2012 Lincoln Memorial University Baseball Guide

2011 RAILSPLITTER ROSTER

No. Name Pos. Yr. Ht. Wgt. B/T Hometown1 Scott Miller UT FR 5’7” 170 R/R Knoxville, TN2 Neil Borden INF SO 6’3” 190 R/R Alcoa, TN3 Gelson Perez INF SR 5’9” 186 R/R Gurabo, PR5 Nick Pressley C R-JR 5’9” 170 R/R Knoxville, TN6 Cody Baker OF JR 5’11” 160 L/L Knoxville, TN7 Seth Sharp UT R-FR 6’2” 180 R/R LaFollette, TN8 Curt Fuqua INF JR 5’10” 160 R/R Jackson, TN9 Nick Morabito INF/RHP FR 5’11” 185 R/R Vienna, VA11 Andy Fennell RHP SR 6’1” 175 R/R Knoxville, TN13 Andre Rodriguez INF JR 5’11” 180 R/R Las Piedras, Puerto Rico14 Joseph Horsley INF R-SR 5’11” 180 R/R Rutledge, TN15 Mark Comparoni C JR 6’0” 180 L/R Williamsburg, KY 18 Seth Woods RHP JR 5’9” 180 R/R Watseka, IL20 Kyle Asher INF/RHP FR 6’0” 190 R/R Louisville, KY21 Colin Buckner 1B FR 6’2” 210 R/R Harrodsburg, KY22 Justin King RHP FR 6’1” 190 R/R Barbourville, KY23 Brandon Morris INF R-FR 5’9” 160 R/R Knoxville, TN24 Tanner Rutherford UT FR 6’2” 195 R/R LaFollette, TN25 Austin Pittman RHP FR 6’2” 200 R/R Benson, NC26 Chris McCarter RHP FR 6’3” 200 R/R Seymour, TN 27 Brandon Cowan LHP R-JR 6’2” 185 L/L Tequesta, FL28 Austin Johnson RHP JR 5’11” 180 R/R Versailles, KY29 Layne Cecil RHP FR 6’5” 205 R/R Pikeville, KY30 Brad Pressley RHP SR 5’9” 195 R/R Knoxville, TN31 Robert Stegbauer RHP SR 6’7” 220 R/R Hillsboro, OH32 Patrick Morris RHP SO 6’2” 220 R/R Plantation, FL34 Nolan Woody C SO 6’2” 215 R/R Chattanooga, TN40 John Saylor UT FR 5’9” 186 R/R Mount Vernon, KY42 Bryan Ebelink LHP/1B SO 5’10” 185 L/L Bushnell, FL44 Carter Pack INF SO 6’2” 250 R/R Andersonville, TN99 Jerry Skeens 1B JR 6’3” 225 R/R Bristol, TN

Head Coach: Jeff SziksaiAssistant Coach: Ryan SchmalzGraduate Assistant Coaches: Tate McMillan, Ben Adleburg

2012 RAILSPLITTER BASEBALL TEAM

2012 LMU Baseball 1 www.LMURailsplitters.com

WELCOME / CONTENTS

LMU Baseball2012 Quick Facts

School.............................................. Lincoln Memorial UniversityFounded .............................................................................. 1897Location ............................................................... Harrogate, TNEnrollment ..........................................................................4,550School Colors ..................................................... Blue and GrayVenue Name ............................................J. Lamar Hennon FieldSeating Capacity ................................................................1,500Nickname ................................................................. RailsplittersAffiliation .......................................................... NCAA Division IIConference ........................................................... South AtlanticInterim President ..................................... Dr. B. James DawsonAlma Mater, Year .............................................. Evansville, 1967Athletic Director .................................................. Roger VannoyAlma Mater, Year ................................... Lincoln Memorial, 1974Athletic Department Phone ..................................423.869.6241

Coaching StaffHead Coach ..............................................................Jeff SziksaiAlma Mater, Year ....................................Western Carolina/1998Record at LMU (yrs) ...................................183-179-2 (9th Year)Career Record .............................................................183-179-2Sziksai’s Office Phone ..........................................423.869.6345Sziksai’s Email .....................................jeff.sziksai@lmunet.eduAssistant Coach ...................................................Ryan SchmalzSchmalz Office Phone ..........................................423.869.6344Graduate Assistant .................................................Ben AdleburgGraduate Assistant................................................Tate McMillanAthletic Trainer ........................................................... Don GrigsbyGrigsby’s’s Office Phone .......................................423.869.6378

Team Information2011 Overall Record ..........................................................29-22Home | Away | Neutral......................................16-8 / 12-12 / 1-22011 South Atlantic Conference Record...........................16-11 Starters returning/lost ...........................................................6/6Letter winners returning/lost ................................................8/14

HistoryFirst Year of Baseball .........................................................1908All-time Record (yrs) .............................................................N/ALast NCAA Tournament Appearance (yrs) ...................... NoneLast Conference Tournament Appearance ......................2011

Sports InformationSports Information Director.....................................Scott ErlandSID Office Phone ...................................................423.869.6236Home Phone ..........................................................423.869.5120Associate SID ...............................................................Bill PorterAssistant SID Phone..............................................423.869.6376Home Phone ..........................................................423.869.9032Student Assistant..................................................................N/ASID Fax ....................................................................423.869.6382Mailing Address ................................................. LMU Box 2028 Tex Turner Arena 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway Harrogate, TN 37752

Table of Contents

INSIDE FRONT COVER....................................... 2012 ROSTERWELCOME/CONTENTS..............................................................12012 SEASON OUTLOOK...........................................................2-3LMU BASEBALL COACHING STAFF.......................................4-5MEET THE 2012 RAILSPLITTERS.........................................6-172011 STATISTICS/RESULTS.....................................................18LAMAR HENNON FIELD........................................................19-20TEX TURNER ARENA...............................................................21FACILITIES................................................................................22THIS IS LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY............................23ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT/LOCAL DIRECTORY..................... 24INSIDE BACK COVER.................................................. THE SAC

CREDITSThe 2012 Lincoln Memorial University Baseball Guide is a publication of the LMU Sports Information Office.

Photography by: Michelle Sziksai, LMU Sports Information, Allen Earl Photography and the South Atlantic ConferenceSpecial Thanks: Head Coach Jeff Sziksai, Assistant Coach Ryan Schmalz, Director of Publications Regina Burns and Dr. Katherine Pebworth.

All LMU athletic guides are available from the Sports Information Office either in print form (if available) or CD-Rom for a fee. They can also be found on the world wide web at www.LMUrailsplitters.com.

Printed by: Pulp Printing


2012 RAILSPLITTER BASEBALL SEASON OUTLOOK The tides are shifting for the Railsplitters heading into the 2012 season, as Lincoln Memorial University will be taking the field with a team vastly different from a season ago. Coming off of a 29-22 year with a senior-laden roster, the Railsplitters are bringing a team loaded with new faces. With sixteen new players, more than half of the roster is dominated by fresh faces. With the combination of savvy veterans and the spark of new talent, Head Coach Jeff Sziksai heads into the 2012 season with enthusiastic vigor.

The pitching staff will play a vital role in the success of this season, as they will be expected to carry a tremendous load. This year’s staff is packed with experience as the top two pitchers from a season ago return to the mound. Austin Johnson, an All-Conference Second Team performer last year, returns for the Railsplitters. He led the team and finished sixth in the South Atlantic Conference with an ERA of 3.06. He finished with a perfect 6-0 record in conference play. Andy Fennell is also returning following a strong 2011 campaign. Fennell also had an unblemished conference record at 4-0. He led LMU in innings pitched, shouldering a tremendous 76 innings.

The Railsplitters have the luxury of having three other formidable starters to fill the vacancies. Senior Brad Pressley will be expected to play a pivotal role this season. Pressley went 2-1 last season in his 13 appearances. Redshirt junior Bradon Cowan brings experience as he has played virtually every role on the staff during his tenure with the Railsplitters. He threw 37 innings last season and he is expected to play a much bigger role this season. Patrick Morris, a transfer from Nova Southeastern University, could potentially see big innings as a starter this season. Morris was sidelined for much of last year due to a minor injury. However, he will be at full strength this season and looks to regain the form that made him a Louisville Slugger All-American in high school. Robert Stegbauer, a senior from Hillsboro, Ohio, is a returner in the bullpen this season as he will be expected to provide late inning relief and may possibly take on the closer role.

The remaining portion of the Railsplitter pitching staff will be made up of newcomers. Seth Woods, a junior transfer out of Kankakee Community College, brings a strong arm and vital college experience to the staff. Kyle Asher, Justin King, Nick Morabito, Logan Sawyer, Chris McCarter and Austin Pittman round out a talented group of freshman that will form a huge part of the Lincoln Memorial University pitching staff and will all be expected to contribute immediately.

Turning towards the field, the Railsplitters will be looking for players to step up and fill the vacancy left by the loss of four All-Conference hitters from last year’s team, which finished fifth nationally in runs scored. The infield will be the biggest

strength as the Railsplitters will see the return of seniors Joe Horsley and Gelson Perez. Perez is coming off of a 2011 campaign where he batted .335 with three homeruns and 47 RBIs. An All-South Atlantic Conference Second Team selection a season ago, Perez was selected as a National Player to Watch by the American Baseball Coachers Association this year. He will see time mainly at third base. At shortstop, Horsley returns following a productive year in which he hit .290 with 45 runs scored while leading the South Atlantic Conference with 20 stolen bases.

In the middle infield, newcomer Andre Rodriguez, a transfer out of Wiley College, will get significant time at second and third base. At Wiley College, Rodriguez set the school record with a 14-game hitting streak and batted .335 during his tenure there. Redshirt freshman Brandon Morris and true freshmen John Saylor and Nick Morabito will also battle for time at second and third base.

First base could be filled by a number of potential candidates this season. Sophomore Carter Pack brings a year of experience with


2012 RAILSPLITTER BASEBALL SEASON OUTLOOK the team to the spot. In 18 at-bats a season ago, Pack was extremely productive as he recorded six RBIs on 7 hits. New additions Jerry Skeens, Colin Buckner and Kyle Asher will also compete for time at first base for the Railsplitters.

Sophomore Nolan Woody returns at catcher for the Railsplitters after a strong freshmen season. Woody appeared in 39 games last season and batted .268 with two homeruns and 21 RBIs. Redshirt junior Nick Pressley will also compete for time at catcher this season.

In the outfield, Lincoln Memorial University has unanswered questions, as the Railsplitters are returning only one everyday player from the 2011 season. Junior Cody Baker is that returner and he will attempt to build on his impressive 2011 campaign. At the all-important leadoff spot in the lineup, Baker batted .343 with a .429 on-base percentage. He also led the team in hits and plate appearances. At the centerfield position, Baker is expected to anchor the outfield this season.

Transfer Curt Fuqua, out of Jackson State Community College, leads the candidates to fill the other vacant positions. Last year at Jackson State, Fuqua hit .349 with 9 homeruns and 49 RBIs. He was recently named as a Newcomer to Watch by the American Baseball Coaches Association. Fuqua likely will see significant time at left and right field this season. Sophomore Neil Borden had a strong fall and put himself in position to receive playing time this spring. Nick Pressley has seen a significant time in the outfield this fall and will be in the running for innings in the spring. Freshmen Scott Miller, Colin Buckner, Tanner Rutherford and Seth Sharp will also be in the mix for time in the outfield this season.

The fate of this season remains unanswered as the stable faces that have represented the Railsplitters the last few seasons have been replaced by a tremendously talented group of athletes. Head Coach, Jeff Sziksai, is excited to see the continued progression of the direction he has taken the team since his arrival at LMU. “I think we will score runs in a little bit different way this year, but our offense will be solid again,” he commented. “We will rely much more on our pitching and defense this year, but I feel that we are much improved in those areas from a year ago. I really like the makeup of our team and the committment to get better.”

The 2012 season promises to be an exciting year as the Railsplitters will be up against a daunting schedule, facing some of the best of the southeast. The Railsplitters will look to continue the ascent of the program under the direction of Jeff Sziksai by pushing into the upper echelon of the SAC and moving forward to the NCAA Tournament.

LINCOLN MEMORIAL University


RAILSPLITTER COACHING STAFF

HEAD COACH Jeff Sziksai

Heading into his ninth year as the head coach, Jeff Sziksai is looking to continue building the Railsplitter baseball program. After inheriting a program that won just five games in 2003, the baseball program has seen steady improvement over the past eight seasons. In 2011, the Railsplitters advanced to the quarterfinals of the SAC tournament and finished 29-22 on the season. The Railsplitters finished the 2010 season by making the deepest post-season run since becoming an NCAA division II member in 1990, coming up just short of a SAC tournament championship. While the Railsplitter baseball program is pointed in the right direction, Sziksai has his sights set much higher. “The goals for our program are simple. First, win the SAC. Second, go to a World Series and win a national championship. We will continue to work tirelessly to achieve our mission.”

LMU enters its sixth season of competition in the South Atlantic Conference after making the transition from the Gulf South Conference following the 2006 season. “The SAC is one of the best Division II baseball conferences in the country. To win this league, we will have to be focused and compete at an extremely high level every

weekend.”

Jeff Sziksai took over the helm of the Railsplitter baseball program after spending four years as an assistant coach. Sziksai served on the staff at Old Dominion University from 2002 to 2003, taking over duties as the hitting and infield coach while coaching third base. During his two-year stint with the Monarchs, he was part of a recruiting effort that helped lead ODU from 8th place in 2003 to 4th place in 2004 as well as their first conference tournament appearance in three years. The team batting average increased by 25 points from his first to second year. Sziksai also coached eight drafted players and one All-American, including the second overall pick in the 2004 Major League Baseball Draft.

Before being hired at ODU, Sziksai served as an assistant coach at Western Carolina University from 2000 to 2001. While there, he coached the infielders, hitters and first base. During his first year, he was part of a recruiting effort that led to the biggest single season turnaround in Southern Conference History (10th to 3rd, an increase of 15 wins), signed a two-time All American and Conference Player of theYear and coached seven drafted players. The 2001 team led the Southern Conference in batting average and home runs.

A native of Asheville, North Carolina, Sziksai is a former second baseman at Western Carolina University. In 1997, he was named All-Conference and was selected to the Southern Conference All-Tournament Team, helping the Catamounts win their conference tournament and advance to the NCAA Division I East Regional. Also that season, Sziksai played in 48 straight games at second base without committing an error. In 1998, Sziksai was named team captain, led the Southern Conference in RBI’s (69), and helped lead his team to a 45-15 record, tied for the most wins in school history. Following his career at WCU, Sziksai was a 22nd round draft pick of the New York Yankees where he spent time in Single A, both in Oneonta, New York and Tampa, Florida.

Coach Sziksai is married to former Michele Napier of Pineville, Kentucky, and they are parents to Mason, born September 17, 2010. They reside in Middlesboro.

Coach Sziksai, Michele and Mason


RAILSPLITTER COACH STAFF

GRADUATE ASSISTANT COACHES

ASSISTANT COACHRyan Schmalz Entering his seventh year with Lincoln Memorial University, Ryan Schmalz came to the Railsplitters from nearby NCAA Division I Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky. A native of Olathe, Colorado, Schmalz serves as Coach Sziksai’s top assistant and recruiting coordinator. Coupled with his recruiting efforts, Schmalz also serves as the Railsplitter hitting coach. The 2007 squad hit .339 as a team which also ranked 20th in the nation. The 2009 team ranked 18th in scoring with a .318 average. In 2010, LMU was 21st in scoring (.323), 10th in the nation in home runs and reached the South Atlantic Conference Tournament semifinals. In Schmalz’ five seasons with the Railsplitters, the team has marked noticeable increases in nearly every offensive statistical category. While at Morehead State University, Schmalz helped in the recruiting process for the Eagles. His efforts led to the team gaining 14 more wins from 2004 to 2005, while boasting the Ohio Valley Conference’s Player of the Year. “I am excited to be at LMU and to work with Coach Sziksai,” says Schmalz. “We believe that with

hard work and discipline, LMU can become a nationally competitive team.”

Before his coaching career began at Morehead State University, Schmalz played baseball for Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and junior college baseball at Trinidad State Junior College in Trinidad, Colorado. During his final two seasons of college baseball, Schmalz and his teammates accumulated an overall record of 86 wins and 26 losses, which included two NAIA World Series appearances.

“We are very fortunate to have Ryan on our staff,” said Sziksai. “He is a hard working young coach, and I think our players respond to him very well. He has an outstanding reputation and is a proven winner as a player and coach.”

Schmalz has a bachelor’s degree in sports management with minors in communication studies and business management from Olivet Nazarene University, and a master’s degree in sports administration from Morehead State University. Schmalz, wife Rebecca and daughters Molly and Janie reside in Tazewell, Tennessee.

Ben Adleburg Tate McMillan


THE 2012 RAILSPLITTERS

Meet The Railsplitters!!!


Scott MillerHeight: 5’7” Weight: 170 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: UtilityBats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Knoxville, Tennessee Last School Attended: Farragut High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Scott has been a great addition to our team. He is a versatile player who will see time primarily in the outfield but can also play 2nd base. He has a knack for getting on base and brings a ton of energy to the park every day.”


Gelson PerezHeight: 5’9”Weight: 186 lbs.Class: SeniorPosition: InfielderBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Gurabo, Puerto RicoLast School Attended: Puerto Rico Baseball Academy & High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Gelson has been one of our best players for the past three years, and we ex-pect more of the same. He will see time catching and in the infield. Gelson is a tremendous leader and teammate, and will be a staple in the middle of our lineup once again.”

Neil BordenHeight: 6’3” Weight: 190 lbs. Class: Sophomore Position: InfielderBats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Alcoa, Tennessee Last School Attended: Alcoa High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Neil might have more tools then anyone on our team. He has power, arm strength and is fast. With more consistency, Neil could see significant time somewhere in the outfield.”

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Nick PressleyHeight: 5’9”Weight: 170 lbs.Class: Redshirt JuniorPosition: CatcherBats/ Throws: Right/RightHometown: Knoxville, TennesseeLast School Attended: Powell High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Nick might be one of the most competitive players we have. He is very athletic, and has the ability to play outfield as well as catch. Nick is coming off of a great fall, and will be an important ingredient to our success this spring.”

Cody BakerHeight: 5’11”Weight: 160 lbs.Class: Junior Position: Outfielder Bats/Throws: Left/Left Hometown: Knoxville, TennesseeLast School Attended: South-Doyle High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Bake has been one of the top leadoff guys in the SAC for the past two seasons. He will be at the top of our lineup once again this spring. Cody brings a lot of enthusiasm to the park every day, and will be instrumental in the leadership of this team.”


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Seth SharpHeight: 5’10” Weight: 180 lbs. Class: Redshirt Freshman Position: Utility Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: LaFollette, Tennessee Last School Attended: Cumberland Gap High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Seth has gotten dramatically better since his red-shirt season last year. He has really developed physically as well. Seth has a tremendous work ethic and we expect him to compete for time in the outfield this season.”

#7


Curt FuquaHeight: 5’10”Weight: 160 lbs.Class: JuniorPosition: InfieldBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Jackson, TennesseeLast School Attended: Jackson State Community College

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Curt has meshed extremely well with our team. He was one of the best junior college players in the state of Tennessee, and we expect more of the same at LMU. Curt is another athlete who can play a few different positions, and should hit somewhere in the middle of our lineup.”

Nick MorabitoHeight: 5’11” Weight: 185 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Infield/ Pitcher Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Vienna, VirginiaLast School Attended: Bishop O’Connell High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Bito has made a seamless transition from high school to college baseball. He is a very hard worker and is eager to get better and learn. Nick will be in the mix to see time in the infield and on the mound.”


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Andy FennellHeight: 6’1” Weight: 175 lbs. Class: Senior Position: Pitcher Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Knoxville, TennesseeLast School Attended: Columbia State Community College

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Andy has become a great leader not only for the pitching staff but for our team. Andy returns from a successful campaign last year and has continued to improve his game over the off-season. We are expecting him to be in the weekend rotation as his success will be key in a successful year for LMU.”

#11


Joseph HorsleyHeight: 5’11” Weight: 180 lbs. Class: Redshirt SeniorPosition: Infielder Bats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Corryton, TennesseeLast School Attended: Rutledge High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Joe has become the leader of this team. He is our most athletic player, and pos-sibly the best defensive shortstop in the conference. He has made huge strides offensively and will be a fixture at the top of our lineup.”


#14

Andre RodriguezHeight: 5’11” Weight: 180 lbs. Class: Junior Position: Infield Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Las Piedras, Puerto RicoLast School Attended: Wiley College

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Andre is coming off a great fall. Andre is a very consistent line-drive hitter and highly skilled defender. He has a chance to be an excellent defender and player for us.”

#13

Mark ComparoniHeight: 6’0” Weight: 180 lbs. Class: Junior Position: CatcherBats/Throws: Left/Right Hometown: Williamsburg, KentuckyLast School Attended: Williamsburg High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Mark is coming off of a shoulder injury and should be ready to see some time this spring. He is a solid left-handed bat, which our lineup desperately needs, and gives us some much needed depth in the catching position. Mark is a tireless worker and selfless teammate.”

#15


Kyle AsherHeight: 6’0”Weight: 190 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Infielder/ PitcherBats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky Last School Attended: Butler High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Kyle is another freshman that has a chance to see time both as a hitter and pitcher. He has handled the rigors of being a pitcher and a position player well in his first semester and will be vital to our success.”

Colin BucknerHeight: 6’2” Weight: 210 lbs. Class: FreshmanPosition: First Base Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Harrodsburg, Kentucky Last School Attended: Mercer County High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Colin was probably our most improved player this fall. He has power and is athletic for a bigger guy. We anticipate Colin competing for time in the outfield as well as first base this year.”


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Seth WoodsHeight: 5’9” Weight: 180 lbs. Class: Junior Position: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Watseka, IllinoisLast School Attended: Kankakee Community College

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Seth comes to us from Kankakee CC where he was highly successful at the JUCO level. He is the best athlete on the pitching staff. He has really good arm speed and the best breaking ball on the team. Seth gives us a versatile option as a starter, reliever or closer.”

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Justin KingHeight: 6’1” Weight: 190 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Pitcher Bats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Barbourville, Kentucky Last School Attended: Knox Central High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Justin will give our staff added depth. He had a good fall and continues to improve heading into the year. He is a versatile part of our staff that commands three pitches well and can start as well as relieve. We are excited to watch Justin over the next few years as we expect him to contribute immediately.”

Tanner RutherfordHeight: 6’2” Weight: 195 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Utility Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: LaFollette, Tennessee Last School Attended: Cumberland Gap High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Tanner was a top player in this area in high school. He’s athletic, strong and has a high ceiling. As he continues to improve, he will give us some needed depth in the outfield.”


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Brandon MorrisHeight: 5’9”Weight: 160 lbs.Class: Redshirt FreshmanPosition: InfielderBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Knoxville, Tennessee Last School Attended: Christian Academy of Knoxville

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Brandon is coming off a red-shirt year where he made some awesome strides as a player. He is a very savvy player, and one of our best infield defenders. His added strength has turned him into a more potent offensive threat, and he will be in the mix for a lot of innings this spring.”

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Austin PittmanHeight: 6’2”Weight: 200 lbs.Class: FreshmanPosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Benson, North CarolinaLast School Attended: West Johnston High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Austin is another talented freshman arm. He spots his fastball as well as anyone on the team down in the zone. He has a good feel for three pitches and can make adjustments quickly on the mound. As Austin continues to mature as pitcher, he will be a reliable option for us out of the pen for years to come.”

Chris McCarterHeight: 6’3” Weight: 200 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Pitcher Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Seymour, TennesseeLast School Attended: Seymour High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Chris is another freshman arm we have high hopes for. He has a great feel for pitching along with amazing tempo on the mound, and he can really command the baseball. He can start games as well as be utilized out of the pen.”


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#27Brandon CowanHeight: 6’2”Weight: 185 lbsClass: Redshirt JuniorPosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Left/LeftHometown: Tequesta, FloridaLast School Attended: Palm Beach Community College

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Brandon has worked himself into the discussion to log weekend innings. He brings value to our staff being one of two left-handed pitchers. He will be needed to contribute if our team is going to reach its fullest potential.”



Layne CecilHeight: 6’5”Weight: 205 lbs.Class: FreshmanPosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Pikeville, KentuckyLast School Attended: Pikeville High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Layne is a hard worker with a lot of upside. His big frame and high level of athleticism are any coach’s dream. With his work ethic and hunger to learn, the coaches here at LMU have high expectations for him in years to come.”

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#28Austin JohnsonHeight: 5’11”Weight: 180 lbs.Class: JuniorPosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Versailles, KentuckyLast School Attended: Lexington Christian School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Austin is a very dedicated pitcher as he strives daily to perfect his trade. After a great year last season, we are expecting nothing less than another outstanding year from him. Austin has bought in to the philosophy and can really locate his fastball. The LMU pitching staff will need him to be successful.”

Brad PressleyHeight: 5’9”Weight: 195 lbs.Class: SeniorPosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Knoxville, TennesseeLast School Attended: Powell, Tennessee

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Brad is a tireless worker and the heartbeat of the pitching staff. He is a hard-nosed, highly competitive pitcher with a great ability to pound the strike zone with his sinking fastball, and has earned the opportunity to be in the mix for weekend innings. He is the ideal leader for a championship caliber pitching staff.”

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Logan SawyerHeight: 6’5” Weight: 205 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Pitcher Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Seymour, Tennessee Last School Attended: Seymour High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Logan has a great attitude and is extremely coachable. He made big strides over the course of the fall and continues to get better. Logan has good arm strength and can really command his fastball. He has a high ceiling and has made the transition from high school to college very smoothly. We expect great things out of Logan throughout his career at LMU.”

Patrick MorrisHeight: 6’2”Weight: 220 lbs.Class: SophomorePosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Plantation, FloridaLast School Attended: Nova Southeastern University

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Patrick just knows how to pitch. His fastball has life and he can command three off-speed pitches as well as anyone. As he continues to get healthy Patrick has the ability to really carry a pitching staff. We feel he will be an impact arm for us at LMU to win a championship.”

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Robert StegbauerHeight: 6’7”Weight: 220 lbsClass: SeniorPosition: PitcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Hillsboro, OhioLast School Attended: USC-Upstate

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Robert has some of the best arm strength in the SAC. He has done a great job developing his slider in the fall and we feel strongly that for us to be successful, Robert will have to get important outs late in games throughout the season.”

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John SaylorHeight: 5’9”Weight: 186 lbs. Class: FreshmanPosition: UtilityBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Mount Vernon, KentuckyLast School Attended: Rockcastle County High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“John is another freshman that has adjusted well to college baseball. He is a great teammate and brings a ton of personality to the park every day. He was one of the top hitters in the state of Kentucky and we anticipate him to do more of the same at LMU.”

Nolan WoodyHeight: 6’2”Weight: 215 lbs.Class: SophomorePosition: CatcherBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Chattanooga, TennesseeLast School Attended: McCallie School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Nolan is coming off of a solid freshman season and we see him being more valuable this year. He is a strong kid and an outstanding defensive catcher. Nolan has good power and could be a fixture in the middle of our lineup.”

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Bryan EbelinkHeight: 6’2” Weight: 185 lbs. Class: Freshman Position: Pitcher/First Baseman Bats/Throws: Left/Left Hometown: Bushnell, FloridaLast School Attended: South Sumpter High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Bryan is a very unique pitcher being a left-handed submarine pitcher. He has improved his command and still continues to grow as a pitcher. He gives the staff a desired different look to face left handed hitters.”

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Carter PackHeight: 6’5” Weight: 250 lbs. Class: Sophomore Position: Infielder Bats/Throws: Right/Right Hometown: Andersonville, TennesseeLast School Attended: Anderson High School

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Carter has made some serious strides since his freshman season. He has very good power and should see time at first base or as our DH. He is extremely strong yet has become much more athletic around first base.”

#44

Jerry SkeensHeight: 6’3”Weight: 225 lbs.Class: JuniorPosition: InfieldBats/Throws: Right/RightHometown: Bristol, Tennessee Last School Attended: Surry Community College

SZIKSAI’S COMMENTS“Jerry is coming off of an All-Region season at Surry Community College. He possesses very good bat speed and could develop into a very good college hitter. He is a very intense, highly competitive player, who brings a great effort to the park daily.”

#99


2011 STATISTICS

2011 LMU BaseballStatistics Summary for Lincoln Memorial (as of Jan 03, 2012)

(All games)

Record: 29-22 Home: 16-8 Away: 12-12 Neutral: 1-2 SAC: 16-11

Date Opponent Score2/5 at #20 USC Aiken W 5-12/5 at #20 USC Aiken L 8-122/6 at #20 USC Aiken L 5-62/9 VIRGINIA INTERMONT W 16-22/9 VIRGINIA INTERMONT W 18-52/11 at Limestone L 1-122/12 at Limestone L 2-182/12 at Limestone L 2-132/13 at Limestone L 7-112/15 ALABAMA-HUNTSVILLE W 9-52/15 ALABAMA-HUNTSVILLE W 9-8

*2/18 at Catawba L 4-9*2/19 at Catawba L 8-9*2/19 at Catawba L 0-22/23 KENTUCKY STATE W 9-02/23 KENTUCKY STATE W 18-2

*2/26 LENOIR-RHYNE W 16-10*2/26 LENOIR-RHYNE W 14-0*2/27 LENOIR-RHYNE W 6-53/2 at Virginia Intermont W 12-2

*3/4 at Anderson L 3-4*3/6 at Anderson W 1-0*3/6 at Anderson L 2-5*3/12 MARS HILL W 15-3*3/12 MARS HILL W 10-3*3/13 MARS HILL L 4-93/16 #19 NORTHERN KENTUCKY L 4-5

*3/18 at Tusculum W 13-3*3/19 at Tusculum W 4-2*3/19 at Tusculum W 7-63/22 at West Georgia W 5-43/23 at West Georgia W 12-7

*3/25 WINGATE W 6-4*3/26 WINGATE W 9-2*3/26 WINGATE L 5-73/29 KING L 3-103/29 KING L 0-5

*4/2 NEWBERRY W 11-10*4/2 NEWBERRY L 5-7*4/3 NEWBERRY W 14-34/6 at Kentucky State W 30-34/6 at Kentucky State W 26-12

*4/8 at Brevard L 5-6*4/9 at Brevard W 18-1*4/9 at Brevard W 7-5*4/15 CARSON-NEWMAN L 12-14*4/16 CARSON-NEWMAN W 20-3*4/16 CARSON-NEWMAN L 5-6!4/20 vs Tusculum W 8-6!4/21 vs Wingate L 1-3!4/22 vs Catawba L 5-6

Player avg gp-gs ab r h 2b 3b hr rbi bb hbp so sb-att99 Juan Alvarez . 3 5 8 51-51 190 57 68 14 1 2 42 28 5 13 3-417 John Couch . 3 4 9 51-51 192 54 67 14 0 8 52 23 5 45 5-8 6 Cody Baker . 3 4 3 51-51 198 44 68 10 2 0 29 29 3 27 13-15 3 Gelson Perez . 3 3 5 49-49 176 38 59 14 0 3 47 16 10 23 3-7 7 Cody Pack . 3 1 3 51-51 179 49 56 11 1 11 56 39 2 31 6-721 Deaun Williams . 3 0 9 45-44 149 36 46 7 2 6 37 19 11 43 8-1214 Joseph Horsley . 2 9 0 51-51 176 41 51 5 3 3 25 12 18 33 20-2224 Eric Kitts . 2 7 5 48-46 160 45 44 4 0 14 47 22 4 39 2-4--------------------15 Mark Comparoni 1.000 2-0 3 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-032 Jordan Harbinso . 8 3 3 5-1 6 3 5 1 0 1 4 0 1 0 0-0 5 Nick Pressley . 4 4 4 9-0 9 4 4 3 0 0 3 1 0 3 0-133 Amar Lewis . 4 1 7 6-3 12 6 5 1 0 0 2 1 1 4 1-144 Carter Pack . 3 8 9 12-2 18 6 7 1 0 1 6 5 0 5 0-013 Andy Guerrero . 3 3 3 7-0 9 2 3 1 0 0 2 1 0 2 0-022 Adam Shuford . 3 0 8 8-3 13 4 4 1 0 0 2 3 0 3 0-0 8 Brett Crawford . 2 8 1 26-18 64 12 18 6 0 1 16 9 3 13 0-034 Nolan Woody . 2 6 8 39-32 112 21 30 10 0 2 21 12 5 43 0-0 2 Neil Borden . 1 8 2 16-0 11 8 2 0 0 1 4 0 1 3 3-316 Blake Houser . 1 1 5 11-5 26 3 3 1 0 0 1 2 1 11 0-029 Connor Wise . 1 0 0 10-1 10 2 1 1 0 0 0 2 1 2 0-1 4 Andrew Hall . 0 0 0 4-0 3 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0-0 9 Cody Church . 0 0 0 1-0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0-0Totals . 3 1 7 51 1716 439 544 105 9 53 398 226 72 343 64-85Opponents . 2 9 5 51 1645 296 485 89 6 28 275 149 55 267 65-76

LOB - Team (409), Opp (398). DPs turned - Team (21), Opp (38). CI - Team (2), N.Woody 2. IBB - Team (4), J. Alvarez 3, C. Pack 1, Opp (8). Picked off - D.Williams 3, N. Woody 2, C. Baker 1.

Player era w-l app gs cg sh sv ip h r er bb so28 Austin Johnson 3 . 0 6 6-2 11 10 2 1 0 70.2 73 29 24 21 4720 Steven Starbird 4 . 7 4 4-5 22 6 0 0 3 68.1 79 47 36 18 3611 Andy Fennell 4 . 9 7 5-1 13 12 4 1 0 76.0 86 48 42 20 43--------------------25 Daniel Bollenbac 3 . 2 1 2-2 11 0 0 0 0 14.0 12 6 5 9 14 9 Cody Church 4 . 7 2 6-3 17 3 0 0 2 40.0 41 29 21 14 3030 Brad Pressley 4 . 8 8 2-1 13 3 2 0 0 27.2 32 22 15 9 2442 Bryan Ebelink 5 . 4 0 0-0 7 0 0 0 1 16.2 24 14 10 5 927 Brandon Cowan 6 . 9 3 2-3 11 9 0 0 0 37.2 39 34 29 21 2431 Robert Stegbaue 8 . 7 1 1-1 14 3 0 0 0 31.0 50 33 30 18 2119 Eric Hillenbrand 11.81 0-3 5 4 1 0 0 16.0 34 22 21 7 11 1 Chase Quarles 12.46 1-1 5 1 0 0 0 8.2 15 12 12 7 8Totals 5 . 4 2 29-22 51 51 9 3 6 406.2 485 296 245 149 267

Opponents 7 . 0 7 22-29 51 51 4 2 8 403.2 544 439 317 226 343

PB - Team (16), N. Woody 11, B. Crawford 4, G. Perez 1, Opp (19). Pickoffs - Team(15), S. Starbird 5, C. Church 2, B. Crawford 2, A. Fennell 2, Hillenbrand 1, G.Perez 1, C. Quarles 1, N. Woody 1, Opp (6). SBA/ATT - B. Crawford (28-33), N.Woody (30-33), A. Johnson (13-15), A. Fennell (10-12), B. Pressley (7-10), R.Stegbauer (9-10), B. Cowan (8-8), C. Church (5-6), G. Perez (6-6), Bollenbacher(4-5), N. Pressley (1-3), B. Ebelink (3-3), S. Starbird (2-3), C. Quarles (2-2),Hillenbrand (2-2).

Score by innings 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 EX TotalLincoln Memorial 57 55 63 45 70 55 46 35 13 0 439Opponents 33 41 34 56 29 23 44 20 15 1 296

Win-loss breakouts: Day 27-20; Night 2-2; vs Left 5-3; vs Right 24-19;1-run games 6-7; 2-run games 4-5; 5+run games 17-7; Extra inns 0-1; Shutouts 3-2.Current streak: Lost 2; Longest winning streak: 7; Longest losing streak: 4.Attendance: Home 2245 (avg 149); Away 4433 (avg 192); Total 6678 (avg 175).

* = South Atlantic Conference game! = Food Lion SAC Tournament


Rededicated on November 4, 1989, as the J. Lamar Hennon Field for its namesake, Lamar Hennon Field is the oldest athletic facility on the Lincoln Memorial University campus still in use. In the late 1980’s Lamar Hennon, a 1959 graduate of Lincoln Memorial University and an All-VSAC catcher, spearheaded the effort to renovate and modernize the baseball facilities as the University made the transition from the NAIA to NCAA Division II. The field was later renamed in his honor. In 2006, Hennon again came to the aid of his alma mater, helping with the effort to install lights and a Bermuda surface at the field. The dimensions of the Lamar Hennon Field are 325 feet down the lines, 365 feet in the gaps and 395 feet to the centerfield fence.

LMU’s All-Time Record at Lamar Hennon Field

LAMAR HENNON FIELD

Year Win Loss Tie Pct.1990 14 1 .9331991 11 9 .5501992 16 9 .6401993 15 8 .6521994 17 6 .7391995 15 9 .6251996 22 3 .8801997 18 8 .6921998 21 8 .7241999 16 7 .6962000 11 14 .4402001 22 4 .8462002 19 8 .7042003 2 18 .1002004 12 19 1 .3912005 10 17 .3702006 16 8 .6672007 23 7 .7672008 15 10 .600 2009 16 8 .6672010 12 10 .5452011 16 8 .666Total 339 199 1 .629 First Game: Mar. 4, 1990 – LMU 14, IUPUI 0First Loss: Apr. 14, 1990 – King 16, LMU 4Longest win streak: 14 games spanning from April 20, 1996 to March 2, 1997.

Lincoln Memorial University alumnus and former baseball player

Lamar Hennon.

Picture at left, Lamar Hennon attended Lincoln Memorial University from 1956 to 1959 and played baseball for the Railsplitters during that period. As a junior in 1958 and again as a se-nior in 1959, Hennon was named All-Conference as a catcher. During his four years at LMU, the Railsplitters produced a 60-13 record, winning the Smokey Mountain Athletic Conference twice and the Volunteer State Athletic Conference twice. The 1957 team which Hennon was a part of ,was invited to the first ever NAIA National Tournament.

Following graduation from LMU Hennon coached for three years at North Whitefield High School. He then moved on to pursue a career in business and is now the President and CEO of Carpets of Dalton in Dalton, Georgia. He is married to Sue Cawood Hennon.


LAMAR HENNON FIELD

Lamar Hennon Field seats 1,100 people (not including parking areas along

outfield).

Originally known as Cooper Field, Lamar Hennon Field has been used since 1910. It was the home of the Lincoln Memorial University Airedale/Railsplitter

football team.

Within the last few years, Lamar Hennon Field has seen many changes, including the addition of stadium seating and lights as well

as dugout and locker room renovations.


TEX TURNER ARENA

Tex Turner Arena has served as the home of the Railsplitters and Lady Railsplitters since 1991.The 87,000 square foot complex seats 5,009 for basketball contests, with another 1,000 portable seats available for other events. The distance from the playing floor to the roof is 40 feet, the equivalent of a two-story building. The arena is 230 feet (east to west) and 282 feet (north to south). It contains over 81,866 square feet of floor space, and over 4 million cubic feet of space.

The arena also serves as a practice facility for the golf, soccer, baseball and softball teams. The auxiliary gym contains batting cages, and there is an indoor practice tee used by the golf teams.


FACILITIES

The weight room in Tex Turner Arena was renovated in 2007.

The J. Lamar Hennon Auxiliary Gym provides unlimited access to three full-sized batting cages.

The Athletic Training Room is opened to all athletes and strives to keep every athlete healthy and happy.


LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY

Lincoln Memorial University was founded in 1897 as a living memorial to Abraham Lincoln and his philosophy and ideals. Its inception dates from an occasion in the fall of 1863 when the President was meeting with General Oliver Otis Howard to discuss military operations in and around the Cumberland Gap and East Tennessee area. The President expressed his appreciation for the loyalty that the people of the region had shown to the Union during this time of Civil War. Pointing to the area on the map, Mr. Lincoln said, “General Howard, if you come out of all this horror and misery alive, and I hope that you may, I want you to do something for these people who have been shut out from the world all these years. If I live, I will do all I can to aid you and between us we may do them the justice they deserve. Please remember, and if God is good

to us we may be able to speak of it later!” Mr. Lincoln did not live to see his dream fulfilled, but O.O. Howard (who also was a founder of Howard University) never forgot those words. In 1895, he traveled to the Cumberland Gap area to address a small academy that was operated by a Congregational minister, the Rev. A.A. Myers, and his wife Ellen. While he was there, the General remembered Lincoln’s request and joined with the Myers and several prominent friends to lay the groundwork for a university honoring the slain President. It was to be an institution whose mission and principles would exemplify the life of Abraham Lincoln. The philosophy articulated by these founders as a guide for University programs and curriculum was based on the following principles which were exemplified in the life of Abraham Lincoln: individual liberty; the privileges and responsibilities of the American government; love and respect for the fellow people; personal initiative, individual effort; unselfish leadership; an appreciation for the common people; free enterprise; and belief in a personal God. Now in its 115th year of operation, LMU has grown into a progressive university, offering over 30 majors. Enrollment is 4,550 students at the main campus in Harrogate and 11 extended-campus sites. The main campus is also home to the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, which houses one of the largest Lincoln collections in the country.

LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY QUICK FACTSLocation: Harrogate, TNFounded: 1897Enrollment: 4,550Nickname: Railsplitters Colors: Blue & GrayAffiliation: NCAA Division IIConference: South Atlantic ConferencePresident: B. James Dawson, EdDAthletic Director: Roger VannoySports Information Director: Scott Erland Head Athletic Trainer: Don Grigsby


LOCAL HOTELSHotel Location From Campus PhoneCumberland Gap Inn Cumberland Gap 2.5 Miles 423.869.3996Downtown Inn & Suites Middlesboro 4.5 Miles 606.248.5630Holiday Inn Express Middlesboro 5 Miles 606.248.6860Sleep Inn Middlesboro 5 Miles 606.576.7829

FAMILY DININGRestaurant Location From Campus PhoneWOW Café & Eatery Harrogate On campus 423.869.6206Gondolier Harrogate 1 Mile 423.869.8036Haymaker Farms Harrogate 1 Mile 423.869.4771The Oasis Harrogate 1.5 Miles 423.869.8000 Webb’s Country Kitchen Cumberland Gap 2.5 Miles 423.869.5877Waffle King Middlesboro 4 Miles 606.248.5003Chinatown Cafe Middlesboro 4.5 Miles 606.248.1627 La Esperanza Middlesboro 4.5 Miles 606.248.9252Ryan’s Middlesboro 5 Miles 606.242.2900New China Express Middlesboro 5 Miles 606.248.5000China Star Middlesboro 5 Miles 606.248.9088Mountain View Restaurant Pineville 15 Miles 606.337.3066 or(Pine Mtn. State Resort Park) 1.800.325.1712

FAST FOODRestaurant Location Frosty Mug HarrogateSubway H, M, T, PHardee’s H, M, TArby’s MiddlesboroBurger King MiddlesboroConley’s Drive-In MiddlesboroDairy Queen Middlesboro, PinevilleKFC Middlesboro, TazewellKrystal’s MiddlesboroLee’s Famous Recipe MiddlesboroLittle Caesar’s Pizza Tazewell, PinevilleLong John Silver’s Middlesboro, N. TazewellMcDonald’s M, T, PPapa John’s Middlesboro, N. TazewellPizza Hut Middlesboro, PinevilleSonic Middlesboro, TazewellTaco Bell Middlesboro, TazewellTaco Casa MiddlesboroWendy’s Middlesboro

LEGEND:H - Harrogate, TN T - Tazewell/NewTazewell, TNM - Middlesboro, KY P - Pineville, KY

OTHER SPORTS:Head Men’s Basketball Coach Josh Schertz 423.869.6240Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach Lance Egnatz 423.869.6346 Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach Chris Cottrell 423.869.6346Head Women’s Basketball Coach Roger Hodge 423.869.6224Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Matt Acton 423.869.6343 Head Men’s & Women’s Golf Coach Travis Muncy 423.869.6383 Assistant Golf Coach Matt Ringley 423.869.6652Head Men’s & Women’s Cross Country Coach Jeremy Donahue 423.869.6201Head Volleyball Coach Jenny Michael 423.869.6246Head Men’s & Women’s Soccer Coach Helio D’Anna 423.869.6245Assistant Soccer Coach Adriano de Moraes 423.869.6340Head Softball Coach Dan Burns 423.869.6242Assistant Softball Coach Jennifer Connell 423.869.7081Cheerleading/Dance Team Coach Marcia Yeary-Hembree 423.869.6451

MAILING/OVERNIGHT ADDRESS:Tex Turner ArenaCumberland Gap Parkway Harrogate, TN 37752

ADMINISTRATION 423.869.6285Roger Vannoy Athletic DirectorRobin Susong Administrative Asst.

COMPLIANCE 423.869.6239Mike Smith Associate A.D. Compliance Officer

BASEBALL OFFICE 423.869.6345Jeff Sziksai Head CoachRyan Schmalz Assistant Coach

ATHLETIC TRAINING 423.869.6378Don Grigsby - Head Athletic Trainer

ATHLETIC TRAINING 423.869.6423 Whitney Bailey- Assistant Athletic Trainer

FACULTY ATHLETICS REPRESENTATIVEDr. Jack Mansfield 423.869.6322

SENIOR WOMAN ADMINISTRATORJenny Michael 423.869.6246

TITLE IX COORDINATOR Bryan Erslan 423.869.6465

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT / LOCAL INFORMATION

The South Atlantic Conference is in its 36th year of athletic tradition and excellence. The conference has enjoyed tremendous success due to dedicated people building a premier athletic conference throughout its history. The distant forerunner of the South Atlantic Conference was the North State Atlantic Conference (NSIAC). The NSIAC was formed when the “Little Six”, as it was called, broke from the North Carolina Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in 1930. These charter members included Lenoir-Rhyne College, Atlantic Chris-tian, Catawba College, Guilford College, Elon College, and High Point University. The North State continued to grow over the next 30 years, adding Western Carolina (1933), East Carolina (1947) and Pfeiffer (1960). A name change became necessary when the league accepted Newberry as its fi rst South Carolina member in 1961. The league took on the name Carolinas Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (CIAC) on May 20th of that year. The CIAC saw several changes in the fol-lowing years as East Carolina withdrew from the league in 1962. Appalachian State and Western Carolina followed in 1971 and 1976. All three landed in the Southern Conference. The South Atlantic Conference was founded in 1975 solely as a football conference. The league received its name from a contest in which Kurt Brenneman of Greensboro, NC be-came the fi rst to submit the SAC-8 moniker. The SAC-8 consisted of Carson-Newman College, Catawba College, Elon College, Gardner-Webb University, Lenoir-Rhyne Col-lege, Mars Hill College, Newberry College, and Presbyterian College. Dr. Fred Bentley, of Mars Hill College, was named league president for its inaugural year, by a vote of the member institutions. After the fi rst season of play in the SAC-8, the Bears of Lenoir-Rhyne College captured the fi rst football title. In 1989, the league’s 15th year of opera-tion, the South Atlantic Conference became a comprehensive, multisport conference. Doug Echols was named the league’s fi rst Commis-sioner. That year the South Atlantic Confer-ence sponsored 10 sports - football, men’s

and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, men’s soccer, volleyball, men’s golf, men’s and women’s tennis. Later the conference grew to 14 championship sports by adding women ‘s soccer (1990), men’s and women’s cross country (1993) and women’s golf (1999). The South Atlantic Conference was com-posed of the same eight member institutions

from 1975 until 1988, when Wingate Univer-sity replaced Newberry College as the eighth member institution. Newberry later rejoined the conference in 1996. In July of 1998, Tusculum College was ad-mitted as a member of the league, and Lincoln Memorial University began play in the confer-ence in the 2006-07 academic year. Brevard College was admitted as a provisional member in 2007. In 2008, Echols retired after serving as Com-missioner for 19 years and Patrick Britz was hired as the new Commissioner. In July 2010, Anderson (S.C.) University joined the conference to become the league’s 10th member. Today the conference is a group of 10 private, liberal and civic arts colleges and universities, similar in size and athletic philosophy. Since be-coming eligible for NCAA Division II postseason play in 1993, the league has sent representa-tives from all of its sponsored sports to NCAA postseason play. The league membership now includes An-derson University in Anderson, S.C.; Brevard College in Brevard, N.C.; Carson-Newman in Jefferson City, Tenn.; Catawba College in Salisbury, N.C.; Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, N.C.; Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tenn.; Mars Hill College in Mars Hill, N.C.; Newberry College in Newberry, S.C.; Tusculum College in Greeneville, Tenn.; and Wingate University in Wingate, N.C.

Key dates in SAC history 1930 – North State Atlantic Confer-ence formed when six schools broke from the North Carolina Intercollegiate Athletic Conference 1961 – Newberry joins league. Confer-ence changes name to Carolinas Intercol-legiate Athletic Conference (CIAC) 1975 – South Atlantic Conference formed as football league with eight schools, called the SAC-8. 1988 – Wingate replaces Newberry 1989 – SAC became a multisport con-ference 1996 – Newberry rejoins conference 1998 – Tusculum joins conference 2006 – Lincoln Memorial joins confer-ence 2007 – Brevard admitted as provisional member 2008 – Patrick Britz named Commis-sioner 2010 – Anderson (S.C.) University joins conference

SAC offi ce in Rock Hill, SC

HISTORY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCETHE SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE

2/3 USC-Aiken Aiken, SC 4 p.m.2/4 USC-Aiken Aiken, SC 1 p.m.2/5 USC-Aiken Aiken, SC 1 p.m.2/8 Claflin(DH) Orangeburg,SC 1p.m.2/10 FloridaSouthern Lakeland,FL 7p.m.2/11 FloridaSouthern Lakeland,Fl 1p.m.2/17 Lenoir-Rhyne* Hickory,NC 6p.m.2/18 Lenoir-Rhyne(DH)* Hickory,NC 1p.m.2/21 NorthernKentucky(DH) Harrogate,TN 12p.m.2/24 Anderson* Harrogate,TN 4p.m.2/25 Anderson(DH)* Harrogate,TN 1p.m.2/29 Bryan(DH) Harrogate,TN 12p.m.3/2 MarsHill* MarsHill,NC 2p.m.3/3 MarsHill(DH)* MarsHill,NC 12p.m.3/6 Bellarmine(DH) Harrogate,TN 1p.m.3/9 Tusculum* Harrogate,TN 4p.m.3/10 Tusculum(DH)* Harrogate,TN 1p.m.3/14 King(DH) Harrogate,TN 3p.m.3/16 Wingate* Wingate,NC 6p.m.3/17 Wingate(DH)* Wingate,NC 1p.m.3/20 Alabama-Huntsville Huntsville,AL3/23 Newberry* Newberry,SC 6p.m.3/24 Newberry(DH)* Newberry,SC 1p.m.3/28 Hiwassee(DH) Harrogate,TN 3p.m.3/30 Brevard* Harrogate,TN 4p.m.3/31 Brevard(DH)* Harrogate,TN 1p.m.4/3 King Bristol,TN 3p.m.4/6 Carson-Newman* Sevierville,TN 7:15p.m.4/7 Carson-Newman(DH)* JeffersonCity,TN 12p.m.4/10 KentuckyWesleyan(DH) Owensboro,KY 1p.m.4/13 Catawba* Harrogate,TN 4p.m.4/14 Catawba(DH)* Harrogate,TN 1p.m.4/19-4/22 FoodLionSACBaseballTournament5/17-5/20 NCAASoutheastRegional

2012 Lincoln Memorial University Baseball Guide

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