Game Day Wildcats look to tame Huskies on Saturday
vol. 103, no. 11
friday september 26, 2014
Sports Page 8
1 SECTION, 8 PAGES
what’s INSIDE NEWS Students attend annual Slam Poetry Night in the Inkwell Page 3
SPORTS Soccer takes on conference opponent at Shotwell
Page 7
DANCING
NEWS Student bands and musical artists audition for the Homecoming JamFest
QUEENS
Page 4
NEWS ACU Roller Hockey team to play annual charity game
Page 3
emily Guajardo staff Photographer
Eboni Ellerson, senior speech pathology major from Fort Worth, does a celebratory dance after being blindfolded and kidnapped by the Homecoming Steering committee Wednesday night. Ellerson is one of the eleven seniors nominated to the Homecoming Court.
OPINION Scotland voted to stay in the UK, but would Texas vote to stay in the US?
Page 6
Eleven senior women nominated madelyn bane student reporter
With Homecoming on the horizon, the student body has elected the nominees for this year’s Homecoming Queen. Nominees for this year’s Homecoming Queen are Breanna Barrow, Morgan
Beckmon, Danielle Canela, Kailee Cremer, Alexandra Eddins, Eboni Ellerson, Lizzie Folwell, Meigan Gardner, Sarah Hendrix, Meghann McLeskley and Morgan Watten. Students were able to nominate senior women online Sept. 17 through Sept. 19, and the 11 nominees were announced this
past Wednesday. For several years, ACU has allotted 10 nominee spots for Homecoming Queen. Last year, that changed when an extra spot was added. This year, the groundwork that was laid last year continues with 11 nominees. To announce their nominations, the steer-
ing committee kidnapped the nominees Wednesday night and took them to a secret location, said Abbie Baird who is a member of the steering committee. “It takes a couple hours because we have to track down the girls and ride (golf carts) all over campus,” said Baird, senior youth and family ministry
major from Austin. “We take them to a secret location to celebrate and talk about the fun things they get to participate in during Homecoming Weekend.” Once nominated, the nominees will take part in special activities during the week of Homecomsee queens page 4
Largest pledge class in social club history
SPORTS How to survive the fantasy football Week 4 meltdown Page 7
NEWS Phi Eta Sigma inducts more than 300 new members Page 3
hannah little sports producer GATA’S pledge class is at its highest number this year and holds the record for the club’s history. During last year’s pledge season, GATA had the third highest total number of pledges, trailing Ko Jo Kai and Sigma Theta Chi both with 63. This year, GATA sees excitement and big changes for the new pledge class. “This class is the biggest pledge class that GATA has
ever had,” said Kai Cremer, president of GATA. “It’s so exciting just to see the club grow.” The excitement flourished all around the club from the new pledges, to members and to alumni. “The group of girls was such a good quality,” Cremer said. “I think it threw GATA for a loop of how great these girls were and how excited they were for the club. It completely surprised us all.” The club’s significant growth can help to flourish GATA and set the atmosphere for the group to be exciting.
The new pledges and members are both ready to see what’s in store. “We really want to enrich the sisterhood with this pledge class and really show that GATA is part of something that has been going on for 94 years,” Cremer said. “It’s going to be good.” This year’s total number of pledges is 380. Compared to last years 392 students, there are still a high and popular number of students who decided to pledge. As of Friday, the women’s pledge class saw a growth as the total went from last year’s 238 to this
year’s 253. “GATA had 69, Kojies 67, Siggies 66, Alpha Kai 47, and Zeta Rho four,” said Mark Jackson, associate director of student organizations and programs. For the men’s pledge classes, Frater Sodalis and SubT-16 saw a slight increase in number of pledges. Since last year, SubT rose from 18 to 21 and Frater Sodalis 5 to 14. “We honestly have a lot of diverse students, said Chris Perkins, officer for Frater Sodalis. “This semester we have a number of transfer students so they all knew each other
and decided to pledge together.” In the past year, numbers of pledges for the men’s clubs total went from 154 to 135. “Gamma Sigma Phi had 53, Galaxy 25, SubT-16 21, Trojans 18, Frater Sodalis 14, and Pi Kappa 4,” Jackson said. As of late Thursday afternoon, Jackson confirmed that at least nine men and women have de-pledged since the beginning of the process last week. contact little at hll12a@acu.edu
Sanders retires after 43 years of intramurals elijah evans staff reporter
what’s online VIDEO See our video coverage of Freshman Follies and their talent-filled acts
Read more at acuoptimist.com
Forty-three years. That’s how long Larry “Satch” Sanders has played intramural f lag football. More importantly, it has been over four decades of deep friendship and camaraderie built through the thrills of victory and agonies of defeat. “Satch” Sanders may be on the verge of retirement, but his impact and legacy will endure in the hearts and minds of the men of Frater Sodalis. Chartered in 1943, the number 43 holds great significance to the men of Frater Sodalis. “If I retire in the 40th
or 45th season, that’s kind of about me,” said Sanders, senior advisor for Frater Sodalis. “If I retire on the 43rd season, that focuses the attention on the entity and organization that has made it all possible, that is my membership and advisership for Frater Sodalis.” Sanders’ dedication and loyalty to family, football and relationships with the men of Frater Sodalis defines him, said Matthew Solomon, junior information technology major from Round Rock and president of Frater Sodalis. “To be a teammate has it’s own very, very special dynamic,” Sanders said. see frats page 2
Larry “Satch” Sanders played flag football on the Frater Sodalis intramural team for 43 years.
Abilene Christian University
matthew sewell Special contributor
friday 09.26.14
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friday
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saturday
7 p.m. Football game versus Houston Baptist University
6 p.m. Entra a la Plaza
7:30 Faculty chamber recital
Chapel checkup To date:
Remaining:
26 53 @acuoptimist The Optimist
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sunday
12 p.m. Soccer game versus Nicholls St. University
2
monday
1:30 p.m. Soccer game versus SE Louisiana University
Announcements If you are a fan of hockey or want to learn how to play, you should join the ACU Hockey Club! The team plays at the DII college level of Inline Roller Hockey. Email our club president, Ryan Podany, at rap10c@acu.edu or our team captain, Tim Holt, at tdh10b@ acu.edu for more information.
September and October and will make it difficult to access some of the books. The move will open up more of the library for study spaces on the first and third floors. We apologize for any inconvenience and ask that you seek librarian assistance at the main floor research desk if you are not able to easily find what you Books in the library are be- are looking for. ing relocated to movable compact shelving on the This year’s homecoming mufirst floor of the library. The sical is Big Fish, which centers move will take place through on Edward Bloom, a travel-
ing salesman who lives life to the fullest. ACU Theatre is one of the first in the nation to mount a production. The musical’s three shows will run Oct. 10-11 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 12 at 2 p.m. The show is suitable for all ages. Tickets can be purchased online at acu. edu/theatre.
the Elks Ballroom at 1174 N. 1st St., on Oct. 3. We will have a lesson at 7 p.m., and dancing will be from 8-10 p.m. Dress up, or dress vintage!
ACU FilmFest is an exciting opportunity for everyone! Come to the Campus Center Living Room on October 1 at 11:30 a.m. to find out what it’s Come join the ACU Swing all about. Let’s make it another Cats and Jazz Ensemble at great FilmFest year! this year’s Fall Stomp for a swanky night of swing dancing and live music! It will be in
optimist@acu.edu Police log SELECTED ACUPD CALLS FOR THE WEEK 09/20/2014 10:45 a.m. A University Park resident reported the theft of her bicycle from UP. 09/21/2014 9:30 a.m. A student reported that his vehicle had been burglarized in the Smith Adams parking lot. 09/21/2014 10:40 a.m. Student reported that his vehicle had been burglarized in the Smith Adams parking lot. 09/21/2014 3:49 p.m. A student reported that their vehicle had been burglarized while parked in the Smith Adams lot. 09/22/2014 8:45 p.m. A student reported the theft of a backpack from Moody Coliseum. 09/23/2014 10:37 a.m. A student in Morris Hall was reported to be in possession of marijuana. Criminal charges pending, also referred to Judicial Affairs. 09/23/2014 1:50 p.m. A student reported the theft of her bike from a rack at Smith Adams Hall. Weekly Stats For Week of Sept. 18 - Sept. 25, 2014 - Total Events: 417 ACCIDENT 4 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIVITY 12 ALARM 4 ASSIST 3 ATTEMPT TO LOCATE 1 BARRICADES 1 BICYCLE PATROL 1 BUILDING LOCK/UNLOCK 35 BURGLARY (MOTOR VEHICLE) 4 BURGLARY (RESIDENCE) 2 CHECK BUILDING 163 CITATION ISSUANCE 3 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF 2
CRIMINAL TRESPASS WARNING 1 DISTURBANCE 4 DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE 1 DRUG ACTIVITY/OFFENSE 1 FINGERPRINTING SERVICE 1 FIRE 1 FOOT PATROL 19 FOUND PROPERTY 2 HARASSMENT 1 INFORMATION REPORT 3 INVESTIGATION FOLLOW UP 14 LOST PROPERTY 2 MAINTENANCE UNIV. ASSETS: CCTV 2
MEDICAL EMERGENCY 2 MOTORIST ASSIST: INFLATE TIRE 1 MOTORIST ASSIST: JUMPSTART 11 MOTORIST ASSIST: OTHER 3 MOTORIST ASSIST: UNLOCK 15 OTHER 7 PARKING LOT PATROL 12 PARKING VIOLATION 5 PATROL VEHICLE: MAINTENANCE 4 PATROL VEHICLE: REFUEL 6 PROWLER 1 RANDOM PATROL 25 REPORT WRITING 5
SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT 3 SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY 1 SUSPICIOUS PERSON 6 THEFT (NON VEHICLE) 6 TRAFFIC HAZARD 1 TRAFFIC STOP 3 TRAINING 1 WELFARE CHECK 1 911 2 Police Chief Tip of the Week: ACUPD would like to thank everyone for their patience with parking problems during Summit.
Intramurals
Frats: Sponsor retires from club, intramurals from page 1 “That’s what I treasure so much. The camaraderie, the shared joy, frustration, excitement and all of those dynamics that are part of team sports.” Sanders cherishes these deep, robust relationships fostered through football. He decided after retiring from intramural football, he would also step down from his position as senior advisor to Frater Sodalis. “Without being able to share that special friendship of team, it was time for me to walk away from all of it and retire from my position as advisor,” he said. “This was my year to go out in one fell swoop.” “Loyal, completely loyal to his friends and Frats,” said Kyle Pinson, Frat alum and director of intramural sports. Loyalty, dedication and investment were the traits repeated again and again by students and peers in reference to Sanders. His genuine nature resonated with students and peers. “He’s a friend of mine, honestly,” said Kyle Bowen a junior youth and family ministry and biblical text major from Grass Valley, California and officer of Frater Sodalis. “Even with the huge age gap, he’s a fun guy to be around. But he’s also a mentor, with all his years of wisdom and experience.” Tellingly, the reverse is also true. Sanders embraces his teammates as friends, bound by the brotherhood of sport, creating life memories play after play.
Sanders (top row, far left) has played intramural flag football for Frater Sodalis since he pledged in 1971. “It’s bittersweet,” said Mark Jackson, associate director of student organizations and programs. “He gets it. He gets why social clubs exist. You are not going to find a bigger supporter of social clubs as a whole.” Sanders reinforced the importance of social clubs and how they foster the “continuity of friendship.” In his unique case, he highlighted the shared experience of a team as the die
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He gets it. He gets why social clubs exist. You are not going to find a bigger supporter of social clubs as a whole.”
after guys I was in club with.” Tim Yandell, advisor to Frater Sodalis and vice president of development for Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mark Jackson associate director of student organizations and programs considers Sanders to be one of his closest friends. which cast lifelong friend- ball as a student. Yandell pledged Frater ships. These friendships “Two of my kids are Sodalis in the spring of transcend the generations named after guys I played 1983 and quickly met Sandbetween Sanders and the football with in Frats,” he ers who was already an adstudents of today, but also said. “It is really, really spe- visor. Yandell bonded with transcend the years that cial in that regard, that I Sanders through club and have passed since his time would honor those friend- football before becoming playing intramural foot- ships by naming children an advisor after he gradu-
ated. Yandell interacts and corresponds with many of alumni, often coordinating fundraising efforts. “We just love him, and our alumni love and respect him,” Yandell said. “It will be a sad time for all of us when “Satch” isn’t playing on the field.”
contact evans at ece12avv@acu.edu
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news
wednesday 10.01.14
Slam poetry echoes through Chambers Hall Callie Oliver student reporter Al Haley, writer in residence and professor, hosted ACU’s annual Slam Poetry Night last Tuesday. Students from Haley’s Poetry Workshop class and guest speakers from Abilene performed poetry for the event in The Inkwell of Chambers. “It’s an evening of wow and wonder and words,” Haley said. Every year since 2007, Haley has conducted a yearly poetry slam event for his ENG 323 Poetry Workshop class. Haley started the tradition of Slam Poetry Night when he realized he wanted to bring something new to his poetry class. Although slam poetry doesn’t get much recognition from academia, Haley thinks it’s a special form of art that should be recognized. “It feels like it comes out of their whole being, I guess you could say,” Haley said. “It’s more emotional and there’s a lot of rhythm, and sometimes you’ll see people move around a lot and you’ll feel like it’s almost like music.” Ten students and four guest poets performed during the event. The audience was encouraged to com-
ment and interact with the poets as they performed their pieces. Haley’s students were required to perform one poem and bring at least two people with them. The Inkwell was packed and the audience overflow went out to the hallway. Unlike a traditional poetry slam, this event was not a competition. Haley wanted a friendly atmosphere for his students to share their work in. Students were not given a certain theme to structure their work around. “Professor Haley mentioned a call to action,” said Stephanie Whitlow, graduate creative writing major from Academy. “He wanted something to where we would need to engage the audience, get them to want to move on with that idea that we had or something that is bringing up truth.” Students and guest poets performed pieces on a variety of topics. Sheila Haines, sophomore nursing major from Dallas, performed a poem about an experience with an ex-boyfriend that invoked several shouts of agreement from the audience. “I just really like the way that people get passionate,” she said. “Because when you read poetry, you can’t always feel the passion in
Erika bolado Staff Photographer
Jessica Walker, 2007 graduate from the department of language and literature, was a guest poet at Tuesday’s slam. it but when you see it performed, it’s right there in your face.” Brandy Rains, former art major from Fort Worth, performed two poems. One was about the problems with way people think of God as a father figure and her other poem was about overcom-
ing a diagnosis. “I like that it’s a conversation between the poet and the audience,” Rains said. Several students memorized their poems and worked for weeks so they could perform them the way they felt they should be heard.
Roller Hockey to benefit Hendrick keith sanders student reporter ACU Roller Hockey will participate in a charity game Saturday benefitting Hendrick Children’s Hospital. The game will be between ACU Roller Hockey and a team comprised of Abilene and Dyess Air Force Base hockey players. The game will begin at 2 p.m. at the Jimmy Hoffman Arena at Cal Young Park on T&P Lane. The hockey team, funded by the ACU Students’ Association, was granted $2,450 from the 2014 budget, making it one of the most expensive SA-sponsored sports teams outspending ACU Lacrosse by $450. “We are one of the most funded groups in SA, and, since we are funded by oth-
ers, we wanted to give back to the community,” said Ryan Podany, junior information technology major from Willow Park. “It’s just one charity game, but there’s not really a lot of hockey in Abilene, and it’s a good and fun way to raise money.” Podany is the goalie and president of the roller hockey club. The charity will generate donations in a few different way, said Jonathan Spencer, the team’s head coach. The first will be in the form of open donations, such as passing a basket around. The second will be from facilitating a chuck-apuck competition in which contestants throw a foam puck onto the rink. The puck closest to the center will win the grand prize. Third, the team will host a silent auction, auctioning off items
such as an ACU hockey jersey. “The Mayor’s Council for Physical Fitness donated proceeds to purchase the foam pucks which will be sold for $10 each,” Spencer said. “The winner of the contest will win prizes donated by over 25 sponsor companies.” Sponsors also donated items to go into gift bags for the children who participate in the Mission Hockey clinic. “The kids will receive gift bags full of free stuff like day passes to the Abilene Zoo,” Spencer said. ”They really like those.” This isn’t the hockey team’s first attempt at charity. Previously, they participated in a food drive with Hendrick Children’s Hospital in which they raised about 400 cans of food, he said.
“Last year, we went and hung out at the Hendrick children’s home,” said Timothy Holt, digital entertainment technology major from Plano. “We got to see some of the kids and built them a goal out of PVC pipe and net. We tried to have a fundraiser for them, but it kind of fell through.” Despite the failure of their attempt, the team has high hopes for attendance. “We expect a good turnout,” Holt said. ”The food drive wasn’t bad for our first try. We’re expecting up to 200 people and with the chuck-a-puck and silent auction. I’m hoping to raise at least $2,000, but anything generated goes to a good cause.” contact sanders at kas08a@acu.edu
Freshman honor society inducts more than 300 new members Kynzie Newman student reporter Phi Eta Sigma, a freshman honor society, conducted its annual ceremony of induction in Hart Auditorium. With record-breaking attendance, the event had over 400 guests and over 300 students became new members. Phi Eta Sigma has plans to grow and strengthen this year, providing opportunities for members to serve and get involved. Phi Eta Sigma is a national honor society for first-year students.
The organization was founded at University of Illinois in 1923 and was originally a fraternity, but, in 1975, the fraternity was dropped and membership was opened to women. The honor society has been at ACU since 1987. In the past, it was been housed in the Political Science Department but is now housed in the First-Year Program located on the bottom level of McKinzie Hall. To qualify for membership, students must have a GPA of 3.5 during the fall or spring semester of their first year of college. Students must have registered for
and completed 12 or more credits during the semester in which they earned the 3.5 GPA. Last, you must also be enrolled in an accredited bachelor’s degree program. Colton McCoy, senior biology and Spanish major from Granbury, is president of Phi Eta Sigma. He has a passion to get first-year students involved and has hit the ground running with fresh ideas and a new foundation. “I’m most looking forward to and excited about being a part of laying the groundwork for what Phi Eta Sigmas’ service to its community and students
Students to celebrate Hispanic culture sarah stephens student reporter Hispanos Unidos will conduct its annual event, Entra a la Plaza, at 6 p.m. Friday at the Hunter Welcome Center patio. Entra a la Plaza is an event that brings students together every year to celebrate Hispanic culture with free, traditional Hispanic food, Hispanic music, dancing and performances and Hispanic culture from around Abilene. The event is in September to honor Hispanic Heritage month, which began Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15. Ana Arango is the president of Hispanos Unidos. “The purpose of Entra a la Plaza is essentially an extension of the purpose of Hispanos Unidos,” said Arango, senior biochemistry major from Plano. “We want
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We are extending an inviation to everyone, regardless of his or her nationality.” ana arango senior biochemistry major from plano
to invite people to recognize and celebrate the Hispanic culture that is largely prevalent both on ACU’s campus and throughout Abilene as a whole.” Arango wants to make sure the student body and community know that even though this is a Hispanos Unidos event, it is not just for people of Hispanic culture. “We are extending the invitation to everyone,” she said. “We really want everyone to go, regardless of his or her nationality.” This year, participants will enjoy activities like pi-
ñatas, bounce houses and a DJ, who will play traditional Hispanic music people can dance to. “I’m excited about Entra a la Plaza this year because it was such a big hit last year,” said Lindsay Palmer, senior psychology major from Houston. “It brought together the ACU and Abilene community. The food, dancing and overall atmosphere was great.” Palmer works for the Office of Multicultural Enrichment and has been involved with Entra a la Plaza for the past few years. Donations are strongly encouraged to support the cost of the event, but this event is free to anyone who would like to attend and enjoy a taste of Hispanic culture and heritage. contact stephens at sbs10a@acu.edu
will look like in the years to come,” McCoy said. The honor society at ACU has not been very active in the past, but members like McCoy and Caddie Coupe, assistant director of the FirstYear program, are excited to start from scratch and become more industrious in service projects and other community events. Coupe is the chapter advisor and connects students to the national organization. “This is just the beginning,” Coupe said. contact newman at mjn11a@acu.edu
“It’s really working with the words and seeing how it’s going to best impact the audience,” Whitlow said. The students and guest speakers that participated in the event are very passionate about their work. “I want my poetry to serve God in the way that
it might give people a voice who feel like they don’t have a voice,” said Gabriel Prado, graduate creative writing major from Los Angeles.
contact oliver at cro12b@acu.edu
news
Friday 09.26.14
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IM considers forming freshman-only league daniel block intramurals reporter Freshman residence halls could possibly have their own intramural sports league by spring 2015. Kyle Pinson, director of intramural sports, is considering the idea of introducing a competition among freshman dorms, depending on the interest shown in the coming weeks. There is already a points competition for social clubs.
“I was trying to think of a way to get more freshmen involved with intramural sports,” Pinson said. Pinson is looking for first-year students to volunteer as intramural directors for their respective dorms. He hasn’t seen a high level of positive feedback yet. “Right now I’m really trying to figure out if there’s interest for it,” Pinson said. “If there’s not, there’s no point in us trying to make it happen.” Earlier in the semester, Pinson advertised an
interest meeting to take place at the Students’ Association elections and nominations meeting with no success. But, he hasn’t abandoned the idea. Pinson plans to introduce stronger advertising in the coming weeks. Rodney Johnson, SA president and senior marketing major from Odessa, said he hopes Pinson is able to follow through with his plan. Despite the lack of attendance at the first meeting, he still believes in the opportunity
for the freshman league to take off. “I don’t know if (the lack of attendance) necessarily means there wasn’t any interest,” Johnson said. “I think there’s a lot of interest in intramurals, we just have to be more aggressive about finding people to take leadership and get freshmen more educated on intramurals.” While Johnson acknowledges forming the freshman league is not his top priority as SA president, he recognizes the value in
such a possibility. “I’d like to see freshmen more involved in intramurals,” Johnson said. “I think it’s a big part of ACU and the ACU experience.” Pinson plans to model the freshman league after the social club competition, though he is open to changing its structure if needed. In the current system, clubs receive points for team or individual participation in each sport as well as first and second place finishes. At the end of the spring semester, one female
and one male club are pronounced intramural champions. If interest picks up in the coming weeks, Pinson hopes to get the ball rolling as soon as possible. “If people are interested, I would hope we could get something going by next spring,” he said. Interested students can contact Pinson at kep02b@ acu.edu. contact block at djb13a@acu.edu
AnswerBook’s 20th edition published on iBooks tori valdivia student reporter The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication released its 20th edition of the AnswerBook for the 2014-15 year, officially saying goodbye to the hardcopies and making it available exclusively on iTunes. This copy-desk reference guide to the university contains information about ACU including historical, geographical and cultural facts. This can range from new building names, new student groups and an updated list of all faculty, staff and administration members. The book is updated every school year and edited by Dr. Charlie Marler, professor emeritus of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, and Paul Anthony, communica-
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The Answerbook serves a role similar to an almanac, preserving the dynamic history of ACU in a way that might not be captured in a history book.”
Paul anthony communication coordinator for advancement
tion coordinator for ACU’s advancement division and former Optimist editor. “It was 20 years ago when we concluded that we needed a stylebook for the Optimist, and that’s how it started off,” Marler said. “As it grew, we began to insert historical and cultural things, and it grew from a stylebook into a handbook of style and history of the university for the student media.” Though it is now open to the public, the book was originally designed for student reporters of the Opti-
mist, serving as a source of help on writing style and legal issues. “The ACU AnswerBook was originally designed for the Optimist staff,” said Carisse Berryhill, associate dean of the library for digital initiatives, special collections and university archives. “Dr. Marler was really meticulous on how the students reported their facts; he wanted it done right. The book was created as a source for the students to check their facts and as the years went on, it even-
tually grew into something much bigger.” Today, the AnswerBook is not only used by Optimist writers, but also viewed from the public eye as a historical book. “It’s all potentially useful for an Optimist reporter, but the AnswerBook also serves a role similar to an almanac – preserving the dynamic history of ACU in a way that might not be captured by the narrative structure of a history book or might otherwise get lost in the day-today life of the campus,” Anthony said. The AnswerBook is available on iTunes for $8.99 and can also be downloaded to an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch.
contact valdivia jmcnetwork@acu.edu
The cover of this year’s Answerbook
Queens: Crowning to take place during halftime from page 1 ing. These activities include attending the Queen’s Tea, riding in the Homecoming Parade and the crowning of the Queen at half time dur-
ing the football game. “They have a Queen’s Tea on Friday which is for the Coming-Home Court,” said Aubree Selinger, alumni relations officer. “It’s for this year’s Court too. They
can invite friends and mingle.” Selinger said the queen will be introduced Saturday during Chapel after voting closes at midnight on Wednesday. “I can’t wait to see
who wins… I feel nervous and excited, but mostly just so honored to be on court with some amazing women,” said Eddins, senior musical theatre major from North Richland Hills.
“No matter who wins this will be an experience I will remember for the rest of my life. Voting opens Friday after Chapel and ends Wednesday at midnight. To vote for this year’s
Homecoming Queen, please visit w w w.acu. edu/queens.
contact bane mlb12d@acu.edu
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arts
FRIDAY 09.26.14
UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, Sept. 26
A Midsummer Night’s Dream performed by Hardin-Simmons Theatre at Van Ellis Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5. Dead Ringer performed by McMurry University Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5.
BREANNE AVEDEKIAN ART & DESIGN MEDIA STUDENT WORKER
Exhibits, musicals, performances, oh my! Catherine Blakemore Arts Editor From the Department of Theatre, students and faculty can look forward to the annual Homecoming musical. This year, it will perform the former broadway show and Hollywood film Big Fish. The performance will be the first premiere on a college campus since it was performed on Broadway. Big Fish follows the story of a young man, Edward Bloom, understanding the tall tales his father told throughout his life. The musical will be performed Oct. 10-11, at 8 p.m., and Oct. 12, at 2 p.m at the Abilene Civic Center. Music and lyrics are by Andrew Lippa, and the show is directed by Dawne Meeks. Dead Man’s Cell Phone will be the Cornerstone musical this year. The story will follow Jean as she finds and keeps the cellphone of a former café patron. When she begins to answer the phone of the man, who has recently passed away, she is unknowingly “thrust into a world of mysterious strangers, shady business deals and the potential for true love.” The comedy takes a look at the technology-obsessed world through “memory, redemption and connection.” The production will be showcased at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17-22 in Fulks Theatre. There will be a talkback session after each performance. Dead Man’s Cell Phone, written by Sarah Ruhl, will be directed by Kari Hat-
Dead Ringer performed by McMurry University Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission costs $5. Holy Ghost, the documentary by Darren Wilson, will be shown at Fountaingate Fellowship. Premiere will begin at 7 p.m. Admission is free.
WEEKLY FAVORITES with Rachel Fritz
contact Blakemore at crb13a@acu.edu
Arts reporter Art can be a praiseworthy thing. By art, we create experiences and forge common identities with others. We share stories and build visions. People express love through their work. Humans give glory to God when they honor him with the fruits of their labors. There should always be adornments and songs in the House of God, because our offerings before His Throne are as pleasing as the smell of burning incense. Yet we cannot always avoid the risks, either. Exploring a wide range of ideas always invites the chance of error. Reading stories could possibly open our minds to incorrect conclusions about the world. Watching films may lead us to idolize the actors instead
of hearing the intended message. Dancing might lead us into the path of physical temptation. We even fear allowing music in the Holy Temple for fear of poor language or inadequate talent to capture the inexpressible. For the sake of protecting the love and faith and gifts that God has given to us, we shut out many things that could pose a threat to what we hold most dear. After all, we might say to ourselves, is it not better to go armed with the shield and sword than to be found defenseless before our enemies? In the midst of such deep and meaningful questions of faith, God interjects an answer. The message that God gives is one that we don’t always want to hear. It could challenge assumptions we hold or shake the security our hearts and souls and minds cling to. But there will always come a time to take a leap of
Saturday, Sept. 27
A Midsummer Night’s Dream performed by Hardin-Simmons Theatre at Van Ellis Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission costs $5.
field, assistant professor of theatre. From the ACU Downtown Gallery, Felice House and Dana Younger show their work at the exhibit titled “Re-Western.” The exhibit takes a different look on American western culture. With intricate sculptures, clever design and stunning oil paintings, the gallery presents new ideas in an old setting. Among the pieces are colorful paintings of women placed in iconic scenes from westernized movies that typically held a man in the same position. The artists take a modern look at the ideal that has been deemed the American West. The “Re-Western” exhibit is stunningly put together and available to all students and the public. From the Art & Design department is a comprehensive show of the lifetime of work by art professor, Ginna Sadler. The show, aptly titled “Until Now” is on display at the Shore Art Gallery on campus. From mixed media to drawings to custom pieces of jewelry, Sadler’s exhibit chronicles the various works that an artist will create and collect throughout her life. Mixing a sense of industrialism with simplicity and varying textures, “Until Now” will create a captive audience from anyone who views the exhibit. The exhibit will be on display until Oct. 3.
BREANNE AVEDiKIAN ART & DESIGN MEDIA STUDENT WORKER
Re-Western exhibit at the ACU Downtown gallery.
Reflections on art and Summit Richard Lyne
Entra a la Plaza, the chance to celebrate and experience Hispanic cultures, begins at 6 p.m. in the Hunter Welcome Center. There will be music, food and performances. Admission is free.
faith. To strive in Hope. And most importantly, to love. This is the answer I want to stand behind. Love protects. It keeps foul language out of the lyrics of loving music. It does not depict violence for shock value, and it takes no risks without God’s guidance. Love is careful and patient, not charging ahead where culture is unable to follow. Yet love also challenges. Sometimes we are to speak when others are afraid. To press on when others stop. To work while some take their rest. To strive when complacency is the norm and to be virtuous when sin abounds. There are times when love will not wait for us to feel comfortable or ready or even knowledgeable. We also need faith to carry us and hope to uplift us. But, love always puts the need of God and others ahead of itself because love reaps to sow, willing to work for the benefit
of everyone else before itself. This year’s Summit theme of being rooted in God’s nature challenged me on a level deeper than I had expected, but why should I expect God to be predictable? If I can be wrong about God sometimes and still be saved, can we not also trust in Love as well? God does not always ask us to move, but Abram went when he was called, and his faith was credited to him as righteousness. When we go out into the world of art, God isn’t calling us to leave our armor or sword at home. But at the same time, we ought to show discipline before haste and love before anger. Just because we carry God’s sword does not mean we ought to slash at everything that displeases us, nor should we close our love off from our enemies. For Jesus commanded all people to love all people, knowing that swords would not last forever.
Armor will be burnt as need- I know it’s probably less and swords beaten into overplayed at this point, plowshares for the sowing of but Am I Wrong by Nico the Kingdom. & Vinz is my jam. One day, the gift of speaking will no more be used to attack God’s enemies, but to Band praise His Name. There will come a time when the Sword The Black Eyed Peas of Wrath will be exchanged will forever be my fafor the Embrace of Righ- vorite band. I don’t care teousness. what anyone says. This is what it means to live as saved people on the earth. We are to love as Christ TV Show loved, loves and will always love: being willing to be cru- Big Bang Theory; it’s alcified even for those who are most sad how much I murdering us. can relate. This week, I pray we all lower our shields and open our ears enough to see God’s Food/Recipe Work and hear his Words. Let us go in peace and love as we Five-ingredient brownhave been called to love. Art ies. Thanks Pinterest! is a tool for love, and we can also make an art out of loving.
Coffee Drink
contact Lyne at arts@acu.edu
Album Review “Coexist” by The xx Catherine Blakemore Arts editor The English indie-pop trio that makes up The xx is notorious for its smooth sound, subtle instruments and hushed vocals. Much like their first selftitled album, Coexist takes the two singers’ (Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim) unique duet dynamic and creates the symphonic and harmonious result that is the 11-track album. The album begins with Angels, a love song redefined by simplicity and soft vocals. Removed from the cacophony that is pop music, Angels brings the true taste of minimalism to
modern music. Similarly, as the album progresses, songs flow seamlessly from one track to the next, staying away from the complicated music that tends to steer listeners away from the vocals. Throughout the album, the duo sings over the keyboard and percussionbased music with lyrics that haunt. Alluding to human experience, The xx’s lyrics take a metaphorical turn to express the daily experience. With both male and female vocals, the balance of perspective is unparalleled in other pop music. Without seeming to, the band shares the perspective with
Song
Any kind of spiced tea latte. Shaken, not stirred. Blog/Website Refinery29
(Ladies,
their voices and lyrics. On check it out.) the track titled Tides, the two sing synonymously for the first few seconds, before Movie trading off each line. Madley Croft’s honey- Funny Girl, hands down. like voice with Sim’s raspytone singing “You leave with the tide, And I can’t 90’s knick-knack stop you leaving,” alongside simple percussion beats I had Pokemon cards... and faded sound makes Is that lame? for a completely singular sound. All 37 minutes of Coexist present the work of the young band coming, very successfully, into their secTell us yours with ond album.
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contact Blakemore at crb13a@acu.edu
Opinion
Friday 09.26.14
6
editorial
Some lessons Texas could learn from Scotland the issue Scotland had better voter turn, better legal logic and more national pride.
our take If Texans are serious about seccession, they could take a few notes from Scotland’s most current event.
Here’s your geography lesson for the day: Scotland has been a part of the United Kingdom, along with England, Wales and Northern Ireland, since 1707. About 300 years later, Scotland voted whether to remain in the UK and finally decided last week they would stay. But what if this historic Scotish movement was
replayed somewhere else? Somewhere like Texas? It’s not hard to imagine. What Texan hasn’t secretly dreamed of seceding from the United States and the pride, power and freedom that would finally be ours? With “Texas Secede” flags flapping in the wind, tasteful bumper stickers convincingly being stuck on the back
of trucks and informative websites petitioning secession, it’s difficult not to get caught up in the excitement. In 2010, 32 percent of the state’s eligible adults voted in the general election – the second worst voter turn-out in the nation. In Scotland, 85 percent of eligible voters showed up at the polls. Maybe a vote on secession would inspire political involvement and shake up a state of apathetic constituents. Scottish patriotism was tangible as people wore kilts to the poll
booths and bagpipes were played in the streets. Texas pride would no doubt be as visible, but there would probably be an abundance of guns and Texas flags instead of bagpipes and kilts. Although there is the small problem that seccession was declared unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1869, Texas Nationalist Movement president Daniel Miller has called to put the question on a statewide ballot. An online petition received 125,746 signatures in favor of independence. Unfortu-
DAILY doodle dosage
Ben Todd
nately, the White House rejected the petition because the U.S. is a “perpetual union.” The Texas Nationalist party was not pleased with this response, however, and cited a section of the Texas Constitution that says Texans have the right “to alter, reform or abolish their government in such manner as they may think expedient.” The group said they won’t give up. The Scottish vote was a close one – 44.7 percent voted for independence and 55.3 percent voted to remain a part of the U.K.
A 2013 poll found that 20 percent of Texans would support secession because of Obama’s re-election, so maybe the Texas vote for independence won’t be as much of a nail biter as Scotland’s, but who knows? Things could change if another democrat is elected president. So, until then, we’ll have to be satisfied with flying the Texas flag as high as the American flag.
contact The Optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu
Column
A leap of faith I’M SORRY VAGABONDAGE MISS JACKSON SAMANTHA SUTHERLAND BRITTANY JACKSON
Column
Please don’t make me ‘grow up’ VIEWS VAGABONDAGE FROM GOODY SAMANTHA SUTHERLAND TWO-SHOES
LINSEY THUT
Every senior you’ve run into lately is probably telling you how they’re so ready to graduate, to leave ACU and be free. Well, not me. I don’t wanna grow up. Growing up means graduating. Graduating means the real world. The real world means no more nap breaks, no more latenight Rosa’s runs with friends and no more random excuses to make a tutu for almost every occasion. In college, if you stayed up until 2 a.m. the night before, either being productive and finishing
homework or just drooling over Nate Archibald in Gossip Girl on Netflix, it’s widely accepted to wear sweats and dress like a slob. You’re also allowed to slack on all assignments and lazily shuffle through the day with mumbled words, “Late night” hanging on your lips if anyone questions your lackadaisical attitude. This won’t fly in the real world. You still have to dress appropriately, do your work and act like a human being instead of a zombie, no matter how tired you are.
People can argue all they want with their claims of “Our life begins after college” or “We’ll get a chance to work toward our dreams.” Sure, this is all true, but I’m not ready for that yet.
“
Growing up means no more late night Rosa’s runs with friends.”
The reason is because of the unspoken reality that lingers in the mind of every senior. This year means saying goodbye to friends you never imagined you’d part with. It means saying goodbye to those late night
hashtagACU Sept. 23 10:47 p.m. Sept. 25 9:05 a.m.
GIVE ME THE BEST TBT YOU HAVE.
@MesseJorgan
I’m still not quite over that kid in McKenzie giving himself a tattoo yesterday #acudifference
Pretty sure I just heard two Squigs yell “I have green crocs!” & I’m confused because I thought hazing wasn’t allowed here during pledging.
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Sept. 25 9:25 a.m.
If you’re not screaming at the top of your lungs, do you really, “G A T A wanna be a Gata”????
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Sept. 25 4:46 p.m.
Sept. 25 10:44 a.m.
The @acuoptimist finally decided I was worth a follow now that I have graduated from ACU. Somehow I am still honored
So apparently the new science building will have bathrooms on every floor #blessed #innovative
@theDBexperience
@Austin_McCuish
editorial and Letter Policy Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing
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Sept. 25 1:26 p.m.
chats when you should be studying. It means saying goodbye to driving in circles around campus with the windows down just so you can blast Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off repeatedly. And mostly, it’s saying goodbye to the ACU community that, if you let yourself admit, you’re going to miss. So seniors, don’t let all this mushy writing get you down. Instead, do just the opposite. Be obnoxious, wear giant hair bows or Spiderman sweatpants, stay up until 3 a.m. just being stupid. And if anyone tells you to grow up, tell them it can wait for one more year.
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Studying abroad is a lot like applying for college: the tough part isn’t getting in, it’s staying. Starting is fun. It’s new, it’s an adventure. But when you arrive, it’s not as easy as you’d think. You have to keep the grades, maintain the schedule and get to know the people. The same applies to studying abroad in Montevideo. It was a leap of faith, and I’m still trying to regain my footing, but there’s an additional hurdle: the language barrier. If you asked me a few months ago if I was ready to travel several thousand miles away from home, I’d laugh in your face. I’d say it was something I was born to do, something noted on all my bucket lists since I could write. But as time passes here in Montevideo, I find myself becoming more terrified of this experience. I’m in a foreign land. I am part of the minority. I struggle to understand the dialect, the speed at which words are spoken and the thick accents that accompany it all. Before, when my parents and friends would warn me of pickpockets, I would laugh and roll my eyes. I could handle myself, or so I thought. Nothing has happened. The pickpockets aren’t abundant in this city, I have yet to get lost and the food has been easy to adjust to (shou-
tout to abundant pasta, empanadas and meat). Yet, I still find myself tentative in exploring the city. I came here to learn Spanish, and yet that’s the one thing holding me back. The first week of sitting back and listening to conversation was fine, it’s important to get a feel for communication, but four weeks down the road and I’m still just sitting back and listening. Despite having several years of Spanish education under my belt before landing in Montevideo, I’m don’t understand every word, or every sentence spoken. I’m not going to be f luent if I keep surrounding myself with my old culture- with songs I listen to, books I read and social media I communicate through in English. If I’m going to learn this language and this culture, I first have to truly experience it. New experiences are fun, they’re exciting, but most of all they are challenging. Whether it’s signing up for new class, investigating a new way of thinking or even a reevaluating a way of life, it’s not going to be easy. A lot of work must be done for the challenge to be successful. You have to dedicate time to understand just how you need to grow, and then go and experience the change. contact jackson at bkj12a@acu.edu
Sept. 20 1:41 p.m.
In 48 hours we will be taking on KCHL to raise money for Hendrick Children Hospital! Come out and support us! @overheardACU @acuoptimist
@ACUHockey
Summit. Otherwise known as the week of the fannypack
Sometimes, you forget it’s Family Weekend and you get out of the shower to discover a bunch of families just hanging out on your hall. Cool.
@joshsmith_93
Prof: “How should government corruption be fought?” Student: *screams* “Set yourself on Fire!” #thatkid
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You never know what you have until it’s gone. I miss you WIFI
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Sept. 25 4:14 p.m.
People who lend scantrons, yall the real MVP
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sports
friday 09.26.14
7
Soccer looks for pair of wins at Shotwell daniel zepeda sports director The women’s soccer team will look to pick up two wins and get back to a .500 record this weekend. The team will play Nicholls State Friday at noon and Southeastern Louisiana Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Both games will be played at Shotwell Stadium. The Wildcats are coming off a 3-2 victory over Sam Houston and a 1-0 loss in overtime against the Houston Baptist Huskies last weekend. The games were ACU’s first conference games of the season and provided a lot of upside for the team. “I was really pleased with all three goals scored on Friday,” said Casey Wilson, head coach. “It really gave us some confidence. Then Houston Baptist was fresh and I think we were really a little more run down than they were, but we dominated the second half. I think we still gave them one too many chances in overtime.” With a current record of 4-6, the Wildcats on paper may appear to be in the midst of a subpar season, but the level of competition the team has faced so far has been of high quality. Over the span of 12 days, the soccer team has faced tough opponents such as University of North Texas, Texas Christian University and the number seven team in the nation, Texas Tech, all on the road. “We have played some really tough teams and most of those games haven’t gone the way we wanted,” said Sarah Schoch, senior midfielder from Amarillo . “Long term, though, facing tougher opponents is definitely going to help us.” Nicholls State University will come into the match with a 5-4 overall record and a 1-1 conference record. The team dropped its conference opener against McNeese, 3-2, but bounced back against Texas A&M Corpus Christi, 1-0. Last season, Nicholls State handed the paige otway Staff Photographer Wildcats their first conThe soccer team looks to improve on its conference record this weekend with two games at Shotwell Stadium. The Wildcats face off against ference loss, 3-1. Southeastern Louisiana is on a three-game son. “Both teams are very Wilson said. “Nicholls got it was a tight game all the winning streak and have The Wildcats took on well coached, and last us last year, but I think way down to the end so contact zepeda at posted an impressive 9-1 SELU last season and year, when we were down we match up pretty well I expect it’ll be another djz11a@acu.edu record to start the sea- shutout the Lions, 1-0. there, it was a battle,” with them. Southeastern, good game.”
How to survive the fantasy apolcalypse The fantasy footba ll week-four apoca ly pse is here, footba ll fans. A bye week of epic proportions is occurring that involves the Broncos, Sea hawks, Benga ls, Brow ns, Rams and Cardina ls. A lot of key name players w ill be out this week, but many leagues have great waiver-w ire players that can fill multiple positions. Quarterback w ill be the most heav ily hit position as fantasy studs Pey ton Manning, Russell Wilson and A ndy Da lton w ill a ll be out. Three quarterbacks who are available in free agency in over 50 percent of the leagues are EJ Manuel, Kirk Cousins and Geno Smith. EJ Manuel may not be turning heads in NFL game situations, but he’s the definition of a fantasy average Joe, averaging 15 fantasy points a week is a dua l threat for the Bills. He won’t turn over the ba ll much and cost your team points. Kirk Cousins has been phenomena l in relief for Robert Griffin, throw ing
for five touchdow ns in t wo weeks and putting up over 677 yards during that time. The biggest f lyer of the week in fantasy footba ll and the NFL is Geno Smith. Smith has throw n more interceptions than touchdow ns this season, but his 44.92 tota l points in three weeks of play have made at least a decent option to fill in at QB. He is play ing the Lions this week, and that could end badly as they
only a llowed seven points to Green Bay’s offense last week. Running backs w ill a lso be hit hard as starters Marshaw n Ly nch, Terrance West and Montee Ba ll w ill be out. Two guys that are likely to ma ke an impact this week are Buccaneers running back Bobby Rainey and Steelers running back LeGarrette Blount. Rainey has been reliev ing injured starter Doug Martin and has put together a solid three weeks w ith 299 tota l yards and a touchdow n. Blount is a lso an option, especia lly because of his red zone capabilities. Blount’s numbers have jumped from Week
2 to Week 3, and he has t wo touchdow ns in just three games. The fina l position ever yone should be searching for is w ide receiver. The productive receiving corps of the Broncos and Benga ls could cause major problems. Two names that have been available in most
leagues are the Jaguars’ A llen Hurns and the Chargers’ Eddie Roya l. Hurns has three touchdow ns this season and, w ith the QB change in Jacksonv ille to Bla ke Bortles, his numbers should increase. Eddie Roya l has had many great seasons for fantasy ow ners, but
his drop-off over recent years has steered people away. Philip Rivers did throw him t wo touchdow ns last week, though, and he has become more involved ever y week this season. contact wieder at cpw11a@acu.edu
sports
Friday 09.26.14
Search continues for athletic director daniel zepeda sports director The search for a new athletic director is still in progress as President Phil Schubert and others are review applicants for the position. “We have received a number of expressions of interest and are in a preliminary phase of having discussions with those interested in the position,” Schubert said. “Step one is we’ll look at the qualifications of the people that approach us and make sure they have the requisites needed to fulfill this role they are asking to fill, and
schubert
mosley
secondly, we’ll then take that number and try to dwindle it down to a more manageable number of applicants who we feel will be successful here at ACU.” As with the case of hiring new faculty and staff, Schubert said he would like to find someone who has the same qualities and characteristics that embody what ACU stands for. “First and foremost, I
want a leader who not only agrees with and supports a very intentional faith orientation, but I want someone who can demonstrate how to weave your faith into the administration,” Schubert said. “Someone who can be a leader on campus, who can mentor our players and even coaches is what I’m looking for.” “A few other things we are looking for is for someone who can be somewhat of a relationship expert and someone who can communicate well with our alumni and families,” Schubert said. “Someone who also is excellent at recruiting and bringing the best talent to ACU that they can so that
we may continue to stay competitive and strive towards athletic greatness.” Another attribute considered in the search for names is experience at the Div. 1 level. “They also need to be a person who either knows, or can learn fairly quickly, the NCAA landscape,” Schubert said. “Someone who knows the intricacies and details of the NCAA and someone who can excel in that role.” Current athletic director Jared Mosley has been heavily involved in the discussion and search for a replacement. Mosley, who announced his resignation Aug. 22, has had
several conversations with Schubert on applicants who he feels will succeed at ACU. “Phil and I have spoken regularly about this process, and I have always tried to give him my best opinion,” Mosley said. “There isn’t a set deadline on when we need to have someone here, but hopefully it will be after my final day on Homecoming weekend.” Mosley promised he would stay on with ACU until October to help search for a replacement. contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edu
8
standings football Standings
Team
Div.
ACU Lamar SFA MSU NSU
1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1
SELA HBU UCA SHSU Nicholls St. UIW
Ovrl 2-2 3-1 3-1 1-1 2-2 2-2 1-2 1-3 0-2 0-4 0-4
soccer Standings
Team
Div.
SELU 2-0-0 SFA 1-0-0 Lamar 1-0-0 HBU 1-0-0 Nicholls St. 1-0-1 ACU 1-0-1 MSU 1-0-1 SHSU 0-0-0 UCA 0-0-0 UIW 0-0-1 NSU 0-0-2 TAMU-CC 0-0-2
Ovrl 9-0-1 5-0-2 3-0-5 2-5-1 5-0-4 4-0-6 3-5-1 2-0-7 4-3-1 0-0-8 3-0-7 1-4-2
volleyball Standings
Team
Div.
UCA SELA MSU SHSU SFA TAMU-CC HBU Nicholls St. UIW NSU ACU Lamar NO
1-0 1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-2
Ovrl 6-7 3-9 9-5 7-6 7-7 7-10 5-9 4-9 4-9 3-10 2-11 0-12 5-9
Who’s Hot Senior wide receiver Demarcus Thompson leads the Wildcats in both thompson receptions (24) and yards (299) through the first four weeks of the season. He has also added one rushinhg touchdown in their game against Georgia State. paige otway Staff Photographer
Junior wide receiver Cade Stone runs past an Incarnate Word defender in the Wildcats’ first shutout win in two years, 21-0. The Wildcat’s are averaging nearly 30 points per game and 438 yards of offense in four games this season. The teams will travel to face the Houston Baptist Huskies this weekend.
Wildcats take on Fleming, Huskies collin wieder sports editor The Wildcat football team will travel to Houston for the second consecutive season to play against Southland Conference opponent Houston Baptist University. The Houston Baptist Huskies are playing their first full schedule of football this year and enter the matchup at 1-2. One of those losses includes a 26-17 home loss to Div. II McMurry University. ACU enters the matchup at 2-2 and 1-0 in conference play. The Wildcats’ only game against the Huskies was last year in BBVA Compass Stadium, where the Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo play. The Wildcats won that
game 69-12. The Huskies will play the Wildcats in the new Husky Stadium. The only game played previously in Husky Stadium was the season opener against McMurry. ACU’s offense looks to get some players back this week as running backs Herschel Sims and De’Andre Brown return from injury. Sims is expected to play the whole game after taking a week off to recover from a concussion, and Brown will be limited as his ligament sprain in his knee is still bothersome. The offense hopes to continue its success from this season as well as keeping a clean turnover sheet like it did last week against Incarnate Word. “Offensively, we just have
to keep doing what we are doing,” said Ken Collums, head coach. “Last game against Incarnate Word was our first game not to have any turnovers, which is the goal.” Parker McKenzie, sophomore quarterback, has had a stat-packed start to the season. McKenzie is 90-for-129 for 1209 yards with 10 passing touchdowns to four interceptions. The receiving corps for the ‘Cats has been a huge help to the progression of McKenzie. Four receivers have doubledigit catches on the season. Senior Demarcus Thompson leads the team in receptions (24) and receiving yards (299). Junior Jace Hudson has 15 catches for 192 yards and two touchdowns, and junior Cedric Gilbert leads the team
in yards per catch with 27.5 and touchdowns with four. The running game has also put together a nice season so far as four running backs have had significant playing time this year, three of which are underclassmen. Adrian Duncan, Randy Gober and De’Andre Brown have all reached the end zone this season. Senior fullback Jonathan Parker thinks the amount of traveling they have done will help them against HBU. “I think we have been on the road a lot the last couple of years,” Parker said. “I love road games and I love the hostility. I think it’s a really great atmosphere.” On the defensive side, the Wildcats face a new yet familiar face at quarterback.
Jonathan Fleming attended ACU in 2011 but transferred after his first season to Houston Baptist. Fleming took the position from last year’s starter Ka’darius Baker. He is 53-for-90 for 544 yards with six touchdowns to five interceptions on the season. “We are preparing in a normal way whether it’s Baker or Fleming,” Collums said. “He has progressed, and we know he can throw the ball. I know that from being in position meetings with him.” The game starts at 7 p.m. Saturday at Husky Stadium.
contact WIEDER at CPW11A@acu.edu
Cross Country heads to Cowboy Jamboree hannah null sports reporter The cross country team will travel to Oklahoma this weekend to compete in the Cowboy Jamboree meet. The meet will begin with women at 8 a.m. and then men at 8:35 a.m. The Cowboy Jamboree will be hosted by Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The ACU cross country team took last weekend off from competition and used the to train for this meet. “We had a rather hard week of training last week,” said Taylor Ochs, junior chemistry major from Midland. “Everyone is looking to run a personal best since this meet is a very good opportunity to do it, and the conditions are forecasted to be favorable.”
The women’s team placed third overall at the Texas Tech Open earlier this month. Sophomores Alexandria Hackett (21:24.18) and Diana Garcia-Munoz (21:31.47) were the best finishers for ACU, coming in 11th and 13th respectively. Hackett’s time was over a minute faster than what she recorded at last year’s meet when she placed 52nd overall. The Wildcats have high expectations for this invitational as it will be a good test to show how the team stacks up against other Div. I schools. “This is the oldest cross country race in the United States, and the competition there is usually tougher than any other meet we will go to including the conference champions,” Ochs said. “Our goal is to beat as many teams as we can in the university section of this race.”
The women’s tennis team went 8-4 in doubles play at the OU Classic. The Wildcats were led by freshman duo Whitney Williams and Carli Knezevich who went 3-0. Running backs Herschel Sims and De’Andre Brown should return from injury this week. Sims suffered a concussion and Brown sprained a ligament in his knee during the game against Troy. Be sure to follow @OptimistSports on Twitter for more stories and the latest ACU sports news coverage.
Upcoming Women’s volleyball plays its first Southland Conference game of the season against the University of Central Arkansas. The match will start at 7 p.m. Thursday in Moody Coliseum.
Over the past weekend, assistant coach Drew Graham suffered a serious spinal cord injury while visiting Colorado. Earlier this week, he made significant improvement in rehabilitation by regaining movement of his shoulder. The team has used Graham as inspiration and determination to perform to their best of abilities. “A key theme for our team that has created motivation is to run for Coach Graham who is currently in the hospital,” said Kimberly Lamadrid, sophomore biology major from West Covina, California. “We want to show him that the countless hours that he has put into our training has paid off.”
Women’s soccer plays at home against conference opponent Nicholls State University at 12 p.m. on Friday. The cross country team heads to Stillwater, Oklahoma for the Cowboy Jamboree. The meet starts at 8 a.m. Saturday. The football team travels to Houston to take on Houston Baptist Saturday at 7 p.m. jared schuetze chief Photographer
contact null at hln12a@acu.edu
briefings
Junior setter Sarah Siemens keeps the set alive in a game at Moody Coliseum. The Wildcats played Thursday night against Central Arkansas. Go to acuoptimist. com for more details.