(Dickinson, ND) -- For the third straight year, South Dakota Mines is the recipient of the Dakota Athletic Conference Scholars Award.

The award is presented annually to the school with the highest percentage of athletes honored as DAC Scholar-Athletes. Fifty-three percent of Hardrocker athletes earned recognition for their academic achievements.

In order to be honored as a DAC Scholar-Athlete, a student-athlete must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 or better and have earned twelve or more credit hours for a semester in which he/she participates in a conference sponsored sport.  During the 2006-07 academic year, 504 athletes from conference schools earned DAC Scholar-Athlete recognition.

June 13, 2007

(Valley City, ND) -- Valley City State University has chosen Bert John Pumroy as their new athletic director.  Pumroy has benn an assistant athletic director at Truman State, MO since 2000.  Pumroy replaces Doug Peters, who left VCSU to become the athletic director at Minnesota State-Moorhead.

June 07, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The athletic directors of the Dakota Athletic Conference have selected Lawrie Paulson of Jamestown College as the DAC Athletic Director of the Year.

Paulson took over the AD's position in 2004 after spending 19 seasons as the Jimmies' women's basketball coach.  While leading the Lady Jimmies, Paulson compiled a 279-230 record, was named conference coach of the year five times, captured five conference titles and advanced to the national tournamnent once.

The Jimmies finished second to Dickinson State for the Commissioner's Cup, awarded to the school with the best overall finish in conference sponsored competition. 

Jamestown also had their baseball and softball teams advance to the Region III tournament, their football team qualify for the national playoffs and their women's cross country team receive an at-large invitation to the national meet.  In addition, the Jimmie wrestling team was selected to receive the Buffalo Funds Champions of Character Team Award at the national tournament.

June 01, 2007

(Minot, ND) -- Minot State University Athletic Director Rick Hedberg has announced the new Head Baseball Coach, Brock Weppler. Weppler has been an assistant coach for the MSU baseball team for the past two years working as the hitting coach and working with catchers.

"Brock will provide great leadership to our baseball program. He has the respect of the student-athletes and fellow coaches and has been very involved with the program for the last two years. He is definitely a ‘baseball guy’ and I look forward to working closely with him," stated Hedberg.

Weppler, a native of Burlington, ND, is a graduate of the University of Mary where he played baseball for two years. He also attended MSU-Bottineau and played two years for the Lumber Jacks.

"I’m excited for the opportunity to step into the head coaching position. It’s been a goal of mine and I look forward to the challenge. Minot State University is a great school and we have a lot of potential in our baseball program," stated Weppler.

Coach Weppler has spent the last seven summers directing the Burlington baseball program. He replaces Randy Nelson who recently accepted the director of athletics position at Fargo Shanley High School.

June 01, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dakota State shortstop Greg Biagi has been named to the NAIA All America Honorable Mention list for the 2007 season.  The junior from Colfax, WA, was the only player from the Dakota Athletic Conference to receive post-season recognition from the NAIA.  Earlier, Biagi was named to the DAC and Region III First Teams and also was chosen as the DAC and Region IIII Player of the year.

Complete lists of the NAIA Baseball All America Team and Gold Glove Team can be found on the NAIA web-site. 

June 01, 2007

(Olathe, KS) -- The NAIA and Champions of Character founding partner Buffalo Funds present Buffalo Funds Five Star Awards for each of the NAIA’s 23 championship sports. The Jamestown College wrestling program was recently awarded the Buffalo Funds Five Star Award for its dedication and implementation of the Champions of Character program’s five core values: respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership and sportsmanship. The Jimmies are led by head coach Jason McCloud.

"In 2007, the team came together on and off the mat. We preach brotherhood and being a family on our team," said McCloud. "You may beat each during practice but at the end of the day you need to help each other up."

During the season there are many ups and downs. The Jamestown wrestling program is committed and does not dwell on the negatives rather looks for the positives and opportunities to improve. The Jimmie wrestlers finished 22nd with 13.5 points at the 2007 NAIA National Tournament.

"You cannot have a tight knit team when everyone is out for themselves," said sophomore Nate Peine. "Character is what our team is about. When things go wrong or when a teammate has a problem, each wrestler knows that he can trust a teammate to help them out."

McCloud, Peine and the Jamestown wrestling program are part of the community that is dedicated to teaching character in and out of sport.

May 30, 2007

(Madison, SD) – Dakota State baseball coach Pat Dolan has resigned to take over the head coaching duties at St. Cloud State, MN, an NCAA Division II school. Dolan will become the 14th head coach in St. Cloud State’s baseball team history and will replace Denny Lorsung, who coached at St. Cloud State since 1979.

Dolan served as a head coach for Dakota State since 2001 and had built into a national powerhouse. During his tenure at Dakota State, he had turned the baseball program from one win into an average of 30 wins per season. His team captured the Region III Championship in 2003 and 2005 and advanced to the Super Regionals in those years.

This spring, Dakota State qualified for the regional tournament. In addition, the Trojans broke the season record for most wins in a season with 39 wins and began the season with 22 straight wins. During the just completed season, Dolan notched his 300th career coaching victory and complied a 182-111 coaching record at Dakota State, the best winning percentage in the school's baseball history (.621).

"This was hands down the most difficult professional decision I have ever had to make," said Dolan. "The ‘personal factor’ was really the deciding factor. Being able to move back home where most of my family and many friends are very important. Somebody has to teach my three little nephews how to hit from the left side of the plate."

Dolan will begin his coaching duties at St. Cloud State on June 13.

A national search replacement will begin immediately at Dakota State.

May 30, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The NAIA has recognized three men's golfers and seven baseball players from the Dakota Athletic Conference as NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

NAIA Men's Golf Scholar-Athletes from the DAC are Chase Grinsteiner of Jamestown College and Luke Johnson and Dave Hoffman from South Dakota Mines.

NAIA Baseball Scholar-Athletes from the DAC are Todd Roth and Eric Schmid of Jamestown College; Paul Waterman and Kyle Swenson from Mayville State, and Bryce Ingram, Drew Calanchie and Dustin Grabowska from Valley City State.

A complete list of NAIA Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site. 

May 28, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference has ten men and sixteen women on the NAIA Scholar-Athletes list for track and field.

The ten men are David Czerny and Trent Waage of Black Hills State; Nicholas Burgess, Ryley McPeters and Travis Norberg of Dickinson State; Jess Ova and Nick Tews from Jamestown College; George Anderson and Drew Hysjulien of Minot State, and Kyle Kattke of South Dakota Mines.

The sixteen women are Aubrey Baxter, Wesleigh Jastorff, Kendra Karst, Jessica Marshall and Liz Woodruff from Black Hills State; Jayna Goodroad, Serina Hiemstra and Kyle Hoffman of Dakota State; Ashley Collen, Christa Hofland and Kodi Klatt from Dickinson State; Nicole Cuppy, Cassie Dellwo and Liz McCarty of Jamestown College and Jenny Castro and Laurelle Irvine of Minot State.

A complete list of NAIA Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.

May 26, 2007

(Fresno, CA) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference continued to be well represented at the NAIA National Track and Field Meet in Fresno, CA with a fourth individual national champion and numerous place finishers in both the men's and women's division.

Dickinson State's Dominic Goodman became the fourth DAC athlete to win an individual national title, capturing the men's triple jump with a leap of 50 feet, 9.5 inches.  Other DAC placers in the men's division include: Allan Ayala of Dickinson State, second in the 400 hurdles in 51.41 seconds; Dickinson State, second in the 4x400 relay in 3:09.18; Ramon Miller of Dickinson State, third in the 400 meters in 47.33 seconds; Allen Wood of Black Hills State, fourth in the 5000 meters in 14:54.55; James Hansen of Black  Hills State, fifth in the 3000 meter steeplechase in 9:11.40; Chris Heezen of Dakota State, fifth in the marathon in 2:28:06.08; Jamal Forbes of Dickinson State, fifth in the 200 meters in 21.37 seconds; Chandler Caldwell of South Dakota Mines, sixth in the pole vault at 15 feet, 11 inches; Dickinson State, seventh in the 4x100 relay; Mike Thompson of Dickinson State, eighth in the long jump at 48 feet, one-half inch; and Dave Czerny of Black Hills State tied for eighth in the pole vault at 15 feet, five inches.

Oklahoma Baptist snapped Dickinson State's three year run as men's national champions.  OBU won the team title with 77 points with the Blue Hawks the runner up with 58 points.  Black Hills State finished in 16th place with 22.5 points, Jamestown College tied for 43rd with five points; Dakota State tied for 50th with four points and South Dakota Mines placed in a tied for 55th with three points.

Individual placers from the DAC in the women's division include: Laura Tewes of Dakota State, third in the high jump at 5 feet, 7 inches; Keneisha Miller of Dickinson State, third in the 200 in 25.12 seconds; Wesleigh Jastorff of Black Hills State; sixth in the 800 meters in 2:12.7; Alicia Verhurst of Black Hills State, seventh in the 3000 meter steeplechase in 11:20.18; Kristal Wolf of Dickinson State, seventh in the 1500 meters in 4:36.57 and Wendy O'Lexey of Black Hills State, eighth in the 5000 meters in 18:06.92.

Azusa Pacific, CA won the national championship in the women's competition with 73 points.  Black Hills State was the top DAC team, placing 12th with 25 points.  Dickinson State tied for 19th with 18 points; South Dakota Mines placed 27th with ten points and Dakota State tied for 36th with six points.

For complete results of the NAIA Meet, go to the NAIA web-site.

May 25, 2007

(Fresno, CA) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference added a third national champion and six additional All Americans at the NAIA National Track and Field Meet in Fresno, CA.

Shannon Hellman of South Dakota Mines added the national championship in the women's 100 meter hurdles to her  championship in the 60 meter hurdles during the indoor national meet.  Hellman won the outdoor championship in 13.73 seconds.

The DAC also added another All American in the women's division and five in men's competition.  Amber Broderson of Black Hills State placed fifth in the women's discus with a throw of 153 feet, 3 inches.  Eric Flores of Black Hills State added a sixth place finish in the men's shot put to his national championship in the men's hammer throw.  Flores tossed the shot 55 feet, 7 inches.  Dickinson State's Jamal Forbes placed third in the men's 100 in a time of 10.42 seconds.  The DAC went second, third and fourth in the men's long jump.  Dominic Goodman of Dickinson State placed second with a jump of 23 feet, 6 inches; Roosevelt Curry of Dickinson was third with a lead of 23 feet, 5.5 inches and Jamestown's Dan Lawson placed fourth with a jump of 23 feet, 5.25 inches.

After Friday's competition, Azusa Pacific, CA is the leader in the women's division through 12 events with 45 points.  Black Hills State is in 13th place with 13 points and Dickinson State and South Dakota Mines are in a four way tie for 17th with ten points.

Following the second day of action, Azusa Pacific is the men's leader through 11 events with 38 points.  Three time defending national champion Dickinson State is in fifth place with 20 points, Black Hills State is 12th with 13 points and Jamestown is in 25th place with five points.

The competition concludes on Saturday.   For updates, results and meet information, go to the NAIA web-site.

May 24, 2007

(Fresno, CA) -- Two Dakota Athletic Conference athletes were crowned national champions in first day competition at the NAIA National Outdoor Track and Field Meet in Fresno, CA.

Eric Flores of Black Hills State captured the national title in the men's hammer throw with a toss of 215 feet even and Kelsey Aide of Dickinson State won the national title in the women's pole vault with a leap of 12 feet, 9.5 inches.

The DAC had two other placers in first day action.  Lynae Fox of Black Hills State was the national runner-up in the women's hammer throw with a toss of 176 feet, 4 inches and Black Hills State's Kerry Washburn placed eighth in the women's 10,000 meters, cover the distance in 37:32.15.

For updates, results and meet information, go to the NAIA web-site.

May 24, 2007

(Rapid City, SD) -- The South Dakota School of Mines women’s volleyball coach Doug Tabbert has announced his resignation of the head coaching position after four seasons at the helm.

Tabbert has accepted the assistant coaching position for the University of Nebraska-Kearney, an NCAA Division II school that has a rich history in volleyball, under the direction of Rick Squiers.

"I’ll be the assistant coach there and also have some teaching duties," Tabbert said of his new position. "As far as the program, UNK is one of the elite NCAA Division II volleyball program in the country."

The South Dakota School of Mines has named Beth Honaker, who served as the Hardrockers’ assistant coach in 2006 as the new head coach.

"Beth was a real positive addition to our program this past year," Athletic Director Hugh Welsh said. "Her ability to relate to the players and to bring another philosophy to the team is very exciting. Because of the things she did for the volleyball program this last year, it was in the best interest of the program to move her up into the head position."

Honaker, originally from Walkerton, IN, served as the SDM assistant volleyball coach for one season. The 2007 tour will mark her first as a head coach at the college level. Previously she was head coach at Gwinn High School, MI, for four years. She has a Masters of Science degree from Northern Michigan University where she played for the NCAA Div. II Wildcats as an outside and rightside hitter.

As a coach, Honaker said the main thing she wants to instill into her players is the team concept.

"I think the biggest thing will be trying to teach the girls that volleyball is not just a hobby, it’s almost like a job. There are going to be times that they might not want to go to practice or might not want to travel that weekend, but being apart of a team is being apart of something that’s a whole lot bigger than themselves," Honaker said. "For the most part, it’s getting everybody on the same page. If we figure out how to do everything we need to do as a team then we are going to be a heck of a lot better."

Honaker added that she wants to take the winning season the Hardrockers had in 2006, use it as a stepping stone for even better things to come.

"I think the girls got a taste of what it’s like to be a winning team. In the past few years they knew they weren’t looked upon as a big threat from other teams in the conference. That’s going to change --- actually I think it already has," Honaker said.

The transition should be an easy one for Honaker as she already knows the players and the system and with every starter returning, the 2007 year is shaping up to be the best yet.

Honaker will also continue to serve as the assistant SDM indoor and outdoor track coach.

The Hardrockers’ season begins Aug. 24 with the Rocky Mountain Tournament in Billings, MT.

May 23, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Three Dickinson State softball players have been honored as All Americans by the NAIA and nine softball players and three women golfers from the Dakota Athletic Conference who were recognized as NAIA Scholar-Atheltes.

Dickinson State, senior, infielder Dana Dunsmore was selected as a First Team Softball All American.  Her teammates Danielle Abrahamson and Meghan Shaw were recognized with Honorable Mention recognition.

Dunsmore was also among nine softball players from the DAC to earn NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors.  Other Scholar-Athletes are Leah Glasgow of Dickinson State; Justine Rechenmacher and Bree Summers of Jamestown College; Shaudin Warren of Minot State and Kelli Baugartner, Alana Purvis, Jessica Ruzicki and Kelli Unrein of Valley City State.

The DAC also had three representatives on the women's golfer Scholar-Athlete list.  The honorees are Anne Langdell of Black Hills State, Daniall Dies of Jamestown College and Janna Gordon of Minot State.

Complete lists of softball All Americans and softball and women's golf Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.

May 21, 2007

(Decatur, AL) -- Dickinson State saw their season come to an end with a pair of losses at the NAIA National Softball Tournament in Dectaur, AL.

In the first round of the double-elimination bracket, Point Loma, CA, built a 2-0 lead with single runs in the first and third innings, but the Blue Hawks knotted the score at 2-2 as Kristen Fleury and Dana Dunsmore each drove in a run in the bottom of the third.  Amber Randell gave Point Loma the lead back with a solo home run in the top of the seventh inning to lift them to the victory.  Leah Glasgow had a pair of hits and Fleury and Dunsmore both had a hit and an RBI in the Blue Hawks' loss.  Mehgan Shaw was the losing pitcher, allowing three earned runs on eight hits with two stikeouts and no walks in pitching a complete game.

The Blue Hawks built a 7-1 lead over St. Gregory's, OK, in the consolation bracket, but saw the lead evaporate as St. Gregory's scored seven runs in the bottom of the seventh to post an 8-7 win.  Ashley Neufeld had two hits, an RBI and run scored and Dunsmore had a pair of hits and a run scored.  The loss eliminated DSU from the tournament.  The Blue Hawks close out the 2007 campaign with a 32-8 record.

For game summaries, box scores and live game stats, go to the NAIA web-site.      

May 19, 2007

(Decatur, AL) -- Dickinson State swept their two pool play games on Saturday to qualify for the eight team double elimination bracket at the NAIA National Softball Tournament in Decatur, AL.

DSU opened their second day of the tournament with a 4-3 win over Mobile, AL.  The Blue Hawks scored all of their runs in the third and held on for the win.  Mehgan Shaw picked up the win, her second in the tournament and 22nd of the season.  Tiffany Saatzer had a pair of hits and a run scored and Dana Dunsmore added a hit, three RBI and a run scored.

The Hawks wrapped up pool play with a 2-1, eight inning win over Virginia-Wise.  Leah Glasgow knocked in the game winning run with an RBI double in the bottom of the eighth and Dunsmore went 3 for 3 with a run scored.   Alyssa Baker pitched DSU to the win, giving up one run in hurling the complete game victory.  The win improved DSU's pool play record to 3-1 and propelled them into the eight team, double elimination portion of the tournament.

The Blue Hawks, the two seed in Pool "A", will face Point Loma, CA, the number one seed in Pool "D", in the quarterfinals at 10:00 AM Monday.

For game summaries, box scores and live game stats, go to the NAIA web-site.  

May 18, 2007

(Decatur, AL) -- Dickinson State split their first two games of pool play at the NAIA National Softball Tournament in Decatur, AL.

Top tanked California Baptist shutout the Blue Hawks 5-0 in DSU's opening pool play contest.  The Lancers scored four times in the first and blanked the Hawks to pick up the win.  Amy Thomas pitched a complete game six hitter in lifting the Lancers to 2-0 in pool play and 54-3 on the season.  Dana Dunsmore had two of DSU's six hits.

Dickinson State rebounded from their opening loss and posted a 7-5 win over Savannah Art and Design, GA.  DSU scored four runs in the fifth to snap a 3-3 tie and held on for the win.  Meghan Shaw pitched a complete game to pick up the win and Tiffany Saatzer led the Blue Hawk offense with three hits, four RBI and a run scored.  Ashley Neufeld added two hits, two runs and an RBI and Jenna Eger had two hits and a run scored as DSU improved to 1-1 in pool play and 30-6 overall.

The Blue Hawks wrap up pool play on Saturday with games against Mobile, AL and Virginia-Wise.  The top two teams in each pool advance to the eight team, double elimination tournament that begins on Monday and culminates with the national title contest on Wednesday. 

For game summaries, box scores and live game stats, go to the NAIA web-site.  

May 13, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference representatives earned five of the six NAIA Region III Awards for softball and baseball and placed nine players on the All Region III Softball Team, eight on the All Region III Baseball Team and six on the Region III Baseball Gold Glove Team.

Region III champion Dickinson State swept the region awards for softball.  Senior infielder Dana Dunsmore was selected the Player of the Year; sophomore pitcher Mehgan Shaw was chosen the Pitcher of the Year and Guy Fridley was honored as the Coach of the Year.

Dunsmore and Shaw also head up the list of nine DAC players on the All Region team.  They are joined by outfielder Danielle Abrahamson, outfielder Tiffany Saatzer and catcher Courtney Blanleil of Dickinson State; infielder Kayla Price and utility player Nikki Marcoux of Jamestown College; outfielder Jennessa Penner of Minot State and outfielder Jessica Ruzicki of Valley City State.

A complete list of the All Region III Softball Team and Post-Season Awards can be found on the NAIA web-site.

The DAC also picked up two of the three Region III baseball awards.  Junior shortstop Greg Biagi of Dakota State was picked the Player of the Year and Dickinson State's Duane Monlux was tabbed the Coach of the Year.  Mihai Berlea of region champion Northwestern, IA, was chosen the Pitcher of the Year.

Biagi is among eight DAC player on the All Region III Baseball Team.  He is joined on the honor squad by outfielder Jeff Savas, catcher Shea Tonkin and pitcher Dustin Ottens of Dakota State; second baseman Dan Boudreau and pitcher Luis Avila of Dickinson State; pitcher Graham Campbell of Jamestown College and outfielder Kyle Swenson of Mayville State.

The DAC also placed six players on the Region III Gold Glove Team.   They are first baseman Matt Burpee of Dakota State, third baseman Chad Hollister of Jamestown College, shorstop Greg Biagi of Dakota State, left fielder Jeremy Burgard of Jamestrown College, catcher Shea Tonkin of Dakota State and pitcher Dan Knox of Dakota State. 

A complete lis of the All Region III Baseball Team, Gold Glove Team and Post-Season Awards can be found on the NAIA web-site.

May 12, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State prepares for their first trip to the NAIA National Softball Tournament in Decatur AL, May 18-23 after capturing the Region III title.

The Blue Hawks have been placed in Pool A in the tournament.   DSU will face Cailfornia Baptist and Savannah Art & Design, GA in pool play on Friday, May 18.  The Hawks will continue pool play on Saturday, May 19 against Mobile, AL and Virginia-Wise. The top two teams in the four pools advance to an eight team double-elimination bracket that begins on Monday, May 21 and culminates with the championship game on Wednesday, May 23.

For more information on the NAIA National Softball Tournament, go to the NAIA web-site. 

May 11, 2007

(Sioux City, IA) -- Dickinson State saw their season come to end in the championship game of the NAIA Region III Baseball Tournament in Sioux City, IA.   After eliminating Jamestown earlier in the day, the Blue Hawks lost 5-2 to Northwestern, IA, the second victory for the sixth seeded Red Raiders over the top seeded Hawks.

Northwestern scored four runs in the first four innings and never trailed on their way to the title contest victory.  Mihai Burlea pitched a comple game for the Red Raiders, allowing two runs, one earned, on seven hits with seven strikeouts and two walks.  Austin Malone was the offensive leader for Northwestern with three hits, an RBI and three runs scored. 

Evan Seegmiller was tabbed with the loss for Dickinson State after allowing four runs, two earned, on four hits and a pair of walks in 2.2 innings of work.   Ed Warren and Rory Tycoles led the Blue Hawks offense with two hits and a run scored apiece.  Nolan Bracken also had two hits and an RBI in the ballgame.

Dickinson State ends their season with a 34-11 mark.   Northwestern improved to 37-16 and will travel to Bellevue, NE, the Region IV champions, in the best-of-three Central Plains Super Regional on May 18-19.  The Super Regional champion receives an automatic berth to the national tournament in Lewistown, ID, May 25-June1

For complete results of the regional tournament, go to the "Baseball" page of the DAC web-site.

(Sioux City, IA) -- Dickinson State eliminated Jamestown College with a 2-0 victory in loser-out play at the NAIA Region III Baseball Tournament in Sioux City, IA.

The Blue Hawks scored unearned runs in the first and eighth innings in earning the victory.  Luis Avila picked up the victory, going 7.2 innings with no runs, three hits, seven strikeouts and eight walks.  Evan Seegmiller earned the save with 1.1 innings pitched with a hit, two strikeouts and one walk.  Ed Warren led the DSU offense with a pair of hits and two runs scored.

Greg Hockin was the tough-luck loser, allowing two unearned runs on five hits with three strikeouts and no walks in 7.2 innings pitched.  Scott Arthurs had two of the Jimmies four hits.  The Jimmies concluded the season with a 30-16 record.

Dickinson State advances to the championship game against Northwestern, IA.  The Red Raiders, the sixth seed of the tournament, knocked off the top seeded Blue Hawks, 6-4, in the opening game of the tournament.  The tournament champion will travel to Bellevue, NE, the champion of Region IV, for a three game series in the Central Plains Super Regional Tournament, May 18-19.  The Super Regional champion receives an automatic berth to the national tournament in Lewistown, ID, May 25-June1.

For complete results of the regional tournament, go to the "Baseball" page of the DAC web-site.

May 10, 2007

(Sioux City, IA) -- Dickinson State and Jamestown remain alive at the NAIA Region III Baseball Tournament in Sioux City, IA, while Dakota State saw their season come to an end.

Dakota State opened the third day of the tournament with a 5-0 setback to Northwestern, IA.  Dusty Meyn pitched a complete game, six hit shutout for Northwestern.  Jaff Savas was the only Trojan with more than one hit as he knocked out a pair of singles.  The Trojans wrapped up the season with a 39-12 record.

Dickinson State remained alive with a 9-2 victory over Briar Cliff, IA.  The Blue Hawks broke the game open with a four run fourth to take the lead 6-2 and shut Briar Cliff out the rest of the way.  Ed Davila pitched a complete game, allowed two runs, none earned on seven hits with eight strikeouts and four walks.   Paulo Contreras had three hits with two RBI; Dan Boudreau had a pair of hits with three RBI and a run scored and Adam Hurlbert had two hits, an RBI and two runs.

Jamestown suffered their first loss of the tournament, a 6-3 setback to Northwestern, IA.  Northwestern took a 3-0 lead after two innings, built it to 5-1 after five and held on for the win.  Chadd Hollister and Dave Sauter each had a pair of hits and an RBI in the Jimmies' setback.

Dickinson State will face Jamestown at 1:00 Saturday in an elimination game with the winner facing Northwestern, IA at 4:00 for the regional tournament title.  The tournament champion will travel to Bellevue, NE, the champion of Region IV, for a three game series in the Central Plains Super Regional Tournament, May 18-19.  The Super Regional champion receives an automatic berth to the national tournament in Lewistown, ID, May 25-June1.

For complete results and a schedule of upcoming games, go to the "Baseball" page of the DAC web-site. 

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State rallied from an early 4-0 deficit to defeat Morningside, IA, 5-4 in eight innings to capture the championship of the NAIA Region III Softball Tournament in Dickinson.

Morningside opened the contest with a four run first inning, but Meghan Shaw shut them out the rest of the way as the Blue Hawks tied the score with a run in the second, one in the third and two in the seventh to send the game into extra innings.  The Courtney Blanleil drove in the game winning run in the top of the eighth and Shaw blanked Morningside in the bottom half to capture the regional crown.   Shaw pitched a complete game, allowed four earned runs on foour hits with five strikeouts and six walks to improve her season record to 20-1.  Leah Glasgow had a pair of doubles, an RBI and a run scored; Ashley Neufeld added two hits and two runs and Jenna Eger had a pair of hits.

The win improves the Blue Hawks' record to 29-5 and earns them their first trip to the NAIA National Tournament in Decatur, AL, May 18-23.  The national tournament consists of 13 regional champions and seven at-large invitees.  Teams are seeded 1-20 and divided into four pools of five teams each.  The top two teams from each pool advance.

For complete results of the tournament, go to the "Softball" page of the DAC web-site.

May 09, 2007

(Sioux City, IA) -- Jamestown College is the lone unbeaten team after the second day of the NAIA Region III Baseball Tournament In Sioux City, IA.   Dakota State and Dickinson State remain alive in the double elimination format.

The Jimmies remained unbeaten and sent Dakota State into the loser-out round with a 3-2 victory over the Trojans.  Chad Hollister had two hits and an RBI for the victorious Jimmies, while Greg Biagi had a pair of hits and Nick Hardy scored twice for Dakota State.  Kyle Young was tabbed with the loss despite striking out eleven for the Trojans.

Top seeded Dickinson State rebounded from their opening round loss with a 15-12 triumph over number two Sioux Falls, SD.  Dan Boudreau went 4 for 6 with two runs and an RBI; Adam Hurlbert had three hits, three RBI and three runs scored; Ed Warren added three hits, two RBI and four runs, and Rory Tycoles had two doubles among his three hits, drove in a run and scored twice for the Blue Hawks.

Dakota State will open day three of the tournament against Northwestern, IA in an elimination game at 1:00.  Dickinson State will play at 4:00 against Briar Cliff, IA in another elimination contest.  Jamestown will wrap up the day at 7:00 against the winner of the Dakota State/Northwestern contest.

For complete results and a schedule of upcoming games, go to the "Baseball" page of the DAC web-site.

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State is one win away from advancing to their first ever trip to the NAIA National Softball Tournament following their 8-5 win over Morningside, IA in the winners' bracket of the NAIA Region III Tournament in Dickinson.  Fellow DAC teams Minot State and Jamestown College were eliminated in the second day of the tournament.

The Blue Hawks scored their eight runs in a stretch from the third to the fifth inning to pick up the win over Morningside.  Leah Glasgow had two hits, three RBI and a run scored; Tiffany Saatzer doubled, tripled, scored a run and drove in a run and Ashley Neufeld had two hits and two runs scored.

Minot State eliminated Jamestown with a 9-8 victory.  The Beavers scored three runs in the top of the sixth to take the lead and held on for the win.  Jennessa Penner had two hits and four RBI and Shaudin Warren had a pair of hits and three RBI to lead MSU to the win.  Kayla Price had two hits and four RBI as the Jimmies ended their season with a 36-16 record.

Minot State's season ended with a 5-0 loss to Dana, NE.  Dana scored three times in the second inning and went on to post the shutout win in the loser-out matchup.  The Beavers wrapped up the year with a 25-11 record.

Dickinson State (28-5) will face Morningside (42-12) in the championship game at 12:00 Friday.  Morningside advanced to the title contests as they topped Dana 11-4 in an elimation contest.  The Blue Hawks need one victory to capture the regional championship, while Morningside needs two wins over Dickinson State to win the double elimination tournament.  The regional champion will advance to the NAIA National Tournament in Decatur, AL on May 16-19.

For complete results and a schedule of upcoming games, go to the "Softball" page of the DAC web-site.

May 08, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State went 2-0 in first round play at the NAIA Region III Softball Tournament in Dickinson, while fellow DAC schools Jamestown and Minot State are alive after going 1-1 in the first day of the double elimination tournament.

The top seeded Blue Hawks opened the tournament with an 8-0, five inning victory over Midland Lutheran, NE.  DAC MVP Dana Dunsmore went 3 for 3 with a home run and three RBI and Alyssa Baker struck out seven in leading DSU to the win.   The Blue Hawks remained unbeaten in the tournament with a 3-1 win over Northwestern, IA in the the second round.  Kristen Fleury drove in the go ahead run in the top of the seventh inning to lift DSU to the win.

Minot State dropped their first round contest to Northwestern, IA, 3-2.  Northwestern scored all three of their runs in the bottom of the sixth and shut out the Beavers in the seventh to send MSU into the loser out round.  The Beavers rebounded with a 5-3 win in eliminating Midland Lutheran from the tournament.   Jennessa Penner went 3 for 4 with a run scored and Kayla Mitchel doubled and drove in two runs in keeping the Beavers alive.

Jamestown defeated Dana, NE, 4-3 in eight innings in their first round match-up.  The Jimmies' Bree Summer drove in the game winning run in the extra frame and Jody Lantz doubled and homered in the win.  In the second round, JC fell to Morningside, IA, 5-1.  Morningside scored all five runs in the first two innings and held on for the victory. 

Jamestown and Minot State face off in loser-out round play at 11:00 AM and Dickinson State takes on Morningside in the winners bracket at 1:00 PM.

For complete results and a schedule of upcoming games, go to the "Softball" page of the DAC web-site.

(Sioux City, IA) -- Top seed Dickinson State was knocked off in first round play of the NAIA Region III Baseball Tournament in Sioux City, IA.   Fellow DAC representatives Dakota State and Jamestown College won their first round contests in the double elimination tournament.

Dickinson State led 4-2 through eight innings, but sixth seed Northwestern, IA, put four runs on the board in the ninth to knock off the Blue Hawks.   Dan Boudreau went 3 for 4 with two runs scored and Rory Tycoles and Adam Hurlbert each went 2 for 4 with an RBI in the setback.

Dakota State became the second lower seed to win in the tournament as the Trojans handed number two seed Sioux Falls, SD, a 5-1 loss.  The Trojans scored five times in the first inning and never looked back in posting the second straight upset of the first round.  Nate Remer pitched 7.1 innings and allowed only one run on seven hits.  Matt Burpee led the offensive attack with three hits and four RBI.   DAC MVP Greg Biagi added two hits, two runs and an RBI and Nick Hardy chipped in with a pair of base knocks.

Jamestown became the lone higher seed to win in the opening round, posting an 8-4 triumph over Briar Cliff, IA.  The Jimmies opened up a close contest with five runs in the sixth and two more in the seventh.  Scott Arthurs was the lone Jimmie with more than one hit, going 2 for 3 with two RBI and a run scored.  Chad Hollister had a hit, three RBI and a run scored.

Dickinson State opens the second day of the tournament at 1:00 PM against Sioux Falls in a battle of the top two seeds in a loser-out contest.  Dakota State and Jamestown will battle in the winner's bracket at 7:00 PM.

For complete results and a schedule of upcoming games, go to the "Baseball" page of the DAC web-site.

May 07, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The 2007 All Dakota Athletic Conference Teams for baseball and softball and the Post-Season Awards for baseball, softball and outdoor track and field have been announced.

Dakota State leads the baseball all conference first team with seven selections.  Conference champion Dickinson State has four first teamers, Mayville State has three, Jamestown two and Minot State and Valley City State each have one.  Dakota State and Jamestown head up the DAC Gold Glove team with three recipients each.  Dickinson State, Mayville State and Valley City State each have one Gold Glover.  Complete lists of the All DAC Teams and the Gold Glove Team can be found on the "Baseball All-Conference Performers" page of the DAC web-site.

The Post-Season Award winners are: Greg Biagi of Dakota State, Most Valuable Player; Mickey Berry of Mayville State, Most Valuable Senior; Dickinson State's Luis Avila, Pitcher of the Year; Brock Gnadt from Mayville State, Freshman of the Year and Duane Monlux from Dickinson State, Coach of the Year.

Conference champion Dickinson State heads up the softball all conference first team with nine honorees.  Jamestown and Minot State each placed three players on the first team, Valley City State has two first team selections and Dakota State with one.  A complete list of the All DAC Team can be found on the "Softball All-Conference Performers" page of the DAC web-site.

The Post-Season Award winners are: Dana Dunsmore of Dickinson State, Most Valuable Player; Whitney Friesen of Minot State, Most Valuable Senior; Mehgan Shaw of Dickinson State, Pitcher of the Year; Jamestown's Jody Lanz, Freshman of the Year and Dickinson State's Guy Fridley, Coach of the Year.

The Post-Season Award winners for women's outdoor track and field are: Wesleigh Jastorff of Black Hills State, Outstanding Senior and DAC Meet Running Event Most Valuable Performer; Shannise Wright of Dickinson State, DAC Meet Most Valuable Performer and DAC Meet Field Event Most Valuable Performer and Black Hills State's Scott Walkinshaw, Coach of the Year.

The Post-Season Award winners for men's outdoor track and field are: Dickinson State's Kevin McElvaney, Outstanding Senior; Dominic Goodman of Dickinson State, DAC Meet Most Valuable Performer; Roosevelt Curry of Dickinson State, DAC Meet Field Event Most Valuable Performer; Allan Ayala from Dickinson State, DAC Meet Track Event Most Valuable Performer and Pete Stanton from Dickinson State, Coach of the Year.

May 07, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The pairings are now set for the 2007 NAIA Region III Baseball and Softball Tournaments.

The six team, double-elimination baseball tournament is being player May 9-12 at Lewis and Clark Park in Sioux City, IA.  The first round pairings have top seed Dickinson State (31-9) facing number six Northwestern, IA (33-15) at 1:00; number two Sioux Falls, SD (26-17) will face the number five seed, Dakota State (38-10) at 4:00 and #3 Jamestown (28-14) wraps up the first round against #4 Briar Cliff, IA (26-18) at 7:00.  A complete schedule of the tournament can be found on the "Baseball" page of the DAC web-site.

The eight team, double elimination softball tournament is being played at the Gress Complex in Dickinson.  The first round pairings have top seeded Dickinson State (25-5) versus number eight Midland Lutheran, NE (27-26) at 11:00 AM; number two Morningside, IA (40-11) will face seventh seed Concordia, NE (26-21) at 11:30 AM; number four Minot State (23-9) will face fifth seeded Northwestern, IA (31-17) at 1:00 PM and third seed Dana, NE (34-20) matches up with number six Jamestown College (35-14) at 1:30 PM.  A complete tournament schedule can be found on the "Softball" page of the DAC web-site.

May 05, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State is the winner of the 2006-07 Dakota Athletic Conference Commissioner’s Cup.

Dickinson State accumulated 110 points to top the standings. Jamestown College placed second with 105.5 points, followed by Black Hills State with 95, Minot State with 73, South Dakota Mines with 68.5, Dakota State with 64, Valley City State with 51 and Mayville State with 40.

During the 2006-07 academic year, the Blue Hawks captured seven conference championships (volleyball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s indoor and outdoor track and field, baseball and softball). Black Hills State won five conference titles (football, men’s and women’s cross country and women’s indoor and outdoor track and field). Mayville State won one conference crown (men’s basketball), as did Dakota State (women’s basketball).

The Commissioner’s Cup is awarded to the member institution with the best overall record in conference competition. Points are given based on each school’s finish in conference sports that include a conference championship.

May 05, 2006

(Dickinson, ND) -- Heavy rain was the winner at the Dakota Athletic Conference baseball tournament in Jamestown and softball tournament in Madison.

The final day of the DAC baseball tournament was cancelled with Dickinson State being declared the tournament champions.  Both DSU and Jamestown College had 2-0 records in the tournament heading into Saturday, but the Blue Hawks were awarded the title by virtue of their higher seed in the tournament.  DSU, JC and Dakota State, the top three seeds in the tournament, advance to the NAIA Region III Tournament in Sioux City, IA on May 9-12.

The entire DAC softball tournament was washed out because of heavy rainfall in Madison.  Dickinson State, the regular season champion, is decalred the the DAC champions and will host the NAIA Region III Tournament on May 9-11.  

May 04, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dickinson State men and Black Hills State women defended their conference titles at the Dakota Athletic Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships at Dickinson State University's Whitney Stadium.

The Blue Hawks captured 13 of 20 individual conference titles while compiling 309 points to win the men's team crown.  Black Hill State won four events to finish second with 196.5 points.  Jamestown College placed third with 91.5 followed by South Dakota Mines with 81, Dakota State with 61.5 and Minot State with 17.5.

The Yellow Jackets won seven of 20 events in winning the women's division with 227 points.  Dickinson State picked up seven individual championships and placed second with 212 points.  Jamestown College finished third with 125.5 with Dakota State placing fourth with 91.5, Minot State fifth with 51.5 and South Dakota Mines sixth with 35.5.

Complete results are available on the "Outdoor Track Results" page of the DAC web-site.

May 04, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference softball and baseball tournaments have had their start times pushed back due to rain.

The first round of the DAC softball tourney in Madison, SD has been postponed until Saturday and the tournament has been changed to a single elimination format.  Due to extensive rainfall, only one field is in playable condition.  The games will begin at 8:30 AM with Valley City State playing Dakota State followed by Minot State vs. Mayville State and Jamestown College against Black Hills State.  The semifinals will begin at approximately 2:30 PM with Dickinson State facing the winner of Valley City State and Dakota State, and the Minot State-Mayville State winner will face the Jamestown-Black Hills State winner at about 4:30.  The tournament championship game will be played at approximately 6:30.

Day two play at the DAC baseball tournament in Jamestown has been moved back two hours because of wet conditions.  The Dickinson State-Mayville State game has been tentatively rescheduled for 12:00 followed by Jamestown versus Dakota State at 3:00 and Valley City State will play the loser of Dakota State and Jamestown at 6:00.

May 01, 2007

(Fargo, ND) -- Midland Lutheran’s men shot a 609 and won the NAIA Region III Men’s Golf Championships in Fargo, North Dakota at the Oxbow Country Club.
 
The Warriors shot a 295 on day one and a 314 on day two and won by three strokes over second place Hastings (612).  Sioux Falls finished third in the seven team meet.
 
The individual medalist competition was won by Justin Hamilton from Morningside.  He won a three hole playoff over Nathan Schunke from Sioux Falls and Chris Rager of Morningside.  All three shot 148 for the tournament.

Minot State finished fifth with a 625 and Dickinson State placed seventh in the seven team field with a 641.  Carter Hilkewich was top DAC finisher with a tenth place tie after shooting a 154.
 
Midland Lutheran’s team and Justin Hamilton will advance to the NAIA National Men’s Golf Championships May 22-25 in South Bend, IN.

Complete regional tournament results are available on the Region III page of the NAIA web-site.

(Fargo, ND) -- Dakota Wesleyan’s women shot a 672 and won the NAIA Region III Women’s Golf Championships in Fargo, North Dakota at the Oxbow Country Club.
 
The Tigers shot a 338 on day one and a 334 on day two and won by 49 strokes over second place Hastings (721).  Midland Lutheran finished third in the seven team meet.
 
The individual medalist competition was won by Kelli Baseley from Dakota Wesleyan.  She shot a 161 for the tournament.

Dickinson State placed sixth with a 785 and Black Hills State shot a 787 to finish seventh in the seven team tournament.  Jaime Bentley of Black Hills State was the top finisher from the DAC, tying for sixth with a 172.
 
Dakota Wesleyan’s team, including Baseley, will advance to the NAIA National Women’s Golf Championships May 15-18 in San Diego, CA. 

Complete regional tournament results are available on the Region III page of the NAIA web-site.

April 24, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State captured both the men's and women's golf championships following the five Dakota Athletic Conference sponsored tournaments.

In the men's division, Dickinson State topped the standings with 17 points followed by Minot State with 16, South Dakota Mines with 9.5 and Jamestown with 7.5.  Jordon Kelly of Minot State was selected the conference Most Valuable Player; Chase Grinsteiner of Jamestown was chosen the Most Valuable Graduating Senior and Dickinson State's Tim Daniel was honored as Coach of the Year.  The All DAC Team includes Jordon Kelly and Luke Dailey of Minot State; Craig Gaube and T.J. Poulson of Dickinson State; Ryan Opdahl of Jamestown and Hank Tanner of South Dakota Mines.

Dickinson State won the women's title with 15 points.  Black Hills State was the runner-up with 14 followed by Jamestown with 11, Minot with four and South Dakota Mines with three.  Jaime Bentley of Black Hills State was selected as the DAC Most Valuable Player and shared Most Valuable Graduation Senior honors with Gretchen Bietz of Jamestown.  Tim Daniel of Dickinson State was the Coach of the Year.  The All DAC Team consists of Jaime Bentley of Black Hills State; Megan Fisher, Lyndsey Kent and Leah Grinsteiner of Dickinson State; Lisa Stever of South Dakota Mines and Gretchen Bietz of Jamestown.

A complete list of final team and individual standings can be found on the "Golf Results" page. 

The DAC golf teams return to action on Monday and Tuesday, April 30-May1 in the NAIA Region III Tournament at the Oxbow Country Club in Oxbow, ND.

April 18, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Victory Sports Network, a business dedicated to promotion of athletics in the NAIA, is sponsoring the Senior Classic All-Star Football Game on Saturday, April 21 at Pirate Stadium in Platte City, MO.  Kickoff is set for 1:00 Central Time.  Thirteen players from Dakota Athletic Conference schools will participate in the contest. 

Eight DAC players will play on "The Nationals" team that will be led by Sterling, KS, coach Andy Lambert.  The eight DAC representatives are running back Neil Graham, linebacker Shaun Sideris, offensive lineman Joseph Rohles and defensive lineman Blaine King from Minot State, and defensive back Craig Tschetter, linebacker Andy Coyle, linebacker Shad Schneider and offensive lineman Matt Ulrich of Black Hills State.

Five players will compete on "The Americans" team which is coached by Dino Kaklis of Bethel, TN.  The five DAC players are running back Erik Dirk and offensive lineman Elliot Sims of Jamestown College; defensive end Joe Maresh and defensive lineman Christopher Reid from Valley City State and offensive lineman Derek Barrios from Dakota State.

Rosters are divided in order to give the most balanced game possible with an equal number of All Americans on each team while trying to keep all players from the same school on the same team.

For more information on the VSN Classic, go to the Victory Sports Network web-site.

April 13, 2007

(Mayville, ND) -- Mayville State has announced the hiring of Justin Johnson as their new men's basketball coach.

Johnson slides over from the assistant postition to head coach in replacing Craig Smith.  Johnson was Smith's top assistant for his three year tenure at MSU.  Smith left the Comets to become the director of basketball operations at Colorado State.

“We are extremely excited to have Justin as our new head coach,” said Mayville State Athletic Director Mike Moore. “The continuity that he brings to the table is important. He has played an integral role in our program during the last three years, and has been instrumental in our success. Along with his experience, he brings great character as a person who is well-respected. He has been a workhorse involved in every aspect of the program. I’m confident that he is ready for the challenge of being a head coach.”

The 28 year old Johnson is originally from Burlington, ND and earned his undergraduate and master's degrees from North Dakota State University.  Before coming to Mayville State in 2004, Johnson was an assistant at North Dakota State University and Minot State.

April 04, 2007

(Mayville, ND) -- Mayville State head men's basketball coach Craig Smith was named the director of basketball operations at Colorado State University.

Smith took over a Comet program that was 1-27 the previous year and immediately turned the program around.  MSU went 17-14 in the 2004-05 season, Smith's first year at the helm, and advanced to the NAIA Division II tournament.  The following season, the Comets captured the DAC regular season and tournament titles and advanced to the national tournament quarterfinals, finishing with a 28-6 record - the 28 wins set a school record for wins in a season.  In the just completed season, Mayville State again won the DAC regular season and tournament crowns, before becoming the first ever DAC men's basketball team to play for a national championship. The 13th seeded Comets fell to the second seed, MidAmerica Nazarene, KS, 78-60 and concluded the improbable run with a 27-9 record.  The performance garnered Smith the Rawlings-NAIA Division II Coach of the Year award and the Comets were recognized with the Naismith/Liston Team Sportsmanship Award.

Smith's duties with the Rams will include scouting, scheduling, academic monitoring and studying game film.  He begins his new job on April 9.

The job reunites Smith with former North Dakota State coach Tim Miles, who was named CSU head coach in March.  Smith was an assistant with Miles at Mayville State in 1997-98 and again at NDSU from 2001-04.  While at NDSU, Smith's job included scouting, scheduling and recruiting.

A search for Smith's replacement at Mayville State is already under way.

March 31, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Ty Orton has been named the new Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Dickinson State University.   Coach Orton has a wealth of collegiate coaching experience and has set goals to “bring the Blue Hawks basketball team to the level of excellence that is present in other programs at DSU.”

Roger Ternes, Athletic Director at DSU, made the announcement, stating that, “"Dickinson State University is extremely pleased to have Ty Orton as our Head Men's Basketball Coach.  Ty is committed to recruiting quality young men who are serious about their academics as well as the basketball program.  His team's academic performance, graduation rates and team success were all very impressive."
 
Coach Orton comes from McCook Community College in McCook, NE.  He was the Head Coach there for five seasons.  Previously, Orton spent four seasons as an assistant coach for men and women’s basketball at Otero Junior College (La Junta, CO).
 
At MCC, Orton established himself as a defensive-minded leader who also recruited high quality student athletes; he feels confident that he can also attract the same type of successful individuals to DSU.  In his MCC tenure, 98% of Orton’s players graduated, 30 earned Academic All-NCCAC honors, 12 were named Academic All-American and four received Distinguished Academic All-American.  Four times his teams earned top-10 National Academic Honors and his 2004-05 team placed 2nd nationally. 
 
Coach Orton’s skills from the sideline have been acknowledged as well.  In 2004-05 he was named Coach of the Year for the NCCAC, East Sub-Region and Region IX.
 
As a collegian, Orton played at Eastern Wyoming Junior College (Torrington, WY), and after earning his AA in 1996, played for Rocky Mountain College (Billings, MT).  He graduated in 1998 earning his bachelor’s degree in Education.  His assistant coaching years were especially busy because Orton was simultaneously working toward his master’s degree in Exercise Physiology.   He completed his degree with Adams State College in 2003 (Alamosa, CO).
 
Orton is originally from Torrington, WY and will now take the reigns of the DSU’s men’s team after Scott Berry resigned the position at the end of the 2006-07 campaign.  The Hawks were 9-19 overall and 6-8 in the DAC this season. 

Coach Orton is optimistic when asked about the team’s near future, saying, “DSU is a place where you can win—the other programs have shown that.”  Philosophically, he believes in his approach to building a quality program.  “I am interested in recruiting the student-athlete who will be the type of person to represent the program and DSU in a positive manner.  It is important for them to understand the value of being an outstanding teammate.”

Ternes also stated that "Coach Orton has five years of experience as a head coach, community leader and fundraiser.  He is a blue-collar man who will roll up his sleeves and get the job done!"

Orton is married, and his wife Michelle also has a basketball coaching background, being the Head Coach of Women’s Basketball at MCC.

March 28, 2007

(Minot, ND) -- Johnna Lewis has been named the new head volleyball and assistant track and field coach at Minot State University. Lewis is currently the Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at Williston State College. Lewis led her 2006 team to a Junior College National Tournament Appearance and a Region XIII Championship. She was also named the District O Coach of the Year. In 2005, Lewis led her team to a Region XIII and MonDak Conference Championship. She was named the MonDak Coach of the year in 2005 as well. Over the past two years, Lewis has led her WSC team to 46 wins and just 27 losses.

Prior to Williston State, Lewis was the Head Volleyball Coach at Bottineau High School. Lewis led the Stars to a second place finish in Region 6 in 2003 and 2004. She also led Bottineau to a seventh place finish at State in February of 2002 and a third place finish at State in November of 2002. This was during the time Volleyball switched from a winter sport to a fall sport in North Dakota High schools. Lewis accumulated an outstanding high school record of 109 wins, 31 losses, and 2 ties.

Lewis is a graduate of Minot High School where she was an outstanding volleyball player. She also played for Minot State University-Bottineau in 1999 and 2000. Lewis has a Bachelors Degree from Minot State University and is currently working toward her masters at MSU.

"We are excited to have Johnna joining our volleyball and track and field programs. She has demonstrated that she is a very competent coach and recruiter at the college level. I’m looking forward to working with her," stated MSU Athletic Director Rick Hedberg.

March 27, 2007

(Valley City, ND) -- Valley City State University Athletic Director Doug Peters announced that Cory Anderson has decided not to return to the university after the completion of the academic year.

Anderson, who serves as the head baseball coach, offensive coordinator for the football team and sports information director, has been an integral part of the VCSU Family for the past 23 years as a student-athlete, coach and administrator.

"I can’t begin to describe what Coach Anderson has meant to VCSU. When I think of the influence he has had on me his professionalism, loyalty, and high standards come to mind, but what I will always think of is a friend and role model." stated Peters. "He is a person I try and spend time around because I like him, but more importantly because he is someone I respect and can learn from."

Another indicator of Anderson’s impact is coaching victories. The head baseball coach since 1992, Anderson is seven wins shy of passing the legendary Jim Dew to become the all-time leader in wins at Valley City State University. Dew and Anderson have been the only baseball coaches and offensive play-callers at Valley City State University in the last 35 years.

Under his guidance, six baseball players have signed professional contracts while four players have been named the most valuable player in the conference. The Anderson era has also produced 12 NAIA All-Americans, 11 NAIA Scholar Athletes, 17 NAIA All-Region players and 57 All-Conference performers.  Twice his baseball teams have set the school record for victories in a season with the 2003 team being the latest to accomplish the feat.

Anderson began coaching football at VCSU in 1991 as a secondary coach before becoming the offensive coordinator for the Vikings in 1994 and helping them to conference championships in 1996, 2000, 2005 and three national playoff appearances.
Anderson offenses have set 51 school records and have produced eight NAIA All-Americans, 18 NAIA Scholar Athletes and 47 All-Conference performers.  The Vikings have had five offensive players in the Anderson era receive the Conference Player of the Year or Most Valuable Graduating Senior award.

With a quarterback-friendly offense, each of Andersons past five starting quarterbacks has gained all-conference recognition in their tenure at the position. Mikah Boudreaux began the string in 1996, followed by Jeremy Peschel in 2000 and 2001, Mark Fabian in 2003, Chad Lueck in 2005, and Jason Beilke in 2006.

A native of McVille, ND, Anderson played on two conference baseball championship teams and was a two-time all-conference player at VCSU while also setting a school record for pitching wins in a season in 1986, broken by one of his players, Eric Olson in 1999. In 1987, Anderson helped the Vikings advance to their first-ever NAIA Regional Tournament.

While attending VCSU Anderson was also a member of two conference football championship teams as a punter and quarterback. The 1988 football team advanced to the NAIA playoffs.

Both the 1987 baseball and 1988 football teams he was a member of were inducted in the Viking Hall of Fame.

Still an active member in North Dakota Amateur Baseball, Anderson has three times been named North Dakota Amateur Baseball Most Valuable Player (‘89, 92, ‘96) while helping his team as a player/coach to 12 North Dakota State Baseball Championships. He was also named MVP of the South Dakota-North Dakota Championships in 1992. In 1999, Anderson served as President of North Dakota Amateur Baseball Inc., was a former long time Baseball Chairman of the NDCAC and DAC conference and is currently the NAIA Region III Baseball Chair.

Anderson is the second member of the VCSU Athletic Department to resign. Peters earlier resigned to become the Athletic Director at Minnesota State-Moorhead.   He assumes his duties at MSU-M on July 1.

March 26, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The NAIA has announced the Scholar-Athlete honorees for the 2006-07 men's and women's basketball season.  The DAC placed 14 men and 11 women on the academic honors list.

The DAC men who earned NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors are: Black Hills State's Jacob Deines from Ravenna, NE; Dickinson State's  Dan Barraclough from Laramie, WY and Drew Erhardt from Center, ND; Jamestown College's Kellen Bubach from West Fargo, ND; Mayville State's Reid Flaagan from Beulah, ND, Derek Gathman from Devils Lake, ND and Brandon Schafer from Mandan, ND; Minot State's Drew Hysjulien from Grand Forks, ND; South Dakota Mines' Brandon Fredrickson from Fort Collins, CO, Matt Lyndoe from Custer, SD, Casey Schmitz from Williston, ND, Brandon Smith from Amenia, ND and Blake Tideman from Winner, SD and Valley City State's Jonathan Lindahl from Cando, ND.

The DAC women who earned NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition are: Dakota State's Sara Nelson from Dell Rapids, SD; Dickinson State's Tammi Vasiljevik from Skopje, Macedonia; Mayville State's Erika Anderson from Wyndmere, ND and Michell Halvorson from Oklee, MN; Minot State's Jenny Castro from Dillon, MT; South Dakota Mines' Amber DeWeerd from Rock Valey, IA and Melanie Vedvei from Lake Preston, SD and Valley City State's Molly Schultz from Casselton, ND Loni Hall from Parshall, ND, Mallory Undlin from Lansford, ND and Abby Dralle from Moffit, ND.

A complete list of NAIA Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.  

March 13, 2007

(Point Lookouot, MO) -- Mayville State saw their run to the national championship come to an end with a 78-60 setback to MidAmerica Nazarene, KS in the championship game of the NAIA Division II Men's National Basketball Tournament in Point Lookout, MO.

The thirteenth seeded Comets jumped out to an 11-0 lead in the first four minutes of the game.  MNU chipped away at the lead throughout the remainder of the half, tying the contest at 31-31 at halftime.  MSU scored the first field goal of the second half to make it 33-31, but the second seeded Pioneers responded with an 11-0 run to take their first lead of the ballgame and build it to 42-33.  MNU expanded the lead to as much as twenty points in picking up the victory and the national championship.

MSU shot just 31.5% from the field, including just 13.3% from beyond the three point stripe in the game.

Senior Monty Rogers, who was named an NAIA First Team All American prior to the championship game, led the Comets with 28 points and nine rebounds. Matthew Stenehjem added nine points and four rebounds.  Rogers also ended up as the leading scorer in the tournament with 110 points in five games.

Rogers, Stenehjem and Ron Howard were named to the All-Tournament team.  Coach Craig Smith was named the Rawlings-NAIA National Division II Coach of the Year.  The Comets were also recognized with the Naismith/Liston Team Sportsmanship Award.

Mayville State, the first DAC men's team to play in a basketball national championship game, ended their season with a 27-9 record. 

 
March 13, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Three players from the Dakota Athletic Conference were named NAIA Basketball All Americans, while nine others earned Honorable Mention recognition.

Mayville State's Monty Rogers was the lone men's All American from the DAC, being named to the First Team.  Rogers, a senior, forward from Murray, UT, helped lead the Comets to the DAC regular season and tournament championship and to the NAIA Division II National Championship game.  He was named the DAC Most Valuable Player after averaging 18.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per game during the regular season.

Four DAC men's players were Honorable Mention recipients.   They are Dakota State, junior, forward Joe Backus from Wentworth, SD; Jamestown College, senior, guard Lawrence Brooks from Racine, WI; Jamestown College, junior, center Kyle Iverson from Elgin, ND and Mayville State, senior, guard Ronald Howard from Moreno Valley, CA.

Mayville State Coach Craig Smith was named the Rawlings-NAIA National Division II Coach of the Year after leading the thirteenth seeded Comets to the runner-up finish at the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament.

Melanie Vedvei of South Dakota Mines was named to the women's First Team and Brittany Klipfel of Black Hills State was chosen to the Second Team.   Vedvei, a junior, guard from Preston, SD, was named the DAC Most Valuable Player for the second straight season.  She led the league in scoring with 19.0 points per game and steals with 3.9 per game.  She also averaged 7.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists per outing.  Klipfel, a senior, forward from Forbes, ND, was the DAC Most Valuable Senior after averaging 15.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest.

Five DAC women's players were selected for Honorable Mention recognition.  They are Dakota State, junior, forward Jessica VanLoy from Wabasso, MN; Mayville State, junior, center Laura Big Crow from Pine Ridge, SD; Minot State, sophomore, guard Kendra Meyer from Prior Lake, MN; Valley City State, senior, forward Mallory Undlin from Lansford, ND and Valley City State, senior, center Loni Hall from Parshall, ND.

Complete lists of the All America teams and Honorable Mention selections can be found on the NAIA web-site. 

March 12, 2007

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Mayville State used a balanced attack and a strong contribution from the bench to defeat Northwest, WA, 74-65 and advance to the championship game of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament in Point Lookout, MO.

The Comets had four players in double figures and outscored Northwest 24 to eight from the bench to post the victory and advance to their first ever national title contest.  Ronald Howard had 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists and three steals and Matthew Stenehjem had 16 points, five rebounds and three blocked shots to lead the team.  Monty Rogers chipped in 12 points and four rebounds and Scott Theis led the bench with ten points.

The teams traded the lead throughout the game with Northwest leading 35-34 at half.  The Comets outscored Northwest 40-30 in the second half to pick up the win and improve to 27-8 on the season.

Aaron Sawyer led Northwest with 18 points and 11 rebounds.   Chris Keller added 13 points and Stephen Ishmael chipped in 11 as they wrapped up the season with a 27-9 record.

Mayville State, the thirteenth seed in the tournament, will face number two MidAmerica Nazarene, KS (33-2) in the national title contest at 8:30 Tuesday night. MidAmerica Nazarene defeated number eleven Northwestern, IA, 81-71 in the semifinals.  The Comets are the first men's team from the Dakota Athletic Conference to advance to the national championship game.
 

March 10, 2007

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Mayville State held off a late rally from Cedarville, OH and posted an 82-81 triumph in the quarterfinals of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament in Point Lookout, MO.

Mayville State took the lead 35-34 with less than six minutes remaining in the first half and built it up to thirteen after a 13-1 spurt..   Cedarville cut the lead to two with 12 minutes left in the game and down to one in the waning moments of the contest but couldn't reclaim the lead.

Ronald Howard led the Comets with 26 points and seven rebounds.   Monty Rogers scored 20 points along with eight rebounds and leads the tournament in scoring with 80 points in three games.  Matthew Stenehjem added 14 points and eight rebounds and Tremel Gilot came off the bench to contribute 12 points.  The Comets struggled from the field, shooting just 46% and only 24% on three point tries.

The Yellow Jackets struggled from the floor as well, connecting on only 42% of their field goals and 28% from beyond the three point stripe.  Ricardo Alliman led three Cedarville players in double figures with 16 points.  Eric Leininger added 12 points and Guy Rathmell had a double-double with 12 points and 11 boards.

Mayville State, the 13th seed in the tournament, advances to their first ever Final Four with a 26-8 record.  The Comets will face number 16 Northwest, WA at 6:00 Monday in the national semifinals.  Northwest defeated Cornerstone, MI 98-69 to improve to 27-8 and advance to the semifinals.  Monday's second semifinal will feature number two MidAmerica Nazarene, KS (32-2) against number eleven Northwestern, IA (26-8) at 8:00.

March 10, 2007

(Johnson City, TN) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference had seven individual champions and two men's teams and one women's team in the top ten at the NAIA National Indoor Track and Field Meet in Johnson City, TN.

Dickinson State was the top DAC team in the men's standings, finishing in third place with 59 points and Black Hills State placed eighth with 27 points.  Azusa Pacific, CA won the team title with 83 points with Oklahoma Baptist finishing as the runner-up with 62.  South Dakota Mines was the only other DAC school to score.  They were in a tie for 38th place with one point.

Black Hills State finished fifth in the women's team standings with 44 points.  Oklahoma Baptist won the championship with 52.33 points with Wayland Baptist, TX second with 51.  Minot State and South Dakota Mines tied for 19th place with ten points and Dickinson State tied for 38th with one point.

Black Hills State had four individual national championships.   Aubrey Baxter was a double national champion, winning both the women's shot put and weight throw.  Baxter also set an NAIA record in the weight throw with a toss of 61 feet, 10.5 inches.  Wesleigh Jastorff captured the national crown in the women's 800 meters and Eric Flores won the men's weight throw.

Dickinson State's Ramon Miller set a new meet record in winning the men's 400 meters.  Miller set the new mark of 46.95, which shattered the old mark of 47.31.

The other DAC individual champions were Shannon Hellman of South Dakota Mines in the women's 60 meter hurdles and Genevieve Binsfeld of Minot State in the women's 3000 meters.

Other men's place finishers from the DAC are: Dickinson State - 2nd in the 4x400 relay; Kevin McElvaney, 2nd in the heptathlon; Dominic Goodman 2nd in the long jump and 2nd in the triple jump; Sergio Jimenez, 3rd in the 1000 meters; Jameson Strachan, 4th in the 400 meters; Jamal Forbes, 4th in the 60 meters; Roosevelt Curry, 5th in the long jump and Mike Thompson, 6th in the triple jump.  Black Hills State - Flores, 4th in the shot put; Tyg Long, 2nd in the weight throw and 5th in the shot put; James Hansen, 6th in the 3000 meters and Cody Bordewyk, 6th in the 3000 meters.  South Dakota Mines - Jake Donnelly, 6th in the 200.

Other women's place finishers from the DAC are: Black Hills State - Amber Brodersen, 3rd in the shot put; Wendey O'Lexey, 4th in the 3000 meters and 4th in the 4x800 relay.  Dickinson State - Rose Jepkirui, 6th in the 5000 meters.

Complete meet results are available on the NAIA web-site.

March 09, 2007

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Mayville State ended the Cinderella run of Florida Memorial as they defeated the Lions, 88-72, in the last game of the quarterfinal round of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball National Tournament in Point Lookout, MO.

In a first half which featured nine lead changes, Mayville State went on the first big run and turned a 25-18 deficit into a 32-29 halftime lead. Both teams struggled to find their shooting touch in the first half, as both shot just 35%. Although the Lions remained close early in the second half, the Comets surged ahead by double digits with five minutes left in the contest. The Comets clinched the game going 9-9 from the free throw line in the closing minutes.

Mayville State shot 47% from the floor, 35% from beyond the arc in the win. Defensively, Mayville limited Florida Memorial to just 39% from the field., including 22% from the three point stripe.

After connecting on 37 of 60 free throws in the opening round, the Comets held the advantage at the charity stripe, making 24-36 free throw attempts. Ronald Howard led Mayville State with 28 points. Monty Rogers added 21 points and a game-high 13 rebounds for the Comets. Marques Benjamin came off the bench to contribute 13 points and Andy Parachka added ten points.

Florida Memorial was once again led by Tramaine Stevens, the nation's leading scorer, with 24 points. Andre Beuford and Daniel Garcia scored 20 and 14 points, respectively. The Lions were making just their second appearance ever at the national tournament and close the season with a 16-13 mark.

Mayville State, who is in their third straight national tournament, moves on with a 25-8 overall record. They will advance to the Elite Eight where they will face #12 Cedarville, OH on Saturday at 8:00 pm. The 32-team, single elimination tournament concludes Tuesday, March 13.

March 08, 2007

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Mayville State made and attempted more free throws than field goals in a 101-86 win over William Penn, IA in the opening round of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament in Point Lookout, MO.

The Comets made 37 of 60 free throws in a game that saw 65 total fouls and 86 total free throws.  William Penn had five players foul out as they set a new tournament record with 41 fouls, shattering the old record of 36 set by Robert Morris, IL, in 2000

MSU converted on 30 of 55 from the field, including 4 of 11 from the three point line in posting the opening round victory.

The Comets led 46-39 at half and oustscored William Penn 55-47 in the second half to advance to the second round of the tournament.

Monty Rogers led MSU with 29 points and added six rebounds.  Matthew Stenehjem had 23 points and six boards.  Andy Parachka chipped in with 12 points and Marques Benjamin came off the bench to score ten.

William Penn's Ryan Norman made 18 of 19 free throws and led all scorers with 34 and had a game high ten rebounds as his team ended the season with a 25-9 record.

The thirteenth seeded Comets (24-8) will face Florida Memorial at 9:45 PM on Friday night in the second round.  Florida Memorial (16-12) upset the third seed, Huntington, IN, 67-64.

For more information on the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball National Championship visit the NAIA web-site. 

March 07, 2007

(Sioux City, IA) -- Taylor University, IN, a number six seed in their bracket, pulled the first upset of the tournament, knocking off the third seed, Dakota State University, SD, 67-56, in first round action at the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball National Championship at the Tyson Events Center/Gateway Arena in Sioux City, IA.

Ironically, it was Dakota State who helped Taylor earn their bid to the tournament. A win by DSU in their conference championship allowed Taylor an at-large bid.

The Lady Trojans of Taylor trailed by as many as four before going on an 11-0 run midway through the opening frame to take a 24-13 lead. The Taylor lead swelled to as many as 16 before taking a 39-25 cushion into the lockerroom at halftime.

In the second half Taylor pushed their lead to 20 (58-38) with 9:12 left in the second half. Dakota State then started to chip away, pulling within 11 with just inside of five minutes, but would get no closer.

Taylor was led in scoring by the duo of Katie Madden and Jenny Dawes who had a dozen each. Madden notched the double-double, grabbing 11 rebounds. As a team the Lady Trojans shot an even 50 percent from the field to help offset 26 turnovers.

Jill Hansen’s 16 points led Dakota State and Maria Gengler came off the bench to contribute 12 points and a team high nine rebounds. The Lady T's end their season at 21-11 after shooting just 33 percent from the field.

For more information on the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball National Championship visit the NAIA web-site.

March 03, 2007

(Sioux City, IA) -- Dickinson State had their best ever showing with a third place finish at the NAIA National Wrestling Tournament in Sioux City, IA.   Lindenwood, MO won the team title with 177 points, followed by Embry-Riddle, AZ with 110, DSU with 107, Dana, NE with 100 and Cumberland, KY with 96

The Blue Hawks had seven place finishers of their eleven wrestlers who qualified for national competition.  Justin Schlecht captured his second consecutive national title at 197 pounds to lead DSU. Schlecht, who was named the NAIA-NWCA Outstanding Wrestler of the Year, improved to 37-3 with a pin over Brian Frichtman of MSU-Northern in the title match  Shane Bennett (28-8) was the runner-up at 165, losing the championship match by a 9-8 score to defending champ Jake Dieffenbach of Lindenwood.  Clay Rogers placed fourth at heavyweight; Joe Espejo was sixth at heavyweight; Eli Huizar finished seventh at 133; Mark Johnston was eighth at 125 and Stanton Schlecht was eighth at 174.

Jamestown College placed 22nd with 13.5 points.  The Jimmies received the Buffalo Funds Champions of Character Team Award.

Complete results of the national tournament are available on the NAIA web-site.  

February 27, 2007

(Mayville, ND) -- Mayville State added the Dakota Athletic Conference Tournament title to their regular season championship with an 85-74 victory over South Dakota Mines.

The Comets led 46-30 at the half and held off a charge in the second half from the Hardrockers to secure their third trip to the NAIA Division II National Tournament under Coach Craig Smith.

Ron Howard led the Comets with 21 points.  Andy Parochka added 15 points and six rebounds and Monty Rogers chipped in 15 points and six boards.

The Hardrockers were led by Casey Schmitz with 16 points and seven rebounds and Matt Lyndoe with 16 points and five boards.  Andrew Brown added 12 points, a game high nine rebounds and four assists as South Dakota Mines saw their season come to an end with a 16-15 record.

The Comets (23-8) are the thirteenth seed at the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament in Point Lookout, MO and will face William Penn, IA (25-8) at 9:15 PM on Thursday, March 8.

Following the game, the All Conference Teams and Post-Season Awards were released.  For a complete list, go to the Men's Basketball All Conference page of the DAC web-site.

(Madison, SD) -- Dakota State built a double-digit lead in the first half and added to it in the second half to post an 87-67 victory over South Dakota Mines in the Dakota Athletic Conference Tournament championship game.

The Lady T's shot a blistering 55.4% from the field earn a second consecutive trip to the NAIA Division II National Tournament and add the DAC tournament championship to their regular season crown.

Angela Carr led five players in double-figures with 17 points and four assists.  Jessica VanLoy had 13 points, six rebounds and three steals; Laura Tewes had ten points, a team high 13 boards and three blocks and Nicole Gereats and Jill Hansen each had ten points and six assists.

Hardrockers guard Melanie Vedvei had an outstanding performance with a game high 34 points, along with 13 rebounds, eight steals and three assists.  Bethany Holyoak had 11 points and Amber DeWeerd added ten points and seven rebounds as the Hardrockers' season came to a close with a 20-11 record.

The Lady T's (21-10) are the number three seed in their bracket at the NAIA Division II Women's National Tournament in Sioux City, IA and will face Taylor, IN (21-11) in the opening round at 5:45 on Wednesday, March 7.

Following the game, the All Conference Teams and Post-Season Awards were released.  For a complete list, go to the Women's Basketball All Conference page of the DAC web-site. 

February 24, 2007

(Spearfish, SD) -- The Dickinson State men captured their third consecutive team title and the Black Hills State women won their second straight team championship at the Dakota Athletic Conference Indoor Track and Field Meet at Black Hills State.

The Blue Hawk men won 11 of 18 events to grab the conference crown.  DSU scored 265 points to top the field.  Black Hills State finished second with 202.5 points followed by Jamestown College with 90, South Dakota Mines with 75, Dakota State with 33.5 and Minot State with 19.

The Blue Hawks also set four new meet records.  Ramon Miller tied the mark of former DSU runner Aaron Cleare in the 400 meters (:48.76) and Dominic Goodman broke the Triple Jump record (50' 00.25"). Porfirio Parra set the 5000 meter record in its first year in the conference meet (15:24.00) and Kevin McElvaney set the mark in the first year of the Heptathlon (4369 points).

The Yellow Jackets won seven of the 18 events en route to the women's team crown.  BHSU scored 212.5 points in winning the conference championship.   Dickinson State was the runner-up with 196.16 followed by Jamestown College with 101, Dakota State with 62, South Dakota Mines with 45.83 and Minot State with 43.50.

Shannon Hellman of South Dakota Mines and Wesleigh Jastorff of Black Hills State were the top performers of the meet with three individual championships.   Hellman won the 200 meters, 400 meters and the 55 meter hurdles.  Jastorff captured the mile run, 800 meters and 3000 meters.  Liz McCarty of Jamestown and Aubrey Baxter of Black Hills State won two events each. McCarty won the Pentathlon and the Long Jump and Baxter won the Shot Put and the Weight Throw.

Five meet marks were surpassed in the women's competition.   Baxter set new records in the Shot Put (50' 11.75") and the Weight Throw (63' 02").  Hellman set the 55 meter hurdle record (:08.11) and Jastorff set the new mark in the 800 meters (2:14.89).  Rose Jepkiroi of Dickinson State set the 5000 meter record (18:17.39) in its first year in the meet.

Complete results of the meet are available on the "Indoor Track Results" page of the DAC web-site.

February 19, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) --  After four seasons at Dickinson State University and a 54-63 overall record, Scott Berry, Head Coach of Men’s Basketball, has announced his resignation effective at the conclusion of the 2006-07 season. This is Coach Berry’s 26th season coaching basketball in various programs, including the junior high, high school, college, and international levels.

Coach Berry commented, "It has been my privilege to be a teacher in the Education Department and a coach in the strongest athletic program in the Dakota Athletic Conference."

DSU won the DAC-10 Tournament in Berry’s first season (2003-04) and they went on to the NAIA II National Basketball Tournament. The Hawks finished the year at 24-8. An even brighter future seemed possible because the Blue Hawks had many key players slated to return in the fall of 2004, but a series of major injuries befell the Blue Hawks and the team dropped to 10-19 overall and 9-9 in the DAC in 2004-05.

Coach Berry remarked, "Unfortunately the basketball program, under my direction, has not been able to sustain the level of excellence that the University, the athletic program, the students, and the community of Dickinson deserve." However, he was grateful for the opportunity, adding his thanks "to Dr. Lee Vickers, President of Dickinson State University and Athletic
Director Roger Ternes for the opportunity to teach and coach at Dickinson State University. It is because of their leadership that an environment has been created that expects and supports excellence."

Ternes acknowledged Berry’s dedication stating, "We appreciate the energy and effort Coach Berry brought to the program. He gave a lot to the job." Of course, Ternes knows that Berry must do "what is best for himself and his family."

Ternes also stated, "We will begin an immediate search for a new head men’s basketball coach at Dickinson State University."

DSU will play Tuesday, February 20, in Rapid City, SD at 7:00 PM against South Dakota Mines in the opening round of the DAC Tournament.

February 17, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Defending NAIA National Champion Dana, NE captured the team title at the NAIA North Region Wrestling Tournament at Scott Gymnasium on the campus of Dickinson State.

Dana scored 175.5 points to win the team title.  The host Blue Hawks were the runner-up with 167 points.  Morningside, IA was third with 109.5 points, followed by Northwestern, IA with 86; Jamestown College with 79; Dakota Wesleyan, SD with 43; Sioux Falls, SD with 38 and Briar Cliff, IA with  26.

Dickinson State had the most individual champions with four.   Dana crowned three individual champions and Morningside, Northwestern and Jamestown each had one.

The Blue Hawks' individual champions were Mark Johnston at 125, Shane Bennett at 165, Justin Schlecht at 197 and Joe Espejo at 285.  The Jimmies' lone champion was Grant Mehring at 149.

The Blue Hawks and Jimmies are now idle until the NAIA National Tournament in Sioux City, IA March 2-3.

Complete results from the regional tournament are available on the NAIA website.   

February 17, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Several Dakota Athletic Conference players have been honored by the Don Hansen Football Gazette for their performances during the 2006 season.

Valley City State's Joe Maresh was chosen as the NAIA Defensive Lineman of the Year.  Maresh, a senior from Glencoe, MN, broke the VCSU career record for tackles-for-a-loss with 45.5.  He also recorded  23 sacks during his time in a Viking uniform.  In 2006, Maresh recorded 57 tackles and set the single-season record for tackles-for-a-loss with 22 and sacks with 10.5.

Jake Stoltz of Jamestown College was selected as the NAIA Special Teams Player of the Year.  Stoltz, a junior from Gilbert, AZ, led the NAIA in punt returns with an 18.5 yards per return averaged and returned two punts for touchdowns.   He also averaged 26.4 yards per kick return and scored once on a kick return.

Maresh and Stoltz were also among five DAC players to be named to the Football Gazette's First Team All America squad.  The other first team selections are Minot State senior defensive tackle Chase Spencer; Valley City State sophomore defensive back Chauncey Calhoun and Black Hills State junior defensive back Tanner Tetrault.

The DAC also had four players selected to the second team and one to the third team.  The second team selections are Dickinson State senior offensive lineman J.R. Foreman; Jamestown College senior offensive lineman Elliot Sims;   Dickinson State senior defensive end Brenner Flaten and Black Hills State junior defensive lineman Rodney Wasch.  The lone third team honoree is Black Hills State junior center Matt Frankenfield.

Honorable Mention selections are Jamestown College senior running back Eric Dirk; Jamestown College senior tight end Tyler Stowers; Dickinson State senior receiver Tyler Greff; Jamestown College offensive lineman Robert Spencer; Black Hills State senior linebacker Shad Schneider and Dakota State senior defensive back Brian Melvin.

A complete list of All Americans and post-season award winners can be found on the Football Gazette website. 

February 16, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The pairings are now set for the 2006-07 Dakota Athletic Conference men's and women's basketball tournaments.

The men's tournament tips-off on Tuesday, February 20.  First round pairings have top seed and regular season champion Mayville State (11-3/20-8) hosting #8 Dakota State (1-13/2-26); #5 Minot State (7-7/14-14) travels to #4 Valley City State (8-6/13-14); #6 Dickinson State (6-8/9-18) goes to #3 South Dakota Mines (9-5/14-14) and #2 Jamestown College (9-5/18-10) is at home to face #7 Black Hills State (5-9/10-18).   All first round games will start at 7:00.  The semifinal round will be played on Friday, February 23 with the championship contest on Monday, February 26.

The women's tournament begins play on Wednesday, February 21.   First round match-ups have top-seed and regular season champion Dakota State (10-4/18-10) at home to face #8 Dickinson State (2-12/5-22); #4 Black Hills State (7-7/16-12) is at home versus #5 Jamestown (7-7/14-14); #6 Minot State (7-7/20-8) goes to #3 Valley City State (8-6/18-10) and #7 Mayville State (7-7/16-12) travels to #2 South Dakota Mines (8-6/18-10).  All first round games will start at 7:00.  The semifinals will take place on Saturday, February 24 and the title contest on Tuesday, February 27.

The tournament champions will qualify for the NAIA Division II National Tournaments.  The men's national tourney is March 8-14 in Point Lookout, MO and the women's tournament is March 8-14 in Sioux City, IA.    

 
February 12, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference post-season basketball tournaments get under way Tuesday, February 20 for men and Wednesday, February 21 for women. 

In the event of a tie in the final conference standings, the following procedure will be followed:
  1. Head to head competition. In cases involving more than two teams, the tied teams are considered to be in the same position and total record versus all teams involved will be used.
  2. Head to head competition with all teams in conference play. Starting with the number one team in the final standings, compare records versus each team in descending order until the tie is broken. Tied teams are considered to be in the same positions and total record versus all teams involved will be used.
  3. Win-loss percentage against all NAIA Division II Non-conference opponents. The higher winning percentage will break the tie, even if the number of games are unequal; in the case of a tied percentage versus the team or group of 1.000 or .000, the following shall apply: 2-0 is better than 1-0; 0-1 is better than 0-2.
  4. Coin toss conducted by the commissioner.

The men's semifinals and championship will held on February 23 and February 26, while the women's semifinals and championship will be held on February 24 and February 27 at the home of the higher seed.

The tournament champions will represent the DAC at the NAIA Division II National Tournaments.  The men's national tournament will be held March 8-14 at Point Lookout, MO and the women's tournament is March 8-14 in Sioux City, IA

February 08, 2007

Story courtesy of Cory Anderson, Valley City State Sports Information Director

(Valley City, ND) -- The Valley City State University community is saddened with the passing of our most notable icon, Bill Osmon. A long-time coach, athletic director, and friend for whom the university's fieldhouse is named, Osmon passed away on Tuesday, February 6, 2007 while wintering in Mesa, Arizona.

A native of McVille, ND, Osmon was a 1942 graduate of Valley City State College. He received his Master's Degree from the University of Northern Colorado and did advanced work at the University of California.

He began his coaching career at Valley City High School. After brief coaching stints at Jamestown High School and Laramie, Wyoming, he became head basketball coach at Valley City State College in 1947 and assumed the duties of athletic director the following year.

Teams coached by Bill Osmon won a total of 24 conference championships in four different sports. He retired from basketball coaching in 1969 to devote full attention to his duties as Athletic Director. He served as chairman of NAIA District 12 for 20 years and in 1979 was named to the NAIA Hall of Fame.

Osmon's dedication to his work earned him the 1981 Special Achievement Award from the North Dakota Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

In 1986, Osmon became a member of the first class to be inducted into the Viking Hall of Fame.

DuWayne Bott, who played basketball under Osmon from 1955 to 1958, offered insight on the 'legendary' status of Osmon.

"Bill was the kind of man who demanded performance. He knew very well how to handle a bunch of men, get them to pull together and sacrifice to weld a good team," said Bott.  "We were in terrific condition and played a fast paced style of basketball which was way ahead of its time and was fun for the public to watch."

Bill Osmon retired December 31, 1982, after serving the university for 35 years as coach, teacher and athletic director. The Valley City State University fieldhouse was officially named the W.E. Osmon Building for Physical Education on October 15, 1983.

Osmon's legacy continued after his retirement with the beginning of the Bill Osmon Fun Run in October of 1983. The annual ‘Fun Run' kicks off the VCSU homecoming activities. Osmon has appeared each of the past 24 years as the official ‘starter' of the opening homecoming event.

VCSU President Dr. Ellen Chaffee expressed her heartfelt condolences to Leone and the Osmon family. "Bill was a kind, thoughtful person, a central figure at VCSU for 70 years. I quickly became one of the multitudes who attended reunions and other events specifically hoping that Bill and Leone would be there. They always were."

In memory of Bill and the number of lives that he touched and influenced, a website has been set up for individuals to share thoughts and memories with the family and VCSU community. The website address is http://gonzo.vcsu.edu/blogs/vikings/.

January 30, 2007

(Minot, ND) -- Minot State University Athletic Director Rick Hedberg has announced the resignation of head volleyball and softball coach Dana Fiedler

Fiedler has given her letter of resignation effective at the conclusion of the 2007 Softball season. Fiedler has been the head volleyball coach at Minot State for the past 14 seasons and the head softball coach for the past nine years.

During her tenure as the volleyball coach, she compiled a record of 216 wins, 237 losses. During this time Fiedler recruited and coached 23 All-Conference players, four All-Region Players, and three All-American Honorable Mention Athletes. Fiedler’s teams also excelled in the classroom with 10 Academic All-Americans. Fiedler was also named NDCAC Coach of the Year in 1994 and DAC Coach of the Year in 2005.

Fiedler will finish her career as softball coach this season in her ninth year. In 2006 the Lady Beavers finished second in the DAC with a DAC record of 12-6. In the past six years, Fiedler has led the Lady Beavers to an overall record of 137 wins, 103 losses with a DAC record of 85 wins and 55 losses. During Fielder’s tenure she recruited and coached nine All-Conference players, six All-Region, and one All-American. She also had eight Academic All-Americans.

Fiedler has resigned in order to "explore other career choices."

"I have enjoyed my experiences at Minot State University. I have had the opportunity to work with some tremendous student-athletes and coaches," said Fiedler. "I would like to thank the University and the terrific fans for their support over the years."

"We appreciate Dana’s dedication and commitment to MSU and the athletic department for the last 14 years. Her student-athletes always represented the university well on the court and field as well as in the classroom. Dana is a quality person and we wish her well," stated MSU Athletic Director Rick Hedberg.

A search for a replacement will begin immediately.

January 30, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- Defending DAC champion Dickinson State and runner-up Jamestown college share the top spot in the 2007 Dakota Athletic Conference Preseason Baseball Coaches' Poll.

The Blue Hawks (13-5 in the DAC/33-21 overall in 2006) and Jimmies (14-6/38-11) each received three first place votes and 23 points to tie for first in the poll.  Dakota State (8-6/34-16) is fourth with 18 points, followed by Mayville State (12-8/31-21-1) with 13 points, Valley City State (1-15/14-33) with nine points and Minot State (6-14/16-32) with five points.

The poll was conducted by the Dakota Athletic Conference.

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State has been tabbed to repeat as conference champions in the 2007 Dakota Athletic Conference Preseason Softball Coaches' Poll. 

The Blue Hawks (16-2 in the DAC/42-7 overall in 2006) received six first place ballots and 36 points to top the poll.  Jamestown (12-8/31-18) received the final first place selection with 27 points to place second.  Minot State (12-6/21-21) is third with 26 points with Valley City State 4-12/36-19) in fourth with 23 points and Dakota State (3-9/20-26) fifth with 16 points.  Black Hills State, in their first season of play, finished sixth with ten points and Mayville State (5-15/20-24) seventh with eight points.

The poll was conducted by the Dakota Athletic Conference.

January 29, 2007

(Sioux Falls, SD) -- The Sioux Falls Storm of United Indoor Football (UIF) is pleased to announce the signing of former Dakota State wide receiver Tommy Hofer for the 2007 season.

Hofer, a Lennox, SD native, put together an impressive college career for the Trojans.   Hofer finished his career with 256 receptions, 3,456 yards, and 26 touchdowns.   Hofer owns the DSU career record in all three categories.  The 5'10 185 lb. receiver was named a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) First-Team All-American after his senior campaign in 2005.  During 2005, Hofer hauled in 70 receptions and set a DSU record for most receiving yards in a season with 1,097. Hofer also holds the DSU record for most receptions in a season with 86, which he set in 2003.  

Hofer spent part of 2006 as a member of the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League, where he made the opening day roster before being released last June.

Storm President Colin Steen says, "Tommy is a huge addition to our football team.   We expect to see him making a lot of plays for us and with his local ties, I'm sure it won't hurt our attendance."

Season tickets for the 2007 season are on sale now.  Call the Storm office at 332-4225 to reserve your seats for 'The Greatest Show in Town" as the Storm look for three championships in a row in 2007.

January 18, 2007

(Madison, SD) -- Dakota State has announced the hiring of Thomas Shea as their new head football coach.

Shea, a DSU alumnus with 34 years of coaching experience, has a record of success at his former coaching positions.  He lead Peru State College (NE) to the NAIA Division II National Championship in 1990 and was named NAIA National Coach of the Year.  He led the University of Mary (ND) to the NAIA National Playoffs three times, advancing to the quarterfinals in 1993 and the semifinals in 1995.

During his collegiate coaching career, Shea has complied a 99-63-3 record. He was most recently the assistant head football coach and recruiting coordinator at Upper Iowa University.

Shea has been honored as conference coach of the year seven times. He is a member of the Dakota State Atheltic Hall of Fame, the South Dakota Intercollegiate Conference (SDIC) Hall of Fame, the Peru State College Hall of Fame, and the Sparta (WI) Senior High School Hall of Fame.

"All of us at Dakota State are excited that our football program will be lead by someone with Coach Shea's credentials and experience," said DSU President Dr. Douglas Knowlton. "We are also pleased that we will be welcoming home a graduate and someone who has 'Trojan Pride' already instilled. He will bring a new level of excitement to DSU athletics."

DSU Athletic Director Gene Wockenfuss agrees. "Tom Shea brings the necessary ingredients to our football program to move us forward to the championship level of play. Alumnus, proven winner at the collegiate level, and an outstanding recruiter all provide the necessary foundation to take our program to a new era of success."

Shea will take over the Trojan football program later this month.

January 14, 2007

(Cedar Falls, IA) -- Dickinson State placed fourth at the NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals at the UNI-Dome on the campus of the University of Northern, Iowa.

The fourth seeded Blue Hawks opened the tournament on Saturday with a 39-13 win over Missouri Baptist and a 22-18 victory over Cumberlands, KY.  DSU dropped a 26-7 semifinal match to top seed Lindenwood, MO on Sunday and fell to Embry-Riddle, AZ 25-18 in the third place match.

Justin Schlecht led the Blue Hawks with a 4-0 record.  Cory Johnston and Stanton Schlecht each went 2-1 and Mark Johnston  and Frankie Schoonover were 2-2 in the tournament.

Jamestown College went 1-2 in the tournament.  The Jimmies lost their opening match to Missouri Valley 27-18.  Jamestown won their first consolation match 36-12 York, NE 36-12 and then were eliminated by Campbellsville, KY, 28-10.

The Jimmies had two undefeated wrestlers, Grant Mehring was 3-0 and Shane Hase was 2-0.  Zach Halcumb, Chris Thoreson and Sam Sand each went 2-1.

Lindenwood won the tournament championship with a 23-17 win over Dana, NE. 

Complete results of the NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals can be found on the UNI website. 

January 11, 2007

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dickinson State and Jamestown College wrestling teams will compete in the NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals at the UNI-Dome on the Campus of the University of Northern Iowa on Saturday and Sunday, January 13-14.

Dickinson State, the fourth seed in the tournament, will face Missouri Baptist at 9:00 on Saturday.  Jamestown's first round match is at 11:00 against number seven Missouri Valley.  The quarterfinals and consolation matches will be held on Saturday afternoon and evening with the semifinals and place matches scheduled for Sunday.

More information on the NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals can be found on the UNI website. 

January 02, 2007

(Minot, ND) -- Minot State University Athletic Director Rick Hedberg has announced the hiring of Paul Rudolph as the Beavers’ new head football coach.

Rudolph is a 1988 graduate of Minot State where he played quarterback for the Beavers for four years and earned a degree in Physical Education. Rudolph is also a member of the Minot State Athletic Hall of Fame. Rudolph also received a Master of Arts in Physical Education and Recreation from the University of South Dakota in 1990.

"We are extremely excited to have Paul taking over control of our football program," stated MSU AD Rick Hedberg. "First and foremost, he’s a good person. Secondly, he’s a good coach with some wonderful experiences in the profession. He has previous head coaching experience and has had a great experience in the NCC at St. Cloud State. Being an alumnus and growing up in northwest North Dakota is a definite plus also. Paul is a good fit for our football program and we’re excited to get him on board."

Rudolph is currently the Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach at St. Cloud State University, MN where he has held this position for the past seven years. His teams at St. Cloud have become an offensive power during his time. Over the past seven years, St. Cloud has established 26 single season, 21 single game, and nine individual offensive school records.

Prior to St. Cloud State, Rudolph was head football coach at Upper Iowa (NCAA Division III) from 1991-1999. In addition, Rudolph was the Athletic Director at Upper Iowa from 1996-1999, offensive coordinator from 1990-1993, and the University’s head track and field Coach.

Prior to his tenure at Upper Iowa University, Rudolph was a graduate assistant at the University of South Dakota where he earned Master of Arts Degree in Physical Education and Recreation.

Rudolph is originally from Stanley, ND, graduating from Stanley High School in 1984. He and his wife, Renae, have three children, Zachary, McKenzie, and Creighton.

January 02, 2007

(Madison, SD ) -- Nate Holtz, head football coach at Dakota State University, has resigned. Holtz came to DSU as an assistant coach in 2002 and was named head coach in 2004. He led the Trojans to an overall record of 11-20 as head coach in three seasons.

"We appreciate the hard work that Coach Holtz put into the football program over the past five years," said DSU Athletic Director Gene Wockenfuss. "We will miss his passion for the game and the enthusiasm he displayed in recruiting players for Dakota State. We wish him the best for the future."

Holtz said he was looking forward to new challenges and thanked Wockenfuss and DSU President Dr. Knowlton for giving him the opportunity to coach at the university. "The support from the administration for me and for the football program has been strong, along with the support we got from the faculty, staff, students and alumni," said Holtz.

A search for a new head football coach will start immediately. Trojan assistant coach Barry Rave will coordinate the DSU football program until a replacement can be found for Holtz.

December 19, 2006

(Grand Island, NE) -- The Victory Sports Network has released their 2006 NAIA All-American football team. With help of coaches from across the NAIA, VSN has now completed their first year of incorporating NAIA Coaches into the selection process with much success.

"With the NAIA and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) joining to create an elite team of All-Americans, we decided it would best serve the fans and players of the NAIA if the coaches and VSN came together on an All-American team," said Jason Dannelly Owner/CEO of the Victory Sports Network.

The Dakota Athletic Conference is represented by three first team selections, one on the second team and seven others received Honorable Mentions.

First team selections from the DAC are Minot State, senior, offensive lineman Max Milne; Valley City State, senior, defensive lineman Joe Maresh and Black Hills State, junior, defensive back Tanner Tetrault.  Black Hills State, senior, linebacker Shad Schneider is the lone DAC player on the second team.

The seven players representing the DAC on the Honorable Mention list are Jamestown, senior, offensive lineman Robert Spencer; Jamestown, senior, running back Eric Dirk; Dickinson State, senior, receiver Tyler Greff; Minot State, senior, defensive lineman Chase Spencer; Jamestown, senior linebacker Casey Conway; Valley City State, sophomore, defensive back Chauncey Calhoun and Jamestown, junior, return specialist Jake Stoltz.

The University of Sioux Falls came away with two of the three highest awards given by the Victory Sports Network. Quarterback Chad Cavender was named VSN’s Offensive Player of the Year while Coach Kalen DeBoer was crowned VSN’s Coach of the Year.

Brian Kurtz, a linebacker for the University of Saint Francis, was named defensive player of the year in the NAIA by VSN. Last Friday Kurtz was named the NAIA’s overall player of the year at the Champions Banquet prior to the NAIA National Title game in Savannah, TN.

A complete list of the All America teams and Honorable Mentions can be found on the Victory Sports Network website.  

December 15, 2006

(Dickinson, ND) -- For the first time since the American Football Coaches' Association began selecting All-America teams in 1945, the organization announced its inaugural NAIA Coaches' All-America team.

Two Dakota Athletic Conference players were chosen for the AFCA honor squad.  Linebacker Joe Maresh of Valley City State and defensive back Tanner Tetrault of Black Hills State are among the 25 members selected by the coaches association.

Maresh, a senior from Glencoe, MN, had 62 total tackles and set a school single-season record with 22 tackles-for-a-loss to go along with 10.5 sacks this season..

Tetrault, a junior from St. Onge, SD, helped the Yellow Jackets to their first DAC title and first ever appearance in the NAIA playoffs.  He recorded 58 total tackles, four interceptions, seven pass break-ups, one fumble recovery and two forced fumbles..

A complete list of the AFCA All-America team can be found on the AFCA website.

December 04, 2006

(Dickinson, ND) -- Three players from DAC champion Dickinson State have been selected for NAIA All-America volleyball honors and seven other DAC volleyball players have been honored as NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

Dickinson State junior Elizabeth Rodriguez was named to the NAIA All-America First Team; junior Elizabeth Castillo was selected for the Second Team and junior Nancy Nyongesa was an Honorable Mention selection.

DAC