”
Jeff Burton was among the late race challengers, but on a late restart, it looked as if Kyle Busch got into Burton’s left rear tire in a three-wide situation. Burton proceeded to cut the tire down and finish 25th.
One of the evolving stories of the night was the run of Jamie McMurray and the No. 1 Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet. Earlier in the day, Dario Franchitti won the Indianapolis 500 to make Chip Ganassi the first car owner to win both the Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500 in the same year. And with McMurray making a run to the top at Charlotte, it looked as if Ganassi might win the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 in the same day, an unprecedented accomplishment in auto racing. McMurray finished second behind Busch and moved up two spots to 15th in the points standings.
“We had a great car, you know I was worried after happy hour. Our car had really good speed but it just didn’t drive very well,” McMurray said. “We did a great job of making adjustments though and put the same setup we ran in the All-Star Race. The car was really good and they did a nice job of adjusting on it all night long.”
Starting the race fourth in points, Johnson looked poised for another win at Charlotte early in the race but tagged the outside retaining wall on the front stretch just under 100 laps into the race. Johnson rebounded back into the top 20, but got loose on the back stretch on lap 274 and slammed into the wall, effectively ending his night.
“I was trying to run from the leader, and I had the leader on my tail coming through,” Johnson said. “We made some big adjustments to the car and basically adjusted it to free it up there and I just spun out off of (Turn 2).”
Point leader Harvick picked up an 11th-place finish to retain a slight points lead over Kyle Busch. Other points movers were Jeff Gordon, who moved up two spots to fourth after a sixth place finish while Busch moved up three spots with the win to sixth.
The Sprint Cup Series heads to Pocono Raceway next week for the Gillette Fusion ProGlide 500 presented by Target.
Photo courtesy of Wilson Herlong
Geoff Bodine to race for share of $1 million
Yes, you saw that right. 61-year-old Geoff Bodine has signed on to race for the largest U.S. Legends purse in grassroots racing history. Bodine will compete in the Legends million at Charlotte Motor Speedway July 15-17 behind the wheel of the Florida Alzheimer's Association car.
Bodine has an illustrious NASCAR career that includes 18 series wins, including the 1986 Daytona 500 and 1982 Rookie of the Year. The event will feature Legend car Series regulars as well as up-and-coming drivers in a 100-lap dash for the cash. The only other auto racing series that compete for a $1 million prize is the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Nationwide and IndyCar Series.
The main event will be nationally telecast on SPEED TV on July 17, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. The telecast will include the entire live A-Main race as well as highlights from Thursday and Friday night's racing action. The winner of the A-Main event will pocket $250,000 with the final spot assured $10,000.
For the Legends Million, Bodine's race car will showcase his commitment to helping those in need. Bodine's car will carry a special paint scheme for the Florida chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and Bodine has pledged to donate his entire prize winnings to help the organization.
"The only way my friends got me to agree to run in the Legends Million was is I could give the money to a charity," Bodine said. "I've been involved in a lot of charities over the years and want to influence people who do good things. I hope we're able to help those affected by this terrible illness."
Bodine's first experience in a Legend Car came in 1997 in a celebrity race. His son, Barry Bodine went on to win the series championship that year. Bodine's final Sprint Cup Series win came in August 1996 in the "Bud at the Glen." Bodine raced in his final Sprint Cup Series race in 2004 at the MBNA America "A Salute To Heroes" 400 at Dover.
Bodine has an illustrious NASCAR career that includes 18 series wins, including the 1986 Daytona 500 and 1982 Rookie of the Year. The event will feature Legend car Series regulars as well as up-and-coming drivers in a 100-lap dash for the cash. The only other auto racing series that compete for a $1 million prize is the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Nationwide and IndyCar Series.
The main event will be nationally telecast on SPEED TV on July 17, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. The telecast will include the entire live A-Main race as well as highlights from Thursday and Friday night's racing action. The winner of the A-Main event will pocket $250,000 with the final spot assured $10,000.
For the Legends Million, Bodine's race car will showcase his commitment to helping those in need. Bodine's car will carry a special paint scheme for the Florida chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and Bodine has pledged to donate his entire prize winnings to help the organization.
"The only way my friends got me to agree to run in the Legends Million was is I could give the money to a charity," Bodine said. "I've been involved in a lot of charities over the years and want to influence people who do good things. I hope we're able to help those affected by this terrible illness."
Bodine's first experience in a Legend Car came in 1997 in a celebrity race. His son, Barry Bodine went on to win the series championship that year. Bodine's final Sprint Cup Series win came in August 1996 in the "Bud at the Glen." Bodine raced in his final Sprint Cup Series race in 2004 at the MBNA America "A Salute To Heroes" 400 at Dover.
3 drivers to watch in the Coca-Cola 600
Now that it's raceday for the Coca-Cola 600, here are my three drivers to watch in the season's longest race.
Darkhorse: Kasey Kahne
Sure, Kahne is 19th in the points standings, but he's always been strong at Charlotte. Kahne was dominant in yesterday's Nationwide Series race before alternator problems eliminated any chance of a win. Three of Kahne's 11 career wins have come at Charlotte, so don't be surprised if the No. 9 Budweiser Ford is in the mix near the end.
Contender: Kyle Busch
Busch doesn't have a strong track record at Charlotte in the Sprint Cup Series, but who can argue against four straight wins in points races in NASCAR's top three series. Busch has six career Nationwide Series wins at Charlotte and has picked up two Sprint Cup Series wins this season. After his late-race run in with Denny Hamlin last week, Busch is poised to pick up his third win of the season.
Winner: Jimmie Johnson
He's fourth in points, but Jimmie Johnson is always a solid winning pick at Charlotte Motor Speedway. A winner of four straight points championships and six Sprint Cup Series races at Charlotte, Johnson is hard to bet against at the 1.5 mile oval. After three straight wins in NASCAR's longest race, Johnson hasn't picked up a win at the 600 since 2005 and seems overdue for a victory.
Darkhorse: Kasey Kahne
Sure, Kahne is 19th in the points standings, but he's always been strong at Charlotte. Kahne was dominant in yesterday's Nationwide Series race before alternator problems eliminated any chance of a win. Three of Kahne's 11 career wins have come at Charlotte, so don't be surprised if the No. 9 Budweiser Ford is in the mix near the end.
Contender: Kyle Busch
Busch doesn't have a strong track record at Charlotte in the Sprint Cup Series, but who can argue against four straight wins in points races in NASCAR's top three series. Busch has six career Nationwide Series wins at Charlotte and has picked up two Sprint Cup Series wins this season. After his late-race run in with Denny Hamlin last week, Busch is poised to pick up his third win of the season.
Winner: Jimmie Johnson
He's fourth in points, but Jimmie Johnson is always a solid winning pick at Charlotte Motor Speedway. A winner of four straight points championships and six Sprint Cup Series races at Charlotte, Johnson is hard to bet against at the 1.5 mile oval. After three straight wins in NASCAR's longest race, Johnson hasn't picked up a win at the 600 since 2005 and seems overdue for a victory.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Busch wins Tech-Net 300
Kyle Busch was two laps down, almost three. But he never gave up. The self-proclaimed “Old Kyle” might have packed it in, but this is the new Busch. After falling nearly three laps behind in the early going because of a pit road penalty, Busch came over the radio and said of still winning the race, “I’ve never done this before. Let’s do it.”
Busch proceeded to plow through the field on the way to his fourth win in his last five tries on the Nationwide Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the Tech-Net Auto Service 300. That fifth time, Busch finished second to Mike Bliss.
"We don't like to make them too easy I guess," Busch said following the win. "It's a testament to this team and these guys and Jason Ratcliff. They gave me a good piece today."
Busch held off Brad Keselowski and several late restarts for the 35th win of his Nationwide Series career. The win was the 50th of Busch’s career in a Toyota across all three of NASCAR’s series’. The win also moved Busch within one point of Keselowski for the series points lead; however Busch declared this week that he won’t defend his title so he can focus on the Sprint Cup Series. Busch now has six wins in 14 tries at the 1.5 mile oval and is tied with Mark Martin with six wins at CMS.
Keselowski posted his fifth top-10 finish in eight races at Charlotte and 11th top-10 in 2010.
"It was a great day. We led a bunch of laps at the start and there towards the end," Keselowski said. "A great day for us here at Charlotte. If we would have had one more lap, we would have had a shot at it."
Joey Logano, who entered Saturday’s race eighth in points, finished third. It was his second top-10 in four career races at CMS.
I wish we could have turned it up just a little bit and would have had at leas something for him (Busch)," Logano said. "We thought two tires was going to make the difference there at the end. We were sitting in good position, just not fast enough."
Carl Edwards started on the pole but had a mediocre day on the way to a ninth-place finish while second place starter Trevor Bayne finished 17th.
The Nationwide Series heads to Nashville, TN next weekend for the Federated Auto Parts 300.
Photo courtesy of Wilson Herlong
College Player Watch: Jake Locker
The Washington Huskies football program got a boost in the offseason when quarterback Jake Locker decided to return for his senior season rather than declare for the NFL Draft.
At 6-3, 226 pounds, Locker is a game changer and has been a springboard for the Huskies' floundering football program over the last three years.
After an abbreviated season in 2008 because of a thumb injury, Locker returned in 2009 and led the Huskies to a five-win improvement over the 2008 season in which they went 0-12. Locker's big arm gives him the ability to get the ball downfield quickly and allowed him to throw for 2,880 yards, 21 touchdowns and just 11 interceptions. Locker is also very athletic for his size rushing for 388 yards and seven touchdowns in 2009.
Locker showed great improvement in 2009 under head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Huskies will be looking for an even bigger improvement in 2010.
At 6-3, 226 pounds, Locker is a game changer and has been a springboard for the Huskies' floundering football program over the last three years.
After an abbreviated season in 2008 because of a thumb injury, Locker returned in 2009 and led the Huskies to a five-win improvement over the 2008 season in which they went 0-12. Locker's big arm gives him the ability to get the ball downfield quickly and allowed him to throw for 2,880 yards, 21 touchdowns and just 11 interceptions. Locker is also very athletic for his size rushing for 388 yards and seven touchdowns in 2009.
Locker showed great improvement in 2009 under head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Huskies will be looking for an even bigger improvement in 2010.
Deegan has aspirations for NASCAR
After making a huge mark on Freestyle Motocross, Brian Deegan wants to try his hand at stock car racing. The most decorated medalist in X-Games history announced today that he plans on making the transition to stock car racing and eventually wants to race in the Sprint Cup Series.
To move up to the Sprint Cup Series, Deegan announced that he will be joining the NTS Motorsports driver development program. Deegan will become part of a two-car program that NTS will field, along with current driver Brennan Newberry.
"When NASCAR chairman Brian France told the world that NASCAR 'is a contact sport...we're going to loosen it up,' I'm not sure Mr. France knew what he was getting into," Deegan said. "I took that as a personal invitation for guys like me. I love racing, I love going fast, I love pushing the limit and that's what I'm going to bring to NASCAR."
In coming to NASCAR, Deegan will bring an entirely new group of fans to the sport.
"Brian is a winner and is going to bring the same commitment and passion that took him to the top of Motocross and the X-Games," NTS Motorrsports Team Owner Bob Newberry said. "We are similarly committed to putting Brian in world class equipment, getting him the seat time to ensure his success, and moving him through our development process to Sprint Cup."
Deegan founded a group called the "Metal Mulisha" and despite numerous injuries and almost dying three separate times, went on to win 10 X-Games medals.
As a precursor to his move into NASCAR, Deegan founded the Rockstar Energy/Metal Mulisha/Lucas Oil short course off-road truck racing team where Deegan won the championship in 2009.
Photo courtesy of Wilson Herlong
Friday, May 28, 2010
College Player Watch: Ryan Mallett
To continue the early college football look ahead, I'll look at the Arkansas' Ryan Mallett. This 6-foot-7-inch, 238 pound gunslinger has it all. A big pro-style arm, tremendous size, and the potential to take the Hogs to a whole new level.
After taking a year off because of a transfer, Mallett exploded out of the gate in 2009. Highlighted by a 409-yard, five touchdown game in a loss to the Georgia Bulldogs. Mallett was the key to the Hog's renewed success in 2009, completing 56 percent of his throws for 3,624 yards, 30 touchdowns and just seven interceptions.
The only weak spot in Mallett is that he shrunk in the big games. Against Alabama, Florida, Ole Miss, LSU and in the bowl game against the East Carolina Pirates, Mallett completed just 39 percent of his passes and threw only five touchdown passes; never throwing for more than 254 yards.
If the Razorbacks want to contend in the battle for the SEC West title, Mallett will need to show more poise in the big games.
Photo courtesy of MCT Campus
Thursday, May 27, 2010
I know it's early
It's very early, only May 27 in fact, but it's never too early to talk college football 2010. My first college player watch for 2010 was one of the surprises of the 2009 season, and if not for a dim-witted move of an established starter, this player might not have seen nearly as much action.
When LeGarrette Blount punched a Boise State player following Oregon's season-opening loss, he kicked open the door for freshman running back LaMichael James. In what was one of the best freshman seasons by a Duck running back in a long time, James tore opponents up.
The 5-9, 180 pound freshman used Blount's dense move as a springboard for a huge season. James rushed for 1,456 yards and 14 touchdowns and also caught 17 balls for 168 yards. James' small frame was useful in eluding defenders and helped him rush for more than 100 yards in nine of the Ducks' final 10 regular season contests.
James' season was highlighted by a season-high 183 yards against USC as well as a 166-yard, three touchdown performance against Oregon State in the season finale that helped the Ducks clinch a spot in the Rose Bowl.
James is a heat-seeking missile out of the backfield and hits the hole with authority. While he looks small, don't be fooled. James has exceptional strength and won't be brought down by arm tackles; he also has the ability to make defenders look down-right silly in the open field with his quick moves.
Now a sophomore, James will be looking to make national headlines as one of the top tailbacks in the country. However, he won't be able make those headlines until week two because of a one-week suspension due to a domestic violence charge.
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