Vol. 111 - Issue 9

Volume 111

November 10, 2010

North Greenville UniversityTigerville, SC 29688

inside24/7 Week of Prayerpage 3

Crusaders to Host Victory Bowl page 8

Issue 9nguskyliner.net

page 2

SkylinerNews2November 10, 2010

The

Jordan Ecarma & Samantha MayoEditorial Staff

Just down the road from North Greenville University, the Tigerville Fire Department is home to everyday heroes. It has only four paid employees, operating mostly on volunteer work. According to its Web site, the station is located at the center of its district and covers 25 square miles.

The fire department is continually ready for emergencies, including medical calls and traffic accidents.

“We want somebody here at the station at all times, whether we’re on call or not,” said Chief Russell Ledford.

The Tigerville Fire Department responds to an average of 350 calls per year, so working as a firefighter often means long hours and frequent stress.

Fire commissioner and NGU professor Reginald Ecarma said, “When they’re working, they have to be prepared. They have to leave everything and go to the scene. And even when they’re not working, they have to be on call.”

Firefighters put in long hours in addition to being on

call 24/7 for little or no monetary reward.According to Ledford, “It’s not the pay. I can guarantee

you that. The key to it is that a lot of these guys have the heart and the drive and the desire to help the community.”

Their dedication gives a whole new meaning to the expression “full-time job.” A firefighter doesn’t clock in and out like an ordinary employee.

“They have to be committed; it has to be their lifestyle. It’s really not just an eight to five job,” Ecarma said.

Volunteer firefighters often juggle emergencies and a regular job, or, as in the case of NGU student volunteer Cameron Marler, senior business administration, balance duties with classes as well.

“I have some sort of paging device on me at all times so they can get hold of me if they need me,” explained Marler. “Most of the time, if it’s an emergency and I know I need to run it, I’ll drop what I’m doing completely and run that call. Even if I’m in class.”

For the Tigerville Fire Department’s firefighters, serving the community requires an immense sacrifice of time and effort. But for this group of firefighters, the sacrifice is willingly made.

“The entire level of dedication that they put in is to go

out and help their community. That’s what they’re wanting to do. They’re wanting to make sure that the community is safe,” Ledford said.

NGU’s campus and the local community are better protected because of the devotion of their firefighters.

Samantha Mayoeditor in chief

Gabe Francophoto editor

Cory Guinnsports editor

Julie Cobbopinions editor

Karyn Campbelladviser

staff members

Editorial Policy: All letters to the editor are welcome. All letters are subject to editing. Letters must have factual name, phone numbers and P.O. box number: Letters will be published based on content and timeliness. Opinions expressed in letters are not necessarily the opinion of The Skyliner or its staff. The Skyliner is published by the Mass Communication Department, North Greenville University, Tigerville, S.C.

Brent Alexandervisual arts editor

Kyra Alexanderad manager

Emily Bain Timur Kamilov Jenny Becraft Billy Cannada Jessicah Peters Taylor Edwards

Jereme Green Kristen Hutton James Moore Alyson Queen Anthony Reese Kari Weaver

Joshua Weir Antwan Glenn Michael Cavalear Currie Dickerson

Jordan Ecarmanews/features editor

Daniel Cobinonline editor

Emily BainStaff Writer

Providing a spiritual escape from homework and the stressful college life, the men’s and women’s conferences charged everyone to choose a godlier lifestyle. This challenge was wrapped up with the opportunity of healing, no matter what the sin.

“[It’s] good to have those times of refueling and refocusing to set your heart on God alone even for one hour,” said Stacy White, school teacher and one of the speakers during the women’s conference.

Matt Rogers, pastor of Renewal Church, kicked things off during chapel with motivating men both to be wise and not to asphyxiate in the world’s vices. He spurred the women in his “five minutes of speaking softly” to fall in love with men who are close to God, rather than those who are just attractive or fun to be with.

Rogers continued his “yelling at the men” on Monday night at 6:30 in Hayes Ministry Center, by outlining the two ditches that men usually fall into.

“It was interesting. Even though I was tired, I was able to stay awake for it,” said Ryan French, freshman broadcast

media, while explaining that he came for the bonus chapel credit.

Ecclesiastes served as the night’s text in a progression from Monday’s chapel message about Solomon’s mistakes. What most Christian men strive towards is nothing but vanity; instead, they should follow Ecclesiastes 12:13: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.”

“Really good. Really convicting,” said Tyler Keaton, freshman Christian studies.

“It was challenging,” added Andrew Copeland, junior Christian studies.

Meanwhile, in the women’s conference, the women of North Greenville University praised God in a worshipful atmosphere with speakers who cared on a personal level about the struggles the students were going through. The first night’s speakers, including Jean McManus, instructor of psychology, spoke of death and the devastation that follows. Through the testimonies of the first night, the speakers emphasized how important it is to keep a close relationship with God.

“I felt that the people who spoke tonight did very well. I hate that they had to go through those tough situations, but it is great to see how God has worked through their

lives and used their experiences to help others,” said Casey Rodgers, sophomore marketing

The second night of the women’s conference focused on self-inflicted abuse for the sole purpose of finding a place in the world.

“Sin is fun. The problem is that the fun doesn’t last,” White said.

A slideshow set to BarlowGirl’s “Mirror” was shown as a reminder that all people are beautiful because they are created in God’s image and that girls who are budding into womanhood shouldn’t be insecure and try to change themselves whether by self-inflicted pain or pursuit of sin.

White said that she was honored and humbled that God can use her.

“[It was] completely the Lord, and He said what needed to be said,” said Shaye Sullivan, senior early childhood education, when describing how she found the strength to stand in front of the packed house and give her testimony.

Emily Larkins, junior accounting, came to receive bonus chapel credit but found that, “It was really nice, and, even if you don’t come for a message, sometimes you get one.”

Wednesday’s chapel concluded the powerful events by encouraging the students to take what they learned and let it shine in their daily lives.

Students come for bonus chapel credit, leave with something more

Tigerville Fire Dept. constantly works to protect the community

Jordan Ecarma / The SkylinerFire engine stands at the ready

Skyliner 3November 10, 2010

The

Currie DickersonStaff Writer

Driving down Bailey Mills Road in Tigerville on a Friday morning at 5:30 a.m., one might witness a mass of young men and women reciting army chants while pushing their bodies up the mountain together. The camaraderie found within this blended group of Furman and North Greenville Army ROTC cadets is a unique bond, as each builds the other up during difficult morning trainings such as during Friday morning’s five-mile run.

To gain the right of defending the United States of America, potential Army officers must sacrifice a life of comfort for a life of service. In preparation for this commitment, North Greenville University’s ROTC program prepares students for a future in the military, not only physically but mentally as well. Through early morning trainings three times a week along with a responsibility to the program, participants gain the necessary tools to succeed in a future in the United States Military.

A unique aspect to NGU’s ROTC program is its partnership with Furman University. As one of the leading and most successful college programs in the country, Furman is well equipped to send qualified young men and women into leadership positions within the U.S. Army. Participation in the annual ROTC competition, Leadership Development Course (LDAC), highlights Furman’s acknowledged program, as they finish in the top placings each year. The university is a vital source for NGU students to gain insight into advanced training and resources for a high position in the Army once they have graduated from college.

Besides the exceptional experience gained through the program, it is also an exciting field to plug into. “I enjoy doing ROTC because it is fun and challenging, and through it I have made a lot of great friends,” said Chelsea Dyson, freshman outdoor leadership.

Although they come from different schools, students from NGU and Furman know that their participation in the program together will only strengthen each other to persevere. Overall, it is a student-run operation implemented by juniors and seniors from each university. This group of leaders organizes and plans each workout on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, taking their group through a series of physically challenging obstacles. Forms of training include long-distance runs, track work-outs, ruck marches and many other difficult tasks. The physically strenuous training will aid each individual in reaching his or her highest potential.

According to the U.S. Army, the purpose of the program is highlighted as such, “Through classes and field training, Army ROTC provides you with the tools to become an Army Officer without interfering with your other classes. ROTC also provides you with discipline and money for tuition while enhancing your college experience.” It is a unique and beneficial outlet for students with a goal in pursuing a long-term career in the military, and it helps them get ahead in their training.

“It’s hard work, but I know it will pay off. It is a good opportunity for me,” said James McDonald, junior business administration. NGU is proud of the dedication each individual in ROTC has put forth and looks forward to a great future for the program in the years to come.

Anthony ReeseStaff Writer

North Greenville University students fell before the Lord for the 24/7 Week of Prayer. Around the clock, the NGU student body gathered at Tigerville Baptist Church to build a relationship with God.

“My passion is global missions,” said Will Broadus, junior interdisciplinary studies. “But you can’t have missions without prayer.” This statement was the heart of the 24/7 Week of Prayer.

Broadus introduced this idea to NGU last semester, organizing an entire day devoted to prayer. This year, Broa-dus expanded the event to last Nov. 1-7.

Students could sign up for one-hour time slots to come before God and be in fellowship with Him. The staff of Tigerville Baptist Church allowed its doors to be open for the entire week as students came to and from prayer.

“By the first day [of the event], all of the time slots had been filled. It was amazing,” Broadus said.More than 100 NGU students devoted their time to fill up the 160 hours designated for prayer.In high school, Broadus was part of the Greenville House of Prayer, which hosts similar events in Greenville

County and is a branch of the International House of Prayer. The International House of Prayer, which is based in Kansas City, Kansas, has been operating in 24/7 prayer and worship since 1999.

“The heart of our missions base is night-and-day prayer with worship,” said the International House of Prayer on its Web site. “Our vision is to prepare thousands of full-time intercessory missionaries who, like John the Baptist, live a lifestyle of discipline and devotion to God. As forerunner messengers, their lives and voices cry out, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord.’”

Hoping to bring the same revolution to NGU, Broadus, along with other students on campus, organized and hosted this God-focused event.

As Broadus shared his heart about the event, he told the story of Count Zinzendorf, a prayer warrior and mar-tyr of the 1700s. Zinzendorf created a safe haven for persecuted Christians at his home in Germany.

When they gathered together, they felt called to 24/7 prayer and worship, inspired by the story of David in 1 Chronicles 23-25 who hired thousands of people to worship God day and night.

Furthermore, Broadus is inspired by an organization called CampusAmerica, which strives to bring the 1999 24/7 Prayer Movement to college campuses around the world.

Broadus hopes to see this devotion continually develop. He plans to have another prayer event next semester that will last even longer.

“We need to have a passionate love for God. That is made manifest in prayer and worship,” Broadus said. “Jesus said that the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray.”

Broadus challenges NGU students to engage in prayer, even if just for one hour. Will you pray?

Jordan EcarmaNews and Features Editor

Not all ministers need a pulpit. Some declare their faith through everyday vocations. Rick Sparks, professor of mass communication at North Greenville University, is one such minister.

“We should all be intentional in making the connection between what we believe as Christians and the work we do,” said Sparks. He works out this declaration in his teaching. “Given the influence of mass media on our culture, I encourage [students] to use media to be a redeeming influence,” he said.

Sparks earned a B.S. in broadcasting at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. He started teaching at NGU in fall 2008. According to Linwood Hagin, chair of the mass communication department, his background of more than 20 years in Christian radio helped him secure the job.

“He is a fine Christian and such a talented person. He has been a great member of the Mass Comm family,” added mass communication instructor Shur Gopal.

Sparks can be contacted through Facebook, and his full professional biography can be found at the Mass Communication Web site. But the real way to get to know Sparks is to see him in action. Observe his teaching to understand his character: earnest and positive, idealistic yet real. Sparks yearns to give his students real tools to spread a Christian influence.

For Sparks, both working in mass communication and going to church are opportunities to glorify God. “All of life should be an act of worship, not just what we do in church on Sundays,” said Sparks, a new member

at First Baptist North Spartanburg. “Students discern quickly if we are living our faith.” Sparks encourages students to use their talents to further that faith. “Dr. Sparks is continuously pushing us to improve our mass communication skills to better glorify God,” said

Ryan Atkins, a sophomore broadcast media student who has taken two classes with Sparks. In the classroom, before Sparks starts talking about media and communication and influence, he takes requests

and prays briefly. He stands at a podium and his hands grasp its sides in a familiar gesture something akin to a minister looking over a congregation.

ROTC trains studentsStudents devote seven days to prayer

Rick Sparks: Glorifying God in everyday life

Features

The Victory Road4November 10, 2010

SkylinerThe

photos courtesy of Dustin Fuls

Top Left: Defensive line coach Skylor Magee gets doused with water after the Crusaders win the game needed to go on to play in the Victory Bowl.

Top Center: Quarterback Willy Korn, freshman broadcast media, hands the ball to freshman running back Idris Anderson to complete a play.

Top Right: Willy Korn takes a knee to run out the clock in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory against the UNCP Braves.

Above: The NGU Crusaders entered UNCP’s field with condidence to win Saturday’s game.

Skyliner 5November 10, 2010

The EntertainmentUnderoath comes across like a hurricane on Disambiguation

Deas Vail: creators of beautiful music, proclaimers of ChristTaylor EdwardsStaff Writer

As alternative Christian bands have be-gun blending together in recent months and years, it has become increasingly rare to find bands in that genre that are good enough to stand out above the rest of the crowd. Most of these bands concentrate too heavily on gathering their fan base by making sure everyone knows they are bla-tantly Christian but put the music itself to the wayside.

Deas Vail is not one of these bands. They are a piano-based alternative rock band dedicated not only to following Christ, but also to using the musical talents He gave them to the fullest. Sharing their faith in God is obviously most important to them, as can be found through their lyrics, but their sensitivity and devotion to the el-egance of music is also overwhelming.

Deas Vail’s sound is that of sheer beau-ty. The lead singer, Wes Blaylock, possesses a completely unique voice. He is normal vocal range is quite high, which is becom-

ing more common in alternative bands, but none so far have been able to match the skill of Blaylock’s voice.

The rest of the band besides Blaylock includes his wife, Laura Blaylock, who plays keys, Kelsey Harelson, drums, Andy Moore, guitar, and Justin Froning, bass. Every member is incredibly talented at his or her instrument, and they all contribute to the lovely sound of Deas Vail.

Deas Vail is a Christian band, and, ac-cording to Jonathan Childs, a past bassist for the band, the purpose of their ministry is “to be overarching and be able to min-ister to people on a personal level, not just through music.”

Their faith is not just proclaimed in the public scene; however, it is lived out in their private lives. “We pull out our Bibles and read, and pray for each other and take prayer requests every day” said Childs.

Deas Vail has toured with other groups such as Lights and Owl City, but they do not always limit themselves to touring with only Christian musicians bands. Two sec-ular bands that they have opened for are

Copeland and Lydia. While being very similar in sound to Deas Vail, neither of these bands call themselves followers of Je-sus Christ, which shows that the members

of Deas Vail are not only concerned with the fellowship of believers, but also in wit-nessing to those who do not know Him.

The band’s faith in Christ is clearly evi-

dent in its music. Many of their lyrics show this, such as the words: “I’m searching for that clearer water/I’ll never be thirsty again.” These are from the song Balance on their White Lights EP.

Their newest album, Birds & Cages, can obviously be taken by any listener to mean that the band is talking about the cages of sin in this life and being set free from them. In fact, the final lyrics of the song Cages on this album say: Somebody will come and save us all/Somebody will come and let us out, let us out of our cages.

Concerning the lyrics he writes, espe-cially the ones on Birds & Cages, Blaylock said, “I’m a firm believer in asking big questions. I’m trying to write as honestly and personally as I can, and it’s kind of scary for me.”

So far, Deas Vail has released three full-length albums, two EPs and one album of B-sides. This band has been a beauti-

ful public witness for Christ since its first album was released in 2005, and, by the looks of things, they are set to stay in the music scene for a long while.

Ryan AtkinsGuest Writer

As anyone who has ever been caught in a hurricane knows, it is quite a singular experience. From the tell-tale drips of rain and the first gusts of wind, you’re in for a wild ride. This is the same feeling invoked by the opening sounds of Floridian sextet Underoath’s latest offering, Ø Disambiguation.

The album comes across like a metaphorical hurricane, from the midst of the storm (A Divine Eradication), through the eye (Driftwood) and into the disturbed ocean beneath the storm (Paper Lung). Through the sonic tempest, however, is a surprising yet distinct sense of clarity. Perhaps the band intended this exact feeling, as clarity in the midst of storm has been a sort of theme for Underoath lately. In April of this year, fans of the Floridian sextet were shocked to hear of the departure of Underoath’s drummer, clean vocalist and only remaining original member, Aaron Gillespie.

After 11 years with the band, Gillespie felt called to pursue other ministries, notably his side project The Almost, as well as a solo worship music project. Fans were clearly upset at losing the band’s signature clean vocalist, world-renowned

drummer and major creative force. Not long after Gillespie’s departure, Underoath announced that they would soon be entering the studio to record their seventh album and revealed the news that ex-Norma Jean drummer and close friend of the band, Daniel Davison, would be recording

on drums. This was the band’s first lineup change in more than six years, so fans were understandably concerned about the sound of the new record.

Six months later, the album has finally arrived, and the general consensus is one of positive progress. With Gillespie’s input

missing from the new record, lead vocalist Spencer Chamberlain had to take on the responsibility of clean vocals and assume total creative control of the lyrics and vocals.

The result is a more organic soliloquy of an album, rather than the juxtaposed inner-

dialogue of the two different vocalists found on the band’s previous two efforts. Without Gillespie, Chamberlain’s contributions seem a bit more caustic, his cries often striking like a gale force and his melodies like cold, thick rain. The integration of screaming and singing has also brought Chamberlain to explore his voice even more, giving splendid results that set him apart from the crowd of metalcore vocalists once more. One particular showcase of his vocal abilities is the song Vacant Mouth, in which listeners can hear the strength, power and unpolished desperation in Chamberlain’s voice, a far cry from the monotone shell of a voice heard six years ago on They’re Only Chasing Safety.

Musically, the men of Underoath have stuck generally to the tried-and-true methods formed on their past two acclaimed efforts but have clearly determined to push the envelope once more with an interesting evolution to their sound. Disambiguation feels undeniably grittier and slightly darker than the almost-otherworldly Lost in the Sound of

Separation, utilizing even more of keyboardist Chris Dudley’s critically praised ambience and effects. The hurricane’s force is driven ruthlessly and expertly by newcomer Davison on drums, introducing just a hint of Norma Jean flair to the percussions on the album. Davison writes and performs his part well, using techniques not seen in Gillespie’s previous work.

While structurally the songwriting may not be quite as strong and interesting as previous albums, the growth in musical artistry and aptness still makes every song memorable. The one possible pitfall of the 11-track album comes once the final chords of closer In Completion fade out. For all of the hurricane’s fervor, the ending simply does not seem entirely fitting.

But just as the experience of a hurricane is singular, so is the experience of Ø Disambiguation. This mighty force is worth a listen. While it is not an album for everyone, it is one of the most musically significant releases of the year, as Underoath is known for having the highest-charting albums of any Christian band in more than a decade. The sextet holds immeasurable influence over hundreds of thousands of rock music fans as well as other prominent musicians. Disambiguation is another exciting step forward in Underoath’s significant impact for Christ.

Disambiguation’s release date is Nov. 11.

SkylinerThe6

November 10, 2010Opinions & Features

A Christmas Carol opens new theatre

To shave or not to shave: the question of NovemberJessicah PetersStaff Writer

No Shave November is back. Men are loving it, and most women are hating it. The beards will soon be taking over male faces, and there is no turning back until December arrives. The rules of No Shave November are pretty obvious, but here are some the participants must follow: no trimming, no waxing and absolutely no shaving. Many North Greenville students have participated every year.

James Eaton, senior media ministry, said, “I like No Shave November because it allows other men to feel the freedom I feel basically every day. I have a wonderful fiancé who does not mind that I don’t shave very often. So No Shave November is a chance for others to be free.”

Eaton’s fiancé, Kami Cross, senior psychology, has participated for the past three years of No Shave November, but has decided not to this year. Cory Matheson, junior secondary education and social studies, said, “No Shave November takes dedication and swagger, plus it keeps your face warm.” On biggerbetterbeards.org, it gives 10 reasons why men should grow a giant beard. These top 10 reasons are quite humorous, and if you guys are looking for

an excuse to give your girlfriend for growing a beard, go ahead and check out the Web site. Now ladies, I encourage you to leave No Shave November to the men, especially if you are really wanting that “ring before spring” because, let’s be honest, while some men can look good with a beard, no woman can look great with unshaved legs. Once again, women, it is obvious that we are not supposed to participate in No Shave November; therefore, let this just be one of those things that only men do.

KOMU news out of Missouri broadcasted a story at the University of Missouri campus, where many male students are growing their beards and mustaches, the manly thing to do, to promote the awareness of manly diseases, prostate and testicular cancer. Paul Castenallo, president of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity, has raised over $7,000 by selling mustache T-shirts.

In New Zealand and Australia, it is very popular to sport a mustache during November, renaming the month Movember and raising money for men’s health issues. Since 2004, the Movember Foundation has held many events to raise money during this month.

Beginning in 2007, Novembeard events have been launched in Ireland, Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Instead of women despising their clean-shaven men, we should encourage them to raise money for the awareness of men’s health issues. If we can have a whole month for the support of Breast Cancer Awareness, I believe that No Shave November is an appropriate setting for men to raise awareness.

“I did not know that it raised money, but I think it would be a great idea for NGU to start,” said Eaton. Hopefully next year, the men of North Greenville will not just give up their razors and shaving cream, but find a way to give money for the awareness of prostate cancer and other health issues.

Jumping into Life

Kyra AlexanderStaff Writer

For its first production in the new Billingsley Theatre at North Greenville University, the theatre department will perform, a Christmas classic, “A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas.”

This play is based on the story by Charles Dickens and adapted by Michael Wilson. This performance will be directed by Corrie Eddleman, theatre professor, with sets by Marlania Seay, theatre professor, lighting design by Christy Buerer, senior theatre (this also being her senior project) and costumes by Carmen Miller, senior broadcast media.

“We decided on this play last year when we were planning our season,” Eddleman said. “We realized that we haven’t performed this beautiful play at North Greenville and thought it would be a good choice for our first year in the Billingsley Theatre.”

The tale begins on Christmas Eve in London during the mid-1800s, seven years after the death of Ebenezer Scrooge’s business partner, Jacob Marley. Scrooge is established within the first stave (chapter) as a greedy and stingy businessman who has no place in his life for kindness, compassion, charity or benevolence. After being warned by Marley’s ghost to change his ways, Scrooge is visited by three additional ghosts – each in its turn – who accompany him to various scenes with the hope of achieving his transformation.

“It feels fantastic to finally be in a proper theatre space that is designed for intimate theatre. We are going to have a lot of fun experimenting with sound, lights and set in the plays to come,” Eddleman explained.

In addition to this being Buerer’s senior project, Joey Caldwell, senior theatre ministry, has also made “A Christmas Carol” a part of his senior project.

Caldwell set up a Christmas tree in the theatre’s lobby so people can see it when they come in. The Christmas tree is decorated with ornaments with numbers and specific gifts written on them. Caldwell is helping the Upstate Homeless Coalition of South Carolina, which is an umbrella organization over 13 counties, to get Christmas gifts for the homeless. Picking up an ornament off the tree and buying the gift on the ornament provides a homeless person or

family with gifts for Christmas. “Students can even go in together to buy a

present for someone,” Caldwell explained.Those who choose to participate by purchasing

a gift should wrap it up and put it back under the Christmas tree in the theatre lobby by Nov. 23 so that the presents can be delivered on Christmas.

Also, there will be cider sales to help out with the charity. Each cup of cider is $1.

“I would like the audience to enjoy themselves. This play is heart-warming, humorous, and at times

a little frightening. Charles Dickens wrote a timeless piece of literature that encourages the audience to think about how their lives affect others in this world. My hope for the audience is to be entertained and to reflect a little bit about their own life,” Eddleman concluded.

The dates are Wednesday, Nov. 10 through Saturday, Nov. 13 and Wednesday, Nov. 17 through

Saturday, Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the Billingsley Theatre at North Greenville University. Friday, Nov. 12 and Friday, Nov. 19 are “Dinner and a Show” nights. This production is not recommended for children under the age of six. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for non-North Greenville students. Tickets are free for all North Greenville students and faculty.

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Cory GuinnSports Editor

In 2010, the Crusaders will be playing one of their toughest schedules in recent memory as they prepare for their initiation into Conference Carolinas in 2011 by taking on three members of the conference.

After finishing last season as runner-up of the NCCAA South Regional Tournament, the North Greenville men’s basketball team returns all five starters from a team that finished 2009 with a record of 16-12.

The top returning member of the Crusaders is junior center Paul Harrison. Harrison, who was named the 2009 Division II Independents Play of the Year last season, will be looking to improve on his sophomore averages of 22.4 points per game and 8.8 rebounds per game, both tops on the team.

“We obviously want to use [Paul’s] talents in the paint,” said head coach Chad Lister. “He has really worked hard in the preseason and we expect another big year from Paul.”

Two other key members of this year’s team are juniors Luke Lattimer and Zack Shields. Lattimer, who has dealt with injuries over the past two years at North Greenville, is a sharpshooter who can surprise opposing teams with his ability to get to the rim. In 2009, Lattimer was second on the team in scoring with 12.5 points per game, knocking down 36 percent of his shot from three-point range. Shields has been a consistent scoring threat off the bench for the Crusaders in his two

years on the team and last season was no different. Shield finished 2009 averaging 7.8 points per game as he shot a team-leading 42 percent from beyond the arc.

Sophomores Casey Belli and Ian Harris each sat out last season but Coach Lister believes that these two players will be keys to the Crusaders

success in 2010.“Ian provides great athleticism and can really get to the paint.

Casey shoots the ball very well and we need to find a way to get him open shots.”

The Crusaders will also get contributions from their freshman class, which Lister calls “tremendous.”

As for the team as a whole, coach Lister wants

to use the players’ athleticism and abilities in the best way he

knows how.“We want to push the ball in

transition more this year, but we will always be a disciplined half-court team and look for high-percentage shots,” said Lister. “On the defensive end, we want to contest every shot and control the boards. Our team has worked hard in the preseason on that end of the floor and we expect to be much improved at guarding the ball on the perimeter.”

The Crusaders will begin their quest for another successful season on Nov. 12 when they travel down the road to take on Furman University for the first time in team history. The game will be played in Timmons Arena and is set to tip off at 7 p.m. North Greenville will open its home schedule on Nov. 18 against Lees-McRae College in Hayes Gymnasium at 7:30 p.m.

SkylinerThe 7

November 10, 2010Sports

Basketball poised for breakout season Crusaders fall on Senior Day

Lady Crusaders extend win streak to six games, finish with 10 wins

Billy CannadaStaff Writer

The North Greenville men’s soccer team will be hoping for a fresh start in the playoffs after concluding the regular season with a sub-par 6-9 record.

The Crusaders struggled in their final match of the season, picking up a disappointing 0-2 loss to King College on Nov. 6.

North Greenville had no answer for King’s offense, as the Crusaders gave up goals in the 20th and 54th minutes of the loss.

The seniors’ final game is now in the books, and head coach Chad Gfeller says he is grateful for their contributions to the program.

“[The senior’s] leadership has been awesome,” said Gfeller. “We had a brand new team this year and for the seniors to be able to bring them together and unify the team on and off the field really speaks volumes for what they have done.”

The Crusaders have played with an abundance of new players all season and, looking back, Gfeller says the losing record doesn’t really surprise him.

“We have a lot of talent on this team,” said Gfeller. “But I kind of expected us to be down a little bit this year because of the young team we had. We lost some really key players last year.”

With the regional tournament approaching rapidly, North Greenville will have to go back to the drawing board fairly quickly.

“We’ve got to attack the goal better,” said Gfeller, looking ahead. “When you play teams that are organized and that have talent and speed it makes it tough for you to attack the goal, but we have to attack better.”

Gfeller says the Crusaders need to be a little more clutch in order to pull out some of those close games.

“We have to execute and take advantage of opportunities,” he said. “We just have to do a good job and figure out how to put the ball in the back of the net.”

Although their record has not shown it in the win column, Gfeller believes his team is very talented.

“There’s no reason why we couldn’t win the region this year,” said Gfeller. “We’ve played every team in the region and every game has been a one or two goal game. It’s all about clicking at the right time and we have the talent to do that.”

The regional tournament is set to kick off later this week.

Billy CannadaStaff Writer

The North Greenville women’s soccer team extended their winning streak with a 3-0 victory over Brewton Parker College on Nov. 2, but ended their season with a 2-1 loss to King College on Nov. 6.

The Lady Crusaders will now be looking forward to the regional tournament, having acquired an impressive 10-6 record this season.

“We had some really good wins against some quality teams,” said head coach Jesse McCormick of his the season. “We’re definitely very happy with how we did this year.“

The Lady Crusaders scored three second half goals en route to a 3-0 victory over Brewton Parker College. Leah Ward, senior sport management, scored two goals and Emily Pittman, senior sport management, scored her second goal of the season.

North Greenville fell behind early on Senior Night in Tigerville, giving up goals in the 2nd and 42nd minutes of

play. Jade Salle, sophomore business, tried to mount a second half comeback for the Lady Crusaders, providing the first goal for North Greenville in the 57th minute of action.

King remained strong on defense for the remainder of the half, however, and the Lady Crusaders were held scoreless for the final 33 minutes of the match.

“This year our schedule was a little bit tougher than in the past couple of years,” said McCormick. “Being able to still go in and get 10 wins is a great thing.

The Lady Crusaders have been fighting off the injury bug all season, but McCormick says the team is on its way back to full strength.

“We could have almost everyone back healthy by this weekend,“ said McCormick. “We’ve had some players that have seen more time on the field (because of the injuries)

so players coming off the bench are going to have more experience going into the playoffs. That’s something that is going to help us as we get players healthy.”

The tournament is shaping up to be a huge challenge for the Lady Crusaders, as Palm Beach Atlantic University still sits atop the region with the number one seed. North Greenville lost in the regional finals to the Lady Sailfish last season and picked up a 3-2 overtime loss to Palm Beach during the regular season this year.

“Our goal is to get to nationals and that is definitely something that

is attainable,” said McCormick. “We’ve definitely got the ability to do it but we’ve got to come in and play well.”

North Greenville will kick off its post season later in the week.

Foward Leah Ward scored two goals and added an assist in a 3-0 victory over Brewton Parker College on Nov. 2.

Cory Guinn / The Skyliner

Sports8November 10, 2010

SkylinerThe

Cory GuinnSports Editor

The North Greenville football team extended its win streak to seven games with a 27-10 victory over UNC-Pembroke on Nov. 6 in Pembroke, N.C.

With the victory over the Braves, North Greenville finishes the regular season with a record of 8-3 and secures a spot in the National Christian Collegiate Athletic Association Victory Bowl, which will be held on Nov. 20.

“Our team took care of business when they needed to in this game, and it will give our seniors an opportunity to lace it up for North Greenville one more time this season,” said head coach Jamey Chadwell. “We got off to a bad starts but we got rolling and scored four straight times in the first half. They realized they had

a unique opportunity today and they went after it.”

The Crusader offense struggled early, turning the ball over on their very first drive but the defense held strong, limiting the Braves offense to just three points in the first half. Once the offense corrected its minor mistakes, it scored 20 unanswered points to take a 17-point halftime lead that it would hold on to for the entirety of the game.

Wide receiver Sean Wright, junior history, had his best game in a Crusaders uniform as he caught seven passes for a season-high 107 yards and three touchdowns. Willy Korn, junior broadcast media, had another outstanding game from the quarterback position, finishing the game 13-21 for 168 yards and three touchdowns, bringing his season total to 18 touchdowns through the air.

The ground game was slowed a bit against the Braves, gaining only 196 yards and scoring one touchdown. Idris Anderson, freshman undecided, led the attack, rushing 16 times for 89 yards and a touchdown, while Marcus Wilson, freshman health and wellness, rushed for 84 yards on 15 carries in the game.

“Sean Wright had a great game,” said Chadwell. “Pembroke did something different against us by trying to stop our running game, so the pass was there. Willy Korn did a nice job spreading the ball around when their corners shot in to try and stop the run.”

North Greenville’s defense was the focal point of the game, allowing only 10 points and forcing five turnovers. Of the five turnovers, four were interceptions, three of which came in the second half.

Defensive back Quay McQueen, freshman accounting, was all over the field, recording 10 tackles as well as a forced fumble and fumble recovery in the fourth quarter. Damien Wright, graduate business, finished with nine tackles in the game, while Nathan Batchelor, junior business, had four tackles, one tackle for a loss and two interceptions in the fourth quarter. Jamrius Robinson, junior business, and Isaiah Johnson, sophomore sport management, each intercepted a pass of their own.

“Our defense played extremely well when they had to,” said Chadwell. “When Pembroke drove the ball, we bent, but never broke. We made them work, and to be honest, our team was hungry.”

The team’s eight wins gives this year’s team the second best season in school history and guaranteed the team’s third berth in the Victory Bowl. The host site and opponent for the Crusaders in the Victory Bowl will be announced later this week.

Billy CannadaStaff Writer

After accumulating a record-breaking 18 wins in the regular season, the North Greenville volleyball team is hoping to have similar success in the playoffs.

“We’re definitely going into the playoffs with a positive attitude because of our success in the regular season,” said Kaitlyn Pierce, junior health and wellness.

North Greenville wrapped up the regular season with a tough 3-1 loss to Milligan College on Nov. 4. The loss gives North Greenville an 18-16 record on the season.

The Lady Crusaders looked sharp early, picking up a closely contested first set win with a score of 26-24. The Lady Buffaloes would not be defeated on Senior Day, however, as North Greenville came up short in the final three sets with scores of 25-22, 25-13 and 25-19.

Although the Crusaders have put together a solid season, Pierce says there were plenty of question marks early on.

“Going into the season, we were kind of starting over because we got a new coach,” said Pierce. “We had a lot of new freshmen so it was kind of a new start for us. We weren’t really sure how it was going to play out, but we

all worked really hard and it was evident in our wins.”

North Greenville acquired head coach Greg Mosely during the offseason Pierce says the addition was a perfect move for the team.

“I think having a new coach played into our success,” said Pierce. “He is very knowledgeable and a very good coach.”

Mosely has his team in a position to do well in the playoffs, but the Crusaders know they will have to improve if they are going to make a deep run.

“Throughout the season, our passing has improved. That was one of our biggest weaknesses in the beginning,” said Pierce. “I think we just need to keep our energy up and make sure we have good team morale because we do have a few players hurt.”

The Lady Crusaders have certainly shown that they can win games in bunches this season. North Greenville racked up eight wins in October alone. With a tough tournament in sight, the Lady Crusaders will need all the wins they can get.

“This is our first time qualifying for regionals, so that is a big step,” said Pierce. “There’s no telling what could happen when we play our best.”

With high goals set, North Greenville will try to pull out a win in the first NCCAA Regional Tournament game on Nov. 19 at Southern Wesleyan University in Central, S.C.

Crusaders secure a spot in the Victory Bowl with seventh win in a row

Photo courtesy of Dustin Fuls

Safety Jamarius Robinson (21) intercepts a pass in the first quarter of the Crusaders 21-10 victory over the Braves of UNC-Pembroke on Saturday. The North Greenville defense forced five turnovers in the game, including four interceptions.

Volleyball sets school record for winsCrusader Sports Schedule

FRIDAY, NOV. 12 7:00 p.m. Men’s basketball @ Furman

SATURDAY, NOV. 13TBA Women’s soccer vs Southern Wesleyan University

TBA Men’s Soccer vs Truett- McConnell College

TUESDAY, NOV. 165:30 p.m. Women’s basketball @ Limestone College

7:00 p.m. Men’s basketball @ Johnson Bible College

H O M E E V E N T S I N B O L D