2009-2010
ATHLETIC VIEWBOOK
Raise YO U R World
GET IN THE GAME Are you ready to take it to the next level? Milligan has a long history of successful intercollegiate athletics. Championship banners adorn the walls of Steve Lacy Fieldhouse. In the past 10 years alone, Milligan teams and student-athletes have won more than 50 conference titles and made 57 national tournament appearances. The college maintains high standards for its student-athletes and has produced numerous AllAmericans, All-Conference, and Academic All-American players. We also consistently win the Duard Walker All-Sports Trophy for the most successful athletic program in the conference. Milligan competes in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) and the
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
. CHAMPIONS OF CHARACTER
Milligan received the NAIA Institutional Champion of Character Award from
the Appalachian Athletic Conference in 2006. Student-athletes are asked to accept the five core character values of the NAIA: respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership, and sportsmanship. Throughout the year,
student-athletes are involved with local service projects and volunteer their time at local schools and hospitals.
INTRAMURALS
Everyone likes to get involved in a spirit of healthy recreational competition and Milligan has an active intramural program. Activities and tournaments include dodge ball, flag football, basketball, beach volleyball, ping pong, softball, and ultimate frisbee.
OUTPACE YOUR OPPONENTS
Milligan competes in the Appalachian Athletic
Conference (AAC) and National Association of
Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The AAC consists of
nine colleges and universities in Tennessee, Virginia,
Georgia, Kentucky, and North Carolina. AAC member institutions include: Bluefield College, Bryan College,
Milligan College, Montreat College, Reinhardt College,
Tennessee Wesleyan College, Union College (KY), The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, and Virginia Intermont College.
2 | www.milliganbuffs.com
that was my moment ”I transferred to Milligan my sophomore year and got to pitch against the U.S. olympic team. I held them scoreless for one inning. You dream of that moment as an athlete of playing up to your full potential, a moment to tell your kids and grandkids about. That was mine.”
̶ ryann ELIZABETHTON, TN LEGAL STUDIES [wants to be an attorney like her grandfather]
SPORTS m&w cross country m&w track & field . . . . . . .4‑5 m soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6‑7 w soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8‑9 w volleyball . . . . . . . . . .10‑11 m basketball . . . . . . . . .12‑13 w basketball . . . . . . . . .14‑15 m&w golf . . . . . . . . . . . .16‑17 baseball . . . . . . . . . . . . .18‑19 softball . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20‑21 m&w tennis . . . . . . . . . .22‑23 m&w swimming . . . . . . . . .24 m&w cheerleading . . . . . .25 m&w mountain biking . . .26 *Photos contributed by Danny Davis, Ryan Harris, Michael Kaal, and Mark Peacock
CROSS COUNTRY & TRACK AND FIELD
“There’s no place I would rather be than here pushing athletes towards excellence.” - Ryan Starr, Assistant Coach
NATIONAL RANKINGS
In only nine seasons, the Buffs and Lady Buffs cross country and
In its nine year history, the Milligan College cross country and track
track and field teams have earned well over 100 national
programs have been a dominate force on both the regional and
championship qualifiers. Since 1999, cross country and track and
national scene. The 2009 season was a successful one for the Buffs
field have finished in the nation’s top 25 ten times, along with over
and Lady Buffs, as the woman captured their seventh straight AAC
30 All-American honors. In 2003, freshman Marta Zimon (Lodz,
title and the men were the AAC runners-up. At the national
Poland) earned Milligan’s first national title in any sport by winning
championships, the Lady Buffs finished 11th overall, and had two
the 5,000 meter NAIA indoor title. In 2001-2002, senior Philip Rotich
individual All-American runners in Austin Ellis and Gillian Giffen.
from Kenya became the first-ever three-time All-American in Milligan history when he finished 10th at the cross country championships,
A year ago, the Buffs and Lady Buffs swept the AAC and sent both
second in the mile at the indoor national championships, and
teams to the NAIA Cross Country National Championship. The Lady
second in the 800 meters at the outdoor national championships.
Buffs finished fourth, after a school record third place finish in 2007.
Distance standout Megan Lease (North Carolina) went on to earn
The Men finished 15th, marking their first appearance since 2003.
five All-American honors during her athletic career at Milligan.
Additionally, the Milligan Track and field programs have played host to the NAIA Indoor Track and Field National Championship the last 10 years. The Buffs and Lady Buffs maintain a very attractive and competitive schedule that includes competitions at many of the region’s top Division I campuses.
COACHING STAFF Coach Chris Layne has coached more than 70 different athletes to national championship qualifiers at Milligan College and East Tennessee State University. In addition to his collegiate coaching accomplishments, Layne coached former Texas A&M All-American Melissa Cook, now running for New Balance, to a berth in both the 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials. In 2004, Layne coached his wife, Catherine, who currently runs for Nike, to a 5,000 meter victory at the British Olympic Trials. She went on to run the Olympic Games B standard with a personal best time of 15:19 at the Huesden Grand Prix meet in Belgium that same year. While a collegian, Layne was named to the All-Southern Conference and All-Ohio Valley Conference teams. In 1992, the Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders finished third and fifth, respectively, at the prestigious Penn Relays, and his 4 x 200 meter relay went on to earn a world ranking by Track and Field News. Post collegiately, Layne competed in the 1996 USA Indoor Track and Field Championships in the 4 x 400 meter relay. Assisting Layne is Assistant Coach Jim Presnell, a former member of the 1974 University of Tennessee National Championship Track and Field Team. Presnell, who coaches the Milligan throwers, coached the Elizabethton High School cross country and track team for 22 years, leading the team to a state championship and several top-five finishes. He has coached 13 student-athletes who have received scholarships to compete at the collegiate level.
Coaching with Layne and Presnell is Milligan alumnus Assistant Coach Ryan Starr. Starr serves as the recruiting coordinator and coaches the sprinters, jumpers, and hurdlers. At various points during his running career at Milligan, Starr held the school record from the 3,000 meters to the half-marathon. He also was named to the NAIA Academic All-America team from 2000-03 and participated in 10 NAIA National Championship events while wearing a Milligan singlet. Starr went on to do his graduate work at Duke University where he completed his last year of eligibility for the Blue Devils. He competed in the 10,000 meter final of the ACC Championships in 2004. 4 | www.milliganbuffs.com
CROSS COUNTRY HONORS 2009 AAC Champions (Women & Men) National Championships 11th (Women) / Gilliam Giffen (21st); Austin Ellis (23rd); Aaron Wood (205th); Brendan Hawkins (232nd)
2008 AAC Champions (Women & Men) National Championships 4th (Women); 15th ‑ (men)
2007 AAC/Region XII Champions (Women) AAC/Region XII Runner‑ups (Men) National Championships 3rd (Women) / Ben Ronoh (16th); Wegene Degefa (73rd)
2006 AAC/Region XII Champions (Women) National Championships 6th (Women) / Will Frye (143rd); Jair Collie (152nd)
2005 AAC/Region XII Champions (Women) AAC/Region XII Runner‑ups (Men) National Championships 10th (Women) / Chris Wright (52rd); Brandon Talbert (184th); Jair Collie (203rd)
. CROSS COUNTRY ALL‑AMERICANS Gillian Giffen (2009) Austin Ellis (2009, 2008) Jacklyn Talbert (2007) Ben Ronoh (2007) Megan Lease (2005) Megan Lease (2004, 2003) Philip Rotich (2001)
TRACK AND FIELD ALL‑AMERICANS
Wegene Degefa 2009 (Outdoor) Brittany Bales 2008 (Indoor) MacKenzie LaBonte 2008 (Indoor) Kortney Goulds 2008 (Indoor) Nicole Moore 2008 (Indoor) Jacklyn Talbert 2008 (Indoor) Brittany Bales 2007 (Indoor) Josh Ferry 2007 (Indoor) Kortney Goulds 2007 (Indoor) MacKenzie LaBonte 2007 (Indoor) Rebecca McDowell 2007 (Indoor) Jacklyn Talbert 2007 (Indoor) Chris Wright 2006 (Indoor) Megan Lease 2005 (Indoor) Jakeith Hairston 2004 (Outdoor) Chris Wright 2004 (Indoor) Marta Zimon 2003 (Indoor) Megan Lease 2003 (Indoor) Philip Rotich 2002 (Indoor) Philip Rotich 2002 (Outdoor) Rebecca Dixon 2002 (Indoor) Rebecca Dixon 2002 (Outdoor)
CONTACT
Coach Chris Layne PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8992
cclayne@milligan.edu
www.milliganbuffs.com | 5
HONORS 2009 AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist AAC Regular Season Runner‑Up
2008 AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist
2007 AAC Tournament Quarter‑Finalist
2006 AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist
2005 NAIA Region XII Quarter‑Finalist AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist
2004 NAIA Region XII Semi‑Finalist AAC Tournament Champion
2003 NAIA Region XII Semi‑Finalist AAC Tournament Champion NAIA Top 25 Ranking
2002 NAIA Region XII Runner‑Up AAC Regular Season Champion NAIA Top 25 Ranking
. 2001
NAIA National Tournament NAIA Region XII Champion AAC Regular Season Champion NAIA Top 25 Ranking
OPPONENTS conference
Bryan College Montreat College Reinhardt College Tennessee Wesleyan College Bluefield College Union College Virginia Intermont College
non‑conference
Southern Wesleyan University of the Cumberlands Campbellsville University Catawba College Asbury College Lees‑McRae College Brevard College King College Covenant College Georgetown College
CONTACT
Coach Lisa Buckley PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8993
lebuckley@milligan.edu
6 | www.milliganbuffs.com
“Playing soccer at Milligan has made me realize how
WOMENʼS SOCCER
selflessness, hard work, and commitment to a team can
GREAT SUCCESS
build your character and
The women’s soccer team has qualified for postseason play every year since the
encourage you to pursue your
program’s inception in 1997. In the past five years, the Lady Buffs have captured
goals through adversity.”
the AAC title twice, AAC Tournament title twice, and advanced to regionals three
- Kelley Foster, Class of 2010
times. In 2001, the Lady Buffs qualified for the national championship in St. Louis, Missouri, having finished the season at 12th in the nation, with an 18-3-3 record. In 1999, the Lady Buffs were the #1 scoring team in the NAIA with 110 goals.
The program has produced 15 NAIA All-Americans, 26 All-Region Players, 53 AllConference Players, two Conference Players of the Year, two WUSA Professional Players, four W-League Professional Players, and six National Team Players.
The Lady Buffs participate in a year-long training program, which consists of individual player and team sessions, along with weight training and fitness sessions. Not only do the Lady Buffs play 18 regular season games, they also participate in an Indoor League at the Soccer Complex, as well as Spring Exhibition Games.
HEAD COACH Coach Lisa Buckley graduated from Milligan in 2004 after her collegiate career with the Lady Buffs soccer program. She was a three-year starter for the Lady Buffs which won three straight Appalachian Athletic Conference championships, one Region XII championship, and earned a birth in the 2001 NAIA National Championship. Before returning to Milligan, Buckley was an assistant coach at Loras College for two seasons. Loras has won five straight Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championships and earned births for the NCAA Division III National Tournament the last five seasons. Buckley holds a NSCAA National Diploma, a master’s degree from Loras in athletic administration, and a bachelor’s degree in human performance and exercise science from Milligan. To go along with her coaching duties, she also is an adjunct professor at Milligan.
www.milliganbuffs.com| 7
MENʼS SOCCER
“I am the happiest guy in the world right now. It was a great season up to this point, and it’s perfect now”
MAKING HISTORY
- David Lilly (’07), after winning the Regional
In only his second year at the helm of the men’s soccer program, Coach Adam
Championship and advancing to Nationals
Laney led the team to an AAC regular season title and an impressive 11 wins on the year. The Buffaloes are no strangers to success, as they made back-to-back NAIA Region XII championship game appearances in 2006 and 2007. The 2006 season was a historic year for the Milligan Buffs, who won their first AAC Championship and first AAC Tournament Championship titles. They went on to win the NAIA Region XII Championship and advanced to the NAIA National Championship in Daytona Beach, Florida, where they advanced to the quarterfinals before falling 0-1 to the eventual National Champions. The Buffs were ranked in the NAIA Top-25 and established a new school record for victories in a season, finishing the season at 18-7.
In the last several years, the Buffs have made appearances at the NAIA Regional XII Tournament and the AAC and TVAC Conference Tournaments. They have produced 15 NAIA All-Americans, 18 All-Region Selections, 43 All-Conference Selections, two professional, and six national team athletes.
The Buffs participate in a year-long training program consisting of individual and team sessions, along with weight training and fitness sessions. Not only do the Buffs play 18 regular season games, they also participate in an Indoor League at the East Tennessee Soccer Complex, as well as five spring exhibition games.
HEAD COACH Coach Adam Laney, the 2009 AAC Coach of the Year, comes to Milligan from Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, where he served as assistant director for compliance and academic services. Previously, he worked with Campbell for three seasons as the assistant men’s soccer coach. Laney joined the Fighting Camel staff in June 2005 and made an immediate impact, helping direct the top defense in the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Campbell defense led the Atlantic Sun Conference in goals-against average (0.98) and shutouts (6) and only once allowed more than two goals in a game. Prior to Campbell, he spent three years as an assistant coach at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
After playing his first two collegiate seasons at UNC Greensboro, Laney transferred to Charleston Southern, where he earned a bachelor of science in kinesiology and biology. At CSU, he was named to the 2000 Big South Conference All-Tournament team. 8 | www.milliganbuffs.com
HONORS 2009 AAC Regular Season Champs AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist
2008 AAC Tournament Quarter‑Finalist
2007 NAIA Region XII Tournament Finalist
2006 NAIA National Tournament Sweet 16 NAIA Region XII Champion AAC Tournament Champion AAC Regular Season Champion NAIA Top 25 Ranking
2005 AAC Tournament Semi‑Finalist
2004 AAC Tournament Runner‑Up
. 2001
NAIA Region XII Runner‑Up
AAC Tournament Runner‑Up
OPPONENTS
West Virginia Tech University of the Cumberlands King College Savannah College of Art & Design Lincoln Memorial University Covenant College Brevard College Montreat College Piedmont College Maryville College Tusculum College Tennessee Wesleyan College Bluefield College Union College Bryan College Lenior‑Rhyne College Carson‑Newman College Methodist University Guilford College
CONTACT
Coach Adam Laney PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8469
alaney@milligan.edu
www.milliganbuffs.com | 9
OPPONENTS Asbury College Johnson Bible College Meredith College Bridgewater College Southern Virginia University Tennessee Wesleyan College University of the Cumberlands Virginia Intermont College Montreat College Berry College St. Thomas University Spring Hill College Campbellsville University North Greenville University King College Malone College Freed‑Hardeman University Concordia College Roberts Wesleyan Bryan College Covenant College Bluefield College UVA‑Wise Union College Tusculum College Emory and Henry College
. CONTACT
Coach Doneva Bays PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8724
dlbays@milligan.edu
10 | www.milliganbuffs.com
WOMENʼS VOLLEYBALL “Milligan volleyball is about unity, pride, respect, and working hard. It has allowed me to make friendships that will last for a lifetime. Milligan volleyball is a family!” - Emilee Hale, Morristown, TN
STEADY The Lady Buffs have a rich heritage in volleyball with prominent performances in conference and regional tournaments. Milligan started the volleyball program in the Volunteer State Athletic Conference and is now affiliated with the Appalachian Athletic Conference and the NAIA. While being members of those conferences, the Lady Buffs added many names to the All-Conference and All-Regional teams.
The Lady Buffs continually finish among the top teams in the conference and are a very competitive program within the region. Several members of the volleyball team are recognized at the end of each season as being some of the top athletes in the AAC. Aside from athletic recognition, the Lady Buffs have been chosen as the AAC Champions of Character in both 2008 and 2009.
The Lady Buffs host a “Dig for Cure” night in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month and also join forces with Operation Christmas Child. They have also served in various capacities through the Martin Luther King, Jr., Service Day and often volunteer at the Carver Recreation Center.
HEAD COACH Head Coach Doneva Bays, a recent inductee to the Milligan College Athletic Hall of Fame, enters her second season as head coach at Milligan. She brings a history of athletic success both as a coach and player. Bays coached at the collegiate level at both NCAA Division I Coastal Carolina University (SC) and Georgetown College (KY), where she served as an assistant during their record setting year. The Georgetown Tigers, under the guidance of Bays, set a school record of 40-5 and achieved a ranking of 4th in the nation, reaching the elite eight at the NAIA National Tournament. She and the Georgetown Tiger’s team were inducted into the Georgetown College Hall of Fame. Bays spent two years as the graduate assistant at East Tennessee State University while working on her master’s degree in sports management. Bays also served as head coach of the Coast Volleyball Club in San Diego, California.
As a player for the Lady Buffs in the mid-90s, Bays lettered in both volleyball and basketball. She earned NAIA All-American honors and was a four year AllConference and All-Region selection for volleyball, leading the team to a No. 15 ranking in the NAIA Coaches’ Poll. Additionally, she was named the Tennessee Valley Player of the Year as well as the Mid-South Region Player of the Year. In basketball, she posted over 1,000 points and was a pivotal part of the Lady Buffs basketball squad that finished 16th at nationals. www.milliganbuffs.com | 11
MENʼS BASKETBALL NOTABLE ALUMS
AT THE TOP Milligan has one of the top men’s basketball programs in the NAIA. The Buffs have
Del Harris (’58)
won eight conference championships, averaged 20 wins per season since 1989, and
Former head coach of the
have had seven All-Americans since 1990.
NBA’s Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Los
Milligan advanced to the NAIA National Tournament in 1995, 1999, and 2001,
Angeles Lakers. One of only
including a “Sweet Sixteen” appearance in 1999. The Buffs have been ranked
20 NBA coaches to win over 500 games.
among the NAIA’s top 25 seven times and as high as sixth in the nation.
Currently assistant coach of the Chicago Bulls.
Milligan remains the only undefeated men’s basketball team in Appalachian Conference history, with a 21-0 conference record in 1999. A total of 29 wins that
Sonny Smith (’58)
year broke the previous school record of 27 wins set by the 1990 team.
Legendary collegiate head coach, best known for his years at Auburn University,
COACHING STAFF
where he is second all-time
Coach Bill Robinson enters into his first year as the head
in wins. While at Auburn, Smith coached the
Men’s Basketball coach of the men’s program. Prior to coming
likes of Charles Barkley and Chuck Person.
to Milligan, Robinson was at fellow AAC school Montreat
Currently Smith is a popular commentator
College, where he served in several capacities, including head
for CSS College Basketball television
men’s basketball coach, head men’s golf coach, and as
games.
athletic director.
During the past eight years of Robinson's 12-year tenure at Montreat, the Cavaliers had four 20-win seasons, won an AAC regular season championship, two AAC tournament championships, and made two appearances at the National Tournament. Additionally, Robinson, a three-time AAC Coach of the Year, sets a standard for his players off the court. As a result, the Cavaliers were voted the AAC Men's Basketball Champions of Character four years in a row.
Before coaching at Montreat, Robinson served as the head men's basketball coach at LeTourneau University in Longview, Texas. Upon his promotion from assistant to head coach in 1993, Robinson, then 25, became the youngest head coach in the nation. In just three years Robinson transformed LeTourneau's basketball program and in 1996-97 led them in their first winning season in 10 years. While in Texas, Robinson also earned a master’s degree in health and kinesiology from the University of Texas at Tyler.
Assistant Coach Aaron Collazo played under the direction of Coach Robinson at Montreat. During his career, Collazo was named to the All-AAC Tournament team in 2005 and 2007 and selected to the All-AAC second team in 2008. Collazo also surpassed the 1,000 point scoring mark and was elected as team captain. 12 | www.milliganbuffs.com
HONORS 2001 NAIA National Tournament
1999 NAIA National Tournament
1995 NAIA National Tournament
1976, 1977, 1979, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2001 Conference Champions
OPPONENTS conference Bluefield College Bryan College Reinhardt College Montreat College Tennessee Wesleyan College Union College University of Virginia‑Wise Virginia Intermont College
. ALL‑AMERICANS Tooney Cash 1971 Mark Berg 1972
Don Threlkeld 1973
Kenny Leatherwood 1976 Marty Street 1979 Dino Allen 1990
Tommy Musick 1991 Will Ratliff 1993
Jason Pittser 1995
Lance Ashby 1999
Caleb Gilmer 1999 Jeff Barnes 2008
20‑WIN SEASONS (Since 1989) 1989 ‑ 1996 1999 2000 2001 2006 2007
CONTACT
Coach Bill Robinson PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8332
wdrobinson@milligan.edu
www.milligan.edu | 13
HONORS 2009 AAC Conference Co‑Champions Champions of Character Team Award
2008 Champions of Character Team Award
2007 Champions of Character Team Award
2006 Champions of Character Team Award
2005 Champions of Character Team Award
2000 NAIA National Tournament AAC Conference Champions
1999
. NAIA National Tournament
AAC Conference Champions
OPPONENTS
Lee University Berea College Pfeiffer College Tennessee Temple University Tennessee Wesleyan College Virginia Intermont College King College Bluefield College Bryan College Covenant College Union College Brevard College UVA‑Wise Montreat College Tennessee Temple University Maryville College Southern Virginia University
CONTACT
Coach Rich Aubrey PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.975.8029
raubrey@milligan.edu
14 | www.milliganbuffs.com
WOMENʼS BASKETBALL RECORD BREAKERS In recent years, the Lady Buffs have been ranked as high as 13th in the nation in the NAIA. In 2009, the Lady Buffs were crowned the AAC regular season cochampions. The Lady Buffs also extended their streak of earning the AAC Champions of Character award to five straight years.
The program’s accomplishments include four conference championships and three conference tournament titles. The Lady Buffs made four consecutive trips to the NAIA Division II National Tournament from 1997-2000. Milligan is the only women’s basketball team in the AAC to go undefeated during the conference regular season, and we’ve done it twice! The 1996-97 and the 1998-99 teams finished 21-0 against conference opponents and produced two All-American honorees. Program veterans have held all-time records for points and rebounds in a career for Division II of the NAIA.
The Lady Buffs are also all about service. Each year begins with a service project trip, and the team is actively involved in community service at local schools, churches, and non-profit organizations throughout the year.
Each winter, the Buffs participate in a warm weather tournament. Past destinations have included Hilton Head, Orlando, Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.
HEAD COACH Coach Rich Aubrey took the helm of the women’s program in 1993, bringing with him a tradition of success and continued improvement. In 2009, Coach Aubrey recorded his 300th win at Milligan.
His coaching career began at Washington College Academy in Limestone, Tennessee, and continued at several other stops, including Sullivan South High School in Kingsport (TN), before returning to his alma mater in 1993. Aubrey was named Conference Coach of the Year in 1997, 1998, 2000, 2006, and 2009. Coach Aubrey was also recognized with the Champion of Character Award for NAIA Regions XII and XIII in 2006. Aubrey holds a B.A. and M.Ed. from Milligan and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from East Tennessee State University.
www.milliganbuffs.com | 15
GOLF
“My experience at Milligan was great. The camaraderie with my teammates was special. We worked hard, competed hard, and pulled for each other.” - Aaron Jessee (’05), Gray, TN
AT THE TOP
championship in Olathe, Kansas. Lightning would strike
The Milligan Buffs have enjoyed a high level of success in
again for the Buffs in 2007, as Milligan freshman Terrance
the past decade. The Buffs captured Appalachian Athletic
Evans won the AAC and NAIA Region XII Championship to
Conference Championships in 2004, 2006, and 2007. In
also advance to the national championship in Plymouth,
2007, Milligan advanced to the NAIA National Championship
Indiana.
at Indiana National Golf Club by winning the Region XII Championship. The trip to nationals was their first in the
Milligan’s golf team traditionally competes in top tournaments
school’s history. Four other times the Buffs have finished as
throughout the region. They have traveled to tournaments at
AAC runner-up, for a total of seven first or second place
such courses as “The Blue Monster” and the “Great White
finishes.
Shark” at The Doral in Miami (FL), North Carolina’s famous Pinehurst #2, #4, #5, #6, and #7, and The Cliffs Valley and
Individually, Milligan’s golf team has had numerous players
Vineyard in South Carolina.
earn individual honors. In 1997, Tristan Chaffins (Louisville, KY) won the AAC and NAIA Region XII Championship to
The Buffs practice and play home tournaments locally at the
advance and represent Milligan in the NAIA National
Elizabethton Golf Club, just minutes from the campus. EGC
Championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for the first time in school
is a 6,339 yard, par 72, 18-hole course that lies on gently
history. The Buffs’ most recent individual champions include
rolling and sloping terrain. EGC hosts many major
Grayson Patton, who in 2005 won the AAC and NAIA Region
tournaments, including the East Tennessee Amateur each
XII Championship as a freshman to advance to the national
summer.
HEAD COACH Entering his 13th season as the Milligan golf coach, Coach Tony Wallingford continues to build a winning tradition for the Buffaloes. This season women’s golf will be added to the mix. In 2007, Wallingford led the Buffs to their first ever NAIA National Championship appearance. That same year, Milligan won both the AAC and Region XII Championships. The Buffs have finished in the top two teams in the AAC six times, winning the championship in 2004, 2006, and 2007, and three times in the NAIA Region XII, winning the championship in 2007. Wallingford is a three-time AAC Coach of the Year and was named NAIA Region XII Coach of the Year in 2007. He has recruited and coached three different players that have won conference and regional championships, advancing to nationals as individuals. He has coached 14 different players that have earned All-Conference honors, two NAIA Academic All-Americans, and he has coached the three Players of the Year. Wallingford is dedicated to the total development of his players, both on and off the course. In 2009, Milligan golf was recognized as the Appalachian Athletic Conference Champions of Character. Wallingford holds a bachelor’s degree from Washington and Jefferson College and a M.A. in secondary school administration from the University of Akron. 16 | www.milliganbuffs.com
HONORS 2009 AAC Champions Champions of Character
2008 AAC Team Runner‑up
2007 AAC Champions, NAIA Region XII Champions, NAIA National Championship Qualifier, National Tournament Appearances
2006 AAC Champions, NAIA Region XII Runner‑up
National Tournament Individual Qualifiers Terrance Evans (2007) Grayson Patton (2005) Tristan Chaffins (1997)
All AAC Jay Bernhardt (2009) Ben Treadway (2008)
. Grayson Patton
(2005, 2006, 2007)
Aaron Jessee
(2004, 2005, 2006)
Matt Ongie (2004)
Matt Barefoot (2004)
Michael Morrell (2003)
Jeremy Hensley (2002) Nelson Caudill (2001)
Blake Stewart (2002, 2003) Jesse Boyd (2000)
Tristan Chaffins (1997, 1998) Trey Wilburn (1994)
Players of the Year
Terrance Evans (2007)
Grayson Patton (2005)
Tristan Chaffins (1997)
COURSES
Collegiate Preview Golf Classic, Miami, FL BMW/The Cliffs Collegiate Invitational, Travelers Rest, SC
Southeast Kentucky Collegiate, London, KY
Orange County National Spring Collegiate Event, Orlando, FL West Virginia Invitational, Pipestem, WV
Pinehurst Collegiate Spring Collegiate Event, Pinehurst, NC
CONTACT
Coach Tony Wallingford PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8783
twallingford@milligan.edu www.milligan.edu | 17
HONORS 2005 Region XII Runner‑Up
2003 AAC Conference Champions
2001 AAC Conference Champions
OPPONENTS Union College Carson‑Newman College Southern Wesleyan University Pikeville College Seton Hill University Berry College Southern Polytechnic State University Montreat College Brewton‑Parker College Savannah College of Art & Design Bryan College Brevard College King College Roanoke College Covenant College Bluefield College Virginia Intermont College Tennessee Wesleyan College UVA‑Wise Union College Tusculum College Maryville College Emory & Henry College
. CONTACT
Coach Nathan Meade PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8722
nmeade@milligan.edu
18 | www.milliganbuffs.com
u
MENʼS BASEBALL MOMENTUM In 2009, the Milligan Buffs recorded a school best 39-19 record overall. The Buffs have seen much success throughout the years as the program has a strong heritage. In 2001, the Buffs won the conference championship and carried that momentum through the 2002 season. The Buffs play roughly 50 games a year, including many NCAA Division II teams, which help to prepare for the conference season. This preparation has helped the Buffs finish at the top of the conference in recent years.
The Milligan baseball program has had several top players in the AAC in recent years. In just his third year as head coach, Meade has coached 15 All-AAC Academic selections and six All-AAC first team selections. The most notable alum from the program in the past few years is right-handed pitcher Nathan Fritz who was acquired by the Minnesota Twins organization in 2008.
COACHING STAFF Coach Nathan Meade is entering his fourth season as the head coach of the Milligan College baseball program. Last season, the Buffaloes finished the year with a school best 39-19 record, and a 17-10 mark in the AAC. Over the past three seasons, Meade has coached five AAC-first selections, two gold glove winners and has had one player (Nathan Fritz) advance to the professional ranks within the Twins Organization. He previously served as the head coach of the Tennessee Thunder, a member of the Southern Collegiate Baseball League. A Milligan graduate, Meade played four years for the Buffaloes, starting as a middle infielder and also collecting the single season record for stolen bases. Milligan made two NAIA Region XII Tournament
u
appearances while he was a player. Meade holds a bachelor’s degree from Milligan and a master’s in sports management from East Tennessee State University.
Assistant Coach Ray Smith is in his 13th year with the Buffalo baseball program. A
long-time professional player with the Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres, and Oakland A’s, Smith continues to manage in the Twins’ system during the summer months, something he has done since 1987. Smith, a graduate of the University of Oregon, also serves as Milligan’s athletic director.
Assistant Coach Chris Gordon rejoined the Milligan Buffs in 2008 as the pitching and catcher coach. A 2007 graduate of Milligan College, Chris was a catcher on the Buffs’ squad for four years. Prior to his coaching stint at Milligan, Chris was the pitching coach of the two-time league champions Tennessee Tornado, a member of the SCBL.
WOMENʼS SOFTBALL AT THE TOP
“I’ve never experienced anything like
Milligan’s softball program is considered among the elite in the
this. We look up to these players. I
conference, ranking in the top three 17 times in the last 20 years. The
can’t believe we were able to take the
Lady Buffs have won seven conference titles and advanced to 15 district/regional tournaments. They have also qualified for an NAIA National berth during Milligan’s 18 years of fast pitch softball. In 2002,
field with them in competition. It was a great experience!” - Jessica Blevins, Elizabethton, TN, following an exhibition game with the USA Softball Women’s
2004, and 2008, the Lady Buffs were named the AAC Tournament
National Team
Champions and advanced to the NAIA Region XII Tournament.
The Milligan softball program has produced over 55 All-Conference athletes, 25 All Region athletes, and six Players of the Year. Three former players (Tonya Jenkins, Angela Bratton, and Kelly McCarty) have also been inducted into Milligan’s Hall of Fame.
The Lady Buffs incorporate the NAIA Champions of Character Program as the team serves in the community. These projects include visiting the elderly at the Appalachian Christian Village and helping with afterschool projects at both the Elizabethton and Johnson City Boys and Girls Club.
HEAD COACH Coach Wes Holly is in his 22nd year at Milligan. He owns a career record of 630-359, recording his prestigious 600th win during the 2008 campaign. He is a six time TVAC and AAC Coach of the Year and three-time NAIA District Coach of the Year. Additionally, Holly was named a National Fast Pitch Coaches Association Region III Coach of the Year. Holly played ASA Major Open Men’s Fast Pitch for 23 years on winning teams in Tennessee, Virginia, South Atlantic Regionals, and played in The Men’s ASA Major Open Nationals in Clearwater, Florida. Holly is a member of the NFCA and currently is ranked among the top five active NAIA softball coaches.
20 20 || www.milliganbuffs.com
HONORS 2009 AAC Champions
2008 AAC Champions AAC Tournament Champions NAIA Region XIII Tournament
2007 NAIA Region XIII Tournament NAIA Reagion XIII Runner‑up
2004 AAC Tournament Champions NAIA Region XIII Tournament
2003 NAIA Region XIII Tournament
2002 AAC Tournament Champions NAIA Region XIII Tournament
OPPONENTS
. North Greenville University
University of the Cumberlands Tusculum College
Newberry College King College
Indiana Wesleyan Southeast Maryville College
Mountain State University Brevard College
Virginia Intermont College Montreat College Union College UVA‑Wise
Tennessee Wesleyan College Bluefield College
Concord University Chowan Univeristy Covenant College
East Tennessee State University
CONTACT
Coach Wes Holly PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8951
weholly@milligan.edu
www.milligan.edu | 21
HONORS Lady Buffs 2008 NAIA Region XIII Tournament
2005 AAC Champions AAC Tournament Champions NAIA National Tournament
2000 AAC Champions AAC Tournament Champions NAIA Region XIII Champions NAIA National Tournament
1996 AAC Champions NAIA National Tournament
OPPONENTS Brevard College Emory & Henry College Lincoln Memorial University Mars Hill College Maryville College Tusculum College Union College UVA‑Wise Bluefield College Covenant College King College Tennessee Wesleyan College
. CONTACT
Coach Ron Worrell PO Box 500
Milligan College, TN 37682 423.461.8471
rrworrell@milligan.edu
22 | www.milliganbuffs.com
TENNIS POWER & STRENGTH An Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) powerhouse, the Lady Buffs have won the conference crown several times in the past decade and made three trips to the NAIA Region XII National Championship. In 2008, the Lady Buffaloes advanced to the NAIA Region XII Tournament continuing their successful tradition.
Milligan recruits several of the best local, regional and national players from across the U.S., as well as accomplished international players. Recently, the college expanded its men’s and women’s tennis programs, with additional scholarships and a full-time coach. Both teams have produced many All-Conference and All-Region selections.
The Mathes Tennis Center was dedicated in September 2005, with six lighted courts, all conforming to collegiate tournament standards. Milligan hosted the 2008 NAIA Region XII Tournament and has played host to the Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament.
HEAD COACH Coach Ron Worrell is in his fourth season at the helm of the Buffalo tennis program after 14 years of collegiate coaching experience at both the NCAA Division I and NAIA levels. While at Virginia Intermont College, Worrell was selected the AAC’s men’s Coach of the Year five times and was selected the NAIA Region XII Coach of the Year three times. Worrell has coached three NAIA All-Americans and led his teams to the NAIA National Championship four times.
www.milliganbuffs.com | 23
SWIMMING
CONTACT Coach Ron Goehring PO Box 500, Milligan College, TN 37682 800.262.8337 | rgoehring@milligan.edu
BUILDING FOR OUR FUTURE Swimming was added in 2007 as an intercollegiate sport at Milligan College. The team utilizes the college’s 25-meter swimming pool, located in the Steve Lacy Fieldhouse.
In 2009, the Aqua Buffs finished 12th at the NAIA Swimming and Diving National Championships, while the Lady Aqua Buffs finished 21st. In only two years of competition, the Milligan swim program has proven itself to be a top contender in the nation. The swim program continually breaks previous school records and national marks laying the ground work for a rich tradition of success.
Prior to the creation of the intercollegiate swim team, Milligan had a swimming club from 1977 to 1986. The famed “Water Buffaloes” challenged both club and varsity intercollegiate teams. Under the leadership of Coach Chuck Gee, the team enjoyed much success, recording a perfect 11-0 record in 1981.
HEAD COACH Former Science Hill and Dobyns-Bennett High School Coach Ron Goehring heads the program. During his coaching career at Science Hill and Dobyns-Bennett High Schools, Coach Goehring was honored six times as the North East Tennessee Regional Swim Coach of the Year. He has served as the assistant aquatics director for Johnson City Parks and Recreation, head U.S.S. coach for the
u
Johnson City Swim Association, swimming coach at
The Ridges, and owner and operator of Aqua Gym. Additionally, he served as head
coach of the Asheville High School swim program in 2003-04. In 2005-06, he taught swimming and English in Nicaragua on Ometepe Island.
Coach Goehring holds a bachelor of science in physical education and recreation from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and is a certified pool operator. He
holds certifications in Swim America and the American Swim Coaches Association and is a certified American Red Cross instructor trainer in all swim levels.
24 || www.milliganbuffs.com 24
“I love cheerleading because it’s fun
CHEERLEADING
to see everyone get so pumped up in support of our teams. Milligan has a
GO BUFFS GO
fabulous athletic heritage and it’s my
The Milligan Cheerleading Squad is a co-ed squad that
privilege to wear the orange and black.”
offering scholarships to new 2007 fall recruits, as cheerleading transitions to a completely scholarship athletic organization with a total of 16 scholarship cheerleaders.
Along with being a strong, athletic cheerleading squad, the Milligan cheerleaders participate in several community activities and events. On a recurring basis, the squad participates in the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Race, sponsors and leads free community cheerleading camps, and volunteers with various non-profit ministries.
While having a strong cheerleading squad is a focus, the overall goal of the program is to develop strong servantleaders and grow as individuals through an understanding of team, leadership, and volunteer work.
In 2009, the Milligan Cheerleading Squad received several accolades at the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA) college division camp including the “Camp Champions” and “Most Collegiate Squad” awards.
HEAD COACH Coach Ronda Paulson is a Milligan alumna, earning a bachelor of science in biology and a master’s of education in secondary education. She has 15 years of cheering experience, seven years of dance experience, and eight years of coaching experience.
CONTACT photo by Danny Davis
u
cheers for men’s and women’s basketball. Milligan began
- Leslie Blowers (’09), Elizabethton, TN
Coach Ronda Paulson PO Box 500 Milligan College, TN 37682 423.542.5227 or 800.262.8337 rpaulson@milligan.edu www.milliganbuffs.com | 25
MOUNTAIN BIKING TAPING INTO THE REGION
“I am excited about the opportunity to build this new
Mountain biking is a collegiate cycling discipline
program at Milligan. With the growth of mountain biking as a
that has evolved into its own sport. It is now a
collegiate sport and our fortunate location, it is the perfect
national discipline with 10 conferences and its
sport for the college to expand its athletic endeavors." - Brad Hill, Head Coach
own national championship.
In the Southeastern Collegiate Cycling Conference, Milligan competes against several outstanding collegiate programs including East Tennessee State University, Lees-McRae College, Brevard College, Appalachian State, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Union College, and Warren Wilson College.
Mountain biking has a fall competitive season and involves four events: cross country, short track cross country, dual slalom and downhill.
HEAD COACH Coach Brad Hill is no stranger to Milligan or to coaching. As a student athlete, he was a member of the record setting baseball
u team that tied a
school record for wins
in 2004. Hill then went on to coach two years at
Morristown East High School. During the 2005 and 2006 summers, Hill was the head coach for the
Tennessee Thunder, a member of the Southern
Collegiate Baseball League. He has spent the past two years as an assistant coach for the Milligan
CONTACT Coach Brad Hill PO Box 500 Milligan College, TN 37682 423.312.2438 jbhill@milligan.edu
26 | www.milliganbuffs.com
photo by Danny Davis
Buffaloes baseball team.
A DOMINANT FORCE Milligan was awarded the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) coveted Duard Walker AllSports Trophy for the first six years of the award. The Duard Walker All-Sports Trophy was established as a way of recognizing member institutions with the most successful all-around sports program for the year. Member colleges compete in baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball. Points are awarded based on team place finish in the regular season and sport conference championship tournament. The trophy was named the Duard Walker Trophy in 2000 in honor of Coach Duard Walker who retired after 50 years of service to Milligan College as teacher, coach, and athletics director. Walker was named the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Athletics Director of the Year for 2001 and was inducted to the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2008.
. FACILITIES
ANGLIN SOCCER COMPLEX & ETSF INDOOR SOCCER FACILITY
The Buffs have two lighted Bermuda fields, a regulation soccer field and an
adjacent training field. The game field is 120 x 72, and the training field is 110 x
62. The ETSF indoor soccer facility is located just 10 minutes from campus. The team plays and trains there during the off-season.
MATHES TENNIS CENTER
Six lighted courts were dedicated in Fall 2005, all conforming to collegiate tournament standards.
STEVE LACY FIELDHOUSE
The Fieldhouse is home to the Milligan basketball and volleyball programs. This 62,000 square foot air-conditioned facility houses regulation basketball and
volleyball courts, a 25-meter swimming pool, classrooms, weight-room, indoor batting cages, and other facilities designed to accommodate Milligan’s
philosophy of lifetime sports. A seating capacity of 1,600 provides a great atmosphere in which to play intercollegiate athletics.
ANGLIN BASEBALL FIELD
Fenced-in field with bullpens, lighting for night games, foul poles, top-rails, distance markers, covered/lighted batting cages, and new infield dirt. It is located in a picturesque setting adjacent to Buffalo Creek.
ANGLIN SOFTBALL FIELD
The Anglin Softball Field dimensions include 200 feet down left/right lines and
225 feet in center field. There is a hitting area along with pitching bullpens. The
field is completely enclosed with fenced in dugouts and is adjacent to the David Quillen Sports Complex building.
www.milliganbuffs.com | 27
u FAST FACTS MAJORS & ACADEMIC PROGRAMS Accounting Applied Finance & Accounting Art Bible Biology Business Administration Certificate in Leadership Chemistry Child & Youth Development Child Life Childrenʼs Ministry Christian Ministry Coaching Communications Computer Information Systems Digital Media Early Childhood Education Economics Education Elementary Education English Ethnic Studies Exercise Science Film Studies Fine Arts Fitness & Wellness French German Greek Health Care Administration History Humanities Human Performance & Exercise Science Intercultural Studies International Business Interpersonal & Public Communication Jazz Studies Language Arts Leadership Legal Studies Management Marketing Mathematics Ministry Missions Multimedia Journalism Music Music Education Music Ministry Nursing Philosophy Photography Physical Education Physical Science Political Science Public Relations Psychology Public Leadership & Service Sociology Spanish Special Education Sports Management Theatre Arts Womenʼs Studies Worship Leadership Worship Ministry Youth Ministry
MILLIGAN
As a Christian liberal arts college, Milligan College seeks to honor God by educating men and women to be servant‑leaders.
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
STUDENT BODY
OFF CAMPUS LEARNING
SERVICE & MISSIONS
Milligan offers students a Christian liberal arts education in a community of inquiry, responsibility, and caring. The liberal arts are taught from a perspective of God’s activity with humanity. The college’s core curriculum, with an interdisciplinary humanities program and Bible courses, educates students toward the world in an open and constructive way, to lead and to serve.
Our 1,100 students come from more than 40 states and 10 nations, so you’ll find students with similar interests as yourself, as well as those of different cultures and viewpoints.
Many majors offer internships, which grant college credit and work experience prior to graduation. Students can also go beyond geographical and cultural boundaries through study abroad programs and many off-campus learning opportunities sponsored by the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU).
Students are involved in a variety of service projects and mission work throughout the world. Many classes encourage service learning, and various student organizations lead service projects. Special mission trips are taken to Appalachia, inner-city America, Native American reservations, and other nations.
TECHNOLOGY
CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
All campus facilities are networked with fiber optics and many areas are wireless. Every residence hall room and apartment features a high-speed data connection to the campus network and Internet, telephone service, voice mail, and cable TV. Students have access to computers in various labs and technology classrooms on campus.
Milligan is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (www.cccu.org), a group of 100 colleges and universities whose commitment to a Christcentered life goes beyond a mere occasional reference to religious traditions. Milligan actively integrates high-quality academic programs with biblical faith and a serviceoriented philosophy to prepare students for life’s journey.
STUDENT‑FACULTY RATIO A low student-faculty ratio offers personal attention and class sizes that typically range from 10-15 students.
NATIONAL RECOGNITION
Milligan is one of the Top 10 Best Baccalaureate Colleges in the South in the 2009 and 2010 editions of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report.
ACCREDITATION Milligan College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 300334097; Telephone number 404-679-4501).
DEGREES AWARDED Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education (MEd), Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
FACULTY 75 full-time faculty have career-based experience and more than 75 percent have earned the highest degree in their field. They are respected and caring Christian scholars who are committed to scholarship, excellence in teaching, and the faith development of their students.
RESIDENCE LIFE 81% of traditional students live on campus in one of six residence halls or student apartments, creating a true collegiate environment. To see photos and room diagrams, visit www.milligan.edu.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS With more than 40 service, honorary, and professional organizations on campus, there is something for everyone.
CHURCH AFFILIATION Throughout its history Milligan College has maintained an active relationship with the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ. Committed to the restoration of New Testament Christianity and the unity of all believers, these congregations are a dynamic and growing fellowship. Given this commitment to Christian unity, students from various Christian traditions find Milligan a welcoming community.
ATHLETIC POWERHOUSE Milligan is an athletic powerhouse in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), with 20 intercollegiate sports. In the past 10 years, Milligan has won more than 50 conference titles and made 57 national tournament appearances. Men’s Intercollegiate Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Mountain Biking, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field. Women’s Intercollegiate Sports: Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Golf, Mountain Biking, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball.
LOCATION Milligan’s 181-acre picturesque campus is located in northeastern Tennessee, in the dynamic Tri-Cities region.
COSTS Undergraduate costs for 2009-10: Tuition: $21,200 per year; Fees: $660 per year; Room and Board: $5,650 per year. Costs are the same for in-state and out-ofstate students. 2010-11 costs will be announced in February 2010. See www.milligan.edu/SFS for details.
FINANCIAL AID Milligan is named one of the Best Buys in the South among bacclaureate colleges by U.S. News & World Report. Approximately 96 percent of Milligan students receive financial aid, including academic scholarships and need-based grants. See www.miligan.edu/SFS for complete scholarship details.
WV Office of Admissions
KENTUCKY
VIRGINIA
PO Box 210, Milligan College, TN 37682 www.milligan.edu admissions@milligan.edu 800.262.8337
TENNESSEE NC
Raise YO U R World
GEORGIA