Dakota Athletic Conference

The DAC is a member of the NAIA and promotes sportsmanship and well-rounded athletic programs that contribute to the total education process of each athlete.

News Archives 2002-2003

June 17, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- The University of Mary is the recipient of the 2002-03 Dakota Athletic Conference Academic Honor Award. The award is presented to the school with the highest percentage of athletes earning DAC Scholar-Athlete recognition.

In order to be honored by the conference, a student-athlete must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 or better for a semester in which he/she participates in a conference sponsored sport.


June 6, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Minot State University's Rick Hedberg has been chosen the Dakota Athletic Conference Athletic Director of the Year by his peers.

Hedberg received his undergraduate degree from Minot State in 1989 and completed his Masters in 1997 at the University of North Dakota.

During the 2002-03 school year, Hedberg was the DAC Softball Portfolio Manager, managed the DAC baseball tournament and was also director for the State Class "B" High School Girls' Basketball Tournament and site manager of the State Class "A" and "B" High School Wrestling Tournament.

During the just completed school year, Minot State captured four conference championships and the school's first team national title. The Beaver men's cross country team captured the NAIA championship after winning the DAC and Region III meets. MSU also tied for the conference title in football and advanced to the national play-offs; the men's golf team won the DAC tournament and finished second in the Region III tourney and the Beaver baseball squad rallied in the post-season to capture the DAC tournament after finishing seventh in the regular season.

The Beavers also had good showings in men's basketball and men's track and field. The men's basketball team tied for second in the DAC regular season, while the men's track team tied for sixth at the national indoor meet and finished in a fourth place tie in the national outdoor competition.

During his tenure at MSU, Hedberg has overseen the doubling of booster fund-raising, the introduction of a new Beaver logo along with the installation of a football field underground sprinkler system, the addition of a $100-thousand weight room and the fund-raising and construction of a 240-meter indoor track in the MSU Dome.

Hedberg has been the Beaver athletic department's head man since June of 2001 after a two year stint as an assistant athletic director at the University of North Dakota.


June 3, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dakota Athletic Confernce has twelve players on the NAIA All-America Honorable Mentions list for baseballl and four players on the NAIA Scholar-Athletes roster.

The twelve All-America Honorable Mention recipients are: first baseman Greg Ross of Jamestown College; third baseman Jordan Blundell of Jamestown College; shorstop Brent Wandler of Mayville State; infielder Josh Schriverr of Valley City State; outfielders Brent Krause, Jeff Nold and Sam Joseph of Jamestown College; catcher Ryan Holthaus of Dakota State; pitchjers Aren Nelson of Valley City State, Bryan Day of Dakota State and Josh McMenamy of Mayville State and relief pitcher Tom Klapp of Valley City State.

The four academic honorees are: Joshua McMenamy of Mayville State; Caleb Marx of the University of Mary and from Valley City State, Tom Klapp and Nate Turck.

A complete list of the NAIA All-America teams and the NAIA Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


May 24, 2003

(Olathe, KS) -- The Dickinson State University men finished second at the NAIA National Track & Field Meet in Olathe, KS. The Blue Hawks finished the meet with 61 points to finish in the runner-up position to Lindenwood, MO, with 65.

Also in the men's competition, Minot State finished in a fourth place tie with 37 points, Black Hills State was eighth with 33 points and the University of Mary scored 7 points to finish 47th. Sixty-nine teams scored in the men's division.

Two Dakota Athletic Conference athletes won individual national championships. Derrick Atkins of Dickinson State won the 100 meters in a time of :10.34 and Tim Bishop of Black Hills State won the 1500 meters in 3:49.75. Dickinson State's Pete Stanton was named the NAIA National Coach of the Year.

Black Hills State was the top DAC team in the women's comeptition, finishing in a sixth place tie with 31 points. The University of Mary placed ninth with 30 points and Dickinson State was in a tie for 34th with eight points. Azusa Pacific, CA, won the national cahmpionship with 86 points. Sixty-one teams scored in the women's division.

Nikki Underwood of Black Hills State was the lone DAC athlete to capture an individual national title. She won the marathon in a time of 3:05:13.62.

Nineteen DAC athletes were also named NAIA Scholar-Athletes. The men's academic honorees are: Tim Bishop of Black Hills State; Eric Eisenbraun of Dakota State; Phillip Stokkeland, Samuel Webb, Tim Grafff and Tyson Norman of Jamestown College; Brad Tighe, Eric Hanson, Nolan Taylor and Steve Kirby of Minot State, and Joshua Voth and Troy Myers of the University of Mary. The women's Scholar-Athletes are: Jesse Palczewski of Black Hills State; Kristie Vandenhoek of Dakota State; Amberly Stephens and Michelle Monson of Jamestown College; Amanda Borseth of Minot State, and Jessica Gibson and Megan Nelson of the University of Mary.

Complete results of the national track meet and a complete list of Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


May 22, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Eight softball players from the Dakota Athletic Conference were named NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

The eight honorees are: seniors Karen Hildebrand and Laura Beers of Dakota State; Dickinson State, junior Sarah Mihelish; senior Erika Harper, junior Sabrina Lopez, Senior Tamara Osborn and junior Claire Soulodre of Si Tanka University at Huron and senior Kristin Keith of Minot State.

A complete list of NAIA Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


May 22, 2003

(Decatur, Ala.) – Although only a freshman, University of Mobile (Ala.) (53-6-1) pitcher Kirby Baxter (25-1) played a bit of role reversal as she came in for senior Missy Passley to help lead her Rams to a 5-2 win over the University of Mary (N.D.) in the final day of action at the 23^rd Annual NAIA Softball National Championships held at the Wilson Morgan Softball Complex in Decatur, Alabama.

Giving up six hits, two runs while striking out only one (an unusual occurrence for the 2003 NAIA Pitcher of the Year who averaged just over ten strikeouts a game) in two innings of work, the Marauders had Missy Passley’s number as they jumped out to an early 2-0 lead.

Picking up a Nichole Seaver run in the bottom of the first inning and a Hope Johnson run in the bottom of the second, the Marauders seemed poised to pick up where they left off last night. Having scored 16 runs against 12^th-seeded Oklahoma Christian University, Mary looked well on their way to a date with No. 8-seeded Olivet Nazarene. However, with the pitching substitution of Mobile freshman Kirby Baxter for Missy Passley to start the bottom of the third inning, those pipe dreams started to fade.

Fanning seven batters, while giving up only one hit and one walk in ten innings of work, Baxter kept Mary quiet and opened the door for the Rams to get things going.

With Christie Jackson (2-for-4 with one run scored) on second and Denisse Fuenmayor on third, Teal Boothe ripped a clutch two RBI double into the left-center gap to tie the game up.

The Rams ended an eight-inning stalemate in the top of the twelfth. Winter Guthrie hit an RBI single to drive in Molly Walker who was pinch running for Teal Boothe. Two more runs scored by Liberty Ellison and Sylvia Bedgood and top-seeded Mobile moved into the loser’s bracket championship against Olivet Nazarene.

The Cinderella story of the tournament, University of Mary, ends a stellar season with a 38-14 record and the respect of the NAIA softball elite as they eliminated teams such as #7 Union University (Tenn.), #10 Oklahoma City University, and #6 Columbia College.

At the conclusion of the tournament, the Marauders' Nichole Seaver and Cassie Smith were named to the All-Tournament Team.


May 21, 2003

(Decatur, Ala.) – At the 23^rd Annual NAIA Softball National Championships at Wilson Morgan Park in Decatur, Alabama, a new tournament record was set for errors in a single game when both the University of Mary (N.D.) and Oklahoma Christian University combined for a total of 12 fielding errors in the seven inning contest. Mary managed to overcome the defensive struggles to defeat Oklahoma Christian 16-6 to remain alive in the tournament. Mary advances to face the University of Mobile (Ala.) at noon tomorrow.

In the highest scoring game so far in the 2003 tournament, Mary jumped out early scoring two runs in the top of the first inning. With a 5-4 lead entering the fifth inning, Mary increased their run total to 11 runs by scoring six runs in the inning. Marie Maita (1-for-4) hit a grand slam to score four of their six runs of the inning. Cassie Smith led all Mary hitters going 4-for-5 with two RBI and one run scored. Danelle Murphy pitched through five defensive mistakes and improved her record to 23-8 on the season while Mary improved their team record to 38-13 overall.

Oklahoma Christian committed seven defensive errors in the game and struggled to put hits together. However, the Lady Eagles managed to capitalize on Mary’s mistakes and scattered six hits among six players. Shawna Lenz led all Lady Eagle hitters going 2-for-4 with one RBI.

Oklahoma Christian ends their season with an overall record of 31-13.

(Decatur, Ala.) – From Wilson Morgan Park in Decatur, Alabama, the University of Mary (N.D.) eliminates the 2002 NAIA Champion Oklahoma City University 6-1 at the 23^rd Annual NAIA Softball National Championships.

Danelle Murphy (22-8) allowed only two hits in the game and one earned run. Mary scored two runs in the bottom of the first inning and added four more runs in the bottom of the fourth to seal the victory. Mary was led in hitting by Sara Buening who went 3-for-3 with one run scored. Julie Swehla and Amanda Hinton each added two hits each in the contest.

Kami Borkaw and Jill Vaughn achieved the Stars only two hits of the game while Jami Akin suffered the loss to drop her season record to 17-13.

The University of Mary improves their record to 37-15 and advances to play the loser of the winner’s bracket game between #8 seeded Olivet Nazarene University (Ill.) and #12 seeded Oklahoma Christian University.


May 19, 2003

(Decatur, Ala.) -- The University of Mary (N.D.) (36-14) came from behind to defeat Columbia College (Mo.) (38-17) 3-1 in Day Three of the 23^rd Annual NAIA Softball National Championships held at the Wilson Morgan Softball Complex in Decatur, Alabama.

The Marauders fell behind 1-0 after an Amy Seipp ground out to the pitcher brought in Megan Kuntze to give the Cougars the lead. Mary, however, fired back in the bottom of the fourth with three runs to complete the come from behind win.

The Marauders’ Amanda Hinton played the hero’s role as she hit a three RBI double to lead Mary past Columbia and to a 12:00 noon match-up with Oklahoma City University tomorrow.

Mary’s Danelle Murphy gave a solid outing on the mound as she gave up four hits, two walks and one earned run while striking out eight in seven innings of work. The Marauders also got plate performance by Sara Buening (2-for-3) and Miranda Kephart (1-for-2 with one run scored).

Columbia, whose run at a national title is brought to a close, got a four hit, five walk and three earned runs performance by senior pitcher Jayne Miller.

(Decatur, Ala.) -- At the 23^rd Annual NAIA Softball National Championship at Wilson Morgan Park in Decatur, Alabama, the University of Mary (N.D.) scored first and held onto a 3-2 victory over the #7-seeded Union University (Tenn.) in the loser’s bracket.

Mary put one run on the scoreboard in the top of the third inning when Amanda Hinton (1-for-4) scored after reaching on a single, stealing second base and advancing to third on an error. Hinton later scored on a sacrifice fly by teammate Neena Williams (3-for-3). Mary added another run in the top of the fifth inning. Williams led Mary in hitting going 3-for-3 with two RBI.

The Lady Bulldogs of Union rallied in the bottom of the sixth to tie the game. Holly Haycraft (1-for-2) led off the inning with a single and advanced to second base on a wild pitch from Danelle Murphy. Decatur native Megan Quarry (1-for-3) singled to right field to move Haycraft to third base. With two outs, Amy Mejia (2-for-3) came to the plate and hit a double to score both Haycraft and Quarry.

In the top of the seventh inning, Mary added one more run to the scoreboard to complete the 3-2 upset over Union. Union completes their season with an overall record of 45-13 while Mary advances to play at 9 p.m. tonight.


May 16, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Scott Berry from Yakima (Wash.) Valley Community College was named the new head men’s basketball coach at Dickinson State University on Friday. Roger Ternes, director of intercollegiate athletics, made the announcement at a midday press conference on campus.

"Scott is a proven winner who can recruit regionally, nationally, and internationally," said Ternes. "He has a passion for teaching and coaching and can motivate young men to play with enthusiasm and energy."

Berry has worked at Yakima Valley Community College since 1996. He served as an assistant coach for the men’s team until 1999, when he was named head coach. Over the next four seasons, he compiled an 82-38 record, including a 25-5 mark this past season. His final season at Yakima Valley culminated in his team winning the championship of the 36-team Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges tournament. Following the tournament, Berry was recognized as the NWAACC coach of the year for 2003.

In addition to his experience coaching at Yakima Valley, Berry also has spent summers coaching the German National Cadet (16-and-under) Team, working with the Bosch Blue winds of the Japanese Professional League, and instructing the 2002 Japanese Division I champion Tskuba University team.

Born in Livingston, Mont., Berry is familiar with the region, having lived in both Glendive and Miles City. Berry’s mother graduated from Dickinson State in 1956.

Scott and his wife, Lisa, have nine children – seven college-age and two who will be attending junior high and high schools in Dickinson next fall.


May 16, 2003

(Dacatur, Ala.) -- In first round action of the 23^rd Annual NAIA Softball National Championships at Wilson Morgan Park in Decatur, Alabama, Houston Baptist University (Tex) (43-9) held the University of Mary (N.D.) (34-14) scoreless to advance in the winner’s bracket with a 2-0 victory.

The Huskies’ pitcher Laura Hess allowed only three hits with no runs in seven complete innings while striking out seven batters. Houston Baptist broke the scoreless tie with two runs in the top of the seventh inning. With a combination of three singles and two wild pitches, Houston Baptist scored the only runs of the game. The Huskies scattered seven hits among seven players in the game.

Danielle Murphy allowed only two hits in the game but still suffered the loss. The Marauders scattered their three hits among three batters.

Houston Baptist advances to face Oklahoma Christian (30-11) at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Mary falls into the loser’s bracket and will face the winner of the Warner Southern/Union game at 2:00 p.m. Saturday.

(Dacatur, Ala.) -- Danelle Murphy of the University of Mary (N.D.) (34-13) pitched a one hit shutout to help the Lady Marauders cruise to a 4-0 win over Wilmington College (Del.) (19-22) in the opening round of the 23^rd annual NAIA softball national championships, held at the Morgan Wilson Softball Complex in Decatur, AL.

Making their sixth trip to the national tournament, the Lady Marauders got on the scoreboard in the top of the fourth as senior first baseman Marie Maita drove in Nichole Seaver (4-for-4) to go up 1-0.

Seaver returned the favor in the top of the fifth as she drove in Billings, Montana native Sara Buening (2-for-3).

University of Mary put an exclamation on their win as they scored their last two runs on solo homeruns by Marie Maita and Miranda Kephart in the top of the sixth.

A tough morning on the mound, Kim Helm gave up 11 hits and four earned runs in seven innings of work.

Mary will play 4^th-seeded Houston Baptist University (Texas) (42-9) this evening at 9 p.m.


May 14, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- The University of Mary is the recipient of the 2002-03 Dakota Athletic Conference Commissioners Cup.

Points are awarded according to the schools finish in the conference race of DAC sponsored sports. The school with the highest point total receives the honor.

The Marauders finished first with 140 points. Dickinson State was second with 131 points with Jamestown College third with 127.5, Minot State fourth with 116.5 and Black Hills State with 90. Rounding out the standings are Dakota State with 87, South Dakota Tech with 81, Valley City State with 61, Si Tanka University at Huron with 53 and Mayville State with 40.

Points are awarded in the following manner: in the four required sports (football, volleyball, men's and women's basketball), 20 points for first place, 18 points for second place, 16 points for third place, etc. and in the optional sports (men's and women's golf, men's and women's cross country, men's and women's tennis, men's and women's soccer, wrestling, men's and women's indoor track, men's and women's outdoor track, baseball and softball), 10 points for first place, 9 points for second place, 8 points for third, etc. Only sports that have at least one half or more of the conference members participating are included in the calculations.


May 2, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dickinson State head men's basketball coach Tim Daniel has been reassigned from that position to take on assistant coaching duties with the Blue Hawks' track and field teams. Daniel will remain DSU's men's and women's golf coach and also continue his duties as an assistant professor in the Department of Health and Physical Education.

During his 11 seasons leading the Blue Hawks, Daniel compiled a 151-153 record that included back-to-back conference championships and consecutive trips to the NAIA Division II national tournament. DSU advanced to the Elite Eight in 2000 and the Sweet 16 in 2001.

DSU Athletic Director Roger Ternes states that a search will begin immediately for a new men's basketball coach and will continue until the position is filled.


April 28, 2003

(Valley City, ND) -- Valley City State University, Wide Receiver, Stephen Battle (6-2, 195, Cocoa, Florida) has signed as a free agent player with the St. Louis Rams. Battle’s agent was working on the terms of the contract at the time of the press release. Battle is scheduled to report for his first mini camp on Thursday May 1st. Battle was a three time all DAC performer, voted the league’s most valuable graduating senior, and a three time All-American in his career at VCSU. He set 13 records during his career.

April 24, 2003

(Olathe, KS) -- April Cameron, a senior volleyball and softball player at Dickinson State University was recently recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Dr. Leroy Walker Sportsmanship Award. Jessica Linderman of Vanguard University (Calif.) won the award.

The Walker award was created as part of the NAIA’s association with the Citizenship Through Sports Association (CTSA), a group including nine other member organizations from the world of sports with the aim of promoting sportsmanship. The award is named for past-president of the United States Olympic Committee and former president of the NAIA from Benedict College (S.C.). As an athlete at Benedict, Walker earned letters in three sports and, as a coach and administrator, he mentored 11 Olympic athletes.

Cameron, from Melita, Manitoba was one of only 30 finalists chosen for the individual student-athlete that best exemplied the
NAIA’s core values of scholarship, character and sportsmanship.

As a volleyball player, Cameron was named All-Conference three times, NAIA National Setter of the Week (2001) and has led the Blue Hawks to the school’s only team national championship (2000).

In the classroom, Cameron has excelled as well with a 3.5 GPA. She is a physical education major with a coaching minor.

According to DSU volleyball coach Dave Moody, Cameron was a great choice and representative for DSU.

"April Cameron is one of those players who you never forget. April has always been well-grounded and conducted herself in a positive manner no matter what the circumstances. Her quiet leadership and persistence on and off the court will be greatly missed."

April is the daughter of Murray and Donna Cameron.


April 21, 2003

(Spearfish, SD) -- Black Hills State has named Mark Nore as their women's basketball coach. Nore served as the Yellow Jackets' interim coach during the 2002-03 season, leading them to an 11-12 record.

Nore is a 1999 graduate of BHSU and has also served as an assistant coach at Southwest State, MN and for two seasons at Black Hills State.


April 10, 2003

(Rapid City, SD) -- Doug Tabbert has been named as the new head volleyball coach at South Dakota Tech.

Tabbert comes to the South Dakota Tech after serving for two years as the head volleyball coach at Hastings College in Hastings, Nebraska. Prior to that Tabbert was the head volleyball coach at Methodist College in Fayetteville, North Carolina for three years.

In addition to coaching, Tabbert has provided psychological skills training to various athletes, including the Kansas State University volleyball program, the Bluffton College (Ohio) women's basketball program and a member of the 1996 United States Olympic Track & Field Team.

A native of Perry, Kansas, he holds a Master of Education degree in Developmental Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sport Psychology from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, and Bachelor of Science degrees in both Business and Psychology from Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas.

"I am very excited that Doug has accepted our position as head volleyball coach. He will bring head coaching experience and stability to the volleyball program," offered Tech Athletic Director Hugh Welsh. Tabbert will make his Hardrocker debut at the Dickinson State Classic on August 22.


April 2, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Ten Dakota Athletic Conference men's basketball players have been named NAIA Scholar Athletes.

The academic honorees are: Brandon Nicole and Kyle Konopasek of Dakota State; Kelly Cota and Travis Lindgren of Mayville State; Kent Bloms of Minot State; Chris Bieber and Justin Vangraefschepe of South Dakota Tech and Darrell Williams, Alec Aldinger and Matt Shaw of the University of Mary.

A complete list of Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


March 18, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dakota Athletic Conference Basketball Most Valuable Players Stacie Schorsch of Dickinson State and Travis Lindgren of Mayville State have been named to the NAIA Division All-America first teams.

Lindsey Eliason of Mayville State was the only other DAC women's player to receive post-season recognition. She received Honorable Mentions.

On the men's side, Jamestown College's Brandon Wilkens was named to the second team. Honorable Mention recipients were Mike McCarty and Aaron Valentine of Black Hills State, Chris Robinson of South Dakota Tech, Troy Blount of the University of Mary and Jamestown College's Charles Jones.

The NAIA also announced the Women's Division II All-America Scholar Athletes. The DAC had 14 players named Scholar-Athletes. They are Tina Partin, Melini Mayer and Nikida McSween of Dickinson State; Sarah McLean of Jamestown College; Amy Martinson, Courtney Mundahl, Kristeen Hoffman, Lindsey Eliason and Mandey Gillis of Mayville State; Minot State's Lyndsi Johnson; Molly Barnes and Jami Zilles of South Dakota Tech, and Kelly Martin and Kristel Engelby of Valley City State.

Complete lists of the All-America teams and the women's All-America Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


March 15, 2003

(Sioux City, IA) -- DAC Co-Champions Dickinson State and the University of Mary fell in quarterfinal round play of the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball Tournament. The Blue Hawks lost 53-50 to Dakota Wesleyan, SD and the Marauders dropped a 57-55 decision to number one Concordia, NE.

The Lady Hawks were led by DAC MVP Stacie Schorsch. The senior ended her standout career with 14 points, ten rebounds and four blocked shots. Junior Nicci Schorsch added 11 points and six rebounds.

DSU ends the season at 28-6.

The Marauders had four players in double-figures in their season ending setback. Sophomore Jessica Zundel had 13 points and nine rebounds. Molly Merigan shipped in 12 points. Senior Jesse Slinde finished her career with 11 points, six rebounds and five assists and junior Sarah Leer added 11 points and five rebounds.

The game was the last for head coach Roger Haug, who is stepping down after 13 seasons at the helm. With a 26-6 record in 2002-03, Haug's overall record at U-Mary is 234-131.


(Point Lookout, MO) -- Third seeded Jamestown College saw their season come to an end with a 76-71 loss to number eleven Warner Southern, FL, in the quarterfinals of the NAIA Division II Basketball Tournament.

Junior Brandon Wilkens had a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Junior Charles Jones added 11 points and eight rebounds, junior Benny Fregela had 11 points, six assists and five rebounds and junior Randy Randle added ten points.

The DAC champions trailed 47-29 at half and rallied in the second half, but the deficit was too big to overcome as the Jimmies finish the 2002-03 season with a 29-5 record.


March 14, 2003

(Sioux City, IA) -- Dickinson State and the University of Mary have moved into the Elite Eight of the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball Tournament. Dickinson State defeated Shawnee State, OH, 63-53. in the second round and the Marauders topped Indiana Wesleyan, 67-60.

The Blue Hawks trailed 25-23 at the half, but outscored the Bears 40-28 in the second half to post the ten point victory.

DAC MVP Stacie Schorsch led DSU with 18 points, seven rebounds, six blocked shots and a pair of steals. Sophomore Jessica Campbell contributed 13 points, five rebounds and three steals and sophomore Sara Berglund added ten points.

Dickinson State sealed the victory with solid free throw shooting as they converted on 25 of 37 from the charity stripe. Schorsch hit 10 of 13 from the line in leading the Blue Hawks to their school record 28th victory against just five defeats.

The Lady Hawks move to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of Dakota Wesleyan, SD and Bethany, KS at 3:00 Saturday afternoon.

The Marauders had three players in double figures. Sarah Leer led the way with 21, Natalie Brunner came off the bench to add 15 and Jessica Zundel had a double-double with ten points and ten rebounds.

Mary improves to 26-5 on the season and will face either Concordia, NE or William Jewell, MO in the quarterfinals at 1:00 Saturday afternoon.

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Jamestown college moved into the quarterfinals of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament with a 74-65 win over Albertson, ID.

The Jimmies struggled from the field, shooting just 40% for the game, but held Albertson to 37% from the field to post the second round win.

Charles Johnson led Jamestown with 20 points and seven rebounds. Brandon Wilkens added 16 points, seven rebounds and three assists and Randy Randle chipped in with 11 points, six rebounds and three assists.

The win moves the Jimmies' overall record to 29-4. The 3rd seeded Jimmies will face the winner of 11th seeded Warner Southern, FL, and the host, College of the Ozarks, at 3:00 Saturday afternoon. Jamestown defeated the College of the Ozarks in the first round of last year's tournament.


March 13, 2003

(Sioux City, IA) -- The Dakota State Lady Trojans saw their season come to an end with a 54-45 setback at the hands of Evangel, MO, in the first round of the NAIA Division II National Tournament.

Senior Jessica Honerman and junior Amy Balk led the Lady T's with eleven points each. Hali McClelland led Dakota State in rebounding with eight.

The Trojans finished the year at 20-12.


March 12, 2003

(Bismarck, ND) -- The University of Mary has announced the hiring of Fred Fridley, Junior, to replace the retiring Roger Haug as the Marauders head women's basketball coach.

Fridley is currently in his third season as an assistant coach for the men's basketball team at Concordia College in Moorehead, MN. Fridley was the head boys' basketball coach at Minot Ryan High School for the 1999-200 season as the Lions finished second at the state tournament. Prior to his stint at Minot Ryan, Fridley served as a graduate assistant at North Dakota State University following his playing career at NDSU.

Haug, who led Mary to the 2000 NAIA National Championship, will conclude his duties as the Lady Marauders' leader at the NAIA Division II National Tournament in Sioux City, IA. His career record at Mary is 233-130 in 13 years at the helm.


March 12, 2003

(Sioux City, IA) -- Dickinson State trailed 32-28 at halftime before rallying to beat Cal State-Hayward, 70-64, in first round play at the NAIA Division II Women's National Basketball Tournament.

Junior Jessica Campbell converted a 3-point play with just under ten minutes remaining in the game to give the Blue Hawks their first lead at 46-45 and maintained the lead enroute to the victory in their first ever national tournament contest.

Senior Stacie Schorsch led Dickinson State with 25 points, six rebounds and four assists. Campbell scored 13 points, all in the second half and grabbed eight rebounds and senior Tina Partin chipped in with ten.

The Lady Hawks improve to 27-5 on the season and will face the winner of Shawnne State, OH and Tennessee Wesleyan at 8:30 Friday morning.

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Black Hills State saw their season come to an end with a 79-73 loss to 13th seeded Cascade College, OR, at the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament.

Cascade shot 55% from the field compared to the Yellow Jackets 41% field goal shooting, well below their season average of 48%.

Senior Aaron Valentine had a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, including 10 offensive boards, to lead the Jackets. Senior Josh Griffeth had 18 points and six rebounds as Black Hills State ends their season with a 19-12 record.

(Sioux City, IA) -- The University of Mary held off Union College (Ky.) 85-81 to advance to the second round of the 2003 NAIA Women’s Division II Basketball National Tournament.

The Lady Marauder’s charge was spearheaded by senior forward Jessie Slinde, who poured in 22 points while dishing out four assists and nabbing two steals. Sophomore forward Natalie Brunner came off the bench to score 22 as U-Mary shot an incredible 60% from the floor. Freshman Nicole Meier added thirteen points and junior Sarah Leer contributed twelve points, nine rebounds and six assists..

The University of Mary improves to 25-5 on the season and advance to play either Indiana Wesleyan or Warner Southern (Fla.) on Friday at 10:15 AM in the tournament's second round.

(Point Lookout, MO) -- Third-seeded Jamestown College built on a 12-point halftime lead and defeated Indiana University-Southeast, 96-65, in the first round of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Tournament.

Senior forward Brandon Wilkens led four Jimmies in double figures with 19 points on 7 of 9 shooting from the field. Charles Jones added 18 points, Benny Fregela 16 and Jonathon Castillo chipped in 12 points and six rebounds off the bench. Wilkens also led Jamestown on the boards with nine rebounds. Junior point guard Imran Sufi had 12 assists to go along with five points and eight rebounds.

The Jimmies shot an even 50% from the field in the victory (40 of 80) and outrebounded the Grenadiers 42-36.

Jamestown, who improved to 28-4 with the win, will face the winner of Albertson College, ID and 14th seeded Taylor University, IN in the second round at 10:45 AM Friday.

March 4, 2003

(Jamestown, ND) -- Jamestown College used a balanced offensive attack to capture the DAC men's basketball tournament title. The Jimmies added the tournament championship to their regular season title with an 84-67 triumph over visiting Black Hills State.

Jamestown led the Yellow Jackets 44-37 at half and outscored them 40 to 30 in the second half to pick up the seventeen point win.

Eric Holmstadt led five Jimmies in double-figures with 18 points. Imran Sufi added 14 and Charles Jones, Jonathon Castillo and Brandon Wilkens each had 12. Wilkens led JC on the boards with ten.

Josh Griffeth topped the Jackets with 22 points and Moe Terry chipped in with ten. Aaron Valentine had eight rebounds to lead BHSU.

Jamestown (26-4), the regular season and post-season champions, will advance to the NAIA Division II National Tournament in Branson, MO, February 12-18. As the runner-up in the DAC tournament, Black Hills State (19-11) will also advance to the national tournament.

(Dickinson, ND) - Dakota State used a stifling defense in the second half to defeat DAC co-champion Dickinson State in the women's conference title contest.

The Lady Trojans, the number four seed in the tournament, trailed 31-22 at half, but allowed just eleven second half points enroute to a 49-42 upset victory over the number two seeded Blue Hawks.

Amy Balk, who hit 11 of 16 free throws, paced Dakota State with 17 points. Jessica Honermann had ten points and six rebounds and Jennie Sonne added ten points.

Stacie Schorsch had a 19 points and twelve rebounds to lead the Blue Hawks. Jessica Campbell chipped in with eight points.

With the conference tournament victory, Dakota State (20-11) will advance to the NAIA Division II National Tournament in Sioux City, IA, February 12-18. With a sweep of Dickinson State in the regular season, the University of Mary (24-5) will receive the DAC's automatic bid as the regular season champion. Dickinson State (26-5), who was ranked fifth in the final poll of the season, will be the DAC's third representative at the National tournament. The Blue Hawks received an at-large invitation.


March 1, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) - Defending conference champion Mayville State was the unanimous choice in the Dakota Athletic Conference preseason baseball coaches' poll.

The Comets (13-3/34-15 in 2002), who captured the region and super-region titles and finished fifth at the NAIA World Series in 2002, received all eight first place votes to top the balloting.

Jamestown College (13-6/28-16) finished second in the poll, followed by the University of Mary (15-9/30-15), Valley City State (6-11/13-21), Dakota State (7-13/15-20), Dickinson State (10-12/12-14), Huron University (10-12/15-24) and Minot State (5-13/5-19).

The poll was conducted by the Dakota Athletic Conference.


February 11, 2003

(Minot, ND) -- Minot State cross country runners Dennis Eaton and Justin Marsette have been selected to compete in this weekend’s US National Cross Country Championships in Houston, TX. Eaton, who serves in the US Air Force and is stationed at Minot Air Force Base, has been selected to compete on the Air Force team in Saturday’s senior men’s 4,000m race. In addition to his professional duties for the military, Eaton is also a full-time student at Minot State, a member of the 2002 National Cross Country Championship team. Marsette, a native of Roseglen, ND and a member of Three Affiliated Tribes, was chosen by Wings of America to compete in Sunday’s junior men’s 8,000m race. Wings of America is a nationwide organization that promotes distance running to Native American youth. As a high school junior, MSU teammate John Wetsit also was selected to represent Wings at the national championships. Both runners will attempt to qualify to represent the United States in the World Cross Country Championships to be held in Lausanne Switzerland, March 29th. The two Beaver harriers are following in the footsteps of teammate Brad Tighe, who was the first MSU athlete to qualify for a world championship last year where he finished 77th in the senior men’s 12k representing Canada. “This is my level of expectation for our athletes here,” said coach Scott Simmons. “Success in our sport is not just about national titles. It is more about personal development. The opportunity for our guys to compete with the best elite runners in the US can be incredible motivation and will be a fantastic experience."


February 2, 2003

(Mayville, ND) -- Mayville State baseball coach Scott Berry will be among three new members of the North Dakota Amateur Baseball Incorporated Hall of Fame at induction ceremonies on Saturday, February 8 at the Eagles Club in Wahpeton.

Berry has coached the Comets to 19 conference championships in 21 years as leader of the program. His teams have made 17 appearances in the national playoffs. Under his guidance, the Comets have captured two regional titles, the Plains Super Regional championship in 2002 and a fifth place finish at the NAIA World Series.

Berry has been named the conference coach of the year 16 times and District 12 coach of the year seven times. He also is the seventh winningest coach in the NAIA with a 604-300 overall record.

Berry was inducted into the Mayville State Hall of Fame in 1996 and the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2002. During his playing career at Mayville State, he was a four year letter winner and a two time all-conference performer.

He will be joined in induction by Doug Hogan of Jamestown and Tom Tamlyn of Wyndmere. The three will have their plaques put on permanent display at the North Dakota Sports Hall of Fame at the Jamestown Civic Center.


January 21, 2003

(Spearfish, SD) - John A. Scott, who has collegiate coaching experience on several levels as well as proven success with several high school programs, has been named head football coach at Black Hills State University.

Scott served as a graduate assistant and tight ends coach for the University of Wyoming in 1990-1992 under former head football coach and BHSU alum Paul Roach. He also spent two years as a tight ends and receivers coach at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, N.D., and was on the coaching staff for his alma mater, Sioux Falls College, for three years.

"John has always been involved in winning football programs," according to Bud Synhorst, BHSU athletic director. "I know that he is ready to get on board and get to work building a winning football tradition at BHSU."

Synhorst noted that Scott is recognized in this region and throughout the state of Wyoming for the "football powerhouse" program he built when he coached in Gillette.

Scott played football for Sioux Falls College (1977-1981) where he earned a degree in health and physical education in 1982. He earned a master's degree in physical education and athletic administration with a minor in counseling from the University of North Dakota in 1988. He later completed non-degree graduate work at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyo.

January 18, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Three Dakota Athletic Conference players received post-season honors from Don Hansen's Football Gazette. The DAC also placed six players on the Gazette's NAIA All-American first team, four received second team recognition, three made the third team and nine more received Honorable Mentions.

Minot State, senior Darrik Trudell was named the Offensive Back of the Year. The Sidney, MT, native set a new conference and school record for rushing with 138.1 yards per game (1519 yards in 11 games) and tied the conference record for rushing touchdowns with fourteen. He also had 26 receptions for 251 yards and two touchdowns.

Dickinson State's Dennis Morris was named the Offensive Lineman of the Year. The senior from Great Falls, MT, anchored the Blue Hawks' offensive line that average over 400 yards in total offense and 36-plus points per game.

Noah Krob of the University of Mary was honored as the Linebacker of the Year. The senior from Madera, CA, finished the season with 110 total tackles (54 solo), including 24 tackles-for-a-loss and four sacks. He also had eight pass break-ups and three interceptions.

Joining Trudell and Morris on the first team All-America offense are junior, wide receiver Harry Mills of Minot State and sophomore return specialist Adam Eckert of Dickinson State. Defensive lineman Ian Best of Minot State joins Krob on the first team defense.

DAC players on the second team are Valley City, senior, wide receiver Steve Battle; sophomore, placekicker Cody Saunders of Minot State, and defensive linemen Jon Kleinke, a senior from Valley City State, and Ben Mika, a senior from Mayville State.

Third team selections are senior, quarterback Kenny Smith of Minot State; sophomore, wide receiver Adam Eckert of Dickinson State's and U-Mary's Mickey Mahlmeister, a senior offensive lineman.

Honorable Mention recognition recipients are Dickinson State, senior, quarterback Nick Walker; tight end James Farrell, a senior from Huron University; senior, offensive lineman Brian Eichhorn of Jamestown College; Dickinson State, junior, placekicker Jeremy Fagerland; sophomore, return specialist Satrone Boyd of Dickinson State; linebackers Jeff Kelley, a senior from Black Hills State; Valley City State, senior Josh Komarek and Dickinson State, junior Coly Rush, and Dickinson State, senior, defensive back Grant Haugland.

A complete list of the All America teams can be found on the Football Gazzette's web-site, www.donhansen.com .


January 14, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- Mayville State senior, guard Travis Lindgren has been named the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball Player of the Week.

In four games, Lindgren averaged 35.5 points, 6.25 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game. For the week, he shot 49% from the floor and 86% from the free throw line.

Lindgren, who leads NAIA Division II in scoring with 30.29 points per game, surpassed the 2000 point mark for his career to become the Comets' all-time leading scorer.


January 14, 2003

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dakota Athletic Conference is well represented on the 2002 NAIA Football All-American teams and on the Daktronics-NAIA Football All-America Scholar Athletes list. Five DAC players were selected to the first team and ten others received Honorable Mentions. Twenty-three players were honored for their academic achievements.

First team selections are: senior, offensive lineman Dennis Morris of Dickinson State; junior, wide receiver Harry Mills of Minot State; senior, quarterback Kenny Smith of Minot State; senior, running back Darrik Trudell of Minot State and Dickinson State, sophomore, return specialist Adam Eckert.

The ten Honorable Mention recipients are: offensive linemen Brian Eichhorn of Jamestown College and Mickey Mahlmeister of the University of Mary; wide receivers Steve Battle of Valley City State and Adam Eckert of Dickinson State; quarterback Nick Walker of Dickinson State; return specialist Satrone Boyd of Dickinson State; Minot State defensive lineman Ian Best; linebacker Jeff Kelly of Black Hills State and defensive backs James Drayton of Minot State and Dickinson State's Grant Haugland.

The DAC All-America Scholar Athletes are: Jason Eggerman and John Rounds of Black Hills State; Dakota State's Jess Haensel; Nick Walker of Dickinson State; Brian Hook, Matt Lares and Nick Hintz of Huron University; Anthony Perry, Jay Lies, Kacy Kirby, Ryan Harty and Tanner Gleave of Jamestown College; Andrew Wierson, Jess Gross, Josh Dascher and Travis Titus of Minot State; South Dakota Tech's Doug Podraza and Anthony Schotzko, Chris Murdock, Dallas Stuker, Jay Phalen, Josh Smith and Matthew Lonn from the University of Mary.

Complete lists of the All-American Teams and the Scholar Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.

December 23, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- NAIAFOOTBALL.NET has named their 2002 Engravers Edge All American Teams. Four Dakota Athletic Conference players were named to the first team, two others were selected to the second team and thirteen more received Honorable Mentions.

The four DAC representatives on the first time are senior, running back Darrik Trudell from Minot State, senior, wide receivers Harry Mills of Minot State and Valley City State's Steve Battle, and sophomore, return specialist Adam Eckert of Dickinson State.

Second team selections are senior defensive backs Grant Haugland of Dickinson State and Jamestown College's Jay Lies.

Honorable Mention recipients are quarterback Kenny Smith of Minot State; Dickinson State quarterback Nick Walker; Huron University tight end James Ferrell and offensive linemen Mickey Mahlmeister of the University of Mary, Chris Poitra of Minot State, Brian Eichhorn of Jamestown College and Dickinson State's Dennis Morris. Defensive honorees include linemen Ben Mika of Mayville State, Jon Kleinke of Valley City State and Tanner Schweitzer of the University of Mary; Black Hills State linebacker Jeff Kelly and defensive backs Josh Smith of the University of Mary and JamesDayton of Minot State.

A complete list of the 2002 Engravers Edge All American teams can be found at www.naiafootball.net .


December 11, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Five Dakota Athletic Conference volleyball players received post-season honors from the NAIA while fifteen others earned academic recognition.

Dickinson State, senior, outside hitter Jenny Gackle was named to the NAIA All-America second team, while her teammate, senior, outside hitter, Yasemin Alpullu was chosen for the third team. Megan Barnes of South Dakota Tech, Carolina Botero of Dickinson State and Minot State's Lisa Webb received Honorable Mentions.

Fifteen DAC volleyball players were honored as NAIA Scholar-Athletes. The honorees are: Laura Vesely of Dakota State; Jane Tschetter of Huron University; Jami Zilles, Keri Hansen, Sarah Farber, Molly Barnes and Stephanie Randall of South Dakota Tech; Eve Kostelecky, Sabrina Bell and Kelly Reinhart of the University of Mary, and Tracy Enquist, Scheryl Kottsick, Anita Fossum and Sarah White of Valley City State.

Complete lists of the volleyball All-America teams and Scholar-Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


December 10, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Minot State men's cross country team added NAIA Cross Country Scholar-Team honors to their NAIA National Championship.

The Beavers, with a team Grade Point Average of 3.30 out of 4.00, were among nine teams to earn the academic honor. Team members included Brad Tighe, Mike Tighe, Nolan Taylor, Eric Hanson and John Wetsit.

The Dakota Athletic Conference also had five men and three women earn individual NAIA Scholar Athlete honors. The men are: Steve Kirby and Brad Tighe of Minot State, Tim Bishop of Black Hills State, Jamestown College's Samuel Webb and Troy Myers from the University of Mary. The three women honorees are: Kerri Hamer of Dakota State, Emily Hunke from the University of Mary and Lisa Nayes from Jamestown College.

Complete lists of Cross Country Scholar-Teams and Scholar Athletes can be found on the NAIA web-site.


December 6, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Dickinson State Blue Hawks season came to a close in the quarterfinals of the NAIA National Volleyball Tournament in San Diego. Dickinson State lost to top ranked and unbeaten National American University, SD, 3-1 (33-31, 30-24, 30-32, 31-29). The Hawks wrapped up the season with a 27-8 record.

The Blue Hawks finished 3-1 in pool play. On Friday, seventh ranked Madonna, MI, defeated second seeded DSU 3-2 (30-25, 30-24, 20-30, 15-30, 17-15). On Thursday, Dickinson State picked up a 3-0 win over Walsh, OH (30-28, 30-26, 30-23). DSU opened pool play Wednesday with a 3-0 win over Indiana-Southeast (30-18, 30-15, 30-26) and a 3-1 triumph over Palm Beach Atlantic, FL (30-28, 24-30, 30-22, 30-28).


December 2, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- The 2002 season was a record breaker in the Dakota Athletic Conference. Four DAC team records were broken and eight individual records were broken and another tied.

Minot State broke three team records in the 2002 campaign. The Beavers set the conference record for total offense, passing offense and passing touchdowns. The Beavers' 463.73 yards in total offense broke the old record of the 2000 Huron Screaming Eagles (456.42 ypg). Their 299.27 yards per game passing and 34 TD passes broke the records held by Valley City State in 2000 (272.73 ypg, 30 TD's).

The University of Mary broke their own record for interceptions in a season with 2.18 interceptions per game (24 in 11 games), breaking their old record of 2.10 ipg (21 in 10 games) set in 2001.

The Beavers' Kenny Smith and Darrik Trudell accounted for four individual records and the tying of another. Smith set new records for total offense, passing yards and passing touchdowns, while his teammate, Trudell, set the DAC record for rushing yards and tied the mark for rushing TD's. Smith broke the total offense (311.55 ypg), passing offense (299.82 ypg) and TD passing (34) records of Valley City State's Jeremy Peschel in 2000 (279.27 ypg total offense, 269.82 ypg passing, 28 TD's). Trudell averaged 138.09 yards per game, eclipsing the record of Jamestown's Adam LeGette in 2000 (122.6 ypg). Trudell also tied Huron's Jeff Mikowski's 2000 conference record for rushing TD's with 14.

Minot State's Harry Mills and Steve Battle of Valley City State tied for the receiving touchdowns record with 15, topping the mark of 14 that Battle and A.J. Street of the University of Mary set in 2000.

Beavers' kicker Cody Saunders also eclipsed his own record for Point After Touchdown's in a season. Saunders booted 52 to top his record of 36 set in 2001.

Dickinson State's Adam Eckert also put his name in the record book, setting records for punt returns and punt return touchdowns. His 22.56 yards per return average topped Minot State's Jeremy Auch's record (13.10 ypr) in 2000 and his three punt return touchdowns eclipsed Huron's Aaron Kingsbury's mark (2 TD's) in 2000.

For a complete list of conference records, go to the "Football Records" page of this web-site.


November 12, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Minot State's Darrik Trudell has been named the NAIA Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Beavers' 37-20 win over Valley City State.

Trudell, a senior running-back from Sidney, MT, led the Beavers' offense with 251 yards on 39 carries and scored two touchdowns. He averaged 6.4 yards per carry and also had four receptions for 19 yards in the contest. With the win over the Vikings, Minot State finishes the regular season in a three-way tie for the DAC title with Dickinson State and the University of Mary.

Trudell finished the regular season as the DAC's leading rusher with 145.2 yards/game and tied for the conference lead in scoring with 9.6 points/game (16 TD's).


November 12, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dennis Newell of Black Hills State and Jesse Palczewski of Black Hills State have been named this week's Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Newell and Palczewski each captured the individual championships at last weekend's DAC Cross Country Championships in Rapid City. Newell finished the 8K course in a time of 24:55, while Palczewski ran the 5K race in 18:48.


November 9, 2002

(Rapid City, SD) -- Minot State captured the men's title and Black Hills State the women's at the Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Championships in Rapid City, SD.

In the men's team race, Minot State captured the title with 32 points. Black Hills State was runner-up with 42. The University of Mary was third with 63 points followed by Jamestown College with 136, South Dakota Tech with 147, Valley City State with 166, Dakota State with 189 and Dickinson State with 215.

The Yellow Jackets topped the women's team field with 20 points. The University of Mary was second with 63, Jamestown was third with 83, Dickinson State was fourth with 100 and Dakota State placed fifth 105points.

BHSU's Dennis Newel won the men's 8K race, while the Yellow Jackets' Jesse Palczewski won the women's 5K race.

Post-season awards were also handed out at the DAC meet. On the men's side, Black Hills State's Tim Bishop was named Most Valuable Senior and Dennis Newel, Most Valuable Runner. Minot State's Scott Simmons was named Coach of the Year in the DAC, as well as in Region III. Black Hills State swept the women's awards. Jesse Palczewski was named the women's Most Valuable Senior and Most Valuable Runner. The Yellow Jackets' Scott Walkinshaw captured the DAC and Region III Coach of the Year honors.

The top fifteen placers in each race were named All DAC. Complete results can be found on the Cross Country Results page of the DAC web-site.


November 5, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- University of Mary quarterback Tim Garcia has been named the NAIA Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Marauders' 40-34 win over Valley City State.

Garcia, a junior from Modesto, CA, was 28 of 46 for 473 yards, six touchdowns and one interception. The win keeps the Marauders in a three-way tie for first in the DAC and also kept the schools play-off hopes alive.


October 29, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Gene Betancourt of Minot State and Kristi Knudsen of Black Hills State are this weeks Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Betancourt finished sixth at the Mount Marty Invitational in a time of 25:24, while Knudsen was thirteenth at the same competition in a time of 19:06.


October 22, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Nolan Taylor of Minot State and Marisa Thorson of the University of Mary have been selected the Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Taylor placed fourth at the Wild Wiley Wilson Invitational in Minot in a time of 26:11. Thorson finished in fourth place in the same meet in a time of 19:51.


October 15, 2002

(Olathe, KS) -- Minot State quarterback Kenny Smith has been named the NAIA Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the Beavers 35-21 win over the then third ranked University of Mary.

Smith, a 6-1, 185-pound senior quarterback from El Monte, Calif. accounted for four of his team’s five touchdowns in the victory. Smith was 22-for-34 for 247 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also rushed for 35 yards on 10 attempts for two scores as the number nineteen Beavers improved to 6-0 on the season.


October 15, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Ted Sees of Dakota State and Jessie Palczewski of Black Hills State have been named the Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Sees placed first in the Dakota College Championships at the Roe Granger Invitational in Aberdeen, SD, in a time of 27:44. Palczewski placed seventh at the Dan Libera Memorial Invitational in Greely, CO.


October 8, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Tim Bishop of Black Hills State and Emily Dircks of Minot State have been selected the Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Bishop placed second at the Herb Blakely/Dakota State Invitational in a time of 25:09, while Dircks won the Race Against Violence in Bismarck in a time of 18:30.


October 7, 2002

(Mayville, ND) -- For the third straight year, the Mayville State University Women’s Basketball Team has been honored as one of the top academic teams in the nation. The Lady Comets earned a 4th place finish for the 2001-2002 school with a team GPA of 3.575. The fourth place finish is the highest ranking in school history as the Lady Comets finished 5^th place in 2000-2001 and 6^th place in the 1999-2000 year.

The award is given by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association and includes the entire NAIA, Division I and II, which has over 450 member institutions. Coach Jay Tschetter, in his sixth year as head coach at Mayville State, was very proud of his team.

"These young ladies are the perfect example of what the term student/athlete means," said Tschetter. "I am very proud of these young ladies and what they have accomplished on the court, but more importantly, what they have accomplished in the classroom."

Members of the 2001-2002 squad are: Kassy Anderson, Lindsey Eliason, Dana Wiseth, Kristeen Hoffman, Amy Martinson, Heidi Feickert, Chelsey McMenamy, Ayrin Wold, Jessica Haugen, and Sheila Wass.


September 30, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Mike Tighe of Minot State and Nikki Underwood of Black Hills State are this week's DAC Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Tighe placed fifth in the 37-team Roy Griak Invitational in St. Paul, MN. Underwood finished sixth out of 233 women participants at the same meet.


September 23, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Brad Tighe of Minot State and Lisa Nayes of Jamestown College are this week's DAC Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Tighe captured the individual title in the University of North Dakota Invitational to help the Beavers to the team title. Nayes finished 17th at the same meet and was the top finisher among the three DAC schools who took part..


September 16, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Dennis Newell of Black Hills State and Stephanie Johnson from Dakota State have been named the Dakota Athletic Conference Cross Country Athletes of the Week.

Newell, a junior from Billings, MT, won the South Dakota Tech Invitational in a time of :26:00. Johnson, a senior from Beresford, SD, won her first individual championship of her collegiate career, capturing the Dakota Wesleyan Invitational in a time of :20:53.


September 5, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- The Minot State men and Black Hills State women top the Dakota Athletic Conference Preseason Cross Country Coaches' Poll.

The Beavers, who top the NAIA Preseason Poll, grab the top spot in the DAC poll. They are followed by Black Hills State, the University of Mary, South Dakota Tech, Jamestown College, Dakota State, Valley City State and Dickinson State.

The Yellowjackets, who are third in the NAIA Preseason Poll, were tabbed the favorites in the DAC balloting. The University of Mary, who sits number thirteen in the NAIA Poll, rank second in the conference poll. Jamestown College is third followed by Dickinson State, Dakota State, Minot State, Valley City State and South Dakota Tech.

The poll was conducted by the Dakota Athletic Conference cross country coaches.


August 28, 2002

(Dickinson, ND) -- Six Dakota Athletic Conference football players were recipients of preseason recognition on Don Hansen's National Weekly Football Gazette 2002 NAIA Preseason All-American Teams.

Senior, wide receiver Steve Battle of Valley City State and junior, defensive lineman Coly Rush of Dickinson State were selected to the First Team. Senior, linebacker Jeff Kelly of Black Hills State was named to the Second Team.

Three other placers were given Honorable mentions. They are: Dickinson State, sophomore wide receiver Adam Eckert; Dickinson State, senior, quarterback Nick Walker and senior, running back Mike Luther of Dickinson State.

A complete list of Preseason All Americans can be found on the Don Hansen Football Gazette website - www.donhansen.com.


August 17, 2002

(Bismarck, ND) -- The University of Mary has named Josh Kerbaugh as head coach of their wrestling program.

Kerbaugh is a native of Fargo and a former wrestler at North Dakota State University. He recently was a graduate assistant coach at South Dakota State University.

Kerbaugh replaces Milo Trusty, who served as the Marauders' wrestling coach for 14 years.


August 15, 2002

(Huron, SD) - Si Tanka/Huron University has hired a familiar face to the Dakota Athletic Conference as their new head football coach. Stan Rettew will take over the reigns of the Screaming Eagles' football program.

Rettew spent the past several seasons as head football coach and athletic director at Mayville State University. Rettew led the Comets to a 9-44 record in five seasons at the helm.

Rettew replaces Mike Newman, who resigned before coaching a game at Si Tanka Huron University.