February 2011

THe reTUrN oF

LAKerBASeBALL

Junior • Outfielder

Cody GriCePreseason All-American

Dave DiIanni Named Soccer Coach of the Year | Grand Valley State Lacrosse: In the Spotlight

Findlay

Wayne State

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Tim­Nott

MANAGING EDITOR

Doug­Lipinski

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Doug­Witte

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Charlie­Read

STAFF WRITERS

DJ­Foster

Kelsey­Deacon

CONTRIBUTORS

Janine­FreemanAndy­Fry

Adam­IngrahamSandra­JenningsSharon­KowalczykKyle­Schwerin

­­­GV­Sports­MarketingGVSU­Sports­Information

GV­ Sports­ Monthly­ Magazine­ is­ a

magazine­that­focuses­on­athletics­at

Grand­Valley­State­University.­Copies

of­the­magazine­are­free­to­the­com-

munity­and­located­on­news­stands­in

the­greater­Grand­Rapids­area.­Copies

of­the­magazine­are­also­distributed­in

Allendale­by­the­Advance­Newspaper.

GV Sports­Monthly­Magazine

GVSU,­192­Fieldhouse­

• 1

IN THIS ISSUE

FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE

Volume 2Number 7

PRINTER

Jenison­Printing

FEATURED PHOTO

FOOTBALL SIGNING

IN THE SPOTLIGHTAlicia Groveston - Coaching Lacrosse

NEWS IN BRIEF

The Green Zone

Q&Awith Dr. Paul M. Leidig

PLAYER PROFILESEdward Dennis & Serena Black

CALENDARFeatured events for February 2011

SANDRA’S SNAPSHOT

2

4

6

10

11

13

14

14

15

16 GLIAC AWARDS

Four Lakers Earn GLIAC

Commissioners’ Award

12 MEN’S BASKETBALL

Balance and Depth Push Lakers

to Another Successful Start

6 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Sophomores Play Big Role in

GVSU’s Early Season Run3

5 WOMEN’S SOCCER

Wenglinski, DiIanni Earn

NSCAA National Awards

BASEBALL pg. 8

Season Prev iewT­he­Grand­Valley­State­baseball­program­has­been

among­the­most­successful­in­the­DII­ranks­since

2000­...­­­­by­Tim­Nott editor in chief

Briauna Taylorsophomore guard

Women’s Cross Country

Women’s Soccer

Players

Currently­this­is­not­an­issue,­but­while­recruit-

ing­the­class­of­2010­we­really­had­to­get­the

recruits­to­focus­on­the­future.­We­wanted­them

to­understand­what­a­huge­honor­and­privilege

it­is­to­start­a­new­program.­These­girls­are­an

integral­part­of­the­foundation­of­this­program.

They­have­the­chance­to­do­something­amazing

and­create­all­of­the­traditions­for­Grand­Valley

State­Lacrosse.­Who­wouldn't­want

to­take­that­opportunity?

Growth

Lacrosse­is­growing­exponentially

not­only­through­Michigan­and­the

Midwest,­but­the­United­States­as

well.­ With­ more­ youth­ lacrosse

programs­ picking­ up­ throughout

Michigan,­more­high­ schools­ are

able­to­find­more­players­and­inter-

est­to­create­their­own­teams.­More

tournament­ play,

whether­it­be­3v3,­5v5,­7v7

or­full­field­competition,­allows

potential­collegiate­lacrosse­players

to­get­noticed.­In­turn­more­and­more­col-

leges­are­finding­merit­in­beginning­lacrosse

teams­a­well.­With­this­increase­in­exposure­at

all­levels,­lacrosse­in­Michigan­will­continue­to

explode.

• 4

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Commitment

This­spring­our­ladies­are­up­at­6am

practicing­ without­ being­ able­ to

play­a­single­intercollegiate­­game

this­semester.­They­dig­deep­every

day­to­get­up­and­perform.­What­we

have­tried­to­tell­and­show­them­is

how­much­this­year­will­pay­off­not

only­for­them­as­individuals,­but­as

a­team­as­well.­Most­teams­do­not

get­ an­ opportunity­ like­ this­ and

with­ how­ much­ they­ have­ im-

proved­ in­ a­ short­ time­ we­ know

they­are­excited­to­see­how­far­they

can­go.­

Keeping Things Fresh

Part­ of­ our­ challenge­ is­ to­make

practice­ new­ and­ interesting.­We

have­taken­that­challenge­head­on

by­ implementing­ an­ intrasquad

game­schedule,­incorporating­other

sports­such­as­basketball,­dodgeball

and­soccer,­and­Lacrosse­Olympics

(a­ combination­ of­ skill,­ fitness,

competition­and­spirit­games)­dur-

ing­ our­ practice­ times.­ We­ have

found­that­if­you­are­an­athlete­you

will­ be­ competitive­ and­ strive­ to

push­yourself­and­your­teammates

no­matter­what­you­are­participat-

ing­in.­

Teachable Moments

Not­ having­ intercollegiate­ games

will­be­hard,­but­there­are­many­dif-

ferent­situations­in­which­we­can

teach.­Our­intrasquad­scrimmages

will­allow­us­to­get­those­competi-

tive­moments,­but­our­other­drills

and­activities­are­also­designed­to

allow­Erika­and­I­to­teach,­critique

and­coach.­

AliciaGrovestonWomen’s Lacrosse

Head Coach

5t i p sa b o u tcoachinga teamwith nog a m e s

• 5

Grand­Valley­State­women’s­soc-

cer­ team­ earned­ two­ national

awards­after­claiming­ the­pro-

gram’s­ second­NCAA­Division­ II­Na-

tional­ Championship­ title­ this­ season.

GVSU’s­Jenna­Wenglinski­became­the

second­women’s­soccer­player­in­the­pro-

gram’s­history­to­be­named­the­National

Soccer­Coaches­Association­of­American

(NSCAA)­NCAA­Division­II­National

Player­of­the­Year.­Head­coach­David­Di-

Ianni­was­also­honored­on­the­national

level­for­the­second­time­in­his­eight­year

career­at­Grand­Valley­State.­DiIanni­was

selected­ as­ the­ NSCAA­ National

Women’s­Soccer­Coach­of­the­Year­for

guiding­the­Lakers­to­an­impressive­22-

1-2­record­in­2010.

“It­is­such­a­privilege­and­honor­for

Jenna­and­I­to­be­recognized­with­these

prestigious­awards,”­said­DiIanni.­“As

we­say­in­our­program,­awards­like­this

are­only­earned­because­of­the­successful

season­we­had­and­a­lot­of­that­can­be­at-

tributed­to­the­effort­of­our­student-ath-

letes­and­the­coaching­staff.”

Wenglinski­was­part­of­an­impressive

backline­that­did­not­allow­a­goal­the­en-

tire­home­schedule­and­held­their­oppo-

nents­to­just­five­goals­on­the­year.­The

senior­ defender­ from­ Portage,­ Mich.,

also­ helped­ the­GVSU­ defense­ set­ an

NCAA­ Division­ II­ record­ and­ school

record­for­21­shutouts­in­a­season­and­the

backline­ did­ not­ allow­ a­ goal­ during

postseason­action.

Wenglinski­collected­nu-

merous­awards­after­help-

ing­ the­ Lakers­ notch

back-to-back­ national

championships.­ The­ de-

fender­ was­ named­ to­ the

Great­Lakes­Intercollegiate

Athletic­ Conference

(GLIAC)­ First­ Team­ and

was­named­the­GLIAC­Defensive­Player

of­the­Year.­She­earned­Daktronics­Divi-

sion­II­Midwest­Region­First­Team­and

Daktronics­All-America­First­Team­hon-

ors.­She­was­also­selected­to­the­NSCAA

All-America­First­Team.­Wenglinski­was

named­ to­ the­ NCAA­ All-Tournament

team­and­the­Most­Outstanding­Defen-

sive­Player­of­the­tournament­for­the­sec-

ond­straight­season.­

The­senior­was­also­a­part­of­the­most

successful­senior­class­in­the­program’s

history.­During­Wenglinski’s­four­years,

the­team­compiled­an­astounding­87-3-7

record,­coming­out­to­a­winning­percent-

age­of­.933.­

DiIanni­has­also­posted­an­impressive

record­during­his­career­at­Grand­Valley

State.­During­ eight­ years­he­has­ com-

piled­ an­ overall­ record­ of­ 157-15-10,

which­is­a­winning­percentage­of­.890,

ranking­him­second­among­active­Divi-

sion­II­coaches.­

This­season­DiIanni­guided­GVSU­to

its­sixth­straight­GLIAC­Championship

and­its­third­straight­GLIAC­Tournament

Championship.­The­Lakers­have­made

the­NCAA­playoffs­eight­times­and­have

played­ in­ the­national­ title­game­ three

times,­ claiming­ two­ national­ champi-

onship­titles.­

DiIanni­coached­four­NSCAA­All-

American­student-athletes­and­five­Dak-

tronics­Inc.­All-Americans­this­season.

The­Lakers­also­placed­nine­players­on

the­All-GLIAC­teams­and­claimed­ the

GLIAC­Defensive­Player­of­the­Year­and

the­GLIAC­Freshman­of­the­Year.­

GVSU­not­only­set­defensive­records

this­year,­but­also­set­an­NCAA­tourna-

ment­record­with­17­goals­scored.­The

Laker­offense­outscored­opponents­by­a

93-5­margin­and­recorded­a­goal­in­24­of

their­25­matches.­

DiIanni­is­a­three-time­­GLIAC­Coach

of­the­Year­(05,­07,­08)­and­a­two-time

NSCAA­Midwest­Region­Coach­of­the

Year­ (06,­ 07)­ and­ NSCAA­ National

Coach­of­the­Year­(06,­10).

Wenglinski, DiIanni EarnNSCAA National Awards

by Kelsey Deaconstaff writer

“Awards like this are onlyearned because of the suc-

cessful season we had and alot of that can be attributed tothe effort of our student-ath-letes and the coaching staff.”

• 6

GVSU BasketballCoach’s Radio Show

The­GVSU­Basketball­Coach’s­Radio­Show­is

a­weekly­ look­at­ the­Laker­men's­basketball

program­throughout­the­basketball­season.­The

coach’s­show­is­broadcast­"live"­every­Monday

at­6:00­PM­on­WTKG­AM­1230­from­Peppino's

Sports­Lounge­in­Allendale.­Hosted­by­Steve

Lloyd­Jones­and­joined­by­head­men's­basket-

ball­ coach­ Ric­ Wesley.­ Visit

www.gvsulakers.com­to­listen­to­the­show­live

online.

Videos, Interviews, Live Games,and More

Check­out­the­GVSU­Media­Center­at­www.gv-

sulakers.com/allacess.­You­can­check­out­live

sporting­ events,­ the­ GVSU­ Sports­ Report,

coaches­shows,­interviews,­and­more!­You­can

browse­the­Media­Center­by­sport­and­you­can

also­watch­past­games.

Learfield SportsDirectors’ Cup Standings

Grand­Valley­State,­the­seven-time­defending

champions­of­ the­Learfield­Sports­Directors'

Cup­trophy,­is­in­familiar­territory­after­the­final

2010­fall­standings.­GVSU­is­first­place­with

411­points,­followed­by­Shippenburg­(264)­and

Central­Missouri­(259).­The­Lakers'­411­points

scored­is­the­second-highest­point­total­scored

by­Grand­Valley­State­during­the­fall­sports­sea-

son­and­its­147-point­lead­over­second­place­is

the­third-best­total­in­the­last­eight­years.­GVSU

held­a­215-point­lead­in­2005­and­a­168-point

lead­in­2004.­

GVSU Lakers Social MediaFollowing Ranked 73rd

According­to­SportsFanGraph.com,­a­website

ranking­ the­social­media­ following­of­ sports

teams,­GVSU­Athletics’­social­media­following

is­ranked­73rd­in­the­NCAA.GVSU­has­a­total

following­of­12,064­(Facebook­and­Twitter),

which­ranks­ahead­of­schools­such­as­Stanford,

Indiana,­and­Wake­Forest.­“Like”­GVSU­Lak-

ers­ on­ Facebook­ by­ visiting

www.facebook.com/gvsulakers.­You­can­also

follow­GVSU­Athletics­on­Twitter­under­ the

handle­GVSULakers.

GLIAC Swimming and DivingChampionships in Jenison

Jenison­High­School­will­be­hosting­the­GLIAC

Swimming­and­Diving­Championships­on­Feb.

9-12.­For­more­information­about­the­champi-

onships­stay­tuned­to­gvsulakers.com.

N E W S I N B R I E F

It­is­often­said­in­sports­that­a­player­makes­his

or­her­biggest­jump­(from­a­talent­standpoint)

between­the­first­and­second­year­of­their­ca-

reer.­The­Grand­Valley­State­women’s­basketball

team­certainly­follows­this­theory,­as­three­Laker

sophomores­have­been­in­the­starting­lineup­all­sea-

son­long­and­five­of­the­team’s­top­seven­scorers

are­sophomores.

The­GVSU­offense­(ranked­third­in­the­con-

ference­at­press­time­with­71.5­points­per­game)

starts­ in­ the­middle­with­6’2”­sophomore­center

Alex­Stelfox,­the­reigning­GLIAC Freshman­of­the

Year.­After­putting­up­12.0­points­per­game­as­a

rookie,­Stelfox­is­nearly­three­points­a­game­better

this­season,­as­she­is­averaging­14.9­points­per­con-

test,­good­for­seventh-best­in­the­league.­She­also

ranks­seventh­in­the­GLIAC­in­field­goal­percent-

age,­making­54.9­percent­of­her­shots,­while­her

100­ made­ field­ goals

through­ 15­ games­ is­ the

most­in­the­entire­confer-

ence.

Joining­Stelfox­in

the­ top-15­ in­ scoring­ to

give­the­Lakers­a­strong­1-

2­offensive­punch­is­soph-

omore­ forward­ Briauna

Taylor.­A­year­ago,­Taylor

was­ scoring­ 8.6­ points­ a

game­ off­ the­ GVSU

bench,­as­she­started­just

one­ game­ in­ 2009-10.

This­ season,­ Taylor­ has

been­ a­ mainstay­ in­ the

starting­lineup­(making­all

15­ starts)­ and­ notched

13.7­ points­ per­ game,

placing­her­13th­in­the­conference.­She­has­also­im-

proved­her­free­throw­shooting,­making­79.4­per-

cent­of­her­attempts­this­year,­up­from­57.1­percent

last­season,­and­is­12th­in­the­league­with­7.1­re-

bounds­per­game.

Taylor’s­twin­sister,­Brittany,­is­fourth­on

the­team­in­scoring­(6.8­ppg.)­and­is­making­52.4

percent­of­her­field­goals,­up­from­46.7­percent­last

year.­ In­ GVSU’s­ 77-62­ victory­ at­ regional­ foe

Lewis­on­Dec.­11,­the­Taylor­sisters­nearly­won­the

game­by­themselves.­Brittany­totaled­a­career-high

(and­Laker­ season-high)­ 25­points­ and­ eight­ re-

bounds,­making­12-of-20­shots­in­26­minutes.­Bri-

auna­went­9-of-18­from­the­floor­and­notched­21

points­and­nine­boards,­giving­the­Taylor­duo­totals

of­46­points­and­17­rebounds­on­21-of-38­shooting

from­the­field.

Another­sophomore,­guard­Lauren­Stodola,

leads­the­Lakers­with­a­team-high­28.0­minutes­per

game­and­is­second­on­the­team­in­assists­(32)­and

blocks­(eight),­while­ranking­fourth­in­three-point-

ers­(11).­Classmate­Jessica­Trambley,­a­6’0”­center,

is­tied­for­fifth­on­the­team­in­scoring­(6.5­ppg.)­and

shooting­an­even­50.0­percent­from­the­field­in­a

dozen­games­after­returning­from­injury.

Mix­ in­a­strong­ junior­season­from­point

guard­Jasmine­Padin,­great­rebounding­efforts­from

senior­Biz­Van­Tiflin,­and­a­couple­promising­per-

formances­ from­ freshmen­ and­ it­ is­ no­ wonder

GVSU­started­the­year­with­a­9-0­record­and­earned

as­high­as­a­#9­national­ranking.­

Padin­is­putting­up­10.2­points­per­game,

but­more­importantly­ranks

first­ in­ the­GLIAC in­ as-

sists­ (5.6)­ and­ assist­ to

turnover­ratio­(2.3),­while

her­34­steals­are­also­most

in­the­conference.­Van­Ti-

flin­ ranks­ seventh­ in­ the

league­with­7.7­ rebounds

per­game­and­is­sixth­with

5.1­ defensive­ boards­ per

contest.

Head­ coach­ Janel

Burgess­has­done­a­strong

job­of­rotating­her­players

in­and­out­of­games,­as­10

Lakers­are­averaging­10.4

minutes­per­game,­with­the

five­ starters­ (Padin,

Stelfox,­Stodola,­Briauna

Taylor,­Van­Tiflin)­all­notching­at­least­24­minutes.

Burgess­will­need­the­whole­team­-­and­the

sophomores­(averaging­47.0­points­per­game),­in

particular­-­to­continue­their­early­season­play­as

the­team­heads­down­the­home­stretch­towards­the

postseason.

Grand­Valley­State­ is­ home­ just­ twice­ in

February.­The­Lakers­begin­the­month­with­four

straight­road­games­before­returning­to­Allendale

for­contests­against­Findlay­(Feb.­17,­8:00­p.m.)­and

Wayne­State (Feb.­19,­3:00­p.m.).­GVSU­will­close

out­the­regular­season­with­a­road­finale­at­Ferris

State­on­Feb.­26­before­gearing­up­for­the­GLIAC

Tournament­on­March­2-6.

The five Lakersophomoresa v e r a g e d47.0 pointsper game inGVSU’s 12-3

start.

Sophomores PlayBig Role in GVSU’sEarly Season Run

by DJ Foster staff writer

• 8

T­he­ Grand­ Valley­ State­ baseball

program­ has­ been­ among­ the

most­successful­in­the­DII­ranks

since­2000.­The­Lakers­have­routinely

found­ themselves­ competing­ for­ the

Great­Lakes­Intercollegiate­Athletic­Con-

ference­crown­and­a­berth­in­the­NCAA

DII­ World­ Series.­ Head­ coach­ Steve

Lyon,­set­for­his­13th­year­at­the­helm,­is

looking­for­more­of­the­same­in­2011.

The­ 2011­ Lakers­ return­ seven

position­starters­and­11­players­that­saw

a­significant­amount­of­playing­time­last

season.­In­addition,­GVSU­returns­three

starting­pitchers­and­one­reliever­that­tal-

lied­a­combined­ record­of­23-9­a­year

ago.

“I­really­like­the­makeup­of­this

team­in­terms­of­overall­approach­to­the

game­of­baseball,”­said­Lyon.­“We­have

a­nice­group­of­returning­position­players

that­ started­ a­ significant­ number­ of

games­last­season­and­although­we­don’t

return­ a­ large­ number­ of­ pitchers,­ the

pitchers­we­do­return­have­a­lot­of­expe-

rience­and­success­on­the­hill.”

Success

on­ the­ diamond

starts­ on­ the

mound­ and­ the

Lakers­ have­ a

strong­nucleus­to

build­ around.

Leading­the­way­will­be­senior­RHP­Joe

Jablonski­(Temperance,­Mich./Bedford)

who­ earned­ first-team­ all-region­ and

First-Team­All-GLIAC­plaudits­as­a­jun-

ior­and­enters­his­senior­campaign­with

preseason­accolades.­Jablonski­was­8-3

with­a­3.33­ERA­in­81.0­innings­pitched

as­the­Lakers’­No.­1­starter­a­year­ago.

Joe­started­a­team-high­12­games,­notch-

ing­five­complete­outings­with­56­strike-

outs­and­just­21­walks.­Jablonski,­who­is

19-6­in­his­career,­limited­opponents­to­a

.292­batting­average­and­30­earned­runs

in­ 14­ appearances.­ Junior­ RHP­ Cory

Rademacher­ (DeWitt,­ Mich.)­ earned

Second-Team­All-GLIAC­ honors­ as­ a

sophomore­and­is­a­preseason­all-region

honoree.­ Rademacher­ was­ 5-2­ with­ a

3.79­ERA­ in­ 59.1­ innings­ pitched­ last

season.­He­tallied­five­complete­games

and­51­strikeouts­in­his­nine­starts­on­the

mound.­ Opponents­ recorded­ just­ 12

extra-base­hits­ and­25­ earned­ runs­off

Rademacher.­Junior­RHP­Kyle­Schepel

(Grand­Rapids,­Mich./Christian)­was­6-

2­with­two­saves­in­his­10­starts­and­62.0

innings­pitched­last­season.­Schepel,­who

has­posted­an­11-3­mark­ in­his­career,

notched­a­team-best­58­strikeouts­in­15

appearances.­ Sophomore­ LHP­ pitcher

Brad­ Zambron­ (Rochester,­ Mich./

Brother­Rice)­posted­a­4-2­record­in­a

team-high­22­appearances,­all­in­a­relief

role,­as­a­true­freshman.

L y o n

will­have­the

services­ of

seven­ new-

comers­ on

the­ mound

for­ the­ 2011

campaign.­Five­gained­experience­at­the

junior­college­level,­while­one­redshirted

and­one­could­see­action­as­a­true­fresh-

man.­RHP­Ryan­Garman­(Cedar­Rapids,

Iowa/Johnson­County­C.C.),­RHP­Jake

Kent­ (Davenport,­ Iowa/Southeastern

C.C.),­ RHP­ Chris­Whitney­ (Macomb,

Mich./Kellogg­ C.C.),­ RHP­ Jacob­ Cox

(Dowagiac,­Mich./Lake­Michigan­C.C.)

and­ LHP­ Brett­ Gwaltney­ (Rochester,

Minn./Rochester­ C.C.)­ come­ in­ with

quality­credentials­and­will­be­expected

to­ make­ significant­ contributions­ in

2011.­LHP­Cody­Westerhuis­(Allendale,

Mich.)­will­take­the­mound­after­redshirt-

ing­as­a­true­freshman,­while­fellow­lefty,

Billy­Maple­(Kalamazoo,­Mich./Vicks-

burg),­could­see­action­on­the­hill­during

his­first­season­with­the­Lakers.

“We­feel­like­we­have­upgraded

our­pitching­in­terms­of­quality­starters

and­overall­depth,”­said­Lyon.­“We­were

a­little­thin­on­depth­last­season­and­in

the­ end­ that­ might­ have­ hindered­ our

team­when­we­entered­the

GLIAC and­NCAA­Tour-

naments­ and­ played­ a

number­ of­ games­ in­ a

short­period­of­ time­ last

season,”­added­Lyon.

The­ Lakers­ must­ re-

place­ two­ individuals

who­ earned­ postseason

plaudits­at­ first­and­sec-

ond­ base­ in­ 2011,­ how-

ever,­ GVSU­ returns­ 11

position­players,­ includ-

ing­ seven­ starters,­ that

played­a­significant­amount­of­innings

last­spring.

Highlighting­the­list­of­returnees

is­ preseason­ All-American­ candidate

Cody­Grice­(DeWitt,­Mich.).­Grice,­who

was­ a­ consensus­ first-team­ all-region

choice­and­a­First-Team­All-GLIAC per-

former­as­a­sophomore­centerfielder­in

2010,­turned­in­one­of­the­most­produc-

tive­ single-seasons­ in­ GVSU baseball

history.­Grice­hit­.455­with­a­Grand­Val-

ley­State­single-season­record­100­hits­in

53­games­played.­Cody­drove­in­49­runs,

scored­66­runs,­notched­18­doubles,­five

triples­and­six­home­runs.­ In­addition,

Grice­tallied­a­.664­slugging­percentage,

by Tim Nott editor in chief

GVSU Basebal lSeason Prev iew

“I really like the makeup ofthis team in terms of overallapproach to the game ofbaseball.” head coach Steve Lyon

Cody Grace returns for

his junior year after being

the most productive bat-

ter for GVSU last season.

• 9

a­.506­on­base­percentage­and­stole­18

bases.

“Cody­turned­in­an­outstanding

sophomore­season­and­was­the­catalyst

for­ us­ offensively­ as­ a­ leadoff­ hitter,”

said­Lyon.­“His­role­will­change­this­sea-

son­as­we­would­like­to­move­him­into

the­three-hole­and­take­advantage­of­his

ability­to­drive­in­runs,”­stated­Lyon.

Joining­Grice­in­the­outfield­will

be­junior­LF­Steve­Anderson­(Northville,

Mich.)­ and­ sophomore­ RF­ Chris

Rudenga­(South­Holland,­Ill.).­Anderson,

who­ garnered­ honorable­ mention­All-

GLIAC honors­last­season,­hit­.329­with

a­ team-high­ nine­ home­ runs.­ Steve

recorded­54­hits,­drove­in­32­runs­and

scored­ 42­ runs­ in­ 47­ games­ played.

Rudenga,­who­was­second­in­the­voting

for­ the­ GLIAC Freshman­ of­ the­ Year

award,­ hit­ .338­ with­ 48­ hits,­ 34­ runs

scored­and­31­RBI.­Senior­Paul­Young

(London,­Ont./GRCC)­hit­.325­with­37

hits­and­29­runs­scored­in­31­starts.

“I­really­feel­we­have­one­of­the

strongest­collection­of­outfielders­that­we

have­ever­put­on­the­field­at­Grand­Valley

State,”­added­Lyon.­“This­group­has­the

ability­to­produce­offensively,­but­give­us

a­strong­defensive­presence­as­well.”

Senior­shortstop­Andrew­Trepel

(Joliet,­ Ill.)­ earned­ First-Team­ All-

GLIAC honors­and­was­an­all-region­se-

lection­last­season.­Trepel­hit­.360­with

68­hits,­34­runs­scored,­10­doubles­and

four­home­runs­in­50­starts.­Junior­third

baseman­Brian­Robinson­(Troy,­Mich.)

earned­Second-Team­All-GLIAC honors

as­a­sophomore.­Robinson­hit­.441­with

45­hits,­28­runs­scored­and­25­RBI­in­31

starts.­Robinson­missed­the­final­ three

weeks­of­the­season­with­a­hand­injury.

Senior­infielder­Dan­Ponegalek­(Bridg-

man,­ Mich./Lake­ Michigan­ C.C.)­ hit

.397­with­25­hits,­16­runs­scored­and­11

RBI­in­20­starts,­while­fellow­senior­in-

fielder­ Cory­ Phillips­ (Bloomington,

Ill./Heartland­C.C.)­hit­.267­with­21­RBI.­

Senior­Torre­Aguirre­(Rochester

Hills,­Mich./St.­Clir­C.C.)­will­battle­for

the­starting­spot­at­first­base­with­redshirt

freshman­Giancarlo­ Brugnoni­ (Grosse

Pointe,­Mich./De­La­Salle).­Aguirre­hit

.436­ in­ 18­ starts­ as­ a­DH­ and­ reserve

first-baseman.­Torre,­who­tallied­34­hits,

scored­ 21­ runs­ and­ drove­ in­ 15­ runs,

came­through­with­several­key­hits­for

the­Lakers­ in­ the­NCAA­Midwest­Re-

gional.­Brugnoni­started­four­games­be-

fore­missing­the­remainder­of­the­season

with­a­broken­hand.­

A­pair­of­juniors,­Jared­Cowan

(Davison,­Mich.)­and­Zach­Laupp­(Mat-

tawan,­Mich.)­will­handle­the­duties­be-

hind­the­plate.­Cowan­hit­.365­with­31

hits,­ 18­ runs­ and­ 23­RBI­ in­ 26­ starts,

while­ Laupp­ hit­ .350­with­ 28­ hits,­ 23

runs­and­20­RBI­in­25­starts.

Junior­ transfer­ Garrett­ Yatch

(Midland,­Mich./Kellogg­C.C.)­will­take

over­at­second­base,­while­junior­transfer

Derrik­Strzalkowski­(London,­Ont./Kel-

logg­C.C.)­will­battle­for­playing­time­at

first­base­and­catcher.­Junior­Blake­Bat-

teast­(South­Bend,­Ind./Glen­Oaks­C.C.)

will­provide­depth­in­the­outfield.

“We­have­proven­players­return-

ing­ on­ the­ infield,­ including­ two­ that

have­earned­All-GLIAC­honors­in­Trepel

and­Robinson,”­said­Lyon.­“I­also­like

the­depth­that­we­have­up­the­middle­and

at­ third­ base.­We­ are­ a­ little­ inexperi-

enced­at­first­and­second­base,­but­I­liked

what­I­saw­in­the­fall.”

The­schedule­will­be­challenging

as­usual.­The­Lakers­will­open­the­season

at­ a­ national­ preseason­ tournament­ at

Lander­University­in­Greenwood,­S.C.

GVSU­ will­ open­ February­ 11­ versus

Carson-Newman,­ followed­ by­ games

versus­Tampa­ (Feb.­ 12)­ and­ 2009­DII

National­Champion­Lynn­(Feb.­13).­The

Lakers­will­take­its­annual­spring­trip­to

Florida­the­first­week­of­March­for­11

games,­ before­ opening­ the­ GLIAC

portion­of­the­ledger­at­Lake­Erie­Col-

lege­March­26.­GVSU­will­ play­ its

first­ home­ game­ of­ the­ season

Wednesday,­April­5­vs.­Hillsdale.­The

Midwest­Region­will­be­tough­as­al-

ways­with­the­likes­of­defending­DII

National­Champion­Southern­Indiana

and­ perennial­ contenders­ Northern

Kentucky,­Indianapolis,­Ashland­and

Wayne­State.

“We­will­have­to­be­ready­to­go

that­opening­weekend,”­said­Lyon.­“We

are­going­to­be­playing­teams­that­have

a­ history­ of­ playing­ for­ DII­ National

Championships­ and­ play­ in­ warm

weather­climates.”­­­­­

“We are going to beplaying teams thathave a history of play-ing for DII NationalChampionships andplay in warm weatherclimates”

head coach Steve Lyon

Q u e s t i o n

As­the­Faculty­Representativefor­the­NCAA,­what­are­your­respon-sibilities?

A n s w e r

Here­is­a­synopsis­of­the­offi-cial­duties­of­the­job:

Ensure­ that­ student-athletesmeet­all­NCAA,­conference­and­in-stitutional­requirements­for­eligibilityfor­practice,­financial­aid­and­inter-collegiate­competition.

Approve­all­Waiver­requestssubmitted­to­the­NCAA­or­GLIAC

Arrange­ to­ have­ developed,periodic­statistical­reports­on­the­ac-ademic­preparation­and­performanceof­ student-athletes.­ Be­ knowledge-able­about­the­academic­preparationand­performance­of­each­sports­teamand­uphold­high­academic­standardsand­expectations­for­these­team­mem-bers.

Responsible­for­institutionalcompliance­activities­or­responsibili-ties.

Be­knowledgeable­about­theNCAA­and­conference­rules­relatedto­ academic­ eligibility,­ transfer­ re-quirements,­and­restrictions­and­en-forcement­procedures.­Participate,­orbe­fully­informed­about,­institutionalinvestigations­of­allegations­of­rulesviolations.­No­infractions­report­to­ei-ther­ the­ NCAA­ or­ a­ conferenceshould­leave­the­campus­until­it­hasbeen­reviewed­by­the­faculty­athleticsrepresentative.­He­or­she­should­playa­major­and­direct­role­in­matters­thatpotentially­involve­major­violationsof­NCAA­rules.

Have­direct­contact­with­stu-dent-athletes­on­a­systematic­and­pe-riodic­ basis,­ participate­ in­ newstudent-athlete­orientation­activitiesand­should­ interact­ frequently­withstudent­athlete­advisory­committees.

Responsible­to­administer­theNCAA­coaches­recruiting­certifica-tion­tests.

Responsible­ for­ NCAA­ orGLIAC­ scholarship­ applications­ oraward­nominations.

Be­a­senior­advisor­outside­ofthe­athletics­department­to­the­chiefexecutive­officer­on­matters­related­tointercollegiate­ athletics.­ Together,with­the­director­of­athletics,­the­fac-ulty­ athletics­ representative­ shouldformulate­ and­ recommend­ institu-tional­positions­on­NCAA­legislationand­other­matters­affecting,­or­relatedto,­ intercollegiate­ athletics­ on­ thecampus.

Represent­ the­ institution­ tothe­NCAA­ and­ to­ athletics­ confer-ences.

Be­an­active­member­of­ thecampus­ intercollegiate­ athleticsboard.

Reports­to­the­President­andprovides­an­annual­report­of­activitiesto­ the­ President,­Academic­ Senate,and­the­Intercollegiate­Athletics­Ad-visory­Board.

Q u e s t i o n

Describe­what­a­ typical­daylooks­like­for­you.A n s w e r

I­have­a­hard­time­describinga­"typical"­day,­as­each­one­seems­tohave­a­very­different­list­of­activities.However,­on­any­given­day,­I­couldbe­meeting­with­ faculty­ about­ cur-riculum­issues,­or­about­supportingtheir­research­and­teaching­needs.­Ioften­meet­with­ students­who­havespecial­advising­or­permits­that­theymight­need.­Most­days­I­am­bookedin­meetings­with­other­academic­unitsabout­program­changes­or­adminis-trative­discussions,­or­I­am­off­cam-pus­meeting­with­industry­partners­ordonors.­Increasingly­I­am­involved­in

travel­ as­ an­ accreditation­ evaluatorfor­computing­programs,­serving­onnational­ advisory­ boards,­ or­ forNCAA­related­activities.­As­the­FAR,I­ try­ to­ attend­ athletic­ competitionevents,­ or­ practices,­ and­ talk­ withcoaches­or­administrators.

Q u e s t i o n

What's­ the­ most­ rewardingpart­of­working­with­Athletics?A n s w e r

No­ question,­ the­ most­ re-warding­part­of­working­with­Athlet-ics­ is­getting­ to­know­ the­students,coaches,­and­administrators­on­a­per-sonal­level.­We­have­amazing­peoplehere­at­Grand­Valley,­and­ the­moreyou­get­to­know­them,­the­more­re-warding­our­job­is.­I­receive­joy­see-ing­ our­ student-athletes­ receive­ anational­ scholarship­ or­ award­ andrecognition.­If­I­can­have­a­role­help-ing­make­that­happen,­it­makes­myjob­much­more­rewarding.

Q u e s t i o n

Explain­a­little­bit­about­how­you­gotto­be­where­you­are­today­and­howyou­ became­ involved­ with­ GVSUAthletics.A n s w e r

I­came­to­GVSU­in­1991­as­an­Assis-tant­Professor­of­Computer­Scienceand­Information­Systems.­Ten­yearsago,­I­was­named­the­Chair­of­the­de-partment,­and­later­named­the­Found-ing­ Director­ of­ the­ new­ School­ ofComputing­and­Information­Systems.The­ person­ who­ initially­ recruitedand­hired­me,­Dr.­Donald­VanderJagt,served­as­my­predecessor­as­GVSU'sFaculty­Athletics­Representative.­Heoften­explained­his­role­to­me­and­Ifound­it­quite­fascinating.­When­hewas­nearing­retirement­and­no­longerable­to­serve­as­the­FAR,­then­Presi-dent­Mark­Murray­named­me­to­theposition.

Q u e s t i o n

How­ big­ of­ a­ role­ do­ youthink­Grand­Valley­Athleticsplays­in­the­lives­of­the­stu-dents­here­on­campus?­Thefaculty?A n s w e r

Although­not­all­of­our­ath-letic­teams­have­13,000­fansturn­ out­ to­ support­ them,­ Ioften­ see­ students­ attendevents­in­which­their­friendsor­ roommates­ are­ compet-ing.­I­think­the­success­thatour­student-athletes­have­hadathletically­provides­a­senseof­ accomplishment­ andrecognition­as­an­entire­cam-pus­ community,­ and­ thatadds­ to­ the­outstanding­ac-complishments­ that­all­ stu-

dents,­ faculty,­ and­ staff­ have.National­recognition­of­our­athleticsuccess,­ and­ the­ awareness­ of­whoGVSU­is,­has­provided­a­benefit­tothe­students­on­this­campus,­facultyas­ they­ interact­ with­ colleaguesaround­the­nation,­and­in­attracting­aneven­higher­quality­of­students­andfaculty.­So­at­least­indirectly,­I­attrib-ute­some­of­our­broader­success­andaccomplishments­at­Grand­Valley,­tothe­recognition­that­we­have­receivedathletically.

Q u e s t i o n

Why­is­ it­ important­ that­ thefaculty­at­GVSU­be­involved­with­theAthletic­Department?A n s w e r

At­most­institutions,­and­es-pecially­ here­ at­ Grand­Valley,­ stu-dents­are­here­to­receive­a­degree­andprepare­ for­ a­ career.­ Competing­ inathletics­provides­both­a­focused­anddisciplined­ environment­ that­ helpsstudent­learn­what­it­takes­to­be­suc-cessful.­That­applies­not­only­to­ath-letics,­but­even­more­so­to­academics,and­life­skills­in­general.­These­stu-dent­ athletes­ put­ in­ an­ amazingamount­of­time­and­effort­both­in­theclassroom,­and­in­their­sport,­in­orderto­be­successful­at­both.­As­ambassa-dors­or­representatives­of­the­univer-sity­ while­ competing,­ they­ arehelping­define­and­tell­the­Grand­Val-ley­success­story.­I­think­it­is­not­onlythe­ responsibility­ of­ all­ faculty­ toknow­ what­ their­ students­ are­ in-volved­in­on­behalf­of­the­university,but­also­to­support­and­work­with­thestudent­ to­ accommodate­ that­ jointrole.­In­addition,­the­discipline­thatthe­ athletics­ program­ provides­ ourstudents­academically,­helps­facultyin­being­able­to­be­successful­in­theclassroom.­I­would­hope­all­facultytake­a­part­in­that­process.

Dr. Paul M. Leidig

Director & Professor

School of Computing & Information Systems

Assistant Dean

Padnos College of Engineering & Computing

Faculty Athletics Representative

National Collegiate Athletic Association

• 11

QA&

• 12

Balance and Depth Push Lakersto Another Successful Start

Late­ in­ January,­ the­ Lakers

owned­a­13-3­overall­record,

was­8-1­in­GLIAC­play­and­a

perfect­ 9-0­ at­ Fieldhouse­ Arena.

However,­ the­ Lakers­ had­ just­ one

player­ ranked­ in­ the­ top-30­ of­ the

conference­in­scoring­(senior­Justin

Ringler­was­16th­with­13.7­points­per

game)­ and­ one­ player­ listed­ in­ the

top-20­of­the­GLIAC­in­rebounding

(again­Ringler­and­again­16th­with

5.5­boards­per­game).­While­this­may

seem­to­be­a­problem­that­the­Lakers

are­built­on­depth­and­not­individual

dominance,­ that­ is­ clearly­ a­ team

strength­and­not­a­weakness.

While­Ringler­was­ the­ lone

Laker­ averaging­ double­ figures­ in

scoring,­Grand­Valley­State­had­an

astonishing­nine­players­putting­up­at

least­ five­ points­ per­ game,­ which

helps­illustrate­how­GVSU­was­sec-

ond­in­the­conference­in­scoring,­de-

spite­just­one­“elite”­scorer.­

Head­ coach­ Ric­ Wesley­ is

looking­more­like­an­NHL coach­in

the­way­he­substitutes­different­shifts

of­players­on­and­off­the­court.­The

only­difference­between­a­Laker­bas-

ketball­game­and­a­Griffins­hockey

game­may­be­the­temperature­inside

the­arena­and­the­lack­of­a­zamboni.

Wesley­utilizes­a­consistent­rotation

of­ 10­ players,­ basically­ breaking

down­the­team­into­a­pair­of­five-man

shifts.­All­10­players­were­averaging

at­ least­ 14­minutes­ per­ game,­with

only­four­Lakers­seeing­more­than­20

minutes­per­contest.­

That­may­seem­like­a­poten-

tial­problem­ in­ the­difficult­ task­of

juggling­minutes,­but­the­old­saying

of­ “If­ it­ ain’t­ broke,­ don’t­ fix­ it”

clearly­ applies­ here.­ Through­ the

opening­ 16­ games­ of­ the­ season,

Grand­Valley­ State­was­ beating­ its

opponents­ by­ an­ average­ of­ +21.2

points­per­game,­easily­the­top­mark

in­the­conference,­over­six­points­per

game­ more­ than­ nationally-ranked

Hillsdale­and­Findlay.

The­Lakers­have­been­a­solid

road­team­in­2010-11,­with­the­high-

light­ being­ a­ three-game­ sweep­ of

Northwood,­Northern­Michigan,­and

Michigan­Tech­from­Dec.­9-19,­win-

ning­the­three­games­by­eight,­nine,

and­nine­points,­respectively.

Where­Grand­Valley­State­is

really­doing­its­damage,­however,­is

the­ friendly­confines­of­Fieldhouse

Arena.­This­should­come­as­no­sur-

prise­to­loyal­Laker­fans,­as­GVSU­is

an­astonishing­102-9­at­home­in­the

last­seven­seasons­with­Wesley­at­the

helm,­which­is­an­incredible­91.9­per-

centage­in­front­of­the­home­crowd.

It­ is­hard­ to­ tell

which­ statistic­ is­ more

outstanding­ when­ talk-

ing­ about­ the­ Lakers’

success­ at­ home­ this

year.­ In­ its­ first­ nine

home­ games,­ GVSU

was­winning­by­an­aver-

age­ of­ 32.9­ points­ per

game­ and­ the­ team’s

closest­game­was­a­92-

74­ win­ over­ Saint

Joseph’s,­the­defending

Midwest­Regional­champion.

After­ the­ schedule-makers

were­kind­ to­ the­Lakers­ in­January

with­five­home­games,­just­one­road

game,­ and­ a­ neutral-site­ “home

game”­ at­Van­Andel­Arena­ for­ the

131­Showdown­against­Ferris­State,

GVSU­will­spend­a­decent­portion­of

February­in­a­bus.­Grand­Valley­State

opens­up­the­month­with­a­road­trip

to­Saginaw­Valley­State­and­Lake­Su-

perior­ State­ (Feb.­ 3-5)­ and­ travels

over­to­Ohio­to­take­on­Ashland­and

Lake­Erie­(Feb.­10-12).­

When­ GVSU­ returns­ home

for­a­pair­of­games­in­mid-February,

it­ will­ arguably­ be­ for­ two­ of­ the

team’s­biggest­contests­of­the­season.

The­Lakers­will­ take­on­Findlay­at

6:00­p.m.­on­Feb.­17­in­what­could

possibly­ be­ a­ match-up­ of­ top-10

teams.­GVSU­has­been­ranked­in­the

top-20­ all­ season­ long­ and­Findlay

has­yet­to­dip­out­of­the­top-10,­in-

cluding­one­week­as­the­#1­team­in

the­country.

The­only­reason­that­the­Oil-

ers­fell­out­of­the­top­ranking­in­the

nation­ was­ because­ Findlay­ was

shocked­on­the­road­in­a­91-68­drub-

bing­to­Wayne­State­in­early­January.

The­Warriors­then­went­on­to­defeat

another­undefeated­opponent­in­their

very­next­game,­winning­easily­at­#4

Hillsdale­ by­ a­ 66-52­ score.­Wayne

State­ nearly­ knocked­ off­ Findlay

again­ in­ its­next­game­(playing­ the

Oilers­twice­in­a­seven-day­span,­due

to­an­odd­scheduling­quirk),­but­fell

by­just­two­points­(73-71)­and­having

a­last-second­three-point­attempt­to

win­the­game­miss­its­target.

What­ does­ that­ all­ mean­ to

Grand­ Valley­ State?­ The­Warriors,

normally­a­decent­to­above­average

conference­opponent,­now­look­to­be

a­force­in­the­GLIAC,­as­four­teams

(GVSU,­Wayne­State,­Findlay,­Hills-

dale)­all­had­just­one­league­loss­as­of

mid-January.­ The­ Lakers­ and­War-

riors­ will­ square­ off­ on­ Feb.­ 19­ at

1:00­p.m.­in­a­huge­home­game­for

Grand­Valley­State­and­the­second-

last­regular­season­game­of­the­year.

GVSU­will­need­to­turn­to­its

productive­bench­and­10-man­rota-

tion­ late­ in­ the­ season,­ when­ the

schedule­continues­to­provide­wear

and­tear­on­every­team.­But­the­Lak-

ers,­as­much­as­any­team,­look­like

they’ll­be­able­to­withstand­the­nor-

mal­ rigors­of­a­ long­season.­Grand

Valley­ State­ has­ had­ 10­ different

players­score­at­least­10­points­in­a

game­ this­ season­ and­ six­ different

players­have­led­the­Lakers­in­scoring

in­a­game,­including­Ringler­who­has

done­ so­ eight­ times.­ Aside­ from

Ringler,­a­foursome­of­Laker­guards

-­ James­ Thomas­ (9.5­ ppg.),­ Alvin

Storrs­(8.9),­Wes­Trammell­(8.6),­and

Breland­Hogan­(6.8)­-­have­all­proven

to­ shoot­ the­ ball­ and­ score­ well

enough­to­help­carry­GVSU.

Combine­those­guys­with­an

interesting­center­combination­of­red-

shirt­ freshman­ Asauhn­ Tatum­ and

junior­ transfer­ Nick

Waddell­and­the­Lak-

ers­have­options­down

low,­ as­ well.­ 6’11”

Tatum­ is­ a­ long­ and

lean­ youngster­ that

leads­the­entire­league

with­36­blocked­shots,

which­included­seven

rejections­against­Lake

Superior­State­on­Jan.

8.­Waddell,­at­6’6”­and

285­ pounds,­ uses­ his

muscle­ and­ post

moves­to­bully­his­way­to­8.8­points

a­game­and­eight­double-digit­scoring

efforts,­tied­with­Trammell­for­sec-

ond-most­on­the­team.

Another­constant­of­a­Wesley-

coached­ team­ is­ GVSU’s­ defense,

which­ranks­first­in­the­league­at­57.6

points­per­game­and­first­in­defensive

field­goal­percentage­(37.2­percent).

Grand­Valley­State­has­allowed­less

than­40­points­three­times­this­season,

including­only­38­points­in­back-to-

back­ games­ against­ Lake­ Superior

State­and­Northwood.­

by DJ Fosterstaff writer

GVSU is a terrific102-9 at FieldhouseArena in the lasts e v e n   s e a s o n sunde r    We s l e y.

Justin Ringler and the Lakers face a dauntingFebruary schedule as theyplay for a postseason berth.

My brother. Anytime I feltfrustrated or discourageddue to track, he has alwaysreminded me to never giveup and stay focused.

My HS coach, Rex Wilkes,Jr. He was with me everystep of the way providingencouragement, coaching,

and really developed my lovefor the pole vault.

GVSU was the right fit forme both academically andathletically. This was theplace for me to grow and bechallenged.

• 13

PLAYER PROFILESWhy did you chooseto become a Laker?

Favorite athlete to

watch in another sport?

Who has made thebiggest impact onyour sports career?

Who should play youin a movie?

QUINTON

D E N N I SSERENA

B L A C Kyear

S E N I O Rmajor

HUMAN RESOURCESMANAGEMENThometown

LANSING, MIsport

TRACK & FIELD

year

J U N I O Rmajor

C L I N I C A LEXERCISE SCIENCEhometown

PORTAGE, MIsport

TRACK & FIELD

FAVORITE...

Food

Movie

Song

Sports Team

Winter Class

Snow Sport

GVSU hasan amazing athletic programand they provide all the tools

needed for success on thetrack and in the classroom.

I see myself having startedmy career and starting a fam-

ily. Pole vault is a huge partof my life now and I’m posi-

tive it will be then as well.

Having a successful careerand maybe starting a familyfar from Michigan; it is waytoo cold here.

Ben & Jerry’s

Love and Basketball

One Sweet Dayby Boyz II Men

Miami Heat

Movement 101

Tubing

Chicken Wings

Star Wars

Sunday Mornin’by Brian Bromberg

Detroit Pistons

MGT432I’m not a coldweather being

Michael JordanChicago Bulls

Kobe BryantLos Angeles Lakers

Sandra BullockWill Smith

Where do you seeyourself in 5 years?

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One (1) GVSU JacketExpires: 1-30-11

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Expires 2-28-11

• 14

CALENDAR

SANDRA’S SNAPSHOT

Sandra­Jennings­is­an­Administrative­Assistant­in­the­athletic­department.

“ C o l d ­ W a r m t h ”

SWIMMING & DIVING

GLIAC CHAMPIONSHIPS

The­Laker­swimming­and­diving­teams

will­travel­to­Jenison­High­School­to

compete­at­the­2011­Great­Lakes­Inter-

collegiate­Athletic­Conferece­(GLIAC)

Championships­starting­on­Feb.­9­at

5:30­p.m.­The­men’s­team­claimed­the

conference­trophy­last­year,­while­the

women’s­team­placed­second.­

FEB.

2

BASKETBALL vs. FINDLAY

MBB­at­6:00­p.m.

WBB­at­8:00­p.m.

GVSU­Fieldhouse­Arena

FEB.

18

BASKETBALL vs. WAYNE STATE

MBB­at­1:00­p.m.

WBB­at­3:00­p.m.

GVSU­Fieldhouse­Arena

FEB.

19

GVSU TUNE UP

Track­&­Field­at­4:00­p.m.

Laker­Turf­Building

FEB.

11-12

FEB.

9-12

FOOTBALL SIGNING DAY

Check­out­gvsulakers.com­to­find

more­information­on­the­2011

Football­Signing­Day.

FEB.

17

GVSU BIG MEET

The­Laker­track­and­field­teams

will­host­one­of­the­biggest

meets­in­the­midwest­the­week-

end­of­Feb.­11-12.­The­meet­will

showcase­some­of­the­elite­tal-

ents­from­numerous­colleges,

along­with­professional­athletes.

The­meet­will­get­underway­at

noon­on­Friday­and­will­resume

Saturday­at­9:30­a.m.­at­the

Laker­Turf­Building.

For­tickets­call­616-331-3200.

• 15

Super­Bowl,­because

the­game­actually

means­something

Reddest FaceBest Team - GV

Women’s Basketball

Not too interested, but Iguess I would rather

watch the Super BowlSuper Bowl XLV NBA All-Star

Weekend

Chocolate

BestBeard

ROSES

Michael Jordan &

Scottie PippenJoe Sayre & Aaron Marken(2 members of the swim team)

IDK!!! Michael Jordan &Scottie Pippen

For Valentine’s Day...Roses or Chocolate?

Best ‘bromance’in sports?

What award wouldyou win at the ESPY’s?

If you wrote abook, what wouldbe the t i t le?

S u p e r B o w l X L Vo r N B A A l l - S t a rW e e k e n d 2 0 1 1 ?

Lauren Stodola

Women’s Basketball

Jenison, Mich.

Erin Kinney

Women’s Swimming & Diving

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Breland Hogan

Men’s Basketball

Detroit, Mich.FEBRUA

RY

Best Dunk of the Year

“Top Ten Tips forCollege Athletes”

“The Guide to Eating atFresh Food” “I Love Louie”

Chocolate: I’m not

going to waste money

on flowers... lolChocolate

Jordan Schrotenboer

Men’s Swimming & Diving

Holland, Mich.

“Dreaming”

• 16

The­Great­Lakes­Intercollegiate

Athletic­Conference­(GLIAC)

announced­its­Fall­2010­Com-

missioner's­Award­recipients­on­Tues-

day­(Jan.­11),­ in­a­release­from­the

league­ office.­ Six­male­ and­ six­ fe-

male­student-athletes­earned­this­spe-

cial­ distinction­ that­ was­ given­ to

athletes­that­excel­both­in­the­class-

room­and­on­the­field­of­play.­Grand

Valley­State­had­four­student-athletes

named­ as­ Commissioner's­ Award

winners,­ including­ soccer­ player

Kristen­Eible­and­volleyball­player

Rebeccah­Rapin­on­the­women's­side

and­football­player­Zach­Breen­and

cross­ country­ runner­Anthony­Witt

earning­the­award­on­the­men's­side.

"I­ am­ truly­ proud­ of­ the­ 12

student-athletes­who­were­ awarded

the­ Commissioner's­ Award,"­ said

GLIAC­Commissioner­Dell­Robin-

son.­"Their­hard­work­ in­ the­class-

room­ and­ on­ the­ field­ is­ a­ true

example­of­the­standard­of­excellence

that­ has­ been­ set­ amongst­ our­ stu-

dent-athletes­ here­ in­ the­ GLIAC.

They­are­ truly­ the­best­of­ the­best.

The­GLIAC­greatly­appreciates­the

support­of­Meijer­for­their­sponsor-

ship­ of­ the­ 2010­ Commissioner's

Award.­ The­ award­ and­ continued

support­by­Meijer­is­evidence­of­our

pursuit­of­academic­excellence."

Eible,­ a­ senior­ midfielder,

was­a­major­part­of­the­NCAA­Divi-

sion­ II­National

Champions,­ as

the­Laker­soccer

team­ recorded

back - t o -back

National­Cham-

pionships.­ She

helped­ lead

GVSU­to­a­22-1-2­overall­record­this

season,­which­featured­a­12-1-2­mark

in­GLIAC­play.­Eible­started­in­23­of

the­Lakers'­25­matches­and­played­a

total­of­1,976­minutes,­as­she­tallied

two­goals­and­six­assists­for­10­total

points.­Named­in­the­preseason­as­a

team­captain,­Eible­was­honored­as­a

First­Team­All-GLIAC­selection­and

was­a­National­Soccer­Coaches­Asso-

ciation­ of­ America­ (NSCAA)­ All-

America­Scholar-Athlete­for­her­hard

work­in­the­classroom.­Eible­holds­a

3.90­cumulative­grade­point­average

while­majoring­in­education.­During

her­ four-year­ career,­ Grand­ Valley

State­posted­an­astounding­record­of

87-3-7­ (.933),­ making­ her­ senior

class­the­most­successful­class­in­the

program's­history.

Rapin,­ a­ senior­ middle

blocker,­was­named­an­American­Vol-

leyball­Coaches

A s s o c i a t i o n

(AVCA)­ First

Team­All-Amer-

ica­ selection

while­ leading

GVSU­ in­ kills

(380),­ hitting

percentage­(.344),­total­blocks­(140),

and­block­solos­(26)­en­route­to­a­26-

7­ record­ and­an­NCAA­Elite­Eight

berth.­She­was­honored­as­the­Dak-

tronics­Midwest­Region­Player­of­the

Year­and­is­just­the­second­Laker­in

program­history­ to­earn­First­Team

All-GLIAC­laurels­in­three­straight

seasons.­Also­an­AVCA­All-Midwest

Region­selection,­Rapin­finished­her

stellar­four-year­career­as­Grand­Val-

ley­State's­all-

time­leader­in

total­ blocks

(525)­ and

block­ assists

(437),­ while

ranking­ sev-

enth­ in­Laker

history­in­kills

(1,364)­ and

total­ attacks

(3,184)­ and

eighth­ in­ hit-

ting­ percent-

age­ (.317).

Owning­ a

3.88­ grade

point­ average

in­ marketing,

Rapin­ sur-

passed­ 300

kills­ for­ the

fourth­straight

season­ and

was­second­in

the­GLIAC­in

total­ blocks

and­blocks­per­set­(1.25),­third­in­hit-

ting­percentage,­sixth­in­kills­per­set

(3.39)­ and­ sixth­ in­ points­ per­ set

(4.16).

Breen,­ a­ junior­ defensive

back,­earned­First­Team­All-GLIAC

honors­ and­ was

named­ to­ the

CoSIDA­ All-

Academic­ Dis-

trict­ IV­ First

Team.­He­ranked

second­ on­ the

Grand­ Valley

State­ defense­ in

total­tackles­with­a­career-high­101

stops.­ Breen­ tallied­ eight­ or­ more

tackles­seven­times­during­the­2010

season,­while­also­recording­8.5­tack-

les­for­loss­and­3.5­quarterback­sacks.

In­helping­lead­GVSU­to­the­NCAA

Division­II­playoffs­for­a­record-set-

ting­10th­straight­season,­Breen­re-

covered­two­fumbles­and­tallied­one

interception.­Grand­Valley­State­fin-

ished­the­2010­season­with­an­11-2

record­and­claimed­its­sixth-straight

GLIAC­championship.­Breen­is­the

owner­of­a­3.65­grade­point­average

in­biomedical­science.

Witt,­a­junior­runner,­helped

the­Laker­cross­country­ team­to­ its

best-ever­ finish

at­the­Division­II

National­Cham-

pionship­ meet,

as­ he­ recorded

the­team's­high-

est­ finish,­ plac-

ing­ 15th­ with­ a

time­of­31:13.0.­His­performance­led

GVSU­ to­ a­ third-place­ team­ finish

after­ the­Lakers­ claimed­both­ their

ninth­straight­GLIAC­and­Midwest

Regional­titles.­Witt's­time­at­the­Na-

tional­ Championship­ meet­ earned

him­United­States­Track­&­Field­and

Cross­Country­Coaches­Association

(USTFCCCA)­ All-America­ status.

The­ junior­ was­ named­ the­ GLIAC

Runner­of­the­Year­for­crossing­the

finish­line­first­at­the­conference­meet

(24:47.4)­ and­ earned­ All-Midwest

Region­First­Team­laurels­for­finish-

ing­ second­ at­ the­ regional­ champi-

onship.­Witt­is­a­pre-medical­major

and­holds­a­3.82­grade­point­average.

Four Lakers Earn GLIACCommissioners’ Award

by DJ Fosterstaff writer

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