D2Football.com has announced the 50 players the coach that have been selected to the 2010-2019 All-Decade Team.

Northwest Missouri State is represented by first-team choice Matt Longacre, second-team selection Brandon Dixon and former head coach Adam Dorrel.

Longacre was the 2014 MIAA defensive player of the year and a two-time first-team All-America pick for the Bearcats. Longacre joined the Bearcats in 2010 as a redshirt and played in 53 games over his four-year playing career. He totaled 109 tackles, including 47 tackles-for-loss. He also registered 30.5 quarterback sacks, including 12 in 2013 as Northwest captured the national championship. Longacre was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Longacre played in 38 games for the Rams and made eight starts. He was credited with 6.5 quarterback sacks in the NFL. He concluded his four-year NFL career by playing in Super Bowl 53 with the Los Angeles Rams. 

Dixon played in 27 career games for the Bearcats and helped lead the squad to the 2013 national championship. Dixon earned first-team All-America honors as a senior in 2013, after having earned second-team All-America honors as a junior in 2012. He posted 56  tackles and six interceptions in his two-year Bearcat career. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2014 National Football League draft Dixon was the 195th overall selection and 19th selection of the sixth round. Dixon would go on to play 14 games and intercept a pass for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2014. He finished his playing career in the NFL when he played five games for the New York Giants in 2017.

Dorrel was the obvious choice for the coach of the team. He won three national championships at Northwest Missouri and had a 76-8 record (.904). From 2013-2016, he won three championships and only lost two games.

To be eligible for the team, a student-athlete must have played during any season from 2010-2019 but must have completed his eligibility prior to the 2020 season. He must also have been named a D2Football.com All-American in that time period.

The GLIAC had the most selections (10) followed closely by the MIAA (9). Ferris State and Northwest Missouri each had three selections (one coach for Northwest, which were the most by any program.

At the time of publication, 35 of the players on the team had made an active roster in the NFL. Sixteen of the members of the team had been drafted by the NFL. Three members await the 2020 NFL Draft. While participation in professional leagues creeped into the deliberation process, the student-athletes are on this team because of their accomplishments on the collegiate football field.

There are four D2Football.com Offensive Players of the Year selections on the team. They are joined by five Defensive Player of the Year selections. Three players on the team earned four Harlon Hill Trophies.

The D2Football.com All-Decade Team was selected by the staff of D2Football.com with input from coaches across the country.

https://www.d2football.com/2010-2019-all-decade/ 

D2Football.com has announced the 50 players the coach that have been selected to the 2010-2019 All-Decade Team.Northwest Missouri State is represented by first-team choice Matt Longacre, second-team selection Brandon Dixon and former head coach Adam Dorrel.Longacre was the 2014 MIAA defensive player of the year and a two-time first-team All-America pick for the Bearcats. Longacre joined the Bearcats in 2010 as a redshirt and played in 53 games over his four-year playing career. He totaled 109 tackles, including 47 tackles-for-loss. He also registered 30.5 quarterback sacks, including 12 in 2013 as Northwest captured the national championship. Longacre was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Longacre played in 38 games for the Rams and made eight starts. He was credited with 6.5 quarterback sacks in the NFL. He concluded his four-year NFL career by playing in Super Bowl 53 with the Los Angeles Rams. Dixon played in 27 career games for the Bearcats and helped lead the squad to the 2013 national championship. Dixon earned first-team All-America honors as a senior in 2013, after having earned second-team All-America honors as a junior in 2012. He posted 56 tackles and six interceptions in his two-year Bearcat career. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the sixth round of the 2014 National Football League draft Dixon was the 195th overall selection and 19th selection of the sixth round. Dixon would go on to play 14 games and intercept a pass for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2014. He finished his playing career in the NFL when he played five games for the New York Giants in 2017.Dorrel was the obvious choice for the coach of the team. He won three national championships at Northwest Missouri and had a 76-8 record (.904). From 2013-2016, he won three championships and only lost two games.To be eligible for the team, a student-athlete must have played during any season from 2010-2019 but must have completed his eligibility prior to the 2020 season. He must also have been named a D2Football.com All-American in that time period.The GLIAC had the most selections (10) followed closely by the MIAA (9). Ferris State and Northwest Missouri each had three selections (one coach for Northwest, which were the most by any program.At the time of publication, 35 of the players on the team had made an active roster in the NFL. Sixteen of the members of the team had been drafted by the NFL. Three members await the 2020 NFL Draft. While participation in professional leagues creeped into the deliberation process, the student-athletes are on this team because of their accomplishments on the collegiate football field.There are four D2Football.com Offensive Players of the Year selections on the team. They are joined by five Defensive Player of the Year selections. Three players on the team earned four Harlon Hill Trophies.The D2Football.com All-Decade Team was selected by the staff of D2Football.com with input from coaches across the country.https://www.d2football.com/2010-2019-all-decade/ D2Football.com's All-Decade First TeamQBJason Vander LaanFerris StateRBFranklyn QuitehBloomsburgRBAustin EkelerWestern ColoradoWRJeff JanisSaginaw ValleyWRBilly BrownShepherdTEAdam ShaheenAshlandOLRyan SchraederValdosta StateOLGarth HeikkinenMinnesota DulthOLRyan JensenCSU-PuebloOLAmini SilatoluMidwestern StateOLJoe LongWayne State (Mich.)DLMatt JudonGrand ValleyDLBrandon WilliamsMissouri SouthernDLJamie MederAshlandDLMatt LongacreNorthwest MissouriLBDeon LaceyWest AlabamaLBNate DreilingPittsburg StateLBConnor HarrisLindenwoodDBMalcolm ButlerWest AlabamaDBKyle DuggerLenoir-RhyneDBRontez MilesCal UDBPierre DesirLindenwoodKGreg ZuerleinMissouri WesternPTaylor AccardiColorado School of MinesAPJohn BrownPittsburg StateD2Football.com's All-Decade Second TeamQBLuis PerezTexas A&amp;M-CommerceRBCameron McDondleCSU-PuebloRBJa'Quan GardnerHumboldt StateWRBrody OliverColorado MinesWRShane ZylstraMinnesota StateTEBrian LeonhardtBemidji StateOLAlex CappaHumboldt StateOLEric KushCal UOLBrandon FuscoSlippery RockOLMatt ArmstrongGrand ValleyOLTrey PipkensSioux FallsDLMarcus MartinSlippery RockDLGrover StewartAlbany StateDLCedric ThorntonSouthern ArkansasDLZach SielerFerris StateLBLarry DeanValdosta StateLBAdam BighillCentral WashingtonLBCarlos FieldsWinston-SalemDBJanoris JenkinsNorth AlabamaDBJeff HeathSaginaw ValleyDBTavierre ThomasFerris StateDBBrandon DixonNorthwest MissouriKDante BrownFort HaysPRandy WeichWayne State (Neb.)APDeonte HarrisAssumption

Three Bearcats featured on D2Football.com 2010s All-Decade team

The NFL and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have announced the 52 players and two head coaches selected to the 2010s All-Decade Team. Tom Brady, 42 and starting over with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was one of just eight players unanimously voted to the squad. (For the full list of honorees, check out the bottom of this file.) Tampa might be unfamiliar to Brady, but the honor is not. Not surprisingly, Brady was also a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team.

Peyton Manning was the other quarterback joining Brady on the 2000s team. For the 2010s, the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 48-member selection committee chose Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers. Brady and Rodgers led their respective teams to the top win-loss records of the decade, including the postseason, and both teams won Super Bowls in the decade -- Rodgers in the 2010 season and Brady in '14, '16 and '18.

Left off the list, which allowed just two quarterbacks: Drew Brees, who set the career record for pass completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns and completion percentage in the 2010s. His omission is the most glaring of the list, and likely came because, despite Brees' own outstanding play, the Saints' lone Super Bowl championship came in the previous decade (2009) and New Orleans missed the playoffs four times during the 2010s.

The other unanimous picks represent a who's who of the biggest NFL stars of the last 10 years -- and a pretty good preview of who'll headline future Hall of Fame classes: defensive tackle Aaron Donald, linebacker Von Miller, running back Adrian Peterson, offensive tackle Joe Thomas, kicker Justin Tucker, defensive end J.J. Watt and offensive guard Marshal Yanda.

The best news of all for fans: The majority of players on the All-Decade Team are still active heading into the 2020 season.

Donald is one of 12 players who played primarily in the NFC West during the decade, making that division the most well-represented. That shouldn't be a surprise. The NFC West has sent a team to five of the last eight Super Bowls. The Arizona Cardinals had four players on the list (Calais Campbell, Larry Fitzgerald, Patrick Peterson, Chandler Jones) and the San Francisco 49ers had three (Frank Gore, Joe Staley, Patrick Willis). The Seahawks, who went to the Super Bowl in the 2013 and '14 campaigns, are the most-represented NFC West team, with five members, including three from the "Legion of Boom" defense: Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas, Marshawn Lynch and coach Pete Carroll.

Carroll, who led the Seahawks to eight playoff berths and one championship in the decade, is one of two coaches on the team. The other is, of course, Bill Belichick, whose Patriots went to the playoffs every year of the 2010s, and advanced to five Super Bowls, winning three times, including once over the Seahawks. Belichick is one of just two coaches in NFL history to be on two All-Decade Teams. The other is former Steelers coach Chuck Noll, a four-time Super Bowl winner who was on the 1970s and 1980s All-Decade Teams.

Together, Belichick and Brady dominated the NFL for 20 years, and they are two of the five people on the 2010s team who also were on the 2000s team. Devin Hester, Shane Lechler and Julius Peppers are the others. For all of their dominance, the Patriots developed a reputation of featuring players who were perfect for their roles and, other than Brady, only occasionally boasting the league's best talents at their respective positions. Not quite.

Eight guys on the list played for the Patriots, the most of any team, although their tenures stretched from lifetime -- Rob Gronkowski, who was named to the NFL' All-Time Team last year -- to eyeblink, in the case of Antonio Brown, who played one game for the Patriots before being released. Brown made this 2010s team because of his stellar play with the Steelers. The other players with Patriots ties on the list: Stephen Gostkowski (who had the unenviable task of replacing Adam Vinatieri, a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team, Cordarrelle Patterson (who played 15 regular-season games with the Patriots during the decade, Darrelle Revis (16 games, Logan Mankins (50) and Chandler Jones (55).

After Brady's signing with the Bucs and Gostkowski's release this offseason, only Belichick remains from the greatest dynasty the modern NFL has seen.

The team that has a chance to be the next dynasty -- the Kansas City Chiefs -- placed six players on the roster, second only to the Patriots: Eric Berry, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce, Tyrann Mathieu, LeSean McCoy and Revis.

And one player earned a singular -- actually dual -- honor. Darren Sproles was selected to the team at two positions -- punt returner and offensive flex player, which is someone who fills multiple offensive roles -- becoming just the fourth player in history to be named to an All-Decade Team at multiple positions. The others are Mel Gray (kick returner and punt returner in the 1990s, Dante Hall (kick returner and punt returner in the 2000s) and Deion Sanders (cornerback and punt returner in the 1990s).

2010s ALL-DECADE TEAM ROSTER * -- denotes a unanimous selection OFFENSE QB Tom Brady* QB Aaron Rodgers RB Frank Gore RB Marshawn Lynch RB LeSean McCoy RB Adrian Peterson* WR Antonio Brown WR Larry Fitzgerald WR Calvin Johnson WR Julio Jones FLEX Darren Sproles TE Rob Gronkowski TE Travis Kelce OT Jason Peters OT Tyron Smith OT Joe Staley OT Joe Thomas* OG Jahri Evans OG Logan Mankins OG Zack Martin OG Marshal Yanda* C Alex Mack C Maurkice Pouncey DEFENSE DE Calais Campbell DE Cameron Jordan DE Julius Peppers DE J.J. Watt* DT Geno Atkins DT Fletcher Cox DT Aaron Donald* DT Ndamukong Suh LB Chandler Jones LB Luke Kuechly LB Khalil Mack LB Von Miller* LB Bobby Wagner LB Patrick Willis CB Patrick Peterson CB Darrelle Revis CB Richard Sherman S Eric Berry S Earl Thomas S Eric Weddle DB Chris Harris Jr. DB Tyrann Mathieu SPECIALISTS P Johnny Hekker P Shane Lechler K Stephen Gostkowski K Justin Tucker* PR Tyreek Hill PR Darren Sproles KR Devin Hester KR Cordarrelle Patterson COACHES Bill Belichick Pete Carroll --- NFL Press Release ---

The NFL and the Pro Football Hall of Fame have announced the 52 players and two head coaches selected to the 2010s All-Decade Team. Tom Brady, 42 and starting over with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was one of just eight players unanimously voted to the squad. (For the full list of honorees, check out the bottom of this file.) Tampa might be unfamiliar to Brady, but the honor is not. Not surprisingly, Brady was also a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team.Peyton Manning was the other quarterback joining Brady on the 2000s team. For the 2010s, the Pro Football Hall of Fame's 48-member selection committee chose Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers. Brady and Rodgers led their respective teams to the top win-loss records of the decade, including the postseason, and both teams won Super Bowls in the decade -- Rodgers in the 2010 season and Brady in '14, '16 and '18.Left off the list, which allowed just two quarterbacks: Drew Brees, who set the career record for pass completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns and completion percentage in the 2010s. His omission is the most glaring of the list, and likely came because, despite Brees' own outstanding play, the Saints' lone Super Bowl championship came in the previous decade (2009) and New Orleans missed the playoffs four times during the 2010s.The other unanimous picks represent a who's who of the biggest NFL stars of the last 10 years -- and a pretty good preview of who'll headline future Hall of Fame classes: defensive tackle Aaron Donald, linebacker Von Miller, running back Adrian Peterson, offensive tackle Joe Thomas, kicker Justin Tucker, defensive end J.J. Watt and offensive guard Marshal Yanda.The best news of all for fans: The majority of players on the All-Decade Team are still active heading into the 2020 season.Donald is one of 12 players who played primarily in the NFC West during the decade, making that division the most well-represented. That shouldn't be a surprise. The NFC West has sent a team to five of the last eight Super Bowls. The Arizona Cardinals had four players on the list (Calais Campbell, Larry Fitzgerald, Patrick Peterson, Chandler Jones) and the San Francisco 49ers had three (Frank Gore, Joe Staley, Patrick Willis). The Seahawks, who went to the Super Bowl in the 2013 and '14 campaigns, are the most-represented NFC West team, with five members, including three from the "Legion of Boom" defense: Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas, Marshawn Lynch and coach Pete Carroll.Carroll, who led the Seahawks to eight playoff berths and one championship in the decade, is one of two coaches on the team. The other is, of course, Bill Belichick, whose Patriots went to the playoffs every year of the 2010s, and advanced to five Super Bowls, winning three times, including once over the Seahawks. Belichick is one of just two coaches in NFL history to be on two All-Decade Teams. The other is former Steelers coach Chuck Noll, a four-time Super Bowl winner who was on the 1970s and 1980s All-Decade Teams.Together, Belichick and Brady dominated the NFL for 20 years, and they are two of the five people on the 2010s team who also were on the 2000s team. Devin Hester, Shane Lechler and Julius Peppers are the others. For all of their dominance, the Patriots developed a reputation of featuring players who were perfect for their roles and, other than Brady, only occasionally boasting the league's best talents at their respective positions. Not quite.Eight guys on the list played for the Patriots, the most of any team, although their tenures stretched from lifetime -- Rob Gronkowski, who was named to the NFL' All-Time Team last year -- to eyeblink, in the case of Antonio Brown, who played one game for the Patriots before being released. Brown made this 2010s team because of his stellar play with the Steelers. The other players with Patriots ties on the list: Stephen Gostkowski (who had the unenviable task of replacing Adam Vinatieri, a member of the 2000s All-Decade Team, Cordarrelle Patterson (who played 15 regular-season games with the Patriots during the decade, Darrelle Revis (16 games, Logan Mankins (50) and Chandler Jones (55).After Brady's signing with the Bucs and Gostkowski's release this offseason, only Belichick remains from the greatest dynasty the modern NFL has seen.The team that has a chance to be the next dynasty -- the Kansas City Chiefs -- placed six players on the roster, second only to the Patriots: Eric Berry, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce, Tyrann Mathieu, LeSean McCoy and Revis.And one player earned a singular -- actually dual -- honor. Darren Sproles was selected to the team at two positions -- punt returner and offensive flex player, which is someone who fills multiple offensive roles -- becoming just the fourth player in history to be named to an All-Decade Team at multiple positions. The others are Mel Gray (kick returner and punt returner in the 1990s, Dante Hall (kick returner and punt returner in the 2000s) and Deion Sanders (cornerback and punt returner in the 1990s).2010s ALL-DECADE TEAM ROSTER * -- denotes a unanimous selection OFFENSE QB Tom Brady* QB Aaron Rodgers RB Frank Gore RB Marshawn Lynch RB LeSean McCoy RB Adrian Peterson* WR Antonio Brown WR Larry Fitzgerald WR Calvin Johnson WR Julio Jones FLEX Darren Sproles TE Rob Gronkowski TE Travis Kelce OT Jason Peters OT Tyron Smith OT Joe Staley OT Joe Thomas* OG Jahri Evans OG Logan Mankins OG Zack Martin OG Marshal Yanda* C Alex Mack C Maurkice Pouncey DEFENSE DE Calais Campbell DE Cameron Jordan DE Julius Peppers DE J.J. Watt* DT Geno Atkins DT Fletcher Cox DT Aaron Donald* DT Ndamukong Suh LB Chandler Jones LB Luke Kuechly LB Khalil Mack LB Von Miller* LB Bobby Wagner LB Patrick Willis CB Patrick Peterson CB Darrelle Revis CB Richard Sherman S Eric Berry S Earl Thomas S Eric Weddle DB Chris Harris Jr. DB Tyrann Mathieu SPECIALISTS P Johnny Hekker P Shane Lechler K Stephen Gostkowski K Justin Tucker* PR Tyreek Hill PR Darren Sproles KR Devin Hester KR Cordarrelle Patterson COACHES Bill Belichick Pete Carroll --- NFL Press Release ---

Six current or former Chiefs on NFL's 2010s All-Decade team

The NFL draft will be conducted in a virtual format, with team personnel working from their homes.

In a memo sent to the 32 teams Monday and obtained by The Associated Press, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell outlined procedures for the April 23-25 draft. The guidelines include no group gatherings.

“We have reviewed this matter in the past few days with both the competition committee and CEC (a group of league executives,” Goodell wrote, “and this will confirm that clubs will conduct their draft operations remotely, with club personnel separately located in their homes.”

All team facilities were closed on March 26 and Goodell has ordered them to remain shut indefinitely.

“We will reopen facilities when it is safe to do so based on medical and public health advice, and in compliance with government mandates,” he wrote.

The draft originally was scheduled to be held in Las Vegas, but the NFL canceled all public events last month as a safeguard against the coronavirus. On Monday, Goodell instructed the teams on how they should plan to make their selections.

“We have made this decision for several reasons,” he wrote. "All clubs will not have access to their facilities, which is contrary to the fundamental equity principle that all clubs operate in a consistent and fair way.

“Moreover, we want all NFL personnel to comply with government directives and to model safe and appropriate health practices. Our staff will carry out its responsibilities in the same way, operating in separate locations outside of our offices. And after consulting with medical advisers, we cannot identify an alternative that is preferable from a medical or public health perspective, given the varying needs of clubs, the need properly to screen participants, and the unique risk factors that individual club employees may face.”

Several team general managers had sought a delay in the draft, basically citing an unfair playing field. But the owners pushed for the draft, the NFL's biggest offseason event, to take place as scheduled. It is up to each team to ensure not only safe and healthy conditions, but to offset any perceived competitive imbalance under the guidelines set forth by Goodell.

“We are operating in an environment unlike anything we have experienced before,” Goodell added, “one that requires flexibility, patience, and cooperation.”

Plans for televising the draft have not been finalized, though it is expected that ESPN and NFL Network will do so, perhaps in a joint effort.

The NFL draft will be conducted in a virtual format, with team personnel working from their homes.In a memo sent to the 32 teams Monday and obtained by The Associated Press, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell outlined procedures for the April 23-25 draft. The guidelines include no group gatherings.“We have reviewed this matter in the past few days with both the competition committee and CEC (a group of league executives,” Goodell wrote, “and this will confirm that clubs will conduct their draft operations remotely, with club personnel separately located in their homes.”All team facilities were closed on March 26 and Goodell has ordered them to remain shut indefinitely.“We will reopen facilities when it is safe to do so based on medical and public health advice, and in compliance with government mandates,” he wrote.The draft originally was scheduled to be held in Las Vegas, but the NFL canceled all public events last month as a safeguard against the coronavirus. On Monday, Goodell instructed the teams on how they should plan to make their selections.“We have made this decision for several reasons,” he wrote. "All clubs will not have access to their facilities, which is contrary to the fundamental equity principle that all clubs operate in a consistent and fair way.“Moreover, we want all NFL personnel to comply with government directives and to model safe and appropriate health practices. Our staff will carry out its responsibilities in the same way, operating in separate locations outside of our offices. And after consulting with medical advisers, we cannot identify an alternative that is preferable from a medical or public health perspective, given the varying needs of clubs, the need properly to screen participants, and the unique risk factors that individual club employees may face.”Several team general managers had sought a delay in the draft, basically citing an unfair playing field. But the owners pushed for the draft, the NFL's biggest offseason event, to take place as scheduled. It is up to each team to ensure not only safe and healthy conditions, but to offset any perceived competitive imbalance under the guidelines set forth by Goodell.“We are operating in an environment unlike anything we have experienced before,” Goodell added, “one that requires flexibility, patience, and cooperation.”Plans for televising the draft have not been finalized, though it is expected that ESPN and NFL Network will do so, perhaps in a joint effort.--- Associated Press ---

NFL going with virtual format for upcoming draft

The British Open will not be played this year for the first time since 1945, golf officials announced Monday as they tried to reconfigure a major championship schedule that would end with the Masters being played two weeks before Thanksgiving.

Still to be determined is when — or even if — golf can resume depending on the spread of COVID-19 that has shut down sports worldwide.

The R&amp;A announced that the British Open, scheduled for July 16-19 at Royal St. George’s in England, will be pushed back until July 15-18 in 2021, leaving the 150th Open for St. Andrews in 2022.

“I can assure everyone that we have explored every option for playing The Open this year, but it is not going to be possible,” R&amp;A chief Martin Slumbers said.

The Masters, which was supposed to start Thursday, was rescheduled for Nov. 12-15. That would follow the PGA Championship on Aug. 6-9 at Harding Park in San Francisco and the U.S. Open — still at Winged Foot — for Sept. 17-20.

Golf’s major organizations have been trying to piece together a puzzle for the last three weeks and each agreed to announce their schedules at the same time in a show of collaboration. Still missing is the starting line.

The PGA Tour has the most moving parts, and it tentatively has planned to complete its FedEx Cup season close to schedule, with the Tour Championship wrapping up the postseason run on Labor Day.

“We hope the anticipation of staging the Masters Tournament in the fall brings a moment of joy to the Augusta community and all those who love the sport,” Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley said. “We want to emphasize that our future plans are incumbent upon favorable counsel and direction from health officials.”

Ridley said every player who has received invitations to play the Masters in April will stay on the list, with more details to be sorted out later. He also said the Augusta National Women’s Amateur was canceled, and every player can keep their spots for next year provided they don’t turn pro.

Winged Foot just north of New York City is about 5 miles away from a hot spot for the new coronavirus. Construction for the U.S. Open was stopped two weeks ago as the USGA trying to determine its best course. For now, it’s to stay in New York with a September date.

The U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club and the U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Brooklawn Country Club in Connecticut have been canceled.

The PGA Championship, which last year moved to May for the first time in some 70 years, returns to August at Harding Park. That would precede the PGA Tour’s end-of-season run of the Wyndham Championship in North Carolina, The Northern Trust outside Boston, the BMW Championship in Chicago and the Tour Championship in Atlanta.

The British Open will not be played this year for the first time since 1945, golf officials announced Monday as they tried to reconfigure a major championship schedule that would end with the Masters being played two weeks before Thanksgiving.Still to be determined is when — or even if — golf can resume depending on the spread of COVID-19 that has shut down sports worldwide.The R&amp;A announced that the British Open, scheduled for July 16-19 at Royal St. George’s in England, will be pushed back until July 15-18 in 2021, leaving the 150th Open for St. Andrews in 2022.“I can assure everyone that we have explored every option for playing The Open this year, but it is not going to be possible,” R&amp;A chief Martin Slumbers said.The Masters, which was supposed to start Thursday, was rescheduled for Nov. 12-15. That would follow the PGA Championship on Aug. 6-9 at Harding Park in San Francisco and the U.S. Open — still at Winged Foot — for Sept. 17-20.Golf’s major organizations have been trying to piece together a puzzle for the last three weeks and each agreed to announce their schedules at the same time in a show of collaboration. Still missing is the starting line.The PGA Tour has the most moving parts, and it tentatively has planned to complete its FedEx Cup season close to schedule, with the Tour Championship wrapping up the postseason run on Labor Day.“We hope the anticipation of staging the Masters Tournament in the fall brings a moment of joy to the Augusta community and all those who love the sport,” Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley said. “We want to emphasize that our future plans are incumbent upon favorable counsel and direction from health officials.”Ridley said every player who has received invitations to play the Masters in April will stay on the list, with more details to be sorted out later. He also said the Augusta National Women’s Amateur was canceled, and every player can keep their spots for next year provided they don’t turn pro.Winged Foot just north of New York City is about 5 miles away from a hot spot for the new coronavirus. Construction for the U.S. Open was stopped two weeks ago as the USGA trying to determine its best course. For now, it’s to stay in New York with a September date.The U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club and the U.S. Senior Women’s Open at Brooklawn Country Club in Connecticut have been canceled.The PGA Championship, which last year moved to May for the first time in some 70 years, returns to August at Harding Park. That would precede the PGA Tour’s end-of-season run of the Wyndham Championship in North Carolina, The Northern Trust outside Boston, the BMW Championship in Chicago and the Tour Championship in Atlanta.--- Associated Press ---

British Open canceled, Masters moved to November in major rescheduling

Future Missouri Western men's basketball player JaQuaylon Mays has been named a NJCAA Division II All-American.  He was named a Second Team All-American on Monday after leading Johnson County Community College to a 25-7 record this past season.

The sophomore from Lincoln, Nebraska committed to Missouri Western last month after two years at JCCC.  The 6'2", 155 pound guard was named the Jayhawk Conference Division II Player of the Year this past season as he averaged 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Mays shot 53.0 percent from the field, 37.9 percent from the three-point line and 71.9 percent on his free throws.

Mays ranked second in the Jayhawk Conference in scoring, second in made free throws, second in assists, sixth in field goal percentage and eighth in free throw percentage. He scored in double figures a team-best 27 times, including 11 games of 20 or more points.

Mays has two years of eligibility left and he'll join a Griffon team that went 18-14 this past season and finished fourth in the MIAA with a 13-6 league mark.

Future Missouri Western men's basketball player JaQuaylon Mays has been named a NJCAA Division II All-American. He was named a Second Team All-American on Monday after leading Johnson County Community College to a 25-7 record this past season.The sophomore from Lincoln, Nebraska committed to Missouri Western last month after two years at JCCC. The 6'2", 155 pound guard was named the Jayhawk Conference Division II Player of the Year this past season as he averaged 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Mays shot 53.0 percent from the field, 37.9 percent from the three-point line and 71.9 percent on his free throws.Mays ranked second in the Jayhawk Conference in scoring, second in made free throws, second in assists, sixth in field goal percentage and eighth in free throw percentage. He scored in double figures a team-best 27 times, including 11 games of 20 or more points.Mays has two years of eligibility left and he'll join a Griffon team that went 18-14 this past season and finished fourth in the MIAA with a 13-6 league mark.

Griffon men's basketball recruit named NJCAA DII All-American

Northwest Missouri State women's basketball coach Austin Meyer has tested positive for COVID-19.

Meyer made the announcement on social media Sunday:

"It has been a little rough this past week as I had battled some sickness. I can't remember the last time I had been sick so of course I started thinking I probably have this COVID thing. Turns out I did as I received a positive test result. One big question is how did I get this? I started working from home weeks ago, washed my hands so much my skin was cracking, stayed in with the family and only left for grocery essentials (where the germaphobe in me wiped everything down, even the milk). It just didn't make sense but I guess it shows how easily this thing can spread. As for me, I'm on day 7 and am feeling pretty good just hoping our family continues to stay healthy. The virus is obviously around here more than people think so please be vigilant &amp; be safe!"

Meyer just finish his second season as the head coach of the Northwest women as they finished 12-18 and 6-13 in the MIAA.  The Bearcats won four more game and two more league game than in Meyer's first season.

Meyer played as Northwest from 2002-2006 and was a full-time assistant coach for the Northwest men's basketball team from 2008-2018 before taking over the women's program.

Northwest Missouri State women's basketball coach Austin Meyer has tested positive for COVID-19.Meyer made the announcement on social media Sunday:"It has been a little rough this past week as I had battled some sickness. I can't remember the last time I had been sick so of course I started thinking I probably have this COVID thing. Turns out I did as I received a positive test result. One big question is how did I get this? I started working from home weeks ago, washed my hands so much my skin was cracking, stayed in with the family and only left for grocery essentials (where the germaphobe in me wiped everything down, even the milk). It just didn't make sense but I guess it shows how easily this thing can spread. As for me, I'm on day 7 and am feeling pretty good just hoping our family continues to stay healthy. The virus is obviously around here more than people think so please be vigilant &amp; be safe!"Meyer just finish his second season as the head coach of the Northwest women as they finished 12-18 and 6-13 in the MIAA. The Bearcats won four more game and two more league game than in Meyer's first season.Meyer played as Northwest from 2002-2006 and was a full-time assistant coach for the Northwest men's basketball team from 2008-2018 before taking over the women's program.

Northwest women's basketball coach Austin Meyer has tested positive for COVID-19

Northwest Missouri State's sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins and junior forward Ryan Hawkins have each been named among the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award by Small College Basketball. It marks only the second time that the same school had two finalists in the same year.

Small College Basketball and the National Awards Committee are proud to announce the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award. This list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA. 

The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious award, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.

On Monday, April 6, at 6 p.m. (CT) the 2020 Bevo Francis Award winner will be announced.

"On behalf of Small College Basketball and the National Award Committee, I sincerely congratulate all 14 Finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award," John McCarthy said. "Based on our criteria, these players are the elite of the elite in the country during the 2019-20 season. It's been a joy to watch each of them, and every one of them has had an exceptional season and has helped to lead their teams to tremendous success this season.  I'm so happy for each of them, as they have earned this tremendous recognition."

This marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018, and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019. 

Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) led the nation in three-point field goal percentage (53.3% - 105-of-197). Hudgins averaged 19.6 points per game, 6.0 assists per game and 1.5 steals per game Hudgins has already earned first-team all-MIAA, first-team D2CCA all-region, D2CCA region player of the year, MIAA Player of the Year and the Most Outstanding Player at the 2020 MIAA Tournament. Hudgins had 18 20-point scoring games to go along with four 30-point scoring contests. He collected the school's first triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists vs. Fort Hays State (Jan. 25). His 626 points this season ranks as the sixth-most for a Bearcat in a single season. His 191 assists in 2019-2020 ranks as the second-best total in Bearcat history behind his mark of 203 set last season. 

Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) led the Bearcats in scoring at 22.7  per game, in rebounding at 7.4  per contest, in steals at 2.1 per game and in blocks at 0.8 per game. Hawkins collected eight double-doubles, reached 30 or more points on five occasions and posted 20 20-point scoring contests. Hawkins set the Bearcat single-game scoring record with 44 against Southern Nazarene on Nov. 2. The Atlantic, Iowa, native was selected as the MIAA's Defensive Player of the Year for the second straight season, while also being tabbed a first-team all-MIAA performer. Hawkins poured in 726 points in the 2019-2020 season, which ranks as the third-most points ever scored by a Bearcat in a single season. He is one of only four Bearcats to ever score 700 or more points in a season. 

Hudgins and Hawkins become the fifth and six Bearcat finalists for the Bevo Francis Award. Pitts was a three-time finalist and captured the award in 2017. Northwest is the only school to have a finalists in each of the five years the award has been presented.

Northwest's six finalists for the Bevo Francis Award is the most of any small college. Cornerstone ranks second with three finalists in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

To stay up to date on all things Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com.

Northwest's Bevo Francis Award Finalists Justin Pitts (2016, 2017, 2018) Joey Witthus (2019) Trevor Hudgins (2020) Ryan Hawkins (2020) Bevo Francis Award Finalists by School Northwest Missouri State – 6 (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020x2) Cornerstone – 3 (2017, 2018, 2019) Augustana – 2 (2016x2) Babson – 2 (2016, 2017) Florida Southern – 2 (2019, 2020) Missouri Southern – 2 (2016, 2020) Notre Dame (Ohio) – 2 (2016, 2019) Shippensburg – 2 (2017, 2018) Springfield – 2 (2018, 2020) St. Thomas Aquinas – 2 (2017, 2018) Western Oregon – 2 (2016, 2018) 2019-20 Bevo Francis Award Finalists Chris Coffey 6’7” Sr. Georgetown Zaccheus Darko-Kelly 6’6” Jr. Providence (MT) Jhonathan Dunn 6’4” Sr. Southern Nazarene Brett Hanson 6’2” Sr. Florida Southern Ryan Hawkins 6’7” Jr. NW MO State Trevor Hudgins 6’1” So. NW MO State Kyle Mangas 6’3” Jr. Indiana Wesleyan Cam Martin 6’9” Jr. MO Southern Mark Matthews 6’6” Sr. Nova Southeastern Selom Mawugbe 6’10” Sr. Azusa Pacific Nic Reed 6’5” Sr. Olivet Nazarene Jake Ross 6’4” Sr. Springfield (MA) Andrew Sischo 6’9” Jr. Daemen Nate West 5’10” Sr. LeTourneau

Northwest Missouri State's sophomore guard Trevor Hudgins and junior forward Ryan Hawkins have each been named among the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award by Small College Basketball. It marks only the second time that the same school had two finalists in the same year.Small College Basketball and the National Awards Committee are proud to announce the 14 finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award. This list consists of some of the top players from NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA Division I, NAIA Division II, USCAA and NCCAA. The Clarence "Bevo" Francis Award is presented annually to the player who has had the finest overall season within Small College Basketball. Considerations will be season statistics and individual achievements, awards, personal character and team achievements. This is an incredibly prestigious award, as this award will only be given to one player within Small College Basketball per season.On Monday, April 6, at 6 p.m. (CT) the 2020 Bevo Francis Award winner will be announced."On behalf of Small College Basketball and the National Award Committee, I sincerely congratulate all 14 Finalists for the 2020 Bevo Francis Award," John McCarthy said. "Based on our criteria, these players are the elite of the elite in the country during the 2019-20 season. It's been a joy to watch each of them, and every one of them has had an exceptional season and has helped to lead their teams to tremendous success this season. I'm so happy for each of them, as they have earned this tremendous recognition."This marks the fifth year of the Bevo Francis Award. Past winners include Dominez Burnett of Davenport University in 2016, Justin Pitts of Northwest Missouri State University in 2017, Emanuel Terry of Lincoln Memorial University in 2018, and Aston Francis of Wheaton College in 2019. Hudgins (Manhattan, Kansas) led the nation in three-point field goal percentage (53.3% - 105-of-197). Hudgins averaged 19.6 points per game, 6.0 assists per game and 1.5 steals per game Hudgins has already earned first-team all-MIAA, first-team D2CCA all-region, D2CCA region player of the year, MIAA Player of the Year and the Most Outstanding Player at the 2020 MIAA Tournament. Hudgins had 18 20-point scoring games to go along with four 30-point scoring contests. He collected the school's first triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists vs. Fort Hays State (Jan. 25). His 626 points this season ranks as the sixth-most for a Bearcat in a single season. His 191 assists in 2019-2020 ranks as the second-best total in Bearcat history behind his mark of 203 set last season. Hawkins (Atlantic, Iowa) led the Bearcats in scoring at 22.7 per game, in rebounding at 7.4 per contest, in steals at 2.1 per game and in blocks at 0.8 per game. Hawkins collected eight double-doubles, reached 30 or more points on five occasions and posted 20 20-point scoring contests. Hawkins set the Bearcat single-game scoring record with 44 against Southern Nazarene on Nov. 2. The Atlantic, Iowa, native was selected as the MIAA's Defensive Player of the Year for the second straight season, while also being tabbed a first-team all-MIAA performer. Hawkins poured in 726 points in the 2019-2020 season, which ranks as the third-most points ever scored by a Bearcat in a single season. He is one of only four Bearcats to ever score 700 or more points in a season. Hudgins and Hawkins become the fifth and six Bearcat finalists for the Bevo Francis Award. Pitts was a three-time finalist and captured the award in 2017. Northwest is the only school to have a finalists in each of the five years the award has been presented.Northwest's six finalists for the Bevo Francis Award is the most of any small college. Cornerstone ranks second with three finalists in 2017, 2018 and 2019.To stay up to date on all things Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com.Northwest's Bevo Francis Award Finalists Justin Pitts (2016, 2017, 2018) Joey Witthus (2019) Trevor Hudgins (2020) Ryan Hawkins (2020) Bevo Francis Award Finalists by School Northwest Missouri State – 6 (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020x2) Cornerstone – 3 (2017, 2018, 2019) Augustana – 2 (2016x2) Babson – 2 (2016, 2017) Florida Southern – 2 (2019, 2020) Missouri Southern – 2 (2016, 2020) Notre Dame (Ohio) – 2 (2016, 2019) Shippensburg – 2 (2017, 2018) Springfield – 2 (2018, 2020) St. Thomas Aquinas – 2 (2017, 2018) Western Oregon – 2 (2016, 2018) 2019-20 Bevo Francis Award Finalists Chris Coffey 6’7” Sr. Georgetown Zaccheus Darko-Kelly 6’6” Jr. Providence (MT) Jhonathan Dunn 6’4” Sr. Southern Nazarene Brett Hanson 6’2” Sr. Florida Southern Ryan Hawkins 6’7” Jr. NW MO State Trevor Hudgins 6’1” So. NW MO State Kyle Mangas 6’3” Jr. Indiana Wesleyan Cam Martin 6’9” Jr. MO Southern Mark Matthews 6’6” Sr. Nova Southeastern Selom Mawugbe 6’10” Sr. Azusa Pacific Nic Reed 6’5” Sr. Olivet Nazarene Jake Ross 6’4” Sr. Springfield (MA) Andrew Sischo 6’9” Jr. Daemen Nate West 5’10” Sr. LeTourneau--- Northwest Athletics ---

Bearcats' Hudgins, Hawkins named finalists for Francis Award

Missouri Western hired Will Martin as its sixth men's basketball coach in school history earlier this week.&nbsp; Martin has been an assistant coach for the last two seasons at MWSU under Sundance Wicks.&nbsp; Wicks stepped down last week to return to his home state and be an assistant coach at the University of Wyoming.

<a href="https://clyp.it/yb1olpzq">Dave Riggert sat down with the new head coach of the Griffons and you can listen to that interview by clicking here.</a>

You can also listen to interview with current Griffons as they talk about the coaching change and about MWSU basketball.

<a href="https://clyp.it/cxdrd5ro">MWSU redshirt freshman Will Eames</a>

<a href="https://clyp.it/02czoje4">MWSU sophomore Tyree Martin</a>

<a href="https://clyp.it/sqhuhho5">MWSU junior Caleb Bennett</a>

Missouri Western hired Will Martin as its sixth men's basketball coach in school history earlier this week.&nbsp; Martin has been an assistant coach for the last two seasons at MWSU under Sundance Wicks.&nbsp; Wicks stepped down last week to return to his home state and be an assistant coach at the University of Wyoming.<a href="https://clyp.it/yb1olpzq">Dave Riggert sat down with the new head coach of the Griffons and you can listen to that interview by clicking here.</a>You can also listen to interview with current Griffons as they talk about the coaching change and about MWSU basketball.<a href="https://clyp.it/cxdrd5ro">MWSU redshirt freshman Will Eames</a><a href="https://clyp.it/02czoje4">MWSU sophomore Tyree Martin</a><a href="https://clyp.it/sqhuhho5">MWSU junior Caleb Bennett</a>

1-on-1 with Missouri Western men's basketball coach Will Martin

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs and wide receiver Sammy Watkins have agreed on a restructured one-year contract that gives the franchise much-needed salary cap relief, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Friday.

The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because the Chiefs do not disclose contract details, said Watkins will make $9 million in base salary but that incentives could drive the total package to $16 million. More important for the club, the deal will give the Chiefs about $5 million in salary cap savings ahead of the NFL draft.

Yahoo Sports was first to report the agreement between the Chiefs and Watkins.

Watkins was headed into the final year of a $48 million, three-year contract, and he was scheduled to make $13.7 million in base salary and count a prohibitive $21 million against the cap. That made him an immediate candidate to either restructure his contract or be released, and the Chiefs were able to make the numbers work to keep him in the fold.

That is especially important given the uncertainty of the league schedule because of the coronavirus. The Chiefs have been trying to keep the vast majority of their Super Bowl-winning roster intact under the assumption that most — if not all — of the off-season will be wiped out as the nation deals with the medical crisis. That would mean only a handful of players would be forced to learn their system in a compressed period before the start of the season.

"He's done a great job for us," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Thursday, before news of the reworked deal leaked. "And as good a player he is, he's an even better person, so we've enjoyed having him here."

Before the deal with Watkins, the Chiefs had the lowest amount of money under the salary cap in the league. That meant they had to free up money just to ensure they could sign their draft class, which typically takes about $5 million.

They already had reworked part of defensive end Frank Clark's deal to save another $5 million against the salary cap.

The big knock on Watkins throughout his career has been his health, and he's missed plenty of games over two seasons in Kansas City. But he's also been an effective complement to wide receiver Tyreek Hill and tight end Travis Kelce when he's been healthy, catching 92 passes for 1,192 yards and six touchdowns over the course of 24 games.

His value was never more apparent than during their Super Bowl run. Watkins caught two passes for 76 yards in the Chiefs' comeback win over Houston, had seven catches for 114 yards and a score in the AFC title game against Tennessee, then caught five passes for 98 yards as his team rallied in the fourth quarter to beat San Francisco for the title.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs and wide receiver Sammy Watkins have agreed on a restructured one-year contract that gives the franchise much-needed salary cap relief, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Friday.The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because the Chiefs do not disclose contract details, said Watkins will make $9 million in base salary but that incentives could drive the total package to $16 million. More important for the club, the deal will give the Chiefs about $5 million in salary cap savings ahead of the NFL draft.Yahoo Sports was first to report the agreement between the Chiefs and Watkins.Watkins was headed into the final year of a $48 million, three-year contract, and he was scheduled to make $13.7 million in base salary and count a prohibitive $21 million against the cap. That made him an immediate candidate to either restructure his contract or be released, and the Chiefs were able to make the numbers work to keep him in the fold.That is especially important given the uncertainty of the league schedule because of the coronavirus. The Chiefs have been trying to keep the vast majority of their Super Bowl-winning roster intact under the assumption that most — if not all — of the off-season will be wiped out as the nation deals with the medical crisis. That would mean only a handful of players would be forced to learn their system in a compressed period before the start of the season."He's done a great job for us," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Thursday, before news of the reworked deal leaked. "And as good a player he is, he's an even better person, so we've enjoyed having him here."Before the deal with Watkins, the Chiefs had the lowest amount of money under the salary cap in the league. That meant they had to free up money just to ensure they could sign their draft class, which typically takes about $5 million.They already had reworked part of defensive end Frank Clark's deal to save another $5 million against the salary cap.The big knock on Watkins throughout his career has been his health, and he's missed plenty of games over two seasons in Kansas City. But he's also been an effective complement to wide receiver Tyreek Hill and tight end Travis Kelce when he's been healthy, catching 92 passes for 1,192 yards and six touchdowns over the course of 24 games.His value was never more apparent than during their Super Bowl run. Watkins caught two passes for 76 yards in the Chiefs' comeback win over Houston, had seven catches for 114 yards and a score in the AFC title game against Tennessee, then caught five passes for 98 yards as his team rallied in the fourth quarter to beat San Francisco for the title.--- Associated Press ---

Chiefs agree to reworked deal with WR Sammy Watkins

LOS ANGELES – Kansas senior Udoka Azubuike and sophomore Devon Dotson were each named to the 10-member 2020 Men’s Wooden Award All-American Team, the Los Angeles Athletics Club announced Wednesday. Additionally, Azubuike was named one of five finalists for the 2020 Wooden Award. The men’s and women’s Wooden Award All-American teams were selected by the Wooden Award National Advisory Board.

This is the fourth time in the last five seasons a Jayhawk has been named to the Men’s Wooden Award All-American squad. In 2016, KU’s Perry Ellis was named Wooden All-American. The following season Frank Mason III won the Wooden Award and Josh Jackson joined Mason on the All-American team. In 2018, Devonte’ Graham was one of five finalists for the Wooden Award, also earning Wooden All-American honors.

Overall, Azubuike and Dotson become the 24th and 25th Wooden All-Americans from Kansas, marking the fifth time two Jayhawks have appeared on the team – 2017 (Mason, Jackson); 2003 (Nick Collison, Kirk Hinrich); 1998 (Raef LaFrentz, Paul Pierce); and 1997 (Raef LaFrentz, Jacque Vaughn). Current head coach Bill Self has mentored 14 of KU’s 25 Wooden All-Americans.

Azubuike, a senior from Delta, Nigeria, led Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game. A unanimous All-Big 12 First Team selection who was named Big 12 Player of the Year, Azubuike was the only player in the conference to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg).

Dotson led the Big 12 in scoring at 18.1 ppg, steals (2.1) and free throws made (142). The Charlotte, N.C., sophomore guard ranked among the Big 12 leaders in 20-point games (second at 9, field goal percentage (second at 46.8, free throw percentage (fifth at 83.0, assists (fifth at 4.0) and assist-to-turnover ratio (fifth at 1.7). Dotson became just the fifth Jayhawk to lead the Big 12 in scoring joining Drew Gooden in 2002, Wayne Simien in 2005, Mason in 2017 and Dedric Lawson in 2019. This season, Dotson was an All-Big 12 First Team (unanimous selection, a Bob Cousy Award Point Guard of the Year Award Finalist, USBWA All-District VI. He has amassed 986 career points in only two seasons at Kansas.

Kansas Wooden Award All-Americans 2020 – Udoka Azubuike, Devon Dotson 2018 – Devonte’ Graham 2017 – Frank Mason III (Wooden Award recipient, Josh Jackson 2016 – Perry Ellis 2014 – Andrew Wiggins 2013 – Ben McLemore 2012 – Thomas Robinson 2011 – Marcus Morris 2010 – Sherron Collins 2008 – Brandon Rush 2007 – Brandon Rush 2005 – Wayne Simien 2003 – Nick Collison, Kirk Hinrich 2002 – Drew Gooden 1998 – Raef LaFrentz, Paul Pierce 1997 – Raef LaFrentz, Jacque Vaughn 1996 – Jacque Vaughn 1988 – Danny Manning (Wooden Award recipient) 1986 – Danny Manning

LOS ANGELES – Kansas senior Udoka Azubuike and sophomore Devon Dotson were each named to the 10-member 2020 Men’s Wooden Award All-American Team, the Los Angeles Athletics Club announced Wednesday. Additionally, Azubuike was named one of five finalists for the 2020 Wooden Award. The men’s and women’s Wooden Award All-American teams were selected by the Wooden Award National Advisory Board.This is the fourth time in the last five seasons a Jayhawk has been named to the Men’s Wooden Award All-American squad. In 2016, KU’s Perry Ellis was named Wooden All-American. The following season Frank Mason III won the Wooden Award and Josh Jackson joined Mason on the All-American team. In 2018, Devonte’ Graham was one of five finalists for the Wooden Award, also earning Wooden All-American honors.Overall, Azubuike and Dotson become the 24th and 25th Wooden All-Americans from Kansas, marking the fifth time two Jayhawks have appeared on the team – 2017 (Mason, Jackson); 2003 (Nick Collison, Kirk Hinrich); 1998 (Raef LaFrentz, Paul Pierce); and 1997 (Raef LaFrentz, Jacque Vaughn). Current head coach Bill Self has mentored 14 of KU’s 25 Wooden All-Americans.Azubuike, a senior from Delta, Nigeria, led Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game. A unanimous All-Big 12 First Team selection who was named Big 12 Player of the Year, Azubuike was the only player in the conference to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg).Dotson led the Big 12 in scoring at 18.1 ppg, steals (2.1) and free throws made (142). The Charlotte, N.C., sophomore guard ranked among the Big 12 leaders in 20-point games (second at 9, field goal percentage (second at 46.8, free throw percentage (fifth at 83.0, assists (fifth at 4.0) and assist-to-turnover ratio (fifth at 1.7). Dotson became just the fifth Jayhawk to lead the Big 12 in scoring joining Drew Gooden in 2002, Wayne Simien in 2005, Mason in 2017 and Dedric Lawson in 2019. This season, Dotson was an All-Big 12 First Team (unanimous selection, a Bob Cousy Award Point Guard of the Year Award Finalist, USBWA All-District VI. He has amassed 986 career points in only two seasons at Kansas.Kansas Wooden Award All-Americans 2020 – Udoka Azubuike, Devon Dotson 2018 – Devonte’ Graham 2017 – Frank Mason III (Wooden Award recipient, Josh Jackson 2016 – Perry Ellis 2014 – Andrew Wiggins 2013 – Ben McLemore 2012 – Thomas Robinson 2011 – Marcus Morris 2010 – Sherron Collins 2008 – Brandon Rush 2007 – Brandon Rush 2005 – Wayne Simien 2003 – Nick Collison, Kirk Hinrich 2002 – Drew Gooden 1998 – Raef LaFrentz, Paul Pierce 1997 – Raef LaFrentz, Jacque Vaughn 1996 – Jacque Vaughn 1988 – Danny Manning (Wooden Award recipient) 1986 – Danny Manning--- KU Athletics ---

Kansas duo Azubuike, Dotson named Wooden Award All-Americans

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The MIAA announced the location for its 2021 Spring Championships. The 2020 scheduled championship venues in baseball, men’s golf, and outdoor track and field will again be the site of the championships in 2021. Along with those championships, next year’s Softball Championship and Women’s Golf Championship are scheduled to be played at their 2021 originally contracted site.

Opportunities to remain the host for next year’s championship was accepted by each site after the cancellation of the 2020 spring seasons due to COVID-19. A recommendation by the Association’s COVID-19 Task Force allowed locations to continue to host each championship. The recommendation was then unanimously approved by the MIAA Institutional Representatives Council (IRC). 

The 2021 Baseball Championship finals presented by Mammoth Turf will be hosted by Missouri Southern at Warren Turner Field in Joplin, Missouri on May 13-16. Pittsburg State will host the 2021 Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships on May 7-9 in Pittsburg, Kansas. Next year’s Men’s Golf Championship is slated for April 19-21 at Shangri-La Golf Course and Resort in Monkey Island, Oklahoma. 

Central Oklahoma will host the 2021 Softball Championship on May 6-9. The venue will be Broncho Softball Stadium in Edmond, Oklahoma if the USA Softball Complex in Oklahoma City remains unavailable due to construction.  Next year’s Women’s Golf Championship will be held on April 22-24 at Hillcrest Country Club in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The MIAA announced the location for its 2021 Spring Championships. The 2020 scheduled championship venues in baseball, men’s golf, and outdoor track and field will again be the site of the championships in 2021. Along with those championships, next year’s Softball Championship and Women’s Golf Championship are scheduled to be played at their 2021 originally contracted site.Opportunities to remain the host for next year’s championship was accepted by each site after the cancellation of the 2020 spring seasons due to COVID-19. A recommendation by the Association’s COVID-19 Task Force allowed locations to continue to host each championship. The recommendation was then unanimously approved by the MIAA Institutional Representatives Council (IRC). The 2021 Baseball Championship finals presented by Mammoth Turf will be hosted by Missouri Southern at Warren Turner Field in Joplin, Missouri on May 13-16. Pittsburg State will host the 2021 Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships on May 7-9 in Pittsburg, Kansas. Next year’s Men’s Golf Championship is slated for April 19-21 at Shangri-La Golf Course and Resort in Monkey Island, Oklahoma. Central Oklahoma will host the 2021 Softball Championship on May 6-9. The venue will be Broncho Softball Stadium in Edmond, Oklahoma if the USA Softball Complex in Oklahoma City remains unavailable due to construction. Next year’s Women’s Golf Championship will be held on April 22-24 at Hillcrest Country Club in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.--- MIAA Press Release ---

MIAA announces 2021 spring championship locations

The Northwest Missouri State University Bearcat women's soccer team has set its 2020 fall schedule.

Under the direction of third-year head coach Marc Gordon, Northwest will play an 18-match regular season docket with 10 of those contests set for the Bearcat Pitch.

Northwest is slated to begin the 2020 season at home Friday, Sept. 4, against Southwest Baptist at 3 p.m.

The Bearcats will return a pair of all-MIAA selections in senior Manuela Gonzalez (Overland Park, Kansas) and sophomore Kaylie Rock (Lee's Summit, Missouri). Gonzalez earned all-MIAA honorable mention in her first year as a Bearcat after transferring from Johnson County Community College. She played in 19 games in 2019 scoring two goals and recording one assist. Rock also earned all-MIAA honorable mention in her first year as a Bearcat. She has played in 19 games in 2019 netting in three goals and two assists. 

The Bearcats set the single-season school record for assists with 24 in 2019. The Bearcats tallied 29 goals in 2019, compared to nine goals in the entire 2018 campaign. Northwest's 31 goals scored are the most since the Bearcats also put 31 in the net in the 2012 season.

Northwest posted a mark of 6-10-3 overall and 4-5-2 in MIAA play in 2019. Northwest reached the MIAA Tournament for only the third time in school history and made its first appearance in the conference's postseason play since 2012.

The Northwest Missouri State University Bearcat women's soccer team has set its 2020 fall schedule.Under the direction of third-year head coach Marc Gordon, Northwest will play an 18-match regular season docket with 10 of those contests set for the Bearcat Pitch.Northwest is slated to begin the 2020 season at home Friday, Sept. 4, against Southwest Baptist at 3 p.m.The Bearcats will return a pair of all-MIAA selections in senior Manuela Gonzalez (Overland Park, Kansas) and sophomore Kaylie Rock (Lee's Summit, Missouri). Gonzalez earned all-MIAA honorable mention in her first year as a Bearcat after transferring from Johnson County Community College. She played in 19 games in 2019 scoring two goals and recording one assist. Rock also earned all-MIAA honorable mention in her first year as a Bearcat. She has played in 19 games in 2019 netting in three goals and two assists. The Bearcats set the single-season school record for assists with 24 in 2019. The Bearcats tallied 29 goals in 2019, compared to nine goals in the entire 2018 campaign. Northwest's 31 goals scored are the most since the Bearcats also put 31 in the net in the 2012 season.Northwest posted a mark of 6-10-3 overall and 4-5-2 in MIAA play in 2019. Northwest reached the MIAA Tournament for only the third time in school history and made its first appearance in the conference's postseason play since 2012.--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest Missouri State releases 2020 soccer schedule

ATLANTA – Kansas junior Marcus Garrett has been named the 2020 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, the Atlanta Tipoff Club announced Wednesday.

Garrett won the honor after being named one of four finalists along with Ashton Hagans (Kentucky, Tre Jones (Duke) and Mark Vital (Baylor). Garrett and DiDi Richards of Baylor, the Naismith Women’s Defensive Player of the Year winner, were chosen by the Atlanta Tipoff Club’s board of selectors, comprised of leading journalists from around the country, who based their selections on outstanding on-court defensive performances during the 2019-20 regular college basketball season. Each winner will be honored with a ceremony at a later date.

“First, I would like to thank God. I would also like to thank my coaches and teammates because these awards are won as a team, not individually. I’d also like to thank the Naismith Awards voters,” Garrett said. “We had a great season as did the other finalists who were also worthy of this award. I hope and pray all are safe with the current happenings worldwide, and we get back to normalcy soon. Rock Chalk!”

Garrett led the Big 12 in assists (4.6) and assist-to-turnover ratio (2.7). The guard from Dallas also ranked among the Big 12 leaders in steals (fifth at 1.8). Garrett averaged 4.5 deflections per game this season, including 6.9 in his last nine outings for No. 1 Kansas. For the season, Garrett averaged 9.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. He was the 2020 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, USBWA All-District VI, All-Big 12 Second/Third Team and a unanimous Big 12 All-Defensive Team selection.

This is the third year of the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Award. West Virginia’s Jevon Carter was the inaugural recipient in 2018 and Matisse Thybulle of Washington was last year’s honoree.

ATLANTA – Kansas junior Marcus Garrett has been named the 2020 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, the Atlanta Tipoff Club announced Wednesday.Garrett won the honor after being named one of four finalists along with Ashton Hagans (Kentucky, Tre Jones (Duke) and Mark Vital (Baylor). Garrett and DiDi Richards of Baylor, the Naismith Women’s Defensive Player of the Year winner, were chosen by the Atlanta Tipoff Club’s board of selectors, comprised of leading journalists from around the country, who based their selections on outstanding on-court defensive performances during the 2019-20 regular college basketball season. Each winner will be honored with a ceremony at a later date.“First, I would like to thank God. I would also like to thank my coaches and teammates because these awards are won as a team, not individually. I’d also like to thank the Naismith Awards voters,” Garrett said. “We had a great season as did the other finalists who were also worthy of this award. I hope and pray all are safe with the current happenings worldwide, and we get back to normalcy soon. Rock Chalk!”Garrett led the Big 12 in assists (4.6) and assist-to-turnover ratio (2.7). The guard from Dallas also ranked among the Big 12 leaders in steals (fifth at 1.8). Garrett averaged 4.5 deflections per game this season, including 6.9 in his last nine outings for No. 1 Kansas. For the season, Garrett averaged 9.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. He was the 2020 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, USBWA All-District VI, All-Big 12 Second/Third Team and a unanimous Big 12 All-Defensive Team selection.This is the third year of the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Award. West Virginia’s Jevon Carter was the inaugural recipient in 2018 and Matisse Thybulle of Washington was last year’s honoree.--- KU Athletics ---

Jayhawks' Garrett named Naismith Defensive Player of the Year

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou rising junior Xavier Pinson and rising seniors Mitchell Smith and Jeremiah Tilmon announced Tuesday that they will enter their names in the 2020 NBA Draft pool in order to test the process, but will all take steps to retain their collegiate eligibility to allow a return to Columbia for the 2020-21 campaign.

“I’m very supportive of all three of them going through this to receive key information from the NBA Undergraduate Advisory Committee and greatly benefit from the process,” head coach Cuonzo Martin said. “I know they each have goals to pursue professional basketball at the highest levels and this is a significant step in that journey. We’ll help them in any way we can.”

The NCAA deadline for withdrawal from the NBA Draft is June 3.

Pinson exploded offensively during his sophomore season, averaging 11.1 points while shooting 40 percent from the field and 81.7 percent from the free throw line. He erupted in league play, pouring in 13.3 points per game and reaching double digits 10 times. In the final nine games of the season, Pinson scored 18.9 points per game, including four 20-point outings and a career-high 32 point outburst in a win over Ole Miss. Pinson became just the third Tiger in the last three decades to reach 525 points, 150 assists and 150 rebounds in his first 65 or fewer games.

In his fourth season at Mizzou, Smith had his best campaign as a Tiger in 2019-20, setting career-highs in points (153, rebounds (146) and assists (20). He entered his redshirt junior season with 10 total career triples, and made 20 treys alone in 2019-20. Despite starting just 13 games, Smith led Mizzou in rebounding with 4.9 per game. He was stellar the free throw line, shooting 85.4 percent from the charity stripe to help the Tigers set a new single-season program record from the foul line.

Tilmon appeared in 17 games a junior, averaging 8.2 points and 4.4 points while shooting 58.9 percent from the field. He racked up a team-best 21 blocked shots as a junior and has 79 in his career, which ranks 11th all-time at Mizzou. His career field goal percentage of 56 percent is tied for fourth all-time in program history.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Mizzou rising junior Xavier Pinson and rising seniors Mitchell Smith and Jeremiah Tilmon announced Tuesday that they will enter their names in the 2020 NBA Draft pool in order to test the process, but will all take steps to retain their collegiate eligibility to allow a return to Columbia for the 2020-21 campaign.“I’m very supportive of all three of them going through this to receive key information from the NBA Undergraduate Advisory Committee and greatly benefit from the process,” head coach Cuonzo Martin said. “I know they each have goals to pursue professional basketball at the highest levels and this is a significant step in that journey. We’ll help them in any way we can.”The NCAA deadline for withdrawal from the NBA Draft is June 3.Pinson exploded offensively during his sophomore season, averaging 11.1 points while shooting 40 percent from the field and 81.7 percent from the free throw line. He erupted in league play, pouring in 13.3 points per game and reaching double digits 10 times. In the final nine games of the season, Pinson scored 18.9 points per game, including four 20-point outings and a career-high 32 point outburst in a win over Ole Miss. Pinson became just the third Tiger in the last three decades to reach 525 points, 150 assists and 150 rebounds in his first 65 or fewer games.In his fourth season at Mizzou, Smith had his best campaign as a Tiger in 2019-20, setting career-highs in points (153, rebounds (146) and assists (20). He entered his redshirt junior season with 10 total career triples, and made 20 treys alone in 2019-20. Despite starting just 13 games, Smith led Mizzou in rebounding with 4.9 per game. He was stellar the free throw line, shooting 85.4 percent from the charity stripe to help the Tigers set a new single-season program record from the foul line.Tilmon appeared in 17 games a junior, averaging 8.2 points and 4.4 points while shooting 58.9 percent from the field. He racked up a team-best 21 blocked shots as a junior and has 79 in his career, which ranks 11th all-time at Mizzou. His career field goal percentage of 56 percent is tied for fourth all-time in program history.--- Mizzou Athletics ---

Three Tigers enter their names in 2020 NBA Draft pool


















KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The MIAA CEO Council
unanimously approved a recommendation regarding virtual countable athletically
related activities (CARA) from the Association's COVID-19 task force.


"Having this policy in place will now give our coaches the guidance to
stay engaged and connected with student-athletes," said Lori Hopkins,
Deputy Athletic Director at Northwest Missouri and Chairperson of the MIAA's COVID-19 Task Force. "It is
very important during this time to continue to put the physical and mental
well-being of our student-athletes at the forefront and this gives our coaches
that opportunity."


Due to the on-going developments related to COVID-19, the Association
previously announced that all Countable Athletically Related Activities,
including team and individual practices, meetings, and other organized
gatherings, were suspended indefinitely and would be re-evaluated at a future
date as circumstances warrant. In addition, all-conference and non-conference
competitions were canceled through the end of the academic year.


After further evaluation, the following MIAA
Student-Athlete CARA policies become effective April 1, 2020:


1.) No organized, in-person CARA of any type, in any location, in any sport
through at least June 1, 2020. This restriction does not prohibit voluntary
CARA performed by student-athletes, on their own time and at a safe location.
Student-athletes must continue to follow applicable public health and safety
guidelines and community restrictions.


2.) On-line supervised, "Virtual CARA" physical workouts and skill
instruction, regardless of location, are also not permitted through at least
June 1, 2020.


3.) "Virtual CARA", non-physical activities, are permitted with the
following restrictions:


&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a. All
"virtual CARA", non-physical activities, including film study, are
limited to eight hours per week in all sports.


&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b. Only
NCAA Division II "certified" coaches may conduct these
"virtual" team meetings, chalk talks, film study sessions, technical
discussions, tactical sessions, and other non-physical activities.


&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;c.
Prospective Student-Athletes may not be involved in any capacity in an
institution's "virtual" activities.


&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;d. It
is required that coaches provide two days off each week from "virtual
CARA", non-physical activities.


&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;e. No
coach can penalize any student-athlete for not participating in any
"virtual CARA", non physical activities.


&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;f. All "virtual CARA",
non-physical activities, required by teams/schools must end by one week prior
to finals for the spring 2020 semester. After such time, all sports would be
considered out of season (i.e. summer bylaw 17 restrictions) and only voluntary
CARA per 17.02.17 could occur.


4.) Coaches may continue (with no restrictions) to communicate (via phone,
computer, social media, etc.) with student-athletes for the purpose of
"checking-in" regarding academic work and student- athlete
well-being.


5.) Coaches can recommend written, self-directed workout plans provided they
are approved in accordance with proper procedures as outlined by each
institution's appropriate sport performance, medical and/or athletic training
personnel (and in accordance with the NCAA Recommendations on Preventing
Catastrophic Injury and Death). Taped demonstration videos on respective
workout plans are allowed in order to demonstrate proper form and technique.
Institutional personnel may not supervise, conduct or monitor workouts on or
off-campus, or virtually.


6.) In-person, on-campus meals and nutritional supplements may be provided in
situations where student-athletes are unable to leave campus. Off-campus
nutritional supplements are limited to the permissible items as outlined in
NCAA Bylaw 16.5.1(e)


7.) The MIAA IRC and the CEO
Council will convene regularly to assess changing circumstances and to make
shared decisions regarding amendments to the above-listed policies. The
policies noted will commence at 7 a.m. CDT, Wednesday, April 1st, 2020 and
remain in effect until additional guidance is provided.


The MIAA believes it is important
from a team chemistry and mental health aspect for coaches and student-athletes
to remain engaged and also allow athletes the opportunity to participate in
voluntary physical activities; however, based on the circumstances of the
situation, organized, team physical athletically related activities should be
suspended at this time.


The Association continues to strongly encourage everyone to practice social
distancing and listening to information from federal, state, and local public
health officials to promote the health and well-being of others during the
COVID-19 Outbreak. 





KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The MIAA CEO Council
unanimously approved a recommendation regarding virtual countable athletically
related activities (CARA) from the Association's COVID-19 task force.
"Having this policy in place will now give our coaches the guidance to
stay engaged and connected with student-athletes," said Lori Hopkins,
Deputy Athletic Director at Northwest Missouri and Chairperson of the MIAA's COVID-19 Task Force. "It is
very important during this time to continue to put the physical and mental
well-being of our student-athletes at the forefront and this gives our coaches
that opportunity."
Due to the on-going developments related to COVID-19, the Association
previously announced that all Countable Athletically Related Activities,
including team and individual practices, meetings, and other organized
gatherings, were suspended indefinitely and would be re-evaluated at a future
date as circumstances warrant. In addition, all-conference and non-conference
competitions were canceled through the end of the academic year.
After further evaluation, the following MIAA
Student-Athlete CARA policies become effective April 1, 2020:
1.) No organized, in-person CARA of any type, in any location, in any sport
through at least June 1, 2020. This restriction does not prohibit voluntary
CARA performed by student-athletes, on their own time and at a safe location.
Student-athletes must continue to follow applicable public health and safety
guidelines and community restrictions.
2.) On-line supervised, "Virtual CARA" physical workouts and skill
instruction, regardless of location, are also not permitted through at least
June 1, 2020.
3.) "Virtual CARA", non-physical activities, are permitted with the
following restrictions:
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a. All
"virtual CARA", non-physical activities, including film study, are
limited to eight hours per week in all sports.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b. Only
NCAA Division II "certified" coaches may conduct these
"virtual" team meetings, chalk talks, film study sessions, technical
discussions, tactical sessions, and other non-physical activities.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;c.
Prospective Student-Athletes may not be involved in any capacity in an
institution's "virtual" activities.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;d. It
is required that coaches provide two days off each week from "virtual
CARA", non-physical activities.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;e. No
coach can penalize any student-athlete for not participating in any
"virtual CARA", non physical activities.
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;f. All "virtual CARA",
non-physical activities, required by teams/schools must end by one week prior
to finals for the spring 2020 semester. After such time, all sports would be
considered out of season (i.e. summer bylaw 17 restrictions) and only voluntary
CARA per 17.02.17 could occur.
4.) Coaches may continue (with no restrictions) to communicate (via phone,
computer, social media, etc.) with student-athletes for the purpose of
"checking-in" regarding academic work and student- athlete
well-being.
5.) Coaches can recommend written, self-directed workout plans provided they
are approved in accordance with proper procedures as outlined by each
institution's appropriate sport performance, medical and/or athletic training
personnel (and in accordance with the NCAA Recommendations on Preventing
Catastrophic Injury and Death). Taped demonstration videos on respective
workout plans are allowed in order to demonstrate proper form and technique.
Institutional personnel may not supervise, conduct or monitor workouts on or
off-campus, or virtually.
6.) In-person, on-campus meals and nutritional supplements may be provided in
situations where student-athletes are unable to leave campus. Off-campus
nutritional supplements are limited to the permissible items as outlined in
NCAA Bylaw 16.5.1(e)
7.) The MIAA IRC and the CEO
Council will convene regularly to assess changing circumstances and to make
shared decisions regarding amendments to the above-listed policies. The
policies noted will commence at 7 a.m. CDT, Wednesday, April 1st, 2020 and
remain in effect until additional guidance is provided.
The MIAA believes it is important
from a team chemistry and mental health aspect for coaches and student-athletes
to remain engaged and also allow athletes the opportunity to participate in
voluntary physical activities; however, based on the circumstances of the
situation, organized, team physical athletically related activities should be
suspended at this time.
The Association continues to strongly encourage everyone to practice social
distancing and listening to information from federal, state, and local public
health officials to promote the health and well-being of others during the
COVID-19 Outbreak.

MIAA approves recommendation regarding virtual countable athletically related activities

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Kansas center Udoka Azubuike has been named a 2019-20 Senior CLASS Award® All-American, the Senior CLASS Award announced Tuesday.

To be eligible for the award, a student-athlete must be classified as an NCAA Division I senior and have notable achievements in four areas of excellence: community, classroom, character and competition. Joining Azubuike on the 2019-20 Senior CLASS All-American first team were Markus Howard (Marquette, Sam Merrill (Utah State, Myles Powell (Seton Hall) and Cassius Winston (Michigan State). Howard was named the 2019-20 Senior CLASS Award recipient.

An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School®, the Senior CLASS Award focuses on the total student-athlete and encourages students to use their platform in athletics to make a positive impact as leaders in their communities. 

From Delta, Nigeria, Azubuike is a liberal arts and sciences major who will graduate from Kansas in May 2020. A three-time Academic All-Big 12 selection who overcame season-ending injuries his freshman and junior years, in 2019-20 Azubuike led Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game this season.

Azubuike was a unanimous 2020 All-Big 12 First Team selection who was named 2020 Big 12 Player of the Year. He was the only player in the conference to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg).

Kansas finished the season 28-3 and won its 19th Big 12 and NCAA record 62nd conference regular-season title winning an all-time high 17 league games going 17-1. The Jayhawks finished 2019-20 ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches’ polls.

Historically, Kansas’ Wayne Simien was the 2005 Senior CLASS Award recipient. Previous Kansas Senior CLASS Award All-Americans include Frank Mason III (2017, Perry Ellis (2016, second team, Tyrel Reed (2011, Nick Collison (2003) and Kirk Hinrich (2003). The award started in 2001 and its All-American teams began in 2003.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Kansas center Udoka Azubuike has been named a 2019-20 Senior CLASS Award® All-American, the Senior CLASS Award announced Tuesday.To be eligible for the award, a student-athlete must be classified as an NCAA Division I senior and have notable achievements in four areas of excellence: community, classroom, character and competition. Joining Azubuike on the 2019-20 Senior CLASS All-American first team were Markus Howard (Marquette, Sam Merrill (Utah State, Myles Powell (Seton Hall) and Cassius Winston (Michigan State). Howard was named the 2019-20 Senior CLASS Award recipient.An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School®, the Senior CLASS Award focuses on the total student-athlete and encourages students to use their platform in athletics to make a positive impact as leaders in their communities. From Delta, Nigeria, Azubuike is a liberal arts and sciences major who will graduate from Kansas in May 2020. A three-time Academic All-Big 12 selection who overcame season-ending injuries his freshman and junior years, in 2019-20 Azubuike led Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game this season.Azubuike was a unanimous 2020 All-Big 12 First Team selection who was named 2020 Big 12 Player of the Year. He was the only player in the conference to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg).Kansas finished the season 28-3 and won its 19th Big 12 and NCAA record 62nd conference regular-season title winning an all-time high 17 league games going 17-1. The Jayhawks finished 2019-20 ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches’ polls.Historically, Kansas’ Wayne Simien was the 2005 Senior CLASS Award recipient. Previous Kansas Senior CLASS Award All-Americans include Frank Mason III (2017, Perry Ellis (2016, second team, Tyrel Reed (2011, Nick Collison (2003) and Kirk Hinrich (2003). The award started in 2001 and its All-American teams began in 2003.--- KU Athletics ---

KU's Azubuike named a 2019-20 Senior CLASS Award All-American



ST. JOSEPH -&nbsp;For the fourth time in history, Missouri Western State University, partnered with the St. Joseph Sports Commission, will host the 2021 NCAA Division II Women's Golf Central Regional at St. Joseph Country Club, May 3-5 as announced by NCAA sport liaison Jay Jay Rackley.

Sixty-six players will make up the field. The top 12 teams and six individuals not on a quality team from the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA, Great America Conference (GAC) and the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) will comprise the Central Region field.

"St. Joseph Country Club is an excellent test of golf, great tournament course and perfect venue for this championship," tournament director&nbsp;Brett Esely&nbsp;said. "St. Joseph has a great tradition of hosting NCAA events as our proximity, venues, hospitality and people take great pride in creating a great experience for all involved."

This marks the fourth golf regional hosted at the venue as St. Joseph Country Club hosted the DII Men's Golf Regionals in 1997 and 2005 along with the DII Women's Golf Regional in 2013.

As a whole, this will be the 15th NCAA Championship hosted in St. Joseph as in addition to the above, other events have included:

Division II Men's Basketball Regional - 1995

Division II Women's Basketball Regional - 1994, 1995, 2007

Division II Women's Basketball Finals - 2003, 2004, 2010, 2011

Division II Football Playoffs - 2011, 2012

Missouri Western will be seeking its fifth consecutive selection to regional competition. 2021's event will be even more significant given the cancellation of all 2020 spring championships.

More information regarding the championship will be released as the event nears closer. For information about all NCAA Championships, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/cf2bc9a0-e802-4de6-ae91-944298b925e2?elinkdata=220817" target="_blank">ncaa.com</a>.

ST. JOSEPH -&nbsp;For the fourth time in history, Missouri Western State University, partnered with the St. Joseph Sports Commission, will host the 2021 NCAA Division II Women's Golf Central Regional at St. Joseph Country Club, May 3-5 as announced by NCAA sport liaison Jay Jay Rackley.Sixty-six players will make up the field. The top 12 teams and six individuals not on a quality team from the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA, Great America Conference (GAC) and the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) will comprise the Central Region field."St. Joseph Country Club is an excellent test of golf, great tournament course and perfect venue for this championship," tournament director&nbsp;Brett Esely&nbsp;said. "St. Joseph has a great tradition of hosting NCAA events as our proximity, venues, hospitality and people take great pride in creating a great experience for all involved."This marks the fourth golf regional hosted at the venue as St. Joseph Country Club hosted the DII Men's Golf Regionals in 1997 and 2005 along with the DII Women's Golf Regional in 2013.As a whole, this will be the 15th NCAA Championship hosted in St. Joseph as in addition to the above, other events have included:Division II Men's Basketball Regional - 1995Division II Women's Basketball Regional - 1994, 1995, 2007Division II Women's Basketball Finals - 2003, 2004, 2010, 2011Division II Softball Finals - 2011Division II Football Playoffs - 2011, 2012Missouri Western will be seeking its fifth consecutive selection to regional competition. 2021's event will be even more significant given the cancellation of all 2020 spring championships.More information regarding the championship will be released as the event nears closer. For information about all NCAA Championships, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://gogriffons.com/services/go.ashx/cf2bc9a0-e802-4de6-ae91-944298b925e2?elinkdata=220817" target="_blank">ncaa.com</a>.--- MWSU Athletics ---

MWSU, St. Joseph Sports Commission to host 2021 DII Women's Golf Regional

Missouri Western officially introduced Will Martin as its sixth head men's basketball coach in school history on Monday.

This is the first head coaching job for the 31-year old as he takes over for Sundance Wicks, who stepped down last week to take an assistant coaching job at Wyoming.  Martin has been the top assistant for the Griffons the last two years under Wicks.

Martin will lead a Missouri Western team that had its best season in 10 years as the Griffons went 18-14 and finished fourth in the MIAA at 13-6.

<a href="https://clyp.it/520j2bal">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO COACH MARTIN'S PRESS CONFERENCE</a> <a href="https://clyp.it/mhzyki4l">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU AD JOSH LOONEY</a>

Missouri Western officially introduced Will Martin as its sixth head men's basketball coach in school history on Monday.This is the first head coaching job for the 31-year old as he takes over for Sundance Wicks, who stepped down last week to take an assistant coaching job at Wyoming. Martin has been the top assistant for the Griffons the last two years under Wicks.Martin will lead a Missouri Western team that had its best season in 10 years as the Griffons went 18-14 and finished fourth in the MIAA at 13-6.<a href="https://clyp.it/520j2bal">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO COACH MARTIN'S PRESS CONFERENCE</a> <a href="https://clyp.it/mhzyki4l">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU AD JOSH LOONEY</a>

Griffons officially introduce new men's basketball coach Will Martin

Bishop LeBlond high school is now in search of a new head football coach as Eric Fairchild announced that he will resign as the end of the school year.

Fairchild said in a statement the move is “not what I wanted to do, but I felt that it was necessary for myself and my family.”

Fairchild spent just one season at LeBlond as he took over for Tony Dudik in 2019 and helped the Golden Eagles in their transition to 8-man football.  He went 2-7 in his only season as head coach.

Fairchild came to Bishop LeBlond after three years at Southwest Livingston, where he went 24-9.

LeBlond’s search for a head football coach and physical education teacher will begin immediately.

Bishop LeBlond high school is now in search of a new head football coach as Eric Fairchild announced that he will resign as the end of the school year.Fairchild said in a statement the move is “not what I wanted to do, but I felt that it was necessary for myself and my family.”Fairchild spent just one season at LeBlond as he took over for Tony Dudik in 2019 and helped the Golden Eagles in their transition to 8-man football. He went 2-7 in his only season as head coach.Fairchild came to Bishop LeBlond after three years at Southwest Livingston, where he went 24-9.LeBlond’s search for a head football coach and physical education teacher will begin immediately.

Eric Fairchild steps down as Bishop LeBlond football coach

The NCAA will permit spring sport athletes who had their seasons shortened by the coronavirus outbreak to have an additional year of eligibility.

The NCAA Division I Council voted Monday to give college athletes who compete in spring sports such as baseball, softball and lacrosse a way to get back the season they lost, but did not guarantee financial aid.

Winter sports were not included in the decision. Council members declined to extend eligibility for student-athletes in sports where all or much of their regular seasons were completed.

How much scholarship money will be made available to each athlete will be determined by the athlete's school. The amount could range from nothing to as much the athlete received the year before.

Roster limits will be adjusted to fit returning athletes along with incoming freshmen.

The NCAA will permit spring sport athletes who had their seasons shortened by the coronavirus outbreak to have an additional year of eligibility.The NCAA Division I Council voted Monday to give college athletes who compete in spring sports such as baseball, softball and lacrosse a way to get back the season they lost, but did not guarantee financial aid.Winter sports were not included in the decision. Council members declined to extend eligibility for student-athletes in sports where all or much of their regular seasons were completed.How much scholarship money will be made available to each athlete will be determined by the athlete's school. The amount could range from nothing to as much the athlete received the year before.Roster limits will be adjusted to fit returning athletes along with incoming freshmen.--- Associated Press ---