GVSports Monthly Magazine

Dave DiIanni Named Soccer Coach of the Year | Grand Valley State Lacrosse: In the Spotlight

February 2011

Junior • Outfielder

Cody GriCe

Preseason All-American

THe reTUrN oF

LAKer BASeBALL

Fi n d l ay

Wayne State

IN THIS ISSUE 5

WOMEN’S SOCCER Wenglinski, DiIanni Earn NSCAA National Awards Briauna Taylor sophomore guard

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WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Sophomores Play Big Role in GVSU’s Early Season Run

2 FEATURED PHOTO 3 FOOTBALL SIGNING THE SPOTLIGHT 4 IN Alicia Groveston - Coaching Lacrosse 6 NEWS IN BRIEF 10 The Green Zone 11 Q&A with Dr. Paul M. Leidig

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MEN’S BASKETBALL Balance and Depth Push Lakers to Another Successful Start

13 PLAYER PROFILES

Edward Dennis & Serena Black

BASEBALL

16

GLIAC AWARDS Four Lakers Earn GLIAC Commissioners’ Award

pg. 8

Season Preview T­he­Grand­Valley­State­baseball­program­has­been among­the­most­successful­in­the­DII­ranks­since 2000­...­­­­by­Tim­Nott editor in chief

FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE

Volume 2 Number 7

EDITOR IN CHIEF Tim­Nott

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Doug­Witte

MANAGING EDITOR Doug­Lipinski

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Charlie­Read

PRINTER Jenison­Printing STAFF WRITERS DJ­Foster Kelsey­Deacon

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14 CALENDAR Featured events for February 2011 14 SANDRA’S SNAPSHOT 15

CONTRIBUTORS Janine­Freeman Andy­Fry Adam­Ingraham Sandra­Jennings Sharon­Kowalczyk Kyle­Schwerin ­GV­Sports­Marketing GVSU­Sports­Information

GV­ Sports­ Monthly­ Magazine­ is­ a magazine­that­focuses­on­athletics­at Grand­Valley­State­University.­Copies of­the­magazine­are­free­to­the­community­and­located­on­news­stands­in the­greater­Grand­Rapids­area.­Copies of­the­magazine­are­also­distributed­in Allendale­by­the­Advance­Newspaper.

GV Sports­Monthly­Magazine GVSU,­192­Fieldhouse­

Women’s Cross Country

Women’s Soccer

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Alicia Groveston Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach

Commitment This­spring­our­ladies­are­up­at­6am practicing­ without­ being­ able­ to play­a­single­intercollegiate­­game this­semester.­They­dig­deep­every day­to­get­up­and­perform.­What­we have­tried­to­tell­and­show­them­is how­much­this­year­will­pay­off­not only­for­them­as­individuals,­but­as a­team­as­well.­Most­teams­do­not get­ an­ opportunity­ like­ this­ and with­ how­ much­ they­ have­ improved­ in­ a­ short­ time­ we­ know they­are­excited­to­see­how­far­they can­go.­ Keeping Things Fresh Part­ of­ our­ challenge­ is­ to­ make practice­ new­ and­ interesting.­ We have­taken­that­challenge­head­on by­ implementing­ an­ intrasquad

game­schedule,­incorporating­other sports­such­as­basketball,­dodgeball and­soccer,­and­Lacrosse­Olympics (a­ combination­ of­ skill,­ fitness, competition­and­spirit­games)­during­ our­ practice­ times.­ We­ have found­that­if­you­are­an­athlete­you will­ be­ competitive­ and­ strive­ to push­yourself­and­your­teammates no­matter­what­you­are­participating­in.­ Teachable Moments Not­ having­ intercollegiate­ games will­be­hard,­but­there­are­many­different­situations­in­which­we­can teach.­Our­intrasquad­scrimmages will­allow­us­to­get­those­competitive­moments,­but­our­other­drills and­activities­are­also­designed­to allow­Erika­and­I­to­teach,­critique and­coach.­

Players Currently­this­is­not­an­issue,­but­while­recruiting­the­class­of­2010­we­really­had­to­get­the recruits­to­focus­on­the­future.­We­wanted­them to­understand­what­a­huge­honor­and­privilege it­is­to­start­a­new­program.­These­girls­are­an integral­part­of­the­foundation­of­this­program.

They­have­the­chance­to­do­something­amazing and­create­all­of­the­traditions­for­Grand­Valley State­Lacrosse.­Who­wouldn't­want to­take­that­opportunity?

Growth Lacrosse­is­growing­exponentially not­only­through­Michigan­and­the Midwest,­but­the­United­States­as well.­ With­ more­ youth­ lacrosse programs­ picking­ up­ throughout Michigan,­ more­ high­ schools­ are able­to­find­more­players­and­interest­to­create­their­own­teams.­More

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t i p s about coaching a team with no games

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tournament­ play, whether­it­be­3v3,­5v5,­7v7 or­full­field­competition,­allows potential­collegiate­lacrosse­players to­get­noticed.­In­turn­more­and­more­colleges­are­finding­merit­in­beginning­lacrosse teams­a­well.­With­this­increase­in­exposure­at all­levels,­lacrosse­in­Michigan­will­continue­to explode.

by Kelsey Deacon staff writer

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rand­Valley­State­women’s­soccer­ team­ earned­ two­ national awards­ after­ claiming­ the­ program’s­ second­ NCAA­ Division­ II­ National­ Championship­ title­ this­ season.

GVSU’s­Jenna­Wenglinski­became­the second­women’s­soccer­player­in­the­program’s­history­to­be­named­the­National Soccer­Coaches­Association­of­American (NSCAA)­NCAA­Division­II­National Player­of­the­Year.­Head­coach­David­DiIanni­was­also­honored­on­the­national level­for­the­second­time­in­his­eight­year career­at­Grand­Valley­State.­DiIanni­was selected­ as­ the­ NSCAA­ National Women’s­Soccer­Coach­of­the­Year­for guiding­the­Lakers­to­an­impressive­221-2­record­in­2010.

“It­is­such­a­privilege­and­honor­for Jenna­and­I­to­be­recognized­with­these prestigious­awards,”­said­DiIanni.­“As we­say­in­our­program,­awards­like­this are­only­earned­because­of­the­successful season­we­had­and­a­lot­of­that­can­be­attributed­to­the­effort­of­our­student-athletes­and­the­coaching­staff.”

Wenglinski, DiIanni Earn NSCAA National Awards Wenglinski­was­part­of­an­impressive team­and­the­Most­Outstanding­Defenbackline­that­did­not­allow­a­goal­the­en- sive­Player­of­the­tournament­for­the­sectire­home­schedule­and­held­their­oppo- ond­straight­season.­ The­senior­was­also­a­part­of­the­most nents­to­just­five­goals­on­the­year.­The senior­ defender­ from­ Portage,­ Mich., successful­senior­class­in­the­program’s also­ helped­ the­ GVSU­ defense­ set­ an history.­During­Wenglinski’s­four­years, NCAA­ Division­ II­ record­ and­ school the­team­compiled­an­astounding­87-3-7 record­for­21­shutouts­in­a­season­and­the record,­coming­out­to­a­winning­percentbackline­ did­ not­ allow­ a­ goal­ during age­of­.933.­ postseason­action.

Wenglinski­collected­nu“Awards like this are only merous­ awards­ after­ helpearned because of the sucing­ the­ Lakers­ notch back-to-back­ national cessful season we had and a championships.­ The­ delot of that can be attributed to fender­ was­ named­ to­ the the effort of our student-athGreat­Lakes­Intercollegiate Athletic­ Conference letes and the coaching staff.”

(GLIAC)­ First­ Team­ and DiIanni­has­also­posted­an­impressive was­named­the­GLIAC­Defensive­Player of­the­Year.­She­earned­Daktronics­Divi- record­during­his­career­at­Grand­Valley sion­II­Midwest­Region­First­Team­and State.­ During­ eight­ years­ he­ has­ comDaktronics­All-America­First­Team­hon- piled­ an­ overall­ record­ of­ 157-15-10, ors.­She­was­also­selected­to­the­NSCAA which­is­a­winning­percentage­of­.890, All-America­First­Team.­Wenglinski­was ranking­him­second­among­active­Divinamed­ to­ the­ NCAA­ All-Tournament sion­II­coaches.­

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This­season­DiIanni­guided­GVSU­to its­sixth­straight­GLIAC­Championship and­its­third­straight­GLIAC­Tournament Championship.­The­Lakers­have­made the­NCAA­playoffs­eight­times­and­have played­ in­ the­ national­ title­ game­ three times,­ claiming­ two­ national­ championship­titles.­ DiIanni­coached­four­NSCAA­AllAmerican­student-athletes­and­five­Daktronics­Inc.­All-Americans­this­season.

The­Lakers­also­placed­nine­players­on the­All-GLIAC­ teams­ and­ claimed­ the GLIAC­Defensive­Player­of­the­Year­and the­GLIAC­Freshman­of­the­Year.­ GVSU­not­only­set­defensive­records this­year,­but­also­set­an­NCAA­tournament­record­with­17­goals­scored.­The Laker­offense­outscored­opponents­by­a 93-5­margin­and­recorded­a­goal­in­24­of their­25­matches.­ DiIanni­is­a­three-time­­GLIAC­Coach of­the­Year­(05,­07,­08)­and­a­two-time NSCAA­Midwest­Region­Coach­of­the Year­ (06,­ 07)­ and­ NSCAA­ National Coach­of­the­Year­(06,­10).

NEWS IN BRIEF GVSU Basketball Coach’s Radio Show The­GVSU­Basketball­Coach’s­Radio­Show­is a­ weekly­ look­ at­ the­ Laker­ men's­ basketball program­throughout­the­basketball­season.­The coach’s­show­is­broadcast­"live"­every­Monday at­6:00­PM­on­WTKG­AM­1230­from­Peppino's Sports­Lounge­in­Allendale.­Hosted­by­Steve Lloyd­Jones­and­joined­by­head­men's­basketball­ coach­ Ric­ Wesley.­ Visit www.gvsulakers.com­to­listen­to­the­show­live online.

Videos, Interviews, Live Games, and More Check­out­the­GVSU­Media­Center­at­www.gvsulakers.com/allacess.­You­can­check­out­live sporting­ events,­ the­ GVSU­ Sports­ Report, coaches­shows,­interviews,­and­more!­You­can browse­the­Media­Center­by­sport­and­you­can also­watch­past­games.

Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup Standings Grand­Valley­State,­the­seven-time­defending champions­ of­ the­ Learfield­ Sports­ Directors' Cup­trophy,­is­in­familiar­territory­after­the­final 2010­fall­standings.­GVSU­is­first­place­with 411­points,­followed­by­Shippenburg­(264)­and Central­Missouri­(259).­The­Lakers'­411­points scored­is­the­second-highest­point­total­scored by­Grand­Valley­State­during­the­fall­sports­season­and­its­147-point­lead­over­second­place­is the­third-best­total­in­the­last­eight­years.­GVSU held­a­215-point­lead­in­2005­and­a­168-point lead­in­2004.­

GVSU Lakers Social Media Following Ranked 73rd According­to­SportsFanGraph.com,­a­website ranking­ the­ social­ media­ following­ of­ sports teams,­GVSU­Athletics’­social­media­following is­ranked­73rd­in­the­NCAA.GVSU­has­a­total following­of­12,064­(Facebook­and­Twitter), which­ranks­ahead­of­schools­such­as­Stanford, Indiana,­and­Wake­Forest.­“Like”­GVSU­Lakers­ on­ Facebook­ by­ visiting www.facebook.com/gvsulakers.­You­can­also follow­GVSU­Athletics­on­Twitter­under­the handle­GVSULakers.

GLIAC Swimming and Diving Championships in Jenison Jenison­High­School­will­be­hosting­the­GLIAC Swimming­and­Diving­Championships­on­Feb. 9-12.­For­more­information­about­the­championships­stay­tuned­to­gvsulakers.com.

Sophomores Play Big Role in GVSU’s Early Season Run

by DJ Foster staff writer

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t­is­often­said­in­sports­that­a­player­makes­his or­her­biggest­jump­(from­a­talent­standpoint) between­the­first­and­second­year­of­their­career.­The­Grand­Valley­State­women’s­basketball team­certainly­follows­this­theory,­as­three­Laker sophomores­have­been­in­the­starting­lineup­all­season­long­and­five­of­the­team’s­top­seven­scorers are­sophomores.

The­GVSU­offense­(ranked­third­in­the­conference­at­press­time­with­71.5­points­per­game) starts­ in­ the­ middle­ with­ 6’2”­ sophomore­ center Alex­Stelfox,­the­reigning­GLIAC Freshman­of­the Year.­After­putting­up­12.0­points­per­game­as­a rookie,­Stelfox­is­nearly­three­points­a­game­better this­season,­as­she­is­averaging­14.9­points­per­contest,­good­for­seventh-best­in­the­league.­She­also ranks­seventh­in­the­GLIAC­in­field­goal­percentage,­making­54.9­percent­of­her­shots,­while­her 100­ made­ field­ goals through­ 15­ games­ is­ the most­in­the­entire­conference.

Joining­Stelfox­in the­ top-15­ in­ scoring­ to give­the­Lakers­a­strong­12­offensive­punch­is­sophomore­ forward­ Briauna Taylor.­A­year­ago,­Taylor was­ scoring­ 8.6­ points­ a game­ off­ the­ GVSU bench,­as­she­started­just one­ game­ in­ 2009-10.

This­ season,­ Taylor­ has been­ a­ mainstay­ in­ the starting­lineup­(making­all 15­ starts)­ and­ notched 13.7­ points­ per­ game, placing­her­13th­in­the­conference.­She­has­also­improved­her­free­throw­shooting,­making­79.4­percent­of­her­attempts­this­year,­up­from­57.1­percent last­season,­and­is­12th­in­the­league­with­7.1­rebounds­per­game.

Taylor’s­twin­sister,­Brittany,­is­fourth­on the­team­in­scoring­(6.8­ppg.)­and­is­making­52.4 percent­of­her­field­goals,­up­from­46.7­percent­last year.­ In­ GVSU’s­ 77-62­ victory­ at­ regional­ foe Lewis­on­Dec.­11,­the­Taylor­sisters­nearly­won­the game­by­themselves.­Brittany­totaled­a­career-high (and­ Laker­ season-high)­ 25­ points­ and­ eight­ rebounds,­making­12-of-20­shots­in­26­minutes.­Briauna­went­9-of-18­from­the­floor­and­notched­21

points­and­nine­boards,­giving­the­Taylor­duo­totals of­46­points­and­17­rebounds­on­21-of-38­shooting from­the­field.

Another­sophomore,­guard­Lauren­Stodola, leads­the­Lakers­with­a­team-high­28.0­minutes­per game­and­is­second­on­the­team­in­assists­(32)­and blocks­(eight),­while­ranking­fourth­in­three-pointers­(11).­Classmate­Jessica­Trambley,­a­6’0”­center, is­tied­for­fifth­on­the­team­in­scoring­(6.5­ppg.)­and shooting­an­even­50.0­percent­from­the­field­in­a dozen­games­after­returning­from­injury.

Mix­ in­ a­ strong­ junior­ season­ from­ point guard­Jasmine­Padin,­great­rebounding­efforts­from senior­Biz­Van­Tiflin,­and­a­couple­promising­performances­ from­ freshmen­ and­ it­ is­ no­ wonder GVSU­started­the­year­with­a­9-0­record­and­earned as­high­as­a­#9­national­ranking.­ Padin­is­putting­up­10.2­points­per­game, but­more­importantly­ranks first­ in­ the­ GLIAC in­ assists­ (5.6)­ and­ assist­ to turnover­ratio­(2.3),­while her­34­steals­are­also­most in­the­conference.­Van­Tiflin­ ranks­ seventh­ in­ the league­ with­ 7.7­ rebounds per­game­and­is­sixth­with 5.1­ defensive­ boards­ per contest.

Head­ coach­ Janel Burgess­has­done­a­strong job­of­rotating­her­players in­and­out­of­games,­as­10 Lakers­are­averaging­10.4 minutes­per­game,­with­the five­ starters­ (Padin, Stelfox,­ Stodola,­ Briauna Taylor,­Van­Tiflin)­all­notching­at­least­24­minutes.

Burgess­will­need­the­whole­team­-­and­the sophomores­(averaging­47.0­points­per­game),­in particular­-­to­continue­their­early­season­play­as the­team­heads­down­the­home­stretch­towards­the postseason.

Grand­ Valley­ State­ is­ home­ just­ twice­ in February.­The­Lakers­begin­the­month­with­four straight­road­games­before­returning­to­Allendale for­contests­against­Findlay­(Feb.­17,­8:00­p.m.)­and Wayne­State (Feb.­19,­3:00­p.m.).­GVSU­will­close out­the­regular­season­with­a­road­finale­at­Ferris State­on­Feb.­26­before­gearing­up­for­the­GLIAC Tournament­on­March­2-6.

The five Laker sophomores averaged 47.0 points per game in GVSU’s 12-3 start.

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GVSU Baseball Season Preview

by Tim Nott editor in chief

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­he­ Grand­ Valley­ State­ baseball Joe­started­a­team-high­12­games,­notchprogram­ has­ been­ among­ the ing­five­complete­outings­with­56­strikemost­successful­in­the­DII­ranks outs­and­just­21­walks.­Jablonski,­who­is since­2000.­The­Lakers­have­routinely 19-6­in­his­career,­limited­opponents­to­a found­ themselves­ competing­ for­ the .292­batting­average­and­30­earned­runs Great­Lakes­Intercollegiate­Athletic­Con- in­ 14­ appearances.­ Junior­ RHP­ Cory ference­crown­and­a­berth­in­the­NCAA Rademacher­ (DeWitt,­ Mich.)­ earned DII­ World­ Series.­ Head­ coach­ Steve Second-Team­ All-GLIAC­ honors­ as­ a Lyon,­set­for­his­13th­year­at­the­helm,­is sophomore­and­is­a­preseason­all-region looking­for­more­of­the­same­in­2011. honoree.­ Rademacher­ was­ 5-2­ with­ a The­ 2011­ Lakers­ return­ seven 3.79­ ERA­ in­ 59.1­ innings­ pitched­ last position­starters­and­11­players­that­saw season.­He­tallied­five­complete­games a­significant­amount­of­playing­time­last and­51­strikeouts­in­his­nine­starts­on­the season.­In­addition,­GVSU­returns­three mound.­ Opponents­ recorded­ just­ 12 starting­pitchers­and­one­reliever­that­tal- extra-base­ hits­ and­ 25­ earned­ runs­ off lied­ a­ combined­ record­ of­ 23-9­ a­ year Rademacher.­Junior­RHP­Kyle­Schepel ago.

(Grand­Rapids,­Mich./Christian)­was­6“I­really­like­the­makeup­of­this 2­with­two­saves­in­his­10­starts­and­62.0 team­in­terms­of­overall­approach­to­the innings­pitched­last­season.­Schepel,­who game­of­baseball,”­said­Lyon.­“We­have has­posted­an­11-3­mark­in­his­career, a­nice­group­of­returning­position­players notched­a­team-best­58­strikeouts­in­15 that­ started­ a­ significant­ number­ of appearances.­ Sophomore­ LHP­ pitcher games­last­season­and­although­we­don’t Brad­ Zambron­ (Rochester,­ Mich./ return­ a­ large­ number­ of­ pitchers,­ the Brother­Rice)­posted­a­4-2­record­in­a pitchers­we­do­return­have­a­lot­of­expe- team-high­22­appearances,­all­in­a­relief rience­and­success­on­the­hill.” role,­as­a­true­freshman.

Success Lyon on­ the­ diamond “I really like the makeup of will­have­the starts­ on­ the this team in terms of overall services­ of mound­ and­ the seven­ newapproach to the game of Lakers­ have­ a comers­ on strong­nucleus­to baseball.” head coach Steve Lyon the­ mound build­ around. for­ the­ 2011 Leading­the­way­will­be­senior­RHP­Joe campaign.­Five­gained­experience­at­the Jablonski­(Temperance,­Mich./Bedford) junior­college­level,­while­one­redshirted who­ earned­ first-team­ all-region­ and and­one­could­see­action­as­a­true­freshFirst-Team­All-GLIAC­plaudits­as­a­jun- man.­RHP­Ryan­Garman­(Cedar­Rapids, ior­and­enters­his­senior­campaign­with Iowa/Johnson­County­C.C.),­RHP­Jake preseason­accolades.­Jablonski­was­8-3 Kent­ (Davenport,­ Iowa/Southeastern with­a­3.33­ERA­in­81.0­innings­pitched C.C.),­ RHP­ Chris­ Whitney­ (Macomb, as­the­Lakers’­No.­1­starter­a­year­ago. Mich./Kellogg­ C.C.),­ RHP­ Jacob­ Cox

Cody Grace returns for his junior year after being the most productive batter for GVSU last season.

(Dowagiac,­Mich./Lake­Michigan­C.C.) and­ LHP­ Brett­ Gwaltney­ (Rochester, Minn./Rochester­ C.C.)­ come­ in­ with quality­credentials­and­will­be­expected to­ make­ significant­ contributions­ in 2011.­LHP­Cody­Westerhuis­(Allendale, Mich.)­will­take­the­mound­after­redshirting­as­a­true­freshman,­while­fellow­lefty, Billy­Maple­(Kalamazoo,­Mich./Vicksburg),­could­see­action­on­the­hill­during his­first­season­with­the­Lakers.

“We­feel­like­we­have­upgraded our­pitching­in­terms­of­quality­starters and­overall­depth,”­said­Lyon.­“We­were a­little­thin­on­depth­last­season­and­in the­ end­ that­ might­ have­ hindered­ our

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team­when­we­entered­the GLIAC and­NCAA­Tournaments­ and­ played­ a number­ of­ games­ in­ a short­ period­ of­ time­ last season,”­added­Lyon.

The­ Lakers­ must­ replace­ two­ individuals who­ earned­ postseason plaudits­ at­ first­ and­ second­ base­ in­ 2011,­ however,­ GVSU­ returns­ 11 position­ players,­ including­ seven­ starters,­ that played­a­significant­amount­of­innings last­spring.

Highlighting­the­list­of­returnees is­ preseason­ All-American­ candidate Cody­Grice­(DeWitt,­Mich.).­Grice,­who was­ a­ consensus­ first-team­ all-region choice­and­a­First-Team­All-GLIAC performer­as­a­sophomore­centerfielder­in 2010,­turned­in­one­of­the­most­productive­ single-seasons­ in­ GVSU baseball history.­Grice­hit­.455­with­a­Grand­Valley­State­single-season­record­100­hits­in 53­games­played.­Cody­drove­in­49­runs, scored­66­runs,­notched­18­doubles,­five triples­and­six­home­runs.­In­addition, Grice­tallied­a­.664­slugging­percentage,

a­.506­on­base­percentage­and­stole­18 bases.

“Cody­turned­in­an­outstanding sophomore­season­and­was­the­catalyst for­ us­ offensively­ as­ a­ leadoff­ hitter,” said­Lyon.­“His­role­will­change­this­season­as­we­would­like­to­move­him­into the­three-hole­and­take­advantage­of­his ability­to­drive­in­runs,”­stated­Lyon.

Joining­Grice­in­the­outfield­will be­junior­LF­Steve­Anderson­(Northville, Mich.)­ and­ sophomore­ RF­ Chris Rudenga­(South­Holland,­Ill.).­Anderson, who­ garnered­ honorable­ mention­ AllGLIAC honors­last­season,­hit­.329­with a­ team-high­ nine­ home­ runs.­ Steve recorded­54­hits,­drove­in­32­runs­and scored­ 42­ runs­ in­ 47­ games­ played.

Rudenga,­who­was­second­in­the­voting for­ the­ GLIAC Freshman­ of­ the­ Year award,­ hit­ .338­ with­ 48­ hits,­ 34­ runs scored­and­31­RBI.­Senior­Paul­Young (London,­Ont./GRCC)­hit­.325­with­37 hits­and­29­runs­scored­in­31­starts.

“I­really­feel­we­have­one­of­the strongest­collection­of­outfielders­that­we have­ever­put­on­the­field­at­Grand­Valley State,”­added­Lyon.­“This­group­has­the ability­to­produce­offensively,­but­give­us a­strong­defensive­presence­as­well.”

Senior­shortstop­Andrew­Trepel

(Joliet,­ Ill.)­ earned­ First-Team­ AllGLIAC honors­and­was­an­all-region­selection­last­season.­Trepel­hit­.360­with 68­hits,­34­runs­scored,­10­doubles­and four­home­runs­in­50­starts.­Junior­third baseman­Brian­Robinson­(Troy,­Mich.) earned­Second-Team­All-GLIAC honors as­a­sophomore.­Robinson­hit­.441­with 45­hits,­28­runs­scored­and­25­RBI­in­31 starts.­Robinson­missed­the­final­three weeks­of­the­season­with­a­hand­injury.

Senior­infielder­Dan­Ponegalek­(Bridgman,­ Mich./Lake­ Michigan­ C.C.)­ hit .397­with­25­hits,­16­runs­scored­and­11 RBI­in­20­starts,­while­fellow­senior­infielder­ Cory­ Phillips­ (Bloomington, Ill./Heartland­C.C.)­hit­.267­with­21­RBI.­ Senior­Torre­Aguirre­(Rochester Hills,­Mich./St.­Clir­C.C.)­will­battle­for the­starting­spot­at­first­base­with­redshirt freshman­ Giancarlo­ Brugnoni­ (Grosse Pointe,­Mich./De­La­Salle).­Aguirre­hit .436­ in­ 18­ starts­ as­ a­ DH­ and­ reserve first-baseman.­Torre,­who­tallied­34­hits, scored­ 21­ runs­ and­ drove­ in­ 15­ runs, came­through­with­several­key­hits­for the­ Lakers­ in­ the­ NCAA­ Midwest­ Regional.­Brugnoni­started­four­games­before­missing­the­remainder­of­the­season with­a­broken­hand.­ A­pair­of­juniors,­Jared­Cowan

(Davison,­Mich.)­and­Zach­Laupp­(Mattawan,­Mich.)­will­handle­the­duties­behind­the­plate.­Cowan­hit­.365­with­31 hits,­ 18­ runs­ and­ 23­ RBI­ in­ 26­ starts, while­ Laupp­ hit­ .350­ with­ 28­ hits,­ 23 runs­and­20­RBI­in­25­starts.

Junior­ transfer­ Garrett­ Yatch (Midland,­Mich./Kellogg­C.C.)­will­take over­at­second­base,­while­junior­transfer Derrik­Strzalkowski­(London,­Ont./Kellogg­C.C.)­will­battle­for­playing­time­at first­base­and­catcher.­Junior­Blake­Batteast­(South­Bend,­Ind./Glen­Oaks­C.C.)

the­depth­that­we­have­up­the­middle­and at­ third­ base.­ We­ are­ a­ little­ inexperienced­at­first­and­second­base,­but­I­liked what­I­saw­in­the­fall.”

The­schedule­will­be­challenging as­usual.­The­Lakers­will­open­the­season at­ a­ national­ preseason­ tournament­ at Lander­University­in­Greenwood,­S.C. GVSU­ will­ open­ February­ 11­ versus Carson-Newman,­ followed­ by­ games versus­ Tampa­ (Feb.­ 12)­ and­ 2009­ DII National­Champion­Lynn­(Feb.­13).­The Lakers­will­take­its­annual­spring­trip­to Florida­the­first­week­of­March­for­11 games,­ before­ opening­ the­ GLIAC portion­of­the­ledger­at­Lake­Erie­College­ March­ 26.­ GVSU­ will­ play­ its first­ home­ game­ of­ the­ season Wednesday,­April­5­vs.­Hillsdale.­The Midwest­Region­will­be­tough­as­always­with­the­likes­of­defending­DII National­Champion­Southern­Indiana and­ perennial­ contenders­ Northern Kentucky,­Indianapolis,­Ashland­and Wayne­State. head coach Steve Lyon “We­will­have­to­be­ready­to­go will­provide­depth­in­the­outfield. that­opening­weekend,”­said­Lyon.­“We “We­have­proven­players­return- are­going­to­be­playing­teams­that­have ing­ on­ the­ infield,­ including­ two­ that a­ history­ of­ playing­ for­ DII­ National have­earned­All-GLIAC­honors­in­Trepel Championships­ and­ play­ in­ warm and­Robinson,”­said­Lyon.­“I­also­like weather­climates.”­­

“We are going to be playing teams that have a history of playing for DII National Championships and play in warm weather climates”

•9

QA &

Question

How­ big­ of­ a­ role­ do­ you think­Grand­Valley­Athletics plays­in­the­lives­of­the­students­here­on­campus?­The faculty?

Dr. Paul M. Leidig

Answer

Director & Professor School of Computing & Information Systems Assistant Dean Padnos College of Engineering & Computing Faculty Athletics Representative National Collegiate Athletic Association Question

As­the­Faculty­Representative for­the­NCAA,­what­are­your­responsibilities?

Answer

Here­is­a­synopsis­of­the­official­duties­of­the­job: Ensure­ that­ student-athletes meet­all­NCAA,­conference­and­institutional­requirements­for­eligibility for­practice,­financial­aid­and­intercollegiate­competition.

Approve­all­Waiver­requests submitted­to­the­NCAA­or­GLIAC Arrange­ to­ have­ developed, periodic­statistical­reports­on­the­academic­preparation­and­performance of­ student-athletes.­ Be­ knowledgeable­about­the­academic­preparation and­performance­of­each­sports­team and­uphold­high­academic­standards and­expectations­for­these­team­members.

Responsible­for­institutional compliance­activities­or­responsibilities.

Be­knowledgeable­about­the NCAA­and­conference­rules­related to­ academic­ eligibility,­ transfer­ requirements,­and­restrictions­and­enforcement­procedures.­Participate,­or be­fully­informed­about,­institutional investigations­of­allegations­of­rules violations.­No­infractions­report­to­either­ the­ NCAA­ or­ a­ conference should­leave­the­campus­until­it­has been­reviewed­by­the­faculty­athletics representative.­He­or­she­should­play a­major­and­direct­role­in­matters­that potentially­involve­major­violations of­NCAA­rules.

Have­direct­contact­with­student-athletes­on­a­systematic­and­periodic­ basis,­ participate­ in­ new student-athlete­orientation­activities and­ should­ interact­ frequently­ with student­athlete­advisory­committees.

Responsible­to­administer­the NCAA­coaches­recruiting­certification­tests.

Responsible­ for­ NCAA­ or GLIAC­ scholarship­ applications­ or award­nominations.

Be­a­senior­advisor­outside­of the­athletics­department­to­the­chief executive­officer­on­matters­related­to intercollegiate­ athletics.­ Together, with­the­director­of­athletics,­the­faculty­ athletics­ representative­ should formulate­ and­ recommend­ institutional­positions­on­NCAA­legislation and­other­matters­affecting,­or­related to,­ intercollegiate­ athletics­ on­ the campus.

Represent­ the­ institution­ to the­ NCAA­ and­ to­ athletics­ conferences.

Be­ an­ active­ member­ of­ the campus­ intercollegiate­ athletics board.

Reports­to­the­President­and provides­an­annual­report­of­activities to­ the­ President,­Academic­ Senate, and­the­Intercollegiate­Athletics­Advisory­Board.

travel­ as­ an­ accreditation­ evaluator for­computing­programs,­serving­on national­ advisory­ boards,­ or­ for NCAA­related­activities.­As­the­FAR, I­ try­ to­ attend­ athletic­ competition events,­ or­ practices,­ and­ talk­ with coaches­or­administrators.

Question

What's­ the­ most­ rewarding part­of­working­with­Athletics?

Answer

No­ question,­ the­ most­ rewarding­part­of­working­with­Athletics­ is­ getting­ to­ know­ the­ students, coaches,­and­administrators­on­a­personal­level.­We­have­amazing­people here­at­Grand­Valley,­and­the­more you­get­to­know­them,­the­more­rewarding­our­job­is.­I­receive­joy­seeing­ our­ student-athletes­ receive­ a national­ scholarship­ or­ award­ and recognition.­If­I­can­have­a­role­helping­make­that­happen,­it­makes­my job­much­more­rewarding.

Question

Explain­a­little­bit­about­how­you­got to­be­where­you­are­today­and­how you­ became­ involved­ with­ GVSU Question Describe­ what­ a­ typical­ day Athletics.

Answer looks­like­for­you.

I­came­to­GVSU­in­1991­as­an­AssisAnswer I­have­a­hard­time­describing tant­Professor­of­Computer­Science a­"typical"­day,­as­each­one­seems­to and­Information­Systems.­Ten­years have­a­very­different­list­of­activities. ago,­I­was­named­the­Chair­of­the­deHowever,­on­any­given­day,­I­could partment,­and­later­named­the­Foundbe­ meeting­ with­ faculty­ about­ cur- ing­ Director­ of­ the­ new­ School­ of riculum­issues,­or­about­supporting Computing­and­Information­Systems. their­research­and­teaching­needs.­I The­ person­ who­ initially­ recruited often­ meet­ with­ students­ who­ have and­hired­me,­Dr.­Donald­VanderJagt, special­advising­or­permits­that­they served­as­my­predecessor­as­GVSU's might­need.­Most­days­I­am­booked Faculty­Athletics­Representative.­He in­meetings­with­other­academic­units often­explained­his­role­to­me­and­I about­program­changes­or­adminis- found­it­quite­fascinating.­When­he trative­discussions,­or­I­am­off­cam- was­nearing­retirement­and­no­longer pus­meeting­with­industry­partners­or able­to­serve­as­the­FAR,­then­Presidonors.­Increasingly­I­am­involved­in dent­Mark­Murray­named­me­to­the position.

• 11

Although­not­all­of­our­athletic­teams­have­13,000­fans turn­ out­ to­ support­ them,­ I often­ see­ students­ attend events­in­which­their­friends or­ roommates­ are­ competing.­I­think­the­success­that our­student-athletes­have­had athletically­provides­a­sense of­ accomplishment­ and recognition­as­an­entire­campus­ community,­ and­ that adds­ to­ the­ outstanding­ accomplishments­ that­ all­ students,­ faculty,­ and­ staff­ have.

National­recognition­of­our­athletic success,­ and­ the­ awareness­ of­ who GVSU­is,­has­provided­a­benefit­to the­students­on­this­campus,­faculty as­ they­ interact­ with­ colleagues around­the­nation,­and­in­attracting­an even­higher­quality­of­students­and faculty.­So­at­least­indirectly,­I­attribute­some­of­our­broader­success­and accomplishments­at­Grand­Valley,­to the­recognition­that­we­have­received athletically.

Question

Why­is­it­important­that­the faculty­at­GVSU­be­involved­with­the Athletic­Department?

Answer

At­most­institutions,­and­especially­ here­ at­ Grand­ Valley,­ students­are­here­to­receive­a­degree­and prepare­ for­ a­ career.­ Competing­ in athletics­provides­both­a­focused­and disciplined­ environment­ that­ helps student­learn­what­it­takes­to­be­successful.­That­applies­not­only­to­athletics,­but­even­more­so­to­academics, and­life­skills­in­general.­These­student­ athletes­ put­ in­ an­ amazing amount­of­time­and­effort­both­in­the classroom,­and­in­their­sport,­in­order to­be­successful­at­both.­As­ambassadors­or­representatives­of­the­university­ while­ competing,­ they­ are helping­define­and­tell­the­Grand­Valley­success­story.­I­think­it­is­not­only the­ responsibility­ of­ all­ faculty­ to know­ what­ their­ students­ are­ involved­in­on­behalf­of­the­university, but­also­to­support­and­work­with­the student­ to­ accommodate­ that­ joint role.­In­addition,­the­discipline­that the­ athletics­ program­ provides­ our students­academically,­helps­faculty in­being­able­to­be­successful­in­the classroom.­I­would­hope­all­faculty take­a­part­in­that­process.

by DJ Foster staff writer

Balance and Depth Push Lakers to Another Successful Start

L

ate­ in­ January,­ the­ Lakers owned­a­13-3­overall­record, was­8-1­in­GLIAC­play­and­a perfect­ 9-0­ at­ Fieldhouse­ Arena.

However,­ the­ Lakers­ had­ just­ one player­ ranked­ in­ the­ top-30­ of­ the conference­in­scoring­(senior­Justin Ringler­was­16th­with­13.7­points­per game)­ and­ one­ player­ listed­ in­ the top-20­of­the­GLIAC­in­rebounding (again­ Ringler­ and­ again­ 16th­ with 5.5­boards­per­game).­While­this­may seem­to­be­a­problem­that­the­Lakers are­built­on­depth­and­not­individual dominance,­ that­ is­ clearly­ a­ team strength­and­not­a­weakness.

While­ Ringler­ was­ the­ lone Laker­ averaging­ double­ figures­ in scoring,­ Grand­ Valley­ State­ had­ an astonishing­nine­players­putting­up­at least­ five­ points­ per­ game,­ which helps­illustrate­how­GVSU­was­second­in­the­conference­in­scoring,­despite­just­one­“elite”­scorer.­ Head­ coach­ Ric­ Wesley­ is looking­more­like­an­NHL coach­in the­way­he­substitutes­different­shifts of­players­on­and­off­the­court.­The only­difference­between­a­Laker­basketball­game­and­a­Griffins­hockey game­may­be­the­temperature­inside the­arena­and­the­lack­of­a­zamboni.

Wesley­utilizes­a­consistent­rotation of­ 10­ players,­ basically­ breaking down­the­team­into­a­pair­of­five-man shifts.­All­10­players­were­averaging at­ least­ 14­ minutes­ per­ game,­ with only­four­Lakers­seeing­more­than­20 minutes­per­contest.­ That­may­seem­like­a­potential­ problem­ in­ the­ difficult­ task­ of juggling­minutes,­but­the­old­saying of­ “If­ it­ ain’t­ broke,­ don’t­ fix­ it” clearly­ applies­ here.­ Through­ the opening­ 16­ games­ of­ the­ season, Grand­ Valley­ State­ was­ beating­ its opponents­ by­ an­ average­ of­ +21.2 points­per­game,­easily­the­top­mark in­the­conference,­over­six­points­per game­ more­ than­ nationally-ranked Hillsdale­and­Findlay.

The­Lakers­have­been­a­solid road­team­in­2010-11,­with­the­highlight­ being­ a­ three-game­ sweep­ of Northwood,­Northern­Michigan,­and Michigan­Tech­from­Dec.­9-19,­winning­the­three­games­by­eight,­nine,

Justin Ringler and the Lakers face a daunting February schedule as they play for a postseason berth.

When­ GVSU­ returns­ home for­a­pair­of­games­in­mid-February, it­ will­ arguably­ be­ for­ two­ of­ the team’s­biggest­contests­of­the­season.

The­ Lakers­ will­ take­ on­ Findlay­ at 6:00­p.m.­on­Feb.­17­in­what­could possibly­ be­ a­ match-up­ of­ top-10 teams.­GVSU­has­been­ranked­in­the top-20­ all­ season­ long­ and­ Findlay has­yet­to­dip­out­of­the­top-10,­including­one­week­as­the­#1­team­in and­nine­points,­respectively.

Where­Grand­Valley­State­is the­country.

The­only­reason­that­the­Oilreally­doing­its­damage,­however,­is the­ friendly­ confines­ of­ Fieldhouse ers­fell­out­of­the­top­ranking­in­the Arena.­This­should­come­as­no­sur- nation­ was­ because­ Findlay­ was prise­to­loyal­Laker­fans,­as­GVSU­is shocked­on­the­road­in­a­91-68­druban­astonishing­102-9­at­home­in­the bing­to­Wayne­State­in­early­January. last­seven­seasons­with­Wesley­at­the The­Warriors­then­went­on­to­defeat helm,­which­is­an­incredible­91.9­per- another­undefeated­opponent­in­their centage­in­front­of­the­home­crowd. very­next­game,­winning­easily­at­#4 It­ is­ hard­ to­ tell which­ statistic­ is­ more outstanding­ when­ talking­ about­ the­ Lakers’ success­ at­ home­ this year.­ In­ its­ first­ nine home­ games,­ GVSU was­winning­by­an­average­ of­ 32.9­ points­ per game­ and­ the­ team’s closest­game­was­a­9274­ win­ over­ Saint Joseph’s,­the­defending Hillsdale­ by­ a­ 66-52­ score.­ Wayne Midwest­Regional­champion.

After­ the­ schedule-makers State­ nearly­ knocked­ off­ Findlay were­ kind­ to­ the­ Lakers­ in­ January again­ in­ its­ next­ game­ (playing­ the with­five­home­games,­just­one­road Oilers­twice­in­a­seven-day­span,­due game,­ and­ a­ neutral-site­ “home to­an­odd­scheduling­quirk),­but­fell game”­ at­ Van­ Andel­ Arena­ for­ the by­just­two­points­(73-71)­and­having 131­Showdown­against­Ferris­State, a­last-second­three-point­attempt­to GVSU­will­spend­a­decent­portion­of win­the­game­miss­its­target.

What­ does­ that­ all­ mean­ to February­in­a­bus.­Grand­Valley­State opens­up­the­month­with­a­road­trip Grand­ Valley­ State?­ The­ Warriors, to­Saginaw­Valley­State­and­Lake­Su- normally­a­decent­to­above­average perior­ State­ (Feb.­ 3-5)­ and­ travels conference­opponent,­now­look­to­be over­to­Ohio­to­take­on­Ashland­and a­force­in­the­GLIAC,­as­four­teams (GVSU,­Wayne­State,­Findlay,­HillsLake­Erie­(Feb.­10-12).­

dale)­all­had­just­one­league­loss­as­of mid-January.­ The­ Lakers­ and­ Warriors­ will­ square­ off­ on­ Feb.­ 19­ at 1:00­p.m.­in­a­huge­home­game­for Grand­Valley­State­and­the­secondlast­regular­season­game­of­the­year.

GVSU­will­need­to­turn­to­its productive­ bench­ and­ 10-man­ rotation­ late­ in­ the­ season,­ when­ the schedule­continues­to­provide­wear and­tear­on­every­team.­But­the­Lakers,­as­much­as­any­team,­look­like they’ll­be­able­to­withstand­the­normal­ rigors­ of­ a­ long­ season.­ Grand Valley­ State­ has­ had­ 10­ different players­score­at­least­10­points­in­a game­ this­ season­ and­ six­ different players­have­led­the­Lakers­in­scoring in­a­game,­including­Ringler­who­has done­ so­ eight­ times.­ Aside­ from Ringler,­a­foursome­of­Laker­guards -­ James­ Thomas­ (9.5­ ppg.),­ Alvin Storrs­(8.9),­Wes­Trammell­(8.6),­and Breland­Hogan­(6.8)­-­have­all­proven to­ shoot­ the­ ball­ and­ score­ well enough­to­help­carry­GVSU. Combine­those­guys­with­an interesting­center­combination­of­redshirt­ freshman­ Asauhn­ Tatum­ and junior­ transfer­ Nick Waddell­and­the­Lakers­have­options­down low,­ as­ well.­ 6’11” Tatum­ is­ a­ long­ and lean­ youngster­ that leads­the­entire­league with­36­blocked­shots, which­included­seven rejections­against­Lake Superior­State­on­Jan. 8.­Waddell,­at­6’6”­and 285­ pounds,­ uses­ his muscle­ and­ post moves­to­bully­his­way­to­8.8­points a­game­and­eight­double-digit­scoring efforts,­tied­with­Trammell­for­second-most­on­the­team.

Another­constant­of­a­Wesleycoached­ team­ is­ GVSU’s­ defense, which­ranks­first­in­the­league­at­57.6 points­per­game­and­first­in­defensive field­goal­percentage­(37.2­percent).

Grand­Valley­State­has­allowed­less than­40­points­three­times­this­season, including­only­38­points­in­back-toback­ games­ against­ Lake­ Superior State­and­Northwood.­

GVSU is a terrific 102-9 at Fieldhouse Arena in the last seven seasons u n d e r We s l e y.

• 12

PLAYER PROFILES GVSU has Why did you choose an amazing athletic program to become a Laker? and they provide all the tools needed for success on the track and in the classroom.

Favorite athlete to Kobe Bryant Los Angeles Lakers watch in another sport?

QUINTON

DENNIS year

SENIOR major

HUMAN RESOURCES

MANAGEMENT hometown

LANSING, MI sport

TRACK & FIELD

My HS coach, Rex Wilkes, Jr. He was with me every step of the way providing encouragement, coaching, and really developed my love for the pole vault.

Who has made the biggest impact on your sports career?

GVSU was the right fit for me both academically and athletically. This was the place for me to grow and be challenged.

Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls My brother. Anytime I felt frustrated or discouraged due to track, he has always reminded me to never give up and stay focused.

Will Smith Who should play you Sandra Bullock in a movie?

I see myself having started my career and starting a family. Pole vault is a huge part of my life now and I’m positive it will be then as well.

Chicken Wings Star Wars Sunday Mornin’

by Brian Bromberg

Detroit Pistons MGT432 I’m not a cold weather being

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

FAVORITE...

Food Movie Song

Having a successful career and maybe starting a family far from Michigan; it is way too cold here.

B L A C K year

JUNIOR major

Ben & Jerry’s Love and Basketball One Sweet Day

by Boyz II Men

Sports Team Winter Class Snow Sport

SERENA

Miami Heat Movement 101 Tubing

C L I N I C A L

EXERCISE SCIENCE hometown

POR TAGE, MI sport

TRACK & FIELD

Spirit. Style. Tradition.

Go Lakers!

Shop and Save at UBS

20% off

One (1) GVSU Jacket Expires 2-28-11 Expires: 1-30-11 *This coupon is not valid with any other discounts or sales. One coupon per customer, per purchase, per day. In-store purchases only.

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• 13

CALENDAR FEB. 2

FEB. 11-12

FEB. 18

FOOTBALL SIGNING DAY Check­out­gvsulakers.com­to­find more­information­on­the­2011 Football­Signing­Day.

FEB. 9-12

SWIMMING & DIVING GLIAC CHAMPIONSHIPS The­Laker­swimming­and­diving­teams will­travel­to­Jenison­High­School­to compete­at­the­2011­Great­Lakes­Intercollegiate­Athletic­Conferece­(GLIAC) Championships­starting­on­Feb.­9­at 5:30­p.m.­The­men’s­team­claimed­the conference­trophy­last­year,­while­the women’s­team­placed­second.­

GVSU BIG MEET The­Laker­track­and­field­teams will­host­one­of­the­biggest meets­in­the­midwest­the­weekend­of­Feb.­11-12.­The­meet­will showcase­some­of­the­elite­talents­from­numerous­colleges, along­with­professional­athletes.

The­meet­will­get­underway­at noon­on­Friday­and­will­resume Saturday­at­9:30­a.m.­at­the Laker­Turf­Building.

GVSU TUNE UP Track­&­Field­at­4:00­p.m.

Laker­Turf­Building

FEB. 17

FEB. 19

BASKETBALL vs. FINDLAY MBB­at­6:00­p.m.

WBB­at­8:00­p.m.

GVSU­Fieldhouse­Arena

BASKETBALL vs. WAYNE STATE MBB­at­1:00­p.m.

WBB­at­3:00­p.m.

GVSU­Fieldhouse­Arena

For­tickets­call­616-331-3200.

SANDRA’S SNAPSHOT

Sandra­Jennings­is­an­Administrative­Assistant­in­the­athletic­department.

“ C o l d ­Wa r m t h ” • 14

F

Y R A U EBR

What award would you win at the ESPY’s?

For Valentine’s Day...

Roses or Chocolate?

I f y o u w rote a b o o k , w hat would b e t h e t itle?

Best ‘bromance’ in sports?

Super Bowl XLV or NBA All-Star Weekend 2011?

Lauren Stodola Jordan Schrotenboer Women’s Basketball Jenison, Mich.

Best Team - GV Women’s Basketball

Chocolate “Top Ten Tips for College Athletes”

Men’s Swimming & Diving Holland, Mich.

Best Beard Chocolate: I’m not going to waste money on flowers... lol

“The Guide to Eating at Fresh Food”

Michael Jordan & Joe Sayre & Aaron Marken Scottie Pippen (2 members of the swim team) Super­Bowl,­because the­game­actually means­something

Not too interested, but I guess I would rather watch the Super Bowl

• 15

Erin Kinney

Breland Hogan

Women’s Swimming & Diving Grand Rapids, Mich.

Men’s Basketball Detroit, Mich.

Reddest Face

Best Dunk of the Year

ROSES

“I Love Louie”

Chocolate

“Dreaming”

IDK!!!

Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen

SuperBowlXLV

N B A A l l -S t a r Weekend

by DJ Foster staff writer

T

he­Great­Lakes­Intercollegiate Athletic­Conference­(GLIAC) announced­its­Fall­2010­Commissioner's­Award­recipients­on­Tuesday­(Jan.­11),­in­a­release­from­the league­ office.­ Six­ male­ and­ six­ female­student-athletes­earned­this­special­ distinction­ that­ was­ given­ to athletes­that­excel­both­in­the­classroom­and­on­the­field­of­play.­Grand Valley­State­had­four­student-athletes named­ as­ Commissioner's­ Award winners,­ including­ soccer­ player Kristen­ Eible­ and­ volleyball­ player Rebeccah­Rapin­on­the­women's­side and­football­player­Zach­Breen­and cross­ country­ runner­Anthony­ Witt earning­the­award­on­the­men's­side.

"I­ am­ truly­ proud­ of­ the­ 12 student-athletes­ who­ were­ awarded the­ Commissioner's­ Award,"­ said GLIAC­ Commissioner­ Dell­ Robinson.­ "Their­ hard­ work­ in­ the­ classroom­ and­ on­ the­ field­ is­ a­ true example­of­the­standard­of­excellence that­ has­ been­ set­ amongst­ our­ student-athletes­ here­ in­ the­ GLIAC. They­ are­ truly­ the­ best­ of­ the­ best.

The­GLIAC­greatly­appreciates­the support­of­Meijer­for­their­sponsorship­ of­ the­ 2010­ Commissioner's Award.­ The­ award­ and­ continued support­by­Meijer­is­evidence­of­our pursuit­of­academic­excellence."

Eible,­ a­ senior­ midfielder, was­a­major­part­of­the­NCAA­Division­ II­ National Champions,­ as the­Laker­soccer team­ recorded back-to-back National­ Championships.­ She helped­ lead GVSU­to­a­22-1-2­overall­record­this season,­which­featured­a­12-1-2­mark in­GLIAC­play.­Eible­started­in­23­of the­Lakers'­25­matches­and­played­a total­of­1,976­minutes,­as­she­tallied two­goals­and­six­assists­for­10­total points.­Named­in­the­preseason­as­a team­captain,­Eible­was­honored­as­a First­Team­All-GLIAC­selection­and was­a­National­Soccer­Coaches­Association­ of­ America­ (NSCAA)­ AllAmerica­Scholar-Athlete­for­her­hard

Four Lakers Earn GLIAC Commissioners’ Award work­in­the­classroom.­Eible­holds­a 3.90­cumulative­grade­point­average while­majoring­in­education.­During her­ four-year­ career,­ Grand­ Valley State­posted­an­astounding­record­of 87-3-7­ (.933),­ making­ her­ senior class­the­most­successful­class­in­the program's­history.

Rapin,­ a­ senior­ middle blocker,­was­named­an­American­Volleyball­Coaches Association (AVCA)­ First Team­All-America­ selection while­ leading GVSU­ in­ kills (380),­ hitting percentage­(.344),­total­blocks­(140), and­block­solos­(26)­en­route­to­a­267­ record­ and­ an­ NCAA­ Elite­ Eight berth.­She­was­honored­as­the­Daktronics­Midwest­Region­Player­of­the Year­and­is­just­the­second­Laker­in program­ history­ to­ earn­ First­Team All-GLIAC­laurels­in­three­straight seasons.­Also­an­AVCA­All-Midwest Region­selection,­Rapin­finished­her stellar­four-year­career­as­Grand­Valley­State's­alltime­leader­in total­ blocks (525)­ and block­ assists (437),­ while ranking­ seventh­ in­ Laker history­in­kills (1,364)­ and total­ attacks (3,184)­ and eighth­ in­ hitting­ percentage­ (.317).

Owning­ a 3.88­ grade point­ average in­ marketing, Rapin­ surpassed­ 300 kills­ for­ the fourth­straight season­ and was­second­in the­GLIAC­in total­ blocks

and­blocks­per­set­(1.25),­third­in­hitting­percentage,­sixth­in­kills­per­set (3.39)­ and­ sixth­ in­ points­ per­ set (4.16).

Breen,­ a­ junior­ defensive back,­earned­First­Team­All-GLIAC honors­ and­ was named­ to­ the CoSIDA­ AllAcademic­ District­ IV­ First Team.­He­ranked second­ on­ the Grand­ Valley State­ defense­ in total­tackles­with­a­career-high­101 stops.­ Breen­ tallied­ eight­ or­ more tackles­seven­times­during­the­2010 season,­while­also­recording­8.5­tackles­for­loss­and­3.5­quarterback­sacks.

In­helping­lead­GVSU­to­the­NCAA Division­II­playoffs­for­a­record-setting­10th­straight­season,­Breen­recovered­two­fumbles­and­tallied­one interception.­Grand­Valley­State­finished­the­2010­season­with­an­11-2 record­and­claimed­its­sixth-straight GLIAC­championship.­Breen­is­the owner­of­a­3.65­grade­point­average

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in­biomedical­science.

Witt,­a­junior­runner,­helped the­ Laker­ cross­ country­ team­ to­ its best-ever­ finish at­the­Division­II National­ Championship­ meet, as­ he­ recorded the­team's­highest­ finish,­ placing­ 15th­ with­ a time­of­31:13.0.­His­performance­led GVSU­ to­ a­ third-place­ team­ finish after­ the­ Lakers­ claimed­ both­ their ninth­ straight­ GLIAC­ and­ Midwest Regional­titles.­Witt's­time­at­the­National­ Championship­ meet­ earned him­United­States­Track­&­Field­and Cross­Country­Coaches­Association (USTFCCCA)­ All-America­ status.

The­ junior­ was­ named­ the­ GLIAC Runner­of­the­Year­for­crossing­the finish­line­first­at­the­conference­meet (24:47.4)­ and­ earned­ All-Midwest Region­First­Team­laurels­for­finishing­ second­ at­ the­ regional­ championship.­Witt­is­a­pre-medical­major and­holds­a­3.82­grade­point­average.

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