unlimited magazine

unlimited

THE ONLINE MAGAZINE OF TENNESSEE TECH ATHLETICS

HAPPY NEW YEAR and

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TITLE IX

FRESH FACES

Meet some of the newest Golden Eagles

Shutter Bug

Photographer Dean Carothers has snapped photos of Tech Athletics for more than 30 years

JUST CAUSES

Golden Eagle student-athletes have a wide variety of causes they believe in

Screen Gems

What do the Golden Eagles list as favorite movie of the past few years?

January/February 2013/Volume 1, Issue 3

photo by Ben Corda

IN FOCUS

And the game ball goes to...

Director of Athletics Mark Wilson (left) presented new University President Dr. Philip Oldham (and First Lady Kari Oldham) with a couple of commemorative game balls, signifying the first home wins for those teams under his leadership. The football is from Tech’s 41-31 victory over Hampton on Aug, 30, and the soccer ball is from a 3-2 win over Northern Kentucky the next day. The presentation took place at the annual Hall of Fame dinner, Friday, Nov. 2, which was part of the day-long Investiture of Oldham as TTU President.

3

BASKETBALL

EBLEN CENTER COOKEVILLE, TENNESSEE

THURS. JAN 17

7:00 P.M.

FOR TICKETS VISIT OR CALL THE TICKET OFFICE AT (931) 372-3940 OR ORDER ONLINE AT TTUSPORTS.COM

Tennessee Tech Presents...

2013 WORLD TOUR

BASKETBALL’S NUMBER 1 SHOW! 4

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{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

...Academic Excellence will be recognized in Eblen Center on Thursday, Feb. 21, in what has become an annual tradition.

All area elementary Honor Roll students receive vouchers for free tickets to the game. At halftime of the game (Golden Eagle men host UT Martin at 7 p.m.), Tech’s 200 student-athletes who achieved the Fall semester Athletic Director’s Honor Roll will be introduced at halftime. The event provides quite a visual of how well Tech athletes are doing in the classroom — the group pretty much covers the entire basketball court. It provides strong groups of role models to the younger students of how learning and academic excellence should be a lifelong effort. ...Some of the all-time great basketball players in Tech history will return to campus on Saturday, Jan. 26, for a doubleheader against OVC rival Austin Peay.

It’s Basketball Legends Night (formerly Basketball Alumni Night). The women’s game is at 5:30 p.m. with the men’s game to follow. Returning players (the great and not-so-great) will be introduced at halftime. How many will you remember? ... The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters will bring their family-themed show to Tennessee Tech’s Eblen Center on Thursday, Jan. 17, the first performance in the Upper Cumberland by the legendary basketball team in three years. Tickets for

continued on page 7

JANUARY / FEBRUARY Volume 1, Issue 3

unlimited

THE ONLINE MAGAZINE OF TENNESSEE TECH ATHLETICS

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40 YEARS of TITLE IX

24

SHUTTERBUG

36

JUST CAUSES

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

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picture this

From the editor

I brought back from my holiday visit to Minnesota a fresh-baked fruitcake, made from my mom’s recipe and baked by my niece, Allison (fruitcake pictured). Lots of jellied fruits and walnuts. It’ll be gone in a month and I’ll enjoy every bite.

Just goes to show how some things never change, such as longstanding holiday traditions.

This January/February issue of unlimited magazine shows examples of the same — great things remain in our lives. Our studentathletes continue to put forth tremendous efforts on the fields of play and in the classrooms. They also show how they care about the University and the community.

Another thing that remains is the wonderful work by a handful of skilled and talented photographers in documenting those efforts, as well as our fans’ love for viewing their photos.

So, we’ve loaded up this issue with triple the number of “In Focus” photographs. You’ll love looking into the faces and expressions of Tech’s athletes. We must express thanks to folks like Dean Carothers (see story, pages 24-26), Ben Corda, Tony Marable, Jim Dillon, and others, for their work behind the lens. We look forward to more great photos in coming issues.

Another constant is the compassion shown by our student-athletes, who volunteer on several occasions to help at community service projects. We asked them a simple questions: If you won the lottery and had a large amount of money to donate to a cause or charity, which would it be. See their wide range of answers on pages 36-37.

While all of those things remain constant, there is one major change we are happy to report on — the state of women’s athletics, thanks to the passage in 1972 of Title IX. That landmark legislation has changed the face of the American sports landscape, which now includes four decades of memories provided by some of our greatest athletes. Female athletes. It’s impossible to imagine the Tech campus without the women’s basketball or softball teams, among others. Think of all the great moments we might have missed — not to mention the outstanding women, including athletes, coaches and staff, who we’ve known and watched. And, the opportunities for those women to enhance their college expereinces and their lives.

That’s why we selected senior Katherine Barker for our cover model. Her family reflects the success of Title IX, including her mother (Anita Myers Barker) and her aunt, Rebecca Myers.

Happy New Year. I hope you enjoy this magazine. Send your feedback to: sportsinfo@tntech.edu.

Rob Schabert Assistant Athletic Director / Editor

unlimited

THE ONLINE

OF MAGAZINE

On the cover

HLETICS

TECH AT TENNESSEE

HAPPY R NEW YEA

For our cover photo to celebrate 40 years of Title IX, we found a current student-athlete who has reason to appreciate the landmark legislation from 1972. Senior Katherine Barker, a guard on the women’s basketball team, has followed in the footsteps of her mother, Anita Myers Barker, who was the starting point guard for coach Marynell Meadors’ women’s basketball team in 1981-83.

Katherine’s aunt Rebecca also played basketball at Tech.

and

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TITLE IX

FACESen Eagles FRESH of the newest Gold Meet some

Bug thers has snapped utterDean Shogra Caro pher 30 years than Phot Athletics for more photos of Tech

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ST CAUSES

JU ent-athletes have Golden Eagle stud es they believe in of caus a wide variety

Screen Gems

en Eagles list as What do the Gold years? of the past two favorite movie

/Volume 1, Issue br uary 2013 Januar y/Fe

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Dress and accessories provided by The Country Bumpkin Boutique. Hair and makeup by Erin Bean. Photo by Ben Corda of TTU Photo Services. More photos on page 45.

{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

the show are on sale now, with prices ranging from $19 to $53 per seat. In addition to tickets for the game, the Globetrotters will also host an interactive pregame event which is also available to the public for $15 per person.

The Globetrotters have thrilled audiences around the world for 86 years, and have played more than 30,000 games, entertaining everyone from Presidents to Popes. Today, a new generation of stars carries on the storied tradition with timeless basketball exhibitions. ...Early weather predictions call for snow on Saturday, Feb. 23, when the Golden Eagle men’s team hosts a to-be-determined opponent in a BracketBuster game in Eblen Center. If you remember the legendary “blizzards” of the 1980s, plan to attend and relive the memories. If you’ve never seen a blizzard inside the “Temple of Doom,” here’s your chance to pack the place and join the fun. Watch for more details. ...It’s not often that a Big 10 opponent visits an Ohio Valley Conference school, but the Golden Eagle baseball team has earned that rare opportunity twice this spring. Coach Matt Bragga’s 2013 Golden Eagles will open the season by hosting a three-game series against the University of Illinois, Feb. 15-17. The Golden Eagles and Illini meet in Bush Stadium at the Averitt Express Baseball Complex Friday (Feb. 15) at 3 p.m., followed by a 2 p.m. contest Saturday (Feb. 16) and a 1 p.m. game Sunday (Feb. 17). After that, Tech will also host the Michigan State Spartans on Tuesday, March 5 and Wednesday, March 6. Both games begin at 3 p.m. 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

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fresh faces

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

Tyler Brazelton / Baseball

Huntsville, Ala. F Tyler earned three letters as a left fielder for Sparkman High School in Huntsville, Ala. He wrapped up his career with a .395 batting average, smashing 14 home runs in three seasons.

During his senior season, Brazelton batted .390 while adding 14 doubles and two home runs, and crossing the plate 20 times. The son of Angela Brazelton, Tyler’s full name is Tyler Ray Brazelton. He was born August 22, 1994, and is majoring in biomolecular chemical engineering.

Chelsea Mills / Track

Johnson City, Tenn.

F Chelsea came to Tech from Red Bank High School in Chat-

tanooga, Tenn., where she played basketball and was captain of both the cross country and track teams. She received the Athlete of the Year award from both her high school and the Marine Corps, was recipient of the Hustle Award and several academic awards, and also served as Junior and Senior Class President. The daughter of Pamela Ray, she was born Dec. 27, 1993. Her full name is Chelsea Ann Mills and she is enrolled in general curriculum.

Bryce Kendrick / Golf

Powell, Tenn.

F Bryce brings a tremendous enthusiasm to the golf team with an excellent work ethic. He was four-year captain and letterman on the golf team at Grace Christian Academy, received MVP honors all four seasons and also lettered four years on the GCA basketball team. A three-time all-region player, he also earned allstate honors as a senior when he placed second in the TSSAA state tournament.The son of David and Elizabeth Kendrick, his birthday is Feb. 2, 1994. He is majoring in mechanical engineering.

Jibrin Linge / Football

Marietta, Ga.

F A three-year starter in the offensive line at Sprayberry High School, Jibrin also became a starter in his freshman season for the Golden Eagles. A two-time all-county selection while also earning all-region and second-team all-state honors for the Yellow Jackets, he played his high school football for coach Billy Shackelford, a standout runningback for the Golden Eagles from 1989 to 1992. Linge played a major role in helping lead the team to the 2009 and 2011 state playoffs. The son of Jolyn and Mustafa Linge, he is majoring in business.

Allison Barlow / Soccer

Tullahoma, Tenn.

F Allison was Tullahoma High School’s starting goalkeeper her junior and senior seasons. Twice named District 8AAA Keeper of the Year and Defender of the Year. she was cocaptain and All-State her senior year. She recorded seven shutouts as a junior and eight as a senior. Her team was the District 8AAA champions in 2010 and 2011. Allison was an Honors Scholar with a 4.34 GPA, was in the Top 10 percent of her class and member of several Honor Societies. The daughter of Mike and Karen Barlow, she is majoring in nutrition.

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{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

the Golden Eagles. Admission is free to all regular season home games. ...The Tech softball team gets the 2013 season underway with lots of tournament play.

The first two weekends find coach Tory Acheson’s team in Georgia (Georgia Southern Invitational, Feb. 9-10 and Kennesaw State Invitational, Feb. 16-17). The third weekend will be in Chattanooga (Frost Classic, Feb. 22-24). On March 2-3, the Golden Eagles will be in Nashville for the first Purple and Gold Challenge, hosted by Lipscomb, a tourney Tech will host the following year. The final tourney weekend puts Tech at the South Florida Invitational in Tampa, March 8-10. ...A national television audience on ESPNU will take a look inside Eblen Center on Thursday, Jan. 24, when the Golden Eagle men’s basketball team hosts Murray State. Last year’s game against the Racers packed the place with more than 9,000 crazy fans. The atmosphere was electric. ... Sophomore Stephen Bush has been voted to the 2012 CoSIDA/Capital One Academic All-District team for his dual performances on the field and in the classroom, one of just four players in the Ohio Valley Conference to earn the award. Bush owns a 3.90 grade point average while majoring in business. ...Volleyball coach John Blair has stepped down from his position at the helm of the Golden Eagle program, announcing his retirement following his 10th season at the school and 29th year overall as a collegiate head coach. Blair, who was recognized at a December reception, wrapped up a career that included Ohio Valley Conference regular season and conference championships, numerous accolades and awards for his players

continued on page 10

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fresh faces

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

Taylor Blazei / Soccer

Hartford, Wis.

F A four year letterwinner at Slinger High School, Taylor helped her team to three conferenc- championships and was a four-time all-conference selection. She also lettered four years in cross country and two years in basketball. She received an all-state academic award as a cross country runner and twice was named the cross country MVP. A member of several Honor Societies, she also won championships with three different club teams, and was MVP of the semi-final match of the 2011 USA Cup. The daughter of Dale and Julie Ann Blazei, she was born October 13, 1993 and her full name is Taylor Ann Blazei. She is majoring in nursing.

Lanerryl Johnson / Basketball

Norcross, Ga. F Lanerryl played for coach Joe Goydish at Walton High School, and made a name for himself as a combo guard, averaging 24 points per game during his senior season. A first-team All-State selection and the leading scorer in Cobb County, he was named first-team allcounty and all-region en route to helping his team to a regional title.

The son of Wil and Teresa Johnson who was born Nov. 30, 1992, his full name is Lanerryl Tiraque Johnson. He is majoring in business.

Jimmy Laughlin / Football

Vestavia, Ala. F By the end of his freshman season, Jimmy had become a starter in the Golden Eagle secondary. A team captain for coach Buddy Anderson at Vestavia Hills High School, Jimmy was a three-year starter and was named honorable mention All-Hoover South and earned a spot on the OverThe-Mountain team. He led the Rebels with 101 total tackles as a senior. The son of Jim and Karen Laughlin, he was born September 20, 1993 and is majoring in basic business.

Lashay Davis / Basketball

Sumter, S.C.

F Lashay has returned to basketball after sitting out two seasons following

her transfer to Tech from Western Kentucky. She played in 30 games for the Hilltoppers as a freshman and averaged 7.4 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. A Tennessee Miss Basketball winner and two-time all-state pick during her stellar career at Upperman High School, she was the Cookeville HeraldCitizen’s Upper Cumberland Player of the Year three times as she scored 2,411 points career points. The daughter of Danny and Darlene Davis, she was born September 28, 1991. She is majoring in biochemistry.

Demario Donnell / Football

Nashville, Tenn.

F Demario emerged as a starter at cornerback in his freshman season at Tech. A speedster in the secondary for coach Tony Brunetti at Pearl-Cohn High School, Demario was a three-year letterwinner for the Firebirds while attending Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet School. A two-time alldistrict selection as a junior and senior, and added all-city and All-Mid-State honors as a senior. The son of Tamieka Donell, he was born February 23, 1994 and is majoring in basic business.

shelf life

WHAT GOLDEN EAGLE STUDENT-ATHLETES, COACHES and STAFF ARE READING

Vasily Eremeev / Tennis

True Grit by Charles Portis

F

F I got this book while I was in Russia because I heard it had a lot of action. It’s a Western, but my copy is in Russian. I think sometimes the translation from English to Russian makes it more difficult to understand.

Landry Loving / Track & Field F Girl

with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

F I like to read the books on the Best Seller list, and I’m working my way down the list. Actually, this is my second time reading this book.

I enjoyed it the first time, but I know I missed some things, so I’m reading it again.

Kellie Cook / Basketball The Harbinger by Johnathan Cahn

F

F I’m reading The Harbinger because Mr. Bob Freeman was reading it one day at practice. We started talking about the book and it sounded really good. I don’t have much time to read, therefore it is taking me a long time ro read it, but it is an awesome book. I’m really glad I found it.

Syrym Abdukhalikov / Tennis F

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

F This is one of the best books I’ve ever read. This is the third time I am reading it. I read it when I was 18, and again when I was 21.

Every time I read it, I get something completely different from it.

James Abraham / Baseball F

Uncommon by Tony Dungy

F I feel like this book teaches you how to be a better man. It’s about life lessons, and how to be a good friend. It’s a book of lessons about how to face adversity.

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{ } Stuff You Oughta Know

both on the court and in the classroom, and 381 career victories. ...The Golden Eagles were voted recipient of the 2012 Ohio Valley Conference Team Sportsmanship Award for Volleyball. ... Golden Eagle fans watched Kevin Murphy and Liam McMorrow team up for two seasons. Now, both are playing professionally in the NBA Developmental League, and the pair has a couple of head-to-head clashes on the horizon. Murphy plays for the Reno Bighorns (Utah Jazz) while McMorrow plays for the Iowa Energy (Denver Nuggets). On Saturday, Jan. 5, when Tech is hosting a doubleheader against OVC newcomer Belmont, Murphy/ McMorrow meet in Reno, a game that will be broadcast on YouTube. They have a rematch in Des Moines on March 30. ... According to weekly numbers provided by the Ohio Valley Conference, Tennessee Tech’s webstream productions on the OVC Digital Network are reaching some of the league’s largest audiences.

Viewership numbers reflect that Tech football and volleyball games during the fall, the weekly Watson Brown Show, and men’s and women’s basketball games this winter are earning strong viewership numbers. The Tech Athletics Department produces the programming, with Sports Information intern Matt Wagner serving as producer/director and intern Brandon Goodwin providing the courtside talent to call the action. Several games in January and February will be televised by WCTE TV, with that production serving as the OVC Digital Network webstream. Plans are in the works to produce softball and baseball webstreams this spring, as well.

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fresh faces

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

Zach Zarzour / Baseball

Ooltewah, Tenn.

F A junior, Zach earned TCCAA all-conference first-team

honors at Chattanooga State Community College. While at Ooltewah High School he earned seven letters with three as a wide receiver in football and four from baseball as a shortstop.

On top of being named team MVP as a freshman, Zarzour also earned Chattanooga Best of Preps first-team honors. He led his team to a 2009 district championship. The son of Louis and Janet Zarzour, Zach is majoring in EXPW/pre-physical therapy.

Anthony Morse / Basketball

Lawrenceville, Ga. F A two-sport athlete at Dacula High School, “Ant” also competed in high jump on the track team. As a senior, he averaged 15 points and seven rebounds per game, and was named both all-county and all-region. His full name is Anthony Keith Morse and he is the son of Keith and Alice Morse. Born April 13, 1994, he is majoring in business.

Tori Gentile / Softball

Tigard, Ore. F Tori was a four-year softball letterwinner at Southridge High School, playing first base and outfield. In 2012, she was named Metro League Player of the Year, first-team All-Metro League and 6A first-team All-State. As a senior she posted a .540 batting average, raising that mark to .615 in league play. The daughter of Tre Gentile and Kristina Jacobsen, her full name is Victoria Gentile. Born July 16, 1994, she is majoring in mechanical engineering.

Hope Scantland / Basketball

Gainesboro, Tenn.

F Hope came to Tech from Jackson County High School where she was awarded Best Defensive Player and MVP of the Christmas Tournament and MVP of the Fort Myers Tournament.

Named district and regional second-team, Hope contributed to the team’s 2010 state championship and the 2012 district and regional championships. Her full name is Hope Lynn Scantland and she is the daughter of Randy and Jennifer Scantland. Born January 11, 1994, she is majoring in education.

Olivia Bennett / Softball

Mentone, Calif.

F Olivia received four letters as the center fielder at Redlands East Valley High School, and finished her career with a .438 batting average and an impressive .857 slugging percentage. She was awarded the school’s Scholar-Athlete Award her junior and senior year. Olivia is the daughter of Jennifer Bennett and step-daughter of Manny Gonzalez.Her birthday is May 9, 1994, and she is majoring in psychology.

chatter

Named the OVC Freshman of the Year last season while helping the Golden Eagle tennis team capture the regular season conference championship, here’s a chance to learn a little about Alejandro Augusto, a sophomore from Madrid, Spain.

GUILTY PLEASURE F I love cheesecake . I like it best covered with strawberries.

FAVORITE MEAL F It would be meat and fries. A steak. A thick, juicy steak, and french fries.

CELEBRITY CRUSH F I would say Anna Ivanovic. She’s a tennis player from Serbia.

SWEET & SOUR P My favorite is Paco Rabanne, it’s from Spain.

COOLEST PLACE F The coolest place I’ve been would have to be Morocco in Africa. I was visiting there with my parents.

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cover story

40 YEARS

Four decades after passage of landmark legislation,

One year before establishing the women’s basketball team as Tech’s first official intercollegiate women’s team, Marynell Meadors (top left) coached the school’s “club” volleyball team to the first-ever Tennessee Intercollegiate championship.

1969 1929

Women participated in athletics early in the life of Tennessee Tech (known back then as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute or TPI), but only as “club teams” without any institutional budget. Here is the 1929 women’s basketball squad.

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1970 In 1970, the women’s basketball team is established at Tennessee Tech by Marynell Meadors, a program that will become one of the top teams in the nation.

It’s the birth of women’s athletics at Tennessee Tech, two years before the passage of Title IX

of TITLE IX Passage of Title IX

Golden Eagles have left their mark on women’s athletics

1972

1974

TITLE IX FACT: 80 percent of female managers of Fortune 500 companies have a sports background.

The women’s tennis team is established at Tennessee Tech by Robert Langley, Bill Branch and Marynell Meadors in 1974.The first roster included, top row from left: Beth Wade, Terry Langley and Becky Branch. Bottom row, from left: Patti Griffin, Mary Ellen Curry and Joni Hix

1975

Volleyball is added. The team won its first OVC championship in 1997 (below)

TITLE IX FACT: Today, more than 100,000 women participate in intercollegiate athletics, a four-fold increase from 1971. That same year, 300,000 women (7.5 percent) were high school athletes. By 1996, that figure had increased to 2.4 million (39 percent).

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40 YEARS of TITLE IX Women’s Basketball team wins the first Ohio Valley Conference basketball championship

1978

1980 The NCAA adds Rifle as a championship sport. Tennessee Tech, which has sponsored a rifle team since 1962, wins the first (and second and third) national championships in 1980, 1981 and 1982.

Elaine Proffitt, an AllAmerican, becomes the first female student-athlete to win an NCAA national championship.

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TITLE IX FACT: Before Title IX, women made up only seven percent of all high school athletes. As of 2008, they represented 41 percent of all high school athletes.

After four seasons as a club sport, the softball program is elevated to intercollegiate status for the 1986 season.

TITLE IX FACT: Before Title IX, women made up 15 percent of all college athletes. By 2008, they represented 43 percent of all college athletes.

Tech adds women’s cross country as an intercollegiate team

1985

In addition to softball, the university also adds women’s golf

1986

In 1992, the women’s track & field team is re-started.

The program was dropped in 1979 after two seasons.

1992

In 1996, the women’s soccer program is added, moving from a club team to an intercollegiate team.

1996

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40 YEARS of TITLE IX

2007 In 2007, Tennessee Tech University was one of four institutions to be recognized nationally with the initial Opportunity Awards, presented by the Women’s Sports Foundation in recognition of Tech’s success in providing opportunities for its female student-athletes.

The four schools were selected for "consistently providing equitable opportunities to their female athletes and setting a tone in their athletic departments that reflects the schools' overall ideals and aspirations," according to Aimee Mullin, president of the Women's Sports Foundation.

University President Dr. Bob Bell (left) and Director of Athletics Mark Wilson (right) were in New York City for the presentation, and accepted the award from Billie Jean King.

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Women’s basketball team sets a school attendance record of 6,512

In 2011, the Golden Eagle softball team along with University President Dr. Bob Bell (far left), coach Tory Acheson (second from left), First Lady Gloria Bell (second from right) and Director of Athletics Mark Wilson (far right) were invited to the Tennessee State Capital to be

recognized by both the House and Senate with a resolution (here by State Representative Ryan Williams) for the team posting the highest team GPA in the nation among all Division I softball programs. It was the team’s second national academic championship.

2012

2011

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Trailblazer With the celebration of the 40th anniversary of Title IX, the Ohio Valley Conference presented a series of stories about female pioneers who were important to women’s athletics in the league.

The natural choice from Tennessee Tech was Marynell Meadors, who established the women’s basketball and volleyball teams and has remained one of the primary leaders in America in women’s athletics.

The story below appeared on the OVCsports.com website.

Marynell Meadors (at right in photo) along with Dianne Murphy, who proved to become another national leader in women’s athletics (left).

Marynell Meadors came to Tennessee Tech as an instructor in health and physical education. She established the women’s basketball team in 1970-71, helped to start the women’s tennis program in 1973 and started the volleyball program in 1975.

She served as the women’s volleyball head coach for one season while spending 16 years as the head coach for women’s basketball. Meadors never experienced a losing season as a women’s basketball coach, posting 20 or more wins 13 times. She finished with a 363-139 record at Tech to become the first coach in Division I with 300 wins at one institution. She ranked second among active coaches for career wins when she left Tennessee Tech for a similar position at Florida State.

While at TTU, Meadors was twice named OVC Coach of the Year. Her 1971-72 squad reached the AIAW National playoffs. In 1975-76, the Tech women’s basketball team posted a school-record 28 wins and ranked fifth nationally. She reached national championships five straight years. In 1978, Meadors won the first of four OVC championships. Her teams reached national tournaments (AIAW, WNIT or NCAA) a total of 13 times in 15 years.

The first two women inducted into the TTU Sports Hall of Fame, Pam Chambers and Gayle Burgess-

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Hastings, were players under Meadors. She was welcomed into the school’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1992 and inducted into the OVC Hall of Fame in 1993.

Meadors spent the last four seasons as head coach of the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream. She has led the Dream to two playoff appearances, including the 2010 WNBA Finals. She was named the WNBA Coach of the Year in 2009. Meadors also serves as an assistant coach for USA Basketball, helping the team win the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.

Prior to joining the Dream, she spent the previous three seasons as an assistant coach for the Washington Mystic. She was also the first General Manager and head coach of the now defunct Charlotte Sting where she led the franchise to the playoffs in each of its first two seasons. She also served as the Sting’s Director of Player and Staff Personnel.

Meadors also had a stint as the director of scouting for the Miami Sol. She has served as an assistant coach for the University of Pittsburgh.

During her time at Florida State, she turned the program around from three straight losing seasons prior to her arrival. In 1991, the Seminoles won the Metro Conference Championship and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

in your ear Claudia Harke’s

PLAYLIST

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW “Wagon Wheel” - I never knew this song before I came to Tennessee. To me, it really symbolizes Cookeville, Tennessee Tech and the South. (left) DIXIE CHICKS “Cowboy Take Me Away” - I would consider this one of our team songs. There are endless insides jokes with past and present girls on the team. (right) SKRILLEX “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” - Brittney and Chanelle Spalding have been two of my best friends on the team since we were freshmen. We don’t really listen to techno music in Wisconsin.

This song definitely brought out the “Cali girl” in me.

TRACY CHAPMAN “Fast Car” - This song is sentimental and one of mine and my brother’s favorites. I’ve spent many times in the car jamming along with Tracy. (center) DRAKE “Headlines” This is my go to

pump up song before games. Big fan of Drake (below center).

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on our radar

SPECIAL EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IN THE COMING MONTHS Saturday, Jan. 5 at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Revving up a brand new rivalry

F It’s not the first time Tennessee Tech will face Belmont on the basketball court, but it is the first time that it matters in the Ohio Valley Conference race. The Golden Eagles welcome brand new OVC member Belmont for a conference doubleheader on Saturday evening, and are hoping their fans will give the Bruin teams a warm TTU welcome. The women’s game tips off at 5:30 p.m. and the men’s game follows.

Thursday, Jan. 17 at 7 p.m.

World-class entertainment

F The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters will bring their family-themed show to Tennessee Tech’s Eblen Center on Thursday, Jan. 17, the first performance in the Upper Cumberland by the legendary basketball team in three years. Tickets for the show are on sale, with prices ranging from $19 to $53 per seat. In addition to tickets for the game, the Globetrotters will also host an interactive pregame event which is also available to the public for $15 per person.

Thursday, Jan. 17

Defending champs begin tough road stretch F The Golden Eagle tennis team opens the spring dual match portion of its schedule with a tough road trip, including three ranked foes, starting at No. 20 Tennessee. Coach Kenny Doyle’s team will also face Oklahoma State, Chattanooga, No. 60 Georgia State, Charlotte, Winthrop, Appalachian State, No. 11 Mississippi State and UNC Ashville, all before opening at home in two months with an OVC match against Tennessee State.

Monday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m.

Top picks square off in OVC showdown F The Golden Eagle women are picked to finish in first place in the East Division of the OVC. The UT Martin women are tabbed for first in the West Division. The two powers square off only one time during the 2012-13 regular season, a rematch of last year’s OVC Tournament Championship Game in Nashville. Mark this one on your calendar as the game opens a huge week of home hoops action for Golden Eagle fans.

Thursday Jan. 24 vs. Murray State at 7 p.m.

Pack the stands for national TV audience F For the second year in a row, a national TV audience will visit Eblen Center to watch the Golden Eagles host OVC powerhouse Murray State in a league showdown. Last season, Golden Eagle fans filled the Temple of Doom and enjoyed a rollicking good time. This time, another large crowd will make a difference - but will it be enough? Circle this date on your calendar, too, as the week of championship hoops continues on campus.

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Feeling Social?

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on our radar

SPECIAL EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IN THE COMING MONTHS Saturday, Jan. 26 at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Legends just part of the night's highights F Former Golden Eagle basketball players return to campus for this year’s annual alumni gathering, known as Basketball Legends Night, Saturday, Jan. 26, when Tech hosts Austin Peay in an OVC doubleheader. The night will also feature a salute to Tech’s Title IX Pioneers, a SAAC/Hoops for Heroes fundraising project, the annual Coaches vs. Cancer promotion...and of course, two great rivalry games against the Governors.

Friday, Feb. 9-10 in Statesboro, Ga.

Softball season begins on tourney trail F Veteran coach Tory Acheson takes his Golden Eagle softball team on the road to open the 2013 season, making stops on the tournament trail in Statesboro, Ga., for the Georgia Southern Invitational. Tech also plays tourneys in Kennesaw, Ga., Chattanooga, Nashville and Tampa, Fla., before hosting their first home game on March 23 against Murray State. In all, Tech plays its first 26 contests on the road.

Friday, Feb. 15 at 3 p.m.

Opening weekend brings Big Ten challenge F The Golden Eagle baseball team will play 12 of its first 13 games at home in Bush Stadium at the Averitt Express Baseball Complex, including two series against Big Ten opponents. The Illinois Fighting Illini will visit for the opening weekend, Feb. 15-17, with the opening game set for 3 p.m. Friday afternoon. Coach Matt Bragga’s team will also welcome Big Ten visitor Michigan State (March 5-6) for two games. Admission is free for all home baseball games and softball regular season games.

Friday, Feb. 22 and Saturday, Feb. 23

OVC Track Championships

F The indoor track & field season reaches it’s high point on the weekend of Feb. 22-23, when the Golden Eagles will join 11 other schools at the Ohio Valley Conference Indoor Track & Field Championships. This year’s meet will be hosted by Eastern Illinois University. Tech has meets at East Tennessee State (Jan. 18-19) and University of the South (Feb. 9) prior to the OVC gathering.

Saturday, March 2

Seniors hope to shine in home farewell

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

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shutter bug

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all of the infamous basketball blizzards in Eblen Center, and some sad moments when the campus grieved or felt abandoned.

Dean Carothers and his camera were there for all of those events, and more.

Growing up in rural Bedford County near the tiny town of Wartrace, Tenn., Dean was a self-described “geek” throughout his school days.

“I was the yearbook photographer and the one who could always get the audio/visual equipment working,” he explains. “I was too short to play on any team, so I was the manager.”

In short, while he wasn’t the most popular guy in school, he was a valuable asset in a Wartrace High School graduating class of 23 students.

But by the time he reached high school, Dean was already on the path to becoming an accomplished and skilled photographer.

“My dad had a camera that he had carried all around Europe during World War II,” Dean recalls. “I started shooting pictures when I was 13 or 14 and I really liked it.”

Dean’s dad, Raymond, was a Some of Dean’s favorite assignments have been working with gunner in the Army Air Force, the TTU Sports Information staff in shooting unique (and awardand the camera was a Kodak Auwinning) photos for the covers of annual media guides and posttographic No. 2. ers. The 1992 Football Cover was judged “Best in the Nation” “I still have it,” Carothers proany of the photos reflecting life and activities at Tennessee Tech during the past 33 years have been taken, processed, printed, displayed and provided by Dean Carothers.

Photos depicting Tech’s appearance in the 1972 Grantland Rice Bowl, Golden Eagles winning OVC championships in nearly every sport, post-season play in the NCAA, NIT, WNIT and other tournaments, almost

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claims with pride.

Dean enrolled at Tech and began his college career in 1970 as an engineering major, but his education was put on hold by the Selective Service Board – the draft. In 1971, he joined the National Guard and served as a truck driver, armorer and finally Army photographer for nine years.

Meanwhile, he returned to Tech and switched majors, earning his degree in 1975 in Management and Industrial Technology.

“The National Guard helped me,” he says. “I learned to shoot, move and communicate, which are some of the things a photographer does.”

All through his student time on the Tech campus, Dean worked for Don Reese, the director of Photographic Services.

“I shot everything, from campus events to sports, to Boys State, to weddings,” Carothers says.

After graduation, he was hired for his first full-time job in 1975, working as a manger in Nashville at Morrison’s Cafeteria.

“I still carried around a camera,” he says.

In 1979, Reese called Dean and invited him back to Cookeville to look at a camera. It turned into more than a quick shopping trip.

“It was a Canon, but that wasn’t the only reason he asked me to come back,” Dean says.

“He asked me to apply for a position on his staff, and I took it. It was a pay cut, but I got to do what I really wanted to do.”

Dean’s close friend and mentor, Reese died suddenly in Dean Carothers continues on next page

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1985 and the school moved Carothers to Director of Photo Services, a role he has now filled for 27 years.

He has taken hundreds of road trips to shoot Golden Eagle athletics, shot every team photo, head shot, coaching staff group shot and so much more.

By Dean’s estimation, there are 1.5 million negatives in the TTU Archives – many from his Canon camera.

While Photo Services doesn’t use film or negatives any longer, the number of shots taken has skyrocketed since the switch to digital.

In a single year, Dean and his photographers shoot more than 20,000 sports photos.

It was the huge popularity of the women’s basketball team that brought about the change to digital.

“We were shooting so many photos, and the cost of film was climbing. Athletics accepted digital photos first then and that’s when Publications accepted digital. I convinced Public Affairs to convert all photography for the University and go to digital.

Dean married his wife, Carol, in August, 2007.

“In 15 minutes, I went from being a crusty old bachelor to being a crusty old, married man with three kids and five grandkids, and it’s been great.”

The married Dean admits he’s still a geek – he’s president of the 35-member Cookeville Repeater’s Association (a local amateur radio group), and he mans a radio and serves as a weather spotter for the National Weather Services.

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photo by Jim Dillon

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The Unsinkable Molly...Heady Golden Eagle junior Molly Heady hits the deck in a scramble for a loose ball during an early-season game against Louisiana-Monroe.

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photo by Jim Dillon

In the House of Payne...

Golden Eagle head coach Steve Payne exhorts his players on the bench during a recent home game in Eblen Center. His tactics have been working, as the Golden Eagles are 4-1 at home this season. His wardrobe has also been working -- check out this colorful purple-and-gold combination!

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And a good time was had by all....

photo by Ben Corda

The TTU Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2012 enjoyed its big night during the annual Induction Dinner on Friday, Nov. 2. From left, First Lady Kari Oldham and inductee Janet Holt Baker find something amusing in the crowd, while inductees Kenneth Fults, Randy Smith and Grant Swallows find something amusing among themselves.

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Settling into the driver’s seat...

photo by Ben Corda

Golden Eagle slugger Zach Stephens, invited last year to the Home Run Derby at the College World Series in Omaha, has been picked this spring as a preseason All-American. His potent bat is expected to drive the Tech offense in 2013.

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just causes If they had a large amount of money to give to a cause or charity, Tech student-athletes would have no problem identifying an organization that means a lot to them.

Megan Williamson (Golf) Molly Heady (Basketball))

St. Jude Children’s Hospital

Megan — “They are working to find cures for kids with cancers. I love kids, and I don’t like to see them hurting.”

Molly — “They make such a difference in so many lives. I would also like to donate to Hands on Africa, because they are a non-profit that takes in orphans and gives those children a chance at life.”

Kayla Kimes (Basketball)

Susan G. Komen Fund

“Breast cancer affects the lives of so many people. I wish there was more we all could do to help find a cure.

I know this is one organization that helps.”

Dalis Connel (Track & Field)

The Dream Foundation

“They helped my brother and I go home to California to see our mom for the last time. They help to make a dream come true involving terminally ill people in need.”

Tristan Archer (Baseball) / Kanaja Murray (Basketball)

Boys and Girls Club of America Tristan — “I’d give half of what I had to the Boys and Girls Club, and half to Animal Protection Services.”

Kanaja — “I love young kids, and I want them to have the same opportunities.”

Kellie Cook (Basketball)

There are so many I would like to help....

“There are so many. I would donate to an organization trying to find a cure for cancer, and 10 percent to the church. I would donate to FCA, homeless shelters, the Mana House, food banks, Habitat for Humanity and Samaritan’s Feed. It is our responsibility to give back.”

Christine Maci (Volleyball)

Memory Walk for Alzheimers

“My grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimers.

I hadn’t really thought much about the disease until it affected my family. They’re making progress but there is still so much research left to do.”

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Taylor Ketchum (Softball)

Special Olympics

“The Special Olympics is a wonderful organization that shows compassion to persons with special needs.

It allows them to participate in activities that might otherwise not be available to them.”

Bryce Kendrick (Golf)

The Wounded Warrior Project

“I learned about it at Grace Christian Academy. My brother and grandfather are veterans. Just seeing how much they give for our freedom. They put it all on the line so we can have a better life here.

Small thing to do for them.”

Meghan O’Donoghue (Track & Field)

The Peace Corps

“I have studied the Peace Corp and I have seen some of the really good things the organization can accomplish. There are really good, decent, caring people in the Peace Corps.”

Madi Comperry (Volleyball)

Humane Society

“I love animals, and I love saving animals. I am especially fond of puppies. I love puppies.”

Sarah Teel (Volleyball)

The Ronald McDonald House

“It’s hard to imagine anything more devastating to a family that having a child diagnosed with a disease such as cancer.”

Erin Keyes (Track & Field)

Downs Syndrome Research

“I have a really good friend whose brother has Down Syndrome. I did peer tutoring in high school for students with Down Syndrome, and I got interested in it through that involvement.”

Kendall Hooper (Softball )

JRDF (Juvenile Diabetes Research)

“I got involved with this cause when one of the kids at my school was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 3. I babysit her sometimes, and the disease never slows her down. It shows me that NOTHING should slow me down.”

Hope Scantland (Basketball)

Have Hope Fund

“I would create a fund that I would give to local schools where I grew up. I would call it Have Hope Fund. I would give every teacher at least $100 for each classroom. At the end of the year, the teacher would select one child from their classroom who has endured a lot of struggles throughout the year, such as being bullied, losing a family member, or a difficult family situation.”

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photo by Jim Hooper

IN FOCUS

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Let’s get ready to r-r-rumble The Golden Eagle softball team opens the 2013 season with tournament play at Georgia Southern (Feb. 9-10), Kennesaw State (Feb. 16-17), Chattanooga for the Frost Classic (Feb. 24-26), the Purple and Gold Challenge in Nashville (March 1-3) and South Florida (March 8-10). Coach Tory Acheson’s team is also hoping to close the year with more tournament play - the OVC Championships, the NCAA Regionals and the College World Series.

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The extra mile...

photos by Jim Dillon

Golden Eagle guards Lanerryl Johnson (left) and Jeremiah Samarrippas (right) both gave extra efforts to help the Golden Eagles post early-season homecourt wins over Coastal Carolina and Crowley’s Ridge.

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photo by Jim Hooper

It’s not how hard you hit the ball...

College softball is a lightning-quick contest, combining speed and power.

Sometimes, however, it’s not as much about how hard you hit the ball, but how you execute. Sophomore Kendall Hooper lays down a sacrifice bunt in a 2012 game at Austin Peay.

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photo by Sean Setters

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The Good Hands people...

Despite starting two different quarterbacks (Tre Lamb and Darian Stone), the Tennessee Tech football team nearly set numerous offensive records during the 2012 season, finishing with the second-highest total in school history in a variety of categories. One of the primary reasons was a stable of talented receivers, including Cody Matthews, who hauled in this catch in Tech’s overtime victory against UT Martin in Tucker Stadium.

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photo by Tony Marable

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May I have your attention, please...

First-year Golden Eagle women’s basketball head coach Jim Davis didn’t need to ask twice to gain the attention of everyone in the huddle during a timeout at an early-season game in Eblen Center.

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photo by Sean Setters

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Get a Grip...

Wide receiver Da’Rick Rogers wasn’t able to make the catch on this pass from Darian Stone in Tech’s game against UT Martin against a determined Skyhawk defender. Later, Rogers did get a touchdown catch — one of 10 during the season, which tied the school record — as the Golden Eagles claimed an overtime victory against the Skyhawks.

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photo by Ben Corda

Get a Grip, part 2...

Golden Eagle sophomore first baseman Albert DelGaicco, Jr., hopes to handle a lot of throws this season — although maybe not all at once. A third-year member of the roster, the Science Hill High School product, who earned that team’s “Tough Guy” Award, DelGaicco spent his first year as a redshirt and saw limited action last year.

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When the smoke clears...

Tennessee Tech cross country and track & field coach Tony Cox will need to move quickly to get out of the way of the field of runners after firing the starting pistol at the annual TTU Cross Country Invitational at Southern Hills Golf Course.

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photo by Jim Dillon

Every which way but loose...

photo by Sean Setters

Golden Eagle receiver Da’Rick Rogers takes a pitch as quarterback Darian Stone is wrapped up. An instant later, Rogers flipped the ball to freshman Ladarius Vanlier on the reverse. The Golden Eagles prevailed, 45-44, in overtime, against UT Martin.

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photo by Jim Dillon

Surrounded by love?

Golden Eagle guard Lashay Davis drew plenty of defensive attention from Lee University during a game in Eblen Center early in the season.

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Must be the shoes...

photo by Jim Dillon

Senior Sarah Gawthrop gets after a ball at midfield in the game against Southeast Missouri. One of eight seniors on the Tech roster, Gawthrop was second on the team in goals scored and total points, and led coach Daniel Brizard’s team with two game-winning goals.

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The Ace of Diamonds...

photo by Jim Dillon

Through the first two months of the 2012-13 season, sophomore guard Diamond Henderson has led the Golden Eagle women’s basketball team in scoring, averaging 15.2 points per game. She enters January ranked fifth in the Ohio Valley Conference.

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Can’t stop this...

photo by Jim Dillon

Golden Eagle freshman outside hitter Cody Dodd avoids a block attempt by Allison McCoy and puts away a killl in the Eblen Center match against Belmont, an OVC newcomer.

Sophmore libero Courtney Smith enjoys the view.

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photo by Jim Dillon

Now appearing...

The Golden Eagle basketball team emerges from the tunnel through a smoke curtain, prepared to defeat Coastal Carolina in the Eblen Center. Assistant coach Russ Willemsen (left) heads to the bench while Jud Dillard (right) and Javon McKay (center) head to the court for final warmups. Dennis Ogbe is obscured by smoke, but will come through it to play a major part in the victory.

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Get up and gone...

photos by Jim Dillon

Senior Katherine Barker (see our cover photo) fakes a defender and gains a clear path to the basket in an early-season home game against Lee University.

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photo by Jim Hooper

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Eye on the ball...

Chanelle Spalding is totally focused on an incoming pitch during a game at Austin Peay in 2012. Among the team’s top hitters last season, she is one of four seniors on the Tech roster in 2013, along with Claudia Harke, Melody Christian and her twin sister, Brittney Spalding. The Spalding sisters will celebrate their birthday on Friday (Jan. 4).

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It’s a Family Affair

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In between a morning team practice and a final exam, Katherine Barker took time to pose for our cover photo, and it certainly looks like she enjoyed herself! We chose Katherine because of her family’s success in college athletics, in part as a result of Title IX. Katherine’s mother, Anita Myers Barker (passing) was Tech’s starting point guard for two years. He aunt, Rebecca Myers, also played at Tech.

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photo by Rob Schabert

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An uphill battle...

Less than one kilometer from the finish line, runners at the TTU Invitational face the toughest hill on the course at Southern Hills Golf Course. Golden Eagle Michael Mahan (117) was challenged as he hit the hill by Lipscomb freshman Jared Wingerter (95).

The two finished the race just 1.55 seconds apart as Mahan managed a seventh place individual finish to lead Tech.

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screen gems

WE ASKED SEVERAL GOLDEN EAGLE STUDENT-ATHLETES TO NAME THEIR FAVORITE MOVIE OF THE PAST TWO YEARS. HERE ARE SOME OF THEIR RESPONSES:

Dennis Ogbe / Basketball Justin Alexander / Baseball F The Dark Knight Rises

Lashay Davis / Basketball FHorrible Bosses

Syrym Abdukhalikov / Tennis F Taken Katie Lowery / Track & Field (left) Tristan Archer / Baseball (right) F Lawless

Alex Chen / Tennis F Skyfall

Chelsea Mills / Track & Field F Avatar

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Kendall Hooper / Softball (left) Dalis Connell / Track (right) F The Hunger Games

Greg Kitts / Golf F The Hangover

David Hess / Baseball F Lincoln

Erin Keyes / Track & Field F Pitch Perfect

Hope Scantland/ Basketball (left) Kayla Kimes / Basketball (right) F Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Part 2

Kanaja Murray / Basketball F Columbiana

Vasily Eremeev / Tennis F The Expendables

Claudia Harke / Softball (left) Molly Heady / Basketball (right) F Bridesmaids

James Abraham / Baseball F 21 Jump Street

Alejandro Augusto / Tennis F Harry Potter

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Two up...

Junior Elise Robertson and sophomore Madison Keyes combine on a block against Belmont’s Jocelyn Youngdahl.

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photo by Jim Dillon

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photo by Jim Dillon

We’ve only just begun....

Runners take their first few steps in the women’s 5K race at the annual TTU Cross Country Invitational at Southern Hills Golf Course. Golden Eagle runners shown here include Amelia McCoy (51), Kendale Caldwell (46), Meghan O’Donoghue (54), Kara Webb (55), Peri Winborne (56), Beth Miller (52), and Rebecca Cline (47).

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Horoscope What’s in store in the coming year for Golden Eagle student-athletes, staff and fans?

Awesome Eagle checked with an expert. Here’s the prospects, and some Golden Eagles under their signs.

CAPRICORN

CANCER

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) T’Keyah Williams, Chanelle & Brittney Spalding, Ellen Conti, Chelsea Mills The world is your oyster so pry it open and enjoy. Spread all your options on the table in front of you, browse through and take advantage of your opportunities. Fight the tendency to be complacent by being active in all phases of your life, both professional and personal.

(June 21-July 22) Mitchell Hill, Melody Christian, Jeremiah Samarrippas, Tori Gentile, Jala Harris, Daniel Francis You get bored by the same old conversations and destinations. Toss in a new idea or two and observe the responses you get. You and those you’re associated with will be surprised and pleased. This includes making a tough decision that doesn’t seem right at first, but will eventually seem the right direction.

AQUARIUS

LEO

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Matt Marseille, Kayla Floyd, Amanda Randolph, Jordan Brown, Justin Ivory, Austin Tallant Keep yourself open to family and friends, and to those who sometimes make life difficult for you. You’ll get through troubling situations with ease when you consider your strengths and ignore your detractors. Ignore, also, those who try to exploit a trait they wish to make into a weakness.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20) Molly Heady, Stephen Bush, Tra’Darius Goff, Michael Mahan, Meghan O’Donoghue, Nathan Snow Handle all of your business matters as quickly and completely as possible.

You’ll have a tendency to be impulsive, but take a deep breath and think things through. Then, think again. Double-check major decisions. You’ll be pleased that you did and your final choices will merit applause.

AIRES

(March 21-April 19) Katherine Barker, Greg Kitts, Courtney Smith, Eric Belew, Madison Borden, Elizabeth Mitchell, Tia Nicholson Everything is coming up roses for you, so enjoy life. Problems? What problems. Your outlook on life will make them go away quickly, and your cheerful personality and positive attitudes will bring you closer to all you’re in contact with. Your loved ones grow closer, and a possible newfound love – person, place or activity -- grows stronger.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20) Jud Dillard, Kellie Cook, Kylie Cook, Seth Lucio, Zach Ziegler, Cody Matthews, John Greene, Dalis Connell While you might feel stretched to your limit – an beyond – it’s time for you to step up to the plate and take control at work, in school or within your immediate circle. If it’s been in the back of your mind for a while, it’s time to bring it to the forefront. It’s time for action.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20) Madison Comperry, Lacy Yslas, Katherine Forbes, Hunter Beedle, Emily Homan, Rebecca Cline A question of health will find a very satisfying and successful answer. Follow through with your intentions with total confidence. Someone you appreciate and/or admire will provide insight and perspective. Listen, decipher and run with it.

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(July 23-Aug. 22) Terrell Barnes, Vasily Eremeev, Syrym Abdukhalikov, Kelsey Gray, Tevis Sherfield, Amelia McCoy Others seek you out for a variety of reasons, and you might feel overwhelmed.

Don’t be. Whether it’s advice or services, give freely of yourself. Your advice proves to be spot-on and your services will bring joy and comfort.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Claudia Harke, Tre Lamb, Katherine Bell, Beth Miller, Erica Tuck, Kolbe Andrzejewski Your sense of humor and goodwill will make others laugh and smile. Your creativity tends to bubble-up in problem-solving situations, and your confidence will soar greater than it has in a long while.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Dennis Ogbe, Tristan Archer, Mitch Thomas, Kris Cambron, Taylor Sutton, Ashleigh Hancock, Lashay Davis Your quirky, fun-loving personality might emerge at the wrong time and make your actions seem inappropriate. Weigh your actions and responses, and seek out some sage advice from someone you haven’t been in contact with for a long while. Slow down slightly just when the urge hits you to speed up.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Austin Wulf, Darian Stone, Kerri Reed, Elise Robertson, Kara Webb Home is the perfect place to hang out, taking you out of the spotlight. That’s quite OK. Embrace the quiet times and use them to reflect on your attempts and results. If you’re not getting enough done, now is the time to find solutions that will provide results. In other words, reverse procrastination but do it quietly.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Lanerryl Johnson, Diamond Henderson, Zach Stephens, Ryan Tilghman, Landry Loving, Mark Wilson, Javon McKay It’s your time. Become more verbal than in the past and let your spirit and personality shine. Any self-doubt that may have slowed your progress should be wiped away, paving the way for an expressway to success. Also, take time to travel as often as possible to satisfy your wanderlust.

Disclaimer: These brief descriptions are in no way scientific — or for that matter, accurate — and should not be used to guide you life. They were written by a staff member with a vivid imagination.

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122 TEAMS. 61 GAMES. FOR THE ELEVENTH TIME. 122 TEAMS. 61 GAMES. FOR THE ELEVENTH TIME. 122 TEAMS. 61 GAMES. FOR THE ELEVENTH TIME.

A total of 122 teams – representing 15 collegiate athletic conferences – will compete in the two-day event (February A total of 122 teams – representing 15 collegiate athletic 22-23), with the entire BracketBusters slate of matchups to conferences – will compete in the two-day event (February be announced in late January.

22-23), with the entire BracketBusters slate of matchups to

February 22-23, 2013 February 22-23, 2013

HOME TEAMS HOME TEAMS HOME TEAMS February 22-23, 2013

be announced late January.

A total of 122 in teams – representing 15 collegiate athletic Of the 61 games, 13 will be televised, with 5 contests on conferences – will compete in the two-day event (February ESPN2, 4 will be aired on ESPNU and 4 with on ESPN3.

Please Of the 61 games, 13 will be televised, contests on 22-23), with the entire BracketBusters slate of5 matchups to consult local listings for start times.

ESPN2, 4 will be aired on ESPNU and 4 on ESPN3.

Please be announced in late January. consult local listings for start times.

Of the 61 games, 13 will be televised, with 5 contests on ESPN2, 4 will be aired on ESPNU and 4 on ESPN3. Please consult local listings for start times.

Vermont, Eastern Washington, Idaho State, Montana Portland State, Southern Utah, Vermont, State, Eastern Washington, Idaho State, Campbell,State, HighPortland Point, Liberty, Presbyterian, Montana State, Southern Utah, UNC-Asheville, Cal Poly, Hawaii, Campbell, High Winthrop, Point, Liberty, Presbyterian, Vermont, Eastern Washington, Idaho State, Long Beach State, UC Davis, UC Hawaii, Santa UNC-Asheville, Winthrop, Cal Poly, Montana State, Portland State, Southern Utah, Barbara, Loyola, Univ.

IllinoisUC Chicago, Long Beach State, UCofDavis, Santa Campbell, High Point, Liberty, Presbyterian, Valparaiso,Loyola, Wright State, State, Barbara, Univ. ofYoungstown Illinois Chicago, UNC-Asheville, Winthrop, Cal Poly, Hawaii, Fairfield, Marist, Niagara, Siena, Akron, Valparaiso, Wright State, Rider, Youngstown State, Long Beach State, UC Davis, UC Santa Buffalo, Eastern Michigan, Northern Fairfield, Marist, Niagara, Rider, Siena, Illinois, Akron, Barbara, Loyola, Michigan, Univ. of Hampton, Illinois Chicago, Toledo, Western Drake, Buffalo, Eastern Michigan, Northern Illinois, Valparaiso, Wright State, Youngstown State, Indiana State, Northern Iowa,Hampton, Southern Illinois, Toledo, Western Michigan, Drake, Fairfield, Marist, Niagara, Rider, Siena, Akron, Wichita State, State, Tennessee Tech, Tennessee Indiana Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois, Buffalo, EasternTennessee Michigan, Northern Illinois, State, UT-Martin, SE Missouri State, Murray Wichita State, Tech, Tennessee Toledo, WesternCollege Michigan, Hampton, Drake, of Charleston, State, Belmont, UT-Martin, SE Missouri State,Western Murray Indiana State, Northern Iowa, SouthernWestern Illinois, Carolina, Davidson, Central Arkansas, Lamar, State, Belmont, College of Charleston, Wichita State, Tennessee Tech, Tennessee Oral Roberts, TexasCentral A&M-CC, IPFW, Lamar, IUPUI, Carolina, Davidson, Arkansas, State, UT-Martin, SE Missouri State, Murray Nebraska Omaha, Illinois Oral Roberts, TexasOakland, A&M-CC,Western IPFW, IUPUI, State, Belmont, College of Charleston, Western University, Omaha, Utah State, UT-San Antonio, UTNebraska Oakland, Western Illinois Carolina, Davidson, Central Arkansas, Lamar, Arlington and Saint Mary’s.

University, Utah State, UT-San Antonio, UTOral Roberts, Texas A&M-CC, IPFW, IUPUI, Arlington and Saint Mary’s.

Nebraska Omaha, Oakland, Western Illinois University, Utah State, UT-San Antonio, UTArlington and Saint Mary’s.

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AWAY TEAMS AWAY TEAMS AWAY TEAMS

Albany, Montana, Northern Arizona, North Dakota, Sacramento Albany, Northern Montana,Colorado, Northern Arizona, State, North Weber State, Charleston Coastal Dakota, Northern Colorado, Southern, Sacramento State, Carolina,State, Gardner-Webb, Weber CharlestonLongwood, Southern, Radford, Coastal Albany, Montana, Northern Arizona, North VMI, Cal State–Fullerton, State–Northridge, Carolina, Gardner-Webb, Cal Longwood, Radford, Dakota, Colorado, Sacramento State, UC Irvine, UC Riverside, Cleveland VMI, CalNorthern State–Fullerton, CalPacific, State–Northridge, Weber State, Charleston Southern, Coastal State, Detroit, Bay, Milwaukee, Canisius, UC Irvine, UCGreen Riverside, Pacific, Cleveland Carolina, Gardner-Webb, Longwood, Radford, Iona, Loyola, Manhattan, Saint Peter’s, Ball State, Detroit, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Canisius, VMI, Cal State–Fullerton, Cal State–Northridge, State, Loyola, Bowling Manhattan, Green, Central Michigan, Iona, Saint Peter’s, Kent Ball UC Irvine, UC Riverside, Pacific, Cleveland Miami, Ohio, Morgan Savannah State, Bowling Green, CentralState, Michigan, Kent State, Detroit, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Canisius, Bradley,Ohio, Creighton, Illinois State, Miami, MorganEvansville, State, Savannah Iona, Loyola, Manhattan, Saint Peter’s, Ball State, Austin Peay, Eastern State, Missouri Bradley, Creighton, Evansville, Illinois State, Michigan, Kent Illinois,Bowling Eastern Green, Kentucky, Jacksonville State, State, Missouri State, Central Austin Peay, Eastern State, Miami, Ohio, Morgan State,The Savannah Morehead State, SIU-Edwardsville, Citadel, Illinois, Eastern Kentucky, Jacksonville State, State, Bradley, Creighton, Evansville, Illinois McNeese State, SIU-Edwardsville, Nicholls State, Northwestern Morehead The Citadel, State, Missouri State, Austin Peay, Eastern Sam Houston Southeastern McNeese State, NichollsState, State, Northwestern Illinois, Eastern Kentucky, Jacksonville State, Louisiana, F. Austin, UMKC, North State, SamStephen Houston State, Southeastern Morehead State, SIU-Edwardsville, The Citadel, Dakota State Univ., South Dakota State North Univ., Louisiana, Stephen F. Austin, UMKC, McNeese State, Nicholls State, Northwestern Univ. ofState SouthUniv., Dakota, State, Dakota SouthTexas Dakota StateDenver, Univ., State, Sam Houston State, Southeastern Idaho of andSouth LoyolaDakota, Marymount.

Univ.

Texas State, Denver, Louisiana, Stephen F. Austin, Idaho and Loyola Marymount. UMKC, North Dakota State Univ., South Dakota State Univ., Univ. of South Dakota, Texas State, Denver, Idaho and Loyola Marymount.

photo by Tony Marable

Parting Shot IN FOCUS

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