Thomas University Men's Basketball Digital Media Guide 2015-2016 by TU Athletics

Green and White

One Team.

One Mission.

One Focus.

FINISH THE TASK!

THOMAS UNIVERSITY TABLE OF CONTENTS

THOMAS QUICK FACTS

Season Preview..............................................2-3

GENERAL

Schedule..........................................................4

Founded: 1950 Enrollment: 1,179 Nickname: Night Hawks Colors: Hunter Green & White President: Dr. Gary Bonvillian Director of Athletics: Mike Lee Athletics Department Phone: 229-226-1621 Athletics Department Fax: 229-584-2432

Roster...............................................................5 Player Profiles..............................................6-10 Coaching Staff...........................................11-13 2014-2015 Results & Statistics.................14-15 2014-2015 Achievements................................16 2015-2016 Opponents...............................17-24 Facilities....................................................26-28 Thomas University Profile...............................29 Staff/Administration......................................30

SPORTS INFORMATION Sports Information Director: Jason Hendrix SID Email: jhendrix@thomasu.edu SID Office Phone: 229-226-1621, ext. 1027 SID Mailing Address: 1550 Magnolia Street Thomasville, Ga. 31792 Website: http://www.TUNightHawks.com Twitter: @TU_Night_Hawks Facebook: thomasuniversityathletics COACHING STAFF Head Coach: Brent Crews HC Office Phone: 229-226-1621, ext. 1093 Email: bcrews@thomasu.edu Media guide written, designed, and produced by Jason Hendrix and edited by the Thomas University Athletics Staff. Copy contributed by Jacob Dennis. Photography contributed by Jason Hendrix, Rachel Wiggins, and Taylor Mitchell. ÂŠ 2015 - All rights reserved.

night hawks

thomas university men’s ba The 2015-2016 Thomas University men’s basketball schedule has been announced by first year head coach Brent Crews. The 32-game campaign is headlined by three exhibitions against NCAA Division I opponents and also features the TU Classic, a four-team tournament taking place in Thomasville in mid-November. Additionally, the Night Hawks will participate in the Daytona Mitsubishi/Kia Shootout in Daytona Beach, Fla., in December, where the team will face Embry-Riddle, who finished last season ranked third in the NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball Coaches’ Postseason Poll. Brent Crews’ first game in charge of the Night Hawks will come on Oct. 27 on the road against Point, a team that Thomas University routed 100-68 to open the 2014 season. TU will then travel to Middle Georgia State (Nov. 4) and Coastal Georgia (Nov. 7) before returning to Thomasville for the home opener on Nov. 11 against Brewton-Parker. The Night Hawks and Brewton-Parker split the season series in 2014, as TU won the first contest 82-70 before the Barons ended Thomas’ nine-game, season-opening winning streak by a score of 74-61 on Dec. 1. “Playing our first three games of the season on the road is exciting,” exclaimed Crews, “Our guys are ready for the challenge and are not intimidated by a tough schedule. We have been killing each other in open gym, been hitting the weights, have been conditioning early and hard, and now we have a chance to do it to someone else? Even better! Experience is the key motivator; if we can take hard challenges early and often, we can rise to the occasion with strength and discipline.” Thomas will then hit the road again for two contests against Edward Waters (Nov. 14) and Florida A&M (Nov. 18) before returning home to host the TU Classic. The midseason competition will feature Voorhees (Nov. 20), Edward Waters (Nov.21), and Webber International. Upon conclusion of the TU Classic, the Night Hawks face NCAA Division I opponent Jacksonville University on Nov. 23 before rematches with Brewton-Parker (Nov. 30) and Middle Georgia State (Dec. 2) lead the team to the beginning of Sun Conference action. Coach Crews and company will face Ave Maria, a team that managed just four TSC wins a season ago, on Dec. 5 before heading out on a four-game road trip to close the calendar year. December 7 hosts perhaps the most difficult of the team’s three exhibition games. The Night Hawks will face Kennesaw State, a team that defeated the aforementioned Jacksonville Dolphins twice last season. In this matchup, the Night Hawks will face former TU men’s basketball head coach Stephen Cox, who now serves as one of the three assistants on the Kennesaw State staff. Crews continued, “Our game versus Kennesaw is going to be an emotional contest for both teams’ players and staff. There are mixed emotions that are not going to be easy to face when squaring off with a former coach and players who know each other so well. We aren’t looking to make this a ‘personal’ game, but one that prepares us for our Sun Conference schedule.” After facing a Faulkner (Dec. 15) squad that finished with an impressive 21-10 record a season ago, Thomas will head to Daytona Beach, Fla., for the Daytona Mitsubishi/Kia Shootout. The Night Hawks will face what is predicted to be one of the toughest tests of the season in Daytona against Embry-Riddle, a team that Thomas University upset a season ago. The Eagles rolled into Thomasville on Jan. 20, ranked second in the nation and on a 17-game winning streak, but the Night Hawks denied Embry-Riddle’s quest for perfection with a 77-70 win, a feat that TU will undoubtedly hope to make a regular occurrence. The Eagles’ loss to the Night Hawks was the squad’s only regular season defeat in 2014-2015. Embry-Riddle, who made the jump to NCAA Division II this year, finished the 20142015 season with a 35-2 record, reaching the NAIA National Tournament’s Final Four. The Night Hawks’ second game of the Daytona Mitsubishi/Kia Shootout will be played against an opponent to be determined. Thomas University will face Allen on Jan. 2 in one final non-conference test before diving into TSC action for the remainder of the season. The Night Hawks ease into conference play with Florida Memorial, a team that won just two conference games a year ago, on Jan. 7 before facing Keiser (Jan. 9), formerly known as Northwood, and Southeastern (Jan. 14), two teams that finished with identical 10-8 conference marks in 2014. The Sun Conference was one of the better conferences in the country

asketball season preview in 2014, as six of ten conference teams finished the season over.500. A grueling stretch of six road contests in seven games continues with Webber International (Jan. 16), Johnson & Wales (Jan. 21) and Ave Maria (Jan. 23). The Hunter Green and White returns home for a one-game hiatus from the stretch of road games to face Warner (Jan.25), one of four teams that finished with an even .500 record in TSC action a season ago. The string of road matches will feature teams that posted a combined winning percentage of .446 (75-93) in 2014. Rematches with Florida Memorial (Jan. 28) and Keiser (Jan. 30) will propel the Night Hawks into the last month of the regular season. Thomas will play four of six February games at home entering postseason play, but the stretch of games will not be easy simply because of location. After matching up with Johnson & Wales (Feb. 6), the Night Hawks face St. Thomas, a team that finished second in TSC play a season ago, twice on Feb. 8 and Feb. 13, with a home game against Southeastern (Feb. 10) in between. The Feb. 10 matchup with the Fire is scheduled as the Night Hawks’ annual “Pink Game,” while Feb. 13 will be Senior Day. Thomas played closely-contested games with St. Thomas in 2014, as the teams split the two regular season meetings. The Night Hawks won 66-58 on Nov. 22 in Thomasville, while the Bobcats took the second meeting 68-64 on Jan. 31 in Miami Gardens, Fla. Rematches with Webber (Feb. 17) and Warner (Feb. 20) will conclude the regular season. In total, just 13 of Thomas University’s 32 scheduled games will be played in Thomasville. The roadheavy schedule will, however, prove beneficial in readying the Night Hawks, a team looking to establish itself as one of the best in TSC, for postseason play at season’s end. “Our guys are learning to give up the ball freely on the court,” summarized Crews. “We have a talented recruiting class and great experience from the returners. We are focused on playing together and focusing on the open man as at that moment, the open man is the best player on the court.”

GAME schedule Date

Time

Opponent

Location

TU Classic 11/20/2015 11/21/2015

7:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

Voorhees Edward Waters

Thomasville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga.

11/23/2015 11/30/2015 12/2/2015 12/05/2015 12/07/2015 12/15/2015

TBA 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. TBA TBA

Jacksonville! Brewton-Parker Middle Georgia State Ave Maria* Kennesaw State! Faulkner

Jacksonville, Fla. Mount Vernon, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Kennesaw, Ga. Montgomery, Ala.

10/27/2015 11/04/2015 11/07/2015 11/11/2015 11/14/2015 11/18/2015

7:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. TBA

Point Middle Georgia State Coastal Georgia Brewton-Parker Edward Waters Florida A&M!

West Point, Ga. Cochran, Ga. Brunswick, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Jacksonville, Fla. Tallahassee, Fla.

Daytona Mitsubishi / Kia Shootout 12/19/2015 7:00 p.m. Embry-Riddle (Fla.) 12/20/2015 TBA TBA

Daytona Beach, Fla. Daytona Beach, Fla.

01/02/2016 01/07/2016 01/09/2016 01/14/2016 01/16/2016 01/21/2016 01/23/2016 01/25/2016 01/28/2016 01/30/2016 02/06/2016 02/08/2016 02/10/2016 02/13/2016 02/17/2016 02/20/2016

Thomasville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Lakeland, Fla. Babson Park, Fla. North Miami, Fla. Ave Maria, Fla. Thomasville, Ga. Miami Gardens, Fla. West Palm Beach, Fla. Thomasville, Ga. Miami Gardens, Fla. Thomasville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Thomasville, Ga. Lake Wales, Fla.

4:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. TBA 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

Allen Florida Memorial* Keiser* Southeastern* Webber International* Johnson & Wales* Ave Maria* Warner* Florida Memorial* Keiser* Johnson & Wales* St. Thomas* Southeastern* St. Thomas*# Webber International* Warner*

All game times are in eastern time standard.

Home games in bold ! Exhibition

# Senior Day * Sun Conference Matchup

team roster # Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Year Hometown/Previous School 0

Devonte Birdsong

6-3

195 Jr.

Tyrome Sharpe

6-0

170 Fr. Chipley, Fla.

Javoris Cooks

6-1

185 So. Cordele, Ga.

DJ Roulhac

6-0

170 So. Cottondale, Fla./Cottondale HS

Demetrica Draggs

6-2

210 Fr. Cairo, Ga.

Ty Baker

6-6

185 Jr.

Treâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ford

6-0

175 R-So. Tallahassee, Fla./Tallahassee CC

TJ Rines

5-8

155 Jr.

Zack Norris

G/F 6-6

185 Fr. Wake Forest, N.C.

Ty Bull

6-5

210 Sr. McDonough, Ga./South Georgia State

Adonai Rogers

6-2

155 Jr.

Demetrius Rivers

6-3

175 Fr. Panama City, Fla.

Jamison Williams

6-1

205 Jr.

Jalen Bonds

G/F 6-4

220 Fr. Watkinsville, Ga.

Forrest Freeland

F/C 6-5

220 So. Tallahassee, Fla./Lagrange College

Raymond Appiah

6-8

245 Jr.

Andrea Robinson

6-6

210 Sr. Havana, Fla./Santa Fe College

Dante DiSipio

6-9

240 Fr. Lakeland, Fla.

West Palm Beach, Fla./Paris JC

Malone, Fla./Chipola College Clyo, Ga./South Georgia State

Lawrenceville, Ga./Berkmar HS Nahunta, Ga./South Georgia State

Tallahassee, Fla./Prempeh College

player profiles

#0 - Devonte Birdsong 6’3” - Junior - West Palm Beach, Fla. Guard

#1 - Tyrome Sharpe 6’0” - Freshman - Chipley, Fla. Guard

#2 - Javoris Cooks 6’1” - Sophomore - Cordele, Ga. Guard - @5_Cooks

#3 - DJ Roulhac 6’0” - Sophomore - Cottondale, Fla. Guard

player profiles

#4 - Demetrica Draggs 6’2” - Freshman - Cairo, Ga. Forward

#10 - Ty Baker 6’6” - Junior - Malone, Fla. Forward

#11 - Tre’ Ford 6’0” - RS-Sophomore - Tallahassee, Fla. Guard

#12 - TJ Rines 5’8” - Junior - Clyo, Ga. Guard

player profiles

#13 - Zack Norris 6’6” - Freshman - Wake Forest, N.C. Guard/Forward - @ZackBlair15

#14 - Ty Bull 6’5” - Senior - McDonough, Ga. Forward - @tbull17

#15 - Adonai Rogers 6’2” - Junior- Lawrenceville, Ga. Guard - @NightHawk__3

#20 - Demetrius Rivers 6’3” - Freshman - Panama City, Fla. Guard - @Rivers_d1

player profiles

#21 - Jamison Williams 6’3” - Junior - Nahunta, Ga. Guard

#23 - Jalen Bonds 6’4” - Freshman - Watkinsville, Ga. Guard/Forward - @JalenBonds30

#24 - Forrest Freeland 6’5” - Sophomore - Tallahassee, Fla. Forward/Center

#35 - Raymond Appiah 6’8” - Junior - Tallahassee, Fla. Center

player profiles

#42 - Andrea Robinson 6’6” - Senior - Havana, Fla. Forward

#50 - Dante DiSipio 6’9” - Freshman - Lakeland, Fla. Center - @Slate233

coaching staff

head coach Brent Crews Head Coach bcrews@thomasu.edu Brent Crews enters his first season as Thomas University’s head men’s basketball coach. Coach Crews joins the Night Hawks after previously serving as an assistant coach at the University of San Francisco for three seasons. He originally joined the Dons staff prior to the 20122013 season as the team’s video coordinator, but was promoted to assistant coach midway through the season. Prior to his appointment at USF, Crews served as an assistant coach at Chipola College during the 2011-2012 season. He also headed up the Florida Elite and Florida Family AAU teams from 20082011 and served as an individual trainer from 2007-2011. A two-year letter winner at Florida Atlantic University, Crews averaged 5.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 57 career games (54 starts) for the Owls from 2005-2007. As a junior, he started 26 of 27 games and led the team in assists (133), steals (43) and assist-to-turnover ratio (1.66). He also set a program record for best turnover-to-assist ratio in Atlantic Sun Conference games at 5.4. As a senior in 2006-2007, Crews averaged 5.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and dished out 140 assists from his point guard position in helping the Owls to a 16-15 overall record and a 10-8 mark in the Atlantic Sun Conference under first-year head coach Rex Walters. He was named the team’s best defensive player and earned the Earnest Crumbley Award for leading the team in assists. He began his collegiate career at Chipola College in Marianna, Fla., where he helped lead the Indians to consecutive state and NJCAA Regional VIII championships. The team combined for a 65-9 record and finished ranked in the Top 10 nationally in his two seasons (2003-2005). A native of Chipley, Fla., Crews earned his degree in social science from Florida Atlantic in 2007. Crews is joined by his wife, Andrea, and their two children, Jaden and Jaxson.

assistant coaches Justin Mann Athletic Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach Justin Mann enters his first season as the Athletic Assistant Coach for the men’s basketball team. Prior to his time at Thomas, Mann spent the last two seasons with the Eastern Nazarene College men’s basketball program. In two seasons, the Lions posted a 41-11 overall record and went 27-9 in Commonwealth Coast Conference play. In the 2013-2014 season, ENC finished second in the CCC regular season standings with a 13-5 league mark. Mann served as an assistant coach at Urbana University during the 2011-2012 season. Prior to his time with the Blue Knights, Mann also worked at Meridian Community College (2010-2011) as an assistant coach and at Metamora High School (2009) as the boys’ junior varsity head coach. During his collegiate playing career, Mann was a member of the Lander University men’s basketball program for two seasons. Mann spent one season at Kishwaukee College (Ill.) where he averaged 11 points, nine rebounds, three assists and two blocks. He began his collegiate career at Northland Community and Technical College, averaging 10 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game in one season with the Pioneers.The Peoria, Ill., native earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Lander University in Greenwood, S.C., (2009) and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration from Thomas. Currently, Mann resides in Thomasville, Ga.

Lamar Moore Athletic Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach Lamar Moore enters his first season as the Athletic Assistant Coach for the men’s basketball team. Prior to joining Thomas, Moore spent time working in law enforcement while staying connected to the athletics community as a volunteer coach with the Police Athletic League and Key West High School’s basketball programs. In the late 2000s, Moore competed professionally for the American Basketball Association (2006-2007), Continental Basketball Association (2007), NBA D-League (2008), the Ukraine Basketball Tour (2009), and Howard Pulley Pro-Am Basketball Summer League (2010). During his collegiate playing career, Moore was a member of the Florida Atlantic University men’s basketball program as a teammate to TU’s head men’s basketball coach, Brent Crews. The six foot guard was a two year letter winner and was named team captain for the 2005-2006 season. He began his collegiate career at Vermillion Community College in Ely, Minn., under head coach Paul McDonald. As a sophomore, Moore was named Third-Team NJCAA Division II All-American and First-Team All-Region, averaging 21 points, six rebounds, and two steals per game. The Key West, Fla., native earned an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts and Science from VCC and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from FAU (2007). Moore is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Thomas. Currently, Moore resides in Thomasville, Ga.

Chris Seay Volunteer Assistant Coach Chris Seay enters his first season as the Volunteer Assistant Coach for the men’s basketball team. Prior to joining Thomas, Seay spent the past 10 years in secondary education as a teacher and coach. Most recently, Seay was the assistant varsity football coach at Thomas County Central High School (2012-2013). Previously, Seay spent three years at the Brookwood School coaching varsity football while also served as the head varsity girls basketball coach and head varsity boys and girls track coach. Seay also spent a duration with Lee County High School (2008-2009) and his alma mater Americus High School (2004-2005) as the assistant varsity football coach, assistant varsity boys and girls basketball coach and head junior varsity boys and girls basketball coach. The Americus, Ga., native earned a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Physical Education from St. Ambrose University (2003). Currently, Seay resides in Thomasville, Ga.

2014-2015 season results Overall Pct. 18-11 .621 Date 10/28/2014 11/1/2014 11/4/2014 11/8/2014 11/11/2014 11/15/2014 11/19/2014 11/22/2014 11/29/2014 12/1/2014 12/6/2014 12/13/2014 12/16/2014 12/28/2014 1/3/2015 1/7/2015 1/10/2015 1/15/2015 1/17/2015 1/20/2015 1/22/2015 1/24/2015 1/29/2015 1/31/2015 2/5/2015 2/7/2015 2/10/2015 2/12/2015 2/14/2015 2/17/2015 2/21/2015

Conf. 9-9

Pct. .500

Home 13-2

Away 5-9

Neutral 0-0

Opponent Location Point Thomasville, Ga. Pensacola Christian Pensacola, Fla. Brewton-Parker Thomasville, Ga. Columbia International Thomasville, Ga. Middle Georgia Thomasville, Ga. Truett-McConnell Cleveland, Ga. Middle Georgia Cochran, Ga. St. Thomas* Thomasville, Ga. Pensacola Christian Thomasville, Ga. Brewton-Parker Mount Vernon, Ga. Gardner-Webb (Exh.) Boiling Springs, N.C. Florida Memorial* Thomasville, Ga. Coastal Georgia Thomasville, Ga. High Point (Exh.) High Point, N.C. Kennesaw State (Exh.) Kennesaw, Ga. Webber International* Babson Park, Fla. Warner* Thomasville, Ga. Johnson & Wales (Fla.)* North Miami, Fla. Southeastern* Lakeland, Fla. Embry-Riddle (Fla.)* Thomasville, Ga. Northwood* Thomasville, Ga. Ave Maria* Thomasville, Ga. Florida Memorial* Miami Gardens, Fla. St. Thomas* Miami Gardens, Fla. Warner* Lake Wales, Fla. Webber International* Thomasville, Ga. Southeastern* Thomasville, Ga. Ave Maria* Ave Maria, Fla. Johnson & Wales (Fla.)* Thomasville, Ga. Embry-Riddle (Fla.)* Daytona Beach, Fla. Northwood* West Palm Beach, Fla.

Sun Conference Tournament 02/26/2015 Southeastern Home games in bold

Lakeland, Fla. * Sun Conference Matchup

Result W 100-68 W 92-85 W 82-70 W 104-59 W 83-81 W 78-64 W 100-97 W 66-58 W 83-79 L 61-74 L 66-82 W 83-75 W 81-73 L 48-85 L 66-92 L 70-72 L 70-81 L 73-75 L 80-93 W 77-70 W 87-73 L 56-58 W 64-57 L 64-68 W 87-81 W 78-67 W 79-76 L 77-83 W 73-66 L 70-94 L 66-83 L 64-86

2014-2015 individual stats

Player Highs

2014-2015 achievenments great fans for a 13-2 home court advantage

alan love first team all-sun conference ended #2 ERAUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 17 game winning streak with a 77-70 victory on january 20, 2015

2015-2016 OPPONENTS

2015-2016 opponents Point University @PointSkyhawks October 27, 2015 | 7:00 p.m. | West Point, Ga. Coach: Alan Wilson | 2014 Record: 4-26 (3-15 Appalachian Athletic) The Breakdown: Despite struggling to a 4-26 record and losing Second Team All-Appalachian Athletic Conference guard Erik Fields to graduation, the SkyHawks have reason to believe that the team’s win total could at least double this season. Coach Alan Wilson’s team graduated just two seniors after the 2015, and five of the team’s 13 rostered players were freshmen. That kind of retention, coupled with the signing of Columbus High School standout Karl Ivey II, bodes well for the success of Point moving forward. The SkyHawks played well down the stretch last season, winning three out of six games from Jan. 24-Feb. 14. Each of the team’s wins during that stretch came by double digits, including a 74-63 victory over Reinhardt, a team that finished 2015 17-11 and earned the fourth seed in the AAC Conference. The Night Hawks met Point once last season, a 100-68 season-opening win for TU in Thomasville.

Middle Georgia State University November 4, 2015 | 7:30 p.m. | Cochran, Ga. December 2, 2015 | 7:30 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@MGAKnights

Coach: Scott Moe | 2014 Record: 11-13 (7-11 Southern States) The Breakdown: After an impressive first season in the NAIA, Middle Georgia State figures to be one of the toughest games on Thomas University’s 2015 slate. The Knights are returning nearly all of a 2014 team that was nearly .500 in its inaugural season in a new classification, a feat many teams can’t claim. MGSU knocked off fifth-ranked William Carey on Jan. 2 for the school’s first ever victory over a Top 10 opponent, and that win surely won’t be the last. The Knights were difficult at home, posting an 8-4 record, and the team played a difficult schedule that should also prove beneficial in 2015. MGSU played five teams ranked in the Top 14, posting a 1-4 record but playing most of those games closely. The team returns David Bivins and Ryan Wilkins, two of the Knights’ top scorers from a season ago. Bivins and Wilkins each scored 24 in a season-ending 92-81 victory over Coastal Georgia. The Night Hawks met Middle Georgia State twice in 2014, two of Thomas’ most thrilling victories of the season. TU won 83-81 on Nov. 11 at home before traveling to Cochran just eight later to beat the Knights 100-97.

College of Coastal Georgia November 7, 2015 | 7:00 p.m. | Brunswick, Ga.

@CCGAAthletics

Coach: Jesse Watkins | 2014 Record: 4-25 (2-16 Southern States) The Breakdown: Coastal Georgia struggled to a 4-25 record a season ago, and the team’s top player and leading scorer since the 2012-13 season, Reggie Burke, graduated at the conclusion of the season, leaving a scoring void that will be difficult to fill in 2015. The Mariners will, however, return defensive cornerstone Milton Geddes, who blocked 57 shots to set a school record as a junior last year. Despite the voids left by Burke and Darrean Wyatt, the team’s leading rebounder, there will be capable candidates who could step up and replace the missing production. Coastal Georgia will roster five seniors, four juniors and just one freshman, making for an experienced team capable of increasing, and maybe doubling, the Mariners’ win total from last season. The team’s four victories in 2014 came against Southeastern, an 18-win team in the Sun Conference, Edward Waters, Loyola University, and Mobile. The Night Hawks and Mariners met once last season, an 81-73 Thomas University victory on Dec. 16 in Thomasville.

2015-2016 opponents Brewton-Parker College November 11, 2015 | 7:30 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga. November 30, 2015 | 7:30 p.m. | Mount Vernon, Ga.

@GoBaronsGo

Coach: Gavin Chapman | 2014 Record: 15-14 (7-11 Southern States) The Breakdown: The Night Hawks’ first home game of 2015 will come on Nov. 11 against Brewton Parker, a team that TU faced twice in 2014. The Barons will start the year ranked 33rd nationally after a 2014 season that saw the team post 15 victories in one of the best years in school history. Brewton Parker will be without three All-Conference performers from a season ago, but the team does return all three of its captains in Warren LeBeauf, Vershawn Mannings, and Justin Quarterman. LeBeauf got off to a hot start in 2014, averaging 17 points per game while leading the Barons to an 8-2 mark in the team’s first 10 games. Brewton Parkers best stretch of the 2014 season occurred on Nov. 6-Dec. 1, when the Barons won five out of seven games. Also included during that stretch was an 85-71 loss to Troy University, a Division 1 opponent who won 10 games last year. The Night Hawks and Barons’ split the schools’ meetings last year, with TU winning 82-70 on Nov. 4 before Brewton Parker evened the score with a 74-61 win in Mount Vernon on Dec. 1.

Edward Waters College November 14, 2015 | 7:00 p.m. | Jacksonville, Fla. November 21, 2015 | 3:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@EWCTigers

Coach: Frank Burnell | 2014 Record: 16-13 (6-8 Gulf Coast Athletic) The Breakdown: An impressive 2014 season saw the Tigers post 16 wins, but Edward Waters graduated six seniors after a first round exit in the GCAC Tournament and will be looking for production from younger players moving forward. Edward Waters lost four games to ranked opponents, including twice to conference foe Talladega, by an average of 12.75 points per game. The Tigers alternated wins and losses as much as was possible in 2014, as the team never had a winning streak or a losing streak longer than three games. The team’s season-long winning streak came at the optimal time, however, as Edward Waters won its final three regular season games against Tougaloo, Dillard, and Vorhees. That streak was snapped when the Tigers lost 80-70 to Philander Smith in the first round of the GCAC tournament. The only two seniors listed on the roster, Keith Williams and LaQuan Kirce, are top candidates to lead Edward Waters as the team attempts to duplicate its above .500 record from a season ago. The Nov. 14 meeting will be the first ever matchup between the Night Hawks and Tigers.

Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (Exhibition) November 18, 2015 | TBA | Tallahassee, Fla.

@FAMUAthletics

Coach: Byron Samuels | 2014 Record: 2-27 (2-14 Mid-Eastern Athletic) The Breakdown: Thomas University’s first “exhibition” of the 2015 season will come against the Division 1 Florida A&M Rattlers in Tallahassee, Fla., on Nov. 18. The Rattlers struggled to a 2-27 mark last season, but the signing of JUCO point guard Elijah Mays could provide a significant boost to the team’s back court. The highlight of FAMU’s season came in the Rattlers’ last game of the season, a 64-57 comeback win over visiting Savannah State. Jermaine Ruttley scored 28 points that night, including 21 in the second half, a trend that Florida A&M hopes will continue during the senior guard’s 2015 campaign. The matchup versus the Rattlers and the subsequent exhibition match with Jacksonville University will be great for measuring the Night Hawks progress as the team enters conference play against Ave Maria on Dec. 5.

2015-2016 opponents Voorhees College November 20, 2015 | 7:30 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@VoorheesCollege

Coach: Derrick Mitchell | 2014 Record: 10-36 (0-0 Association of Independent Institutions) The Breakdown: Voorhees basketball will move from the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference to the Association of Independent Institutions for the 2015-16 season. Despite winning just 13 games last season, the Tigers return seven of the team’s eight leading scorers for a year that could see Vorhees compete for the A.I.I. crown. Desmond Louis averaged nearly 20 points per game in 2014 and is the team’s top returning scorer, but he is joined by Jerrodd Brown (17 PPG) and Marcus Hogan (12 PPG) as players capable of carrying the team. Brown garnered Second Team All-GCAC honors a season ago. The Tigers have also recruited well recently, as the team has added assist-oriented guards Keyonis Phillips and Jeffrey Mack to boost the team’s already strong back court. The Night Hawks and Tigers did not face each other in 2014.

Jacksonville University (Exhibition) November 23, 2015 | TBA | Jacksonville, Fla.

@JUDolphins

Coach: Tony Jasick | 2014 Record: 10-22 (4-10 Atlantic Sun) The Breakdown: The Night Hawks second scrimmage versus an NCAA Division I opponent will be on Nov. 23, as Brent Crews and company will travel south to face the Dolphins of Jacksonville University. The Dolphins managed just 10 wins in 2014, but Tony Jasick and company closed the season as one of the hottest teams in the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Dolphins season came to an end in the A-Sun Quarterfinals against Florida Gulf Coast, the team dubbed as “Dunk City” after an historic Cinderella run in the 2013 NCAA tournament, but even that game was closely-contested. Jacksonville returns two of the best players in the Atlantic Sun in 2015 in Kori Babineaux and Antwon Clayton. Babineaux, in addition to being placed on the All-Conference Second Team, was named the recipient of the inaugural A-Sun Newcomer of the Year award for his impressive all-around season. He was the only player in the Dolphins’ conference to rank in the top 10 in scoring, assists, steals and field goal percentage. He averaged 14.6 PPG. Clayton was named to the All-Freshmen team, as he led all A-Sun rookies in rebounding (5.2 RPG).

Ave Maria University December 5, 2015 | 3:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga. January 23, 2016 | 3:00 p.m. | Ave Maria, Fla.

@Gyrenes

Coach: John Lamanna | 2014 Record: 11-19 (4-14 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: The Night Hawks will get an early look at a conference opponent on Dec. 5, when the team faces Sun Conference foe Ave Maria in TU Gymnasium. The offseason has been a transition period for the Gyrenes, as the team will now be under the leadership of first year head coach John Lamanna. The new Ave Maria head man brings 15 years of experience to the Sun Conference, including stops as an assistant at the University of California and as a head coach at Franciscan University. Two of the Gyrenes top three scorers from a season ago have graduated, but the team will return 6-foot-9 junior Brandon Pasker. Pasker averaged an impressive 11.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, and shot 68% from the foul line during his sophomore season. With a top player returning and the addition of a new coach, the Gyrenes are poised to eclipse last season’s total of four conference victories. Ave Maria had Thomas’ number a season ago, defeating the Night Hawks twice by a mere eight combined points.

2015-2016 opponents Kennesaw State University (Exhibition) December 7, 2015 | TBA | Kennesaw, Ga.

@KSUOwlNation

Coach: Al Skinner | 2014 Record: 10-22 (4-10 Atlantic Sun) The Breakdown: Kennesaw State will be Thomas University’s final NCAA Division I opponent during the 2015-16 season. The Owls are led by veteran head coach Al Skinner, best known for his time at the helm of Boston College basketball. Skinner was named the 2000-2001 Big East and NCAA Coach of the Year, and four seasons later he guided the Eagles as high as #4 in the AP Poll en route to a 20-0 start. Skinner made an offseason addition to his staff, adding former Night Hawk head coach Stephen Cox to his group of assistants. The Owls won just 10 games last season, but the team will return its two top scorers as it looks to become more competitive in the Atlantic Sun. Yonel Brown, a senior guard, averaged 15.2 PPG to lead Kennesaw State in 2014. He shot 90% from the free throw line and added 38 steals to lead the team. He is joined by Nigel Pruitt, a senior forward who averaged 12.2 PPG during his junior campaign. Kennesaw State plays one of the most difficult non-conference schedules of any A-Sun team in 2015, as the team will face the likes of Alabama, LSU, Arizona State, West Virginia, Louisville, Indiana and Mercer before jumping into conference play on Jan. 9. The Night Hawks faced the Owls once last season, a 92-66 Kennesaw State win on Jan. 3.

Faulkner University December 15, 2015 | TBA | Montgomery, Ala.

@FaulknerEagle

Coach: Scott Sanderson | 2014 Record: 21-10 (12-6 Southern States) The Breakdown: Faulkner hit its stride down the stretch in 2014, winning 10 consecutive games from Jan. 24-Feb. 26 before ultimately bowing out in the SSAC Tournament quarterfinals. The Eagles return top scorer Nick Drake, a senior guard who averaged 14.6 PPG and shot nearly 46% from the floor last season. The team also returns junior Di’mar Hill, Faulkner’s leading assist man in 2014, and four key seniors, making for a key nucleus of players that should allow Faulkner to be extremely competitive again in 2015. The Eagles were proficient in both 3-point defense (30.3%) and 3-pointers made per game (8.42) a season ago, as the team ranked in the top 15 nationally in both categories. The Night Hawks did not face Faulkner last season.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University December 19, 2015 | 7:00 p.m. | Daytona Beach, Fla.

@ERAUAthletics

Coach: Steve Ridder | 2014 Record: 3-9 (2-5 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: Thomas University will travel to Daytona Beach, Fla., on Dec. 19 to face former Sun Conference foe Embry-Riddle in the Daytona Mitsubishi/Kia Shootout. The Eagles lone conference lost last season came at the hands of the Night Hawks, as TU overcame a halftime deficit to protect its home floor in one of the biggest NAIA upsets of 2014. Adonai Rogers, a junior guard for the Night Hawks, poured in 15 points on 6-11 shooting to lead the upset charge. Embry-Riddle went on a tear after the defeat, reeling off 18 consecutive wins before eventually losing in the NAIA II Men’s Basketball National Championship semifinals. The game was the Eagles’ final NAIA game after competing in the league for nearly 30 years. The Eagles will return top scorer Dalton Barnes, a junior guard who averaged 15.2 points per game. The team will also return Joseph Gonzalez and Reed Ritter, rising seniors who averaged 9.8 and 9.1 points per game, respectively, a season ago. After Thomas’ upset win on Jan. 20 Embry-Riddle exacted revenge, ousting the Night Hawks 94-70 on Feb. 17. The Night Hawks will face an additional opponent to be determined in the Daytona Mitsubishi/ Kia Shootout on Dec. 20.

2015-2016 opponents Allen University January 2, 2016 | 4:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@AllenU_1870

Coach: Mat Dunn | 2014 Record: 6-19 (1-3 Association of Independent Institutions) The Breakdown: Despite winning just six games a season ago, Allen University still had a reasonably successful postseason run. The Yellow Jackets defeated rival Morris College in the first round of the conference tournament for the team’s second A.I.I win of the year. Allen will return two key players in sophomore Emaray Johnson and senior Derrick McCord, giving the team the prospects to compete for a conference title in 2015. Johnson was named the Newcomer of the Year in the A.I.I. in addition to earning Honorable Mention All-Conference Honors, while McCord was named A.I.I Defensive Player of the Year. The Yellow Jackets will face South Carolina on Nov. 8 in the team’s most difficult of the 201516 season. It is the first time in history that the two schools have met on the hardwood. The Jan. 2 contest will be Thomas University’s final non-conference game of the season.

Florida Memorial University January 7, 2016 | 7:30 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga. January 28, 2016 | TBA | Miami Gardens, Fla.

@GoFMULions

Coach: Artis Maddox | 2014 Record: 3-25 (1-16 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: Artis Maddox will begin his first season at the helm of FMU basketball looking to rebuild a program that managed just three wins last season. After a dismal start to the 2014-15 season the Lions performed better down the stretch, winning two out of three games from Feb. 7-Feb. 14. Additionally, FMU lost 10 games by 10 points or less, leading many to believe that the Lions will take a big step forward this season under new leadership. The team returns leading scorer Samuel Dorismond, a senior post player who averaged a whopping 18.6 points per game during his junior season. The Lions’ will also return sophomore Sterling Ferguson, a player who had a solid rookie season with the potential to develop into a top scorer. Thomas University faced Florida Memorial twice last season and won both contests. The Night Hawks defeated the Lions 83-75 on Dec. 13 before a 64-57 victory on Jan. 29.

Keiser University January 9, 2016 | 3:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga. January 30, 2016 | 4:00 p.m. | West Palm Beach, Fla.

@KUSeahawks

Coach: Rollie Massimino | 2014 Record: 18-12 (10-8 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: Keiser basketball is led by legendary head coach Rollie Massimino, the pilot to Villanova’s unexpected run to the 1984-85 NCAA National Championship. Massimino’s Wildcats defeated John Thompson’s Georgetown Hoyas 66-64 to cap one of the most improbable runs in college basketball postseason history. Massimino has been the head coach at Keiser since 2006. Key to the Seahawks’ 2015 hopes is Andrija Sarenac, the 2014-15 Sun Conference Freshman of the Year. He averaged 7.4 points per game during his rookie campaign, but went on a scoring spree over the last month of the season, a large portion of which came from behind the arch, to showcase his full potential heading into his sophomore year. Keiser won a season-high seven consecutive games from Nov.18-Dec.18, a stretch that saw the team post over 90 points three times, including a 100-89 win over Florida National University. The Seahawks, a team that generally faces stout competition early in the season, will face two NCAA Division I opponents this season in Dartmouth and Vermont. The team faced Iowa, Villanova, and Wichita State in 2014. All three of those teams made the NCAA Tournament in 2014, including Villanova who made the tournament as a No. 1 seed. The Night Hawks faced Keiser, formerly known as Northwood, twice a season ago, as each team won by double figures at home. Thomas won 87-73 in Thomasville on Jan. 22, but the Seahawks leveled the season series on Feb. 21 with a resounding 83-66 victory.

2015-2016 opponents Southeastern University January 14, 2016 | 7:30 p.m. | Lakeland, Fla. February 10, 2016 | 5:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@FireAthletics

Coach: R-Jay Barsh | 2014 Record: 18-12 (10-8 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: After advancing to the Sun Conference Championship for the first time in school history, the Southeastern Fire will look to continue to establish themselves as a conference title contender for years to come. In order to establish that dominance, however, the Fire will need to replace the production left by NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball Second Team All-American guard Andre’ Winston. Winston averaged 22.3 points per game and dropped 38 in the Sun Conference title game against Embry-Riddle. Southeastern has six seniors and two juniors on its 2015-16 roster, so there will be several veteran players who are candidates to fill Winston’s production. The Fire will face Florida State in Tallahassee, Fla., on Nov. 9, a matchup with an NCAA Division I team that landed one of the top recruiting classes in all of basketball this offseason. Southeastern was Thomas University’s most common opponent last season, as the school’s played twice in the regular season and once in the conference tournament. The Night Hawks split the regular season series with the Fire, winning 79-76 at home on Feb. 10 but losing on the road in Lakeland, Fla., 93-80 on Jan. 17. The Fire won the conference tournament meeting 86-64.

Webber International University January 16, 2016 | 3:00 p.m. | Babson Park, Fla. February 17, 2016 | 5:30 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@WebberAthletics

Coach: John Shoffner | 2014 Record: 13-19 (9-9 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: Despite struggling to a record six games under .500, Webber posted a respectable 9-9 mark in conference play and won a play-in game against Ave Maria to earn the right to compete in the Sun Conference tournament. The Warriors figure to be an inexperienced squad this season, as the team rosters just two seniors after graduating four last year. Webber International does, however, have returning talent that performed well last season. Senior Dewaine Lyals and sophomore Jovany Deceus both performed well in the team’s play-in game on Feb. 24. Lyals, a forward, scored 12 points, three steals and two blocks in the contest while Deceus, also a forward, added 11 points and six boards. The strong front court play for Webber at the end of last season bodes well for the team’s chances this year. The Night Hawks split two regular season meetings with the Warriors. Thomas University won 78-67 at home on Feb. 7, but lost 72-70 on the road in just the second game of TSC action on Jan. 7.

Johnson & Wales University January 21, 2016 | 7:30 p.m. | North Miami, Fla. February 6, 2016 | 4:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@JWUNorthMiami

Coach: David Graham | 2014 Record: 18-12 (9-9 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: Johnson & Wales was a formidable opponent a season ago, as the team posted a respectable 18-win season. The Wildcats’ most impressive performance of the year might’ve come in a loss, however, as the team nearly upset second-ranked Embry-Riddle on Feb. 21. The upset bid fell short, however, making Thomas University the only school to beat Embry-Riddle in the regular season. The Wildcats figure to have a say in who wins the Sun Conference title in the upcoming season, as the team graduated just two seniors last year and returns a key nucleus of players. Junior Ricardo Suarez and senior Jumaoke Smith, the two players who led the near-upset attempt on Feb. 21, are Johnson & Wales’ two best scorers, a fact that bodes well for improvement for the Wildcats in 2015. The Night Hawks posted a 1-1 record versus Johnson & Wales last season. Thomas University lost the first game between the schools 75-73 on Jan. 15, but TU exacted revenge on Feb. 14 with a 73-66 home triumph over the Wildcats.

2015-2016 opponents Warner University January 25, 2016 | 7:30 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga. February 20, 2016 | 4:00 p.m. | Lake Wales, Fla.

@WarnerRoyal

Coach: Sean Hanrahan | 2014 Record: 20-11 (9-9 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: Warner University was another talented TSC team from last season, but the team was one of four teams to post a 9-9 record, a statistic that speaks to the overall depth of the conference. Warner will return its top player in junior Warren Hall, a First Team All-TSC selection last season. Hall has garnered All-Conference awards in his first two collegiate seasons. As a freshman he was named Second-Team All-Conference, but the talented guard managed to eclipse his terrific rookie season in 2014-15. As a sophomore Hall averaged 19.1 points per game, which ranked second in the Sun Conference. He was in the top 40 nationally in points per game, steals per game, and total steals. The Royals roster six freshman this season, so a younger player will be expected to step up and help Hall carry some of the offensive load. Thomas University split two regular season meetings with Warner during the 2014-15 season. The Night Hawks lost 81-70 at home on Jan. 10, but the team evened the score with the Royals on Feb. 5 with a 87-81 road victory.

Ave Maria University February 8, 2016 | 8:00 p.m. | Miami Gardens, Fla. February 13, 2016 | 4:00 p.m. | Thomasville, Ga.

@STU_Athletics

Coach: Patrick Gayle | 2014 Record: 17-13 (11-7 The Sun Conference) The Breakdown: St. Thomas finished second in the Sun Conference in 2014-15, a season that saw the Bobcats post 11 conference wins and receive votes for the national Top 25 on multiple occasions. Patrick Gayleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s squad returns several of its top players from a season ago, leading many to dub the Bobcats TSC favorites after the departure of Embry-Riddle. St. Thomas returns junior guard Michael Walker, who lead the team with 13.5 PPG as a sophomore. The team also returns Mikon Hewitt and James Vice, players who averaged 8.1 and 6.9 PPG, respectively, last season. The Bobcats made it to the NAIA National Tournament for the fourth consecutive season and the seventh time in school history. Gayle has led the team to the national tournament in each of his three seasons at the helm. St. Thomas lost to No. 3 seed Cornerstone 74-58 in the first round of the NAIA National Tournament last season. The Night Hawks met the Bobcats just one time last season, a 68-64 St. Thomas victory on Jan. 31 in Miami Gardens, Fla.

Thomas graduated its first class since the programs reinstatement in 2012. Pictured (L to R) are Rodney Sturkie, Alan Love, Marcus Humose, Max Grace, and Keldrick Davis.

No Matter Where Life takes You, is there. CNS-INTERNET.COM | 229-227-7001

athletic facilities In the fall of 2012, Thomas University opened its West Campus, which is located at the corner of Pinetree Boulevard and Magnolia Street in Thomasville, Ga., about one mile from the Main Campus. West Campus contains the athletic departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offices, new Student Life Center, which is home to TUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s athletic training room and state-of-the-art fitness center and weight room, and newly renovated gymnasium. Welcome Lobby in the Student Life Center When you arrive at the Thomas University Athletic Department, you will be greeted by our staff with open arms. Once inside the building, visitors will see our Champions Wall that features past conference championships, national tournament qualifiers, individual recognitions, coach of the year plaques, retired jerseys, national championship trophies, and an assortment of other awards. Guests to the athletic department can relax in our comfy seating area and read a magazine or watch programming on our big screen television. Staff Offices & Magnolia Conference Room The athletic department offices are housed within the Magnolia Street complex. This area of the building features ample space for each coaching staff, administrator, and our sports information department. The office entrance area houses a conference wall that features placards of all Sun Conference members and a sitting area highlighted by the 2004 NAIA Softball National Championship trophy and rings. Just a few steps past the entrance lobby sits the Magnolia Conference Room. There, the TU Athletic Department holds staff meetings, team meetings, pre-game meals, hosts recruits, watches training videos, and uses as a common work place for staff. Teams hold their film sessions, media day meetings, post-game interviews, and other activities in this room on a daily basis. The Magnolia Conference Room features a large table top surface with seating room for groups ranging from two to 25 plus. The room also features a big screen television for film sessions, news, and training videos.

athletic facilities Fitness Center/Weight Room

Whether you are looking to add inches to your biceps, drop inches from your weight line, or get in a daily healthy fitness routine, the Thomas University Fitness Center and Weight Room are open to all TU students, staff, and faculty during set hours. The fitness center and weight room equipment includes a full range of free weights, supported weights, lifting stations, strength machines, elliptical trainers, treadmills, and bicycles both recumbent and up right. All visitors must present their Thomas University ID upon entry and use a green towel to clean and wipe down the equipment when use is completed.

TU Gymnasium The Thomas University Gymnasium is the home court for our men’s and women’s basketball programs. In the Fall 2012, Thomas University opened its West Campus, which is located at the corner of Pinetree Boulevard and Magnolia Street in Thomasville about one mile from the Main Campus. The West Campus houses the gymnasium and new Student Life Center, which is home to the fitness center and athletic training room. While a patron at TU athletic events, fans have a close-to-thecourt presence that makes them feel apart of the game. Spectators can enjoy refreshments from the concession stands, pick up Thomas University athletics merchandise, or interact with halftime contests. The newly renovated gymnasium features a classic wooden finish and ample seating for home competitions. Our facility includes five locker rooms, two for our Night Hawks and Lady Night Hawks, two for visiting opponents, and one for referees and game officials. Our men’s and women’s basketball games are broadcasted live via Stretch Internet and feature live statistics for every competition via DakStats. Just a short drive from main campus and the dorms, students have an electric atmosphere to show up and cheer on their classmates.

athletic facilities Athletic Training Room The athletic training room (ATR) is designed to allow TU’s athletic training staff to prevent injuries, evaluate student-athletes who may have suffered an injury, and offer aid with general questions about sports medicine, injury prevention, health, and fitness. The over 1,600 square foot facility is equipped with observation tables, first aid supplies, rehabilitation equipment, and a 800 square foot cold whirlpool room. The training room serves as a center for student-athletes who have suffered an injury that may require rehabilitation to a muscle group. The ATR enables athletic trainers to process information to follow-up with student-athletes who suffer an injury to ensure they have recovered completely in the future. Athletic Training Room Hours Monday-Thursday: 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Friday: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Visiting Team Information •The Athletic Training Room (ATR) is located at 1550A Magnolia Street on Thomas University’s West Campus inside the Student Life Building. •The ATR is open at least one hour prior to game time and 30 minutes after the game’s completion. •A Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) will be present at all home events and competitions. •The ATR has an ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hydrocollator packs, and an ice machine available. •Emergency equipment available includes: AED, splint kit, spine board, and crutches. •Each team will be provided with water and cups or water bottles. •The TU athletic training staff will assist teams traveling without an ATC, but please contact the TU’s athletic training office ahead of time to make arrangements. •Teams traveling without an ATC must bring their own medical kit. •If your team is traveling with an ATC and needs to use the ATR, please contact the TU ATR to set up a treatment time.

university profile

Thomas University is an independent, not-for-profit, regionally-accredited institution whose mission is to provide an educational experience that explores and develops each student’s full potential. Quality education is offered through a highly interactive dynamic learning environment. Students are challenged through rigorous intellectual studies by faculty members who are valued for their professional excellence and expertise both in teaching and in their disciplines. TU faculty choose to teach at Thomas University because of their commitment to teaching and scholarship in the student-centered environment of a small private university. They strive for scholarly and professional achievement as well as service to the student body, university and wider community. TU offers students the opportunity to connect with campus life and with the community at large. Campus activities embrace the city of Thomasville and Thomas County. TU’s campus extends to satellite programs in Tallahassee, Fla.; Moultrie, Ga.; Bainbridge, Ga.; and six other MEd satellite campuses throughout the state of Georgia. In addition, many students complete degrees through TU’s online programs. Many of our students bring the community to us. Our student body includes local professionals returning to college to further their careers. They often bring real world applications to the academic exchange. Our students are ethnically diverse members of our community’s workforce at all levels who choose to pursue educational goals. Thomas University consists of 74 acres on two campuses in Thomasville, Georgia, which is about 34 miles north of Tallahassee, Florida, via U.S. Hwy. 319 and 46 miles from Valdosta, Georgia, via Hwy. 84, which places the city conveniently near Interstates 10 and 75.

Degree Programs • • • • •

2 Associate Degree Programs 16 Bachelor’s Degree Programs 4 Master’s Degree Programs 1 Dual Master’s Degree Program 2 Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Education Programs • 2 Graduate Certificate Programs • 2 Undergraduate Certificate Programs Class types include traditional face-toface, hybrid and completely online.

administrative staff

Dr. Gary Bonvillian President

Mike Lee Athletic Director

Ricky Zambrano Associate Athletic Director

Jason Hendrix Sports Information Director

Jodi Yambor Sports Psychologist

Terry Maul Faculty Athletic Representative

Brandee Zambrano Head Athletic Trainer

Daniel Parker Assistant Athletic Trainer

Corey Potter Strength & Conditioning Coach

Green and White

One Team.

One Mission.

One Focus.

FINISH THE TASK!