WEEKEND EDITION | SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 VOLUME 122 | ISSUE 20
SERVING THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA SINCE 1894
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MERMAIDING A new trend entailing the use of a monofin, commonly known as mermaiding, has arisen, proving that truly any-fin is possible.
#BronzeBomber B
ROUND
TWO Tuscaloosa native Deontay Wilder prepares to defend his WBC heavyweight title in Birmingham this weekend.
See page 11.
INSIDE briefs 2 news 3 opinions 4 culture 8 sports 12
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UPCOMING EVENTS Free flu shots WHAT: CCHS Flu Shot Campaign WHEN: Thursday, noon – 4:30 p.m. WHERE: Presidential Village I & II
Farmer’s market WHAT: Homegrown Alabama Farmer’s Market WHEN: Thursday, 3-6 p.m. WHERE: Canterbury Episcopal Church Lawn
Chocolate festival WHAT: Fifth Annual Chocolate Festival WHEN: Friday, 3-5 p.m. WHERE: Rotunda, Shelby Hall
Deontay Wilder will take on Johann Duhaupas to defend his heavyweight title. CW File
Barbeque competition WHAT: Third Annual Bama Brew & Que WHEN: Saturday, begins at 10 a.m. WHERE: Munny Sokol Park, Ray C. Jenkins Horse Arena
Musical WHAT: MARY POPPINS: The Musical WHEN: Saturday. see cw.ua.edu for showtimes WHERE: Bama Theatre
Day of play WHAT: Worldwide Day of Play! WHEN: Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. WHERE: Children’s Hands-On Museum
Football game WHAT: Crimson Tide vs. Louisiana Monroe WHEN: Saturday, kcikoff at 3 WHERE: 121 B.B. Comer Hall
Student recital WHAT: Francis Victory, Allison Glover & Linsey Kirkley, flute WHEN: Sunday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. WHERE: Recital Hall, Moody Music Building
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ADMINISTRATION REQUEST REQUEST: Any and all emails, memorandums and internal communications sent to or from UA Administrators regarding the song ‘Dexieland Delight’ BY: Kayla Montgomery TO: Deborah Lane REQUEST DATE: Aug. 19, 2015 STATUS: “There are no records responsive to your request.”
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NEWS Thursday, September 24, 2015
IN THIS ISSUE... 6
Gambling on honors
Deciding whether or not to join an honors society, especially via email invitation, can be risky.
10 Fixing the mistakes After racking up five turnovers on Saturday, the Crimson Tide is focused on eliminating mental mistakes.
12 Feeling of Foster The intimate feeling in Foster Auditorium inspires the Alabama volleyball team to compete with enthusiasm.
Awards for The Crimson White The Crimson White won two first place awards and an honorable mention in the Columbia Scholastic Press Association’s collegiate Gold Circle Awards. The paper’s Editorial Board won in the Editorial Writing category for its Feb. 23, 2015 “Our View” entitled, “UA must edit policies to protect free speech.” Sean Landry won First Place in the Sports News category for “The Comeback Kids” Iron Bowl game story. The newspaper’s design staff, Sloane Arogeti, Ashley Atkinson and Noah Huguley won an Honorable Mention in the Overall Newspaper Design category.The Crimson White’s Editorial Board won first place for Editorial Writing in the Society of Professional Journalists’ national 2014 Mark of Excellence Awards, announced May 6, 2015. The CW won the award for three “Our View” editorials, including “UA Students Not to Blame,” “Continuing Transparency” and “Thanks for the Memories.”
The Crimson White is one of seven finalists for the Associated Collegiate Press’ 2014-2015 Pacemaker Award as the most outstanding daily college newspaper in the nation. The winners will be announced Nov. 1 at the ACP/College Media Association’s National College Media Convention in Austin, Texas. Three of The Crimson White’s writers are finalists in two major writing categories (Best Feature Story and Best Sports Game Story) in CMA’s Pinnacle Awards. Winners will be announced during the National College Media Convention Oct. 28-Nov. 1 in Austin. Sean Landry is a finalist for Best Sports Story for his coverage of the 2014 Iron Bowl in “The Comeback Kids,” and Francie Johnson and Hannah Widener are Best Feature Story finalists for “The person I was born to be,” a story focusing on transgender students.
In March 2015, The Crimson White won nine honors—including four first place awards—in the SPJ’s 2014 Region 3 Mark of Excellence contest. The region includes Florida, Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. The awards included a first place finish, for the fourth consecutive year, as the Best All-Around Daily College Newspaper in the region. The CW also won Best Editorial Writing, Best Sports Photography and Best Feature Writing. The newspaper’s staffers were also finalists (among the top 3 of all entries) in these categories: Online News Reporting, Photo Illustration, Sports Writing, Best Use of Multimedia and Editorial Cartooning.
Fall Shipment Just Arrived
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Editor | Leigh Terry opinions@cw.ua.edu Thursday, September 24, 2015
COLUMN | CHANGE
Empowerment can bring the change we need Samantha Rudelich Staff Columnist
COLUMN | WORDS
Looking around a modern college classroom today, there is a historic amount of women and minorities seekCW / Marguerite Powers ing a higher degree. More women than ever are deciding to go into the workforce after graduation. If this is the case, why are these groups continuously not securing a seat at the proverbial table? According to the Center for American Progress, women hold almost 60 percent of undergraduate degrees and 60 percent of master’s degrees. They represent 47 percent anyone to parse every word I express. While words are of the U.S. work force and hold 52 percent of professional important and have power individually, their greater level jobs. However, they are grossly underrepresented importance is in a forest of conversation, and we must in the highest levels of the work force. Only 4.6 percent of not overlook the forest for the trees. CEOs and 16.9 percent of board seats of Fortune 500 comIt is also important to remember the vocabulary of panies are held by women. Beyond that, 3.2 percent of the the English language is not black and white; the use board seats are held by women of color. Over two-thirds of its many terms is not inherently good or evil. The of Fortune 500 companies don’t have a single woman of most uplifting of individual words, like “rights,” “freecolor on their board of directors. Clearly, there’s a disdoms,” “security” and “protection” have been strung tinct disconnect between the education received and the together for the darkest of purposes. These are just a opportunity to hold leadership positions. few of the words that have been used to justify torture, The underrepresentation of women and minorities, illegal detention of criminal suspects, warrantless elecnot just in business, stems from years of systemic and tronic surveillance, slavery, segregation and bigotry. social issues. This issue is not going to be rectified by The darkest of words, words that I am not even allowed singularly pointing to the patriarchy. It started there, but to print in this publication, have been used by authors the problem is so mulit-faceted that there is no quick and public speakers such as Mark Twain, Harper fix. But I do believe that we need to start now, before we Lee, Frederick Douglass, even graduate. By specifically educating empowerment and as recently as last in these groups, we can instill the sense that they belong week by Missouri Students at the table. Self-doubt has the ability to cripple someAssociation President Payton one’s potential, but when you don’t see people similar to Head to illuminate important you having success, it’s hard to realize that you have the truths. Dark words have potential to earn it. been used to make brighter This doesn’t mean that we need to start promoting peofutures. ple to CEO because of their identities. Not all women or It is not their vocabulary minorities advocate for one another. But shouldn’t they? alone but their context that It’s difficult to advocate when you’re the only one sitting makes a series of words—a at the table representing your group, but that’s when it’s conversation, an article, a most critical. Getting more women and minorities in those — LeighTerry play, a book—matter. top positions begins when we decide to lift one another up. On that note, I would like Formal mentoring programs within businesses can aid in to remind the members of ensuring that not only business knowledge and skills are this campus: your series passed on, but that specific experiences that stem from of words matter to me. As being a women or minority is shared. Opinions Editor of our campus’ newspaper, my goal is Progress has been made by women and minorities for this page to be both a catalyst and a mirror to your over the past century, but it can’t stop there. Instead of conversation. My goal is to reflect your thoughts and patiently waiting for someone to realize that we need a lead your peers to consider new ones as well. I can only seat and pulling one UP for us, it’s time that we grabbed achieve this goal when you make your voices known. our own seat and controlled our future. But we don’t So for the love of language, write to me. Don’t be have the luxury of wasting time anymore. The time has scared of showing this community how you think come to seize our seat and join the conversation. because the imperfections of your language may push this campus to be a little closer to perfect itself.
For the love of the language Leigh Terry Opinions Editor
Laugh at me if you will, but today I am writing a column about writing. For as long as I can remember, I have adored the use of language: reading it, writing it and conversing in it. I have reveled in books and newspapers and even the Sunday “funny papers” since I learned how to put my ABC’s into sentences. I write now because I think college students have grown scared of language. While I am partially referring to political correctness, I think our fear is much broader than that. I think we are scared of the fact that language reveals our imperfections. Language at its most authentic reveals to the world hints of how we think, how we were raised, where we were raised and what we think about. These imperfections, however, are what make language personal in style and character. A person with a perfect command of language would be the dullest person in the history of the world. My language is imperfect and revealing. The simplicity of my speech occasionally reveals the simplicity of my thought processes shaped by the simplicity of my town. My flowery run-on sentences occasionally reveal a pretension to overcome that simplicity and be thought of as eloquent by my peers. My love of witty banter and verbal double speak reveals my favorite subversive way to play with the “stiff upper lip” traditions of the South. The imperfections of my speech are why I never want
It is also important to remember the vocabulary of the English language is not black and white; the use of its terms is not inherently good or evil.
Leigh Terry is the Opinions Editor of The Crimson White. Her column runs weekly
EDITORIAL BOARD
WE WELCOME YOUR OPINIONS
Sean Landry editor-in-chief Alyx Chandler features editor Peyton Shepard print managing editor Melanie Viering visuals editor Kelly Ward digital managing editor Alexis Faire chief copy editor Leigh Terry opinions editor
Send submissions to letters@cw.ua.edu. Submissions must include the author’s name, year, major and daytime phone number. Phone numbers are for verification and will not be published. The Crimson
White reserves the right to edit all guest columns and letters to the editor. The opinions contained on this page do not represent the editorial position of The Crimson White Media Group.
Samantha Rudelich is a junior majoring in business management. Her column runs biweekly. Last Week’s Poll: Do you think the administration should publicly respond to the (Yes: 80%) (No: 20%) This Week’s Poll: Are you going to get a flu shot? cw.ua.edu/poll
5 Republicans need to rally behind Jeb Bush OPINIONS Thursday, September 24, 2015
By Will Gonzalez | Guest Columnist
most qualified candidates seeking the office. His tenure as governor of Florida represented a period of If there is one thing that all of the Republican responsible, conservative leadership in the Sunshine presidential candidates can agree on, it is the impor- State and a window into what a Jeb Bush presidency tance of winning this election. Time after time we would look like. During his eight years in office, forhear everyone from governor John Kasich to Ben mer governor Jeb Bush cut taxes by around $19 billion, Carson talk about how transformative this elec- vetoed $2 billion of pork barrel spending and estabtion will be for the country and the importance of lished a school voucher program before it was cool. the right person winning the job. They couldn’t be In fact, Governor Jeb Bush’s education reforms were so successful that the achievemore right. ment gap between minority Even the most conservative and white students Supreme Court observers believe Jeb’s resume alone makes him students in Florida has narrowed that the next president, whomever he or she may be, will have the one of, if not the, most qualified much more rapidly than the national average. opportunity to appoint at least two It was Ronald Reagan who Supreme Court Justices. Ruth Bader candidates seeking the office once said, “The Republican Ginsburg, Antonin Scalia, Stephen —Will Gonzalez Party, both in this state and Breyer and Anthony Kennedy will nationally, is a broad party. be at least 80 by the end of our next There is room in our tent for President’s term, meaning that potentially the ideology and makeup of the Supreme many views; indeed, the divergence of views is one of our strengths,” a quote that would later allow Reagan Court could be radically altered in the next decade. That is why, as Republicans, it is time for us to cut to build the Reagan Coalition and reinvigorate conthe nonsense and start supporting the only candidate servatism in the United States. Of the entire crowded that can win the White House: Jeb Bush. Jeb is any- field of candidates, Jeb Bush is the only person who thing but the sexiest pick in the field of candidates, represents this same brand of Big Tent politics and but he is distinctly the safest. Carly Fiorina, Donald has the ability to build the broadest coalition of supTrump and Ben Carson are simply the flavor of the port in 2016. week among the anti-establishment wing of the GOP, Fluent in Spanish and married to a woman of a group that, despite its insistence to the contrary, Mexican descent, Jeb Bush is uniquely keyed into the doesn’t have the numbers to propel their candidate to issues facing Latino and Hispanic communities in this the White House alone. country (second only to Marco Rubio). It is this perJeb’s resume alone makes him one of, if not the, spective that has guided his politics on immigration to
be both pragmatic and compassionate, favoring a path to citizenship over more extreme methods. These positions, while unpopular among many Republicans, represents Jeb’s ability to stick to his guns and do what is right. When Governor Jeb Bush announced his candidacy, everyone in the Republican Party assumed he would eventually win the nomination; I still believe that this is true. But, after a myriad of sideshow candidates joined the race, governor Jeb Bush has been a little lost in the crowd. However, it is finally time to end these silly games and coalesce our support around Jeb Bush, not just for the benefit of our party, but also for the country. Will Gonzalez is a senior majoring in political science.
ABOUT JEB BUSH - Graduated from the University of Texas at Austin (1975) - Former governor of Florida (19982007) - Announced presidential bid on June 15, 2015 CW / Vic Harris
6 The gamble in choosing an honors society NEWS
Thursday, September 24, 2015
By Lauren Lane | Staff Reporter
There’s another email in the inbox. Another waiting. Another bolded “Congratulations.” Spam? No, it’s an honor society. Wait, so spam? No, it’s acceptance into an honor society! Wait, wait—it cost $60 to even join? Empty wallet. But, another resume builder, but being “qualified” enough, but what an honor. But also—what does this organization even do? Students are often left questioning the value or validity of the various honor societies with every new email. Students worry about filling their already busy schedules with something that will waste their time, and many eventually decide not to apply or join an honor society because they don’t believe they will benefit from being a part of one. Regardless of a student’s involvement in an honor society, the question remains if being recognized for these membership may be enough to give them a leg up when applying for a job or graduate school. “I think they are important,” said Andrew Goodliffe, assistant dean for Graduate Admissions and Recruitment at The University of Alabama. “It shows that someone has gone above and beyond in their discipline. Being a part of one is not the be all and end all, but I think it’s one of those things that will just convince a potential department that that student may be a little more engaged and a little
more enthusiastic than the others.” Radcliffe said that when looking at an applicant for a graduate program, there are numerous factors such as undergraduate research, letters of recommendation and statement of purpose. But, he said, he is also looking to see something that shows the students desire to go above and beyond. The University has 13 honor societies they either promote membership of or have a chapter of on campus. These honor societies recognize students, faculty and even alumni for their dedication to achievement in academics, service, leadership, personal development and character. “Honor societies bring some of the brightest minds together to not only make an impact on society, but to broaden our perspectives and inspire each other to reach our goals,” said Jenny Lamberth, a senior majoring in marketing. “In particular, Mortar Board is a group of leaders among leaders, and each time we come together for a project, event or meeting, we learn from each other.” Lamberth serves as the president of Mortar Board, one of the University’s honor societies for students who excel in scholarship, service and leadership. The University’s chapter of Mortar Board recently received an award for being one of the most prestigious chapters in the country at the Mortar Board National Conference this summer. Lamberth said she believes that being a part of an honor society is a great experience to see yourself
grow and to make campus a better place. “Being a member of Mortar Board is so much more than just having an honor society to list on your resume,” Lamberth said. Lynn Hamric is a mechanical engineering professor who was approached by two of her students to be an advisor for Golden Key, another honor society. Not all honor societies recruit through email, which sometimes can make the difference whether someone joins. “After hearing how they felt about [Golden Key], I knew it was one I would be honored to be affiliated with,” Hamric said. With all of the honor society scams, Hamric encourages any student who is eligible for an honor society to go to the honor society’s website and find out for themselves if being a part of one would be beneficial to them. However, she also said honor societies are only as beneficial as the effort students put toward them. “During our annual fall new member induction ceremony, I explain that attendance at meetings is not a requirement. However, when you decide not to participate, you are the true loser,” Hamric said. “You miss out on developing lifelong friends, working on worthwhile service projects, hearing dynamic speakers on subjects that are beneficial to you as a future professional.” Another email, another opportunity? Or, spam, still? Personal investigation on the particular honor society is the only suggestion for students in the decision process.
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7 Mermaiding: A fishy tail from above the sea Editor | Matthew Wilson culture@cw.ua.edu Thursday, September 24, 2015
By Amber Phillips | Contributing Writer
Sushi is great, but who would choose to be half fish? Sure, Hans Christian Anderson’s fairytale seems like a walk on the beach, but mermaids have been known as temptresses, accident-prone and even killers throughout folklore history. But mermaids today are writing a whole different story. Disney’s The Little Mermaid has inspired young girls since the nineties. Morgan Parson, a junior majoring in nursing at The University of Alabama, is one of those intrigued girls. Parson currently owns a mermaid tail and practices mermaiding, a fandom in which women, and occasionally men, buy or create a mermaid tail for the purpose of swimming and posing for photographs. Her fascination started at a young age. "[I grew up loving] to do anything in the water,” Parson said. Parson dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. “That was a serious thought, it is so much more than just dolphins,” Parson said. ”[I] could list and identify hundreds of tropical fish.” Though she has always lived in Tuscaloosa, Parson was captivated by salt water. “All the fish are just more colorful, so that drew me first as a child,” she said. “It is more exotic.”
Despite her historical love of everything the sea, Parson faced skepticism. Mermaid tails go for a high price, and many parents, the same people who bought the books, movies and dolls for the girls as children, believe it is an unwise investment. Parson’s parents were concerned, but she said they eventually understood. “They understand play,” she said. Another obstacle for many mermaids is social pressure. Parson said her boyfriend, Alex Kirkland, thinks she’s a 4 year old. Parson, like many considering the investment, asked Kirkland’s opinion on the matter. “It wasn’t ‘Should I do this.’ It was, ‘I think I’m gonna do this.’ [My response] wasn’t going to change anything,” Kirkland said. Boys usually do not share the same experience young girls have fantasizing as mermaids. While Parson grew up swimming in the pool, legs tied together with bungee cord, Kirkland identifies mermaids as the sirens featured in “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.” “I’m afraid she’s going to turn on me,” Kirkland said. Regardless of his concern, Kirkland once tried mermaiding out for himself. “I felt like I was going to drown,” Kirkland said. Parson said she agreed with Kirkland’s first mermaiding experience.
"[He] totally lost control and wouldn’t use [his legs] at all,” Parson said. Kirkland now leaves the mermaiding to the masters. It may be surprising to learn Parson does not believe mermaids exist in reality. Her medical exposure leads her to “being logical.” “It would be awesome if they were real, it’s so sad,” she said. She enjoys playing up the mermaid role as a curious adventure, but she remains grounded, letting her audience in on the secret of the tail. Parson’s tail is from the online mermaiding store called The Mertailor. The owner, Eric Ducharme, a mermaider himself, creates tails ranging from spandex starters to silicone tails used in cinema productions. Parson views mermaiding as a hobby, comparing it to other individual sports. “In track, there’s sprinting, there’s jogging,” Parson said. “There’s different ways of doing things. Its definitely exercise. It’d be cool if we had mermaid school here in Tuscaloosa. It’s a great way for little girls to promote physical activity.” Recently, mermaid schools have launched in Florida, the Philippines, Spain and Los Angeles. Believing it could work like kayak rentals from Outdoor Recreation, Parson hopes the University will one day offer mermaiding classes to prospective girls for exercising and fulfilling dreams.
Things to know • One of the first mermaid shows in the U.S. dates to Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida, nicknamed, “The City of Live Mermaids.” • Some girls came from as far away as Tokyo to try out mermaiding. • The first professional mermaiding was Annette Kellerman (1886-1975). She also is credited with inventing synchronized swimming.
CW / Melanie Viering
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CULTURE
Thursday, September 24, 2015
MARQUEES CW / Hanna Curlette By Sam West | Staff Reporter
It’s hard to think of a more charming place in Tuscaloosa than the Bama Theatre. The facade of the building lights up all of downtown when a show or movie is playing. Posters in the interior reminisce about great acts and films that have graced the venue, and the auditorium itself, with its balcony and hand painted murals, recall a time when movie theatres weren’t designed to look sleek and generic. The Bama Theatre has the status of a landmark in Tuscaloosa, and, because of the venue’s commitment to cinema, music and theatre, it’s an essential part of the town’s culture. “I think the theatre contributes greatly to the community through our film series, and I think it contributes to the revitalization of downtown,” said Kevin Ledgewood, publicity director for the Bama Arts Council. “Like I said, it’s many things to many people. There’s something going on here all the time.” The film series Ledgewood mentions is the Bama Art House, a lineup of independent movies, art films and documentaries. A new slate of movies runs three times yearly, during the spring, summer and fall. The Bama Art House shows films as one-night-only events to boost interest in challenging or idiosyncratic cinema that people might not normally watch. “We’ve got a faithful group of people who show up for everything,” said David Allgood, the manager of the Bama Theatre. In the past, the Bama Theatre has screened critically-acclaimed features like Zach Braff’s “Garden State,” Wes Anderson’s “Moonrise Kingdom” and Woody Allen’s “Blue Jasmine.” But the Bama is also a full-fledged concert venue and a great deal of talent has performed there, including The Police, The Drive-By Truckers and Ryan Adams. In addition, several local theatre and dance troupes use the Bama as a stage for comedy and drama. “I think it’s pretty much the premier performing arts venue in the county,” said David H. Jones, an Arts Council member who does sound and lighting for the Bama. “The University has several theatres that are probably more up to date,
but they aren’t near as state of the art in terms of technical capabilities.” The venue’s commitment to the arts also extends to the visual realm. The Junior League Gallery on the building’s second floor hosts a variety of exhibits from West Alabama artists, as well as art awards and competitions throughout the year. The Bama Theatre has a bar that serves wine and draft beer, including a variety of local brews. No other movie house in the area serves alcohol. The Bama Theatre was built in 1938 as a combination city hall, auditorium and cinema. The project was launched by President Roosevelt’s Public Works Administration, a program designed to put people back to work after the Great Depression. When the theatre opened, it became a popular location in town because it was the only public building in Tuscaloosa with air conditioning. The fledgling theatre’s schedule leaned mostly toward movies at first, as film was just beginning to become a cultural phenomenon thanks to features like “Gone with the Wind” and “The Wizard of Oz.” The Bama continued operations for the next few decades, but in the 1970s, it began to face difficulties. The venue was almost sold and purchased by a Bible College until a group of concerned citizens organized to save the local landmark. The Arts and Humanities Council of Tuscaloosa has its origins in this effort, and they still run the Bama Theatre today. What would have happened if the Bama had been bought out? Kevin Ledgewood believes we would live in a very different Tuscaloosa. “With the Bible College, that would have just catered to a certain demographic, whereas, with a theatre, as an entertainment venue, as an arts venue, we try to reach all ages and, you know, we have different types of programming,” he said. “I think it would have changed the face of downtown quite a bit, to be perfectly honest with you.” Luckily, the Bama Theatre was saved. The venue has been open for 76 years, meaning that the theatre has been part of the lives of three generations of Tuscaloosa residents. “I think it just holds a lot of fond memories for a lot of people in this community,” Jones said. “Hopefully, we’re making more memories for the younger generation.”
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CULTURE Thursday, September 24, 2015
Upcoming entertainment events at Bama Theatre 25 SEPTEMBER 7:30 pm - The ACT presents “Mary Poppins”
26 SEPTEMBER 2 pm and 7:30 pm - The ACT presents “Mary Poppins”
KEY
Mary Poppins
Bama Art House
1 OCTOBER 7:30 pm - Manhattan Short Film Festival
2 OCTOBER
27 SEPTEMBER
7:30 pm - Steve Brown Annual Comedy Show - LMBAO
28 SEPTEMBER
8pm - Pink Box Burlesque “Haunted Hotel” 8th Annual Masquerade
2 pm - The ACT presents “Mary Poppins”
7:30 pm - The ACT presents “Mary Poppins”
29 SEPTEMBER 7:30 pm - Bama Art House “Irrational Man”
30 SEPTEMBER
8 pm - Church of Highlands: ONE College Ministry
! e M l l a C
3 OCTOBER
4 OCTOBER
7:30 pm - Acoustic Night Featuring Frankie Gavin with Tommy and Louise McCarthy
6 OCTOBER
7:30 pm - Bama Art House - “A Borrowed Identity”
Church of the Highlands
Special Events
8 OCTOBER 8 pm - Church of the Highlands: ONE College Ministry
9 OCTOBER
7:30 pm - Acoustic Night Featuring Walter Parks
16 OCTOBER
Pink Box Burlesque
Acoustic Night
Wizard of Oz
21 OCTOBER 7:30 pm - UA English Department presents “Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela”
22 OCTOBER
8 pm - Church of Highlands: ONE College Ministry
7 pm - “The Wizard of Oz” by TCT
27OCTOBER
17 OCTOBER
7:30 pm - Bama Art House Bonus Film: “Western”
2 pm and 7 pm - “The Wizard of Oz” by TCT
18 OCTOBER
2 pm - “The Wizard of Oz” by TCT
20
29 OCTOBER
7 pm - Hillcrest High School Beauty Walk
31 OCTOBER
8 pm - Pink Box Burlesque OCTOBER 7:30 pm - Bama Art House - “The presents “The Rocky Horror End of the Tour” Picture Show”
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10 Alabama emphasizes turnovers in practice
SPORTS
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Nick Saban answers questions about the upcoming game against ULM. CW / Amy Sullivan
By Terrin Waack | Staff Reporter
It’s been less than a year since Alabama was in the exact position it is in right now—the week of practice after losing by a six-point deficit to Ole Miss. Instead of hanging its head and dwelling on the past, Alabama is using the loss as motivation to prove itself and be prosperous for the rest of the season. “I think it’s as much a part of the Alabama way—or the program that we have here—is for people to respond the right way when they’re tested,” coach Nick Saban said. “Based on the preparation so far, that has been good.” Before Saturday’s game at home against The University of LouisianaMonroe, Saban said the team will clean up mistakes and focus on mental practice. Linebacker Denzel Devall said practice has been good and, for the most part, the team is moving forward and getting better. “We’ve responded well to losses in the past,” he said. “Everyone’s responded to this one. We just want the team to get better; that’s the main [thing]: getting better.” After Saturday’s game, where it had five turnovers, Alabama has been putting an emphasis on turnovers. Devall said there have been different turnover drills that included stripping the ball, ripping at the ball and looking for any kind of edge the team can get in turnovers. “It was new, but a lot of guys responded to it well,” Devall said. “It makes us
better as a defense and the offense in protecting the ball. It’s been a positive move for us.” Turnover drills have become a daily part of practice. It works on both sides of ball, too, including offense and defense. Devall said it’s fun, especially when it’s hard to get the ball out from certain teammates. He likes the challenge it presents. “We have emphasized turnovers more than I ever have in 42 years or however long I’ve been coaching,” Saban said. “We do turnover drills every day. We do it against each other.” During its first game, Wisconsin didn’t get any points off of turnovers from Alabama. Middle Tennessee scored seven points off of turnovers. Then, Ole Miss totaled 24 points off of Alabama turnovers. Numbers are just numbers though. “I would say, and I said it before, even if we didn’t have five turnovers, I would be standing here saying, ‘I think we need to play better,’” Saban said. Now, this Saturday, Alabama hopes to be the team that forces the turnovers instead of vice versa. Saban said Louisiana-Monroe has a good offensive scheme that involves a lot of motions and things that defense will need to adjust to. “They do a nice job in the passing game, and they do a good job on the perimeter of blocking,” Saban said. “Throwing little flare passes and blocking people. It’s a spread-style offense, but their receivers are effective guys. That’s what they do.”
Place all waste materials in trash receptacles, to ensure they do not make their way into our local bodies of water.
Lip Sync Hero that was scheduled for Sept. 25 at the Ferguson Center stage has been
CANCELED
12
SPORTS
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Intimacy in Foster setting motivates volleyball team By Terrin Waack | Staff Reporter
Foster Auditorium is home to the Alabama volleyball team, and players say it is unlike any other gymnasium in its conference. With the way the building was constructed, it echoes and creates an illusion that the place is packed regardless of how many people are actually in attendance, and the fans are on top of the players during the game since most of the seating is up above. “It’s so intimate,” sophomore Kat Hutson said. “We’re used to it, so it’s not a big deal, but I think it’s difficult for opponents to come in here and adjust well because it is very loud with the band, the fans and everything.” Alabama uses the noise and the fact that other teams are thrown off to its advantage. As luck has it, Alabama’s first regular season SEC match was in Foster against Mississippi State on Wednesday night. Preseason didn’t go as well as Alabama would have liked. The Crimson Tide went into SEC play 5-8 overall, but it’s time to hit the reset button. “We have to consider it a whole new season,” senior Kryssi Daniels said. “Preseason literally is a different ballgame than SEC play is. I think we need to start fresh. New team, new day.” The last time Alabama lost more than three matches in Foster was 2012 when it totaled six. Last year, it only lost one home match. Now, starting its SEC play, Alabama had four home losses. Previous years don’t matter, coach Ed Allen said. He focuses on making sure the team lives in the present and just focuses on the next match. The main goal is defeating its next competitor, SEC or not. “For the fans, they go, ‘Okay, we’re
going into the SEC play,’” Allen said. “For us, we go, ‘We’re going into our [13th] match of the year.’” Being able to play at home does excite the team, though. The fans are important to Alabama. They make a difference, especially when the team plays in Foster. “They don’t serve any balls or pass any balls or dig any balls, but they have the ability to kind of bring a certain level of energy to the match,” Allen said. Hutson said she loves any opportunity to play in Foster and stay home. It helps the players’ bodies recover because matches aren’t back-to-back anymore, and it allows them to mentally invest everything they have into one match. “It’s so much more comfortable because we get to sleep in our own beds, and that may seem like a minute thing, but I think that definitely helps,” Hutson said. “This is our environment and it’s what our routine is used to.” With SEC play, everything slows down a bit as well. The team isn’t gone for as long due to tournaments and now, there will be less matches within a week’s time. “We’re not just athletes,” Daniels said. “We’re also students, so we have work to do as well, so I think it’s going to make a huge difference, personally, for me anyways.” As a senior, this is Daniels’ last year playing volleyball for Alabama, and her last year playing in Foster. She said it’s important for her, along with the other seniors, to embrace every home opportunity they have because they’re limited now. The reality of not being able to play in Foster again after this season is hitting hard. “The atmosphere is electric,” Daniels said. “When we have a bunch of people in here, it’s kind of like Bryant-Denny in a gym.”
Courtesy of UA athletics
Foster Auditorium hosts events such as volleyball and women’s basketball. CW / Layton Dudley
13
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14 Riley starts strong in first two tournaments SPORTS
Thursday, September 24, 2015
By Elliott Propes | Staff Reporter
Tiger Woods made his 19th appearance in the U.S. Open this summer at Chambers Bay. The legend has won three U.S. Opens in his career and 14 major championships in all. For Davis Riley, it was his first ever major championship. Riley, at just 18 years old, finished eighth in the qualifying tournament just a week before to earn a spot in the championship. Riley shot well his first day with a 73, and actually outplayed the former champion Woods. Riley, who is 21 years younger, finished ahead of Woods by three strokes. “It was awesome to test the waters and see what it’s like with all the big guys on tour and learn a few things from them,” Riley said. “It’s kind of crazy that I played in a major before I ever stepped foot on a college campus. It was a lot of fun.” Riley had not even played a round of college golf, but had previously committed to The University of Alabama back in 2012. He was on his way to Tuscaloosa with a ton of experience and he made an immediate impact in his first two tournaments for Alabama. At the Carpet Collegiate Classic, he was Alabama’s top performer and finished seventh
overall. Last week, Riley only played better at the OFCC/Illini Invitational. He finished fourth overall for his first ever top-five finish and again was Alabama’s top performer. “He’s well on his way of doing what we thought he’d be, which is a top, great player,” Coach Jay Seawell said. “We are very pleased with his first two starts.” Golfweek has Riley currently ranked No. 14 overall of all college golfers. He came in as a highly recruited talent out of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He won state four straight years at Presbyterian Christian High School. His senior season he was named by USA Today the 2014-15 All-USA Boys Golf Player of the Year. “Any time we recruit somebody and they do some pretty special stuff before they come to Alabama, it makes us feel good because we got the right guys,” Seawell said. “As he was growing in high school, we got more and more excited about his time when he would finally get to Alabama.” Riley is placing high already; and he still has plenty of time to improve during the season. The team has three more tournaments before the spring season. This weekend the team will be traveling to Nashville, Tennessee, for the Dick’s Sporting Goods Collegiate
The golf team heads into this season with more a more experienced group of golfers. CW / Shelby Akin
Challenge Cup. Six SEC schools and six ACC schools will face off, making it a tough field. Nine of those teams appear in Golfweek’s top 26 teams. “I think he should be an AllAmerican,” Seawell said. “Robby [Shelton] was the National Freshman
of the Year, Justin [Thomas] was the National Freshman of the Year and the National Player of the Year as a freshman. So we challenge him to be the best he can be and we believe if he can do that, that he can accomplish the same thing those guys did.”
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15 Nena Savva brings positive energy to court SPORTS
Thursday, September 24, 2015
By Elliott Propes | Staff Reporter
Joanna Nena Savva has a passion for tennis. That passion has followed her everywhere she’s been, whether it be her hometown of Nicosia, Cyprus, to Tyler Junior College in Tyler, Texas, and now The University of Alabama. Nena Savva played well no matter
the circumstances. She was a national champion at every level in Cyprus, and when she went to TJC, she became a two-time singles and doubles national champion. She was ranked No. 1 for a while as well in singles. Coach Jenny Mainz believes that she will only repeat her success as moves to SEC tennis. “She’s committed to the team. She wants to improve and get better, and
she’s very driven. But she also is locked in on the team getting better,” Mainz said. “She didn’t come to Alabama to just kind of come. She came here to challenge herself.” Nena Savva played in her first tournament as a part of the Crimson Tide last weekend at the Baylor Invitational. She won both singles and doubles matches she played in during the tournament.
TODAY’SDIVERSIONS
Joanna Nena Savva has two years of eligibility to play for Alabama. CW /Savannah Kelly
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Today’s Birthday (09/24/15). Use this year to revise and re-evaluate long-term plans. Complete old promises and invent new possibilities with your partner, especially after 9/27. Consistent communication dissolves barriers. New professional opportunities appear after 3/8. Transitions take your focus after 3/23. Let love guide you. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -- For nearly eight weeks, with Mars in Virgo, work becomes a constant theme. Get financial details lined up over the next month with yesterday’s Libra Sun. Make shared decisions. Peace and quiet get productive. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 7 -For nearly eight weeks, with Mars in Virgo, fun and romance captures your attention. Postpone financial discussions and important decisions today. Don’t overspend, even for a good cause. Your team comes through for surprising success. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Changes are required. Beautify your space, with Mars in Virgo for two months. Compromise, for ease and grace. No stretching the truth now; not even a little. Secrets get revealed. Avoid arguments. Heed your elders. Let someone in. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -For about two months, with Mars in Virgo, communications unlock new doors. Dance gracefully with an unexpected reaction. Carefully crafted, direct words soothe inflammation. Rekindle passion. Friends help you advance. They lead you to the perfect answer. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Save up for something special. For nearly eight, weeks (Mars in Virgo), work to increase income. Put your muscle into it. Moderate a controversy with family finances. Avoid risky business. Defer gratification and budget for what you want.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 9 -Share the load or drop it. For two months, with Mars in Virgo, personal matters take center stage. Stick to the truth, even when awkward. Compromise. Provide cool common sense. Do it carefully or do it over. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -Slow down to avoid accidents. Navigate errors and let the little stuff go. Get into peaceful retreat mode for the next two months. Clean, sort and organize. Look back to gain perspective on the road ahead. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Grow profitable opportunities through socializing. Harness group power over the next two months, with Mars in Virgo. Energize a community effort. Don’t borrow or lend ... contribute while leaving time for work, family and health. Balance is key. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Take your professional passion to the next level. If you must ruffle feathers, do it gently. Assert your position with humor. For nearly eight weeks, with Mars in Virgo, career advances are available. Practice what you love. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 9 -- Travel beckons for about two months, with Mars in Virgo. Nail down reservations early. There are still many secrets to be discovered. Don’t try to run away. Think of someone who needs you. New information changes things. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 9 -- Don’t let financial constraints stop you. For about two months, with Mars in Virgo, review and organize finances for increased power and income. Private conversations reduce stress. The truth gets revealed. Find new ways to earn. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Provide support (rather than criticism) to someone in authority. Your partner contributes valuable data. For about two months, with Mars in Virgo, work together for greater power. Take advantage of a rising tide. Assume responsibility.
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16
SPORTS
Thursday, September 24, 2015
VOLLEYBALL RECAP Alabama volleyball opened its SEC slate on Wednesday with a 3-1 win over Mississippi State in Foster Auditorium. The Crimson Tide dropped the first set 25-21, but took the following three sets 25-17, 25-16 and 25-20.
HITTING PERCENTAGE: Overall: .186 Set 1: .158 Set 2: .192 Set 3: .385 Set 4: .077
KILL LEADERS: Kat Hutson: 16 Krystal Rivers: 11 Brittany Thomas: 10 Tabitha Brown: 8
SERVICE ACES: Tabitha Brown: 3
DIGS: Natalie Murison: 18 Brittany Thomas: 13
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SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 GETTING G ETTING S STARTED TARTED
GAMEDAY 6 3 THE LOSS EVERYONE TRIES TO FORGET
S TA F F EDITORIAL editor-in-chief
Sean Landry editor@cw.ua.edu
print managing editor digital managing editor magazine creative director features editor visuals editor
8 ALABAMA’S RESPONSE TO LOSSES
Kelly Ward Joshua Horton Alyx Chandler Melanie Viering
opinions editor
Leigh Terry
chief copy editor
Alexis Faire
news editor
Elizabeth Elkin
culture editor
Matthew Wilson
sports editor
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photo editor
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10
PAGE 3
By Marquis Munson | Staff Reporter
WHO: No. 9 UCLA at No. 16 Arizona WHEN: 7 p.m. on ABC
WHO: No. 18 Utah at No. 13 Oregon WHEN: 7:30 p.m. on Fox
UCLA freshman quarterback Josh Rosen struggled in his last two games, completing 33 of 65 passes for 329 yards and four interceptions—three in the first half in last week’s win against BYU. Rosen will go into Tucson against a Wildcats defense that has struggled in the secondary with an average of 254 passing yards in the first two games. The Wildcats expect their All-American linebacker Scooby Wright to make his return to the lineup after suffering a knee injury in the season opener.
The Utah Utes finished their non-conference schedule at 3-0 and matched their highest ranking since 2010. Their run defense ranks second in the Pac-12 and 27th in the nation, allowing 105.7 yards per game. They will face off against an Oregon Ducks offense that ranks eighth in the country in run offense led by running back Royce Freeman’s 55 carries and 373 yards, 14th in the country. The Utes have lost four straight in Eugene dating back to 1994.
WHO: No. 19 USC at Arizona State When: 9:30 p.m. on ESPN
USC was in most experts’ College Football Playoffs predictions, but the Trojans couldn’t hang on to beat the Stanford Cardinals this past weekend, losing 41-31. The road doesn’t get easier for quarterback Cody Kessler and the Trojans as they face a Sun Devils defense that has only given up an average of 135 passing yards in their first three games. After a loss to Texas A&M, the Sun Devils have caught their stride on offense, averaging 424 yards on offense led by quarterback Mike Bercovici’s 799 passing
WHO: No. 25 Missouri at Kentucky When: 6:30 p.m. on SECNetwork Still unbeaten, the Missouri Tigers have struggled to find their momentum on offense in the first three games of the season. In their last two games against Arkansas State and Connecticut, the Tigers failed to gain over 300 yards of offense. The Kentucky Wildcats defense limited the Gators to 245 yards. The Wildcats have struggled on the offensive side with quarterback Patrick Towles throwing three touchdowns with four interceptions, averaging 192 passing yards per game.
WHO: Tennessee at Florida WHEN: 2:30 p.m. on CBS
WHO: Mississippi State at Auburn WHEN: 6:30 p.m. on ESPN2
Jim McElwain and the Florida Gators were successful in their first SEC test against Kentucky. The Gators have only allowed 258 yards of offense and under 60 yards on the run. This season, Tennessee, led by Jalen Hurd’s 55 carries for 300 rushing yards, averages 246 yards on the ground per game. They look to get back into contention in the SEC after losing a close game to the Oklahoma Sooners. Florida defeated the Volunteers last season 10-9 in Knoxville.
At 1-1, the Mississippi State Bulldogs look to return to the SEC West conversation as they head to Jordan-Hare Stadium and face the Auburn Tigers. After a 45-21 blowout at Death Valley against LSU, quarterback Jeremy Johnson has been benched for redshirt freshman Sean White. Johnson threw for 473 passing yards with six interceptions. On the other side of the ball, quarterback Dak Prescott has thrown for 799 passing yards with five touchdowns and no interceptions.
PAGE 4
UL-Monroe at No. 12 Alabama
No. 9 UCLA at No. 16 Arizona
Sean Landry editor-in-chief
Kelly Ward digital managing editor
Kayla Montgomery sports editor
Tyler Waldrep assistant sports editor
Elliott Propes staff reporter
Marquis Munson staff reporter
Terrin Waack staff reporter
THE RING COLLECTION OF
THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
A representative will be on campus soon to take orders. The Official Ring will be on display. To order now, visit www.balfour.com/ua or call 1-866-225-3687.
Order your University of Alabama Official Ring during these dates: Tues - Fri, September 22 - 25 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Saturday, September 26 9:00 am - 2:30 pm
SUPe Store at Ferguson Center
No. 18 Utah at No. 13 Oregon
No. 19 USC at Arizona State
No. 25 Missouri at Kentucky
Tennessee at Florida
Mississippi State at Auburn
PAGE 5
BEHIND ENEMY LINES By Tyler Waldrep | Assistant Sports Editor
The Crimson White sat down with Hawkeye sports editor Joshua Dean to discuss this weekend’s matchup with Louisiana Monroe. The Warhawks will return to BryantDenny for the first time since 2007, when they defeated the Crimson Tide in coach Nick Saban’s first season.
Q.
Louisiana Monroe is the only unranked, non-power five school that has beaten Alabama since Nick Saban took over. How has that victory been brought up around the program and campus this week? Do you expect it to help the team this weekend?
A.
Our win over Alabama has been brought up as a motivating factor this week but it hasn’t taken away from our team’s drive and focus. We understand the challenges that Alabama presents and the level of play we’ve got to bring to take home a “W” and so it hasn’t brought down that level of awareness. It was an exciting win in our school’s history, though, and gives us a level of optimism. I don’t think the win will directly help our team this weekend, but I think it shows that, if you’ve got a solid game plan and can go in and execute, you’ve got a chance anywhere.
Q.
Do you think Alabama’s loss to Ole Miss last weekend will affect the Warhawks’ game plan or the result of this weekend’s matchup?
A.
I don’t think Alabama’s loss last week to Ole Miss will affect how we specifically plan for the game this Saturday, but I think it highlights what can happen if you don’t take care of the ball and concentrate in all three phases of the game. Three Alabama turnovers led to 17 first half points for Ole Miss, and despite outgaining the Rebels more than 2 to 1 in yardage Alabama still found themselves down a touchdown at half. Two fourth quarter interceptions essentially sealed the game at the end. I think it shows that if we can go in and create turnovers and make a few big plays on offense then we’ve got a real chance.
Q. A.
What do think Louisiana Monroe can do on offense that could give Alabama’s defense some trouble?
Offensively I think ULM can challenge some of Alabama’s cornerbacks on the outside in terms of breaking tackles and making deep catches down the field. The outside duo of Rashon Ceaser and Ajalen Holley have been really productive for us the last couple
games and stand to make a big difference in the outcome this weekend. [Redshirt] freshman Garrett Smith has really made strides in his first two games and has already faced the pressure of playing Georgia in Athens and so shouldn’t be rattled by the big stage.
Q.
What kind of defensive game plan do you expect the Warkhawks to employ against the Crimson Tide? What Warhawks need to have a good game on that side of the ball?
A.
The Warhawks will most likely go into the game with a pressure-oriented defensive scheme, but will have to be flexible and willing to adjust to the mul tiple schemes and formations of the Tide. The defense will have to play smart and be at their best during the game to stop a powerful and fast Alabama offense. A lot of the formations Alabama uses have different styles and looks within them and so it’s impossible to even determine run or pass. ULM will have to be ready for all of the different looks the Tide give them and adjust accordingly. The defense will also prepare for both quarterbacks and the different abilities they bring to the table. To have a good defensive game, the Warhawks need to limit coverage breakdowns and errors as well as win the battle in the trenches.
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PAGE 7
Getting
started By Terrin Waack | Staff Reporter
T
he quarterback is the brain of a football team’s offense. He reads the opponent’s defense. He reads his own offense. Then, he decides what the best course of action is and takes it–fast. All this needs to be done before getting tackled to the ground. Whether he throws the ball, hands it off or takes it himself, the power is in his hands. That’s a lot of pressure on one person. Or, in Alabama’s case, two people, since it has yet to name a starter for the season. Three games into its season, and both Jake Coker and Cooper Bateman have been put in the spotlight.
Jake Coker As a senior, Coker transferred to Alabama in May 2014 from Florida State University where he was the backup quarterback to Jameis Winston. Coker started two games this season, Wisconsin and Middle Tennessee. Against Wisconsin, he completed 15 out of 21 passes for 213 yards. During Middle Tennessee, he threw for one yard more than the last game with 214 yards and completed 15 out of 26 passes with one interception. During Ole Miss, he did not start, but came in the middle of the second quarter. Coach Nick Saban said, although Coker didn’t start, he knew he was going to play. “Jake [Coker] came into the game and played with some passion and showed great leadership and energy when he played,” Saban said. When Alabama trailed 30-10 against Ole Miss, Coker stepped up his game and helped the offense fight its way back. The team did not win, but instead of losing by 20 points, it finished with only a six-point deficit. “It was great to see him step into that role and be resilient as he was on the field and on the sideline,” running back Kenyan Drake said. Coker’s ability to use his own two feet has caught the attention of others. He followed Derrick Henry, who led his team in rushing, with 58 yards on seven carries and a touchdown against Ole Miss. “He’s very mobile, if you didn’t notice,” Drake said. “It was very sneaky with him being as big as he is, he did have the ability to maneuver in the pocket and the ability to run down the field and make a play.” It surprised his teammates. They see him every day, but that’s not something Coker can really show in practice. Drake said this skill is something that will help the team in future games. “At this point, provided [Coker] does the things he’s supposed to do, I think we’ll start him in this [next] game,” Saban said.
Cooper Bateman Bateman saw time in all 14 games last season–as the starting holder, though, not quarterback. As holder, he was perfect on 87 holds; 22 were field goals and 65 were extra points. Alabama’s kicker Adam Griffith said Bateman is a good holder and continues to get better. “Holds are really important—the lean, everything has to be right,” Griffith said. “I try to get him work every day, but it’s kind of hard because he’s competing for the quarterback spot. I feel confident in Coop.” This season, Bateman has seen action at quarterback in all three games. Against Wisconsin, Bateman played during the second half of the game and completed seven out of eight passes for 51 yards. Middle Tennessee was the same story. Coker started and Bateman played during the second half. He completed 11 out of 17 passes for 87 yards with one interception.
Ole Miss was his first career start leading the offense. Saban said he knew he was going to start Bateman for this game instead of Coker. “We thought Cooper [Bateman’s] speed would sort of be a change of pace for them, little bit of element of surprise,” Saban said. Before he was replaced during the second quarter after throwing an interception, Bateman completed 11 out of 17 passes for 98 yards.
The Team The lack of consistency at quarterback doesn’t rattle the rest of the team. Most players have said they are comfortable with both Coker and Bateman. It’s the coaches’ decision and they support whatever that decision turns out to be, even when they’re finding out just at the start of a game during first quarter. Richard Mullaney said he and the other wide receivers have chemistry with both Coker and Bateman. Their biggest goal is making the two feel comfortable so that, come game time, there’s no second guessing their abilities and the whole offense works together smoothly. “Obviously, we go through the week with both of the guys,” Mullaney said. “Us, as a team, we feel very confident in both of them. So whoever gets to start, we’re behind them and we feel good about them.” He’s not the only one who doesn’t mind the fact that a starter has yet to be named. For all three of its games so far, Alabama players didn’t know who was going to start until they took the field. Offensive lineman Cam Robinson said he didn’t find out Bateman was starting in the Ole Miss game until the first snap, but he wasn’t surprised. “All the options that we have at quarterback are good options,” Robinson said. “I know all the guys are well-prepared, so it’s just whoever the coach wants to start.” The inconsistency at quarterback does not correlate to the overall inconsistency on offense either. Robinson said that’s something the offense needs to get together and work on, but it’s not because of the quarterbacks. Mullaney said having one quarterback wouldn’t make things any easier. He said the team is confident in whoever is out there. Under both quarterbacks, Alabama totaled five turnovers during the Ole Miss game. But, it didn’t affect their play. “Both quarterbacks always seemed extremely poised,” Robinson said. “They didn’t let a turnover or anything rattle them. That’s really important. Both guys were really composed and really poised.” Coker and Bateman are going to continue to be closely watched. Alabama hasn’t named a starter and doesn’t seem in any rush to do so, although Coker may have gained an edge after Saturday’s showdown. The coaches and players are confident in their options, and for now, that’s enough. “We’re naming who’s starting the game,” Saban said. “We’re not naming a starter.”
PAGE 8
The loss everyone keeps trying to just forget By Elliott Propes | Staff Reporter
Nick Saban now sits at the helm of the Alabama football program with much success under his belt. In eight full seasons as head coach, he has already won three SEC titles and three national championships. “Dynasty” is the word many like to associate with what he has built. Alabama’s victories over the past few years are burned in any college football fan’s memory, but does anybody remember his worst loss? Was it the 2010 South Carolina game? The Utah Sugar Bowl? Maybe a five-loss Mississippi State team in his first season? This Saturday, Saban is playing the team that caused the worst loss Saban ever had at Alabama. The University of Louisiana Monroe returns to BryantDenny Stadium for the first time since 2007, when the 4-6 Warhawks upset the Crimson Tide 21-14. Not to mention, the Warhawks had 13 straight losing seasons leading up to the 2007 season. Saban’s first season wasn’t going particularly well, but the Crimson Tide came into the game with a 6-4 record with two wins over ranked opponents, and the season turned a little sour that Saturday, Nov. 17. Alabama’s opening drive looked beautiful. Running back Jonathan
Lowe drove down the field to set up a 17-yard touchdown pass from John Parker Wilson to Keith Brown to cap the drive. ULM was stopped on the next drive, and it looked like the Crimson Tide would cover their 24.5 line. When Alabama got the ball back, though, Wilson made a mistake over the middle and was intercepted. Then the mistakes piled up. Wilson threw another interception that was returned to the 1-yard line where ULM would score. ULM was up 21-14 at the end of the third quarter, when Alabama attempted a field goal. Blocked. Alabama would get the ball back though, for a few more chances. With 3:07 left Alabama got the ball back. They drove all the way down to the 13-yard line. Running back Jimmy Johns was looking to punch it in and finally tie the game, but James Truxillo stripped the ball and ULM pounced on it. The next few years put away any remembrance of that game. Alabama went on to play in the SEC title the next season, and then in 2009 Alabama went undefeated and won its 13th national championship. ULM did quite the opposite. The Warhawks only had one winning season over the next seven years. In 2012, ULM went 8-5 and actually upset No. 8 Arkansas in a 34-31 overtime thriller.
The ULM Warhawks will return to Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday for the first time since they defeated the Crimson Tide on its home field in 2007. Photo Courtesy of UA Athletics.
The Nov. 17 game of 2007 serves mainly as just a fun fact these days. No one really cares after the two schools went on their different paths the past seven seasons. The game speaks to what kind of program Saban
inherited his first year in Tuscaloosa, and how much he has flipped the program around since then. This game Saturday should give some time for Alabama fans to reflect on all that has happened in just a few short years.
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On Saturday, Alabama will take the field against an FBS opponent the week following a loss for only the fifth time since 2009. Over that time span, the defense has typically responded well, but the offense hasn't always had the same consistency.
2014 at Arkansas · Lost at Ole Miss 23-17 · 4/15 on third down · 2 turnovers · Won 14-13 (+1) · Outgained 335-227 2011 Miss State · Lost to LSU 9-6OT at home · 2/11 on third down · 1 turnovers · Won 24-7 (+17) · Won yardage battle 386-131
Games against FBS opponents the week following a loss: No opposing offense has scored more than 13 points against the Crimson Tide Opponents are averaging 252 yards. Only one offense (Arkansas last season) has picked up over 300 yards. · Alabama is averaging 1.5 turnovers · Alabama is 4-0 the following weekend winning games by an average of almost 13 points. · Alabama struggles to pick up third downs. The Crimson Tide converts an average of 28 percent of their third downs. · Alabama has only been out gained on offense once (last year at Arkansas). The Crimson Tide has amassed over 350 yards of total offense twice. Individual game stats
2010 Miss State at home · Lost at LSU 24-21 · 4/12 on third down · 2 turnovers · Won 30-10 (+20) · Won yardage battle 452-299 2010 Ole Miss at home · Lost at South Carolina 35-21 · 5/15 on third down · 1 turnover · Won 23-10 (+13) · Won yardage battle 319-243
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Game2015 Ticket Information for Students
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Friday Parking for Home Games 1. Parking and driving will be restricted on Colonial Drive, Wallace Wade and Bryant Drive on the day before and the day of the home football game before and until 3 hours after the end of home games.
•
Access MyTickets from mybama.ua.edu or UA’s mobile app. For more information about UA’s mobile app visit m.ua.edu/app from your mobile device’s browser.
•
Tickets will have either an “upper� or “lower� deck assignment that is designated in MyTickets.
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Students enter through Gate 30 (upper deck) or Gate 31 (lower deck).
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Penalty points for non-use is 2 points.
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The deadline to avoid a late donation penalty is no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday before the game..
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You may donate your ticket until 1 hour before kickoff.
GAME DAY PARKING ORANGE RESIDENTIAL PERMIT HOLDERS These parking changes are for the day prior to and on game day only. Regular parking restrictions are in effect for other times. See bamaparking.ua.edu for regulations. • As in previous seasons, the lots marked in black in this area are reserved for Athletics and must be cleared of all vehicles at 5 p.m. on the day before home football games.
2. Students with an Orange Residential Parking Permit who normally park in one of the Game Day restricted areas (Colonial, Tutwiler) are asked to either park in an alternate Orange Residential parking area but are advised that the best possible are will be the Magnolia Parking Deck beginning at noon on home football games. As a reminder, other Orange parking areas can be located by using the parking map on the rear of your parking permit.
• Vehicles left in any of these areas after 5 p.m. the day before a home game may be towed at the owner’s expense ($100). • Alternative parking is available as shown in the gray areas on this map.
3. Students who have orange hangtags can drive from Bryant Drive to Magnolia Drive. 4. Students will be able to take Crimson Ride from parking lots to their residence halls during normal operating hours (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and can call 348-RIDE (7433) after hours. 5. Students with commuter hangtags will park as usual on the day before a home football game. On the day of the home football game, they can park free of charge with their permit in the Upper Rec Center lot off 5th Ave. East and the SW corner of Campus Drive and Bryce Lawn Drive as space allows.
Black: Reserved for Athletics Gray: Reserved for Orange Residential Students Student Gate 30 (upper deck) / Gate 31 (lower deck) Closes at 5 P.M. the day before a home game Closed on home gameday Closed at the discretion of the Athletic Department
• Security barricades will be set up on Colonial 'ULYH DQG :DOODFH :DGH WKDW ZLOO UHVWULFW WUDIÀF à RZ 6RPH DUH VHW XS RQ WKH PRUQLQJ EHIRUH D home game and additional barricades are set up on the morning of the home game. Vehicles parked in this secure area will be able to exit the area but will not be able to return until the area is released by law enforcement post game and the barricades are removed. • The student ticket gates (Gates 30 & 31) are located adjacent to Colonial Drive.
ber:
Remem
Remember: •
78 and 75 for students and their guests
Students who do not move their cars from the designated lots by 5 p.m. on the day before a home football game will be towed at their own expense ($100).
Do this
Saturday Getting into the Stadium on Game Day
PROHIBITED
• A purse bigger than an 8 ½ X 11 shee t of
pape
r (Not responsible for items left at gate)
1. Bring your Action Card!
• Outside food or
2. Follow the signs that lead to Gate 30 (upper deck) and Gate 31 (lower deck). Students will be able to enter through Gate 30 and Gate 31 only.
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3. The student section will include seating in the upper and lower bowls. Your ticket bowl assignment will be designated in MyTickets.
in the Stadium • Umbrellas • ArtiďŹ cial noisema
kers
• Flags or banners
on poles • Other prohibited items listed on UA’s Game Da y website
4. Lines will be very long, so expect delays. Give yourself 60 to 90 minutes to get into the stadium, whether or not you participate in student organization seating. Student organization seating is in effect until 45 minutes before kickoff. 5. Bringing prohibited items will increase the amount of time it takes to get into the stadium. (See list above.) UA is not responsible for items left at the entrance to the student gates. Prohibited items that are left at the gates will be discarded by security personnel. 6. If you donate your ticket after 5 p.m. Wednesday, you’ll receive a half-point (.5) penalty. 7. Tickets can be available on game day. Don’t forget to check MyTickets for available tickets. 8. Game Day Route will be the only bus service operation on Game Days. 9. 348-RIDE will not operate once the Game Day road closures go in effect.
Remember: • • • •
The student section will open 2 ½ hours before the game. Lines will be long so give yourself plenty of time to get into the game. Use your ticket! Students who do not use tickets assigned to them will receive 2 penalty points for each game their ticket goes unused. Students who receive 3.5 or more penalty points will not be able to purchase postseason tickets for this year and regular season and postseason tickets for fall 2016. You can take your name off the waiting list by logging into MyTickets and following the instructions to take your name off the waiting list for the ticket bank. You must track your own penalty total. The following penalty points apply: - You don’t attend the game yourself: 2 penalty points Ticket OfďŹ ce - 348-2262 - You don’t transfer your ticket to another UA student or rolltide.com donate it to the ticket bank: 2 penalty points Action Card 348-2288 Game Day Info - 262-2811 - You upgrade your ticket to general admission: 1 penalty point per upgrade actcard.ua.edu uagameday.com - You make a donation after 5 p.m. on Wednesday: .5 penalty point Parking & Transportation If your Action Card is lost on Game Day, replacement Action Cards are available at MyTickets - mybama.ua.edu or Room 170 Campus Parking Deck (bus hub) starting 3 hours prior to kick-off through the bamaparking.ua.edu UA mobile app - m.ua.edu/app beginning of halftime. Replacement cost is $35 and is billed to your student account. Temporary Action Cards are not accepted for Game Day entrance at student gates.
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Making the changes
By Tyler Waldrep | Assistant Sports Editor
W
ith just over three minutes left in Saturday night’s game against Ole Miss, Alabama quarterback Jake Coker walked out onto the field with a chance to win the game. The Crimson Tide had battled back from a 19 point fourth quarter deficit to draw within six. “I think we did [wear Ole Miss down], honestly,” left tackle Cam Robinson said. “Our style of play had taken a toll on them.” Two plays into what should have been Alabama’s final drive, Coker let a deep ball go as he was hit and the pass fell right into the arms of Rebel Tony Bridges. For Alabama fans, it was déjà vu. They had watched Ole Miss win by the exact same margin last season. Coker, like Sims last year, didn’t even need to take a shot that far down field, and like Sims, he would come to regret not having more patience. Alabama’s defense got the team the ball back, but 30 seconds wasn’t enough time to run an effective offense. That’s not to say that the effort went unnoticed. “You’ve never been in that situation before, so you never know how a team is going to respond, but I liked the resiliency that we showed,” Saban said. “I was pleased with the way the players responded in the game.” In the aftermath of the game, the Rebels celebrated. It was a historic win for the program. Ole Miss had only won once in Tuscaloosa and had never beaten the Crimson Tide in consecutive seasons. Seeing the goal post come down last year might have bothered Alabama fans, but the fact that nothing like that happened this year should bother them even more. The Rebel fan base believed in its team. Competing with, instead of upsetting, Alabama might be the new expectation. A few days prior to the game, Saban spoke about Alabama’s need to be adaptable when playing the Rebels, but the adjustments Alabama makes after the loss will be just as crucial to the team’s success. Alabama’s identity, especially offensively, remains uncertain, but
CW / Shelby Akin
Alabama might have finally found a quarterback. “I think we need to continue to develop [an identity on offense],” Saban said. “Jake [Coker] came into the game and played with some passion and showed great leadership and energy when he played.” The Crimson Tide does not have long to figure out that identity. Only one game separates the Crimson Tide from a road date against No. 7 Georgia. A win would keep Alabama alive in the playoff conversation, and a loss would all but eliminate it. As risky as they are, big games against teams like Georgia and No. 8 LSU might be Alabama’s best shot at making it into the playoff this year. A few weeks ago, the SEC West looked like a division race that was wide open, but things look different this side of Saturday. Now Arkansas has lost two straight, and Auburn’s offense seems stuck in reverse more often than not. All of a sudden, the Ole Miss game became a clash between what could likely end up being the two best teams in the division. Alabama didn’t come out on the right side of things, but players aren’t allowing themselves to look too far ahead. “We lose one game, [and] the sky’s falling because that’s kind of the standard we’ve set for ourselves,” Robinson said. “We lost to Ole Miss [last year] and we obviously made it to the playoffs. We’ll get it together.” Alabama currently needs Ole Miss to lose two of its remaining seven SEC games to make it to Atlanta. The Rebels managed to lose three down the stretch last season, but their schedule seems to set up more favorably for them this season. The only ranked opponents left on their schedule have to travel to Oxford. Cornerback Cyrus Jones said the team never lost hope on Saturday. He said the loss hurt, but the team isn’t going to blame each other going forward. “We going to come in, ready to work, hungry, and we’re just going to learn from this,” Jones said. “The season’s not over. Just this one game doesn’t define our season.”
11 Wilder fights for title defense in Birmingham SPORTS Thursday, September 24, 2015
By Elliott Propes | Staff Reporter
Amid the chaos unraveling on University Boulevard Friday afternoon, a gold Rolls-Royce parts crowds as it pulls up to the set of ESPN College Gameday, jerking to a halt. Out steps a smiling 6-foot-7-inch behemoth, a familiar face for some Tuscaloosans. Many remember the man parading down the same boulevard nine months ago, holding up high the heavy weight WBC world champion boxing belt he just captured. Deontay Wilder stepped on the stage of College Football Live and in front of him were seven punching bags with logos of the SEC West. Wilder was asked to decide which teams he thought were contenders or pretenders. The pretenders didn’t fair well. Wilder’s signature right hand punch sent the pretenders off the stage. ESPN hosts Desmond Howard and David Pollack hollered, astonished when the punches landed. Wilder soon left the national spotlight and went straight to the low-key storage units that housed the place he first sparred with no boxing experience in 2005, Skyy Boxing Gym. Escaping the fanfare that was gathering across the river, Wilder was ready to train in isolation. The calendar kept becoming smaller as just one week remained before he was forced to defend his title again. “I’m very excited,” Wilder’s coach Jay Deas said. “This is going to be huge. This is going to be packed out. It’s going to be the first heavyweight title fight broadcasted on free live NBC since 1985, which was the year Deontay was born.” Wilder will be defending his belt for the second time in his home state on Saturday, Sept. 26, in the BJCC Arena in Birmingham. Johann Duhaupas of France is looking to play spoiler,
coming off the best win of his career against former world title challenger Manuel Charr. “He’s strong, he’s got the height, he’s got the record, he’s never been stopped before, ever,” Wilder said. “He’s coming off of his best win, but I’m looking to come get him his first knockout—that’s for sure. So I’m definitely coming to give him his first knockout, and tell him welcome to Alabama.” Duhaupas is tall like Wilder at 6’5”. His record is an impressive 32-2, and he has never been knocked out. Wilder, though, has remained undefeated over his career and has amassed 33 wins by knockout on the way to a 34-0 record. “It’s a tough matchup—Duhaupas is 6’5” and 240 pounds–[he’s] never been stopped and [is] coming off the biggest win of his career. So, it’s a guy coming in with a lot of confidence,” Deas said. “He’s fought in 10 countries, so traveling is not an issue for him, it’s not like he is going to be freaked because he’s in a new place. So, he brings a lot to the table. You know we are in with a monster, but then again, so is he. He’s in with Deontay, and he’s never seen speed like he’s going to see with Deontay.” Wilder sat in the corner of the ring. He was away from all the cameras now. All that was on his mind was his mission. He began to wrap his hands. It was time for work. He only had five days left in Tuscaloosa, and then he was returning to Birmingham, which was something he stillcouldn’t quite believe. “It’s always a pleasure, an honor to be able to fight in my home state,” Wilder said. “You know when I set a goal to have boxing here in the state of Alabama, these are the things I was going for, I had dreamt of. You know, just for my dreams to come true right in front of my face, let me know, man, that this was supposed to happen.”
Tuscaloosa native and bronze medalist Deontay Wilder poses for a photo at his local gym. CW File
Men’s rugby team aspiring to win division By Matt Speakman | Staff Writer
The Alabama Crimson Tide Men’s rugby team picked up a 34-7 win over Ole Miss on Sept. 18. The Crimson Tide enjoyed success last season, making it to Collegiate Rugby Championship tournament for the first time in program history. The team was able to get national exposure as one of its games was televised on the NBC Sports network. Alabama made strides in the 2014-2015 season by winning the Southeastern Collegiate Rugby Conference’s Olympic competition. It also finished runner up to South Carolina in the 15’s Championship in its conference. With the program rising and enjoying recent successes, the players now have newfound expectations. Matthew Lund, a veteran who has been with the
team for four years, believes the can build off of the success of last season. “For us, anything beneath making it back to the conference final would be a failure,” Lund said. “We really want to win the division.” The recent success has caused an expansion in the program. The roster for the rugby team has grown. The team now feels confident in the amount of guys it can put out on the field, and the larger team allows the club to have depth. Since the team is a club sport, they do not recruit players to play rugby. These players join if they are interested. It’s a tough task for new players to transition into the style of play and level of conditioning required for the sport. “Most guys, whether they play basketball or football, are playing burst sports, so you are seven to 10 minutes, 20 seconds off,” Lund said. “Being able to play 80 minutes–two 40 minute halves
with a five minute break–where you are running all of the time is more kin to what a rugby player needs.” The structure of club teams can provide complications for the players involved. Students who decide to play rugby are not given the ability to plan their schedule around the sport, like some players could with basketball or football. Shawn Dawley, president of the rugby club, said this provides a challenge in continuity for the team. “We have a lot of guy[s] who need one class for their major so we will lose someone for that practice,” Dawley said. “It can be pretty challenging and you do not get your same team out there every day.” The Men’s rugby team is looking for continued support of its efforts as the club competes at home multiple times this year. Alabama will face off with Auburn in Tuscaloosa on Friday, Sept. 25.
Alabama competed in the Colegiate Rugby Championship for the first time in May of 2015. Photo courtesy of Shawn Dawley