| 2005 Signings
The following is a list of all signings for the 2005 season
starting with the most recent signing.
Rolfs joins Bulldog football
McPherson College has announced the recent signing of Cy Rolfs of Lorraine, Kan., and Garden City Community College, to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Joining Cy Rolfs for letter of intent signing with the Bulldogs were his parents, Dennis and Kathy Rolfs, and (back) McPherson College head football coach David Cunningham.
A 2004 graduate of Bushton-Quivira Heights High School, the 6'5", 210-pound Rolfs passed for over 4,200 yards in his career, over 1,200 yards each of final three prep seasons, topped by a school single season record 1,350 yards.
Cy was an All-Area first team selection his junior and senior years after receiving second team All-Area honors as a sophomore. He received honorable mention All-State honors for three seasons, and was named to the All-Central Prairie League first team as a senior after being named to the all-league second team following his sophomore and junior seasons.
Rolfs will enter McPherson with four years of collegiate eligibility. This past season, he red-shirted at Garden City CC where he quarterbacked the Bronco's scout teams for former GCCC coach Bob Larsen.
“We are very happy to have added a student-athlete of Cy's caliber, especially this late in the recruiting schedule,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football coach. “the fact he plays quarterback, a position at which we have found ourselves thin as of late makes it an even nicer development.”
“We recruited Cy last year, and his high school teammate Nick Beneke has been a good ambassador for us. I am sure that helped in Cy deciding to come here.”
“Cy has played 7-on-7 with us a couple times and we feel he will be a good fit for us, both on and off the field.”
Rolfs is also considering joining the Bulldog basketball program following football season.
Cy is the son of Dennis and Kathy Rolfs of Lorraine , Kan. He plans to major in secondary education.
The Rolfs family is well acquainted among the coaches and fans of the KCAC as Cy will be the third of four sons to play in the conference. Brother Trevor played basketball at Barton County CC before transferring to Bethany College, where he played football and basketball. Brendon played basketball at Sterling College from '94 through ‘98, and Seth football at Garden City CC before transferring to Fort Hays State University, where he will complete his eligibility this year.
*****
Fullmer joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced the recent signings of Nathan “Nate” Fullmer of Orem, Utah, to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 6'1”, 210-pound Fullmer was an All-Region selection as a quarterback for Timpanogos HS his senior season after passing for 950 yards and rushing for 450 yards. He passed and ran for a combined 17 touchdowns, plus had a pair of pass interceptions as a defensive back.
As a junior, Fullmer tossed three touchdown passes on the offensive side of the ball plus picked off two pass interceptions on defense.
Fullmer was selected to play on an All-Star team which toured in Australia this summer.
In addition to his three football letters, Fullmer lettered twice in baseball where he was selected team captain his final two seasons.
“Nate was recruited by coach Kevin Steiner,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College football coach. “Nate visited, along with his father, back during basketball season, and we were impressed with him in person and on film.
“Nate is a very strong young man, especially for a quarterback. It appears he will have to redshirt this fall as he a couple of points away from meeting full eligibility to play as a freshman. Even if he does redshirt, it will be a great chance for him to get his feet set academically, and to learn our system on the field.”
Nathan is the son of Barry and Lisa Fullmer of Orem , Utah . He plans to major in communications at McPherson College .
*****
Mac gridders hook a big one!
McPherson College has announced the recent signings of Matthew Jean of Miami, Fla., and Santa Barbara City College to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 6'1”, 280-pound Jean was a 2001 graduate of Miami Beach High School . He spent the last two years at Santa Barbara CC.
Named “Lineman of the Year” his senior season at Miami Beach HS, Jean received honorable mention Western State Conference honors for the Vaqueros of Santa Barbara CC.
“Matthew is an outstanding offensive lineman,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College football coach. “We are very happy to add him to our roster, especially late in the summer.”
“Coach (Bill) Minard did a good job of staying with Matthew and helping him get everything worked out.”
“Matthew, or ‘Catfish' as he is known back home in his native Miami, is a friend and former high school teammate of current Bulldog Gad Jacobs. Gad's presence and success here, both academically and athletically, had a big influence on Catfish's decision.”
Matthew, the son of Alfred and Jeannine Jean of Miami , Fla. , plans to major in theatre at McPherson College .
*****
Sosa
signs with Bulldog football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Clayton Sosa of San Antonio, Texas, to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Clayton
Sosa's letter of intent siging was a family celebration as he was
joined by (front, left) grandfather, George Brady, cousin Jessica
Brady, Clayton, and grandfather Ernest Sosa; (middle, left) uncle
Rick Brady, Aunt Terry Brady, cousin George Brady, mother Dee Brady,
grandmother Juanita Sosa, and (back, left) brothers Aaron and Brian
Sosa.
The 5'8”, 180-pound Sosa
was listed among Texan preps to watch by Dave Campbell's Texas Football
magazine after a junior season at Tom C. Clark High School when
he accumulated 527 all purpose yards, 26 tackles, four pass break
ups and a fumble recovery.
Sosa's senior season came
to a premature end after four games when he suffered a back injury
after compiling 262 yards rushing, 17 tackles, six pass break ups.
During he prep career at
Clark HS under coach Lloyd Alexander, Sosa won offensive back, defensive
back, and special teams player of the week honors
“Clayton played high school
football with current Bulldog Reggie Benjamin at Clark High School
,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football coach.
“Last year, he attended Ohio Wesleyan, where he red shirted.”
“Reggie helped us recruit
Clayton. We liked what we saw of him on tape, so we got him to visit
campus. He enjoyed his visit and we're pleased to announce he has
decided to become a Bulldog.”
“Clayton played tailback
and slot(back) in high school, and we anticipate playing him at
the slot position here. He has good speed and is a good athlete,
so we expect him to help us on both offense and special teams.”
“It's a good comment on your
institution and program when current student-athletes like Reggie
recruit their friends to join them.”
Clayton is the son of Dee
Brady of San Antonio, Texas. Clayton's father, Mark Sosa, played
basketball at Texas Lutheran University.
Sosa will major in physical
education at McPherson College.
*****
Shelton
signs with Bulldog football
McPherson College has
announced the recent signing of Mark Shelton of Lockhart, Texas,
to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Mark Shelton
is joined for his letter of intent signing by Lockhart High coach
Darrell Brock and his mother, Melissa Keplar.
The 5'5”, 180-pound Shelton
was a three letter winner for Lockhart High School where he served
as defensive captain his senior season and earned first team, all-district
defensive honors. He previously received honorable mention all-district
honors as a sophomore and junior.
As a senior, Shelton recorded
106 total tackles, 62 unassisted, and was credited with four tackles
for lost yardage, two quarterback sacks, two quarterback hurries,
three caused fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
During his junior season,
Mark had 44 solo and 35 assisted tackles, three tackles for losses,
two sacks, four hurries, two fumble recoveries, and a safety.
Shelton was a three-time
regional qualifier in power lifting, and was a state alternate his
senior year after posting a 475-pound squat, 275-pound bench press,
and 490-pound dead lift.
“Mark will be a great addition
to our program and campus community,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College head football coach. “What he lacks in size, he more than
makes up for in heart and athleticism.”
“Mark played linebacker in
high school, but will more than likely play safety for us.”
Mark is the son of Melissa
Keplar of Lockhart, Texas. He plans to major in physical education
*****
Henderson
signs with Mac football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of James Henderson of Dallas , Tex. , to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 5'7”, 220-pound Henderson
was a three year letter winner at Scurry-Rosser High School under
coach Virgil Crow.
A three-sport athlete at
Scurry-Rosser, Henderson was an all-district football selection
his sophomore and junior seasons before being named co-utility player
of the year as a senior.
Henderson was also an all-district
selection in both basketball and baseball as a junior and senior.
An academic all-state selection
as a senior, Henderson had been named academic all-district as a
sophomore and junior.
“We are very happy that James
has decided to join our program,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College football coach. “He is a tremendous athlete, having played
several positions in high school including quarterback, running
back, and linebacker.”
“We anticipate playing James
at running back or slot back as well as on our special teams.”
“James is a excellent student
and will be a great addition to our campus community.”
James is the son of Yolanda
Robinson of Dallas , Tex. Henderson plans to be a pre-med major
at McPherson College .
*****
Aguilar inks with Bulldog
football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Mario Aguilar of Davis , Calif. , to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 6'0”, 255-pound Aguilar
didn't begin playing football until his junior year at Woodland
High School in Woodland , Calif. Following his graduation from Woodland
, he attended and was a starter at Sacramento City College and then
American River College this past season after laying out the 2003
season due to a family situation.
“We are very excited about
receiving Mario's commitment to join our program,” said David Cunningham,
McPherson College head football coach. “Mario is a very good offensive
lineman and will help provide depth at that position.”
“Mario will be joined at
McPherson by former American River College teammate, Mike Silva.”
“Mario comes from a great
program at American River and we look for him to bring experience
and maturity to our program.”
Mario is the son of Jose
and Maria Aguilar of Davis , Calif. He plans to major in biology/pre-dentistry.
*****
East High's Bennett joins
Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Jason Bennett of Wichita, Kan., to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 5'10”, 170-pound Bennett
rushed for 487 yards as a junior at Wichita East High School , then
had 37 tackles, seven quarterback hurries and two sacks as a senior
free safety before suffering a knee injury in the Blue Aces' third
game.
A two-year letter winner
at Wichita East, Bennett was a co-captain for the Blue Aces his
senior season under coach Scott Vang.
“Jason comes very highly
recommended by coach Vang (Wichita East High head coach),” said
David Cunningham, McPherson College football coach. “He was co-captain
of the team his senior season where he played slotback and defensive
back. We are looking at playing Jason at free safety or cornerback.”
“We needed additional, quality
secondary players and Jason definitely fits that bill. With his
speed, he should also help us out on special teams, both returning
and covering kicks.”
“We are very pleased to sign
Jason. We have worked hard to recruit the Wichita area these last
three years, and signing players like Jason should give us some
inroads for the future.”
Jason is the son of Billy
and Stephanie Bennett of Wichita , Kan. He plans to major in accounting
or business administration.
*****
King
signs with Bulldog football & track
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Jordan King of Limon, Colo., to football and
track & field letters of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
A three-sport letter winner
for Limon High School, the 6'2”, 180-pound King was a four-time
Colorado state track & field champion, named all-conference
in football, and selected to the Northeast Colorado all-star basketball
game his senior year.
Jordan
King joined for his letter of intent signing with McPherson College
by (center) McPherson College head track coach, Dave Smith, and
Limon High head coach, Don Bailey.
King helped lead Limon to back-to-back
state 1A football championships, rushing for 679 yards and 13 touchdowns
in addition to returning six kickoffs for 267 yards, two punts for
34 yards, and catching two passes for another 71 yards. He was named
to the Rocky Mountain News second team all-state team as a defensive
back and to the Denver Post honorable mention all-state squad. The
Colorado Springs Gazette Telegraph named King to its first team
all-area defensive squad.
“Jordan is obviously a very
good athlete plus a good student, in the classroom and on the field,”
said Jason Chalashtari, McPherson College offensive coordinator.
“He was a key in Limon's back-to-back 1A state championship teams.”
“Jordan will bring additional
speed to our defensive backfield and special teams. We believe Jordan
will make a major contribution to both the Bulldog football and
track programs.”
King won the Colorado 2A
championship at 100 meters, 200 meters, 110-meter hurdles, and 300-meter
hurdles. King's season best times were 11.29, 22.78, 14.99, and
40.05.
“We are very happy to announce
the signing of Jordan to our Bulldog track team,” said Dave Smith,
head track & field coach for McPherson College. “He is a super
competitor with speed and strength, and who will fill some needed
spots in the hurdles and relays as well as contributing to the sprint
corps.”
“Jordan had a banner year
in 2005, leading Limon's boys' team to a second consecutive state
title. He won both hurdle events (110m highs and 300m intermediates)
as well as the 100 and 200 at the 2A Colorado state track meet in
Pueblo . Last year, he won both the high and intermediate hurdles.”
“Jordan will be joining his
coach's son, Brent Bailey, as a freshman at McPherson next fall.”
Jordan is the son of Joe
and Jill King of Limon , Colo.
*****
Baker
joins Bulldog football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Shawn Baker of Morganton, North Carolina,
to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
A 2001 graduate of West Rowan
High School in Salisbury, North Carolina, the 6'2”, 220-pound Baker
sandwiched one year at East Carolina University with two years at
Western Piedmont CC in Morganton.
“Chris has been out of football
for a couple of year, but he wants to return to the gridiron,” said
Bill Minard, McPherson College defensive coordinator. “We are excited
that he has chosen to continue his football career at McPherson.”
“West Rowan has always had
a very solid football program, even from my playing days in North
Carolina. It feels good to get a player from my home state.”
“Being the only four-year
degree program in the nation, our auto restoration program was a
major draw for Chris.”
A Dean's list honoree at
both East Carolina and Western Piedmont, Baker was selected to academic
honoraries Phi Theta Kappa and Phi Eta Sigma as well as the National
Society of Collegiate Scholars.
Shawn, who will major in
automotive restoration at McPherson College, is the son of Patricia
Baker and David Baker of Morganton, North Carolina.
*****
Adams
inks with Bulldog football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Mason Adams of Bonham, Texas, to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 5'8”, 220-pound Adams
played both offensive and defensive line for the Bonham High Warriors.
Joining
Mason Adams for his letter of intent signing were (front) his parents
Cheri and Jim Adams, along with (back, left) BHS coaches Shane Fletcher
and Joe Smith, head Bonham HS coach Larry McFarlin, principal Glynn
Walker, and BHS athletic director Ronnie Hill.
A second team All-District
selection, Adams averaged over three pancake blocks per game, and
was named BHS' “Outstanding Offensive Lineman of the Year” after
earning “Offensive Lineman of the Week” honors five times his senior
season. The previous season, Mason was Bonham High's only junior
starter on the offensive line.
“We are happy that Mason
has decided to join our program,” said Bill Minard, McPherson College
defensive coordinator. “Mason will provide much needed depth in
our offensive line.”
“Mason will bring a lot of
leadership qualities to our program and campus. In high school,
Mason was very active in service organizations and Boy Scouts.”
Adams maintained a 3.9 GPA
during his prep days, participated in interscholastic speech, and
was a member of Student Council as well as active in PAL (Peer Assistance
Leadership) and ASC (Athletes Serving the Community). At the conclusion
of his senior year, he was selected “Mr. Bonham High School”.
“Mason was my most consistent
offensive lineman this year,” said BHS position coach Shane Fletcher.
“Not only a great game player, he was a great practice player. He
was a leader, and always a positive role model to our younger players.”
“Mason has been blessed with
great feet, timeless work ethic, and a great football mind.”
Mason is the son of Jim and
Cheri Adams of Bonham, Tex.
*****
Denton
signs with Bulldog football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Benjamin Denton of Oklahoma City , Okla. ,
and U.S. Grant High School to a football letter of intent for the
2005-2006 school year.
A four-year letter winner
in football at U.S. Grant HS under coach Robert Hubbard, the 6'1”,
230-pound Denton also lettered twice in soccer and track & field,
and once in wrestling.
“Ben played on both the offensive
and defensive lines in high school,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College head football coach. “We have made those two positional
groups our highest priority in recruiting this year. We will be
looking at Ben initially to play on the defensive side of the ball.”
“We expect Ben to gain valuable
experience in our JV games and to contend for playing time at the
varsity level as well.”
“I have enjoyed recruiting
Ben. He is a very polite and respectful young man. He will be a
great addition to our football program and campus.”
Ben's uncle R.C. Brown played
football at Coffeyville CC and Wichita State University before playing
three seasons in the Continental Professional Football League and
one season in Canada .
Ben is the son of Gary and
Bessie Denton of Oklahoma City, Okla. He will major in communications-journalism
at McPherson College .
*****
Shue
signs with Bulldogs' football and track
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Nicholas Shue of Timonium, Maryland, and Dulaney
High School, to football and track & field letters of intent
for the 2005-2006 school year.
A receiver/running back of
offense, the 5'9”, 160-pound Shue helped Dulaney HS to the Maryland
state play-offs for the first time in school history his senior
season. He rushed for over 700 yards in both his junior and senior
seasons, and scored two touchdowns rushing and one receiving.
“Nicholas comes to us from
Maryland ,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football
coach. “Our automotive restoration program caught his eye and he
has decided to pursue that major and continue his athletic career
at the collegiate level.”
“Nicholas played both receiver
and running back on offense as well as corner(back) on defense in
high school. His high school ran an offense similar to ours, so
we will look at him first at the slot(back) position here at McPherson.
This will make his adjustment to the college game easier.”
“Nicholas' high school coach,
Steve Watts, is very high on Nicholas and praised him for his dedication
and commitment. We expect him to contribute offensively and on special
teams at both the varsity and JV levels.”
Shue qualified for the Maryland
state track & field championships in the 100 meters and as part
of Dulaney's regional champion 4x200 meters relay and 4x100 meters
baton crew.
“Nicholas is a dedicated
sprinter that will add to our sprint and relay corps next year,”
added Dave Smith, head track & field coach at McPherson College
. “He competed well this past year, and looks to build on that in
the future.”
“Nicholas will be a great
fit on our campus, and we look forward to having him as part of
our team next year!”
Nicholas is the son of Timothy
and Bonita Shue of Timonium, Maryland. Nicholas will major in automotive
restoration technology at McPherson College
*****
Noble signs with
Bulldogs
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Colby Noble of Winnsboro, Tex., to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 5'9”, 160-pound Noble
was a two-time All-East Texas first team selection as a receiver.
As a senior, Colby was also named to the All-East Texas second team
as a defensive back, after being named an honorable mention defensive
back as a junior.
Noble rushed for 927 yards
and picked off five interceptions as a sophomore for Winnsboro High
School . As a junior, Colby caught passes for 600 yards and five
touchdowns, and then added another 753 yards receiving and nine
more TDs as a senior. Defensively, he picked off three interceptions
as a junior, then added four more as a senior for coach Steve Pinnell.
A three-sport letterman at
Winnsboro HS, Noble received second team all-conference honors in
basketball as a junior and senior. Colby qualified for the Texas
track & field regional championships in the 200 meters his senior
season and was part of Winnsboro's sprint medley and 800 meter regional
qualifying relays as both a junior and senior.
“We are extremely excited
about Colby's decision to join our program next fall,” said Bill
Minard, McPherson College defensive coordinator. “Colby is very
athletic and will provide quality depth for us at wide receiver.”
“Colby is a good student
and will be a great addition to our campus community.”
Colby is the son of Kelly
Messimer and Kerry Noble of Winnsboro, Tex.
*****
Silva
signs with Mac football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Michael Silva of Vacaville, Calif., and American
River College to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school
year.
The 5'11”, 290-pound Silva
was all-conference and all-county for Vacaville High School in football,
where he was twice named Vacaville's “Lineman of the Year”, and
all-state in rugby.
As a senior he posted 60
tackles, six sacks, and one interception under coach Fred Jones.
At American River College
, Silva was all-conference and All-Northern California for coach
Don Dillon after posting 77 tackles, 26 for losses and three sacks.
He was named ARC's “Most Valuable Player.”
“We are extremely happy to
have Mike decide to join our program,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College football coach. “He will provide quality depth on our defensive
line. He has the ability and athleticism to play any of the front
positions.”
“Mike is a very good student
and will be a great addition to our campus community.”
Mike is the son of Donald
and Caroline Silva of Vacaville, Calif. He plans to major in history
at McPherson College.
*****
Canton-Galva's
Schmidt joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Ryan Schmidt of Galva, Kan., and Canton-Galva
High School to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school
year.
Joining
Ryan for his signing with McPherson College were his parents, Tammy
and Dennis Schmidt, and (back) McPherson College head coach David
Cunningham. (Photo by Steve Sell, McPherson Sentinel)
The 6'1”, 185-pound Schmidt
attended Hutchinson Community College and Kansas State University
following his 2003 graduation from Canton-Galva HS, but the action
of the playing field still beckoned, leading to his signing with
the Bulldogs.
During his prep career, Schmidt
was an honorable mention All-Heart of America wide receiver and
free safety for the Eagles. As a senior, he had 16 receptions, good
for 427 yards and six touchdowns as well as 72 tackles and one interception
for coach Randall Rogers.
“I missed playing,” said
Schmidt. “I want to get back on the field. I like their style of
offense.”
“We recruited Ryan last year
before he decided to attend K-State,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College football coach. “We're pleased he decided he wanted to return
home and play some more football. Ryan will receive all the benefits
academically of a small, private school.”
“We plan to play him at wide
receiver. He was a good two-way player at Canton-Galva, but we feel
he will help us out more on the offensive side of the ball.”
“We are glad Ryan has decided
to return home and attend McPherson College .”
Ryan is the son of Dennis and Tammy
Schmidt of Galva, Kan. He intends to major in elementary education
at McPherson College.
*****
Duncan
inks with Mac football
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Robert “Bobby” Duncan of Scurry, Texas, to
a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 6'2”, 215-pound Duncan
was a first team all-district outside linebacker selection as a
senior for Scurry-Rosser High School after being named first team
all-district as a defensive back his junior season. As a sophomore,
Duncan was named second team all-district as both a defensive back
and wide receiver.
“Bobby has the ability to
play each of our linebacker positions,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College football coach. “He also has the size to play at defensive
end, if need be.”
“Bobby is he is just as good
a person as he is a player. I am excited about his decision to join
our program and further his education at McPherson College .”
An all-around athlete, Duncan
lettered four years in football, three in baseball, two in basketball,
and one year in track at Scurry-Rosser HS.
Bobby is the son of Molly
Mendez of Scurry, Texas, and Ray Duncan, who played baseball at
Stephen F. Austin College.
*****
Hale
inks with Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Harlan Dwight Hale of Colorado Springs , Colo.
, and Mitchell High School , to a football letter of intent for
the 2005-2006 school year.
A 2003 graduate of Mitchell
HS, Hale was second team all-state and first team All-Area and all-conference
selection following his junior season when he caught 35 passes for
539 yards and eight touchdowns.
As a senior, the 5'9”, 175-pounder
caught 19 passes for four touchdowns and 249 yards, and for the
second straight season Hale was a first team coaches' pick.
Captain of both the Mitchell
High football and basketball teams as a senior, Dwight was also
an All-Area honorable mention pick in basketball.
Following his graduation
from Mitchell HS, Hale attended Adams State University for one year.
“Dwight is a very explosive
football player,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College football
coach. “He was a big play guy in high school, both on offense and
defense. We anticipate playinig him at the wide receiver position
here at McPherson College .”
“Dwight was a high school
teammate of three current Bulldogs, Asia Caruth, Jeff Cooks, and
Brednan Netherton that joined our program this spring. All four
played together at Mitchell High School and visited in January.
His teammates were able to transfer here for second semester, and
get their base established academically as well as participate in
our winter program and spring practices.”
“Dwight will have to play
a little catch up this summer, but he should be fine.”
“We have been very happy
with Asia , Jeff, and Brendan. They have fit in well in the classroom,
the football program, and the campus community. Their positive experiences
here encouraged Dwight to choose McPherson College as his college
home.”
“Coach (Jason) Chalashtari recruits
the state of Colorado, and did a good job of enticing all of these
young men to enroll at McPherson.”
Dwight is the son of Terrie and Williams
Porter of Colorado Springs , Colo. Hale plans to major in education
at McPherson College.
*****
Luter
joins Bulldogs
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of James Brandon Luter of Bayfield, Colo., to
a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Photo by Tish Nelson
Brandon
Luter is joined for his letter of signing by (front) his father,
Jim Luter, and mother, Cindy Malone, along with (back, left) Bayfield
HS head coach Dave Close, BHS principal Gary Strubel, and Bayfield
head wrestling coach and defensive coach Herb Stinson.
The 6'1”, 220-pound Luter
received all-state recognition as a senior, concluding a three-time
all-conference career at Bayfield High School in football under
coach Dave Close.
Luter was a two-time participant
in the Colorado state wrestling championships under coach Herb Stinson,
placing fifth as a senior while wrestling with a wrist injury sustained
in football that required post-wrestling season surgery.
“ Brandon is an extremely
hard nosed football player,” said Jason Chalashtari, McPherson College
offensive line coach and offensive coordinator. “This is evident
by the fact he played in every game last fall even though he had
suffered a hand injury that required surgery immediately following
the season.”
“ Brandon is also his class
valedictorian, which speaks for itself regarding his abilities in
the classroom.”
“We anticipate Brandon playing
defensive end, and we look for big things out of him on our special
teams as well.”
“We are very pleased to have
Brandon joining our football program.”
The valedictorian of his
senior class, Brandon was a two-time All-Intermountain League academic
first team selection.
“He's just a great kid,”
Close told The Durango Herald after the signing. “I remember when
he came in here, he was kind of a chubby kid. Now he's a great player
and a great student; that's the best part.”
“Obviously, he's an outstanding
young man as far as wrestling and football are concerned,” said
Stinson. “But, (playing) ball is one thing. His ability to learn
and perhaps become a doctor is extra special.”
Brandon is the son of Cindy
Malone and Jim Luter of Bayfield , Colo. Brandon plans to major
in biochemistry at McPherson College with the career goal of following
in the footsteps of his grandfather, the late Dr. Patrick W. Luter,
and becoming a surgeon.
[Thanks to Gregory Moore
of The Durango Herald for his contribution to this release and Tish
Nelson for the use of her photograph of Brandon 's signing.]
*****
Maize's
Anderson signs with Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Richard Anderson III of Wichita , Kan. , and
Maize High School to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006
school year.
Joining
Richard Anderson III for his letter of intent signing were (front)
his parents Evelyn and Richard D. Anderson, Jr. along with (standing,
left) Larry Becker, Maize HS head football coach and David Cunningham,
McPherson College head football coach.
The 5'11”, 195-pound Anderson
played on the both the offensive and defensive lines at Maize High
for coach Larry Becker.
“Richard is an outstanding
student,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football
coach. “He comes from a very good high school program at Maize,
under coach Becker.”
“Coach Becker highly recommended
Richard, who plays the line on both sides of the ball. This is a
position for which we always need players.”
“The importance of first
finding the right academic program, and then seeing whether he could
continue playing at that level was immediately evident with Richard.
First, we had the academic program he wanted, auto restoration,
and then, yes, he wanted to continue playing.”
“Richard will be a great
asset to our program and our campus community.”
Richard is the son of Evelyn
and Richard Anderson, Jr. of Wichita , Kan. He plans to major in
automotive restoration technology at McPherson College .
*****
Balman
joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Jeffrey Balman of Jetmore, Kan., and Dodge
City Community College, to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006
school year.
Joining
Jeff Balman in his letter of intent signed are (front, left) Balman
and David Snodgrass, McPherson assistant coach, and (back, left)
McPherson College head coach David Cunningham.
The 6'0”, 230-pound Balman
played his high school football at Jetmore High School under coach
Kevin Ayers before moving on to Dodge City CC where he received
All-Jayhawk Conference recognition as a fullback under coach John
Rosetti.
During his prep career, Balman
was a first team All-State performer for the Longhorns as well as
an All-SPAA-Iroquois League selection. As a senior, he rushed for
1,300 yards and scored 23 touchdowns.
“I looked at McPherson coming
out of high school,” said Balman. “Going to Dodge was a good experience
and I learned a lot while there. But, McPherson is a good fit, academically
and athletically.”
“Jeff is a very good running
back,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College football coach.
“With our running back situation somewhat up in the air, it was
important to add a talented, experienced back like Jeff.”
“Jeff brings a lot of versatility
to the game. We expect to play him at the 3-back in our one back
sets, and at both the 2- and 3-back spots in our two (back) sets.
Jeff has the necessary size and skills to also play some tight end,
if we needed him to. Special teams are an area where he can also
shine.”
“Coach (David) Snodgrass
recruited Jeff out of high school before Jeff decided to attend
Dodge City . Being from the same area, Coach has known Jeff for
some time, and it is fitting that his final recruit is from his
home area.”
“Jeff's college experience
(at Dodge City CC) will be a big plus for him,” said coach Snodgrass.
“He will be able to come in and compete for playing time right away.”
“I've known Jeff since I
was playing here (at McPherson). We would work out together while
he was in high school. It's nice to know that my last recruit is
one from around home.”
Jeff is the son of Brad and
Marlys Balman of Jetmore , Kan. Balman intends to major in pre-law
at McPherson College.
*****
Wellington
's Newberry signs with Bulldogs
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Derrick Newberry of Wellington , Kan. , to
a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Ryan Newberry
is joined for his Bulldog letter of intent signing by his mother,
Stephanie Newberry, and (back, left) McPherson College head coach
David Cunningham and Wellington High head coach Linn Hibbs.
The 5'9”, 215-pound Newberry
was a three-year starter on Wellington High's offensive line in
addition to starting his senior season on the defensive line. He
was named to the Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail League Division III first
team in 2004 as both an offensive and defensive lineman, plus earned
Class 4A All-State honorable mention honors.
Derrick was part of the Crusaders'
2002 state championship team. During Newberry's three years as a
starter, Wellington compiled a 32-6 record, and won district titles
in 2003 and 2004 as well as league titles in 2002 and 2004.
“Derrick is a very good offensive
lineman and we are always looking for quality linemen,” said David
Cunningham, McPherson College football coach. “He played in a championship
program at Wellington , for an excellent coach in Linn Hibbs. We
feel the lessons he learned there will serve him well in the KCAC.”
“We believe Derrick will
also excel academically.”
“Current Bulldog Daniel Farley
recommended Derrick and that was a key reason we recruited him so
hard. When you have a quality student-athlete, like Daniel, in your
program, then you certainly jump at the chance to add one of his
former teammates. We expect Derrick to play the guard position on
both the varsity and junior varsity squads next fall.”
Derrick is the son of Stephanie
Newberry of Wellington , Kan.
Derrick plans to major in
business administration at McPherson College .
*****
Rose
Hill's McDiffett joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Ryan McDiffett of Rose Hill, Kan., to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Joining
Ryan McDiffett the signing of his letter of intent with McPherson
College were (left) hisgrandfather Ivan Rees, sister Kayli, mother
Susan McDiffett , sister Tracy, father Kirk McDiffett, and grandmother
Connie Wenciker.
The 5'8”, 165-pound McDiffett
was named to the Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division III all-league
team as a linebacker following the 2004 season. He also received
honorable mention Class 4A All-State honors after being named the
Rose Hill “Defensive Player of the Year.”
McDiffett finished the 2004
season with 78 total tackles, 37 of which were unassisted and 13
for losses. He was credited with two sacks, 15 quarterback hurries,
three pass breakups, two caused fumbles, one recovered fumble and
one blocked punt.
“We believe Ryan has the
skills to play either at an outside linebacker spot or a strong
safety/rover,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College football
coach. “He should also be a valuable special teams player.”
“We are pleased to get Ryan,
who will be our first recruit out of Rose Hill High School . Rose
Hill is an excellent school academically and its football program
is of high quality as shown by their surprising run to the state
championship game last fall.”
“Ryan was well coached by
Greg Slade at Rose Hill. Having players that know what it takes
to win championships will help further fan the flames of our current
players' desire to win the KCAC championship.”
“Ryan will compete for playing
time as a freshman, and will be on both our varsity and JV teams.”
Ryan is the son of Kirk and
Susan McDiffett of Rose Hill, Kan.
*****
Moreno
joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Renieri Moreno of Wilmington , Calif. , and
Los Angeles Harbor College , to a football letter of intent for
the 2005-2006 school year.
Joining
Renieri Moreno in his signing with the Bulldogs were (front) his
brother-in-law Michael FucherII and (back, left) McPherson College
head coach David Cunningham and McPherson assistant coach/defensive
coordinator Bill Minard.
The 5'11”, 274-pound Moreno
played his high school football at Banning High School under coach
Ed LauLau before moving on to Harbor College to play for coach Steve
Schmitz..
“Offensive linemen have been
our number one recruiting priority this off-season,” said David
Cunningham, McPherson College football coach. “We especially wanted
to sign several junior college players who would be ready to contribute
right away. This would not only improve our starting line, but build
quality depth plus increase the level of competition in that unit.”
“Renieri definitely fits
the type of player we wanted to bring to McPherson College . Because
of the location of his junior college, schools didn't seem to be
aware of him. This worked to our advantage.”
“Renieri is excited about
coming here and we are excited about him joining our program. We
expect him to do well both in the classroom and on the field.”
Renieri is the son of Gladys
Chauarria of Wilmington , Calif.
Joining Renieri Moreno
in his signing with the Bulldogs were (front) his brother-in-law
Michael FucherII and (back, left) McPherson College head coach David
Cunningham and McPherson assistant coach/defensive coordinator Bill
Minard.
*****
Bulldogs
sign two from Franklin Parish
McPherson College has announced the
recent signings of LaJerrick Taylor and Kenny Kitchen of Winnsboro
, Louisiana, and Franklin Parish High School to football letters
of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
The 5'9”, 230-pound Taylor
received All-District honors as a linebacker and fullback following
his senior season at Franklin Parish High School in Winnsboro.
Joining
LaJerrick and his mother, Paulamena Smith, for his letter of intent
signing were (standing, left) John Brown, principal of Franklin
Parish HS, and Randy Peters, Franklin Parish head football coach.
He was credited with 78 tackles
and one interception on defense while rushing for over 700 yards
and nine touchdowns from the fullback spot on the offensive side.
LaJerrick was also received
the school's strongest man award after setting school records his
final three years in the weight room.
“We really liked what we
saw on film and how both Kenny and LaJerrick interacted with our
players when they visited campus.”
“LaJerrick is a very good
fullback,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football
coach. “He will provide us with some very good size and speed at
the fullback position.”
“LaJerrick will be a great
addition to our group of running backs.”
“Our entire staff is really
excited about LaJerrick's signing.”
LaJerrick is the son of Paulamena
and Vincent Smith of Winnsboro , La. Kyle plans to major in sociology
at McPherson College .
The 5'11”, 180-pound Kitchen
received All-District honors as a wingback his sophomore year before
being named All-District as a quarterback as a senior for Franklin
Parish High School in Winnsboro.
Kenneth
Kitchen was joined by (front, left) his mother Inok Kitchen and
sister Cecily, along with (standing, left) John Brown, Franklin
Parish High School principal, Kenny's father Frank Kitchen, and
Randy Peters, Franklin Parish head football coach.
He was credited with 1,206
yards passing and 800 yards rushing at Franklin Parish.
Kenny was also an All-District
selection in baseball for three years during which he hit .365 and
had an 18-9 record with a 2.38 ERA as a pitcher.
“We are very excited about
Kenny deciding to join our program. He is a very good athlete and
will compete for playing time at one of our corner spots.”
“We are pleased to sign two
quality young men like Kenny and LaJerrick (Taylor) out of Franklin
Parish.”
Kenneth is the son of Inok
and Frank Kitchen of Winnsboro , La.
*****
Gray
signs with Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of John Brison Gray of Crescent, Okla. , to a
football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Joining
Brison Gray in his letter of intent signing are (front) his parents,
John and Audrey Gray, along with (back) Shawn Booth, Crescent HS
head football coach.
The 5'11”, 155-pound Gray
was Oklahoma District A-3 Special Teams player of the year as a
senior. He also received All-District recognition as a defensive
back and was named to the All-District defensive squad as a senior.
Following his junior season, Gray was named to the All-County special
teams unit.
Gray was a four-year letter
winner in football in addition to lettering three times in basketball
and once in baseball.
“Brison is a very good kicker,”
said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football coach. “He
gets good distance on his kick-offs and has good range and accuracy
on his PATs and field goals.”
“He is also a solid defensive
back. Currently, we're planning on working him strictly as a kicker,
but depending on our depth in the secondary, he is good enough he
could help us there also.”
“Brison is an excellent student.
He and Cody Dickerson (a current McPherson College basketball player)
were classmates at Crescent High School .”
“With the addition of Brison,
we will have several quality kickers in the program. This competition
will help all of them improve to their fullest potential.”
Brison is the son of Audrey
and John Gray of Crescent, Okla.
*****
Gurss
signs to join Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Kyle Gurss of Leavenworth , Kan. , to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Kyle Gurss
is joined for his McPherson College letter of intent signing by
(front) his parents Sandy and Gary along with (back) Steve Watkins,
Pleasant Ridge HS defensive coordinator and assistant coach.
The 6'0”, 190-pound Gurss
was an All-Delaware Valley League selection for Easton-Pleasant
Ridge High School under coach Chris Powers.
As a senior, he recorded
63 tackles, 6.5 sacks, recovered three fumbles and blocked one punt.
“We are very happy to have
Kyle join our football program at McPherson College ,” said David
Cunningham, McPherson College head football coach. “Kyle and his
family have visited our campus several times, dating back to his
junior year in high school. He also attended our summer campus last
year so he is very familiar with our school and the football program.”
“Kyle comes from a quality
family. He is a very good student and will be a very positive addition
to our campus community.”
“Kyle played in a solid high
school program and was well coached at Pleasant Ridge. He played
several positions in high school. That versatility will allow him
the opportunity of playing several positions in college. We are
looking at him first on the defensive side of the ball, either at
end or linebacker.”
“This type of family and
school background enhances his chances of being successful, both
in the classroom and on the field.”
Kyle is the son of Gary and
Sandy Gurss of Leavenworth , Kan.
Kyle plans to major in graphic design at McPherson College .
*****
Wentling
coming home; joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Josh Wentling of McPherson , Kan. , and Butler
County Community College to a football letter of intent for the
2005-2006 school year.
The 6'1”, 205-pound Wentling
played the past two years at perennial national junior college Butler
County CC, after graduating from McPherson High School in 2003.
Josh Wentling
isjoined in his letter of intent signing by (front) his parents,
Joy and Wade Wentling and (back) David Cunningham, McPherson College
head football coach.
“We are very pleased to
have Josh joining our program,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College football coach. “There are a lot of positives in having
him join us. He'll bring maturity, a winning attitude, plus it is
always good to have local players play integral roles in you college
and athletic program.”
“To be on the active roster
for two seasons (at Butler County CC ) is very impressive. You don't
make that roster unless you can play. The people he's practiced
against, the people he's played against are going to help him immeasurably.”
“Josh brings not only the
experience of winning, but even more importantly, the experience
of preparing to win. They ( Butler County CC ) lost one game the
two years he was there. That does not happen just by showing up
on game day and playing hard. You have to practice hard, train hard,
and compete hard every day in practice; both during the season and
off-season. That type of approach is what we are trying to instill
in all our players. Josh will already have that.”
“We tried to recruit Josh
two years ago. Now, he is even more mature, and has two years of
experience in a great program.”
“We a definitely glad we
were able to successfully recruit Josh this time around.”
During his time at BCCC,
the Grizzlies were 23-1, going undefeated and winning the 2003 NJCAA
national title when they defeated Dixie State College of Utah in
the Dixie Bowl, then finishing second in 2004 when they went 11-1
and fell to Pearl River CC of Mississippi , in the national championship,
Dalton Defenders Bowl in Coffeyville.
Josh is the son of Wade and
Joy Wentling of McPherson , Kan. Part of an athletic family, Josh's
father played football at Kansas State University.
He plans to major in physical
education at McPherson College.
*****
Bevan
joins Mac gridders
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Cody Bevan of Macksville , Kan. , to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Joining
Cody Bevan in his signing with McPherson College are (front, left)
his parents Allen and Denise Bevan, sister Sheila, along with (back,
left) brother Derek, McPherson College head football coach Dave
Cunningham and Macksville High head football coach Dan Grizzell.
The 6'0”, 180-pound Bevan
lettered two years in football for Macksville High under Dan Grizzell,
McPherson College class of 1995.
“We saw Cody on film and
like the way he played,” said David Cunningham, McPherson College
football coach. “He played nose tackle at Macksville, but we will
play him at either outside backer or strong safety.”
“Even though he was a nose
on film, we like the way he moved laterally and pursued to the ball.
He is also a solid tackler which will help him in this move the
outside.”
“Cody has strong McPherson
connections with his sister Sheila here and coach Grizzell being
a McPherson graduate.”
Cody is the son of Allen
and Denice Bevan of Macksville , Kan.
Cody plans to major in auto
restoration/business management at McPherson College .
His sister Sheila, a junior
majoring in sociology and psychology, is a member of the Lady Bulldogs'
basketball and track & field teams.
Cody's father played basketball
for Barton County Community College in the early 1970's and his
sister Tessa played basketball at Pratt County CC.
*****
California
QB signs with Bulldogs
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Patrick Luz of Fortuna, Calif., and the College
of the Redwoods to a football letter of intent for the 2005-2006
school year.
Joining
Patrick Lux in his signing with McPherson College are (front, left)
his mother, Becky, and father, Mark Luz.
The 6'4”, 190-pound Luz
was Mariposa High School 's MVP after throwing for over 1,200 yards
and 17 touchdowns as a senior and earning honorable mention all-state
honors.
The past two years at the
College of the Redwoods in Eureka , Calif. , Luz threw for over
3,000 yards and 21 touchdowns.
“We are very happy that Patrick
has decided to join our program,” said David Cunningham, McPherson
College head football coach. “He had an excellent career at College
of the Redwoods, throwing for over 3,000 yards in his two years
there.”
“Patrick and his father visited
here in January, and we felt it was a good fit for everyone involved.”
“With Wade Pederson and Darin
Donaho already in the program, this gives us three quality quarterbacks.
We still hope to add at least two freshmen quarterbacks.”
Patrick is the son of Mark
and Becky Luz of Fortuna , Calif.
Luz plans to major in computer
science at McPherson College .
[JPEG file of Luz signing
is available upon request. Shown are Patrick along with his parents,
Mark and Becky Luz.
*****
Independence CC's
Jarrett signs with Bulldogs
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Devin Jarrett of Independence , Kan., to a
football letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
.jpg)
Joining
Devin Jarrett in his signing with McPherson College are (front,
left) his brother, Levi Jarrett, wife Ashley and son Payton, Devin,
and his father, Mack Jarrett, along with (back, left) McPherson
College head coach David Cunningham and McPherson assistant/defensive
coordinator Bill Minard.
The 6'0”, 200-pound Jarrett
graduated from Independence High School in 2002, then spent the
past two years at Independence Community College where he played
for Kent Keith.
“Devin played against our
JV team in 2003 while at Independence Community College,” said David
Cunningham, McPherson College head football coach. “We were very
impressed with him then and coach Minard and coach Snodgrass began
recruiting him right after our game ended.
“Devin got married, and he
and Ashley wanted to wait a year before coming to school here. Coach
Minard stayed in touch with Devin, and now they are moving to McPherson
along with their son Payton.
“Devin will play at both
of our safety spots and also on special teams. He is the fourth
Independence CC player to join the McPherson program playing here
in 2003.”
As a senior at Independence
High School , Jarrett was named to the All-Southeast Kansas League
first team as an outside linebacker.
Jarrett was a two-year, two-sport
letter winner at Independence High, where he played football under
coach Luke Claar.
Devin is married, and he
and his wife, Ashley, are the parents of a son, Payton, born last
July.
Devin is the son of Mack
Jarrett of Independence , Kan. He and his two brothers are all Eagle
Scouts.
Jarrett plans to major in
physical education and minor in business at McPherson College ,
with a career goal of teaching at the secondary level and coaching.
*****
McLouth's Harrison
inks with Mac
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Ripp Harrison of McLouth , Kan. , to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
.jpg)
Ripp
Harrison (front, right) is joined for his McPherson College letter
of intent signing by his mother Micky McKillip and (back, left)
his father Brian Harrison, brother Gus Harrison, and McLouth HS
head football coach Harry Hester.
The 5'8”, 212-pound Harrison
will be a May graduate of McLouth High School, where he was an All-Delaware
Valley League honorable mention kicker for coach Harry Hester.
A team captain for McLouth
High, Harrison also received the Brammel Award and Gatorage Special
Teams Player of the Year for the Bulldogs.
“Ripp played offensive and
defensive line at McLouth, however he excelled as a kicker and punter,”
said David Cunningham, McPherson College head football coach. “He
will concentrate on kicking and punting as a freshman.
“We'll see how much size
and strength he can put on in the off-season before deciding whether
to add the role of position player to his kicking and punting duties
as a sophomore.
“Ripp visited twice in the
fall and it was obvious McPherson College was a good fit for him,
both academically and athletically. We are happy to have Ripp join
our program. It is always great to have a student-athlete who really
wants to be at your school.
Ripp is the son of Brian
Harrison and Micky McKillip of McLouth, Kan.
Harrison plans to major in
art at McPherson College .
*****
11
join Bulldog football at semester
McPherson College has announced
that 11 more student-athletes have enrolled and are attending class
this semester with the intent of being part of the Bulldog football
program for the 2005-2006 school year.
The group of student-athletes
include Brandon Babock of Placerville, Calif., Jon Bullock of Wichita,
Kan., Asia Caruth of Colorado Springs, Colo., Jeffrey Cooks of Colorado
Springs, Colo., Ryan Flores of Bermuda Dunes, Calif., Greg Freeman
of Tulsa, Okla., David Mayers of Chandler, Ariz., Jeremiah Meeks
of Hanston, Kan., Brendan Netherton of Colorado Springs, Colo.,
Wade Pederson of Nampa, Idaho, and Ian York of Sacramento, Calif.
Above
are 11 football signees on-campus for the spring semester of 2005.
Pictured are (front, left to right) Jeff Cooks, Brendan Netherton,
Asia Caruth, Jon Bullock Greg Freeman, and Jeremiah Meeks; (back,
left) Ryan Flores, Wade Pederson, Ian York, Coach David Cunningham,
Brandon Babcock, and David Mayers.
“We are very happy with
the 12 players that have joined our program over interterm and for
the spring semester,” said McPherson head coach David Cunningham.
“We feel like we have addressed at least some of our recruiting
needs right away.
“We feel pretty good about
our defense, but we signed several players who will have a change
to step and play at the linebacker spots and in the secondary.
“Offensively, we signed a
couple of linemen which is our highest priority in recruiting this
year.
“Wade (Pederson) coming back
is big because we need an experienced, mature quarterback. Wade
has not played since the 2002 season opener, but if he can regain
the form of his freshman campaign, he will be a big boost.
“We currently have 54 players
on campus and hope to bring in 35 to 40 more.”
Wade Pederson returns
to McPherson College after suffering a severe knee injury in the
opening game of the 2002 season, and following surgery and extensive
rehabilitation of that injury. Following an All-State career at
Skyview High School in Nampa , the 6'0”, 200-pound Pederson was
an Honorable Mention All-KCAC pick as a freshman after throwing
for 1,901 yards and 14 touchdowns on 169 completions in 339 attempts.
He also rushed for 285 yards. The son of Reggie and Barb Pederson
Nampa, Wade is majoring in business management at McPherson.
Brandon Babcock is
a 2003 graduate of ElDorado High School in Placerville , Calif.
The 6'0”, 225-pound Babcock has played the past two seasons at American
River College in Sacramento , Calif. , under coach Don Dillon. The
son of Jeff and Tess Babcock of Placerville , Calif. , Brandon will
be majoring in Spanish at McPherson.
Ian Daniel York graduated
from Nevada Union High School in Grass Valley , Calif. , where he
was a teammate of former Bulldog Matt Marcus in 1999. The 6'1”,
210-pound York attended Sterling College in 2002 before returning
to California where he attended American River College this past
semester. A secondary education/physical education major at McPherson,
York is the son of Dan and Debbie York of Sacramento , Calif.
Jon Bullock was a
2003 graduate of Wichita Southeast High School , where he lettered
two years in football and one in track. The past two seasons the
5'11”, 170-pound Bullock has been at Independence Community College
, Independence , Kan. , where he threw for 300 yards of the offensive
side of the ball and was credited with 23 tackles, seven pass breakups,
and one interception this past fall. The son of Scott and Tammie
Bullock of Wichita , Jon will be majoring in business at McPherson.
Ryan Flores is a 2003
graduate of LaQuinta High School in LaQuinta , Calif. , where he
was named to the All-California Southern Section team as well as
the Los Angeles Times “Desert/Mountain” team after being part of
three league championship and two CIF championship teams. He then
attended College of Desert in Palm Springs , Calif. , where the
5'7”, 215-pounder was team captain as an offensive lineman. The
son of Ruben and Ignacia Flores of Bermuda Dunes, Calif. , Ryan
plans to major in physical education.
Greg Freeman graduated
last spring from Lincoln Christian High School in Tulsa , Okla.
An honorable mention All-Oklahoma selection, the 6'5”, 235-pound
Freeman was Lincoln Christian's defensive MVP after posting 15 sacks
as junior and 11 as a senior. He was team captain his junior and
senior seasons, and was selected to participate in the Jim Thorpe
All-Oklahoman all-star game. This past semester, he attended the
University of Tulsa . The son of Gary Freeman, Greg intends to major
in business administration at McPherson College .
David Mayers was a
2003 graduate of Red Mountain High School in Mesa, Ariz, where he
received all-conference recognition his junior and senior seasons.
As a senior, the 6'0”, 210-pound Mayers was credited with 86 tackles,
7 sacks, 3 caused fumbles, 3 recovered fumbles, and 2 interceptions.
The past two years he has attended Mesa Community College , where
he played for coach Dan Dunn. At Mesa , he was credited with 82
tackles, 5 sacks, 2 caused and 2 recovered fumbles, and an interception.
A secondary education major at McPherson, David is the son of Mike
and Judy Mayers of Chandler , Ariz.
Jeremiah Meeks graduated
from Hanston , Kan. , High School in the spring of 2004. A 3-year
letter winner in football, basketball, and track, the 6'2”, 250-pound
Meeks was a member of Hanston's 2001 and 2002 state championship
8-man teams. Meeks earned All-Santa Fe Trail League and All-State
honors his final two prep seasons. The son of Roxann and Ralph Fuchs
of Hanston , Kan. , Jeremiah plans to major in elementary education.
Three members of the incoming
class come from Mitchell High School in Colorado Springs , Colo.
, where they were teammates.
Asia Caruth, a 2003
graduate of Mitchell HS, was an all-conference selection as a senior.
A two-year letter winner in football and one in track, the 5'11”,
200-pound Caruth attended Fort Lewis College in Durango , Colo.
, following his graduation. Asia is the son of Richard Caruth, who
ran track at the University of Colorado , and Sheila Caruth of Colorado
Springs . Asia plans to major in business at McPherson.
Jeffrey Cooks was
an all-conference and all-area selection in football, and an honorable
mention all-area pick in basketball during his time at Mitchell
High School . The 2003 Mitchell graduate was credited with 85 tackles,
and five interceptions as a senior in addition to two rushing touchdowns
and a pair of TD receptions. The 6'1”, 185-pound Cooks is the son
of Norman Cooks of Colorado Springs . Jeffrey will be majoring in
journalism at McPherson College .
Brendan Netherton
graduated from Mitchell HS in 2003. A baseball as well as football
letterman at Mitchell, Netherton received honorable all-league honors
after being named “Player of the Week” four times.
The 5'9”, 155-pound Netherton
will be the second member of his family to wear the red and white
of McPherson College . His older brother Shane, who graduated from
McPherson College in the spring of 2003, competed in cross country
and track for the Bulldogs. Brendan is the son of Sharon Netherton
of Colorado Springs , Colo. , and will be majoring in physical education.
*****
Bulldogs sign Pratt's
Krehbiel
McPherson College has announced
the recent signing of Jeff Krehbiel of Pratt , Kan. , to a football
letter of intent for the 2005-2006 school year.
Joining
McPherson College head coach David Cunningham in welcoming Jeff
Krehbiel to McPherson College are Jeff's parents, Bruce '75 and
Geneva Krehbiel '75.
The 6'5”, 235-pound Krehbiel graduated
from Pratt High School in 2004, then spent first semester of the
2004-2005 school year at Wichita State University,
and is currently enrolled
at McPherson.
“We are pleased that Jeff
has decided he wants to continue playing football, and especially
that he wants to do it at McPherson College ,” said David Cunningham,
McPherson College head football coach. “He has the size and skills
to help us both at tight end and as a long snapper. We needed
a long-snapper, because of Randy Ladd's graduation, and Jeff will
fill that need.
“Having Jeff on campus and
as part of our off-season program should ease the transition back
into the game after not playing last fall.”
As a senior at Pratt High,
Krehbiel was named the Greenback's “Most Improved” as a defensive
end and tight end.
A three-sport letter winner
in high school, Jeff qualified for the Class 4A state golf tournament
and averaged eight points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, and two assists
a game as a senior.
A three-sport letter winner
in high school, Jeff qualified for the Class 4A state golf tournament
and averaged eight points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, and two assists
a game as a senior.
The son of Bruce and Geneva
Krehbiel of Pratt, Kan. , Jeff will be a fourth generation Bulldog.
He follows not only his sisters Lindsay and Beth to McPherson College
, where they played tennis and ran track, respectively, but also
in the footsteps of his parents, grandparents (Merrill and Eulalia
Crist Sanger) and great-grandmother (Metilda Quellhost Sanger).
Jeff's father played golf
at McPherson College while his grandfather Larry Krehbiel played
football during his time on the hill. Jeff's brother Nick
played football for one season at Fort Hays State University before
an injury ended his playing career.
Krehbiel plans to major in
accounting at McPherson College .
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