The NCAA Monday morning announced the 48 teams who will compete for the 2006 Division II baseball national championship. And D-II South Nation is well represented, as the Peach Belt Conference, to no one's surprise, earned five of the six bids in the South Atlantic Regional, while Montevallo, Southern Arkansas, and West Alabama were the lone Gulf South Conference teams selected South Atlantic Regional. In the South Regional, Albany State University (Ga.) earned its first-ever NCAA tournament bid after winning the SIAC tournament last month.
Here are the complete pairings for the South, South Atlantic, and South Central Regional tournaments, courtesy of NCAA Sports.com. Teams in conferences covered by D-II South Sports are marked in BOLD type.
South Regional at Tampa, Florida
1. *Tampa 46-6
2. Florida Gulf Coast 39-15
3. Catawba 44-12
4. Florida Southern 38-17
5. Lynn 33-21
6. Albany State (Georgia) 23-31
South Atlantic Regional at Milledgeville, Georgia
1. *GC&SU 49-10
2. Francis Marion 37-15
3. Columbus State 41-18
4. Armstrong Atlantic State 39-16-1
5. South Carolina-Aiken 43-17
6. Mount Olive 39-12
South Central Regional at Abilene, Texas
1. *Abilene Christian 43-16
2. Southern Arkansas 38-16
3. Montevallo 37-16
4. West Alabama 41-20
5. Central Oklahoma 40-18
6. Incarnate Word 36-19
Monday, May 15, 2006
CSU WINS PEACH BELT BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
AIKEN, S.C.--The Columbus State Cougars scored four runs in the first and added another in the second as they defeated top-ranked Georgia College & State University 8-4 in the championship game of the 2006 PBC Tournament in Aiken, S.C. With the win, the Cougars improve to 41-18 on the season while GC&SU falls to 49-10.
The Cougars jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the first inning as Kurt McKee led the game off with a double and later scored off an RBI single from Billy Howard. Brad Shea then delivered the big blow of the inning with a two-run double to right. Trent Bianco finished the scoring with an RBI single.
The Cougars built the lead up to five runs in the second inning on an RBI single from Drew Candlin that scored Jonnie Geiger. That was enough to force GC&SU starting pitcher Ryan Tabor (L, 0-1) from the game after an inning and 2/3, allowing five runs on six hits.
The Bobcats struck back in the fourth with a pair of runs. Casey Cullen doubled with one out to score Mike Deveaux, who was one of three Bobcats hit by a pitch in the game. Cullen was moved to third on a Wes Sorrells hit, then the bases were loaded as Kyle Shisler was hit by a pitch. Tripp Burt then grounded out to third, scoring Cullen but leaving runners at second and third with two out. Columbus State starter Bryan Kilgore (W, 1-3) got out of the jam by getting Rich Janofsky to ground out to short.
The Bobcats added another run in the seventh on an RBI line drive by Hans Stancil, but again left two runners on base. The Bobcats stranded nine runners in the game.
Columbus State put the game away in the bottom of the eighth, scoring three runs on a bizarre play that featured two throwing errors by the GC&SU defense that, in essence, allowed McKee to circle the bases for an inside the park home run with two runners on.
Paul Able pitched the ninth inning to close the door on the Bobcats. Johnny Floyd, who was named All-Tournament, pitched 1.1 innings of scoreless relief, his third appearance in the PBC Tournament.
CSU’s Billy Howard was named the tournament Most Valuable Player after going 1-4 with a run and an RBI. Candlin, Linton, Bianco and Shea all had two hits for the Cougars. Shea was also named All-Tournament.
Justin Mills was the only Bobcat with more than one hit as he went 2-for-5. Casey Cullen, named All-Tournament, went 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI.
Both GC&SU and Columbus State are all but assured of spots in the NCAA South Atlantic Regional tournament which begins next week. The tournament bracket is expected to be released on Monday morning.
Release courtesy of Columbus State University Sports Information
The Cougars jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the first inning as Kurt McKee led the game off with a double and later scored off an RBI single from Billy Howard. Brad Shea then delivered the big blow of the inning with a two-run double to right. Trent Bianco finished the scoring with an RBI single.
The Cougars built the lead up to five runs in the second inning on an RBI single from Drew Candlin that scored Jonnie Geiger. That was enough to force GC&SU starting pitcher Ryan Tabor (L, 0-1) from the game after an inning and 2/3, allowing five runs on six hits.
The Bobcats struck back in the fourth with a pair of runs. Casey Cullen doubled with one out to score Mike Deveaux, who was one of three Bobcats hit by a pitch in the game. Cullen was moved to third on a Wes Sorrells hit, then the bases were loaded as Kyle Shisler was hit by a pitch. Tripp Burt then grounded out to third, scoring Cullen but leaving runners at second and third with two out. Columbus State starter Bryan Kilgore (W, 1-3) got out of the jam by getting Rich Janofsky to ground out to short.
The Bobcats added another run in the seventh on an RBI line drive by Hans Stancil, but again left two runners on base. The Bobcats stranded nine runners in the game.
Columbus State put the game away in the bottom of the eighth, scoring three runs on a bizarre play that featured two throwing errors by the GC&SU defense that, in essence, allowed McKee to circle the bases for an inside the park home run with two runners on.
Paul Able pitched the ninth inning to close the door on the Bobcats. Johnny Floyd, who was named All-Tournament, pitched 1.1 innings of scoreless relief, his third appearance in the PBC Tournament.
CSU’s Billy Howard was named the tournament Most Valuable Player after going 1-4 with a run and an RBI. Candlin, Linton, Bianco and Shea all had two hits for the Cougars. Shea was also named All-Tournament.
Justin Mills was the only Bobcat with more than one hit as he went 2-for-5. Casey Cullen, named All-Tournament, went 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI.
Both GC&SU and Columbus State are all but assured of spots in the NCAA South Atlantic Regional tournament which begins next week. The tournament bracket is expected to be released on Monday morning.
Release courtesy of Columbus State University Sports Information
GC&SU SOFTBALL WINS SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL TITLE!
Columbus, GA - In a marathon pitchers' duel of epic proportions here Sunday night and early Monday morning, Georgia College & State University finally broke through in the 16th inning with four runs and went on to a 4-1 win over Lenoir-Rhyne in the championship game of the South Atlantic Regional. The rally broke a scoreless tie in a duel between freshmen hurlers Mandy Chandler of GC & SU and Casey Hanes of LRC.
"I am so shocked, I just don't believe it," said Lady Bobcat coach Ginger Miller. "Lenoir-Rhyne is a great team and they would certainly represent our region well."Chandler, named the tournament's MVP, fanned 23 hitters (a new school record) and allowed just seven hits in the game. She carried a no-hitter into the eighth inning before Hanes broke it up with a soft single to shallow center field. "Mandy has a lot of heart, in fact our whole team does. She never gave up and we just kept fighting. I am so proud," added Miller.
Hanes was almost as dominant. The freshman fanned 15 and walked just two hitters and did not allow an earned run. She pitched a total of 46 innings in the tournament for the Bears."We played hard and they played hard," said Bears coach Shena Hollar. "Unfortunately I felt we just didn't get the breaks. I am proud of this team, though - it has been a great season.
"GC & SU (44-11) got a single from Diana Baruffa with one out to start the rally in the sixteenth. Heather Jones then dropped down a bunt to move the runner, but the throw was mishandled at first for an error, putting runners at second and third. Keidra Baitey was intentionally walked and then Nikki Smith reached on another error and two runs scored on the play to make it 2-0. Aundrea Baker then tripled down the left field line to plate two more.
LRC (52-12-1) did not go quietly, however. Meredith O'Connor singled to lead off the inning adn Leah Krohn followed with a single an out later. After Angela Beard fouled out, Karie Pushard delivered a run-scoring single and brought the tying run to the plate. Chandler coerced a popup off the bat of Chrissy Lunsford to end the game and start the celebration for the Lady Bobcats.
Baker and Pushard were the only players for either team to collect more than one hit as the pitchers were in complete control of the game. GC & SU now advances to the Division II Softball Championship beginning Thursday in Salem, VA. It is second trip for the Lady Bobcats after the 2003 team finished as national runners-up.
Source: Columbus State University Sports Information
"I am so shocked, I just don't believe it," said Lady Bobcat coach Ginger Miller. "Lenoir-Rhyne is a great team and they would certainly represent our region well."Chandler, named the tournament's MVP, fanned 23 hitters (a new school record) and allowed just seven hits in the game. She carried a no-hitter into the eighth inning before Hanes broke it up with a soft single to shallow center field. "Mandy has a lot of heart, in fact our whole team does. She never gave up and we just kept fighting. I am so proud," added Miller.
Hanes was almost as dominant. The freshman fanned 15 and walked just two hitters and did not allow an earned run. She pitched a total of 46 innings in the tournament for the Bears."We played hard and they played hard," said Bears coach Shena Hollar. "Unfortunately I felt we just didn't get the breaks. I am proud of this team, though - it has been a great season.
"GC & SU (44-11) got a single from Diana Baruffa with one out to start the rally in the sixteenth. Heather Jones then dropped down a bunt to move the runner, but the throw was mishandled at first for an error, putting runners at second and third. Keidra Baitey was intentionally walked and then Nikki Smith reached on another error and two runs scored on the play to make it 2-0. Aundrea Baker then tripled down the left field line to plate two more.
LRC (52-12-1) did not go quietly, however. Meredith O'Connor singled to lead off the inning adn Leah Krohn followed with a single an out later. After Angela Beard fouled out, Karie Pushard delivered a run-scoring single and brought the tying run to the plate. Chandler coerced a popup off the bat of Chrissy Lunsford to end the game and start the celebration for the Lady Bobcats.
Baker and Pushard were the only players for either team to collect more than one hit as the pitchers were in complete control of the game. GC & SU now advances to the Division II Softball Championship beginning Thursday in Salem, VA. It is second trip for the Lady Bobcats after the 2003 team finished as national runners-up.
Source: Columbus State University Sports Information
Saturday, May 13, 2006
PBC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT UPDATE
AIKEN, South Carolina --Georgia College & State University scored twice in the top of the tenth inning to pull out a 2-0 victory over USC Aiken Saturday night at the Peach Belt Conference Tournament. GCSU (49-9) advances to the championship game of the tournament and will play Sunday at 4 p.m. against the winner of the USC Aiken (43-16)/Columbus State elimination semifinal.
Neither team could push a run across in regulation, forcing the extra frame. GCSU's Mike DeVeaux drew a one out walk and advanced to second and third base on wild pitches. He would score the first run on a fielder's choice grounder off the bat of Wes Sorrells. Nick Waldrip provided an insurance run with an RBI single to bring home Casey Cullen. The Pacers were retired in order in the bottom of the inning to send the Bobcats to the championship game.
Matt Howard (6-0) picked up the win in relief for GCSU after holding the Pacers scoreless for 3.1 innings on one hit with three strikeouts. Nick Wandless (2-1) took the loss in relief for USC Aiken after allowing two runs on one hit with two walks in 1.1 innings.
Brandon Anderson went 2-for-4, while Justin Mills went 2-for-5 to lead GCSU at the plate. Mike Wadowski went 3-for-4 to lead USC Aiken.
Information courtesy of Georgia College & State University.
Neither team could push a run across in regulation, forcing the extra frame. GCSU's Mike DeVeaux drew a one out walk and advanced to second and third base on wild pitches. He would score the first run on a fielder's choice grounder off the bat of Wes Sorrells. Nick Waldrip provided an insurance run with an RBI single to bring home Casey Cullen. The Pacers were retired in order in the bottom of the inning to send the Bobcats to the championship game.
Matt Howard (6-0) picked up the win in relief for GCSU after holding the Pacers scoreless for 3.1 innings on one hit with three strikeouts. Nick Wandless (2-1) took the loss in relief for USC Aiken after allowing two runs on one hit with two walks in 1.1 innings.
Brandon Anderson went 2-for-4, while Justin Mills went 2-for-5 to lead GCSU at the plate. Mike Wadowski went 3-for-4 to lead USC Aiken.
Information courtesy of Georgia College & State University.
GC&SU BASEBALL ELIMINATES ARMSTRONG ATLANTIC STATE
AIKEN, South Carolina--Georgia College & State University stayed alive in the Peach Belt Conference Baseball Tournament Saturday with a 14-5 victory over Armstrong Atlantic State University. GCSU (48-9) advances to Saturday night's 7 p.m. semifinal against USC Aiken.
Trailing 4-3 after four innings, GCSU scored three in the fifth and exploded for six runs in the sixth inning for a 12-4 lead. Mike DeVeaux led a 17-hit Bobcat attack by going 5-for-6 with three doubles and five RBI, while Casey Cullen added four RBI in a 2-for-5 performance, and Hans Stancil went 3-for-5 with four runs scored and four stolen bases. Daniel Heflin went 4-for-4 with one RBI to lead AASU (39-16-1 PBC).
Jayson Bennett (1-2) picked up the win in relief for the Bobcats after allowing one run on four hits with five strikeouts and three walks in four innings. Austin Ducey (5-6) took the loss for the Pirates after allowing three runs on two hits with three walks in 1.1 innings of relief.
AASU is eliminated from the tournament.
Information courtesy of Georgia College & State University
Trailing 4-3 after four innings, GCSU scored three in the fifth and exploded for six runs in the sixth inning for a 12-4 lead. Mike DeVeaux led a 17-hit Bobcat attack by going 5-for-6 with three doubles and five RBI, while Casey Cullen added four RBI in a 2-for-5 performance, and Hans Stancil went 3-for-5 with four runs scored and four stolen bases. Daniel Heflin went 4-for-4 with one RBI to lead AASU (39-16-1 PBC).
Jayson Bennett (1-2) picked up the win in relief for the Bobcats after allowing one run on four hits with five strikeouts and three walks in four innings. Austin Ducey (5-6) took the loss for the Pirates after allowing three runs on two hits with three walks in 1.1 innings of relief.
AASU is eliminated from the tournament.
Information courtesy of Georgia College & State University
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
PEACH BELT CONFERENCE BASEBALL TOURNAMENT
PEACH BELT CONFERENCE BASEBALL TOURNAMENT--at Aiken, SC--May 11-14
Thursday's games--All Times EDT
#1 GC&SU vs. #6 USC Upstate--11 a.m.
#2 Francis Marion vs. #5 Armstrong Atlantic--3 p.m.
#3 Columbus State vs. #6 USC Aiken--7 p.m.
Analysis: With five of the six teams currently ranked in the most recent Collegiate Baseball NCAA Division II national poll (GC&SU #1, FMU #5, CSU #15, USCA #16, and AASU #23), and a sixth team (Upstate) also receiving votes, this should be a very competitive tournament. Also, it doesn't hurt that seven of the nine teams in the latest South Atlantic Regional poll also call the PBC home, with five of those aforementioned squads (GC&SU, FMU, AASU, CSU, and USCA) ranked one through five respectively. It's too bad at least one of those teams may end up being left out of the NCAA tournament field come next weekend.
PBC Tournament Web Site
Thursday's games--All Times EDT
#1 GC&SU vs. #6 USC Upstate--11 a.m.
#2 Francis Marion vs. #5 Armstrong Atlantic--3 p.m.
#3 Columbus State vs. #6 USC Aiken--7 p.m.
Analysis: With five of the six teams currently ranked in the most recent Collegiate Baseball NCAA Division II national poll (GC&SU #1, FMU #5, CSU #15, USCA #16, and AASU #23), and a sixth team (Upstate) also receiving votes, this should be a very competitive tournament. Also, it doesn't hurt that seven of the nine teams in the latest South Atlantic Regional poll also call the PBC home, with five of those aforementioned squads (GC&SU, FMU, AASU, CSU, and USCA) ranked one through five respectively. It's too bad at least one of those teams may end up being left out of the NCAA tournament field come next weekend.
PBC Tournament Web Site
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
NCAA SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT SELECTIONS ANNOUNCED
The pairings for the 2006 NCAA Division II softball tournament were announced yesterday, and D-II South Nation had a decent showing in the selection process, as eight of the 16 teams in both the South and South Atlantic regional brackets combined came from either the Gulf South Conference, the Peach Belt Conference, or the SIAC. The PBC placed four teams in the South Atlantic Regional, while the GSC sent three teams, and the SIAC one team, respectively, to the South Regional.
Here are the complete pairings for both regionals. Teams in conferences covered by D-II South Sports are marked in BOLD type.
SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL--May 11-15 at Columbus, Ga.
#3 Wingate (45-9) vs. #6 Carson-Newman (40-13)
#2 GC&SU (40-11) vs. #7 Armstrong Atlantic State (37-25)
#4 Lenoir-Rhyne (49-10-1) vs. #5 USC Upstate (41-16-1)
#1 Columbus State (38-13) vs. #8 Queens (33-22)
SOUTH REGIONAL--May 11-15 at Lakeland, Fla.
#3 Alabama-Huntsville (48-15) vs. #6 Saint Leo (37-18)
#2 Barry (37-11) vs. #7 Valdosta State (38-22)
#4 North Alabama (39-18) vs. #5 Florida Gulf Coast (57-7)
#1 Florida Southern (49-5) vs. #8 Kentucky State (26-8)
South Regional Website
NCAA Sports.com
Here are the complete pairings for both regionals. Teams in conferences covered by D-II South Sports are marked in BOLD type.
SOUTH ATLANTIC REGIONAL--May 11-15 at Columbus, Ga.
#3 Wingate (45-9) vs. #6 Carson-Newman (40-13)
#2 GC&SU (40-11) vs. #7 Armstrong Atlantic State (37-25)
#4 Lenoir-Rhyne (49-10-1) vs. #5 USC Upstate (41-16-1)
#1 Columbus State (38-13) vs. #8 Queens (33-22)
SOUTH REGIONAL--May 11-15 at Lakeland, Fla.
#3 Alabama-Huntsville (48-15) vs. #6 Saint Leo (37-18)
#2 Barry (37-11) vs. #7 Valdosta State (38-22)
#4 North Alabama (39-18) vs. #5 Florida Gulf Coast (57-7)
#1 Florida Southern (49-5) vs. #8 Kentucky State (26-8)
South Regional Website
NCAA Sports.com
Sunday, May 07, 2006
FRANCIS MARION HOOPS COACH NAMED
FLORENCE, S.C. - Francis Marion athletic director Murray Hartzler announced on Wednesday, April 26 the hiring of Gary Edwards of Indiana (Pa.) as the university's new head coach for men's basketball. The announcement was made at a news conference at The Cottage on the FMU campus.
Edwards, 48, replaces John Schweitz, whose contract was not renewed following the 2005-06 season.
The Virginia Beach, Va., native comes to Francis Marion after 10 seasons as head coach at NCAA Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He guided the Indians to a 206-88 mark, including five 20-win campaigns, and four trips to the Division II national tournament. Under his guidance, IUP advanced to the Elite Eight twice (2000 and 2002) and participated in the 2002 Final Four. He is the winningest coach in the program's long history.
His career coaching mark stands at 389-256 in 22 seasons on the bench.Edwards returns to South Carolina, where he still ranks as the winningest coach at Division I Charleston Southern University. In nine seasons, he guided the Buccaneers to 121 wins. His 1995 CSU squad won the Big South Conference title, and he twice earned Big South Conference "Coach of theYear" honors.
He also previously coached at Barton College (then Atlantic Christian College), compiling a 62-35 mark in three seasons and leading the Bulldogs to two NAIA national tournament appearances.
Prior to his arrival, the Bulldogs had suffered through 19 consecutive losing seasons.
"We are extremely pleased to have Gary join our staff," Hartzler said. "Given his background at both the Division I and Division II levels, he became the right choice at the right time to lead our program. His career record speaks for itself, and we feel he possesses all the qualities we are looking for to run a complete program, both on and off the court."FMU president Dr. Fred Carter added, "In hiring a new coach, we focused on three key criteria: the necessity for achieving a winning program, recruiting and graduating student-athletes, and cultivating strong support within the community. We feel that Gary will be successful at all three of these."
Edwards received a B.A. degree in English (magna cum laude) from Virginia Wesleyan College, where he was recognized as an academic All-American on the basketball court in 1979. He later earned a master's degree from Old Dominion University.
His coaching career began in 1979 as an assistant varsity coach and head junior varsity coach at his alma mater, Virginia Wesleyan. He then served as an assistant coach at Hofstra University for two years before taking over the Barton program."In many ways, this is like coming home for me," Edwards said. "I am originally from the South, and have had many good experiences in South Carolina. I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to lead this program. Under Dr. Carter's leadership, some exciting things are in the offing, and I am anxious to do what I can to help the cause."
Edwards, who has two teenage children, becomes the sixth head coach in the 36-year history of the FMU men's basketball program.
Francis Marion returns seven lettermen, but no starters, from last season's 12-16 squad that placed eighth during the Peach Belt Conference regular season.
(Source Francis Marion Sports Information)
Additional coverage courtesy of d2basketball.com.
Edwards, 48, replaces John Schweitz, whose contract was not renewed following the 2005-06 season.
The Virginia Beach, Va., native comes to Francis Marion after 10 seasons as head coach at NCAA Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He guided the Indians to a 206-88 mark, including five 20-win campaigns, and four trips to the Division II national tournament. Under his guidance, IUP advanced to the Elite Eight twice (2000 and 2002) and participated in the 2002 Final Four. He is the winningest coach in the program's long history.
His career coaching mark stands at 389-256 in 22 seasons on the bench.Edwards returns to South Carolina, where he still ranks as the winningest coach at Division I Charleston Southern University. In nine seasons, he guided the Buccaneers to 121 wins. His 1995 CSU squad won the Big South Conference title, and he twice earned Big South Conference "Coach of theYear" honors.
He also previously coached at Barton College (then Atlantic Christian College), compiling a 62-35 mark in three seasons and leading the Bulldogs to two NAIA national tournament appearances.
Prior to his arrival, the Bulldogs had suffered through 19 consecutive losing seasons.
"We are extremely pleased to have Gary join our staff," Hartzler said. "Given his background at both the Division I and Division II levels, he became the right choice at the right time to lead our program. His career record speaks for itself, and we feel he possesses all the qualities we are looking for to run a complete program, both on and off the court."FMU president Dr. Fred Carter added, "In hiring a new coach, we focused on three key criteria: the necessity for achieving a winning program, recruiting and graduating student-athletes, and cultivating strong support within the community. We feel that Gary will be successful at all three of these."
Edwards received a B.A. degree in English (magna cum laude) from Virginia Wesleyan College, where he was recognized as an academic All-American on the basketball court in 1979. He later earned a master's degree from Old Dominion University.
His coaching career began in 1979 as an assistant varsity coach and head junior varsity coach at his alma mater, Virginia Wesleyan. He then served as an assistant coach at Hofstra University for two years before taking over the Barton program."In many ways, this is like coming home for me," Edwards said. "I am originally from the South, and have had many good experiences in South Carolina. I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to lead this program. Under Dr. Carter's leadership, some exciting things are in the offing, and I am anxious to do what I can to help the cause."
Edwards, who has two teenage children, becomes the sixth head coach in the 36-year history of the FMU men's basketball program.
Francis Marion returns seven lettermen, but no starters, from last season's 12-16 squad that placed eighth during the Peach Belt Conference regular season.
(Source Francis Marion Sports Information)
Additional coverage courtesy of d2basketball.com.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
BASEBALL POSTSEASON UPDATE--05/06/2006
The Gulf South Conference baseball tournament got underway at the USA Baseball Stadium in Millington, Tenn. Saturday morning. In the day's first game, East Division third seed North Alabama knocked off West Division second seed Ouachita Baptist 8-4.
For complete coverage of the GSC baseball championships, click here.
In Peach Belt Conference play, the final day of the regular season has come down to just a mere handful of games, as Armstrong Atlantic State clinched a berth in the PBC tournament with a 4-3 win over USC Aiken Friday night. Also on Friday, Lander held on to its hopes of advancing to postseason play with a 22-11 rout of North Georgia. The Bearcats must sweep the Saints, and hope for an AASU sweep of USCA to advance to next week's PBC tournament at Aiken, S.C.
For complete coverage of the GSC baseball championships, click here.
In Peach Belt Conference play, the final day of the regular season has come down to just a mere handful of games, as Armstrong Atlantic State clinched a berth in the PBC tournament with a 4-3 win over USC Aiken Friday night. Also on Friday, Lander held on to its hopes of advancing to postseason play with a 22-11 rout of North Georgia. The Bearcats must sweep the Saints, and hope for an AASU sweep of USCA to advance to next week's PBC tournament at Aiken, S.C.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
MUST SEE GAMES--BASEBALL
Click on the highlighted team name (s) to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
#22 Armstrong Atlantic State (37-12-1, 13-11) at #19 USC Aiken (39-14, 13-11)
Friday 7:30 p.m. EDT
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The Pacers play host to the Pirates in a critical Peach Belt Conference series in Aiken, S.C. this weekend. The team that gets swept either could fall to the #6 seed, or out of next week's PBC tournament altogether.
#22 Armstrong Atlantic State (37-12-1, 13-11) at #19 USC Aiken (39-14, 13-11)
Friday 7:30 p.m. EDT
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The Pacers play host to the Pirates in a critical Peach Belt Conference series in Aiken, S.C. this weekend. The team that gets swept either could fall to the #6 seed, or out of next week's PBC tournament altogether.
USC UPSTATE ADVANCES TO PBC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT
The field for the 2006 Peach Belt Conference baseball tournament next week is set, as USC Upstate split a doubleheader with #6 Francis Marion at Florence, S.C. Thursday. The Spartans won the opener 7-4 to clinch the sixth and final berth, only to have the Patriots bounce back, and win the nightcap 6-2. With the win, Upstate finished the regular season at 32-22 overall and 13-14 in PBC games.
For more on this story, click here.
For more on this story, click here.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
MUST SEE GAMES--BASEBALL--05/03/2006
USC Upstate (31-20, 12-12) at Francis Marion (37-17, 17-7)
Wednesday 3 p.m. EDT
Thursday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
It's just that simple for the Spartans, really! Win just one game, and they're in the Peach Belt Conference tournament. If they get they swept by the Patriots, however, their season is over.
As for FMU, the Patriots enter this series knowing they'll finish the regular season in second place no matter what.
Wednesday 3 p.m. EDT
Thursday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
It's just that simple for the Spartans, really! Win just one game, and they're in the Peach Belt Conference tournament. If they get they swept by the Patriots, however, their season is over.
As for FMU, the Patriots enter this series knowing they'll finish the regular season in second place no matter what.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
BREAKING NEWS-BOBCATS WIN PEACH BELT CONFERENCE TITLE
The Bobcats of Georgia College & State University won the 2006 Peach Belt Conference baseball regular season title with a 6-3 win over Armstrong Atlantic State University in the first game of a doubleheader Sunday in Savannah, Ga. The Bobcats rallied late Saturday to defeat the Pirates 12-6 in the first game of the three game series.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
MUST SEE GAMES--04/29-30/2006
NOTE: Click on the highlighted school name to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
TOP BASEBALL SERIES:
Georgia College & State University (43-8, 19-5) at Armstrong Atlantic State (37-9-1, 13-8)
Saturday 3 p.m. EDT
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The 14th ranked Pirates play host to the top ranked Bobcats in a battle of nationally-ranked teams in Savannah this weekend. GC&SU had its ten game win streak snapped with a tough loss to Erskine on Tuesday, while AASU also has won ten straight. The Bobcats could move one step closer to wrapping up the top seed in the Peach Belt Conference tournament by winning two of three games over the Pirates.
TOP BASEBALL SERIES:
Georgia College & State University (43-8, 19-5) at Armstrong Atlantic State (37-9-1, 13-8)
Saturday 3 p.m. EDT
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The 14th ranked Pirates play host to the top ranked Bobcats in a battle of nationally-ranked teams in Savannah this weekend. GC&SU had its ten game win streak snapped with a tough loss to Erskine on Tuesday, while AASU also has won ten straight. The Bobcats could move one step closer to wrapping up the top seed in the Peach Belt Conference tournament by winning two of three games over the Pirates.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
MUST SEE GAMES--BASEBALL--04/22-23/2006
NOTE: Click on the link of the highlighted team to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
North Alabama (34-15, 9-6) at West Alabama (31-16, 9-5)
Saturday 4 p.m. CDT (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. CDT
The Tigers host the Lions in this key Gulf South Conference East Division "catfight". Although they lost two out of three games to Lincoln Memorial, the Tigers did save some face in a big way, as UWA banged out 24 hits in a 29-4 rout of the Railsplitters in the series finale last Sunday. As for the Lions, they'll try to rebound after swept by Valdosta State at home last weekend.
Francis Marion (33-11,15-6) at USC Aiken (38-12, 12-9)
Saturday 6:30 p.m. EDT
Sunday 1:30 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Lander (28-18, 10-11) at Columbus State (33-15, 12-9)
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
UNC Pembroke (29-19, 10-11) at Georgia College & State University (40-7, 16-5)
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
It's a "showdown weekend" in the Peach Belt Conference, as these three series will have huge implications as to which teams will make the conference tournament next month. The Bobcats and the Patriots both hope to stay at the top of the PBC standings by the end of the weekend, while the Braves and Bearcats both find themselves in must-win situations in order to stay in contention for postseason play.
North Alabama (34-15, 9-6) at West Alabama (31-16, 9-5)
Saturday 4 p.m. CDT (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. CDT
The Tigers host the Lions in this key Gulf South Conference East Division "catfight". Although they lost two out of three games to Lincoln Memorial, the Tigers did save some face in a big way, as UWA banged out 24 hits in a 29-4 rout of the Railsplitters in the series finale last Sunday. As for the Lions, they'll try to rebound after swept by Valdosta State at home last weekend.
Francis Marion (33-11,15-6) at USC Aiken (38-12, 12-9)
Saturday 6:30 p.m. EDT
Sunday 1:30 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Lander (28-18, 10-11) at Columbus State (33-15, 12-9)
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
UNC Pembroke (29-19, 10-11) at Georgia College & State University (40-7, 16-5)
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
It's a "showdown weekend" in the Peach Belt Conference, as these three series will have huge implications as to which teams will make the conference tournament next month. The Bobcats and the Patriots both hope to stay at the top of the PBC standings by the end of the weekend, while the Braves and Bearcats both find themselves in must-win situations in order to stay in contention for postseason play.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
GREENE RESIGNS AS CSU HEAD COACH
Monday, April 17, 2006 marked the end of an era at Columubus State University (Ga.), as Herbert Greene announced his resignation as the Cougars head men's basketball coach. Greene won 481 games in a head coaching career that dated back to 1981, when the institution was then known as Columbus College. Assistant coach Doug Branson will take over as interim coach for next season.
For more details, click here.
Analysis: The resignation of Herbert Greene as CSU men's basketball head coach brings an end to one of the greatest eras in Columbus State's athletic history, as he'll now focus on being the athletic director for the longtime Peach Belt Conference school. When he arrived at what was then Columbus College in 1981, the Cougars were barely getting adjusted to the NCAA Division II ranks, ESPN wasn't even two years old, and former President Ronald Reagan was less than a week away from being shot. In 25 years, Greene has helped build Columbus State into one of the strongest D-II athletic programs in the nation. As far as his coaching skills, the fact that he won more than 400 games at a school like CSU is nothing short of phenomenal in an era where most coaches don't even stay at the same place more than five years, if at all. One thing is for sure, whoever eventually does replace Greene on a permanent basis will definitely have some big shoes to fill.
For more details, click here.
Analysis: The resignation of Herbert Greene as CSU men's basketball head coach brings an end to one of the greatest eras in Columbus State's athletic history, as he'll now focus on being the athletic director for the longtime Peach Belt Conference school. When he arrived at what was then Columbus College in 1981, the Cougars were barely getting adjusted to the NCAA Division II ranks, ESPN wasn't even two years old, and former President Ronald Reagan was less than a week away from being shot. In 25 years, Greene has helped build Columbus State into one of the strongest D-II athletic programs in the nation. As far as his coaching skills, the fact that he won more than 400 games at a school like CSU is nothing short of phenomenal in an era where most coaches don't even stay at the same place more than five years, if at all. One thing is for sure, whoever eventually does replace Greene on a permanent basis will definitely have some big shoes to fill.
Friday, April 14, 2006
CLAYTON STATE SETS SIGHTS ON COMMISSIONER'S CUP
Article courtesy of Clayton Neighbor (Ga.)
The Clayton State University athletic department is moving one step closer to claiming its first-ever Peach Belt Conference Commissioner's Cup, which is awarded to the best all-around athletic program in the PBC. For more on this story, please click here.
The Clayton State University athletic department is moving one step closer to claiming its first-ever Peach Belt Conference Commissioner's Cup, which is awarded to the best all-around athletic program in the PBC. For more on this story, please click here.
MUST SEE GAMES--BASEBALL/SOFTBALL--EASTER WEEKEND 2006
NOTE: Click on the link of the highlighted school to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
(L)--Live stats only.
TOP BASEBALL GAMES
Francis Marion (29-11, 12-6) at UNC Pembroke (L)--(28-16, 10-8)
Friday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Saturday 2 p.m. EDT
Armstrong Atlantic State (28-9-1, 7-8) at Columbus State (33-11, 12-6)
Friday 5 p.m. EDT
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
USC Aiken (35-10, 11-7) at Lander (L)--(26-16, 8-10)
Friday 6 p.m. EDT
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The Peach Belt Conference has three key series this weekend, as all of them will have a huge impact on who advances to the conference tournament at USC Aiken May 11-14. The Pirates and the Bearcats have the most at stake, as they are currently battling each other for the sixth and final spot in the PBC tournament.
TOP SOFTBALL GAMES
Columbus State (32-11, 13-3) at Augusta State (27-12, 12-4)--Saturday 1 p.m. EDT
The Jaguars host the Lady Cougars in a twin bill that could decide at least a share of the Peach Belt Conference regular season title. CSU can win the crown outright if it sweeps ASU. On the other hand, a split would force a three-way tie for the championship between Augusta, CSU, and Georgia College & State University.
(L)--Live stats only.
TOP BASEBALL GAMES
Francis Marion (29-11, 12-6) at UNC Pembroke (L)--(28-16, 10-8)
Friday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Saturday 2 p.m. EDT
Armstrong Atlantic State (28-9-1, 7-8) at Columbus State (33-11, 12-6)
Friday 5 p.m. EDT
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
USC Aiken (35-10, 11-7) at Lander (L)--(26-16, 8-10)
Friday 6 p.m. EDT
Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The Peach Belt Conference has three key series this weekend, as all of them will have a huge impact on who advances to the conference tournament at USC Aiken May 11-14. The Pirates and the Bearcats have the most at stake, as they are currently battling each other for the sixth and final spot in the PBC tournament.
TOP SOFTBALL GAMES
Columbus State (32-11, 13-3) at Augusta State (27-12, 12-4)--Saturday 1 p.m. EDT
The Jaguars host the Lady Cougars in a twin bill that could decide at least a share of the Peach Belt Conference regular season title. CSU can win the crown outright if it sweeps ASU. On the other hand, a split would force a three-way tie for the championship between Augusta, CSU, and Georgia College & State University.
Friday, April 07, 2006
MUST SEE GAMES--BASEBALL/SOFTBALL
NOTE: Click on the link of the highlighted school name to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
TOP BASEBALL SERIES
Armstrong Atlantic State (27-6-1, 7-5) at Francis Marion (25-11, 9-6)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Monday 2 p.m. EDT
The Patriots host the Pirates in a critical Peach Belt Conference series that was pushed back to Sunday because of the threat of severe weather in the Florence, S.C. area over the weekend. FMU enters the series ranked 12th in the nation at the NCAA Division II level, according to Collegiate Baseball Newspaper, while AASU is ranked 26th. The series is especially important for the Pirates, who lost two of three games at home to USC Upstate last weekend.
TOP SOFTBALL GAMES
USC Upstate (34-13-1, 9-5) at Armstrong Atlantic State (31-16, 8-4)--Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The Lady Pirates host the Spartans in a key twin bill for positioning in the upcoming Peach Belt Conference tournament. Last Saturday (April 1), AASU split a doubleheader with current PBC leader Augusta State, losing the opener 4-0, but bouncing back to win the nightcap 11-7. On the other hand, Upstate hopes to rebound after being swept by Columbus State in their last PBC contests, also last Saturday. The Spartans lost both games 10-2 and 3-1 to the Lady Cougars, respectively.
TOP BASEBALL SERIES
Armstrong Atlantic State (27-6-1, 7-5) at Francis Marion (25-11, 9-6)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
Monday 2 p.m. EDT
The Patriots host the Pirates in a critical Peach Belt Conference series that was pushed back to Sunday because of the threat of severe weather in the Florence, S.C. area over the weekend. FMU enters the series ranked 12th in the nation at the NCAA Division II level, according to Collegiate Baseball Newspaper, while AASU is ranked 26th. The series is especially important for the Pirates, who lost two of three games at home to USC Upstate last weekend.
TOP SOFTBALL GAMES
USC Upstate (34-13-1, 9-5) at Armstrong Atlantic State (31-16, 8-4)--Saturday 1 p.m. EDT (Doubleheader)
The Lady Pirates host the Spartans in a key twin bill for positioning in the upcoming Peach Belt Conference tournament. Last Saturday (April 1), AASU split a doubleheader with current PBC leader Augusta State, losing the opener 4-0, but bouncing back to win the nightcap 11-7. On the other hand, Upstate hopes to rebound after being swept by Columbus State in their last PBC contests, also last Saturday. The Spartans lost both games 10-2 and 3-1 to the Lady Cougars, respectively.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
MUST SEE GAMES--BASEBALL/SOFTBALL
NOTE: It may be late in the season, but the like the old saying, it's better late than never. Having said that, D-II South Sports will preview the key games and series for the remainder of the 2006 baseball and softball seasons. So, without further delay, let's proceed.
National rankings are courtesy of Collegiate Baseball Newspaper.
Click on the highlighted school name to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
TOP BASEBALL GAMES
#12 Columbus State (26-9, 8-4) at #9 USC Aiken (28-7, 8-4)
Saturday 1 p.m. EST (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
The Pacers host the Cougars in a key Peach Belt Conference series this weekend. Both teams enter the set tied looking to break a tie for third place in the PBC standings, while also trying to stay among the top 15 teams in the Collegiate Baseball NCAA Division II national rankings.
Lander (23-11, 6-6) at UNC Pembroke (21-13, 7-5)--(L)
Saturday 1 p.m. EST (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
The Braves play host to the Bearcats in a series that could decide who advances to the PBC tournament at Aiken, S.C. May 11-14. Keep in mind that only the top six teams will advance to the conference tournament, so this series is very important for both teams if they hope to advance to postseason play.
(L)--Live Stats only
TOP SOFTBALL GAMES
USC Upstate (33-10-1, 9-3) at Columbus State (25-10, 10-2)--Saturday 1 p.m. EST
The Lady Cougars take on the Spartans in hopes of keeping pace with first place Augusta State in the Peach Belt Conference standings. CSU split a twin bill with Georgia College & State University Wednesday, with the Lady Cougars winning the opener 2-1, and losing the nightcap 5-4.
On the other hand, Upstate swept a doubleheader from USC Aiken Thursday, winning both games 6-1 and 3-2.
Augusta State (23-6, 9-1) at Armstrong Atlantic State (28-15, 7-3)--Saturday 2 p.m. EST
The surprising Jaguars will look to stay on top in the PBC this weekend, as they pay a visit to Savannah to face the Lady Pirates. Augusta hasn't played since last Sunday, when they swept Queens 6-0 and 9-1, while AASU split a pair of games with USC Aiken, winning the first game 6-5, but losing the second game 8-4.
National rankings are courtesy of Collegiate Baseball Newspaper.
Click on the highlighted school name to listen to live audio, or view live stats.
TOP BASEBALL GAMES
#12 Columbus State (26-9, 8-4) at #9 USC Aiken (28-7, 8-4)
Saturday 1 p.m. EST (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
The Pacers host the Cougars in a key Peach Belt Conference series this weekend. Both teams enter the set tied looking to break a tie for third place in the PBC standings, while also trying to stay among the top 15 teams in the Collegiate Baseball NCAA Division II national rankings.
Lander (23-11, 6-6) at UNC Pembroke (21-13, 7-5)--(L)
Saturday 1 p.m. EST (Doubleheader)
Sunday 1 p.m. EDT
The Braves play host to the Bearcats in a series that could decide who advances to the PBC tournament at Aiken, S.C. May 11-14. Keep in mind that only the top six teams will advance to the conference tournament, so this series is very important for both teams if they hope to advance to postseason play.
(L)--Live Stats only
TOP SOFTBALL GAMES
USC Upstate (33-10-1, 9-3) at Columbus State (25-10, 10-2)--Saturday 1 p.m. EST
The Lady Cougars take on the Spartans in hopes of keeping pace with first place Augusta State in the Peach Belt Conference standings. CSU split a twin bill with Georgia College & State University Wednesday, with the Lady Cougars winning the opener 2-1, and losing the nightcap 5-4.
On the other hand, Upstate swept a doubleheader from USC Aiken Thursday, winning both games 6-1 and 3-2.
Augusta State (23-6, 9-1) at Armstrong Atlantic State (28-15, 7-3)--Saturday 2 p.m. EST
The surprising Jaguars will look to stay on top in the PBC this weekend, as they pay a visit to Savannah to face the Lady Pirates. Augusta hasn't played since last Sunday, when they swept Queens 6-0 and 9-1, while AASU split a pair of games with USC Aiken, winning the first game 6-5, but losing the second game 8-4.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
