November 2005 Headlines
November 30, 2005
Volleyball Cougars drop Cedarville in first day of NAIA National Tournament
San Diego, Calif. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball squad finished the first day of the NAIA National Tournament with a 1-0 mark, downing Cedarville (Ohio) University by scores of 30-23, 30-20, 30-24. The win moves the Cougars to 36-4 on the season.
Versus Cedarville, Rose Obunaga led the effort for the Cougars with 22 kills. Alice Mucheke posted 10 kills, five blocks, and Rael Rotich tallied eight kills. Luana Branco posted 37 assists and eight digs in the match. Jenna Holdmeyer recorded a team high 12 digs.
Pool play action continues tomorrow at Point Loma Nazarene (Calif.) University. The Cougars will take on Doane (Neb.) College at 11 a.m. and College of Saint Mary (Neb.) at 8 p.m. Columbia wraps up pool play on Friday, Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. vs. California Baptist University.
The top two teams from each of the four pools advance to the quarterfinal round Friday night at 8 p.m. or 10:15 p.m. Semifinal matches are slated for noon and 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, followed by the championship match at 9:30 p.m.
All match times are CST.
All games will be broadcasted and will include a pre-game and post-game show as well as play-by-play, beginning approximately 10 minutes prior to each match.
For a complete list all upcoming Cougar broadcasts and other Cougar Athletic Department information, log on to www.columbiacougars.com.
November 29, 2005
Cougars top College of the Ozarks
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team came up big tonight, topping non-conference foe College of the Ozarks by a score of 89-69. The Cougars improve to 7-2 on the season. The Bobcats drop to 4-3 with tonight’s loss.
Columbia shot 57 percent from the field in the contest. Columbia dominated on the boards pulling in 40 rebounds to the Bobcat’s 27. The Cougars also converted 22 College of the Ozarks turnovers into 29 points.
Leading the way offensively for Columbia was Terrance Smith with 29 points. Nahowan Saxon added 19 points, Sean Washington scored 17 points and Marcus Bradford chipped in 16. Saxon led the way with a team high of 11 rebounds.
The Cougars return to the court on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2 & 3, when they compete in the Trinity International Tournament in Deerfield, Ill. The Cougars will face Indiana Institute of Technology at 4 p.m. on Friday and compete in either the Championship or Consolation game on Saturday. The championship game is slated for 6 p.m. while the consolation game is set for 2 p.m.
November 26, 2005
Cougars finish 2-0 in KMIZ/Best Western Classic
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team pushed its overall record to 6-2 this afternoon, knocking off Central Methodist (Mo.) University 78-54, to finish 2-0 in the KMIZ/Best Western Thanksgiving Classic.
Columbia led Central Methodist 33-18 at halftime. The Eagles shot 35 percent from the field, while Columbia connected on 48 percent of their field goals to build a 15 point halftime lead.
Columbia dominated again in the second half outrebounding Central Methodist 33-27. The Cougars also converted 35 points off the Eagles’ 23 turnovers.
Nahowan Saxon notched 23 points and five rebounds. Terrance Smith tallied 17 points, four rebounds and five assists. Bryant Chambly was also in double figures with 16 points and a team high six rebounds. Mike Wilken led the effort for the Eagles with 17 points.
In the first game of the afternoon, Baker University defeated Harris-Stowe State University 88-78 to finish 1-1 in the classic. Nate Pedrow led Baker with 19 points and eight rebounds. Marc Roberts and D.J. Watkins tallied 14 and 13 points, respectively. Melvin Martin paced the Hornets from Harris-Stowe with 26 points.
Following the contest, a five-member all-classic squad and most valuable player were recognized. Players were chosen by members of the classic committee as well as the local media. Honorees included D.J. Watkins from Baker, Mike Wilken from Central Methodist, Dustin Fox from Harris-Stowe and Terrance Smith and Bryant Chambly from Columbia College.
For his efforts in the two-day event, Cougar senior forward Nahowan Saxon was recognized as the most valuable player. Saxon tallied 34 points in the two Cougar wins.
The Cougar basketball squad is back in action on Tuesday, Nov. 29 when it hosts College of the Ozarks (Mo.). Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
November 26, 2005
Cougar volleyball national tournament matches
to be broadcast on www.columbiacougars.com
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia College athletic department announced today that they will be broadcasting all Cougar volleyball national championship tournament matches on www.columbiacougars.com.
Robert Langpaap, the voice of Fresno Pacific (Calif.) University volleyball, has signed on to be the voice of the Cougars for this year’s NAIA Volleyball National Championship in San Diego, Calif. Broadcasts will begin this Wednesday afternoon when the Cougars take on Cedarville (Ohio) University in pool play action. First serve is scheduled for 1:15 p.m.
Columbia continues pool play against Doane (Neb.) College at 11 a.m. and College of Saint Mary (Neb.) at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1. The Cougars wrap up pool play on Friday, Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. vs. California Baptist University.
The top two teams from each of the four pools advance to the quarterfinal round Friday night at 8 p.m. or 10:15 p.m. Semifinal matches are slated for noon and 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, followed by the championship match at 9:30 p.m.
All match times are CST.
All broadcasts will include a pre-game and post-game show as well as play-by-play, beginning approximately 10 minutes prior to each match.
For a complete list all upcoming Cougar broadcasts and other Cougar Athletic Department information, log on to www.columbiacougars.com.
November 25, 2005
Cougar men’s basketball picks up win in KMIZ/Best Western Classic
Columbia, Mo. – In the first day of the KMIZ/Best Western Classic in the Arena of Southwell Complex, the Columbia Cougars scored a victory, defeating Baker (Kan.) University 63-57. The win moves Columbia to 5-2 on the season. The loss drops the Wildcats to 5-3.
The Cougars struggled offensively in the first half, shooting just 26 percent from the field. However they held off the Wildcats to take a 24-22 advantage to the locker room at the intermission.
Both teams picked up the pace offensively in the second half. The Wildcats shot a scorching 60 percent from the field, while the Cougars dropped in 54 percent of their field goal attempts.
Terrance Smith led the Cougars with 23 points. Bryant Chambly and Nahowan Saxon also posted double figures, dropping in 15 and 11 points, respectively. Saxon also grabbed a team-high seven rebounds. D.J. Watkins was the leading scorer for Baker with 14 points.
Columbia outrebounded Baker 38-23. Bob Burchard’s squad also converted 15 points off the Wildcats’ 17 turnovers.
In the first game of the evening in the KMIZ/Best Western Classic, Harris-Stowe (Mo.) State University defeated Central Methodist (Mo.) University 82-80. Four players scored in double figures to pace Harris-Stowe, led by Joe Baker and Dustin Fox with 22 and 18 points, respectively. Anthony Love was the leading scorer for Central Methodist with 15 points.
Action continues tomorrow in the KMIZ/Best Western Classic in the Arena of Southwell Complex. At 1 p.m., Harris-Stowe will face Baker. Columbia will square off against Central Methodist at 3 p.m. Following the final contest, a five-member all-classic team, as well as a most valuable player, will be honored.
November 23, 2005
Roganovic receives second team All-American soccer honors
Mueller and Recondo recognized as All-America Scholar-Athletes
Columbia, Mo. – Senior defender Vladimir Roganovic has been named a 2005 NAIA Men’s Soccer Second Team All-American. Senior midfielder Matt Mueller and senior goalkeeper Nano Recondo were also recognized as 2005 Daktronics-NAIA Men's Soccer All-America Scholar-Athletes.
Roganovic, a staple of the Cougar defense since arriving on campus in 2002, has been named All-American each of his four seasons as a Cougar.
A first team selection in 2004, a third team selection in 2003 and an honorable mention honoree in 2002, Roganovic is only the fourth Cougar soccer player in history to be named to four All-American teams.
In 2004, Roganovic was the first player in the history of the Columbia College soccer program to be named as one of top 11 players in the NAIA. Roganovic played in 15 games this season, posting one goal, a double overtime game winner against No. 8 ranked Lindenwood (Mo.) University.
Roganovic was a key component in Columbia’s 2005 record-setting defense, which allowed only 14 goals in 17 games.
The All-America squads, which include three teams of 11 players based on position and honorable mention selections at goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and forward, are determined by the NAIA Men’s Soccer All-American Selection Committee.
For their efforts in the classroom as well as on the pitch, Mueller and Recondo were recognized as All-America Scholar-Athletes by the NAIA. Only 11 players in Cougar soccer history have garnered the national academic honor.
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.
Mueller, who is a native of St. Louis, is majoring in biology. Mueller played and started in all 17 Cougar matches this season scoring three goals and dishing out four assists.
Recondo, an art major, is a native of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Recondo played 565 minutes in goal, recording two shutouts, 27 saves and posting a goals against average of 0.96.
Columbia finished the 2005 campaign with a record of 7-5-5.
November 21, 2005
Lady Cougar basketball team falls to
No. 25 Oklahoma Baptist 78-66
Shawnee, Okla. – The Columbia Lady Cougar basketball team suffered its third loss of the season tonight, falling to the host team Oklahoma Baptist University by a score of 66-78. The Lady Cougars, who are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Poll, are now 4-3 on the season. The Lady Bison, who are the 25th-ranked team in the NAIA, improve to 4-0.
The Cougars did not shoot well in the first half, connecting on only 30 percent of their shots leading to a 23-39 deficit at the break.
In the second half, the Lady Bisons continued their hot shooting, hitting 29 of their 34 free throw attempts. Columbia struggled offensively, as they were down by as many as 22 in the second half. In addition, the Lady Cougars were out rebounded 33-45.
The Lady Bisons led by just six with 90 seconds remaining in the contest when the Lady Cougars were forced to foul. However, the Lady Bison continued their sharp shooting ways from the line to come away with the 12-point win.
Leading the way for Columbia was LeAnn Fossum with 22 points and six rebounds. Helen Ogunjimi added a double-double with 16 points and 11 assists.
The Lady Cougars are idle until Tuesday, Dec. 6 when they host Park (Mo.) University at 8 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
November 21, 2005
Cougars streak by Central Bible
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team recorded its second win of the season tonight over Central Bible (Mo.) College 86-43. The Cougars also knocked the Spartans on Nov. 11 in Springfield, Mo. by a score of 87-57.
With tonight’s win, the Cougars improve to 4-2 on the season.
Columbia shot 44 percent from the field and dropped in eight of its 19 attempts from beyond the three-point arc. In addition, the Cougars outrebounded the visiting squad 50-39 and totaled 23 second chance points to the Spartans’ five.
Four players scored in double figures for the Cougars, led by Marcus Bradford with 15 points. Terrance Smith added 12 points. David Inabnit and Bryant Chambly posted 10 points a piece. Obinna Amaefule grabbed eight rebounds in the victory.
The Cougars are idle until this weekend, Nov. 25-26 when they host the KMIZ/Best Western Thanksgiving Classic in the Arena of Southwell Complex. Games are slated for 6 and 8 p.m. on Friday and 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday. The Cougars will face Baker (Kan.) University at 8 p.m. on Friday and Central Methodist (Mo.) University at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Harris-Stowe (Mo.) State College rounds out the field of four teams participating in the event.
November 21, 2005
Volleyball Cougars seeded seventh in NAIA National Tournament
Columbia, Mo. – Representatives from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) have released pool assignments for the 2005 NAIA National Volleyball Tournament in San Diego, Calif. Nov. 30 through Dec. 3. The Columbia Cougars, who clinched an at-large bid by finishing second in the Region V tournament, are the No. 7 seed.
Fresno Pacific (Calif.) University pulled in the top seed in the national playoff, followed by No. 2 California Baptist University. Madonna (Mich.) University follows California Baptist in the No. 3 slot. A complete list of the teams in the tournament, as well as how they are seeded, is found at www.naia.org.
Teams in Pool B, which includes the Cougars, are No. 2 California Baptist University, College of St. Mary (Neb.), Cedarville (Ohio) University and Doane (Neb.).
The Cougars (35-4) kickoff pool play on Wednesday, Nov. 30 vs. Cedarville at 11:15 a.m Pacific time. They take on Doane at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, followed by St. Mary at 6:00 p.m. Columbia wraps up pool play on Friday, Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. vs. California Baptist.
The top two teams from each of the four pools advance to the quarterfinal round on Friday, Dec. 2. Semifinal matches are slated for 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, followed by the championship match at 7:30 p.m. All match times are PST.
November 20, 2005
Volleyball Cougars receive at-large bid to NAIA National Tournament
Columbia, Mo. – Representatives from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) have released the 2005 Volleyball qualifiers for this years’ National Tournament in San Diego, Calif. on Nov. 30 through Dec. 3. The Columbia Cougars, who fell to Missouri Baptist University in the Region V championship yesterday, received an at-large bid for finishing as the runner-up.
The NAIA Volleyball National Tournament is made up 20 teams from across the country. There are 13 eligible regions that automatically qualified their champion as determined through their regional tournament. In addition Regions II and III received guaranteed bids for their runner-up and third place finishers. Three scenarios were developed to determine the remaining teams. The scenario that was chosen included on wild card bid as well as Region V and VI runner-ups.
On Monday, Nov. 21 Columbia as well as the other 19 qualifying teams will find out their seedings and game times for the tournament. For more information about the other qualifiers for the tournament, visit www.naia.org.
November 19, 2005
Cougar basketball falls to Lyon by two points
Batesville, Ark. - The Cougar men’s basketball team logged their second loss of the season falling to Lyon (Ark.) College 69-71. With the loss the Cougars fall to 3-2 on the year. Lyon improves to 4-1 on the season.
Senior guard Terrance Smith led the Cougars in scoring 17 points going five for eight from 3-point range. Three other Cougars also scored in double figures. Nahowan Saxon tallied 13 points, Bryant Chambly chipped in 11 and Marcus Bradford added ten.
Columbia and Lyon each pulled down 28 rebounds. Lyon committed 28 turnovers to Columbia College's 10. The Cougars shot 40 percent from the field, 40 percent from 3-point range and 65 percent from the line.
The Cougars return home for three games next week starting with a rematch with Central Bible College (Mo.) on Monday at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex. The Cougars defeated Central Bible by 30 points on Nov. 11.
Next Friday and Saturday, Nov. 25 & 26, the Cougars will host the KMIZ/Best Western Thanksgiving Classic. Central Methodist (Mo.) University and Harris-Stowe State University open play on Friday at 6 p.m. The Cougars will face Baker (Kan.) University at 8 p.m. On Saturday Baker will face Harris-Stowe at 1 p.m. followed by a mid-Missouri battle between Columbia and Central Methodist at 3 p.m.
November 19, 2005
Cougar Volleyball fails to win 11th straight Region V title
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball team failed to win its eleventh straight region title today, falling to Missouri Baptist University in the Region V Championship match by scores of 30-21, 25-30, 25-30 and 28-30. Columbia, which is 35-4 on the season, is ranked No. 10 in the final NAIA National Rating.
Missouri Baptist, ranked No. 9 in the NAIA, improves to 34-5 on the season with today’s victory.
Columbia could not avenge last Saturday’s loss to the Spartans in the American Midwest Conference tournament championship match. The Cougars have been defeated by Missouri Baptist three out of five matches this season.
Leading Columbia’s effort was Rose Obunaga with 23 kills and 10 digs. Alice Muckeke chipped in 13 kills and two aces. Jenna Holdmeyer added 16 digs. Luana Branco tallied 40 assists, 11 digs and four kills.
As the Region V Champion, Missouri Baptist receives an automatic bid to the NAIA National Tournament in San Diego, Calif. Nov. 30 through Dec. 3.
Columbia can still receive an at-large bid to the NAIA Volleyball National Championship based on their overall record and national ranking. All participating teams for the 2005 NAIA Volleyball National Championship, including at-large teams, will be released on Sunday, November 20. Pool play assignments will be released on Monday, November 21.
November 18, 2005
Cougar volleyball squad advances to finals
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball squad advanced to the championship match of the Region V tournament tonight, downing third-seeded Graceland (Iowa) University 30-27, 30-21 and 30-21. The second-seeded Cougars improve to 35-3 with tonight’s victory.
Rose Obunaga led a well balanced attack with 20 kills Luana Branco chipped in 36 assists.
On Saturday, Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. the Cougars will face No. 1 seeded Missouri Baptist University in the Region V final. Columbia faced Missouri Baptist last Saturday in the American Midwest Conference (AMC) final, with the Spartans coming out on top. The season series between these teams is tied at two matches a piece.
November 17, 2005
Lady Cougars down Bethany College
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Lady Cougar basketball team recorded a win over Bethany (Kan.) College, downing the Swedes 70-63 tonight in the Arena of Southwell Complex. Tonight’s victory moves the Lady Cougars, who are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Rating, to 4-2 on the season. The loss drops the Swedes to 1-5.
In the first half, Columbia held the Swedes to just 13 field goals and led the visiting squad 38-35 at the break. In the second 20 minutes, the Cougars shot 46.2 percent from the field and outscored Bethany 32-28 to come away with the seven-point win.
Four Lady Cougars scored in double figures, led by LeAnn Fossum with 16 points, including 12 in the second half. Laura Elliot added 13, and Helen Ogunjimi and Jessica Wilkerson dropped in 12 and 11 points, respectively. Ogunjimi passed out four assists and led the rebounding effort with 11 boards.
The Lady Cougars travel to Shawnee, Okla. on Monday, Nov. 21 to compete against Oklahoma Baptist University at 7 p.m.
November 16, 2005
Volleyball squad falls to No. 10 final NAIA Top 25 Rating
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball team fell to No.10 in the final 2005 NAIA Top 25 Poll, which was released earlier today by the national office. The Cougars, who are 34-3 on the season and pulled in 211 points.
Fresno Pacific (Calif.) University kept their season-long hold on the top spot, pulling in 11 first place votes with a record of 31-0. National America (S.D.) University is second with two first place nods and a 31-0 record. California Baptist University is third followed by Madonna (Mich.) University and Dickinson State (N.D.) University.
Region V rival Missouri Baptist University jumped three spots in this week’s poll from No. 12 to No. 9.
The Cougars host the Region V semifinals and finals this weekend in the Arena of Southwell Complex. On Friday, Nov. 18, Missouri Baptist will take on Lindenwood University at 5 p.m. and Columbia will play Graceland (Iowa) University at 7 p.m. Should the Cougars prevail, they will play for the Region V title on Saturday at 1 p.m. The winner of Region V Tournament will receive an automatic invitation to the NAIA National Tournament in San Diego, Calif. on Nov. 30 through Dec. 3.
November 15, 2005
Cougar volleyball squad advances semifinals
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball squad advanced to the semifinal match of the Region V tournament tonight, downing seventh-seeded Baker (Kan.) University 30-19, 30-24 and 30-22. The second-seeded Cougars improve to 34-3 with tonight’s victory.
Tonight’s loss end’s Baker’s season at 25-12.
Leading Columbia’s effort was Rose Obunaga with 16 kills and 14 digs. Jenna Holdmeyer added 11 digs, Luana Branco chipped in 32 assists, 15 digs and five kills.
Columbia College will host both semifinal matches on Friday, Nov. 18. At 5 p.m. No. 1 seeded Missouri Baptist University will take on No. 4 seeded Lindenwood University. At 7 p.m. the No. 2 seeded Cougars will face No. 3 seeded Graceland University. All matches will be played in the Arena of Soutwhell Complex. The Championship match will take place on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
November 15, 2005
Spratt pens Sullivan standout
Columbia, MO -- Cougar softball coach Wendy Spratt officially announced today that Columbia College has signed Meghan Bailey, a senior pitcher at Sullivan High School, to a national letter of intent to play softball for the Cougars beginning in 2007.
Bailey holds an impressive resume of awards in her career at Sullivan. She was awarded first team All-State honors for three seasons. She is a four-time All-District, All-Conference, and All-Region selection. Meghan was awarded Most Valuable Player honors on her team the past four years as well as the Players Choice Award the past three years and the Athlete of the Year award twice.
Off the field Bailey was just as successful, receiving Academic All-Conference honors for three years.
In her senior season at Sullivan, Bailey held a winning percentage of .857 and an ERA of 0.33. She lead the St. Louis area in four pitching categories by posting 312 strikeouts on the year, 15 shutouts, 24 wins and averaging 12.9 strikeouts a game.
“Meghan is a dominating pitcher who will make an immediate impact on the Cougar softball team.,” stated Spratt. “She led the St. Louis area in five pitching categories and we are confident that she will continue that excellence here at Columbia College in 2007.”
The Cougars kick off the 2006 campaign on Wednesday, March 1 when they travel to Fayette, Mo. to take on Region V foe Central Methodist (Mo.) University in a doubleheader. Columbia finished the 2005 season with a mark of 50-20, winning the American Midwest Conference (AMC) tournament and placing seventh at the NAIA National Tournament.
November 15, 2005
Davis signs daughter to become a Lady Cougar
Columbia, MO -- Columbia College women’s basketball head coach Mike Davis officially announced today that the Lady Cougar basketball program has signed his daughter, Whitney Davis, a senior at Boonville High School, to a national letter of intent to play basketball for the Lady Cougars beginning next season.
Davis, a 5’6” guard, is entering her senior season at Boonville. As a junior, Davis earned first team All-Conference and All-District honors averaging 11 points, five assists and four steals per game.
Davis has led Boonville to the state quarterfinals the past two seasons posting records of 25-4 and 27-1. During her freshman season Davis led New Franklin High School to the state quarterfinals.
Davis is a three-time All-District and All-Conference recipient.
Coach Davis believes Whitney will provide an immediate impact for the Lady Cougars upon arrival next fall. “Whitney is a true point guard that fully understands the system that we play here. On her summer teams that I have coached we run the same offense as Columbia College, so she is vary familiar with what we are trying to accomplish on both ends of the court.”
Coach Davis did not have any concerns about recruiting his own daughter. “Whitney has the skill level and quickness of players that we like to bring into our program. If she wasn’t my daughter we would have put the same amount of time and energy into the recruiting process.”
Whitney Davis is the second area player Coach Davis has signed this fall. Last week Whitney Widaman, a senior from Mexico High School, also signed with the Lady Cougars. Both recruits have played summer ball for Coach Davis the past few summers, traveling to showcase tournaments throughout the country and competing against some of the best high school players in the country.
This past summer Davis and Widaman led their team to a final four finish in the Basketball in the Bayou tournament in New Orleans.
“This is a great opportunity for both girls to continue to play on the same team at the college level,” stated Coach Davis.
November 14, 2005
Lady Cougar basketball team notches 58-52 win
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Lady Cougar basketball squad pushed its overall record to 3-2 tonight, tallying a 58-52 victory over Lindenwood (Mo.) University. The Lady Cougars are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Rating. Tonight's loss drops the Lions to 1-3 overall.
Columbia led the Lions 31-27 at halftime. The Lady Cougars had to turn up the defensive pressure in the second half of action as Lindenwood quickly tied up the score. The Cougars outscored the Lions 27-25 in the second half and out rebounded the Lions 46-32 in the contest.
Three Lady Cougars scored in double figures, led by Amanda Koetting with 14 points. Jessica Wilkerson added 10 points and Valerie Suarez chipped in 10 points and a team high nine rebounds.
The Lady Cougars are back at home on Thursday, Nov. 17 to take on Bethany (Kan.) College. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.
November 12, 2005
Lady Cougar basketball downs Central Methodist,
Cougar basketball falls to No. 9 ranked Evangel College
Fayette, Mo. - The Lady Cougars, who are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Top 25 Preseason Poll, defeated host Central Methodist (Mo.) University (CMU) 87-51 in the second day of the Lady Eagle Classic. The win improves the Cougars overall record to 2-2 on the season. The loss drops the Eagles to 2-2 overall.
Columbia shot 46% from the field and out rebounded the Eagles 49-37. The Lady Cougars defense forced 28 CMU turnovers.
Helen Ogunjimi led the Columbia attack posting a double-double. Ogunjimi scored 22 points and pulled down 11 rebounds. LeAnn Fossum was one rebound shy of her own double-double tallying 20 points and 9 rebounds. Valerie Suarez and Jessica Wilson chipped in 15 and 11 points, respectively.
Columbia returns home this Monday, Nov. 14 to take on Lindenwood (Mo.) University. Start time is slated for 7 p.m. in the Arena at Southwell Complex.
Springfield, Mo. - The Cougar men’s basketball team logged their first loss of the season falling to Evangel (Mo.) College 70-81. With the loss the Cougars fall to 3-1 on the year. Evangel, the No. 9 ranked team in the NAIA Division II Preseason Poll, moves to 3-2 on the season.
Senior forward Nahowan Saxon led the Cougars in scoring and rebounding with 22 points and nine boards. Three other Cougars also scored in double figures. David Inabnit tallied 12 points, Bryant Chambly chipped in 11 and Terrance Smith added ten.
Columbia was out rebounded 31-37 and committed 15 turnovers while only forcing ten. Columbia shot 47 percent from the field, 29 percent from 3-point range and 71 percent from the line.
The Cougars continue play in the road next Saturday, Nov. 19 when they take on Lyon College at 2 p.m. in Batesville, Ark. Columbia returns home Monday, Nov. 21 for a rematch with Central Bible College. Start time is slated for 7 p.m. in the Arena at Southwell Complex.
November 12, 2005
Cougar volleyball defeated in AMC Championship match
Columbia, Mo. - For the first time in 12 seasons, the Columbia Cougar volleyball team is not the American Midwest Conference (AMC) Tournament Champion. The Cougars were defeated by Missouri Baptist University in today's title match by the scores of 24-30, 30-24, 30-24, 23-30 and 8-15. Columbia, who is ranked No. 7 in the final NAIA Top 25 Poll, is now 33-3 on the season.
Columbia was led offensively by Rose Obunaga and Nancy Sikobe. Obunaga tallied 23 kills and Sikobe recorded 11. Luana Branco contributed 43 assists. Jenna Holdmeyer and Obunaga had five and four aces, respectively.
Following the match, Branco was honored as the AMC Freshman of the Year. Obunaga, Branco and Doris Wefwafwa were recognized as first team all-conference recipients, and Sikobe and Holdmeyer pulled in honorable mention accolades. Missouri Baptist's Ana Mercado was honored as the AMC Most Valuable Player and Newcomer of the Year.
Brenda Crosby, Amber Hardaway, Lacey Harter, Holdmeyer, Alice Mucheke, Obunaga and Shari Tuttle received academic all-conference recognition for maintaining a cumulative grade-point average above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Pairings for next week's Region V Tournament will be decided Sunday during the Region V conference call. The Cougars will host their quarterfinal match Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
Columbia College will host both semifinal matches along with the championship match in the Arena of Southwell Complex. Semifinal matches will begin at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday Nov. 18. First serve for Saturday's championship match is scheduled for 1 p.m. The winner of the Region V Tournament will receive an automatic bid to the NAIA National Tournament in San Diego, Calif. on Nov. 30 through Dec. 3.
November 11, 2005
Cougar basketball moves to 3-0,
Lady Cougar basketball falls to York College
Springfield, Mo. - The Cougar men’s basketball team logged their third win of the season dropping Central Bible (Mo.) College 87-57. With the win the Cougars improve to 3-0 on the year. Columbia outscored Central Bible by 12 points in the second half after taking a 45-27 lead into halftime.
Senior guard Terrance Smith led the Cougar attack with 21 points, going five for seven from three point land.
Three other Cougars also scored in double figures. Bryant Chambly, Terren Wilson and David Inabnit scored 15, 13 and 10, respectively.
Ryan Steinhoff dished out six assists to lead the team. Nahowan Saxon led the Cougars in rebounding with eight boards. Columbia out rebounded Central Bible 45-33 and forced 25 turnovers.
The Cougars continue play in the CBC/Evangel Classic tomorrow when they take on Evangel College at 5 p.m. Columbia returns home Monday, Nov. 21 for a rematch with Central Bible College. Start time is slated for 7 p.m. in the Arena at Southwell Complex.
Fayette, Mo. - The Lady Cougars, who are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Top 25 Preseason Poll, lost tonight to York (Neb.) College 58-65. The loss drops the Cougars to 1-2 on the season.
Columbia shot just 30% from the field and 24% in the second half and were unable to overcome a 34-29 deficit going into halftime.
LeAnn Fossum led the Cougars in scoring and rebounding with 14 points and 8 boards. Valerie Suarez chipped in 14 points. Columbia was out rebounded for the game 23-27.
The Lady Cougars continue play in the Central Methodist University Classic tomorrow when they take on host Central Methodist University at 3 p.m. Columbia returns home this Monday, Nov. 14 to take on Lindenwood (Mo.) University. Start time is slated for 7 p.m. in the Arena at Southwell Complex.
November 10, 2005
Cougar volleyball defeats William Woods,
advance to AMC championship match
Columbia, Mo. –The Columbia Cougar volleyball team secured their spot in the championship match of the American Midwest Conference (AMC) postseason tournament tonight, defeating William Woods (Mo.) University in the semifinals by scores of 30-18, 30-19 and 30-19. Columbia is the top-seed in the eight-team playoff. The Owls from William Woods entered tonight’s match as the fifth seed.
The Cougars, who are ranked No. 7 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, are now 33-2 on the season. Tonight’s loss end’s the Owls' season at 11-19.
Rose Obunaga led the Cougars with 22 kills in 31 attempts. Luana Branco added 35 assists and 11 kills.
The Cougars will play the winner of the Missouri Baptist University vs. McKendree (Ill.) College at 1 p.m. in the championship match of the AMC tournament on Saturday, Nov. 12 in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
Columbia has a 2-1 head-to-head record against Missouri Baptist and a 2-0 record against McKendree.
Next week Columbia will compete in the Region V tournament on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. All games will be played in the Arena of Southwell Complex. The winner of the Region V tournament will be awarded an automatic bid the this year's national tournament.
Match times and opponents will be updated on www.columbiacougars.com as soon as they are available.
November 9, 2005
Cougar basketball squad scores 82-66 victory in home opener
Columbia, Mo. – In their first home outing of the 2005-06 campaign, the Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team recorded a victory tonight, downing Lincoln (Mo.) University 82-66. Columbia improves to 2-0 on the season with the win.
The Cougars led by 17 at the half, and never looked back. Leading the effort for Columbia was Bryant Chambly with 16 points. Four other Cougars scored in double figures, Marcus Bradford and Nahowan Saxon each finished with 14 points, and Terrance Smith and Terren Wilson chipped in 11 points each. Saxon also finished with a team high 10 rebounds.
Columbia came away with 45 rebounds and forced the Blue Tigers into 22 turnovers.
The Cougars return to the court on Friday, Nov. 11 and Saturday, Nov. 12 when they travel to Springfield, Mo. to compete in the Central Bible College/Evangel College Classic. The Cougars face Central Bible (Mo.) College on Friday at 5:30 p.m. and Evangel (Mo.) College on Saturday at 5 p.m. Listen to this weekend's games live at www.columbiacougars.com.
November 9, 2005
Davis Pens Mexico’s Whitney Widaman
Columbia, MO -- Columbia College women’s basketball coach Mike Davis officially announced today that the Lady Cougar basketball program has signed Whitney Widaman, a senior at Mexico High School, to a national letter of intent to play basketball for the Lady Cougars beginning next season.
Widaman, a 5’6” guard, is entering her final season at Mexico and has already accumulated 912 career points, 231 career assists and 212 career steals. As a junior, Widaman earned first team All-State honors and averaged 15 points per game. In addition, she is a two-time All-District and two-time All-Conference recipient.
Davis believes Widaman will provide an immediate impact for the Lady Cougars upon arrival next fall. “Whitney is an outstanding player. She has great quickness and will be a great competitor at the collegiate level."
Davis and the Lady Cougars return to action on Friday, Nov. 11 and Saturday, Nov. 12 when they compete in the Central Methodist University Classic in Fayette, Mo. Columbia will face York (Neb.) College on Friday at 6 p.m. and Central Methodist (Mo.) University on Saturday at 3 p.m.
November 9, 2005
Volleyball squad remains at No. 7 in latest top 25 rating,
Two Soccer Cougars Earn First Team All-Conference Honors,
Gelvin Named Newcomer of the Year
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball team held its No. 7 position in the NAIA Top 25 Poll this week. The latest ranking was released earlier today by the national office. The Cougars, who are 32-2 on the season, pulled in 248 points in the ranking.
The top five spots remain the same as a week ago with Fresno Pacific (Calif.) University receiving top billing in the ranking, garnering 11 first place votes with a perfect 28-0 mark. National American (S.D.) University is second with two first place nods and a 30-0 record. California Baptist University is in the No. 3 position, followed by Madonna (Mich.) University and Dickinson State (N.D.).
For the second consecutive week, Cougar outside hitter Rose Obunaga and Libero Jenna Holdmeyer were honored as the American Midwest Conference (AMC) Player and Libero of the Week, respectively. Obunaga was also named Region V player of the week and totaled 36 kills in AMC victories against Harris-Stowe State University and Missouri Baptist University. She also posted two assists, 17 digs and five blocks for the week. In the Cougars' regular-season clincher against Missouri Baptist, she had 22 kills, nine digs and four blocks. Holdmeyer helped lead the Cougars to another AMC regular-season championship. During the week, she posted 22 digs and did not have a reception error in 24 chances. In addition, Holdmeyer had four service aces.
The Cougars continue postseason play tomorrow night in the semifinal round of the AMC tournament. Columbia is the top seed in the event and is slated to square off against fifth-seeded William Woods (Mo.) University at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
Two members of the Columbia Cougar soccer team are recipients of American Midwest Conference First Team All-Conference accolades, according to a release from the league office earlier this week. The Cougars finished the 2005 season with a 7-5-5 record.
The 15-player first team, which is selected by AMC coaches, includes Cougar midfielder Sam Gelvin and defender Vladimir Roganovic. Forward Justin Robinson and goal keeper Tanner Mills were named to the Honorable Mention squad.
In addition to being named to the first team all-conference squad, Gelvin has also been selected as the AMC Newcomer of the Year. The St. Louis, Mo. native scored two goals while adding two assists and playing solid defense.
Five Columbia student-athletes, including Micah Bolton, Matt Mueller, Ignacio Recondo, Mark Wilcox and Roganovic, earned academic all-conference honors for maintaining at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale.
A complete list of the 2005 AMC all-conference first team and honorable mention squads, as well as the academic all-conference team, can be found on the AMC website at http://www.amermw.org.
November 8, 2005
Cougar volleyball squad advances to AMC semifinals
Columbia, Mo. –The Columbia Cougar volleyball team moved into the semifinal round of the American Midwest Conference (AMC) postseason tournament tonight, defeating Harris-Stowe State (Mo.) University in the quarterfinals by scores of 30-9, 30-17 and 30-10. Columbia is the top-seed in the eight-team playoff. Harris-Stowe entered tonight’s match as the eighth seed.
The Cougars, who are ranked No. 7 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, are now 32-2 on the season. Tonight’s loss end’s Harris-Stowe’s season at 1-39.
Rose Obunaga led the Cougars with 13 kills in 16 attempts. Nancy Sikobe chipped in 13 digs. Luana Branco added 31 assists.
The Cougars will play the winner of the University of Illinois at Springfield vs. William Woods University at 7 p.m. in the semifinal round of the AMC tournament on Thursday, Nov. 10 in the Arena of Southwell Complex. Missouri Baptist University, which is the No. 2 seed, will play No. 3 McKendree (Ill.) College at 7 p.m. The winners of Thursday’s semifinal matches will square off in the AMC title match on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 1 p.m. The highest remaining seed will host the final
November 5, 2005
Cougar volleyball team wins conference title,
Lady Cougars basketball squad downs Lyon College,
Cougars fall to UMKC in exhibition match-up
St. Louis, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball team scored a win in their final regular season game today, dropping Missouri Baptist University by scores of 24-30, 30-26, 30-27 and 33-31. The Cougars improve to 31-2 on the season. They are ranked No. 7 in the NAIA Top 25 Rating.
With tonight’s win, the Cougars wrap up conference play with a perfect mark of 14-0, and the AMC regular season championship.
Leading the effort for the Cougars in the win over Missouri Baptist was Rose Obunaga with 22 kills in 32 attempts. Doris Wefwafwa and Rael Rotich added 11 and 15 kills, respectively. Luana Branco recorded 46 assists and 12 digs. Alice Mucheke added five blocks.
As the AMC regular season champion, Columbia will be the top seed in the league postseason tournament, which begins next week. The Cougars will host the eighth seed on Tuesday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
Batesville, Ark. - In women’s basketball action in Batesville, Ark., the Columbia Lady Cougars defeated Lyon (Ark.) College by a score of 66-64. The Lady Cougars, who are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Rating, are 1-1 on the season.
Jessica Wilkerson led Columbia’s effort with 17 points, 11 rebounds, six steals and six assists. Helen Ogunjimi chipped in 15 points and Jessica Wilson had ten.
The Lady Cougars return to action next Friday, Nov. 11 and Saturday, Nov. 12 when they compete in the Central Methodist University Classic in Fayette, Mo. Columbia will face York (Neb.) College on Friday at 6 p.m. and Central Methodist (Mo.) University on Saturday at 3 p.m.
Kansas City, Mo. - The Cougar men’s basketball team faltered vs. the University of Missouri-Kansas City in an exhibition match-up tonight, falling by a score of 75-54.
Columbia trailed by one at halftime but fell behind quickly in the second frame. The Cougars had difficulty shooting the ball, making just 35 percent of their shots from the field and 32 percent from behind the arc.
Bryant Chambly totaled 15 points to lead Columbia’s scoring. Nahowan Saxon, Marcus Bradford and Terrance Smith added six points a piece. Saxon led the Cougars with nine rebounds.
The Cougars return to Columbia for their home opener on Wednesday, Nov. 9 when they host NCAA Division II Lincoln (Mo.) University at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
November 4, 2005
Cougar volleyball overpowers Harris-Stowe
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Cougar volleyball team remained undefeated in American Midwest Conference (AMC) action tonight, defeating the Hornets from Harris-Stowe State University 30-8, 30-12 and 30-14. The victory moves the Cougars to 30-2 overall and 13-0 in conference play. Today’s loss drops the Hornets to 1-37 overall and 0-12 in league action.
Columbia, who is ranked No. 7 in the latest NAIA Top 25 Poll, were led offensively by Rose Obunaga’s 14 kills in 22 attempts. Doris Wefwafwa also added nine kills and nine digs. Luana Branco contributed 32 assists.
The Cougars totaled 13 service aces in the contest, and forced the Hornets into nine hitting errors.
The Cougars play for the regular season conference championship tomorrow afternoon when they travel to St. Louis to battle AMC foe Missouri Baptist University (MBU) at 1 p.m. Columbia and MBU have played twice already this season with each team coming away with a victory.
On September 10th MBU defeated the Cougars in five games at the Graceland University Pizza Shack Invitational. Columbia defeated MBU in five games on October 8th in AMC regular season action.
The winner of tomorrow's match will be awarded the number one seed in next week's American Midwest Conference Tournament.
November 3, 2005
Cougar basketball squad scores 75-66 victory in season opener
St. Charles, Mo. – In their first outing of the 2005-06 campaign, the Columbia Cougar men’s basketball team recorded a victory tonight, downing Lindenwood University (Mo.) 75-66. Columbia is ranked No. 30 in the NAIA Preseason Poll. With the loss Lindenwood falls to 0-2 on the season.
Leading the effort for the Cougars was Nahowan Saxon with 17 points. Marcus Bradford and Sean Washington each scored 11 points and Terren Wilson chipped in ten. Washington also led the Cougars in rebounding with eight boards.
Columbia shot 42 percent from the field, 38 percent from behind the arc and 71 percent from the line. Lindenwood shot 33 percent from the field, 16 percent from three point land and 72 percent from the line.
The Cougars were out rebounded 28-48 and committed only ten turnovers to Lindenwood's 18.
The Cougars next game is an exhibition this Saturday, November 5 against NCAA Division I University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC). Tip-off is scheduled for 7 pm at Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City.
The Athletic Department is sponsoring a fan bus to Kansas City, Mo. to watch the Cougars battle UMKC. Transportation and/or tickets to the game will be $10 for adults and free for students if purchased through the Columbia College Athletic Department. Prior to the game there will be a reception in the Harvest Room of the Downtown Marriot with hors d’oeuvres and beverages. For more information, contact Brad Jenks at 573-875-7419 or bdjenks@ccis.edu.
November 3, 2005
Hannibal upsets Columbia in Soccer postseason play
Hannibal, Mo. –The Cougars ended their 2005 season today after falling to Hannibal-LaGrange (Mo.) College in American Midwest Conference (AMC) postseason action, 0-1. Columbia finishes the season with a 7-5-5 record. Hannibal will advance to play McKendree (Ill.) College on Saturday, Nov. 5.
Both teams failed to score until late in the second half when Hannibal was able to squeeze one by keeper Tanner Mills in the last 30 seconds of play. The Cougars were unable to respond in time giving the Trojans the 0-1 victory.
Mills took the loss in goal recording five saves. The Cougars posted ten shots in the game.
November 2, 2005
Volleyball squad moves to No. 7 in National ranking,
Cougar soccer falls out of Top 25
Columbia, Mo. – After ending the 2005 regular season last Saturday night with a 2-1 loss over nationally-ranked Mid-Continent (Ky.) University, the Columbia Cougar soccer team fell out of the Top 25, receiving just 1 vote this week.
The Cougars are 7-4-5 on the season and will play tomorrow night in Hannibal, Mo. against Hannibal-LaGrange (Mo.) College in the American Midwest Conference (AMC) play-in match. Start time is slated for 1 p.m.
Rio Grande (Ohio) University remained atop the soccer rankings with all 13 first place votes and a 16-0-0 record. Auburn Montgomery (Ala.) University is second with a 19-1-0 mark, followed by Southern Nazarene (Okla.) University at 15-0-1, Lindsey Wilson (Ky.) College at No. 4 with a 15-1-1 record and Simon Fraser (B.C.) University at 13-2-1.
Columbia’s AMC and Region V rival, Missouri Baptist University, is ranked No. 14. Graceland (Iowa) University is ranked No. 19 and Lindenwood (Mo.) University, is ranked No. 21.
In the latest national volleyball ranking, the Cougars moved up one spot from a week ago, now standing at No. 7 with 245 votes. Columbia is 29-2 on the season and plays its final regular-season home contest Friday night. The Cougars host AMC foe Harris-Stowe State (Mo.) University at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.
Fresno Pacific (Calif.) University is ranked No. 1, followed by National America (S.D.) University in the second slot. At No. 3 is California Baptist University, Madonna (Mich.) University and Dickinson State (N.D.) University. Columbia’s AMC and Region V rival, Missouri Baptist University is fell to No. 12 this week.
The Cougar volleyball squad wraps up regular season play on Saturday, Nov. 5 when they travel to St. Louis, Mo. to face Missouri Baptist University at 1 p.m.
November 2, 2005
Columbia College Named Champions of Character Institution
OLATHE, Kan. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) named 155 Champions of Character institutions, including Columbia College, for the 2004-2005 school year. Champions of Character member institutions continue to embrace the program by promoting or implementing activities related to the five core character values of the initiative. The NAIA, in its fifth year of the recognition program, has awarded approximately 80 schools all five years for their commitment to the Champions of Character program in and around their campuses.
“The NAIA strongly believes that character cannot be left to chance and has actively challenged member institutions to intentionally teach the five core character values highlighted throughout the Champions of Character program,” said NAIA Director of Champions of Character Initiatives Rob Miller. “These 155 recognized Champions of Character institutions incorporate the program and message throughout their athletics programs in effort to change the culture of sports on campus and in their local communities.”
Introduced in 2000, the nationally recognized Champions of Character program seeks to create environments in which student-athletes, youth, parents, coaches, officials and spectators are committed and understand the true spirit of competition through respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership and sportsmanship.
In addition to designated Champions of Character institutions the NAIA has developed 24 Program Centers across the country. Program Centers coordinate community outreach activities that integrate with existing institutional initiatives and fit the specific needs of the local community. In developing local outreach efforts, each Program Center has at its disposal a range of educational publications, programs and resources available from the NAIA national office.
November 1, 2005
Lady Cougar basketball falls 68-73 in home and season opener
Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia Lady Cougar basketball squad lost at home tonight in their season opener to MidAmerica Nazarene (Kan.) 68-73. The Lady Cougars are ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Preseason Top 25 Rating.
Columbia trailed the Lady Pioneers 40-45 at halftime. The Lady Cougars turned up the defensive pressure in the second half of action to take the lead, but it was not enough to hold off MidAmerica as the took the five point victory back to Olathe, Kan. Both teams scored 28 points in the second half.
Three Lady Cougars scored in double figures, led by Laura Elliot’s 21 points. LeAnn Fossum added 19 points. Jessica Wilkerson dropped in 11 points and pulled down 16 rebounds.
The Pioneer’s were paced by Jana Young and Jena Matson who scored 27 and 23 points, respectively.
For the game the Cougars outrebounded the Lady Pioneers 52-39. Columbia committed 26 turnovers to MidAmerica’s 33.
The Lady Cougars hit the road for their next contest on Saturday, Nov. 5. Columbia is in Batesville, Ark. to face Lyon (Ark.) College. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m.