Unlimited Magazine March/April

Fun Is Good

MEET MY PET

Golden Eagles introduce us to their pets

DISNEY HEROES Favorite Disney characters

WALLY STURGESS!

The fascinating story of an organ legend

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Plus...

* Double Vision (a mother’s insight) * Mirror, Mirror (celebrity doppelgängers) * Date Night (top picks from the movies) * I love green (green things we love)

THE ONLINE MAGAZINE OF TENNESSEE TECH ATHLETICS

March / April 2013/Volume 1, Issue 4

photo by Larry Gooding / Morehead State

IN FOCUS

Get a Grip...

Golden Eagle guard Lanerryl Johnson looks to get control of a loose ball during Tech’s Feb. 16 game at Morehead State. Tech hosts the same MSU Eagles on Saturday night (March 2) for Senior Day. It’s the final game of the regular season. Tipoff for the women’s game is at 5:30 p.m., followed at 7:30 p.m. by the men’s contest.

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MARCH / APRIL Volume 1, Issue 4

IN THIS ISSUE

11 I Love Green

Things that are green and loved by the Golden Eagles

12 A-Dog-able Several Golden Eagles invite you to “meet my pet”

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THE ONLINE MAGAZINE OF TENNESSEE TECH ATHLETICS

14 Wally Sturgess

The fascinating story of stadium organist Wally Sturgess

20 Mirror, Mirror A computer generates celebrity

look-alikes for 15 Golden Eagles

24 Double Vision An insight into Tech’s two sets of

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twins, the Cooks and Spaldings

28 Disney Heroes

Golden Eagles tell us about their all-time favorite Disney character

32 Date Night

Golden Eagles select their perfect date - from movie characters

38 This Day in History A couple of memorable days in Tech baseball and softball history

42 Irish Eyes

The 15 Golden Eagles with the most Irish-sounding names

47 Just for Kids Some fun games that will test

kids...and probably adults, too

66 Bulletin Board Community events to watch for in the coming months

Departments From the Editor / 6 Fun Is Good Fresh Faces / 8 Meet 15 more newcomers Playlist / 17 Baseball’s David Allen On Our Radar / 18 A listing of 10 must-see events Chatter / 31 Volleyball’s Ashleigh Hancock

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Connect with us online Twitter - @TTUGoldenEagles Facebook - TTU Sports Internet - www.TTUSports.com

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{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

...Awesome Eagle is among the leaders in early voting in the OVC Mascot Challenge, presented by Delta Dental. Log on and vote for Awesome through March 7. The winning mascot will be announced on Friday, March 8, during the OVC Basketball Tournament in Nashville. What’s the point? The winner will receive $1,000 from Delta Dental to go toward the school’s general scholarship fund. Here’s where you go to vote: http://deltadentaltn.com/OVCmascots.aspx

...Former Golden Eagle baseball, softball, soccer and football players are being invited back to campus in the next couple of months as Tech hosts alumni activities for each of those sports. ...The softball team goes first, hosting its annual “Legends Weekend” on Saturday, April 13, when coach Bonnie Bynum’s team hosts OVC newcomer Belmont in a weekend series.

The doubleheader begins at 1 p.m. Former softball players are invited to attend and participate during an on-field recognition.

Interested players can contact Bynum (931-372-6552) or Roy McGinty (615-330-2057) in Development.

...The second event on the calendar is the soccer team’s Alumni Game, which is set for Saturday, April 27, at 11 a.m. Interested players may contact coach Daniel Brizard (931-372-6200) or Roy McGinty (615-330-2057) in Development. ...On Saturday, May 18, the baseball team hosts its “Leg-

continued on page 7

An intern in Tech’s Sports Information Office, Erin Bean contributed two features to this edition, the pages about Golden Eagle pets and the pages titled Date Night, where student-athletes picked a perfect date from the movies.

Erin will run in her first marathon (in Pittsbugh on May 5), and will be getting married (to Evan) in August.

Brandon Goodwin, also known as “The Man Behind the Mic,” has built Tech’s social media presence to the largest following in the OVC. In his seventh year on the TTU staff, Brandon talked with Tracie Cook and Sandra Spalding for our section on the two mothers’ insights into Tech’s twins.

When Northern Illinois reached the Orange Bowl (seriously, the Orange Bowl?), NIU graduate Mike Lehman was insufferable! Imagine how he would be if the Cubs won the World Series....oh, yeah, never mind. More recently, he’s come back down to earth, and for this issue he found our celebrity doppelgangers. Doesn’t he look a little bit like Tom Cruise? Brad Pitt?

Matt Wagner is a video productions intern in the sports information office.

He worked on our piece about favorite Disney characters. Matt is a graduate of Western Kentucky University, so we thought it wise to limit him to cartoon characters.

Ben Corda joined the Tennessee Tech Photo Services staff in August as a photographer/cinematographer, and has been busy ever since, including shooting many of the team and individual photos for Athletics. Ben came to Cookeville from a position as a newspaper photographer in Louisiana.

Tony Marable contributed our cover photo and a few other pictures featured in this edition of unlimited. An Austin Peay graduate (which we certainly don’t hold against him),Tony is the Director of the Minority Engineering Program at TTU, as well as a volunteer photographer in his spare time.

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fun is good

From the editor

Looking at the calendar of Tech’s athletics events, it’s spring on campus with the baseball, softball, golf, tennis and track teams in action.

The basketball teams, meanwhile, are doing all they can to make winter hang on a few weeks longer by extending their seasons into the post-season.

It’s a little difficult to think that it’s actually spring, mostly because it never felt like we went through winter here in the mid-South. Very few days of cold weather, no measurable snow. Winter is supposed to include at least one blast of snow, a couple days when nobody ventures out on the roads, but slides down hills on sleds with their dogs giving chase. We never got that.

Even a Christmas trip to Minnesota didn’t give us much in the way of winter. Yes, we got to walk out onto frozen Lake Minnetonka, but where was all the snow? We had to cancel our (first-ever) family snow-shoeing adventure because there wasn’t enough snow.

So, we’ll move along into spring, which means a couple of our favorite days -- St. Patrick’s Day and April Fool’s Day. You will see in the pages of this edition of unlimited magazine several features that are just plain fun. The theme for this edition is borrowed from Mike Veeck, the son of legendary major league baseball owner Bill Veeck - remember his Chicago White Sox wearing shorts as their official uniform, or the infamous Disco Demolition Night in Comiskey Park? Mike is the owner of a couple of the most fun-loving minor league baseball teams in the country, the Charleston River Dogs and the St. Paul Saints. His team slogans (and the name of a book he wrote on the subject) is “Fun is Good.”

We agree, so this edition features several pages aimed solely at fun -- there’s a listing of Golden Eagle student-athletes with the most Irish-sounding names, the story of organist Wally Sturgess that ran 15 years ago on April 1, 1998, and polls of Golden Eagles about their pets, their favorite Disney characters, their date choices from the movies and what they like that’s green.

There is some substance to this edition, such as the continued introduction of some fresh faces and a listing of events on our radar. There’s also a look back at two big days in Tech baseball and softball history, and a couple of pieces on endowments that aid Athletics. And, as always, some examples of outstanding photography that we haven’t had a chance to share elsewhere.

I hope you enjoy this magazine. Since you’ve found it, please tell others about it. And, please let us know your thoughts. Send your feedback to: sportsinfo@tntech.edu. And, of course, have fun!

Rob Schabert Assistant Athletic Director / Editor

ood Fun Is G

MY PET MEnET us to their pets Eagles introduce Golde

Y HEROES DISiteNE Disney characters

ESS! STURGorgan legend WALLY ating story of an The fascin

Favor

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After right fielder Zephan Guyear (2) made a sensational leaping catch at the top of the fence to preserve the shutout, he is joined by center fielder Austin Wulf (17) and pitcher Josh Bryant (26), all wearing smiles as they cross the infield grass on their run to the dugout. The Golden Eagles had plenty of fun in their 9-0 victory over Niagara, fitting with the theme of this edition that Fun Is Good.

Plus... ble Vision

* Dou ht) (a mother’s insig or * Mirror, Mirr elgängers) (celebrity dopp * Date Night the movies) (top picks from * I love green we love) (green things

THE ONLINE

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ETICS

TECH ATHL

e4 Volume 1, Issu

On the cover

Photo by Tony Marable

{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

ends Weekend” on the final day of the regular season. Like softball, the alumni event takes place when coach Matt Bragga’s squad faces Belmont, with first pitch scheduled for 2 p.m. Interested players can contact Roy McGinty (615-330-2057) in Development. ...Former Tennessee Tech football players are invited to gather on Saturday, July 13, for the team’s annual Football Alumni Golf Classic at the Cookeville Golf Club. Prior to the golf outing, the public is invited to join the festivities with a Friday night BBQ dinner. Pre-registration for the golf tournament is available in-person at the football office, or by phone (931-372-3930).

Registration at the golf event will begin at 10 a.m., and the fourman scramble format tournament will get underway at noon with a shotgun start. ...Always one of the most popular summer golf tournaments in the region, the 2013 Pepsi Bobby Nichols Golden Eagle Scramble presented by Budweiser will be held May 31 through June 2 on three Cookeville-area courses.

Registration will begin on Tuesday, March 12, when golfers have the chance to select the golf courses they will play and tee times for the first two days of the tournament. Named in memory of former player, coach and Hall of Famer Bobby Nichols, the tourney is hosted by the Tennessee Tech University Athletics Department and serves as a major fund raising event for the Tennessee Tech Athletics Association.

The tournament, the largest in the region, will feature more than 500 golfers playing three days on three area courses. The event will return to the Cookeville Golf Club, Ironwood Golf Course and White Plains Golf Course. For more information, call the Athletics Ticket Office at (931) 3723940.

continued on page 8

fresh faces

Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2012-13

Dave Zelenock Volleyball Head Coach F Dave Zelenock, who helped reshape the landscape of Central Michigan volleyball in his six successful seasons on the Chippewa coaching staff, was named as head volleyball coach at Tennessee Tech University in mid-January. Zelenock, 30, is a 2005 graduate of Central Michigan and has also coached at Northwood University and Delaware State.

Dave and his wife, Jamie, have one son, Jacoby, who is seven months old.

Daniel Miles / Baseball

Pascagoula, Miss.

F Daniel starred at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, batting .404 with six home runs and 20 doubles as a sophomore.

He earned first-team all-state honors as well as a first-team Region 23 nod. A four-year letter winner at Pascagoula High School, he batted .436 with eight homers his senior season, earning all-state and all-state all-star team honors. He also earned all-district first team honors twice. The son of Tony and Cecilia Miles, his birthday is August 9, 1991. He is majoring in EXPW/fitness and wellness.

Cortney Fry / Softball

Fort Worth, Texas

F Cortney earned four varsity letters as a pitcher, first baseman, third baseman, and shortstop at Kellar Central High School. She posted a .407 batting average with a slugging percentage of .520. During her freshman season she led her team to the Sweet 16 in Texas state playoffs. She earned first-team all-district honors her junior and senior seasons. The daughter of Tim and Tammy Sayles, her birthday is February 18, 1994.

She is majoring in early childhood development.

Dewayne Alexander Assistant Football Coach F A former player and coach at Tech, and the head football coach at Cumberland University for seven seasons, Dewayne Alexander has returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach under Watson Brown to work with the offensive linemen. Alexander earned two degrees from Tech and was a four-year member of the football team and a three-year letterwinner. Alexander played four seasons on the TTU defensive line, one year under coach Gary Darnell and three for coach Jim Ragland.

Ammanuel Diressa / Men’s Basketball

Toronto, Canada F As a guard, Ammanuel led Eastern Commerce High School in scoring his senior season with 17.3 points per game, garnering team MVP honors. He pulled down 8.7 rebounds per game as a senior while dishing out 4.3 assists and 0.7 blocks per game. He helped lead his team to a South Region championship and city championship while earning a 37-7 record. The son of Almaz Diressa, his birthday is May 5, 1993. He is majoring in EXPW/coaching and sport administration.

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{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

...The Tennessee Tech golf teams will host a brand new tournament this spring, called the Bobby Nichols Intercollegiate. A field of more than 20 men’s and women’s teams will compete in the event, which will be held at the Sevierville Golf Course, March 18-19. ...The Golden Eagle baseball team had success when the Big Ten sent Illinois to town, as coach Matt Bragga’s team won two-out-of-three from the Illini.

On March 5-6, another Big Ten opponent visits Bush Stadium at the Averitt Express Baseball Complex. The Michigan State Spartans will be here for 3 p.m. games on Tuesday, March 5 and Wednesday, March 6. Another “big-time” opponent on the home schedule brings the Tennessee Volunteers to campus for a 6 p.m. game on Tuesday, March 26. Check the complete baseball and softball schedules, and support the Golden Eagles.

Admission is free to all regular season home games. ...The Tech softball team finally gets to play games at home near the end of March. Tech’s home schedule begins on Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24, with Ohio Valley Conference doubleheaders each day. Murray State comes calling on Saturday, while Austin Peay will pay a visit on Sunday. ... Sophomore Dennis Ogbe has been voted to the 2013 CoSIDA/Capital One Academic All-District team for his dual performances on the court and in the classroom, one of just two players in the Ohio Valley Conference to earn the award.

A strong player with outstanding knowledge of the game, Ogbe is recognized for being a leader with great work ethic, both on the court and in the classroom.

Named to the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll all five semesters

continued on page 10

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fresh faces

Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2012-13

Jordan Parris / Baseball

Tullahoma, Tenn.

F Jordan joined the Tech baseball team this season following two solid years behind the plate at Columbia State Community College, picking off 18 runners as a sophomore. He earned four letters out of Tullahoma High School, batting .383 with a school-record 18 doubles as a senior.

He was named all-district while leading his team to the sectionals level of the TSSAA playoffs as well as a school record for wins. The son of Paul and Gina Parris, his birthday is July 2, 1992. He is majoring in business marketing.

Stanton Taylor / Baseball

Hawley, Texas.

F Stanton joins the Golden Eagles after two years as a member of Western Texas College. He pitched 83 innings while recording 81 strikeouts and a 4.70 ERA, earning NJCAA Region 5 second-team allconference honors. Stanton went 13-4 in two seasons at WTC, including 9-4 in the 2012 season with a 7-1 conference record. He racked up eight varsity letters in baseball, basketball, and football while at Hawley High School.The son of Rodney and Lori Taylor, his birthday is August 15, 1991. He is majoring in business management.

Bonnie Bynum Softball Head Coach F Bonnie Bynum was named Tech’s softball head coach in January. The most successful pitcher in OVC history, Bynum returned to Tech in May as assistant coach after five seasons on the Western Kentucky softball coaching staff. where she worked with the pitching staff, culminating in all-region and all-Sun Belt Conference honors for the team’s ace. Bynum currently holds every OVC pitching record except one (which is held by another former Tech pitcher), and was twice named as Tech’s Outstanding Female Athlete and two-time OVC Pitcher of the Year in 2006 and 2007.

Cody Church Baseball Assistant Coach F Cody Church joined the Golden Eagle staff this season after spending last year as an assistant coach at Presbyterian College, working primarily as an infield/hitting coach. During his time at Presbyterian, the team recorded its best record since becoming a Division I institution, including key victories over Clemson, Duke, and #13 ranked UCF. Church first attended Roane State Community College during 2008. After transferring to Lincoln Memorial University as an outfielder in 2009, he helped the team achieve a ranking as a high as #21 in the nation.

Chelsea Burgess/ Softball

Dunlap, Tenn.

F Chelsea is a transfer from Chattanooga State with a stong resume on the diamond. Last season she helped win the NJCAA National Championship. Burgess graduated from Sequatchie County High School where she lettered in softball all four years playing catcher and outfield. She was recipient of three Best of Preps Awards and was named to the All-State team in 2009. She was also District Player of the Year in 2010. The daughter of Barry and Donna Burgess, her birthday is August 20, 1992. She is majoring in Pre-Physical Therapy.

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{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

of his time at Tech, he also landed on the OVC Commissioner’s Adademic Honor Roll each of the past two years.

Ogbe produces solid numbers on the hardwood, but may be even more impressive in the classroom. A native of Munich, Germany, Dennis owns an impressive 3.86 GPA in electrical engineering, including putting together a 4.0 this past semester. ...The Athletics staff has welcomed two new head coaches -- Dave Zelenock as the new Golden Eagle volleyball head coach and Bonnie Bynum as the softball head coach. Zelenock takes over the program after John Blair stepped down, announcing his retirement following his 10th season at the school. Zelenock helped reshape the landscape of Central Michigan volleyball in his six successful seasons on the Chippewa coaching staff.

A 2005 graduate of Central Michigan, Zelenock was an assistant coach at Northwood University for two years and Delaware State one season before returning to his alma mater in 2007. Bynum was named interim head coach of the softball team following the resignation of Tory Acheson in February. The most successful pitcher in Ohio Valley Conference history, Bynum returned in May 2012 to her alma mater as assistant coach after five seasons on the Western Kentucky University softball coaching staff.

The defending OVC regular season champion Tech tennis team hosts just five matches this spring, with three in March and two in April. The team’s first action at home comes March 16-17.

On Saturday, March 16, Tech hosts Tennessee State at 12 noon. On Sunday, the Golden Eagles host Belmont, beginning at 11 a.m.

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fresh faces

Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2012-13

Carla Hazelwood Assistant Golf Coach F A 2009 graduate of Tech and former Golden Eagle golfer, Carla has returned to her alma mater to take the position of assistant coach for the men’s and women’s golf teams. Most recently, Hazelwood served as the graduate assistant coach at fellow OVC school, Austin Peay.

Hazelwood began her career at Tech in 2005 and was named Most Dedicated Player by coach Bobby Nichols. A team captain in 2009, she finished her playing career with two all-tournament honors.

Jacob Honea / Baseball

Tullahoma, Tenn.

F A transfer out of Motlow State Community College, Jacob was high school teammates with Josh Bryant, David Hess, and fellow newcomer Jordan Parris. Honea was a two-sport athlete at Tullahoma High School, excelling at several positions in both football and baseball. In addition to pitching and playing shortstop, he also played quarterback and receiver on the football team, garnering both all-conference and all-region honors. The son of Shane and Sherrie Honea, his birthday is November 5, 1991. He is majoring in EXPW/pre-physical therapy.

Rebekah Everhart / Softball

Murfreesboro, Tenn.

F Rebekah comes to Tech from Siegel High School in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where she played softball for three years as a centerfielder and leftfielder. In 2009 she helped her team become regional and sectional champs and then continued on to a third place finish in the TSSAA state tournament. She spent one season at Wallace State Community Collete before joining the Golden Eagle roster. The daughter of Dean and Shannon Everhart, her birthday is October 27, 1992. She is majoring in Pre-Pharmacy.

Brandon Thomasson / Baseball Royal Palm Beach, Fla. F Brandon put up strong offensive numbers at Marion Military Institute, poking three home runs, 51 hits, 15 doubles, and 25 RBI while batting .352 as a sophomore. He led the team, which was in just its fifth year as a program, in batting average, hits, doubles, home runs, at-bats, and RBI. Lettered two years at Royal Palm Beach High School as a catcher. The son of Tim and Kelli Thomasson, his birthday is March 15, 1992. He is majoring in EXPW/fitness and wellness.

Madison Taylor / Softball

Mt. Juliet, Tenn.

F Taylor had a stellar career at Mt. Juliet High School, helping to win two District 16AAA championships and finish fifth in the state as a junior.

She batted .402 and was named all-state, all-district, all-region and earaned a spot on the all-academic team. For her sophomore campaign, Taylor was named Defensive Player of the year. The daughter of Kevin and Melissa Taylor, her birthday is September 29, 1994. She is majoring in special education.

i love green

Golden Eagles tell us some of their favorite things that are green .....did I make the list?

Tristan Archer l Baseball

T’Keyah Williams l Basketball

A baseball diamond. The infield, the outfield. Who doesn’t love seeing the green grass of a baseball field?.

Finger nail polish. I love all the colors. I always have polished nails, and I like to be colorful.

Diamond Henderson l Basketball

Matt Hamby l Football

Pickles. I love pickles! I like them whole the best, but I also like them sliced on my sandwiches or hamburgers.

Four-leaf clovers. They’re lucky! I don’t really look for them, but if I see one, I’ll grab it.

Patrena Hicks l Administrative Associate

Hannah Eldridge l Softball

Springtime grass, when it’s just starting to turn a bright shade of green.

It means spring is here. It’s my favorite time of the year.

Broccoli. Or asparagus. A lot of people don’t like vegetables, especially those two, but I do. I love both of them.

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Adogable!

NEMO

Tech's irresistible

four-legged friends.

ACE If there’s one thing our Golden Eagles can agree on it’s how much they love their fourlegged friends. Each student-athlete was eager to share a picture, or story about all of their pets. Some adopted, others received as gifts, these furry friends hold a special place in not only the atheltes lives at home, but many of them on campus!

ALL

B SNOW

Lashay Davis (WBB) loves her goofball Zeus (pictured right)

ANDY

NkKyY Un Pu Sp

ZEUS

I love cuddling up with Spunky . She’s my cuddle buddy.

I never want to le ave her!

- Katya Hoffma n, W. Golf

MAUI

ER

COOP

Best Friends Top - Bottom: Tori Gentile (Softball), Jala Harris (WBB), Katherine Barker (WBB), Hope Scantland (WBB), Christine Maci (VB), Madison Keyes (VB).

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in love d grade, and fell I found Dixie in 2n later, ly. Then just days te ia ed m im er h with dless to to claim her! Nee her owners tried mine. say, she remained , Soccer - Hayley Morton

DIXIE

g Cali on my first I remember takin st knew she was Duck Hunt, you ju st hunting dog. going to be the be eball -Evan Frazier, Bas

S

LUCA

My favorite memory is every day since the day I’ve gotten Lucas. He just makes my day better. His favorite toy is definitely a tennis ball and favorite game is when I hit tennis balls to him with my golf clubs.

- Amanda Randolph, W. Golf

CALI I just love the G oldens, they are amazing dogs and every time I can convi nce my parents to let m e keep another pet is a great memory and vi ctory!

- Audrey Lewis , Volleyball

My fav orite Samps memory of on him. He is how I got ’s the b est - Matt Marsei dog. lle, MB B

ON

S SAMP

OPER

CO ILY &

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JUST PURRRFECT! ROXY

Dogs may be a man’s best friend, but some Golden Eagles find their best friend in the form of a cat. Sometimes the purr of a cat is way better than the bark of a dog.

Y

REMM Jeremiah Samarrippas (MBB)

Natalie Penrod (Volleyball)

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15 years ago A different Motown: Detroit organ player adds tunes to Golden Eagle baseball This story first appeared in the Cookeville Herald-Citizen on April 1, 1998. Wally Sturgess passed away in 2005 at the age of 98.

Any one who met him, or heard him play, loved Wally.

At 91, he is certainly the oldest to for Tennessee Tech’s Golden Eagle baseball team.

But, don’t look for Wally Sturgess at any position on the field. He’s up in the press box, behind the organ, where he as always been.

After playing the organ in legendary Tiger Stadium for the Detroit Tigers for almost 40 years, Wally Sturgess retired and moved to Cookeville in December.

He just couldn’t leave behind his love of the game of baseball.

“Wally came to us and asked if he could play at our home games,” Tech coach David Mays said. “It didn’t look promising. We didn’t have an organ. But, when I heard his credentials, I knew we had to find a way.”

Assistant coach Donley Canary, the team’s recruiting coordinator, hit the road once more and found a music store in Detroit that would be an organ donor in recognition of Sturgess’ career with the Tigers.

Now, Wally Sturgess adds a big-league sound to the Golden Eagle games in Bush Stadium.

Born in Stockholm in 1907, Sturgess studied music under famous Swedish panist Leif Frankander, and moved to America in 1929 -- where he ran headfirst into the Great Depression. His first job was playing the organ at weddings at a Lutheran Church in Cleveland. He earned two dollars for each ceremony.

In 1947, despite the fact he had never seen a baseball game, he auditioned for the job of stadium organist for the Detroit Tigers and was hired for seven dollars per game. In 38 seasons, he missed only two Tiger home games. The first came when he was caught continued on page 16

Wally Sturgess (right) looks on as Mickey Mantle takes batting practice before a 1964 World Series in Yankee Stadium

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From Motown to Cookeville Continued from page 15

in a freakish May snowstorm and couldn’t get to the stadium. The second came in 1951 when he had to play the organ at a wedding -- his own.

“Of course I played the organ for my own wedding,” he says. “I was the best organist I could find... and the cheapest.”

Baseball changed his life, and Wally Sturgess has had a hand (all 10 fingers on the keyboard, actually) in changing baseball.

“I learned to love baseball,” he admits. “I wanted to learn more about the game so I could select music that would be appropriate for certain situations.”

It was Wally Sturgess who began playing “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” for fans to stand up and stretch during the middle of the seventh inning. The inning stretch has since become the national standard at baseball games.

“I noticed that fans were getting a little restless after about six innings, so I told the P.A. man to invite everybody to stand up and stretch and I played along,” he recalls. “It worked once, so we did it the next day.”

And, every day after that in every stadium in America.

Wally Sturgess has photographs of himself with a parade of major league stars, including Mickey Mantle, Al Kaline, Rocky Colavito, Harmon Killebrew, Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra, Bob Uecker and Carl Yasztremski.

While he was the regular organist for the Tigers, Wally also made occasional appearanances on the in-house keyboard for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Red Wings.

“I never played for the Pistons, though. They didn’t want an organ. They wanted that lousy ‘rap’ music.

Jeez, I don’t like that stuff.”

There was one hesitation before volunteering to play for the Golden Eagles, when Wally learned that Tech president Angelo Volpe is an ardent New York Yankees fan.

“I don’t like the Yankees, either,” he admits. “But I have learned that Angelo is a pretty nice guy, for a Yankee fan.”

Now, Tennessee Tech is planning to hold a “Wally Sturgess Day” later in the season to honor its newest recruit.

“I’m 91 years old,” Sturgess says. “They better not wait too long.”

The Rest of the Story

For the remainder of the 1998 Tech baseball season, at the start of each game, the stadium announcer asked everyone to stand as “legendary organist Wally Sturgess leads us in the playing of our National Anthem.” Then, a recording of the anthem played on an organ was piped over the speakers at the stadium. Fans looked toward the press box, which was perched above the visiting dugout on the first base side. Visiting players twisted their heads to try to see how a fullsized pipe organ could possibly fit in such a small space.

The story of Wally Sturgess took on a life of its own among Tech’s baseball team and fans.

If you didn’t figure it out while reading the story, the entire tale of Wally Sturgess is pure fiction. It was published on April 1, 1998, in the Cookeville Herald-Citizen. TTU Sports Information Director Rob Schabert had the idea and wrote the story, and convinced HC Sports Editor Frank Layne to run it as an April Fool’s Day prank.

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We have no idea how many people believed the tale, but one reader who was fooled was Dr. Angelo Volpe, the president of the university and a die-hard baseball fan. Dr. Volpe called and said he’d like to meet Wally Sturgess.

We had to break the news to Dr. Volpe that the whole thing was made up. He laughed it off. No harm, no foul. Nobody lost his job.

In fact, Schabert and Dr. Volpe discussed a possible followup story. It was the president who suggested Schabert take it a step further and write an obituary for the aging organ player a few weeks later. Their scheme went so far as to talk about planning a visitation for Wally, closed-casket, of course. They thought it would be fun to see who came to the visitation, and see how many people would admit to having met the legendary Wally Sturgess.

Thankfully, that part never did come about.

The staff of unlimited magazine thought it might be fun to run the story for this “fun” edition, since it includes April Fool’s Day.

in your ear

David Allen’s

PLAYLIST

RISE AGAINST “Satellite” - Rise Against (lower right) is one of my favorite bands right now. They don’t hold anything back when they play and I really like that about them.

THE PIANO GUYS “Cello Wars” - (center) I’m a little different than most people before a game. I like to listen to more mellow music and down-tempo stuff. I’ve been listening to this group a lot lately. I guess its just the inner nerd in me.

AUGUST BURNS RED “White Washed” - This is my walk-up song for when I’m batting. They’re a Christian heavy metal band and the song really gets me pumped up before an at-bat (lower left).

ADVENTURE CLUB “Retro City” - I prefer to listen to rock and metal, but I do like to mix it up a little.

This is a dub step group that I really like. The beat is great and really gets to you.

MEMPHIS MAY FIRE “Alive In the Lights” - This band really reflects the kind of music I’m into. I love how upbeat it is. This is a fun song to listen to and really gets my blood flowing.

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on our radar

SPECIAL EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IN THE COMING MONTHS Saturday, March 2

Seniors say farewell

F Seven Golden Eagle seniors will play their final games in Eblen Center when Tech hosts Morehead State in an OVC twinbill. Five players on the women’s team and two on the men’s team will be featured when Tech celebrates its annual Senior Night on Saturday night, March 2.

Tuesday and Wednesday, March 5-6

Big Ten visit, part II

F The Golden Eagle baseball team won two-out-of-three from Illinois on

the team’s opening weekend. Now, another Big Ten team comes to town to challenge coach Matt Bragga’s team. This time, it’s Michigan State for a two-game, mid-week series. Tech will welcome the Spartans on Tuesday, March 5 and Wednesday, March 6, with games starting both days at 3 p.m.

Admission is free and the food and snacks from the concession stand are tasty at Bush Stadium at the Averitt Express Baseball Complex.

March 6-9 in Nashville

Music City Madness F The Ohio Valley Conference 2013 Basketball Championships will take place in Nashville’s Municipal Auditorium, Wednesday, March 6 through Saturday, March 9. Fans planning to attend any of the tournament are encouraged to purchase their tickets from the Athletics Ticket Office in Eblen Center. The tournament schedule and previews will be posted on TTUsports.com.

Tuesday, March 12

Pick your course, pick your times F Registration begins on Tuesday, March 12, for golfers to select their courses and tee times in the Pepsi Bobby Nichols Scramble, presented by Budweiser. The tournament will be held May 29 through June 1 at three area golf courses, and features three tournament rounds of golf, practice rounds, carts, a Friday night concert and Saturday night BBQ dinner. Don’t delay - last year there was a waiting list of golfers wanting to play.

Friday, March 15, 6 p.m.

Conference comes to Bush Stadium F The Golden Eagle baseball team has played an entertaining and challenging non-conference schedule, but come mid-March, things take a more serious turn as the Ohio Valley Conference schedule begins. After opening on the road at EKU (March 8-10), the first home OVC series for the Golden Eagles is March 15-17 with a three-game series agains Morehead State.

Games start at 6 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday.

On Our Radar continues on page 23

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Feeling Social?

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mirror, mirror?

EVERYBODY HAS A DOPPELGÄNGER, INCLUDING THOSE OF US WHO DON’T EVEN KNOW WHAT THE WORD MEANS! A DOPPELGÄNGER IS, SIMPLY, SOMEBODY’S LOOK-ALIKE. WE RAN A FEW GOLDEN EAGLE PHOTOS THROUGH A DOPPELGÄNGER GENERATOR WEBSITE. YOU CHOOSE WHICH CELEBRITY IS A CLOSER MATCH FOR EACH ONE. CHECK THE BOX FOR YOUR CHOICE.

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MITCHELL HILL Men’s Basketball

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE Actor/Singer/Entrepreneur

DALE EARNHARDT JR. NASCAR Driver

ELISE ROBERTSON Volleyball

MISSI PYLE Actress/Singer

SARA PAXTON Actress/Model/Singer

ROB SCHABERT Sports Information

RICHARD GEER Actor

SCOTT BAKULA Actor/Director/Producer

KATYA HOFFMAN Women’s Golf

KIRSTEN STORMS Actress

JESSICA CAPSHAW Actress

DARIAN STONE Football

LUDACRIS Rapper/Actor/Entrepreneur

HAROLD PERRINEAU Actor

KAYLA FLOYD Softball

KELLY CLARKSON Singer/Songwriter/Actress

ALEXANDRA HOLDEN Actress

AUSTIN WULF Baseball

NICK ZANO Actor/Producer

DAVID ANDERS Actor

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MOLLY HEADY Women’s Basketball

MELINDA CLARKE Actress

JANE SEYMOUR Actress

LEE MAXWELL Men’s Golf

JIMMY KIMMEL Comedian/TV Host/Actor

ROGER EALEY Golden Eagle Sports Network

ASHLEIGH HANCOCK Volleyball

KELLY RIPA Actress/Talk Show Host

HAYDEN PANETTIERE Actress/Singer/Model

JORDAN JOHNSON Football

QUINTON AARON Actor

ICE CUBE Rapper/Actor/Producer/Director

KELSEY MCGOHAN Soccer

KIRSTEN DUNST Actress/Singer/Model

KATHERINE HEIGL Actress/Producer

ANTHONY MORSE Men’s Basketball

DAVE CHAPPELLE Comedian/Actor/Producer

NICK CANNON Actor/Comedian/Rapper

BRITTANY COTTO Women’s Track & Field

SANAA LATHAN Actress

ASHANTI Singer/Songwriter/Actress

TRISTAN ARCHER Baseball

STEVE HOWEY Actor

PETER SARSGAARD Actor

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double vision A MOTHER OFFERS INSIGHT INTO HER TWIN DAUGHTERS

Kellie and Kylie Cook

Anybody who has watched Tech women’s basketball during the past four years is familiar with twin sisters Kellie and Kylie Cook, two of the program’s most popular players. But fans don’t know these spirited young ladies as well as their mother knows them. We asked Tracie Cook for some insight into her daughters.

Which daughter was most helpful in the kitchen?

Kylie was always a go-getter and wanted to help in the kitchen.

Kellie was more into structure.

Who was more into books?

Kellie was a bigger reader. Kylie was a little hyper and it was harder for a book to hold her concentration.

Which of the girls was the first to notice boys?

Kellie got into boys first. She had a couple of “friend boys” because they were into sports.

Who got into sports first?

They really got excited about sports at the same time.

It happened early, when they were four years old.

They really liked to play both softball and basketball.

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Which of your daughters is more decisive?

Kylie is the planner. She’s the one who will get the group together for something she has planned.

Who is more like her mom?

Kylie is more of the mom’s girl. She likes to shop, she’s the one who wants to get her hair done, her toenails painted.

Who is more difficult to shop for?

That’s easy, it’s Kellie. Kylie likes anything.

Who is older?

Kellie is one minute older.

How would you describe each of their personalities?

Kellie is the deep thinker. Kylie goes with the flow and can talk to the wall.

Both daughters are obviously very proud of their faith. Your impression?

Both of my daughters are very godly. That’s something that started at an early age and it has a lot to do with who they are today. They are both givers want to help people, or make someone else feel good.

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double vision A MOTHER OFFERS INSIGHT INTO HER TWIN DAUGHTERS

Brittney and Chanelle Spalding

Two of the key players on the Golden Eagle softball team during the past four years have been twin sisters Brittney and Chanelle Spalding.

We went directly to their stepmother, Sandra Spalding, for some insight into the pair. Here are her responses:

Who is most helpful in the kitchen?

It definitely was Brittney. She was more in tune and wanted to learn.

Chanelle is starting to, now that they’re on their own.

Who was more into books?

It’s kind of a toss-up. They’re both big readers. They go on their little spurts. Channelle was keeping track of all the books she read one summer and she read over 20.

Which of the girls was the first to notice boys?

I think Brittney had the first grade school boyfriend, but definitely getting into boys was Chanelle when she was about 14.

Who got into sports first?

It was equal. They started playing sports at the same time. They predominately played softball, but they also competed in track & field.

Brittney did the shot put. Chanelle ran the hurdles in Junior High School.

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Which of the girls is more decisive?

Brittney is more decisive. Chanelle is very outgoing, but Brittney is the decisive one.

Who is more like you?

That’s tough. They both shop more than I do. Chanelle is definitely a big shopper.

They’re both girly girls. They’re both really into makeup and clothes.

Who is more difficult to shop for?

They’re both really easy to shop for. Probalby Chanelle, but they like everything and anything.

Who is older?

Brittney is older.

How would you describe each of their personalities?

They’re both family-oriented. Chanelle can make her own decisions without needing to call and thinks she’s always making the right decision. Brittney likes family reassurance and likes the support. Brittney is more of a homebody and likes to relax, where Chanelle wants to go out and do stuff with her girlfriends.

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on our radar

SPECIAL EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IN THE COMING MONTHS Monday-Tuesday, March 18-19 in Sevierville

Tournament in Bobby's memory

F The golf teams will host a tournament, March 18-19 at the Sevierville Golf Course. Named in memory of former Golden Eagle player and coach Bobby Nichols, the tourney will feature more than 20 teams, with the women’s teams playing 36 holes and the men scheduled for 54 holes. “It means a lot to have the tournament named for coach Nichols,” said current Tech golf coach Polk Brown. “He did so many great things for golf here at Tennessee Tech and for the state.”

Saturday-Sunday, March 23-24

After weeks on the road, softball comes home F The first 28 games on their 2013 schedule were on the road, so the Golden Eagle softball team will be excited to finally play at home. Coach Bonnie Bynum’s team hosts a pair of Ohio Valley Conference doubleheaders, with Murray State in town on Saturday, March 23, and Austin Peay paying a visit on Sunday, March 24. Action begins both days at noon and admission is free to all regular season home softball games.

Saturday, April 13

Softball alumni gather for Legends Weekend F The Belmont Bruins softball team will provide Tech’s opposition on the annual Softball Legends Weekend, when former Golden Eagle players are invited back to campus for a weekend of visiting and reminiscing. Softball alumni will be introduced on the field during Saturday’s doubleheader. The games begin at 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

April 19-21 / April 21-23 / April 25-27 / May 3-4

OVC Championships in four sports F Four Ohio Valley Conference championships will be decided in late April and early May. First on the schedule is the tennis tournament, which will be held in Paducah, Ky., April 19-21. The women’s golf tournament is April 2123 and the men’s tourney is April 25-27. Both tournaments will take place at GreyStone Golf Club in Dickson, Tenn. The Outdoor Track & Field Championships will be held May 3-4, in Charleston, Ill.

Saturday, April 27, 11 a.m.

Soccer alumni take the field F Golden Eagle soccer coach Daniel Brizard is extending an invitation to all former Tennessee Tech soccer players to return to campus for a day of fun, food and...soccer. The alumni will join the current team members for a soccer match at 11 a.m., to be followed by a cookout.

All alumni are encouraged to contact Brizard (dbrizard@tntech.edu or 931-372-6200), whether they can attend or not.

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From Snow White (Disney’s first leading lady in 1937) to Rapunzel (Disney’s 50th leading lady in 2010), everybody loves Disney characters.

And, most of us have our own favorites. We asked several Golden Eagle student-athletes who they would list as their favorite Disney character. Who’s yours?

Do you match any of the Golden Eagle picks?

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chatter

Hailing from New Zealand, volleyball player Ashleigh Hancock has the distinction of being the current student-athlete from the most distant hometown.

We asked the junior setter to answer five simple questions.

GUILTY PLEASURE F Cooking. I love to cook, and I will cook anything. I do it for relaxation. I learned to cook at home when I was growing up. My favorite meal to cook is lasagna.

FAVORITE MEAL F My favorite meal to eat is lasagna, with salad and bread. I love to cook it, and I love to eat it.

CELEBRITY CRUSH F It would be Harry Potter. Not the actor who plays him, but Harry Potter, himself. He’s a wizard!

SWEET & SOUR P My favorite is Poison

by Dior. I buy it duty free whenever I travel.

CIRCUS ACT F If I was in the circus, I would want to ride on the elephant. I’d stand up there and wave to the kids.

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DATE N

From Noah to Elizabeth Swan, who would you go on a date with? Th movies who they wish th Jesse, Pitch Perfect He’s so adorable and he makes such good attempts at making a girl happy. He’s such a good singer too!

-Ellie Iaciofano, soccer

Miles, The Holiday His character is really familiar with movies and the songs associated with them . I love the movies and I love sining so it’d be perfect!

-Elise Robertson, volleyball

Cedric Diggory, Harry Potter Not only is he good looking, but he can do magic!

-Ashleigh Hancock, volleyball

Jack Dawson, Titanic He lived his life to the fullest. He did everything he could to save his true love which ultimately leads to his death. Tragic.

-Amanda Randolph, women’s golf

Leo, The Vow He was romantic and would do anything to get his wife to remember him again.

- Candace Parson, women’s basketball

Noah Calhoun, The Notebook He wrote Allie a letter everyday for a year, who wouldn’t want to date him?!

-Christian Gibbs, softball

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NIGHT

he Tech athletes chose several different characters from their favorite hey could snag a date with.

Holly Hamilton, The Perfect Man Holly is really good-looking and I watch a Hillary Duff movie before every game.

- Dylan Bosheers, baseball

Polly Prince, Along Came Polly She’s hectic but free-spirited and Jennifer Aniston is hillarious.

-Josh Bryant, baseball

Holly Golightly, Breakfast at Tiffany’s Holly is the type of girl who loves a good time, but also likes to feel needed.

- Lucas Woodason, football

Starbuck, Battlestar Galactica She’s hardcore.

- Dennis Ogbe, men’s basketball

Daisy Duke, The Dukes of Hazzard She’s just smokin.

-Garrett Baugh, baseball

Elizabeth Swan, Pirates of the Caribbean She’s smart and can take on anyone or any creature. I’d chose her against Sparraow any day.

-Mitchell Hill, men’s basketball

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Traffic jam...

photo by Guy Huffman, MSU

Golden Eagle junior Matt Marseille tries to rise above they fray during Tech’s Feb. 16 game at Morehead State, drawing plenty of attention in the paint as he went up for a shot against the Eagles. Jud Dillard and Terrell Barnes can only watch Marseille’s effort as he is defended by Chad Posthumous (left) and Bruce Reed.

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IN FOCUS

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IN FOCUS

The Circle of Life...

The Golden Eagle softball team features a promising freshman class. The eight rookies gathered for a group photo during the team’s annual Photo Day. Clockwise from top left, they are Dani McHugh, Madison Taylor, Olivia Bennett, Hannah Weaver, Tori Gentile, Katie Whetstone, Cortney Fry and Samantha Cook.

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photo by Ben Corda

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THIS DAY IN GOLDEN EAGLE HISTORY

April 5

vs. Eastern Kentucky Stephanie Dallmann

Kacy Bennett

Amy Goad

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Samantha Lovelady

Marianne Novac

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2003 Golden Eagle Softball

In the first game of an OVC doubleheader in Richmond, Ky., the Golden Eagles showed unprecedented power by bashing six home runs in claiming a 10-7 victory over the Lady Colonels. Stephanie Dallmann, one of the all-time top hitters in program history for average, broke loose with two home runs to lead the hit parade. Tech also got Ruthian blasts from Samantha Lovelady, Kacy Bennett, Amy Goad and Marianne Novac. Tech starter Tia Brenning worked into the eighth inning, battling back after EKU had erupted for six runs in the bottom of the third to take a 6-5 lead. Lisa Lamb took over in relief.

The Golden Eagles tied the game in the seventh to force extra innings. Each team scored in the ninth, Tech’s run coming on Goad’s bleacher burner to left field. EKU loaded the bases with nobody out in the bottom of the ninth, and coach Tory Acheson brought starter Brenning back to the circle in relief of Lamb. After an RBI single tied the game, Brenning slammed the door with a strikeout and an infield fly. Both teams left a runner at third base in the 10th inning. In the top of the 11th, Lovelady’s sacrifice fly brought Lindsey Williams home from third for the go-ahead run. With two out, Bennett dialed long distance with a two-run shot to left to make it 10-7. Brenning worked a 1-2-3 11th and the game was in the books. Whew!

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THIS DAY IN GOLDEN EAGLE HISTORY

APRIL 5

vs. Tennessee State

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1992 Golden Eagle Baseball

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With several pro scouts in attendance to see Tennessee State pticher Everett Stull make quick work of the Golden Eagles, Tennessee Tech pitcher Craig Humberd left them shocked and awed, tossing a no-hitter against Stull’s two-hitter. The first TSU batter of the game reached first base on an error, leaving Tech fans with pits in their stomachs. Golden Eagle catcher Scott Hampton erased the feeling, throwing out the base runner on a attempted stolen base. Humberd went to work from there, retiring the next 20 Tennessee State players in order, using five strikeouts and solid defense. Tech won 2-0 courtesy of five walks from Stull and a sacrifice fly by Russell Stoops and sacrifice bunt from Kurt Kalen.

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irish eyes

They may or may not actually be Irish, but they certainly have Irish-sounding names.

For our St. Patrick’s Day issue, we thought we’d dig into the files and come up with our Top 15 list of Golden Eagle student-athletes with Irish-sounding names. We came up with a long list of candidates, but then we learned that all those names with “Mc” and “Mac” aren’t really Irish. They’re Scottish.

So, we had to eliminate good people such as Tommy McDaniel (football), Tommy McElhaney (football), Michale McAlarnen (soccer), Chase McMillan (golf), Travis McClanahan (baseball) and Emily McCracken(tennis). We consulted the website IrishCentral.com for a list of the Top 10 Irish names, then poked through our past and current rosters. There are many more, but we had to stop somewhere!

[Editor’s note: Okay, so we included two “Mc” names, but how can you deny Erin McGuire and Molly McCarthy?)

List is from IrishCentral.com

Irish and Irish-Americans alike tend to be immensely proud of their surnames. Many an Irish family proudly declare their Irish roots by displaying the crest of their clan in their homes. But which last names win in the battle of Irishness?

IrishCentral took a look at the list of the most common surnames in Ireland in order to come up with a top 10 list.

Smith and Murray are two of the most common, but one is of British origins and the other’s Scottish, so they didn’t make the cut.

Here, then, are the 10 most Irish last names:

1. Murphy — the sea battlers

Murphys – you win the prize for most common and widespread name in Ireland, especially in County Cork . This surname, which means “sea battler,” translates to Gaelic as MacMurchadh (son of Murchadh) and O'Murchadh (descendent of Murchadh), a derivation of the first name of Murchadh or Murragh. The name was first anglicized to MacMurphy and then to Murphy in the early 19th century.

2. Kelly — the bright-headed ones

Kelly comes second to Murphy as the most common surname in Ireland. The Kellys are all over Ireland; the name originates from at around 10 different and unrelated ancient clans or septs. O'Kelly comes from the Gaelic O Ceallaigh, meaning "descended from Ceallach," an Irish chieftan. “Ceallach” means war or contention. It is an ancient first name that is no longer used as a first name in Ireland.

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No. 15 (tie) — Mike Kelly Baseball

No. 15 (tie) — Mike Kelly Golf

No. 14 — Didier Murphy Track & Field

3. O'Sullivan — the hawkeyed ones

No. 13 — Dianne Murphy Basketball

Kellys may have bright heads, but O’Sullivans have hawk-like eyes. The O'Sullivans or Sullivans are one of the most populous of the Munster families. In Irish, O'Sullivan is O'Sileabhin, and there is no doubt that origin of the name comes from the word sil (eye), though whether it is to be taken as "one-eyed" or "hawkeyed" is in dispute among scholars.

4. Walsh — the Welshmen

The meaning of this “Welsh” name is pretty straightforward. The name Walsh is one of the most common of the Norman-associated names found in Ireland. It seems to have been the name used by the many different groups of Welsh people who arrived in Ireland with the Normans during the 12th century. The name comes from Welsh, which simply means Welshman, and its early Norman form was "Le Waleys." But this became gradually anglicized to Walsh.

No. 12 — Molly McCarthy Cross Country and Track & Field

5. O'Brien — the noblemen

O’Briens are pretty lucky – they are descended from one of the greatest and most famous Irish kings. The name O’Brien, also spelled O'Bryan or O'Brian, translates to Ó Briain in Gaelic, which means "of Brian.” The name indicates descendance from Brian Boru, the celebrated High King of Ireland. This gives O’Briens leave to call themselves “high” and “noble.”

No. 11 — Ryan O’Hara Tennis

6. Byrne — the ravens

Byrnes can be found flying around all over Counties Wicklow and Dublin. Byrne, originally O’Byrne, comes from the Gaelic O'Broin meaning "descended from Bran,” an 11th century King of Leinster. The O'Byrnes were chieftains of what is now County Kildare until the Norman invasion when they were driven from their lands and migrated (ha!) into the mountains of County Wicklow. There, together with their allies the O'Tooles, they successfully resisted Norman and English domination for centuries.

7. Ryan — the little kings

The meaning of the Irish name Ryan comes from the old Gaelic word "righ" and the old Irish diminutive of "an," which together form the meaning of "little king." The name Ryan comes from the Irish name O' Riain - a contraction of the older Irish form O'Mulriain, which is now virtually extinct. The Ryan family motto is 'Malo More Quam Foedari', which, when translated, means 'I would Rather Die than be Disgraced'.

No. 10 — Mike O’Brien Football

continued on next page

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8. O'Connor — patrons of warriors

They might not be warriors themselves, but at least O’Connors descend from them! The O'Connor name, with its varied spellings, doesn't spring from a common source.

The name arose in five areas of Ireland: Connacht, Kerry, Derry, Offaly and Clare and split into six distinct septs. The most prominent sept is that of the Connacht O'Connors who gave us the last two HighKings of Ireland: Turlough O'Connor (10881156) and Roderick O'Connor (1116-1198).

They trace their heritage and name from the Irish "Ua Conchobhair," meaning from Conchobhar, a king of Connacht.

No. 9 — Scott O’Beirne Football

9. O'Neill — from a champion

The O'Neill family traces its history back to 360 A.D. to the legendary warrior king of Ireland, Niall of the Nine Hostages, who is said to have been responsible for bringing St. Patrick to Ireland. Niall is also said to have been incredibly fertile – he has 3 million descendents worldwide. “O’Neill” is derived from two separate Gaelic words, "Ua Niall," which means grandson of Niall, and "Neill" meaning "champion." Ireland’s O'Neills were known by the nickname "Creagh," which comes from the Gaelic word "craobh" meaning branch, because they were known to camouflage themselves to resemble the forest when fighting the Norsemen. Crafty fellows, those O’Neills.

10. O'Reilly — provider of auto parts The O'Reillys round out the top 10 most popular names in Ireland. Their family name is derived from the Gaelic "O'Raghailligh," meaning descendants of Raghaillach.

The O'Reillys were the most powerful sept of the old Gaelic kingdom of Breffny and the surrounding counties, and the family is still prominent in the area. Reilly, often spelled Riley, has become a trendy given name in the U.S., for both baby boys and girls. Oh, by the way, IrishCentral didn’t have a definition for the name, so we gave it one.

No. 8 — Erin McGuire Soccer

No. 7 — Caroline Murphy Volleyball

No. 6 — Kathleen O’Connor Volleyball

continued on next page

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No. 5 — Dean O’Brien Tennis

No. 4 — Meagan Sullivan Golf

No. 3 — Kevin Murphy Basketball

No. 2 — Sean Reilly Baseball

...and the final name is on next page

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And, the No. 1 Irish-sounding name for a Golden Eagle student-athlete — Meghan O’Donoghue Cross Country and Track & Field

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just for kids TRACK AND FIELD WORD SEARCH Track and Field season is underway. Find the different track & field terms and circle them in the grid below. The words you are searching for are listed to the right of the grid. On your mark, get set.....GO! G Z Z W W H C G L D M F S D N

WORDS

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BATON

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V H D T L G O H O S D O S T L O P H D L B A V J I S R I O C J F R N E U E E S S C B D N S N U A O S C A T B D G M A G V H R T

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DASHES FALSE START POLE VAULTING CROSSBAR DISCUS HIGH JUMP RELAY

U S B E A M S N H P O I Y S T

CURB

C A R T V Y X T D X D P V G C

DISTANCE RUN

Z U I S B L M D A J Y W P L P

HURDLING

N H I G H J U M P R E U S Q B Q Y T

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TOE BOARD

WHO’S ON FIRST? Match each Golden Eagle Baseball and Softball player to their playing position.

1) Tristan Archer

A) Right Field

1) Britney Spalding

A) Center Field

2) Austin Wulf

B) Relief Pitcher

2) Claudia Harke

B) Third Base

3) Zach Stephens

C) Left Field

3) Melody Christian

C) First Base

4) Dylan Bosheers

D) First Base

4) Kendall Hooper

D) Pitcher

5) James Abraham

E) Center Field

5) Chanelle Spalding

E) Catcher

6) Zephan Guyear

F) Shortstop

6) Taylor Ketchum

F) Left Field

7) Josh Bryant

G) Starting PItcher

7) Angie Sakamoto

G) Pitcher

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photo by Rob Schabert

IN FOCUS

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Let’s get ready to r-r-rumble Golden Eagles Ammanuel Darissa (left) and Jud Dillard use some of their down time to play a little one-on-one in Eblen Center.

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photos by Ben Corda

Are we finished?

The Golden Eagle softball team, after it finished posing for its annual “official� team photo.

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IN FOCUS

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IN FOCUS

A flurry of excitement...

photo by Tony Marable

Sophomore David Hess delivers (a fastball?) amid snow flurries during Tech’s opening weekend series against the University of Illinois. The Golden Eagles won two-out-of-three against the Big Ten visitor. Saturday’s game featured a rare occurance -- a snow delay, when visibility forced umpires to stop the action.

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IN FOCUS

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Don’t lose your head...

We found this photo in a box of old pictures in the corner of the Sports Information Archives.

No explanation was attached. It appears Awesome Eagle may have suffered a fall and lost his (her?) head at mid-court, while a member of the cheer team comes to his (her?) aid.

We’ve seen plenty of fans, players or coaches lose their head during the heat of battle, but never a mascot.

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photo by Frank Layne

IN FOCUS

Presidential candidate meets the press...

Members of the media who follow Tennessee Tech had a rare chance to meet a man who was running for President of the United States. The event took place during the Mountain Heritage Festival on the campus of Western Carolina University in 1984, when Tech played a football game against the Catamounts. The gentleman in the middle in the white beard with the walking stick stopped the group to let them know he was on the ballot for President.

We never learned how he fared in the election, but we suspect he was not among national leaders in votes for POTUS. The media members have been a “family” through the years, logging hundreds -- actually thousands -- of miles to cover Golden Eagle teams. Assistant Athletics Director Rob Schabert has driven the “media van” somewhere around half-a-million miles since he joined the staff in 1982.

Sadly, two of the men in the photo have passed away in the span of time since this photo was shot by Herald-Citizen Sports Editor Frank Layne. We miss Gene and Larry.

In the group are, from left, radio play-by-play announcer Gene Davidson, a member of the TTU Sports Hall of Fame; long-time fan Hoke White, who rarely missed a football game; Eldon Burgess, who was Gene’s radio sidekick for many, many years and was also inducted in the TTU Sports Hall of Fame; the nameless candidate; Rob Schabert, with son Matt Schabert on his shoulders (Matt is now assistant SID at Morehead State); and Herald-Citizen sports writer Larry Box.

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endowments

ENDOWMENTS BENEFIT TENNESSEE TECH ATHLETICS BY PROVIDING ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO STUDENT-ATHLETES

Anita Myers Barker Scholarship Endowment The Anita Myers Scholarship Endowment goes annually to a Tech Women’s Basketball player.

The Anita Myers Scholarship Endowment winner for the 2012-13 season goes to Katherine Barker (Anita Myers Barker’s daughter).

The Anita Myers Endowment is a scholarship named for former Tech Women’s Basketball Alum Anita Myers. Anita was a two-year starter for the Golden Eagles Basketball team (1981-83) earning both All-OVC and All-Tournament team honors. She led the team in assists during both years and was team captain her senior year. As a junior she was named the Most Valuable Player of the OVC Tournament, helping the Golden Eagles capture both the regular season and Tournament Championship while advancing to the NCAA Tournament.

The Anita Myers Scholarship Endowment was funded by long-time Tech Athletics’ Donor Rob Austin. Rob was involved in the early days of the Tech Athletic Foundation. He was responsible for initially selling “hole sponsorships” for the Golden Eagle Scramble while serving as Director of the event. Rob was also responsible for taking the official photograph and for marketing and selling “The Blizzard of ’85” for the Athletic Foundation.

How can you help?

The Tennessee Tech Department of Athletics has 26 different Endowed Scholarships. Just a few of the others include: Cameron Golf Endowed Scholarship (for a member of the Golden Eagle men’s golf team) Art and Vic Gernt Endowed Scholarship (for a member of the Golden Eagle men’s or women’s basketball team) Delores Wheatley Endowed Scholarship (for a member of any Golden Eagle team) Noble Cody Endowed Scholarship (for a fifth-year student-athlete to complete their degree) Robert Hill Johnson Memorial Endowed Scholarship (for a member of the Golden Eagle football team) For more information about establishing or supporting an existing endowed scholarship, please call Kevin Bostian, Associate AD for Development at 931-372-3929.

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photo by Woody Geisler

IN FOCUS

Splits Decision...

While Grandpappy Eagle takes a tumble in the background, several members of the Tech Cheer squad perform a synchronized leap during a recent timeout.

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photo by Larry Gooding / Morehead State

IN FOCUS

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Diamond Days...

Sophomore Diamond Henderson looks for an opening in the Morehead State defense during the Golden Eagle victory earlier this year. The same Morehead State team will be in Eblen Center Saturday night (March 2) as Tech celebrates Senior Night during the final regular season game of the year.

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endowments

ENDOWMENTS BENEFIT TENNESSEE TECH ATHLETICS BY PROVIDING ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO STUDENT-ATHLETES

Johnny Donnelly Memorial Scholarship Endowment The Johnny Donnelly Memorial Scholarship Endowment is awarded annually to a fifth-year student who has completed his/her athletic eligibility but has not yet finished degree requirements for graduation.

The Johnny Donnelly Memorial Scholarship Endowment winner for the 2012-13 season goes to Alex Chen, Men’s Tennis.

The Johnny Donnelly Memorial Scholarship is named for former Tech Athletics Fan Johnny Donnelly. In 1999, Johnny Donnelly was the first fan and the youngest person inducted into the TTU Sports Hall of Fame. The Scholarship is presented each year in his memory by his parents, John and Marty Donnelly of Cookeville, to recognize his fighting spirit and his love for Tennessee Tech athletics.

Johnny passed away in 1998 after a longfought battle with muscular dystrophy.

The Johnny Donnelly Scholarship Endowment was funded by several people including his parents John and Marty, along with Tom Sergio and Steve Copeland.

How can you help?

Each Spring the Tennessee Tech Athletics Association transfers funds from the Tennessee Tech University Foundation to the University to help offset costs associated with scholarships and program operations for its 300-plus student-athletes. Nearly half of the total Tennessee Tech Athletics budget is budgeted toward scholarship aid. Covering these financial obligations has become more difficult. With costs increasing each year, privately funded endowments are crucial to TTU and its studentathletes, such as Katherine Barker and Alex Chen.

The Anita Myers Barker and Johnny Donnelly Memorial Scholarship Endowments are two of 26 endowments available to Tennessee Tech student-athletes that are funded by private donors. The donors that make these endowments possible are able to help young men and women reach their dreams of playing sports at the college level.

For more information about establishing an endowment, please contact Kevin Bostian, Associate AD for Development at 931-372-3929 or via email at KBostian@tntech.edu.

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Feeling Social?

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IN FOCUS

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Made you miss...

photo by Tony Marable

Golden Eagle Zephan Guyear raises his arm and sweeps past the glove of Niagara third baseman Greg Rodgers, avoiding the tag and sliding in safely with a stolen base. Tech won two-of-three games against the Purple Eagles, thanks to heads-up plays such as this one.

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COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD Just a sampling of community events in the coming months

UC Home & Garden Show - March 1-3 UC Staycation Show - March 1-3

OVC Basketball Tournament - March 6-9 Leprechaun Chase 5K - March 9 Daylight Savings Time Begins - March 10

St. Patrick’s Day - March 17 First Day of Spring - March 20

Hidden Hollow Easter Egg Hunt - March 30-31 Easter Sunday - March 31 April Fool’s Day - April 1 Dogapalooza - April 6 Holocaust Remembrance Day - April 7 Earth Day - April 22 TTU Student-Athlete Picnic - April 24

Spring Commenceent - May 11 Mother’s Day - May 12 Armed Forces Day - May 18 Memorial Day - May 27

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Bobby Nichols Scramble - May 29-Ju