2010 Murray State Softball Media Guide

2010 Racer Softball

Murray State University

1Taylor Wilson

3Stephanie Edwards

4Alaina Zloty

5Stephanie Mattocks

7Jenna Bradley

8Toree Rogers

9Kristen Broadway

10Chelsey Sullivan

11Megan Glosser

14Starr Gilley

18Ellyn Troup

22Christian Cox

24Madi Ratliff

25Lauren Buch

26Kaitlyn England

28Shelby Kosmecki

99Megan Belio

Head Coach Jay Pyron

Assistant Coach Kara Amundson

2010 RACER SOFTBALL 1

Inside Racer SoftballTable of ContentsQuick Facts ................................................................ 12010 Roster ............................................................... 22010 Preview ............................................................. 3Head Coach Jay Pyron .............................................. 4Assistant Coach Kara Amundson .............................. 5Racer Support Staff ................................................... 6 Jenna Bradley/Kristen Broadway .............................. 7Lauren Buch/Stephanie Mattocks .............................. 8Taylor Wilson/Megan Glosser .................................... 9Chelsey Sullivan/Megan Belio ................................. 10Christian Cox/Stephanie Edwards ............................11Kaitlyn England/Starr Gilley ..................................... 12Shelby Kosmecki/ Madi Ratliff ................................. 13Toree Rogers/ Ellyn Troup ....................................... 14Alaina Zloty .............................................................. 15Ohio Valley Conference ........................................... 16Opponents .......................................................... 17-20This is Murray State University ........................... 22-23University Administration ......................................... 24Director of Athletics .................................................. 25Athletics Administration ........................................... 26MSU Staff and Head Coaches ................................ 27Media Information .................................................... 28

On The COverInside Front: TV/Radio RosterInside Back: Racer Softball FacilitiesBack: 2010 Schedule

CrediTsThe 2010 Racer Softball Media Guide was designed and produced by MSU Media Relations Assistant Teri LaJeunesse. Editorial assistance provided by Dave Winder and John Brush. Team photo and action shots by Fred Mulane and Michael Dann. Mug shots by Lance Allison of Allison Photography of Murray, Ky. Printing by MSU Publications & Printing Services. Murray State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability or veteran status in employment, student admissions, financial aid, student employment and placement or the provision of services and provides, upon request, reasonable accommodation including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in all programs and activities. For more information, contact Sabrina Dial, Director of Equal Opportunity, Murray State University, 103 Wells Hall, Murray, KY 42071-3318. Telephone (270) 809-3155 (voice) and (270) 809-3361 (TDD).

MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY Nickname: Racers (not “Lady Racers”) Location: Murray, Ky. (2007 pop.: 16,339) Established: 1922 Enrollment: 10,078 Conference: Ohio Valley (NCAA Division I) Colors: Navy & Gold President: Dr. Randy Dunn Athletics Director: Allen Ward Senior Woman Administrator: Velvet Milkman Softball Field: Racer Field at Murray-Calloway County Park

RACER SOFTBALL COACHING STAFF Head Coach: Jay Pyron Alma Mater: Averett University, 2002 Record at Murray State: 0-0, 1st Season Career Record: 0-0, 1st Season Office: (270) 809-3748 E-Mail: [email protected] Assistant Coach: Kara Amundson Alma Mater: DePaul, 2007 Seasons at MSU: First Office: (270) 809-6629 E-Mail: [email protected] Assistant Coach: Brian Levin Seasons at MSU: First Office: (270) 809-7018 Athletic Trainer: Courtney Magness

ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS Softball Contact/Media Relations Assistant: Teri LaJeunesse Office: (270) 809-3351 Cell: (270) 293-0595 Fax: (270) 809-6814 E-Mail: [email protected] Asst. AD Athletic Media Relations: Dave Winder Office: (270) 809-4271 Cell: (270) 293-0566 E-Mail: [email protected] Media Relations Assistant: John Brush Office: (270) 809-7044 Cell: (270) 293-0590 E-Mail: [email protected]

2010 Murray State Softball Team

2 2010 RACER SOFTBALL

No Player Pos Cl. Ht Hometown (Previous School) 1 Taylor Wilson OF Jr. 5-5 Evansville, Ind. (Wabash Valley CC) 3 Stephanie Edwards IF Fr. 5-7 Bowling Green, Ky. (Greenwood) 4 Alaina Zloty OF Fr. 5-8 Martinsville, Ind. (Martinsville) 5 Stephanie Mattocks 3B Jr. 5-7 Momence, Ill. (Lake Land College) 7 Jenna Bradley CF Jr. 5-10 Trilla, Ill. (Lake Land College) 8 Toree Rogers OF Fr. 5-6 Murray, Ky. (Calloway County) 9 Kristen Broadway P Jr. 5-5 Golconda, Ill. (Wabash Valley CC) 10 Chelsey Sullivan P So. 5-10 Shelbyville, Ill. (Lake Land College) 11 Megan Glosser U So. 5-4 Mattoon, Ill. (Lake Land College) 14 Starr Gilley P Fr. 5-10 Graham, N.C. (Walter Williams) 18 Ellyn Troup C Fr. 5-8 Placentia, Calif. (El Dorado) 22 Christian Cox MI Fr. 5-6 Magnolia, Ky. (LaRue County) 24 Madi Ratliff 1B Fr. 5-6 Louisville, Ky. (Louisville Male) 25 Lauren Buch MI Jr. 5-9 Chester, Ill. (John A. Logan CC) 26 KaitlynEngland C Fr. 5-6 Springfield,Ill.(GlenwoodChatham) 28 Shelby Kosmecki P Fr. 5-9 Somerset, Ky. (Southwestern) 99 Megan Belio OF Fr. 5-4 Lemon Grove, Calif. (Granite Hills)

1B - First Base, 3B - Third Base, C - Catcher, CF - Center Field, IF - Infielder, MI - Middle Infielder, OF - Outfielder, P - Pitcher, U - Utility

Pronunciation Guide No Name No Name 4 Za-la-tee 28 Cos-mek-ee 5 Matt-ocks 99 Ba-leo 25 Boo-k Pie-run Ah-mund-son

No Player Pos Cl. Ht Hometown (Previous School) 99 Megan Belio OF Fr. 5-4 Lemon Grove, Calif. (Granite Hills) 7 Jenna Bradley CF Jr. 5-10 Trilla, Ill. (Lake Land College) 9 Kristen Broadway P Jr. 5-5 Golconda, Ill. (Wabash Valley CC) 25 Lauren Buch MI Jr. 5-9 Chester, Ill. (John A. Logan CC) 22 Christian Cox MI Fr. 5-6 Magnolia, Ky. (LaRue County) 3 Stephanie Edwards IF Fr. 5-7 Bowling Green, Ky. (Greenwood) 26 KaitlynEngland C Fr. 5-6 Springfield,Ill.(GlenwoodChatham) 14 Starr Gilley P Fr. 5-10 Graham, N.C. (Walter Williams) 11 Megan Glosser U So. 5-4 Mattoon, Ill. (Lake Land College) 28 Shelby Kosmecki P Fr. 5-9 Somerset, Ky. (Southwestern) 5 Stephanie Mattocks 3B Jr. 5-7 Momence, Ill. (Lake Land College) 24 Madi Ratliff 1B Fr. 5-6 Louisville, Ky. (Louisville Male) 8 Toree Rogers OF Fr. 5-6 Murray, Ky. (Calloway County) 10 Chelsey Sullivan P So. 5-10 Shelbyville, Ill. (Lake Land College) 18 Ellyn Troup C Fr. 5-8 Placentia, Calif. (El Dorado) 1 Taylor Wilson OF Jr. 5-5 Evansville, Ind. (Wabash Valley CC) 4 Alaina Zloty OF Fr. 5-8 Martinsville, Ind. (Martinsville) Head Coach: Jay Pyron Assistant Coach: Kara Amundson Assistant Coach: Brian Levin

2010 Roster


2010 PreviewBuilding A FoundationThe Murray State softball team will be playing its inaugural softball season in 2010 and will be looking to build a foundation for the future. Head Coach Jay Pyron has assembled a versatile team that will be characterized by their strong work ethic. Every player and staff member is excited to get onto the fieldandshowwhatitmeanstobepartoftheRacersoftball program.

“We have a lot of versatility,” said Pyron. “We have players that not only can play any position on the fielddefensively,butalsohaveararecombinationofspeed and power.”

The team is focusing on working hard, building team chemistry and doing things the right way to make sure that they are not just successful this year, but for many years to come.

PitchingMSU has a group of four pitchers in the circle made up of both freshmen and junior-college transfers. Kristen Broadway and Chelsey Sullivan are both transfers who will bring a great amount of experience and leadership to the Racers. Broadway, a NJCAA First-Team All-American, is expected to provide stability for MSU in the circle, pitching a lot of innings and putting the team in a position to win ball games. Sullivan will also provide leadership for the Racers, as she continues to get back in shape after an injury a year ago.

The Racers also have two freshman pitchers who are expected to add depth to the pitching staff. Shelby Kosmecki made a big impact in the fall season and is expected to be a key contributor in this season. Starr Gilley saw limited action this fall, but may be able to contribute more to the team as she continues to develop.

CatchersThe Racers have two talented hitters behind the plate. Ellyn Troup is a power hitter and has all the intangibles that Pyron was looking for in a catcher. Troup is a leaderonthefieldandateam organizer. Kaitlyn England will also likely see time behind the plate and is a catcher that pitchers like to throw to.

Starting Out Against Strong CompetitionTheMurrayStatesoftballteamwillplayitsfirstofficialgames Feb. 26-28 at the Ole Miss Tournament and thefirstpitchwillflyatRacerSoftballFieldatMurray-Calloway County Park, March 3. The schedule includes three teams that advanced to the NCAA Regionals and several tough regional opponents.

After competing for the first week of the 2010campaign on the road, MSU opens its home schedule, March 3 against Evansville. The Racers then return to the road for the second tournament of the season, but this time will be much closer to home as they travel to Nashville, Tenn., to participate in the Lipscomb Tournament, March 6-7.

ThefinaltournamentoftheseasonwillseeBelmontand Alcorn State joining MSU at Racer Softball Field, March 13-14 for the Racer Classic.

The rest of the non-conference portion of the schedule includes games against Travecca Nazarene, SIU Edwardsville, Alabama State, Samford, Bethel, Western Kentucky and Mid-Continent.

The first Ohio Valley Conference match-up isscheduled for March 20-21 in Nashville, Tenn., againstTennesseeState,while thefirsthomeOVCgames will be against defending OVC regular-season champions and NCAA Super Regional participants Jacksonville State, March 27-28. Two days later, March 30, the Racers will battle with UT Martin, the OVC Tournament Champions and NCAA Regional participants in Martin, Tenn.

The Racers play regular-season games through May 9, with this season’s OVC Championship scheduled

for May 13-15. The OVC softball championship will be hosted by the team that claims the regular-season

title.

Gaining Early RecognitionThe Racers have earned

respect in the Ohio Valley Conference even before they have played their first official game.MSU was picked to finishedeighth,outof10 teams in the 2010 OVC Preseason poll, as voted on by the league’s head coaches.

InfieldMSU has a group of six student-athletes (Lauren Buch, Christian Cox, Stephanie Edwards, Megan Glosser, Stephanie Mattocks, Madi Ratliff) that will makeuptheinfield.

“Right nowweare trying to find thebestmatch-upintheinfield,”Pyronsaid.“Wehaveaverytalentedgroup and some are moving to positions that they haven’t played before.”

OutfieldTheRacershavefiveplayers (MeganBelio, JennaBradley, Toree Rogers, Taylor Wilson, Alaina Zloty) listedforoutfieldpositionsthatcanall readtheballwell and have the ability to cover a lot of ground.

“I am really pleased with the outfield,” said Pyron.“TheyareprobablythebestgroupofoutfieldersthatI have coached.”

Overall, Pyron has compiled a solid group of talented players that are excited to get the season started.

“We have a good combination of players that can do it all offensively and defensively at any position,” added Pyron. “There is a lot of excitement in our programtogetoutandplaythefirstseason.”


2010 Racer Coaching Staff

JayPYRONHead Coach

1st Season

The Pyron FileCOLLEGIATE COACHING CAREER•NamedMurrayState’sfirstsoftballcoachSep.18,2008•CampbellUniversityassistantcoach,2008•NorthCarolinaStateassistantcoach,2004-07•BarryUniversityassistantcoach,2004

OTHER COACHING EXPERIENCE•IndoorCupAmericanTeamcoach,2003•DanRiverHighSchoolheadcoach,1999-2003•DiamondFeversoftballhittinginstructor,1999-2003

COLLEGE EDUCATIONAverett University, 2002 •Bachelor’sdegreeinphysicaleducation

PERSONAL•BornJayPyronMay15,1980,inKeeling,Va.

MEMBERSHIPS•NationalFastpitchCoachesAssociation

“I’m confident his vision and leadershipwill lay thefoundation for a very successful future for Racer softball,” Ward added. “I look forward to working with Jay as we build the program.”

A strong recruiter as well, Pyron’s 2007 incoming class at NC State was ranked No. 16 in the nation by rivals.com.

Pyron started his collegiate career at Barry University, where he coached the hitters and outfielders, andwas the recruiting coordinator for the nationally ranked program. In 2003 he led an American team in the Indoor Cup played in the Netherlands. Pyron also has experience coaching at the high school and club levels. From 1999 to 2003 he coached at Dan River High School in Ringgold, Va. and was the hitting instructor and coach in the Diamond Fever softball organization.

Pyron graduated from Averett University in Danville, Va., in 2002, earning his bachelors of science in physical education with a minor in coaching.

“I am excited about the opportunity to take our championship vision and make it a reality,” added Pyron. “I was very impressed by the Athletic Department’s commitment to excellence in all areas of a student-athlete’s life and I am ready to begin achieving our vision.”

HeadcoachJayPyronbeganhisdutiesasthefirstsoftball coach for the Murray State softball team in September2008overayearbeforethefirstpitchwillflyfromthecircleofanofficialRacerssoftballgame.Since that time Pyron has been busy assembling the pieces needed to field the inaugural MSU softballteam.

“I’m pleased that Jay accepted our offer to become MurrayState’sfirstheadsoftballcoach,”saidWard.“He brings a good combination of experience and enthusiasm that will get us off on the right foot as we begin the program.”

“I am very grateful to Mr. Ward for the opportunity to build the softball program here at Murray State,” Pyron said. “The pride in Racers athletics was very apparent from the moment I stepped on campus.”

Pyron came to the Racers after spending the 2008 season at Campbell University as an assistant coach. As a hitting coach, Pyron helped the Fighting Camels to their best offensive season in school history. Campbell recorded the second most wins in a season, had a school-record team bating average of .287, and broke 11 school records on the way to winning the 2008 Atlantic Sun Conference Championship and playing in the NCAA Chapel Hill Regional. Campbell went 1-2 at the regional, including the softball program’s first NCAA Tournament win over NorthCarolina (7-6).

His duties with the Fighting Camels included being the recruiting coordinator, hitting and infield coach, travel coordinator, andteaching a physical education class at Campbell.

Prior to joining the Campbell staff, Pyron spent three seasons as an assistant coach at North Carolina State, where he helped build the Wolfpack program. The Keeling, Va.,nativecoachedtheoutfieldersandhitters,oversaw the equipment and was the recruiting coordinator.

Pyron’s coaching helped create one of the most productive hitting and defensive seasons in NC State history in his opening season. In his second and the team’s third season the Wolfpack claimed both the ACC regular-season and tournament championships, with 50 wins and a bid to the NCAA Tournament. The National Fastpitch Coaches Association named the staff the 2006 Southeast Regional Staff of the Year. The Wolfpack followed up the 2006 campaign with a second trip to the NCAA Tournament in 2007 ranked as a No. 1 seed.


2010 Racer Coaching Staff

KaraAMUNDSONAssistant Coach

1st Season

The Amundson FileCOLLEGIATE COACHING CAREER•NamedMurrayState’sassistantSoftballcoach August 2009•NorthernIllinoisassistantcoach,2007-08

PLAYING CAREER•DePaulUniversity,2003-07

COLLEGE EDUCATIONDePaul Universtiy, 2007 •Bachelor’sdegreeinsociology,withafocusin juvenile justice •Minorinpsychology

PERSONAL•BornKaraLeighAmundsonJuly12,1985,in Coon Rapids, Minn.

MEMBERSHIPS•NationalFastpitchCoachesAssociation

Kara Amundson joined the Murray State softball staff inAugust2009astheprogramsfirstassistantcoach. Amundson works with the team’s pitchers and catchers and will also be responsible for team travel and recruiting.

Amundson joins the Racers after spending two seasons as an assistant coach at Northern Illinois. While with the Huskies she helped the team advance to the 2009 Mid American Conference Championship semifinals. She helped coach two All-MAC FirstTeam honorees during the 2009 season, and two Academic All-MAC award winners in each of her two years at NIU.

“Kara fit exactly what I was looking for inmy firstassistant coach,” Pyron added. “I wanted someone who was well liked by their players and the staff they worked with. Kara is very experienced in coaching every aspect of the game and will be a big help to meintheofficeaswell.Sheisagreatpersonwhomakes an impression on everyone she meets and I am excited to work with her.”

Before joining the staff at NIU, Amundson was a four-year member of the DePaul softball team. The Coon Rapids, Minn., native helped the Blue Demons to a Conference USA tournament championship in 2003 and a Big East title in 2005. In 2005 and 2007 the team advanced to the Women’s College World Series after defeating Northwestern in the Super Regionals in 2005 and No. 3 Oklahoma in 2007.

During her senior campaign she helped DePaul to a Big East regular season conference championship with a 20-0 record in league action and a 5-0 mark in post season play advancing to their second WCWS in four years.

Amundson has a degree in sociology from DePaul with a focus on juvenile justice and a minor in psychology. An excellent student-athlete, she earned Conference USA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll honors in 2005 and Big East Academic All-Star Honors in 2006 and 2007.

“I am incredibly honored and eager to join the softball staff at Murray State,” said Amundson. “The energy surrounding Racer athletics is apparent throughout the University and community. I am excited for the opportunity to work with Coach Pyron in building Racer Softball from the ground and making an immediateimpactonthefield.”


2010 Racer Support Staff

CourtneyMagnessentersherfirstyearasthegraduateassistantathletictrainerforsoftball,afterservinglastseason as an intern for the MSU baseball team.

Magness spent three years as a student athletic trainer at MSU. During her time with the Racers, she worked with football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball teams.

Prior to joining the Racers, Magness spent two years at Rend Lake College where she was a two-year member of the Warrior Basketball team.

Magness graduated from MSU in December, 2008, with a degree in exercise science-athletic training, and is pursuing her master’s degree in human development and leadership. She also received her athletic training certificationin2008.

CourtneyMAGNESSAthletic Trainer

Darren Edgington joined the Murray State program as strength and conditioning coach in October 2008, after serving at the University of Mississippi since 2005.

Edgington is responsible for all strength and conditioning duties for the Racer football, baseball, soccer, volleyball,track&fieldandsoftballteams.

While at Ole Miss, he worked with the football program and designed and implemented the strength and conditioning programs for the women’s basketball program that made an NCAA Elite-8 appearance. Edgington also worked with the Ole Miss soccer team.

From 1994-2005, Edgington served as assistant strength and conditioning coach at Middle Tennessee State, designing and implementing the strength and conditioning programs for the school’s Olympic sports, as well as assisting with football.

A1997cumlaudegraduatefromMTSUwithadegreeinwellness&fitness,Edgingtonearnedhismaster’sinhealth, physical education, recreation, and safety from MTSU in 2000.

Edgington is a certified strength and conditioning coach through theCollegiateStrength andConditioningCoaches Association (CSCCa}, International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), National Association of SpeedandExplosion(NASE),andUSAWeightlifting.HeisalsoacertifiedUSAWeightliftingReferee.

In May, Edgington was named a Master Strength and Conditioning Coach by the CSCCa. He is one of 80 coachesinthecountrywiththiscertification.

Edgington produced a DVD entitled Functional ACL Pre-Hab Exercises, as well as garnering a feature article on ESPN.com about his training program for the Ole Miss women’s basketball team.

He trained WNBA Rookie of the Year Armintie Price while she played at Ole Miss.

Edgington is a U.S. Naval submarine veteran having served from 1984-90. He is married to the former Julie Mayo and they reside in Murray.

DarrenEDGINGTON

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Teri LaJeunesse is in her second year as the Media Relations Assistant at Murray State University where she willserveastheprimarycontactforvolleyball,women’sbasketball,softballandtrack&field.

Before joining the Racer staff she served as the Assistant Director of Athletics Media Services at Western Illinois University where she was the primary contact for volleyball, women’s basketball, cross country, and track & field.Shealsoservedastheathleticsdepartmentwebmaster.

A graduate of Michigan Technological University, LaJeunesse earned a bachelor’s degree in business administrationwithaconcentrationinmarketingandmanagement,aswellasabachelor’sdegreeinscientificandtechnicalcommunicationduringherfiveyears(1998-2003)withtheHuskies.Duringthattimesheworkedas a student assistant in the Athletic Communications and Marketing Department under David Fischer, now the Director of Media & Public Relations for USA Hockey. Her duties included supervision of student staff, statistical work at all home events, working at the Great Lakes Invitational hockey tournament, and helping at all Michigan High School Association basketball, and NCAA II basketball regionals held on the Michigan Tech campus.

The native of Houghton, Mich., earned her master’s degree (Jan. 2009) in liberal studies at the University of MinnesotaDuluth,whileworkingfor theBulldogsasagraduate intern in thesports informationofficefrom2003 until May of 2006. Her duties included being the primary contact for Division I women’s hockey, which advanced to the NCAA I Regional Round in 2004-05 and 2005-06. She also served as the primary contact for Division II volleyball, which advanced to the 2004 NCAA II Final Four, and women’s tennis. She also helped with game day operations for Division I men’s hockey, Division II football, men’s and women’s basketball, women’s soccer, softball, and baseball.

TeriLaJEUNESSE

Media RelationsAssistant forSoftball


2010 Racers

Jenna BRADLEYCF • 5-10 • Jr.Trilla, Ill.(Lake Land College)

7

A Little About Jenna Bradley...Favorite Quote: “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”Proudest moment: Being able to say NO.Foreign Country I’d Like To Visit: ItalyWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My dad and sisterBiggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: Thinking I wouldn’t make it on my own away from home.

Kristen BROADWAYP • 5-5 • Jr.Golconda, Ill.(Wabash Valley CC)

9

A Little About Kristen Broadway...Favorite Quote: “I don’t need justice, and I don’t need revenge. I’ve got His mercy and I’ve got His grace.”Foreign County I’d Like to Visit: BrazilIdeal Vacation Spot: ImpanemaWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My dadPost College Ambition: To be part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.Favorite Softball Memory: Pitching to my dad in the front yard.

Before MSU: One of four Racers to spend the last two seasons as a member of the Lake Land College roster …an All-Great Rivers and All-Region Tournament team member both seasons…named to the All-Great Rivers Tournament team in 2009…also a All-Region 24 member and All-Midwest second team pick…helpedtheLakerstoa46-9asasophomore…teamfinishedthe2008campaignwitha36-9mark…recordeda.441battingaverageherfinalcampaignanda.406battingaverageasafreshman…battedin45runson14 doubles, seven triples, and two home runs as a rookie….also went 7-for-7 on stolen base attempts…was a standout on the Mattoon High School squad for four seasons…the Greenwave went 110-21 during her tenure…garnered two Big-12 Championships (2004, 2007) and were Sectional Champs in 2004…earned Big-12All-ConferenceTeamhonorsherfinalthreeseasons…namedtotheDecaturHeraldAll-AreaTeamherjunior and senior campaigns.

Personal: Born Jenna Paige Bradley, Feb. 19, 1989 in Trilla, Ill….daughter of Wade and Kathy Bradley…has three sisters, Jami (26), Jessi (25), and Jacki (23)…sisters Jami and Jacki played collegiate softball, Jami at Illinois and Jacki at Evansville…majoring in journalism.

Before MSU: One of two players to come from Wabash Valley College…helped Wabash to a 43-5 mark in 2009, whileclaimingtheRegionXXIVChampionshipanda13th-placefinishattheNJCAANationalTournament…claimed 2009 First Team All-American honors as a sophomore…also named the All-Region XXIV Team MVP and to the all-Region XXIV Tournament Team…recorded 27 wins with a 0.94 ERA, 200 K’s and four saves in the circle…a Second Team All-American as a freshman…the 2008 All-Region XXIV Co-MVP…went 24-4 with six saves for Wabash Valley…had a 1.64 ERA and recorded seven shutouts and 180 strike outs (8.09/game)…helped the team to a 48-5 record and a Region XXIV, a Great Rivers Athletic Conference Championship, and toaseventh-placefinishatthenationaltournament…a2008All-GreatRiversAthleticConferenceselection...pitched at Pope County High School…led the Lady Pirates to a 2007 GEC and Regional Championship…earned SICA All-South Softball honors as a senior…ended her high school career averaging 12.13 strike outs per game, an ERA of 0.84 and 923 total strike outs.

Personal: Born Kristen Ann Broadway, Nov. 22, 1988 in Golconda, Ill….daughter of David and Denice Broadway…has one sister, Ashley (23)…majoring in dietetics.


2010 Racers

Lauren BUCHMI • 5-9 • Jr.Chester, Ill.(John A. Logan CC)

25

A Little About Lauren Buch...I am: A Time FreakForeign Country I’d Like to Visit: IrelandWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My momWhat Most People Don’t Know About Me: I love musical plays and classical Celtic musicPost College Ambition: Have a good job, family and build my dream house.

Stephanie MATTOCKS3B • 5-7 • Jr.Momence, Ill.(Lake Land College)

5

A Little About Stephanie Mattocks...Favorite Quote: “You get what you put in and people get what they deserve.”Who Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My momWhat Most People Don’t Know About Me: I would rather not wear shoes.I chose Murray State because: I thought it was really cooltobeonthefirstteam.

Before MSU: Spent the past two seasons at John A. Logan College…named to the GRAC All-Conference team in her sophomore season…helped the Lady Vols to a 29-9 record, while earning GRAC All-Conference, All-Tournament, and NFCA/NJCAA Louisville Slugger All-Region Second Team honors in 2008…earned the 10th highest batting averaging in the NJCAA (.513) as a freshman…also tallied seven home runs and 33 RBIs as a rookie… was a four year member of the Sparta High School squad…the Bulldogs earned a SIRR conference and regional championship in 2004…was a four-year member of the All-SIRR First Team and three-year member of the All-South First Team…ended her senior campaign with a .411 batting average, .742 slugging percentage, 10 home runs and 23 RBIs.

Personal: Born Lauren Michelle Buch, Nov. 6, 1988 in Sparta, Ill….daughter of Terry and Kay Buch…has one brother, Seth (16)…majoring in outdoor recreation/criminal justice.

Before MSU: One of four Racers to spend the last two seasons as a member of the Lake Land College roster …helped the team to a 46-9 record in 2009…had a .400 batting average with 13 doubles, 29 RBIs and 30 runsscoredasasophomore…earnedRegion24All-TournamentTeamhonorsasafreshman…finishedherfreshman season with a .408 batting average, four home runs and 35 RBIs…spent four seasons playing on theMomenceCommunityHighSchoolvarsitysquad…earnedall-conferenceandall-areahonorsherfinaltwoseasons…finishedherseniorcampaignwith36runsscored,28RBIs,a.349battingaverageanda.435onbase percentage…tallied a 4.06 GPA on a four-point scale as a prep…a member of the National Honor Society, and was a Wendy’s High School Heisman Award nominee…also a standout on the Redskins basketball team as a prep, she helped her team to three regional and one sectional championships…ended her four-year varsity career with over 1,000 career points and was an all-area, all-conference and RVC All-Tournament team selection all four seasons.

Personal: Born Stephanie Lynn Mattocks, Feb. 14, 1989 in Momence, Ill….daughter of Marty and Cheri Mattocks…has one brother, Mark (16)…majoring in elementary special education.


2010 Racers 2010 Racers

Taylor WILSONOF • 5-5 • Jr.Evansville, Ind.(Wabash Valley CC)

1

A Little About Taylor Wilson...Favorite Quote: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.”Who Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My cousin GrantI am: Determined to live my life to the fullest.The Biggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: Proving those wrong that doubted my athletic ability because of my height.Favorite Softball Memory: Hittingmyfirsthomerunand grand slam at the same time.

Megan GLOSSERU • 5-4 • So.Mattoon, Ill.(Lake Land College)

11

A Little About Megan Glosser...Favorite Quote: “Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.”I am: ReallyexcitedaboutbeingapartofthefirstMurray State softball program and look forward to setting the bar high for future teams.Biggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: Having three knee surgeries.Who has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My big brotherPost College Ambition: To be a trauma surgeon.

Before MSU: Spent two seasons as Wabash Valley College…helped the team to a 43-5 record…Wabash finishedtheseasonwithaRegionXXIVchampionshipanda13thintheNJCAANationalTournamentin2009…was named a 2009 DistinguishedAcademicAll-American...Wabash finish seventh at the NJCAANationalTournament and claimed the Great River Athletic Conference and Region XXIV Championships in 2008…named to the Dean’s list at Wabash Valley…was a four-year starter at second base for the Harrison High School varsity squad…earned four-straight SIAC All-Conference honors and four-straight All-Metro team awards…namedtotheAll-CityAcademicTeamfive-straightseasons…alsoletteredinbasketballandcheerleading. Personal: Born Taylor Alyse Wilson, Feb. 18, 1989 in Evansville, Ind….daughter of Mike Wilson and Alicia Evans…has one sister, Hayley Wilson (18)…majoring in organizational communication.

Before MSU: One of four Racers to spend the last two seasons as a member of the Lake Land College roster…in her freshman campaign she was a strong player for the Lakers, hitting .425, scoring 58 runs, and stealing 17 bases…before heading to Lake Land College, Glosser spent four seasons as a member of the Mattoon High School varsity program…the Greenwave earned a sectional championship her freshman campaign and then claimed the Big 12 Conference championship and regional championship her senior season…named to the Decatur All-Area and Big 12 First Teams as a sophomore and Big 12 First Team as a senior… led the team with a .693 slugging percentage and earned Special Mention All-State Chicago Area honors as a senior…also participated in basketball for four seasons, cross country for two, and tennis for one as a prep…a member of the National Honor Society, class president (four years) and earned the Big 12 Scholar/Athletic Award all four seasons with the Greenwave.

Personal: Born Megan Jo Glosser, April 26, 1989 in Mattoon, Ill….daughter of John and Kathy Glosser…has one brother, Michael (22)…is cousin of Racer Jenna Bradley…uncle Bert Bradley played Major League Baseball for the Oakland A’s and is currently a pitching coach for the San Francisco Giants…majoring in biology/pre-med.


2010 Racers

Chelsey SULLIVANP • 5-10 • So.Shelbyville, Ill.(Lake Land College)

10

A Little About Chelsey Sullivan...Favorite Quote: “The greatness in a person is not that they are not defeated, but that they rise after every defeat.”I am: TerrifiedoftornadosWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My parentsIdeal Vacation Spot: HawaiiBiggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: My back injury. There was a time when I thought I’d never play again.

Megan BELIOOF • 5-4 • Fr.Lemon Grove, Calif.(Granite Hills)

99

A Little About Megan Belio...Favorite Quote: “Dance like no one is watching, laugh like no one can hear you and play like there is no tomorrow.”I Am: Ready for whatever the world throws at me.Who Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My grandmaForeign Country I’d Like to Visit: SpainMy Proudest Moment: Signing my National Letter of Intent

Before MSU: One of four Racers to spend the last two seasons as a member of the Lake Land College roster …claimed Academic All-American honors as a sophomore…named to the All-Region 24 Team and the GRACAll-ConferenceTeaminherfirstseasonwiththeLakers...finishedtheseasonwitha20-2recordinthecircle, an ERA of 2.10, and 120 strikeouts…a First Team All-Conference selection all four years in high school withCasey-Westfield…Warriorsearnedconference,regional,sectional,andsuper-sectionalchampionshipsontheirwaytoarunner-upfinishattheIllinoisstatefinalsherseniorcampaign...earnedAll-Areahonorsherfinalthreeseasonsandall-stateandstateall-tournamentteamhonorsasasenior…finishedhercareerwith1,000 strikeouts…also participated in volleyball for four seasons and basketball for one year as a prep…earned all-conference and team MVP honors, while recording the most rebounds on the team…a member of the National Honor Society.

Personal: Born Chelsey Michelle Sullivan, March 17, 1989 in Des Moines, Iowa….daughter of Jeff and Carla Sullivan…has two brothers, Jacob (23) and Jason (21)…both brothers played collegiate baseball, Jacob at Nicholls State and Jason is a senior at Western Carolina…majoring in elementary education.

Before MSU: A four-year member of the Granite Hills varsity squad…earned All-Grossmont League honors all fourseasons,includingfirst-teamaccoladesasasenior…alsonamedtheEaglesOffensivePlayeroftheYearin 2009…helped lead the Eagles to a CIF Division I championship and a 25-7 overall record as a junior…was a stealthy runner, as she led the team in stolen bases her last two seasons…went 24-for-24 in steal attempts as a senior…also a standout on the Eagles volleyball squad…in 2006 she was named the Defensive Player of the Year for her efforts.

Personal: Born Megan Marie Belio, Jan. 4, 1991 in San Diego, Calif….daughter of Eric and Mary Belio…has one sister, Sydney (16)…uncle Kevin Spicer played professional baseball for the New York Mets and her cousin Mike Judd played for the Los Angeles Dodgers…majoring in criminal justice.


2010 Racers

Christian COXMI • 5-6 • Fr.Magnolia, Ky.(LaRue County)

22

A Little About Christian Cox...Favorite Quote: “Death before dishonor.”Foreign Country I’d Like to Visit: EgyptWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My parentsIdeal Vacation Spot: OkinawaProudest Moment: Signing to play at Murray State.

Stephanie EDWARDSIF • 5-7 • Fr.Bowling Green, Ky.(Greenwood)

3

A Little About Stephanie Edwards...Favorite Quote: “Life’s challenges are not suppose to paralyze you, they’re supposed to help you discover who you are.”What Most People Don’t Know About Me: I competed in beauty pageants. I took ballet, tap and jazz lessons for four years. I also competed nationally in “Punt, Pass, and Kick” the football competition.Ideal Vacation Spot: Fiji, at a private island resort.

Before MSU: A six-year member of the LaRue County varsity team…named to the All-18th District and was a second team all-state honoree as a senior…earned a spot on the East-West All-Stars team…led the Hawks in hits, doubles, RBIs, stolen bases, slugging percentage, on base percentage and batting average in her finalseason…wasnamed theNewcomerof theYear in2004…earnedherfirstAll-5thRegionTeamhonorthe following year when LaRue County advanced to the state tournament…also earned All-5th Region Team honorsin2007aftermakingtheAll-18thDistrictteamin2006andagainin2008…inherfinalseasonasaprepshe was named a Class 2A All-State Honorable Mention…also played for the Kentucky Outlaws Club Team…a member of the Student Council, and participated in several clubs while maintaining an A/B average to be a member of the A/B Honor Roll while a prep.

Personal: Born Christian Ann Cox, Feb. 22, 1991 in Hodgenville, Ky….daughter of Mike and Joy Cox…has one brother, Codey (14)…is undecided on a major.

Before MSU: A member of the Allen County varsity softball team since 2005 when she entered eighth grade…earned four District titles and went to the Regional Championship game three times, winning once…in her last two seasons Edwards batted over .400, including a .434 mark her sophomore season..she tallied 70 RBI’s and 34 doubles in that span…named to the 2007 All-District First Team and the 2007 and 2008 All-Region Second Team...also played softball at Greenwood High School while in middle school…was part of the JV team in sixth and seventh grade and varsity team in eighth grade…also a member of the National Honor Society as a prep.

Personal: Born Stephanie High Edwards, Aug. 13, 1991 in Bowling Green, Ky….daughter of Rob and Kim Edwards…has two sisters, Whitney (19) and Katelyn (15)…majoring in biology/pre-med.


2010 Racers

Kaitlyn ENGLANDC • 5-6 • Fr.Springfield, Ill.(Glenwood Chatham)

26

A Little About Kaitlyn England...Favorite Quote: “Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.”Foreign Country I’d Like to Visit: ItalyIdeal Vacation Spot: Italy or AustraliaWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My grandparentsBiggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: Ankle surgeryPost College Ambition: To be an athletic trainer or strength and conditioning coach.

Starr GILLEYP • 5-10 • Fr.Graham, N.C.(Walter Williams)

14

A Little About Starr Gilley...Ideal Vacation Spot: On the beach in Cancun, Mexico.Who Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My dad, he has helped me through everything and made me who I am today.What Most People Don’t Know About Me: I used to have very long hair. It was down to my lower back and last summer I got a foot cut off.Favorite Thing about MSU Softball: How we push each other during practice or a hard work out.

Before MSU: A member of the Glenwood High School varsity team for four seasons…helped the Titans to a second-placefinishattheIllinoisStateTournament…teamclaimedconference,regional,sectional,andsuper-sectionaltitlesalongthewayandfinishedtheseasonwitha29-9record…earnedAll-IllinoisThirdTeamhonorsas a senior and was named the CS8 Conference Player of the Year in 2009…named to Mizuno Super-60, as oneofthetop60seniorsinIllinois…aChicagoTribuneAll-StateSpecialMentionhonoreein2009…inherfinalseason led the CS8 Conference with 42 RBIs…was a CS8 All-Conference honorable mention in 2007 and earned All-CS8 First Team honors in 2008 and 2009…ended the season with a .421 batting average, with two homeruns,ninetriples,and10doubles…hadthefifth-besthittingaverage(.418)intheCS8conferenceasa junior, when she tallied 31 RBI’s, 14 doubles and three triples…as a sophomore she recorded 28 hits in 88 at-bats, with nine doubles and 10 RBI’s…also earned CS8 All-Academic honors as a senior.

Personal: Born Kaitlyn Matson England, Sept. 5, 1990 in Springfield, Ill….daughter of Doug and ElaineEngland…majoring in exercise science/athletic training.

Before MSU: A member of the Walter Williams varsity squad for the last three seasons…earned all-state honors as a senior...an all-conference honoree as a junior and senior…in her second year with the Bulldogs she had a .553 batting averaging while being named team MVP…named team MVP in 2009 and 2007…tallied 420 strike outs in her career…also a member of the N.C. Rockers travel team…helped the Rockers win several awards, including the 16 and under N.C. State Games Championship.

Personal: Born Starr Lanae Gilley, Jan. 26, 1991 in Burlington, N.C….daughter of Lisa Russel and Shane Gilley…has two brothers, Chase Mundy (10) and Austyn Gilley (6)…is undecided on a major.


2010 Racers

Shelby KOSMECKIP • 5-9 • Fr. Somerset, Ky.(Southwestern)

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A Little About Shelby Kosmecki...Favorite Quote: “I may win, I may lose, but I will never be defeated.”Foreign Country I’d Like to Visit: GreeceWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My dadBiggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: Having the mind set that I was done playing softball.Proudest Moment: Signing here.

Madi RATLIFF1B • 5-6 • Fr.Lousiville, Ky.(Louisville Male)

24

A Little About Madi Ratliff...Favorite Book: A Farewell to ArmsWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My parents and sisterBiggest Obstacle I’ve Overcome: Maturing mentallyWhat Most People Don’t Know About Me: I am the team beautician.I Chose Murray State Because: Itwastheperfectfitfor me.

Before MSU: A member of the Southwestern High School varsity squad for six seasons… helped lead the Warriors to four consecutive District Championships, while earning All-District and All-Pulaski County honors….named to the All-State First Team as well as claiming the Region 12 and section 4 Player of the Year honors in 2009…a member of the 2009 East-West and Kentucky/Tennessee All-Star teams…was the winning pitcher for both all-star games…2008 12th Region Player of the Year.

Personal: Born Shelby Brooke Kosmecki, Nov. 21, 1990 in Somerset, Ky….daughter of Keith and Jessica Kosmecki…has one brother, Justin (9)…is undecided on a major.

Before MSU: A member of the Louisville Male High School varsity squad…earned All-District and All-Region honors in 2008…also an All-State Honorable Mention in 2008 for the Bulldogs….claimed Academic All-State First Team honors in 2009…named to the all-state honorable mention team in 2009…earned the 2008 Kentucky Governor’s Scholar award and All-State Academic First Team honors.

Personal: Born Madeline Anne Ratliff, June 12, 1991 in Louisville, Ky….daughter of Ursula and Cliff Ratliff…has one sister, Rachel (19)…majoring in biology/pre-physical therapy.


2010 Racers

Toree ROGERSOF • 5-6 • Fr.Murray, Ky.(Calloway County)

8

A Little About Toree Rogers...Favorite Quote: “Anyone can give up, it’s the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that is true strength.”Foreign Country I’d Like to Visit: GreeceProudest Moment: When I learned the words to the song “Bust a Move.”I Chose Murray State Because: It is in my hometown and I was excited about the program.

Ellyn TROUPC • 5-8 • Fr.Placentia, Calif(El Dorado)

18

A Little About Ellyn Troup...Favorite Book: Pride and PrejudiceForeign Country I’d Like to Visit: GreeceWho Has Had the Biggest Impact on My Life: My two oldersistershaveinfluencedmethemostinsoftballandin life.What Most People Don’t Know About Me: I used to play the celloFavorite Thing About MSU Softball: Our Team.

Before MSU: A four-year starter for Calloway County High School… earned the 2007, 2008 and 2009 Outstanding InfieldAwardsatCalloway…partof the2009 team thatclaimed theDistrict title…helped leadLakers to the title game of the First Region tournament as a junior…had 22 RBI, 20 stolen bases, one home runanda.970fieldingpercentageherjuniorseason…alsoearnedAcademicAll-Statehonors…amemberofthe KHSAA Academic All-State First Team, National Science Honors Society, and FCA as a prep.

Personal: Born Toree Breann Rogers, May 16, 1991 in Murray, Ky….daughter of Karen and Dusty Burkeen and Mark and Lori Rogers…has one brother, Tristan (13), and one sister, Tiffany (26)…is undecided on a major.

Before MSU: A four-year starter at El Dorado High School…the Golden Hawks advanced to the Division II CIF StateTournamentallfourseasons,reachingthesemifinalsin2006…earnedAll-CenturyLeaguehonorsasasenior while serving as the team captain…named team MVP as a senior…was a scholar athlete all four years as a prep…also played volleyball for the Golden Hawks.

Personal: Born Ellyn Troup, March 22, 1991 in Placentia, Calif….daughter of Phil and Amy Troup has two sisters, Erin (23) and Emily (21) …will be the third person in her family to play softball at the collegiate level, as both her older sisters played softball…Erin played for North Dakota State University, and Emily played at the University of North Carolina…majoring in business administration.


2010 Racers

Alaina ZLOTYOF • 5-8 • Fr. Martinsville, Ind.(Martinsville)

4

A Little About Alaina Zloty...Favorite Quote: “What would you attempt if you knew you could not fail?”Favorite Softball Memory: Winning back-to-back state championships.Ideal Vacation Spot: Bora BoraWhat Most People Don’t Know About Me: I have had fivefootsurgeriesandthatIusedtohaveachilibowlhair cut.Post College Ambition: To be in the military.

Sophomores

J u n i o r s

Freshmen

Before MSU: A three-time all-conference selection for Martinsville High School from 2005-2008…helped the Artesians earn two Indiana 4A State Championships (2005, 2006) and three Mid-State Conference, three sectional,andtworegionalchampionships…inherfinalseason(2008),shewasnamedtotheall-districtandall-area teamsafterfinishing theseasonwitha .480battingaverageanda .990fieldingpercentage…alsoparticipated in soccer for four years as a prep…earned the starting goalkeeper position as a freshman…owns the Martinsville school record for lowest goals against average (1.1)… helped the team to three Mid-State Conference Championships.

Personal: Born Alaina Corinne Zloty, Jan. 30, 1990 in Martinsville, Ind….daughter of Robert and Stacia Zloty…has three sisters, Brianna (25), Caitlin (24) and Lynn (21) and one brother, John (13)…all three sisters played a collegiate sport, Lynn played softball at IUPUI, Brianna played softball at Lincoln Memorial and Caitlin played basketball at Aurora University…majoring in criminal justice.


KYLE SCHWARTZAsst. Commissionerfor Media Relations

BETH DeBAUCHECommissioner

The Ohio Valley Conference

JENNIFER GIBBSAsst. Commissioner

Championships

HEATHER BROWNDirector,

Media Relations

BRIAN PULLEYAsst. Commissioner

External Affairs

MATTHEW BANKERAsst. Commissioner

Institutional Services

BRAD WALKERAssoc. Commissioner

Operations

Entering its 62nd year, the Ohio Valley Conference embarks on a new era while continuing to build on the success that has made it the nation’s eighth-oldest NCAA Division I conference.

In 2008 the conference again expanded with the addition of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. The Cougars will begin play in women’s softball in the 2010-11 season, while the rest of their teams begin in 2011-12.

In 2003, the OVC extended its geographical footprint into Alabamaforthefirst timewiththeadditionofJacksonvilleState University and Samford University.

Samford left the OVC after the 2007-08 season to join the Southern Conference.

The OVC’s proud past dates back to 1948, but seeds for the new league were actually planted in 1941. It was then that Murray State athletics director Roy Stewart, Eastern Kentucky athletics director Charles “Turkey” Hughes and Western Kentucky public relations director Kelly Thompson firstbroachedtheideaofforminganewconference.

Discussions were put on hold by World War II, but re-emerged on Feb. 27-28, 1948, at the Kentucky Hotel in Louisville, as the three original institutions combined with Morehead State, Louisville and Evansville to form the OVC.

In the 1950s, the OVC became a pioneer on a much more significant scale socially. During times of racialsegregation, league member Morehead State became one of thefirstnon-traditionallyblackmid-southern institutionsto accept a black student. In 1958, Marshall Banks earned athletically-related aid at Morehead, which signed a second black athlete, Howard Murphy, a year later. With racial barriers broken, the rest of the institutions in the league began to provide educational and athletic opportunities to African- Americans.

In the late 1970s, women’s athletics began a rebirth on the national scene, as the NCAA began sponsoring and marketing women’s sports. Recognizing the need to provide increased opportunities for female athletes, the OVC established women’s championships in basketball, tennis, track, cross country and volleyball.

In2009itwasOVCsoftballthataccomplishedseveralfirstsas UT Martin (tournament champion) and Jacksonville State (at-large) were each selected for the NCAA Championship. Jacksonville State would take it a step farther by winning the Knoxville Regional (beating No. 13 national seed Tennessee alongtheway)tobecomethefirstOVCsoftballprogramtoadvance to a Super Regional. Jax State would fall to No. 4AlabamainthatSuperRegionalbutfinishedtheseason43-16 (19-2 OVC) and ranked 21st nationally in the ESPN.com/USA Softball poll and 24th nationally in the USA Today/NFCA poll.

TheplayingfieldisnottheonlyplacewhereOVCathletesare working hard. The league also recognizes excellence in the classroom. Six Scholar-Athlete Awards are presented yearly to male and female athletes, while others are commended for their academic success by being Medal of

Honor recipients or earning a spot on the Commissioner’s Honor Roll. Additionally, the league annually presents one institutional Academic Achievement Award, as well as separate team awards in each Conference-sponsored sport. Since the College Sports Information Directors of American (CoSIDA) Academic All-America program began, the Ohio Valley Conference has had 179 student-athletes honored with the award, including 25 over the last three years (2006-07 to the present).

Through the early years of the league, administrators wrestled with fan behavior due to the close proximity of the Conference members and the intense rivalries which developed. Just as it did decades ago, the OVC took the leadership role on what has become a national issue. In 1995, the OVC implemented a first-of-its-kind“Sportsmanship Statement,” a policy which promotes principles of fair play, ethical conduct and respect for one’s opponent. The statement has become a model for others to follow across the nation, and has answered the challenge of the NCAA Presidents Commission to improve sportsmanship in collegiate athletics.

Additionally, the OVC annually presents the Steve Hamilton Sportsmanship Award, in honor of the former Morehead State student-athlete, coach and athletics director, to a junior or senior student-athlete with significant athleticcontributions who best exemplifies the characteristicsof sportsmanship and citizenship. Most recently, the Conference has also implemented the OVC Institutional and Team Sportsmanship Awards, which are presented to one institutionand18sport-specificteamsvotedbytheirpeersto have best exhibited the standards of sportsmanship and ethical conduct as outlined by the OVC and NCAA.

The vision of leadership demonstrated by the Founding Fathers in 1948 remains alive today as the Ohio Valley Conference prepares for the future. One example is in regard to the current trend in collegiate athletics administration for increased involvement of university presidents in setting policies and making rules. The presidents of OVC institutions, however, have always governed the Conference, long before presidential governance became a national theme.

The Ohio Valley Conference sponsors the following sports: baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, tennis and track for men, and basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and volleyball for women. In addition, the OVC also sponsors the combined men’s and women’s sportofrifle.

Now in its seventh decade of competition, the Ohio Valley Conference has grown significantly from its humblebeginnings while increasing the number of athletics opportunities it provides for students. Current league representatives include charter members Eastern Kentucky University, Morehead State University and Murray State University, along with Austin Peay State University, Eastern Illinois University, Jacksonville State University, Southeast Missouri State University, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Tennessee State University, Tennessee Technological University and the University of Tennessee at Martin.


2010 Racer Opponents

Red and Blue ClassicFeb. 26-28, 2009

School: CentenaryNickname: LadiesHead Coach: Mark Montgomery2009 overall record: 32-23Softball SID: Allison McClainE-Mail: [email protected]

School: Mississippi (Ole Miss)Location: Oxford, Miss.Nickname: RebelsHome Field: Ole Miss Softball ComplexHead Coach: Missy Dickerson2009 overall record: 23-29Softball SID: Daniel SnowdenE-Mail: [email protected]

Lady Bison ClassicMarch 5-7, 2009

Racer ClassicMarch 13-14, 2009

School: BelmontNickname: BruinsHead Coach: Chris Kuhlmeyer2009 overall record: 11-35Softball SID: PatrickStubblefieldE-Mail:[email protected]

School: Alcorn StateNickname: Lady BravesHead Coach: Kevin Montgomery2009 overall record: 22-24Softball SID: Latoya ShieldsE-Mail: [email protected]

Location: Evansville, Ind.Founded: 1854Enrollment: 2,699Home Field: James & Dorthy Cooper Stadium Nickname: Purple AcesConference: Missouri Valley Conference

Evansville March 3 • 3 p.m. (DH) • Racer Field

2009 Record: 14-34MVC Record/Finish: 4-19/10th

Head Coach: Mark RedburnRecord at Evansville: 0-0 (1st Season)Career Record: 125-75 (5th Season)

Softball Contact: Whitney TarpyOffice: (812) 488-2350E-Mail: [email protected]

Location: Nashville, Tenn.Founded: 1901Enrollment: 2,476Home Field: Trojan Softball Complex Nickname: TrojansConference: TranSouth (NAIA)

Travecca Nazarene March 9 • 3 p.m. (DH) • Racer Field

2009 Record: 21-19TanSouth Record/Finish: 8-6/T4th

Head Coach: Ben TyreeRecord at Travecca Nazarene: 21-19 (2nd Season)Career Record: 21-19 (2nd Season)

Softball Contact: Gregory RuffOffice: (615) 248-1606E-Mail: [email protected]

Location: Nashville, Tenn.Founded: 1891Enrollment: 3,418Home Field: Draper Diamond Nickname: Lady BisonConference: Atlantic Sun Conference

Head Coach: Kristin Ryman Record at Lipscomb: 105-102-1 (5th Season) Career Record: 105-102-1 (5th Season)

2009 Record: 39-14Atlantic Sun Record/Finish: 15-5/3rd

Softball Contact: Mark McGee Office: (615) 966-5862 E-Mail: [email protected]


Location: Edwardsville, Ill.Founded: 1957Enrollment: 13,940Home Field: Cougar Field Nickname: CougarsConference: Ohio Valley Conference (Reclassifying)


SIU Edwardsville March 17 • 2 p.m. (DH) • Racer Field

2009 Record: 40-10

Head Coach: Sandy MontgomeryRecord at SIUE: 771-345-2 (21st Season)Career Record: 771-345-2 (21st Season)

Softball Contact: Eric HessOffice: (618) 650-3608E-Mail: [email protected]

Location: Montgomery, Ala.Founded: 1867Enrollment: 5,627Home Field: Lagoon Park Nickname: Lady HornetsConference: Southwestern Athletic Conference

Alabama State March 23 • 1 p.m. (DH) • Racer Field

2009 Record: 14-28SWAC Record/Finish: 8-9/6th

Head Coach: Telma O’Neal HallRecord at ASU: 35-90 (5th Season)Career Record: 76-130 (7th Season)

Softball Contact: LaTonia ThirstonOffice: (334) 229-5211E-Mail: [email protected]

Location: Birmingham, Ala.Founded: 1841Enrollment: 4,500Home Field: Bulldog Field Nickname: BulldogsConference: Southern

Samford March24 • 3 p.m. (DH) • Birmingham, Ala.

2009 Record: 21-30Southern Record/Finish: 10-14/7th

Head Coach: Beannie KetchamRecord at Samford: 179-196-1 (8th Season)Career Record: 179-196-1 (8th Season)

Softball Contact: Katie WaldenOffice: (205) 726-4005E-Mail: [email protected]

Location: McKenzie, Tenn.Founded: 1842Enrollment: 1,800Home Field: Lady Wildcat Stadium Nickname: Lady WildcatsConference: TranSouth (NAIA)

Bethel April 8 • 2 p.m. (DH) • Racer Field

2009 Record: 34-14TranSouth Record/Finish: 8-6/T4th

Head Coach: Larry GeraldiRecord at Bethel: 51-44 (3rd Season)Career Record: 51-44 (3rd Season)

Softball Contact: Matt SwienaOffice: (731) 352-4231E-Mail: [email protected]

Location: Bowling Green, Ky.Founded: 1906Enrollment: 19,761Home Field: WKU Softball Field Nickname: HilltoppersConference: Sun Belt Conference

Western Kentucky April 13 • 4 p.m. • Bowling Green, Ky.

2009 Record: 35-19Sun Belt Record/Finish: 14-9/2nd

Head Coach: Tyra PerryRecord at WKU: 63-49 (3rd Season)Career Record: 209-247 (9th Season)

Softball Contact: Kelly OravetOffice: (270) 745-5379E-Mail: [email protected]

Location:Mayfield,Ky.Founded: 1949Enrollment: 1,800Home Field: Cougar Field Nickname: CougarsConference: TranSouth Athletics Conference (NAIA)

Mid-Continent April 22 • 3 p.m. (DH) • Racer Field

2009 Record: 13-39TranSouth Record/Finish: 1-13/10th

Head Coach: Christa BakemeierRecord at Mid-Con: 0-0 (1st Season)Career Record: 0-0 (1st Season)

Softball Contact: Steve SchwepkerOffice: (270) 247-8521, ext. 259E-Mail: [email protected]



Location: Nashville, Tenn.Founded: 1912Enrollment: 9,024Home Field: Tiger Field Nickname: TigersConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Joyce Maudie Alma Mater: Indiana (Pa.) University, 1988 Record at TSU: 133-269 (9th Season) Career Record: 356-522 (20th Season)

2009 Record: 18-31OVC Record/Finish: 8-15/8th

Softball Contact: Zekeya Anderson Office: (615) 963-1867 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.TSUTigers.com

Tennessee StateMarch 20-21 • Nashville, Tenn.

Location: Jacksonville, Ala.Founded: 1883Enrollment: 9,061Home Field: University Field Nickname: GamecocksConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Jana McGinnis Alma Mater: Jacksonville State, 1991 Record at JSU: 556-301 (17th Season) Career Record: 556-301 (17th Season)

2009 Record: 43-16OVC Record/Finish: 19-2/1st

Softball Contact: Josh Underwood Office: (256) 782-5915 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.JSUGamecockSports.com

Jacksonville StateMarch 27-28 • Racer Field

Location: Martin, Tenn.Founded: 1900Enrollment: 8,100Home Field: Bettye Giles FieldNickname: SkyhawksConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Donley Canary Alma Mater: Tennessee Tech, 1978 Record at UTM: 244-206-1 (8th Season) Career Record: 244-206-1 (8th Season)


Softball Contact: Matt Maxey Office: (731) 881-7532 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.utmsports.com

UT MartinMarch 30 • Martin, Tenn.April 14 •Racer Field

Location: Cookeville, Tenn.Founded: 1915Enrollment: 10,850Home Field: Tech Softball Field Nickname: Golden EaglesConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Tory Acheson Alma Mater: UW-Milwaukee, 1992 Record at TTU: 430-264 (13th Season) Career Record: 720-345-2 (19th Season)


Softball Contact: Steve Appelhans Office: (931) 372-3293 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.TTUSports.com

Tennessee TechApril 2-3 • Cookeville, Tenn.

Location: Clarksville, Tenn.Founded: 1927Enrollment: 10,188Home Field: Lady Govs Field Nickname: Lady GovsConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Casey Dickson Alma Mater: Oklahoma, 2000 Record at APSU: 15-38 (2nd Season) Career Record: 69-107 (5th Season)


Softball Contact: Brad Kirtley Office: (931) 221-7561 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.APSUGovernors.com

Austin PeayApril 10-11 • Racer Field



Location: Cape Girardeau, Mo.Founded: 1873Enrollment: 10,477Home Field: Southeast Softball Complex Nickname: RedhawksConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Lana Richmond Alma Mater: Berea College, 1980 Record at SEMO: 785-552-2 (28th Season) Career Record: 785-552-2 (28th Season)

2009 Record: 29-21OVC Record/Finish: 16-8/2nd

Softball Contact: Patrick Clark Office: (573) 651-2937 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.GoSoutheast.com

Southeast Missouri StateApril 17-18 • Racer Field

Location: Richmond, Ky.Founded: 1906Enrollment: 16,200Home Field: Gertrude Hood Field Nickname: ColonelsConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Jane Worthington Alma Mater: Utah State, 1982 Record at EKU: 469-436 (18th Season) Career Record: 469-436 (18th Season)


Softball Contact: Kevin Britton Office: (859) 622-2006 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.EKUSports.com

Eastern KentuckyApril 24-25 • Richmond, Ky.

Location: Morehead, Ky.Founded: 1887Enrollment: 8,981Home Field: University Field Nickname: EaglesConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Holly Bruder Alma Mater: Alma College, 1999 Record at Morehead: 69-36 (3rd Season) Career Record: 214-141 (9th Season)

2009 Record: 35-20OVC Record/Finish: 15-9/3rd

Softball Contact: Matt Schabert Office: (606) 783-2556 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.MSUEagles.com

Morehead StateMay 1-2 • Racer Field

Location: Charleston, Ill.Founded: 1899Enrollment: 11,966Home Field: Williams Field Nickname: PanthersConference: Ohio Valley Conference

Head Coach: Kim Schuette Alma Mater: Indiana State, 2001 Record at EIU: 104-112-1 (5th Season) Career Record: 104-112-1 (5th Season)


Softball Contact: Bart Rettberg Office: (217) 581-6408 E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.EIUPanthers.com

Eastern IllinoisMay 8-9• Charleston, Ill.

Location: Brentwood, Tenn.Founded: 1948Commissioner: Beth DeBaucheAssociate Commissioner for Operations/Chief Operation Officer: Brad WalkerAssistant Commissioner for Championships: Jennifer GibbsAssistant Commissioner for External Affairs: Brian PulleyAssistant Commissioner for Institutional Services: Matthew BankerAssistant Commissioner for Media Relations: Kyle SchwartzDirector of Media Relations: Heather Brown

Office : (615) 371-1698 Fax: (615) 371-1788 Website: www.OVCSports.com

Ohio Valley Conference ChampionshipMay13-15, 2009

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Extreme performance comes from extreme technology.

No bat takes technology to the extreme like the Triton™ and H2™ Hybrid.

These two power hitters gain their performance from maximum handle

stiffness. A stiffer handle produces more barrel fl ex, giving you greater trampoline

effect for heightened performance.

The Triton Composite utilizes aerospace-grade graphite and 3X composite

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World-Wide RecognitionU.S. News & World Report magazine has recognized Murray State University’s continuing excellence as a top tier university for 16 consecutive years. Murray ranks sixth in the South among “Top Public Universities - Master’s,” and is the only Kentucky university to be ranked in the top tier for 16 years in a row.

In the 2006 U.S. News college guide, the university received its highest overall ranking ever, coming in at 17th among all public and private universities in the southern region of the country.

Additionally, Murray State was named in the South’s Best Master’s Universities Great Schools at a Great Price category, where MSU was recognized as one of the top two best values among public schools in the South.

Murray State University’s solid academic program and affordable price make it an excellent buy for students seeking success.

High Academic StandardsMurrayState iscertifiedbynationaland regionalaccreditationagencies,whichmeans MSU meets rigid standards.

Murray State University is home to 10,078 students. They come from nearby, from throughout the nation and around

the world. From thousands of universities, students choose Murray State University because of its academic reputation. Along with excep-tional teachers, they get Murray State’s personal approach to living and learning. Long considered one of the best-kept secrets in higher educa-tion, the word is starting to get out about the excellence of Murray State University. Students don’t just pick Murray State - they’re drawn to it.

Business Building

Alexander Hall

As one of the best public liberal arts universities, Murray State has attracted students of high academic standing. In fact, entering MSU students have the highest ACT average of all Kentucky regional campuses. They are accustomed to challenges, and they are not disappointed.

Murray State’s highly-respected liberal arts curriculum is built on a core of courses called University Studies. University Studies is designed to educate each student broadly in the various areas of human knowledge: the arts, the humanities, the natural sciences and the social sciences. Equally important, the curriculum helps students develop communication skills vital to becoming a responsible citizen and a lifelong learner.

The CampusSince its founding in 1922, Murray State has gained a reputation for having one of the most beautiful campuses in the country.

Adding to the natural scenic beauty of the campus are the many well-maintained and aesthetically-pleasing buildings. Over the years, MSU has kept its historical look despite making several additions.

Residential Colleges Through the Residential College system, Murray State offers students a way of collegiate life that leads to individual and team success. In 1998, MSU decided to transform its housing complex (dormitories) into separate colleges where students who share the same majors or educational pursuits share the entire collegiate experience. In essence, Murray State didn’t just make a transformation; it separated itself from other higher education institutions.

From the moment students enroll at Murray State, they become a part of their own residential college within the university. It means belonging. It means each college will have its own government, its own athletic teams, its own faculty ombudsperson and its own traditions.

When the Chronicle of Higher Education featured MSU’s improved style of education, it wrote of “a sense of college unity” and “competition that carries over into the classroom.” The Times of London referred to the idea as a vision of Oxford University in Kentucky.

The system is closest to elite U.S. universities, such as Harvard and Yale, which assign their many students to residential houses,” wrote the Times.

This is ...


Student LifeMurray State University offers an active, vibrant and challenging environment for its students. From the classroom to the residential college room, the Murray State experience is one which students will harbor for a lifetime.

In the classroom, educators are dedicated to seeing each student reach his or her potential. Class size is about 30 to 35 students.

Outside of the classroom, Murray State offers many athletic and social programs. Intramural sports operate year-round, while fraternities and sororities allow students to form bonds with “brothers” and “sisters” which will last a lifetime. Murray State also attracts a wide array of nationally-acclaimed speakers, top concerts and other events.

Perhaps the biggest event on campus each year is Homecoming. Each fall, thousands of alumni return to Murray State to renew old friendships and visit the place they called home for four years.

Racer AthleticsThe university’s intercollegiate athletic programs are a source of tradition, school pride, spirit and entertainment for students, alumni and community members alike. Competing at the highest level of college athletics, MSU is a member of NCAA Division I and is a founding member of the Ohio Valley Conference with its 16-team program.

Murray State is committed to athletic excellence, which is evident by its 96 OVC championships in the 54 years that the Racers have been competing in the league.

OneofthegreatestbenefitsofRacerathleticstoMurrayStateistheattentionandacclaim which it brings to the university. The Murray State men’s basketball team has achieved extensive notoriety by competing in the NCAA Tournament in most years. Also,theRacersfindthemselvesbeingwrittenaboutinsuchpublicationsasSports Illustrated, ESPN The Magazine, The Sporting News, USA Today and dozens of publications and newspapers across the country. Additionally, Murray State is featured several times each year on ESPN as part of their college basketball broadcasts.

Murray State has also sent its share of players to the NFL, the NBA, Major League Baseball and other professional leagues around the world.

Local CommunityLocated in the city of Murray in Calloway County in the southwestern corner of Kentucky, Murray State is surrounded by a neighborly Main Street community of nearly 36,000 people. Known for its friendly citizens and beautiful, wooded landscape, Murray/Calloway County is a growing and thriving area.

In addition to its strong educational, employment and quality of life opportunities, Murray/CallowayCounty’slocationisbeneficialinmanyways.LocatedintheJacksonPurchase region of western Kentucky, Murray is eight miles from Tennessee, 50 miles from Illinois, 65 miles from Missouri and 150 miles from Indiana, making it easily able todrawstudentsfromfivedifferentstates.Also,fourmajorcities(St.Louis,Nashville,Memphis, Louisville) are within a few hours’ driving distance from Murray.

One of the biggest attractions in western Kentucky is scenic Kentucky Lake and the Land Between the Lakes. Just a 15-minute drive from the Murray State campus are boating,fishing,hunting,campingandhikingopportunities,whichstudentsoftentakeadvantage of during fall and spring weekends.

Murray State University


President Dunn joined a packed house at the RSEC.

Dr. Randy J. Dunn became Murray State’s 11th president on Dec. 1, 2006. He also holds tenure as a professor in MSU’s Department of Educational Studies, Leadership and Counseling.

Dunn served as the Illinois State Superintendent of Schools previous to taking the MSU presidency and he has chaired the Department of Educational Administration and Higher Education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Dunn began his academic career at Memphis State University (now The University of Memphis).

Dunn earned his doctorate from the University of Illinois in 1991, having completed his bachelor’s degree in education (1980) and his master’s degree in educational administration and foundations (1983) from Illinois State University.

A K-20 educator, Dunn has served in almost every capacity, from classroom teacher and building principal to district superintendent and university professor. In addition to his service to state and local schools, he has distinguished himself as a noted scholar and professor in educational leadership.

During his time as a professor, he published more than 29 professional articles and book chapters, and made more than 30 presentations at state and national conferences.

Dunnhasdirectlyinfluencedhundredsofeducators,teaching more than 11 different graduate courses and serving on more than 40 doctoral dissertation committees during his academic career. He has also served as principal or co-investigator on numerous funded grants totaling nearly $650,000.

Dunn and his wife Ronda have four children—two who are students at Murray State and two in the Chicago area.

Alan StoutChair - Marion

Bill AdamsVice Chair - Murray

Dr. Constantine Curris

Lexington

Sharon GreenMayfield

Dr. Laxmaiah Manchikanti

Paducah

Kara MantoothStudent Regent -

Owensboro

Marilyn BuchanonGrand Rivers

Dr. Jay MorganFaculty Regent -

Murray

Vickie TravisMurray

Phil SchooleyStaff Regent -

Murray

DR. RANDY J. DUNNMURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

University Administration

Murray State University Board of Regents

Stephen WilliamsGoshen


Allen Ward joined the Murray State athletics department as its director on March 30, 2005. Since his arrival, there has been a prevailing

theme that symbolizes his administration: steady and significantprogress.

“It’s an honor to serve as Director of Athletics at Murray State.” said Ward. “I’m very pleased with the directionoftheprogramandconfidentit’spositionedfor long-term success.”

The most recent illustration of Ward’s stamp on the program was Murray State’s capturing of the 2008-09 OVC Commissioners Cup, a symbol of overall athletic excellence in OVC sponsored championships.

“TheOVCCommissionersCupsignifiesexcellencethroughout the entire program,” said Ward. “It’s a good barometer in measuring the overall success of any athletic department and it’s exactly what I envisioned when I came to Murray State”.

It’s the first time since 1991 thatMurrayState haswon the all-sports trophy, now known as the OVC CommissionersCup. TenofMurray’sfifteensportsfinished in third place or higher, with three sportswinning conference championships.

Ward also emphasizes the importance of achievement in the classroom as well.

“Our motto is Four Years – Two Goals. We want every student-athlete to leave Murray State with a degree in one hand and a championship ring on the other,” states Ward unrelentingly. “I fully expect our student-athletes to take advantage of their opportunity to receive a quality education while competing at the highest level of intercollegiate athletics.”

Each of the past four years, the graduation rates for student-athletes have surpassed that of the general student body.

Ward makes no secret where he intends to take the program.

“I expect to be a leader in the OVC in everything we do. I expect to win championships and advance to compete on the national stage. I intend to continue to move the program forward,” states Ward.

And Murray moving forward is exactly what has been happening. Over $3.5 million in athletic facility enhancements have been made touching every sport and unit.

The department successfully completed its 10-year NCAA Recertification process. The overall APRscores for the department now surpass 960, and the cumulative GPA for student-athletes for the spring, 2009 semester was 3.06.

Under Ward’s leadership, the Racer Club was established as the annual fund raising arm of the department and continues to thrive, the sport of softball was introduced to the varsity line-up, additional staff was added in areas vital to student-athlete achievement, a comprehensive Title IX plan was developed and enacted, the Racer Television Network was unveiled, and the athletic program became an official NCAA CHAMPS / Life Skillsmember.

Ward has also had to successfully manage unprecedented turnover with head coaching positions and senior level staff, most notably with its highprofilepositions.Newcoacheshavebeenhiredfor men’s basketball, women’s basketball, football, women’s soccer, softball, rifle, and strength andconditioning.

The Ward family (from left): Nicole, Sharon, Allen, and Nathan.

“I like our coaches and staff; it’s a really good group, and they work extremely hard,” noted Ward. “They know what it takes to win championships, but also teach the importance of achieving academically as well.”

It’s very clear Ward has a passion and devotion for student-athletes and college athletics.

“Their success, and providing the tools necessary to perform at the highest level, is my top priority,” says Ward. “We’re a proud program with a rich tradition that’s fortunate to have extraordinary university leadership. We will continue to win championships while, at the same time, prepare our athletes to excel long after they have played their last game for Murray State.”

Ward, 42, came to Murray State from the University of North Texas, where he served in numerous capacities over 14 years for the Division I BCS program, including the last six years as Senior Associate Athletics Director.

A native of Rolla, Missouri, Ward is a 1989 graduate of William Jewell College and earned his master’s degree from Wichita State University. Ward and his wife, Sharon, have two children: Nathan, 11, and Nicole, 8.

ALLEN WARD

Director of Athletics


MATT KELLY(Alma College, 1994)

ASSOCIATE ATHLETICS DIRECTOR,INTERNAL OPERATIONS

STEVE HARRELL(Delaware, 2005)

ASSISTANT ATHLETICS DIRECTOR, COMPLIANCE

Athletic Administration

Matt Kelly is in his third year as associate athletics director for internal operations after serving two years as assistant director of athletics for academics.

Prior to arriving at Murray State, Kelly spent two years at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

A 1994 graduate of Alma College, he also earned his master’s in physical education and sports administration at Eastern Kentucky in 1996.

Kelly oversees the academic progress of more than 300 Murray State student-athletes. He is a member of the National Association of Advisors for Athletics and is an adjunct instructor in sport sociology for the Murray State Sociology Department.

Before arriving at Missouri-Kansas City, Kelly spent four-and a-half years as an academic advisor for the football, swimming and diving teams at Florida State University. He was also the study hall/tutor coordinator for all sports at FSU.

While working on his master’s at Eastern Kentucky, Kelly was a graduate assistant in the athletics academics department and an adjunct faculty member in the health and physical education department.

Kelly and his wife, Laura, have a son, Cole, 8, and a daughter, Olivia, 6.

Steve Harrell begins his first season with the Murray State athletic department as the assistant athletics director for

compliance. Harrell comes to Murray after spending one year at the University of North Florida.

Harrell is responsible for the oversight of NCAA compliance for over 300 student-athletes in Murray State’s 16 NCAA Division I athletic programs.

While at North Florida, Harrell worked both in the compliance department and as an athletic academic support counselor. During that time he produced a guide and website for student-athletes to help them achieve academic success.

Before his time at North Florida, Harrell served as a senior event staff supervisor at the University of Delaware. He supervised event staff for athletic games, concerts, graduations, and trade shows. He also volunteered in the sports marketing department and was a coach and counselor at the David Henderson Basketball school while at Delaware.

In December 2005 Harrell earned a bachelor of science degree in sport management from the University of Delaware. After graduating from Delaware Harrell enrolled in Florida Coastal School of Law, where he earned a law degree in 2009. Harrell also earned sports law and advancedlegalwritingcertificates.

Dave Winder is in his eighth year with Murray State athletics and sixth in media relations.

Winder “officially” joined theRacer athletics program in2001, but in many ways, the Jackson, Mo., native has been a part of Murray State athletics for years.

WinderfirstcametoMSUasasophomorebaseballplayerin the fall of 1983. He played three seasons for Johnny ReaganandbecameanAll-OhioValleyConferencefirstbaseman in 1987. Winder still holds the OVC and MSU single-game record with 12 RBIs.

After graduating from MSU in 1987 with a journalism degree, Winder served as the radio voice of Southeast Missouri State athletics from 1988 to 1991. He returned to Kentucky in 1991 and anchored the sports desk at WPSD TV-6 in Paducah for 10 years. He hosted the Murray State Racers’ football and basketball television shows from 1993 to 2007.

Since becoming assistant athletics director for media relations in 2004 Winder has increased the size of the sports information staff and its production, launched a new athletics website and began video streaming of MSU games in 2006.

Winder and his wife, Janice, have a daughter, Meagan, 14, and son, Matthew, 12.

PaulBubbisinhisfirstfullyearasassociateathleticdirectorfor external affairs.

Bubb directs the activities of the Racer Club and Racer Athletics’ Corporate Partner program. He also oversees the areas of marketing and promotions, ticket operations and media relations as well as the men’s and women’s golf, baseball and softball programs.

PriortoarrivingatMurrayState,BubbspentfiveyearsatIdahoStateUniversity,firstserving as assistant athletic director for development (2003), and then senior associate athleticdirector forexternaloperations (2004),andfinallyas thedirectorofathletics(2005 – 2008).

Bubb’s 28-year career in athletics has included athletic administrative positions at Southern Illinois University (Carbondale), Drake University, Cal State Northridge, Boise State and the University of Maine. Bubb began his collegiate career as an assistant basketball coach and alumni administrator at Monmouth College.

A 1979 graduate of Monmouth College (IL), Bubb earned his master’s degree in sport management at Western Illinois University.

Paul and his wife, Susan, were married in 1985 and have a daughter, Kallan.

Mike Thieke is in his 20th year at Murray State and has served in many areas of the athletics department.

He was named coordinator of facilities and game day management in 2004 and has served as assistant athletics director for facilities since 2007.

Thieke’s long association with Murray State began when he played baseball in 1973 and 1974. Thieke threw a no-hitter against Purdue, one of only seven no-hitters in program history.

After serving as pitching coach at Memphis University from 1978-89, he came back to Murray State as an assistant. From 1993-03, Thieke was the head coach of MSU. In 2003, the ‘Breds made the an appearance in the NCAA Regionals.

Thieke’s duties have included overseeing the installation of the new Fieldturf at Stewart Stadium, and construction of the Crisp Soccer-Tennis Complex. He has also completed other renovation projects for basketball, soccer, volleyball, and rowing.

He graduated in 1974 from Murray State with a degree in secondary education/business and earned a master’s degree in physical education in 1977 and also owns a United States patent.

Thieke and his wife, Suzie, have two sons, John David, 27, and Taylor, 21. John David, played baseball at MSU and is married to former OVC Tennis Player of the Year Melissa Spencer, they have a daughter, Madison, 2. Taylor is a senior on the MSU Baseball team.

PAUL BUBB(Monmouth College, 1979)

ASSOCIATE ATHLETICS DIRECTOR,ExTERNAL AffAIRS

MIKE THIEKE(Murray State, 1974)

ASSISTANT ATHLETICS DIRECTOR, fACILITIES

DAVE WINDER(Murray State, 1987)ASSISTANT ATHLETICS

DIRECTOR, MEDIA RELATIONS


Deanna GordonSenior Accounting

Clerk

Eric FrederickAssistant

Athletic Trainer

Janet FutrellBusiness Manager

Susan DarnellTicket Manager

Alan LollarHead Athletic

Trainer

Kyle McClureMarketing & Promotions

Director

Nathan YoungStrength &

Conditioning Coach

Tamra GarrisonFootball

Secretary

Cate EllisAssistant

Athletic Trainer

Scott Grant Ticket Office

Assistant

Dereck ChavisTrack & Field

Beth AcremanWomen’s Soccer

Eddie HuntMen’s Golf

Connie KeaslingWomen’s Tennis

Velvet MilkmanWomen’s Golf/SWA

Rob CrossWomen’s Basketball

Jay PyronSoftball

Mel PurcellMen’s Tennis

Rob McDonaldBaseball

Dave SchwepkerVolleyball

Joe HaynesTelevision Specialist

Jennifer JohnsonWomen’s Basketball

Secretary

Crystal MorrowAdministrative

Assistant

Alan LollarRifle

Fulton HartAssistant

Athletic Trainer

MURRAY STATE HEAD COACHES

Murray StateAthletics Directory

Note:Areacodeandprefixfor all numbers below is 270-809-xxxx.

Athletic AdministrationAllen Ward ................... 3164Matt Kelly ..................... 4424Paul Bubb ......................3369Steven Harrell .............. 3430Dave Winder ................ 4271

Becky HudsonMen’s Basketball

Secretary

James GardnerEquipment Manager

Mike Thieke ...................7035Crystal Morrow ..............3746Janet Futrell ...................7060Bill Whitaker ...................6899Deanna Gordon .............3397Jennifer Johnson ...........6288Becky Hudson ...............6804Tamra Garrison ..............6181

AcademicsMegan Short ................. 5434

Athletic TrainingAlan Lollar .................... 6858

Marketing & PromotionsKyle McClure ............... 3517

Media RelationsDave Winder ..................4271John Brush .................. 7044Teri LaJeunesse .......... 3351

TicketsSusan Darnell .............. 4895Scott Grant ....................3000

Billy KennedyMen’s Basketball

BaseballRob McDonald ............. 4892

Basketball (M)Billy Kennedy ............... 6804

Basketball (W)Rob Cross .................... 6288

Cross CountryChris England .............. 5435

FootballChris Hatcher ................ 6181

Golf (M)Eddie Hunt ................... 6287

Golf (W)Velvet Milkman ............ 5408

RifleAlan Lollar .................... 6858

SoccerBeth Acreman .............. 3136

SoftballJay Pyron ..................... 3748

Tennis (M)Mel Purcell ................... 6813

Tennis (W)Connie Keasling .......... 5407

Track & FieldDereck Chavis ............. 3240

VolleyballDavid Schwepker ......... 3825

Murray State Head Coaches & Staff

Chris EnglandCross Country

Darren EdgingtonStrength &

Conditioning Coach

Bill WhitakerFaculty Athletic Representative

Megan ShortAcademic Counselor


WelcomeThe Murray State University Athletics Media Relations Department is pleased to assist you with the coverage of Racers softball. Teri LaJeunesse, is the contact for MSU softball. LaJeunesse can be reached at (270) 809-3351, via fax at (270) 809-6814, or via E-Mail at [email protected].

CredentialsCredentials are not generally needed for Murray State softball games. Members of the working media are asked to check in at the scorers tent prior to game time.

Game ProceduresScorers Tent - There is very limited seating in scorers tent. Spouses, dates, children and other non-workers are not permitted in the scorers tent. Placing equipment in the scorers tent is acceptable.

Photographers - Print and television photographers are allowed to shoot from all angles, but must remain outsideofthefencesurroundingthefield.

Parking - There are a limited number of parking spacesavailablealongthefieldline.Mediamaypullinto one of these spots to unload equipment, but media parking is in the main Murray-Calloway County Parking Lotjusteastofthefieldandisfree.

Press Services - Complete individual and team statistics, and a play-by-play will be available to members of the media following each game. Prior to the games, stats, rosters, notes and other information will also be available at the scorers tent.

WPSD (NBC) (270) 415-1928 Jeff Bidwell [email protected] Greg Miller [email protected] (CBS) (573) 335-4254 Todd Richards [email protected] Chad Fryman [email protected] 11 (270) 809-3170 Jeremy McKeel [email protected]’s Show (270) 809-3154 Joe Haynes [email protected]

WNBS (270) 753-2400 Neal Bradley [email protected] (270) 527-3102 Jeff Waters [email protected] (270) 885-5331 Todd Hamilton [email protected] (270) 247-1430 Brett Fowler [email protected] / WNGO (270) 554-8255 Joe Jackson [email protected]

Ledger & Times (270) 753-1916 Michael Dann [email protected] Tommy Dillard Paducah Sun (270) 575-8600 Dusty Luthy dluthy@@paducahsun.comRacer Insider (270) 753-5842 Will Aubrey [email protected] (502) 582-4069 Mike Grant [email protected] (859) 231-2335 Rick Bailey [email protected] State News (270) 809-4481 Elizabeth Johnson [email protected] (270) 247-5233 Kevin Weaks [email protected] (270) 527-3162 Justin McGill [email protected] New Era (270) 886-4440 Joe Wilson [email protected] (615) 259-8299 Mike Towle [email protected]

LOCAL MEDIA DIRECTORY

TELEVISION

RADIO

PRINT

Media Relations

DaveWINDERAssistant AD for

Media RelationsOffice: (270) 809-4271Cell: (270) 293-0566Email: [email protected]

TeriLAJEUNESSEMedia Relations

Assistant (SB Contact)Office: (270) 809-3351Cell: (270) 293-0595Email: [email protected]

JohnBRUSHMedia Relations

AssistantOffice: (270) 809-7044Cell: (270) 293-0590Email: [email protected]

Post-Game InterviewsCoach Pyron and select Murray State players will be available 10 minutes after the conclusion of each game in the scoring tent area. If there is a particular MSU player the media wants to talk to after a game, please notify the Media Relations staff.

Dugout - The Murray State dugout is closed to the media.

Practices/Midweek InterviewsPractices are generally closed to the media. All interviews and photographs should be arranged through MSU softball contact Teri LaJeunesse at least 24 hours in advance.

Conduct PolicyMurray State and the College Sports Information Directors of America remind everyone that cheering or jeering for either team from the working media area is not permitted. Thank you for your cooperation.

Tobacco PolicyIn adherence with the NCAA, smoking and the use of tobacco products are not permitted in the working media area. This includes smokeless and chewing tobacco. We thank you in advance for your cooperation with this policy.

Media Relations Staff

Softball Facilities

The Racers will be playing their first season at Racer Softball Field at Murray-Calloway County Park. A Murray-Calloway County Parks and Racer Athletics partnership was formed in which the athletic program would be allowed use of a field in exchange for significant upgrades to the facility that would remain the property of the city parks. The field recently underwent an upgrade to make it ready for the Racers 2010 inaugural campaign. The construction to the field included lazer grading, a brand new playing surface, a new irrigation system, new score-board, home and away bullpen areas and batting cages, perimeter fencing, new backstop with a blocked wall and netting, bleacher seating and blocked dugouts. The softball team also received a brand new scoreboard, courtesy of Pepsi Mid-America.

The Racers softball team also received a new locker room in Roy Stewart Stadium. The locker room was outfitted with wooden lockers for each player and a lounge area for the team to relax in before and after games.

Home Games

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 22 23 24 26 27 28

29 30 31 1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

FEB

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

3 p.m. (DH)

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Red & Blue Classic

Lady Bison Classic

Racer Classic3 p.m. (DH)

2 p.m. Noon (DH) Noon

1 p.m. (DH) 3 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m.

4 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m.

2 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m.

4 p.m. 3 p.m. 1 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m.

3 p.m. (DH) 3 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m. (DH) 1 p.m.

1 p.m.1 p.m. (DH)

1 p.m. (DH) Noon

Documents

2010 Murray State Softball Media Guide