2006 Archive

Monday, June 25, 2007

"Dennison Hires Warren Miller as Assistant Football Coach/Compliance Director"

Walsh University Head Football Coach, Jim Dennison, has announced the hiring of Warren Miller as an Assistant Football Coach (inside linebackers) and Director of Compliance (athletics). Miller replaces Dan Gravo, who resigned the position in order to accept the position of Associate Director of Alumni. Miller is no stranger to Walsh, having served on Dennison's staff from 2003-2005 as a graduate assistant coach. Miller will begin his duties on July 1, 2007.

"We are very happy to add Warren Miller to our staff," exclaimed Dennison. "He has experience on the NAIA and NCAA Division I levels, and was part of a winning high school and college football program as a graduate of Canton McKinley High School and Baldwin-Wallace College. He will also serve as our compliance officer."

Miller is a 2003 graduate of Baldwin-Wallace College, where he received B.A. in business administration and sport management. He played for the Yellow Jackets and then served as a student assistant coach under Bob Packard and John Snell from 2001-2003. Miller then spent the next two years (2003-05) at Walsh, as a graduate assistant in charge of the tight ends.

Most recently, he worked with Glen Mason and Tim Brewster, at the University of Minnesota, where he was the Defensive Administrative Assistant. Miller worked with the linebackers and the defensive line.

Monday, June 4, 2007

"Dennison Honored at University of Akron Alumni Day"

The University of Akron Alumni Association recognized and honored alumni for their community involvement, professional achievement and support of the university at its annual Alumni Day on Sunday, June 3. The event was held at the Student Union.

Alumni Honor Awards were given to James L. Dennison, former athletic director and current head football coach at Walsh University; Martin P. Hauser, president of SummaCare Inc.; Vivian Celeste Neal, program director for the John S. Knight Foundation; George Wallace, actor and comedian; and Shari Whitfield, first vice president of investments for Robert W. Baird Co.

Dr. Terry A. Gordon, a cardiologist with Heart Group Inc., will receive an honorary award and retiring Board of Trustee member Howard L. Calhoun will be honored for his service.

James Dennison began his coaching career in 1964 as head football coach at Copley High School, where his team went 9-0 and he was named Suburban League Coach of The Year his first year. The following season he joined UA as an assistant football coach.

He earned his master's degree from UA in 1968; five years later he became head football coach, a position he held until 1985. Dennison led the team to 10 victories - the most in one season. He continued his UA career as athletics director and was the first AD to lead a program from Division I-AA to I-A.

He retired from UA in 1993 and joined Walsh University, where he established the school's football program in 1995. He has been athletic director and head football coach at Walsh the past 14 years.

In his 25 years as a head football coach, Dennison has been coach of the year on league, district, state and national levels. His lifetime record as a head coach is 177-104-2 and he has been inducted into seven halls of fame.

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

"Dennison To Relinquish AD Duties/Concentrate on Football"

Walsh University's Head Football Coach Jim Dennison will relinquish his duties as Athletic Director, a position he has held since 1993, to more fully focus on continuing the football team's legacy of winning. Dennison will remain as an Associate Athletic Director. Dale Howard, Walsh's current Vice President of Student Affairs, will add the role of Director of Athletics to his duties on July 1.

"This program has come a long way since its inception in 1995," said Dennison. "We've been winning since the beginning and we just keep getting better and better. I want to ensure that continues by fully focusing on shaping these young men's skills both on and off the field."

At Walsh, Dennison's teams have never had a losing season. Walsh finished 7-3 in the inaugural season, and the 2001 team gave Walsh its first football championship in the Mid-States Football Association. Dennison's overall record at Walsh is 88-42. This past season, Walsh posted its best record at 9-3, and qualified for the post season for the first time.

In addition to his favorable record as a coach, as Athletic Director, Dennison worked hard to improve the academic standing of his students. During his tenure, Walsh University's student-athletes have improved dramatically in the classroom with over 50% achieving a 3.00 grade point average or higher.

"Coach Dennison is one of our best and brightest," said President Richard Jusseaume. "He is a true leader, with the ability to direct students to success on the field and in the classroom. We're all looking forward to his continued commitment to our University."

Dennison implemented a number of positive and forward-reaching accomplishments as Athletic Director, including; a goal setting policy, marketing and promotion strategies, a new award system, a new fund raising philosophy, academic awards banquet and a gender equity plan. He established a Captain's Council, Cavalier Community Awareness Program and Drug Education Seminar, and Dennison's efforts have contributed to the improvement of the athletic facilities at Walsh.

In 2002 and 2005, he was named NAIA Northeast Region Sports-Turf NACDA Athletic Director of the Year and was named NAIA Region IX Athletic Director of the Year in 2004 and 2005.

"My time at Walsh as the Athletic Director has been a great experience," said Dennison. "The department is successful in the athletic arena and the classroom, and we have a great staff. My real passion however is coaching, and I think it is time to devote 100% of myself to the football program."

Dennison retired from his post as Director of Athletics at the University of Akron in June of 1993, after 28 years of service; 13 of those as the head football coach. He was named Akron's Director of Athletics in August of 1987 and spearheaded the university's move into the Mid-American Conference. He was the first athletic director in the nation to move a program from Division 1AA to 1A.

As head football coach of the Zips, Dennison established himself as the winningest coach in Akron football history, with a 13-year record of 80 wins, 62 losses and two ties. He was the first and only Zip gridiron coach to win ten games in a season, to play for a national championship, and to be chosen Ohio Coach of the Year and Kodak National Coach of the Year.

A passionate believer in positive mental attitude (PMA), Dennison is called upon to deliver his message about motivation and goal setting to many businesses, organizations and schools. Jim and his wife Sue are the parents of a daughter, Mrs. Denise Morrow, and three sons, Jim, Greg, and Matt and ten grandchildren. The Dennison's reside in Norton.

Walsh University is an independent, co-educational Catholic liberal arts and sciences institution that promotes academic excellence and diversity and provides close faculty-student interaction. It is dedicated to teaching its more than 2,500 students to become leaders in service to others through a values-based education with an international perspective in the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Monday, May 15, 2007

"Kizer Signs With Jets"

Cornerback Rayshaun Kizer (5-10, 185, Sr., Euclid, OH/HS) has signed as a free agent with the New York Jets. Kizer attended the Jets minicamp this past week. Kizer was one of five players signed by the Jets.

Kizer was a three-year starter at cornerback for the Cavs. He finished his career with 14 interceptions, third-best in school history. The All-Mid-States Football Association Mideast selection picked off five passes his senior season, including two that he returned for touchdowns.

Kizer: quick bio: Third all-time with 14 interceptions… 2006: Earned fourth letter, and started every game at corner back for the third straight year… First Team All-MSFA Mideast… Second on the team with five interceptions, returned two for scores (53 yards vs. Malone/42 yards vs. WV Tech)… picked-off two passes in 10-0 win at Geneva, one on the Golden Tornadoes five-yard line… recorded 12 tackles against Ohio Dominican… Fourth with 49 tackles (46 UA)… Had six pass break-ups… returned seven kicks for 22.1 average, with a long return of 29 yards.

Friday, May 11, 2007

"Kizer to Attend Jets Mini-Camp"

Cornerback Rayshaun Kizer (5-10, 185, Sr., Euclid, OH/HS) will attend the New York Jets mini-camp this Saturday through Monday.

Kizer: quick bio: Third all-time with 14 interceptions… 2006: Earned fourth letter, and started every game at corner back for the third straight year… First Team All-MSFA Mideast… Second on the team with five interceptions, returned two for scores (53 yards vs. Malone/42 yards vs. WV Tech)… picked-off two passes in 10-0 win at Geneva, one on the Golden Tornadoes five-yard line… recorded 12 tackles against Ohio Dominican… Fourth with 49 tackles (46 UA)… Had six pass break-ups… returned seven kicks for 22.1 average, with a long return of 29 yards.

Tuesday, May 1, 2007

"Cavs 13th in NAIA Spring Coaches Poll"

(Olathe, KS) Defending NAIA Football National Champion Sioux Falls (S.D.) earned 15 first-place votes to edge out its championship game competitor, Saint Francis (Ind.), in the first-ever NAIA Spring Football Top 25 Coaches' Poll. Walsh, which reached the NAIA post season for the first-time ever in 2007, stands at number 13. The Cavs were 16th in the final NAIA poll. The Cavs won their first nine games last season, and finished the season 9-3.

Walsh opens the 2007 season at West Liberty State College on September 1.

more

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

"Walsh to Begin Spring Football"

Walsh University will begin spring football practice on Wednesday, March 29. Spring football will include four scrimmages at Fawcett Stadium; Saturday, March 31 (8:45 am), Wednesday, April 4 (3:45 pm), Thursday, April 12 (3:45 pm) and Saturday, April 14 (8:45 am). All scrimmages are open to the public and free of charge.

The Cavaliers are coming off of a school-record nine win season in 2006, and their first trip to the NAIA playoffs. Jim Dennison (88-42) begins his 13th season as head coach. The focus of spring ball will be to evaluate the young players, and establish leadership among the 16 seniors and 42 returning lettermen.

Walsh opens the 2007 season at West Liberty State on Saturday, September 1.

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

"Jim Dennison Named NAIA Region IX Athletic Director of the Year"

For the second consecutive year, Walsh University's Jim Dennison has been named NAIA Region IX Athletic Director of the Year. Dennison honored at the NAIA National Convention, in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 19. He was also honored by the National Association of Collegiate Director of Athletics (NACDA) as the Northeast Athletic Director of the Year in 2005-06 and 2002-03.

Dennison recently completed his 12th year as head football coach at Walsh University. His 2006 team won a school-record nine games and reached the NAIA playoffs for the first time. Dennison's career mark at Walsh is 88-42. His career record of 168-104-2 includes 13 years as Head Coach at the University of Akron (80-62-2), where he is still the all-time leader in coaching victories.

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

"Jim Dennison Announces 2007 Walsh University Football Recruiting Class"

Walsh University Head Football Coach Jim Dennison has announced his 2007 recruiting class. The 2007 class includes 31 incoming freshmen and one transfer. Walsh finished 9-3 last season and appeared in the NAIA Playoffs for the first time. Walsh is a member of the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) and competes in the Mid-States Football Association Mideast League.

Walsh University 2007 Football Recruiting Class

Mark Babyak (P, 5-9, 155. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney HS) lettered for Head Coach P.J. Fecko. All-Steel Valley Conference.

Kevin Beichler (TB-WR, 5-9, 172, Smithville HS) lettered for Keith Schrock. First-team All-Ohio, All-Wayne County League, All-District and Team Captain.

Christopher Bivins (DB, 6-0, 175, Alliance HS) lettered for Ron Kuceyeski. Second-team All-Ohio, First-team All-Stark County, All-Northeastern Buckeye, Team Captain.

Justin Booker (FB, 5-10, 217, Columbus Eastmoor Academy) lettered for James Miranda. First-team All Columbus City League, honorable mention All-District, Team Captain.

Eric Brandner (DL, 6-4, 225, Kent Roosevelt) Lettered for Ed Becker. First-team All Portage Trail Conference, second-team All-District.

Eric Buchanan (PK, 6-2, 185, Clay HS, Green Cove Spring, FL) lettered for Jim Reape. Kicked 28 out of 30 attempts out of the end zone. First-team All-Conference, All-County and kicked the winning field goal, with eight seconds to go in the All-Florida Shrine game. Ranked 7th best kicker in the Nation by the Ray Guy Camp.

Paul Buzzelli-Andes (DB, 6-0, 180, Akron Archbishop Hoban HS) lettered for Ralph Orsini. Two-year letter winner.

Tim Cline (OL-LS, 6-3, 275, Olentangy HS) lettered for Ed Terwilliger. First-team All Ohio Capital Conference, All-District, special mention All-State.

Anthony Congeni (DB, 5-11, 192, Akron Archbishop Hoban) lettered for Ralph Orsini. Three letters and Team Captain.

Derek Corey (TB, 6-2, 200, Claymont HS) lettered for Ed Henry. Second-team All-Ohio, first-team All East Central Ohio League and All-County. Team Captain.

William Diaz (DE, 6-4, 240 Westland, OH) lettered for Jeff Jones. First-team All-Ohio Capital Conference, second-team All-District and Team Captain.

Andrew Kirsch (TE, 6-3, 245, Elyria Catholic) lettered for Dave McFarland. First-team All-North Coast League, All-County, All-District, honorable mention All-State and Team Captain.

Walt Krezeczowsli (OLB-LB, 6-3, 225, Niles McKinley HS) lettered for Phil Annarella. First-team All-Metro Athletic Conference, All-County and second-team All NE Ohio.

Gary McDaniel (OL, 6-2, 275, Chippewa HS) lettered for Bryan Wagner. Wayne County Athletic League Player of the Week. Will play in an All-Star game in Hawaii. Walsh defensive backs Mark Johnston will also be a coach in the game.

Dan McGarry (TE, 6-6, 250, Poland HS) lettered for Paul Hulea. First-team All-State, All-NEO and Metro Athletic Conference.

Michael McGlone (DB-OLB, 6-1, 187, Cardinal Mooney) lettered for Head Coach P.J. Fecko. First-team All-Steel Valley Conference, played on two state championship teams. Two-year letter winner, Team Captain.

Jesse Modesitt (DE, 6-4, 250, Newark HS) lettered for Scott Beery. First-team All-Ohio Capital Conference, All-Region, special mention All-Ohio and Team Captain.

Greg Patterson (DB, 6-2, 178, Howland HS) lettered for Dick Angle.

Charles Prunty (WR, 6-1, 185, Cleveland South) lettered for Jarvis Gibson.

Alex Racius (DB, 5-9, 160, Lee HS/Lee Acers FL) lettered for Matt Perkowski. First-team All-Lee County, participated in Lee County All-Star Game.

DeWayne Richardson (DB, 6-1, 175, Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary) lettered for Ryan Wiggins. First-team All City, honorable mention All-District.

Jared Roberts (QB, 6-1, 200, Cleveland St. Ignatius) lettered for Chuck Kyle. Will also play baseball.

Dan Robinson (DL, 6-2, 290, Wadsworth HS) lettered for Greg Dennison. Team Captain, special mention All-Ohio, first-team All Suburban League, All-District, All-County.

Mike Rutan (OLB, 6-2, 200, Lake HS) lettered for Jeff Durbin. First-team All-State, Federal League, All-County, Team MVP and Captain. Brother, John, is a wide receiver for the Cavs.

Brad Schrecengost (OL, 6-7, 235 Lakeview HS) lettered for Tom Pavlansky. First-team All Trumbull Athletic Conference, All-County, All-NEO, second-team All-Ohio and Team Captain.

Cory Shane (OL, 6-0, 250, Massillon Washington HS) lettered for Tom Stacy. Special mention All-Ohio, first-team All-Stark County, All-District, All-Inland. Team Captain and named Tigers Best Offensive Lineman.

Tate Slee (DB, 5-11, 190, Liberty Center HS) lettered for Rex Lingruen. First-team All Northwest Ohio Athletic League three times. First-team All-District twice, Team MVP and Captain.

Jason Stiel (LB, 6-2, 230 Reynoldsburg HS) lettered for Woody Underwood, First-team All Ohio Capital Conference, honorable mention All-District, Team MVP and Captain.

Norman Stikes (LB, 6-0, 230 Kent Roosevelt) lettered for Ed Becker. First-team All Portage Trail, All-District, honorable mention All-State, Team Captain.

Lamar Tucker (DB, WR, TB, 5-11, 185, East Cleveland Shaw) lettered for Rodney Brown. First-team All- Lake Erie League, All-State, Cuyahoga County and Team Captain. 4.4 speed in Cleveland Browns camp.

Ryan Whiteleather (LB, 6-1, 218, Kent Roosevelt HS) lettered for Ed Becker. First-team All-Portage Trail Conference, second-team All-District.

James Williams (TE, 6-3, 255, Lee FL/HS/Florida International) started two years at Florida International. First-team All-County, All-District, All-Area, started in Florida All-Star game and was the first four-year starter in Lee HS history.

"We're extremely pleased with our entire class," stated Jim Dennison. "Starting with the kicking game, Buchanan maybe the best kicker that we have ever brought in, while Babyak is an outstanding punter. This was essential with the loss of CJ Novince and Mike Lum. We have also brought in good size, offensively and defensively. We have speed, size and have filled all of our needs."

Thursday, January 25, 2007

"Grove Selected NAIA Daktronics Scholar-Athlete"

Walsh University's Lucas Grove (Sr., Uhrichsville, OH/Claymont) has named to the NAIA Daktronics Scholar-Athlete Team. Grove, a starter at linebacker, is a nursing major and carries a 3.65 grade point average. He was also named to the Mid-States Football Association All-Academic Team. Recipients must have at least a 3.50 grade point average and be a junior academically.

Walsh is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes in the Mid-States Football Association. The Cavs finished the 2006 season 9-3 and qualified for the NAIA Playoffs.

Tuesday, January 23, 2007
For Immediate Release

"Walsh University Places Five Student-Athletes on Mid-States Football Association All-Academic Team"

Walsh University has placed five student-athletes on the Mid-States Football Association All-Academic Team. Recipients must carry at least a 3.20 grade point average and be at least junior academically.

Lucas Grove (Sr., Uhrichsville, OH/Claymont), Michael Lum (Sr., North Canton, OH/Hoover), Adam Maione (Sr., Uniontown, OH/Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary), Aaron Rich (Jr., Canton, OH/GlenOak) and Anthony Rich (Sr., Canton, OH/St. Thomas Aquinas) have been selected to the team.

Grove, a starter at linebacker, is a nursing major and carries a 3.65 grade point average. Lum, who handled place kicking duties, is a computer science major with a 3.48 GPA. Maione, the Cavs starting center, is a business management major with a 3.27 GPA. Aaron Rich, a starter at left guard, is a communications major with a 3.22 GPA. Anthony Rich, a defensive back, is an accounting/management/pre-law major with a 3.21 GPA.

Walsh is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes in the Mid-States Football Association. The Cavs finished the 2006 season 9-3 and qualified for the NAIA Playoffs.

Thursday, January 4, 2007

"Mike Galassi Selected To NAIA Coaches' All-America Team"

(WACO, TX) For the first time since the American Football Coaches Association began selecting All-America teams in 1945, the Association announced the 25 members of the inaugural NAIA Coaches' All-America team.

The offensive line features Darnell Whitaker of Southern Nazarene, Truman Ashby of Benedictine (Kan.), Jeremiah Hays of Evangel, Shawn Robinson of Morningside and tackle Mike Galassi (6-5, 305, Jr., Strongsville, OH/Holy Name) (Pictured top right) of Walsh. Whitaker helped pave the way for an offense that averaged 292.9 yards per game, earning him Central States Football League first-team honors. Ashby was the leading blocker of a Raven offense that recorded 277.8 yards of total offense, including 141.9 yards of rushing, per game. Hays recorded his second consecutive Heart of America Athletic Conference first-team honor after he was rated as the second-best lineman in the conference. Robinson was the outstanding offensive lineman for a Morningside team that averaged 23.9 points and 309.2 yards of total offense per game. Galassi, a transfer from Kent State University, was the leader of an offensive line that helped pave the way for the third best rushing attack in the MSFA Mideast League at 168.3 yards per game.

Walsh, a member of the Mid-States Football Association finished the 2006 season 9-3 and made their first NAIA playoff appearance.

Saturday, November 18, 2006

"Cavs Fall 42-3 at Saint Francis in Playoff Debut"

(Fort Wayne, IN) Walsh's (9-3) finest season came to a halt, as they fell 42-3 to the University of Saint Francis (IN) (11-0) in a first round NAIA Playoff game. The 39-point loss was the most lopsided in team history. It was Walsh's first-ever post season game. The NAIA top ranked Cougars now advance to the quarterfinals. Walsh closes the season with three straight losses, with the offense failing to reach the end zone in all three games.

The game started on a high-note, as the Cavs marched to Cougar seven-yard line, before having to settle for a 21-yard Mike Lum (Sr., North Canton, OH/Hoover) field goal. Walsh's 3-0 lead did not last long however, as USF countered with a 13-play, 63-yard drive, which ended on Daniel Carter?s four-yard run to give USF the lead at 7-3 with 3:34 to play in the first quarter. It was the first of Carter's three touchdowns. The first quarter ended 7-3. The Cougars then turned a Marc Pullen (So., Akron, OH/Ellet) interception in points, when they marched 69 yards in 12 plays, and scored on Doug Wasylik's four-yard run at the 8:53 mark of the second period. USF led 14-3 at the half. The Cougars began to salt the game away in the third quarter, when Carter raced 69 yards for a score on the third play of the half to extend the lead to 21-3, just 1:19 into the third quarter. USF would score once more in third quarter, and then score two more touchdowns in the fourth period for the final margin.

Turnovers again plagued the Cavs, as they turned the ball over six times, five by interceptions. Walsh turned the ball over 16 times in the final three games. USF rolled-up 513 yards total offense, with most of the yards coming in the second half. Walsh totaled 209 yards of total offense. Rob Lash (Jr., Shelby, OH/HS) caught seven passes for 50 yards, while Pullen completed 10 passes for 128 yards.

Thursday, November 16, 2006

"Walsh Places Nine on MSFA Mideast First Team, Entire Secondary Selected"

Walsh University has placed nine players on the All-Mid-States Football Association first team, and eleven players total. Plus, secondary coach and fitness coordinator, Mark Johnson has been selected as the MSFA Assistant Coach of the Year. Walsh finished the regular season 9-2 and 4-2 in the MSFA Mideast. The Cavs will make their first-ever NAIA Playoff appearance this weekend, when they meet top seeded, and NAIA No. 1 University of Saint Francis (10-6, 6-0 MSFA Mideast) in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Wide receiver and return specialist Rob Lash (Jr., Shelby, OH/HS) earned first-team honors for the second straight year. Lash leads the MSFA in punt returns (13.0) and is second in kick returns (26.8). He has returned two punts and one kick for a score, and was named MSFA Mideast Special Teams Player of the Week three times. Lash is also the Cavs leading receiver with 28 catches for 582 yards and four touchdowns. Antwain Reine' (Jr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood-Madison) earned first-team at tailback, after being selected second-team last year. Reine' has rushed for over 1,000 yards for the second straight year and has rushed 1,048 yards and six touchdowns this season. He is averaging 4.9 yards per carry and 95.3 yards per game. Mike Galassi (Jr., Strongsville, OH/Holy Name/Kent State) was named first team at left tackle.

Walsh placed six players on the first-team defense, including the entire secondary. This is the first time that one team has dominated a position as the Walsh secondary has. The veteran unit has 22 interceptions, one shy of tying a team record, with four touchdowns. Cornerbacks Rayshaun Kizer (Sr., Euclid, OH/HS) and Montreal Wade (Sr., Medina, OH/HS), were joined by strong safety Craig McConnell (So., Massillon, OH/Washington) and free safety Joe Phinisee (Jr., Warren, OH/Harding). Kizer is second on the team with five interceptions, with two returned for scores. He had five pass break-ups. He was a second-team choice in 2004. Wade, who earned second-team honors last season, has two interceptions and one touchdown. He has 29 tackles and leads the team with nine pass break-ups. McConnell, a second-team choice last year, leads the secondary with 76 tackles, with eight for a loss and two interceptions. Phinisee leads the Cavs with six interceptions and is tied for the MSFA lead. He has 40 tackles and three pass break-ups. Brian Howe (Jr., Akron, OH/Ellet), a transfer from the University of Akron, earned first-team honors at linebacker. Howe leads the team with 101 tackles and has one interception. He also leads the team with three fumble recoveries. Defensive lineman David Hardwick (Jr., Kent, OH/Roosevelt) earned first-team honors for the first time. Hardwick recorded 54 tackles, 10½ for a loss, with 4½ sacks. He also broke-up three passes and recovered a fumble.

Outside linebacker Dan Dale (Sr., Canton, OH/South) and right guard Tom Fairall (Jr., Newark, OH/Licking Valley) were selected second-team. Both are first time honorees. Dale, who made the transition from tight end to defense, leads the team with 14 tackles for a loss and 6½ sacks. He also had eight quarterback hits, has intercepted a pass and recovered a fumble. Fairall helped anchor an offensive line that averaged 4.4 yards per carry on the ground and 177.2 yards per game.

November 13, 2006

"Walsh Sets Ticket Policy for St. Francis Football Game"

Walsh will sell presale tickets for their upcoming NAIA Playoff game at the University of Saint Francis (IN) on Saturday. The Cavs meet the NAIA top ranked Cougars on Saturday at noon in Fort Wayne. The Walsh football office will take ticket orders until 12 pm on Thursday. Tickets are $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for students. Tickets orders must be placed in person, at the football office, from 8 am to 5 pm. No phone orders will be accepted. Tickets will then be available for pick-up, on game day, at Saint Francis. Cash and checks only, with checks being made out to the Walsh University Athletic Department. Tickets will also be on sale the day of the game, with prices set at $12.00 for adults and $5.00 for students.


Sunday, November 12, 2006

"Cavs Qualify for Post Season for First Time/Meet # 1 Saint Francis"

Walsh has made the playoffs. After five consecutive 8-3 finishes, the Cavs closed the regular season with a 9-2 mark, and their first ever NAIA postseason appearance. Walsh landed the 16th and final spot, and will travel to Fort Wayne, Indiana to meet the NAIA top ranked University of Saint Francis (10-0) next Saturday at 12 pm. This will be the second time in three weeks that the two teams have met. USF handed the Cavs its first loss of the season, 21-7 in Fort Wayne on November 4.

Walsh dropped its final two regular season games, losing to USF and Malone, which prompted a fall from 3rd to 16th in final regular season ranking. USF finished ranked number for the first time in school history.

Saturday's game will be broadcast live on AM 900 WCER and on the World Wide Web at www.wcer.us. For ticket information, contact Jim Clark at 330-490-7017.

NAIA FINAL RATING

NAIA Championship pairings

Saturday, November 11, 2006

"Malone Upsets Cavs 20-10"

Malone College's Bernard Payton rushed for a career high 277 yards, in the Pioneers 20-10 upset win over the NAIA 7th ranked Cavs, in a Mid-States Football Association Mideast game today. The win snaps Malone seven-game losing streak against Walsh. Walsh closes the regular season with back-to-back losses and a 9-2 overall record. The loss drops the Cavs to 4-2 in the MSFA Mideast. NAIA No. 22 Malone finishes with a three-game win streak and an overall mark of 6-3 and 4-2 in the MSFA Mideast. Walsh will now await word from the NAIA raters, to see if they will qualify for the post season. The NAIA will conduct a conference call on Sunday morning.

Malone drew first blood, when Mike Clapham caught a three-yard TD pass from Brad Reifsnyder at the 10:32 mark of the second quarter. Walsh tied the game, when Rayshaun Kizer (Sr., Euclid, OH/HS) intercepted a Reifsnyder pass and returned it 53 yards for a TD. The half ended tied at 7-7. Walsh took their only lead of the game at the 3:36 mark of the third quarter, when Mike Lum (Sr., North Canton, OH/HS) kicked a 32-yard field goal to give the Cavs a 10-7 lead. Malone's Justin Johnson gave the Pioneers great field position, when he returned the ensuing kick-off 53 yards to the Walsh 40-yard line. The Pioneers regained the lead for good four plays later, when Reifsnyder scored from one-yard out. Payton then capped the day, with a 49-yard TD run with 1:48 to play.

Malone out gained the Cavs 410 to 248 in total offense and held the football for eleven more minutes. The Cavs came into the game averaging 25.8 points per game, but were kept out of the endzone for the second straight week. Antwain Reine' (Jr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood Madison) led the Cavs with 100 yards rushing and went over the 1,000 yard mark for the second straight season. Reine' has 1,048 yards on the season. He rushed for 1,356 last year.

Monday, November 6, 2006

"Cavs Drop to 8th in NAIA Top 25"

Walsh's (9-1, 4-1 MSFA Mideast) loss to top ranked University of Saint Francis (IN) cost them five spots in the NAIA Top 25 poll, as they dropped to eighth. Walsh will host 22nd ranked Malone College (6-3, 3-2 MSFA Mideast) at 12 pm on Saturday at Fawcett Stadium. Walsh can secure a post season berth and possibly an opening round home game with a win.

Monday, November 6, 2006

"No. 1 Saint Francis Hands Cavs First Defeat/Malone Next/Game to be Televised"

The NAIA No. 3 Cavs turned the ball over seven times in a 21-7 loss to NAIA top ranked University of Saint Francis (9-0, 5-0 MSFA Mideast) on Saturday in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The loss spoils the Cavs (9-1, 4-1 MSFA Mideast) perfect season and keeps the Cougars unbeaten, while also clinching a tie for the MSFA Mideast title. Walsh can still clinch a tie for the title this Saturday, with a victory over Malone College and a Saint Francis loss at Geneva College. The Cavs host archrival Malone College (6-3, 4-2 MSFA Mideast) at 12 pm on Saturday. The game will be broadcast live on AM 900 WCER and 1350 AM WARF and on the internet at www.wcer.us. The game will also be televised on a tape delay basis at 8 pm on WVIM TV 52, position 585 on Warner Cable's Digital Tier in Stark and Summit Counties. The game will also be aired on Massillon Cable Channel 21 and on TimeWarner in Holmes, Tuscarawas and Carroll Counties on channel 99. The game will also be replayed on Sunday night at 11 pm.

After a scoreless first quarter, USF took a 7-0 lead at the 13:43 mark of the second quarter when Eric Hooks threw a two-yard TD pass to Daniel Carter. Walsh was primed to tie the game on the next drive, but lost the football on the USF 19-yard line on a fumble by Antwain Reine' (Jr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood Madison). USF then marched 81 yards in 10 plays, and took a 14-0 lead when Hooks hit Brian Kurtz on a third and nine play for a 13-yard score to make it 14-0 with 4:57 to play in the half.. Walsh would drive the field again in an attempt to put points on the board, and reached the USF six-yard line, but would again fail. Donel Durham (Sr., Pittsburgh, PA/Schenley) dropped a Marc Pullen (So., Akron, OH/Ellet) pass on the two-yard, then Pullen was sacked on third down at the 15-yard line. The drive stalled when Mike Lum (Sr., North Canton, OH/Hoover) missed a 32-yard field goal. Walsh turned the ball over four times in the third quarter, and fell behind 21-0 when Marcus Rush scored on a six-yard run with 47 seconds left the in the third. Walsh's defense, which was on the field for almost 41 minutes, put the only points on the board when Montreal Wade (Sr., Medina, OH/HS) intercepted a pass and returned it 30 yards for a score with 7:12 to play. The Cavs would stop the Cougars twice more, but were unable to put any more points on the board. Pullen completed 6-22 for 143 yards and Rob Lash (Jr., Shelby, OH/HS) caught three passes for 80 yards. The Cavs could muster only 173 yards of total offense. Walsh would tie a team record with seven turnovers; five fumbles and two interceptions.

Walsh and Malone meet for the Dick Gallagher Memorial Trophy on Saturday. The Cavs have won the last seven meetings and posted a 34-16 win last year. This is the just the third time that the two teams have met in the season finale. The last time was 1997, which Walsh won 14-6. Malone's last win over the Cavs was a 28-21 triumph in 1998. Malone assured themselves of their first winning season since 1998, when they defeated Seton Hill 28-16 on Saturday. The Pioneers are averaging 21.1 points, but allowing 22.3. Malone quarterback, Brad Reifsnyder, is second in the MSFA in passing, averaging 232.2 yards per game, with ten touchdowns and four interceptions. Despite the seven turnovers on Saturday, Walsh still leads the MSFA in turnover margin at plus 12. Malone is second at plus 10. Walsh also leads the MSFA in punt return average (13.1) and is second in scoring defense (10.9 ppg) and punting (34.4). Rob Lash is second in all purpose yardage (131.4).

Walsh's Anthony Rich (Sr., Canton, OH/St. Thomas Aquinas) will receive the Dick Gallagher Memorial Scholarship, along with a Malone recipient, in ceremonies prior to the game. Walsh will also honor its senior football players and cheerleaders in pre-game ceremonies.

Saturday, November 4, 2006

"Turnovers Plague Cavs in Season's First Loss at Saint Francis"

(Ft. Wayne, IN) The Cavs turned the ball over seven times in a 21-7 loss to NAIA top ranked University of Saint Francis (9-0, 5-0 MSFA Mideast) today. The loss spoils the third ranked Cavs (9-1, 4-1 MSFA Mideast) perfect season. Walsh can still clinch a tie for the title next week, with a victory over Malone College and a Saint Francis loss at Geneva College.

After a scoreless first quarter, USF took a 7-0 lead at the 13:43 mark of the second quarter, when Eric Hooks threw a two-yard TD pass to Daniel Carter. Walsh was primed to tie the game on the next drive, but lost the football on the USF 19-yard line on a fumble by Antwain Reine' (Jr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood Madison). USF then marched 81 yards in 10 plays, and took a 14-0 lead when Hooks hit Brian Kurtz on a third and nine play for a 13-yard score, to make it 14-0 at the 4:57 mark of the second quarter. Walsh would drive the field again in an attempt to put points on the board, and reached the USF six-yard line, but would fail again. Donel Durham (Sr., Pittsburgh, PA/Schenley) dropped a Marc Pullen (So., Akron, OH/Ellet) pass on the two-yard, then Pullen was sacked on third down at the 15-yard line. The drive stalled when Mike Lum (Sr., North Canton, OH/Hoover) missed a 32-yard field goal. Walsh turned the ball over four times in the third quarter, and fell behind 21-0 when Marcus Rush scored on a six-yard run with 47 seconds left the in the third quarter. Walsh's defense, which was on the field for almost 41 minutes, put the only points on the board when Montreal Wade (Sr., Medina, OH/HS) intercepted a pass and returned it 30 yards for a score with 7:12 to play in the fourth quarter. The Cavs would then stop the Cougars twice, but were unable to put any more points on the board.

Pullen completed 6-22 for 143 yards. Rob Lash (Jr., Shelby, OH/HS) caught three passes for 80 yards. The Cavs could muster only 173 yards of total offense. Walsh would tie a team record with seven turnovers; five fumbles and two interceptions.

The Cavs host Malone at Fawcett Stadium at 12 pm next Saturday.

Monday, October 3, 2006

"Cavs Ranked Third in Latest Poll/Highest Ranking Ever"

Walsh (9-0, 4-0 MSFA Mideast) moved up one spot to third in the latest NAIA Top 25 poll. It is the highest ranking in history for the undefeated Cavs. The poll had its first change among the top five in three weeks, when number one Carroll College was upset by Montana State-Northern last Saturday. Carroll, the defending NAIA National Champion, dropped to fifth, with number two University of Saint Francis (IN) (8-0, 4-0 MSFA Mideast) moving into the top spot. The Cavs meet the top ranked Cougars in Fort Wayne, Indiana this Saturday at 12 pm. Sioux Falls (SD) is up one notch to third, while St. Ambrose moved into the number four spot. NAIA TOP 25

Monday, October 30, 2006

"Cavs Remain Perfect, Prepare for Showdown With No. 2 USF"

NAIA No. 4 Walsh University (9-0, 4-0 MSFA) kept its perfect season alive, with a 24-7 Mid-States Football Association Mideast win over Urbana University (5-4, 1-3 MSFA) on Saturday. The win moved the Cavs closer to clinching a NAIA post season berth for the first time. The Cavs will now meet the University of Saint Francis Cougars in Fort Wayne, Indiana on Saturday (12 pm). The Cavs and Cougars (8-0, 4-0 MSFA) are tied for first place in the MSFA Mideast. USF could very well be the top ranked team in the NAIA, after number one Carroll College was stunned by ninth ranked Montana State-University Northern 10-3. USF was ranked second heading into their game with Seton Hill. Walsh could also move-up, as well as third ranked University of Sioux Falls, who also won on Saturday.

Walsh scored first against Urbana, and took a 3-0 lead on Mike Lum's (Sr., North Canton, OH/HS) 23-yard field goal at the 1:27 mark of the first quarter. Urbana took their only lead of the game at the 10:09 mark of the second quarter on a six-yard pass, which gave the Blue Knights a 7-3 lead. Walsh regained the lead at 6:42 mark, when Marc Pullen (So., Akron, OH/Ellet) hit Antwain Reine' (Jr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood Madison) for a 35-yard score, which gave the Cavs a 10-7 halftime lead. After just one play in the third quarter, the two teams left the field due to lightning, and came back 40 minutes later at 2 pm. Walsh would tack on the only score of the third period, when Pullen scored on an fourth and one play, to extend the Cavs lead to 17-7. Walsh would ice the game in the fourth quarter, on a 16-play, 99-yard drive, when Jeff Tallman (R-Fr., Canton OH/Perry) scored from four yards.

Walsh held Urbana's explosive offense to 180 yards, 200 less than their per game average. Walsh rolled-up 340 yards total offense, and held the football for 35 minutes. Pullen completed eight passes for 155 yards, and a touchdown, while Reine led all ball carriers with 69 yards. Rob Lash (Jr., Shelby, OH/HS) caught four passes for 68 yards and rushed for 37 yards on three carries.

Walsh and the University of Saint Francis are meeting for the Mideast title for the sixth consecutive season. This is the first time since 1998 that the two teams have not met in the season finale. USF held off the Cavs 21-7 at Fawcett Stadium last season to spoil Walsh's bid for the MSFA Mideast title and playoff berth. Walsh's only win over the Cougars came at Saint Francis in 1998, when they won 44-41 in overtime. The Cougars lead the series 7-1. USF kept their perfect season alive last Saturday, by blanking Seton Hill 55-0, in a game that was called due to the weather early in the fourth quarter. The Cougars scored 28 points in the first quarter and led 45-0 at the half. USF is first in scoring in the MFSFA, averaging 44.9 points, scoring defense (7.0 ppg) and total offense 498.9 yards per game. They have also won 31 consecutive MSFA Mideast games, with six straight undefeated seasons in MSFA play.

Rob Lash leads the MSFA in all purpose yards (133.4) and Joe Phinisee (Jr., Warren, OH/Harding) is second in interceptions (0.56 pg). The Cavs lead the MSFA in turnover margin at +15 and in punt return average (13.9). They are second in scoring defense (9.8 ppg), rushing defense (81.9 ypg), kickoff returns (23.9 ypg), red zone defense (56.5) and third in total defense (250.7 ypg).

The game will be broadcast live on AM 900 WCER and on the internet at www.wcer.us., starting with the pre-game show at 11:45 am.

Saturday, October 28, 2006"

"Lightning, Cavs Strike in 24-7 Win Over Urbana"

NAIA No. 4 Walsh University (9-0, 4-0 MSFA) kept its perfect season alive, with a 24-7 Mid-States Football Association Mideast win over Urbana University (5-4, 1-3 MSFA), in a game that was delayed by lightning early in the second half. The Cavs will now meet the NAIA No. 2 University of Saint Francis Cougars in Fort Wayne, Indiana next Saturday (1 pm EST). The Cavs and Cougars are tied for first place in the MSFA Mideast.

Walsh scored first, and took a 3-0 lead on a Mike Lum (Sr., North Canton, OH/HS) 23-yard field goal at the 1:27 mark of the first quarter. Urbana took their only lead of the game in the second quarter; when Marc Burr caught a six-yard pass from Ryan Gelhert, to give the Blue Knights a 7-3 lead with 10:09 to play in the first half. Walsh regained the lead at 6:42 mark, when Marc Pullen (So., Akron, OH/Ellet) (Pictured top right) hit Antwain Reine' (Jr., Dayton, OH/Trotwood Madison) for a 35-yard score, to give the Cavs a 10-7 halftime lead. After just one play in the third quarter, the two teams left the field due to lightning, and came back 40 minutes later at 2 pm. Walsh would tack on the only score of the third period, when Pullen scored on an fourth and one play, to extend the Cavs lead to 17-7. Walsh would ice the game in the fourth quarter, on a 16-play, 99-yard drive, when Jeff Tallman (R-Fr., Canton OH/Perry) scored from four yards out.

Walsh held Urbana's explosive offense to 180 yards, 200 less than their game average. Walsh rolled-up 340 yards total offense, and held the football for 35 minutes. Pullen completed eight passes for 155 yards and a touchdown and Reine led all ball carriers with 69 yards. Walsh had 185 yards on the ground. Rob Lash (Jr., Shelby, OH/HS) caught four passes for 68 yards and rushed for 37 yards on three carries.

Monday, October 23, 2006

"Cavs Still Fourth in NAIA Top 25"

Walsh University (8-0, 3-0 MSFA) remained fourth in the latest NAIA Top 25 R