The Big 12 Conference has announced a one-year extension to the
multi-year agreement for Kansas City to serve as the host site for the Phillips
66 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships. The events will remain in Kansas
City through 2025.&nbsp; 

Kansas City was the initial host of both championships in the
first six years of the Conference from 1997-2002, and again in 2005, 2008 and
2010-12. The men’s postseason event has continued its run in Kansas City since
2010 while the women’s championship was set to return in 2020. Due to COVID-19,
the men’s championship was halted after the first two games while the women’s
event was cancelled in its entirety.&nbsp; 

“We were all looking forward to having our basketball
championships back together in Kansas City in 2020. While the pandemic didn’t
allow that to happen, this extension provides an additional year for our
institutions and fans to take part in the Big 12 basketball atmosphere that has
become synonymous with Kansas City,” said Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby.

“With the plans we had in place to celebrate the men’s and women’s
basketball championships being back to together in Kansas City, the 2020 Big 12
Basketball Championships were poised to be especially exciting, “ says Kathy
Nelson, President &amp; CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission.&nbsp; “The
unfortunate cancellation of those events due to COVID-19 definitely left our
community wanting more.&nbsp; We are excited and grateful that the Big 12
Conference has decided to extend our agreement to host both the Men’s and
Women’s Basketball Championships through 2025.”

The Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship played seven
of its events in Kemper Arena before moving to the newly-opened Sprint Center
in 2008. The men’s championship has been contested in Sprint Center annually
since 2010 with crowds averaging near 18,000 each year.&nbsp; 

Municipal Auditorium has hosted the Phillips 66 Women’s
Championship each year that it has been played in Kansas City and will continue
to do so through the term of the agreement. The facility has undergone $5
million in renovations to include new video boards, LED scorer’s table, sound
system, lighting, electrical upgrades and lower level seating.

The Big 12 Conference has announced a one-year extension to the
multi-year agreement for Kansas City to serve as the host site for the Phillips
66 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships. The events will remain in Kansas
City through 2025.&nbsp; Kansas City was the initial host of both championships in the
first six years of the Conference from 1997-2002, and again in 2005, 2008 and
2010-12. The men’s postseason event has continued its run in Kansas City since
2010 while the women’s championship was set to return in 2020. Due to COVID-19,
the men’s championship was halted after the first two games while the women’s
event was cancelled in its entirety.&nbsp; “We were all looking forward to having our basketball
championships back together in Kansas City in 2020. While the pandemic didn’t
allow that to happen, this extension provides an additional year for our
institutions and fans to take part in the Big 12 basketball atmosphere that has
become synonymous with Kansas City,” said Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby.“With the plans we had in place to celebrate the men’s and women’s
basketball championships being back to together in Kansas City, the 2020 Big 12
Basketball Championships were poised to be especially exciting, “ says Kathy
Nelson, President &amp; CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission.&nbsp; “The
unfortunate cancellation of those events due to COVID-19 definitely left our
community wanting more.&nbsp; We are excited and grateful that the Big 12
Conference has decided to extend our agreement to host both the Men’s and
Women’s Basketball Championships through 2025.”The Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship played seven
of its events in Kemper Arena before moving to the newly-opened Sprint Center
in 2008. The men’s championship has been contested in Sprint Center annually
since 2010 with crowds averaging near 18,000 each year.&nbsp; Municipal Auditorium has hosted the Phillips 66 Women’s
Championship each year that it has been played in Kansas City and will continue
to do so through the term of the agreement. The facility has undergone $5
million in renovations to include new video boards, LED scorer’s table, sound
system, lighting, electrical upgrades and lower level seating.--- Big 12 Press Release ---

Big 12 & Kansas City announce extension for basketball championships

KANSAS CITY -- The Royals went heavy on college pitching in the last two MLB Drafts, and they did so again on Wednesday with their top pick, selecting left-hander Asa Lacy out of Texas A&amp;M fourth overall.

But on Thursday the Royals took a stab at upside, selecting 18-year-old right-hander Ben Hernandez out of De La Salle Institute (Ill.) in the second round with the 41st overall pick.

Hernandez, at 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, has committed to Illinois-Chicago University. The slot value for No. 41 is $1,813,500.

Hernandez boasts a fastball in the 90-95 mph range. Scouts suggest that his best pitch is his changeup, which has devastating fade. His third pitch is a slow curveball that he throws in the 70s.

“For a high school kid, he is really polished,” assistant scouting director Danny Ontiveros said. “He’s a touch-and-feel guy with some power to his fastball. The changeup is plus now. The breaking ball is there. And he still has upside. We were ecstatic to get him.”

Hernandez struck out 67 in 45 innings with a 1.81 ERA as a junior. His coach, Chris Hall, expected him to have an even better season before COVID-19 shut everything down.

Hall recalled Hernandez throwing batting practice in early March.

“It wasn’t fair for our hitters,” Hall told the Chicago Tribune. “Ben’s throwing 95 and mixing in that changeup and now the cutter. He was lights out. It would have been fun to see him pitch all season.

“Ben has so much more in the tank. He looks like he’s going to lob the ball, and it’s coming at you at 90-plus.”

MLB Pipeline ranked Hernandez as the 72nd best prospect in the Draft: “The best pitcher in the inaugural Prospect Development Pipeline League, Hernandez spun six hitless innings over three outings while permitting just one walk and fanning seven. He also excelled at the Under Armour All-America Game, striking out the side in a perfect ninth inning.”

Round 3, 76th overall: Tyler Gentry, OF, Alabama

The power-hitting Gentry was a JUCO transfer who helped Walters State (Tenn.) to the Junior College World Series in 2018. In the shortened ’20 season, the 6-foot-2, 210-pounder slashed .429/.554/.750.

Gentry’s strength is that he can hit for power to all fields, and he did it against top competition in the SEC.

“He’s a guy with good speed and good power,” Ontiveros said. “And he just continues to develop.”

Gentry also held his own in the rugged Cape Cod League in 2019, with 11 doubles, two home runs and a .267 average in 44 games.

“Tyler is really mature,” Gentry’s coach, Brad Bohannon, told The Crimson White. “He’s a smart, high-character player. He has a really positive influence on everybody within our program with the way he goes about his business, because he prepares the right way.

“Everyone talks about his power, but he’s a really well-rounded baseball player. He’s a very consistent defender, he can help you win in a lot of ways. As well-rounded as he is as a player, he is as a person, too.”

Round 4, 105th overall: Christian Chamberlain, LHP, Oregon State

Chamberlain, 5-foot-10 and 173 pounds, can run his fastball up to 95 mph, but his swing-and-miss pitch is his 12-to-6 curveball. He had a 12/9 strikeout ratio at Oregon State. In a shortened season this year, he had a 0.82 ERA with 34 strikeouts in 22 innings.

Chamberlain’s claim to fame is helping Oregon State to a national title in 2018. He tied a College World Series record for strikeouts by a reliever in Game 1 by fanning 11 in 4 2/3 innings.

The Royals took Chamberlain’s former teammate, right-hander Grant Gambrell, in the third round last year. Chamberlain said in a Zoom call on Thursday night that the two remain good friends.

“He was one of the first guys who texted me after I got picked,” Chamberlain said. “I’m super excited to be joining the Royals with him.”

The one question Chamberlain has to address frequently, he said, is about his height.

“I have the body that God gave me,” he said. “You do the best you can.”

The Royals have no concern about that matter.

“He’s got some Brandon Finnegan/Tim Collins in him,” Ontiveros said. “He’s a warrior on the mound.”

Round 5, 135th overall: Will Klein, RHP, Eastern Illinois

Klein has the size (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) and power arm (95-99 mph) that could fit well in the Royals' bullpen. His walk rate dropped from 9.8 per nine innings in his first two seasons to 4.8 this season. As a starter, his velo sat around 92-94, but scouts believe he could ramp that up to the upper 90s as a reliever.

Klein’s curveball is a plus pitch as well, according to scouts. He also is working on a changeup.

“We’re just very fortunate to get him,” Ontiveros said. “He’s got that Wade Davis frame. And he’s got premier stuff.”

KANSAS CITY -- The Royals went heavy on college pitching in the last two MLB Drafts, and they did so again on Wednesday with their top pick, selecting left-hander Asa Lacy out of Texas A&amp;M fourth overall.But on Thursday the Royals took a stab at upside, selecting 18-year-old right-hander Ben Hernandez out of De La Salle Institute (Ill.) in the second round with the 41st overall pick.Hernandez, at 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, has committed to Illinois-Chicago University. The slot value for No. 41 is $1,813,500.Hernandez boasts a fastball in the 90-95 mph range. Scouts suggest that his best pitch is his changeup, which has devastating fade. His third pitch is a slow curveball that he throws in the 70s.“For a high school kid, he is really polished,” assistant scouting director Danny Ontiveros said. “He’s a touch-and-feel guy with some power to his fastball. The changeup is plus now. The breaking ball is there. And he still has upside. We were ecstatic to get him.”Hernandez struck out 67 in 45 innings with a 1.81 ERA as a junior. His coach, Chris Hall, expected him to have an even better season before COVID-19 shut everything down.Hall recalled Hernandez throwing batting practice in early March.“It wasn’t fair for our hitters,” Hall told the Chicago Tribune. “Ben’s throwing 95 and mixing in that changeup and now the cutter. He was lights out. It would have been fun to see him pitch all season.“Ben has so much more in the tank. He looks like he’s going to lob the ball, and it’s coming at you at 90-plus.”MLB Pipeline ranked Hernandez as the 72nd best prospect in the Draft: “The best pitcher in the inaugural Prospect Development Pipeline League, Hernandez spun six hitless innings over three outings while permitting just one walk and fanning seven. He also excelled at the Under Armour All-America Game, striking out the side in a perfect ninth inning.”Round 3, 76th overall: Tyler Gentry, OF, AlabamaThe power-hitting Gentry was a JUCO transfer who helped Walters State (Tenn.) to the Junior College World Series in 2018. In the shortened ’20 season, the 6-foot-2, 210-pounder slashed .429/.554/.750.Gentry’s strength is that he can hit for power to all fields, and he did it against top competition in the SEC.“He’s a guy with good speed and good power,” Ontiveros said. “And he just continues to develop.”Gentry also held his own in the rugged Cape Cod League in 2019, with 11 doubles, two home runs and a .267 average in 44 games.“Tyler is really mature,” Gentry’s coach, Brad Bohannon, told The Crimson White. “He’s a smart, high-character player. He has a really positive influence on everybody within our program with the way he goes about his business, because he prepares the right way.“Everyone talks about his power, but he’s a really well-rounded baseball player. He’s a very consistent defender, he can help you win in a lot of ways. As well-rounded as he is as a player, he is as a person, too.”Round 4, 105th overall: Christian Chamberlain, LHP, Oregon StateChamberlain, 5-foot-10 and 173 pounds, can run his fastball up to 95 mph, but his swing-and-miss pitch is his 12-to-6 curveball. He had a 12/9 strikeout ratio at Oregon State. In a shortened season this year, he had a 0.82 ERA with 34 strikeouts in 22 innings.Chamberlain’s claim to fame is helping Oregon State to a national title in 2018. He tied a College World Series record for strikeouts by a reliever in Game 1 by fanning 11 in 4 2/3 innings.The Royals took Chamberlain’s former teammate, right-hander Grant Gambrell, in the third round last year. Chamberlain said in a Zoom call on Thursday night that the two remain good friends.“He was one of the first guys who texted me after I got picked,” Chamberlain said. “I’m super excited to be joining the Royals with him.”The one question Chamberlain has to address frequently, he said, is about his height.“I have the body that God gave me,” he said. “You do the best you can.”The Royals have no concern about that matter.“He’s got some Brandon Finnegan/Tim Collins in him,” Ontiveros said. “He’s a warrior on the mound.”Round 5, 135th overall: Will Klein, RHP, Eastern IllinoisKlein has the size (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) and power arm (95-99 mph) that could fit well in the Royals' bullpen. His walk rate dropped from 9.8 per nine innings in his first two seasons to 4.8 this season. As a starter, his velo sat around 92-94, but scouts believe he could ramp that up to the upper 90s as a reliever.Klein’s curveball is a plus pitch as well, according to scouts. He also is working on a changeup.“We’re just very fortunate to get him,” Ontiveros said. “He’s got that Wade Davis frame. And he’s got premier stuff.”--- Jeffrey Flanagan, MLB.com ---

Royals complete 2020 MLB draft with four more picks

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Baseball junior RHP Ian Bedell (Davenport, Iowa) was selected in the fourth round (122nd overall pick) of the 2020 Major League Baseball Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals Thursday evening.

Bedell becomes Mizzou's 11th pitcher to be selected among the opening five rounds of an MLB Draft since 2006. He joins former Tiger hurlers in TJ Sikkema (1st Round – 2019, Michael Plassmeyer (4th Round – 2018, Tanner Houck (1st Round – 2017, Breckin Williams (4th Round – 2015, Brett Graves (3rd Round – 2014, Rob Zastryzny (2nd Round – 2013, Kyle Gibson (1st Round – 2009, Aaron Crow (1st Round – 2008, Nathan Culp (4th Round – 2006) and Max Scherzer (1st Round – 2006).

The Tigers have had a player selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in two consecutive drafts. Bedell joins former Mizzou RHP Cameron Dulle (30th Round – 2019) as recent draftees by the Cardinals.

Under head coach Steve Bieser, Mizzou has produced 17 total draft picks the past four years. Six of those selections have occurred in the top-10 rounds of the draft.

Following Bedell's selection in the fourth round Thursday, Mizzou has now accumulated at least one pick in 25 consecutive editions of the MLB Draft (1996-present).

Bedell jumped onto the national scene following a dominant 2019 sophomore campaign out of the Tigers bullpen. The righty went 3-1 with a 1.56 ERA and 36 strikeouts over 40.1 innings pitched. Bedell strung together an impressive 19.0 consecutive scoreless innings streak from March 27 – May 3 to highlight his breakout season.

Prior to his 2020 junior campaign in Mid-Missouri, Bedell was tabbed a 2020 Perfect Game/Rawlings and D1Baseball.com Preseason Third-Team All-American. Additionally, he was one of 55 players nationally to be named to the prestigious 2020 Golden Spikes Award Preseason Watch List.

In the COVID-19 pandemic shortened 2020 season, Bedell posted a 2-2 record over four starts while tallying a 3.70 ERA and 35 strikeouts over 24.1 innings pitched. He limited opposing batters to a mere .211 average. Bedell recorded double-digit strikeouts in each of his victories, highlighted by a career-high 12 punchouts versus Western Illinois (March 6).

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou Baseball junior RHP Ian Bedell (Davenport, Iowa) was selected in the fourth round (122nd overall pick) of the 2020 Major League Baseball Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals Thursday evening.Bedell becomes Mizzou's 11th pitcher to be selected among the opening five rounds of an MLB Draft since 2006. He joins former Tiger hurlers in TJ Sikkema (1st Round – 2019, Michael Plassmeyer (4th Round – 2018, Tanner Houck (1st Round – 2017, Breckin Williams (4th Round – 2015, Brett Graves (3rd Round – 2014, Rob Zastryzny (2nd Round – 2013, Kyle Gibson (1st Round – 2009, Aaron Crow (1st Round – 2008, Nathan Culp (4th Round – 2006) and Max Scherzer (1st Round – 2006).The Tigers have had a player selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in two consecutive drafts. Bedell joins former Mizzou RHP Cameron Dulle (30th Round – 2019) as recent draftees by the Cardinals.Under head coach Steve Bieser, Mizzou has produced 17 total draft picks the past four years. Six of those selections have occurred in the top-10 rounds of the draft.Following Bedell's selection in the fourth round Thursday, Mizzou has now accumulated at least one pick in 25 consecutive editions of the MLB Draft (1996-present).Bedell jumped onto the national scene following a dominant 2019 sophomore campaign out of the Tigers bullpen. The righty went 3-1 with a 1.56 ERA and 36 strikeouts over 40.1 innings pitched. Bedell strung together an impressive 19.0 consecutive scoreless innings streak from March 27 – May 3 to highlight his breakout season.Prior to his 2020 junior campaign in Mid-Missouri, Bedell was tabbed a 2020 Perfect Game/Rawlings and D1Baseball.com Preseason Third-Team All-American. Additionally, he was one of 55 players nationally to be named to the prestigious 2020 Golden Spikes Award Preseason Watch List.In the COVID-19 pandemic shortened 2020 season, Bedell posted a 2-2 record over four starts while tallying a 3.70 ERA and 35 strikeouts over 24.1 innings pitched. He limited opposing batters to a mere .211 average. Bedell recorded double-digit strikeouts in each of his victories, highlighted by a career-high 12 punchouts versus Western Illinois (March 6).--- MU Athletics ---

Mizzou's Ian Bedell selected by St. Louis in 4th Round of MLB Draft

MARYVILLE, Missouri – The
Northwest Missouri State University Department of Athletics is beginning a
limited reopening of facilities to be overseen by University leadership and the
Bearcat sports medicine team. 
&nbsp; 
"The health and safety of Bearcat student-athletes and our staff remain
our No. 1 priority as we begin the initial stages of a return to
athletics," Northwest Director of Athletics Andy Peterson said. "In
working with the University's leadership and task force teams, we feel like we
have come up with a plan that will allow our student-athletes to return to
campus but also maintain a level of safety that will protect them as
well." 
&nbsp; 
The week of June 15, a smaller group of student-athletes will pilot protocols
and procedures to be practiced in athletic facilities across campus. Beginning
June 22, the varsity weight room and strength and conditioning areas will be
open for Bearcat student-athletes to use for voluntary strength and
conditioning activities only from 5 a.m. to noon using the protocols
established and vetted the week prior. A maximum of 15 student-athletes will be
assigned to an area and these groups will be designated by sport, living
quarters and other mitigating factors to minimize exposure. Prior to workouts
all student-athletes will be screened by a sports medicine team member.
Appropriate physical distancing will take place and no sharing of equipment
will occur. 
&nbsp; 
Northwest plans to open all of its campus facilities to the public June 22 if
mitigation measures have been met. Student-athletes will continue voluntary
workouts at both indoor and outdoor facilities with physical distancing
measures and no sharing of equipment. 
&nbsp; 
Bearcat athletics will plan to open its normal weight room and athletic
training sessions July 6 for continued voluntary workouts with physical
distancing. 
&nbsp; 
During the reopening phase, student athletes will not be allowed in locker
rooms and laundry services will not be available. 
&nbsp; 
Only current Northwest student-athletes who have been cleared by the Bearcat
sports medicine staff may utilize the facilities. 
&nbsp; 
Bearcat athletics will continue to work with University's leadership and task
force teams to ensure best practices are put in place. Northwest's
considerations are based off recommendations from the <a href="http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/resocialization-collegiate-sport-action-plan-considerations?utm_medium=sidearm-email&amp;utm_source=themiaa.com&amp;utm_campaign=MIAA+Rolls+Out+Return+To+Competition+Guiding+Principles&amp;utm_content=c3c0724e-6642-4cb5-89b6-3bf14e250e22">NCAA's
Core Principles and Campus Action Plan</a>. 
&nbsp; 
All phases of the reopening plan are subject to change given new information.

MARYVILLE, Missouri – The
Northwest Missouri State University Department of Athletics is beginning a
limited reopening of facilities to be overseen by University leadership and the
Bearcat sports medicine team. 
&nbsp; 
"The health and safety of Bearcat student-athletes and our staff remain
our No. 1 priority as we begin the initial stages of a return to
athletics," Northwest Director of Athletics Andy Peterson said. "In
working with the University's leadership and task force teams, we feel like we
have come up with a plan that will allow our student-athletes to return to
campus but also maintain a level of safety that will protect them as
well." 
&nbsp; 
The week of June 15, a smaller group of student-athletes will pilot protocols
and procedures to be practiced in athletic facilities across campus. Beginning
June 22, the varsity weight room and strength and conditioning areas will be
open for Bearcat student-athletes to use for voluntary strength and
conditioning activities only from 5 a.m. to noon using the protocols
established and vetted the week prior. A maximum of 15 student-athletes will be
assigned to an area and these groups will be designated by sport, living
quarters and other mitigating factors to minimize exposure. Prior to workouts
all student-athletes will be screened by a sports medicine team member.
Appropriate physical distancing will take place and no sharing of equipment
will occur. 
&nbsp; 
Northwest plans to open all of its campus facilities to the public June 22 if
mitigation measures have been met. Student-athletes will continue voluntary
workouts at both indoor and outdoor facilities with physical distancing
measures and no sharing of equipment. 
&nbsp; 
Bearcat athletics will plan to open its normal weight room and athletic
training sessions July 6 for continued voluntary workouts with physical
distancing. 
&nbsp; 
During the reopening phase, student athletes will not be allowed in locker
rooms and laundry services will not be available. 
&nbsp; 
Only current Northwest student-athletes who have been cleared by the Bearcat
sports medicine staff may utilize the facilities. 
&nbsp; 
Bearcat athletics will continue to work with University's leadership and task
force teams to ensure best practices are put in place. Northwest's
considerations are based off recommendations from the <a href="http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/resocialization-collegiate-sport-action-plan-considerations?utm_medium=sidearm-email&amp;utm_source=themiaa.com&amp;utm_campaign=MIAA+Rolls+Out+Return+To+Competition+Guiding+Principles&amp;utm_content=c3c0724e-6642-4cb5-89b6-3bf14e250e22">NCAA's
Core Principles and Campus Action Plan</a>. 
&nbsp; 
All phases of the reopening plan are subject to change given new information.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest athletics begins limited re-opening plan

MANHATTAN, Kansas – Kansas State Athletics has confirmed that no
student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing
and the on-boarding process of approximately 90 student-athletes this week. 
In addition, one student-athlete did test positive for COVID-19 with antibody
testing but is not considered acute. 
The department will continue PCR and antibody testing of student-athletes as
they return to campus, and those results will be released upon completion. 
Should a student-athlete test positive, each will be medically managed
according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins
with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72
hours without medication, whichever takes longer. These guidelines would also
include quarantine for any individuals known to have been in contact with
someone who tested positive.

MANHATTAN, Kansas – Kansas State Athletics has confirmed that no
student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing
and the on-boarding process of approximately 90 student-athletes this week. 
In addition, one student-athlete did test positive for COVID-19 with antibody
testing but is not considered acute. 
The department will continue PCR and antibody testing of student-athletes as
they return to campus, and those results will be released upon completion. 
Should a student-athlete test positive, each will be medically managed
according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins
with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72
hours without medication, whichever takes longer. These guidelines would also
include quarantine for any individuals known to have been in contact with
someone who tested positive.--- K-State Athletics ---

K-State confirms no student-athletes have tested positive for COVID-19

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/C-J--Ravenell---MWSU-Sophomore-DE-ef8l9d">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU DE C.J. RAVENELL</a>

Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western football sophomore defensive end C.J. Ravenell.  The Sophomore from Santa Clarita, California discusses being back in St. Joe and working out with his teammates, his decision to come to MWSU, his All-MIAA Redshirt Freshman season and the high expectations for Griffon football in 2020.

Ravenell was named Honorable Mention All-MIAA as he played in all 12 games and started the last half of the season.  He recorded 39 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one blocked kick.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/C-J--Ravenell---MWSU-Sophomore-DE-ef8l9d">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU DE C.J. RAVENELL</a>Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western football sophomore defensive end C.J. Ravenell. The Sophomore from Santa Clarita, California discusses being back in St. Joe and working out with his teammates, his decision to come to MWSU, his All-MIAA Redshirt Freshman season and the high expectations for Griffon football in 2020.Ravenell was named Honorable Mention All-MIAA as he played in all 12 games and started the last half of the season. He recorded 39 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one blocked kick.

1-on-1 with Missouri Western sophomore DE C.J. Ravenell

The Kansas City Royals selected left-handed pitcher Asa Lacy, regarded by many as the top pitching prospect in this year's Major League Baseball draft, with the fourth overall pick.

The Detroit Tigers selected Arizona State first baseman/third baseman Spencer Torkelson No. 1 overall Wednesday evening. The Baltimore Orioles picked University of Arkansas outfielder Heston Kjerstad second. The Miami Marlins then selected Minnesota right-handed pitcher Max Meyer with the third pick to set the table for the Royals.

A 6-foot-4, 215-pound junior out of Texas A&amp;M, Lacy becomes the Aggies' highest baseball draft pick ever.

He's also the highest-drafted Royals pitcher since Luke Hochevar was selected No. 1 overall in 2006. Mike Stodolka was picked No. 2 overall by the Royals in 2000.

He further bolsters the Royals' minor-league pitching depth, which already featured the likes of Brady Singer, Jackson Kowar, Daniel Lynch and Kris Bubic.

Last season, the Royals selected national high school player of the year Bobby Witt Jr. out of Colleyville Heritage High in Texas at No. 2 overall. Baseball America currently rates Witt as the Royals' top prospect, No. 24 overall, in its ranking of the top 100 prospects in baseball.

The Kansas City Royals selected left-handed pitcher Asa Lacy, regarded by many as the top pitching prospect in this year's Major League Baseball draft, with the fourth overall pick.The Detroit Tigers selected Arizona State first baseman/third baseman Spencer Torkelson No. 1 overall Wednesday evening. The Baltimore Orioles picked University of Arkansas outfielder Heston Kjerstad second. The Miami Marlins then selected Minnesota right-handed pitcher Max Meyer with the third pick to set the table for the Royals.A 6-foot-4, 215-pound junior out of Texas A&amp;M, Lacy becomes the Aggies' highest baseball draft pick ever.He's also the highest-drafted Royals pitcher since Luke Hochevar was selected No. 1 overall in 2006. Mike Stodolka was picked No. 2 overall by the Royals in 2000.He further bolsters the Royals' minor-league pitching depth, which already featured the likes of Brady Singer, Jackson Kowar, Daniel Lynch and Kris Bubic.Last season, the Royals selected national high school player of the year Bobby Witt Jr. out of Colleyville Heritage High in Texas at No. 2 overall. Baseball America currently rates Witt as the Royals' top prospect, No. 24 overall, in its ranking of the top 100 prospects in baseball.--- Associated Press ---

Royals select Texas A&M LHP Asa Lacy with No. 4 overall draft pick

Missouri
Western State University President Matt Wilson says despite widespread reports
that the Kansas City Chiefs will not be in St. Joseph for training camp, the
university hasn’t heard that officially from the Super Bowl champs.

Wilson
says he understands the NFL has taken a stance that all teams should hold their
training camps in their home facilities.

“We
have not received official word,” Wilson tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.
“And so, we continue to move forward. We continue to plan going forward. We’re talking
to the Chiefs on a daily basis. It may be that due to league policy or league
edict, that the Chiefs, if they’re going to have a training camp, need to stay
in their home.”

The
Chiefs had just renewed the team’s contract with Missouri Western to continue
to hold training camp on the St. Joseph campus. Training camp last year drew
record crowds from the 10 years the Chiefs had started their season in St.
Joseph. That record likely would have fallen this year with the Chiefs coming off
their Super Bowl win over the San Francisco 49ers, the club’s first
championship in 50 years.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri
Western State University President Matt Wilson says despite widespread reports
that the Kansas City Chiefs will not be in St. Joseph for training camp, the
university hasn’t heard that officially from the Super Bowl champs.Wilson
says he understands the NFL has taken a stance that all teams should hold their
training camps in their home facilities.“We
have not received official word,” Wilson tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.
“And so, we continue to move forward. We continue to plan going forward. We’re talking
to the Chiefs on a daily basis. It may be that due to league policy or league
edict, that the Chiefs, if they’re going to have a training camp, need to stay
in their home.”The
Chiefs had just renewed the team’s contract with Missouri Western to continue
to hold training camp on the St. Joseph campus. Training camp last year drew
record crowds from the 10 years the Chiefs had started their season in St.
Joseph. That record likely would have fallen this year with the Chiefs coming off
their Super Bowl win over the San Francisco 49ers, the club’s first
championship in 50 years.

MWSU still hasn't heard from Chiefs on training camp

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;Small College Basketball has announced the cancellation of the 2020 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Classic and the postponement of the of the 2020 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Induction. The National Hall of Fame Classic is canceled due to the altered NCAA Division II schedule mandates for the 2020-21 season. The National Hall of Fame Induction will be rescheduled to a later date. Small College Basketball Founder John McCarthy had this to say about the announcement: "Due to multiple factors beyond our control, stemming from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it saddens me to announce that we will cancel the 2020 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Classic. Additionally, we are postponing the 2020 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony. This will be rescheduled later. These events are a true highlight for all involved, and it's rather emotional to make such an announcement, yet I'm confident that it's the right decision, given the circumstance." Small College Basketball is excited to announce that the 2021 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Classic and 2021 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Induction will be returning to St. Joseph, Missouri. "On a much brighter note, I'm very pleased to announce that we will be going back to St. Joseph, MO, in 2021, as we will host the Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and the Hall of Fame Classic at the Missouri Theatre and the Civic Arena in St. Joseph, for these marquee national events," McCarthy said. "We are very grateful to Josh Looney and all of those involved at the University and the St. Joseph Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. We're excited and optimistic about the future." The 2021 SCB National Hall of Fame Induction will take place on Thursday Nov. 4, 2021 at the Missouri Theater. The 2021 SCB National Hall of Fame Classic will take place at the Civic Arena in St. Joseph on November 5th and 6th, 2021. Missouri Western State University will once again be the host of these great events. Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/23bb88fa-ff14-4053-b48a-10b3e572653d?elinkdata=223594" target="_blank">Dr. Josh Looney</a>&nbsp;had this to say about hosting the events: "Missouri Western is thrilled to host the Small College Basketball Classic and National Hall of Fame festivities in St. Joseph once again. Thanks to the support of Hillyard and the St. Joseph Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau over the past two years, this event achieved scheduling support from the NCAA while shining the national spotlight on our community as host of NCAA Division II's premier in-season men's basketball tournament. We have been pleased with the economic impact in St. Joseph and look forward to continuing to grow the tournament in 2021." The SCB National Hall of Fame Classic has taken place in St. Joseph since 2018. Last year the event included Davenport, USC - Aiken, West Texas A&amp;M, Lincoln Memorial, Northwest Missouri State, Daemen, Southern Nazarene and Missouri Western. Brett Esley, Chairman of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Senior Associate Athletic Director at Missouri Western, had this to say about both events returning to St. Joseph in 2021: "St. Joseph is a great place to host sporting events as our city knows how to embrace and roll out the red carpet for visitors. The Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic and Induction is a pleasure to host, a great fit for our community and excellent tip off to the season. 2020 has certainly been an unprecedented time in many trades, especially the sports world, which has necessitated a pivot to this years' festivities. We are thrilled to welcome the event back for 2021!" For more information on Small College Basketball, the Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame, or the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic please head to&nbsp;<a href="http://smallcollegebasketball.com/" target="_blank">smallcollegebasketball.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;Small College Basketball has announced the cancellation of the 2020 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Classic and the postponement of the of the 2020 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Induction. The National Hall of Fame Classic is canceled due to the altered NCAA Division II schedule mandates for the 2020-21 season. The National Hall of Fame Induction will be rescheduled to a later date. Small College Basketball Founder John McCarthy had this to say about the announcement: "Due to multiple factors beyond our control, stemming from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it saddens me to announce that we will cancel the 2020 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Classic. Additionally, we are postponing the 2020 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony. This will be rescheduled later. These events are a true highlight for all involved, and it's rather emotional to make such an announcement, yet I'm confident that it's the right decision, given the circumstance." Small College Basketball is excited to announce that the 2021 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Classic and 2021 Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Induction will be returning to St. Joseph, Missouri. "On a much brighter note, I'm very pleased to announce that we will be going back to St. Joseph, MO, in 2021, as we will host the Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and the Hall of Fame Classic at the Missouri Theatre and the Civic Arena in St. Joseph, for these marquee national events," McCarthy said. "We are very grateful to Josh Looney and all of those involved at the University and the St. Joseph Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. We're excited and optimistic about the future." The 2021 SCB National Hall of Fame Induction will take place on Thursday Nov. 4, 2021 at the Missouri Theater. The 2021 SCB National Hall of Fame Classic will take place at the Civic Arena in St. Joseph on November 5th and 6th, 2021. Missouri Western State University will once again be the host of these great events. Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/23bb88fa-ff14-4053-b48a-10b3e572653d?elinkdata=223594" target="_blank">Dr. Josh Looney</a>&nbsp;had this to say about hosting the events: "Missouri Western is thrilled to host the Small College Basketball Classic and National Hall of Fame festivities in St. Joseph once again. Thanks to the support of Hillyard and the St. Joseph Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau over the past two years, this event achieved scheduling support from the NCAA while shining the national spotlight on our community as host of NCAA Division II's premier in-season men's basketball tournament. We have been pleased with the economic impact in St. Joseph and look forward to continuing to grow the tournament in 2021." The SCB National Hall of Fame Classic has taken place in St. Joseph since 2018. Last year the event included Davenport, USC - Aiken, West Texas A&amp;M, Lincoln Memorial, Northwest Missouri State, Daemen, Southern Nazarene and Missouri Western. Brett Esley, Chairman of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Senior Associate Athletic Director at Missouri Western, had this to say about both events returning to St. Joseph in 2021: "St. Joseph is a great place to host sporting events as our city knows how to embrace and roll out the red carpet for visitors. The Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic and Induction is a pleasure to host, a great fit for our community and excellent tip off to the season. 2020 has certainly been an unprecedented time in many trades, especially the sports world, which has necessitated a pivot to this years' festivities. We are thrilled to welcome the event back for 2021!" For more information on Small College Basketball, the Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame, or the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic please head to&nbsp;<a href="http://smallcollegebasketball.com/" target="_blank">smallcollegebasketball.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SCB cancels 2020 National Hall of Fame Classic in St. Joseph

COLUMBIA, Mo.&nbsp; – Mizzou Women's Basketball senior&nbsp;Jordan Roundtree&nbsp;(St. Louis, Mo.) is one of eight recipients of the John McLendon Minority Postgraduate Scholarship, as announced by the John McLendon Minority Scholarship Foundation.

"The McLendon Scholar family extends far and wide across the country since the Foundation was established in 1999, and we are proud to recognize these eight new members with this distinction," stated McLendon Foundation President and Director of Athletics at Georgetown University, Lee Reed. "Each of the deserving recipients will utilize their education to become outstanding collegiate athletics administrators while serving as positive role models for future generations of minorities aspiring to work in our industry."

The McLendon Minority Postgraduate Scholarship winners will each receive a $10,000 grant to be used towards postgraduate studies in athletics administration. Funding for the scholarship program has been provided in part by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA); the Cleveland Cavaliers; Major League Baseball (MLB); the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC); the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA); the National Basketball Association (NBA); the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA); Capital One; and Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Minorities (as defined by federal guidelines) who intend to pursue a postgraduate degree in athletics administration are eligible for these scholarships. Students were required to have a minimum grade point average of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale and have demonstrated leadership qualities on an institutional or community level.

Roundtree graduated with her bachelor’s degree in sport management in just three years while holding a 3.877 GPA. She made the Dean’s List all six semesters and was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll each season of her career (2016-17 – 2019-20). She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Missouri.

On the court, Roundtree played in 124 games in four seasons and made 54 starts between her junior and senior seasons. She averaged 6.5 points and 3.6 rebounds per game in her senior season while shooting 84.3 percent from the free throw line. She was also a member of three NCAA Tournament teams for Mizzou from 2017-19.

COLUMBIA, Mo.&nbsp; – Mizzou Women's Basketball senior&nbsp;Jordan Roundtree&nbsp;(St. Louis, Mo.) is one of eight recipients of the John McLendon Minority Postgraduate Scholarship, as announced by the John McLendon Minority Scholarship Foundation."The McLendon Scholar family extends far and wide across the country since the Foundation was established in 1999, and we are proud to recognize these eight new members with this distinction," stated McLendon Foundation President and Director of Athletics at Georgetown University, Lee Reed. "Each of the deserving recipients will utilize their education to become outstanding collegiate athletics administrators while serving as positive role models for future generations of minorities aspiring to work in our industry."The McLendon Minority Postgraduate Scholarship winners will each receive a $10,000 grant to be used towards postgraduate studies in athletics administration. Funding for the scholarship program has been provided in part by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA); the Cleveland Cavaliers; Major League Baseball (MLB); the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC); the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA); the National Basketball Association (NBA); the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA); Capital One; and Sears, Roebuck and Co.Minorities (as defined by federal guidelines) who intend to pursue a postgraduate degree in athletics administration are eligible for these scholarships. Students were required to have a minimum grade point average of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale and have demonstrated leadership qualities on an institutional or community level.Roundtree graduated with her bachelor’s degree in sport management in just three years while holding a 3.877 GPA. She made the Dean’s List all six semesters and was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll each season of her career (2016-17 – 2019-20). She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Missouri.On the court, Roundtree played in 124 games in four seasons and made 54 starts between her junior and senior seasons. She averaged 6.5 points and 3.6 rebounds per game in her senior season while shooting 84.3 percent from the free throw line. She was also a member of three NCAA Tournament teams for Mizzou from 2017-19.

MU's Roundtree named John McLendon Minority Postgraduate Scholarship Award winner

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🎥 Griffon student-athletes speak openly on the issues dominating the country 

Kansas officials have asked the NCAA to separate infractions cases involving alleged rules violations in its men's basketball and football programs.

In its response to the NCAA Committee on Infractions' referral to the Independent Accountability Resolution Process (IARP, the school agreed that a referral to the IARP is appropriate for the men's basketball allegations, but argued that the football portion should be remanded to the Committee on Infractions (COI) for adjudication.

"[T]he type of violations that KU self-reported in football are regularly processed through the peer review model, and therefore, the COI is best positioned to resolve any remaining issues and to do so in a prompt manner," the school said in its response. "Here, it is clear that there is a significant difference between allegations involving men's basketball and those involving football. Specifically, the football allegations were self-reported, the institution and enforcement staff substantially agree on all aspects of the football allegations, the allegations involve only Level II and Level III violations, and the football allegations are not contemporaneous with the men's basketball allegations."

Kansas is charged with five Level I rules violations -- the most serious -- related to its men's basketball program, including lack of institutional control. Jayhawks coach Bill Self is charged with head-coach responsibility violations. Under NCAA rules, a head coach could be hit with a show-cause order and be suspended up to an entire season for Level I violations.

Kansas is also charged with two Level II violations and one Level III violation related to the football program under former coach David Beaty.

Kansas officials, along with Self and basketball assistant Kurtis Townsend, are disputing each of the five Level I violations regarding the men's basketball program, as well as each of the nine aggravating factors cited by the NCAA.

Kansas and Self continue to dispute that the school or Self should have known that Adidas employees and consultants were funneling money from the apparel company to the families and handlers of high-profile prospects to steer them to sign with Adidas-sponsored programs, including Kansas.

The Jayhawks are the company's flagship program and signed a 14-year, $196 million apparel and sponsorship extension in April 2019. The NCAA enforcement staff contends the Adidas employees and consultants were acting as boosters when they influenced players to sign with Kansas. In Self's response to the referral, his attorneys, Scott Tompsett and William Sullivan Jr., wrote that "because the Office of the Committee of Infractions (OCOI) assisted in the preparation of the Petition and would continue to participate in the processing of this case if it were to remain in the COI adjudicative process, the COI is unable to objectively and impartially adjudicate this case."

"The Petition also does not fairly and accurately recount the case history and background, as noted in KU's Response," Self's attorneys wrote. "The COI repetitively but erroneously claims an 'illicit recruiting scheme' existed while ignoring a jury verdict which established beyond a reasonable doubt that KU was defrauded, that neither Mr. Self nor any of his coaching staff had knowledge of any illicit benefits or payments, and that Adidas representatives hid such activities from KU and its coaching staff.

"Moreover, the Court itself also found that the Adidas representatives employed sophisticated conduct to conceal their illicit activities from KU, and that they were motivated by personal benefit in pursuing prospective student-athletes who might sign future endorsement contracts as professional athletes."

In a referral to the IARP, COI chair designee Carol Cartwright, a former president at Bowling Green and Kent State, wrote that the case should be handled by the IARP because of the high stakes for the parties, including the NCAA.

"The case involves one of the premier men's basketball programs in the country, one of the winningest head coaches in Division I men's basketball history who is in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and alleged violations that are central to a federal lawsuit," Cartwright wrote on May 18. "Few cases have so much at stake. The stakes are particularly high for the Kansas men's basketball program. The Level I allegations include an illicit recruiting scheme, other recruiting violations, a head coach responsibility violation and lack of institutional control.

"The enforcement staff also identified a prevalence of aggravating factors for Kansas, Self and Townsend. If a hearing panel concludes that violations occurred, the penalties may be significant."

Beaty sued the university's athletic department in federal court in March 2019, claiming Jayhawks officials launched an NCAA inquiry to avoid paying him a $3 million buyout he was owed for the final three years of his contract. The sides agreed to a $2.55 million settlement on Friday.

Kansas officials have asked the NCAA to separate infractions cases involving alleged rules violations in its men's basketball and football programs.In its response to the NCAA Committee on Infractions' referral to the Independent Accountability Resolution Process (IARP, the school agreed that a referral to the IARP is appropriate for the men's basketball allegations, but argued that the football portion should be remanded to the Committee on Infractions (COI) for adjudication."[T]he type of violations that KU self-reported in football are regularly processed through the peer review model, and therefore, the COI is best positioned to resolve any remaining issues and to do so in a prompt manner," the school said in its response. "Here, it is clear that there is a significant difference between allegations involving men's basketball and those involving football. Specifically, the football allegations were self-reported, the institution and enforcement staff substantially agree on all aspects of the football allegations, the allegations involve only Level II and Level III violations, and the football allegations are not contemporaneous with the men's basketball allegations."Kansas is charged with five Level I rules violations -- the most serious -- related to its men's basketball program, including lack of institutional control. Jayhawks coach Bill Self is charged with head-coach responsibility violations. Under NCAA rules, a head coach could be hit with a show-cause order and be suspended up to an entire season for Level I violations.Kansas is also charged with two Level II violations and one Level III violation related to the football program under former coach David Beaty.Kansas officials, along with Self and basketball assistant Kurtis Townsend, are disputing each of the five Level I violations regarding the men's basketball program, as well as each of the nine aggravating factors cited by the NCAA.Kansas and Self continue to dispute that the school or Self should have known that Adidas employees and consultants were funneling money from the apparel company to the families and handlers of high-profile prospects to steer them to sign with Adidas-sponsored programs, including Kansas.The Jayhawks are the company's flagship program and signed a 14-year, $196 million apparel and sponsorship extension in April 2019. The NCAA enforcement staff contends the Adidas employees and consultants were acting as boosters when they influenced players to sign with Kansas. In Self's response to the referral, his attorneys, Scott Tompsett and William Sullivan Jr., wrote that "because the Office of the Committee of Infractions (OCOI) assisted in the preparation of the Petition and would continue to participate in the processing of this case if it were to remain in the COI adjudicative process, the COI is unable to objectively and impartially adjudicate this case.""The Petition also does not fairly and accurately recount the case history and background, as noted in KU's Response," Self's attorneys wrote. "The COI repetitively but erroneously claims an 'illicit recruiting scheme' existed while ignoring a jury verdict which established beyond a reasonable doubt that KU was defrauded, that neither Mr. Self nor any of his coaching staff had knowledge of any illicit benefits or payments, and that Adidas representatives hid such activities from KU and its coaching staff."Moreover, the Court itself also found that the Adidas representatives employed sophisticated conduct to conceal their illicit activities from KU, and that they were motivated by personal benefit in pursuing prospective student-athletes who might sign future endorsement contracts as professional athletes."In a referral to the IARP, COI chair designee Carol Cartwright, a former president at Bowling Green and Kent State, wrote that the case should be handled by the IARP because of the high stakes for the parties, including the NCAA."The case involves one of the premier men's basketball programs in the country, one of the winningest head coaches in Division I men's basketball history who is in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and alleged violations that are central to a federal lawsuit," Cartwright wrote on May 18. "Few cases have so much at stake. The stakes are particularly high for the Kansas men's basketball program. The Level I allegations include an illicit recruiting scheme, other recruiting violations, a head coach responsibility violation and lack of institutional control."The enforcement staff also identified a prevalence of aggravating factors for Kansas, Self and Townsend. If a hearing panel concludes that violations occurred, the penalties may be significant."Beaty sued the university's athletic department in federal court in March 2019, claiming Jayhawks officials launched an NCAA inquiry to avoid paying him a $3 million buyout he was owed for the final three years of his contract. The sides agreed to a $2.55 million settlement on Friday.--- Mark Schlabach, ESPN ---

Kansas wants NCAA to separate basketball, football infraction cases

&nbsp; ST. JOSEPH -&nbsp;Two digital marketing pieces produced by Griffon Athletics were recognized by the National Association of Collegiate Marketers of America as part of their 2019-20 "Best Of Awards" during a ceremony during their digital convention as announced on May 27. Pieces recognized included:&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/a0c279bf-87d5-4098-b876-054d5459302e?elinkdata=223509" target="_blank">"Force Change,"</a>&nbsp;2018-19 year in review as part of the Fan Engagement Video category along with&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/a41bcd90-9b09-49a8-8f33-719645e51833?elinkdata=223509" target="_blank">"Fight On 50,"</a>&nbsp;1970s football intro video. Both pieces were recognized as the Bronze Medal winner in their respective categories. Both of these pieces were produced by Executive Producer, Video and Digital Media&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/43bc7e5d-de52-487e-b381-caffe6036706?elinkdata=223509" target="_blank">Ryan Menley</a>. With these recognitions, 34 MWSU Athletics marketing pieces over the last decade have been recognized by NACMA. Over 900 entries were received for the 16 different types of marketing and promotional categories. Missouri Western competes in Group III which consists of all NCAA Division II, III, NAIA and junior college entries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; ST. JOSEPH -&nbsp;Two digital marketing pieces produced by Griffon Athletics were recognized by the National Association of Collegiate Marketers of America as part of their 2019-20 "Best Of Awards" during a ceremony during their digital convention as announced on May 27. Pieces recognized included:&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/a0c279bf-87d5-4098-b876-054d5459302e?elinkdata=223509" target="_blank">"Force Change,"</a>&nbsp;2018-19 year in review as part of the Fan Engagement Video category along with&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/a41bcd90-9b09-49a8-8f33-719645e51833?elinkdata=223509" target="_blank">"Fight On 50,"</a>&nbsp;1970s football intro video. Both pieces were recognized as the Bronze Medal winner in their respective categories. Both of these pieces were produced by Executive Producer, Video and Digital Media&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/43bc7e5d-de52-487e-b381-caffe6036706?elinkdata=223509" target="_blank">Ryan Menley</a>. With these recognitions, 34 MWSU Athletics marketing pieces over the last decade have been recognized by NACMA. Over 900 entries were received for the 16 different types of marketing and promotional categories. Missouri Western competes in Group III which consists of all NCAA Division II, III, NAIA and junior college entries.&nbsp;&nbsp;--- MWSU Athletics ---

MWSU athletics recognized by National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — JD Spielman, one of the top receivers in Nebraska history, has entered his name in the transfer portal, the school said Monday.

Spielman is the first player to put together three straight 800-yard receiving seasons for the Cornhuskers and leaves No. 3 in career receptions and yards.

Nebraska coach Scott Frost announced March 3 that Spielman had returned to his hometown of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, to deal with an unspecified health matter and probably would miss all of spring practice. Frost had said he expected Spielman to be back for summer conditioning.

Spielman, the son of Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman, would have been a senior in eligibility this fall. It was unclear if he’s on track to graduate this summer, which would make him eligible immediately at his next school.

With no waiver from the NCAA, he would have to sit out one year under transfer rules unless he goes to a school below the Football Bowl Subdivision.

Spielman led the Huskers with 49 catches for 898 yards and five touchdowns last season.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — JD Spielman, one of the top receivers in Nebraska history, has entered his name in the transfer portal, the school said Monday.Spielman is the first player to put together three straight 800-yard receiving seasons for the Cornhuskers and leaves No. 3 in career receptions and yards.Nebraska coach Scott Frost announced March 3 that Spielman had returned to his hometown of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, to deal with an unspecified health matter and probably would miss all of spring practice. Frost had said he expected Spielman to be back for summer conditioning.Spielman, the son of Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman, would have been a senior in eligibility this fall. It was unclear if he’s on track to graduate this summer, which would make him eligible immediately at his next school.With no waiver from the NCAA, he would have to sit out one year under transfer rules unless he goes to a school below the Football Bowl Subdivision.Spielman led the Huskers with 49 catches for 898 yards and five touchdowns last season.--- Associated Press ---

Nebraska wide receiver J.D. Spielman enters transfer portal

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas football legend John Zook passed away at the age of 72, on Saturday, after a battle with cancer.

Zook was a member of the Jayhawks’ football team from 1966-68, where he played defensive end. A three-year letterman, two-time All-Big Eight Conference selection and team captain in 1968, Zook anchored one of the top defensive units in Kansas football history.

Zook earned All-America honors in 1968 as the defensive standout on a Kansas team who finished with a 9-2 record, shared the conference championship and faced Penn State in the Orange Bowl. The Jayhawks were ranked sixth nationally in the final Associated Press poll during Zook's senior season. He finished his career with 202 total tackles, which ranks as the fourth-best mark among defensive linemen in school history.

Following his senior season, Zook played in both the Coaches All-American Game and the Senior Bowl. He is one of 23 players honored on the Kansas football Ring of Honor in David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, and was inducted into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.

Following his career at KU, Zook was selected in the fourth-round of the 1969 National Football League (NFL) Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. Zook went on to play seven seasons with the Atlanta Falcons and was selected to represent the NFC Pro Bowl team in 1973. Zook later played four seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, before retiring in 1979.

After his football days, Zook spent his retirement back home in Wichita, Kansas, and remained close to his three brothers and a big collection of nieces and nephews. His younger brother Dean Zook testified to John’s love of hunting and of working around the family farm.

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas football legend John Zook passed away at the age of 72, on Saturday, after a battle with cancer.Zook was a member of the Jayhawks’ football team from 1966-68, where he played defensive end. A three-year letterman, two-time All-Big Eight Conference selection and team captain in 1968, Zook anchored one of the top defensive units in Kansas football history.Zook earned All-America honors in 1968 as the defensive standout on a Kansas team who finished with a 9-2 record, shared the conference championship and faced Penn State in the Orange Bowl. The Jayhawks were ranked sixth nationally in the final Associated Press poll during Zook's senior season. He finished his career with 202 total tackles, which ranks as the fourth-best mark among defensive linemen in school history.Following his senior season, Zook played in both the Coaches All-American Game and the Senior Bowl. He is one of 23 players honored on the Kansas football Ring of Honor in David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, and was inducted into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.Following his career at KU, Zook was selected in the fourth-round of the 1969 National Football League (NFL) Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. Zook went on to play seven seasons with the Atlanta Falcons and was selected to represent the NFC Pro Bowl team in 1973. Zook later played four seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, before retiring in 1979.After his football days, Zook spent his retirement back home in Wichita, Kansas, and remained close to his three brothers and a big collection of nieces and nephews. His younger brother Dean Zook testified to John’s love of hunting and of working around the family farm.--- KU Athletics ---

Kansas football great John Zook passes away at 72

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Matt-Williamson---MWSU-Head-Football-Coach-eeo32i">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU FB COACH MATT WILLIAMSON</a>

For the first time since Mid-March, Missouri Western football players can return to campus Monday and begin monitored workouts.  Also this summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Griffon coaching staff will be able to work individually with the players.

In past years, all summer workouts for Division II college football teams had to be player led and could not involve coaches, but the NCAA has changed the rule for 2020.

The COVID-19 pandemic canceled spring practices for Missouri Western and nearly all college football teams around the country, so the NCAA is hoping to allowed teams to make up for missing spring ball and accelerate the process of getting ready for the 2020 season.

Missouri Western doesn't know when they'll open the 2020 football season as the NCAA has said each Division II school can only play 10 games this season.&nbsp; A new schedule will likely be released later this month and the season should start the second week in September.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Matt-Williamson---MWSU-Head-Football-Coach-eeo32i">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU FB COACH MATT WILLIAMSON</a>For the first time since Mid-March, Missouri Western football players can return to campus Monday and begin monitored workouts. Also this summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Griffon coaching staff will be able to work individually with the players.In past years, all summer workouts for Division II college football teams had to be player led and could not involve coaches, but the NCAA has changed the rule for 2020.The COVID-19 pandemic canceled spring practices for Missouri Western and nearly all college football teams around the country, so the NCAA is hoping to allowed teams to make up for missing spring ball and accelerate the process of getting ready for the 2020 season.Missouri Western doesn't know when they'll open the 2020 football season as the NCAA has said each Division II school can only play 10 games this season.&nbsp; A new schedule will likely be released later this month and the season should start the second week in September.

Griffon football players can return to campus Monday

The Missouri 8-Man Football Coaches Association announced on Friday that they are canceling its annual All-Star Game because of the COVID-19 pandemic.  This would have been the 12th edition of the game and it was played at Missouri Western's Spratt Stadium.

The Coaches Association released a state on Friday:

"The All-Star game has continued to grow and bring graduated seniors together for one last high school football game over the past 12 years. We are disappointed that this year’s seniors won’t get to experience the All-Star weekend, but their impact on the growing game of 8-man football in Missouri will be felt across the state."

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees are Coach Vernon Pike (DeKalb) and Ryan Hackett (West Nodaway). They will be awarded their plaque this summer and honored at the all-star game in 2021.

The Missouri 8-Man Coaches Association will award 3 scholarships to graduated seniors who would have participated in the game. These scholarships will be awarded later this month.

Missouri 8-Man Coaches Association cancels its annual All-Star game

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Will-Martin---MWSU-Mens-Basketball-Coach-ef1kf0">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU MBB HEAD COACH WILL MARTIN</a>

Dave Riggert was able to sit down with Missouri Western men's basketball coach Will Martin.  Coach Martin discusses how he and his team have stayed connected through the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheduling change for the upcoming season, the injustice &amp; inequality in our country right now and much more.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Will-Martin---MWSU-Mens-Basketball-Coach-ef1kf0">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU MBB HEAD COACH WILL MARTIN</a>Dave Riggert was able to sit down with Missouri Western men's basketball coach Will Martin. Coach Martin discusses how he and his team have stayed connected through the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheduling change for the upcoming season, the injustice &amp; inequality in our country right now and much more.

1-on-1 with MWSU men's basketball coach Will Martin

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas announced late Friday it had reached a settlement with former football coach David Beaty, who had filed a lawsuit against the school alleging athletic department officials were trying to circumvent terms of his contract.

The school agreed to pay $2.55 million to end all litigation and disputes.

The two sides had been in a legal battle since shortly after Kansas fired Beaty near the end of the 2018 season. His contract called for a $3 million buyout, but the school refused to pay it after discovering potential NCAA infractions during routine end-of-season interviews with Beaty's coaching staff.

The school reported the discoveries to the NCAA and was given a Level II violation.

Beaty, who won just six games in four seasons, filed his lawsuit in March 2019 in an attempt to get the full sum of his contract. The settlement will be paid from the money placed in escrow the year after he was fired.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas announced late Friday it had reached a settlement with former football coach David Beaty, who had filed a lawsuit against the school alleging athletic department officials were trying to circumvent terms of his contract.The school agreed to pay $2.55 million to end all litigation and disputes.The two sides had been in a legal battle since shortly after Kansas fired Beaty near the end of the 2018 season. His contract called for a $3 million buyout, but the school refused to pay it after discovering potential NCAA infractions during routine end-of-season interviews with Beaty's coaching staff.The school reported the discoveries to the NCAA and was given a Level II violation.Beaty, who won just six games in four seasons, filed his lawsuit in March 2019 in an attempt to get the full sum of his contract. The settlement will be paid from the money placed in escrow the year after he was fired.--- Associated Press ---

Kansas agrees to $2.55M settlement with ex-football coach Beaty

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Taylor-Schwartzkopf---MWSU-Soccer-Senior-ef06ne">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU SOCCER SENIOR TAYLOR SCHWARTZKOPF</a>

Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western senior soccer player Taylor Schwartzkopf.  The senior from Farmington, Missouri discussed being quarantined the last few months, her career at MWSU, high expectations for the 2020 season and much more.

Schwartzkopf is a two-time Honorable Mention All-MIAA selections.  She tied for the team lead last season with three goals, and led the Griffons with 63 shots and 27 shots on goal.  

Schwartzkopf added three goals and one assist during her sophomore season in 2018, and she had six goals and two assists in seven games her freshman season.  Schwartzkopf tore her ACL in the seventh game of that 2017 season and missed the rest of the season as MWSU went 17-5 and qualified for their first even NCAA Tournament.

Missouri Western went 4-11-3 last year and 1-8-2 in the MIAA, but they return their entire team as they had no seniors on the 2019 roster. 

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Taylor-Schwartzkopf---MWSU-Soccer-Senior-ef06ne">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU SOCCER SENIOR TAYLOR SCHWARTZKOPF</a>Dave Riggert had a chance to talk with Missouri Western senior soccer player Taylor Schwartzkopf. The senior from Farmington, Missouri discussed being quarantined the last few months, her career at MWSU, high expectations for the 2020 season and much more.Schwartzkopf is a two-time Honorable Mention All-MIAA selections. She tied for the team lead last season with three goals, and led the Griffons with 63 shots and 27 shots on goal. Schwartzkopf added three goals and one assist during her sophomore season in 2018, and she had six goals and two assists in seven games her freshman season. Schwartzkopf tore her ACL in the seventh game of that 2017 season and missed the rest of the season as MWSU went 17-5 and qualified for their first even NCAA Tournament.Missouri Western went 4-11-3 last year and 1-8-2 in the MIAA, but they return their entire team as they had no seniors on the 2019 roster.

1-on-1 with Griffon soccer senior Taylor Schwartzkopf

SPRINGFIELD –
Missouri State University Director of Athletics Kyle Moats announced today the
implementation of a department-wide educational initiative that values
inclusion of diversity, tolerance and social responsibility.

The plan calls for
three initial steps to begin immediately with the 2020-21 academic year and
expand in future years after annual evaluations. The first-phase components
include:

“We have the
capacity to make things better,” said Moats. “From a very young age, athletics
provides a unique training ground for people to work together with others from
different backgrounds and beliefs. In our current environment, that’s an asset
that can be utilized to make a difference. We can be leaders on our campus and
in our community while establishing a stronger foundation for all of our
programs here.”

Moats also noted
that creating a culture of education that values the inclusion of diversity and
acceptance is paramount to making long-term strides.

“The bottom line is
how we treat people,” said Moats. “If we can be more visible in the community
and help young people. If we can be leaders in establishing a better campus
culture. If we can help eradicate discrimination in our corner of the world and
have empathy for those who face oppression. Then we will be doing our part.”

“Like most
Americans, as I have had time to reflect on the events of this past week, my
thoughts have covered the gamut. From disbelief, anger, sorrow and
disappointment, I’ve felt the entire range.&nbsp;

As you can imagine, we have had some of our coaches and family
members passionately articulate their feelings.&nbsp;I welcome and support
their voices in these difficult times. I’m proud that we have coaches who care
and want to make a difference for the student-athletes they lead and the
families they represent. Our department stands by them and is committed to
making a difference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We don’t have all
the answers. But I know I have the ability and the responsibility to make a
difference to our staff and the 400 student-athletes on our campus to make them
better citizens and better human beings. We are a diverse group of people who
represent many races, nationalities, religions, economic backgrounds, political
beliefs and values. But, when we compete to&nbsp;represent Missouri State, we
are all one.

I am committed to the
development of programs to better educate our staff &amp; student-athletes; to
be more prominent in the community and making youth aware of these important
issues; and promoting tolerance and accountability for all.&nbsp;I promise we
will use our platform to make things better. Valuing the inclusion of diversity
is everybody’s responsibility. It’s the right thing to do and we’re going to do
our part.”&nbsp;

SPRINGFIELD –
Missouri State University Director of Athletics Kyle Moats announced today the
implementation of a department-wide educational initiative that values
inclusion of diversity, tolerance and social responsibility.The plan calls for
three initial steps to begin immediately with the 2020-21 academic year and
expand in future years after annual evaluations. The first-phase components
include:<ol>
 <li>Required
 annual diversity and sensitivity training for all athletic department
 employees and student-athletes</li><li>Development
 of a community engagement program to increase Missouri State
 student-athlete involvement in local schools and youth sports programs</li><li>Establishment
 a formal procedure for student-athletes and staff to report discriminatory
 behavior of any kind, while utilizing existing campus resources when
 needed to advise students who have experienced discrimination</li>
 </ol>“We have the
capacity to make things better,” said Moats. “From a very young age, athletics
provides a unique training ground for people to work together with others from
different backgrounds and beliefs. In our current environment, that’s an asset
that can be utilized to make a difference. We can be leaders on our campus and
in our community while establishing a stronger foundation for all of our
programs here.”Moats also noted
that creating a culture of education that values the inclusion of diversity and
acceptance is paramount to making long-term strides.“The bottom line is
how we treat people,” said Moats. “If we can be more visible in the community
and help young people. If we can be leaders in establishing a better campus
culture. If we can help eradicate discrimination in our corner of the world and
have empathy for those who face oppression. Then we will be doing our part.”Statement from
Kyle Moats “Like most
Americans, as I have had time to reflect on the events of this past week, my
thoughts have covered the gamut. From disbelief, anger, sorrow and
disappointment, I’ve felt the entire range.&nbsp;As you can imagine, we have had some of our coaches and family
members passionately articulate their feelings.&nbsp;I welcome and support
their voices in these difficult times. I’m proud that we have coaches who care
and want to make a difference for the student-athletes they lead and the
families they represent. Our department stands by them and is committed to
making a difference.&nbsp;&nbsp;We don’t have all
the answers. But I know I have the ability and the responsibility to make a
difference to our staff and the 400 student-athletes on our campus to make them
better citizens and better human beings. We are a diverse group of people who
represent many races, nationalities, religions, economic backgrounds, political
beliefs and values. But, when we compete to&nbsp;represent Missouri State, we
are all one.I am committed to the
development of programs to better educate our staff &amp; student-athletes; to
be more prominent in the community and making youth aware of these important
issues; and promoting tolerance and accountability for all.&nbsp;I promise we
will use our platform to make things better. Valuing the inclusion of diversity
is everybody’s responsibility. It’s the right thing to do and we’re going to do
our part.”&nbsp;

Missouri State AD announces educational initiative

Historic meeting at YMCA
 in 1920 may never have happened if not for 1918 pandemic

By GREG ECHLIN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/sports/2020-05-30/how-a-global-pandemic-100-years-ago-led-to-the-founding-of-the-negro-leagues-in-kansas-city">Kansas News Service</a>

Getting past a disruption caused by a global pandemic is nothing new 
for professional baseball. Even as Major League Baseball considers a 
shortened season this year amid the ongoing coroanavirus outbreak, the 
sport faced an even more dire threat a century ago with the flu 
pandemic.

That event, combined with World War I and a major gambling scandal, jeopardized the very future of the game.

Part
 of what came next was history, made in Kansas City: the Negro Leagues 
were formed 100 years ago at the Paseo YMCA, just as professional 
baseball was trying to figure out how to move on from a series of 
world-altering events.

‘The biggest entertainment business in America.’

Before
 1917, Eliot Asinoff wrote in his bestseller “Eight Men Out” that 
baseball was “the biggest entertainment business in America.”

But 
in 1920, at the same time that Kansas City jazz was taking off in the 
18th and Vine district, Rube Foster of Chicago and J.L. Wilkinson, who 
had recently moved to Kansas City from Iowa, met at the nearby YMCA on 
The Paseo to formalize the Negro National League in the Negro Leagues.

It was an unusual partnership for its time. Foster was black, and Wilkinson was white.

“Foster,
 I understand, would’ve preferred to have had all-black leadership for 
the leagues, but could not deny the connection that Wilkinson had,” said
 Raymond Doswell, vice president and curator for Kansas City’s Negro 
Leagues Baseball Museum, which has been closed since mid-March as a 
precaution against the spread of the coronavirus.

Foster knew 
Wilkinson from the integrated barnstorming team Wilkinson owned called 
the All Nations team. It was made up of players from a variety of 
backgrounds, including African Americans, Latino Americans and Asian 
immigrants.

Barnstorming teams —semi-professional outfits that 
traveled around the country playing other local teams— got in on the 
success that professional baseball had produced at that time.

“I 
do know the All Nations played the Chicago American Giants,” said Tom 
Fredrick, a Kansas City attorney who has published research on 
Wilkinson. “In other words, Rube Foster’s team, pre-Negro National 
League formation, in October of 1916. In Kansas City, Missouri.”

Despite the difference in the color of their skin, Doswell said Foster and Wilkinson had a lot in common.

“These were two baseball men who were visionaries in many respects, who understood the broader picture,” said Doswell.

Their partnership, though, came out of global tragedy and turmoil.

When the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, Wilkinson’s All Nations players were among those who enlisted according to Fredrick.

“He (Wilkinson) lost All-Nations roster to the Great War. We know that,” he said.

Things
 worsened in 1918 when baseball—and especially barnstorming teams that 
had to travel to make money—were hit hard by the global flu pandemic.

Then, as now with the coronavirus, the flu impacted black communities more, according to Doswell.

“There’s
 a lot of urbanization, so it’s easy for these kinds of things like the 
flu or even tuberculosis to sweep through black communities very 
easily,” he said. “That was a problem in some large communities for many
 years.”

By 1919, the war had ended and the flu had subsided. But baseball had
 another lingering problem: gambling. Though an issue before the war and
 pandemic, the problem reached its apex when several members of the 
Chicago White Sox took money to intentionally lose the 1919 World Series
 against the Cincinnati Reds.

After those chain of events, Doswell said Foster and Wilkinson converged in Kansas City in 1920.

“They
 were being pushed by the black press mostly,” he said. “Black sports 
news editors were sometimes also the editors of different papers. They 
were commenting on the fact that black baseball was loose, and it was 
not organized.”

Kansas City’s signature franchise

From
 Fredrick’s research on Wilkinson, it was discovered that Wilkinson, 
being the shrewd businessman that he was, planned to start up the Kansas
 City Monarchs, with or without an organized league.

But as it 
turned out, the Monarchs became one of the league’s signature teams 
under Wilkinson’s ownership. Wilkinson, who entered the National 
Baseball of Fame in 2006, had earned the respect of his players.

One of them was former Monarchs first baseman and manager Buck O’Neil, who before his death in 2006, praised Wilkinson.

“J.L.
 (Wilkinson was) an outstanding individual. Great baseball mind,” he 
said. “He’s a promoter. He knew how to make money,” O’Neil said at that 
time.

One hundred years ago, the formation of the Negro Leagues 
was a historic step for baseball, one that may never have happened if 
not for world-shaking events. That’ something for Major League Baseball 
to keep in mind now, as it tries to move on after another global 
pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591289256619.png" alt="J.W. Wilkinson's traveling All-Nations team in 1916. The squad was made up of players from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, but its roster was decimated by both World War I and the 1918 flu pandemic. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Inc." />
 <figcaption>J.W. Wilkinson's traveling All-Nations team in 1916. The squad was made up of players from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, but its roster was decimated by both World War I and the 1918 flu pandemic. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Historic meeting at YMCA
 in 1920 may never have happened if not for 1918 pandemic</h2>By GREG ECHLIN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/sports/2020-05-30/how-a-global-pandemic-100-years-ago-led-to-the-founding-of-the-negro-leagues-in-kansas-city">Kansas News Service</a>Getting past a disruption caused by a global pandemic is nothing new 
for professional baseball. Even as Major League Baseball considers a 
shortened season this year amid the ongoing coroanavirus outbreak, the 
sport faced an even more dire threat a century ago with the flu 
pandemic.That event, combined with World War I and a major gambling scandal, jeopardized the very future of the game.Part
 of what came next was history, made in Kansas City: the Negro Leagues 
were formed 100 years ago at the Paseo YMCA, just as professional 
baseball was trying to figure out how to move on from a series of 
world-altering events.‘The biggest entertainment business in America.’Before
 1917, Eliot Asinoff wrote in his bestseller “Eight Men Out” that 
baseball was “the biggest entertainment business in America.”But 
in 1920, at the same time that Kansas City jazz was taking off in the 
18th and Vine district, Rube Foster of Chicago and J.L. Wilkinson, who 
had recently moved to Kansas City from Iowa, met at the nearby YMCA on 
The Paseo to formalize the Negro National League in the Negro Leagues.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591289387032.png" alt="Kansas City Monarchs owner J.L. Wilkinson (left) and Rube Foster, owner of the Chicago American Giants, were the two driving forces behind the founding of the Negro Leagues in 1920. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Inc. " />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Monarchs owner J.L. Wilkinson (left) and Rube Foster, owner of the Chicago American Giants, were the two driving forces behind the founding of the Negro Leagues in 1920. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Inc. </figcaption>
 </figure>It was an unusual partnership for its time. Foster was black, and Wilkinson was white.“Foster,
 I understand, would’ve preferred to have had all-black leadership for 
the leagues, but could not deny the connection that Wilkinson had,” said
 Raymond Doswell, vice president and curator for Kansas City’s Negro 
Leagues Baseball Museum, which has been closed since mid-March as a 
precaution against the spread of the coronavirus.Foster knew 
Wilkinson from the integrated barnstorming team Wilkinson owned called 
the All Nations team. It was made up of players from a variety of 
backgrounds, including African Americans, Latino Americans and Asian 
immigrants.Barnstorming teams —semi-professional outfits that 
traveled around the country playing other local teams— got in on the 
success that professional baseball had produced at that time.“I 
do know the All Nations played the Chicago American Giants,” said Tom 
Fredrick, a Kansas City attorney who has published research on 
Wilkinson. “In other words, Rube Foster’s team, pre-Negro National 
League formation, in October of 1916. In Kansas City, Missouri.”Despite the difference in the color of their skin, Doswell said Foster and Wilkinson had a lot in common.“These were two baseball men who were visionaries in many respects, who understood the broader picture,” said Doswell.A war, a pandemic and a scandalTheir partnership, though, came out of global tragedy and turmoil.When the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, Wilkinson’s All Nations players were among those who enlisted according to Fredrick.“He (Wilkinson) lost All-Nations roster to the Great War. We know that,” he said.Things
 worsened in 1918 when baseball—and especially barnstorming teams that 
had to travel to make money—were hit hard by the global flu pandemic.Then, as now with the coronavirus, the flu impacted black communities more, according to Doswell.“There’s
 a lot of urbanization, so it’s easy for these kinds of things like the 
flu or even tuberculosis to sweep through black communities very 
easily,” he said. “That was a problem in some large communities for many
 years.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591289439235.png" alt="The Chicago American Giants, owned by Rube Foster (back row, middle, wearing suit) were a pre-Negro Leagues barnstorming team made up of all black players. This was the 1918 squad. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Inc." />
 <figcaption>The Chicago American Giants, owned by Rube Foster (back row, middle, wearing suit) were a pre-Negro Leagues barnstorming team made up of all black players. This was the 1918 squad. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Inc.</figcaption>
 </figure>By 1919, the war had ended and the flu had subsided. But baseball had
 another lingering problem: gambling. Though an issue before the war and
 pandemic, the problem reached its apex when several members of the 
Chicago White Sox took money to intentionally lose the 1919 World Series
 against the Cincinnati Reds.After those chain of events, Doswell said Foster and Wilkinson converged in Kansas City in 1920.“They
 were being pushed by the black press mostly,” he said. “Black sports 
news editors were sometimes also the editors of different papers. They 
were commenting on the fact that black baseball was loose, and it was 
not organized.”Kansas City’s signature franchiseFrom
 Fredrick’s research on Wilkinson, it was discovered that Wilkinson, 
being the shrewd businessman that he was, planned to start up the Kansas
 City Monarchs, with or without an organized league.But as it 
turned out, the Monarchs became one of the league’s signature teams 
under Wilkinson’s ownership. Wilkinson, who entered the National 
Baseball of Fame in 2006, had earned the respect of his players.One of them was former Monarchs first baseman and manager Buck O’Neil, who before his death in 2006, praised Wilkinson.“J.L.
 (Wilkinson was) an outstanding individual. Great baseball mind,” he 
said. “He’s a promoter. He knew how to make money,” O’Neil said at that 
time.One hundred years ago, the formation of the Negro Leagues 
was a historic step for baseball, one that may never have happened if 
not for world-shaking events. That’ something for Major League Baseball 
to keep in mind now, as it tries to move on after another global 
pandemic.

How 1918 pandemic sparked founding of Negro Leagues in Kansas City

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Roy-Robles---MWSU-Baseball-LHP-eeuu8e">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU LHP ROY ROBLES</a>

Dave Riggert was able to catch up with Missouri Western baseball left-handed pitcher Roy Robles.  The senior from Hermiston, Oregon discusses the season getting canceled, getting another year of eligibility, his career in junior college &amp; at MWSU and much more.

Robles was a senior this past season, but the NCAA said after the season was canceled that all spring student-athletes will not lose a year of eligibity, so Robles will get a second senior season.

He went 1-4 this past season with an ERA of 8.53 but did have 41 strikeouts in 25.1 innings.  Rolbes' one win came in the season opener when he struck out 17 batters in six innings to defeat Oklahoma Baptist 5-3.

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Roy-Robles---MWSU-Baseball-LHP-eeuu8e">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU LHP ROY ROBLES</a>Dave Riggert was able to catch up with Missouri Western baseball left-handed pitcher Roy Robles. The senior from Hermiston, Oregon discusses the season getting canceled, getting another year of eligibility, his career in junior college &amp; at MWSU and much more.Robles was a senior this past season, but the NCAA said after the season was canceled that all spring student-athletes will not lose a year of eligibity, so Robles will get a second senior season.He went 1-4 this past season with an ERA of 8.53 but did have 41 strikeouts in 25.1 innings. Rolbes' one win came in the season opener when he struck out 17 batters in six innings to defeat Oklahoma Baptist 5-3.