2009 USC Salkehatchie Men's and Women's Soccer Schedule Released~

Below you will find the 2009 USC Salkehatchie Mens and Womens soccer schedule. If you would like to have a printable version, go to www.uscsalkathletics.com

2009-USC Salkehatchie Men's Soccer Schedule


DAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME
W 19-Aug ~USC Aiken Aiken, SC 5:00 PM
SAT 22-Aug ~Newberry College Newberry, SC 5:00 PM
SAT 29-Aug Faulkner Univ. JV Allendale, SC 4:00 PM
W 2-Sep Brewton-Parker Col. JV Mount Vernon, GA 5:00 PM
SAT 5-Sep *Spartanburg Methodist Col Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
WED 9-Sep Georgia Military College Milledgeville, GA 5:00 PM
SAT 12-Sep *USC Sumter Sumter, SC 1:00 PM
T 15-Sep *Cape Fear Com Col Allendale, SC 4:00 PM
SAT 19-Sep Middle Georgia College Allendale, SC 1:00 PM
SUN 20-Sep *Wake Tech Com Col Allendale, SC 1:00 PM
MON 21-Sep Georgia Military College Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
WED 23-Sep *Tri County Tech Col Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
SAT 26-Sep *Spartanburg Methodist Col Spartanburg, SC 3:00 PM
SAT 3-Oct *Cape Fear Com Col Wilmington, NC 4:00 PM
MON 5-Oct South Georgia Col Douglas, GA 5:00 PM
SAT 10-Oct *Louisburg College Allendale, SC 1:00 PM
MON 12-Oct Gordon College Allendale, SC 5:00 PM
WED 14-Oct *Tri Count Tech Col Pendleton, SC 5:00 PM
SAT 17-Oct *USC Sumter Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
Sun 18-Oct South Georgia Col Allendale, SC 1:00 PM
SAT 24-Oct *Louisburg College Raleigh, NC 3:00 PM
SUN 25-Oct *Wake Tech Col Raleigh, NC 1:00 PM
*Denotes Region X Conference Games
~Denotes Exhibition Matches

2009 USC Salkehatchie Women's Soccer Schedule

DAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME
T 18-Aug ~Brewton-Parker College Mount Vernon, GA 5:00 PM
F 21-Aug ~Georgia Military College Milledgeville, GA 5:00 PM
Tues 25-Aug ~Wesleyan College Macon, GA 5:00 PM
F 28-Aug Toccoa Falls College Toccoa Falls, GA 5:00 PM
T 1-Sep *Cape Fear Com Col Allendale, SC 4:00 PM
SAT 5-Sep *Spartanburg Methodist Col Allendale, SC 1:00 PM
MON 7-Sep Abraham Baldwin Ag Col Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
SAT 12-Sep *USC Sumter Sumter, SC 3:00 PM
SUN 13-Sep *USC Lancaster Allendale, SC 2:00 PM
WED 16-Sep Abraham Baldwin Ag Col Tifton, GA 4:00 PM
SAT 19-Sep Middle Georgia College Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
MON 21-Sep Georgia Military College Allendale, SC 5:00 PM
SAT 26-Sep *Spartanburg Methodist Col Spartanburg, SC 1:00 PM
WED 30-Sep Oxford College Oxford, GA 5:00 PM
SAT 3-Oct *Cape Fear Com Col Wilmington, NC 2:00 PM
MON 5-Oct South Georgia Col Douglas, GA 3:00 PM
SAT 10-Oct *Louisburg College Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
MON 12-Oct Gordon College Allendale, SC 3:00 PM
SAT 17-Oct *USC Sumter Allendale, SC 1:00 PM
WED 21-Oct *USC Lancaster Lancaster. SC 4:00 PM
SAT 24-Oct *Louisburg College Raleigh, NC 1:00 PM
*Denotes Region X Conference Games
~Denotes Exhibition Matches

National and American CPL All-Stars Finish in a Tie, 2-2 after 10

USC Salkehatchie assistant (Outer Banks-Daredevils) Jeff Wicker leads National All-Stars to tie~


Both the National CPL All-Stars and American CPL All-Stars gave the crowd of 3,136 a great show that went down to the wire and ultimately ended in a tie, 2-2 after 10 innings at the 2009 Coastal Plain League All-Star Game presented by Taco Bell in Wilmington, N.C.

The tie was the first-ever in a Coastal Plain League All-Star Game and marked only the second time the contest had seen extra innings.
The National All-Stars took the early lead in the third inning when Outer Banks’ catcher Donnie Corsner (Old Dominion) got on with a lead-off walk. He later advanced to second on a wild pitch from Peninsula’s Tyler McSwain (UNC Wilmington), and then scored on an RBI-single to right-center field by Outer Banks teammate Dylan Petrich (Texas A&M) to take an early 1-0 lead.
But the Americans would tie it up in the bottom of the seventh inning when Asheboro’s Thomas Pope (UNC Wilmington) singled to right to start the inning, and then advanced to second after Columbia’s Matt Leeds (College of Charleston) was hit by a pitch. A fielder’s choice to Edenton’s Billy Swanson (Cal State Northridge) saw Pope turn third and then score off an error by Outer Banks shortstop Tyler Stubblefield (Kennesaw State).

The two squads would exchange runs in the eighth inning to reach the 2-2 tie. In the top of the eighth, Edenton’s Gerard Hall (Old Dominion) connected on a solo homer to left center. Meanwhile, in the bottom half of the inning, Wilson’s Jake Astor (Southern Arkansas) reached on a lead-off walk. A single to short by Thomasville’s Josh Liles (Tennessee) put runners at second and third after Liles exhibited his speed on the throw. Edenton’s Jake Magner (North Dakota) reached on a fielder’s choice that saw Astor get thrown out at home, and Liles advance to third. Then, Peninsula’s Jake McAloose (Old Dominion) singled to third, scoring Liles to knot the game at its final result: 2-2.

Story continued at http://www.coastalplain.com/index.php/cpl_08/press/national_and_american_cpl_all_stars_finish_in_a_tie_2_2_after_10/

USC Salkehatchie athletics gearing up to start back~

I am sure that many of you have become accustomed to checking the blog often for news about USC Salkehatchie athletics. I thought that I should explain during the summer, we don't have much news to report. I have posted everything that we have going on and I appreciate all the emails asking when the blog will be back in full swing.

As the summer draws to it's glorious conclusion, we are preparing for USC Salkehatchie men's and women's soccer. The soccer teams will start preparing for the season on August 18th. The players will be going through workouts with head coach Bill Glass. When I started as the sports information director at USC Salkehatchie, I didn't understand the first thing about soccer. I grew up as many of you reading the blog, playing the three major sports in America basketball, baseball and football. I knew that soccer existed as I watched Pele back as a child but I didn't understand the game as I thought it was something enjoyed more by countries overseas.

When I went to my first USC Salkehatchie soccer match, I began to witness the passion in which the players play the game. I watched as they ran and ran and even ran more throughout the match. I have always loved American football but at the very first match, I began to look at soccer in a much different light. It amazed me at the athletic ability of those playing the game, I could tell that they had to have as much if not more agility than football players.

Now, don't get me wrong, I have learned many things about soccer but I still am unsure about many aspects of the game. It is that lack of knowledge that makes soccer so enjoyable, it is learning something new about the game every time the Indians step on the field of play.

I hope that you will give USC Salkehatchie soccer a try this season if you haven't been able to make it to a match, you will be pleasantly surprised.

In the fall, the Lady Indians softball team will get in a few games as they gear up for the spring as will the Indians baseball team.

We will be printing media guides for all sports again this season, if you would like to purchase a copy they will be available at all home games.

This season, we are especially excited about USC Salkehatchie basketball. USC Salkehatchie men's head coach Travis Garrett has been working all summer recruiting some of the best players in the country and from overseas. Last season the Indians won the regular season Region X title and this season it is not out of the realm of possibility the Indians could be in Hutchinson, Kansas playing in the national NJCAA tournament.

I hope that you will continue to check the blog often and once August rolls around, we will be back in full swing. Please don't forget to check the official USC Salkehatchie athletic website at www.uscsalkathletics.com , Dawn Rizer does a wonderful job at compiling all the information about USC Salkehatchie athletics and getting out to the fans.

I want you to remember that it is you the fans that make USC Salkehatchie what it has become, one of the best junior college programs in the nation~

GO INDIANS!!!

Florence falls to Blowfish in Columbia on Thursday.

Former USC Salkehatchie Indian, Florence's Ali Williams (Charleston Southern 1-1) suffered his first loss of the season after giving up six runs, five earned, on nine hits in six innings against the Columbia Blowfish.

Florence (10-4) struck first in the second after Barrett Kleinknecht (Francis Marion) doubled to lead off the inning and later scored on a sacrifice fly by Myckie Lugbauer (Maine) to give Florence a 1-0 lead.

Columbia responded in the third inning with four runs to establish an early advantage. Matt Williams (Liberty) singled with one out, moved to second on Scott Wingo's (South Carolina) walk, and scored on an RBI single by Branfry Arias (Tusculum). Matt Leeds (College of Charleston) followed with a sacrifice fly to score Wingo. Jeff Jefferson (Liberty) then got his first hit as a Blowfish with a single that moved Arias up to second. John Long (Liberty) emptied this bases with a line drive to the outfield that was misplayed by right fielder Austin Smetana (Francis Marion), allowing Arias and Jefferson to score and make it 4-1 Columbia.
The Red Wolves made it exciting again with a two-run sixth. Kleinknecht hit his second double with one out and came around on Steven Neff's (South Carolina) RBI single to right field. Herman Petzold (Notre Dame) then drove home Neff with another single to cut into Columbia's lead, 4-3.

The Blowfish scored two in the bottom of the inning and then put it away with two more in the seventh. Jim Rider (Kent St) hit a one-out single, advanced on a walk by Gabe Grammar (Presbyterian), and scored after Catlin Carter's (UNC-Asheville) base hit into left field was overrun by Florence's Zach Caldwell (Missouri Southern). Matt Williams then hit a slow ground ball that was misplayed by Florence shortstop Tyler Burnett (Middle Tennessee), allowing Grammar to score and give Columbia a 6-3 lead.

In the seventh, Long doubled to plate Jefferson and then scored himself after Petzold made an errant throw on Jim Rider's infield single to second base. However, Columbia's 8-3 lead looked to be in jeapardy after the Red Wolves loaded the bases with no outs in the eighth. Columbia reliever Richard Mounce (Clemson) then struck out the next two batters and forced Smetana to ground into a fielder's choice to end Florence's scoring threat.

Mounce did not allow a run in 2.1 innings, striking out three and allowing two hits.

The University of South Carolina~Salkehatchie Lady Indians will be holding their annual softball camp the week of July 27th~July 30th in Allendale, South Carolina.

The Salkehatchie softball camp will provide instruction on the fundamentals of the game of softball.

Topics that will be covered include: Throwing Mechanics, Catching Mechanics, Positional Skills, Hitting Mechanics, Positional Play, Hitting Mechanics, Base Running, Pitching.

All campers should bring their own lunch and drink. Lunch will be from 12:00 Noon and 12:45 each day. Transportation much be provided to and from USC Salkehatchie each day.

Ages: 6-14 years old
Dates: Monday July 27th~Thursday July 30thTime: 9:00 am- 3:00 pm
Location: USC Salkehatchie Lady Indians Softball Field

Price: $65.00
Make check payable to: Salkehatchie Softball Camp

Mail to: USC Salkehatchie SoftballP.O. Box 617Allendale, SC 29810
For more information:Contact USC Salkehatchie head coach Mitch Smith@ 1-800-922-5500 or 803-584-3446 ext 255

If your child is interested in softball, this is a great chance for her to learn about college softball and what it takes to become a college player!

USC Salkehatchie's own Jeff Wicker selected to coach Coastal Plains League National All-Stars

USC Salkehatchie assistant coach, Jeff Wicker has been selected to coach the Coastal Plains National All-Star team for 2009. Coach Wicker is the head coach of the first half champions Outerbanks Daredevils.

How Coaches Are Selected: The 2009 Coastal Plain League All-Star Coaches were determined based on First-Half Champions and overall winning percentage in the first half. The two All-Star head coaches had the best overall winning percentage in the first half and also won their respective division’s First-Half championship. The remaining coach from the other divisional First-Half championship team will be an assistant for one of the two All-Star teams based on geographics.

Out of the remaining coaches, the one with the next best overall winning percentage in the first half will be the other assistant coach. Finally, the remaining head coaches from the remaining CPL clubs not represented yet will all serve as an assistant for one of the two All-Star teams.

The Daredevils are currently 23-11 and ranked #7 in the country.

From the entire USC Salkehatchie Athletic Family, we are super proud of Coach Jeff Wicker! Go Nationals!!

Former Lady Indian, Michelle Turner signs with Brevard College to play softball

Former USC Salkehatchie right fielder Michelle Turner has signed with Brevard College in North Carolina to play softball next season.

Turner from Sumter, South Carolina played for two seasons at USC Salkehatchie. While a member of the Lady Indians, she earned Female Athlete of the Year-2008-09, All-Region X and the Sports Information Directors Award for 2008-09.

"I was about to graduate high school and I loved softball, I didn't have anywhere to go and head coach Mitch Smith approached me about playing for USC Salkehatchie. If it wouldn't have been for coach Smith, none of what is happening now would have been possible," said Turner.

She will be reporting to Brevard, North Carolina where she will begin the second half of her career. The Tornado's finished last season with an overall record of 17-27 as they competed in their first season in SAC.

Turner said, "I went to the school and feel in love with the area. I want to thank everyone at USC Salkehatchie for always making me feel right at home. I wish it were a four year school because I would have stayed. I also want to thank head coach Mitch Smith for all his hard work and believing in me, I hope to make everyone at USC Salkehatchie proud of me."

To learn more about the Brevard College Tornados and to keep up with Michelle, go to www.bctornados.com

Good luck Michelle from the entire USC Salkehatchie athletic family!!!

Mary Ellen Leicht named first female Executive Director of NJCAA

The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Executive Committee made history today by naming Mary Ellen Leicht the Executive Director of the organization. Leicht becomes just the third executive director for the NJCAA dating back to 1939, and is the first female to be named to the position. She also becomes the first female chief executive of any intercollegiate athletic association in the United States. Leicht served as the Acting Executive Director during the six month search by the Executive Committee under the guidance of NJCAA President Art Becker. "I am extremely pleased with the selection of Mary Ellen Leicht as the new Executive Director of the NJCAA," said Becker. "The NJCAA Executive Committee interviewed an excellent group of candidates but it became apparent that Mary Ellen possessed the right combination of qualities that we wanted in a leader. Her long time experience with the NJCAA and her knowledge of the inner workings of the organization will allow her to make a seamless transition to the job as Executive Director. She now has the opportunity to set the course for the future of the NJCAA; a future that starts today."Leicht will oversee all business and day-to-day operations of the second-largest intercollegiate athletic association in the country. The NJCAA is the only national governing body of intercollegiate athletics for two-year colleges and its current membership of 525 institutions is second only to the NCAA. A 20-year veteran of the NJCAA, Leicht stepped into the organization in 1989 serving as an Eligibility Administrator and was quickly promoted to Associate Executive Director. She has led many of the organization's most challenging initiatives, which resulted in more efficient and effective regulations. She assisted with the development of a divisional competition structure for 28 different sports and was instrumental in the comprehensive overhaul of eligibility regulations. Leicht also directed the implementation of the association's current online eligibility and letter of intent program.

Leicht doesn’t see her selection as the first female executive as anything but the NJCAA being the NJCAA,” It is a great honor but the NJCAA as an organization has been race and gender blind for years. I have worked on both in the men’s and women’s divisions over the years. I hope that my being selected as the first female executive of the NJCAA opens doors in the future but really it won’t be a change from the past 20-years.”

When asked if she felt as though she was a pioneer for women in college athletics, she said “I think of a pioneer as the women from 20-years ago that fought for Title 9. It was these women that laid the groundwork for so many women such as me. I just hope that I can open doors for those that follow behind me, regardless of race or gender.”

She has championed improvements in equity of sports seasons, scholarships, and contests as well as qualifying standards for NJCAA championship events.

This past year (2008-2009), some 54,364 student-athletes competed in 28 different NJCAA sports. Over 3,500 teams competed last year in the NJCAA and the association held 48 national championship events. Thus, the organization and its member institutions offer many opportunities for student-athletes to learn, compete and succeed. Under Leicht's direction the focus of the organization will continue to be on the student-athlete.

"The NJCAA fulfills a unique niche in the higher education landscape," adds Leicht. "We (NJCAA) provide opportunities to individuals who may not have been able to further their academic and athletic careers due to family ties, economics or a myriad of other reasons. There is a long list of professional and Olympic athletes who got their careers started at an NJCAA institution, which speaks to the high level of competition experienced within our organization." "Looking into the future, the NJCAA will continue to showcase those stories which reflect the two-year college experience, not just athletically but also academically as well as from a community service standpoint. In addition, the association will continue to look at legislation which gives the two-year college student-athlete the best opportunity for success on the field of play as well as in their future life endeavors."

Leicht was a four-year letter winner in basketball at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, receiving a B.B.A. in business administration. She went on to obtain a M.S. in sports administration from the University of New Mexico and spent a year with the High Country Athletic Conference before joining the NJCAA staff in 1989.

“I think it is important that each college helps the student-athlete understand that their career will end one day. It is hard for an 18 or 19 year old to understand that their moment as an athlete is fleeting. We have to train these kids to understand that when the crowds are gone, they will need their education to fall back on. It is our job to help them understand they need to become career oriented and help them on the path to becoming productive members of society,” said Leicht.

Leicht hopes to work closely with member colleges as she wants every school to be informed of the happenings within the NJCAA. It is her goal to work with member schools and set up groups around the country to discuss the individual schools needs.

It is a testament to the NJCAA to have only had three executive directors since 1939 and USC Salkehatchie wishes Executive Director Mary Ellen Leicht the very best and she begins her journey.

USC Salkehatchie named it's first female athletic director in the school's history last year, when Mrs. Jane Brewer accepted the job.

Mrs. Brewer became one of the first female athletic directors in Region X with her appointment, the conference that USC Salkehatchie participates in all sports.

Eight Former NJCAA Baseball Players to Participate in 2009 MLB All-Star Game July 14

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (NJCAA.org) - The 2009 mid-summer baseball classic will have plenty of NJCAA flavor as 12 former baseball players, including six former NJCAA All-Americans, will take part this year's MLB All-Star Game festivities in St. Louis, Mo., July 12-14. Six former NJCAA baseball players highlight the National League team.

Albert Pujols (MCC - Maple Woods, Mo.) of the Cardinals and Raul Ibanez (Miami Dade College, Fla.) of Phillies will be starting for the National League while Dodgers second baseman Orlando Hudson (Spartanburg Methodist College, S.C.), Rockies outfielder Brad Hawpe (Navarro College, Texas), Astros outfielder Hunter Pence (Texarkana College, Texas) and Cardinals relief pitcher Ryan Franklin (Seminole State College, Okla.) are reserves for the NL squad.Red Sox outfielder Jason Bay (North Idaho College) and White Sox hurler Mark Buehrle (Jefferson College, Mo.) were both named to the American League All-Star team. Bay is listed as a starter for the AL team. Four other former NJCAA baseball players will take part in the All-Star Futures Game on July 12, which is an annual exhibition game between a team of top minor league prospects from the United States and a team of prospects from other parts of the World.

Former Chipola College, Fla., players Tyler Flowers (C) and Rene Tosoni (OF) will take part in the game as well as former Brevard Community College, Fla., standout Mat Lotas (P) and former Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Ariz., star Eric Young, Jr. (2B). Flowers was a 2006 NJCAA second-team All-American.Eight former NJCAA Players in the Mid-Summer Classic

Arguably the best player in baseball, Pujols will be making his eighth All-Star Game appearance and will also be participating in the Home Run Derby on July 13. He is the reigning NL MVP and currently leads the NL in home runs (31), RBIs (82), runs (67) and slugging percentage (.725). Pujols played one season at MCC - Maple Woods in 1999 and earned NJCAA third-team All-American honors after posting a .461 batting average. He was selected in 13th round of the 1999 MLB Draft by the Cardinals and earned NL Rookie of the Year honors in 2001. Ibanez currently ranks second in the NL in slugging percentage (.656) while also ranking 13th in batting average (.312). He is tied for fourth in home runs (22), tied for seventh in RBIs (59) and tied for 10th in runs (53). He played two seasons for Miami-Dade College where he earned All-Conference honors. Ibanez was taken in the 36th round of the 1992 draft by the Mariners.

Hudson is in his first season with the Dodgers and is currently hitting .285 with 43 RBIs. He is considered one of the best second basemen in the league and boasts the second-highest fielding percentage in the NL at his position (.989). He was selected in the 43rd round by the Blue Jays in the 1997 draft but did not sign until after posting NJCAA honorable mention All-American honors in 1998 with Spartanburg Methodist College.

Hawpe is posting career best marks in his fifth season with the Rockies. He currently ranks sixth in the National League in batting average (.327) and slugging percentage (.584) and his 57 RBIs also ranks 11th. Hawpe played his freshman season at Navarro College in 1998 and then helped lead Louisiana State University to the 2000 NCAA College World Series title. He was selected by the Rockies in the 11th round of the 2000 MLB Draft. In just his third season in the big leagues, Pence has emerged as one of the best young players in the game. He currently ranks 20th in the NL with a .303 batting clip and ranks 22nd with a .485 slugging percentage. Pence finished third in the voting for the 2007 NL Rookie of the Year Award behind Ryan Braun of the Brewers and Troy Tulowitzki of the Rockies. He played his freshman season at Texarkana College (2002) and earned NJCAA All-Region 14 honors after batting .395 with 33 stolen bases. He then continued his career at the University of Texas-Arlington and was subsequently drafted in the second round of the 2004 draft by the Astros.

Franklin will be making his first All-Star appearance after ranking sixth in the National League with 20 saves through the first half of the season. He currently boasts a 0.83 ERA in 32.2 innings pitched. He has only given up three earned runs this season and has struck out 24 batters. Franklin was a 1993 NJCAA first-team All-American for Seminole State College and went 20-0 in two seasons for the Trojans. He was selected in the 1992 draft by the Mariners but did not sign with the club until the spring of 1993. He went 3-0 in four appearances in helping lead Team USA to the Gold Medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia.

Bay, now a three-time All-Star, is off to a hot start this year with the Red Sox. He currently leads the AL in RBIs with 72 and leads his team with 20 home runs (tied for 5th in AL). Bay has come through in the clutch many times this year for the Red Sox. In fact he tied a club record, and nearly set a new MLB record, when he homered in 11 straight plate appearances with runners on base. He recently was ranked No. 41 on the Sporting News' list of the 50 greatest current players in baseball. Bay played two seasons at North Idaho College (1997, 1998) where he earned All-Scenic West Conference honors both seasons. He was selected in the 20th round by the Montreal Expos in the 2000 MLB draft.

Now in his ninth season, Buehrle has accomplished some great feats since his MLB debut in 2000. He has won a World Series title and tossed a no-hitter - both with the White Sox. He is off to a great 2009 campaign touting a 9-2 record with a .314 ERA, which made him a lock for a fourth All-Star selection.

Buehrle was a 1999 NJCAA third-team All-American at Jefferson College and was signed by the White Sox in the spring of 1999 after selecting him in the '98 draft. He ascended to the majors after just 16 starts in the minor leagues. The All-Star Futures Game and the Home Run Derby will be broadcast live on one of the ESPN channels on July 12 and 13, while the MLB All-Star Game can be seen live July 14 on FOX at 7 p.m. (ET).

To learn more about this players and all about the NJCAA, go to www.njcaa.org

Redwolves set to take on Blowfish tonight. Former and current Indians on both teams~!

AT

Wednesday, July 08, 2009 at 7:30 PM

Former USC Salkehatchie pitcher Ali Williams is set to start for the Florence Redwolves as they face the Columbia Blowfish. Former USC Salkehatchie Indian Branfy Arias and current Indian Carlito Santana are members of the Blowfish. If you are near the Florence area, go out and support the Indians!!

To learn more about the Redwolves, go to http://www.florenceredwolves.com/

USC Salkehatchie's own Jeff Wicker leads the Outer Banks Daredevils to first half championship~!

The Daredevils are currently on a 3-game winning streak and are ranked 9th in the country~!

The Outer Banks Daredevils rallied from a four run deficit to take down the Edenton Steamers 7-6 - clinching the first half of the Coastal Plain League North Division Thursday night. Dylan Petrich (Texas A&M) came through with two clutch RBI doubles for the Outer Banks (17-8), the first to bring them within a run in the sixth, and the second to tie the game in the eighth.
After giving up four first inning runs and trailing 6-2 heading in to the sixth - Petrich brought the Daredevils back. After a leadoff single by Chandler Snell (Georgia College and State) and a walk by Tyler Stubblefield (Kennesaw State), Petrich smoked a ball to the right field gap - scoring both runs.

Two batters later, Justin Schumer (UNC-Asheville) chopped an infield single in-between short and third, allowing Petrich to score and making the score 6-5.
Still trailing 6-5 in the eighth, Bud Fuller (Georgia Southwestern St.) came on in relief for the Steamers (11-14) and struggled with his command. After walking Stubblefield on four pitches, Fuller fell behind in the count to Petrich. With a 3-2 count, Petrich slapped a line-drive down the first base line that went into the right field corner - scoring Stubblefield and giving Petrich his second double of the night.
Story continued at link below-

To learn more about coach Wicker and the Daredevils, visit~http://www.obxdaredevils.com/

Never too old to be among the boys of summer-Story on USC Salkehatchie sophomore Ryan Roe and his summer team.

NEWBERRY -- Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame first baseman Willie Stargell once said, "When they start the game, they don't yell, Work ball. They say, Play ball."
When 40-year-old Chuck Edwards pulls on his Newberry Pirates jersey to catch nine innings on a 96-degree summer day, he doesn't consider it work either.
"I just love playing the game," Edwards said.

And while these Pirates playing their games in the predominantly African-American Community All-Star Baseball League on a roadside field off U.S. 176 a few miles outside of Newberry are as far as you can get from the major leagues, that does not matter to men such as Edwards.
Despite playing against men 20 years younger, Edwards does not let a sweltering day stop him from putting on the catchers gear for more than three hours.
After all, he could be working.

"It's not that bad," he said. "I do landscaping, and it's hot every day. I don't worry about it."
Edwards is emblematic of the league, having played in it since his teens. The games serve as more than an outlet for men who want to play baseball for as long as they can. They are also a focal point each weekend for communities where teams are based.
A few homes stand out past the left-field corner, and the occupants come out to watch as well. The concession stand in the Rutherford club next door stays busy selling cold soft drinks as the game slowly unwinds.

Edwards couldn't be happier. And neither could the Pirates fans who cheer him on.
Game timeOn a steamy Sunday afternoon in late June, Edwards is joined by about 30 other players and a hundred or so fans. They love the game, too.

"I like hardball. I don't like softball. I got addicted to this game," said Delores Caldwell, who is wearing big sunglasses and sitting in a lawn chair directly behind home plate.
She loves to watch the Pirates play. Who wouldn't? They have won four consecutive league championships and, midway through this season, are gunning for their fifth.
Even the coach of the rival Rock Hill Titans, whose team has an off day, is there to watch. He can't get enough either.
"The competition is the best," Frankie Houze said. "We've got real, real good teams [in the league], and the Pirates are the best."

His Titans won the first meeting between the teams this season, but he is not taking anything for granted.

"Any team that has won four (championships) in a row, you know theyre going to be there at the end," Houze said.

The league fields 13 teams from towns in the Midlands and upper part of the state. On this day, the Pirates are playing host to the Kelton Tigers at Rutherford Field.
The game is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m., but the first pitch is not thrown until 90 minutes later. Many of the Tigers players, it seems, attended a funeral before they could make the drive from the small community north of Union.

Full story at~ http://www.thesunnews.com/sports/story/967468.html

1st Annual USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp in Allendale ends with great day in the sun!

USC Salkehatchie head Lady Indians softball coach Mitch Smith was thrilled with the turnout for the first annual USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp this past week in Allendale, South Carolina. "I thought this camp would get the kids out and give them a chance to enjoy some of the sports they knew nothing about. The camp is basically designed for fun. I know some parents were worried because we were doing golf, tennis, etc, I had some parents say their kids had never played them before but after the first day of camp they really had a great time. We will be hosting the 1st annual All-Sports Camp on our Walterboro campus, August 3rd through the 7th and I hope we have a great turnout," said coach Smith.

First annual 2009 USC Salkehatchie All Sports Camp, coming to USC Salkehatchie (East Campus) in Walterboro, SC~ August 3rd-6th!!! Register today!!!

~USC Salkehatchie's East Campus in Walterboro, SC~
Ages:
6 years old – 14 years old
Dates:
Mon. Aug.3 — Thur. Aug. 6
Time:
9:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Location:
Drop off and pick up USC Salkehatchie Gym
Walterboro, SC
Price:
$65.00
Make check payable to:
USC Salkehatchie

Mail to:
USC Salkehatchie
P.O. Box 617
Allendale, SC 29810
Attn: Mitch Smith

For More Information:
Contact Coach Mitch Smith
@ 1-800-922-5500
or 803-584-3446 ext 255

Campers are exposed to a number of different sports,
including, soccer, golf, tennis, relay races and many other activities during four action packed days of camp. Campers are divided by age groups but have the option of being put into groups with their friends. This camp is designed for everyone with the emphasis put on fun and safety. The camp director is Mitch Smith.

Campers will need to bring a comfortable pair of sneakers, water bottle, tennis racket, golf clubs if available.

All Campers should bring their own lunch and drink. Lunch will be from 12:00 Noon to 12:45 PM each day.

Transportation must be provided to and from USC Salkehatchie each day.



USC Salkehatchie ALL SPORTS CAMP 2009

This Camp is designed for FUN!!! Come join the fun!

Curent and Former Indians with the Columbia Blowfish! Photos, from Monday night's action~!!!

I want to thank our athletic director here at USC Salkehatchie, Mrs. Jane Brewer for the wonderful pictures from Monday night's game. If you haven't had a chance to make it out to a game, it is great fun and we want to make sure we show our support for the Indians with the Blowfish!!

USC Salkehatchie athletic director~Mrs. Jane Brewer enjoyed a quick chat before the game with Carlito Santana (USC Salkehatchie)

Out in support for the Current/Former Indians with the Blowfish~

(Left to right~Top row) USC Salkehatchie head coach Bubba Dorman, Dylan Hightower, Pat Cassady, (Bottom Row)Grifffin Spires.

Branfy Arias #24 (Tusculum University) gets ready for a base hit~

Former Indians pitcher Mark Henderson (USC Aiken) lead the Blowfish for 5 innings on Monday night~

Former Indian~Mark Henderson gets no-decision in Blowfish win over Sharks~

Richard Mounce (Clemson, Blythewood) struck out three and allowed one hit in two innings of relief while Blowfish starter Mark Henderson (USC Salkehatchie/USC Aiken) held the Sharks to two runs on six hits in five innings, as the Blowfish won over Wilmington 3-2.

While Mounce earned the win, Henderson got the no-decision.

The Blowfish end the first half of the season with an overall record of 9-19.

Stats of current/former USC Salkehatchie players so far this season with the Blowfish~

AVG GP-GS AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB SLG% BB HBP SO GDP OB% SF SH SB-ATT PO A E FLD%

Branfy Arias .208 20-18 48 3 10 1 0 1 8 14 .292 7 5 10 1 .367 0 2 4-8 78 12 4 .957

C. Santana. .200 2-1 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 .200 0 0 2 0 .200 0 0 0-0 1 2 1 .750

ERA W-L APP GS CG SHO/CBO SV IP H R ER BB SO 2B 3B HR AB B/Avg WP HBP BK SFA SHA

M. Henderson 3.60 0-0 1 1 0 0/0 0 5.0 6 2 2 1 2 2 0 0 20 .300 1 0 0 0 0

Former USC Salkehatchie Indians pitcher-Mark Henderson slated to start for Blowfish tonight

I just spoke with the Columbia Blowfish and it seems as if former USC Salkehatchie pitcher Mark Henderson will be the starting pitcher when the Blowfish square off as against the Wilmington Sharks at 7:05 pm. The Indians have one former player, Branfy Arias and one current player Carlito Santana on their roster. They had a fourth but earlier this month, Oliver Santos was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds and decided to sign their offer.

Henderson committed to USC Aiken to play next season. While a member of the USC Salkehatchie Indians, Henderson, is the Indians all-time leader in games started and second in games started-1st (09)-13, 2nd (08)- 13.

He is the all-time leader in innings pitched with 71.2 in (09)

So, if you are reading this and live near the Columbia area, take your family out to the Columbia Blowfish and go former Indians~!

I will try and get updates throughout the game on the progress of Henderson's to see how his first game with the Blowfish turns out.

Go Indians~

Hot day in Allendale, kids have great day at 1st annual USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp

It was a hot and humid in Allendale today, but the kids that attended the 2009 1st annual USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp had a great time.

Below, you will find photo's from today's camp! To view a larger image, click on image.

New USC Salkehatchie Athletic, Poll Question of the Week!

Message boards have changed the college sports landscape for coaches, players and reporters, alike. If you follow any sport, you will notice that someone is always talking about something going on with your favorite team (USC Salkehatchie in your case, we hope)

This week's poll question is:

Q:Are message boards good or bad for college sports?

Good!~

Bad!~

Last week's Results:

Q: Do you use Twitter? If yes what do you use for? (Select all that apply)

Following friends~0%

Following media members/celebrities ~0%

Posting tweets ~16%

Following USC Salkehatchie athletic teams ~66%

Following athletes ~33%

N/A - I do not use Twitter~33%

1st Annual~USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp underway on West Campus in Allendale

The 1st annual USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp is underway on the west campus in Allendale, South Carolina.

USC Salkehatchie will host it's 1st annual All-Sports Camp on it's West Campus August 3rd-August 6th. To learn more about the All-Sports Camp in Walterboro, go to http://www.uscsalkathletics.com/

I will be bringing you some pictures from today's camp shortly, come back later to witness all the fun at the 1st annual USC Salkehatchie All-Sports Camp!

*Breaking News* Former USC Salkehatchie Indian- RHP Mark Henderson to join the Columbia Blowfish

It has been rumored for several days that former Indian RHP Mark Henderson will join two of his former teammates in Branfy Arias and Carlito Santana in Columbia (Oliver Santos was a member prior to signing with the Cincinnati Reds)and become the newest member of the Columbia Blowfish.

Henderson has signed with play for USC Aiken next season, where he will join former Indian Travis Howard.

I spoke with the Blowfish organization a little over an hour ago and they have confirmed that he will be joining the team on Monday. It is unclear what his role will be with the Blowfish, he could be a starter or reliever.

On behalf of the entire USC Salkehatchie athletic staff, we wish you the best Mark~Make the Indians proud.

Outer Banks Daredevils lead by USC Salkehatchie assistant~Jeff Wicker up 5 spots in national poll~!

The baseball Gods seem to be smiling down on USC Salkehatchie's very own Jeff Wicker. Coach Wicker is in his first season as the head coach of the Outer Banks Daredevils and his players are getting it done on the field. In last week's poll on http://www.pgcrosschecker.com the Daredevils were ranked #13 in the country but this week, they have moved up 5-spots to #8 in the nation.

To see the complete poll, click on the link below~
http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/Articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=1613

As the summer wears on, we will keep you updated on Coach Wickers progress and the progress of all our players in the collegiate summer leagues.
Go Coach Wicker and Go Daredevils!!

Don't Forget~Lady Indians Softball Dates Have Changed~ Now to be held July 27th-July 30th

*The USC Salkehatchie Lady Indians Youth Softball Camp Dates Have Changed*

The Camp was originally scheduled for July 20th-July 27th but it is now being held, July 27th-July 30th~

The University of South Carolina~Salkehatchie Lady Indians will be holding their annual softball camp the week of July 27th~July 30th in Allendale, South Carolina.

The Salkehatchie softball camp will provide instruction on the fundamentals of the game of softball.

Topics that will be covered include: Throwing Mechanics, Catching Mechanics, Positional Skills, Hitting Mechanics, Positional Play, Hitting Mechanics, Base Running, Pitching.

All campers should bring their own lunch and drink. Lunch will be from 12:00 Noon and 12:45 each day. Transportation much be provided to and from USC Salkehatchie each day.

Ages: 6-14 years old

Dates: Monday July 27th~Thursday July 30th

Time: 9:00 am- 3:00 pm
Location: USC Salkehatchie Lady Indians Softball Field

Price: $65.00
Make check payable to: Salkehatchie Softball Camp
Mail to: USC Salkehatchie SoftballP.O. Box 617

Allendale, SC 29810

For more information:Contact USC Salkehatchie head coach Mitch Smith@ 1-800-922-5500 or 803-584-3446 ext 255

If your child is interested in softball, this is a great chance for her to learn about college softball and what it takes to become a college player!

Happy Father's Day from the USC Salkehatchie Athletic Department

We may not shower him with praise Nor mention his name in song, and sometimes it seems that we forget

The joy he spreads as he goes along,But it doesn’t mean that we don’t know

The wonderful role that he has had.And away down deep in every heart

There’s a place that is just for Dad.....

Author Unknown

From the USC Salkehatchie athletic department~ Happy Father's Day~

*New Poll Question*

Hello USC Salkehatchie fans, I would like to thank you for so much input into last week's poll question. I hope that you will answer this week's as your opinion matter's. What you think actually helps us make the USC Salkehatchie "Official" blog and the USC Salkehatchie "Official" athletic website, that much better~! Again on behalf of the USC Salkehatchie athletic department, we want to thank you in advance for your support.

New USC Salkehatchie Poll Question~

Q: Do you use Twitter? If yes what do you use for? (Select all that apply)

Following friends

Following media members/celebrities ~

Posting tweets ~

Following USC Salkehatchie athletic teams ~

Following athletes ~

N/A - I do not use Twitter~

Last Week's USC Salkehatchie Poll Results~

Q: Which USC Salkehatchie Indians athletic team will finish the 2009-10 season with the best over-all record?

A:

Basketball~ 36%

Baseball~ 29%

Lady Indians Softball~ 23%

Women's Soccer~ 5%

Men's Soccer~ 5%

Talk about immediate action~Former Indian Ali Williams joins Red Wolves picks up save

FLORENCE — Tyler Christman recorded his third consecutive quality start, but got no run support as the Columbia Blowfish fell to the Florence Red Wolves 2-1 at Legion Field in Florence on Friday.
Christman (0-2) allowed two runs, one earned, on five hits in seven innings, but two balks cost him the victory. Christman has a 1.40 ERA in three starts, but has received five runs of support in 19 innings.
Stephen McCray (3-1) gave up one run in seven innings to get the win. Ali Williams picked up the save in his first appearance for Florence.

Clemson’s Richard Mounce hit his first home run in the fourth inning with a deep shot to left field as the Blowfish took a 1-0 lead.

The Red Wolves answered in the sixth when Drew Haynes singled, then later scored on Tyler Burnett fielder's choice.

With two outs in the seventh, a balk call resulted in base runners on second and third for Christman. Florence's Drew Haynes then walked to load the bases.

Christman was called for a second balk that allowed Herman Petzold to trot home with the go-ahead run.
Story continued at the following link http://www.thestate.com/sports/story/834375.html?RSS=sports

The Florence Red Wolves head coach Davis said, " Williams, a Sumter native, spent the last two years at USC Salkehatchie and is headed for Charleston Southern in the fall. We’re just glad to be able to get him on our club this soon and that he could come and help us immediately,” Davis said. “He was very mature about his arrival and was terrific for us.”

To learn more about the Florence Red Wolves go to~ http://www.florenceredwolves.com/

USC Salkehatchie assistant baseball coach~Jeff Wicker making a "Big Splash" in his first season as head coach of Outer Banks Dare Devils~

http://www.obxdaredevils.com/

USC Salkehatchie assistant baseball coach Jeff Wicker is making a huge splash in his first season as the Outer Banks Dare Devils head coach! It seems as though he has things under control and is making all the right decisions as his team finds itself ranked #13 in the latest Perfect Game Cross Checker poll. The Dare Devils are currently 12-7 on the season.

To learn more about the poll, go to http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/Articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=1593

According to pgcrosschecker.com

The 2009 summer college baseballseason has been underway for the better part of three weeks for some leagues,and not even a week for others. Despite the staggered start, it seems apparentalready that the powerful Cape Cod League will get a stiff challenge atop PGCrosschecker’s ranking of the nation’s top summer teams again from theCalifornia Collegiate League’s Santa Barbara Foresters, the reigning NationalBaseball Congress World Series champions.

The Foresters (8-2) are ranked No. 2 in the summer’s first ranking of the top 25 summer-league clubs. The No.1 spot, not surprisingly, is occupied by a Cape League team, the newly-named Chatham Anglers, winners of their first three games thisseason. There’s no assurance that Chatham Cape League , but the Foresters should stayin contention throughout, particularly with a pitching staff headed by Wichita State ace Tim Kelley and San Diego righthander A.J. Griffin, a Team USA pitcher in 2008. willcontinue its early pace in the highly-competitive.

Former USC Salkehatchie Indian~Oliver Santos "Officially" a member of the Cincinnati Reds, read below to find out where he's likely headed!

Former USC Salkehatchie Indian Oliver Santos left USC Salkehatchie after graduation headed to play this summer for the Columbia Blowfish. In the back on his mind, he knew the Major League Baseball draft was coming up but he didn't know if he would be selected. He had already signed to play with Tusculum University next season but he had high hopes he would be drafted and his lifelong dream of playing major league baseball would come true.

On April 10th his dream came true when the Cincinnati Reds called his name and in a moment his life had changed. Santos took no time making up his mind and on Monday, he signed his first contract with the Reds.

It seems his first assignment will be with the Sarasota Reds in Sarasota, Florida. Once in Florida, he could stay there a week, a month or longer. However, he could be there a day, a week or a month and move up, only time will tell.

Once he arrives in Florida and begins his journey, we will update the USC Salkehatchie "Family" on his progress.

Again on behalf of the USC Salkehatchie athletic department, "Good Luck Oliver, you have the entire USC Salkehatchie "Family" pulling for you and wishing you much success"~