March 2006 Headlines
March 30, 2006
Cougars end Arizona trip 6-0
Tucson, Ariz. – The Columbia Cougar softball team tallied two wins in its final outing in Arizona, defeating NCAA Division III Patten (Calif.) University 1-0 in the first game and St. Olaf (Minn.) College 8-0 in five innings in the second game. With today’s wins, the Cougars push their overall record to 17-10 and finish their week-long trip in Arizona with a mark of 6-0.
In Columbia’s 1-0 win over Patten, the Cougars scored the lone run of the game in the fifth inning when Miriam Wegmann reached base and scored on two consecutive errors. Columbia posted seven hits in the game, including two from Stephanie Kababie.
Heather Robey (8-4) picked up the win, giving up four hits and logging seven strikeouts.
In the second game, Columbia bats came alive as the Cougars scored eight runs in the first two innings off of ten hits. Lead-off hitter Lindsey Williams went three for three with two runs scored, one RBI and two stolen bases. Sarah Moreau and Ashley Perrigo each had two hits a piece, while Wegmann, Amanda Hodges and Chris Schoonover chipped in one hit each.
Kendra Koch (3-1) went the distance for the Cougars on the mound, giving up one walk and two hits. The senior pitcher fanned a season and career high ten opposing batters in five innings.
The Cougars return to the Show-Me State on Saturday and get back to American Midwest Conference (AMC) regular season action on Tuesday, April 4. Columbia travels to Walnut Ridge, Ark. to square off against Williams Baptist College. The doubleheader is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m.
March 29, 2006
Cougars continue winning ways,
McMahon throws no-hitter
Tucson, Ariz. – The Columbia Cougar softball team pushed its win streak to nine games today, defeating Patten (Calif.) University 9-0 in five innings and 7-0 in an afternoon doubleheader in Arizona. The wins move Columbia to 15-10.
In the first game Columbia scored two runs in the first, one in the third and six in the fourth. Patten had no answer to Columbia's offensive power as Heather Robey (7-4) shut them down, allowing just two hits and striking out six in five innings of action.
Lindsey Williams and Rachel Brawner had two hits a piece in the win. Ashley Perrigo chipped in one hit, three runs scored and two RBI's, while Stephanie Stowe posted one hit and three RBI's.
In the second game, Columbia again dominated offensively, scoring seven runs off of 11 hits. Perrigo was three for four with two runs and two RBI's. Miriam Wegmann had two hits and two runs, and Sarah Moreau ended with two hits in four at-bats with one RBI. Brawner also finished with two hits and contributed two RBI's.
Katie McMahon (6-5) tallied the win, pitching a no-hitter and logging eight strikeouts.
The Cougars play their final doubleheader of their Spring Break trip in Arizona tomorrow. Columbia will face Patten at 1 p.m. and St. Olaf (Minn.) College at 3 p.m.
March 27, 2006
Cougars kickoff Arizona trip with two wins over St. Olaf
Tucson, Ariz. – The Columbia Cougar softball team opened its spring break trip in Arizona with two wins today, defeating NCAA Division III. St. Olaf (Minn.) College in a doubleheader by scores of 11-1 and 11-1 in five innings. Columbia improves to 13-10 on the season.
Heather Robey (6-4) picked up the win in the first game. She allowed one hit and four walks, while striking out seven St. Olaf batters. Kendra Koch (2-1) relieved Robey in the sixth, giving up two hits and recording two strikeouts.
The Cougars opened the game with four runs in the second inning. Stephanie Stowe started off the inning with a home run to left field, and was followed by three more runs off of three hits.
Columbia scored one run in the fourth inning, two in the sixth and four in the seventh to shut down St. Olaf.
Chris Schoonover went four-for-four in the contest with one triple, one RBI and one run scored. Ashley Perrigo and Stephanie Stowe each posted four hits in the game. Perrigo added one run and one RBI, while Stowe posted three runs, one double, one homerun and two RBI’s. Rachel Brawner contributed three hits including one run scored, one RBI and one stolen base.
In the second game, Katie McMahon (5-5) was the winning pitcher, tallying four strikeouts, while giving up zero walks and two hits. Marcie McMahon (0-0) relieved Katie in the fifth inning. The junior hurler struck out one batter and gave up zero hits and zero walks.
Columbia dominated from the beginning, scoring six runs in the first. They added three more in the second, including back-to-back home runs by Stowe and Sarah Moreau, and two more in the third, charging out to an 11-0 lead. St. Olaf managed its first run of the game in the fifth, but the Cougars had already put the game away.
Moreau ended the game with two hits in three at-bats, two runs scored, one double, one homerun and three RBI’s. Amanda Hodges went two-for two with one run scored, and Stowe posted one homerun, two runs and two RBI’s.
The Cougars return to action on Wednesday, March 29, when they face Patten (Calif.) University at 12 p.m. (CST) in Tucson.
March 22, 2006
LeAnn Fossum and Terrance Smith named to All-American teams
Columbia, Mo. – Two Columbia College basketball players have been named to the 2006 NAIA Division I Men’s and Women’s Basketball All-American Team. Terrance Smith is a repeat All-American recipient while LeAnn Fossum pulled in the accolade for the first time in her career.
The All-American teams, which include three teams of 10 players and honorable mention selections, are selected by an All-American Committee comprised of coaches throughout the country.
Terrance Smith, a 6-foot senior guard from Chicago Ill., was selected to the honorable mention team for the second consecutive season and was the only representative from the Columbia College men’s team. Smith led the Cougars in scoring (15.3), three-point shooting (43.1%) and free-throw percentage (94.5%) this season and ranked fifth in NAIA Division I in three-point field goals made per game (3.3). He started all 33 games for the Cougars leading them to their eighth consecutive NAIA National Tournament appearance. Smith ends his career as the thirteenth all-time leading scorer in Cougar history tallying 1,104 points in just two seasons.
LeAnn Fossum, a 6-foot junior forward from Harrisburg, Mo., was selected to the honorable mention team for the first time in her career and was the only representative from the Lady Cougars. Fossum led Columbia in scoring (15.5) and field goal percentage (45.2%) this season. She started all 31 games for the Lady Cougars leading them to an overall record of 18-13 and a second place finish in the AMC regular season standings. Fossum currently ranks third in career rebounds (604) and fourth in career scoring (1,117) at Columbia College.
March 21, 2006
Jessica Wilkerson and Ryan Steinhoff named NAIA Basketball All-America Scholar-Athletes
Columbia, Mo. – For their efforts in the classroom as well as on the court, Columbia College basketball players Jessica Wilkerson and Ryan Steinhoff have been named NAIA Division I Women’s and Men’s All-America Scholar-Athletes.
Members of the All-America Scholar-Athlete squad must hold at least junior status academically, make considerable contribution to their squad and have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Wilkerson, a junior guard from Fort Madison, Iowa, is majoring in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting. Wilkerson started all 31 games for the Lady Cougars this season and led the team in rebounding (8.1), assists (4.1), steals (2.9 ) and minutes played (36 mpg). Wilkerson was named American Midwest Conference (AMC) Newcomer of the Year and was also selected First Team All-Conference. Wilkerson is only the fifth Lady Cougar to be recognized as an All-American Scholar-Athlete.
The Lady Cougars ended their season with an overall record of 18-13 and a second place finish in the AMC regular season standings.
Steinhoff, a junior guard from New Haven, Mo., is majoring Business Administration. Steinhoff started all 33 games the Cougars played this season. Steinhoff ranked fifteenth in NAIA Division I in assist to turnover ratio (2.3). Steinhoff currently ranks tenth in career assists at Columbia College with 202.
The Cougars ended their season with an overall record of 24-9, a regular season co-championship as well as their eighth consecutive trip to the NAIA National tournament.
March 19, 2006
Softball Cougars sweep Lindenwood,
finish WWU Invitational undefeated
Jefferson City, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar softball team recorded two more wins in the second day of the William Woods University Invitational today, defeating Lindenwood (Mo.) University 3-2 in the first game and 6-1 in the second game. The Cougars are 11-10 on the season.
Heather Robey (5-4) recorded the first win over Lindenwood, fanning five batters and giving up five hits in seven innings of work.
The Cougars scored in the first inning when Ashley Perrigo singled to bring Miriam Wegmann across the plate. Lindenwood responded in the second, scoring two in the top of the inning. Columbia scored one more run in the fourth and one in the fifth to take the 3-2 win.
Wegmann was two for three in the contest with a double, two runs scored and a stolen base. Perrigo knocked two hits in three appearances at the plate, including two RBI’s. Katie McMahon also went two for three in the victory with a double and a stolen base.
Katie McMahon (4-5) picked up the victory in the second game, giving up two hits while totaling five strikeouts. Kendra Koch (2-1) relieved McMahon in the seventh retiring the side.
The two teams remained scoreless until the fourth inning. Wegmann led off the inning with a single, while Perrigo and Rachel Brawner loaded the bases with walks. Stephanie Stowe cleared the bases with a grand slam which was the first of her career and the first Cougar grand slam of the season. Columbia added two more runs in the fourth inning off of three hits. Lindenwood was able to post just one run in the sixth inning.
Wegmann was four for four at the plate with two stolen bases and two runs scored. Stowe contributed a homerun and four RBI’s.
The Cougars continue American Midwest Conference (AMC) regular season action on Tuesday, March 21 when they travel to St. Louis, Mo. to take on Missouri Baptist University in a 2 p.m. doubleheader.
March 18, 2006
Softball Cougars win three at WWU Invitational
Jefferson City, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar softball team tallied three wins in the first day of the William Woods University invitational, defeating Baker (Kan.) University 2-1, York (Neb.) College by a score of 3-1 and the University of Minnesota at Morris 18-1 in five innings. The wins move the Cougars to 9-10 on the season.
In Columbia’s 9 a.m. contest vs. Region V opponent Baker University, the Cougars pulled ahead by two early in the first inning when Miriam Wegmann singled and scored on a Rachel Brawner home run. This is Rachel’s first career home run. The Wildcats were able to score one run in the third inning on a Columbia error. Baker came close to scoring again in the top of the fifth when they had two runners on base and no outs, but the Cougars were able to pick-off both runners in the same sequence and come out of the inning still in the lead, and walk away with the victory. Columbia recorded five hits in the contest.
Heather Robey (4-4) picked up the victory, fanning five batters and giving up four hits.
In the second game vs. York, Columbia fell behind 1-0 and failed to score until the top of the third inning when the Cougars scored two runs on four hits. Wegmann led off with a single and was plated by a Brawner sacrifice fly. Ashley Perrigo singled and added the second run of the inning off an RBI single by Sarah Moreau. Columbia posted one more run in the top of the sixth when Louie Shirey was hit by a pitch and brought home by a Lindsey Williams double.
Kendra Koch (2-1) recorded the win with three strikeouts and three hits.
The Cougars rolled over NCAA Division II University of Minnesota-Morris in their final game of the day, scoring six runs in the first inning, including a two-run home run by Marcie McMahon and a two-run double by Stephanie Stowe, and 11 runs in the second, including a two-run triple by Wegmann.
Katie McMahon (3-5) notched the win, giving up just one hit and striking out seven.
Stephanie Stowe posted five hits in seven at-bats, including two runs scored, four RBI’s and two doubles. Miriam Wegmann ended the day with six hits in ten at-bats, five runs scored, two RBI’s and two stolen bases. Ashley Perrigo finished with four hits, three runs scored and three RBI’s and Rachel Brawner added three hits, three runs, five RBI’s and a home run.
The Cougars continue in the two-day invitational tomorrow at the Field of Legends in Jefferson City, Mo. Columbia faces Lindenwood (Mo.) University at 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
March 16, 2006
Oklahoma City upsets Columbia in opening round of
NAIA National Tournament
Kansas City, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar basketball team failed to advance to the round of 16 in the NAIA National Tournament tonight, falling to the Stars from Oklahoma City University in the opening round by a score of 64-91. Columbia ends its season with a mark of 24-9.
The Stars improve to 26-8 and advance to the second round of the tournament to face Houston Baptist University (Texas) tomorrow night at 6:15 p.m.
Columbia trailed the Stars 50-33 at halftime and shot 48 percent in the first 20 minutes, connecting on 12 field goals in 25 tries.
The Cougars continued to struggle offensively in the second half and failed to put together a run that could cut into Oklahoma City’s 17-point first half advantage. The Stars outscored Columbia 41-31 in the second half to record the 27-point win. In addition, the Cougars committed 21 turnovers to the Stars’ ten.
Bryant Chambly paced the Cougars with 17 points. Terrance Smith added 13, Marcus Bradford chipped in 12 and Nahowan Saxon ended with 10.
March 16, 2006
Cougars drop two against AMC rival William Woods
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar softball team tallied two losses in today’s American Midwest Conference (AMC) doubleheader vs. William Woods University (Mo.), falling to the Owls 0-3 in the first game and 4-5 in the second. Today’s action moves Columbia’s overall record to 6-10 and pushes its league mark to 0-4.
William Woods is 13-5 overall following today’s games, and 3-1 in AMC action. The Owls are ranked No. 9 in the preseason national poll.
In game one, the Owls recorded the first run of the game in the top of the fifth inning on two hits and one error. William Woods was able to score one more run in the six and one in the seventh to come away with the three-run victory.
The Cougars managed just three hits in the loss. Ashley Perrigo went two for three and Miriam Wegmann had one hit in three at-bats.
Katie McMahon (2-5) picked up the loss for Columbia. She allowed six hits and two walks, while striking out five batters.
William Woods jumped out to an early lead in the second game, scoring two runs in the first inning.
The Cougars posted their first run in the fourth frame when Rachel Brawner doubled and was later scored on a one-out home-run by Marcie McMahon. Columbia posted one run in the fifth and one in the sixth to take the 4-2 lead into the seventh inning. However the Owls took advantage of errors made by the Cougars and were able to put together two hits and three runs in the bottom of the seventh and log their second win of the day.
Seven different Cougars chipped in at least one hit in the loss.
Heather Robey (3-4) recorded the loss, giving up five runs, zero earned runs and one walk. She posted ten strikeouts.
The Cougars return to the field on Saturday and Sunday, March 18 and 19, when they travel to Jefferson City, Mo. to compete in the William Woods Tournament. Columbia will face Baker (Kan.) University at 9 a.m., York (Neb.) College at 12:30 p.m. and the University of Minnesota - Morris at 2:15 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday the Cougars take on Lindenwood (Mo.) University at 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. All games will be played at the Field of Legends Complex.
March 11, 2006
Softball Cougars finish play in NFCA Leadoff Classic
LaGrange, Ga. – In the second day of the NFCA Leadoff Classic, the Columbia Cougar softball team lost their opening game of double elimination bracket play to nineteenth ranked Ohio Dominican University 2-0. Columbia rebounded in game two defeating Milligan (Tenn.) College 11-2 placing them in the consolation game of the Bronze Bracket where the Cougars defeated sixteenth ranked William Penn (Iowa) University 5-1. Columbia went 2-4 on the weekend improving their overall record to 6-8.
Ohio Dominican got a two-run double from Gina Schneider in the third inning scoring the only two runs of the game. Katie Moloney hurled a four-hit shutout, striking out eight and retiring 15 of the last 19 hitters she faced to garner the win. Katie McMahon (2-3) gave up two earned runs on six hits to take the loss for Columbia.
Lindsey Williams, Miriam Wegmann, Ashley Perrigo and Marcy Dotson all went one for three as the Cougars could manage only four hits in the loss.
In Columbia’s second game of the day the Cougars opened the game with three runs in the top half of the first as Rachel Brawner laced an RBI double. Marcie McMahon reached on an error at third base allowing Brawner to score the second run of the game. Marcy Dotson capped the inning with an RBI single to left scoring Marcie McMahon.
After Milligan College cut into the lead with a run in the home half of the first, Columbia responded with a pair of runs in the third on RBI singles from Marcie McMahon and Stephanie Stowe.
The Cougars opened the four-run fifth with a single to right by Brawner. Marcie McMahon followed with a single of her own and Dotson drove in a run with a single to right. Stowe then doubled to center to plate McMahon. Amanda Hodges capped the scoring with her RBI ground out to second. Columbia platted two more runs in the top half of the sixth to extend the lead to 11-2.
Dotson and Brawner each finished the game going three for four.
Heather Robey (3-2) got the win for the Cougars giving up two runs, of which only one was earned, giving up two hits and two walks while striking out four batters.
In the consolation game of the Bronze Bracket Columbia faced sixteenth ranked William Penn. The Cougars scored three runs in the sixth and two more in the seventh to rally from a 1-0 deficit and claim the bronze bracket consolation final.
Kendra Koch pitched the first four innings without allowing a run, but William Penn finally broke through with a home run from Ashley Brant in the fifth.
Lady Statesman starter Meghan Oden held the Cougars in check until the three-run sixth. The Cougars tied the game as Perrigo, who was 2-for-3 with three RBIs, blasted a solo home run. Brawner was hit by a pitch and Marcie McMahon singled to put runners in scoring position. Roberta Shirey loaded the bases with a single to center and Stowe put Columbia on top with her single to left.
Stephanie Kababie added the third run with a sacrifice fly to left. The Cougars added two more in the seventh as Perrigo hit her second home run of the game, and third homerun of the day, this time a two-run shot.
Robey (4-2) tallied the win for the Cougars in relief of Koch pitching three shutout innings giving up two hits while striking out three of the eleven batters she faced.
The Cougars return to American Midwest Conference (AMC) play on Thursday, March 16 at the Cougar Softball Field against their mid-Missouri rival and ninth ranked Owls from William Woods (Mo.) University. First pitch of the afternoon double-header is scheduled for 2 p.m.
March 10, 2006
Softball Cougars falter on first day of NFCA Classic
LaGrange, Ga. – In the first day of the NFCA Lead-Off Classic, the Columbia Cougar softball team fell to Saint Gregory’s (Okla.) University 1-9, the University of Virginia at Wise 0-2, and Spring Hill (Ala.) College 1-2. The Cougars drop to 4-7 on the season with today’s losses.
In the first contest vs. Saint Gregory’s, the Lady Cavs took advantage of errors made by Columbia and pulled ahead to an easy 6-0 lead in the second. Columbia’s Sarah Moreau scored the Cougars’ lone run with a solo homerun in the bottom of the second. Saint Gregory’s was able to add one more run in the fourth and two in the seventh to seal the deal and give them the eight run victory.
Katie McMahon (2-2) recorded the loss for the Cougars. The sophomore from Edina, Mo. gave up zero earned runs, two hits and struck out two batters. Kendra Koch relieved McMahon in the second, posting the final out of the inning. Koch gave up eight hits, two walks and just three runs.
In Columbia’s second game vs. the Lady Cavaliers from the University of Virginia at Wise (UVa – Wise), Columbia managed just two hits in the contest. UVa - Wise notched two unearned runs, one in the first inning and one in the sixth. Rachel Brawner and Miriam Wegmann posted one hit a piece.
Heather Robey (2-2) picked up the loss, striking out four batters and giving up two hits.
In Columbia’s final game of the day against Spring Hill, the Cougars scored their only run in the seventh inning, while Spring Hill put one run on the board in the fifth and one in the seventh to take the one run victory.
Marcie McMahon went two for three in the contest, including a double. Lindsey Williams, Stephanie Stowe, and Chris Schoonover chipped in one hit a piece.
Katie McMahon (2-3) took the loss on the mound, giving up eight hits and striking out two.
The Cougars return to action in the two-day classic tomorrow when they enter bracket play. To find out game times and opponents please visit www.columbiacougars.com.
March 8, 2005
Cougars draw No. 7 seeded Oklahoma City
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar basketball team will play the Stars from Oklahoma City University (OCU) in the first round of the NAIA Division I Men’s National Basketball Tournament, according to the official bracket released today by the NAIA National Office.
The Cougars, who received an at-large bid into this year’s tournament, will square off against the No. 7 seeded Stars from OCU at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo. at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 16.
This is the eighth consecutive appearance for the Cougars in the National Tournament. Last season the Cougars lost to No. 1 seeded Mountain State 77-50.
This will be the second overall meeting between the two squads. The other previous contest was played during the first round of the 2004 National Tournament when the Stars knocked off the Cougars 81-48. Columbia was led in the loss by then sophomore forward Nahowan Saxon. Saxon scored 16 points and pulled down four rebounds in 33 minutes of action.
The Cougars hold an overall record of 24-8 and received an at-large bid after climbing to the No. 21 ranking in the final NAIA Top 25 Poll.
Oklahoma City, which is 25-7 overall, qualified for the national tournament as the regular season champion and postseason tournament champion of the Sooner Athletic Conference. Oklahoma City has won four national championships since 1991, including back-to-back championships from ‘91 to ‘92. The Stars other two championships were in 1994 and 1996.
The Stars have five players averaging double figures in scoring. OCU is led by 6-7 senior forward Lorenzo Gordon. Gordon is averaging 23.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. David Drew, a 6-4 senior guard, averages 18.1 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Drew also ranks fifth in Division I in steals per game, averaging 2.6 swipes.
The championship is a 32-team, single-elimination tournament. 16 teams qualify via automatic berth. Automatic berths are issued to the 10 conference tournament champions, five regular season champions from conferences with ten or more teams, and one independent qualifier. The remaining sixteen teams qualify through at-large bids based on the final national poll. The top 16 teams are seeded in descending order and paired against the 16 unseeded squads in the opening round.
Should the Cougar prevail on Thursday evening, they will face the winner of the first round match-up between Westminster (Utah) (23-7) and No. 10 seeded Houston Baptist (Texas) (26-5) on Friday at 6:15 p.m. at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo.
First round action in the 2006 NAIA National Tournament begins on Wednesday, March 15. The Championship game is Tuesday, March 21 at 8 p.m.
March 7, 2006
Softball Cougars drop two vs. McKendree
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar softball team failed to defeat American Midwest Conference (AMC) rival McKendree (Ill.) College today, falling to the Bearcats in both games of a doubleheader. Columbia lost the first game 4-6 and dropped a heartbreaker, 2-3, in nine innings in the second game. The losses move the Cougars to 4-4 on the season and 0-2 in (AMC) play. McKendree improves to 5-5 on the season and 2-0 in league play.
In the first game, Columbia trailed early, giving McKendree a 5-0 lead going in to the bottom of the third inning. Cougar catcher Sarah Moreau was able to put Columbia on the board in the bottom of the third with a three-run homerun. The Cougars struck once more in the fifth to bring them within one. However, McKendree was able to hold of Columbia and walked away with the two-run victory.
Amanda Hodges and Chris Schoonover had two hits a piece.
Heather Robey (1-2) took the loss, giving up seven hits, one earned run and one walk. The junior hurler fanned five Bearcat batters in three innings of work. Kendra Koch (1-1) relieved Robey in the third to face a total of 15 batters. Koch gave up just three hits and zero earned runs.
In the second game, Columbia’s Stephanie Kababie scored in the top of the third inning, giving the Cougars an early 1-0 advantage. The Bearcats answered in the bottom of the fourth inning, getting one runner across home plate to tie the score. Columbia scored again in the top of the fifth, only to be tied up in the bottom of the sixth after McKendree scored once more.
Both teams remained scoreless until the bottom of the ninth inning when McKendree was able to score on a Cougar error, giving the visiting squad the 3-2 victory.
Lindsey Williams was one for three in the contest with two RBI’s. Kababie recorded one hit in two at-bats and scored one run.
Katie McMahon (2-1) notched the loss. She totaled six strikeouts, while giving up five hits, three walks and two earned runs. McMahon faced 36 batters in nine innings of action.
Columbia travels to LaGrange, Ga. to compete in the Lead-off Classic on March 10-11. On Friday, March 10, the Cougars will face Saint Gregory’s (Okla.) University at 10 a.m., the University of Virginia at Wise at 4 p.m. and Spring Hill (Ala.) College at 6 p.m. Friday’s outcome will determine Saturday’s games. Please check www.columbiacougars.com for complete results and game times.
March 4, 2006
Two Cougars named first team all-conference,
Chambly named AMC Newcomer of the Year
Lebanon, Ill. - Following Saturday’s men’s basketball American Midwest Conference (AMC) championship game, members of the AMC All-Conference squads were recognized. Senior guard Terrance Smith and junior forward Bryant Chambly were named to the ten-member first team. Chambly also took home Newcomer of the Year honors. Senior Nahowan Saxon and junior Marcus Bradford were named to the Honorable Mention All-Conference team.
Three Cougar players also earned academic all-conference recognition for maintaining a cumulative grade point average above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Recipients from Columbia included Chambly, Saxon and junior guard Ryan Steinhoff.
This is the second straight season that Smith, a Chicago, Ill. native, has been named to the first team. Smith leads Columbia in scoring this season averaging 15.4 points per game. Smith has started all 32 games for the Cougars and scored his 1,000 career point on February 9 in an overtime win against Missouri Baptist University. Smith currently ranks fifth in NAIA Division I in three-point field goals made per game (3.3) and nineteenth in three-point field goal percentage (.437).
Chambly, a junior forward from St. Louis, Mo., leads Columbia in rebounding (6.84 rpg) and is second on the team in scoring (11.8 ppg). Chambly also posted four double-doubles this season to lead the Cougars.
Saxon, a senior forward from St. Vincent, has started 31 of 32 games for the Cougars this season. Saxon is averaging 10 points and six rebounds per game. Saxon scored his 1,000 career point on November 26 in a win over mid-Missouri rival Central Methodist (Mo.) University. Saxon is the eleventh player in Cougar Basketball history to record 100 victories during his four years at Columbia College. As a sophomore Saxon was named to the Honorable Mention team and last season he was recognized as part of the ten-member First Team.
Bradford, a junior guard from Columbus, Ohio, averages ten points and four rebounds per game. During the Cougars’ last five games Bradford has averaged 17.4 points per game.
Columbia fell in a heartbreaker to AMC rival McKendree (Ill.) College on Thursday night by a score of 72-83. This was the semifinal round of the AMC tournament, and with the loss the Cougars dropped to 24-8 on the season. The Cougars, who are ranked No. 21 in the final NAIA Top 25 Poll, will find out if their postseason will continue when the NAIA announces the 32 team field for the NAIA DI National Tournament. That announcement is expected to be on Wednesday, March 8.
March 4, 2006
Two Lady Cougars named first team all-conference,
Wilkerson named AMC Newcomer of the Year
Lebanon, Ill. - Following Friday's women’s basketball American Midwest Conference (AMC) championship game, members of the AMC All-Conference squads were recognized. Junior forward LeAnn Fossum and junior guard Jessica Wilkerson were named to the ten-member first team. Wilkerson also took home Newcomer of the Year honors. Fellow juniors Rachel Davis and Valarie Suarez were named to the Honorable Mention All-Conference team.
Four out of the nine players on Columbia’s roster earned academic all-conference recognition for maintaining a cumulative grade point average above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Recipients from Columbia included Wilkerson, senior guard Laura Elliot, sophomore guard Mandy Jorgenson and senior forward Amanda Koetting.
This is the second straight season that Fossum, a Harrisburg, Mo. native, has been named to the first team. Even with a foot injury that limited her from practicing for most of the season, Fossum led Columbia in scoring averaging 15.5 points per game. Fossum started all 31 games for the Lady Cougars and scored her 1,000 career point on March 7 vs. AMC foe William Woods (Mo.) University.
Wilkerson, a junior guard from Fort Madison, Iowa, averaged 10.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game this season. Wilkerson shot 38.9 percent from the floor, dished out a team-leading 126 assists, collected 91 steals and averaged 36 minutes of playing time per game.
Davis, a junior guard from Jefferson City, Mo., played in 16 games for the Lady Cougars this season after transferring back to Columbia College from the University of Kansas at the semester break. Davis averaged 12.0 points and six rebounds per game. The Lady Cougars finished the season with a 12-4 record once Davis rejoined the team.
Suarez, a junior forward from San Antonio, Texas, also stared all 31 games for the Lady Cougars this season averaging 9.7 points, seven rebounds and 1.2 steals per game.
The Lady Cougars ended their season with a loss in AMC semifinal action last Wednesday night falling to McKendree (Ill.) College 56-69. The loss dropped Columbia’s overall record to 18-12 on the season. The Lady Cougars finished regular season conference play with a record of 11-3 and entered the postseason tournament as the second seed. Three seeded McKendree went on to defeat one seeded Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis, Mo. on Friday night, 50-48, to earn the league’s automatic bid to the NAIA Division I Women’s Basketball National Championship in Jackson, Tenn.
This is the first season since the women’s basketball program was reinstated at Columbia College in the 2001-02 season that the Lady Cougars did not win the AMC regular and postseason championships and advance the to national championship tournament.
Marrch 4, 2006
Softball Cougars defeat Trinity Christian,
remainder of tournament canceled due to weather
Springfield, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar softball team notched their second win of the Evangel (Mo.) University Show-Me Games Tournament defeating Trinity Christian (Ill.) College 14-5. Today’s win improves the Cougars to 4-2 on the season. Due to rain Saturday morning and the threat of more precipitation in the afternoon, officials canceled the remainder of the tournament.
Sarah Moreau went four for five from the plate with six RBIs, a double and her second homerun of the weekend. Moreau also scored three runs. Miriam Wegmann went three for four with a double and three runs scored. Ashley Perrigo and Katie McMahon each went two for five with two runs scored.
Kendra Koch (1-1) recorded the complete game victory going seven innings giving up four hits, six walks and zero earned runs while striking our five batters.
The Cougars play their home and American Midwest Conference (AMC) opener Tuesday, March 7 at the Cougar Softball Field against McKendree (Ill.) College. First pitch of the afternoon double-header is scheduled for 2 p.m.
The Cougars will be in LaGrange, Ga. next weekend, March 10-11, to compete in the Lead Off Classic. Game times and opponents have not yet been released.
March 3, 2006
Softball Cougars win one, lose two at Evangel Tournament
Springfield, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar softball team tallied one win and two losses in the first day of the Evangel (Mo.) University Show-Me Games Tournament, defeating Missouri Valley College 13-3, and falling to Briar Cliff (Iowa) College 0-1 and No. 21 ranked Evangel University 3-6. Today’s games move the Cougars to 3-2 on the season.
In Columbia’s 9 a.m. contest vs. Briar Cliff, the Cougars came out cold offensively and managed only four hits. Rachel Brawner went two for three with a double. Sarah Moreau and Miriam Wegmann chipped in one hit a piece.
Kendra Koch (0-1) recorded the loss, fanning four batters and giving up five hits.
In the second game against Region V foe Evangel, Columbia pulled ahead 2-0, but gave up an the early lead to the Crusaders in the fourth inning on a two-run dinger to right field that brought the score to 3-2 in favor of the Crusaders. Evangel never looked back and came away with the three-run victory. Stephanie Kababie was two for four at the plate with two doubles and an RBI. Ashley Perrigo was one for two.
Heather Robey (1-1) took the loss striking out eight and giving up 10 hits and three walks.
The Cougars rolled over Missouri Valley in their final game of the day, improving on their hitting from earlier. Moreau went two for three with two runs scored, a triple, a homerun and five RBI’s. Wegmann and Lindsey Williams had three hits a piece while Perrigo and Marcy Dotson chipped in two hits each.
Katie McMahon (2-0) notched the win, giving up just two hits and fanning four batters. Perrigo relieved McMahon in the fifth, giving up three unearned runs, five hits and striking out three
The Cougars continue play at the Show-me games tomorrow when they enter bracket play. For game times and opponents please check www.columbiacougars.com.
March 2, 2006
Cougars fall to McKendree in AMC semi-final
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar basketball team fell in a heartbreaker to American Midwest Conference (AMC) rival McKendree (Ill.) College tonight by a score of 72-83. This was the semi-final round of the AMC tournament, and with the loss the Cougars drop to 24-8 on the season.
McKendree took advantage of a slow start from the Cougars and shot 59.3 percent from the field in the first half. Columbia trailed 37-44 at halftime, shooting 50 percent from the field. The Cougars connected on three of seven from beyond the three-point arc in the first 20 minutes of action and were eight-of-11 from the freethrow line. The Bearcats converted 10 of their 11 attempts from the charity stripe.
McKendree remained in control throughout the second half outscoring Columbia 39-35 to take the victory. For the contest, the Bearcats shot 49 percent from the field, while the Cougars managed to connect on just 42 percent of their field goal attempts. In addition, McKendree outrebounded Columbia 37-32.
Pacing Columbia was Bryant Chambly with 17 points. Marcus Bradford added 14 and Terrance Smith chipped in 10 points. Four players scored in double figures for McKendree led by Mike Strobbe with 22 points. Strobbe also grabbed 15 rebounds.
The win gives McKendree a chance to play for the AMC postseason tournament title on Saturday. The Bearcats will travel to Springfield, Ill. to take on the UIS Prairie Stars.
The Cougars, who are ranked No. 21 in the latest poll, will find out more about their postseason play on Wednesday, March 8 when the teams that will compete in the National Tournament are announced.
March 1, 2006
Lady Cougars fall to McKendree in AMC semifinal
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Lady Cougars basketball team fell to McKendree (Ill.) College tonight, 56-69, in the semifinal round of the American Midwest Conference (AMC) postseason tournament. The Lady Cougars fall to 18-13 with the loss. The Bearcats improve their record to 19-13.
Columbia fell behind McKendree by 15 points at halftime on 24 percent shooting. The Lady Cougars battled back in the second half to take a 50-49 lead with 7:07 remaining. But it wasn't enough as McKendree finished the game with a 20-6 run to take the 13 point win.
Pacing the Lady Cougars was Rachel Davis with 19 points and ten rebounds. Amanda Koetting chipped in 14 points. Jessica Wilkerson added 10 rebounds and dished out six assists.
Heather Elders led McKendree with 15 points.
Log onto www.columbiacougars.com at the end of this week to find out if the Lady Cougars receive an at-large bid to this years NAIA National Tournament.
March 1, 2006
Cougar Softball opens 2006 season in style
Fayette, Mo. –The Columbia Cougar softball team opened its 2006 season this afternoon grabbing two victories over mid-Missouri and Region V rival Central Methodist (Mo.) University. Columbia won the first game 14-1 and the second 7-4. The Cougars improve to 2-0 on the season. The Eagles from Central Methodist fall to 2-4 overall.
Miriam Wegmann sparked the Cougars offensively in game one going four for five from the plate with two doubles, one stolen base and three runs scored. Lindsey Williams also had a productive game with the bat, going two for five with a home run and three RBI's. Ashley Perrigo and Chris Schoonover had two hits apiece as the Cougars tallied a total of 14 hits leading to the 13 run victory.
Heather Robey (1-0) was the winning pitcher for Columbia. She gave up four hits, four walks, one earned run and had nine strikeouts in seven innings of work.
In the second game the Cougars again hit the ball well scoring seven runs on nine hits. Williams went three for four with one stolen base, two doubles and three more RBI's. Stephanie Kababie went two for three from the plate with one run scored.
Kendra Koch got the start in game two and recorded the win giving up just one hit, two walks and one run. Katie McMahon (1-0) relieved Koch in the fourth, recording the win, striking out two and giving up one earned run, three walks and three hits.
The Cougars will be in Springfield, Mo. this weekend, March 3-4, to compete in the Evangel (Mo.) University Tournament. Columbia opens play Friday morning at 9 a.m. against Briar Cliff (Iowa) University followed by an 11 a.m. game vs. host Evangel (Mo.) University. The Cougars round out Friday’s play at 3 p.m. against Missouri Valley College. Saturday’s single elimination bracket play game times and opponents will be based on Friday’s results.
March 1, 2006
Cougars jump into final NAIA DI Basketball Poll at No. 21
Olathe, Kan. – Columbia College jumped into the final NAIA Division I men’s basketball rankings at No. 21 this week. Last week the Cougars were receiving votes and landed just outside the top 25 at No. 27. Columbia has not been ranked in the Top 25 since the January 18th poll when they were listed as the 22nd best team in the NAIA.
American Midwest Conference (AMC) tournament play continues tomorrow night as the No. 2 seeded Cougars (24-7, 9-3) face the No. 3 seeded Bearcats from McKendree (Ill.) College in semifinal action. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
The Cougars and Bearcats (18-13, 8-4) spilt their two regular season meetings with both teams winning on their home floor. On Jan. 19 the then No. 18 ranked Cougars defeated McKendree by 25 points. McKendree got their revenge in Lebanon, Ill. on Feb. 11 with a four point overtime victory.
On Tuesday night Columbia defeated No. 7 seeded Williams Baptist (Ark.) College 90-46 while McKendree downed No. 6 seeded Harris-Stowe State (Mo.) University 85-63, to advance to tomorrow night’s semifinal contest.
The Lady Cougars are just outside the Top 25 in the No. 33 spot, receiving 9 votes.
Tonight the No. 2 seeded Lady Cougars (24-7, 9-3) will face the No. 3 seeded Bearcats from McKendree (Ill.) College in women’s AMC semifinal action. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
The Lady Cougars and Bearcats (18-13, 10-4) spilt their two regular season meetings with both teams winning on their home courts. On Jan. 11 McKendree defeated the Lady Cougars by one point. On Feb. 11 the Lady Cougars got their revenge in the Cougar Dome defeating McKendree 70-66.
For the complete men’s and women’s Top 25 polls, visit www.naia.org.