56 2010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Campus life at Pittsburg State University is an exciting blend of experiences. PSU

offers more than 140 student organizations

and is home to several national

Greek fraternities and sororities.

PSU Fight SongPittsburg State team, fight for your college!Come and join the fray!Run that ball around for a scoreAnd we’ll win this game today!

Fight! Fight! Fight! for the glory and fameBecause our spirit is so great!And when this game is over,We’ll shout the whole world over:

Pittsburg State!!!

College oF ArtS & SCienCeArt Art Ceramics Commerical Art Jewelry Design Painting Art EducationBiology Biology Cellular & Molecular Biology Field Biology Plant Ecology Plant Physiology/ Plant Molecular Biology Plant Taxonomy Pre-Dental Pre-Forestry Pre-Medicine Pre-Optometry Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Veterinary Pre-Fisheries & Wildlife Enviromental Management Natural History Biology Education Medical TechnologyChemistry Chemistry Biochemistry Environmental Polymer Pre-Medicine Pre-Pharmacy Pre-Engineering (metallurgical chemical, petroleum, nuclear) Chemistry Education

Communication Communication Advertising Broadcasting (Radio & TV) Journalism (Photo & News Editorial) Public Relations Theatre Communication Educationenglish English Creative Writing Literature Technical/Professional Writing English EducationFamily & Consumer Sciences Family & Consumer Sciences Early Childhood Development Fashion Merchandising Human Ecology (minor) Individual & Family Management Interior Design Youth & Adolescent Dvlpmt (minor) Family & Consumer Sciences Educationgeneral Studieshistory History History/Government (Social Studies Education)Mathematics Mathematics Actuarial Science Mathematics Education Pre-Engineering (Civil)Military Science (minor)

Modern languages & literatures French French Education Spanish Spanish EducationMusic Music Education Instrumental Vocal Music Performance Instrumental Vocalnursing NursingPhysics Physical Science Education Physics Education Physics Pre-Engineering (mechanical, electrical, aeronautical, industrial)Social Sciences Geography International Studies Justice Studies Multicultural Studies (minor) Philosophy (minor) Political Science Pre-Law Social Work Sociology

College oF BUSineSSAccounting Accounting Internal AuditingComputer Science/info. Systems Assuarance & Security Computer Science Information Systems

economics, Finance, Banking Economics Finance

Management & Marketing International Business Management Marketing

College oF edUCAtionCurriculum & instruction Elementary Education Early Childhood Edu. (minor) English for Speakers of Other Languages (minor) Middle Level Education (minor)

health, human Perf. & recreation Physical Education Recreation Therapy Administration Fitness Management

Psychology & Counseling Psychology Substance Abuse Services (minor) Addicition Counselor Curriculum Psychology EducationSpecial Services & leadership Studies Leadership (minor) Special Education (minor)

College oF teChnologYAutomotive technology Service Management Manufacturing Management Diesel & Heavy Equipment Automotive Training Automotive Collision Repair & Insurance Managementengineering technology Construction Engineering Construction Management Company Field Management Residential Construction Construction Safety

Electronics Engineering Communication Controls Custom Manufacturing Mechanical Engineering Plastics Engineeringgraphics & imaging technologies Commerical Graphics Graphic Communications Mgmt.technology Management Technology Management Human Resource Develop. (minor) Industrial Safety (minor)

technology Studies Technical Education Technology Education Wood TechnologyAssociate degrees Automotive Service Electrical Technology Wood Technologytwo-Year Certificate Programs Automotive Service Technology Electrical Technology

http://www2.pittstate.edu/catalog_live/index.htmlEach of the Colleges at Pittsburg State University also has graduate programs in many of our major areas. For more information, please visit pittstate.edu/office/graduate.

Pittsburg State University

572010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Pittsburg State University: Home of the Nation’s Only Gorillas

The Pittsburg State University Gorilla is, without a doubt, one of the most unique mascots on any university campus today.In 1920, a group of young men dissatisfied with the state of school spirit organized themselves as the Gorillas in order to “accelerate college spirit and enthusiasm until it shall permeate the state.” Thereafter, the Gorillas (a 1920s slang term for roughnecks) sponsored pep rallies, freshman hazing,

special trains to athletic events, mock burials and weddings, and “nightshirt stampedes” through downtown Pittsburg. Their membership quickly grew in just a few years.In 1923, the Gorillas had art student Helen Waskey make a drawing of their new mascot. Two years later, they offered their symbol as the official mascot of the school. On January 15, 1925, the student body unanimously adopted the “ferocious beast… as a name and synonym for the athletic teams.”During his first half-century, the Gorilla became less ferocious and more loveable in appearance, being dubbed “Gus” and eventually finding a mate, “Gussie” (created by Charles Galvin in 1952 for a Student Union display). Gus became a cartoon figure (first by Lee Green, Kanza art editor, in 1952) and a regular “Joe College” before the Class of ’65 had him cast in fiberglass by Larry Wooster and set in front of the Student Union.On October 31, 1989, another chapter in the history of the Pittsburg State’s Gorilla was written. Members of the women’s athletic teams voted to change their name from Gussies, which had been used since the women’s program

began in 1974, to Gorillas. Pittsburg State is proud to be the only college in the nation with the Gorilla as its official mascot for its men’s and women’s teams!

The Original Gorillas: 1925, in front of Brandenburg Stadium.

58 2010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

PSU AdministrationDr. Steve Scott, President

On July 1, 2009, Dr. Steven A. Scott became the 9th president of Pittsburg State University. A native of Baxter Springs, Kan., Scott earned a BSEd in mathematics from Pittsburg State University in 1973, an MS in mathematics from Oklahoma State University in 1977, an Ed.S from Pittsburg State University in 1984, and an Ed.D from Oklahoma State University in 1990.

Scott began his lifelong career in education as a teacher and coach at the Riverton Junior and Senior High Schools. He also taught and

coached at the Miami (Okla.) Public Schools. From 1981 until 1988, Scott taught computer science courses at Northeastern Oklahoma A & M College in Miami.

He joined the PSU faculty in 1989. In 1995, Scott was named chairman of the Department of Special Services and Leadership Studies. From 1999 until 2006, he served as dean of the College of Education and was named vice president for academic affairs in 2006. In June 2008, the title of Provost was added.

Scott is a recipient of the PSU Outstanding Alumni Award, the Office of Multicultural Affairs’ PSU Outstanding Chairperson Award, and the Southeast Kansas Education Service Center’s Putting Kids First Award.

Scott and his wife, Cathy, live in Pittsburg. They have two grown children, Kylie and Phillip.

ViCe PreSidentSProVoSt/ ACAdeMiCAFFAirSDr. Lynette Olson

AdMiniStrAtion/ CAMPUS liFeJohn Patterson

UniVerSitY AdVAnCeMentDr. J. Bradford Hodson

Jerry BoettcherBeloit

The Kansas Board of Regents is a nine-member body appointed by the Governor, confirmed by the Kansas legislature, that governs the six public universities, supervises state-supported educational programs at the 19 community colleges and 11 technical schools and colleges and coordinates all 37 public postsecondary institutions in Kansas.

Kansas Board of Regents

Mildred edwardsWichita

tim emertIndependence

dan lykinsTopeka

Janie PerkinsGarden City

ed McKechniePittsburg

gary SherrerOverland Park

dick hedgesFort Scott

Christine downey-SchmidtInman

PhotoN/A

PhotoN/A

592010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Athletics AdministrationPitt StAte – AthletiC MediA relAtionS

Mailing Address226 Weede Physical Education Bldg.

Pittsburg, KS 66762-7504Phone: 620/235-4147 • Fax: 620/235-4149

dAn WilKeSASSISTAnT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR/MEDIA RELATIOnSdwilkes@pittstate.edu(office) 620/235-4147(mobile) 620/249-5430(home) 620/232-6601

Dan Wilkes enters his 17th year as a full-time staff member in the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics at Pittsburg State University. He begins his third year as Assistant Athletic Director for Media Relations after serving the previous 14 years as sports information director at his alma mater. Wilkes is responsible for a wide range of duties, including media relations, production of athletics publications, home event management, statistical record keeping, website administration of PSU’s pittstategorillas.com athletics website and promotion of student-athletes for conference and national honors. His publications have earned 35 national awards from the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), including seven “Best in the Nation” citations. Wilkes begins his 13th year as a member of the CoSIDA Academic All-America® national committee, his ninth year as national coordinator of Don Hansen’s Football Gazette All-America selection committee and he begins his second year as chair of the PSU Athletics Hall of Fame Selection Committee.He was appointed to the d2SIDA National Board, which serves the NCAA Division II membership of the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), in July 2006. Prior to joining the Pitt State sports information staff full-time in 1994, he worked as a student assistant in the office for a year under Shawn Ahearn, and also spent two years as a part-time sports writer for The Morning Sun in Pittsburg.A Neodesha, Kan., native, Wilkes earned a bachelor’s degree in communication (news/editorial) from PSU in 1994. He is married to the former April Reser (PSU, 2000) of Yates Center, Kan. She is a loan review officer at Girard National Bank in Girard. The couple have a son, Blake Robert, who turned three on June 12. The Wilkes reside in Pittsburg.

heidi JohnSonMEDIA RELATIOnS ASSISTAnThjohnson@pittstate.edu(office) 620/235-4138(mobile) 352/682-5163

Heidi Johnson enters her third year as a Media Relations Assistant at Pittsburg State University. Johnson, a native of Lamar, Mo., came to Pittsburg State from the University of Florida, where she served as

an assistant sports information director for seven years. Johnson served as the primary media contact for men’s and women’s cross country and softball at Florida. Johnson serves as the primary media contact for PSU volleyball, women’s basketball and softball. Additionally, she is involved in the day-to-day publicity efforts in the media relations and marketing offices for each of PSU’s 13 intercollegiate sports programs. Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri in 2000. She worked in the Mizzou sports information office for four years, before serving as a sports information assistant for the University of Minnesota men’s athletic media relations office from 2000-01. She is single and lives in Lamar, Mo.

JiM JohnSonDIRECTOR OF InTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICSJim Johnson became the 10th all-time director of intercollegiate athletics at Pittsburg State University on July 30, 2010. He officially will begin his tenure at the school on Sept. 7. As athletics director, Johnson will provide leadership and support for the Gorillas’ 13 varsity intercollegiate sports programs as well as the department’s more than 50 full-time and part-time administative and coaching staff members. Johnson also will provide leadership in the development and

implementation of a departmental strategic plan that is aligned with the university’s strategic plan; provide oversight of compliance with NCAA and MIAA rules and work in conjunction with the MIAA office in support of conference activities and initiatives; develop and advance marketing, sponsorship, and fundraising in support of athletics programs and the department; and, develop and nurture relationships with donors, local corporations, and community entities in support of the athletics programs. Johnson has served as commissioner of the MIAA since July 1, 2007, serving as chief operating officer for the 12-member conference, of which Pitt State is a member. He has handled the administration of conference championships for 17 sports and provided leadership in areas of marketing and promotions, broadcasting, personnel management, rules compliance, strategic planning, officiating and media relations, as well as provided oversight and management of annual financial resources totaling more than $1 million. From 2005 to 2007 he held the position of athletics director at Texas A&M University-Commerce, before taking his assignment with the MIAA. Johnson briefly served as an intercollegiate athletics consultant before becoming the associate athletics director for development in 2003 at the University of Central Missouri. In 1997, he accepted a position with the National Collegiate Athletic Association, first as a membership services representative and later as a Division II governance liaison.Johnson became the national chair of NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Committee in June 2010 after serving on the national committee the previous year. He also served on the NCAA-II Membership Committee from 2005-09, including a year as the national chair (2007). Johnson served on the NACDA Executive Committee from 2006-07. He’s also a member of the National Association of Athletics Development Directors (NAADA) and the Division II Athletics Directors Association. Johnson holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Tarleton State University, where he served as the compliance coordinator and men’s athletic coordinator at Tarleton State from 1993-97. Jim and his wife, Cindy, have two sons, Ely (11) and Riley (8).

nAtAlie CUllenASSOCIATE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR/SEnIOR WOMAn ADMInISTRATORNatalie Cullen begins her 11th year as a full-time staff member in the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics at Pittsburg State University. Cullen serves as an Associate Athletic Director as well as the department’s Senior Woman Administrator. She is responsible for overseeing a comprehensive academic enhancement program for PSU student-athletes and coordinating NCAA and MIAA compliance and eligibility certification. Prior to joining the PSU staff, Cullen served as assistant athletic recruiting

coordinator at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Cullen, a Dodge City, Kan., native, earned a bachelor’s of science degree in community health from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1996 and a master’s of education in sports management degree from Wichita State University in 1998. Natalie and her husband Lance (PSU’s defensive secondary coach) have a daughter, Olivia Lear, who turns seven on Sept. 10, and a son, Benjamin Nyle, who turns two on Aug. 17. The Cullens reside in Pittsburg.

rUSS JeWettASSOCIATE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR/HEAD CROSS COunTRy/TRACk & FIELD COACHRuss Jewett begins his 26th year as a full-time member of the Pittsburg State University athletic department. Jewett has served as an associate athletic director for facilities administration and planning for the past 22 years. He is entering his 24th season as PSU’s head men’s and women’s track & field coach, his 25th year as PSU’s head women’s cross country coach and his 22nd year as head men’s cross country coach. Jewett, the 1995 NCAA Division II Women’s Indoor Track & Field National

Coach of the Year, has been honored as MIAA Coach of the Year 25 times since PSU joined the league in 1989. He has coached PSU teams to 25 MIAA titles during his tenure. Jewett served as the chair of the NCAA Track & Field Committee, which oversees all levels of NCAA Track & Field competition (Division I, II & III), from 2005-07. A native of Olathe, Kan., Jewett earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from PSU in 1983. He and his wife, Janice, who is an instructor in the Health, Human Performance and Recreation Department at PSU, have a daughter Sarah, 14, and a son, Will, 12. The Jewetts reside in Pittsburg.

Bill KroenKeASSISTAnT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR/MARkETInG & PROMOTIOnSBill Kroenke enters his fourth year as Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing & Promotions at Pittsburg State University, after stepping into the position on Nov. 30, 2007. Prior to assuming his new position, Kroenke served for 18 years as a member of the PSU football coaching staff, including 15 years as offensive line coach for the Gorillas. As Assistant AD for Marketing/Promotions, Kroenke oversees Pittsburg

60 2010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

State’s comprehensive licensing program, as well as handles advertising and corporate sponsorship programs for the department’s 13 varsity intercollegiate athletic programs. He also assists with scheduling, the administration of the annual Scholarship & Fund Drive as well as the coordination of special events.A native of Harrisonville, Mo., Kroenke came to Pittsburg State in 1990 after earning a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas in 1989. He first served as a graduate assistant football coach at Pitt State in 1990 while pursuing a master’s degree in secondary school administration. Kroenke became a full-time staff member in 1993, upon completion of his master’s degree.

Kroenke, who resides in rural Pittsburg, has a son Kaleb, 8.

SteVe BeVerASSISTAnT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR/HEAD BASEBALL COACHSteve Bever begins his 23rd year as a member of the Pittsburg State University athletic department.Bever has served as an assistant athletic director for home event management for the past 21 years. He is entering his 20th season as PSU’s head baseball coach, after serving as head men’s golf coach for two years.Bever has compiled a 525-471 overall record in 19 seasons as head

baseball coach, reviving the dormant program from scratch in 1991. He has guided the Gorillas to an MIAA title in 1999 and four trips to the NCAA Division II Regionals (1996-99, 2002).Bever earned a bachelor’s degree in education from PSU in 1969 and a master’s degree in physical education from PSU in 1989.Steve and his wife Johna have two adult children, Dawn and Gabe. The couple reside in rural Farlington.

lACie AnderSonSEnIOR ADMInISTRATIvE SPECIALISTLacie Anderson enters her third year as the senior administrative specialist in the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and her fourth year as a Pittsburg State University full-time staff member.Anderson’s main responsibilities include overseeing special department events, including the annual Scholarship & Fund Drive. She also organizes charting for the department’s season ticket holders for football and basketball, as well as handling daily organizational work for

the department’s 13 intercollegiate sports.Anderson worked in the Career Services office on campus during 2007-08 academic year, before joining PSU Athletics in June. She previously worked as a student assistant in the athletic department for four years (2003-07), while pursuing a pair of bachelor’s degrees in psychology and family & consumer science.Lacie and her husband, Clark, reside in rural Mindenmines, Mo.

Phil CArrHEAD ATHLETIC TRAInERPhil Carr enters his 16th year as Pittsburg State University’s head athletic trainer.Prior to joining the PSU staff, Carr was head athletic trainer at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kan., for 10 years.He received his bachelor’s degree in 1983 from Southwestern, before earning a master’s degree from Pittsburg State in 1984. He served as a graduate assistant for PSU Hall of Fame trainer Al Ortolani for two years (1983-84).

Carr, a certified member of the National Athletic Trainers Association, has served on the training staff at the NAIA National Track & Field Championships six times. He also served on the U.S. Athletic Training staff at the 1990 Pan American Games.Phil and his wife, Sonja, have a son, Cameron, 22, and a daughter, Colby, 20. The Carrs reside in Pittsburg.

Annette hUnt-ShePherdSOFTBALL COACHAnnette Hunt-Shepherd enters her first year as head softball coach at Pittsburg State University, after accepting the position on June 23, 2010.Hunt-Shepherd comes to Pitt State from Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio, where she has served as head coach of the NCAA Division III institution since 2004.During her seven-year tenure at ONU, Hunt-Shepherd compiled 191 career victories. Her squads have averaged 35 wins per season the past

four years, including three Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) regular season championships and two berths in the NCAA Division III National Tournament.Hunt-Shepherd’s 2009 squad posted a 39-6 mark and reached the Division III College World Series, while her 2010 team enjoyed a 41-7 mark while rising as high as the No. 2 national ranking during the season.Hunt-Shepherd became interim head coach at ONU in 2004, after spending three seasons as an assistant coach in the program (2001-03). She was elevated to head coach at ONU in 2005. Her staff has been voted the OAC Coaching Staff of the Year three times during her seven-year tenure (2007, 2009, 2010).Hunt-Shepherd earned a bachelor’s degree in health education in 1997 from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree in parks, recreation and resource management from Frostburg (Md.) State in 2003.She is married to Jeremy Shepherd. The couple have two daughters: Skye Marie, 6, and Sierra Lynn, who was born on Dec. 22.

KiM littleFInAnCE MAnAGERKim Little begins her sixth year as the Finance Manager for PSU Athletics.Little’s employment at PSU began in 1985 when she was hired by the office of enrollment services.Little’s main responsibilities include preparing the budget for PSU Athletics, producing financial reports for coaches and administration, as well as overseeing the more than 220 accounts in the department. She also prepares presentations for fee allocations and keeps track of all

finances throughout the department.Little received her bachelor’s degree in technology education from Pittsburg State University in 1997. Kim and her husband, Rick, reside in rural Pittsburg. They have a daughter, Jenifer, 21, and son, Jerad, 16.

lAne lordWOMEn’S BASkETBALL COACHLane Lord enters his fourth year as head women’s basketball coach at Pittsburg State University.He has compiled a 44-40 record in his short tenure at PSU, including a 20-9 mark in 2009 – the program’s first 20-win season in a decade.Lord came to Pitt State from Barton County Community College, where he directed the Cougars’ women’s basketball program for three seasons (2005-07). Prior to his time at BCCC, he served as head girls’ basketball coach at Wichita Heights High School for nine years (1996-2004).

While at BCCC, he compiled a 77-21 (.786) overall record, posting 22 or more victories each year. He compiled a 141-62 (.695) record in nine seasons at Wichita Heights, including an 89-8 (.918) record and a pair of Kansas Class 6A state titles during his final four years at the post.Lord, a native of Waco, Texas, earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education and special education from Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kan., in 1993. He earned a master’s degree in school leadership from Friends University in Wichita in 2003.Lane and his wife Stacy reside in Pittsburg. They have a daughter, Logan, 10.

KeVin MUFFBASkETBALL COACHKevin Muff enters his first year as head basketball coach at Pittsburg State University, after being hired to the position on Apr. 5, 2010.Muff, a former assistant coach at Pitt State from 1990-93, returned to campus after serving the past 12 seasons as head coach at Cloud County Community College in Concordia, Kan., where he averaged 21 wins per season over the last five years.Prior to his assignment at Cloud County Community College, Muff

coached five seasons at Wamego High School, leading the school to a Kansas Class 4A state runner-up finish in 1998.Muff, a Salina, Kan., native, earned a bachelor’s of science degree in education (BSed) in social science from Kansas State University in 1986 and a master’s of science degree (MS) in physical education from Pittsburg State in 1991.He is married to the former Kim Kidd. The couple have three daughters: Alex (18), Skyler (16) and Taylor (10).

iBrAheeM SUBerUvOLLEyBALL COACHIbraheem Suberu enters his 12th year as head volleyball coach at Pittsburg State University.Suberu has directed the Gorillas to a “rags to riches” story during his tenure, taking over a program with an all-time .368 winning percentage and turing it into a consistent national contender in the rugged MIAA.Four years after laboring through a 2-32 season, Suberu directed PSU to a 26-8 overall record in 2003, leading the Gorillas to their first-ever NCAA Division II National Tournament appearance.The Gorillas have made repeat trips to the NCAA-II National Tournament in 2004, 2006-09. Suberu has a 208-167 record at

PSU and a 238-201 overall mark.Prior to joining the PSU staff, Suberu served as head volleyball coach at the University of St. Mary in Leavenworth, Kan., for two seasons.Suberu earned a bachelor’s degree in communication and interpersonal relations from Park (Mo.) University in 1993 and a master’s degree from Webster University in St. Louis, Mo.He is single and lives in Pittsburg.

612010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Athletics StaffPSU Head CoaCHeS

Steve BeverBaseballsbever@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-6550

Annette Hunt-ShepherdSoftballashepherd@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-6551

Russ JewettCross Country/Trackrjewett@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4659

Lane LordWomen’s Basketballllord@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4647

Kevin MuffBasketballkmuff@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4648

Ibraheem SuberuVolleyballisuberu@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4674

SUPPort Staff

Lacie AndersonSr. Admin. Specialistlanderso@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4389

Natalie CullenAcademics/Compliancencullen@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4067

Jill MinnemannTicket/Box Office Mgr.jminnema@pittstate.edu(o) 620/235-4797

Matt BrockGolf/asst. Bkb. coach

Brock GoBenMarketing asst.

Linda GrahaMSpirit Squad coach

catherine hooeyFaculty representative

JeniFer LittLeathletics assistant

Brian Mantoothasst. track & Field coach

aManda daviedasst. Women’s Bkb. coach

Shannon Lynchathletics assistant

JiLL MinneMannTicket & Box Office Mgr.

BeaU SchULtZasst. Baseball coach

ryan Stockasst. Basketball coach

aUdra topecompliance intern

Brad WeLLSasst. dir. of operations

Jay yoStteam physician

MichaeL ZaFUtateam physician

carLa WehMeyerathletics photographer

BoBBy FriSBeeMedia relations asst.

aShLey Loncarichasst. Softball coach

Sarah vaLenciaMedia relations asst.

doUG WhittenMarching Band

Scott BroyLeSequipment Manager

dUStin WriGhtMedia rel./Marketing asst.

LindSay SoWder-hiLLasst. volleyball coach

erMeLinda SpieSasst. track & Field coach

WeS Bookvol. Student asst.

Jake FaBerMedia relation asst.

kendaLL GaMMondirector of Major Gifts

cade GoSchMedia relations asst.

John JohnSonStrength & conditioning

MaLLori MUrryStudent assistant

neaL phiLpotasst. Strength & cond.

John pierceasst. Football coach

Steve raMpyasst. Football coach

carL rothasst. Football coach

Steve WeLLSasst. Football coach

dave WieMerSasst. Football coach

632010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Academic SupportThe Pittsburg State University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is committed to helping its students make the adjustment to their responsibilities as student-athletes at a major NCAA Division II institution. To help facilitate this process, the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics sponsors a comprehensive Academic Enhancement Program, headed by Academics & Compliance Director Natalie Cullen. The primary objective of the program is to help young men and women become efficient and successful students and to aid them in coping with the new and rigorous demands placed on them in college. The Academic Enhancement Program has three main goals as well: to assist freshmen student-athletes with the transition from high school to college; to help sophomores and juniors clarify major and career goals; and to assist fourth and fifth-year seniors with the transition from college to graduate school or the professional work force.

Academic AdvisingThe faculty advisor is assigned to each student at the time of his/her initial enrollment at Pittsburg State University. This advisor is the first and foremost expert on academic matters within the major he/she has chosen. Students consult with their faculty advisor for help with registration, schedule changes, declaring or changing majors, and major requirements. The athletic academic advisor supplements the role of the faculty advisor. This individual advises student-athletes on matters of athletic and academic eligibility according to NCAA, MIAA and University rules and regulations. The athletic academic advisor also conducts grade checks at mid-semester, oversees the class excuse policy, monitors athletic eligibility and answers general academic questions about course scheduling and tutoring.

Study SessionsIn order to help students get their time well organized, approximately 2-5 hours per week of monitored study sessions may be assigned. Factors used in determining the number of hours that athletes may be required to attend are high school, transfer or Pittsburg State grade-point average or the request of the athletic academic advisor or coach.Conflicts with or excused absences from study sessions must be arranged in advance. Emergencies may arise and/or students may get sick; however, all students are responsible for notifying the athletic academic advisor if they cannot attend at the normally scheduled time. Remember, students are required to make up any missed time so they can still fulfill their weekly time commitment.

TutoringTutoring services are available to all Pittsburg State students through a variety of departmental labs across campus. If a student-athlete thinks a tutor is needed, he/she must see the Athletic Academic Advisor or the professor as soon as possible.

Required CoursesStudent-athletes may be required to take all or a combination of the following courses in order to enhance their academic studies.Undergraduate Studies 100 The Freshman Experience (2 credits)Provides assistance for a successful transition to university life by emphasizing personal, social and academic skills through the utilization of critical thinking processes.Undergraduate Studies 101 The Transfer Student Experience (1 credit) – optionalProvides assistance for a successful transition to university life by emphasizing personal, social and academic skills through the utilization of critical thinking processes.HPER 200 Lifetime Sports (1 credit)Student-athletes earn credit for participating in their respective sport(s) and weight training/conditioning activities.

PSU Student-Athlete Enhancement ComponentsI. Academic Commitment Freshmen/New Student Orientation Academic AdvisingII. Athletic Commitment Diverse Sports Programs Student-Athlete Advisory CommitteeIII. Personal Development Commitment Guest Speakers Drug and Alcohol EducationIV. Community Service Commitment Outreach/Volunteer Projects

64 2010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Champions on the FieldFOOTBALL

1989 1990 1991 1992 1994 1995 1996 2001 2003 2004

MEN’STRACK (O)

1990 1992 1993 1996 1997 2000 2005

MEN’SBASKETBALL

1999

MEN’STRACK (I)

1993 1995

BASEBALL 1999

WOMEN’SBASKETBALL

1992 1996

WOMEN’STRACK (I)

1992 1993 1995 1996

WOMEN’STRACK (O)

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 2004

WOMEN’SCROSS CNTRY

1991 1992 1993 2001 2002 2003

Widely regarded as one of the premier NCAA Division II athletic programs in the nation, Pittsburg State University has enjoyed many successes on the fields of competition. Since joining the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association and the NCAA Division II membership in 1989, PSU has captured 37 MIAA titles and made 99 appearances in NCAA Division II national competition.

Competition Highlight ReelFootball – The Pittsburg State University football team captured its first NCAA Division II national championship with a 23-6 victory over Jacksonville State University on Dec. 14, 1991. The Gorillas punctuated a 13-1-1 season by winning their final 11 games en route to the national title. PSU would win its next 14 games (a school record 25 in a row) before falling in the 1992 NCAA-II National Championship game, 17-13, to Jacksonville State. The Gorillas returned to the national title game again in 1995, finishing a 12-1-1 season with a 27-7 loss to the University of North Alabama. Pitt State vied for the national title again in 2004, finishing 14-1 with a 36-31 loss to Valdosta State University. PSU made an NCAA Division

II record nine straight trips to the DII playoffs between 1989-97. The Gorillas captured their 10th MIAA title in 2004 and advanced to the NCAA-II playoffs for the 16th time in 2008.

Men’s Basketball – The Pittsburg State University basketball team has placed itself firmly on the national scene during the past 15 seasons. The Gorillas made their first trips to the NCAA Division II National Tournament between 1997-99. Pitt State returned again in 2005 and the Gorillas made their fifth NCAA appearance in 2007. The Gorillas made it all the way to the Sweet 16 in 1997, and Pitt State captured its first conference title in a quarter century in 1999. PSU won 22 of its first 23 games that year to rise to the program’s first No. 1 national ranking.

Baseball – The Pittsburg State University baseball team, restarted from scratch prior to the 1991 season, has made four trips to the NCAA Division II Regionals in the last 13 years. The Gorillas twice have come a game away from advancing to the NCAA Division II World Series, and Pitt State

captured its first conference title in 1999.

Track & Field – The Pittsburg State University men’s and women’s track & field teams remain a fixture on the NCAA Division II national scene. The Gorilla men have placed among the top 25 programs in Division II during the outdoor season in 12 of the last 16 years, highlighted by a fourth-place national finish in 1999 and a sixth-place showing in 2009. The Gorilla women have placed among the top 25 programs 12 out of the last 19 years. All told, PSU athletes have captured 20 NCAA Division II individual event national championships since 1989.

Cross Country – The Pittsburg State University men’s and women’s cross country teams also have ranked among the top teams in NCAA Division II. The Gorilla men twice have placed among the top 15 teams at nationals (1991, 1998), while the Gorilla women have captured six league titles (1991-93, ’01-03) and made seven overall trips to nationals (1992, 2000-03, ’06, ’08).

652010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

... And in the ClassroomSoftball – The Pittsburg State University softball team made three straight trips to the NCAA Division II Regionals between 1993-95, reaching the regional finals in 1994. PSU has averaged 30 wins during

the past seven seasons (2004-10).

Volleyball – The Pittsburg State University volleyball team made its first NCAA Division II National Tournament appearance in 2003, as the Gorillas enjoyed a 26-8 overall record. Since that time, Pitt State has made six trips to the NCAA-II National Tournament in the last seven

years (2003-04, ’06-09).

Women’s Basketball – The Pittsburg State University women’s basketball team has made five trips to the NCAA Division II National Tournament. The Gorillas twice have captured MIAA regular season titles, in 1992 and 1996.

Not only have Pitt State student-athletes excelled on the field of competition, but many Gorillas have excelled in the classroom as well. During the 2009-10 academic year, 16 PSU student-athletes earned MIAA All-Academic Team honors, which requires a 3.50 or higher cumulative GPA and the student-athlete earning some form of All-MIAA honors. Additionally, six PSU student-athletes earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award, recognizing student-athletes with perfect 4.00 cumulative GPAs.The MIAA created the Ken B. Jones Award in 1994 to recognize the top male and female student-athlete in the conference. Since the award’s inception, PSU student-athletes have received the honor eight times, including former football student-athlete Caleb Farabi in 2009.PSU student-athletes have earned CoSIDA Academic All-America honors 86 times since 1990. Four Gorilla student-athletes additionally earned CoSIDA Academic All-America of the Year recognition for their respective sports.

Former Pittsburg State University football student-athlete Caleb Farabi won the 2008-09 Ken B. Jones Award as the MIAA Male Student-Athlete of the Year, while former cross country/track & field student-athlete Venessa Lee was named the Female Student-Athlete of the Year. It marked the first time in the award’s history that a school swept the Jones Award honors. Farabi graduated from PSU in December 2008 with a 3.77 GPA in management, while Lee graduated in May 2009 with a 3.84 GPA as a dual biology and Spanish major.

MIAA All-ACAdEMIC TEAM (2009-10)Mike Beeler, TF, chemistry/biologyMolly Bergkamp, VB, biology (pre-physical therapy)Lindsay Birchfield, SB, early childhood educationJennifer Butler, XC/TF, mathematicsBrooke Fay, VB, graphic communication managementMatt Haffner, XC/TF, mathematicsEthan Hobbs, TF, physical therapyJessica Jones, SB, early/late childhood educationCassie Martin, SB, managementJenna Mellen, XC/TF, physical educationMichelle Mitchell, TF, accountingJay Nunez, FB, history/governmentMike Roberts, FB, accountingTaylor Sibala, BSB, mechanical engineeringHeidi Smith, TF, managementAlex Talbott, TF, biologyKaley Temaat, XC/TF, accountingCassie Wilson, VB, biology

ACAdEMIC EXCEllENCE AWARd (2009-10)Lisa Elmer, WBB, 4.00, accountingBrock Lohr, FB, communication (MBA)Jay Nunez, FB, 4.00, history,/governmentTaylor Sibala, BSB, 4.00, mechanical engineeringMaryJo Swann, TF, 4.00, mathematicsMonica Wuertz, TF, 4.00, construction engineering

KEN B. JoNES AWARd WINNERS (1994-PRES.)Jenny Pracht, WBB, 1996Brian Moorman, FB/TF, 1998Brian Moorman, FB/TF, 1999Leslie Dudley, WBB, 2000Jeanette Mott, TF/XC, 2002Ryan Meredith, FB, 2007Caleb Farabi, FB, 2009Venessa Lee, XC/TF, 2009

PITTSBURg STATE UNIvERSITy TEAM CUMUlATIvE gPASCross Country (women) 3.654Volleyball ............ 3.464Track & Field (women) .3.445Golf .................... 3.417Softball ............... 3.411Cross Country (men) ....3.218

Basketball (women) .....3.105Baseball ............. 3.015FOOTBALL .......... 2.960Track & Field (men) .....2.953Basketball (men) 2.689DEPT. AVG. GPA 3.100

66 2010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Academic SuccessPITTSBURg STATE FINISHES dECAdE ToPS AMoNg dIvISIoN IISCHoolS AT PRodUCINg CoSIdA ACAdEMIC All-AMERICANS

Pittsburg State University and Truman State University finished the decade of the 2000s ranking one-two among NCAA Division II institutions at producing CoSIDA Academic All-Americans, and the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association led all Division II conferences in CoSIDA Academic All-America placement during the decade. Pittsburg State and Truman produced 47 and 45 CoSIDA Academic All-Americans (as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America) from January 2000 to December 2009 to lead all Division II institutions for the decade. Wingate University was third (34), followed by Missouri University of Science and Technology (31) and the University of Indianapolis (30). On the conference level, the MIAA easily outdistanced its closest peers, with 193 total CoSIDA Academic All-America winners for the decade.The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) was second with 116 honorees, while the Great Lakes Valley Conference was third with 93. Among the Division II membership, the University of Central Missouri also ranked in a tie for ninth place with 18 honorees. “Once again, the entire conference should be very proud of its continued success in producing top-level student-athletes – both on the field and in the classroom,” MIAA Commissioner Jim Johnson said. “The MIAA stands out among Division II conferences in many areas, but none speak better than the commitment to graduating highly-successful young men and women from our institutions. “Congratulations to all of the past winners, as well as to the administrators, coaches and faculty in the conference – they are to be commended for their continued efforts in recruiting and mentoring these student-athletes who chose to be a part of Division II and the MIAA.”On a national scope, Pittsburg State ranked in a tie for 10th place among all schools nationwide in CoSIDA Academic All-America placement, while Truman ranked 13th on the elite list. The University of Notre Dame led all schools with 87 CoSIDA Academic All-America winners in the 2000s, while the University of Nebraska was second with 82 honorees and Emory University, a Division III institution in Atlanta, was third with 74 selections. The Pennsylvania State University was fourth with 68 winners, while Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) were fifth with 60 honorees apiece. Pittsburg State also led all Division II schools in CoSIDA Academic All-America placement in the 1990s with 39 honorees and now has produced 86 CoSIDA Academic All-Americans in the past 20 years, averaging more than four honorees per year.

ToP CoSIdA ACAdEMIC All-AMERICA® PRodUCINg SCHoolS oF THE 2000S (All lEvElS) School Affil. Total 1. Notre Dame DI 87 2. Nebraska DI 82 3. Emory DIII 74 4. Penn State DI 68 5. Massachusetts Inst. Tech. (MIT) DIII 60 Rensselaer (RPI) DIII 60 7. Calvin DIII 52 8. Gustavus Adolphus DIII 50 9. Alabama DI 48 10. North Dakota State DI 47 Pittsburg State DII 47 St. Thomas (Minn.) DIII 47 13. Truman DII 45 14. Florida DI 44 Nebraska Wesleyan NAIA 44 Stanford DI 44 Tennessee DI 44 18. Arkansas DI 43 Augustana (Ill.) DIII 43 20. Texas DI 41

ToP dII CoSIdA ACAdEMIC All-AMERICA® PRodUCINg SCHoolS oF THE 2000S School Affil. Total 1. Pittsburg State MIAA 47 2. Truman MIAA 45 3. Wingate S. Atlantic 34 4. Missouri S&T MIAA/GLVC 31 5. Indianapolis GLIAC 30 6. Adams State RMAC 23 7. Winona State NSIC 21 8. Barry Sunshine 20 9. Abilene Christian Lone Star 18 Central Missouri MIAA 18

ToP dII CoSIdA ACAdEMIC All-AMERICA® PRodUCINg CoNFERENCES oF THE 2000S Conference Total 1. Mid-America Intercollegiate (MIAA) 193 2. Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) 116 3. Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) 93

672010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Pittsburg, KansasLess than two hours away from such Midwest metropolitan areas as Kansas City, Springfield, Tulsa and Wichita, small town America thrives in Pittsburg, Kansas. The “hub of Southeast Kansas”, Pittsburg is as dynamic and diverse a community as its richest resource, the Pittsburg State University campus.

With a growing population of more than 38,000 people, Pittsburg is the principal community in Crawford County. Small town values remain in the forefront in Pittsburg, while community members still enjoy a progressive lifestyle in arguably Kansas’ most unique corridor.

A community rich in tradition and culture, the past and present are celebrated each Fall during Little Balkans Days. The festival, which focuses on the history and ethnic variety of Southeast Kansas, has been voted one of the Top 100 Events in North America.

Among Pittsburg’s many attractions are several nationally-recognized parks, the historic downtown Hotel Stilwell, the Crawford County Historical Museum as well as the excitement of Pittsburg State University’s highly-successful athletic programs.

FACTS & FIgURESPopulation Age distribution (percentage)Crawford County 38,242 0-13 yr. olds 18.7City of Arma 1,529 14-24 yr. olds 23.4City of Cherokee 721 25-44 yr. olds 25.1City of Frontenac 2,996 45-59 yr. olds 16.4City of Pittsburg 19,243 60 yr. olds & above 16.4PSU Students 6,751

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2001; Registrar’s Office, PSU, Fall 2004

The City of Pittsburg boasts several regionally competitive and affordable golf courses (as shown above) as well as other enjoyable outdoor recreational venues, like the Pittsburg Aquatic Center (below).

An aerial view of downtown Pittsburg, Kansas.

68 2010 Pittsburg State Volleyball

Media InformationCredentialsAll requests for press, photo and broadcasting credentials for the Gorillas home volleyball matches should be made 24 hours in advance by contacting Heidi Johnson in the PSU Athletic Media Relations Office at (620) 235-4138.

Passes will be mailed in advance if time permits, otherwise, passes will be left at the Will Call table – at the entrance to John Lance Arena.

Credentials are issued for authorized press and workers only and do not include family members or other non-working personnel. Any violation will result in forfeiture of the issued credentials and restrictions on any future credentials.

John Lance ArenaJohn Lance Arena is a modern facility providing comfortable viewing and working space for all facets of the media The press area is to be occupied by statisticians, radio broadcasters, certified working press, MIAA Conference, NCAA and Pittsburg State University personnel working in an official capacity.

TelephonesTwo telephone lines are available to the working press, with a priority to radio broadcasts. If necessary, additional lines may be installed on a per match/“need” basis.

Interview PolicyAll requests for interviews with PSU student-athletes must be made through Media Relations Assistant Heidi Johnson at (620) 235-4138 at least a day in advance of the requested interview time.

Coach Suberu and PSU student-athletes are routinely available prior to and following practice sessions.

Game ServicesMedia representatives covering a Pittsburg State University home volleyball match will receive game programs, media guides, pre-game notes and complete final statistics packages.

Complimentary refreshments at the concession stand are available to working media members and concessions passes will be issued by the PSU Athletics Media Relations staff.

NEWSPAPERS CONTACTS OFFICE PHONE

Associated Press215 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO 64108

Doug Tucker 816/421-4844

Pittsburg Morning SunP.O. Drawer H, Piitsburg, KS 66762

Matt Clark 800/794-6536

Joplin GlobeP.O. Box 7, Joplin, MO 64802

Jim Henry 417/623-3480

Hutchinson News300 W. Second, Hutchinson, KS 67501

Gene Schinzel

620/662-3311

Kansas City Star1729 Grand Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64108

Blair Kerkhoff

816/234-4355

Olathe Daily NewsP.O. Box 130, Olathe, KS 66051

Jim Bradford

913/764-2211

Salina Journal333 S. Fourth, Salina, KS 67401

Bob Davidson

785/823-6363

Topeka Capital-Journal616 Jefferson, Topeka, KS 66607

Ken Corbitt 800/777-7171

Tulsa WorldP.O. Box 1770, Tulsa, OK 74102

Wayne Bunch

800/999-6397

Wichita EagleP.O. Box 820, Wichita, KS 67201

Kirk Seminoff

800/825-6397

PSU CollegioWhitesitt Hall, Pittsburg, KS 66762

Sports Editor

620/235-4815

RADIO CONTACTS OFFICE PHONE

KKOW (860 AM)P.O. Box F, Pittsburg, KS 66762

Eddie Lomshek

620/231-7200

WHB (810 AM)6721 W. 121st Street, Overland Park, KS 66209

Todd Leabo 913/344-1500

TELEVISION CONTACTS OFFICE PHONE

KOAM (CBS)P.O. Box 659, Pittsburg, KS 66762

Steve Slivka 620/231-0400

KODE (ABC)P.O. Box 46, Joplin, MO 64801

Andy Searcy 800/300-5633

KSNF (NBC)P.O. Box 1393, Joplin, MO 64801

Eric Knecht

800/555-8264

CAPS (PSU)1701 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762

Troy Comeau

620/235-4721

Pittsburg State Media Outlets

FolloW goRIllA FooTBAll oN THE WEBAT ITS oFFICIAl oN-lINE HoME:

WWW.PITTSTATEgoRIllAS.CoM