SOFTBALL: Ferris Ranked 10th In The Midwest Region ... AGAIN!

BIG RAPIDS - It's not time to sweat just yet, but Ferris State University bumping its head against an invisible ceiling as it attempts to climb the NCAA Division II Midwest Region Softball Rankings.

For the third consecutive week, the Bulldogs are ranked 10th in the r

egion according to the latest poll released April 28. Again, it's no time to panic as there are still more than enough softball games and opportunities left for head coach Keri Becker's Bulldogs to truly climb the ladder. Ferris, however, seemed to have greatly helped its cause by sweeping No. 17 Saginaw Valley State and splitting with No. 9 Wayne State last weekend in a pair of Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference doubleheaders.

If Ferris can remain consistent, finish the regular season strong and play its best ball in the GLIAC Tournament then the rankings will take care of themselves.

Ferris, led by senior designated player/pitcher Rhea Flores (pictured) currently is 24-16 overall and 15-9 in the GLIAC.

Check below for the NCAA Division II Midwest Region rankings:

This Saturday, the Bulldogs wrap up regular-season play when they travel to Allendale to take on Grand Valley State in a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m.

The top 10 teams in each region are listed in rank order with records as of April 26.

Midwest Region	Division II	In-Region
1. Wayne State (Mich.)	41-10	28-7
2. Ashland	31-11	30-9
3. Lewis	27-11	24-7
4. Indianapolis	32-13	27-7
5. Saginaw Valley State	20-10	16-9
6. Quincy	34-10	31-8
7. Tiffin	27-16	25-13
8. Northern Kentucky	28-15	27-14
9. Northwood	20-14	18-11
10. Ferris State	23-15	21-12

SOFTBALL: Bulldogs Get Split Against Northwood In Dramatic Fashion

MIDLAND - Needing to salvage a win in some way, shape or form, Ferris State University reached down deep and escaped Northwood University with a much-needed softball split in Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference softball action.

The Bulldogs (24-16 overall, 15-9 GLIAC) dropped a 4-0 decision in game one of the doubleheader, but rallied in the bottom of the seventh inning of game two to take a 7-6 win over the Timberwolves in Midland.

Northwood's game-two heartbreak was a translated into a very important road triumph for the Bulldogs who remain a contender in a tightly-contested battle for the top spot in the GLIAC, for seeding in the league tournament and for NCAA regional rankings.

Game 1: Northwood 4, Ferris State 0

Junior catcher Rachel Mueller had two hits. Senior designated player/pitcher Rhea Flores, junior shortstop Lynsay Weaver and sophomore pinch hitter Lindsey Pettit each had a hit for the Bulldogs in the game-one setback. In spite of five hits, the Bulldogs were not able to push a run across the plate against the Timberwolves. Most of the damage Northwood inflicted came mostly from the top five spots in its lineup. Batting first and second, Rachel Hammer and Jamie Swick each had a hit and an RBI. NU did get some production from other spots in the lineup, but it was the top that did a good deal of the damage. Dana Bowler took the loss for the Bulldogs while Jessica Wojcik picked up the victory for Northwood.

Game 2: Ferris State 7, Northwood 6

Ferris State made created a lot of drama, but it's better to be on the positive side of a dramatic fashion than on the negative side of it. Sophomore third baseman Makenzi Peterson (pictured) tied the score at 6-6 on an RBI single. It's not the most thrilling way to end a game, but a sacrifice fly from Flores scored freshman outfielder Morgan Kramerich to give the Bulldogs a come-from-behind win over the host Timberwolves. Flores had two hits and two RBI, Peterson had two hits and an RBI, senior center fielder Rachel Wade had a hit and an RBI, Mueller had a hit and an RBI and senior second baseman Amanda Harrington had a hit and an RBI.

SOFTBALL: Former Bulldog Jager Enjoying Her Experience Coaching In High School

BIG RAPIDS - Amanda Jager was a hard-nosed competitor who expected the most out of herself every time she stepped to the plate during her softball career at Ferris State University.

The numbers do not lie in the evaluation of Jager as a college softball player. With a career batting average of .312 (tied for 10th all time in Ferris State history), Jager, a Kalamazoo native who prepped at Comstock High School, enjoyed a strong career playing for the Bulldogs on the diamond. Jager has used her experiences (and others) in the next phase of her softball career - as an assistant varsity coach at Big Rapids High School for head coach Jamie Bechaz.

"They needed some help rebuilding programs and getting some insight and to have someone to push them a little harder and someone who was recently a player coming from a higher level of softball to come in and teach them new things from what I've learned," Jager said. "I have been all over the place. I've been doing pitching workouts with the pitchers, catching workouts with the catchers and I've been working with outfield and the infield having them do specific drills and focusing a lot on fundamentals. Making sure they have good mechanics and good fundamentals."

Jager, an All-GLIAC and all-region player during her career, ranks third all time on the Ferris list of career hitters (.516), first all time in on-base percentage (.434), eighth in doubles (35), third in home runs (17) and on and on the list goes for one of the more accomplished offensive players in Bulldog softball history.

One of the benefits of having a Division II university in Big Rapids, the size of Ferris, is a resource that sometimes makes talented young coaches available to get their start. In many ways, it's a mutually beneficial relationship that also works for the younger kids at Big Rapids to have college student-athletes taking interest in helping them learn and grow.

Jager is enjoying the experience working with the Cardinals as a varsity assistant.

"They're a great group of girls. They're a good group that really wants to learn and get better," said Jager, who was encouraged by Bechaz and by former BRHS varsity head coach and current Ferris assistant softball coach Dawn Thompson. "It's fun teaching them and they are very hard-working kids."

SOFTBALL: Ferris Splits With Wayne To Cap Productive Weekend

DETROIT - Coming into the weekend, Ferris State University figured to need at least a couple of softball wins over two of the better teams (rankings wise) in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, the Midwest Region and perhaps the nation.

Head coach Keri Becker's Bulldogs did better than a couple of wins. Ferris swept 17th-ranked Saginaw Valley State University and then split with ninth-ranked Wayne State University in a pair of road doubleheaders this past weekend at WSU Softball Stadium in Detroit.

After sweeping SVSU on Saturday, Ferris headed south to Detroit to take on Wayne in an important two-game set. The Bulldogs dropped a 3-2 decision to the Warriors before they bounced back to claim a 2-1 win to salvage a much-needed split.

Game 1: Wayne State 3, Ferris State 2

Wayne scored twice in the bottom of the sixth inning to rally back for a narrow victory over the visiting Bulldogs. Ferris totaled six hits, offensively, in the contest. Makenzi Peterson and Colleen Roney each had two hits. Rachel Wade was 1-for-4 with an RBI while Chelsea Morris was 1-for-3 with a run driven in. The Bulldogs did a solid job hitting the ball against Wayne's Casey Hanes, one of the nation's premier pitchers. Dana Bowler took the loss for the Bulldogs as she allowed six hits and struck out five batters.

Game 2: Ferris State 2, Wayne State 1

The host Warriors grabbed a 1-0 lead in the top of the fifth inning before Ferris responded in the bottom half of the same frame. Wayne, probably in an effort to have Hanes save the victory, brought her into the game in a relief role. Ferris, however, responded. The Bulldogs scored its first run of the game, to tie the score, on an error. Then, Rhea Flores drove in the go-ahead run to put Ferris in the lead for good. It was a rare loss for Hanes who is 35-5. With the win, Kayle Stevenson (pictured) improved to 11-6 for Ferris as she allowed five hits and struck out five.

Ferris now is 23-15 overall and 14-8 in the GLIAC this season.

MEN'S GOLF: Men's Golf Tie For Fossum/Spartan Invitaitonal Top Team Honors

EAST LANSING - The Ferris State University men's golf team continued its solid play this spring season as the Bulldogs fired a tourney third-round best 289 score at Michigan State's 42nd annual Fossum/Spartan Invitational on Sunday (April 25) to claim a share of top team honors with a three-round total of 879 (+15).

The Bulldogs, who matched host Michigan State's 879 score on the par 72, 7,013-yards Forest Akers West Golf Course in East Lansing, Mich., produced rounds of 299, 291, and 289 in the two-day event as seven schools competed in the tournament.

Both Ferris State and Michigan State attempted a one-hole playoff on the 18th hole which would result in a 16-all tie. Assistant coach Chris Pulver coached the team this weekend as head coach Mike Mignano and assistant Dr. Phil Walling directed the women's golf team at the 2010 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Women's Golf Championships this weekend in Big Rapids, Mich.

Senior Kurt Valley (Bay City/Western) was the low scorer for Ferris State as he shot an even-par 216 score (72-72-72=216, E) to finish six strokes behind medalist Josh Gallman of USC Upstate. Gallman (210, -6) and Michigan State's Jack Newman (214, -2) were the only individuals to register under par stroke totals. Valley's performance marked his eighth top-20 place finish this season and third among the top five golfers.

Junior Garrett Simons (Grand Ledge) captured fourth place, just one stroke in back of Valley with a 217 (70-73-74=217, +1). Two other Bulldogs also earned a top-five placing as senior Eric Lilleboe (Okemos/Lansing Catholic Central) tied for fifth place as a result of turning in a 220-stroke total (78-70-72=220, +4). Junior Joe Brown (St. Ignace/LaSalle), who was competing as a non-scoring individual, gained a three-way share of ninth place by tallying a 221 score (68-78-75=221, +5).

Senior Craig Burrows (Broadview Heights, Ohio/Olmstead Falls) notched his fifth top-20 place effort of this season following a 17th-place tying 226 score (79-76-71=226, +10). Fellow senior Pat Steffes (Fond du Lac, Wis./St. Mary's Spring) had a 233 total (79-76-78=233, +17) and was one of three players to earn a share of 32nd-place honors.

Ferris State, which produced three second-place finishes in its three previous tournaments prior to this one, has presently either won or tied for first-place honors in four tournaments to date this 2009-10 season.

The Bulldogs will now await a possible bid to the 2010 NCAA Midwest/South Central Super Regional to be held May 3-5 at The Territory golf course in Duncan, Okla. Cameron University will be serving as regional host.

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communications

WOMEN'S GOLF: Final Round Cancelled, Ferris Finishes Third At GLIAC

BIG RAPIDS - This one is not too much of a surprise considering the amount of rain that fell off and on throughout the past weekend in Big Rapids at Ferris State University.

This Sunday's (April 25) final round of the 2010 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Women's Golf Championships held at Ferris State University's Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids, Mich., has been cancelled as a result of rain and unplayable course conditions.

Ferris State finished the conference tournament with a third-place showing as the Bulldogs registered a two-round 628 team score (+52) in Saturday's (April 24) opening two rounds. FSU turned in identical rounds of 314 and was 34 strokes behind 2010 GLIAC Champion Grand Valley State (594, +18).

This season's league tourney showing marks the second year in a row in which Ferris State has captured third-place honors. The Bulldogs were third at the 2009 GLIAC Women's Golf Championships (April 26-27) following a 69-strokes over par 645 team stroke total at Grand Valley State's The Meadows Golf Course in Allendale, Mich. Grand Valley State also claimed top team accolades at last year's conference tournament.

The Bulldogs, under third-year head coach Mike Mignano (pictured), will now await a bid to the 2010 NCAA Division II Super Regional One to be conducted May 2-4 at the Rivercut Golf Course in Springfield, Mo. The 2010 NCAA-II Championships are set for May 12-15 at the Longbow Golf Club in Mesa, Ariz.

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communications

WOMEN'S GOLF: Ferris Has Four Named All-GLIAC

BIG RAPIDS - The 2009-10 Ferris State University women's golf team had four of its student-athletes attain All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) honors as announced this Sunday (April 25) morning following the conclusion of the 2010 GLIAC Women's Golf Championships.

Sophomore Bryce Hetchler (Clinton Township/Fraser) claimed second-team honors for the second consecutive season. Joining her as honorable mention selections were sophomores Blaize Baumgartner (Perry) and Brooke Rodes (Traverse City/West) along with freshman Ashley Swanson (Flushing/Flint Powers Catholic Central).

For the second year in a row, Grand Valley State's Ashley Smith was tabbed as the GLIAC Women's Golf "Athlete of the Year" and also was this year's league tournament medalist. Ashley Beard of Grand Valley State achieved "Freshman of the Year" kudos while their head coach, Rebecca Mailloux was recognized by her peers with the GLIAC Coach of the Year Award.

The 2010 GLIAC Women's Golf Teams were chosen based upon a player's stroke average in her nine best rounds in conference action, which included rounds of the GLIAC Championship Tournament. All ties were broken by total strokes in the GLIAC Championships.

The four FSU golfers lead the Bulldogs to a third-place showing at this year's GLIAC Championships (April 24), which were conducted at Ferris' Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids. With their selections, Ferris State has had 50 individuals in the program's history now earn all-conference laurels since 2000.

• Bryce Hetchler leads the Bulldogs with an 81.39 stroke average (1,872 total strokes) in 23 rounds. She has accumulated four top-20 placings this campaign, which includes three top-10 efforts. Hetchler, who was named as an All-America Scholar Team pick by the National Golf Coaches Association (NGCA) a season ago, tied for ninth place at the 2010 GLIAC Championships (April 24) with a 156 score.
• Blaize Baumgartner is averaging a squad fourth-best 82.48 strokes (1,897 total strokes) in 23 rounds of play. She has totaled two top-five place efforts this season and tied for 18th place in the 2010 conference tourney as a result of a two-round 165-stroke total.
• Brooke Rodes, FSU's 2009-10 team captain, has produced an 83.13 average (1,912 total strokes) in 23 rounds. The Bulldog golfer has recorded three placings among the top 20 individuals this campaign. She turned in a 168 score to garner a share of 21st place at this season's league tournament.
• Rounding out the all-conference team for Ferris was Ashley Swanson, who has tallied a squad second-best 81.57 stroke average (1,713 total strokes) to date in 21 rounds of competition. Swanson has chalked up four top-20 place performances with three in the top 10 this campaign.

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communications

WOMEN'S GOLF: Ferris In Third Place At GLIAC Championships After Two Rounds

BIG RAPIDS - A pair of 314 rounds turned in by the Ferris State University women's golf team in Saturday's (April 24) opening two rounds of the 2010 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Women's Golf Championships has the Bulldogs in third place with a 628 team score on FSU's Katke Golf Course.

The host Bulldogs currently sit in third among the six conference teams competing, eight strokes in back of second-place Ashland (620, +44) and 34 behind tournament leader Grand Valley State (594, +18) on the par 72, 5,879-yard course.

Sophomore Erin Fuchik (Tulsa, Okla./Bishop Kelley) turned in Ferris State's best score with an eight-over par 152 (75-77=152, +8) and is in fifth place. Grand Valley State's Ashley Smith currently is atop the leaderboard with a one-under 143 score.

Sophomore Bryce Hetchler (Clinton Township/Fraser) and freshman Ashley Swanson (Flushing/Flint Powers Catholic Central) are both midst a three-way tie for ninth place after recording 156 scores. Hetchler (77-79=156) and Swanson (78-8=156) have generated 12-over-par stroke totals.

Sophomore Blaize Baumgartner (Perry) is currently tied for 18th-place honors as a result of carding a 165 (85-80=165, +21) while sophomore Brooke Rodes (Traverse City/West) has a 168 (84-84=168, +24), good for a 21st-place tie.

A season ago (April 26-27, the Bulldogs captured third place at the 2009 GLIAC Championships with a 645-team stroke total at Grand Valley State's The Meadows Golf Course in Allendale, Mich.

Ferris State will conclude the conference championships this Sunday (April 25) with the 18-hole final round starting at 8:30 a.m. (EDT) from both the first and 10th-hole tees.

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communications

FOOTBALL: TV 9and10 Highlights Ferris' Spring Game

BIG RAPIDS - Here is some video from TV 9and10 News which was in town to cover the Ferris State University Crimson and Gold Spring Game.



To learn more about TV 9and10, visit its Web site, here.

SOFTBALL: Bulldogs Top Cardinals 2-0 To Complete Sweep

UNIVERSITY CENTER - It was a much-needed softball sweep.

Ferris State University finished off a sweep of nationally-ranked Saginaw Valley State University on Saturday afternoon with a 2-0 win over the Cardinals.

Due to some technical difficulties, I am having trouble accessing the statistics from the game, but the Bulldogs of head coach Keri Becker did pull off an important sweep of the Cardinals in University Center.

Coming into this weekend, the Bulldogs figured to need to at least win a couple of games against two tough opponents (the second tough opponent is Wayne State University, another nationally-ranked team on Sunday).

Now, Ferris is in a position to win all four or three out of four which would strengthen their profile for the conference tournament and the NCAA Tournament.

A lot of softball season remains, against some tough opponents, but the Bulldogs helped themselves immensely with their wins on Saturday at Saginaw Valley.

SOFTBALL: Ferris Recruit Vasovski Adjusts To New Position To Help Farmington Hills Harrison

HARRISON- Ferris State University softball recruit Bianca Vasovski is showing her versatility as a player these days for Harrison High School.

Vasovski, a player from Farmington Hills Harrison High School Ferris head coach Keri Becker is high on as part of her recruiting class for the 2010-11 season, is being utilized as a catcher as she has shifted over from perhaps her more natural shortstop position.

Here is an excerpt from a Hometownlife.com story:

Harrison’s best player is senior Bianca Vasovski, who has signed with NCAA Division II Ferris State University of the Great Lakes Conference.

Vasovski, who batted .352 with two home runs and 15 RBI, had been the shortstop, but (Coach Kristen) Zabalavicius moved her to catcher to help the team’s young pitchers.

Her numbers are pretty solid and right in line with what a coach recruiting a college-level student-athlete might expect to see (as far as trying to judge how it will translate to the Division II level).

SOFTBALL: Ferris Hangs On To Beat Saginaw Valley In Game One, 6-5

UNIVERSITY CENTER - Ferris State University had to take it right down to the end, but emerged victorious over Saginaw Valley State University in game one of a Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference doubleheader.

The Bulldogs scored a 6-5 win over the Cardinals (April 24) as Rhea Flores came on in relief of starter Dana Bowler to shut the door on an SVSU rally in the bottom of the seventh inning.

This series is monumentally important for Ferris which needs wins this weekend (against Saginaw Valley and Wayne State University, two of the top teams in the league, region and nation) to keep alive for the conference title and in contention for the NCAA Tournament (both still very real possibilities).

Morgan Kramerich was 1-for-4 with a run scored (a home run) and two RBI, Flores was 3-for-4 with a run scored and a run driven in, Colleen Roney was 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI and Amanda Harrington was 1-for-3 with an RBI. Rachel Mueller also had two hits for the Bulldogs.

FOOTBALL: Carrying The Football

BIG RAPIDS - Here comes the ball toward the sidelines during the Crimson and Gold Spring Game for Ferris State University.

FOOTBALL: Spring Game Press Conference With Jeff Pierce

BIG RAPIDS - Ferris State University head football coach Jeff Pierce spoke to the media following Friday night's Crimson and Gold Spring Game at Top Taggart Field in Big Rapids.

Here is a clip of Coach Pierce talking about the offense and the adjustment the players are making to Chris Boden, the team's new offensive coordinator:

FOOTBALL: Crimson Prevails In Annual Spring Game For Bulldogs

BIG RAPIDS - Ferris State University may look to use its power running game a little more with guys like Leon Curry carrying the rock out of the backfield if it can continue to enjoy some of the results it did on Friday.

In the first quarter of the annual Crimson and Gold Spring Game, Curry took the ball and rushed it 22 yards into the end zone to put the Crimson team up 7-0 after Mitchell Voss made good on the extra-point attempt. The run was a little extra special for Curry, who made it to the end zone right where his twin brother, former Bulldog football player Leonard Curry, was standing in the back of the end zone to greet him with one of those famous Curry bear hugs.

Led by Curry and a solid passing game, the Crimson earned a 26-12 win in the spring contest - the season finale for the program as it concludes drills.

"It felt good to get in the end zone," Curry said with a big smile. "My twin brother was there when I scored. It means a lot to us ... me and my brother.

"Coach said 'go off the outside guard's leg.' I did that, cut it just slightly, went up field and when I saw grass I knew it was good," he added. "Our line did a good job and I love my line. ... They're cool."

Friday night's game means the end of the spring campaign for the Bulldogs, who expected to have a fair share of highs and lows in the showcase event of the spring.

"We had our ups and downs a bit today, which is what you expect at this time of the year," said FSU head coach Jeff Pierce. "It wasn't a well-oiled machine, but we made some good progress over the course of the spring and feel good about where we're headed.

"There's a learning curve with some of our younger guys and now hopefully we need to take it up another level by the time the fall rolls around," he added.

The scoring started as the ball was snapped over the head of Voss, who recovered it in the end zone for a safety at 8:40 of the first quarter.

That set the stage for Curry's dramatic touchdown run at the 5:44 mark of the opening quarter to show he is successfully making the move from defense to offense.

"When I first came in I was originally a linebacker," Curry said. "Coach said he needed a back that could block and open up holes for our tight end which is our H-back. I enjoy blocking and also punching it in."

In the second quarter, the White team got back on the scoreboard as Robert Banaszak completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to Kevin Guirand at the 12:11 mark.

"It felt good (to be in a game-like situation). Practice is practice, so it's good to come out and compete at a higher level," Banaszak said as he and others are adjusting to Chris Boden, the team's new offensive coordinator. "We're getting there (with progress in learning and executing the new offense). Coach Boden says we made some good strides in the spring."

The Crimson team answered as Damien Miller returned the kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown at 11:57. At the two-minute mark, Voss had a punt blocked for a safety. The Crimson then added a 39-yard field goal from Austin Kantola with 30 seconds to go in the half to make it 19-9 in favor of Crimson at the break.

In the third quarter, Tyler Thomas scored on a 77-yard touchdown run at the 9:10 mark for a 26-9 lead.

Shawn Snoor added a field goal, from 44 yards out, to make it 26-12 (the final).

There were some defensive highlights as Mike Davis and Arshaun Hall each had interceptions in the contest.

Ferris' spring season if officially over and the team will join back together for fall training camp in August as it prepares for its season opener, Sept. 3, at Hillsdale College.

FOOTBALL: Ferris Set To Host Crimson And Gold Spring Game

BIG RAPIDS - The spring football season is coming to an end for Ferris State University and the traditional exclamation point is the annual Crimson and Gold Spring Game.

The Crimson and Gold Spring Game takes place Friday evening beginning at 6 p.m. from Top Taggart Field. The event is free and open to the public as the Bulldogs showcase their spring progress in Big Rapids for fans. As is usually the case, Ferris has no shortage of activities that surround its spring game including a reception hosted by the Gridiron Club inside Wheeler Pavilion at the stadium. The reception is for club members, parents and local fans to enjoy some refreshments courtesy of Cranker's Coney Island of Big Rapids.

"We've made some real good strides in the off season," Ferris head coach Jeff Pierce said. "The off-season commitment that is needed to be successful has been evident with our team. We've put last season behind us and we're ready to move forward.

"We have a little bit of an attitude and that is going to be a good thing for us. We've had a good spring and we're looking forward to getting after it in the spring game."

Pierce was the featured guest on the Bulldog Football Spring Game Preview show that was hosted live Thursday evening on Blog Talk Radio, on the Web, by Rob Bentley, associate athletics communications director, and your's truly (Sandy Gholston). Pierce expressed the excitement he, the coaching staff and the players are feeling as they bring a productive spring football season to a close on Friday with the Crimson and Gold Spring Game.

"Spring football comes down to your younger people who are coming up through the program having a chance to show what they can do as they get themselves ready to play some prime-time football," said Pierce, who has welcomed a new defensive backs coach, Gary McGraw, and a new offensive coordinator, Chris Boden, to his staff. "One of the things we went through last year was that we had a lot of injuries. But, those injuries led to a lot of our young guys getting some playing time and that is helping them right now."

SOFTBALL: Ferris Remains 10th In Regional Rankings

BIG RAPIDS - Ferris State University has held steady in the most recent listing (April 19) of the NCAA Division II Midwest Region Rankings for softball.

The Bulldogs of head coach Keri Becker remain

ed 10th in the poll (the top eight at the end of the season will advance to the NCAA Division II Tournament). This poll shows that Ferris remains in striking distance for a bid to the NCAA Tournament with some key doubleheaders and the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament in Midland in early May.

Ferris is 20-14 overall and 11-7 in the GLIAC following Wednesday's 2-1 home loss at the FSU Softball Field to Northwood University. The Bulldogs hope to get on a roll beginning this weekend with showdowns against two of the better teams in the GLIAC, the region and the nation. Ferris is on the road to face nationally-ranked Saginaw Valley State University (17th) and nationally-ranked Wayne State University (ninth) in a pair of doubleheaders. The Warriors are first in the region while Saginaw Valley is third.

This is a perfect weekend for the Bulldogs to get on a roll as they are at Saginaw Valley on Saturday and at Wayne State on Sunday. If Ferris can come away with wins this weekend it can greatly strengthen its position in the regional tournament at the time of the year when it wants to be playing its best basketball.

Midwest Region	Division II	In-Region
1. Wayne State (Mich.)	37-8	24-5
2. Ashland	26-10	25-8
3. Saginaw Valley State	19-7	15-6
4. Lewis	23-9	20-5
5. Indianapolis	27-12	22-6
6. Quincy	27-10	24-8
7. Northern Kentucky	24-13	23-12
8. Tiffin	22-15	20-12
9. Northwood	16-11	14-8
10. Ferris State	18-13	16-10

PHOTO CAPTION:

Ferris State's Dana Bowler has already paid dividends in her freshman season pitching for the Bulldogs. (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

WOMEN'S SOCCER: Former Ferris Coach Neathan Gibson Returns To Des Moines Menace

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Des Moines Menace welcomes back Neathan Gibson, a former Ferris State University women's soccer head coach who returns to the organization’s coaching staff today.

The South Africa native will be in a familiar role, assisting head coach Laurie Calloway with the Menace’s Premier Development League team and coaching in the Menace Youth Academy.Calloway and Gibson worked together in 2002. It was a benchmark year for the organization, highlighted by the start of the Menace Academy and a regular-season championship by the PDL team.

“I’m really excited,” Gibson said. “I’m even more excited the second time around. It’s coming full circle. I feel honored the Menace invited me back for the opportunity to work with Laurie. There’s a lot of trust and loyalty between us.”

Gibson assisted Calloway as a player/coach, and tallied 11 goals and five assists for the undefeated Menace. It was the final season of a playing career that included stops with professional teams in Finland, Japan, Malaysia and Sweden. In the year before joining the Menace, Gibson played for the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer before leading the Rochester Rhinos to the 2001 A-League championship.

Gibson and Calloway parted ways after the 2002 season, when Gibson accepted a head coaching job with the West Michigan Edge (PDL), and Calloway became head coach of the Syracuse Salty Dogs (USL-1).

After a year with the Edge, Gibson worked as the director of coaching and player development for the Grand Valley Soccer Club, based in Kentwood, Mich. With Gibson leading the way, the club experienced great growth.“Neathan knows what it takes,” Calloway said. “He’s built a club from seven teams and 100 kids to 70 teams and 1,000 kids. He knows the youth side, and he brings a tremendous amount of experience back to the Menace on the PDL side. It’s a win-win situation all around.”

Gibson comes to the Menace from Ferris. He directed the women’s team for four seasons, starting as the interim head coach in 2006, and being appointed as head coach in January 2007.

A graduate of Lynn University (Fla.), Gibson has earned United States Soccer Federation (USSF) “A” and “B” coaching licenses. He and his wife, Denise, are planning a move to West Des Moines, with their sons, Jack (9) and Nash (6).

“It is great to welcome back Neathan and his family,” said Menace general manager Todd Meiners. “Neathan brings with him a vast knowledge of the youth and professional sides of the sport. As we continue to grow our club, Neathan will be tremendous resource in guiding our vision for the future.”

Source: Des Moines Menace (edited slightly for content)

SOFTBALL: Ferris Drops 2-1 Decision To Northwood

BIG RAPIDS - Playing against Northwood University, and its ace pitcher Megan Eddy, is fast becoming a pain for Ferris State University's softball team.

The Bulldogs spotted the Timberwolves two runs in the bottom of the first inning and Northwood never trailed en route to a 2-1 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference victory on Wednesday afternoon at the FSU Softball Field in Big Rapids. Wednesday's loss spoiled a solid pitching performance by freshman Dana Bowler who held Northwood to just two hits and the two runs (one earned) while she struck out nine.

Northwood center fielder Jamie Swick drew a walk and the next batter, Tiffany Melgoza, belted an RBI double to put the Timberwolves up 1-0. A throwing error led to another run as Melgoza scored for a 2-0 edge.

Ferris finally put some offense on the scoreboard in the bottom of the sixth inning as senior center fielder Rachel Wade drove in the team's lone run (junior Colleen Roney scored after she had tripled) on a single. The offense ultimately stalled as Ferris stranded two runners on base after sophomore third baseman Makenzi Peterson flew out to center.

The Bulldogs mustered a couple of hits (a line shot from senior designated player Rhea Flores and a single up the middle from junior catcher Rachel Mueller), but could not score anyone as Eddy held them off in the bottom of the seventh to help NU secure the win.

The loss as a tough one for Ferris which needs to put together some wins coming down the stretch of this season against some tough competition.

To close the regular season, Ferris has the following schedule:

Apr. 24	at Saginaw Valley State *		1:00 PM	Live stats
	at Saginaw Valley State *		3:00 PM	Live stats
Apr. 25	at Wayne State *		12:00 PM
	at Wayne State *		2:00 PM
Apr. 27	at Northwood *		3:00 PM
	at Northwood *		5:30 PM
May. 1	at Grand Valley State *		2:00 PM	Live stats
	at Grand Valley State *		4:00 PM	Live stats

Again, this is a tough schedule to end the season as all of these opponents represent quality. These are all teams in the regional picture Saginaw Valley State, Wayne State and Northwood) or battling to get in the regional picture (Grand Valley State).

The bad news is the schedule is tough to end the season, but the good news is that the schedule is tough to end the season.

These games represent opportunity for Ferris to prove themselves and make their case to be one of the better teams in the region by knocking off quality opponents.

Photo caption:

Ferris State softball coach Keri Becker (left) gives signs to a batter while player Colleen Roney stands on third base during Wednesday's Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference softball game at the FSU Softball Field against Northwood. (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

MEN'S BASKETBALL: Northwood Hires Head Coach Jeff Rekeweg

Northwood University has announced its new men's basketball head coach to replace Bob Taylor, who was not retained following the 2009-10 season.

MIDLAND, Mich. - The Northwood University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced the hiring of Jeff Rekeweg as Men's Basketball Head Coach.

Rekeweg (pronounced reck-a-way) becomes the ninth head coach in the 51-year history of the program.

"We are thrilled to have Jeff join Northwood University," said Athletic Director Pat Riepma. "He has had a great deal of success both on the court and in the classroom with his players."

For more information on this hiring, visit: http://www.gliac.org/sports/mbkb/2009-10/news/NU_MBKB_Rekeweg_hire

SOFTBALL: Ferris softball team survives trip to Sault Ste. Marie

SAULT STE. MARIE - Lake Superior State University is home to a softball team that doesn't have the great record, but has enough talent to put a scare in opponents.

In four games against Lake Superior this spring, Ferris State University has gotten a couple of scares, but still has emerged 4-0 against the Lakers (a perfect record that was nothing short of essential as the Bulldogs seek to stay in the hunt for the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title and for positioning relative to GLIAC Tournament seeding and NCAA Division II Tournament seeding. But, those two are well down the line for Ferris.

Monday, the Bulldogs went to the Soo and defeated the Lakers 9-0 in the first game and 6-5 in game two to pull off the sweep as Ferris improves to 20-13 overall and 11-6 in GLIAC

action, On April 4, Ferris swept LSSU 7-0 and 6-5.

In Monday's 9-0 win, Ferris showed its depth as freshman catcher Liz Hamming played and showed a good stick as she batted 2-for-2 with two RBI and a double. Sophomore outfielder Stephanie Dusendang was 2-for-2 with two runs scored. For all the numbers from the game, check the box score, here.

In Monday's second game, sophomore Makenzi Peterson, senior Rhea Flores and sophomore Chelsea Morris each had two hits. Morris had two RBI. Junior shortstop Lynsay Weaver batted 1-for-2 with two runs driven in. For more numbers from game two, visit the FSU Web site for the box score, here.

Wednesday, the Bulldogs host Northwood University in a one-game set to make up for a game earlier this season that was rained out in Big Rapids. The Bulldogs and Timberwolves take the diamond at 3:30 p.m. at Ferris. It's a big game for Ferris as Northwood is playing very well this season and, as of now, is one of the better teams in the GLIAC.

FOOTBALL: Bentley, Gholston to host 'Spring Game Preview Show' This Thursday

BIG RAPIDS - A special internet talk show covering Ferris State University football will take place this week as the "Bulldog Football Spring Game Preview Show" hits the web airwaves this Thursday (April 22) evening.

The talk show, which will be powered by a service called Blog Talk Radio, will be co-hosted by FSU Associate Athletics Communications Director/Football SID Rob Bentley and local journalist Sandy Gholston, who works in the school's University Advancement and Marketing Department and has covered Bulldog football locally for more than 14 years. The duo is also part of the Bulldog Football radio team during the season on local radio station WYBR.

The approximate 60-minute show will take place Thursday evening starting at 6 p.m. (EDT) and can be heard live by visiting www.blogtalkradio.com/ferrisathletics.

Additionally, the show will be archived for those who are not able to catch the live version and will be made available both via the official Blog Talk Radio show site along with the official FSU Athletics Website at www.ferrisstatebulldogs.com after completion of the show. It can then also be downloaded via iTunes, RSS or an MP3 file.

Bentley and Gholston will discuss the upcoming Crimson and Gold Spring Game, which is set for Friday (April 23) evening at 6 p.m. (ET) at Top Taggart Field. They will also provide an in-depth discussion of Bulldog Football with a look at spring football along with a preview of next fall's gridiron slate.

In addition to listening to the show, fans will also have an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback by utilizing FSU Athletics' official Facebook and twitter links found on the Blog Talk Radio show page.

No sign-up for fans is necessary to listen to the 60-minute show, however, by registering for the free Blog Talk Radio service, fans can also send direct messages and post comments to the show's hosts along with participate via a chat service. Email and text message reminders can also be set for those wanting a reminder prior to the show's scheduled start time.

Those fans wishing to post questions can also do so before the scheduled show time by emailing bentleyr@ferris.edu or by utilizing FSU's official Facebook and twitter links found on the Blog Talk Radio show page.

Blog Talk Radio’s unique technology and seamless integration with leading social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, empowers citizen broadcasters to create and share their original content, their voices and opinions in a public worldwide forum. Many businesses also utilize the platform as a tool to extend their brands and join the conversation on the social web.

The service is the world’s largest social radio network, enabling anyone to host an interactive audio broadcast and syndicate it with one click to Facebook, Twitter, iTunes and across the Web. Blog Talk Radio’s network of podcasters is made up of tens of thousands of hosts who have produced more than 500,000 episodes since its launch in late 2006, now attracting more than 4 million visitors every month.

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communication

Please visit this link below to access the show at the scheduled start time:

"Bulldog Football Spring Game Preview Show"
Thursday, April 22: 6-7 p.m. (ET)
www.blogtalkradio.com/ferrisathletics

on Blog Talk RadioClick Here For The Show

SOFTBALL: Ferris splits a twinbill against Ashland

Ferris State catcher Rachel Mueller makes a tag for an out at home plate during game two of the Bulldogs' Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference series against Ashland University at the FSU Softball Field. (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

BIG RAPIDS - With Ashland University coming to town for a softball doubleheader, Ferris State University knew it had its hands full going against one of the top teams in the region and a strong team on the national scene.

The Bulldogs managed to salvage a split with a 6-3 loss to the Eagles in game one before Ferris bounced back to earn a 3-1 win over Ashland in game two of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference softball series at the FSU Softball Field. The Bulldogs of head coach Keri Becker, now 18-13 overall and 9-6 in the GLIAC this spring. The split keeps the Bulldogs in the thick of a competitive race for softball supremacy in the conference as teams battle for position with the league tournament looming on the horizon in early May.

"We knew that they were on top of the conference and we needed to win both and we settled for a split," said shortstop Lynsay Weaver, a junior from Bay City who prepped at All Saints High School. "But, a split felt good after game two and that now we have a chance to get it rolling this week."

In game one, against the Eagles, Ferris was doing well before it hit a buzzsaw in the fifth inning. Ashland (26-10 overall, 15-5 GLIAC), a team that rolled to two relatively easy wins on Saturday against Grand Valley State University, exploded for five runs in the top half of the inning to take a 5-0 lead. It looked as if AU might do the same to the Bulldogs. Ferris responded with one run in the bottom of the fourth and two more in the bottom of the seventh before the Eagles held on for a 6-3 win.

Morgan Kramerich, a freshman left fielder, was 2-for-4 with a run scored and a run driven in. Sophomore first baseman Chelsea Morris was 1-for-3 with a run driven in and senior center fielder Rachel Wade was 1-for-3 with a run driven in and a run scored. Freshman Dana Bowler took the loss for the Bulldogs as she pitched three full innings before being relieved by Rhea Flores.

In game two, senior pitcher Kayle Stevenson picked up the win as she tossed all seven innings, allowed five hits, one run (earned) and two walks. At the plate, Morris quietly continued a solid game as she had one hit in three trips to the plate with two runs driven in. Sophomore second baseman Makenzi Peterson was 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI. Wade and senior second baseman Amanda Harrington also added hits.

"Coach always talks about responsiveness and that you can either take it with you or you can forget about it. We forgot about it," Weaver said. "Our defense played great, our pitching was great and we got the hits when we needed to get them."

In the most recent NCAA Division II Midwest Region poll (April 14), Ashland was ranked second while Ferris was ranked 10th.

There is no rest for the Bulldogs. Ferris is back in action on Monday (April 19) when they travel to Sault Ste. Marie in the Upper Peninsula to take on Lake Superior State University in a two-game GLIAC series beginning at 3 p.m.

TENNIS: Ferris Tops Grand Valley, Takes Third In GLIAC Tourney

MIDLAND - Ferris State University figured to have an uphill battle trying to wrest Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference men's tennis supremacy from Northwood University - a perennial league, regional and national powerhouse.

The Bulldogs of head coach Alex Palladino, ranked 38th in the country in Division II by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association, entered the tournament as the second-best team in the league, but had to settle for third place in the GLIAC Tournament following a 5-2 win on Sunday over Grand Valley State University at the Midland Community Tennis Center in Midland.

Ferris, ranked fourth in the Midwest Region, was in essence knocked out of the winner's bracket when it was upset by No. 3 Wayne State in the semifinals round. The Bulldogs now are 12-7 overall this season having concluded play in the GLIAC Tournament.

The Bulldogs, led by Kyle Revall (pictured), now are in a holding pattern as they await they announcement of the NCAA Division II Tournament bids. It is highly expected the Bulldogs will qualify for the NCAA Tournament when the bids are announced later this month.

For full results of Sunday's match, visit: http://www.ferrisstatebulldogs.com/sports/mten/2009-10/releases/20100418n8v3dh

FOOTBALL: Keep An Eye On The Defense In Ferris' Second Scrimmage

BIG RAPIDS - Ferris State University is about to hit the gridiron for its second football scrimmage of the spring on Saturday (April 17)morning at Top Taggart Field.

Much of the focus this spring has been geared toward the progress of the offensive unit under new coordinator Chris Boden.

In this second scrimmage, however, it might be time to take a closer look at the progress of the defensive unit of coordinator and assistant head coach Duane Wilson. The defensive line is having its share of issues with some injuries that have limited (at different points this spring) the playing of Jacob Moreno and Muneer Bawayeh. Preserving eligibility has the Bulldogs competing without the spring services of linebacker Matt Ryan, a player who had a breakthrough year last season, and safety Chad Wilson, who missed all of the 2009 season.

This second spring scrimmage will be an opportunity to see which players will emerge at each of the three levels of the defense. Holes have to be filled to replace departed veterans such as linebacker Nick Butler, linebacker Chad Schoen, defensive back Angelo Williams, safety C.J. Lee, lineman Kory Deering, lineman Joe Morrow and others.

Spring ball is about opportunity and who is ready to seize the moment and get a jump on the competition before the team comes back together in August to start training camp in preparation for the 2010 season.

Players such as Arshaun Hall and Alan Freeman have moved from offense to defense to solidify positions in the backfield that Ferris needed filled.

Young linebackers, such as Max Bankston eventually will become strong players for Ferris and younger guys on the line like Jordan Morgan and Bawayeh are already seizing the moment.

The third and final scrimmage of the spring will be the annual Crimson and Gold Spring Game on Friday (April 23) beginning at 6 p.m.

Caption:

Ferris State quarterback Mike Buday makes a throw during a drill in spring practice at Top Taggart Field. (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

TRACK AND FIELD: Burns Named Recipient Of GLIAC Commissioner's Award

BIG RAPIDS - Ferris State University senior pole vaulter Greg Burns has been tabbed as one of 12 winter season recipients of the prestigious Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) Commissioner's Award sponsored by Meijer, Inc.

The announcement of this winter's six male and six female honorees was made today (April 16) by the league office.

The GLIAC Commissioner's Awards are presented following the conclusion of the fall, winter and spring seasons to six deserving female and male winners each based on those who excel both in the classroom and on the field of play.

In addition to Burns, this winter's male recipients include: Scott Perkins of Lake Superior State, Mike Hojnacki of Michigan Tech, Jared Fischer of Northwood, Steve Genther of Saginaw Valley State and Cauli Bedran of Wayne State. The six female student-athletes include: Stephanie Tinney of Ashland, Brooke Knight of Hillsdale, Sarah Stream and Katie Wysocky of Michigan Tech, Jodi Ostergren of Northwood, and Ashley St. Andrew of Wayne State.

"These 12 student-athletes that represent, their institutions, the GLIAC, and their respective communities truly embody the term student-athlete," stated GLIAC Commissioner Dell Robinson. "Their pursuit of excellence on and off field serves as a monumental testament of the talented young leaders we have in this conference. I will look to them to be the leaders of the future.

"The GLIAC greatly appreciates the support of Meijer for their sponsorship of the 2009-10 Commissioner's Award," he added. "The award, and the continued support by Meijer, are evidence of our pursuit of academic excellence."

Burns was one of three men's indoor track and field student-athletes to receive the award this winter. He's also the ninth Ferris State student-athlete to receive the honor in the three-year history of the award and the first from the FSU men's track and field/cross country program.

Burns claimed All-America accolades at the 2010 NCAA Division II Indoor Track and Field Championships by matching a personal career-best effort and finishing sixth overall with a performance of 16-3.25 in the event. He became only the third FSU men's track and field athlete since 1993 to claim either indoor or outdoor All-America accolades by being named to the United States Track and Field/Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Division II All-America squad.

A two-year letterwinner, Burns made his first appearance this season in the NCAA D-II Championships after winning the pole vault and picking up All-GLIAC laurels at the GLIAC Indoor Championships with a school-record showing (16-3.25).

Burns placed among the top 10 finishers in the pole vault in all nine of his indoor meets this year and came away with four individual titles and two runner-up finishes. Previously, Burns claimed Ferris State's 2008-09 team “MVP” Award for the field events.

Currently, Burns is midst his outdoor season for the Bulldogs and won the Bulldog Invitational with a vault of 15-7 last Saturday (April 10) at FSU's Top Taggart Field. The Bulldogs will compete in the Northwood Invitational this Saturday (April 17) in Midland.

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communications

SOFTBALL: Ferris Ranked 10th In the Region In Latest Poll

BIG RAPIDS - There remains a lot of softball left to be played this season, but Ferris State University currently is ranked 10th in the NCAA Division II Midwest Region rankings that were released on April 14.

The rankings mean that, as of right now, Ferris is within striking distance of earning a spot in the NCAA Division II Tournament (the top eight teams in the region at the end of the season will qualify for the NCAA Division II Tournament). The top two teams host sub-regional tournaments (May 14-16) and the winners of the two sub-regional tournaments (May 21-22) will play in the super regional for the right to advance to the NCAA Division II Championships (May 27-31) which will be played in St. Joseph, Mo.

The current regional rankings show that Ferris still has a lot of work to do to remain in those regional rankings, but also has a lot of opportunities to move up.The Bulldogs have yet to face No. 2 Ashland University, No. 3 Wayne State University and No. 8 Tiffin University (all teams ranked ahead of the Bulldogs in the region). Also, Ferris still has three games to make up against No. 9 Northwood University.

Grand Valley State University, among other programs, is right there with a good record and the potential to move up.

Lots of softball remains to be played for Ferris and others.

Midwest Region	Division II	In-Region
1. Saginaw Valley State	18-4	14-3
2. Ashland	21-9	20-7
3. Wayne State (Mich.)	31-8	18-5
4. Lewis	19-7	16-3
5. Indianapolis	26-11	21-5
6. Northern Kentucky	21-10	20-9
7. Quincy	23-8	20-6
8. Tiffin	16-13	14-10
9. Northwood	12-9	10-6
10. Ferris State	15-10	13-7

Ferris State SAAC Holding Auction For Make-A-Wish

BIG RAPIDS - Ferris State University fans currently have an opportunity to bid on receiving an autographed jersey from their favorite Bulldog team and help an important national cause at the same time.

The FSU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is presently conducting a blind auction to help raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. As part of the auction, an autographed jersey signed by all 2009-10 members is available for each FSU Athletics team.

To bid on a jersey, please email your offer to the respective SAAC representative listed below for each sport. Fans are allowed to make only one offer and the minimum bid is $25 for each jersey. Since it is a blind auction, fans will have no idea what others are bidding during the process. The SAAC representatives will contact the various winners on April 30 and the jersey will be sent upon receiving payment.

To date this year, the FSU SAAC organization has collected over $700 for Make-A-Wish through various methods, including selling dicots displayed above the ticket office window, offering change buckets at the concession stand, a Papa John's pizza fundraiser and other efforts. The goal from the beginning of the campaign has been to raise more than $1,000 this academic year.

The mission of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by promoting opportunity for all student-athletes, protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a positive student-athlete image.

This past year, the FSU SAAC has played an active role in several important initiatives. They hosted a Bowl-O-Rama for incoming freshmen student-athletes and are also spearheading the annual Senior Farewell for graduating student-athletes. They will host the inaugural Dawg Fight, a skills and mind competition between classes, later this summer. Ferris SAAC representatives also vote on NCAA legislation that impacts such things as the national "Life In The Balance" initiative.

The effort to raise funds is part of NCAA Division II's longstanding commitment to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organization that grants the heartfelt wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Over the last five years, the various Division II SAAC organizations have collected more than $765,000, constituting one of the nation's largest grass-roots contributions to Make-A-Wish.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Born in 1980 when a group of caring people helped a young boy fulfill his dream of becoming a police officer, the Foundation is now the largest wish-granting charity in the world, with 69 chapters in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 25,000 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants nearly 12,700 wishes a year and has granted more than 175,000 wishes around the world since its inception.

For additional questions regarding the Ferris State University SAAC auction, please contact the group's adviser, FSU Associate Athletics Director Jon Coles, via email at colesj@ferris.edu.

Sport	Representative	Email Address
Soccer	Carlee Boyle	wcpride002@comcast.net
Softball	Makenzi Peterson	peterm14@ferris.edu
Cross Country	Zoey Holmann	zeich2009@yahoo.com
Football	Jordan Morgan	morgaj12@ferris.edu
Volleyball	Lisa Tobiczyk	tobiczl@ferris.edu
Women's Golf	Erin Fuchik	fuchike@ferris.edu
Hockey	Mike Fillinger	fillingermike@yahoo.com
Men's Basketball	Matt DeHart	dehartm@ferris.edu
Women's Basketball	Tricia Principe	bballprince22@sbcglobal.net

Source: Ferris State University Athletics Communications

SOFTBALL: Bulldogs Split With Lakers In GLIAC Twinbill

BIG RAPIDS - The two long-time West Michigan rivals hit the diamond against each other for the first time this season as Ferris State University hosted Grand Valley State University in a Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference softball doubleheader at the FSU Softball Field in Big Rapids on Wednesday.

With the GLIAC softball standings so tight (six teams still feeling they have a shot at winning the whole thing), every game of every doubleheader weighs even more heavily during the final few weeks of the regular season. Wednesday, by the time the dust settled (literally and figuratively), the rivals settled for a split as the Lakers were 1-0 winners in game one before the Bulldogs bounced back for a 2-0 victory in game two to salvage a split in a pair of well-played softball contests.

After starting 2-3 in the GLIAC, the Bulldogs have since improved to 7-4 in league action, but are focused only on the next game.

"We look at each game separately and we try not to look back and we really focus on making sure we're always looking forward," junior outfielder Colleen Roney said Wednesday when asked about the way the team has bounced back since the tough early start to the GLIAC schedule with two losses to nationally-ranked Saginaw Valley State University and one to an underrated Northwood University squad. "Every time we go out to a new game we think that we're on top and we're going to look to get ahead. We want to always make sure we're playing our game."

Ferris' Dana Bowler (5-5) and Grand Valley's Katie Martin (9-4) both pitched gems in a first game that saw the teams combine for just seven hits. The difference in the game was a fourth-inning RBI hit by GVSU catcher Carli Raisutis, who drove in the contest's lone run. Martin allowed four hits and struck out seven Bulldogs. It spoiled a solid pitching effort by Bowler, who threw seven innings, allowed three hits, the one run (earned) and recorded 10 strikeouts.

Offensively, senior center fielder Rachel Wade, sophomore first baseman Chelsea Morris, Roney and junior shortstop Lynsay Weaver each had one hit for the host Bulldogs.

In game two, Ferris scored once in the third inning and one more in the fourth inning for all the run support pitcher senior pitcher Kayle Stevenson needed. Stevenson was superb as she allowed three hits, no runs, walked four and struck out two for her sixth win of the season.

Freshman left fielder Morgan Kramerich batted 3-for-3 at the dish, Wade was 1-for-4 with an RBI and junior catcher Rachel Mueller finished 1-for-2 with a run driven in. In all, the Bulldogs posted two runs on six hits with one error while they held the Lakers of 20th-year head coach Doug Woods scoreless on three hits.

With the split, Ferris now is 16-11 overall and 7-4 in the GLIAC while Grand Valley is 20-12 overall and 8-4 in conference action.

Next up, the Bulldogs host Tiffin University in a doubleheader on April 17 beginning at 1 p.m.

Photo by Sandy Gholston

BEST OF THE DECADE (2000): Hockey

BIG RAPIDS - The decade of 2000-09 was the period that boasted the most successful Ferris State University hockey team in program history.

During the decade, the storied 2002-03 team is the one that stands out in the minds of most of the long-time followers of Bulldog hockey. That team, which featured All-American superstar Chris Kunitz, finished 30-10-1 overall, won the Central Collegiate Hockey Association title and advanced to the NCAA West Regional championship game (the Bulldogs lost to Minnesota, 7-4 at the Golden Gophers' Mariucci Arena). That team, however, had more than just Kunitz as guys like Jeff Legue, Derek Nesbitt and Mike Brown all enjoyed phenomenal years of hockey and team captain Troy Milam was an outstanding leader in head coach Bob Daniels' program in Big Rapids.

Going through the list of the great players who competed for the Bulldogs during the last decade was a unique challenge. Picking the Best of the Decade was in some ways easy and in some ways very challenging. While there are some obvious ones (Kunitz, Brown, Cody Chupp, Brian McCullough and Rob Collins) some other ones were a little challenging (since there were a number of very solid players Daniels and his staff recruited to Big Rapids and had the opportunity to coach. Deciding between McCullough and Kevin Swider, for instance, was a tough one in a lot of ways.

This is hardly a shocking revelation, but Kunitz is of course the Best of the Decade team captain and deservedly so.

Here is the Best of the Decade players for ice hockey;

Top Five Hockey Players

Brian McCullough: His final season pushed him into the decade being highlighted in this series. McCullough played from 1996-2000 and ended his career with 63 goals and 61 assists for a total of 124 points in the crimson and gold hockey sweaters. McCullough, as a senior during the 1999-2000 season was an All-CCHA Second-Team pick for the Bulldogs as he totaled 24 goals and 24 assists for 48 points to lead the team in scoring. Brian was a strong offensive player who was very good at not only delivering the puck to teammates, but also at finishing at the net when necessary.

Rob Collins: A second-team All-American during the 2001-02 season, Collins set the stage for the kind 0f success the Bulldogs would have after he was gone (during the special 2002-03 season when Kunitz stepped forward). Rob was a 2001-02 All-CCHA First-Team pick and was the school's first Hobey Baker Memorial Award finalist and the first to lead the CCHA in scoring with 40 points on 12 goals with 28 assists. He was one of the great versatile players ever to compete for the Bulldogs with his ability to score and set up teammates as he positioned himself among the best of his time in the CCHA and in the nation. Collins capped his Ferris career with 123 points on 44 goals with 79 assists.

Chris Kunitz (Captain): What more can you say about Chris Kunitz and his Ferris career that has not already been said. During the last decade (and perhaps in school hockey history) no player did more to help put Ferris State on the college hockey map than did Kunitz. He was everybody's All-American after his senior season (2002-03), all-conference, a Hobey Baker Memorial Award finalist and so much more. He helped lead the Bulldogs to a conference regular-season championship, a second-place finish in the conference tournament, to the NCAA West Regional finals and into the hearts and souls of so many who love Bulldog hockey. Ranks among the all-time best with 175 points (99 points and 76 assists). That only tells part of the story of what he meant to this program.

Jeff Legue: Played alongside Chris Kunitz and Derek Nesbitt on one of the great lines in school history. Jeff was able to set up teammates expertly and then also showed his ability also to be a top-notch scorer as he, Kunitz and Nesbitt complemented each other so well on the ice. He was not the biggest guy out there on the ice, physically, but his game played bigger than hi size as he was no doubt a key member of that great 2002-03 team that helped elevate the program in the eyes of so many people who follow the CCHA and college hockey. With 157 points (67 goals and 90 assists), he ranks among the top 10 all time in Ferris history in scoring.

Derek Nesbitt: Derek was the quiet member of the great line that included Kunitz and Legue. He was the "other" winger who quietly went out and put up big numbers and gave opposing coaches a lot to think about as they tried to game plan for the Bulldogs and Kunitz. He had an uncanny ability to put the puck in the net and his numbers put him up there with some of the better players who competed for the Bulldogs. Nesbitt, scoring wise, ranks among the top 15 all time in Bulldog history with 142 points (59 goals and 83 assists). He played in the shadow of a great player, but his numbers do not have to take a backseat to too many other players in the history of Ferris' program.

Honorable Mention

Kevin Swider: A solid scoring threat who was able to score a good number of points for the Bulldogs during his time at Ferris...
Troy Milam: One of the best pure leaders Ferris has had in recent memory. He also was a solid defensive player...
Jim Dube: One of the true student-athletes who also happened to be quite the solid player during his career...
Mike Brown: A first-team All-American during the 2002-03 season ... had one of the best years ever for a goaltender at Ferris...
Mark Bomersback: A solid performer who followed Chris Kunitz. Fans had high expectations for him and he turned out to be a solid player for Ferris...
Greg Rallo: A glue guy who was quiet and efficient. Rallo was a highly-recruited player for the Bulldogs who was a stabilizing force on the ice...
Cody Chupp: A hometown kid and solid all-around player who lived up to the expectations as a player and finished his career with one of his best years ever...
Blair Riley: Made steady progress and ended his career playing at a high level. His start to the 2009-10 season was storybook stuff as he became a Hobey Baker candidate...
Adam Miller: A smooth scorer who had an ability to put the puck in the net and has taken his career to the professional level...
Brendan Connolly: Fits the mold of the smaller and quick players the Bulldogs have recruited who played big at key times...
Zach Redmond: One of the best defensemen Ferris has ever had and one of their best recruiting victories to land a player of his caliber. Redmond is big, fast and skilled...