Columbia Cougars

November 2000 Headlines

November 30, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Improve to 3-0 in Pool Play at the NAIA National Volleyball Tournament

West Palm Beach, Fla. – After dropping the first game of their third pool play match at the 21st Annual NAIA National Volleyball Tournament in West Palm Beach, Fla., the Cougar volleyball squad rallied to knock off National American University (24-14) out of Rapid City, S.D. by scores of 12-15, 15-12, 15-5 and 15-6. With the win, Columbia improves to 41-1 on the season and 3-0 in pool play.

Leading the Cougar attack was sophomore outside hitter Endrina Sosa, who totaled 22 kills and 10 digs. Nino Gonzalez and Angie Molina added 18 and 12 kills, respectively. Gonzalez also totaled two service aces and 14 digs. Setter Juliana Godoi contributed 55 assists and 11 digs.

“We struggled in the first game of the match,” stated Cougar head coach Melinda Wrye-Washington. “National American is a great team and really challenged us, but we had some players step up at crucial times to get our offense moving in the right direction that ultimately allowed us to get the win.”

Columbia will play its final pool play match on Friday, Dec. 1 at 11:15 a.m. (EST) versus Fresno Pacific University (25-11). Fresno Pacific holds the second place slot in Columbia’s pool, Pool A, boasting the only other undefeated record.

In quarterfinal action, the #1 seed from Pool A will play the #2 seed from Pool B, currently Dordt College (Iowa) at 6 p.m. (EST) on Friday, Dec. 1. The #2 seed from Pool A will play the #1 seed from Pool B, currently Dickinson State University (N.D.), at 8:15 p.m. (EST) on Friday. A win over Fresno Pacific tomorrow will assure the Cougars the #1 position in Pool A. A loss will drop them to the number two position.

The winners of the four quarterfinal matches will advance to the semifinals on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. (EST) and 12:30 p.m. (EST) The finals will take place on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. (EST).

 

November 29, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Score Two Victories in Day One of 
NAIA National Volleyball Tournament

West Palm Beach, Fla. - The Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team won its second match in pool play at the NAIA National Volleyball Tournament in West Palm Beach, Fla. this evening, defeating St. Xavier University (36-11) out of Chicago, Ill. by scores of 15-7, 15-2 and 15-0. With the win, Columbia improves to 40-1 on the season and 2-0 in pool play.

Leading the way for the Cougars in the victory over St. Xavier University was Nino Gonzalez who recorded 13 kills. Endrina Sosa and Angie Molina added 11 kills apiece, while Juliana Godoi totaled 37 assists. Sosa also compiled 12 digs and freshman Katie Skibiski contributed six service aces.

"I am very pleased with both victories today,” stated Cougar head coach Melinda Wrye-Washington. “We were anxious to get on the court because we hadn’t played a match in 10 days. Our players were excited and focused and that combination seems to be a good one for our team. If we can remain consistent, good things should happen for this team.”  

The Cougars will take on National American University (23-13) tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. The team will play its final pool play match on Friday, Dec. 1 at 11:15 a.m. versus Fresno Pacific University (23-11).

The Cougars are currently in first place in their pool. Fresno Pacific and National American are the in second and third slots in Columbia’s pool. St. Xavier and Indiana University-Southeast occupy the last two positions. The Cougars defeated Indiana University-Southeast in their first match of the day by scores of 15-6, 15-9 and 15-5.

Should the Cougars prevail as one of the top two seeds in their pool, they will advance to the quarterfinals on Friday evening. The semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The finals will take place on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. All times indicated in this release are eastern.

November 29, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Win First Match at National Tournament in West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach, Fla. - The Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team won its first match in pool play at the NAIA National Volleyball Tournament in West Palm Beach, Fla. this morning, defeating Indiana University-Southeast (29-8) by scores of 15-6, 15-9 and 15-5. The Cougars’ next match is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. (EST) tonight versus the St. Xavier University Cougars from Chicago, Ill. (36-10).

Leading the way for the Cougars in the victory over Indiana University-Southeast was Nino Gonzalez who recorded 15 kills. Endrina Sosa and Angie Molina added 12 and 11 kills, respectively. Juliana Godoi totaled 37 assists.

With the win, the Cougars improve to 39-1 on the season. Following tonight’s match, the Cougars will take on National American University (23-13) tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. (EST). The team will play its final pool play match on Friday, Dec. 1 at 11:15 p.m. (EST) versus Fresno Pacific University (23-11).

Should the Cougars prevail as one of the top two seeds in their pool, they will advance to the quarterfinals on Friday evening. The semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The finals will take place on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

 

November 27, 2000
Basketball Cougars Steal 70-68 Overtime Victory; Improve to 10-0 on the Season

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team pushed its record to 10-0 tonight, knocking off the William Jewell Cardinals of Liberty, Mo. by a score of 70-68 in overtime. The 10-0 start is the best in Cougar basketball history.

Columbia got off to a slow start offensively, hitting only 36 percent of its field goal attempts in the first half. During the final 10 minutes of the first half, the Cougars were ice cold from the field, sinking only one field goal attempt. The Cardinals proved more productive on the offensive end, dropping in 62 percent of their field goal attempts, including three-of-four from beyond the three-point arc.

After trailing 32-26 at the break, the Cougars managed to ignite their offense and climb back into the contest. With 20 seconds remaining and Columbia trailing by three points, Cougar guard Sean Dooley hit a lay-up and was fouled. Dooley was unable to complete the conventional three-point play and then fouled Rock Bridge high school graduate Andrew Peters. Peters connected on one-of-two freethrows, giving the Cardinals a two-point, 61-59 advantage. Cougar guard Mark Jones then hit the game-tying basket with six seconds remaining to send the game into its first extra period.

In overtime, the Cougars outscored the Cardinals nine to seven to give Columbia the 70-68 victory. Jones and Jerrod Thompson scored the last four Cougar points to seal the win.

Leading the way for Columbia was Jones, who totaled 21 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two steals. Thompson added 15 points and four steals. Peters led William Jewell’s offensive attack, scoring 18 points, grabbing 12 rebounds and passing out two assists.

The match-up versus William Jewell is the second in ten days for the Cougars. On Nov. 18, Columbia knocked off the Cardinals in their home opener by a score of 77-75.

The Cougars return to action next Monday, Dec. 4 when they host Haskell Indian Nations University from Lawrence, Kan. Tip-off is slated for 7 p.m.

 

November 25, 2000
Basketball Cougars Win 93-83 Thriller versus Montana Tech in 2OT;

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team managed its ninth win of the season this afternoon, knocking off Montana Tech from Butte, Mont. in double overtime by a score of 93-83. With the win Columbia improves to 9-0 on the season.

After trailing 29-24 at intermission, Columbia battled back to pull within one point of the Orediggers with less than a minute remaining in regulation. With four seconds on the clock and Montana Tech leading 59-58, senior guard Jerrod Thompson was fouled in the backcourt and managed to hit one of his two freethrow attempts to send the game into its first extra period.

The Cougars struggled early in the first overtime, falling behind by as many as eight points. However, the Cougars, led by junior point guard Mark Jones, once again closed the gap and sent the game into a second overtime period with the game knotted at 75. The Cougars controlled the second five-minute overtime, outscoring the Orediggers, 17-7 and notching the 93-83 victory.

Leading the way for Columbia was Jones, who turned in 23 points and ten rebounds. Also in double figures were Thompson and Sean Dooley who netted 13 and 12 points, respectively. Thompson also added four assists and four steals. Glen McLeod was the Orediggers’ leading offensive performer, dropping in 28 points, including seven of his eight attempts from behind the three-point arc.

In the first game of the day, the Central Methodist College Eagles defeated Tabor College by a score of 109-86. Ryan Robertson led the way for the Eagles, totaling 19 points. Antonio Sykes and Columbia native Brennon Scanlon dropped in 18 and 17 points, respectively. Micah Ratzlaff totaled 26 points for Tabor.

Following the completion of the tournament, the ABC-17/Days Inn Classic All-Tournament Team and Most Valuable Player were announced. Those named to the team include:

Micah Ratzlaff, Tabor College
Brennon Scanlon, Central Methodist College
Lindsay Wooley, Montana Tech College
Jaigar Allen, Montana Tech College
Jerrod Thompson, Columbia College
Mark Jones, Columbia College – Most Valuable Player

The Cougars return to action on Monday, Nov. 27 when they host William Jewell College in Southwell Gymnasium. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. William Jewell is 3-2 on the season. The Cardinals last game was their home opener on Nov. 18 versus Columbia College. The Cougars were victorious in that contest, 77-75.

 

November 24, 2000Basketball Cougars Roll in 79-61 Victory over Tabor College in
ABC-17/Days Inn Thanksgiving Classic; Central Methodist Falls to Montana Tech College

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team extended its record to 8-0 tonight, knocking off Tabor College from Hillsboro, Kan. in the ABC-17/Days Inn Thanksgiving Classic by a score of 79-61. The 8-0 start is the program’s best since 1993. The loss drops Tabor to 4-2 on the season.

The Bluejays from Tabor started the game red hot offensively, connecting on 52 percent of their field goal attempts and 58 percent of their shots from behind the three-point arc. Despite sharp shooting by the Bluejays, the Cougars stayed one step ahead of with the visitors from Tabor, taking a 33-31 lead into halftime.

In the second half, Columbia’s defensive effort held Tabor to just five field goals. Tabor was five for 25 from the field, while the Cougars converted 13 of its 25 field goal attempts. Columbia outscored the Bluejays, 46-30, in the final 20 minutes of action, giving the Cougars the 79-61 victory.

Leading the way for Columbia was Jerrod Thompson, who dropped in 23 points. Forward Jason Wright also added 16 points and seven rebounds while junior guard Mark Jones added 12 points and seven rebounds. Micah Ratzlaff led the charge for Tabor, totaling 17 points, five rebounds and three assists.

In the first match-up of the evening, Montana Tech College from Butte, Mont. knocked off Central Methodist College, 79-67. With the loss, the Eagles from Fayette, Mo. drop to 5-2, while the win pushes the Orediggers to 4-4.

Brennon Scanlon, a Rock Bridge High School product, dropped in 17 points for the Eagles. Antonio Sykes added 13. Lindsay Woolley and Jaiger Allen each netted 21 points for the Orediggers.

The ABC-17/Days Inn Thanksgiving Classic continues tomorrow afternoon. Central Methodist will meet Tabor at 1 p.m. and the Cougars will face Montana Tech at 3 p.m. Following the completion of the second contest, the all-tournament team and tournament most valuable player will be announced.

 

November 21, 2000
Basketball Cougars Triumph in Thrilling Road Battle versus Central Methodist College

Fayette, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team, ranked #19 in the NAIA Division I Preseason Men’s Basketball Poll, extended its lead to 7-0 tonight, knocking off its mid-Missouri rivals, the Eagles from Central Methodist College by a score of 64-61. The loss drops the Eagles to 5-1 on the season. The Eagles, ranked #22 in the NAIA Division II Preseason Men’s Basketball Poll, handed the Cougars two defeats in 1999-2000.

The Cougars trailed by as many as 13 points in the second half, but rallied behind a 21-point, 11-rebound effort by sophomore Jason Wright to close that margin. The Cougars trailed 61-60 with 43 seconds remaining in the contest. Wright stole a pass and hit a running shot with 24 seconds remaining in the ballgame to give the Cougars the lead. Justin Keen then hit two freethrows to give Columbia the 64-61 victory. Keen finished with 12 points.

Antonio Sykes paced the Eagles with 19 points. Former Rock Bridge Bruin Brennan Scanlon scored 16 points off the bench.

Both teams return to action this weekend in the ABC-17/Days Inn Thanksgiving Classic hosted by Columbia College. On Nov. 24, The Eagles will face Montana Tech College at 6 p.m., while the Cougars will square off against Tabor College (Kan.) at 8 p.m. On Saturday, Nov. 25, Central Methodist will meet Tabor at 1 p.m. and the Cougars will face Montana Tech at 3 p.m.

The Eagles and the Cougars will meet in the second Cougar tournament of the holiday season, the Cougar Holiday Classic on Dec. 29 and 30. The two mid-Missouri squads will tip-off at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 30. Other teams participating in that Columbia College tournament include Carroll College and Missouri Baptist College.

 

November 21, 2000
NAIA Region V Soccer and Volleyball All-Region Squads Released

Columbia, MO  -- The NAIA Region V released members of the volleyball and soccer all-region squads today. The volleyball and soccer honorees included ten Cougar athletes. In both sports, the election of all-region squads was based on recommendations from coaches in Region V.

Members of the 2000 NAIA Men’s Soccer Team include:

First Team

Goalkeepers: Ryan Letulle, Lindenwood University; Andrew Branaum, Columbia College
Backs: Rob Appel, Harris-Stowe State College; Kelly Wolverton, Baker University; Adrian Juarez, William Woods University; Kjell-Einar Teien, Columbia College

Midfielders: Branco Savic, Lindenwood University; Luiz Del Monte, Harris-Stowe State College; Juan Pablo Irrera, Columbia College; Jeremy Blyenberg, Lindenwood University

Forwards: Dipsy Selolwane, Harris-Stowe State College; Nebojsa Stefanovic, Lindenwood University; Jason Spencer, Columbia College; Jeremy Bleyenberg, Lindenwood University

Second Team

Goalkeepers: Brian Cross, Missouri Baptist College; Felipe Fuenmeyor, Park University

Backs: Eugene Khlynin, William Woods University; Dan Hirst, Avila College; Shavon Douglas, Lindenwood University; Eric Gratza, McKendree College

Midfielders: Chris Dean, Columbia College; Andi Mansour, William Woods University; Marco Lauman, Park University; Blake Reynolds, Baker University

Forwards: Sheldon Richards, Missouri Baptist College; Francisco Mosca, McKendree College; Simon D’eath, Park University; Fredrick Orbeck-Nilssen, Columbia College; Brian Treat, Culver-Stockton College

Members of the 2000 NAIA Region Volleyball Team include:

Player of the Year: Endrina Sosa, Columbia College

Coach of the Year: Melinda Wrye-Washington

First Team

Columbia College: Endrina Sosa, Nino Gonzalez, Angie Molina, Juliana Godoi

Missouri Baptist College: Jennifer Freund, Brandi Schroeder

McKendree College: Amanda Dorries

Graceland University: Diana Jensen

Culver-Stockton College: Shelby Ortwerth, Alex Steel

Benedictine College: Jodi Renze

William Woods University: Stephanie Sebacher

Honorable Mention

Alana Groom, William Woods University; Emilee Hoffner, Baker University; Staci Jones, Evangel University; Kathy Kern, Baker University; Terri Rauhut, Missouri Baptist College; Danielle Wade, Park University

November 21, 2000
2000 NAIA Volleyball National Championship Berth Release

TULSA, Okla. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has announced the field for the 21st Annual NAIA Volleyball National Championship Tournament, hosted by Palm Beach Atlantic College (Fla.), November 29 - December 2, 2000.

Region I – Concordia University (Ore.)
Region II - Point Loma Nazarene College (Calif.)
Region III - Dickinson State University (N.D.)
Region IV – College of Saint Mary (Neb.)
Region V – Columbia College (Mo.)
Region VI - Houston Baptist University (Texas)
Region VII - St. Xavier University (Ill.)
Region VIII – Madonna University (Mich.)
Region IX - Houghton College (N.Y.)
Region X – Bloomfield College (N.J.)
Region XI – Georgetown College (Ky.)
Region XII - Indiana University Southeast
Region XIII – Belhaven College (Miss.)
Region XIV - Palm Beach Atlantic College (Fla.)

At Large 1 – Dordt College (Iowa)
At Large 2 – Fresno Pacific University (Calif.)
At Large 3 – National American University (S.D.)
At Large 4 – Albertson College (Idaho) (23-1)
At Large 5 – Bellevue University (Neb.)
At Large 6 – Azusa Pacific University (Calif.)

 

November 18, 2000
Basketball Cougars Edge William Jewell on the Road

Liberty, MO  -- After leading by ten points at the half, the Columbia Cougars withstood a second half charge by William Jewell to defeat the Cardinals in their home opener by a score of 77-75. With the win, Columbia improves to 6-0 on the season. The loss drops the Cardinals to 3-2.

The Cougars, lead by a 17-point first half performance by Mexico, Mo. native Jerrod Thompson, entered the intermission with a 39-29 lead over the Cardinals. William Jewell battled back in the second half and pulled ahead of the Cougars, 68-67, with approximately five minutes remaining in the contest.

With thirty seconds remaining in the game, Cougar guard Sean Dooley converted a three-point play to give the Cougars a two-point, 76-74 lead. Columbia then turned the ball with 11 seconds left in the contest. William Jewell’s Andrew Peters, a former Rock Bridge High School graduate was fouled by Cougar Jason Wright, but was able to convert only one of his two freethrow attempts. The Cardinals then fouled Thompson, who managed to net one of his two freethrow opportunities to give the Cougars the 77-75 victory.

"We are very excited about winning this contest tonight,” stated Burchard after the game. “This was a great test for our team early in the season. We beat a good team on the road, shot 58 percent from the field and we were able to figure out how to win after losing our early lead.”

The Cougars were led by Thompson, who finished the game with 23 points and three rebounds. Forward Jason Wright totaled 15 points and five rebounds. Dooley and Mark Jones added 13 and 12 points respectively. Bryan Patterson led the way for William Jewell with 29 points.

"We had some big performances tonight,” continued Burchard. “Sean Dooley, Jerrod Thompson and Jason Wright had some key plays for us in crunch time and Mark Jones really controlled the game for 32 minutes.”

As a team, the Cougars shot 58 percent from the field and 46 percent beyond the three-point arc. The Cougars out rebounded the Cardinals, 26-25.

The Cougars return to action on Tuesday, Nov. 21 when they travel to Central Methodist College in Fayette, Mo. Central Methodist is ranked #22 in the NAIA Division II Preseason Poll. The Cougars hold the #19 spot in the NAIA Division I Preseason Poll.

 

November 18, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Claim NAIA Region V Title

Columbia, Mo. - The Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team claimed the NAIA Region V postseason tournament title today, knocking off Missouri Baptist College by scores of 15-2, 15-13 and 15-9. As the Region V Champion, Columbia advances to the NAIA National Tournament in West Palm Beach, Fla. on Nov. 29-Dec. 2.

Leading the way for the Cougars in the victory over Missouri Baptist was outside hitter Nino Gonzlaez who pounded 23 kills in 36 attempts, while committing only one error. Endrina Sosa recorded 12 kills and 16 digs. Setter Juliana Godoi logged 39 assists, five kills and 15 digs. Brandi Schroeder and Julie Brinker totaled 11 and 10 kills, respectively for Missouri Baptist. Spartan setter Terri Rauhut added 32 assists. Missouri Baptist finishes the season with a record of 35-11.

With the win, the Cougars improve to 38-1 on the season. Columbia has won 92 consecutive home matches, dating back to Oct. 8, 1994. The team is ranked #1 in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll.

The release of the 20-team field for the NAIA National Tournament is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 20. Pool assignments for participating squads will be released on Nov. 22. Pool play will take place on Nov. 29-30. The top two teams from each of the four pools will advance to the quarterfinals on Dec. 1. The semifinal matches will take place at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2. The championship match is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 2.

 

November 17, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Advance to the Region V Championship Match

Columbia, MO  -- The top-seeded Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team advanced to the championship round of the NAIA Region V Tournament tonight, knocking off the fourth seeded Benedictine College Ravens by scores of 15-11, 15-6 and 15-12.

Leading the way for the Cougars was outside hitter Nino Gonzalez who hammered 17 kills and successfully dug 11 Raven hitting attempts. Fellow Venezuelan Endrina Sosa notched 15 kills and six digs, while setter Juliana Godoi totaled 43 assists and four kills. Angie Molina also contributed eight blocks.

Benedictine hitter Jodi Renze totaled 11 kills to lead the Ravens. The team finishes its season with a record of 30-8.

The Cougars will square off against the Missouri Baptist College Spartans tomorrow at 1 p.m. for the Region V Tournament title. It will be the fourth time the two AMC squads have met this season. The Cougars have proven victorious in all three previous match-ups.

The Spartans, seeded  #3 in the tournament, knocked off the #2 seed, Graceland University, by scores of 15-10, 15-10, 12-15 and 15-12 in the first semifinal match of the night to advance to the championship contest. Missouri Baptist is currently 35-10 and ranked #15 in the Nov. 14th NAIA Top 25 Poll.

With the win, the Cougars, ranked #1 in the NAIA Top 25 Poll, improve to 37-1 on the season. A win tomorrow in Southwell Gymnasium would be Columbia’s 92nd consecutive match victory at home, a streak that dates back to Oct. 8, 1994.

The winner of tomorrow’s match will automatically advance to the NAIA National Tournament in West Palm Beach, Fla. on Nov. 28 – Dec. 2. The Cougars are the two-time defending NAIA National Champions.

 

November 16, 2000
Basketball Cougars Earn 71-56 Victory over Missouri Valley

Columbia, MO  --The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team earned its fifth consecutive victory of the season tonight, defeating Missouri Valley College from Marshall, Mo. by a score of 71-56. With the win, the Cougars improve to 5-0 on the season. The loss drops the Vikings to 2-2.

Columbia was led by Mexico, Mo. native Jerrod Thompson, who provided 17 points, three assists and two rebounds. Also scoring in double figures was sophomore forward Jason Wright, who netted 12 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Senior forward Sam Tatiersky provided ten points and 11 boards for the Cougars.  

Jerad Sanderson provided the offensive punch for the Vikings, knocking in seven of his ten field goal attempts, including five of seven from beyond the three-point arc, for 19 points. Point guard Andy Routh also contributed six points and seven assists.

The Cougars, ranked #19 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Poll, travel to William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo. on Saturday, Nov. 18 for a 7 p.m. match-up. 

 

November 12, 2000
Basketball Cougars Improve to 4-0;

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team knocked off Avila College this afternoon by a score of 96-74. With the win, the Cougars, ranked #19 in the NAIA Top 25 Preseason Poll, improve to 4-0 on the season.

The Cougars, who led 43-35 at halftime, started the second half with an 18-0 run to pull away from the Eagles and secure the victory. Leading the charge for the Cougars was Jerrod Thompson, who 21 points. Cougar guard Mark Jones added 17 points, six rebounds and three assists.

Also scoring in double figures for Columbia was Jason Wright and Sam Tatiersky with 13 and 12 points, respectively. Tatiersky also grabbed seven rebounds in the victory. Avila guard Patrick Young recorded 15 points for the Eagles.

The Cougars return to action on Wednesday, Nov. 15 when they host Missouri Valley College from Marshall, Mo. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Southwell Gymnasium.

 

November 11, 2000
Basketball Cougars Triumph in Home Opener

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team improved to 3-0 tonight, defeating the Lyon College Scots by a score of 64-47. With the loss, Lyon, located in Batesville, Ark., falls to 0-2 on the season.

The Cougars were led by sophomore forward Jason Wright who netted 15 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Senior guard Armeake Estes also dropped in 11 points for the Cougars. Fellow senior Jerrod Thompson, a Mexico, Mo. native, led the defensive charge for Columbia, swiping six steals.

The Cougars led the Scots by a score of 34-27 at intermission. Columbia dominated Lyon defensively, totaling 15 steals. In addition, the Cougars showed superior ball control, committing only eight turnovers to Lyon’s 20.

The Cougars, ranked #19 in the NAIA Division I Preseason Poll, are back in action tomorrow, Nov. 12 when they square off against the Avila College Eagles. Tip-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. in Southwell Gymnasium.

 

November 11, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Win Eighth Consecutive AMC Postseason Tournament Title

The Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team claimed the American Midwest Conference postseason title today, knocking off Missouri Baptist College by scores of 15-2, 15-3 and 15-10. Leading the way for the Cougars was Endrina Sosa who notched 17 kills and 15 digs. Nino Gonzalez added 15 kills. Angie Molina recorded 12 kills, while setter Juliana Godoi totaled 39 assists.

With the win, the Cougars improve to 36-1 on the season. Columbia has won 90 consecutive home matches, dating back to Oct. 8, 1994. The team is ranked #1 in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll.

Following the all-conference match, the 2000 AMC All-Conference team was announced. Cougars named to the AMC First Team include Endrina Sosa, Nino Gonzalez, Angie Molina and Juliana Godoi. Gonzalez was awarded the Freshman of the Year award and Sosa was named the league’s most valuable player for the 2000 campaign. Cougar head coach Melinda Wrye-Washington was named the AMC Coach of the Year.

As the AMC postseason tournament champion, the Cougars advance to the NAIA Region V tournament as the #1 seed. They will be the #1 seed and receive a bye in the first round. The Cougars will host the semifinal and final rounds of the tournament on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 17 & 18. The Cougars will play their semifinal match on Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. The second semifinal will follow at 8 p.m. The championship match will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 1 p.m.

 

November 10, 2000
Volleyball Cougars Advance to AMC Championship Match;

Columbia, MO  -- The top-seeded Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team advanced to the championship round of the American Midwest Conference Tournament tonight, knocking off the #4 seed McKendree College by scores of 15-5, 15-12 and 15-5.

Leading the way for the Cougars was Endrina Sosa, who notched 17 kills, four blocks and 15 service aces. Outside hitter Nino Gonzalez also contributed 15 kills, while fellow freshman Angie Molina hammered 14. Sophomore setter Juliana Godoi totaled 58 assists in the three-game victory.

The Cougars will square off against the Missouri Baptist College Spartans tomorrow at 1 p.m. for the AMC tournament title. The Spartans, seeded  #2 in the tournament, knocked off the #3 seed, William Woods University, by scores of 15-5, 15-3 and 15-5 in the second semifinal match of the night to advance to the league championship. Missouri Baptist finished the regular-season with a record of 33-9 and ranked #16 in the Nov. 7th NAIA Top 25 Poll.

With the win, the Cougars, ranked #1 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, improve to 35-1 on the season. A win tomorrow in Southwell Gymnasium would be Columbia’s 90th consecutive match victory at home, a streak that dates back to Oct. 8, 1994.

Following tomorrow's match, there will be a special presentation to honor members of the AMC All-Conference First Team and Honorable Mention squads, as well as the Player, Newcomer, Freshman and Coach of the Year.

 

November 8, 2000
Soccer Cougars Fall to Park University in Double Overtime

Columbia, MO  -- In a surprising upset, the #4 seed in the NAIA Region V tournament, Park University, knocked off top-seeded Columbia College in double overtime by a score of 2-1.

The Cougars secured the #1 seed in the region tournament by defeating American Midwest Conference (AMC) rival Harris-Stowe State College in the league championship match last Friday, Nov. 3. Park University, who entered the match with a record of 9-6-1, did not compete as a member of a AMC this season. The Pirates instead opted to play into region competition as an independent, thus relying on strength of schedule and their regular-season record.

The Cougars scored the first goal of the match when Chris Dean netted a corner kick in the 16th minute of action. Cougar forward Marcelo Angel scored what appeared to be the second Columbia goal in the 64th minute, but the Argentina native was called offsides, thus nullifying the score.

Neither team was able to find the back of the net until the 65th minute when Park midfielder Almir Lemes scored off a cross pass, tying the score at one goal apiece. The Cougars were unable to answer Park’s second half goal, sending the match into the overtime. In the second extra period in the 116th minute, Lemes notched his second goal of the night, giving Park the 2-1 upset victory.

The Pirates recorded 25 shots on the night, while Columbia totaled 23. Columbia goalkeeper Andrew Branaum saved seven shots on goal. Pirate goalie Felipe Fuenmayor logged seven saves as well.

With the win, the Pirates advance to the NAIA Region V championship match on Friday, Nov. 10. Park will play the winner of the other region semifinal match between Harris-Stowe State College and Lindenwood University. The winner will advance to the NAIA National Tournament in Albuquerque, N.M.

The Cougars end their season under first-year head coach John Klein with a record of 16-5-1. Klein’s first-year mark is the best record by any coach in Cougar soccer history. The 2000 squad also set a school record for goals scored in a season, netting 76 on the year. The previous mark of 73 was set in 1999. 

 

November 4, 2000
Basketball Cougar Start Season With Two Road Wins

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team started the 2000-01 campaign with two road victories in the Evangel/Central Bible Classic in Springfield, Mo. this weekend.

On Friday, the Cougars met Central Bible College in the late game of the day and defeated the Spartans, 84-76. Despite trailing by 13 points, Columbia battled back in the second 20 minutes of action to steal the victory.

"We were excited to get that first win of the season,” said head coach Bob Burchard. “We shot 82 free throws in a game that was two-and-a-half hours long. It was an ‘ugly victory,’ but I was very proud of our guys for battling back from being 13 points down.”

Leading the way for the Cougars was Mexico High School graduate Jerrod Thompson who tossed in 21 points. Mark Jones and Sean Dooley contributed 16 and 13 points, respectively.

The Cougars returned to action on Saturday, Nov. 4 to take on Evangel University. With a balanced offensive attack and a strong defensive effort, the Cougars defeated Evangel, ranked #9 in the NAIA Division II Preseason Poll, by a score of 80-63.

The Cougars shot 47 percent from the field and 38 percent from three-point range. Columbia’s defense forced the Crusaders to a woeful 36 percent shooting effort from the field and 26 percent from long range.

"Our team fought very hard today, despite some trying circumstances. We didn’t get to bed until 2 a.m. this morning after the late game last night and we were back on the court today at 2 p.m.,” said Burchard.

Leading the charge for the Cougars versus Evangel was Thompson, who netted 35 points, including four of nine from beyond the three-point arc. Jones added 12 points and seven rebounds.

"Jerrod was phenomenal today,” added Burchard. “He really led our team in every way.”

Columbia, ranked #19 in the NAIA Division I Preseason Poll, returns to action on Nov. 11 when they host Lyon College at Southwell Gymnasium in the team’s home opener. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.

 

November 3, 2000
Soccer Cougars Capture AMC Postseason Tournament Title;
Secure #1 Seed in Region V Tourney

Columbia, MO  -- The Columbia Cougar men’s soccer team clinched the American Midwest Conference postseason tournament title tonight, defeating Harris-Stowe State College by a score of 3-1. With the win the Cougars clinch the #1 seed in the four-team Region V Tournament that is set to begin next week. The Cougars will host the #4 seed in the tournament on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m.

The Cougars, ranked #22 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, scored first in the match in the 21st minute when Morten Crosby netted a corner kick from senior midfielder Chris Dean. Columbia took a 2-0 lead in the 28th minute when Jefferson City native Tyler Jenkins scored off another corner kick from Dean.

Both teams failed to score until the 83rd minute when Harris-Stowe, ranked #5 in the latest national poll, pulled within one goal off a penalty kick. The Cougars secured the win the 40 seconds remaining in the match when Juan Pablo Irrera scored on a break away from Beau Harvey.

With the win, the Cougars improve to 16-4-1 on the season. The regular-season and postseason conference titles are the first for the Cougar soccer program since 1994.

In addition to the team titles, numerous Cougars (see information listed below) received AMC All-Conference honors.

If the Cougars win next Wednesday, they will host the Region V Championship Match on Friday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. A win on Friday would give Columbia an automatic berth to the NAIA National Tournament on Nov. 16-21 in Albuquerque, N.M. 

 

November 3, 2000
2000 AMC All-Conference Team Men's Soccer

1st Team All-Conference

Honorable Mention All-Conference

2000 AMC Academic All-Conference Team

Columbia College
Greg Brennecka, Tim Brown, Anthony Moore, Fredrick Orbeck-Nilssen, Kjell-Einar Teien

Hannibal-LaGrange College
Michael Brookshire, Sebastian Gonzalez, Pete Howard, Andrew Lawson, Brando McKinnon, Rolando Perales

Harris-Stowe State College
Justin Francois, Joseph Kipnusu, George Omondi, Rodrigo Souza, Francis Wakhisi

McKendree College
Andy Brunner, Francisco Mosca, Rick Ringwald

Missouri Baptist College
Mario Ferrario, Claus Hagedorn, Javier Levitt, Saeid Naemi, Juan Palacio, Gustavo Sita

William Woods University
Mariano Farji, Adrian Juarez, Andi Mansour, Samir Naim, Jeff Strange, Ben Viorel

Williams Baptist College
Tim Cooper, Kelley Barry

 

November 2, 2000
Volleyball Squad Ends Regular-Season with a wWin over Washington University

St. Louis, MO  -- After dropping the first game of the match, the Columbia Cougar women’s volleyball team rallied to win its final regular-season contest of the 2000 season. The Cougars knocked off NCAA Division III powerhouse Washington University in St. Louis by scores of 8-15, 15-8, 15-3 and 15-6. With the win, the Cougars close out their regular-season campaign with a record of 34-1.

Leading the charge for Columbia was sophomore setter Juliana Godoi who contributed 65 assists and nine digs. Fellow sophomore Endrina Sosa pounded 18 kills and notched 23 digs, while freshman outside hitter Nino Gonzalez totaled 25 kills and 15 digs. Freshman middle hitter Angie Molina also logged seven kills and four blocks.

The Cougars return to action next Friday, Nov. 10 when they host the American Midwest Conference tournament. The Cougars are the #1 seed in the 6-team tourney and will receive a first round bye. Columbia will play its semifinal match vs. the #4 or #5 seed on Nov. 10 at 6 p.m. The other AMC semifinal match will follow at 8 p.m. The league championship contest is scheduled for Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. The Cougars, ranked #1 in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll, have taken home the AMC tournament title the last seven years.

 

November 1, 2000
Soccer Cougars Knock off Missouri Baptist College in AMC Semifinal Match

Columbia, Mo. -The Columbia Cougar men’s soccer team advanced to the American Midwest Conference championship match tonight, knocking off the #4 seed in the AMC postseason tournament by a score of 4-1. The Cougars, the #1 seed in the tournament, will host the winner of the other AMC semifinal, Harris-Stowe State College on Friday, Nov. 3 at 7p.m.

Cougar midfielder Juan Pablo Irrera netted the first goal of the match in the 18th minute off a Fredrick-Orbeck Nilssen throw in from the corner. The Cougars scored eight minutes later when Columbia’s leading scorer, Jason Spencer, knocked in a goal off an Irrera assist. Orbeck-Nilssen then netted a goal in the 33rd minute to put the Cougars ahead 3-0 at the half.

Following the intermission, Missouri Baptist forward Sheldon Richard, the second-leading scorer in the AMC, put the Spartans on the board with an unassisted goal in the 53th minute.

The match was suspended in the 60th minute due to lightning, but play resumed approximately 30 minutes later. In the 78th minute, Morten Crosby sealed the victory for the Cougars when he scored off an assist from Chris Dean.

The Cougars logged 29 shots in the match, including 12 shots on goal. Sophomore Andrew Branaum recorded the win in goal for Columbia, totaling six saves.

With the win, Columbia improves to 15-4-1. The Cougars defeated Harris-Stowe on Sept. 27 by a score of 4-2 in an AMC regular-season contest. The Hornets are the #2 seed in the AMC tournament and are ranked #5 in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll. The Cougars are ranked #22.