The South Dakota football team is finishing its spring season in a flourish.
Tonight, the Coyotes will host their annual spring game at 7 p.m. in the DakotaDome. It is an opportunity for Coyote nation to catch a glimpse of the team as it focuses on turning around its 4-7 season of 2010.
In the previous blog, we addressed the Coyote defense. This blog will focus on the offense, through the eyes of offensive coordinator Wesley Beschorner.
Clearly, Beschorner understands that his team needs to add consistency to the game. With nine of 11 offensive starters returning, include key players at quarterback, running back, offensive line and wide receiver, it is a matter of doing the small things and finishing.
"We wanted to get better on the little things," said Beschorner, a Lohrville, Iowa, in his sixth season as a coach for USD, including his third as offensive coordinator. "We have some very talented players. They showed definite ability last year but the key is showing it consistently week in and week out. Our opponents were the stiffest competition we have ever faced since I have been here," he said.
"Throughout spring so far, I think our team has have done a great job. From day one until the spring game, we have gotten better every single day. The past four or five days it has been finishing, something we have focused on the whole spring. We have been getting better at the end of practice and that will correlate at the end of games," said Beschorner.
Position Breakdown --
Quarterback
Dante Warren (6-0, 196, Arlington Heights, Ill.) returns for his second season as a starter for the Coyotes. A year ago, he was named second team all-Great West after completing 161-of-292 passes for 2,137 yards (fourth best-single season total at USD) with 18 TDs. He also rushed for 393 yards and six TDs. His 2,530 yards of total offense ranks fifth on USD's career chart. Selected the team's Offensive Player of the Year, Warren had a career day in USD's upset win of Minnesota, 41-38, at Minneapolis. He completed 21-of-32 for a career-best 352 yards with three TDs. He had 433 yards in total offense, including two rushing scores - one a 61-yard jaunt that left the Gophers surprised on the naked bootleg on fourth down in the fourth quarter.
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"Dante Warren is better this spring in his all-around game then he was last fall. He understands the offense and where people need to be. He can be a field leader, a field general, because he knows where everybody needs to be. Dante has shown a number of leadership qualities that he had not shown at all in the past that I think are very important to him. He is a soft-spoken person by nature but when it comes to the quarterback position, I think he is becoming outspoken. He is becoming more demanding of not only himself, which he has always been, but also more demanding of his teammates."
Josh Vander Maten (6-2, 195, Rfr, Rock Valley, Iowa) has been one of the big surprises of the spring, earning the #2 spot at quarterback
"Josh is our #2 quarterback. He has a lot of ability," said Beschorner. "He was a spread quarterback in high school and can put a lot of spin on the football. He is naturally a very accurate quarterback. After Dante is done he will push to be a starter; there is no doubt about it and that is why he is the number 2 right now."
"Kyle Cichos of Pierre is doing a great job and we have two incoming freshman will push all of them. Josh does some things now to push Dante. The more competition you have at that spot, because it is only one guy, the better. Every detail has to be strung out for those quarterbacks. They have to know exactly what it is that they have to do on each play. If that play breaks down then they are going to be ready," said Beschorner.
Vander Maten, redshirted a year ago after walking on, led his high school team to a 13-1 record and into the state title game. A four-year starter, he threw for 2,400 yards and 29 TDs as a senior with just six interceptions. He also rushed for 616 yards and eight TDs, earning all-state honors at quarterback.
The two incoming freshman quarterbacks include Nick Meyer (6-1, 185, Oak Grove Village, Ill.) and Kevin Earl (6-6, 205, Lincolnshire, Ill). Earl, who led his team to a 21-2 record over his final two seasons, completed 107-of-207 passes for 1,715 yards and 12 TDs. An honorable mention all-state performer, he is the son of Robin Earl, who played for the Chicago Bears from 1977-82. Meyer was a three-year starter, who led his team to a 14-7 record over the final two seasons. He threw for 20 TDs and 2,536 yards, completing 64 percent of his passes. Meyer, a two-year starter at safety, also rushed for 1,211 yards and 20 TDs, earning all-state honors from various outlets.
Receiving Corps
When Coyotes come back into the fall, the receiving corps will be among the best and deepest positions on the team. Leading the way is Will Powell (6-1, 204, Jr., Sioux Falls, S.D.), who led USD in receiving with 47 receptions for 933 yards (third best single season part in school history) and 10 TDs. His memorable moment from a year ago was the eight-catch, 156-yard performance in the 41-38 win over Minnesota. He had two TDs, including a 61-yard bomb early in the second half.
The corps will include senior Dustin Nowotny (6-3, 215, Rapid City, S.D.), who had 34 catches for 489 yards and one TD. His catch on a third and four late in the fourth quarter clinched the win against the Gophers. Tom Flanagan (5-9, 185, Jr., Lakewood, Colo.) had 34 receptions for 324 yards and two TDs. He also threw a 75-yard TD pass a year ago. Jeremy Blount (5-9, 157, Sr., Tampa, Fla.) is a speed merchant for the Coyotes. He ranks second on USD's all-time list with 57 returns for 1,306 yards. A year ago, he had nine receptions for 163 yards and a score. He also has a career-best return of 78 yards.
Beschorner praised the play of the Coyote receiving corps, even though Powell has sat out the spring practices and Flanagan has missed time due to an injury.
"Some of the injuries you get at positions, allows opportunities for others to step up and show what they are capable of doing," said Beschorner. "Jeremy (Blount) is probably the most improved guy throughout the spring. The light has turned on for him," Beschorner said. "It just isn't run 10 yards, turn around and catch the football. You have to set guys up, use your leverage. He not only uses his speed but he uses his knowledge now to be a very good football player. He is on the verge of doing some very good things, great things," he said.
Beschorner also pointed to Nowotny as another player that continues to get better. "He is as good as a pass catcher as you will find. Anytime the ball is up in the air and is within his reach - with his great leaping ability - he is likely to come down with it," said Beschorner.
"Flanagan is one of the most relentless players that you will find. He is phenomenal," added Beschorner.
He is also impressed with the play of Troy transfer Anthony Williams (6-3, 183, So., Tampa, Fla.). "There was a reason he was at Troy and a reason why he had offers from SEC schools because he has that ability. He is only going to flourish even more since he is only a sophomore," said Beschorner.
Other players showing flashes of excellence, include Khiry McDonald (6-1, 178, So., Oscala, Fla.) and Terrance Terry (5-9, 200, Rfr., Barrington, Ill.).
"Then you have Austin Koch (6-1, 172, So., Tyndall, S.D.), who athletically is good as anyone on the team. It is just a matter of him playing receiver all the time. This is only his second year as playing wide receiver so he has a shot. He does a fantastic job of playing special teams for us," Beschorner said.
Tight End
Beschorner said that USD is a little banged up at the tight end spot but several players have performed well this spring, including Joel DeJongh (6-3, 237, Jr., Rock Rapids, Iowa).
"DeJongh has done a fantastic job, taking just about every snap this spring," said Beschorner, noting that Tyler Wilhelm (6-4, 211, So., Loxahatchee, Fla.) has moved from quarterback to tight end. In addition, Jay Burns (6-3, 245, Jr., Kansas City, Kan.), has done a solid job.
"Burns will be fine when the fall ball starts. When he is in there, he shows definite signs of being a Mitch Mohr-type of player," he said.
Mike Nielsen (6-3, 218, Sr., Gilbert, Ariz.), who has sat out part of the spring, will be back in fall. "He is really athletic and as smart a player as you will find anywhere; so he will do a good job," said Beschorner.
Offensive line
Led by NFL prospect Tom Compton, South Dakota's offensive line will be solid. This spring, they have continued to develop, according to Beschorner. Compton (6-6, 311, Rosemount, Minn.), who has started 32 straight games in his career, was a fourth team All-American (Phil Steele Subdivison Team) and first-team All-Great West selection.
"This spring we have had a string of practices where they have been as good as we have ever been," said Beschorner. "We have guys with size and athletic ability across the board that we haven't had since I have been here. Each guy is athletically capable and mentally strong enough to get what we want," Beschorner said.
"Every day Compton gets better," said Beschorner. "He pushes himself and has one of those internal motors that makes him a special player. One thing I noticed about Tom is - and I read in Lou Holtz's book - your greatest leaders are your offensive lineman because they always show up on time, they are the first ones to get married and they are first ones to get their degrees."
According to Beschorner, Brent Johnson (6-5, 304, Sr., Jewell, Iowa) has really stepped up this spring.
Tim Ross (6-2, 280, Jr., Arvada, Colo.) is another offensive lineman who is doing well this spring. "He is a player that has a unique way of playing the game; just the way he gives that extra effort. For whatever reason, it is internal, something that God has given him or how he has pushed himself. What he may lack in athletic ability he makes up for in effort ability. There is a lot to be said for that," said Beschorner.
"Plus, our young guys are as talented as a group that we have ever had. Those older guys are being pushed - and that is a good thing, " he said.
Running Back
Beschorner has great hopes for his running attack. With a strong offensive line and three talented running backs, the Coyotes should have increased success on the ground in the fall.
"We have to try ways to get our three guys -- Donovan Bowens, Chris Ganious and Marcus Sims -- the ball," said Beschorner.
Ganious (5-7, 188, Sr., Houston, Texas) ranks fourth on USD's career rushing list with 2,400 yards on 448 carries and 17 TDs. He is just 114 yards from third-place (Jared Schwenn, 2,513, 1994-97). A year ago, Ganious was second in the Great West with 817 yards rushing and four TDs. The second team all-GWC performer, also caught 17 passes for 156 yards. Sims (5-10, 195, Jr., Brooklyn Park, Minn.) had 52 carries for 286 yards and a TD while averaging 18.4 yards on kickoff returns. Bowens (6-0, 197, So., Arvada, Colo.) had 27 rushes for 120 yards.
"Bowens had as good a day on Saturday (practice at Sioux Falls) as he has had at USD. He broke tackle after tackle," said Beschorner. "A year ago, he ran a little immature. He now knows where to hit things."
"All of them are talented. The thing they have to do is cheer each other on because the more successful they are the more successful we will be as an offense," said Beschorner. "All three are different. Chris (Ganious) is more of a make you miss, make you miss in the hole type of back and he can take the ball the distance. Marcus (Sims) is going to beat you with speed and once he gets to know he will beat you up a little. Donovan (Bowens) doesn't have the speed but he is really shifty with the ball and physical like we haven't had for a while. I am real excited about the group as a whole."
Overall
Beschorner seems to be pleased where his offense is at with spring practice winding down to the spring game tonight.
"We have made some very big gains," he said. "We are seeing a defense that was better than they were a year ago. So that is making us better. We have had more live reps than we have ever taken, which is good. It has been physical and fun for our guys," he said.
"I think we will have a better football team not only athletically, but also with leadership and in the way they are handling the themselves in finishing stuff," said Beschorner. "You can tell by the way our guys communicate, talk to one another, that they have made a lot of strides. And, they understand everything we ask them to do and seem to be going beyond that, which is great to see."
Meierkort's 48 Wins Ranks Fourth All-time
South Dakota Head Coach Ed Meierkort has a 48-30 record at South Dakota, which ranks fourth on USD's career wins list. His record of achievement includes turning South Dakota into an offensive firehouse. His teams are 14-0 when his teams score more than 50 points. He is 27-3 when USD hits the 40-point mark and 41-6 when the team goes over 30 points. When they score 20 points, USD is 47-13. The Coyotes are just 1-17 when they score under 20 points. Meierkort, who has had teams set more than 100 school records, is 23-16 in conference play and an impressive 34-5 (.872) in home games at the DakotaDome. In the past 10 years, his teams at USD and Wisconsin-Stout have a combined 77-41 record. He is 103-85 as a collegiate coach.
Beschorner's 2005 Season Still Ranks Among Best Ever
Wesley Beschorner, who finished second in the balloting for the Harlon Hill Trophy as the top player in Division II in 2005, led USD to a 9-2 mark behind a offense that led the nation in points (49.7) per game and total offense (583.3 yards). Beschorner's performance still ranks as remarkable. In 2005, Beschorner, selected to four All-American teams, completed 172 passes in 255 attempts for 3,049 yards and 39 TDs, which led the nation.
How good was that season? His 2005 yardage total is 400 yards better than second-place Noah Shephard, who had 2,547 in 2007. In that same season, Beschorner had 3,500 yards in total offense for 318.2 yards per game and an astounding 10.22 yards per play. His 10.22 yards led the nation and set a Division II record. Shepard averaged 290.5 yards in 2007 with 7.5 yards per play.
In addition, Beschorner's passing efficiency mark of 215.2 also led the nation and he became just one of two players ever to have a mark of 215 or better.
As one might suspect, Shepard and Beschorner lead USD in career passing yards. Shepard, who played from 2006-09, passed for 8,936 yards with a school-record 77 TDs. He completed 603 of 1,033 passes. He is the only player who have thrown 1,000 passes in his career at South Dakota.
Beschorner, who played from 2002-05 and started his career as a receiver and return specialist, completed 415 passes in 673 attempts for 6,240 yards and 64 TDs. Next on the list is Ryan Justice, 1999-02, with 5,944 yards and 36 TDs.
Only Three 2,000 Yard Throwers in School History
Just three players in school history have passed for more than 2,000 yards in a season and all have come during the Ed Meierkort era. Interestingly, Meierkort has had three quarterbacks pass for 2,000 yards five times in his eight seasons at the helm. Beschorner is USD's only 3,000-yard passer in school history (3,049, 2005). Shepard, who is the only Coyote ever with three 2,000-yard passing seasons, had 2,547 yards in 2007, 2,451 in 2009 and 2,000 in 2008. In fact in his freshman year in 2006, he had 1,938 yards. The third member of the 2,000 yard passing club is Dante Warren, who threw for 2,137 yards a year ago, which is the fourth-best single season total in school history.
Passing for Miles and Miles
Since Meierkort has been at USD, his three starting quarterbacks (Wesley Beschorner, Noah Shepard and Dante Warren) have passed for a combined total of 17,369 yards or nearly 10 miles (9.868 miles).
Logan Left Imprint at USD
Stefan Logan, who is now a star kick returner and running back for the NFL's Detroit Lions, was the greatest running back in school history.
Here is a look back at Logan's impact at USD. From 2003-06, he rushed for 5,958 yards (11th in DII history in 2006) on 808 carries and 28 TDs. The next closest player in history is Chul Schwanke (1982-85), who had 3,427 yards rushing and 24 TDs.
Logan has the top all-purpose season in school history with 2,670 yards in 2006 when he led USD to the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs. He also has a career total of 7,859 yards in career all purpose yards. The next closest Coyote was Schwanke with 4,449 yards or 3,410 yards behind Logan. His all-purpose yards total ranked seventh in Division II history when he left the school.
In addition, the Miami native, who was a Harlon Hill finalist in 2006, is the only player in USD (or North Central Central history) with four 1,000 yards rushing seasons. He averaged 7.4 yards per carry and 132.6 yards per game, which was 25th all-time. He also had 34 100-yard rushing games and is one of the few players ever with a 90-yard reception (UNO, 2005) and a 90-yard rush (98 vs. Truman State, 2005). He also had 184 yards rushing in one quarter (vs. Truman State, 2005), setting an NCAA Division II mark.
Little Holds USD's Receiving Mark
South Dakota's Brooks Little (2004-07) is the all-time receiving leader with 165 catches for 2,387 yards and 16 TDs. Just behind Little, who starred at Castlewood High in South Dakota, is Gregory's Chris Mikkelson (2001-04), who had 150 catches for 2,279 yards and 16 TDs and Coyote Hall of Famer Rod Tweet (1983-85) with 140 catches for 2,557 yards and 16 TDs.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Time for South Dakota Great "Deacon" Philleppe to Gain Entrance to Cooperstown
Since I was a kid, I always dreamed of someday playing in the major leagues.
I always imagined what it would be like to step up to the plate, before 60,000 screaming and somewhat delirious fans and hit a game-winning home run.
Or, I see myself taking a walk around the mound, picking up the rosin bag, tossing it aside, clicking my cleats on the rubber, releasing a deep breath, and stepping onto the mound where I take the fastball signal, rear back and let it go, A moment later after a big whoosh, Casey is walking back to the bench with a big frown.
Dreams often allow us to steal away to a different world - one in which we live out our ultimate fantasy. For most of us, that is where those dreams stay -- la la land. However, every now and then we find someone that has seemingly lived their dream.
When I first read about the baseball exploits of Charles "Deacon" Philleppe, I wondered if the South Dakota baseball great had played out his dreams in the backyards of life when he was young.
I tried to imagine what he must have been experiencing when he made the big leagues at age 26. I would have loved to hear what he had to say after being the winning pitcher of the first World Series game ever played. Philleppe, who grew up in Athol, S.D., near Redfield, must have felt quite an adrenaline rush to defeat one of the best pitchers in baseball -- all-time wins leader Cy Young (511 wins, 316 losses, 2.63 era in 22 seasons).
Imagine if he knew that one day, there would be a Cy Young Award honoring the top pitcher in baseball. I can't help but wonder what he would think.
Philleppe, who is in the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame, hasn't made it to Cooperstown. It is a little bit hard to figure out why. He was one of the greatest control pitchers ever, allowing just 1.25 walks per nine innings (ranks ninth all-time).
A six-time 20-game winner, he won 189 games with 107 losses and a 2.59 earned run average during a 13-year career. He is the only player in baseball history to start five games in a single World Series and one of 13 pitchers to win three games in a single World Series. However, he is the only player to do it for a losing team.
According to Mark Armour of the Baseball Biography Project, Philleppe moved with his family to Athol in the Dakota Territory around 1875-76. He played semi-pro ball for several years in South Dakota but moved to Minnesota in 1896, where he played professionally for a team in Mankato after a tryout.
Following the 1898 season, Philleppe was drafted by Louisville. On May 25, 1899, he pitched a no-hitter against the Giants in just his seventh major league game. That season he was 21-17 in 321 innings for the Colonels. He was among the Louisville players that headed to Pittsburgh in 1900 after the National League contracted to eight teams.
Philleppe won 20 games in the first seasons in Pittsburgh with his 25-9 season in 1903 being his best. He had the career-year after two of the team's best pitchers left town. One of those pitchers was Major League Baseball Hall of Fame inductee "Happy" Jack Chesbro, who had gone 28-6 for Pittsburgh in 1902, and won 21 games for the Yankees in 1903 before recording 41 wins against 12 defeats in 1904. The other pitcher, Jesse Tannehill, who left Pittsburgh in a dispute with owner Barney Dreyfus, finished his career with 197 wins and six 20-win campaigns. He led the National League in ERA in 1901.
During 1903, the Pirates fashioned six straight shutouts in midseason with Philleppe dealing blanks in the first and fifth games. However Philleppe's biggest performance was saved for the World Series. When 25-game winner Sam Leever was hurt and 16-game winner Ed Doheny had some mental issues, the pitching was left to Philleppe.
In game one in Boston, Philleppe struck out 10 hitters as Pittsburgh cruised to a 7-3 decision over a 36-year old Cy Young. He did not issue a walk and just three runs in six hits in nine innings. In game 3, Philleppe picked up another win, 4-2, also in Boston, as he had six strikeouts and walked just three hitters. He won his third game in six days with a 5-4 victory over Boston in Pittsburgh. After that win, according to Armour, Pirate fans hoisted him on their shoulders and carried him around Exposition Park.
With the series knotted 3-3, Philleppe lost to Young, 7-3 and then three days later lost the final of the eight game series, 3-0, as Bill Dineen won his third game for Boston, managed by Hall of Famer Jimmy Collins. In total, four Hall of Famers played in that first series with Collins joined by Boston's (Americans) Cy Young and Pittsburgh with Honus Wagner and Fred Clarke. Interestingly Philleppe's mound opponent, Dineen, went onto a famed career as an umpire and is the only person to both pitch and umpire a no-hitter.
In the eight World Series games played over 13 days, Philleppe had five complete games, going 44 innings and allowing 38 hits, 19 runs while recording 22 strikeouts with just three walks.
Despite the loss, Pittsburgh fans appreciated Philleppe effort, according to Armour. They presented the South Dakota son with a diamond horse show stickpin while owner Barney Dreyfus gave him 10 shares of stock in the club.
While playing for Honus Wagner's Pittsburgh Five, a basketball team, he caught an illness that caused him to be hospitalized. As a result, he started just 19 games in 1904, going 10-10 with a 3.24 ERA. In 1905, he returned to form with a 20-win campaign and a 2.19 ERA.
However, the wear and tear on his arm was beginning to show. In 1906 at the age of 34, he developed chronic arm problems that would plague him for the remainder of his career. Over 1906-07, he started 50 games and relieved in 18 with a 29-21 record. In 1908, he pitched only 12 innings due to a sore shoulder and later a broken finger on his pitching hand when struck by a line drive by the Phillies' Red Dooin.
A year later, Philleppe was a spot-stater and reliever for the Pirates, compiling an 8-3 record and 2.32 ERA. He helped Pittsburgh defeat Detroit in seven games (4-3) for the World Series title. Philleppe pitched six scoreless innings against Detroit.
In 1910, he was a relief pitcher, compiling a 14-2 mark and 2.29 ERA. In that season, the lifetime .189 hitter made the record books when he hit an inside-the-park grand slam - not accomplished again until New York's Mel Stottlemyre in 1965.
Philleppe, who gained the nickname "Deacon" for humility and way he lived his life, won his last 13 pitching decisions of his career. His last season in the big leagues was 1911. However he tried his hand as player-manager for the Pittsburgh team in the outlaw U.S. League, which held home games at Exposition Park. Pittsburgh left that stadium in 1909 for Forbes Field. His team had the best mark in the league at 16-8. He also managed the Pittsburgh club in 1913, named the Filipinos in the Federal League.
After he left baseball, Philleppe, a distant relative of noted actor Ryan Philleppe, worked in a steel mill, operated a cigar store, served as a court bailiff ; and also held a position with the county parks department, all in the Pittsburgh area. He died while watching TV in March 30, 1952, 59 years ago at the age of 80.
I still am amazed what Philleppe accomplished. In an era defined by longevity, his right arm couldn't keep up the maddening pace that pitching at that time demanded. However, Philleppe did something no one else will ever be able to do - win the first ever series game. He deserves to be recognized by the Hall.
As I fall off into my own dream world, I wonder what Philleppe was thinking in those last days of his life and what dreams filled those times when he drifted away in thought. I wonder if his dream was playing baseball at a high level. And, if that wasn't his dream, what was?
I always imagined what it would be like to step up to the plate, before 60,000 screaming and somewhat delirious fans and hit a game-winning home run.
Or, I see myself taking a walk around the mound, picking up the rosin bag, tossing it aside, clicking my cleats on the rubber, releasing a deep breath, and stepping onto the mound where I take the fastball signal, rear back and let it go, A moment later after a big whoosh, Casey is walking back to the bench with a big frown.
Dreams often allow us to steal away to a different world - one in which we live out our ultimate fantasy. For most of us, that is where those dreams stay -- la la land. However, every now and then we find someone that has seemingly lived their dream.
When I first read about the baseball exploits of Charles "Deacon" Philleppe, I wondered if the South Dakota baseball great had played out his dreams in the backyards of life when he was young.
I tried to imagine what he must have been experiencing when he made the big leagues at age 26. I would have loved to hear what he had to say after being the winning pitcher of the first World Series game ever played. Philleppe, who grew up in Athol, S.D., near Redfield, must have felt quite an adrenaline rush to defeat one of the best pitchers in baseball -- all-time wins leader Cy Young (511 wins, 316 losses, 2.63 era in 22 seasons).
Imagine if he knew that one day, there would be a Cy Young Award honoring the top pitcher in baseball. I can't help but wonder what he would think.
Philleppe, who is in the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame, hasn't made it to Cooperstown. It is a little bit hard to figure out why. He was one of the greatest control pitchers ever, allowing just 1.25 walks per nine innings (ranks ninth all-time).
A six-time 20-game winner, he won 189 games with 107 losses and a 2.59 earned run average during a 13-year career. He is the only player in baseball history to start five games in a single World Series and one of 13 pitchers to win three games in a single World Series. However, he is the only player to do it for a losing team.
According to Mark Armour of the Baseball Biography Project, Philleppe moved with his family to Athol in the Dakota Territory around 1875-76. He played semi-pro ball for several years in South Dakota but moved to Minnesota in 1896, where he played professionally for a team in Mankato after a tryout.
Following the 1898 season, Philleppe was drafted by Louisville. On May 25, 1899, he pitched a no-hitter against the Giants in just his seventh major league game. That season he was 21-17 in 321 innings for the Colonels. He was among the Louisville players that headed to Pittsburgh in 1900 after the National League contracted to eight teams.
Philleppe won 20 games in the first seasons in Pittsburgh with his 25-9 season in 1903 being his best. He had the career-year after two of the team's best pitchers left town. One of those pitchers was Major League Baseball Hall of Fame inductee "Happy" Jack Chesbro, who had gone 28-6 for Pittsburgh in 1902, and won 21 games for the Yankees in 1903 before recording 41 wins against 12 defeats in 1904. The other pitcher, Jesse Tannehill, who left Pittsburgh in a dispute with owner Barney Dreyfus, finished his career with 197 wins and six 20-win campaigns. He led the National League in ERA in 1901.
During 1903, the Pirates fashioned six straight shutouts in midseason with Philleppe dealing blanks in the first and fifth games. However Philleppe's biggest performance was saved for the World Series. When 25-game winner Sam Leever was hurt and 16-game winner Ed Doheny had some mental issues, the pitching was left to Philleppe.
In game one in Boston, Philleppe struck out 10 hitters as Pittsburgh cruised to a 7-3 decision over a 36-year old Cy Young. He did not issue a walk and just three runs in six hits in nine innings. In game 3, Philleppe picked up another win, 4-2, also in Boston, as he had six strikeouts and walked just three hitters. He won his third game in six days with a 5-4 victory over Boston in Pittsburgh. After that win, according to Armour, Pirate fans hoisted him on their shoulders and carried him around Exposition Park.
With the series knotted 3-3, Philleppe lost to Young, 7-3 and then three days later lost the final of the eight game series, 3-0, as Bill Dineen won his third game for Boston, managed by Hall of Famer Jimmy Collins. In total, four Hall of Famers played in that first series with Collins joined by Boston's (Americans) Cy Young and Pittsburgh with Honus Wagner and Fred Clarke. Interestingly Philleppe's mound opponent, Dineen, went onto a famed career as an umpire and is the only person to both pitch and umpire a no-hitter.
In the eight World Series games played over 13 days, Philleppe had five complete games, going 44 innings and allowing 38 hits, 19 runs while recording 22 strikeouts with just three walks.
Despite the loss, Pittsburgh fans appreciated Philleppe effort, according to Armour. They presented the South Dakota son with a diamond horse show stickpin while owner Barney Dreyfus gave him 10 shares of stock in the club.
While playing for Honus Wagner's Pittsburgh Five, a basketball team, he caught an illness that caused him to be hospitalized. As a result, he started just 19 games in 1904, going 10-10 with a 3.24 ERA. In 1905, he returned to form with a 20-win campaign and a 2.19 ERA.
However, the wear and tear on his arm was beginning to show. In 1906 at the age of 34, he developed chronic arm problems that would plague him for the remainder of his career. Over 1906-07, he started 50 games and relieved in 18 with a 29-21 record. In 1908, he pitched only 12 innings due to a sore shoulder and later a broken finger on his pitching hand when struck by a line drive by the Phillies' Red Dooin.
A year later, Philleppe was a spot-stater and reliever for the Pirates, compiling an 8-3 record and 2.32 ERA. He helped Pittsburgh defeat Detroit in seven games (4-3) for the World Series title. Philleppe pitched six scoreless innings against Detroit.
In 1910, he was a relief pitcher, compiling a 14-2 mark and 2.29 ERA. In that season, the lifetime .189 hitter made the record books when he hit an inside-the-park grand slam - not accomplished again until New York's Mel Stottlemyre in 1965.
Philleppe, who gained the nickname "Deacon" for humility and way he lived his life, won his last 13 pitching decisions of his career. His last season in the big leagues was 1911. However he tried his hand as player-manager for the Pittsburgh team in the outlaw U.S. League, which held home games at Exposition Park. Pittsburgh left that stadium in 1909 for Forbes Field. His team had the best mark in the league at 16-8. He also managed the Pittsburgh club in 1913, named the Filipinos in the Federal League.
After he left baseball, Philleppe, a distant relative of noted actor Ryan Philleppe, worked in a steel mill, operated a cigar store, served as a court bailiff ; and also held a position with the county parks department, all in the Pittsburgh area. He died while watching TV in March 30, 1952, 59 years ago at the age of 80.
I still am amazed what Philleppe accomplished. In an era defined by longevity, his right arm couldn't keep up the maddening pace that pitching at that time demanded. However, Philleppe did something no one else will ever be able to do - win the first ever series game. He deserves to be recognized by the Hall.
As I fall off into my own dream world, I wonder what Philleppe was thinking in those last days of his life and what dreams filled those times when he drifted away in thought. I wonder if his dream was playing baseball at a high level. And, if that wasn't his dream, what was?
Thursday, April 14, 2011
The Elegance of Sports
As fall happens, the sports culture is unfurled.
It is in those autumn days that baseball winds down, football starts anew as do a host of other sports.
Whether it is in the concluding days of the baseball season or opening Friday night of high school football, the elegance of sports is unleashed.
For those engaged as players, fans, supporters or for other reasons, games become like novels, played out in human drama. Part of this beauty in sport involves the culture of supporting teams. It is in the clothes we wear, the way we cheer, the behavior before, during and at games and the captivating ways to involve those from across the spectrum. Bands play, young music-interested persons sing, and whole towns unleash their passion on those contested events.
From the field to the lockers rooms and in the stands, the event is defined by the rhythm of cheers, play and conversation. These moments are seemingly transcending, beginning under human cover at home and elsewhere, and unveiled in both private and public moments.
After classes end, a student heads to his apartment to gather his team garb - the hat (cheese head or horns for some), painted tennis shoes, a gray t-shirt with the team logo that may contain some whimsical statement, jeans and, of course, a hat to fill out a wardrobe defined by one's passion for his team. Into his car and off to the stadium, he goes - him and thousands more just like him.
A 18-year old female places her text books in her neatly kept locker and she is off to the women's locker room to transfer into a member of the cheer squad. On goes her uniform, then she brushes back her hair, applies a bit of makeup and grabs her pom-pom as her gaggle of cheer group readies to hit the floor.
The costumization of supporters is the first act. As crowers begin to gather first in the ticket lines and then mull around concession areas before finding their place in the stands, a constellation of colors evolve in the stadium corridors.
In the locker room, a 6-3, 225 pound linebacker steps out of a whirlpool and on a table to get his ankles taped. In shorts and a tattered and unwashed t-shirt that he has wore since the winning streak began, the 21-year old winces and then head back to his locker. There, he strains to pulls on his uniform bottoms and finally pulls his top over his shoulder pads, grabs his helmet and take a seat near the locker room door. He checks the clock on the wall - almost time. He looks up and catches the eye of his best friend and both nod in a nonverbal gesture fully understood between them. The hard work in the work room and on the field during summers was worth it. The quarterback and linebacker are best friends who have dreamed of this moment since they competed against each other in junior football.
In his office, the coach eyes the computer notebook that includes his report and strategy for the game. His assistant prints out copies for the team, quick hitters about what to do in the game. As he closes his computer, the 45-year old coach looks up at the ceiling and lets out a nervous, somewhat exasperated "whew" and then completes the Windsor movements of his tie before donning his lucky sports jacket. He thinks about the long hours, the sacrifices that his wife and family have made to allow him to pursue his passion. He thinks about what he has missed with those he loves. He takes a deep breath, blows out a little of the stress, grabs his lucky Irish leprechaun that his six-year old game him last year and heads out to the locker room. Focused, he is not worried about losing or excited about victory - he is in a different state. This is his team's and his own shining moment.
In another part of the stadium, a group of six men arrive and are escorted to their quarters. As they drop their bags and take out their gear, the black and white top is matched with black pants and a black hat. It is going to be an interesting evening as the crowd noise begins to creep into their quarters. The white-hatted head official takes a glimpse of his watch and says, "ready?"
Leaving the bar/restaurant, a former player nervously gets into his car with his wife of seven years and three small kids. All are attired - appropriately - in his Alma mater's garb. He is nervous, just like game day all those years ago. As he drives toward the stadium, he thinks to himself, "I hope it is different this time." Ten years ago, he lived the championship moment as a player and his interception ended his team's hopes.
Like many, the father of the senior quarterback, nervously walks on the field before the game, not a look up as he is lost in reflection. Even as an assistant coach says hello, he is lost in thought and rumbles a jittery, "thanks." He recounts how it all started for his son - a junior football championship and now he is starting this third straight year with a multitude of college scholarship offers in hand. As he takes off his hat, he thinks about all those games that he and his wife have traveled to in support of their son. He is a dad hoping that his son has the game of his life.
Each of these actors play a part in this human engagement. This orchestrated event involves bands, cheer squads, team uniforms, and attire, but also the preparation of the teams, bands, athletes and others, all coming to this play prepared from life moments of previous days.
As game time draws closer, the energy increases. The air is so thick with tension that it could be sliced with a knife, remolded and regenerated. The players, coaches, fans and others can feel the adrenaline, the butterflies that plays havoc with the stomach and everything begins to locks up so tight that it is tough to breathe. Many begin to panic a little and feel as if they are tied up inside. Others find themselves anxious and their nerves are frittered from the preparing and waiting. They just want it to get underway.
Slowly the clock winds to zero, teams head to the sideline and the crowd noise has an uptick.
As the announcer welcomes the crowd, does his sportsmanship piece, and begins to announce the presenters of the national anthem, thousands of eyes perch on the flag but in that moment, while respectful of their country, many gathered begin to play out the scenario of winning and the joy that moment will generate. Losing is not an option, except for the fan in section B, who always believes that something bad can happen. He is the same one that believes the bridge will fall as he is crossing over or while flying something bad will happen to the plane. He works at a local university and supporting his team is his passion but that doesn't stop him from adopting the Cubs' mantra - "wait 'til next year" in every game he watches that involves his precious Alma mater.
The linebacker begins to play out the opening moments of the game as the quarterback's father fidgets a bit and the cheerleader is all smiles. Like the athletes, the head cheerleader is excited to finally being involved in a state championship. Her job and passion is to keep the fans going, supporting the team. Like others, this day will be a defining memory.
On each end of the field, the cheer squads are strung out, waiting their cue as the special guest band takes the field, maneuvering to layout its out statement. As the players doff their helmets, stand erect with hands to their side, to their heart or behind them, the young sophomore lets loose a sweet, smooth voice that lifts the spirit of those in attendance. In this orchestrated movement, everyone is standing, each in their realm, each conforming to the organized structure of the moment.
The alumnus thinks to himself that is the way the anthem should be song, not like that of the Christina Aguilera's, who butchered the Star Spangled Banner in the last Super Bowl.
As the band leaves the field, both teams congregate in loud "lets go" cheers, and the game is at hand.
The kickoff is the second act (pre-game actions are the first) of this piece of sports theatre - teams spread out in formation as the official readies the ball for play. As the whistle sounds, the kicker is the first to move and sets the ball into flight, all eyes fixed on the oblong object. As it flies high, spinning in a counterclockwise motion and settles into a smallish and quick athlete's hands, he ducks away from a defender, breaks into the open - for a moment - and "bam" he goes down. The "oohs and aahs," and cheers from the crowd, grow in octave as the audience breathes.
A few people there, both on the sideline and in the stands, begin to think about their grade school days when football began for them. The sandlot games were rough and tumble affairs, while a bit bloody, violent and unorganized. Bloody noses, holes in the jeans, cut elbows, mothers upset, and a few father smiling, all part of a charmed memory.
It isn't easy to concentrate on the moment at hand. You can't forget the winning...and...losing moments that have become part of your sports psyche.
When Franco Harris caught that "immaculate reception" I was hooked forever on the Steelers. It also seemed to happen in slow motion. The lack of execution, and mistake-filled play turned into one of the great moments in sports. You recall the beauty of a fingertip catch - Harris keeping his balance and avoiding defenders like he was a ballet dancer orchestrating precise movements on an arena floor but this was on a cold, and hard outdoor platform with angry defenders in pursuit. Yet, every time I think of that game, that play, the elegance of sport springs forward.
There is something uniquely beautiful about a great sports moment. Every time it is replayed, the elegance of the player and teams play out as does the sudden look of surprise on faces, followed by joy and sorrow, as if a puppeteer held our emotions and the moment in his hands.
I recall at the NCAA Division II first round game with New Hampshire College when the University of South Dakota Coyotes had a four-point lead with a minute to play and then a player that hadn't hit a three pointer all season did so. That shot was followed by USD's Randy Rosenquist's hoist near the right sideline - just in front of me in Springfield, Mass. The shot appeared on line, hit the backboard and careened out.
When Bridget Yoerger sank a three-pointer for a 57-40 lead against Minnesota State in the DII regional at the DakotaDome, the long-awaited moment of championship achievement had no longer eluded the Coyote women, who were off to the Elite Eight for the first time in history in 2007-08.
So many life moments grasp us in winning and losing conditions, releasing both exhilarating or heart-breaking emotions depending on the side you are on.
As the offenses and defenses take the field, the movements of this play begin to take shape. On the sidelines, coaches are pacing, some are yelling and the reserves get into the action of supporting mates. Coaches don't run unto the field - well there are some exceptions - but most follow the defined rules and cheat just a little.
The cheer squad leads its student section into cheers like "We have spirit yes we do", challenging those on the other side. The section falls into the celebrated wave, swaying movements that seem to resemble the open ocean.
Onto the field, a long pass from the heralded quarterback strikes the receiver in full stride as a father smiles.
A minute later, a linebacker sacks the quarterback, the ball pops free and his teammate picks up the bounding ball, plays hot potato with it for about five yards before grasping it as a defender strains for the tackle, just missing his feet and he is off to the end zone with his entire team mobbing him in joy. From 25 yards away, the linebacker's hand shoots up with a single finger indicating number one. The linebacker and his mate do a chest bump, knocking the smaller player to his rear. The linebacker helps him up as both players run off to the sideline with joy written on their faces.
As you reflect back on your championship event, you sometimes become frozen in thought about that one defining moment, good or bad, that forever sticks.
As the former player leaves his stadium - his because it is where he played and it a place that will forever draw him back like a second home. It is where he experienced some character moments, and it is where part of his own theatre of life played out. As he leaves, his family members find their place in the car, and as he closes his door, starts the ignition and looks to his wife, a smile creases his face. Everything is right.
Finally the coach hugs his daughter, the lead cheerleader whose big smile brightens the field. She is happy for her father, her friends and the school. She kisses him on the cheek, runs to her friends and promises to be home by curfew.
The coach smiles and heads to the press conference room, before he picks up his winter jacket at his office. In his final act before leaving the stadium, he quickly checks a message on his computer, from his mentor that he hasn't seen in 10 years. "Nice job, I knew you had it in you," the note read.
As he looks up, his senior quarterback thanks him for all he does for the team. The coach smiles and hugs his star. As he releases himself from the embrace, he flops back into his chair with his heavy coat and top hat on, as a moment of pride sweeps through him.
It all has been worth it.
That feeling from the coach is why many of us keep going back to games, even when we only connect to the institutions or maybe a long distance connection.
Moments of life often include that beautiful memory of sport for many of is. It is an elegance that continues to shine when we allow ourselves to engage.
It is in those autumn days that baseball winds down, football starts anew as do a host of other sports.
Whether it is in the concluding days of the baseball season or opening Friday night of high school football, the elegance of sports is unleashed.
For those engaged as players, fans, supporters or for other reasons, games become like novels, played out in human drama. Part of this beauty in sport involves the culture of supporting teams. It is in the clothes we wear, the way we cheer, the behavior before, during and at games and the captivating ways to involve those from across the spectrum. Bands play, young music-interested persons sing, and whole towns unleash their passion on those contested events.
From the field to the lockers rooms and in the stands, the event is defined by the rhythm of cheers, play and conversation. These moments are seemingly transcending, beginning under human cover at home and elsewhere, and unveiled in both private and public moments.
After classes end, a student heads to his apartment to gather his team garb - the hat (cheese head or horns for some), painted tennis shoes, a gray t-shirt with the team logo that may contain some whimsical statement, jeans and, of course, a hat to fill out a wardrobe defined by one's passion for his team. Into his car and off to the stadium, he goes - him and thousands more just like him.
A 18-year old female places her text books in her neatly kept locker and she is off to the women's locker room to transfer into a member of the cheer squad. On goes her uniform, then she brushes back her hair, applies a bit of makeup and grabs her pom-pom as her gaggle of cheer group readies to hit the floor.
The costumization of supporters is the first act. As crowers begin to gather first in the ticket lines and then mull around concession areas before finding their place in the stands, a constellation of colors evolve in the stadium corridors.
In the locker room, a 6-3, 225 pound linebacker steps out of a whirlpool and on a table to get his ankles taped. In shorts and a tattered and unwashed t-shirt that he has wore since the winning streak began, the 21-year old winces and then head back to his locker. There, he strains to pulls on his uniform bottoms and finally pulls his top over his shoulder pads, grabs his helmet and take a seat near the locker room door. He checks the clock on the wall - almost time. He looks up and catches the eye of his best friend and both nod in a nonverbal gesture fully understood between them. The hard work in the work room and on the field during summers was worth it. The quarterback and linebacker are best friends who have dreamed of this moment since they competed against each other in junior football.
In his office, the coach eyes the computer notebook that includes his report and strategy for the game. His assistant prints out copies for the team, quick hitters about what to do in the game. As he closes his computer, the 45-year old coach looks up at the ceiling and lets out a nervous, somewhat exasperated "whew" and then completes the Windsor movements of his tie before donning his lucky sports jacket. He thinks about the long hours, the sacrifices that his wife and family have made to allow him to pursue his passion. He thinks about what he has missed with those he loves. He takes a deep breath, blows out a little of the stress, grabs his lucky Irish leprechaun that his six-year old game him last year and heads out to the locker room. Focused, he is not worried about losing or excited about victory - he is in a different state. This is his team's and his own shining moment.
In another part of the stadium, a group of six men arrive and are escorted to their quarters. As they drop their bags and take out their gear, the black and white top is matched with black pants and a black hat. It is going to be an interesting evening as the crowd noise begins to creep into their quarters. The white-hatted head official takes a glimpse of his watch and says, "ready?"
Leaving the bar/restaurant, a former player nervously gets into his car with his wife of seven years and three small kids. All are attired - appropriately - in his Alma mater's garb. He is nervous, just like game day all those years ago. As he drives toward the stadium, he thinks to himself, "I hope it is different this time." Ten years ago, he lived the championship moment as a player and his interception ended his team's hopes.
Like many, the father of the senior quarterback, nervously walks on the field before the game, not a look up as he is lost in reflection. Even as an assistant coach says hello, he is lost in thought and rumbles a jittery, "thanks." He recounts how it all started for his son - a junior football championship and now he is starting this third straight year with a multitude of college scholarship offers in hand. As he takes off his hat, he thinks about all those games that he and his wife have traveled to in support of their son. He is a dad hoping that his son has the game of his life.
Each of these actors play a part in this human engagement. This orchestrated event involves bands, cheer squads, team uniforms, and attire, but also the preparation of the teams, bands, athletes and others, all coming to this play prepared from life moments of previous days.
As game time draws closer, the energy increases. The air is so thick with tension that it could be sliced with a knife, remolded and regenerated. The players, coaches, fans and others can feel the adrenaline, the butterflies that plays havoc with the stomach and everything begins to locks up so tight that it is tough to breathe. Many begin to panic a little and feel as if they are tied up inside. Others find themselves anxious and their nerves are frittered from the preparing and waiting. They just want it to get underway.
Slowly the clock winds to zero, teams head to the sideline and the crowd noise has an uptick.
As the announcer welcomes the crowd, does his sportsmanship piece, and begins to announce the presenters of the national anthem, thousands of eyes perch on the flag but in that moment, while respectful of their country, many gathered begin to play out the scenario of winning and the joy that moment will generate. Losing is not an option, except for the fan in section B, who always believes that something bad can happen. He is the same one that believes the bridge will fall as he is crossing over or while flying something bad will happen to the plane. He works at a local university and supporting his team is his passion but that doesn't stop him from adopting the Cubs' mantra - "wait 'til next year" in every game he watches that involves his precious Alma mater.
The linebacker begins to play out the opening moments of the game as the quarterback's father fidgets a bit and the cheerleader is all smiles. Like the athletes, the head cheerleader is excited to finally being involved in a state championship. Her job and passion is to keep the fans going, supporting the team. Like others, this day will be a defining memory.
On each end of the field, the cheer squads are strung out, waiting their cue as the special guest band takes the field, maneuvering to layout its out statement. As the players doff their helmets, stand erect with hands to their side, to their heart or behind them, the young sophomore lets loose a sweet, smooth voice that lifts the spirit of those in attendance. In this orchestrated movement, everyone is standing, each in their realm, each conforming to the organized structure of the moment.
The alumnus thinks to himself that is the way the anthem should be song, not like that of the Christina Aguilera's, who butchered the Star Spangled Banner in the last Super Bowl.
As the band leaves the field, both teams congregate in loud "lets go" cheers, and the game is at hand.
The kickoff is the second act (pre-game actions are the first) of this piece of sports theatre - teams spread out in formation as the official readies the ball for play. As the whistle sounds, the kicker is the first to move and sets the ball into flight, all eyes fixed on the oblong object. As it flies high, spinning in a counterclockwise motion and settles into a smallish and quick athlete's hands, he ducks away from a defender, breaks into the open - for a moment - and "bam" he goes down. The "oohs and aahs," and cheers from the crowd, grow in octave as the audience breathes.
A few people there, both on the sideline and in the stands, begin to think about their grade school days when football began for them. The sandlot games were rough and tumble affairs, while a bit bloody, violent and unorganized. Bloody noses, holes in the jeans, cut elbows, mothers upset, and a few father smiling, all part of a charmed memory.
It isn't easy to concentrate on the moment at hand. You can't forget the winning...and...losing moments that have become part of your sports psyche.
When Franco Harris caught that "immaculate reception" I was hooked forever on the Steelers. It also seemed to happen in slow motion. The lack of execution, and mistake-filled play turned into one of the great moments in sports. You recall the beauty of a fingertip catch - Harris keeping his balance and avoiding defenders like he was a ballet dancer orchestrating precise movements on an arena floor but this was on a cold, and hard outdoor platform with angry defenders in pursuit. Yet, every time I think of that game, that play, the elegance of sport springs forward.
There is something uniquely beautiful about a great sports moment. Every time it is replayed, the elegance of the player and teams play out as does the sudden look of surprise on faces, followed by joy and sorrow, as if a puppeteer held our emotions and the moment in his hands.
I recall at the NCAA Division II first round game with New Hampshire College when the University of South Dakota Coyotes had a four-point lead with a minute to play and then a player that hadn't hit a three pointer all season did so. That shot was followed by USD's Randy Rosenquist's hoist near the right sideline - just in front of me in Springfield, Mass. The shot appeared on line, hit the backboard and careened out.
When Bridget Yoerger sank a three-pointer for a 57-40 lead against Minnesota State in the DII regional at the DakotaDome, the long-awaited moment of championship achievement had no longer eluded the Coyote women, who were off to the Elite Eight for the first time in history in 2007-08.
So many life moments grasp us in winning and losing conditions, releasing both exhilarating or heart-breaking emotions depending on the side you are on.
As the offenses and defenses take the field, the movements of this play begin to take shape. On the sidelines, coaches are pacing, some are yelling and the reserves get into the action of supporting mates. Coaches don't run unto the field - well there are some exceptions - but most follow the defined rules and cheat just a little.
The cheer squad leads its student section into cheers like "We have spirit yes we do", challenging those on the other side. The section falls into the celebrated wave, swaying movements that seem to resemble the open ocean.
Onto the field, a long pass from the heralded quarterback strikes the receiver in full stride as a father smiles.
A minute later, a linebacker sacks the quarterback, the ball pops free and his teammate picks up the bounding ball, plays hot potato with it for about five yards before grasping it as a defender strains for the tackle, just missing his feet and he is off to the end zone with his entire team mobbing him in joy. From 25 yards away, the linebacker's hand shoots up with a single finger indicating number one. The linebacker and his mate do a chest bump, knocking the smaller player to his rear. The linebacker helps him up as both players run off to the sideline with joy written on their faces.
As you reflect back on your championship event, you sometimes become frozen in thought about that one defining moment, good or bad, that forever sticks.
As the former player leaves his stadium - his because it is where he played and it a place that will forever draw him back like a second home. It is where he experienced some character moments, and it is where part of his own theatre of life played out. As he leaves, his family members find their place in the car, and as he closes his door, starts the ignition and looks to his wife, a smile creases his face. Everything is right.
Finally the coach hugs his daughter, the lead cheerleader whose big smile brightens the field. She is happy for her father, her friends and the school. She kisses him on the cheek, runs to her friends and promises to be home by curfew.
The coach smiles and heads to the press conference room, before he picks up his winter jacket at his office. In his final act before leaving the stadium, he quickly checks a message on his computer, from his mentor that he hasn't seen in 10 years. "Nice job, I knew you had it in you," the note read.
As he looks up, his senior quarterback thanks him for all he does for the team. The coach smiles and hugs his star. As he releases himself from the embrace, he flops back into his chair with his heavy coat and top hat on, as a moment of pride sweeps through him.
It all has been worth it.
That feeling from the coach is why many of us keep going back to games, even when we only connect to the institutions or maybe a long distance connection.
Moments of life often include that beautiful memory of sport for many of is. It is an elegance that continues to shine when we allow ourselves to engage.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Coyotes' Defense Ahead of Schedule; Practice to be Held at McEneaney Field in Sioux Falls April 16
VERMILLION, S.D. -- As South Dakota football enters week two of spring practice, head football coach Ed Meierkort has his troops focused on "finishing."
For him, the answer to future success is both easy and difficult. "It really comes down to this - winning teams make plays and losing teams do not," said Meierkort, the seventh year coach with a 48-30 overall record at USD.
Four times in 2010, South Dakota led in the fourth quarter, only to end up on the wrong side of the final score. The result was a 4-7 campaign, which was the first at South Dakota since 2003, a year before Meierkort arrived on campus.
According to Meierkort, "real games" not "blowouts," are contests decided in the fourth quarter and generally come down to four or five plays during the encounter. "I can handpick those plays against Minnesota and I can do the same against North Dakota State," he said. "Against the Bison, when they came up with a 50-yard play action pass, it changed things. Earlier we were pounding their running game and after that we became tentative, didn't get that extra hat in the box and they whipped us in the second half," he said. "From that we began to have problems."
To correct the "finishing" efforts, Meierkort and his staff are testing his team's staying power and resilience.
"We are doing things to make them (players) as tired as possible and then giving them tedious tasks to do and complete before they finish that drill. Then we also focus on small details," he said.
Everything about winning revolves around the aggressiveness, be it offense or defense. "You have to be aggressive," said Meierkort.
Meierkort Moves Practice to McEneaney Field in Sioux Falls
Coach Meierkort said the April 16 practice, originally scheduled for Bob Young Field in Sioux Falls now has been moved to newly renovated 3,000-seat McEneaney Field on the O'Gorman High School campus on 41st street. Check http://www.usdcoyotes.com/ for time and the entire practice schedule. McEneaney Field was upgraded as part of a 2008 renovation project at O'Gorman. Its $2.8 million face lift, which began in the fall of 2009, included addition of field turf, installation of an eight-lane track and a new Daktronics scoreboard. The spring game is set for Thursday, April 21 at 7 p.m. in the DakotaDome.
Assessment - Meierkort on the Defense
(This blog will focus on defense with offense, special teams and overall spring assessment following in later posts.)
As Meierkort reviewed the overall work of his team, he said the practices have been "physical" but that the team is "improving every day."
He believes that his defense is ahead of the curve at this point, although he expects that from a veteran group that returns nearly everyone.
Defensive Line -- "They are really panning out incredibly. We have tremendous depth in the line, and they are bigger and stronger than a year ago. They are really a good looking group that I think will be a real strength of the team. It was that way two years ago and they have matured into another solid looking group."
Linebackers -- "We are trying to find our numbers twos. We know that Andrew Meier, Shea Williams and Adam Broders will be solid. The backup positions are where we are focused. Darius Hogens looks very good; as does Zack Wilson, a transfer from Snow College; and Tim Marlette. All the people we have at that spot act like they should be there and they are pushing guys. A former Nebraska player of the year, Kyle Wheeler, is our third backer as a fifth year senior. He is a very vital player to this program because he is also good on special teams. When we get into certain situations where it warrants more of a plunker, he is going to be on the field. I am very impressed with this squad right now...but it is spring."
Cornerbacks -- "All of our corners return from a year ago and three of them are sophomores with one senior. I think they are all good players and have played in big games. One of them, Chris Frierson, is out this spring. However he may have the most upside because he is the tallest and fastest. He is rangy and fast and reminds me of Tony Beckham, who played seven years in the NFL. We are excited about that area."
Safety -- "One of our concerns this spring is who is going to be our fourth safety. We know that we have quality players with Aaron Swift, Jimmy Thompson and Shane Potter.
Overall -- "We are a year older, stronger and faster. These players have been put in situations before and you can't substitute experience and you can't get experience until you are out there. These guys fought through an 11-game monster schedule a year ago. Our schedule is tough again but not as tough as last year. We have some games on the schedule that you can eyeball, but you can say we are going to do this and this and figure out the rest. I would say we are a little ahead of schedule right now because of all the guys who are back."
Spring Standouts -- "Aaron Swift looks really good. He is an 11-game starter as a true freshman. Everyone wants to talk about Tyler Starr's athletic ability but until he gets on the field and proves it. He is a very likable young man and tremendous gift. We have to get him from point A to point B and onto the field against Air Force. If we do, he is one of the better players we have."
Defense - by the Numbers
A year ago, USD was outscored by opponents, 25-5 to 23.4 or 280 points to 257 points. South Dakota permitted 219 first downs, including 121 by pass and 84 by rushing. Opponents averaged 4.7 yards per carry with 1,863 yards on 398 attempts for 169.4 per game with 19 rushing TDs. Through the air, opponents completed 198-of-294 passes for 2,503 yards or 227.5 yards per game. The Coyotes allowed 15 passing TDs while recording 10 interceptions.
In total offense opponents averaged 396.9 per game with a total of 4,366 yards. In the red zone, opponents had a high rate of success with 33 scores in 38 attempts for 87 percent. Of that opponents scored TDs 63 percent (24-of-38) on the red zone possessions. Good news for USD is that the team's four top tacklers return in Shea Williams (89), Shane Potter (76), Adam Broders (75) and Aaron Swift (61).
In scoring, USD was its best in the second quarter when it limited opponents to just 47 points. However, the Coyotes need to do better in the fourth quarter when it yielded 99 points, the most of any quarter. In the first quarter, USD allowed 61 points and they permitted 73 in the third quarter.
South Dakota needs to have more games like Northern Colorado, when USD dismantled the Bears, 34-6 at the DakotaDome. The Coyotes allowed just 2.3 yards per rush.
Historical Numbers - Defense
Here is a look at some of the great individual and career performances, again by the numbers.
Single Season Tackle Leaders
Doug VanderEsch is perhaps the U's best linebacker ever. A member of USD's 1986 team that advanced to the national title game, VanderEsch owns two of the top four seasons for total tackles in school history. VanderEsch, who had at least 10 tackles in the final 17 games of his career, put together two games with 17 tackles as a senior. He was a Harlon Hill nominee (DII Player of the Year) as a defensive player and the Hawarden, Iowa native, was a three-year starter who led USD to a 34-15 record during his career. He was inducted into the Coyote Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.
1. Doug VanderEsch, 1987, 153
2. Craig Austin, 1980, 145
3. Ben Long, 1978, 143
Single Season Tackles for Loss
A quick reflection - On Dakota Day (Oct. 14) in 2000, Rapid City native Bill Gassen had 17 tackles, including 10 unassisted stops and three tackles for loss in a 21-7 loss to Nebraska-Omaha in 2000 at the DakotaDome. To have 10 unassisted stops at nose guard when he was double-teamed throughout the game, showed the toughness and talented of Gassen, who today is a Sioux Falls, S.D., attorney.
1. A.J. Schable, 2005, 22.5
1. Bill Gassen, 2002, 22.5
3. Josh Stamer, 2000; Aaron Dietrich, 2001; Jim Glogowski, 1995, 21
Single Sack Leaders
In USD's 9-2 season in 2005 when the offense led the nation in scoring, the defense also shined behind the play of future NFL player, A.J. Schable. He had a spectacular season with 19 sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss. It was a performance that ranks among the best in school history.
1. A.J. Schable, 2005, 19
2. Doug Nielsen, 1988, 11
3. Chad Burtch, 1993; Tim Schellhammer, 2004, 9.5
Interceptions
While Bob Gruber finished his career with just 12 interceptions, he had one of the great seasons by a defensive back in 1979 when he had 11 picks, including two for defensive scores. His most spectacular game was against rival South Dakota State in a late season encounter at the DakotaDome. While USD lost, 33-28, Gruber play was crucial in allowing USD a shot to win at the end in the U's opening season (5-6 under Dave Triplett) in the DakotaDome. My former college dorm mate returned a pick for a TD in which he crosscrossed the field, covering about the same yards as his number #95.
1. Bob Gruber, 1979, 11 (two defensive TDs)
2. Russel Burwell, 2000, 8
3. John Sanders, 1971
Career, Tackles
South Dakota has had only three players in school history record 400 tackles in a season with Tim Seevers leading the way with 437. Ben Long, drafted in the 10th round in 1979 by Miami, is among the greatest linebackers in school history. He helped lead the Coyotes to an unlikely NCC title in 1978 after USD opened the season 1-3. His play led a resurgence under direction of coach Beanie Cooper.
1. Tim Seevers, 1988-91, 437
2. Doug VanderEsch, 1984-88, 430
3. Ben Long, 1976-79, 406
Career, Tackles for Loss
1. Bill Gassen, 1999-02, 50.5
2. Scott Larson, 1997-00, 48
3. A.J. Schable, 2002-05, 44.5
Career, Sacks
1. A.J. Schable, 2002-05, 27.5
2. Brent Peterson, 1994-97, 21.5
3. Tim Schellhammer, 2000-04, 18
Career, Interceptions
Considered by many as the school's best all-time defensive back, John "Deac" Sanders played six seasons in the NFL with New England and Philadelphia, recording 17 interceptions and returning two for scores (1974, 1978). Sanders was signed by New England as an undrafted free agent in 1974 after starring for Joe Salem's South Dakota teams. Originally from Chicago, he played 60 games in the NFL, including 51 in which he started. At USD he was All-NCC twice (1971, 1972), played a key role on the 1972 team that tied for the NCC league title with a 6-1 record and finishing 9-1 overall. The Coyotes finished the season with a seven-game winning streak and outscored its final two opponents, Minnesota State and North Dakota State, 70-27.
1. Todd Salat, 1984-86, 16
2. Bill Moats, 1976-78, 15
3. John Sanders, 1970-72, 15
For him, the answer to future success is both easy and difficult. "It really comes down to this - winning teams make plays and losing teams do not," said Meierkort, the seventh year coach with a 48-30 overall record at USD.
Four times in 2010, South Dakota led in the fourth quarter, only to end up on the wrong side of the final score. The result was a 4-7 campaign, which was the first at South Dakota since 2003, a year before Meierkort arrived on campus.
According to Meierkort, "real games" not "blowouts," are contests decided in the fourth quarter and generally come down to four or five plays during the encounter. "I can handpick those plays against Minnesota and I can do the same against North Dakota State," he said. "Against the Bison, when they came up with a 50-yard play action pass, it changed things. Earlier we were pounding their running game and after that we became tentative, didn't get that extra hat in the box and they whipped us in the second half," he said. "From that we began to have problems."
To correct the "finishing" efforts, Meierkort and his staff are testing his team's staying power and resilience.
"We are doing things to make them (players) as tired as possible and then giving them tedious tasks to do and complete before they finish that drill. Then we also focus on small details," he said.
Everything about winning revolves around the aggressiveness, be it offense or defense. "You have to be aggressive," said Meierkort.
Meierkort Moves Practice to McEneaney Field in Sioux Falls
Coach Meierkort said the April 16 practice, originally scheduled for Bob Young Field in Sioux Falls now has been moved to newly renovated 3,000-seat McEneaney Field on the O'Gorman High School campus on 41st street. Check http://www.usdcoyotes.com/ for time and the entire practice schedule. McEneaney Field was upgraded as part of a 2008 renovation project at O'Gorman. Its $2.8 million face lift, which began in the fall of 2009, included addition of field turf, installation of an eight-lane track and a new Daktronics scoreboard. The spring game is set for Thursday, April 21 at 7 p.m. in the DakotaDome.
Assessment - Meierkort on the Defense
(This blog will focus on defense with offense, special teams and overall spring assessment following in later posts.)
As Meierkort reviewed the overall work of his team, he said the practices have been "physical" but that the team is "improving every day."
He believes that his defense is ahead of the curve at this point, although he expects that from a veteran group that returns nearly everyone.
Defensive Line -- "They are really panning out incredibly. We have tremendous depth in the line, and they are bigger and stronger than a year ago. They are really a good looking group that I think will be a real strength of the team. It was that way two years ago and they have matured into another solid looking group."
Linebackers -- "We are trying to find our numbers twos. We know that Andrew Meier, Shea Williams and Adam Broders will be solid. The backup positions are where we are focused. Darius Hogens looks very good; as does Zack Wilson, a transfer from Snow College; and Tim Marlette. All the people we have at that spot act like they should be there and they are pushing guys. A former Nebraska player of the year, Kyle Wheeler, is our third backer as a fifth year senior. He is a very vital player to this program because he is also good on special teams. When we get into certain situations where it warrants more of a plunker, he is going to be on the field. I am very impressed with this squad right now...but it is spring."
Cornerbacks -- "All of our corners return from a year ago and three of them are sophomores with one senior. I think they are all good players and have played in big games. One of them, Chris Frierson, is out this spring. However he may have the most upside because he is the tallest and fastest. He is rangy and fast and reminds me of Tony Beckham, who played seven years in the NFL. We are excited about that area."
Safety -- "One of our concerns this spring is who is going to be our fourth safety. We know that we have quality players with Aaron Swift, Jimmy Thompson and Shane Potter.
Overall -- "We are a year older, stronger and faster. These players have been put in situations before and you can't substitute experience and you can't get experience until you are out there. These guys fought through an 11-game monster schedule a year ago. Our schedule is tough again but not as tough as last year. We have some games on the schedule that you can eyeball, but you can say we are going to do this and this and figure out the rest. I would say we are a little ahead of schedule right now because of all the guys who are back."
Spring Standouts -- "Aaron Swift looks really good. He is an 11-game starter as a true freshman. Everyone wants to talk about Tyler Starr's athletic ability but until he gets on the field and proves it. He is a very likable young man and tremendous gift. We have to get him from point A to point B and onto the field against Air Force. If we do, he is one of the better players we have."
Defense - by the Numbers
A year ago, USD was outscored by opponents, 25-5 to 23.4 or 280 points to 257 points. South Dakota permitted 219 first downs, including 121 by pass and 84 by rushing. Opponents averaged 4.7 yards per carry with 1,863 yards on 398 attempts for 169.4 per game with 19 rushing TDs. Through the air, opponents completed 198-of-294 passes for 2,503 yards or 227.5 yards per game. The Coyotes allowed 15 passing TDs while recording 10 interceptions.
In total offense opponents averaged 396.9 per game with a total of 4,366 yards. In the red zone, opponents had a high rate of success with 33 scores in 38 attempts for 87 percent. Of that opponents scored TDs 63 percent (24-of-38) on the red zone possessions. Good news for USD is that the team's four top tacklers return in Shea Williams (89), Shane Potter (76), Adam Broders (75) and Aaron Swift (61).
In scoring, USD was its best in the second quarter when it limited opponents to just 47 points. However, the Coyotes need to do better in the fourth quarter when it yielded 99 points, the most of any quarter. In the first quarter, USD allowed 61 points and they permitted 73 in the third quarter.
South Dakota needs to have more games like Northern Colorado, when USD dismantled the Bears, 34-6 at the DakotaDome. The Coyotes allowed just 2.3 yards per rush.
Historical Numbers - Defense
Here is a look at some of the great individual and career performances, again by the numbers.
Single Season Tackle Leaders
Doug VanderEsch is perhaps the U's best linebacker ever. A member of USD's 1986 team that advanced to the national title game, VanderEsch owns two of the top four seasons for total tackles in school history. VanderEsch, who had at least 10 tackles in the final 17 games of his career, put together two games with 17 tackles as a senior. He was a Harlon Hill nominee (DII Player of the Year) as a defensive player and the Hawarden, Iowa native, was a three-year starter who led USD to a 34-15 record during his career. He was inducted into the Coyote Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.
1. Doug VanderEsch, 1987, 153
2. Craig Austin, 1980, 145
3. Ben Long, 1978, 143
Single Season Tackles for Loss
A quick reflection - On Dakota Day (Oct. 14) in 2000, Rapid City native Bill Gassen had 17 tackles, including 10 unassisted stops and three tackles for loss in a 21-7 loss to Nebraska-Omaha in 2000 at the DakotaDome. To have 10 unassisted stops at nose guard when he was double-teamed throughout the game, showed the toughness and talented of Gassen, who today is a Sioux Falls, S.D., attorney.
1. A.J. Schable, 2005, 22.5
1. Bill Gassen, 2002, 22.5
3. Josh Stamer, 2000; Aaron Dietrich, 2001; Jim Glogowski, 1995, 21
Single Sack Leaders
In USD's 9-2 season in 2005 when the offense led the nation in scoring, the defense also shined behind the play of future NFL player, A.J. Schable. He had a spectacular season with 19 sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss. It was a performance that ranks among the best in school history.
1. A.J. Schable, 2005, 19
2. Doug Nielsen, 1988, 11
3. Chad Burtch, 1993; Tim Schellhammer, 2004, 9.5
Interceptions
While Bob Gruber finished his career with just 12 interceptions, he had one of the great seasons by a defensive back in 1979 when he had 11 picks, including two for defensive scores. His most spectacular game was against rival South Dakota State in a late season encounter at the DakotaDome. While USD lost, 33-28, Gruber play was crucial in allowing USD a shot to win at the end in the U's opening season (5-6 under Dave Triplett) in the DakotaDome. My former college dorm mate returned a pick for a TD in which he crosscrossed the field, covering about the same yards as his number #95.
1. Bob Gruber, 1979, 11 (two defensive TDs)
2. Russel Burwell, 2000, 8
3. John Sanders, 1971
Career, Tackles
South Dakota has had only three players in school history record 400 tackles in a season with Tim Seevers leading the way with 437. Ben Long, drafted in the 10th round in 1979 by Miami, is among the greatest linebackers in school history. He helped lead the Coyotes to an unlikely NCC title in 1978 after USD opened the season 1-3. His play led a resurgence under direction of coach Beanie Cooper.
1. Tim Seevers, 1988-91, 437
2. Doug VanderEsch, 1984-88, 430
3. Ben Long, 1976-79, 406
Career, Tackles for Loss
1. Bill Gassen, 1999-02, 50.5
2. Scott Larson, 1997-00, 48
3. A.J. Schable, 2002-05, 44.5
Career, Sacks
1. A.J. Schable, 2002-05, 27.5
2. Brent Peterson, 1994-97, 21.5
3. Tim Schellhammer, 2000-04, 18
Career, Interceptions
Considered by many as the school's best all-time defensive back, John "Deac" Sanders played six seasons in the NFL with New England and Philadelphia, recording 17 interceptions and returning two for scores (1974, 1978). Sanders was signed by New England as an undrafted free agent in 1974 after starring for Joe Salem's South Dakota teams. Originally from Chicago, he played 60 games in the NFL, including 51 in which he started. At USD he was All-NCC twice (1971, 1972), played a key role on the 1972 team that tied for the NCC league title with a 6-1 record and finishing 9-1 overall. The Coyotes finished the season with a seven-game winning streak and outscored its final two opponents, Minnesota State and North Dakota State, 70-27.
1. Todd Salat, 1984-86, 16
2. Bill Moats, 1976-78, 15
3. John Sanders, 1970-72, 15
Monday, April 4, 2011
Memories Worth Reliving - 2007-08 Women's BB Run
Some memories are worth reliving -- over and over.
After watching what the 2010-11 South Dakota women's basketball team accomplished in 2010-11, I couldn't help but reflect on Coyotes' 2007-08 women's basketball season, which include a memorable postseason run.
Ryun Williams' current Coyote team had a remarkable second half of the season and a 20-11 record, including a historical first, winning the University's first postseason game in DI history.
In Reflection
Smiles form when your Alma Mater, whether it is high school or college, taste success. When someplace that remains part of who you are enjoys winning moments, you bask in the glory. I always pay attention to Gettysburg High School (SD). When they do well, I smile a bit and every now and then, give a "heck yes" to the Battlers. When they fail, as has been the case numerous times in the football playoffs, I also feel some of the anguish that envelopes team members and supporters.
I feel the same way for USD. When the football team had its program-defining win over the Minnesota Gophers last fall, I was watching it on the Big Ten Network. I have a DVD of the game, and pop it in occasionally because that moment was real and special. When they won that game, I did a little jig in my townhouse and spoke with a lot of pride to all my friends and associates, who aren't U grads but were impressed with the win.
Earlier this winter, as I sat in my living room, with my dog Sierra, at my feet, watching the Shawshank Redemption and a bowl of popcorn in front of me, I had the USD website opened up to its live stats link as the Coyotes battled California-Bakersfield in the College Basketball Invitational Tournament. It was postseason basketball, no not the NCAA but still something significant for a program in transition. I was smiling early as USD built a small lead but eventually, I felt a little glum as the tide turned and the Coyotes lost. Season over.
It was a little different feeling than I had three years ago, but in some ways similar. The winning feeling was halted at the end with a loss. While the ending wasn't the Cinderella ride we all hoped for, then and now, what these Coyote women achieved will always be a time and experience to cherish.
Optimism High for Coyote Nation
After watching what the 2010-11 South Dakota women's basketball team accomplished in 2010-11, I couldn't help but reflect on Coyotes' 2007-08 women's basketball season, which include a memorable postseason run.
Ryun Williams' current Coyote team had a remarkable second half of the season and a 20-11 record, including a historical first, winning the University's first postseason game in DI history.
In Reflection
Smiles form when your Alma Mater, whether it is high school or college, taste success. When someplace that remains part of who you are enjoys winning moments, you bask in the glory. I always pay attention to Gettysburg High School (SD). When they do well, I smile a bit and every now and then, give a "heck yes" to the Battlers. When they fail, as has been the case numerous times in the football playoffs, I also feel some of the anguish that envelopes team members and supporters.
I feel the same way for USD. When the football team had its program-defining win over the Minnesota Gophers last fall, I was watching it on the Big Ten Network. I have a DVD of the game, and pop it in occasionally because that moment was real and special. When they won that game, I did a little jig in my townhouse and spoke with a lot of pride to all my friends and associates, who aren't U grads but were impressed with the win.
Earlier this winter, as I sat in my living room, with my dog Sierra, at my feet, watching the Shawshank Redemption and a bowl of popcorn in front of me, I had the USD website opened up to its live stats link as the Coyotes battled California-Bakersfield in the College Basketball Invitational Tournament. It was postseason basketball, no not the NCAA but still something significant for a program in transition. I was smiling early as USD built a small lead but eventually, I felt a little glum as the tide turned and the Coyotes lost. Season over.
It was a little different feeling than I had three years ago, but in some ways similar. The winning feeling was halted at the end with a loss. While the ending wasn't the Cinderella ride we all hoped for, then and now, what these Coyote women achieved will always be a time and experience to cherish.
Optimism High for Coyote Nation
Optimism was high in Coyote Nation for the 2007-08 Coyotes, which was coming off a 22-9 season, including a berth in the national playoffs. Their hopes for a shot at the Elite Eight Division II Championships had ended in the first round of the NCAA DII regional playoffs in Grand Forks, N.D.
The 2006-07 team found out how cruel sports can be. In the semifinals of the NCC Tournament that season, Jeana Hoffman, one of the all-time greats at USD, was hurt and forced to miss the NCC finale against North Dakota and the first round of the NCAA regional.
The Coyotes, although shorthanded, nearly pulled off a win. Sophomore forward Bridget Yoerger scored a career-high 30 points and also grabbed 10 rebounds while Jenna Hoffman had 14 points and seven rebounds with Shannon Daly chipping in 12 points as the Coyotes stayed close till the end. If not for CSP hitting 14-of-28 from three-point range, including six from a reserve, the Coyotes may have moved on. USD was able to take a 60-59 lead with 6:56 to play but was done in by a bevy of big shots from CSP.
While national polls left the Coyotes out of their polls at the start of the 2007-08 season, the USD band would change things and fairly quickly.
Losing - Unacceptable
Early in that fall, while listening to the radio broadcast for the South Dakota women's basketball game, my restive behavior was evident as soft grumbles fell out of my mouth.
After scoring 91 points twice in wins to open the season, USD suffered through shooting woes in falling to Adams State, 83-79. As I sarcastically commented out loud, my colleague across the room, Jake Strait, told me to relax. It was too early to worry about one game, he said. "Yeah, right," I said to myself. "Here we go again, losing a game we should win handily. Why? Why?"
Truth be known, I am a bit self-deprecating about my teams. Not a pretty sight I know. Ask anyone about my passion for the Steelers, or Tigers and especially for the Coyotes, and you will find that I don't take losing very well. I can accept it, and you have too, but I don't like it.
Truth be known, I am a bit self-deprecating about my teams. Not a pretty sight I know. Ask anyone about my passion for the Steelers, or Tigers and especially for the Coyotes, and you will find that I don't take losing very well. I can accept it, and you have too, but I don't like it.
I have been a Coyote fan since early in my teens, while watching Coyote basketball on TV as a teenager. I remember Dick Authier and noted his effort. I also recalled earlier days when Rick Nissen led the Miller Rustlers to a state title against Yankton in 1972 and then Nissen became an All-American at USD.
I was hooked. I began following the Coyotes. As my senior year unfolded, I knew I was headed to South Dakota. I weighed football scholarship offers from Huron and Dakota Wesleyan, and even a 1/2 scholarship from Northern State with my desire for USD, Coyote land won me over.
It made sense, a small town kid going to the state university in a small city. It was the right decision even as my best friends ended up at SDSU in Brookings or Northern State in Aberdeen, S.D.
When I arrived in Vermillion, in my parent's car weighed down by my junk, I knew this was my new home. Brookman Hall was perfect for an impressionable 18-year old. I didn't have a vehicle, not even a stereo, but I had found my place. I made friends fast at Brookman and Julian Hall and later Olson Hall before ending my time at Plum Villa. As I crossed the graduation stage, I felt as if I were flying. I felt proud, a big smile on my face, and in that short 10 seconds it took to cross, the memories of my college days flashed in my mind. As I neared President Chuck Lein those memories were replaced with one thought, don't trip. I didn't.
From that experience, which was regenerated with my Master's degree in 1996, you feel really proud. It is what you feel when you are part of something.
I will always bleed Coyote red. I have a Coyote addiction to be sure.
Imagine with me for a moment, reflecting on when your sports teams have tasted the grandeur of victory (maybe not you Cubs fans).
I was in a packed lounge when the Coyotes dominated Nebraska-Omaha on regional ABC TV and won a league football title in 1978. I was there when the men's basketball team played in two straight Elite Eight Championships in the early 1990s behind the coaching of Dave Boots. I was there for the National Indoor Nationals in the Dome which attracted some of the world's best athletes for track and field competition. I was there when the 2005 football team, resurrected by Ed Meierkort, won an NCC title in 2005 at the DakotaDome. And, I was there when the Coyote women made their championship run three years ago.
The Season
As the season unfolded, It was the beginning of a basketball pilgrimage for a team that set its destination for Kearney, Neb., home of the Women's Elite Eight DII Championships. While they had to circumvent some bumps in the road, the Coyote wagon train made it and with style and class.
The night after an early season loss to Adams State, USD rolled to a 82-66 win over Colorado College with All-American-to-be Jeana Hoffman leading the way with 21 points. It was a milestone win as the Coyotes recorded its 500th win in the program's history, dating back to the 1971-1972 year.
I was in a packed lounge when the Coyotes dominated Nebraska-Omaha on regional ABC TV and won a league football title in 1978. I was there when the men's basketball team played in two straight Elite Eight Championships in the early 1990s behind the coaching of Dave Boots. I was there for the National Indoor Nationals in the Dome which attracted some of the world's best athletes for track and field competition. I was there when the 2005 football team, resurrected by Ed Meierkort, won an NCC title in 2005 at the DakotaDome. And, I was there when the Coyote women made their championship run three years ago.
The Season
As the season unfolded, It was the beginning of a basketball pilgrimage for a team that set its destination for Kearney, Neb., home of the Women's Elite Eight DII Championships. While they had to circumvent some bumps in the road, the Coyote wagon train made it and with style and class.
The night after an early season loss to Adams State, USD rolled to a 82-66 win over Colorado College with All-American-to-be Jeana Hoffman leading the way with 21 points. It was a milestone win as the Coyotes recorded its 500th win in the program's history, dating back to the 1971-1972 year.
Next on the trail was a stop in Maryville, Mo., where USD picked up a 79-56 win over unbeaten Northwest Missouri State as Yoerger had her seventh career double double and Hoffman again cracked 20 points. From there, they kept the wagon rolling. Yoerger had 20 points and 10 rebounds as USD destroyed 22nd-ranked Nebraska-Kearney, 84-51, at the DakotaDome. USD rolled to its fourth straight win in a 76-47 pasting of College of St. Mary's.
The team faced a big obstacle out west but handled California-Dominquez, 59-50, rallying from an 11-point second half deficit. The next night, Jeana Hoffman's 26 points led USD to a 82-66 win over Dixie State as USD improved to 8-1. The Coyotes, unranked at the season's start, finally broke into the top 25 (22nd) in the polls released on December 11th.
As the weather turned colder, the Coyotes were warming up the DakotaDome. A couple of wins later, the Coyotes moved to 11-1 with a 89-53 win over Northern State in Aberdeen. The Coyotes made 14 three-point field goals in 27 attempts in the win.
At Wayne, Neb., the Coyotes faced long odds of winning, trailing 65-63 in the final seconds before a steal and a three-pointer by Jeana Hoffman rescued 19th-ranked USD, which had its first 10-game winning streak since the 2003-04 season.
All this pre-conference winning was nice but in 2006-07, USD also won early then hit the skids by losing two straight home games to start the NCC season. What a difference a year makes.
All this pre-conference winning was nice but in 2006-07, USD also won early then hit the skids by losing two straight home games to start the NCC season. What a difference a year makes.
Led by Jeana Hoffman's 25 points and six three-pointers, the Coyotes defeated Augustana, 85-80, in overtime, in their NCC opener at the Sioux Falls Arena on Jan. 12. On that night, Hoffman surpassed 1,000 points in scoring for her career.
With the win, USD moved up to 10th in the country. But ahead on their trail was a daunting task, the #1 ranked North Dakota Fighting Sioux. The challenge was even greater, USD was playing a team on the road that had beaten them eight straight times.
I, unfortunately, couldn't make the trip. With the Derek Miles and Friends pole vault competition going on in the DakotaDome, I stayed home to help with that big-time event. Yet, as the Coyote women's game started, I opened up my laptop and pulled up the web broadcast offered by UND. Between running down to the Dome floor where hundreds of people were gathered for the pole vault competition, I was continually pulled back to my office to follow the women's basketball team encounter with UND.
It was a memorable afternoon. The opportunity to watch Olympic pole vaulters do their thing in the DakotaDome was rare and probably a once in a lifetime thing. In the vaulting competition, five U.S. Olympians, including some of the best in the U.S. Guys like Brad Walker, Tye Harvey, Jeff Hartwig and Toby Stevenson, along with USD's Derek Miles, were delighting the fans with high wire acts of athleticism.
As the Coyote women stayed with North Dakota, my attention was split. Not only was it breathtaking to watch some of the world's best pole vaulters compete, but the anxiety of the UND-USD game was creating some antsy moments.
As the competition concluded (USD's own Derek Miles and top ranked Brad Walker tied for title), the basketball game, too, was concluding and with some hard-nosed and "ice in the veins" play, the Coyotes emerged victories.
It was a memorable afternoon. The opportunity to watch Olympic pole vaulters do their thing in the DakotaDome was rare and probably a once in a lifetime thing. In the vaulting competition, five U.S. Olympians, including some of the best in the U.S. Guys like Brad Walker, Tye Harvey, Jeff Hartwig and Toby Stevenson, along with USD's Derek Miles, were delighting the fans with high wire acts of athleticism.
As the Coyote women stayed with North Dakota, my attention was split. Not only was it breathtaking to watch some of the world's best pole vaulters compete, but the anxiety of the UND-USD game was creating some antsy moments.
As the competition concluded (USD's own Derek Miles and top ranked Brad Walker tied for title), the basketball game, too, was concluding and with some hard-nosed and "ice in the veins" play, the Coyotes emerged victories.
The win was achieved, in part, by the efforts of the firey Mitchell, S.D., twin sister combination. Twenty points from Jeana Hoffman and 16 points from her sister Jenna, who also had five assists and five rebounds, helped South Dakota defeat #1 North Dakota, 70-67. The Coyotes won its 14th consecutive game and moved to 16-1 which tied the 2002-03 team for the best start in school history. The Coyotes won for the first time in Grand Forks since 2002-03.
After the huge win at North Dakota, USD moved up to #6 in the national rankings and promptly rolled past Nebraska-Omaha, 78-57, and Minnesota-Duluth, 72-39, at the DakotaDome. In the the final of a three-game home stand, USD struggled but rallied to defeat #16 Minnesota State, 73-68. Down 64-60 with 5:35 to play, the Coyotes closed on a 13-4 run to win its 19th game in 20 starts, the best 20-game span in school history. Shannon Daly sparked USD to the win with 16 points including a key basket with 1:15 left in the game.
At Nebraska-Omaha, Jeana Hoffman scored 21 points and the fourth-ranked Coyotes made 13 three-point baskets to take a 78-68 win. The Coyotes improved to 20-1, winning their 18th straight game, which tied the 18-game consecutive wins streak of the 1983-84 team. In a 74-51 win over Minnesota State on Feb. 14, USD made 15 three-point baskets, including 9-of-15 in the second half as USD broke the school record for consecutive wins. In a 67-62 win over St. Cloud State, South Dakota took advantage of a little charity to win. They made a season-high 24 free throws in the win.
With an angry North Dakota coming to town, the Coyotes were tested but fought off the third-ranked Sioux, 76-65, at the friendly confines of the DakotaDome. After UND had tied the game at 54 in the second half, fourth-ranked USD finished on a 22-11 run to sweep the season series for the first time since the 2002-03 season. Five players, led by 15 points from Jeana Hoffman, scored in double figures.
USD won its 22nd straight game and clinched a tie for the NCC crown with a 74-54 win over Minnesota Duluth on the road on Feb. 23. With 16 points, Yoerger became the third member of the Coyotes (Ashley Robinette, Jeana Hoffman ) to crack 1,000 career points.
In their next outing, the third-ranked women's team won the NCC outright by beating rival Augustana, 82-42, at the DakotaDome, improving to 25-1 with its 23rd straight victory. Jeana Hoffman had 12 points, breaking the USD's individual three-point field goal record (89, Shelby Peterson, 1994) with four (92 overall) against the Vikings. South Dakota won its first outright NCC title since the 1984-85 team and the first overall title since 2002-03.
USD ended the regular season with a 74-59 win over St. Cloud State as the Coyotes finished 26-1 and became just the sixth and final team in the NCC history to finish with a 12-0 record. During halftime of the men's game against St. Cloud State, Colin Kapitan, representing the NCC, presented head coach Chad Lavin with the league championship trophy. USD also honored the four seniors Shannon Daly, Ashley Robinette, Jeana Hoffman and Jenna Hoffman.
The Coyotes earned the #1 seed in the NCC Tournament and the opportunity to host the event. After a first round bye, USD upended Minnesota State, 85-74, in the semifinals. It was the third time that they had defeated the Mavericks that season. Jeana Hoffman had her 12th 20 point game of the season, scoring 22 points to lead USD, which improved to 27-1, tying the school record for wins (27-5, 2002-03).
The win set up a North Dakota-South Dakota NCC Tournament final for the second year in a row. In 2006-07 at Grand Forks, the Coyotes hung tough for a while but the Sioux dominated in the final five minutes to take a 72-49 victory. Things were a bit different in 2007-08. For the third time, the third-ranked Coyotes defeated North Dakota, taking a 72-69 win for its first NCC Tournament title in school history.
It was also the first time that the Coyotes had defeated the Sioux three times in a season. Jeana Hoffman had six three-point field goals and 20 points to lead the way. She was named the tournament MVP. Yoerger added 15 points and 12 rebounds while Robinette had 14 points, making 4-of-7 three-point field goals.
For the tournament, Robinette made 7-of-11 from three-point range. Hoffman, Yoerger and Robinette all were named to the all-tournament team. The victory broke an 18-game NCC tournament winning streak by UND, and provided the Coyotes with its 28th win, establishing a school record.
For the tournament, Robinette made 7-of-11 from three-point range. Hoffman, Yoerger and Robinette all were named to the all-tournament team. The victory broke an 18-game NCC tournament winning streak by UND, and provided the Coyotes with its 28th win, establishing a school record.
Selected to host the regional, USD won a defensive battle to open the NCAA Division I playoffs at the DakotaDome. The Coyotes emerged with a 66-55 win over Colorado State-Pueblo as Yoerger had 20 points and freshman Amber Hegge had 16 points. The Coyotes, who struggled through a difficult shooting night, took a 35-23 lead at halftime. Then, back-to-back three pointers from Ashley Robinette with 6:34 to play provided the U with a 59-42 advantage. The win was USD's first in an opening round NCAA Tournament game since the 2002-03 season.
In their Domed facility on the prairie, South Dakota took another step forward with a 59-48 decision over Nebraska-Kearney in a physical semifinal battle. With their second victory for Nebraska-Kearney that season, the Coyotes advanced to the regional final and advanced to the "Sweet 16" for the third time in history. While the Lopers made several runs, USD maintained a safe distance throughout the game. The Coyotes took a 33-25 halftime lead before jumping the margin to 40-27 early in the second half. They led, 47-35, at the 6:07 mark and 53-40 with about four minutes to play.
In history, as adventurers set out to conquer lands, they faced challenges and opportunities, often at the same moment. While sports are not Lewis and Clark life and death explorations, for South Dakota to continue toward its own promised land, they had to exact the courage and commitment to take the next step. To win the regional championship for the first time in school history, USD would need to defeat Minnesota State - Lori Fish's talented squad that the Coyotes had already defeated three times during the season.
On paper, it seemed that USD should run away with the championship. They were unbeaten at home and had won 28 straight games. But earlier that season at the Dome, the Mavericks had tested USD to its limits. The same was expected in the regional final.
In those challenging moments, leadership is required. On that championship night, a small, 5'5 senior stepped up and wouldn't let the Coyotes season end. All those days of practice time in the DakotaDome two years earlier paid off for Shannon Daly and USD. Daly, who had transferred to USD two years earlier from Southwest Minnesota State, led the Coyotes to a win with 21 points, most of them coming on drives to the basket. "Sunshine" shined as South Dakota took a historical step and advanced to its first-ever Elite Eight Championship.
Daly was named the Regional Most Outstanding Player as she delivered time and again for USD which outscored MSU, 10-3, in the first 6:34 of the second half for a 38-30 lead. MSU cut the lead to 38-34 but that was as close as the Mavs would get to the Coyotes. Jenna Hoffman's three-point field goal with six minutes to play gave USD a 46-37 lead and her sister knocked down a three point shot with 4:53 to play for a 52-38 advantage. When Yoerger also hit from long distance and Jenna Hoffman hit a pair of free throws with 2:53 left for a 59-40 lead, the Coyotes were in cruise control, finishing with a 61-49 decision. Daly and Jeana Hoffman were both named to the all-tourney team.
As the final seconds wound down, smiles rolled across the players' faces and the supporters sensed a bit of history taking place.
As Coach Lavin took out his starters, he had a big hug for each of them. I didn't get to see the nets being cut down, I was working with media, handling a postseason press conference with Jake Strait, and making sure to get a story and box score up on the website as soon as possible. As I worked with the media, I couldn't help myself, I couldn't wipe that big smile off my face. It was to stay there for awhile (hasn't left yet).
At the national tournament, USD was pitted against 24th-ranked Washburn in the opening round. In one of the best games of the tournament, Jeana Hoffman scored 27 points as the Coyotes took home an 85-80 double overtime win. USD, which defeated its sixth straight ranked opponent, had to withstand a remarkable performance from Corky Stiger of Washburn, who connected on eight three-point field goals and scored 31 points.
South Dakota trailed 16-10 early but had a 16-7 run to grab 33-26 halftime lead. Washburn, who won the 2005 national title, had a 15-2 run out of the break for a 41-35 advantage with 15:23 to play. The Coyotes answered with a 10-1 run for a 45-42 lead at the 11:30 mark. A layup by Yoerger, who scored 19 points, helped USD to a 56-51 lead.
Stiger made a pair of three point shots in the final two minutes, the last coming with 15 seconds left, to send the game into overtime tied at 63-63. USD took a 73-70 lead late in overtime before Washburn's Jessica Mainz hit a three to knot the score with 15 seconds left. In the second overtime, Jenna Hoffman sank two free throws with 3.3 seconds left to ice the game for the Coyotes, which outscored Washburn, 12-7, in the second overtime and advanced to their first-ever "Final Four."
In the national semifinals, the Coyotes met top-ranked team Delta State which was unbeaten in 33 games. Interestingly the president of Delta State was John Hilpert, who worked for several years at USD and had been my boss. But like all the other ranked teams that met the Coyotes in 2007-08, Delta State would be sent packing. Though I felt bad for John and Pat Hilpert, I would have felt far worse if the Coyotes had fallen.
Led by Jeana Hoffman's 19 points and Amber Hegge's 15, the Coyotes defeated Delta State, 68-58. With the win, the U advanced to the national finals for the first time in history. Interestingly it was 50 years ago that the men's team won its only national collegiate title.
In the win over Delta State, a pair of baskets by Hegge late in the game provided the Coyotes with a 61-58 lead and they hung on for the win. USD, which hit 7-of-8 free throws in the final two minutes to help put the game on ice, limited Delta State to 20 points in the second half.
A berth in the national championship had seemed unlikely a couple of months ago, but this group of Coyotes had done it. After losing to Adams State early, who would have thought that this team would win 31 straight games? Not me - ask Jake.
What the effort typified was that this group of Coyotes were resilient and wore passion and heart on their sleeve. No mountain was too high or obstacle too large for the 2007-08 Coyotes.
On national TV (ESPN 2) and in its first Division II Championship game, South Dakota built a 49-40 lead with 5:52 to play and was on the verge of its ultimate goal. But then Northern Kentucky, unranked coming into the tournament, closed on a 23-9 run to capture a 63-58 decision over the Coyotes. A 31-game winning streak, which began on Nov. 23, 2007, ended in the Kearney, Neb., arena.
A major difference in the game occurred at the foul line where the Norse made 23-of-33 while USD was 13-of-19, a difference of 14 attempted free throws and 10 points. USD, the nation's top three-point shooting team, made just 7-of-30 for 23.3 percent and was just 19-of-59 for 32 percent overall from the field.
Despite one of their worst shooting nights of the season, USD led, 26-23, at halftime and opened the second half on a 12-3 run to lead, 38-26, with 14:30 to play. A 7-0 run by the Norse cut the lead to 38-33. A free throw by Hegge gave USD a 50-45 lead with 4:16 left. Then, Cassie Brannan of Northern Kentucky took over the game. She scored nine straight points to help the Norse to a 54-52 lead with 2:08 to play. Hegge's free throw cut the lead to one (54-53) but that was as close as South Dakota would get. After tourney MVP Angela Healy scored inside, the Coyotes' offense failed them. All season they had made big shots but this time the well was dry.
Jeana Hoffman scored 19 points, while Yoerger secured nine rebounds but it wasn't enough.
As I reflect on that moment, I find the hardest part of that loss was the sullen, exasperated and sad looks on the faces of the Coyote student-athletes. It was heart-breaking. Too come this far only to fall short because a few shots bounded away didn't seem fair.
Yet, in sport, winning and losing are part of the agreement in competition. Only one team ends the season with a win. The other team is left wondering why and what if? The joy of victory is matched with the other side suffering sadness of defeat.
Yet, sport does us all good - it builds character and gives a team identity with each other, with supporters and with the game itself.
Hoffman, who ended the season with 615 points, which was USD's third best points total for a season all-time, and Yoerger were named to the all tournament team. Hoffman, who was named a State Farm All-American, made a school record 127 three-pointers.
While the game was the final for four seniors, it was also for Coach Lavin, who ended with 273 wins at USD and 448 in his career. In his greatest coaching season, Lavin was named the National Coach of the Year - fitting for one of the classy people I have worked with anywhere.
From time to time, I still think of the players on that team - Bridget Yoerger, Ashley Robinette, Shannon Daly and the Hoffman twins, Jeana and Jenna, Maggie Youngberg, Kara Iverson, Natalie Carda, Amber Hegge, Kelli Fargen, Anne Doshier, Kendra Schomer (redshirted), Jasmine Mosley, Annie Roche (redshirted), Amy Robinette and Michelle Dierks, all were unique and warm individuals. Same holds true for the coaching staff -- Chad Lavin, Becky Flynn-Jensen and graduate assistant Jaime Berry.
More than their play on the floor was their actions and friendship off the floor.
When Coach Lavin asked me to his office after the season and said the team wanted me to have one of their championship rings - I was floored. It meant and stills means a great deal to me. Every now and then, I pull out that ring to look at it. Every time, it draws a smile and for a moment, I find myself venturing back to those days. It is a reflection that brings sunshine regardless of whether there are ominous clouds in the sky. I am reminded of a team that carried with it humor, dedication, passion and a big heart.
Often in reflection, you find something. For me, that something is winning doesn't always show up on the scoreboard but is reflected in effort, courage and heart. That is why the 2007-08 team always makes me smile.
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