Kujava, Peterson and Arneson Earn PTP Player of the Week Honors

(December 29, 2011)

Taylor Kujava (Ada-Borup), Kyle Arneson (Fosston) and Troy Peterson
(Ulen-Hitterdal) have been selected as the Pine to Prairie Girls and Boys
Basketball Players of the Week for their efforts last week.

Taylor led the Cougars to a 72-50 victory over the previously unbeaten
Waubun Bombers. The senior forward scored 26 points, grabbed 8 rebounds
and played solid defense to help secure the win. Taylor also is a strong
leader for the 5-1 team.

Kyle (senior) scored 30 points on 14 of 19 shooting from the field in a 76-49 win at Climax-Fisher. Arneson also contributed 7 rebounds, 4 assists and
had no turnovers for the game from his guard position. The Greyhounds are
off to a 5-0 start to the season.

Troy shot an amazing 13 of 16 from the field on his way to scoring 26
points. Peterson also added 9 rebounds and 3 assists during a win over
Norman County West. The senior center has help the Ulen-Hitterdal boys
basketball team get off to a 6-1 start this season.

Several other notable efforts were turned in by student-athletes in the Pine to Prairie conference last week. Sean Benson (Bagley) scored 40 points in two games as the Flyers went 1-1, Angela Vanderplaats (Norman County West)had a 17 point game with 5 three pointers and added 7 rebounds in a win over Ulen-Hitterdal, DeMarcus Brown (Win-E-Mac) had 13 points and 15 rebounds in a win over Mahnomen and Kaine Lundmark (Bagley) scored 14
points and grabbed 7 boards in a loss at Fertile-Beltrami.

Skersick and Rufsvold Earn PTP Players of the Week Honors

(December 19, 2011)
Kari Skersick (So, Forward0 from Bagley and Payton Rufsvold (Sr., Guard)
from Norman County West have been honored as the Pine to Prairie Girls
and Boys Basketball Players of the Week.

Kari led the Flyers to a 1-1 record for the week. She scored 22 points and
grabbed 11 rebounds in a hard fought 63-52 loss to Waubun on Tuesday and
then followed that effort up with 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 steals to help
the Flyers defeat Mahnomen on Friday. During the week, Kari also
connected on 14-17 free throws. For the season, she is shooting 84% from
the foul line.

Payton Rufsvold had a great week as he lead Norman County West to a 2-1
record for the week. In a win over Climax-Fisher, Payton scored 22 points,
added 13 rebounds and 5 steals. Against Waubun, Rufsvold had 32 points, 5
rebounds and 6 steals in the team’s win. To finish the week off, Payton
scored 26 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and had 3 steals in a 1 point loss to DG-
F. For the week, Payton had 80 points, 27 rebounds and 14 steals.

Other outstanding performances for the week in girls basketball included:
Ciara Austinson (Ulen-Hitterdal) scoring a total of 38 points for the week
and Andi Knudsvig (Lake Park-Audubon) scoring 51 points in two
conference wins.

On the boys side, Jason Hanks (Waubun) scored 56 points in three games,
Kris Skersick (Bagley) had 44 points and 32 rebounds for the week, Jake
Pavek (Mahnomen) netted 51 points and grabbed 30 rebounds, Jake Walker
(Win-E-Mac) scored 28 points in a win over Climax-Fisher in his first start,
Kyle Arneson (Fosston) scored 39 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in two
Greyhound victories and Taylor Carlson (Fosston) had 32 points and 22
rebounds in the victories highlighting the boys basketball play for the week.

BSU's Andrew Walsh named WCHA Rookie fo the Week

MADISON, Wis. – Goaltender Andrew Walsh, who backstopped his Bemidji State University men’s hockey team to a 2-1 home-ice victory over nationally-ranked Denver last weekend, has been named Red Baron® WCHA Rookie of the Week for Dec. 13.

A 6-2, 190-pound freshman form Dawson Creek, B.C., Walsh turned aside a career-high 36 shots last Saturday to boost Bemidji State to it’s first win over the Pioneers in a series that dates to 1967 (1-9-0). His 36 saves on 37
shots resulted in a .973 saves percentage and he also served as the last line of defense for BSU’s league-leadingpenalty-kill unit that held the Pioneers scoreless

UND goalie Aaron Dell named WCHA Defensive Player of the Week

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – North Dakota junior goalie Aaron Dell has been named Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA)Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in UND’s series split with Nebraska Omaha last weekend.

Dell stopped 59 of 61 shots (.967 save percentage) in the series,including a 26-save shutout that earned him the game’s No. 1 star in UND’s 1-0 win on Saturday. It was his first shutout of the season and eighth of his career, which ranks fourth all-time at UND behind only Karl Goehring (15), Jordan Parise (10), and Jean-Philippe Lamoureux (10). One night earlier, Dell stopped 33 of 35 shots and was named the No. 2 star in a 2-1 overtime loss to the Mavericks.

Over his last three starts Dell owns a 0.99 goals against average and a .963 save percentage. In 16 games this season (15 starts), the Airdrie, Alberta, native is 6-7-1 with a 2.80 goals against average and an .895 save percentage.

Alaska Anchorage junior forward Mitch Bruijsten and Minnesota sophomore defenseman Mark Alt shared WCHA Offensive Player of the Week honors, while Bemidji State freshman goalie Andrew Walsh was named WCHA Rookie of the Week.

UND (9-8-1, 7-7-0 WCHA) closes out the first half of the season on Saturday with an exhibition game against the Russian Red Stars.

The puck drops at 7:07 at Ralph Engelstad Arena.

PTP basketball players of the week

(December 12, 2011)
Jenna Lundon ( Sr., Guard) from Waubun High School and Lorenzo
Pemberton (Sr., Forward) from Bagley High School have been recognized as
the first Girls and Boys Basketball Players of the Week for the 2011-12
season.

Jenna scored a total of 52 points in victories over Fosston and Red Lake
Falls last week. She had 24 points in a 60-47 win over Fosston and then
added 28 points as the Bombers defeated Red Lake Falls 64-50. With her 28
points against Red Lake Falls, Jenna became the All-Time Leading Scorer
for the Bombers. She currently has a career total of 1871 points.

Lorenzo had 2 solid well rounded games this past week. He helped the
Flyers start their season with a 2-0 record. Against Park Rapids, Pemberton
had 14 points, 7 assists, 3 steals and 3 blocks. He followed that effort up
with 14 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks against Ulen-
Hitterdal. Lorenzo is also a honor roll student and serves as a captain for the Boys Basketball team.

Other outstanding performances for the week include: Kari Skersick (So.,
Bagley) as she had 52 points and 21 rebounds as the Flyers went 1-1 on the
week and Marshall McKeever (Jr., Win-E-Mac) with 42 points, 17
rebounds, 7 assists, and 7 steals as the Patriots went 0-2 on the week.

The Beaver Dam announces extended holiday hours

BEMIDJI, Minn. -- The Beaver Dam is making it easy for you to give the give of Green and White this holiday season by announcing extended
store hours through Dec. 23.

Just inside Gate 2 at the Sanford Center, a wide variety of Bemidji State University and Beaver hockey merchandise and apparel has been
available on game days, but from now until Dec. 23, The Beaver Dam will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.
through the BSU men’s hockey game Saturday Dec. 17 for all of your holiday shopping needs.

This week only (Dec. 12-17), shoppers spending $100 or more at The Beaver Dam store or online at www.beaversportswear.com will get a
$10 gift Beaver Dam gift card.

Take the guesswork out of your holiday shopping. Whether you are home for the holidays, visiting Bemidji or are a long-time fan of the Beavers,
stop by The Beaver Dam.

The Beaver Dam is located in Sanford Center just off of First Street at 1111 Event Center Drive in Bemidji, Minn. or shop form the comfort of
your own home on the online store at www.beaversportswear.com.

Jeff Cheek Named Offensive Coordinator at the UM-Crookston

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston and the Golden Eagle Athletic Department announced today that Jeff Cheek has been hired as the new offensive coordinator with the Golden Eagle Football program.

Cheek comes to the University of Minnesota, Crookston from Fresno State University where he was the offensive quality control assistant. At Fresno State, he assisted in game planning for third downs, assisted in weekly offensive scouting reports, broke down opponent game film and charted plays and defensive coverages on game days. Prior to Fresno State, Cheek was an offensive graduate assistant at his alma mater Boise State University. Cheek gained coaching experience at Golden West College as the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, Humboldt State University, and Eastern Oregon University. He began his coaching career at Nampa Senior High School as the offensive line coach.

“Coach Cheek is a tremendous addition to the Golden Eagle Football program,” says Head Coach Paul Miller. “His playing and coaching experience will be an asset to both the coaching staff and our student-athletes,” Miller adds.

Cheek played left guard for Boise State University. He started in 13 games for the Broncos and was a member of two Big West Championship teams and two Humanitarian Bowl Championship teams. Prior to Boise State, he was a First Team All-Coast Conference player at De Anza College. In the classroom he earned a BS in social science and a MA in education pedagogy from Boise State University.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

Basketball mementos, memorabilia solicited

The 2011-12 boys’ basketball season is under way with the first games of the season played within the last week. The girls have been playing for a week longer. The 2012 state tournaments are a little more than three months away. At both tournaments, the Minnesota State High School League will be celebrating the 100th state basketball tournament, marking the first boys’ event in 1913.

The centennial milestone will be commemorated many ways. There will be recognition of players, coaches, games, shots, tournaments and teams throughout the first 100 years. History will be paramount and the public is invited to assist with contributions of mementos and memorabilia that will be displayed at both state tournaments.

An earlier appeal resulted in a few contributions already. An extensive scrapbook has been shared. A championship trophy and photograph of a girls’ team from the ‘20s is in League possession. Ticket stubs and uniform patches have also been contributed.

Anything and everything is being solicited. Items such as tournament programs, books about the tournament, newspaper clippings, balls and uniforms, trophies, photographs — anything related to either state tournament is needed to fill display cases for fans to enjoy while at Target Center for the 2012 state tournaments.

League staff will take great care in securing any contributed item and will make sure it is returned in the same condition in which it was received. The League can arrange for pickup or delivery of items if required.

Potential contributors may inquire by sending an e-mail to hoops100@mshsl.org or by leaving a message in the general mailbox at 763-560-2262.

NDSU's Lopez Named Summit League Female Athlete of the Month

ELMHURST, Ill. - North Dakota State women's volleyball player Jennifer Lopez was named the November Summit League Female Athlete of the Month by the league office Thursday, Dec. 8.

Lopez, a 5-foot-10 senior setter from Glyndon, Minn., was the first player in Summit League history to be voted both Player and Setter of the Year.

She was also named Summit League tournament MVP after posting 46 assists and 18 digs in the semifinal win over Oakland, and 34 assists plus 10 digs in a sweep over Oral Roberts in the championship.

Lopez averaged 10.91 assists, 4.09 digs and 1.18 kills per set while hitting .244 during the month and posted double-doubles in all six matches as the Bison went 6-0.

North Dakota State won its fourth straight regular-season championship with a 16-2 league record and finished 26-9 overall with a loss to Minnesota in the NCAA first round.

Oakland men's basketball player Reggie Hamilton was named Male Athlete of the Month after averaging 20.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.2 steals per game for the Golden Grizzlies, who went 4-2 in November. Hamilton scored a career-high 35 points in an 89-81 win over Tennessee.

UMC's Brittani Wiese Named NSIC Player of the Week

(Burnsville, Minn.)- The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC)
announced today that *Brittani Wiese (G, 5-7, Jr., Albertville, Minn.) from UM-Crookston has been named NSIC Player of the Week for women's basketball.

Wiese had game-high performances of 21 and 19 points respectively as the
Golden Eagles split over the weekend. Wiese's 20 ppg was the third
highest average in the league this past week. She also led the NSIC with
a seven assists per game average. Wiese shot 50% (16-32) from the field
and 77.8% (7-9) from the charity stripe. She also grabbed two steals and
six rebounds on the defensive end of the court. UMC fell in overtime on
a last second shot to Minnesota Duluth (72-73) before rebounding on
Saturday to defeat Bemidji State (82-66).

The Golden Eagles return to the court on Saturday, December 10 when the
team travels to MSU Moorhead for a single NSIC weekend game. Tip-off is
scheduled for 4 p.m.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at:
http://www.goldeneaglesports.com .

Paul Miller Named Head Football Coach at UMC

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston and the Golden Eagle Athletic Department announced today that the "interim" tag has been removed and offensive coordinator Paul Miller has been named the head coach of the Golden Eagle Football program effective immediately.

Coach Miller has been coaching football for over 35 years. He began his career as a graduate assistant at the University of Minnesota, Morris. He has worked with the Gophers (intern on Jim Wacker's staff), was an assistant coach at the University of St. Thomas and head coach at St. Olaf College and Hamline University. Football coaching honors he has attained include, Minnesota State Football Coaches Association Coach of the Year, University of Minnesota, Morris Alumni Coach of the Year, KARE TV "Metro Coach of the Year" and Section Football Coach of the Year (7 times). Miller earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota, Morris. He was a triple major in physical education/health (K-12), political science and social sciences. He received his Masters of Arts in physical education (athletic administration emphasis) from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Coach Miller and his wife Judy, also a U of M graduate, have three daughters and five grandchildren.

"Paul has the experience as a coordinator and as a head coach to continue to move the Golden Eagle Football program forward," says Athletic Director Stephanie Helgeson. "Paul is a proven recruiter. He and his staff will continue to recruit and bring quality student-athletes to the University of Minnesota, Crookston."

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at http://www.goldeneaglesports.com .

Follow the Golden Eagles on Facebook at /Golden Eagle Sports /and on Twitter at /#UMCAthletics./

Bemidji State Teddy Bear Toss to be held Dec. 10

BEMIDJI, Minn. -- The Bemidji State University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) will host its annual Teddy Bear Toss in conjunction with its hat and mitten drive at BSU men’s and women’s hockey games Dec. 9-10.

Fans are encouraged to bring teddy bears or other stuffed animals, preferably new but used in good condition will also be accepted, wrapped in a clear plastic bag, to the men’s and women’s hockey games Dec. 10. When the Beavers score their first goal of each game, those in attendance will have an opportunity to toss their teddy bear donation(s) onto the Sanford Center ice.

Bemidji State athletics faithful are also encouraged to bring winter hats, mittens, gloves and/or other cold weather gear to contribute to at the main gate as they enter men’s or women’s hockey games at the Sanford Center Both Dec. 9 and Dec. 10.

All items collected will go directly to local charities and will be distributed to children and Bemidji area residents in need this holiday season.

SAAC is comprised of student-athlete leaders from each of BSU’s 15 varsity athletic programs. In addition to the Teddy Bear Toss and Hat and Mitten Drive, the organization plans several other civic-minded projects throughout the year as well as being a student-athlete voice within the structure of the NCAA and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).

UND's Brock Nelson earns WCHA weekly honors

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – University of North Dakota sophomore forward Brock Nelson has been named Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) co-Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in UND’s sweep of fourth-ranked Colorado College last weekend.

Nelson, a 6-4, 192-pound sophomore forward from Warroad, Minn., produced six scoring points and factored in on both game-winning goals to propel the Fighting Sioux to their first series sweep of the season.

Nelson recorded three points in each game, a 7-6 victory last Friday (Nov. 25) and a 4-3 win on Saturday (Nov. 26). In Friday’s win, Nelson scored a pair of power-play goals, including the game-winner at 11:54 of the third period, and also added an assist. The following night, he scored another power-play goal and added a pair of assists, helping setting up teammate Danny Kristo’s shorthanded game-winner in the third period to earn first star honors.

In addition, Nelson fired eight shots on goal on the weekend and earned a +2 plus/minus rating. The New York Islanders’ (NHL) draftee shares the scoring lead for North Dakota this season with 17 points (10g, 7a) in 14 games, and is tied for the national lead with six power-play goals.

Nelson shared offensive player of the week honors with CC’s Rylan Schwartz, who netted a hat trick in each game of the series at UND.

Wisconsin junior defenseman Justin Schultz was named defensive player of the week, while Denver freshman goalie Juho Olkinuora earned rookie of the week honors.

UND (6-7-1, 4-6-0 WCHA) travels to Alaska Anchorage (5-7-2, 2-7-1 WCHA) on Friday and Saturday

Section 8AA Football All-Tourney selections

Name School Grade Height Weight Position
Ross Merriman Warroad 12 5' 9" 160 QB/S
Aaron Haataja Warroad 11 5' 8" 165 RB/CB
Alex Sandahl Warroad 12 6' 176 WR/CB
Tyler James Fish Warroad11 6' 2" 301 OL/DL
Andy Foster Warroad 12 5'10" 200 MLB
Hunter Lawson Hawley 11 5'10" 150 QB/S
Riley Burns Hawley 12 5'11" 180 RB/LB
Alex Ames Hawley 11 5'10" 180 FB
Alex Schwendeman Hawley12 6' 180 LB/TE
Kris Skersick Bagley 12 6' 1" 235 FB/LB
Tyler George Bagley 12 6' 1" 170 TB/S
Nick Neeland Bagley 12 5'11" 190 QB/LB
Colby Braton Barnesville12 5' 9" 165 FB/LB
Kyle Johnson Barnesville11 6' 220 G/DE
Austin Martz Barnesville11 6' 1" 165 RB/SS
Tanner Dufault Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton 12 5'10" 163 QB
Jake Hanson Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton 12 5' 9" 219 DL
Cody Piper Frazee 12 5'11" 163 RB/DB
Daniel Janu Frazee 12 6' 5" 202 TE/DE
Bryson Vasey United North Central 12 5'11" 275 OL/DL
Tanner Burgau United North Central 12 5' 9" 160 WR/DB
Luke Halbakken Pelican Rapids 12 6' 6" 200 SE/LB
Tucker Forsgren Pelican Rapids 11 6' 5" 205 SP/LB
Christopher Zimmer Walker-H-A/Laporte 11 5'10" 205 LB

NDSU’s Lopez Player & Setter of the Year

FORT WAYNE, Ind. - Five North Dakota State women's volleyball players earned spots on the All-Summit League teams and two Bison earned individual awards selected by a vote of the league's 10 coaches announced Thursday, Nov. 17, at the league championship banquet.

Senior Jennifer Lopez became the first player in league history be named both Player of the Year and Setter of the Year, and Kari Thompson was named Coach of the Year in her first full season at the helm of the Bison.

Junior middle hitter Megan Lambertson joined Lopez on the All-Summit League first team, and senior middle hitter Chrissy Knuth and junior outside hitter Brynn Joki were named to the second team. Outside hitter Lauren Cammack was named to the All-Freshman Team.

Oral Roberts sophomore libero Bruna Silva was named Defensive Player of the Year and IPFW outside hitter Emily Spencer was named Freshman of the Year.

Lopez guided the league's top offense in hitting percentage, kills and assists. She ranks in the league's top-four in hitting percentage (.299) and assists (10.75 per set) overall and was among the top 10 in league play.

Thompson led NDSU to its fourth straight regular-season crown and fifth straight tournament berth with a league record of 16-2. NDSU posted its fifth consecutive 20-win season and tied its Division I program record for wins with a 24-8 record.

2011 All-Summit League Volleyball Teams
First Team
Meghan Bray, Oakland, Jr., OH
Kelli Fiegen, South Dakota State, Jr., MH
Megan Lambertson, North Dakota State, Jr., MH
Jennifer Lopez, North Dakota State, Sr., S
Analaine Pelaez-Mailoto, Southern Utah, Jr., OH
Bruna Silva, Oral Roberts, So., L
Emily Spencer, IPFW, Fr., OH

Second Team
Shari Bernhardt, IUPUI, Sr., L
Brynn Joki, North Dakota State, Jr., OH
Chrissy Knuth, North Dakota State, Sr., RS
Kendall Kritenbrink, South Dakota, Fr., OH
Tessa McGill, IPFW, Jr., L
Elizabeth McVicker, Oral Roberts, Jr., MH
Megan Steenhuysen, IPFW, Jr., S

All-Freshmen Team
Lauren Cammack, North Dakota State, OH
Taylor Humm, Oakland, OH
Kendall Kritenbrink, South Dakota, OH
Ann Miller, Western Illinois, OH
Gabi Mirand, Southern Utah, S
Emily Spencer, IPFW, OH
Kendall Wienkes, IPFW, OH

Player of the Year
Jennifer Lopez, North Dakota State

Defensive Player of the Year
Bruna Silva, Oral Roberts

Setter of the Year
Jennifer Lopez, North Dakota State

Freshman of the Year
Emily Spencer, IPFW

Coach of the Year
Kari Thompson, North Dakota State

Moller Resigns Head Football Coach Position at UMC

CROOKSTON, Minn. (November 16, 2011) – The University of Minnesota, Crookston announced this afternoon that Charles “Chuck” Moller has resigned as head football coach for the Golden Eagles.

“Coach Moller has chosen to pursue other opportunities,” said U of M, Crookston Chancellor Charles Casey. Moller was named head football coach for the Golden Eagles in December of 2010. He had been hired on a one-year contract.

Effective immediately, Assistant Football Coach Paul Miller, who served the Golden Eagles this season as offensive coordinator, will step in as interim head football coach.

“We appreciate Coach Moller’s contributions to our program over this past year,” said Athletic Director Steph Helgeson, “and we wish him and his family the best in the future.”

Dragons Men's Basketball Signs Four Recruits for 2012-13 Season

Collin Boyles, Sports Information Coordinator

MOORHEAD, Minn. - On the opening day of regular season basketball games for Minnesota State University Moorhead, the men's club announced the signing of four recruits to add depth for seven exiting seniors.

The Dragons announced Tuesday the signing of Tyler Vaughan from Braham High School (Braham, Minn.), Damien Reinke from Becker High School (Becker, Minn.), Matt Nelson from Rosemount High School (Rosemount, Minn.) and Ryan Benoy from Baldwin-Woodville High School (Baldwin, Wisc.).

Vaughan, a 6'0" guard, earned MVP honors in the Great River Conference while recording 24.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.5 assists and three steals per game in his junior season for the Braham Bombers. Vaughan took his talents into spring and summer circuits while playing with the Minnesota Comets. A two-sport athlete, Vaughan led the school's football team to the Minnesota State Tournament.

Reinke, a 6'6" forward, put up 19.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game with the Becker Bulldogs as a junior. Reinke, a distinguished three-point shooter, played alongside Vaughan on the Comets' spring and summer circuit travel-team. Also a two-sport athlete, Reinke's play at wideout for the Bulldogs' football team has led to college recruitment in both sports.

Nelson, a 6'9" forward, has been called a team-first player while scoring 11.7 points per game in his junior season for the Rosemount Irish. The tall presence will add shot blocking ability, strong defense, scoring opportunities from the post and perimeter and intelligence while running the floor. Nelson competed with the Minnesota Select on the travel-team circuit.

Benoy, a 6'0" guard, leads the Baldwin-Woodville Blackhawks from the point after averaging 2.5 assists and 18.2 points off a .500 field goal percent as a junior. A .390 three-point percent shows the potential of his perimeter game. As MVP of the Middle Border Conference, Benoy will take on a distributor role with the Dragons while defending opponents from end-line to end-line. Benoy played on a travel-team circuit with the Wisconsin Playground Warriors.

The recruits will join the team for the 2012-13 season that will lose seven seniors from this year's squad. The Dragons women's and men's teams tip-off regular season play Tuesday night at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., respectively. The Dragons will take on the Vikings of Valley City State University in Alex Nemzek Fieldhouse.

Ness Trusty Safety Net for the Dragons

Larry Scott, SID Emeritus

MOORHEAD, Minn. - Forgive Katy Ness for being downright defensive about her volleyball career at Minnesota State Moorhead. It's just part of the job description.

A three-year fixture in the Dragon lineup, Ness fills the defensive specialist role of libero. It's an essential and often thankless assignment, but one Ness readily accepts.

“Technically, all I can do is receive serves and play defense,” said Ness. “I was an outside (hitter) in high school, but I knew coming here I wouldn't play outside because I didn't have the height.”

Ness had a simple solution. “You just come to learn to play your role and love that part of the sport.”

Ness is well aware of the importance of the libero in today's game, and she's willing to shoulder a bigger part of the load. “I'm looked at as a leader, and if our passing is not going well I'm going to take most of the blame for it, but I like to handle the heat. I'm fine with that.”

Ness appeared in all 27 matches this year and was credited with 567 digs, an average of 6.03 per game. She finished second in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference with 6.38 digs a game and earned honorable mention all-conference honors. She was also saluted as NSIC Player of the Week five times in 2011.

Ness was installed in the MSUM starting lineup early in her freshman season and finished with 456 digs. As a sophomore she reached double figures in digs in 22 matches, and finished with 447 digs, and hiked her career total to 1,470. She needs 338 to replace Emily Hegg as the Dragons' all-time leader.

A three-time all-conference selection at Ada-Borup High School, Ness was named to the Minnesota All-State Volleyball team as a senior. She was also honored as team and conference MVP.

Ness helped the Cougars advance to a third place finish at the 2008 Minnesota State High School Volleyball Championships. She was named to the Minnesota All-State Tournament team and earned All-State Academic honors as well. Ness also served as basketball and track captain of the Cougars.

Despite her classy prep pedigree, Ness knew she would face some adjustments in adapting to college volleyball. It could all be a blur at times.

“The speed of the game, and rotating from base to defense, that was the biggest change,” Ness said. “Getting to your spot is so important. If you're not to your spot when the ball is being hit, there's no way you're going to get it.”

Ness also understands the need for more lineup adjustments. “In college if you're having an off night you can be taken out, but it doesn't mean you're going to lose your spot for good. In high school you weren't likely to be taken out even if you were having a bad game.”

An Elementary Education major with a Math minor, Ness has been named to the Dean's List as a freshman and sophomore, and admits reaching a balance between academics and athletics is taxing at times. “You learn to get used to is, when you have a day off you take advantage of it,” said Ness.

When she graduated from Ada-Borup High, Ness wasn't about to put athletics on the backburner. Sorting out the options was another matter.

“I was looking at here (MSU Moorhead) or Valley City State, because my parents are both Valley City alumni,” she said. “If I went there I was going to play two sports, basketball and volleyball.”

Ness ultimately settled on MSUM. “It came down to if I really wanted to play two sports, and the distance. Plus, I'm such a homebody, and my sisters both live up here. That was part of it, too.”

Playing in the strongest volleyball conference in NCAA Division II presents a lot of challenges for Ness and her Dragon volleyball pals, but she also insists it also affords some special opportunities.

“You're playing against national champions and some of the best players in the country. That's always fun. I came from a high school where we didn't lose much, so it is challenge, but that's what motivates me. We're the underdog, so we have to prove them wrong.”

MSUM head coach Tammy Blake-Kath has been delighted with the contributions of Ness.

“Katy is one of our captains, and a great leader for us,” said Blake-Kath. “She's the glue who holds us together, a great role model for our younger players, especially with her defensive work ethic. Katie is very competitive and has improved a lot with her defense and passing game. That's become one of our real strengths.”

MSU Moorhead, stocked entirely with underclassmen, finished 13-14 overall and 11-9 in the NSIC this fall. The young Dragons suffered through some growing pains in 2011, but Ness is confident the experience will pay major dividends next season.

“We're young and inexperienced, and you can't coach experience,” said Ness. “You just have to play it day-by-day and put the time in.”

Ness will certainly be there again next year to help mentor the younger Dragons. “We want the freshmen to feel comfortable coming in. They're our teammates and we look at everyone the same. Overall, it's just getting the confidence and getting used to the pace of the game.”

Ness plans to explore a career in teaching and coaching in the future and she confident his athletic career, especially volleyball, has taught her some valuable lessons.

“You learn a number of things, including responsibility.”

Consider Katy Ness a fast learner.

Top of the State Conference Honors

2011 Top of State Conference Champions - Kittson County Central Bearcats
Coach of Year - Cory Waling and Staff, Kittson County Central Bearcats

Conference MVP's
Co-Lineman: Alex Yeager, Badger/Greenbush-Middle River & Kyle Braun, Kittson County Central
Back: Alex Aguilar, Climax/Fisher
Co-Special Teams: Corey Roach, Sacred Heart & Daniel Polansky, Goodridge/Grygla

All-Conference
Alex Rhen - BGMR
Timm Ingle - BGMR
Preston Swenson – Grygla-Goodridge
Drew Monson - Grygla-Goodridge
Jake Saurdiff - Grygla-Goodridge
Devin Drangsveit - Grygla-Goodridge
Daniel Ewens - EGFSH
Blake Labine – Stephen-Argyle
Davis Mills – Stephen-Argyle
Nick Olson – Northern Freeze
Tyler Rogstad – Clearbrook-Gonvick
Weston Bakke – Clearbrook-Gonvick
Dillon Fenno – Climax-Fisher
Alex Wentzel – Climax-Fisher
Mason Grimes – Climax-Fisher
Zach Rynning - KCC
Derek Coffield - KCC
Kyle Petersburg - KCC
Tyler Lyberg - KCC
Tanner Lyberg - KCC

Honorable Mention
Nick Dostal - BGMR
John Melin - EGFSH
Daniel Haugen – Stephen-Argyle
Seth Hoglo – Northern Freeze
Tyler Johnson – Clearbrook-Gonvick
Michael Beiswenger – Climax-Fisher
Tucker Cosley - KCC
Keith Sparby – Grygla-Goodridge

Area Women's BB signings

(Crookston, Minn.)- University of Minnesota, Crookston head women’s basketball coach Mike Roysland announced today the signings of Avery Jackson and Katrina Moenkedick to a National Letter of Intent to play for the Golden Eagles during the 2012-13 season.

Jackson is a 5-8, guard from Wadena Deer Creek High School in the Mid State Conference. She is an all-conference player and was twice named the Best Defensive Player. She earned the Hustle Award and was named to the North Central All-Star team. Her AAU team was named Gopher State Champions four times and she earned two silver medals at the National State Games of America.

Jackson plans to major in early childhood education at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. She is the daughter of Junelle and Jay Jackson.

Moenkedick is a 5-10, forward/center from Perham High School in the Heart O’ Lakes Conference. She is a three-time all-conference selection, a two-time conference MVP, and a two-time all-state honorable mention player. Moenkedick is a two-year team captain and earned the team’s best field-goal percentage and most steals in tenth grade and best field-goal percentage in eleventh grade.

Moenkedick is undeclared on a major at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. She is the daughter of Katy and Andy Moenkedick.



MOORHEAD, Minn. - The Minnesota State University Moorhead women's basketball team announced Wednesday, Nov. 9 the signing of four recruits, including Jessy Noreen of Hawley High School.

Noreen, a 5'7" guard, is currently a three-time selection to the All-Heart O' Lakes Conference team. Hawley High School, with a record of 28-1, made an appearance in the 2010 Minnesota High School State Tournament. Noreen averaged 11.6 points, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game as a junior. Noreen has totaled 1,018 points in three seasons at HHS. Basketball is one of three sports Noreen participates in as she has lettered in softball and volleyball as well. She earned five letters in softball following five All-Conference team selections. She also is a two-time All-Conference volleyball athlete.

Other signees include Leah Miller from Lawton-Bronson High School (Hornick, Iowa), Savanna Handevidt from Stillwater High School (Stillwater, Minn.) and Rachel Boegeman from Shakopee High School (Shakopee, Minn.).

The Dragon recruits will join the team for the 2012-13 season that will graduate only two seniors by that time. The 2011-12 season starts Nov. 15 as the men's and women's teams look to take on Valley City State University at Alex Nemzek Fieldhouse

UMC's Brittany Looker Named NSIC Volleyball All-Conference Honorable Mention

(Burnsville, Minn.)- The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) announced today the 2011 Volleyball All-Conference team, as voted on by the league coaches. University of Minnesota, Crookston freshman, outside hitter, Brittany Looker (OH, 5-10, Fr., Rochester, Minn.) earned recognition for her play as a member of the NSIC All-Conference Honorable Mention team.

To date, Looker has played in 104 sets and started all 28 matches. She leads the Golden Eagles with 351 kills (3.38 K/Set). She is second on the team with 28 service aces and 234 defensive digs. At the net, Looker amassed six solo blocks and 34 assisted blocks. She is tied for fifth in the NSIC in total kills and in eighth in kills per set. She was named KROX Athlete of the Week for the week of October 3, 2011

Looker is majoring in biology at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. She is the daughter of Jim and Sherry Looker.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at: www.goldeneaglesports.com.

NorthStar Football Players of the Week

(October 31, 2011)
The North Star Football Conference has announced the final Players of the Week for the 2011 football season.

Tyler George (Bagley) earned the East Division’s Offensive Player of the Week while teammate Chance Halverson garnered the Defensive Player of the Week award.

For the West Division, Justin Haugvedt (Warren-Alvarado-Oslo) and Nick Otto (Mahnomen) earned Co-Defensive Players of the Week and Luke Littlewolf (Mahnomen) was named the Offensive Player of the Week.

Tyler George (Sr., Tailback) led the Flyers to a 26-14 victory over Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton in the first round of the Section 8AA playoffs. Tyler had over 100 rushing while scoring a touchdown. Tyler also has big contributions on defense and special teams.

Chance Halverson (Jr., Lineman) has been one of the unsung heroes for the Flyer defense all season long. His efforts in practice and during games have been an inspiration to his teammates as season long. He may not stuff the stat sheet, but his contributions are immeasurable.

Justin Haugvedt (Sr., Defensive End) had 5 solo tackles and 3 assists. He also had 1sack, caused a fumble and added a fumble recovery in Warren-Alvarado-Oslo’s win over Cass Lake-Bena. The Ponies also defeated Fosston and will now play Fertile-Beltrami for the Section 8A Championship.

Luke Littlewolf (Sr., Tight End) had three touchdown catches in two games this past week. He also blocked extremely well from his Tight End position. Luke was a big part of the Mahnomen offense as the team won their first two playoff games and will be playing for the Section 6A Championship against Browerville.

Nick Otto (Jr., Linebacker) had 12 tackles in two games despite not playing the entire time. When Nick was making the play, he certainly was disrupting the play for his teammates. Nick will help lead the defense for Mahnomen as they battle for the Section 6A Championship.

North Star Football Conference Honors Players of the Week

The North Star Football Conference has announced the East and West
Division Football Players of the Week.

East Division honorees include:
Nathan Holm (Pine River-Backus) and Kris Skersick (Bagley) as Co- Offensive Players of the Week, Torrey Swenson (Bagley) as Defensive Player of the Week and Trevor Willberg (Bagley) as the Special Teams Player of the Week.

For the West Division, Zach Riopelle (Warren- Alvarado-Oslo) was named the Offensive Player of the Week and Mitch Kochmann (Mahnomen) was selected as the Defensive Player of the Week.

Nathan Holm led Pine River-Backus to a 56-6 win over Lake of the Woods. Holm was 5 for 11 passing for 184 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also had 7 rushes for 32 yards and 3 rushing touchdowns.

Kris Skersick had 5 carries for 53 yards and 3 touchdowns for the Flyers in their 55-6 win over Blackduck.

Torrey Swenson led the Flyer defense as they held Blackduck to six points. Swenson was all over the field preventing passes and was in on 14 tackles.

Trevor Willberg had 3 returns for 107 yards and 1 touchdown in the Flyers game agains Blackduck.

Zach Riopelle had 198 yards on 19 carries and scored 4 touchdowns. His performance put him over 1000 yards on the season and he broke the all time Pony career rushing record previously set at 3910 yards. Zach currently had 4070 career yards. W-A-O defeated Fosston 34-0.

Mitch Kochmann returned 2 kicks for touchdowns in a win over Red Lake County. He ran the opening kick back for 83 yards and had another 80 yard return, both for touchdowns. Mahnomen defeated RLC 47-8.

North Start Football Players of the Week

The North Star Football Conference has announced the Players of the Week Award winners for the 7th week of the season’s games.

For the East Division, Beau Howard (Pine River-Backus) was selected as the Offensive Player of the Week, Shane Fenske (Blackduck) earned the Defensive Player of the Week honors and Devin Strack (Pillager) was chosen as the Special Teams Player of the Week.

West Division honorees include Cody Piper (Frazee) and Tyler Hurst (Red Lake County) as Co-Offensive Players of the Week, Jake Galbrecht (Frazee) as the Defensive Player of the Week and Dan Janu (Frazee) earned Special Teams Player of the Week.

Beau (Jr., Wide Receiver) had 7 receptions for 89 yards during a loss to Pillager. Haward has 26 receptions for 428 yards on the season.

Shane (Jr., Defensive End) contributed 10 solo tackles and 7 assists against Red Lake County. RLC defeated Blackduck by a score of 34-8.

Devin returned the second half kickoff back for a touchdown. Strack also intercepted a pass on defense and helped lead Pillager to a 16-10 victory over Pine River-Backus.

Cody Piper and Tyler Hurst shared the Offensive Player of the Week honors for the West Division.

Piper rushed for 171 yards, 2 touchdowns and a 2 point conversion as the Hornets defeated Fosston 21-19.

Hurst had 21 rushes for 141 yards and 2 touchdowns against Blackduck. He also added a 51 yard interception return for a touchdown.

Jake was involved in 11 tackles as a defensive lineman this week against Fosston. Jake also added 2 receptions on offense.

Dan punted and kicked very solid for Frazee again this past week against Fosston. He added 5 solo tackles and caught 4 passes – including 1 for a touchdown – during the Hornets victory over the Greyhounds.

Other outstanding performances for the week include: Cooper Jedlicka (Blackduck), Nick Neeland (Bagley), and Kris Skersick (Bagley).

The final week of play for the North Star Football Conference has Bagley at Blackduck, Cass Lake-Bena at Walker-Hackensack-Akeley/Laporte, Lake of the Woods at Pine River-Backus, Pillager at Lake Park-Audubon, Frazee at Fertile-Beltrami (Fargodome), Fosston at Warren-Alvarado-Oslo, and Mahnomen at Red Lake County.

North Star Football Conference Players of the Week

The North Star Football Conference has announced the Players of the Week for the East and West Divisions.

For the East Division, Zach Karst (Walker-Hakcensack-Akeley) earned Offensive Player of the Week recognition, Aaron O’Connell (Lake of the Woods) garnerd the Defensive Player of the Week award and Kris Skersick (Bagley) was named Special Teams Player of the Week.

The East Division includes: Bagley, Blackduck, CassLake-Bena, Lake of the Woods, Pillager, Pine River-Backus and Walker-Hackensack-Akeley/Laporte.

Zach Karst led the Wolves with 19 carries for 164 yards and 1 touchdown in a defensive battle against Lake of the Woods. LOW won the game by a score of 14-7.

Aaron O’Connell anchored the defensive effort for Lake of the Woods. He had 6 solo tackles, 5 assisted tackles and 1 interception during their win over the Wolves.

Kris Skersick started the scoring for the Flyers when he ran the opening kickoff back for a touchdown against Fosston. The Flyers won their Homecoming game 26-12.

Other outstanding performances for the East Division teams included: Nick Ruhl (Pillager), Victor Dahl (Lake of the Woods), Nick Neeland (Bagley), Christopher Zimmer (Walker-Hackensack-Akeley/Laporte), and Adam Obermiller (Pillager).

West Division Player of the Week honorees include: Jake Pavek (Mahnomen) as Offensive Player of the Week and Zach Riopelle (Warren-Alvarado-Oslo) earned Defensive Player of the Week.

West Division schools include: Fertile-Beltrami, Fosston, Frazee, Lake Park-Audubon, Mahnomen, Red Lake County, and Warren-Alvarado- Oslo.

Jake Pavek rushed the ball 12 times for 172 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also was 2 of 4 passing for 69 yards as Mahnomen defeated Lake Park-Audubon 52-7.

Zach Riopelle had 10 solo tackles, which included 3 tackles for a loss of yardage. He also added 2 assisted tackles and a blocked punt against Frazee. The Ponies had an excited last second win over the Hornets by a score of 27-23.

Additional outstanding efforts for the West Division were turned in by Cody Piper (Frazee) and Rick Brandt (Frazee).

Richard Haley Breaks UMC 1,000 Yard Rushing Record

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Department announced today that junior, running back, Richard Haley (RB, 6-0, 205, Jr., Detroit, Mich.) broke the Golden Eagle 1,000 yard rushing record against Upper Iowa University on Saturday, October 8, 2011.

Haley, a transfer from Grand Rapids Community College, has played in just six games as a Golden Eagle. In that time, he has rushed 178 times and amassed 1,026 yards breaking the old record held by teammate Keith McBride (RB, 5-11, 195, Jr., Lodi, Wis.) who accomplished the 1,000 yard feat in 12 games for Minnesota, Crookston. Haley now has his sights set on the all-time season rushing record of 1,549 yards held by R.J. Rollins recorded in 2004. Rollins also holds the all-time UMC career rushing record of 3,073 yards (2002-2005).

“As coaches we are always very proud to see our athletes accomplish goals. Richard is a tremendous talent and we are very excited for him,” says Head Coach Chuck Moller. “We would also like to congratulate the offensive line and skill athletes who block for him to make this accomplishment possible.”

Haley currently leads the NSIC in rushing and is 409 yards ahead of his next closest competition. He is averaging 5.8 yards/rush and 171 yards/game, almost 70 yards/game above the next closest rusher. Last week he was ranked second in all of NCAA Division II just 3.4 yards behind the nation’s top rusher.

The Golden Eagle Sports Information Department is currently researching to see how many times, if at all, this mark has been reached this quickly in the NSIC.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

North Star FB conference POTW

Six Players from the North Star Football Conference have been recognized as Players of the Week.

From the East Division, Kris Skersick (Sr., Bagley) and Trey Volk (So., Blackduck) shared Offensive Player of the Week honors, Devrin House (Pillager) earned Defensive Player of the Week and Matt Doss (Pillager) was awarded Special Teams Player of the Week.

West Division winners were Sam Macy (Sr., Fertile-Beltrami) for Offensive Player of the Week and Matt Pepper (Lake Park-Audubon) for Defensive Player of the Week.

Kris Skersick scored 2 rushing touchdowns – one for 38 yards and the other for 35 yards – while leading the Flyers to a 54-0 win over Lake of the Woods. Skersick had 112 yards rushing in 6 attempts for the game.

Trey Volk had over 200 total yards offense in the Drakes 25-14 loss to Cass Lake-Bena. Volk had 102 yards on the ground and added 96 yard receiving for the night.

Devrin House had a big night for Pillager. He intercepted a pass for a touchdown, recorded 4 tackles, and added a fumble recovery on defense. House also caught a pass for a touchdown in the 46-7 victory over Walker-Hackensak-Akeley/Laporte.

Matt Doss had an excellent all around game on Friday. He kicked, punted, and was 2 for 2 on extra points during Pillager’s victory over WHA/Laporte. Matt also completed 9 of 10 pass attempts for 118 yards, 3 touchdowns and 2 conversions all in the first half of the game.

Sam Macy rushed for 122 yards on 19 carries and 1 touchdown in the victory over Warren-Alvarado-Oslo. Macy also added 3 receptions for 51 yards against a very tough WAO defense.

Matt Pepper had 4 solo tackles and 15 assists in Lake Park-Audubon’s victory over Red Lake County. Pepper also forced a fumble and added a quarterback sack. Matt is consistently at the top of the defensive stats.

Other outstanding performances for the week were turned in by: Mike Petit (Pillager), Chance Halvorson (Bagley), Brad Kusper (Blackduck), Cody Piper (Frazee) and Dan Janu (Frazee).

Fertile-Beltrami and Mahnomen currently lead the West Division of the North Star Conference with perfect 5-0 marks while Pillager and Bagley pace the East Division each with a 4-1 record.

NDSU “Bison Buddies” Basketball Camp Set for Oct. 22

FARGO, N.D. - North Dakota State University is hosting the annual "Bison Buddies" basketball camp Saturday, Oct. 22, from 9 a.m. to noon for boys and girls grades K-6.

Campers will learn skills and drills from current Bison players, receive a Bison Buddies t-shirt, take home a Bison Buddies gym bag and basketball, enjoy a pizza and autograph party, and meet Thundar.

All campers who participate in Bison Buddies will be invited to perform at halftime of a men's and women's basketball game.

Visit GoBison.com for the registration form (www.gobison.com/pdf8/788887.pdf). For more information, call Keith Dickhudt at (701) 369-1196.

North Star Conference Players of the Week

The North Star Football Conference has announced the Player of the Week
awards for this past week’s games.

East Division award winners are: Jeff Flicklinger (Pillager) was selected as the Offensive Player of the Week, Brad Kusper (Blackduck) was named the
Defensive Player of the Week and Kyler LaVine (Bagley) was chosen as the
Special Teams Player of the Week.

West Division honorees include: Avery Fairbanks (Mahnomen) as the
Offensive Player of the Week, Tyler Ziegler (Frazee) selected as the
Defensive Player of the Week and Mason Swegarden (Lake Park-Audubon) was named the Special Teams Player of the Week.

Jeff Flicklinger carried the ball 6 times for 116 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also intercepted a pass for a touchdown as Pillager defeated Lake of the
Woods.

Brad Kusper once again led his team’s defensive efforts with 18 tackles and one blocked kick in a loss against Walker-Hackensack-Akeley / Laporte.

Kyler LaVine had an 80 yard return for a touchdown as the Flyers defeated Pine River-Backus.

Other outstanding efforts in the East Division were turned in by: Tim
Conger (Bagley), Cody Beach (Pillager), and Chance Halverson (Bagley).

In the West Division, Avery Fairbanks had 14 carries for 110 yards including a 56 yard run against a very tough Warren-Alvarado-Oslo defense.
Mahnomen remained undefeated with their win.

Tyler Ziegler had 6 solo tackles, 4 assists and a sack in the Hornets win over Red Lake County. Tyler has an incredible work ethic and was instrumental in his team’s success.

Mason Swegarden went 6 for 6 on extra points on Friday night. Previously, he had only made 2 of 8 attempts.

Additional outstanding performances for the West Division from Friday
night include: Cody Piper (Frazee), Jacob Hedstrom (Mahnomen), Matt
Pepper (Lake Park-Audubon), Bruce Lemon (Frazee), and Jake Pavek
(Mahnomen).

Single-day Ice Breaker Tournament tickets on sale Tuesday

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The University of North Dakota Athletics Department announced today that single-day tickets for the 2011 Ice Breaker Tournament will go on sale on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at 10 a.m.

The Ice Breaker Tournament, hosted by UND in conjunction with College Hockey, Inc., and Ralph Engelstad Arena, takes place Oct. 7-8 and also includes Boston College, Michigan State and Air Force.

Friday’s games feature Boston College against Michigan State at 4:07 p.m. and UND against Air Force at 7:37 p.m. Saturday’s games will feature winner vs. winner and loser vs. loser. UND will play at 7:37 p.m. on Saturday regardless of Friday’s outcome. The other Saturday game will begin at 4:07 p.m.

All single-day tickets include both games played that day and cost $40 (adult), $25 (children), and $17 (UND student) each. All seats are reserved.
Fans can purchase their tickets online at www.ticketmaster.com, in person at the UND Box Office at Ralph Engelstad Arena or any Ticketmaster outlet, or by calling 800.745.3000.

The UND Box Office at Ralph Engelstad Arena is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday.

St. Cloud State, Western Michigan Accept Invitations to Join NCHC

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Western Michigan University and St. Cloud State University today accepted invitations to join the National Collegiate Hockey Conference.

In separate news conferences held on their respective campuses, Western Michigan and St. Cloud State announced they would join founding members Colorado College, University of Denver, Miami University, University of Minnesota Duluth, University of Nebraska Omaha and University of North Dakota in the new Division I men’s hockey conference when it begins play in the 2013-14 season.

The Western Michigan announcement was made by University Athletic Director Kathy Beauregard who was joined by Head Coach Andy Murray and Miami University Athletic Director Brad Bates, who represented the Conference. The St. Cloud State acceptance was announced by University President Dr. Earl H. Potter III who was joined by Head Coach Bob Motzko and Brian Faison, North Dakota Athletic Director and the Conference’s Athletic Directors Committee spokesman.

“This is a great day for the National Collegiate Hockey Conference to have these two outstanding institutions accept the invitations to become members of what we believe will be the premier college hockey conference in the United States,” ; said Faison. “St. Cloud State and Western Michigan will add a great deal to The National and we are very pleased to welcome them.”

“For us to align ourselves with the some of the most storied programs in Division I college hockey provides the opportunities for our student-athletes, coaches, and our terrific fan base to be at the forefront of the sport that allows us to pursue our goal of competing and winning at the highest level,” said Beauregard.

“We are delighted to join the National Collegiate Hockey Conference,” Potter said. “We believe that the conference’s strength of play and commitment to college hockey and student-athletes is strong and deep and we look forward to an exciting future with The National.”

For the next two years, Western Michigan will continue playing in the Central Collegiate Hockey Conference and St. Cloud State will continue competing in the Western Collegiate Hockey Conference.

In addition to advancing its membership process, the National Collegiate Hockey Conference has been conducting a national search for its first commissioner and expects to have its top executive in place by the end of the calendar year.

North Star Conference Announces Weekly Football Awards

The North Star Football Conference has announced the Players of the Week awards for the third week.

In the West Division, Chase Zeller from Lake Park-Audubon earned Offensive Player of the Week, Colton Laymon from Warren-Alvarado-Oslo garnered Defensive Player of the Week and Tyler Wacker from Frazee earned the Special Teams Player of the Week award.

For the East Division, Matt Doss from Pillager was named Offensive Player of the Week and Derek Sonenstahl from Pine River-Backus earned Defensive Player of the Week.

Chase Zeller, a senior, carried the ball 28 times for 225 yards rushing and 4 touchdowns. LP-A was trainling in the game 29-6 when Chase ran the ball for 3 touchdowns and 170 yards in a little over 7 minutes of play. LP-A defeated Frazee, 36-29, on the back ofZeller’s performance.

Junior, Colton Laymon, led the way for the W-A-O team with his defensive effort. Laymon had 4 solo tackles, 2 assists with 1 forced fumble and 2 fumble recoveries. Turnovers were the difference for W-A-O’s victory over Red Lake County and Colton was a big part of 3 of the 5 turnovers the Ponies recovered.

Tyler Wacker, a junior, had some outstanding plays on special teams for the Frazee Hornets during their hard fought game against Lake Park-Audubon. Tyler is a young player who has had to step up and play defense as well as be the number 1 field goal kicker all year. Tyler went 3 for 3 on extra points during the game.

Senior, Matthew Doss, led Pillager to a victory over Bagley last Friday evening. Matt completed 14 of 22 passes for 256 yards and 4 touchdowns in the 38-24 win over the previously unbeaten Flyers.

Derek Sonenstahl led the Pine River defense in their victory over Cass lake-Bena. The senior recorded 6 solo tackles and 6 assisted tackles for the game.

Other outstanding performances for last week were turned in by: Zach Riopelle (Warren- Alvarado-Oslo), Tate Moser (Fertile-Beltrami), Dan Janu (Frazee), Jacob Hedstrom (Mahnomen), Cody Piper (Frazee), Nathan Holm (Pine River-Backus), Kris Skersick (Bagley), and Lucas Thompson (Bagley).
Currently, Pine River-Backus leads the East Division with a 3-0 record and there is a log jam at the top of the West Division with Fertile-Beltrami, Mahnomen and Warren- Alvarado-Oslo all with 3-0 starts.

UMC Football Travels to Moorhead for a Homecoming Clash with the Dragons

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Football team travels to MSU Moorhead this Saturday, September 24 for an MSUM Homecoming matchup with the Dragons. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Alex Nemzek Field.

Minnesota, Crookston (1-2, 0-2 NSIC)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Football team trav¬eled to Mankato, Minn. to play the Mavericks in an NSIC contest on Saturday. Minnesota State used a stiff breeze, solid defense and strong special teams to shorten the field for the offense. Minne¬sota State had drives of 25, 17, 19, 26, 92 and 39 yards to help them to a 42-0 NSIC victory. The Golden Eagle offense was led today by Richard Haley (RB, 6-0, 205, Jr., Detroit, Mich.) who rushed 25 times for 87 yards. He scampered for a long of 22 yards and averaged 3.5 yards/rush. Cody Hendrickson (DB, 5-10, 185, Sr., Wright, Minn.) led the Golden Eagle defense and all players with 10 (5 assisted, 5 unassisted) tackles. The UMC defense also intercepted two MSU passes in the contest.

Minnesota State, Moorhead (1-2, 0-2 NSIC)- Upper Iowa bolted to a 7-0 getaway on the game’s first play, a 26-yard return of a fumble by Tony Leggett. It marked the third straight game the Dragons have been struck by lightning, sur¬rendering a touchdown in the first minute of play. . . Kevin Koch completed 13 of 21 passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns while E’boni Lucious-West (99) and Brandon Thompson (91) combined for 190 rush¬ing yards in the 45-31 road loss to Upper Iowa. Kendall Hendon and Sean Mar¬lowe caught touchdown passes while Thompson and Lucious-West provided rushing TDs. Kevin Koch has completed 50 of 78 passes for 598 yards and a sparkling percentage of .641 in three starts. Kendall Hendon tops the receiving chart with 19 catches for 301 yards and four touchdowns, and has averaged 25.3 yards on kickoff returns as well. . . Wes Kramer delivered a 24-yard field goal against Upper Iowa, his second in four tries. Kramer has been perfect in nine extra point attempts as well.

Bemidji State hockey single-game tickets go on sale Friday

BEMIDJI, Minn. -- The Bemidji State University Department of Athletics has announced that single game tickets for the 2011-12 BSU men’s hockey season will go on sale Friday (Sept. 16) at 10 a.m.

Adult tickets range from $21-$41 per game and can be purchased at the Sanford Center Box Office, at any Ticketmaster outlet, online at ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Bemidji State is set to host 19 home games this season.

The Beavers lift the lid on their 56th season of play Oct. 2 as they host an exhibition game versus University of Regina. The exhibition comes
just one day after the Beavers officially kick off the season with their first practice and marks the first time BSU has hosted the Cougars since
the 2006-07 campaign.

North Star Football Conference Honors Players of

(September 12, 2011)The North Star Football Conference has announced the Player of the Week award winners for the second week of the season.

The East Division honorees include:
Offensive Player of the Week – Kris Skersick from Bagley High School
Defensive Player of the Week – Brad Kusper from Blackduck High School
Special Teams Player of the Week – Kurt Kent from Pine River-Backus High School.

The West Division winners include:
Offensive Player of the Week – Lucas Solie from Fertile- Beltrami High School
Defensive Player of the Week – Garrett Schmitz from Red Lake County
Special Teams Player of the Week – Josh Erickson, also from Fertile- Beltrami High School.


Kris Skersick (Sr.) rushed for 152 yards in 9 carries. He had touchdown runs of 45 yards and 25 yards. He led the Flyers to a 43-0 win over Cass Lake-Bena.

Brad Kusper (Jr.) collected 15 total tackles during the Drakes loss to Pillager. Kusper had 7 solo tackles and 8 assists for the night.

Kurt Kent (Jr.) went 4 for 4 on extra point kicks. He also tallied 260 yards during his 6 kickoffs as PR-B defeated Walker-Hackensack-Akeley/Laporte 36-6.

Lucas Solie (Sr.) racked up 103 yards on 13 carries. Solie scored 3 touchdowns as the Falcons defeated Lake Park-Audubon 27-14.

Garrett Schmitz (Sr.) from Red Lake County continues his outstanding play. Schmitz was recognized as the West Division Offensive Player of the Week last Week. This week, he earned the Defensive honors with 6 tackles, 2 forced fumbles and a fumble recovery for his team as they defeated Fosston 36-20.

Josh Erickson (Sr.) hit 3 of 5 kickoffs for touchbacks and added 3 of 4 on extra point attempts as F-B defeated LP-A 27-14.

Other outstanding performances in the conference were turned in by Jarrett Stockman (Pine River-Backus), Trevor Willberg (Bagley), Tyler George (Bagley) and Dan Janu (Frazee).

Conference Action this week has: Bagley at Pillager, Blackduck at Lake of the Woods, Pine River-Backus at Cass Lake-Bena, Walker-Hackensack-Akeley/Laporte at Mahnomen, Fosston at Fertile-Beltrami, Lake Park-Audubon at Frazee, and Warren- Alvarado-Oslo at Red Lake County.

2011-12 UND Athletics calendars now on sale

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – the 2011-12 UND Athletics Calendars, are on sale now.

UND once again is partnering with Valley Dairy. Each calendar costs $1.00, available exclusively at all nine Valley Dairy locations throughout Grand Forks and East Grand Forks, as well as the Valley Dairy Car Wash on 36th Ave. South, and the Sioux Shop at Ralph Engelstad Arena.

The proceeds generated from sales will help fund UND Athletics impact scholarships.

"Valley Dairy is again making a real impact for UND Athletics with this year's athletics calendar," said UND Director of Athletics Brian Faison.

"Valley Dairy is honored to team with UND again this year with their athletics calendar, and we are excited that all the funds generated from the sale will support UND athletics scholarships," said Monica Musich, president of Valdak Corporation.

Sophomore Ellen Krueger (pronounced ‘kreeger’), a setter on the Sioux volleyball team, is the 2011-12 recipient of the impact scholarship generated by sales of last year’s calendars.

Calendars are available only while supplies last.

UMC Football travels to Mankato this Saturday

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Football team
looks to recover from a tough 35-24 loss to Wayne State College as the
team travels to Minnesota State, Mankato this Saturday, September 17 to
play the Mavericks. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. Last weekend the
Mavericks defeated Northern State 32-10.

*Minnesota, Crookston (1-1, 0-1 NSIC)-*Minnesota, Crookston was led for
the second time this season by running back *Richard Haley (RB, 6-0,
205, Jr., Detroit, Mich.) *rushed 30 times for 154 yards and one score
to lead all running backs in the game. He busted a long rush of 55 yards
and averaged 5.1 yards/carry. He led all NSIC runningbacks in yards on
Saturday and now leads all players on the season by 184 yards in 60
attempts. Defensively, *Tevin Kellum (DB, 6-1, 195, Jr., Detroit,
Mich.)* had an outstanding day against the Wildcats. He tallied a
game-high 13 tackles of which nine were solo, good for third place
overall on the weekend in the NSIC. The Golden Eagles travel to
Minnesota State, Mankato on Saturday, September 17 to take on the
Mavericks. Game time is scheduled for 1 p.m.

RUSHINGTeamClGAttYdsAvg TD Yds/G
----------------------------------------------------------
*_Haley, Richard......UMCJR1301545.11 154.0_*
Pulscher, Nick......WSCJR1271415.23 141.0
Simmons, Rayon......WSUJR1171378.13 137.0
Smith, Chris........UIUFR1151338.90 133.0
Zach Hulce..........UMDJR1711816.91 118.0
Pfeiffer, Andy......MSUFR1141117.90 111.0
Matthews, Warren....SMSUJR1141017.21 101.0
Barge, A.J..........UMCFR1 16966.0296.0
Murray, Josh........MARYFR115906.0290.0
Peschong, Tyler.....SMSUJR113896.8289.0

**
*Minnesota State, Mankato (0-1, 0-0 NSIC)- *Redshirt Freshman running
back Andy Pfieffer, Mankato Minn./ West (6-0, 195) became MSU's first
100-yard carrier of the season as he rushed 14 times for 111 yards in
MSU's win over Northern State Saturday. Pfieffer, who had a run of 53
yards in the win, averaged 7.9 yards per carry. His 53-yard scamper was
the fifth-longest rush by a Maverick under head coach Todd Hoffner.
Junior linebacker Marcus Hall-Oliver (Omaha,
Neb./Central/Nebraska-Omaha) led all Maverick tacklers with seven stops
in Saturday's win over Northern State, four of which were solo.
Hall-Oliver also recorded an interception and had half a tackle for a
loss. Senior Jon Daniels 70-yard touchdown pass to senior LaMark Brown
marked the fourth longest passing play under head coach Todd Hoffner and
the longest since Will Brogan connected Dennis Carter on an 80-yard
touchdown a on Oct. 9, 2010 against St. Cloud State... MSU had four
scoring drives Saturday of 70 yards or more, scoring touchdowns on
drives of 76, 80, 70 yards and kicking a field goal on a 71-yard
drive...MSU has won their last five home openers.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at
http://www.goldeneaglesports.com .

Follow the Golden Eagles on Facebook at /Golden Eagle Sports /and on
Twitter at /@UMCAthletics./

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is an NCAA Division II
Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
(NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the
Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).
**

Bemidji State hockey student season tickets go on sale Monday

BEMIDJI, Minn. -- The ice is in at Sanford Center and the 2011-12 hockey season is less than one month away so its time to secure your seat in the Bemidji State University Beaver Dam student section. Student hockey season tickets go on sale Monday at 6 a.m. at the Hobson Memorial Union Information Desk on the campus of Bemidji State University.

Student season tickets are $60 in 2011-12 and include a Beaver Dam Fan Club membership, T-shirt and a general admission seat in the BSU student section at each of the men’s and women’s 2011-12 home games. Students can only purchase one season ticket and must be present, with a valid student ID, at the time of purchase.

The festivities get underway at 10 p.m. Sunday evening.

Those dedicated and determined enough are invited to the Beaux Arts Ballroom, located in the Upper Hobson Memorial Union, to sign up and stake their claim to a spot in line to purchase season tickets. Once there, students will be logged onto a priority list. Overnight, door prizes and raffles will be held in addition to other activities. Before tickets go on sale at 6 a.m. the priority list will be used to determine the order of ticket purchases.

The BSU women open the 2011-12 campaign Sept. 23 when they host the Thunder Bay Queens for a 7 p.m. exhibition. A week later the Beavers officially kick off their regular season schedule as they welcome Providence College for a non-conference series.

The Bemidji State men’s hockey team will open the 2011-12 season Oct. 2 when it hosts the University of Regina in exhibition play. The team
then hits the road for a non-conference series at Miami University (Ohio) Oct. 7-8. before returning to Bemidji, Minn. Oct. 21-22 to officially
draw the curtain on the home portion of its schedule with a two-game WCHA set versus Michigan Tech.

North Star Football Conference Honors Outstanding Performances from Week One

(September 6, 2011)The North Star Football Conference has announced the Player of the Week honors for the first week of the high school football action. The East Division honorees include: Offensive Player of the Week – Nathan Holm, Defensive Player of the Week – Kaine Lundmark and Special Teams Player of the Week – Kyler LaVine. West Division winners are: Offensive Player of the Week Garrett Schmitz, Defensive Player of the Week – Lucas Littlewolf, and Special Teams Player of the Week – Brad Schmalenberg.

Nathan Holm (Sr.) from Pine River – Backus High School rushed the ball
for 82 yards on 13 carries. Holm also was 8 of 13 passing with three
touchdowns and no interceptions. Nathan lead his team to a 21-0 victory
over Fosston.

Kaine Lundmark (Sr.) from Bagley High School led the defense with 6 solo
tackles and 1 sack for a loss. The Flyers defeated the Frazee Hornets 34-6.
Kyler LaVine (Jr.) from Bagley High School had an outstanding night on the
Flyers return team. LaVine had 2 returns for 10 yards. He also had a
kickoff return for a touchdown that was called back on a penalty.

Garrett Schmitz (Sr.) from Red Lake County carried the ball 10 times for
164 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also added 1 catch for 28 yards and a
touchdown in the 30-0 win over Lake of the Woods High School.

Lucas Littlewolf (Sr.) from Mahnomen High school had a stellar defensive
effort. He had 4 solo tackles and 4 assisted tackles. Littlewolf also added a 39 yard interception return for a touchdown in the 35-0 win over Pillager.

Brad Schmalenberg (Sr.) from Fertile-Beltrami had 2 punt returns for 76
yards including a 68 yard return for a touchdown in a 55-6 win over
Blackduck.

Other outstanding efforts for the week were turned in by: Avery Fairbanks
(Sr., Mahnomen HS), Chase Zeller (Sr., Lake Park – Audubon HS), Andrew
Lansing (Sr., Warren-Alvarado-Oslo HS), Nate Renner (Jr., Lake Park-
Audubon HS), and Kris Skersick (Sr., Bagley HS).

The North Star Football Conference began official conference play for the
2011-12 school year. East Division teams include: Bagley, Blackduck, Cass
Lake – Bena, Lake of the Woods, Pillager, Pine River – Backus, and
Walker-Hackensack-Akeley-Laporte. West Division teams are: Fertile –
Beltrami, Fosston, Frazee, Lake Park – Audubon, Mahnomen, Red Lake
County, Warren-Alvarado-Oslo

UMC Volleyball Travels to MSU Moorhead for Theraldson Classic

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston volleyball team opened the 2011 season with a 3-1 record at the Lynn University Invitational in Boca Raton, Fla. The Golden Eagles placed two players on the all-tournament squad. Freshman outside hitter Brittany Looker (OH, 5-10, Fr., Rochester, Minn.) amassed a tournament-high 63 kills while averaging just under five kills per set. Libero Chelsea Wiesner (DS, 5-8, So., Rochester, Minn.) helped Crookston to a 3-1 record in the tournament and her 47 digs earned her a place on the all-tournament team as well.

Minnesota, Crookston (3-1, 0-0 NSIC)- Looker made her Golden Eagle Volleyball debut in grand fashion last weekend at the Lynn University Invite in Boca Raton, Fla. Looker helped lead Minnesota, Crookston to a 3-1 tournament record and was a leader on the Golden Eagle offense. She led all attackers with 63 kills in 13 sets for a 4.85 kill/set average. She finished with a solid .319 attack percentage and was second on the team with six service aces. Defensively she was tied for third on the team with 21 digs and finished third on the team with nine total blocks on the weekend. Following weekend play, Looker was named to the All-Tournament team. Setter Kelsey Matykowski (S, 5-7, Jr., Sun Prairie, Wis.) finished the weekend with 114 assists, good for an 8.77 assists/set average. She added a team-high eight service aces and tallied 23 defensive digs.

The Golden Eagles will play NSIC teams in non-conference action. On Friday, September 9, UMC plays Augustana College (2-2) at 10:30 a.m. and Northern State University (2-2) at 6:00 p.m. On Saturday, September 10, the Golden Eagles play Minot State University at 12:30 p.m. and St. Cloud State University (2-2) at 5:30 p.m. All matches will be held at Alex Nemzek Fieldhouse on the MSU Moorhead campus.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at: www.goldeneaglesports.com.

Follow the Golden Eagles on Facebook at Golden Eagle Sports and on Twitter at @UMCAthletics.

Third annual Sioux Fan Fest set for Sept. 10 at Ralph Engelstad Arena

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The University of North Dakota department of athletics is proud to announce that the third annual Sioux Fan Fest, presented by the Midco Sports Network, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 10, at Ralph Engelstad Arena.

The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at ice level in the main arena.

The Fighting Sioux men’s and women’s hockey teams will be in attendance and will take part in autograph sessions, a skills station (for 8th-graders and younger) and question-and-answer sessions on the media stage.

A free lunch will be provided to fans courtesy of the Midco Sports Network, and the first 1,000 fans through the doors will receive a free Fighting Sioux and Midco Sports Net acrylic mug. One lucky fan will also be selected to win a 32-inch, high definition television.

Other fun-filled activities include:
· Get your picture taken with the MacNaughton Cup and Broadmoor Trophy!
· Take part in the Sioux Kids Club activities area or sign up if you’re not already a member! While you’re there, register and learn more about Sioux Crew and the Fighting Sioux Club.
· Sign up for the chance to ride the Zamboni at men’s and women’s hockey games!
· Pick up FREE promotional items such as schedule posters and pocket schedules!
· Hit up the grab-bag stations. For only $3 fans can purchase a grab bag full of Sioux memorabilia. Random bags will be stuffed with tickets to men’s and women’s hockey games.

BSU soccer opens 2011 season on long road swing

BEMIDJI, Minn. -- The Bemidji State University soccer team officially breaks the seal on the 2011 season this weekend as it hits the road for a pair of matches that carry regional weight. The Beavers will travel to Houghton, Mich. to battle Michigan Technological University (MTU)Saturday at 1 p.m. before making their way to Marquette. Mich. for a 1 p.m. tilt versus Northern Michigan University (NMU) Sunday.

MTU returns 17 players from a 2010 campaign during which they finished 1-10-0 overall and 5-10-0 in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Sophomore forward Melanie Hoffman leads the offense. She scored five goals last year--all of which were game-winners--a year ago.

NMU is coming off its most successful season in school history. Last season, the team posted an overall record of 9-6-5 and an earned a NCAA tournament bid. This year the team is 0-0-1 after a double overtime tie with University of Minnesota Duluth Thursday and is led by junior forward Amelia Johnson, who ranked second on the team in scoring in 2010 posting nine goals for 18 points.

The road trip to the Upper Peninsula will be an early-season test for BSU. Not only will the Beavers face a pair of solid regional opponents, the trip also give BSU a chance to test its road legs, something the 2011 team will have to get used to very quickly. Bemidji State opens the 2011 campaign playing its first eight regular season games on the road, including a Sept. 9 neutral site meeting with Colorado School of Mines. That feat will set a new program mark for consecutive road matches to open a season, topping the 2003 team which BSU played seven road games to open the campaign.

The Beavers are coming off their most successful season in the program’s history. The 2010 squad set a program record for wins in a season with an overall record of 14-4-1, while finishing third in the NSIC with a mark of 9-3-1 in league play. A major key to their success a year ago was a 6-2-1 record on the road.

Bemidji State returns nine players with starting experience from the 2010 season including, the entire midfield, and back line. Senior midfielder Bri Scanlan (East Grand Forks, Minn.) and senior goalkeeper Abby Kjonaas (Fargo, N.D.) were named as NSIC Players to Watch in the 2011 NSIC Preseason Coaches’ poll.

Scanlan was an NSIC All-Academic selection a year ago. She netted a career-high five goals, including three game-winners, in 19 games for the Beavers. The senior came into her own down the stretch scoring three goals in the Beavers’ final five regular-season games. She returns as the most established scorer on the Beavers’ 2011 roster having tallied nine goals (three of which were game-winners) and nine assists in her previous three seasons.

Kjonaas has gained valuable experience in spot starts throughout her career and is poised to take the team on her back in 2011 as the starting goalkeeper. A year ago she played in five games, starting four, posted a 3-0-1 record and a team-best .897 save percentage.

Head Coach Jim Stone begins his 10th season as head coach of the Bemidji State soccer team. He has posted an overall record of 88-73-17 (.542) and is riding a streak of six season with at least a .500 winning percentage.

Lindsay Whalen Named Western Conference Player of the Month

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL – The WNBA today named Minnesota Lynx point guard Lindsay Whalen its Western Conference Player of the Month for August. Whalen, won earns the monthly award for the first time in her career, is the third different Lynx player to earn the month ly honor this season, joining Rebekkah Brunson (June) and Seimone Augustus (July).

Over 13 games in August, Whalen averaged 14.2 points and 5.8 assists per game, both tops among Western Conference point guards. Whalen hit on 50.7 percent of her shots over the month, leading the Lynx to an 11-2 record. Whalen registered double-figure scoring nights in 11 of 13 games (9-2) and 5+ assists 10 times this month (9-1). Whalen’s month was highlighted by a season-best 24-point, nine-assist outing in an 84-78 Lynx win at Los Angeles on August 7. The 2011 WNBA All-Star closed out her month with 21 points on 10-of-12 shooting as the Lynx defeated Washington Tuesday night, 73-56.

Highlights of Whalen’s month include:
August 7 at Los Angeles: Scored a season-high 24 points and dished out eight assists in Minnesota’s 84-78 win at Los Angeles.
August 12 at Chicago: Registered 16 points on 7-of-9 shooting as the Lynx won their single-season franchise record eighth road win of the season.
August 16 at Connecticut: Totaled 16 of her 20 points in the second quarter in a loss to Connecticut. The 16 points were two off Seimone Augustus’ franchise record for points in a quarter (18).
August 26 at San Antonio: Dished out nine assists to go along with 14 points as the Lynx defeated San Antonio 85-75.
August 30 vs. Washington: Poured in 17 of her 21 points in the first half in Minnesota’s 73-56 win over Washington. Whalen made her first nine shots of the floor and finished 10-of-12 shooting.

Now in her eighth year in the WNBA, Whalen is enjoying perhaps the best season of her career. Through 30 games, she is averaging career highs in scoring (14.3 ppg), assists (5.8 apg), field goal percentage (.521) and three-point field goal accuracy (.436). Whalen, who earlier this season became the sixth player in the WNBA history to record 3,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 1,000 assists, leads the WNBA in assists per game, and is first among all guards in field goal percentage (fifth-best in the league). If Whalen were to finish the season averaging 14.0 points and 6.0 assists per game, she would become just the second player in WNBA history to accomplish that feat over a full season. Whalen needs just nine assists over her last four games to beak her career high and the Lynx franchise record for assists in a single season (184, 2010).

The Lynx, winners of six straight and 17 out of their last 19, can clinch the best overall record in the WNBA and home court advantage through the 2011 WNBA Playoffs with a win Friday night vs. New York. Tip at Target Center is set for 7:00 pm. With four games remaining, the Lynx (24-6) have a chance of tying the single-season WNBA record for wins (28 – Los Angeles, 2001 and 2002; Seattle, 2010).

Lower-level single-game tickets to Friday night’s game and the Western Conference Semifinals can be purchased for as low as $10. Groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets for as little as $8. Tickets can be purchased by calling 612-673-8400, visiting the Lynx website at www.lynxbasketball.com and stopping by the Target Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets. Tickets can also be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1-877-WNBA-TIX (962-2849).

National Collegiate Hockey Conference Initiates Search for First Commissioner

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The National Collegiate Hockey Conference has begun a national search for its first Commissioner.

The Conference, which will begin its inaugural season in 2013-14, has six founding members: Colorado College, University of Denver, Miami University, 2011 NCAA champion University of Minnesota Duluth, University of Nebraska Omaha and University of North Dakota. The Conference recently announced its headquarters will be in Colorado Springs.

The search for a Commissioner is being spearheaded by the Conference’s consultants, The Goldwater Group, of Bethesda, MD, and Stafford Sports, of Medford, NJ.

“We are looking for an outstanding executive who has the experience, leadership qualities and enthusiasm to work with the participating schools and help make the National Collegiate Hockey Conference the premier league in all of college hockey,” said Colorado College Athletic Director Ken Ralph, a member of the search committee. The other members of the search committee are University of Denver Senior Associate Athletic Director Ron Grahame and Carl Hirsh, the managing partner of Stafford Sports. According to the search committee, persons interested in applying for the position should send their information to carlhirsh@staffordsports.com.

The Conference hopes to hire a Commissioner before the end of the year.

In addition to coordinating the selection of a Commissioner, The Goldwater Group and Stafford Sports are working on several other Conference initiatives, including the research and assessment process of prospective, additional members with no specific, pre-determined limit on the final number of institutions; investigating the best-possible media platforms, inclu ding a broadcasting package, to be in place before the Conference’s inaugural season; and identifying viable venues for a post-season championship tournament.

NSIC Cross Country Preseason Coaches’ poll

BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- The Bemidji State University women’s cross country team has been picked to finish 10th in a preseason poll of Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) head coaches, announced August 25 by league officials. Senior Kirsten Maras (Ramsay, Minn.) was announced as a “2011 Athlete to Watch” in the same release.

The Beavers, who garnered 20 points in the voting, return nine student-athletes from a 2010 roster that placed 10th at the 2010 NSIC Championships and finished 20th at the NCAA Division II Central Regional.

Maras, back for a third year of collegiate competition was among the Beavers’ three finishers in all six events last fall, which included a 54th-place finish (25:36.91) in the 2010 NSIC Championships. In addition, head coach Craig Hougen looks to fellow senior Ali Hougen (Sr., Bemidji, Minn.) for leadership. Hougen was among BSU’s top finishers in three races during the 2010 campaign.

Defending conference team champion Augustana College picked up nine first-place votes and 99 points to take top honors in the preseason poll. University of Mary secured two first-place votes to hold down second place with 92 points.

Augustana College’s Runa Falch, the NSIC’s individual champion in 2010, was selected NSIC’s 2011 Preseason Athlete of the Year. As a rookie, the native of Steinkjer, Norway, earned All-America status by finishing 29th at the NCAA Division II Championship and was a fifth-place finisher at the central region meet.

The Bemidji State cross country team breaks the seal on the 2011 campaign Sept. 2 when it travels to Valley City, N.D. to complete in the Viking Invitational.


2010 NSIC Preseason Coaches’ Poll
1. Augustana (9) 99
2. U-Mary (2) 92
3. Minnesota Duluth 78
4. Minnesota State 71
5. St. Cloud State 65
6. Winona State 56
7. MSU Moorhead 43
8. Northern State 37
9. Wayne State (Neb.) 34
10. Bemidji State 20
11. Concordia-St. Paul 10

UMC Football & Volleyball teams to open 2011 seasons

Golden Eagle Football and Volleyball Teams Open 2011 Season on Friday, September 2

(Crookston, Minn.)- The Golden Eagle Football and volleyball team will open the 2011 campaign this Friday, September 2 in non-conference action. The Golden Eagle Football team will open the season at home against Mayville State University. Game time is set for 6 p.m. at Ed Widseth Field. The Golden Eagle Volleyball team opens the season at the Lynn University Invitational in Boca Raton, Fla. UMC opens the tournament with games on September 2 against Post University at 3 p.m. and host Lynn University at 7 p.m. The team returns to the court on Saturday, September 3 to play Kentucky State University at 11 a.m. and Emporia State University at 5 p.m.

Football:
The Golden Eagle offense is led by Keith McBride (RB, 5-10, 215, Jr., Lodi, Wis.). McBride played in 10 games last season. He was the leader in the backfield rushing 160 times for 696 yards. He averaged 4.3 yards/rush and found the end zone six times. He averaged 69.6 yards/game and finished the season with a rushing long of 75 yards for a touchdown against MSU Moorhead on September 25. Cecil Brown (S, 5-11, 220, So., Edison, Ga.) will anchor the UMC defense. Brown started in all 11 games for the Golden Eagles last season. He led the defense in tackles with 92 (46 solo, 46 assisted), over 30 more than the next UMC defender. The 92 tackles earned him the fourth spot on the single season tackles list. He earned 1.5 tackles for a loss, grabbed one interception for 32 yards, broke-up two passes and defended three passes. Brown was named NSIC All-Conference Honorable Mention following the 2010 season.

Volleyball:
The Golden Eagle Volleyball team will be led by Danielle Rueter (OH, 5-9, Sr., Burlington, Wis.). She started in 27 of the 28 matches last season. She led the team with 181 kills and was second on the team in service aces with 19 and defensive digs with 231. UMC returns nine players from last season to go with seven newcomers.

The Golden Eagle Football and Volleyball teams will have multimedia coverage for most of their games this season. To find out the coverage, simply click on the multimedia link on the top of the Golden Eagle Athletics website for home games. Fans can also click on the desired schedule and click on details on the desired game and multimedia options, if available, will be listed for home and road games.

MSUM Homecoming 5K Run/Walk and Kids Corner 1k

Sept. 24th, 2011– Minnesota State University Moorhead’s Dragon Entertainment Group will be hosting the 5th annual Homecoming 5K Run/Walk.

The 5K, scheduled for Sept. 24th, will start and finish at the MSUM Livingston Lord Library. Early Bird registration is available through Sept. 10th. Runners can register up until 7:45 am on race day.

Each participant will receive a dry-fit short sleeve running shirt with event logo design on it (Designed by Ashley Jonas), a food ticket for the Homecoming Tailgate and a chance to win door prizes.

Nemzek Noize will be sponsoring the “kid’s corner & 1k walk” which will be providing games and face paint for runners and fans. All children will receive a free Kids Club shirt thanks to Dragon Athletics and the Moorhead Dairy Queen!


Registration available at MSUM, Comstock Memorial Union, room 231 & 222
$20-Early Bird Registration (prior to Sept. 10th)
$25-Sept. 10th through race day

Four Teams and 1970's Women Honored as 2011 Dragon Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees

MOORHEAD, Minn. – Four former teams and the women student-athletes of the 1970's will be inducted to the Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragon Athletics Hall of Fame this fall.

This year's Hall of Fame celebration will honor four teams including the 1971, 1981 and 1991 Dragon football teams, and the 1991 Dragon men's cross country team. The Distinguished Service to Athletics award will also be awarded for the first time in four years to the 1970s women student-athletes.

The group will be honored at the MSUM Dragon Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet on Friday, Sept. 23. Hall of Fame member Mike Berg will also be honored at the celebration. He was inducted into the NSIC Hall of Fame in July.

To join the Dragon Athletics Hall of Fame celebration, contact Gloria Riopelle at 218-477-5824 or riopelg@mnstate.edu You can also register for the event on www.dragonhomecoming.com

The 1970's women student-athletes will be honored with the Distinguished Service Award to Athletics, an award that has not been given out since 2008. The group of women were selected for their dedication and service to ensuring Dragon women's athletics was started and supported, and their opportunities could continue and flourish for years to come. It is in their honor that the Distinguished Service Award is being named for 2011.

The 1971 Dragon football team, after beginning their season 0-1-1, closed with a seven-game winning streak to capture its first Northern Intercollegiate Conference title since 1966, and the first of nine under coach Ross Fortier. The Dragons' late season rush included a dramatic 6-0 upset of unbeaten Michigan Tech University, ranked fourth nationally. It has been 40 years since the first NIC title won under the Fortier regime.

Arguably the greatest football team in the rich tradition of Dragon football, the 1981 team posted a 10-0-1 regular season record, finished No.1 in the final NAIA Division I regular season poll and made its first post-season appearance. MSU led the nation in scoring defense and set a national record with five consecutive shutouts. Pittsburg State (Kan.) rallied for a 14-13 victory over Moorhead State in the opening round of the NAIA National Playoffs at Pittsburg, KS.

The 1991 football team was the last of nine conference championship teams produced by Fortier. The team finished the regular season 9-1 and claimed the NIC title with a wild 30-26 last second victory over Southwest State. MSU whipped Iowa Wesleyan 47-14 in the first round of the national playoffs but fell at Central Arkansas 38-14 in the second round. In all, Moorhead State claimed seven All-American awards.

The men's 1991 cross country team is one of the most decorated distance squads in the history of the program. The team finished ninth at the NAIA National Championships and crowned four All-Americans. The Dragons captured the NSIC title and breezed to a near perfect finish at the NAIA Region 13 Championships with 16 points, one place shy of a perfect 15.

NDSU's Lopez Named Summit League Offensive Player of the Week

ELMHURST, Ill. - North Dakota State setter Jennifer Lopez was named Summit League women's volleyball Offensive Player of the Week by the league office Monday, Aug. 29.

Lopez, a senior from Glyndon, Minn., averaged 10.17 assists per set and hit .765 with 13 kills and no errors in 17 attacks last week as the Bison went 3-1 at the Missouri Tiger Invitational.

NDSU outhit its opponents .342 to .181 on the weekend including .471 in the season-opener vs. Tulane and .439 against Idaho State.

Lopez also added 22 digs, five service aces and three blocks during the tournament. It was her third career Offensive Player of the Week award.

Western Illinois defensive specialist Bridget Murphy was named Defensive Player of the Week after averaging 5.88 digs per set and earning tournament MVP honors and leading the Fighting Leathernecks to a 3-1 record at SIU Edwardsville.

North Dakota State is scheduled to play Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Tulsa, Texas-Arlington and UC Davis this Friday, Sept. 2, and Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Tulsa Golden Hurricane Classic.

MSUM Dragon Volleyball Set to Open 2011 Season at UNO Tournament

MOORHEAD, Minn - This weekend the Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragons volleyball team opens the 2011 season in Omaha at the UNO tournament.

Set to take on four non-conference teams, on September 2nd the Dragons will face Northwest Missouri State at 12:30 p.m. and Nebraska Omaha at 6:3m p.m (livestats). On the 3rd the Dragons will play Arkansas Fort Smith at 10 a.m. and Southeastern Oklahoma State at 4 p.m.

Returning to lead the Dragons this year is junior outside hitter, Heidi Lensing, who lead the Dragons in the 2010 season with 364 kills. She also complied 293 digs, 33 blocks and 21 service aces.

Other returning letter winners are junior right side hitter Meredith Egeland, junior defensive specialist Katy Ness, junior setter Anna Olson, junior hitter Nicole Buysse, sophomore middle blocker Ashley Feldman and sophomore outside hitter Angie Waller.

With seven returning letter winners, the Dragons look to build off last seasons 16-12 overall record and sixth place finish in the NSIC conference. After the UNO tournament the Dragons will host the second annual Dragon Open sponsored the Fairfield in by Marriott on September 9-10.

Alaska, Ferris State and Lake Superior State accept WCHA membership invitations

BEMIDJI, Minn. -- Less than 24 hours after receiving formal invitations to the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), the University
of Alaska Fairbanks, Ferris State University and Lake Superior State University have made their intentions known. All three teams have
accepted membership offers and will join the Association beginning with the 2013-14 season.

The announcement is a product of a series of discussions between representatives of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) and
WCHA, including an Aug. 23 meeting in Chicago. The two leagues also agreed to continue to hold regular talks to address topics such as
by-laws, scheduling, tournament scenarios, finances and additional membership.

Thursday (Aug. 25), the Association extended invitations to the five remaining CCHA member institutions, on behalf of the six member teams
that would have comprised WCHA membership following the 2012-13 season. The WCHA-member presidents set a 30-day response time
line for acceptance for membership.

“This is an outstanding day for Ferris State Bulldog hockey and college hockey in general. The uncertainty of the past five months has caused
some genuine angst and instability on hockey playing campuses across the country,” Ferris State Athletics Director Perk Weisenburger said.
“Through the vision, leadership and cooperative spirit of the institutions in these two tradition-rich conferences there is a renewed sense of
stability, excitement and a new direction for hockey programs in both the CCHA and WCHA.”

“The WCHA provides a unified group of schools that are committed to Division I hockey. Membership in this conference will provide advantages
for both our fans and our student-athletes,” Alaska Fairbanks Head Coach Dallas Ferguson said, noting that he is thankful the Nanooks
now have a clear path forward for the coming years.

“This will be a great step for our program – to find a league with teams that are similar to ours,” Lake Superior State Director of Athletics
Kris Dunbar said. “We will be in a conference with similar schools and good hockey traditions. This should be appealing to fans, alumni and
recruits. Our fans will continue to see good college hockey played in Taffy Abel Arena for years to come.”

Alaska Fairbanks, Ferris State and Lake Superior State join University of Alaska Anchorage, Bemidji State University, Michigan Technological
University, Minnesota State University, Mankato, St. Cloud State University and Northern Michigan University, which accepted an offer to join the WCHA beginning in 2013-14 on July 20, as member institutions of the WCHA beginning in 2013-14.

Bowling Green State University and Western Michigan University have not formally responded to the invitation.

NDSU 11th in FCS Coaches Preseason Poll

SPARTANBURG, S.C.–The Eastern Washington Eagles finished the 2010 football season as the No. 1 team in the Football Championship Subdivision Coaches Poll, and will begin their 2011 campaign in the same spot. The Eagles received 23 of the 28 first place votes to earn 687 points overall.

North Dakota State is ranked 11th in the FCS Coaches Preseason Poll. The Bison are scheduled to open the season against Lafayette College at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, in the Fargodome.

Eastern Washington returns 15 starters that finished last season with a school record 13 wins and just two losses. Twelve Eagle players have garnered preseason honors, including six who received All-America honors at the NCAA FCS level. Appalachian State, who finished the 2010 season at No. 4, earned one first place vote and a total of 617 points, placing the Mountaineers in the No. 2 spot.

Georgia Southern received three first place votes after making a run to the national semifinal and begins the 2011 season at No. 3. William & Mary took fourth for the second consecutive time in the preseason poll. Last year’s national runner-up, Delaware, rounds out the top five.

Montana State makes its first appearance in the preseason top 10 in past two years at No. 6. Northern Iowa, Wofford, Jacksonville State, and New Hampshire complete the top 10, respectively.

Fourteen conferences are represented in the poll. The Colonial Athletic Association has the most ranked teams with six, followed by the Southern Conference with four teams. The Big Sky, Missouri Valley and Southland all have three ranked teams. The Mid-Eastern Atlantic, Ohio Valley, Big South, Patriot, and Ivy make up the remaining conferences.

The FCS Coaches Poll is based exclusively on a voting panel of head coaches in the FCS under the cooperation of the Collegiate Commissioners Association (CCA) and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and is administered by the Southern Conference.