From the current edition of the Chanticleer:
Get to know: Daniel Adamson
Austin Faulkner
Issue date: 2/18/10 Section: Sports
James Adamson, that name is claimed by the Jacksonville State University starting centerfielder, who has started in 145 games for the Gamecocks since his collegiate debut in 2007.
Adamson is the son of Randy and Dawn Adamson. He has two older siblings, a brother, Ben and a sister, Erin. He lists his favorite baseball icon as Nolan Ryan and his favorite team as the Atlanta Braves. He is currently majoring in physical education. The Springville native attended Clay-Chalkville High School where in 2003, he helped Jeff Mauldin's Cougars to the State Championship and was named the team's Best Defensive Player his junior and senior years. He played in the North vs. South All-Star game and the East vs. West All-Star game. He also attended the Alabama Top 100 Showcase.
This will be Adamson's fourth year playing for the JSU squad and he is expected to start in centerfield. He has continued to improve his game both offensively and defensively and is a tremendous player up the middle because of his ball-tracking ability. He earned OVC Player of the Week and OVC All-Freshman honors as a freshman in 2007 and All-OVC second-team as a junior in 2009. In his collegiate career, Adamson has had 31 doubles, 6 triples and 18 homeruns.
He looks to continue his success in 2010 and complete his career as a Gamecock with a great finish, so be sure to come out and support Adamson and the 2010 JSU Gamecocks' team.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
OVC Softball
Here's a recent blog from ovcinsider.blogspot.com, with an interesting view of the conference.
The OVC is a Softball Conference
People may think that the Ohio Valley Conference is a basketball conference maybe even a football conference but it’s really a softball conference.
Softball has been the Ohio Valley Conference’s most successful sport in recent years. Over the last three years an OVC team has won at least two games in the NCAA Tournament. Last season was the first time that the conference had two teams in the tourney with UT Martin earning the league’s automatic bid and Jacksonville State getting at-large selection.
The Gamecocks also became the first OVC team to advance to the Super Regional. In addition to winning games in the NCAA tournament, Jacksonville State received votes in two preseason polls and senior Niki Prior has been named to Amateur Softball Association's Top 50 Watch List for the 2010 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year.
Be on the look out for another exciting year of OVC softball as the season gets started today.
Posted by Ohio Valley Conference Blog at 9:07 AM
The OVC is a Softball Conference
People may think that the Ohio Valley Conference is a basketball conference maybe even a football conference but it’s really a softball conference.
Softball has been the Ohio Valley Conference’s most successful sport in recent years. Over the last three years an OVC team has won at least two games in the NCAA Tournament. Last season was the first time that the conference had two teams in the tourney with UT Martin earning the league’s automatic bid and Jacksonville State getting at-large selection.
The Gamecocks also became the first OVC team to advance to the Super Regional. In addition to winning games in the NCAA tournament, Jacksonville State received votes in two preseason polls and senior Niki Prior has been named to Amateur Softball Association's Top 50 Watch List for the 2010 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year.
Be on the look out for another exciting year of OVC softball as the season gets started today.
Posted by Ohio Valley Conference Blog at 9:07 AM
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Coach Jimmy Ogle at Marshall County Alumni Chapter Dinner
The Marshall County Alumni Chapter met tonight in Guntersville. Coach Jimmy Ogle was on hand to speak.
Coach Ogle gave the crowd an overview of the recruiting class, highlighting the character, grades, and leadership ability this group brings to JSU's football team. He also mentioned (with a smile) that the speed and football ability will help too. Ogle mentioned that the recruiting class includes 11 players from Alabama, 3 junior college transfers, 3 from GA and 2 from FL. Coach Ogle mentioned local student-athlete, Chase Williams from Boaz, to the crowd. Respectful, leader, thoughtful, and determined were some of the words people that know Chase used to describe him tonight. Ogle also mentioned that Chase Williams was just named the Gadsden Times Defensive Player of the Year. Coach Ogle also told the alumni chapter about Alabama's Mr. Football, Coty Blanchard, JSU's first Mr. Football. It sounds like anyone following high school football this year knows about Coty.
Coach Ogle asked that we put these dates on our calendars: Spring practice begins March 5. Spring Break will give them a week off, but they will start back right after spring break, and will have 10 more practices. There will be some Saturday scrimmages for people to come watch. Fan Day and the Spring Game will be April 10th. The game is scheduled to start at 3 PM. Come early for fan day, to get pictures and autographs of one of the most talented teams we've had on campus ever.
Coach Ogle opened the floor for questions. First one was "Who is going to play quarterback?" Ogle responded that "we have several guys that can play. Marquez Ivory has the inside track. He is a great leader in the huddle, and people listen to him. He is talented and a very good passer. He started against Ga. Tech last season. Thomas Darrah is a transfer from Alabama. He's in the process of getting himself ready for the season, and wants to lead the team. He's got the ability, and can be an important player. Then there's Coty Blanchard. He's Mr. Football, and we'll see what he can do." After that answer, many are wondering if Jimmy will be running for political office soon.
Another question came up about the schedule...who do we play first, when is that game, etc.
Our first game is against Ole Miss on September 4th. Their QB left school early, and they don't have their top running back either. We're trying to determine just who will play for them. Our next game is against UT Chattanooga. We need to beat them. It's the first game in our "new" stadium. It's a long time rivalry. We must be ready. (Side note here...Chattanooga's recruiting class was ranked in the top 10 in FCS football again this year. I'm not sure how the classes are graded. Someone could use some help. I believe this is 3 out of the last 4 classes.)The week after the Chattanooga game is the GA State game in Atlanta. They are putting a good program together over there, and this is a great stage to show what JSU can do. Exciting opportunity to play in the Georgia Dome. The rest of the games are confernece games, 4 home and 4 away.
Coach Ogle added one more thing before he was through. This team played through a tough scenario this past season. There was nothing to hope for. We were not going to be in the playoffs no matter what. But our 12 seniors led this group to an outstanding season, almost beating FL State, and having the best team by record in the OVC. These guys did it becuase they wanted it. They did it because of their character, and they did it because they are a team. If this team was in a building that was on fire, they would not stop until everyone got out. They do it together as a team and have strong team leadership. They finish the job.
We had this event at Papa Dubi's Cajun Restaurant in Guntersville. The food was terrific. If you are planning to be here in Guntersville anytime soon, you should plan to eat here. We had a lot of food, and great service.
A great job by the Marshall County Alumni Chapter, thanks to the Chapter President, Katie Boggus. Thank you for having us tonight. We really enjoyed talking with the good JSU people of Marshall County. If you were at the meeting and have any thoughts you would like to add, please click on Add Comments below and let us know.
Photo of Coach Ogle courtesy of Steve Latham, Jacksonville State University
Monday, February 15, 2010
JSU Softball
After getting two wins after a snow delay in Kennesaw, GA over the weekend, the softball team is 2-0. Both were exciting 1-run games, as JSU scored seven straight runs to defeat Indiana 7-6.
This Thursday, February 18th, will be the ONLY opportunity to see the softball team play in Jacksonville for the next month. Their next home game would be March 20th. Come out and see an exciting game and cheer the team on to a win against SIU-Edwardsville at 3PM. It's the best deal around, as admission is free.
One note...the Chattahoochee Valley Alumni Chapter will have a cookout prior to the game on 2/24 as JSU visits Auburn. Go to JSU's Alumni Events page for more information.
This Thursday, February 18th, will be the ONLY opportunity to see the softball team play in Jacksonville for the next month. Their next home game would be March 20th. Come out and see an exciting game and cheer the team on to a win against SIU-Edwardsville at 3PM. It's the best deal around, as admission is free.
One note...the Chattahoochee Valley Alumni Chapter will have a cookout prior to the game on 2/24 as JSU visits Auburn. Go to JSU's Alumni Events page for more information.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Blanchard and Williams Rack Up Honors
Here is an excerpt from the Gadsdentimes.com naming JSU signee Coty Blanchard Area Offensive Player of the year and JSU signee Chase Williams Area Defensive Player of the Year. How bout that!
During the past two years, Coty Blanchard has won a lot. The Cherokee County quarterback amassed a 29-1 record during his final two seasons with the Warriors, including a perfect 15-0 mark and Class 4A state title in 2009.
Related Links:
County's Finest: Ozmint, Smith, Carter, Garmon receive individual honors
Nine Titans headline All-Etowah team
Cherokee County, Piedmont dominate All-Area squad
Today's edition embraces change
By throwing for 2,915 yards and 35 touchdowns and rushing for another 1,161 yards and 20 scores, Blanchard racked up the individual honors as well. Among those honors were the 4A championship game MVP, 4A first-team all-state, the 4A Back of the Year and, most recently, the state’s Mr. Football Award.
Blanchard’s most recent accomplishment came today in the form of The Gadsden Times’ All-Area Offensive Player of the Year award. Blanchard led a standout group on the All-Area squad that includes Boaz linebacker Chase Williams, the Defensive Player of the Year; Piedmont’s Chase Childers, the Most Valuable Player; and Piedmont coach Steve Smith, the All-Area Coach of the Year.
“Coty is never scared to win,” Cherokee County coach Tripp Curry said. “I think when you go into a state championship or a semifinal game some people think, ‘Man, can we really win this thing?’ He’s never scared. He’s cool, calm and collected in every situation.
“I think he needs to play Texas Hold ’em. I think he’d make more money playing Texas Hold ’em than he ever would in sports.”
Blanchard will continue playing football at Jacksonville State after signing to play for the Gamecocks earlier this month.
Joining Blanchard next season at Jacksonville State will be Williams, who racked up 128 tackles this season for Boaz in nine games, an average of more than 14 per contest. He also tallied nine sacks.
Boaz coach Drew Noles called Williams the best linebacker he’s coached in his 10 years with the Pirates. Williams’ biggest game this season came when Boaz knocked off Fort Payne in a 5A, Area 13 contest. Williams totaled 22 tackles in the win.
In capturing the 3A state title, Piedmont had a number of representatives on the All-Area team, including MVP Chase Childers and Coach of the Year Steve Smith.
Childers’ leadership helped propel the Bulldogs the state championship with a 35-28 victory over Cordova.Williams was the MVP of that game, rushing for more than 100 yards and tossing a pair of touchdown passes. For the season, he surpassed 1,000 yards both rushing and passing and chipped in on the defensive side of the ball in the Piedmont secondary.
In his fourth season with Piedmont, Smith led the Bulldogs to the first state title in school history. Smith inherited a Piedmont program in 2006 that had not reached the state playoffs in the previous six seasons and had just one playoff appearance in the previous 11 years.
The Bulldogs won seven games in Smith’s first year before posting 10 wins in both 2007 and 2008.
His squad went 13-2 in 2009. The only losses were to 4A state champion Cherokee County and Leeds. The Bulldogs got a measure of revenge against Leeds, though, knocking off the Green Wave in the state semifinals to earn the trip to the state title game.
During the past two years, Coty Blanchard has won a lot. The Cherokee County quarterback amassed a 29-1 record during his final two seasons with the Warriors, including a perfect 15-0 mark and Class 4A state title in 2009.
Related Links:
County's Finest: Ozmint, Smith, Carter, Garmon receive individual honors
Nine Titans headline All-Etowah team
Cherokee County, Piedmont dominate All-Area squad
Today's edition embraces change
By throwing for 2,915 yards and 35 touchdowns and rushing for another 1,161 yards and 20 scores, Blanchard racked up the individual honors as well. Among those honors were the 4A championship game MVP, 4A first-team all-state, the 4A Back of the Year and, most recently, the state’s Mr. Football Award.
Blanchard’s most recent accomplishment came today in the form of The Gadsden Times’ All-Area Offensive Player of the Year award. Blanchard led a standout group on the All-Area squad that includes Boaz linebacker Chase Williams, the Defensive Player of the Year; Piedmont’s Chase Childers, the Most Valuable Player; and Piedmont coach Steve Smith, the All-Area Coach of the Year.
“Coty is never scared to win,” Cherokee County coach Tripp Curry said. “I think when you go into a state championship or a semifinal game some people think, ‘Man, can we really win this thing?’ He’s never scared. He’s cool, calm and collected in every situation.
“I think he needs to play Texas Hold ’em. I think he’d make more money playing Texas Hold ’em than he ever would in sports.”
Blanchard will continue playing football at Jacksonville State after signing to play for the Gamecocks earlier this month.
Joining Blanchard next season at Jacksonville State will be Williams, who racked up 128 tackles this season for Boaz in nine games, an average of more than 14 per contest. He also tallied nine sacks.
Boaz coach Drew Noles called Williams the best linebacker he’s coached in his 10 years with the Pirates. Williams’ biggest game this season came when Boaz knocked off Fort Payne in a 5A, Area 13 contest. Williams totaled 22 tackles in the win.
In capturing the 3A state title, Piedmont had a number of representatives on the All-Area team, including MVP Chase Childers and Coach of the Year Steve Smith.
Childers’ leadership helped propel the Bulldogs the state championship with a 35-28 victory over Cordova.Williams was the MVP of that game, rushing for more than 100 yards and tossing a pair of touchdown passes. For the season, he surpassed 1,000 yards both rushing and passing and chipped in on the defensive side of the ball in the Piedmont secondary.
In his fourth season with Piedmont, Smith led the Bulldogs to the first state title in school history. Smith inherited a Piedmont program in 2006 that had not reached the state playoffs in the previous six seasons and had just one playoff appearance in the previous 11 years.
The Bulldogs won seven games in Smith’s first year before posting 10 wins in both 2007 and 2008.
His squad went 13-2 in 2009. The only losses were to 4A state champion Cherokee County and Leeds. The Bulldogs got a measure of revenge against Leeds, though, knocking off the Green Wave in the state semifinals to earn the trip to the state title game.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
First Pitch Luncheon
The First Pitch Luncheon, kicking off the baseball and softball season was today. We heard from Coach McGinnis and Coach Case speak about their teams and the upcoming season.
Comments from Coach McGinnis included...
We have 8 players returning and 11 newcomers this season. Ashley Eliasson is our only returning starting pitcher. We have 4 seniors; Chrissy O'Neal, Hillary Downs, Nikki Prier, and Mary Beth Ledbetter. They will provide excellent leadership this year. They are all great students, with GPA's over 3.5.
Last season was a magical season. JSU is picked to win the OVC this season. JSU will be a team that other schools will measure themselves by this year. With 11 newcomers, we are a new team, but other schools respect us, and will be trying their best against us.
There are only two schools in the country where the softball team coaching staff all graduated from the school where they coach - JSU and UCLA. Head Coach Jana McGinnis and Assistants Mark Wisener and Julie Boland all graduated from JSU.
Comments from Coach Case included...
The baseball team is picked to finish second in the OVC this season. Last season was a little disappointing. We barely made the OVC tournament, and finished second in tournament play. We had our sights set on going to Regionals last season. Injuries played a big part. We hope to stay healthy this season.
We are excited to have Bert Smith active again. He was injured all of last season. We are not a young team this season. We have 8 seniors. Sam Eberle and Kyle Bluestein were Freshman All-American last year. We expect a lot from them. Todd Cunningham had a great season in the Cape Cod league. Look for good things from him. Bill Henke is one of the best relief pitchers in the league. We have set high goals for this season.
We have 31 home games this season, the most since I have been here at JSU. We're looking forward to playing in front of the home crowd.
Comments from Coach McGinnis included...
We have 8 players returning and 11 newcomers this season. Ashley Eliasson is our only returning starting pitcher. We have 4 seniors; Chrissy O'Neal, Hillary Downs, Nikki Prier, and Mary Beth Ledbetter. They will provide excellent leadership this year. They are all great students, with GPA's over 3.5.
Last season was a magical season. JSU is picked to win the OVC this season. JSU will be a team that other schools will measure themselves by this year. With 11 newcomers, we are a new team, but other schools respect us, and will be trying their best against us.
There are only two schools in the country where the softball team coaching staff all graduated from the school where they coach - JSU and UCLA. Head Coach Jana McGinnis and Assistants Mark Wisener and Julie Boland all graduated from JSU.
Comments from Coach Case included...
The baseball team is picked to finish second in the OVC this season. Last season was a little disappointing. We barely made the OVC tournament, and finished second in tournament play. We had our sights set on going to Regionals last season. Injuries played a big part. We hope to stay healthy this season.
We are excited to have Bert Smith active again. He was injured all of last season. We are not a young team this season. We have 8 seniors. Sam Eberle and Kyle Bluestein were Freshman All-American last year. We expect a lot from them. Todd Cunningham had a great season in the Cape Cod league. Look for good things from him. Bill Henke is one of the best relief pitchers in the league. We have set high goals for this season.
We have 31 home games this season, the most since I have been here at JSU. We're looking forward to playing in front of the home crowd.
JSU represented on Baseball Preseason All-OVC Team
2010 OVC Preseason All-OVC Team
Preseason OVC Co-Player of the Year: Drew Lee, Morehead State
Preseason OVC Co-Player of the Year: Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky
Preseason OVC Co-Pitcher of the Year: Chris Craycraft, Murray State
Preseason OVC Co-Pitcher of the Year: Josh Mueller, Eastern Illinois
C - Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri
1B - Wes Cunningham, Murray State
2B - Bert Smith, Jacksonville State
SS - Drew Lee, Morehead State
3B - Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky
OF - Daniel Hill, Murray State
OF - J.D. Ashbrook, Morehead State
OF - Daniel Adamson, Jacksonville State
DH - Jason Laws, Murray State
UT - Richie Derbak, Eastern Illinois
SP - Mike Recchia, Eastern Illinois
SP - Chris Craycraft, Murray State
SP - Lee Henry, Tennessee Tech
RP - Bill Henke, Jacksonville State
Preseason OVC Co-Player of the Year: Drew Lee, Morehead State
Preseason OVC Co-Player of the Year: Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky
Preseason OVC Co-Pitcher of the Year: Chris Craycraft, Murray State
Preseason OVC Co-Pitcher of the Year: Josh Mueller, Eastern Illinois
C - Jim Klocke, Southeast Missouri
1B - Wes Cunningham, Murray State
2B - Bert Smith, Jacksonville State
SS - Drew Lee, Morehead State
3B - Jayson Langfels, Eastern Kentucky
OF - Daniel Hill, Murray State
OF - J.D. Ashbrook, Morehead State
OF - Daniel Adamson, Jacksonville State
DH - Jason Laws, Murray State
UT - Richie Derbak, Eastern Illinois
SP - Mike Recchia, Eastern Illinois
SP - Chris Craycraft, Murray State
SP - Lee Henry, Tennessee Tech
RP - Bill Henke, Jacksonville State
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
JSU Signee Jeremy Nicholson
Here is a great article from the BrewtonStandard.com on JSU signee Jeremy Nicholson. Nicholson was a Rivals 3 Star Player that had offers from many bigger schools. He joins WS Neal grads Cory Freeman and Justin Howard on the team.
WSN’s Nicholson signs football scholarship
Adam Robinson | The Brewton Standard A host of family, friends, teachers, faculty, and coaches were in attendance as W.S. Neal High School senior Eagle football player Jeremy Nicholson signed a football scholarship to play at Jacksonville State University Thursday. Nicholson originally signed on Wednesday, which was National Signing Day, but a ceremony was held Thursday at the school library. At the signing were front from left, Nicholson’s mother Betty Nicholson, Nicholson, grandmother Bernadine Betts, and grandfather Eugene Betts. Back from left, W.S. Neal head football coach and athletic director Kevin Jordan, coach Coy Campbell, coach Dewan Salter, coach Jeff Haney, coach Derek Roberts, and coach Robbie Grace.
By Adam Robinson
sports editor
Published:
Monday, February 8, 2010 10:10 AM CST
W.S. Neal High School senior football player Jeremy Nicholson signed his letter of intent Thursday to play football for the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks.
Nicholson, a four-year football player at the school, is also a member of the basketball team and track team. He posted 639 yards on 75 rushes his senior season despite missing a couple of games due to injury. Nicholson had an average of 8.5 rushing yards per carry and scored nine of the Eagles 14 rushing touchdowns during the 2009 season and 17 total.
Along with running back, Nicholson was kick and punt returner where he had several runbacks for touchdown and caught six passes this season at running back for 36 total yards.
Nicholson was a 2008 state champion on the Eagle track team as a hurdler.
“I feel really good about signing the scholarship,” Nicholson said. “Jacksonville is not really a big town and I like the size of the town. I feel like I have worked really hard to earn this and I feel really good about it.”
Nicholson said Jacksonville State has plans to play wide receiver.
“I will play there, but they will probably move me around a lot,” Nicholson said. “Coach asked me how I liked running back and he said they would probably move me around just to get me a lot of touches and looks with the ball.”
First year head football coach Kevin Jordan said Nicholson was a very instrumental part in the Eagle football team in a lot of ways.
“First and foremost, he has been a leader on and off the field,” Jordan said. “He has always been a very good student and his academic side of it has been very important to him. So not only has he been a leader on the field, but in the classroom as well. I can honestly say that he has been the hardest worker that we have had.
“I am talking about from the weight room to practice, he works so hard and more than anyone I have every been around.”
Jordan said that in practice sometimes, you have certain kids that will pick it up or to go full speed on their reps and that kind of thing and that has never been an issue with Jeremy.
“He has always a leader in that respect and always goes full speed,” Jordan said. “It is good when the guy you are counting on is one of those players. So, he has always been that type of player ever since we got him in the ninth grade.
“Everything that he has accomplished, he has deserved it. So we are very proud of him.”
From his sophomore season to his senior season, Nicholson totaled 131 rushes for 868 and 10 touchdowns and totaled 61 catches for 950 yards and 10 carries.
According to Jacksonville State University’s athletic website, head football coach Jack Crowe called the 2010 Jacksonville State University signees the best he has ever signed.
“We’re very excited about the class that we’ve signed,” Crowe said on the website. “We feel like we’ve met all our needs for next season and the years to follow with this talented group of recruits.”
Along with W.S. Neal’s Nicholson, the Gamecocks signed the 2009 Mr. Football from the state of Alabama Coty Blanchard from class 4A state champion Cherokee County.
Jacksonville State finished with the best record in the Ohio Valley Conference with an 8-3 record last season and finished with a final national ranking of 16th.
Nicholson joins Cory Freeman and Justin Howard as other W.S. Neal High School Eagles who have went on to play with the Gamecocks.
WSN’s Nicholson signs football scholarship
Adam Robinson | The Brewton Standard A host of family, friends, teachers, faculty, and coaches were in attendance as W.S. Neal High School senior Eagle football player Jeremy Nicholson signed a football scholarship to play at Jacksonville State University Thursday. Nicholson originally signed on Wednesday, which was National Signing Day, but a ceremony was held Thursday at the school library. At the signing were front from left, Nicholson’s mother Betty Nicholson, Nicholson, grandmother Bernadine Betts, and grandfather Eugene Betts. Back from left, W.S. Neal head football coach and athletic director Kevin Jordan, coach Coy Campbell, coach Dewan Salter, coach Jeff Haney, coach Derek Roberts, and coach Robbie Grace.
By Adam Robinson
sports editor
Published:
Monday, February 8, 2010 10:10 AM CST
W.S. Neal High School senior football player Jeremy Nicholson signed his letter of intent Thursday to play football for the Jacksonville State University Gamecocks.
Nicholson, a four-year football player at the school, is also a member of the basketball team and track team. He posted 639 yards on 75 rushes his senior season despite missing a couple of games due to injury. Nicholson had an average of 8.5 rushing yards per carry and scored nine of the Eagles 14 rushing touchdowns during the 2009 season and 17 total.
Along with running back, Nicholson was kick and punt returner where he had several runbacks for touchdown and caught six passes this season at running back for 36 total yards.
Nicholson was a 2008 state champion on the Eagle track team as a hurdler.
“I feel really good about signing the scholarship,” Nicholson said. “Jacksonville is not really a big town and I like the size of the town. I feel like I have worked really hard to earn this and I feel really good about it.”
Nicholson said Jacksonville State has plans to play wide receiver.
“I will play there, but they will probably move me around a lot,” Nicholson said. “Coach asked me how I liked running back and he said they would probably move me around just to get me a lot of touches and looks with the ball.”
First year head football coach Kevin Jordan said Nicholson was a very instrumental part in the Eagle football team in a lot of ways.
“First and foremost, he has been a leader on and off the field,” Jordan said. “He has always been a very good student and his academic side of it has been very important to him. So not only has he been a leader on the field, but in the classroom as well. I can honestly say that he has been the hardest worker that we have had.
“I am talking about from the weight room to practice, he works so hard and more than anyone I have every been around.”
Jordan said that in practice sometimes, you have certain kids that will pick it up or to go full speed on their reps and that kind of thing and that has never been an issue with Jeremy.
“He has always a leader in that respect and always goes full speed,” Jordan said. “It is good when the guy you are counting on is one of those players. So, he has always been that type of player ever since we got him in the ninth grade.
“Everything that he has accomplished, he has deserved it. So we are very proud of him.”
From his sophomore season to his senior season, Nicholson totaled 131 rushes for 868 and 10 touchdowns and totaled 61 catches for 950 yards and 10 carries.
According to Jacksonville State University’s athletic website, head football coach Jack Crowe called the 2010 Jacksonville State University signees the best he has ever signed.
“We’re very excited about the class that we’ve signed,” Crowe said on the website. “We feel like we’ve met all our needs for next season and the years to follow with this talented group of recruits.”
Along with W.S. Neal’s Nicholson, the Gamecocks signed the 2009 Mr. Football from the state of Alabama Coty Blanchard from class 4A state champion Cherokee County.
Jacksonville State finished with the best record in the Ohio Valley Conference with an 8-3 record last season and finished with a final national ranking of 16th.
Nicholson joins Cory Freeman and Justin Howard as other W.S. Neal High School Eagles who have went on to play with the Gamecocks.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Perrilloux Boosts Stock
Here is an excerpt from an Article by the Sporting News.com which identifed Ryan Perrilloux as one of the lead players boosting his draft stock due at the Texas v. the Nation All Star Game:
Texas vs. the Nation Dish: QBs Crompton, Perrilloux boost NFL draft stock
Russ Lande
Archive Email Russ Lande Comments (1) More
Login or register to post comments Printer-friendly version Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010 - 2:17 a.m. ET
After the Texas squad's 36-17 victory Saturday in the Texas vs. The Nation all-star game, Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts identified the players who helped their draft status the most this past week in El Pa
Ryan Perrilloux, QB, Jacksonville State
He showed he can make all the throws. Although he wasn't consistent with his accuracy, he showed excellent athleticism, good pocket presence and the ability to throw on the run with good velocity. Coaches said he worked hard in the game-planning process and to improve his technique and delivery. Perrilloux's solid week will help quash concerns about his maturity and likely increase his draft stock.
Texas vs. the Nation Dish: QBs Crompton, Perrilloux boost NFL draft stock
Russ Lande
Archive Email Russ Lande Comments (1) More
Login or register to post comments Printer-friendly version Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010 - 2:17 a.m. ET
After the Texas squad's 36-17 victory Saturday in the Texas vs. The Nation all-star game, Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts identified the players who helped their draft status the most this past week in El Pa
Ryan Perrilloux, QB, Jacksonville State
He showed he can make all the throws. Although he wasn't consistent with his accuracy, he showed excellent athleticism, good pocket presence and the ability to throw on the run with good velocity. Coaches said he worked hard in the game-planning process and to improve his technique and delivery. Perrilloux's solid week will help quash concerns about his maturity and likely increase his draft stock.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Chase Williams Article
Sand Mountain Reporter.com reports Chase Williams signing with JSU.
Chase's dream comes true
By Shannon J. Allen
The Reporter
Published February 6, 2010
Boaz senior Chase Williams woke up Wednesday morning to one of the biggest days of his football career.
“It was a pretty nice feeling waking up knowing that I had a scholarship waiting on me at Boaz,” said Williams, the two-time defensive most valuable player in Marshall County.
Wednesday afternoon, Williams put his signature on a letter-of-intent to Jacksonville State, making good on the verbal commitment he gave the Gamecocks last fall.
Head coach Jack Crowe said the 2010 Jacksonville State signees are the best he has ever signed.
“We’re very excited about the class that we’ve signed,” Crowe said in a statement.
“We feel like we’ve met all our needs for next season and the years to follow with this talented group of recruits.”
Williams will have an opportunity to make an impact as a freshman.
“Whenever I went down there on my official visit, me and Coach Crowe talked and he said that me and him both would know if I needed to be redshirted or not,” Williams said.
“So, I can probably decide if I want to be redshirted or not.”
Max Thurmond coaches outside linebackers for the Gamecocks, and Williams said Thurmond wants him to play the “bandit” position in JSU’s “30” scheme.
Jacksonville State, which finished with the best record in the Ohio Valley Conference with an 8-3 mark and a final national ranking of 16th in 2009, is scheduled to begin spring practice on March 3 and will play its annual spring game on April 10.
Williams described his scholarship as a dream come true, especially in light of the fact he almost gave up football before the start of his sophomore season.
“Coach (Jeff) Johnson said before this I had to buy him a steak, because he and (Head) Coach (Drew) Noles are the ones who talked me into playing,” Williams said. “I said, ‘Look, I’ll buy you three steaks.’”
Johnson now serves as assistant principal at Boaz Middle School.
One of Williams’ special memories from his prep career is something Noles told him about his performance at linebacker.
“Coach always told me that I was the person who never gave up on a play. If they’re inbounds, I’m always going to get them,” he said.
“Just being on the team and having the coaches that we had, just really like Christian coaches that we had, was special.
“It was just a good impact on our lives how Coach Noles was and how all our coaches were, and that’s going to impact me throughout college.
“Every night it was just fun. The fans were crazy. Even if we lost, our teammates would pick us up and stuff.
“It was always a fun game, and then beating Albertville seven times (in a row), that’s even better just to say that.”
Williams was one of three Pirates to sign Wednesday. Teammates Drew Phillips (BYU) and John Coby (Faulkner) also participated in the ceremony in the BHS library.
“I think Coach Noles said today that this is the first time three people have ever signed in one day,” Williams said.
“That’s a big deal, and it shows what our athletic ability is coming through this program. It’s just the athletes coming through, and then there’s more coming up that will probably be better than us.”
Chase's dream comes true
By Shannon J. Allen
The Reporter
Published February 6, 2010
Boaz senior Chase Williams woke up Wednesday morning to one of the biggest days of his football career.
“It was a pretty nice feeling waking up knowing that I had a scholarship waiting on me at Boaz,” said Williams, the two-time defensive most valuable player in Marshall County.
Wednesday afternoon, Williams put his signature on a letter-of-intent to Jacksonville State, making good on the verbal commitment he gave the Gamecocks last fall.
Head coach Jack Crowe said the 2010 Jacksonville State signees are the best he has ever signed.
“We’re very excited about the class that we’ve signed,” Crowe said in a statement.
“We feel like we’ve met all our needs for next season and the years to follow with this talented group of recruits.”
Williams will have an opportunity to make an impact as a freshman.
“Whenever I went down there on my official visit, me and Coach Crowe talked and he said that me and him both would know if I needed to be redshirted or not,” Williams said.
“So, I can probably decide if I want to be redshirted or not.”
Max Thurmond coaches outside linebackers for the Gamecocks, and Williams said Thurmond wants him to play the “bandit” position in JSU’s “30” scheme.
Jacksonville State, which finished with the best record in the Ohio Valley Conference with an 8-3 mark and a final national ranking of 16th in 2009, is scheduled to begin spring practice on March 3 and will play its annual spring game on April 10.
Williams described his scholarship as a dream come true, especially in light of the fact he almost gave up football before the start of his sophomore season.
“Coach (Jeff) Johnson said before this I had to buy him a steak, because he and (Head) Coach (Drew) Noles are the ones who talked me into playing,” Williams said. “I said, ‘Look, I’ll buy you three steaks.’”
Johnson now serves as assistant principal at Boaz Middle School.
One of Williams’ special memories from his prep career is something Noles told him about his performance at linebacker.
“Coach always told me that I was the person who never gave up on a play. If they’re inbounds, I’m always going to get them,” he said.
“Just being on the team and having the coaches that we had, just really like Christian coaches that we had, was special.
“It was just a good impact on our lives how Coach Noles was and how all our coaches were, and that’s going to impact me throughout college.
“Every night it was just fun. The fans were crazy. Even if we lost, our teammates would pick us up and stuff.
“It was always a fun game, and then beating Albertville seven times (in a row), that’s even better just to say that.”
Williams was one of three Pirates to sign Wednesday. Teammates Drew Phillips (BYU) and John Coby (Faulkner) also participated in the ceremony in the BHS library.
“I think Coach Noles said today that this is the first time three people have ever signed in one day,” Williams said.
“That’s a big deal, and it shows what our athletic ability is coming through this program. It’s just the athletes coming through, and then there’s more coming up that will probably be better than us.”
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Armani Williams Article
Here is an article from the Daily News in Florida on JSU signee Armani Williams
Navarre's Williams lands with Jacksonville State
February 03, 2010 6:05 PM
Travis Downey
Daily News
NAVARRE — Armani Williams knew that Wednesday would be a day he wouldn’t soon forget the moment he awoke. But shortly after he arrived for class at Navarre, everything changed.
After originally planning to sign his letter of intent to play college football at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Williams, Navarre’s hulking defensive lineman, received some good news as his original first love, Jacksonville State, had decided to offer a full scholarship.
Just like that, Williams was a Gamecock.
Click here to view a Photo Gallery of Williams' signing.
“I had hoped they would (offer) but they waited,” Williams said. “I had told myself I was going to Pine Bluff and I was okay with that … I loved it there too, but the big difference is my whole dream was to play top-notch, championship football and when I got to Jacksonville State, it was a no-brainer at the end of the day.”
As a senior, Williams registered 55 tackles with four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, five tackles for a loss and four quarterback sacks, a stat that currently ranks tied for second all-time in Navarre football history.
Perhaps just as importantly, Raiders coach Chad Lashley credited Williams for becoming both the vocal and physical leader Navarre needed as it closed the season by winning three of its final five games.
“He really matured and played with great effort his senior year,” Lashley said. “The biggest thing he brought to the table was his effort and leadership. That was his greatest impact.”
As friends, family and teammates filed into the Navarre library, Williams called his signing day an opportunity for him to thank those who helped him reach a lifelong goal.
“The way I look at it is, this is due to the great coaching I’ve had and the support of everybody,” Williams said. “It’s my way of saying, ‘We all made it,’ it wasn’t just me.”
Navarre's Williams lands with Jacksonville State
February 03, 2010 6:05 PM
Travis Downey
Daily News
NAVARRE — Armani Williams knew that Wednesday would be a day he wouldn’t soon forget the moment he awoke. But shortly after he arrived for class at Navarre, everything changed.
After originally planning to sign his letter of intent to play college football at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Williams, Navarre’s hulking defensive lineman, received some good news as his original first love, Jacksonville State, had decided to offer a full scholarship.
Just like that, Williams was a Gamecock.
Click here to view a Photo Gallery of Williams' signing.
“I had hoped they would (offer) but they waited,” Williams said. “I had told myself I was going to Pine Bluff and I was okay with that … I loved it there too, but the big difference is my whole dream was to play top-notch, championship football and when I got to Jacksonville State, it was a no-brainer at the end of the day.”
As a senior, Williams registered 55 tackles with four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, five tackles for a loss and four quarterback sacks, a stat that currently ranks tied for second all-time in Navarre football history.
Perhaps just as importantly, Raiders coach Chad Lashley credited Williams for becoming both the vocal and physical leader Navarre needed as it closed the season by winning three of its final five games.
“He really matured and played with great effort his senior year,” Lashley said. “The biggest thing he brought to the table was his effort and leadership. That was his greatest impact.”
As friends, family and teammates filed into the Navarre library, Williams called his signing day an opportunity for him to thank those who helped him reach a lifelong goal.
“The way I look at it is, this is due to the great coaching I’ve had and the support of everybody,” Williams said. “It’s my way of saying, ‘We all made it,’ it wasn’t just me.”
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Past Gamecock discusses Future Gamecock
GamecockIllustrated.com had the pleasure of talking with a Gamecock of the past, Fran Blanchard, regarding his son and Gamecock signee, Coty Blanchard. Great to see that Coty signed with JSU today. Coty was recently named Mr. Football in Alabama, along with other awards such as being All State, 4A Back of the Year, and Cherokee County Player of the Year. There was also a national award, the Gatorade Player of the Year, along with the Anniston Star Player of the Year. We got to talk for quite a while, and I enjoyed talking with Fran. Below are some of the comments relating to Coty that Gamecock Illustrated thought you would like to know.
Q: Tell us about going through the recruiting experience as a dad.
A: Coty was dealing with a lot of different schools. With baseball and football, there were nearly 30. Coty handled it all very well. For me as his dad, it was a little stressful. We talked with the University of Alabama and Coach Saban. He was very nice and accommodating. In the end, I just don’t think a 6’ to 6’1” QB is what they are looking for. We always knew that if there were no football offers from an SEC school, JSU would be a great choice. There was interest from Marshall, Middle Tennessee State, and many others, but we love JSU. Coty has been going to Gamecock games since he was very young.
Q: Coty originally was set to go to Miss State to play baseball. What changed?
A: Mississippi State was great to us. They have a great baseball program. Everyone was so nice when we were there. Coty really enjoyed that experience. When Mississippi State offered, they needed an answer. Baseball has a very limited number of scholarships by NCAA rule, and the school had to know whether to hold a place for Coty or move on to someone else. Although Coty considered just doing baseball, I knew football is a big part of him. We talked with Coach Crowe and Coach Case. After talking with them, Coty was convinced that he could play both at JSU. Spring practice with football would be the only real conflict, but the coaches both believe it will work out.
Q: How would you describe Coty on the football field?
A: Coty has good football instincts. He makes good decisions. Coach Curry says Coty is an exceptional player with a blue chip arm. He has everything he needs to make the big play.
Also, Coty wants to have the ball in his hands with the game on the line. You hear about the QB’s that are the “game manager” types, that a coach tells “just don’t lose the game”. Coty is not that type. He believes he can make the right decision, that he can make the play that needs to be made. H can make the big play, and loves being in those situations.
Q: Coty’s high school team won the 4A State Championship. I understand you are a part of that team also. Tell us about that.
A: I have been close to the team for several years. I’ve worked with the receivers for quite a while. This past year, Coach Curry asked me to come on board in a more official way and coach the receivers. I’ve kept my distance while Coty has been there. I didn’t want to have any influence on what goes on, nor have the appearance that I do. But when Coach Curry asked me, I wanted to do what I could to help him. Coach Curry knew this team was a special group. We’ve seen them coming since they were young. The great thing about them was that they never overlooked anyone. They worked hard every week. We won most games by a comfortable margin, but they continued to work and play hard. I believe that speaks a lot about the character of these young me. I was proud to be a small part of that.
Q: So you coached another guy JSU is recruiting – Gabriel Chambers.
A: Yes, I coached Gabriel. He is a very talented young man. He is fast, and has the potential to score on any play. He is a dangerous weapon. He and Coty have been playing football together since they were little kids. It will be special for them to come to JSU together.
Q: Will Coty try to play football right away?
A: Coty is competitive, but knows there is a great QB here to learn from. Coty admires Marques Ivory and looks forward to his tutelage. Marques did a great job against Tech this past season. Coty can learn a lot from him.
Q: Tell us about Coty as a baseball player.
A: Coty can hit for power and hit in the gaps. His speed helps his game. He has good hands. He primarily played Shortstop, but also plays 2B, 3B and can play CF. Coty is looking forward to playing for Coach Case. He is a great coach. I believe Coty has a bright future in baseball. I believe Coach Case will put him in the situations that will allow Coty to shine.
Q: Any last comments about Coty coming to JSU?
A: Of course, talking with Coach Crowe and Coach Case was key. Coty will get the chance to play football and baseball here. That was big for Coty. Next, Coach Jimmy Ogle did a great job of recruiting Coty. A great relationship developed there. I know Coach Ogle cares a lot, no doubt about it. For me, there is a great confidence knowing Jim Skidmore here in Sports Medicine. He was here when I played here, and he takes care of the athletes. There is not a better person in athletic training anywhere. Knowing Jim Skidmore is still here is a big plus for JSU.
We really appreciate Fran giving us his thoughts.
Q: Tell us about going through the recruiting experience as a dad.
A: Coty was dealing with a lot of different schools. With baseball and football, there were nearly 30. Coty handled it all very well. For me as his dad, it was a little stressful. We talked with the University of Alabama and Coach Saban. He was very nice and accommodating. In the end, I just don’t think a 6’ to 6’1” QB is what they are looking for. We always knew that if there were no football offers from an SEC school, JSU would be a great choice. There was interest from Marshall, Middle Tennessee State, and many others, but we love JSU. Coty has been going to Gamecock games since he was very young.
Q: Coty originally was set to go to Miss State to play baseball. What changed?
A: Mississippi State was great to us. They have a great baseball program. Everyone was so nice when we were there. Coty really enjoyed that experience. When Mississippi State offered, they needed an answer. Baseball has a very limited number of scholarships by NCAA rule, and the school had to know whether to hold a place for Coty or move on to someone else. Although Coty considered just doing baseball, I knew football is a big part of him. We talked with Coach Crowe and Coach Case. After talking with them, Coty was convinced that he could play both at JSU. Spring practice with football would be the only real conflict, but the coaches both believe it will work out.
Q: How would you describe Coty on the football field?
A: Coty has good football instincts. He makes good decisions. Coach Curry says Coty is an exceptional player with a blue chip arm. He has everything he needs to make the big play.
Also, Coty wants to have the ball in his hands with the game on the line. You hear about the QB’s that are the “game manager” types, that a coach tells “just don’t lose the game”. Coty is not that type. He believes he can make the right decision, that he can make the play that needs to be made. H can make the big play, and loves being in those situations.
Q: Coty’s high school team won the 4A State Championship. I understand you are a part of that team also. Tell us about that.
A: I have been close to the team for several years. I’ve worked with the receivers for quite a while. This past year, Coach Curry asked me to come on board in a more official way and coach the receivers. I’ve kept my distance while Coty has been there. I didn’t want to have any influence on what goes on, nor have the appearance that I do. But when Coach Curry asked me, I wanted to do what I could to help him. Coach Curry knew this team was a special group. We’ve seen them coming since they were young. The great thing about them was that they never overlooked anyone. They worked hard every week. We won most games by a comfortable margin, but they continued to work and play hard. I believe that speaks a lot about the character of these young me. I was proud to be a small part of that.
Q: So you coached another guy JSU is recruiting – Gabriel Chambers.
A: Yes, I coached Gabriel. He is a very talented young man. He is fast, and has the potential to score on any play. He is a dangerous weapon. He and Coty have been playing football together since they were little kids. It will be special for them to come to JSU together.
Q: Will Coty try to play football right away?
A: Coty is competitive, but knows there is a great QB here to learn from. Coty admires Marques Ivory and looks forward to his tutelage. Marques did a great job against Tech this past season. Coty can learn a lot from him.
Q: Tell us about Coty as a baseball player.
A: Coty can hit for power and hit in the gaps. His speed helps his game. He has good hands. He primarily played Shortstop, but also plays 2B, 3B and can play CF. Coty is looking forward to playing for Coach Case. He is a great coach. I believe Coty has a bright future in baseball. I believe Coach Case will put him in the situations that will allow Coty to shine.
Q: Any last comments about Coty coming to JSU?
A: Of course, talking with Coach Crowe and Coach Case was key. Coty will get the chance to play football and baseball here. That was big for Coty. Next, Coach Jimmy Ogle did a great job of recruiting Coty. A great relationship developed there. I know Coach Ogle cares a lot, no doubt about it. For me, there is a great confidence knowing Jim Skidmore here in Sports Medicine. He was here when I played here, and he takes care of the athletes. There is not a better person in athletic training anywhere. Knowing Jim Skidmore is still here is a big plus for JSU.
We really appreciate Fran giving us his thoughts.
Preston Hatcher to JSU
The Dothan Eagle reports that Preston Hatcher will sign with JSU. Hatcher is a Rivals 2 Star Offensive Lineman from Northview High School. He was apparently recruited by Auburn, Clemson and Vandy. If this holds out, this is yet another high quality commitment in what might prove to be the best recruiting class ever at JSU.
Perrilloux Thanks JSU
There is a nice feature in ESPN Rise about Ryan Perrilloux. This quote is excerpted from the article:
ER: How has Jacksonville State helped you get back on track?
RP: Jacksonville State supported me for two years with everything that went on. I started out with a clean slate. They gave me the opportunity to be the leader of their football team. Coach (Jack) Crowe has been a great mentor for me and Jacksonville State has been a great program for me. I just want to thank them for letting me represent their university.
ER: How has Jacksonville State helped you get back on track?
RP: Jacksonville State supported me for two years with everything that went on. I started out with a clean slate. They gave me the opportunity to be the leader of their football team. Coach (Jack) Crowe has been a great mentor for me and Jacksonville State has been a great program for me. I just want to thank them for letting me represent their university.
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