REGIONAL RANKINGS REVIEW--WOMEN

As the regular season winds down, the regional rankings have become more critical in terms of which eight teams per region will advance to the NCAA Division II tournament.

Over the next several weeks, D-II South Sports will break down the rankings in both the South and South Atlantic Regions, and what impact those numbers will have on the eventual selection process. First up are the women's rankings.

Source: NCAA Sports.com via d2basketball.com

KEY: First record is games against all Division II opponents only. The second record is games against all regional opponents. Non-NCAA Division II games were not counted in the regional rankings.

South Region

1
Delta State
20-0
16-0

2
West Georgia
21-2
21-2

3
Arkansas Tech
16-3
16-3

4
Tampa
18-5
16-4

5
Nova Southeastern
17-6
14-5

6
Valdosta State
19-4
18-4

7
Tuskegee
15-7
15-5

8
Harding
12-7
12-7

9
Fort Valley State
15-8
14-6

10
Barry
16-8
13-6

Analysis: The Gulf South Conference leads the way in the South Region with five teams, three of those holding the top three spots (DSU, UWG, and ATU). The Sunshine State Conference, though, looks a two-team race between Tampa and Nova Southeastern for first place there. It appears the SIAC regular season title race could come down to either Fort Valley State or Tuskegee.

South Atlantic Region

1
Francis Marion
16-4
16-4

2
Columbus State
14-7
14-7

3
Clayton State
15-7
15-5

4
Augusta State
16-6
16-6

5
North Georgia
15-8
15-8

6
Tusculum
19-3
16-3

7
Wingate
16-7
16-6

8
Shaw
17-11
15-6

9
Johnson C. Smith
16-7
16-7

10
South Carolina-Aiken
14-6
13-6

The Peach Belt Conference regular season championship race appears to be the tightest in years, with the top six teams separated by one game heading into action on Feb. 20. That would mean Francis Marion's (18-5, 11-5 PBC) stay at the top of the South Atlantic Region rankings will be short lived after 95-81 upset loss to Lander just two nights earlier. That could make for the most exciting PBC tournament in a long time.

MUST SEE GAMES--02/13/2008

Click on the highlighted link (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or view live stats.

KEY: (L)--Live Stats (V)--Video

TOP WOMEN'S GAMES

Columbus State (14-7, 10-4) at North Georgia (14-7, 7-7)--Wednesday 5:30 p.m. EST

Augusta State (15-6, 9-5) at Lander (14-9, 8-5)--Wednesday 5:30 p.m. EST

The Peach Belt Conference has been among the most competitive leagues in NCAA Division II since its debut in the early 1990's. But the race for the women's basketball regular season title has never been this tight.

The case in point is the two games featured for tonight. After a sluggish start, CSU has won its last three games to pull into a first place tie with Francis Marion (17-4, 10-4), whom the Lady Cougars knocked off in double overtime, 113-108, in a rare Sunday matinee on Feb. 10.

The Lady Saints, on the other hand, have been in a Jekyll-and-Hyde mentality in PBC play so far this season. In fact, after getting by Georgia College & State University, 82-75, on Feb. 6, the North Georgia women couldn't find their rhythm against USC Aiken, and fell 76-59 just three days later.

The other featured game has the Bearcats playing host to the Lady Jaguars. Both teams are coming off tough losses, as ASU dropped a 67-64 setback to Clayton State Feb. 9, while LU was stomped by Columbus State 92-74 that same night.

TOP MEN'S GAMES

Georgia College & State University (14-6, 8-5) at Armstrong Atlantic State (L)-(V)--(14-7, 8-6)--Wednesday 7:30 p.m. EST

Columbus State (12-12, 8-6) at North Georgia (12-9, 7-7)--Wednesday 7:30 p.m. EST

While USC Aiken (19-2, 13-1) and Augusta State (17-4, 12-2) are battling each other for the PBC regular season crown, it's a tight race for third place, as four squads from the Peach State play each other in a critical battle for position in the upcoming conference tournament.

GC&SU has won back-to-back games going into mid-week action, while Armstrong has won three straight contests. Those recent results leave the Bobcats and Pirates separated by half a game for the third seed in the PBC standings.

Despite up and down season thus far, the Cougars have managed to post a better than .500 record in conference games. After losing to Lander, 66-53, on Feb. 9, CSU did manage to bounce back, on blow out Francis Marion, 77-61, the following day.

As for the North Georgia men, they enter this contest coming off back-to-back losses. The Saints fell to GC&SU 84-72 on Feb. 6, then lost to PBC leader USC Aiken 75-70 the following day. It'll be interesting to see if North Georgia can not only snap that short skid, but make a late move before the PBC tournament.

MUST SEE GAMES--02/11/2008

Click on the link (s) to listen to live audio, view live audio, or live stats.

KEY: (V)-Video (L)--Live Stats

National rankings courtesy of WBCA/ESPN/USA Today poll.

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

#10 West Georgia (20-2, 7-0) at #13 Valdosta State (19-3, 5-2)--Monday 6 p.m. EST

The Wolves put their 11-game winning streak on the line in this Gulf South Conference East Division match-up, while hoping to put some distance between themselves and the Lady Blazers in the process. As for the VSU women, they'll be looking for revenge against UWG, who snapped what was then a 10-game Lady Blazer win streak back on Jan. 19 in a 59-49 win at home.

TOP MEN'S GAME

West Georgia (12-9, 4-3) at Valdosta State (13-8, 5-2)--Monday 8 p.m. EST

The Blazers host the Wolves in a battle of Gulf South Conference East Division teams whose fortunes have reversed since their initial meeting in January.

Since edging the Blazers, 64-63, in the first meeting at Carrollton, Ga. on Jan. 19, the Wolves have been in a freefall mode, losing four of their last six games. That skid included a 85-68 loss at West Florida on Jan. 9.

On the other hand, the Blazers have been, for lack of a better word, "blazin"! The Blazers enter this contest on a four-game winning streak, the latest victory a 78-63 triumph over Alabama-Huntsville on Jan. 9. The VSU men pulled into a three-way tie with UAH and North Alabama in the GSC East with the win over the Chargers.

FORMER KENTUCKY STATE PLAYER INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME

A former pro star who played his college basketball at Kentucky State is inducted into the Georgia Hall of Fame. Find out who he is by clicking the link below.

Article courtesy of thesiac.com.

MUST SEE GAMES--02/04/2008

Click on the highlighted link (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

KEY: (L)--Live Stats (V)--Video

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

Columbus State (11-6, 7-3) at Augusta State (13-5, 7-4)--Monday 5:30 p.m. EST

Call the Peach Belt Conference the "pretty bizarre" conference.

That's because so far this season, teams in this competitive league have been beating up on each other left and right, with each team having at least two losses in conference play going into the early stages of February.

The CSU Lady Cougars are one of those teams, having won four straight games to put themselves in the hunt for the PBC regular-season title. On Jan. 30, the Georgia College & State University Lady Bobcats became the Lady Cougars fourth straight victim, as Columbus State posted a 62-47 win.

As for Augusta State, the Lady Jaguars have won three straight games going into this rare Monday night league contest, winning for the first time in the last six tries at Georgia College & State University. With the 85-62 rout of the Lady Bobcats on Groundhog Day (Feb. 2), the Augusta State women pulled themselves to within a half-game of Clayton State (13-6, 8-4), who downed UNC Pembroke 63-57 that same night, and idle Columbus State, who had the Super Bowl weekend off.

TOP MEN'S GAME

NOTE: National ranking courtesy of NABC poll.

Columbus State (10-10, 6-4) at #10 Augusta State (14-4, 9-2)--Monday 7:30 p.m. EST

The nightcap of this Peach Belt Conference doubleheader pits the Cougars against the Jaguars. Like their female counterparts, the CSU men are also riding a winning streak after a slow start, winners of their last three contests, including a stunning 80-78 win over longtime PBC archrival Georgia College & State University on Wednesday, Jan. 30.

Meanwhile, the Jaguars managed to bounce back from a 75-71 upset loss to North Georgia on Jan. 28, to pick up a 88-81 Groundhog Day win over the GC&SU Bobcats.

GC&SU ATHLETIC DIRECTOR TO RETIRE

Georgia College & State University will soon begin its search for a new athletic director. Stan Aldridge, who has been at the university for more than three decades, is giving up the top job at the end of March. Aldridge played a key role in turning GC&SU into one of the premier athletic departments in the Peach Belt Conference.

MORE

MUST SEE GAMES--01/31/2008

Click on the highlighted link (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

KEY: (L)--Live Stats (V)--Video

National rankings courtesy of WBCA/ESPN/USA Today poll.

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

#17 Arkansas Tech (16-2, 5-0) at #1 Delta State (17-0, 5-0)--Thursday 6 p.m. CST

Every season, it seems that sooner or later, there's a big showdown that many a loyal fan has circled on his or her calendars for months. The ATU-DSU clash is one of those contests, as the winner of this contest stands alone atop the Gulf South Conference West Division standings.

The top-ranked Lady Statesmen will put their perfect 17-0 record against the 17th-ranked team in the Golden Suns. DSU stayed unbeaten after downing Christian Brothers 54-39 last Saturday (Jan. 26), while ATU won its 16th straight game since starting the season 0-2 with a 74-54 crushing of Arkansas-Monticello that same night.

Consider the following statistics: As this blog entry was posted, ATU and DSU had two of the top three scoring offenses in the GSC (ATU 1st--82.2 ppg; DSU 3rd--73.4), two of the top five scoring defenses (DSU 2nd--52.6; ATU 5th--57.8), top two in average scoring margin (ATU tops at plus-24.4 ppg; DSU 2nd at 20.8), even the highest free-throw percentages in the conference (ATU at .497, DSU not far behind at .495).

In other words, it's like the old saying goes, "something's gotta give" when these two powerhouses clash in this Thursday night special. It's too bad one team has to lose.

TOP MEN'S GAME

Arkansas Tech (13-5, 4-1) at Delta State (9-8, 3-2)--Thursday 8 p.m. CST

As if the main event between two nationally-ranked teams wasn't bad enough, the nightcap shouldn't be bad either, as the Statesmen take on the Wonder Boys in a contest that could further tighten the Gulf South Conference West Division race.

Arkansas-Monticello (11-6, 3-2) moved to within one game of first place in the GSC West by handing ATU its first conference loss of the season with a 67-63 win on the road Saturday, Jan. 26. DSU climbed over .500 in both overall and GSC play, respectively by beating Christian Brothers 79-63 the same night.

MUST SEE GAMES--01/30/2008

Click on the highlighted link (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

KEY: (L)--Live Stats (V)--Video

National ranking courtesy of WBCA/ESPN/USA Today poll.

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

#22 Francis Marion (13-2, 6-2) at Lander (L)--(13-6, 7-2)--Wednesday 5:30 p.m. EST

Hands down, this is the "Game of the Night" in Peach Belt Conference women's basketball, as the Bearcats host the Patriots in a showdown for sole possession of first place.

FMU re-entered the NCAA Division II national rankings after downing defending PBC champion Clayton State 84-76 Saturday Jan. 26. Lander lost its second PBC contest of the season with a 66-52 upset loss at Armstrong Atlantic State that same day.

TOP MEN'S GAME

Georgia College & State University (12-4, 6-3) at Columbus State (9-10, 5-4)--Wednesday 7:30 p.m. EST

The Cougars host the Bobcats in what has already become a tight men's race in the Peach Belt Conference. On Saturday, Jan. 26, the Bobcats gave nationally-ranked USC Aiken all it could handle before losing 72-69 on the road, while the Cougars needed overtime to defeat UNC Pembroke 70-68.

MUST SEE GAMES--01/28/2008

NOTE: Click on the highlighted school names to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

KEY: (V)--Video

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

North Georgia (11-4, 4-4) at Augusta State (V)--(11-5, 5-4)--Monday 5:30 p.m. EST

The Lady Jaguars host the Lady Saints in a game that was rescheduled from Jan. 19 because of the recent wintry weather in the Southeast. The winner of this contest hopes to make an upward move in the Peach Belt Conference standings heading into February.

Both teams had mixed results in games played last week. North Georgia defeated Armstrong Atlantic State, 78-66, on Jan. 21 (MLK Day), but fell to Clayton State two nights later, by a score of 76-72.

As for Augusta State, the Lady Jags began the week with a low-scoring 48-37 win over USC Aiken Jan. 21, lost 101-86 to Francis Marion Jan.23, then rebounded to hand Georgia Southwestern State (1-16, 0-10) its 16th straight defeat, 75-69.

TOP MEN'S GAME

Montevallo (9-9, 2-2) at Valdosta State (10-8, 2-2)--Monday 8 p.m. EST

The Blazers host the Falcons in yet another critical Gulf South Conference East Division showdown at the VSU P.E. Complex. Not only is sole possession of fourth place in the GSC East at stake, the winner of this game will also go above. 500 in conference play going into February.

On Saturday, Jan. 26, VSU snapped a two-game losing streak at the expense of the University of West Alabama Tigers, as they earned a much-needed win over the Alabama foes, 74-62, at home. Jamahl Stokes scored a game-high 17 points to lead the Blazers to victory.

As for the Falcons, they'll look to go into February with a winning record both in overall and GSC play after a sluggish start. UM, though, did need overtime to defeat West Florida, 75-70, at UWF Saturday.

MUST SEE GAMES--01/26/2008

Click on the highlighted school name (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

KEY: (V)--Video (L)--Live Stats

TOP MEN'S GAME

Arkansas-Monticello (10-6, 2-2) at Arkansas Tech (L)--(13-4, 4-0)--Saturday 6 p.m. CST

The Boll Weevils battle the Wonder Boys in a key Gulf South Conference West Division clash. ATU hopes to stay unbeaten in conference play, while UAM hopes to get over .500 in GSC action.

Thursday night, the Wonder Boys held off Harding (9-8, 3-1) to take over sole possession of first place in the GSC West, while the Boll Weevils downed Henderson State 69-57.

AUGUSTA STATE UPSETS USC AIKEN

The Augusta State University men's basketball team, ranked 18th in the nation, knocked off the 7th-ranked University of South Carolina-Aiken Pacers, 75-59, Monday Jan. 21. The loss ended the Pacers quest to go undefeated in PBC play, as they fell to 7-1 in league action (13-2 overall).

Augusta State University Sports Information

USC Aiken Sports Information

PEACH BELT RELEASES PRESEASON BASEBALL TEAM

Yes, it may be the middle of the conference basketball season in D-II South Nation, but baseball season is just around the corner, as the Peach Belt Conference released its preseason all-league squads for 2008...

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USC AIKEN WOMEN'S HOOPS WINS 500TH GAME!!!

COLUMBUS, Ga.--On a cold, rainy afternoon in Columbus, USC Aiken junior Meredith Legg and the rest of the Lady Pacers (10-3, 4-3 PBC) heated up the Lumpkin Center for a 75-61 win over Columbus State (7-6, 3-3 PBC) in women’s Peach Belt Conference basketball. Legg tied her career-high with 23 in the first half alone on 8-of-11 three-point attempts. She finished with 28. As a team, USCA tied a school record with 14 made treys.

It was the program’s second win in the last three visits to Columbus, avenging last year’s 75-74 overtime defeat. The victory is also USCA’s 500th win all-time in 32 years of women’s basketball.

Columbus State, winners of two straight, employed a zone defense in the first half against the Lady Pacers, shutting down the inside attack of Morgan Johnson and Jordon Thomas, but opening up opportunities for Legg. Despite a career game from the Huntersville, N.C. product, the Lady Pacers found themselves trailing at the break.

Turelle Jones’ fastbreak lay-up at the 14:58 mark of the opening stanza gave the Lady Cougars a 10-5 advantage. Legg proceeded to drain three-straight triples as USCA grabbed its first lead 14-12 less than two minutes later.

Following a rare Legg two-point basket, Jones ignited a 10-0 run and CSU pushed out to a 26-16 spread with 7:34 left in the half. Jones finished with 11 points as the Lady Cougars held a commanding 24-2 edge in points in the paint in the first half.

The Lady Pacers finally ended a four-and-a-half minute scoring drought on another Legg three with 7:28 on the clock, only to see Maria Grimes, CSU’s leading scorer at 17.8 ppg, counter with a three-pointer of her own on the ensuing possession. Grimes had 11 on the day.

Three more Legg long balls capped off by Nakia Pinkney’s trey with 2:44 on the clock capped off a 12-3 Lady Pacer run as USCA drew within a point at 32-31. Pinkney’s field goal ended 23-straight points scored by Legg, becoming the first Lady Pacer to scratch in the scoring column since Avonte Williams’ at the 16:54 mark.

Columbus State closed the half strong, however, scoring the final eight points to lead 40-31.

The first points of the second half belonged to Columbus State’s Monica Sicka as she extended the CSU lead to the largest of the game, 42-31 with 18:36 to play. Sicka led CSU with 12 points and eight rebounds.

After zoning USC Aiken in the first half, the Lady Cougars switched to man-to-man in the final frame, limiting Legg to just five second half points, but opening the door for her teammates.

After three first-half points by Williams, Johnson, and Megan Starnes combined, the trio scored 29 over the final 18 minutes.

Back-to-back three-pointers by Pinkney and Starnes sliced the deficit to 42-40 with 14:33 on the clock, part of a 24-8 USCA run that ended with a Thomas’ trey at 8:23 to put the Lady Pacers ahead 55-50.

Columbus State got within three with 7:18 remaining, but USCA countered with an 11-3 run to put the game away, posting the 75-61 victory.

Williams finished with 10 points while Thomas added seven points and a career-high seven assists. Her four steals also tied a career-mark set last weekend against Georgia Southwestern. Johnson collected her eighth-straight double figure night with 10 points, seven boards, and four blocks. Starnes added 12 points and four steals.

Finishing 8-of-14 from the three-point line for 28 points and seven rebounds, Legg registered her fourth 20-point scoring performance in the past seven games. The eight made three-pointers was two shy of the school and conference record held by Janell Gerk, the person that Legg ironically passed on the all-time threes list today, moving into third-place.

Suffering 20 first half turnovers, USC Aiken responded to commit just six second-half miscues, forcing Columbus State into 14 while the Lady Cougars recorded only one assist in the final 20 minutes.

USC Aiken shot 50.0 percent on the afternoon including 14-of-24 from deep for 58.3 percent. And after allowing 81.7 ppg to their last two opponents on the road, the Lady Pacers snapped their road losing streak at two, holding Columbus State to 61 points (21 in the second half) and forcing 27 turnovers.

USC Aiken will quickly turnaround and play at Augusta State on Monday, January 21 at 5:30 PM. In looking to avenge their only home defeat this year, the Lady Pacers will face a Lady Jag team that enjoyed a day off as weather forced the postponement of the ASU versus North Georgia match-up.

Source: University of South Carolina-Aiken Sports Information

MUST SEE GAMES--01/19/2008

Click on the highlighted links to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

National rankings courtesy of the WBCA/ESPN/USA Today poll.

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

#5 Valdosta State (15-1, 1-0) at #25 West Georgia (15-2, 2-0)--Saturday 5:30 p.m. EST

With every Gulf South Conference team having played at least one league game, there's already a big showdown for first place in the East Division. The Lady Blazers have won 10 straight games, while the Wolves have a six-game winning streak coming into this contest.

While the Wolves easily handled West Alabama 91-71 on the road Monday, Jan. 14, the Lady Blazers held off a scrappy North Alabama squad to win its GSC East opener, 57-48, the same night.

Of course, something has to give once these teams take to the court, as the winner of this game not only takes over sole possession of first place in the GSC East, but also the distinction of being the lone unbeaten left in division play.

TOP MEN'S GAME

Valdosta State (9-6, 1-0) at West Georgia (9-5, 2-0)--Saturday 7:30 p.m. EST

While the men's teams may not have the national rankings, or the excellent records to match, this contest is no less important for the Blazers and the Wolves.

UWG downed Montevallo, 81-66, and West Alabama, 77-64, in its first Gulf South Conference games. As for VSU, the Blazers needed overtime to knock off its always fierce archrival, North Alabama, 92-86, in their GSC East opener.

Just like in the aforementioned women's contest, first place in the division will be on the line, not to mention the 10th win overall. Oh, and this is the 109th time the men's teams at VSU and UWG have met.

MORE:

NCAA Sports.com Video Webcast Link

VSU Women's Game Notes

VSU Men's Game Notes

UWG Game Notes

MUST SEE GAMES--01/16/2008

NOTE: Click on the highlighted link (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or live stats.

KEY: (V)--Video Webcast Link

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

Lander (10-4, 4-0) at Augusta State (V)--(9-3, 3-2)--Wednesday 5:30 p.m. EST

The Bearcats will put their five-game winning streak on the line against the Lady Jaguars in a Peach Belt Conference that always seems to be tough from top to bottom each year. Lander remained unbeaten in PBC play with a wild 107-97 win over Georgia College & State University Saturday, Jan. 12.

The Lady Jags, on the other hand, pulled into a three-way tie for third place with Armstrong Atlantic State and North Georgia in the Peach Belt after knocking off the Lady Pirates 79-67 last weekend.

Additionally, Augusta State also sits just a half game behind second place Francis Marion (10-1, 3-1), whose Patriots currently have the longest overall winning streak in the PBC (six straight wins) going into Wednesday's action.

TOP MEN'S GAME

Armstrong Atlantic State (9-3, 3-2) at Georgia College & State University (9-2, 3-1)--Wednesday 7:30 p.m. EST

The Bobcats play host to the Pirates in yet another key Peach Belt Conference contest (like there's almost always a key game in this league). GC&SU kept pace with second place Augusta State (9-3, 4-1) with a 71-57 win over Lander Saturday, Jan. 12, while AASU fell to the aforementioned Jaguars 83-82 in overtime that same day. By the end of the night, one team will win not only their 10th game overall, but their fourth in PBC action.

MUST SEE GAMES--01/14/2007

NOTE: Click on the highlighted school name (s) to listen to live audio, or view live stats.

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

Clark Atlanta (7-4, 3-2) at Miles (7-3, 4-2)--Monday 5:30 p.m. CST

It's a "Big Monday" in the SIAC, as the Golden Bears face the Panthers in this crucial league contest. With first place Tuskegee (5-4, 4-0) being the lone unbeaten team in SIAC play, and every other team having at least two conference losses, this game will be critical in terms of seeding for the SIAC tournament.

TOP MEN'S GAME

North Alabama (13-5, 1-0) at Valdosta State (8-6,0-0)--Monday 8 p.m. EST

Two longtime Gulf South Conference rivals square off in southern Georgia, as the Blazers play host to the Lions. UNA extended its win streak to four straight games after holding off West Florida on the road, 80-77, Saturday in its conference opener. On the other hand, VSU hopes to open GSC East action on a winning note after losing to NAIA Flagler (Fla.) 70-58 Thursday (Jan. 10).

MUST SEE GAMES--DEBUT EDITION

Well, here it is, the long-awaited return of "MSG"! For the remainder of the 2007-08 basketball season, D-II South Sports will preview the best conference match-ups possible. So, what are waiting for? Let's go!

NOTE: All times local. National rankings courtesy of WBCA/USA Today (women) or NABC (men).

Click on the highlighted school name (s) to listen to live audio, view live video, or view live stats.

TOP WOMEN'S GAME

#23 USC Aiken (8-2, 2-2) at Francis Marion (9-1, 2-1)--Wednesday 5:30 p.m. EST

The Lady Pacers travel to Florence, S.C. in hopes of bouncing back after being knocked off by current WBCA #20 North Georgia College & State University 93-83 Saturday.

The Patriots, on the other hand, will put their five-game winning streak on the line in this critical Peach Belt Conference contest. FMU is currently in a four-way with Armstrong Atlantic State (8-2), Augusta State (8-2), and the aforementioned North Georgia (9-1), who travels to Georgia College & State University the same night.

Ironically, GC&SU (6-3, 1-1) not only sits just half a game behind this quartet, but also is in a virtual tie with preseason favorite Clayton State (7-4, 2-2), and USCA. And to top it all off, Lander (8-4, 3-0) is the only unbeaten team remaining in PBC play heading into mid-week action.

TOP MEN'S GAME

North Georgia (6-4, 1-2) at Georgia College & State University (7-2, 1-1)--Wednesday 7:30 p.m. EST

The Saints face the Bobcats in a battle of middle of the pack PBC men's squads. North Georgia began the 2008 portion of their schedule on a losing note, fallling to USC Aiken (10-1, 4-0) 96-91 Saturday, while GC&SU dropped a 75-53 decision to Johnson C. Smith in non-conference action last Thursday. The winner of this contest could make a serious case for challenging the NABC 8th-ranked Pacers, who remain the lone unbeaten men's team in PBC play.

BASKETBALL NEWS & NOTES--PART 3

Our basketball "previews & reviews" wrap up with this installment on the SIAC.

Women: Going into action Jan. 3, Fort Valley State (4-4), and Kentucky State (3-4) shared the SIAC lead with identical 2-0 records, while Tuskegee (2-4) sits just a half game out of first place at 1-0. Miles (6-2, 3-1) is also in the thick of the regular season title race, while Lane (3-2), Clark Atlanta (4-3), and Albany State (3-5), all have identical 1-1 records in league action.

Men: Defending regular season champion Benedict (5-1) has picked up where it left off last season, going 3-0 in SIAC play early. But the Tigers have plenty of challengers for this season's title, as Tuskegee (1-4, 1-0), Morehouse (5-2, 2-1), Kentucky State (3-3, 2-1), and Miles (5-4, 3-2) all figure to have a say in who comes out on top by season's end. Defending tournament champion Albany State (3-3, 1-1) also figures to be in the mix for the conference's top spot.

BASKETBALL NEWS & NOTES--PART 2

Our basketball "previews & reviews" continue with an inside look at the Peach Belt Conference.

Preseason Predictions

Women

Men

In-Season Update: Preseason favorite Clayton State (7-3, 2-1) is in a tight race for the regular season title with Lander (7-4, 2-0), Columbus State (5-3, 1-0), and USC Aiken (8-1, 2-1). On the men's side, USCA (9-1) has been the darling of the PBC, going 3-0 in conference play, while rising to a #13 ranking nationally as of Dec. 18.

COLLEGIATE BASEBALL PRESEASON POLL RELEASED

D-II South Nation is well represented in the Collegiate Baseball Newspaper NCAA Division II preseason poll, as national runner-up Columbus State starts the 2008 season ranked second behind defending national champion Tampa.

Click here for the complete poll.

BASKETBALL NEWS & NOTES--PART 1

Well, here it is, the first post of a new year! And what better to get it started with some news and notes!

Let's get started by talking some basketball. Yes, it might be late, and roughly halfway through the season. But, like the old saying goes, "better late than never".

We'll start with the preseason predictions by conference, women and men, beginning with the Gulf South Conference.

Preseason Predictions

GSC Women

GSC Men

In-Season Update: In women's action, Valdosta State (12-1) is currently ranked ninth in the nation, and winners of seven straight contests as this post was being made. West Georgia (11-2)
is the only other team in the GSC East with a winning record. In the West, four teams; Delta State (9-0), Christian Brothers (10-1), Arkansas Tech (9-2), and Harding (9-2) have nine or more wins going into the New Year.

On the men's side, preseason favorite Montevallo (5-7) has struggled, as the Falcons have lost four straight games. West Georgia (6-4) has lost three games in row since starting the season 6-1. Arkansas Tech (8-3) has the best overall record in the West as of Jan. 1.

CATCHING UP--12/26/2007

Believe it or not, it's been two months since the last post. Here's a short version of what has happened since then.

VOLLEYBALL

Gulf South Conference

West Georgia wins first-ever volleyball championship

NCAA Division II Volleyball Tournament Bracket

Peach Belt Conference

USC Aiken advances to NCAA volleyball regional

SIAC

Albany State wins seventh straight tournament title

WOMEN'S SOCCER

Peach Belt Conference

Columbus State falls to Tampa in national quarterfinals

Penalty kicks ended the Lady Cougars season against the eventual national champion Spartans n mid-Noveember.

Article courtesy of Columbus State University Sports Information

NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Bracket

MEN'S SOCCER

Gulf South Conference

The University of Montevallo Falcons reach the D-II Final Four, but fall short of the title match after losing to Lincoln Memorial.

Article courtesy of University of Montevallo Sports Information

CATCHING UP

Again, sorry for the lack of updates on this blog. Still, with the fall sports regular season winding down, it's a good time to take a look at what's happened in D-II South Nation since the last entry. So, without any further ado, let's go!

VOLLEYBALL

Gulf South Conference: There may be a change at the top in the East Division, as West Florida (25-4, 8-0 GSC East as of Oct. 26), has been in first place for much of the season. Still, North Alabama (17-13, 7-2) has managed to put together a decent showing in conference matches, despite its mediocre overall record. West Alabama (25-3, 7-2) and West Georgia (22-10, 4-5) have also been pleasant surprises.

In the West, it has basically been a two-team race all year, as Henderson State (20-8, 9-1 GSC) and Harding (22-8, 9-1) have been the top two squads in that division. Arkansas Tech (21-11, 7-3) hopes to makes a serious push for a higher seed should the Golden Suns win their final two matches.

Peach Belt Conference: USC Aiken (19-4, 5-0 PBC) is in the driver's seat heading into the stretch run, with matches against second place Lander (19-7, 3-2), and third-place Armstrong Atlantic State (14-17, 4-3) still to come. The Pacers do battle with the Bearcats on Oct. 31, and the Pirates on Nov. 3, both at home.

WOMEN'S SOCCER

Gulf South Conference: It's been a three-team race for the GSC regular season title between West Florida (12-2, 7-0), Montevallo (11-6, 6-1), and Ouachita Baptist (12-2-2, 6-1). A fourth team, Harding (9-7-1, 4-2-1), has already clinched the fourth and final spot in the upcoming Gulf South Conference tournament. But UWF can clinch the top seed with a win over UM Friday night (Oct. 26). An Argonaut loss to Montevallo, though, opens the door to a three-way for first place should OBU defeat HU Friday.

Peach Belt Conference: In its just its fourth season, Columbus State (13-3-1, 7-0) can win the regular season title outright if they can defeat Georgia College & State University (12-3, 5-2) Saturday. Don't count out Lander (12-3, 6-1) and Armstrong Atlantic State (11-3-1, 5-1-1) as serious contenders to win the conference tournament, though.

MEN'S SOCCER

Gulf South Conference: It all comes down to one match for the GSC regular season title, as Montevallo (15-1-1, 5-0) pays a visit to West Florida (14-1, 5-0), in a battle of unbeaten teams Friday night.

Peach Belt Conference: As the regular season wraps us this weekend, the question is this: "Who is in the driver's seat for the top seed in next week's PBC tournament? Click the link below to find out the answer.

FULL STORY

PEACH BELT CONFERENCE HAS NEW WEBSITE

The Peach Belt Conference website has a new look. Check it out by clicking the link below.

http://www.peachbelt.com/information/news/20070917newsiterel

Oh, and by the way, sorry for the long hiatus on this blog!

FALL SPORTS PREVIEW--PART 2--PEACH BELT CONFERENCE

Our second installment of fall sports previews at D2SS revolves around the Peach Belt Conference.

NOTE: Predicted order of finish courtesy of the Peach Belt Conference.

VOLLEYBALL

HOW THEY WILL FINISH

1. USC Aiken
2. Armstrong Atlantic State
3. Francis Marion
4. UNC Pembroke
5. Lander
6. Augusta State

With the recent departure of USC Upstate to the NCAA Division I level, the PBC is down to just six schools for volleyball. That fact doesn't seem to faze USCA, whose Pacers were selected by the coaches to finish on top by the coaches. Don't count out AASU, though, as the Pirates hope to win at least 20 matches for the ninth straight year.

WOMEN'S SOCCER

HOW THEY WILL FINISH

1. Columbus State
2. Armstrong Atlantic State
3. Clayton State
4. GCSU
5. North Georgia
6. UNC Pembroke
7. USC Aiken
8. Lander
9. Georgia Southwestern State

The programs themselves may be relatively, but both CSU and AASU have vaulted themselves to the upper echelon of PBC women's soccer during their brief, respective history. Barring any serious injury or other misfortune, expect the Cougars and Pirates to finish at the top again, and maybe make a return trip to the NCAA Division II tournament.

MEN'S SOCCER

HOW THEY WILL FINISH

1. Lander
2. Clayton State
3. USC Aiken
4. UNC Pembroke
5. Francis Marion
6. North Georgia
7. Georgia Southwestern State

After winning a share of the PBC regular season crown last year, and taking home the tournament title, the Bearcats want it all to themselves this year. But lurking right behind LU are the Lakers of Clayton State, who want to very much derail the Bearcats postseason dreams, and earn a trip to the NCAA tournament.

FALL SPORTS PREVIEW--PART 1--GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE

D-II South Sports begins its three-part fall sports preview covering the volleyball and soccer programs in the Gulf South Conference, Peach Belt Conference, and the SIAC. First up is the Gulf South Conference.

NOTE: Predicted order is courtesy of the Gulf South Conference

VOLLEYBALL

HOW THEY WILL FINISH

EAST DIVISION

1. North Alabama
2. West Florida
3. West Georgia
4. Valdosta State
5. Alabama-Huntsville
6. Montevallo
7. West Alabama

WEST DIVISION

1. Harding
2. Henderson State
3. Ouachita Baptist
4. Arkansas Tech
5. Arkansas-Monticello
6. Southern Arkansas
7. Christian Brothers

Once again, UNA is the team to beat in the GSC East this season, and Lions hope to add a 17th conference title, not to mention a return trip to the NCAA Division II Final Four this season. Don't count out UWF, though, as the Argonauts are coming off their first-ever NCAA tourmanent appearance from last season.

In the GSC West, Harding once again will be the hunted, while the HSU Lady Reddies hope to derail the Bisons quest for yet another division title. HU has won the GSC West title five years in a row.

WOMEN'S SOCCER

HOW THEY WILL FINISH

1. West Florida
2. Harding
3. Ouachita Baptist
4. West Georgia
5. Montevallo
6. Alabama-Huntsville
7. North Alabama
8. Christian Brothers
9. Delta State

After earning a berth in the NCAA Division II South Regional in 2006, losing to Tampa in the finals, UWF hopes to go one step further in 2007, and advance to at least the national quarterfinals.

However, the Argos could be facing stiff competition in the GSC, as Harding received two first-place in being picked to finish second in the preseason coaches poll. Ouachita Baptist, West Georgia, Montevallo, and Alabama-Huntsville could also figure into the race for the four spots in the conference tournament.

MEN'S SOCCER

HOW THEY WILL FINISH

1. West Florida
2. Montevallo
3. Christian Brothers
4. Alabama-Huntsville
5. Ouachita Baptist
6. Harding
7. Delta State

After coming off a D-II Final Four appearance a year ago, the Argonauts (20-1-3 in '06) hope to take another step, and win a national championship. But Montevallo might have a say in who finishes on top in the GSC, as the Falcons were picked to finish second by the coaches, despite receiving only one first-place vote. CBU and UAH are definite sleepers to sneak up on either UWF, UM, or both.

GEORGIA SOUTHWESTERN SEEKS FULL D-II STATUS

Georgia Southwestern State University, which is now in its second year as a Peach Belt Conference member, could soon gain full membership in the NCAA Division II ranks by 2008.

Article courtesy of the Albany (Ga.) Herald

CLAYTON STATE SIGNS ILLINOIS JUCO STANDOUT

MORROW, Ga. – July 31, 2007 – The Clayton State Laker men’s basketball team and head coach Gordon Gibbons moved a step closer towards completing its 2007-08 recruiting class on Tuesday with the signing of junior guard/forward Ricky Garrett from Wabash Valley College in Mt. Carmel, Ill.

Garrett becomes the fifth signee of the 2007-08 Laker recruiting class, joining point guard Tracey Williams from Indian River Community College in Fort Pierce, Fla., junior wing Bernard Fields from Aiken Technical College in Aiken, S.C., sophomore wing/small forward Will Lewis from Truett-McConnell Junior College in Cleveland, Ga., and freshman power forward Torrin Green from North Clayton High School in College Park, Ga.

The addition of the 6-foot-5, 195-pound Garrett to go along with Fields (6-4, 190), Lewis (6-6, 210), Williams (6-1, 190) and returning three-year starter Michael Sloan (6-4, 180) makes the Lakers bigger, stronger and more athletic on the perimeter for the 2007-08 season.

“Ricky brings experience and athleticism to our program,” said Gibbons, who is 121-57 in six seasons at Clayton State . “He will compliment his teammates with his good all-around game.”

A native of Rome , Ga. , Garrett played two seasons at Wabash Valley for veteran head coach Dan Sparks, one of the winningest head coaches all-time at the junior college level. This season, he averaged 10 points and three rebounds a game for a balanced Wabash Valley squad that finished 20-11 for the 2006-07 season.

He opened the season with a bang, scoring 27 points against Volunteer State and 21 points against Lincoln Land . For the season, Garrett reached double-figures in 10 games for the Warriors this season, garnering second team NJCAA All-Region 24 honors.

Garrett enjoyed a stellar prep career at Rome High School , where he averaged 13 points and four rebounds a game and was selected first team All-Region. In addition, he was also selected two-time All-Area by the Rome News-Tribune, and finished his career ranked fourth all-time in points scored at Rome .

Gibbons plans to finish the recruiting class by signing one, maybe two players before the team reports back to campus for the fall semester.

Source: Clayton State University Sports Information

FRANCIS MARION MEN'S SOCCER HAS NEW COACH

Subject: New Coach, Old Players as Patriot Booters open camp

FLORENCE, SC -- The Francis Marion University men’s soccer team will begin preparations for its 2007 campaign under new head coach Kevin Varnado with two-a-day practices starting Monday morning (Aug. 6).

Varnado, an assistant to former head coach Murray Hartzler for the past five seasons, welcomes back 17 of 20 letterwinners, including 10 of 11 starters, from last year’s 4-12-1 squad. The Patriots open their season Friday, Aug. 24, by hosting Lees-McRae College in 4 p.m. match.

“I am anxious, nervous, and somewhat excited,” Varnado said as the opening day approaches. “I have been doing the office work since last winter, now I am ready to tackle the on-field, in-season coaching aspect.”

The Francis Marion roster also includes six incoming freshmen: goalkeeper Clark Richeson ( Mansfield , TX ), forward Juan Rivas ( Clearwater , FL ), backs Gregory Harley (Mt. Pleasant, SC) and Justin Kibler ( Pickerington , OH ), and midfielders Chris Foltanski ( Long Valley , NJ ) and Ivan Juric ( Toronto , Ontario , Canada ).

“These newcomers, along with the returnees, will provide us with depth and experience at each position – a valuable commodity,” said Varnado. “Juric will probably be our most impactful newcomer. He has played at a high level of competition in Canada , and will add a great deal of talent to our midfield. Kibler also has a chance to contribute this season, and I am anxious to watch his transition to the college game.

“Richeson strengthens our keeper position. He was a four-time All-District player in high school who recorded more than 20 shutouts, and his addition, along with returnees Jeremy Crooks (South Florence High School product) and Nick Krywyj, should make for a very competitive battle for playing time in goal.

“I also have high hopes for the other three first-year players. Their contributions will depend on the time it takes to adjust to college play. Once that happens, they will make us a stronger club.”
Among the returnees are five senior starters, including 2006 leading scorer Jonathan Bartomioli, who tallied five goals and four assists last fall. Sophomore Kyle Clinton, who scored six times in 2006, also returns. “ ‘Barts’ and Kyle will be looked to for scoring this season, but it is my hope that our system develops a balanced attack that would see goals and assists from a variety of players in different positions,” Varnado said. Over his previous three seasons, Bartomioli has recorded 14 goals and 13 assists.

The Patriots will play three preseason exhibitions prior to their season opener, including an Aug. 17 contest at NCAA Division I UNC Wilmington.

The upcoming 2007 schedule lists 18 matches, including eight home contests.
Varnado is the first African-American head coach for a men’s sport at FMU.

Francis Marion University 2007 Men’s Soccer Schedule

Date Opponent Time

Aug. 24 Fri. Lees-McRae College 4:00
Aug. 26 Sun. Belmont Abbey College 2:00
Aug. 31 Fri. at Queens University 7:00
Sept. 2 Sun. at Pfeiffer University 3:00
Sept. 5 Wed. at Barton College 7:00
Sept. 12 Wed. at Wingate University 8:00
Sept. 15 Sat. at Georgia Southwestern State Univ. * 3:00
Sept. 19 Wed. Mount Olive College 4:00
Sept. 22 Sat. Carson-Newman College 2:00
Sept. 26 Wed. at Newberry College 4:00
Oct. 3 Wed. UNC Pembroke * 4:00
Oct. 6 Sat. at Coker College 1:00
Oct. 13 Sat. at Lander University * 3:30
Oct. 17 Wed. USC Aiken * 4:00
Oct. 20 Sat. North Georgia College & State Univ. * 2:00
Oct. 23 Tue. Catawba College 4:00
Oct. 27 Sat. at Clayton State University * 7:00
Oct. 30 Tue. Peach Belt Conference Tournament (First Round) TBD
Nov. 2/4 Fri./Sun. Peach Belt Conference Tournament (Semis/Finals) TBD

Source: Francis Marion University Sports Information

ANTONINI SHOWS HIS STUFF

Former Georgia College & State University pitcher Michael Antonini is thriving in the New York Mets organization after a solid career with the Bobcats.

Article courtesy of Inside Pitch Magazine.

MIXTURE OF YOUTH EXPERIENCE PLUS FOR GC&SU SOCCER

The Georgia College & State University women's soccer team has a solid mix of youth and experience, but will it be enough to make the Bobcats competitive in the Peach Belt Conference?

Article courtesy of Georgia College & Sports University Sports Information

GC&SU ANNOUNCES 2007 SOCCER SCHEDULE

Georgia College Soccer Announces 2007 Slate

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga.—The Georgia College & State University Department of Athletics and head soccer coach Robert Parr have announced the 2007 schedule for the Bobcat women’s soccer program.

The schedule features nine home dates at Bobcat Field on GCSU’s West Campus, six of which coming in October. The Bobcats have five exhibition contests, thanks to a rare three-game set in the Bahamas .

The GCSU soccer team will make its first trek to the Bahamas , playing games Aug. 7-9. The trip benefits the Bobcats on many levels, helping the 13 newcomers bond with the class of returning players, playing some outstanding young competition in teams from the College of the Bahamas , the Bahamas Select IX and Cavalier FC programs, and adding a morale boost to training camp.

After those three dates, GCSU hosts Division I Georgia Southern University Friday, Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. for another exhibition before hitting the road. SCAD provides the final exhibition, leading into a three-game road stretch to start the season. Thomas University opens the regular season Saturday, Aug. 25 at 2 p.m., followed by Montevallo University the next day at 1 p.m. CT. The Bobcats travel to the University of North Alabama Sunday, Sept. 9 at 1 p.m. CT before beginning the Peach Belt Conference slate at home.

UNC Pembroke is the first conference victim, and also the first home game for the Bobcats, Saturday, Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. A week later is the lone day-time home contest, a 2 p.m. start against non-conference foe University of Alabama - Huntsville Sept. 22. The Bobcats travel for PBC games at Lander University Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. and at Armstrong Atlantic State University Saturday, Sept. 29 at 2 p.m.

GCSU begins October at home, Wednesday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. against USC Aiken, then has a non-conference game with Shorter College Saturday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. as well. Thursday, Oct. 11 at 4 p.m. Georgia College heads to Georgia Southwestern State University , before returning home for another non-league game with Mars Hill College Saturday, Oct. 13 at 5 p.m.

Clayton State University provides the final road contest for the Bobcats Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m., with the final three regular-season contests coming at home. Newberry College finishes the non-conference matches Saturday, Oct. 20 at 4 p.m., while North Georgia College & State University comes to Milledgeville Wednesday, Oct. 24 for a 7 p.m. start. The lone ranked squad of the season, returning PBC Champion and No. 22 Columbus State University finishes the regular season Saturday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. Peach Belt Tournament play begins the following week, Tuesday, Oct. 30.

Source: Georgia College & State University Sports Information

Click here for the 2007 GC&SU women's soccer schedule.

FORMER GC&SU PLAYER NAMED MERCER SOFTBALL COACH

MACON, Ga.— Mercer head softball coach Mike Raynor has announced the addition of former Georgia College & State University standout Joni Frei to his coaching staff as the first full-time assistant in program history.

Frei will serve primarily as the recruiting coordinator, hitting instructor and outfield coach.

"Joni is an excellent addition to our program and our needs in moving to the next level in our conference," said Raynor. "She brings with her a great attitude, excellent playing and coaching experiences and an ability to relate to student-athletes in a positive and promoting manner. She is an outstanding young lady with great people and coaching skills, and I believe our players and our program will benefit from her style of coaching."

Frei, a native of Kelowna , British Columbia , played shortstop and centerfield for four seasons at GCSU from 2000-2004.

While at GCSU, she was a three-time All-Peach Belt Conference selection and was named to the all-region team in 2002 and 2003.

Frei led the Lady Bobcats to regional and national championship appearances in 2002 and 2003, where she was named to the all-tournament team.

During her senior season, GCSU was the NCAA Division II national runner-up, the best finish in school history.

She still holds records at GCSU for career home runs (24), runs (152), doubles (40) and total bases (306). She also owns the school mark for single-season walks at 31.

While finishing her studies at GCSU, Frei took her first coaching job at Georgia Military College , where she served as the assistant coach for the Bulldogs.

Upon graduation from GCSU, Frei spent a season with the Dutch Professional Softball League in the summer of 2005, and then served as a graduate assistant coach at Atlantic Sun foe Kennesaw State from 2005-06 where she worked with the hitters and served as the outfield coach.

The Owls finished 2005 as the NCAA Division II national runner-up with a 57-13 record.

The following year, KSU made its way into the Division I ranks, finishing second in the A-Sun regular-season standings with a 15-5 conference record.

Frei spent last season serving as an assistant coach at NAIA Reinhardt College in Waleska , Ga.

The Lady Eagles finished with a 35-21 overall record and were ranked 30th in the final poll.

Frei coached First-Team All-American Melissa Peters, who also earned the Region XIII and Southern States Athletic Conference's Player of the Year awards.

Frei graduated in 2005 from GCSU with a bachelor's degree in health and physical education and received her master's in public administration from Kennesaw State in May.

Source: Mercer University Sports Information

NORTH GEORGIA GETS ITS WAIVER

Officials with the North Georgia College & State University athletic department received some good news, as the NCAA announced that it has granted a waiver to the third-year Peach Belt Conference school, making them full, official members of the Division II ranks.

That means the Saints and Lady Saints will be eligible to compete for automatic bids to NCAA tournaments, effective with the upcoming soccer seasons in 2007.

Article courtesy of the Peach Belt Conference.

Analysis: The decision by the NCAA to allow North Georgia to become a full D-II member comes as no surprise, as the Dahlonega, Ga.-based institution has proven that it can compete with anybody in the Peach Belt Conference, as well as the nation. The timing of the move is especially critical, with the departure of the University of South Carolina-Upstate to the NCAA Division I ranks. The move now gives the PBC 11 schools for the 2007-08 academic year, with only Georgia Southwestern State University still on provisional status.

GEORGIA SOUTHWESTERN NAMES NEW MEN'S SOCCER COACH

Georgia Southwestern State University will begin its second season of Peach Belt Conference play with a new head coach for its men's soccer program.

Warren Russ, who helped start the women's soccer program at the University of Georgia in 1995, was named the Hurricanes head coach Monday. He replaces Barry Kaplan, who remains at GSW as the women's soccer head coach.

Article courtesy of the Albany (Ga.) Herald.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?--FORMER FMU HOOPSTER REINALDO JEAN CHARLES

Photo caption: Reinaldo Jean Charles

Courtesy of Francis Marion University

FLORENCE, SC – Former Francis Marion University men’s basketball player Reinaldo Jean Charles has been named to the preliminary roster of the Venezuela national team according to the National Basketball Federation of Venezuela (FVB).

The Venezuelan squad will compete in the FIBA Americas Championship 2007, Aug. 22-Sept. 2, in Las Vegas . The tournament will determine two qualifiers for the 2008 Olympics Games in Beijing , China .

Charles played two seasons (2004-05 and 2005-06) at Francis Marion, averaging 7.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game in 45 contests. As a junior, the left-handed shooting guard averaged 8.3 ppg and ranked 12th in the Peach Belt Conference in three-pointers made per game.

Charles was born in Caracas , Venezuela , but moved to the United States when he was six years old. He attended Miami Dade Community College and Daytona Beach Community College before transferring to FMU in 2004.

At the Americas Championship, Venezuela will compete in Group B along with the United States , Brazil , Canada , and the Virgin Islands . Venezuela will open with the USA on Aug. 22.

To prepare for the championships, Venezuela will play a nine-game exhibition schedule with contests in New Zealand , China , and Spain . The Venezuelan squad, currently ranked 21st in the FIBA world rankings, is coached by Nestor Salazar.

Press release courtesy of Francis Marion University Sports Information

FORMER GC&SU PITCHER MOVES UP

HICKORY, N.C. – Former Georgia College & State University pitcher Christian Castorri was recently called up to the Hickory Crawdads, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Class-A affiliate in the South Atlantic League.

Castorri, who finished his GCSU career in 2006, started the season at the State College Spikes in State College , Pa. part of the Class-A Short Season New York-Penn League. There, he pitched in three games, going 0-0 with an impressive 1.59 ERA over 5 2/3 innings.

The righty began pitching for the Crawdads June 29 and has been busy, making four relief appearances, going 2-1 without allowing an earned run in 6 1/3 innings.

The Thomasville , Ga. native played two seasons at GCSU, going 9-4 over his career. He posted a 7-3 mark with a 2.97 ERA over 18 appearances in 2006, leading the team in complete games with three.

Press release courtesy of Georgia College & State University Sports Information

WEST GEORGIA MEN'S HOOPS--A LOOK BACK

The University of West Georgia sports information department has this outstanding recap on the 2006-07 men's basketball team; the first edition of the Wolves.

Article courtesy of University of West Georgia Sports Information

VANOVER'S LEGACY IS ENDURING

The Augusta (Ga.) Chronicle paid tribute to outgoing Peach Belt Conference Commissioner Marvin Vanover with this recent article.

Click here for the full story.

BRITSKY NAMED LADY 'CANES HEAD COACH

Photo: Kelly Britsky

Caption courtesy of Georgia Southwestern State University

Britsky named head women's basketball coach for Lady 'Canes

AMERICUS--Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) today announced that Kelly Britsky, head women's basketball coach for LaGrange College, has been named head coach of Lady 'Canes basketball. The announcement comes after a national search to replace Jennifer Rodkey.

Britsky will lead the Lady 'Canes through their second season as members of the NCAA Division II Peach Belt Conference. She started the women's basketball program at LaGrange College in 1999 and has remained head coach since that time. Britsky was also head women's volleyball coach and senior woman administrator at LaGrange. Her responsibilities in both women's basketball and volleyball included recruiting, scheduling, budget management, public relations and fundraising.

"We are excited to have found a coach of Kelly's caliber to take our women's basketball program to the next level in Peach Belt competition," said Jaclyn Kaylor, associate athletic director. "I think she will be a great addition to our staff, and we are all looking forward to having her at GSW."

Formerly, Britsky served as head softball coach and sports information director at Lagrange (1997-1999); teacher, softball, basketball and track coach at Perry High School (1994-1997); and assistant softball and volleyball coach at Lagrange College (1993-1994). At Lagrange, Britsky's overall record as head woman's basketball coach was 85-126, including a 17-11 season in 2001-2002 when she led the Lady Panthers to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) National Tournament. She has had 12 all-conference team players, five all-freshman team members, one freshman player of the year, 16 all-academic team members, two USCAA all-Americans and two honorable mention all-Americans. In both the 2001-2002 and 2006-2007 seasons, she was voted the Great South Conference Basketball Coach of the Year.

Britsky holds an Associates degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and Master's degree in education, both from LaGrange College.

Source: Georgia Southwestern State University Public Relations

CLAYTON STATE ATHLETICS SUCCESS

Despite being the lone Peach Belt Conference institution without a baseball and softball program, the Clayton State University athletic department has managed to become one of the premier programs at the NCAA Division II level. Click the link below to find out why.

Article courtesy of Clayton (Ga.) News-Daily.

COLUMBUS STATE HALL OF FAME CLASS ANNOUNCED

Columbus, GA - Columbus State University Athletic Hall of Fame president Scott Miller today announced the list of inductees for the 2007 class. Brian Dixon, Gary Hall, Chubby Jackson, and Scott Riddle comprise the 2007 class. The four inductees represent golf, men's basketball, and baseball.

"We feel like this is another exceptional group of former Cougars going into the Hall of Fame," said Miller. "Each one of these men made significant contributions to the University during their respective careers and helped to lay the groundwork for the success our program continues to enjoy."

Dixon won the NCAA Division II individual championship while helping the Cougars to the 1989 National Championship in golf. He earned All-America honors that season after his win in Eerie, PA, and was then an Honorable Mention All-American in 1990 after leading his squad to a runners-up finish at the D-II Championship.

Dixon was selected to play as an individual in the 1989 NCAA Division I championship after his individual title, and was also selected to play in the John Hancock All-America Tournament in El Paso, TX. He graduated from Columbus College in 1990 with a degree in criminal justice and serves his community by organizing numerous fund-raising events each year for groups such as the Boys and Girls Clubs, Stepping Stones, and the Leukemia Society. He serves as the head golf professional at the Griffin Country Club.

Gary Hall, a Hardaway High School graduate, played two seasons of baseball for the Cougars in 1976 and 1977 after playing two years of junior college ball at Calhoun Junior College in Alabama. He batted .375 in his senior season and set single season records at the time for home runs (14), doubles (17), extra-base hits (32), RBI (69), total bases (127), and slugging percentatge (.720). He also set a two-year career record for RBI with 104.

Hall was named to the South Atlantic Conference All-Conference team asw a catcher and to the league's All-SAC Tournament team as a designated hitter. He became the first Columbus College player to be drafted by a Major League team when he was selected in the 14th round of the 1977 draft by the Minnesota Twins.

Chubby Jackson played two seasons of basketball for the Cougars from 1983 to 1985. He helped the Herber Greene - coached squads to a two-year mark of 44-13, averaging 15.2 points per game in 49 career games. He set a school mark that still stands as a senior by shooting just over 64 percent from the floor.

Jackson averaged 14.8 points per game to go with 8.4 rebounds in his junior season. He followed that with 15.6 points and 9.3 rebounds per game as a senior. For his career, he averaged 15.2 points and 8.8 boards while scoring 851 points. He also contributed 125 assists, 110 steals, and 43 blocked shots. Shot just over 62 percent (350-564) for his two-year career.

Scott Riddle played two seasons of baseball for the Cougars during the ultra-successful mid-80's years. He helped the Cougars to a two-year mark of 84-29 and two trips to the NCAA Division II World Series, including a berth in the championship game in 1986. He was a two-time Division II All-American, earning First Team honors in 1986 and Second Team honors in 1987. He still holds the single-season record for RBI at CSU with 83 in the 1986 season.

Riddle was a career .367 hitter with 24 doubles, nine triples, and 27 homers in his two seasons. He fanned just 32 times in 414 at-bats and drove in 146 runs in 113 games played.

The 2007 induction ceremony will be held in the President's Suite at the Lumpkin Center at noon on November 17, 2007.

NOTE: Nominations for the 2008 CSU Hall of Fame class are now open. Those wishing to nominate former Cougars may access the nomination form at http://csucougars.com. The form can be filled out and submitted online, or it may be printed and mailed or delivered to the CSU Athletic Department.

Source: Columbus State University Sports Information

UWF FINISHES 14TH IN DIRECTOR'S CUP RACE

The University of West Florida athletic department had its best showing as an NCAA Division II member, finishing 14th in the final National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) standinngs for the 2006-07 academic year.

Other schools from D-II South Nation (Gulf South Conference, Peach Belt Conference, and SIAC) with notable finishes include Delta State (33rd), Columbus State (34th), Armstrong Atlantic State (53rd), USC Upstate (63rd), North Alabama (64th), Valdosta State (67th), and Albany State (81st).

Press release courtesy of NACDA.

COLUMBUS STATE WINS PEACH BELT COMMISSIONER'S CUP

Although both the baseball and softball team's quest to win national titles fell short, overall, it was a very good year for Columbus State University athletics, as the department won the Peach Belt Conference Commissioner's Cup for the 2006-07 academic year.

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Article courtesy of Columbus State University Sports Information

Peach Belt Conference Press Release

Final PBC Commissioner's Cup Standings Courtesy of Peach Belt Conference

COLUMBUS STATE BASEBALL FALLS IN TITLE GAME

The Columbus State University Cougars baseball program saw its chance to win its first national championship since 2002 fall by the wayside, as the University of Tampa Spartans repeated as NCAA Division II national champions with a 7-2 victory in the title game of the Division II World Series at Montgomery, Ala. Friday night.

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Article courtesy of Columbus State University Sports Information

Columbus (Ga.) Ledger-Enquirer Article

Peach Belt Conference Press Release