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[NOV. 13, 2001]  Brian Cook led the Illini to victory in a 111-60 win over Lincoln University at Jefferson City, Mo. Brian topped the scoring with 20 points. Corey Bradford had 17 points and seven rebounds. Frank Williams scored 13 points, with five rebounds and four assists.

The opening game for the 2001-2002 season begins at 7 p.m. Friday at the Assembly Hall in Champaign. The Illini will face the perennially tough Gonzaga of Washington.

[LDN]

[For a game report from the Fighting Illini website, click here.]

Game notes for Illinois State vs. Southwest Missouri 
[NOV. 13, 2001]  Illinois State Redbirds (2-8, 2-4 GFC) will play the Southwest Missouri State Bears (5-5, 2-4 GFC) on Saturday, Nov. 17, at 1:30 p.m. at Plaster Field in Springfield, Mo.

[More information to be posted]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  In Class A volleyball, Mount Pulaski lost their semifinal game against Quincy Notre Dame on Saturday, 8-15, 15-9, 15-8. They then played Augusta Southeastern, who lost to Breese Mater Dei 15-12, 15-6. Mount Pulaski defeated Augusta Southeastern 15-6, 15-1. Breese Mater Dei defeated Quincy Notre Dame for the championship 15-8, 15-7.

Final standings of winners at the Class A state tournament:

1. Breese Mater Dei, 35-7-1

2. Quincy Notre Dame, 27-16

3. Mount Pulaski, 35-8

4. Augusta Southeastern, 38-5

[LDN]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Lincoln Gator Swim Club competed at Olympia over the weekend, Nov. 9-11.

Top 20 results

Alberta Danley —  200 free, 1^st, C, 3:50.52, team record; 500 free, 2^nd, C, 8:59.91, team record; 25 back, 11^th, B; 25 free, 2^nd, B; 25 fly, 5^th, B; 200 free, 2^nd, C; 100 IM, 3^rd, B; 50 fly, 9^th, C; 25 breast, 4^th, B; 50 free, 3^rd, B.

Sarah Fuller —  25 free, 9^th, C; 25 fly, 17^th, C; 100 IM, 12^th, C; 25 breast, 12^th, B; 50 free, 12^th, C.

Brittney Purdue —  25 back, 4^th, C; 25 free, 7^th, C; 25 fly, 20^th, C; 100 IM, 16^th, C; 25 breast, 16^th, C; 50 free, 15^th, C.

Brennan Elsas —  200 IM, 1^st, B, 3:23.51, team record; 25 back, 1^st, A, 19.16; 25 free, 1^st, A, 16.23; 25 fly, 2^nd, A; 100 IM, 1^st, A, 1:28.66, team record; 25 breast, 2^nd, B; 50 free, 1^st, A, 34.08.

Zach Ziemba —  25 back, 3^rd, B; 25 free, 4^th, B.

Emily Hauter —  50 back, 16^th, C; 100 free, 9^th, C.

Sam Wood —  400 IM, 2^nd, C, 6:53.50, team record; 500 free, 1^st, C, 7:20.21, team record; 50 back, 1^st, B, 41.64; 100 free, 2^nd, B; 200 fly, 5^th, 3:26.82, team record; 50 fly, 5^th, B; 100 fly, 4^th, A; 50 breast, 10^th, B; 100 breast, 1^st, B, 1:49.34; 50 free, 5^th, A.

11 and 12 girls

Elizabeth Freed —  100 IM, 16^th, C; 100 free, 19^th, C.

Brie Ernst —  500 free, 2^nd, B; 200 IM, 3^rd, B; 100 free, 3^rd, A; 100 breast, 13^th, B; 100 back, 10^th, B; 100 fly, 3^rd, B; 200 free, 1^st, B, 2:16.96; 50 free, 4^th, A.

[to top of second column in this report]

Brennan Elsas broke two of his own team records this weekend. He set records in the 100 and 200 IM with times of 1:28.66 and 3:23.51.

Alberta Danley also broke two of her own team records in the 200 free with a time of 3:50.52 and in the 500 free 8:59.91.

Sam Wood broke three team records this weekend. He set records in the 500 free (7:20.21), 400 IM (6:53.50) and in the 200 fly (3:26.82). Sam qualified for the A meet in the 100 fly with a time of 1:31.21. He has already qualified for the A meet in the 50 free.

Gabrielle Ernst qualified for the A meet in the 100 free with a time of 1:01.86. She has also qualified in the 50 free.

Sarah Fuller achieved her first B time in the 25 breast this weekend with a time of 27.89.

[Heidi Heidbreder,
Lincoln Gator Swim Club coach]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Lincoln Christian College played Multnomah Bible College Saturday in the Cincinnati Bible College Classic.  LCC was down 41 to 37 at the close of the first half but pulled ahead in the second half, scoring 39 points to Multnomah’s 21 and winning the game 76-62.  High scorers for LCC were Matt Clark with 36 points and Joel Searby with 17.

LCC team stats:

Matt Clark  13-1-36

Jake Raymer  0-0-0

John Holderby 2-0-6

Aaron Johnson  0-0-0

Anthony Cerniglia DNP

Zach Below  3-0-6

Ben Brodfuehrer  DNP

Jim Turney  1-0-3

Antoni Okusami  3-0-7

Josh Grooms  0-0-1

Joel Searby  7-1-17

[LDN]

[NOV. 12, 2001]   Derik Hollyfield poured in 31 points to lead Lincoln College to an 87-73 victory over Rend Lake in the finals of the Rend Lake Classic on Saturday. The victory runs the LC record to 3-2 for the season. 

Lincoln jumped out to a 49-37 halftime lead thanks to 63 percent shooting (17 of 27).  The Lynx finished the game with a shooting percentage of 57 percent. Lincoln had a 33-23 edge on the boards, with Hollyfield leading the way with nine. 

Joining Hollyfield in double figures were Amir Major with 16 and James Roberson with 10.  The Lynx finished the game with 26 of 33 at the free-throw line.

Lincoln College (87) — Paris Williams 1-2-1-2-3; James Roberson 4-10-2-3-10;Josh Clark 0-0-2-2-2; Gene Reed 0-0-0-0-0; Mike Fowler 3-4-0-3-7; Steve Turner 4-5-0-0-8; Andrew Kehr 0-0-0-0-0; Mike Sams 1-3-2-2-4; Amir Major 4-7-8-8-16; Derik Hollyfield 9-15-11-13-31; Sam Jackson 3-5-0-0-6. Totals 29-51-26-33-87. Three-point goals: Hollyfield 2, Fowler.

Rend Lake (73) — Troy Maurer 0-1-2-2-2; Drew Porter 2-4-0-0-4; Rod Ross 4-10-2-2-11; John Goughenour 1-2-2-2-4; Lawrence Barnes 4-8-0-1-8; Chevus Jackson 4-6-0-0-11; Matt Burkett 1-4-0-0-2; Stuart Heinzmann 3-4-0-0-6; Joel Jaye 5-9-1-3-12; Bronson Smith 5-7-1-2-11; Reginald Roberson 0-1-0-0-0; Justin Hill 1-1-0-0-2. Totals 30-57-8-12-73.  Three-point goals: Jackson 3, Ross, Jaye.

[Bill Martinie,
Lincoln College sports information director]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Four players scored in double figures as the Lincoln College women’s basketball team defeated McKendree JV 80-66 Saturday.  The victory runs the LC record to 3-0 for the season.

Ronni Beebe led the Lady Lynx attack with 20 points on 5-of-17 shooting and 9 of 12 at the foul line.  Joining the LC sophomore in double figures were Sabrina Harper with 15, Sarah McLaughlin with 14 and Jesse Dullard with 10.

Lincoln College finished the game shooting 43 percent from the floor while the best the hosts could do was 37 percent.  Lincoln had a 46-42 rebounding edge in the game, with McLaughlin leading the way with eight.  In addition to scoring 20 points, Beebe dished out five assists, one more than Angie Bossingham.

Lincoln College (80) — Scott 1-6-0-0-2; Bossingham 3-7-0-0-8; Beebe 5-17-9-12-20; Harper 7-13-1-1-15; Dullard 5-11-0-1-10; Lamb 0-0-0-0-0; Bausley 1-2-0-0-2; Story 0-1-0-0-0; McLaughlin 6-9-2-3-14; Calhoun 3-5-0-0-6; Massenburg 1-1-0-0-3; Sims 0-1-0-0-0; Melker 0-1-0-0-0. Totals 32-74-12-18-80. Three-point goals: Bossingham 2, Beebe, Massenburg.

McKendree College (66) — Witt 7-13-2-4-19; Martz 3-14-3-4-9; Carroll 7-11-5-5-19; Stearns 2-8-0-0-4; Bisso 3-10-2-2-8; Harlin 0-4-2-2-2; Westlake 1-2-3-6-7. Totals - 23-62-17-23-66. Three-point goals: Witte 3.

[Bill Martinie,
Lincoln College sports information director]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  As the LDN descended upon Redbird Arena for our first coverage of an ISU men’s basketball game, little did we know that a former Railer would be in the starting lineup.  There was speculation along press row that Alexander would start, as Pantagraph sports editor and longtime friend of Lincoln, Bryan Bloodworth, indicated that those rumors were probably true.

Most freshmen are somewhat tentative in their first starting assignment.  They tend to make a boatload of turnovers and lots of mental mistakes.  But Gregg Alexander is not most freshmen.  In fact, Bloodworth surmised that Alexander was mature beyond his years.

A look at Gregg’s line bears that out.  Alexander connected for 10 points, including two 3’s, five rebounds, two assists and three steals as he helped ISU to a convincing 98-64 win over the EA Sports All-Stars. He also committed only two turnovers as he led the team in minutes played with 25 before a pretty large throng of Lincoln fans.  His two 3’s were bombs from the corner, as he was among a Redbird contingent of six players who finished in double figures.

ISU coach Tom Richardson praised Alexander for his contributions to the team, and in his post-game comments he pointed out that Gregg brings energy and a spark to this edition of Illinois State basketball.

A stretch just before half epitomized what the coach was talking about. After a Shawn Fountain layup — and Shawn had a great game — EA Sports was fighting to get within 10 by intermission. During the remaining three minutes and 23 seconds Alexander was simply everywhere.  He had a rebound, two free throws, a nifty assist to Shawn Jeppson, some good defensive plays and a couple of great passes.  He helped extend a 38-27 lead to 50-30 at the break. How many times did we see him do that for the Railers over the years?

[to top of second column in this article]

Also involved in the hit parade for the ’Birds was Shedrick Ford, who posted a double-double by netting 10 points and 10 rebounds. Another of our new favorite players, Baboucarr Bojang, chipped in 11 points.  Former Pekin standout Dirk Williams had a nice outing with 10 points and seven boards in just 14 minutes of action, and Shawn Jeppson added 13 points to the ISU attack. Decatur’s Tarise Bryson led all scorers with 23 points.

ISU garnered a 16-7 edge in points created off turnovers, and that could very well be an  important stat line for this team all season long.

Next up for the Redbirds is a season-opening home tilt versus Weber State Friday night at 7:05.

[Jeff Mayfield]

[To see ISU's comments on Gregg Alexander go to:
http://www.redbirds.org/MB/Alexander.html.]

[To read ISU's release on this game, click here.]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Led by 23 points from Tarise Bryson and a double-double by Shedrick Ford, the Illinois State men’s basketball team sent EA Sports Midwest All-Stars to its eighth consecutive loss, 98-64, Sunday at Redbird Arena.

The ’Birds dominated the first half, leading 50-30 at the break. With the score 22-18 with a little more than eight minutes left in the half, the Redbirds went on an 11-0 run sparked by five points from Bryson, who had 12 points through 14 minutes of action.

In the final minute of the first half, ISU led by 44-28, but then a monstrous dunk by Chad Mazanowski followed by a Gregg Alexander steal led to a Shawn Jeppson layup and a 20-point lead.

The second half started where the first half left off as the ’Birds built on their 20-point cushion on a Ford layup and a Bryson 3-pointer, giving ISU a 25-point lead.

[to top of second column in this article]

EA Sports tried to peck away at the lead, but a balanced scoring attack caused problems all night for EA as Illinois State placed six players in double figures. Four of the five starters hit for double digits, led by Bryson’s 23. Baboucarr Bojang tossed in 11, freshman Alexander poured in 10 and Ford added 10 points to match 10 rebounds. Jeppson and Dirk Williams provided a spark off the bench, adding 13 and 10, respectively.

The Redbirds host Weber State in the season opener for both teams on Friday night at 7:05.

[Todd Kober,
ISU director of media relations]

[To read Jeff Mayfield's article on this game,
click here.]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Here at the Lincoln Daily News we don’t go to post until noon.  That means that oftentimes we get a little more time than most to absorb an athletic event.  But, no matter how much reflecting I do on Saturday’s thrilling 33-28 squeaker over the Nittany Lions of Penn State, I can’t seem to wipe the smile off of my face.

And why shouldn’t Illini fans be happy?  Sure this is the first victory over Penn State since they joined the Big Ten conference.  Sure it’s the first-ever win over college football’s all-time winningest coach on the D-I level, Joe Paterno.  Sure it probably assures the Illini of one of the most unplanned trips to a major bowl ever.  And sure, it means many Illini fans are going to spend a few winter days in the sunshine somewhere. And although sports reporters are supposed to always have the poker face going, I can’t help but be deliriously happy for a group of hardworking blue- and orange-collar Illini.

While many people want to talk about Heisman trophy candidate Kurt Kittner, or our receivers, or our running backs, I want to tell you about all of them.

But, I first want to tell you about our offensive line.  If you thought the old Washington Redskins had some “hogs” up front, you should’ve seen the job done by Illinois’ “hogs” over the Lions on Saturday.  I have rarely seen so much resolve and so much purpose as those young men showed me Saturday night. While Sean Bubin, David Diehl, Jay Kulaga, Dan Cutter, Luke Butkus, Duke Preston, Patrick Babcock Aaron Hodges, Tony Pashos and James Brown may not be household names to you, they are my heroes!  They opened up some holes on Saturday that you could’ve driven a semi through!  And when it comes to protecting the quarterback, let’s just say that I hope Mr. Kittner takes very good care of our linemen.

I believe that those big guys in the trenches wore Penn State down and that it was the major factor in Illinois’ stunning comeback win.  They epitomize the heart and character of this ball club.  There is no quit in these Illini. When their backs are up against the wall, they can still think of 12 ways to win.

I will not forget your contributions this season, guys. Keep blocking and winning those battles in the trenches and you’ll carry us to heights never seen before!  We’re riding your backs and your shoulders into a history-making team.  It’s not that nobody else did anything, it’s just that I think the linemen are always overlooked.

Again, a professional journalist would probably talk about our running backs… and I will. But first I need to comment on our defense.  I know that Ron Turner’s name has been mentioned as a possible Coach of the Year candidate and deservedly so.  However, if the BCS or the AP or the UPI or anyone hands me a ballot, my vote will have to go to…

Mike Cassity. “Who’s he?” you might ask.  Only the defensive coordinator who has helped totally transform Illinois’ defense and a big reason that the Illini find themselves 8-1 for the first time since 1983.  If not for a few missed or weak tackles, I would’ve moved them up the marquee board for this story.  At any rate, Cassity and his troops deserve a lot of credit for all of their contributions.

[to top of second column in this article]

After Penn State took a 21-7 lead into the locker room at half, the Illini defense stiffened.  In fact, PSU’s only score came on another special teams breakdown on a kickoff return.  The defense pitched another second half shutout. The Illini defenders came up with four interceptions. Eugene Wilson may have played his best game ever in an orange and blue uniform, as he hauled down three INTs.  Christian Morton continued his outstanding play since he moved to the other side of the ball, as he had an important pick as well.

Now for the running backs.  Carey Davis came up with 41 yards on seven carries.  But it was Rocky Harvey who tallied 51 yards on 11 handoffs, including an exciting 20-yard TD scamper and the most important 13-yard TD jaunt of his life!  The before-mentioned heroic offensive linemen knocked bodies and heads all over the field, and by the time Harvey reached the line of scrimmage, it looked like a crime scene.  He flew over the pile and darted into the end zone as a raucous sellout crowd of 70,904 entered a euphoric state seldom seen in the annals of Illini sports history.

There were lots of other heroes, but I must mention one other group, and that is our receivers.  Even though they had a couple of critical dropped passes early in the game, overall they came up huge when the game was on the line.  Brian Hodges made a great catch on one play and rumbled and stumbled 17 yards to pay dirt.  Aaron Moorehead had four grabs for 75 yards. Carey Davis added four for 24 yards. Hodges ended up with 39 yards on three receptions. Walter Young had two big grabs for 16 tough yards.  And Harvey finished with two snags for 11 yards.

"Where was Brandon Lloyd?" you might ask  He was getting beat up in double and triple coverage.  However, he came to our rescue once again. With the Illini on the ropes, down 28-27, with not much time left and Illinois looking at a potential game-ending third and 10, he and Kittner hooked up for what was probably a game-saving 30-yard connection. Great players come up big at critical and crucial times, and Brandon Lloyd and Kurt Kittner are great players!

I should probably write about our kickers, our defensive backers and linemen, but I’m too tired. I’m deliriously tired!

[Jeff Mayfield]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Senior running back Willie Watts, a native of Dunellon, Fla., was named the Gateway Football Conference Offensive Player of the Week for his efforts in the Redbirds’ 31-17 victory over Indiana State Saturday.

Watts scored three of Illinois State’s four touchdowns and pounded out 136 yards, all in the second half, to rally the Redbirds past the Sycamores.

The three touchdowns by Watts were the most ever in his storied Redbird career, and he finished the day with 200 yards on the ground, the second-best in his career.  He also hauled in three receptions for 23 yards.

The 200 yards pushed Watts to 1,023 yards on the season, and he became only the second player in Illinois State history to compile two 1,000-yard rushing campaigns.

Watts and the Redbirds return to action next weekend against Southwest Missouri State.  The kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Springfield, Mo.

[Todd Gober,
ISU director of media relations]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  Senior defender Angie Roth and junior goalkeeper Lynley Hilligoss have been named to the 2001 Iron Kids Bread/Missouri Valley Conference All-Tournament Team.

Roth, the 2001 Valley Defensive Player of the Year and a product of St. Louis Parkway North High School, was named to the team after a strong performance in the loss to Southwest Missouri State in the Valley semifinal game. A first-team All-Valley selection, Roth anchored the Redbird defense that held opponents to an average of 7.4 shots per game.

Hilligoss, a junior from St. Charles, recorded three saves while allowing two goals against SMS in Friday’s loss. A second-team All-MVC selection, Hilligoss led the Valley with a 0.80 goals against average and recorded four shutouts.

The Redbirds, 13-5, learn if they have an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament on Monday afternoon.

[Heather Henning,
ISU athletics media relations]

[NOV. 12, 2001]   Josh Collins finished second at 125 pounds for coach Dave Klemm in wrestling at the Muskegon, Mich., open tournament on Saturday. Collins, an Olympia grad, lost the title match 19-5 to Nathan Simmons of Michigan State.

Bryan Morgan was pinned in 1:55 of the consolation match at 197 pounds by Mike Walden of Muskegon to place fourth, while Albert Schmidt was pinned in 5:53 in the consolation finals by A.J. Cook of Grand Valley State at 285 pounds.

[Bill Martinie,
Lincoln College sports information director]

[NOV. 12, 2001]  The LDN has learned that St. Louis Cardinals slugger extraordinaire Mark McGwire has walked away from the game. McGwire finished his career as fifth on the all-time home run list with 583 dingers.

The baseball world is stunned by this announcement... or we should say, at least Cardinal nation is shook up about it.

In a strange twist of fate, we do want to remind our loyal readers that the LDN was there for McGwire’s last hit and last home run!

McGwire never did respond to off-season knee surgery and, in fact, was limited to less than 300 at-bats a year the last two seasons but had a combined 61 HRs. What an ironic number.

McGwire will be sorely missed by Cardinal fans young and old, but having his salary available will help the Redbirds to potentially land an outstanding free agent... maybe someone like the Oakland A’s first baseman Jason Giambi.

For more details go to www.stlcardinals.com.

[Jeff Mayfield]

[NOV. 10, 2001]  The Mount Pulaski volleyball team defeated Benton yesterday in the Class A state tournament at Normal 15-8, 15-6.  Mount Pulaski plays Quincy Notre Dame today at noon in Match 6 of the tournament.  The loser of Match 6 will play the loser of Match 5 (Augustana Southeastern vs. Breese Mater Dei) at 4:45 p.m. for third place.  The winners will play at 7:30 p.m. for the championship.

Mount Pulaski's team consisted of Lindsay Clements, Tiffany Conaway, Bethany Dulle, Mary Olson, Laura Reeter and Erin Schmidt.

Team stats (assists-kills-blocks-aces-total points):
Clements 0-4-0-1-8
Conaway 21-1-0-3-11
Dulle 0-2-0-1-4
Olson 0-10-2-1-4
Reeter 0-8-0-0-1
Schmidt 0-2-1-0-2

Game 1 Total  11-12-0-5-15
Game 2 Total  10-15-3-1-15
Match Total     21-27-3-6-30 

[to top of second column in this article]

Benton's team consisted of Shannon Bain, Sarah Doty, Morgan Johnson, Bethany Johnston, Jera Nipper, Brittany Payne and Sara Schultz.

Team stats (assists-kills-blocks-aces-total points):
Bain 0-0-2-0-0
Doty 6-0-0-0-5
Johnson 2-4-3-0-1
Johnston 0-0-0-2-5
Nipper 0-2-0-0-0
Payne 0-0-0-0-2
Schultz 0-2-0-0-1

Game 1 Total  4-4-2-2-8
Game 2 Total  4-4-3-0-6
Match Total    8-8-5-2-14

[NOV. 10, 2001]  The 2001-2002 version of the Lincoln Christian College women’s basketball team features eight returning players, including two from Lincoln, and a new coaching staff with a link to the past.

Amanda Bowman, the new coach of the Angels, is a familiar face to the Angels’ program. A three-time NCCAA All-American, Bowman played for the Angels from 1995 through 1999 and holds many of the Angels’ records, including the career scoring record and the single-season scoring record. Her sister, Nancy Siddens, was the Angels’ coach for 13 years until stepping down two years ago.

Coach Bowman begins her first season with five starters returning and three local players. Former Railer Brittany Robbins returns for her second year. She averaged 21.5 points per game as a freshman and holds second place in single-season scoring, with 624 total points. "Brittany is our shooter. We rely on her to score in pressure situations," stated coach Bowman.

Lincoln native Stephanie Urton also begins her second season at LCC. She averaged 3.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game last season. "When a player gets hot, I can count of Stephanie to shut them down defensively," coach Bowman said.

Freshman Christina Wright, who averaged 20 points per game at Heyworth High School, will add scoring depth to the backcourt.

[to top of second column in this article]

"I’m excited to coach this team. They work hard in practice and have a desire to do their best," coach Bowman said. "I think it will be a good year. We’ve got some good shooters and good ballhandlers. We should improve each game."

The season began with a 1-1 outing on the Angels’ first road trip, to the Kentucky Christian Classic at Grayson, Ky., on Nov. 3 and 4.

The Angels play about 30 games a year against NCCAA, NCAA III and NAIA opponents. One of the highlights this season will be a November trip to Anchorage, Alaska, to play two games with the University of Alaska-Anchorage.

[LCC sports]

[Lincoln Christian College women’s basketball schedule]

[Lincoln Christian College women’s basketball roster]

[NOV. 9, 2001]  Lincoln College rolled to an easy 73-39 victory over Hannibal-LaGrange in women’s basketball at Lincoln Thursday night. The victory runs the LC record to 2-0 for the season.

The Lady Lynx raced to a 43-10 halftime lead, and the second half was played fairly even with Lincoln holding a 30-29 edge. Angie Bossingham hit a pair of 3-pointers and had a total of eight points in the first half, while Ronni Beebe hit one three pointer and had nine first-half points for Coach Carol Wilson.

Thirteen Lincoln College players cracked the scoring column, with Beebe and Bossingham the lone double-figure performers.

Lincoln College (73) — Tammy Bausley 0-1-2-1; Jenny Story 1-0-0-2; Victoria Scott 2-2-3-6; Sarah McLaughlin 3-2-4-9; Audrey Hinrichsen 1-0-0-3; Angie Bossingham 4-0-0-10; Ronni Beebe 5-1-2-12; Heather Dobey 0-2-4-2; Kim Massenburg 2-2-2-7; Ashley Sims 1-2-2-4; Mary Rossio 1-0-0-2; Jessie Dullard 4-0-0-8; Zabrina Harper 3-1-1-7.  Totals 27-13-20-73.  Three-point goals: Bossingham 2, McLaughlin, Hinrichsen, Beebe, Massenburg.

Hannibal-LaGrange (39) — Pettis 3-0-2-6; Stull 2-4-8-8; Fischer 2-5-11-9; Capkovic 2-0-1-5; Calhoun 0-1-2-1; Young 1-1-3-3; Poire 3-1-2-7.  Totals: 13-12-30-39.  Three-point goals: Capkovic.

[Bill Martinie,
Lincoln College sports information director]

[NOV. 9, 2001]  Illinois State basketball coach Jenny Yopp has problems with her team heading into Sunday's 1 p.m. exhibition game with the Chicago Challengers.  But they are problems she's happy to have.

In Wednesday's 74-61 win over a team from the National Women's Basketball League, Yopp saw all 11 of her players contribute.  She saw the non-starters shoot better than the starting five (.480 to .365).  The Redbirds got 27 points, nine of the team's 20 assists and eight of its 16 steals from non-starters.

But the starting five did plenty on its own.  Freshman Katie Donovan had 10 points and 13 rebounds, senior Kristi Larson had 11 points and as many boards.  That's one more double-double than the Redbirds had all last season.  Sharon Blade also had 11 rebounds, giving ISU a trio of players who rebounded in double figures.  Again, last season, the 'Birds had just two double-digit rebounding performances all season.

Sure, it was only an exhibition game, but the Redbirds are trying to establish a team-oriented, unselfish, hard-driving style of play and Yopp believes it's happening.

"I was particularly pleased at the number of times our players attempted to take a charge (on defense)," said Yopp.  "It wasn't just one or two players, it was several.  We made a commitment to playing physical and we need to do that."

The other unselfish part of the game which had Yopp smiling was the team's passing. Taren O'Brien, Beth Huston and Stacey White each had five assists, but it was the kinds of passes that impressed Yopp.

[to top of second column in this article]

"Our players recognize how talented their teammates are and get them the ball," said Yopp.  "There were a couple of occasions where a good decision would have been to shoot, but players gave up the ball to teammates for a better shot."

The solid contributions from so many players still have Yopp considering which players to start and which combinations work best on the court.  She started O'Brien, Donovan, White, Blade and O'Brien in the NWBL victory.

"We had a solid group to begin with (against NWBL)," said Yopp, "but it's too soon to say who will be our pacesetters on Sunday."

One player who probably won't see action is junior guard Steph Reichle, still recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery.

"We don't expect to have Steph on Sunday," said Yopp.  "We don't see any need to push her because we want her to reach a point where she doesn't have pain."

Yopp looks forward to having Reichle ready for the regular-season opener Nov. 19 at Wisconsin-Milwaukee.  Illinois State opens its home schedule Nov. 25 vs. Central Michigan.

[Thomas A. Lamonica, Illinois State University]

[NOV. 9, 2001]  Last month, coach Sharon Dingman and the Redbird volleyball team were reeling from back-to-back defeats at Northern Iowa and Bradley.  Now, after back-to-back home losses to those same teams, Illinois State is looking for a little more push in this weekend's trip to Wichita State (Friday) and Southwest Missouri State (Saturday).

"At this point, it's up to us," said Dingman, whose Redbirds are 13-10 overall, 9-5 in the Missouri Valley.  "We can play better or we can fold up."

Dingman quoted Sports Illustrated senior writer Frank DeFord, who spoke to Redbird student-athletes at the State Farm Student-Athlete Academic Excellence Banquet two weeks ago.

"He talked about how powerful a loss can be," said Dingman. "We have an opportunity to make changes and make it better.  It appears that Northern Iowa has the first seed (in the State Farm-Missouri Valley Conference Tournament) pretty well sewn up, but we still have a shot at the second seed; we need to win and need some help."

Junior middle blocker Jenny Kabbes agreed with Dingman.

"It's time to put our 'challenge shoes' on and get after it," said Kabbes.  "Being away from home is a challenge because at Redbird Arena the crowd is our seventh player, and they're always behind us."

Kabbes said the players haven't spoken directly about the recent end to Illinois State's nine-match home-court winning streak with rare back-to-back home losses, but it's in their minds.

[to top of second column in this article]

"We have to move on and prove we can do it again," said Kabbes, the Redbirds' leader in blocks and kill percentage.  "We all know it hurts, but getting a chance to play again gives us a chance to put (the losses) behind us."

Wichita State, which has won four of its last seven matches after a 5-12 start, is a team which has the tools, according to Dingman.

"They are very talented, they are just very young," said Dingman. "If they put it all together, though, they can play with anyone."

SMS, 20-5, 11-3 in the Valley, is ranked among the top 10 teams in the region and is gunning for that No. 2 seed and the bye which goes with it.  Setter Chenille Bayless leads a versatile attack for the Bears, who are 9-1 since losing to the Illinois State in four games Oct. 12 in Redbird Arena.

"SMS has been playing very well lately," said Dingman.  "It's always a tough match on their court."

[Thomas A. Lamonica, Illinois State University]

[NOV. 9, 2001]  After setting the Missouri Valley Conference career goals record, Illinois State junior Annie Wayland has been voted the league's Most Valuable Player.  Redbird coach Pete Kowall earned Valley Coach of the Year, senior Angie Roth was named Valley Defensive Player of the Year, and Illinois State placed six athletes on the all-conference squad.

Wayland, a native of St. Peters, Mo., became the Valley's all-time leader in goals on Oct. 14 when she recorded her 46th career goal.  Heading into tomorrow's IronKids Bread/MVC Soccer Championship, Wayland is tied with former Evansville forward Krissy Meek for the Valley lead for most career points with 106.  She leads the Redbirds and the league in goals with 16 and in points with 34.

Two-time All-MVC first-team selection Roth, who hails from St. Louis, Mo., has anchored the Redbird defense for the last four seasons. Led by Roth, this season's defense has allowed an average of 5.67 shots per game for Valley opponents and 0.50 goals per league game.

Kowall, who previously was named MVC Coach of the Year in 1998, earned the distinction for the second time in his career after guiding the Redbirds to a 6-0 mark in league play and a overall mark of 13-4 during the regular season.

"This is an award that is won by both the head coach and the assistant coaches; it's a shared effort," Kowall said.  "Our players have to be talented and willing to enough to win.  They have embraced the idea of team and playing for each other, which makes my job easier."

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Wayland and Roth are joined on the All-Valley first team by junior Chrystal Johnston.  A native of Milton, Ontario, Johnston has pitched in with four assists this season for the 'Birds.  Illinois State and Evansville each placed three on the first team while Southwest Missouri State and Creighton had two representatives apiece.

Goalkeeper Lynley Hilligoss and defenders Robyn Brady and Melissa Colthrust were named to the All-MVC second team.  In addition to her second-team selection, Brady was also a member of the all-freshman squad.

The top-seeded Redbirds face fifth-seeded Southwest Missouri State Friday at 5 p.m. in the semifinals of the IronKids Bread/MVC Soccer Championship at Sportport in Maryland Heights, Mo.

[Heather Henning, Illinois State University]

[NOV. 9, 2001]  The Illinois State men's and women's cross country teams head to Carbondale,on Saturday, Nov. 10, to compete in the NCAA Midwest Regional Meet hosted by Southern Illinois.  The 30-team meet will open with the men's 10K race at 10 a.m., and the women's 6K race will follow at 11:15 a.m.

The men's team enters the meet ranked No. 9 regionally.  The only other Missouri Valley Conference team with a regional ranking is Northern Iowa at No. 3.  Oklahoma State owns the top ranking.

Competing for the Redbirds in the men's race will be seniors Christian Goy, Robert Breit and Kevin Bailey, junior Walter Ogola and sophomores John Shaffer and Todd Quedneau.

The women's team enters the meet without a top 10 regional ranking.

The women's team will feature Valley Female Cross Country Athlete of the Year senior Stacia Beste, junior Jené Klostermann, and freshmen Diana Ainsley, Laura Kennedy, Leah Smith and Kelly Forst.

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"We ran well at the conference meet, but there are people on both teams that feel they can do even better," said head coach Jeff Pigg.  "The teams are upbeat and excited about having another meet this season.  Enthusiasm (on the teams) is high right now, and I think our momentum has carried us throughout the season.  I think we have the ability to surprise some people at this meet."

The 30 schools competing in the meet include:  Bradley, Chicago State, Creighton, DePaul, Drake, Eastern Illinois, Illinois, Illinois State, Illinois-Chicago, Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Loyola-Chicago, Minnesota, Missouri, UMKC, Nebraska, Northern Illinois, Northern Iowa, Northwestern, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Oral Roberts, Saint Louis, Southeast Missouri State, Southwest Missouri State, Tulsa, Western Illinois and Wichita State.

[Rob Huizenga, Illinois State University]

[NOV. 8, 2001]  Brian Cook came out of the tunnel and onto the court for the first time this season with more hair than I have ever seen him sport. He also has beefed up to the point that he’s starting to look more like an NBA power forward than a skinny kid from some high school on the prairie.

From the opening tip he looked like a decidedly better player, going 7-for-13 from the field and finishing with a team-high 17 points to lead Illinois to a 104-81 victory over a much-better-than-advertised Illinois All-Star squad. Cook added 13 rebounds to his line, including an impressive nine defensive caroms.

The All-Stars were giving the Illini all they wanted by hanging close, trailing only 44-46 at intermission. But Illini used an explosive 13-3 run the first three minutes of the second half to put the pesky stars away.

Sean Harrington brought the crowd to its feet several times as he canned 5-of-6 treys to also finish with 17 points on the night. Cory Bradford and Frank Williams pitched in 16 points apiece, and Robert Archibald added 12 as the entire starting five ended the game in double figures. Damir Krupalija had a solid game as he muscled his way in for seven points and four rebounds.

Looking good off the bench for the Illini were Brett Melton, who nailed two 3’s and another rim out, and red-shirt freshman Nick Smith who tallied three points and three rebounds. Smith will be counted on to give coach Bill Self a four-man rotation in the post, as it looks like Krupalija and Smith will spell Cook and Archibald when the pair are either in foul trouble or need a rest. However, Cook played the most of any Illini player as he logged 29 minutes in the fray.

Last night’s game was only a sellout (16,300) because the game was included in the season ticket package. Only 8,450 actually attended.

I still do not know what it will take to convince people that we have one of the best teams in the country and they ought to come out and support ’em … and these are people who have ALREADY purchased tickets. The LDN is happy to help distribute ANY unused tickets, as we know several college, high school and junior high students who would love to see a game, ANY game.

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The buzz around the pressroom after the game was concern over Illinois’ bench. While it doesn’t appear to be as strong, obviously, as last year’s, I think it will be all right over the long haul. I sure like all of the gifts Damir brings to the table, and I think he can play in a big or small lineup. Nick Smith looked 100 percent better to me than he did last year. I know that others are still concerned about him, but I think that he will make some real contributions to the team. Brett Melton could give the squad a huge lift, especially if Bradford or Harrington is having an off night.

Last year’s Big Ten championship banner was raised to the rafters prior to last night’s tipoff. The crowd loved it … BUT, the crowd wasn’t even 9,000 strong. Did the banner have to be raised last night? Are we leaving last year to last year and getting on with this year? Why not raise that banner prior to the tough opening night game versus Gonzaga? Or before the Big Ten opener against Minnesota? You know — whip the crowd into a frenzy and then use that energy in the building to ride that wave to victory! Just a thought. I’m crazy enough to think that I’d like to see thousands of people enjoy these kinds of moments.

Next up for the Illini is a Monday night game with Division II foe Lincoln University. Lincoln used to be tough in the days of old, back when they were in the old MIAA. SMS and other teams were not yet D-I clubs in those days, but the competition was so fierce you would have never known the difference. I think it’s great that they’re giving teams like that the opportunity to take center stage!

[Jeff Mayfield]

[NOV. 8, 2001]  There are a few reasons to get excited about basketball at Lincoln Christian College this fall. The most evident is the 30,000-plus-square-foot athletic facility that will be ready to occupy in January.

"I go out and walk through it nearly every day," says Randy Kirk, the men’s basketball coach. "We have played in an undersized facility for a long time. We will miss the intimacy of the ‘Preacherdome.’ But it will be great to have a regulation court with space around it, extra baskets for practice, a fitness center and a training room."

The Preachers are scheduled to play in the new facility on Jan. 10, while the dedication will follow on Jan. 12.

As far as the team itself, the Preachers got a big boost when Joel Searby decided to transfer from Elmhurst. The U-High grad played a significant role with the Blue Jays last year as they played their way into the NCAA tournament. "Joel brings us experience and size that we needed in the post," Kirk notes.

Other notables who should get playing time include John Holderby, a Calvary Baptist alumnus. "John played for a us a few years back. He took a couple of years off and now is back with us," Kirk explains. Holderby will see time at the point.

Six players return from last year’s squad, including three starters. Clinton native Jim Turney started every game as a freshman last year and brings that experience with him. Antoni Okusami, a 6-foot-3 forward from Warsaw, Poland, also returns to the starting lineup.

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Senior Matt Clark, a 5-10 guard from Evansville, Ind., returns to lead the Preachers. Clark scored 991 points last year, which appears to be the second-highest single-season point total in the history of Illinois college basketball. Hersey Hawkins had 1,125 in the 1987-88 season for Bradley. Clark enters this year with 1,913 career points and is closing in on the school record of 2,188, which was set by Jim Williamson, an Olympia graduate.

Here’s what Kirk had to say: "What was amazing about Matt’s numbers last year was not simply the number of points produced; he shot 49 percent from the floor, 43 percent from the 3-point line and 83 percent from the line. Considering the attention he drew, those numbers are amazing."

It’s pretty exciting in Lincoln this fall! Come and see for yourself!

[LCC sports]

[Lincoln Christian College men’s basketball roster]

[Lincoln Christian College women’s basketball schedule]

[Lincoln Christian College women’s basketball roster]

[NOV. 8, 2001]  In addition to the Illinois State football team hosting Indiana State Saturday, Redbird Arena in Normal will house the Illinois High School Association’s volleyball state championships in what is expected to be a high-traffic weekend for Redbird athletics. To assist Redbird football fans, the Illinois State athletics department has announced special procedures that will be in place that day.

Any Redbird football patron without a parking pass will have to show a football ticket to gain access to the public parking lots. The public lots are the Ropp lot, the University High School lot and the East Stadium lot. Just as with previous games, fans with parking passes will be admitted into their respective lots.

Anyone interested in purchasing football tickets is encouraged to do so before Friday, the first day of the state volleyball championships. On Friday, in addition to the ticket office at Redbird Arena, tickets for the Illinois State-Indiana State football game will also be available at the Alamo II bookstore from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Alamo II will again have tickets on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday.

Illinois State will offer a Family Day ticket package that allows game tickets for two adults and two youth (14 and under), plus four Pepsis and popcorn for $20. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to assure an opportunity to park that day.

Illinois State and Gateway Football Conference rival Indiana State kick off at 1:30 p.m. at Hancock Stadium for Senior Day.

For more information, see www.redbirds.org.

[News release]

[NOV. 2, 2001]   

•  Lady Railers are marching on!!! After a very slow start Thursday night, the Lincoln High School Lady Railers dashed Champaign Centennial’s hopes and dreams by capturing the sectional championship. Up next for the Railers (29-7-1) is a Saturday night date at East Peoria, where they will tangle with a familiar foe, the Normal Community (34-3) bunch. Thank you, Rick Hobler, for an outstanding job of bringing Lady Railer volleyball to our great LDN fans! And good luck, Lady Railers!!!

•  Speaking of championships… the LCC Angels won their sectional-regional championship, I believe for the very first time (even the year they won the national championship, they did not claim the regional title). However, they weren’t finished yet. They won all of their first-round games yesterday at the national tournament at Faith Baptist in Ankeny, Iowa. LCC took matches over North Central, 30-24 and 30-13; Baptist Bible, Mo., 30-25, 28-30, 15-6; and Ozark Christian, 30-19 and 30-22! Today the Angels face their nemesis, Clearwater Christian, at 11 a.m. to determine which flight they will be in, either 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. For more in-depth coverage, go to www.lccs.edu, click on athletics, then scroll down to the NCCAA tournament logo-icon, and you’ll get more info than you could ever use!

•  The Illinois Fighting Illini start a stretch of what I’m calling four of the most difficult games you could ever have to play. This Saturday they will battle Purdue at West Lafayette, Ind. The LDN thinks that this will be a much harder football game than most people think. If the Illini defense does not throttle the potent Boiler spread-offense it could be a long game. On the other hand, if Illinois can produce some kind of road magic, a quality bowl game looms on our horizon!!!

•  Lincoln Railer boys basketball hits the hardwood for two-a-days starting bright and early Monday morning. Part of the success of Railer hoops is because of the total dedication by players, coaches and all of the support personnel. I think I can speak somewhat knowledgeably on this subject… There is a price if you want to be good. We believe that the Green-White scrimmage should fall on Thursday night, Nov. 15. We’ll bring you more details on the "new look" Railers soon!

•  Also on the Railer news front is Gregg Alexander… Gregg chipped in six points in ISU’s opening exhibition victory last night before an announced crowd of just under 5,000 patrons. All indications are that Gregg is fitting in nicely and that ISU is primed for another outstanding season.

[Jeff Mayfield]

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