Sports
TSU Breaks Ground with Historic Ice Hockey Program
Tennessee State University (TSU) is set to make history as the first historically Black college and university (HBCU) to introduce an ice hockey program. This landmark initiative, announced in June 2023, marks a significant expansion in TSU’s athletic offerings and underscores the university’s commitment to broadening opportunities for its students.
A Historic First for HBCUs
TSU’s decision to add ice hockey to its sports roster is a bold and pioneering move in the realm of collegiate athletics. The program, set to launch in 2024, will begin as a men’s club team with aspirations to evolve into a Division I program that includes both men’s and women’s teams. This initiative comes after a comprehensive feasibility study funded by the NHL and the NHLPA’s Industry Growth Fund in 2021, which evaluated the financial, logistical, and infrastructural requirements for establishing a hockey team at TSU (Tennessee State University) (HBCU Buzz).
Leadership and Vision
The appointment of Duanté Abercrombie as the head coach of the TSU men’s hockey team is a testament to the university’s dedication to excellence and diversity. Abercrombie brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs organization, where he played a key role in player development and coaching. His background and involvement in various NHL BIPOC initiatives align with TSU’s mission to break barriers and promote inclusivity in sports (Tennessee State University) (NHL).
“I am incredibly excited to embark on building this program, supported by God, my family, TSU students, alumni, and all those eagerly awaiting this moment,” said Abercrombie. “I firmly believe that one day, TSU will be recognized not only as a powerhouse on the ice but also as a program whose student-athletes leave a profound legacy on the world” (Tennessee State University).
Collaboration and Support
TSU’s hockey program is a collaborative effort involving key partnerships with the NHL, the NHLPA, and the Nashville Predators. These partnerships are crucial in providing the necessary resources and support to ensure the program’s success. The Nashville Predators, in particular, have been instrumental in fostering the growth of hockey in Tennessee and are enthusiastic supporters of TSU’s new initiative.
“We are thrilled whenever we have a chance to add any hockey program at the collegiate level, but to be able to announce the addition of club hockey at Tennessee State University is truly special,” said Kevin Westgarth, NHL Vice President of Hockey Development & Strategic Collaboration (NHL).
Expanding Opportunities
TSU’s introduction of ice hockey is part of a broader trend among HBCUs to diversify their athletic programs by incorporating non-traditional sports. This move follows similar initiatives by other HBCUs, such as Fisk University’s women’s gymnastics team and Hampton University’s men’s lacrosse team. These programs aim to provide students with unique opportunities and to foster greater diversity in sports traditionally dominated by non-minority athletes (HBCU Buzz).
A New Chapter for TSU
As TSU embarks on this historic journey, the university community and supporters are optimistic about the future. The hockey program represents not only a new athletic opportunity but also a chance to inspire a new generation of athletes and fans. With strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, TSU’s hockey team is poised to make a significant impact on and off the ice.
In the words of TSU President Glenda Glover, “Bringing ice hockey to Tennessee State University is a part of our continued commitment to provide our students with new opportunities and to broaden new interests in areas where they have traditionally had limited or no access” (HBCU Buzz).
TSU’s groundbreaking hockey program is more than just a new sport—it’s a milestone in the university’s storied history and a beacon of progress and inclusivity in collegiate athletics.
Alumni Impact
HUTCHISON AND AHING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SOUTHWEST SHOWCASE
Dallas, Texas – North Carolina Central University golfers Jamal Hutchison and Trinity Ahing have been selected to participate in the Southwest Airlines Showcase that will take place at Cedar Crest Golf Course in Dallas.
The Southwest Airlines Showcase at Cedar Crest is an All-Star Invitational celebrating the talents of the top college-aged golfers who are leaders in further diversifying the game of golf.
Hutchison, a sophomore from Fletcher, N.C., is one of the top golfers for the Eagles. In his first full tournament of the fall season, he finished 12 at the 39th Annual Thomas W. Dortch Jr. HBCU Golf Classic and sixth at the SAS HBCU Invitational, recording eight birdies and an eagle in three rounds. He is currently averaging a score of 75.4.
Ahing, a senior from New Bern, N.C., is off to a great start to the 2024-25 season. She has finished in the top five of the first two tournaments she has played in the fall. She finished third at the Elon Invitational and fourth at the 39th Annual Thomas W. Dortch Jr. HBCU Golf Classic. She finished sixth at the SAS HBCU Invitational and two shots from cracking the top five yet again. She is averaging a score of 78 and has recorded eight birdies in her last tournament.
Hutchison and Ahing’s invitation to this prestigious event continues the Eagles presence at that Southwest Showcase, with alumni Jalea Culliver participating last year in the inaugural event.
The event will be broadcast LIVE on GOLF Channel, Nov. 11-13 (1:30-4:30 p.m. CST); the celebration culminates with a 54-hole stroke play competition where the spotlight will shine brightly on the 21 male and 21 female LIFT (Leaders in a Future Together) award recipients.
The men and women will be in action this weekend. The women will be at the UNCG Fall Collegiate at Forest Oaks in Greensboro, N.C., while the men will be at the App State Invitational, which is not a team element and will have a field of 31 players. It will be played in Lenoir, N.C., at the Cedar Rock County Club on Saturday and Sunday.
For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com, or download the NCCU Eagles Athletics app.
Sports
SUNO Knights Volleyball Secures Spot in HBCUAC Championship Tournament
HBCU ORIGINAL
2024 MEAC Cross Country Championships
Men’s Race
Men’s Race – 8K – 11:00 AM
- ESPN+
- LIVE RESULTS
- CHAMPIONSHIP MANUAL
- CHAMPIONSHIP SOUVENIR PROGRAM
- TOP-20 TIMES
- WEEKLY HONORS
- MEAC RECORDS
- CHAMPIONSHIP HISTORY
- 2023 MEAC CHAMPIONSHIP RECAP
- MEDIA CREDENTIAL REQUEST FORM
Women’s Race
Women’s Race – 5K – 12:00 PM
- ESPN+
- LIVE RESULTS
- CHAMPIONSHIP MANUAL
- CHAMPIONSHIP SOUVENIR PROGRAM
- TOP-20 TIMES
- WEEKLY HONORS
- MEAC RECORDS
- CHAMPIONSHIP HISTORY
- 2023 MEAC CHAMPIONSHIP RECAP
- MEDIA CREDENTIAL REQUEST FORM
Directions to the DSU Outreach & Research Center – home of the DSU Cross Country Team – from Delaware State University
884 Smyrna-Leipsic Road
Smyrna, DE 19977
- Turn left out of the main entrance of Delaware State University.
- Travel approximately 8 miles north on US Route 13.
- Turn right onto Rt 12/Smyrna Leipsic Rd (opposite direction of the Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill).
- Destination will be on your right after you cross Route 1.
Events
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) EAGLES SOAR IN DOMINANT SHUTOUT VICTORY
Oct. 12, 2024 — Durham, N.C.
In a complete showcase of offensive firepower and defensive prowess, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) shut out Virginia-Lynchburg 68-0 on Saturday at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium, capping off their final non-conference game of the season in emphatic fashion.
NCCU wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, lighting up the first quarter with 33 points. Quarterback Walker Harris opened the floodgates, connecting with Joaquin Davis on a 24-yard touchdown pass. Though the extra point was blocked, the Eagles quickly capitalized again, as Kamari Houze recovered a loose ball in the end zone following a mishandled kickoff by Virginia-Lynchburg. Astonishingly, 13 points were on the board with less than a second ticking off the game clock.
The Eagles’ offense remained relentless. Running back Christian Mosley punched in his third rushing touchdown of the season, extending the lead to 20-0. Wide receiver Mehki Wall followed suit with a 9-yard touchdown reception from Harris, capping a quarter in which NCCU scored on every possession.
By halftime, the Eagles were up 41-0, following scores from J’Mari Taylor and freshman Aleni Mageo, who notched his first career touchdown. The second half saw no letup. Freshman QB Joshua Jones delivered a 15-yard strike to Sterling Greene, before running back Quest Powell closed the scoring with a 1-yard rush, sealing the commanding 68-0 victory.
NCCU’s ground game dominated, amassing 326 rushing yards led by Zion Dobson’s 98-yard performance on 12 carries. Defensively, the Eagles suffocated Virginia-Lynchburg, holding them to -42 rushing yards and allowing just 117 passing yards. The Dragons failed to convert a single third down (0-for-12) and were shut out of the red zone entirely.
With the win, head coach Trei Oliver improved his overall record to 34-20 and extended NCCU’s dominance at home, winning 13 of their last 14 games at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium.
Notable Stats:
- Walker Harris: 3 passing touchdowns, extending his streak of two or more TDs in four consecutive games.
- J’Mari Taylor: A rushing touchdown in seven straight games, tallying two scores on the day.
- Zion Dobson: Led all rushers with 98 yards and a touchdown.
- Defense: Held Virginia-Lynchburg to -42 yards rushing; Matthew Leavelle led the defense with 6 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 3.5 tackles for loss.
NCCU heads into their bye week before resuming conference play, riding the momentum of one of their most dominant performances of the season.
For more on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com.
HBCU ORIGINAL
Volleyball Previews: North Carolina Central University’s volleyball Travels Shoreside to Delaware State and UMES
North Carolina Central University’s volleyball team heads back on the road this weekend facing Delaware State University (Friday, Oct. 11 at 6 p.m.) and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Sunday, Oct. 13 at 1 p.m.).
COMING UP:
Friday, Oct. 11 – 6 p.m.
NC Central at Delaware State
Memorial Hall Gym, Dover, Del.
Sunday, Oct. 13 – 1 p.m.
NC Central at Maryland Eastern Shore
Hytche Arena, Princess Anne, Md.
Live Stats | Delmarva Sports Network
NC CENTRAL COURT
NCCU (3-12 Overall, 1-3 MEAC) looks to bounce back in the next set of games after falling in two MEAC matchups last weekend against Morgan State University, 3-0 and Coppin State University, 3-1.
In the latter of the two matches, junior Kamren Harper extended her double-digit kills streak to five matches in a row leading all attackers with 20 kills versus Coppin State. Junior Emmie Modlin earned a 12-kill, 14-dig double-double in the same match.
The Eagles are in the top 100 nationally in aces per set (92nd – 1.68), team attacks per set (69th – 36.07), team service aces (81st – 99) and team total attacks (92nd – 2,128). NC Central leads the MEAC in digs per set steered by junior Gabriela Felix-Baeza who is third in the MEAC in total digs (189). Senior Bella Dearinger leads the conference in total assists (487).
The DSU Hornets and UMES Hawks each lead the series against NCCU. Delaware State has a 10-4 record when facing the Eagles and Maryland Eastern Shore’s record is 14-4.
NCCU Statistical Leaders – Per Set
KILLS: #13 Kamren Harper (3.02) and #36 Emmie Modlin (2.43)
ACES: #35 Gabriela Felix-Baeza (0.44) and #1 Bella Dearinger (0.31)
ASSISTS: #1 Bella Dearinger (8.25)
DIGS: #35 Gabriela Felix-Baeza (3.20) and #36 Emmie Modlin (2.64)
BLOCKS: #18 Kayden Cupid (0.76) and #10 Tayah Little (0.56)
DELAWARE STATE COURT
Delaware State (6-11 Overall, 2-2 MEAC) split its last two conference matches falling to Howard University, 3-0 on the road and shutting out Norfolk State University in straight sets at home.
DSU’s Gerren Tomlin led the Hornets in kills in both matches with 11 against Howard and 18 over Norfolk State. Paige Ahakuelo and Naz Tuncay were the assist leaders versus the Bison and Spartans.
The Hornets are in the top 50 in the nation in team service aces (25th – 114) and aces per set (50th – 1.81), led by Tomlin who leads the conference individually and is ranked 17th nationally in aces per set.
DSU is second in the MEAC in multiple categories including aces per set, team assists, team kills, team service aces and team total attacks. Tomlin is also ranked 11th nationally and first in the conference in service aces (34).
DSU Statistical Leaders – Per Set
KILLS: #1 Gerren Tomlin (2.85) and #12 Aaliyah Mitchell (2.17)
ACES: #1 Gerren Tomlin (0.54)
ASSISTS: #9 Paige Ahakuelo (5.21) and #17 Naz Tuncay (4.46)
DIGS: #1 Gerren Tomlin (2.48) and Valeria Otero (2.38)
BLOCKS: #30 Hannah Sanders (0.60) and #20 Martyna Kmuk (0.54)
MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE COURT
Maryland Eastern Shore (6-9 Overall, 1-3 MEAC) was shutout in their last two contests on Oct. 4 to Norfolk State and Oct. 6 to Howard.
UMES’ Ranyla Griggs had 12 kills at NSU. Anisa Dorlouis and Isil Yilmaz led the Hawks in assists and digs through both matches. The Hawks are third in the MEAC in blocks per set (1.98) and team total blocks (103) and second in opponent hitting percentage (0.191).
Dorlouis is 12th in the nation in triple-doubles after securing an 11-kill, 29-assist, 14-dig performance versus Iona University earlier in the season. Valeria Matias is fourth in the MEAC in total digs (188) and Griggs is fifth in the conference in kills per set (2.90).
UMES Statistical Leaders – Per Set
KILLS: #23 Ranyla Griggs (2.96) and #12 Nkemjika Ikemefuna (2.73)
ACES: #6 Anisa Dorlouis (0.27) and #9 Anjola Omolewa (0.22)
ASSISTS: #6 Anisa Dorlouis (6.00) and #19 Tola Maczka (3.27)
DIGS: #1 Valeria Matias (3.84) and #6 Anisa Dorlouis (3.13)
BLOCKS: #18 Lilliana Montes (0.81) and #9 Anjola Omolewa (0.76)
For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com, or download the NCCU Eagles Athletics app.
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