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Read: Freshman goalie Henry Dill off to fast start for UMass hockey team
University of Massachusets Athletics
blog 2014 10
October 2014 Archives
In today's Daily Hampshire Gazette, Matt Vautour takes a look at the play of freshman goaltender and current Hockey East Rookie of the Week Henry Dill, while also previewing UMass hockey's weekend at Maine and giving a mention to the start of "Movember".
UMass field hockey hosts Syracuse for its final non-conference game of the 2014 season on Saturday, Nov. 1 at 1 p.m. The last time these teams faced off at Garber Field the Minutewomen defeated then-No. 1 nationally ranked Syracuse to start a 10-game winning streak that culminated with an appearance in the 2012 NCAA Tournament.
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | ||
| Game 18 | Massachusetts (9-8 overall) vs. No. 7 Syracuse (12-4) | |
| Date | Time | Saturday, Nov. 1 | 1:00 p.m. | |
| Location | Garber Field; Amherst, Mass. | |
| Series History | Syracuse leads, 17-7-1. Last meeting: Syracuse 2, UMass 1; Sept. 13, 2013 | |
| Live Statistics | ||
| Watch | Atlantic 10 Digital Network | |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | Syracuse | |
@UMassFH  | @UMassAthletics | ||
| UMass Field Hockey | ||
More on the field hockey team is available through UMassAthletics.com.
The UMass men's basketball team made quick work of AIC in an exhibition game on Thursday, defeating the Division II Yellow Jackets 120-71. Seven different players reached double figures in scoring and all 13 who dressed played at least five minutes.
Ross Gienieczko of the Daily Collegian has a preview of this week's road trip to UNC Asheville and Davidson.
The UMass women's lacrosse team wrapped up its fall ball season with the Minutewomen's annual competition week. During the week, the team splits up into two squads which compete against each other on and off the field. InsideLacrosse.com has all the details and photos.
The Massachusetts men's basketball team will play host to American International College Thursday at 7 p.m. in its lone exhibition contest prior to the start of the much anticipated 2014-15 season. The game will be shown online at UMassAthletics.com via the Atlantic 10 Digital Network with Josh Maurer and Jason Germain on the call.
| Massachusetts vs. American International - EXHIBITION | |
| Date | Thursday, Oct. 30 at 7:00 p.m. |
| Location | Amherst, Mass. | Mullins Center |
| Tickets |  Admission is free | Call 866-UMASS-TIX for 2014-15 regular-season ticket info |
| TV |  None |
| Radio |  None |
| Online Video | Atlantic 10 Digital Network ($) | Packages range from $4.95-$99.95 |
| Live Stats |  |
| Social Media |  @UMassAthletics | @UMassBasketball | @CoachKellogg |
| Promotions | Select-A-Seat | Halloween Costume Contest |
Trey Davis spoke with Dan Malone about how offseason ankle surgery has helped the junior guard get over lingering pain that had persisted for close to four seasons after injuring it on his recruiting visit to George Washington during his senior year of high school.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette spoke with head coach Derek Kellogg about Jabarie Hinds' role of either starting or coming off the bench.
Dan Malone of MassLive.com has a starting lineup update as junior transfer Jabarie Hinds may not start, but that he's okay with that.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story looking at the bye week for UMass football and how it will help the Minutemen prepare for its nationally televised mid-week game against Ball State on Nov. 12 - a 16-day separation from the Toledo game.
Vautour states that coach Whipple gave the team four days off until having a team meeting on Thursday and practice on Friday. The coaching staff will also focus on recruiting during that time frame.
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican spoke with John McCutcheon on Wednesday about his thoughts on the progress the UMass football program has made during the first year of Mark Whipple's return as head coach.
"We go to MAC opponents now and I can see in the administrators when the games are over - particularly this past week (against Toledo) - that they know they got lucky getting away with a victory. They know they were in a dogfight," he said. "We're as competitive as any team in the MAC and we have the vast majority of the team coming back for next year. That is going to bring some expectations and I think we welcome that with open arms.
"We're really positioned for future success."
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Collegian has a starling lineup story focusing on the opportunity for Seth Berger to take a shot at starting Thursday's exhibition game against American International.
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has a story focusing on the goals of UMass football's extended bye week prior to the Ball State game. With 16 days between the Toledo and Ball State contests, the Minutemen will have some extra time to heal up injuries and address preparation for its nationally televised Wednesday night match-up against the Cardinals on Nov. 12 (8 PM).
The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitor's Bureau announced a partnership with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame to promote the 2014 Hall of Fame Holiday Showcase game between UMass and Florida Gulf Coast on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Michael Hurwitz of the Western Massachusetts Sports Commission announced that business and restaurants in the downtown Springfield area will decorate their buildings for the event.
A special Hall of Fame Tailgate was also announced that includes free admission to the Hall of Fame Museum and appearances by the UMass band, cheerleaders and Sam the Minuteman mascot.
Fans can purchase tickets to the game and use the promo code: TAILGATE to get a FREE pass to the Hall of Fame Tailgate. This offer is valid with purchase of the $41 and $22 tickets only and is limited to the first 300 people so secure your pass today!
Frank Corona has a preview of UMass women's soccer's trips to Richmond and Davidson this weekend, which will close out the regular season for the Minutewomen, and focuses on the importance of scoring first in the matches.
Read: UMass women's soccer attempts to retain playoff position with pair of weekend games
In today's Daily Collegian, Jason Kates previews UMass hockey's weekend road trip to Maine for a pair of Hockey East games. The Minutemen are wrapping up a string of six straight on the road with this weekend's contests in Orono.
Read: UMass hockey looks to end road trip on a high note with weekend series against Maine
Cyd Zeigler (@CydZeigler) of OutSports.com has a story on what things Derrick Gordon may face on and off the court this season, along with how his relationship has changed with his teammates over the past six months.
A year ago, University of Massachusetts shooting guard Derrick Gordon was contemplating his retirement from basketball. Hiding deep in the closet, Gordon had isolated himself from his teammates, choosing to spend each night alone in the gym or in his bedroom.
Six months ago he came to a crossroads in his life: Quit basketball or come out as a gay man. He chose the latter, making him the first active Div. 1 male athlete in basketball, baseball, football or hockey to come out publicly. As Robert Frost one said, "That has made all the difference."
Since coming out publicly and to his team last April, his relationships with his teammates have transformed. Whereas they suspected he was gay a year ago, Gordon taking the bold step of coming out liberated both him and his teammates. They now spend countless hours together on and off the practice court. Gordon no longer shies away from them, and according to Gordon they embrace him, inviting him to dinner, parties and to spend hours playing video games in their dorm rooms.
"When I see that it tells me they want me to be around and it makes me a lot more comfortable," Gordon told Outsports. "The gay thing doesn't even run through their heads. They don't care about it at all."
Read the entire article here...
Listen to the podcast of the October 28, 2014 edition of The Bud Light UMass Hockey Show on WHMP live from The Hangar Pub & Grill in Amherst. Head coach John Micheletto and player guests Oleg Yevenko and Shane Walsh discuss last weekend's games at Northeastern and Boston College and preview this weekend's two-game Hockey East series at Maine with hosts Brock Hines and Adam Frenier.
UMass field hockey won a 3-1 game at La Salle on Friday, Oct. 24. It marked the first multi-goal performance of the season for sophomore forward Izzie Delario and became the 50th win for Carla Tagliente as a head coach overall and with the Minutewomen. Matthew Zackman caught up with Delario and Tagliente this week for a story on the milestone:
UMass field hockey led by Delario, Tagliente in milestone day
On Tuesday Anthony Chiusano spoke with UMass hockey coach John Micheletto and freshman goaltender Henry Dill about the rookie's recent success in net for the Minutemen as Dill has made three straight starts for UMass and is the reigning Hockey East Rookie of the Week.
Read: Dill taking advantage of playing time in net for UMass hockey
With the team heading into the final weekend of the regular season with an Atlantic 10 Tournament berth on the line, Arthur Hayden takes a look at UMass women's soccer's recent success and the play of junior co-captain Jackie Bruno, who leads the team with six goals on the season.
Nick Casale of the Daily Collegian delves into the recent play of redshirt freshman goalkeeper Taylor Culp and freshman defender Matthew Mooney.
Success in the sports world is calculated by the number in the wins column opposed. However, the formula used to calculate the future success of any team requires a far more sophisticated, yet inexact science.
By looking strictly at the Massachusetts men's soccer team's record (2-12-1) it's easy to overlook how those individual components are gelling within the larger context of the team.
In Sunday's game against Fordham, the synergy of the young team was apparent as two freshmen - goalkeeper Taylor Culp and defender Matthew Mooney - stepped up and proved to be instrumental in the win.
Since arriving at UMass, Mooney has stepped into the starting lineup and played predominantly at left fullback. While his duties are mainly defensive, he also gives the Minutemen an option on the wing from overlapping runs and intelligent movement when UMass is in possession.
Against the Rams on Sunday, he found himself near goal in the 20th minute when ball bounced outside the box. He settled it and fired a shot off the post for his first collegiate goal, and put the Minutemen up 2-0.
"It was a good feeling and it was definitely a confidence booster for me," Mooney said. "To be honest, the goal came as a surprise, but I just found myself in a good position and I was able to finish."
Read the full article here...
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette spoke with UMass sophomore Seth Berger on Tuesday after practice and has an update on how the wing from Seattle is feeling after shin and wrist injuries.
Join head coach John Micheletto and player guests Oleg Yevenko and Shane Walsh tonight at 7 p.m. the Hangar Pub & Grill in Amherst for the Bud Light UMass Hockey Show. Coach Micheletto and hosts Brock Hines and Adam Frenier recap last weekend's games against Northeastern and Boston College and preview this weekend's two-game Hockey East series at Maine as the Minutemen wrap up a six-game road trip.
The live radio show airs from 7-8 p.m. on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9) in the Pioneer Valley. Additionally, fans can listen online at WHMP.com or by downloading the TuneIn Radio app on their mobile devices.
To interact with the broadcast team, tweet your questions for Coach Micheletto @UMassSportsNet or click here to "Ask the Coach". For additional information and a complete show schedule, visit our hockey radio information page.
The live radio show airs from 7-8 p.m. on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9) in the Pioneer Valley. Additionally, fans can listen online at WHMP.com or by downloading the TuneIn Radio app on their mobile devices.
To interact with the broadcast team, tweet your questions for Coach Micheletto @UMassSportsNet or click here to "Ask the Coach". For additional information and a complete show schedule, visit our hockey radio information page.
Victor Pusateri of the Daily Collegian has a feature story on junior freestyle specialist Alessandro Bomprezzi.
The Massachusetts men's swimming and diving team's season is underway and one swimmer that looks to carry over success from last year is Alessandro Bomprezzi.
Entering his junior season, Bomprezzi looks to add to his impressive resume that includes being named team MVP last year and owning the school record in three different freestyle events.
Last season was a coming out party for Bomprezzi, who emerged as one of UMass' strongest swimmers. The junior finished toward the top in the majority of his events, including winning gold in the 50-meter freestyle and bronze in the 1650-meter freestyle events at the Atlantic 10 Championship and breaking his own school record in the 1000-meter freestyle event against Fordham on Feb. 1.
Bomprezzi joined the Minutemen as a freshman in fall 2012 from his hometown of Scottsdale, Arizona. When asked why he chose a school on the opposite side of the country he said, "Well UMass offers everything I need both academically and athletically. The engineering program has been growing in the past few years and that caught my attention."
Now a veteran, Bomprezzi said it is important to him and his team that he continues to emerge as a leader. According to men's swimming coach Russ Yarworth, Bomprezzi has done just that.
"He's worked hard in practice and has stepped up for this team," Yarworth said. "He's setting a good example for the younger guys."
Read the entire story here...
Tyler Fiedler of the Daily Collegian has a recap of the men's and women's swimming & diving teams' dual meet at BU from Saturday.
Adam Aucoin of the Daily Collegian has a recap of men's soccer's 2-0 victory at Fordham on Sunday afternoon.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has an article on the progress of freshman guard C.J. Anderson.
AMHERST -- C.J. Anderson was about a stride behind Trey Davis when he hit midcourt in a 5-on-5 drill at UMass men's basketball practice.
Anderson was on defense when a teammate deflected a pass sending the ball bouncing quickly toward the opposite end of the floor.
By the time Anderson passed Davis it was too late to secure the ball, which bounced over the baseline out of the bounds. In one motion, the freshman leapt, grabbed the ball and caromed it off Davis to give his team possession.
Watching from the sideline, UMass coach Derek Kellogg smiled quickly, before resuming the action.
Anderson's "best attribute is he wants to win," Kellogg said. "Every drill we've done that's competitive he tries to win."
Read the complete story here...
University of Massachusetts field hockey alumnae Hannah Prince (2010-13) and Alesha Widdall (2008-11) helped Team USA finished a six-game test series in New Zealand with three wins, two losses and one draw against the host squad. The duo, along with volunteer assistant coach Melissa Gonzalez clinched the series with a 3-1 victory in the final game.
More is available on the series and Team USA here.
The University of Massachusetts field hockey team won its sixth consecutive Atlantic 10 Conference game as the squad took a 3-1 win from La Salle on the road at DeVincent Field in Philadelphia. Jamie Cushman has a recap of the action:
UMass field hockey continues win streak with victory over La Salle | Daily Collegian
University of Massachusetts women's basketball head coach Sharon Dawley traveled down to Richmond, Va., for the 2014 Atlantic 10 Media Day recently. The Atlantic 10 Digital Network filmed an interview session with Dawley during the day's events. Check it out through A10Live here.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a notebook focusing on UMass football's mentality coming down the home stretch. Despite being out of contention for bowl eligibility, the Minutemen say finishing this season strong over the next three games is a key goal.
The UMass women's soccer team capped off its 2014 home schedule with a 2-0 win over Duquesne on Senior Day this past Sunday. Frank Corona covered the match for the Daily Collegian.
Read: UMass women's soccer's offense shines in 2-0 victory over Duquesne
The UMass women's soccer team opened its 2-0-0 weekend with a victory against St. Bonaventure on Friday afternoon on Rudd Field. Arthur Hayden recapped the match for the Daily Collegian.
Read: UMass women's soccer breaks through against St. Bonaventure
Anthony Chiusano has a recap in today's Daily Collegian of UMass hockey's weekend split in Boston with Northeastern and #6 Boston College.
Toledo scored in the final minute of play and UMass was unable to find the equalizer in the final 34 seconds giving the Rockets a 42-35 win over the Minutemen on Saturday at the Glass Bowl.
- UMass puts scare in Toledo but falls short, 42-35 | GazetteNet.com
- Kareem Hunt lives up to the hype: Toledo back gashes UMass for 198 yards in first game back from injury | masslive.com
- Quick hits: UMass football can't complete comeback, falling 42-35 at Toledo | masslive.com
- Coach Mark Whipple on decision to let Toledo score late in UMass football loss: 'I thought that was the only chance we had to win' | masslive.com
- Massachusetts Minutemen vs. Toledo Rockets - Recap - October 25, 2014 - ESPN Boston
- UMass falls to Toledo on late TD - Sports - The Boston Globe
- UMass defense can't stop late Toledo surge, Minutemen fall 42-35 : The Daily Collegian
- UT wins on dramatic touchdown
- IN PICTURES: UMass at Toledo
In case you missed it, UMass picked up its first Hockey East win of the season last night at Northeastern, defeating the Huskies, 3-2 at Matthews Arena.
Several news outlets had coverage of the victory:
Boston Herald: UMass stops Northeastern
USCHO.com: Auvenshine's third-period goal gives Massachusetts a win over Northeastern
Daily Collegian: UMass Hockey Downs Northeastern, 3-2
Also, check out the highlights and Coach Micheletto's postgame press conference below:
It's a beautiful day here in Toledo, Ohio as the Minutemen get ready to take on the Rockets at 2 PM (ESPN3). The Minutemen enter the game having won two straight, while Toledo is the only undefeated team in conference action with a 3-0 record.
| Massachusetts (2-6, 2-2 MAC) at Toledo (4-3, 3-0 MAC) | |
| Date | Saturday, Oct. 18 at 2:00 p.m. (ET) |
| Location | Toledo, Ohio | Glass Bowl (26,244) |
| Tickets | 866-UMASS-TIX | Ticket Info |
| TV | ESPN3/ESPN Game Plan/BCSN |
| Radio | 105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield/Amherst), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester), 95.9 FM WATD (South Shore), 1200 AM WXKS (Boston, Worcester, Manchester, Providence); Listen Online | Use the TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen |
| Online Video | www.espn3.com | WatchESPN (App) |
| Live Stats | Live Stats |
| Social Media | Twitter.com/UMassAthletics | Live Game Blog |
| MAC Teleconference | Whipple's Monday Conference Call Quotes (10/20) |
| Game Notes | Massachusetts Notes | Depth Chart | News Clips | 2014 Media Guide |
Check out this week's Inside Hockey East Podcast with Bernie Corbett, featuring an interview with UMass hockey freshman forward Patrick Lee.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a preview of Saturday's match-up at Toledo for the UMass football team. Vautour includes quotes from Toledo head coach Matt Campbell as he sees the Minutemen.
"Now we get ourselves into preparation for a really good UMass team that I've been thoroughly impressed with both offensively and defensively as we've been able to dig in and see the job Coach Whipple has done there," he said on Monday's MAC teleconference. "I think they're extremely well-coached, one of the best coached offenses and defenses that I've seen within our conference this year. You can see he does a great job of getting his really good players the ball and putting his players in situations to be extremely successful. You can tell the turnaround has a lot to do with their ability to get their good players the ball in space. Defensively they've had the ability to create havoc."
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican takes a look at this weekend's match-up at Toledo for the UMass football team. Malone says this will be the most challenging game of the year for the Minutemen amongst MAC teams, but predicts a shootout on the scoreboard between UMass' high-powered pass game and the Rockets run game which is the best in the league.
Andrew MacDougall of the Boston Globe has a feature on Shadrach Abrokwah and his journey with UMass football from a walk-on to a starter. After joining UMass as a walk-on in 2013, Abrokwah started the final two games of the season turning in almost 100 yards a game. In the win over Eastern Michigan, the Worcester native had four rushing touchdowns and 135 yards to pace the Minutemen.
In today's Daily Hampshire Gazette, Matt Vautour has a preview of UMass hockey's weekend matchups at Northeastern and Boston College.
Read: UMass hockey confident heading to Boston for weekend matchups with NU, BC
Dan Malone of MassLive talked with Derek Kellogg about what lengths the seventh-year UMass coach is going to during the preseason to figure out which lineups and combinations he may use to begin the season.
Kellogg mentions that playing in more 5-on-5 situations helps develop the players' conditioning into the type of defense and offensive pace he is looking for.
Derrick Gordon has spent a good deal of time in the offseason working on his outside shooting and free throw attempts. And Dan Malone of MassLive has an in-depth look at DG's shot practice routine and the counsel he sought from head coach Derek Kellogg.
Sports Illustrated writer Dan Greene has a preview of the upcoming Atlantic 10 men's basketball season. He also mentions a collaboration on a statistical projection system developed between economist Dan Hanner and writer Luke Winn that can predict the leading scorer and rebounder for any team in the country.
They pick UMass to finish tied for third (with GW) and an 11-7 league mark. VCU and Dayton are 1-2, with Richmond and Rhode Island tied for fifth at 10-8, and La Salle and St. Bonaventure tied for seventh at 9-9.
Their outlook on UMass in 68 words (or less) is as follows...
Shooting guard Derrick Gordon, who became D-I's first openly gay men's player when he came out in April, will likely take on a bigger role in the Minutemen's uptempo attack, which lost relentless star Chaz Williams. And keep your eyes on the frontcourt, where senior Cady LaLanne provides strong rebounding and shot-blocking and athletic classmate Maxie Esho should take kindly to his first starting role.
In today's Daily Collegian, Tom Mulherin previews women's soccer's final two home games of the season. The Minutewomen host St. Bonaventure on Friday and Duquesne on Sunday.
Read: Minutewomen look to continue their season in weekend game against Saint Bonaventure
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story on the UMass offensive line and the recent play of Josh Bruns who played center in place of the injured Matt Sparks the last two games. Bruns, normally a guard, played well in the transition and the depth is seen as a good sign for the Minutemen as the season comes down the home stretch.
The field hockey team has a one-game weekend ahead of it as the Minutewomen travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to face La Salle (8-6 overall, 4-2 Atlantic 10) at DeVincent Field on Friday, Oct. 24 at 3 p.m. Check out all the game information for this weekend below:
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | ||
| Game 17 | Massachusetts (8-8, 5-1) at La Salle (8-6, 4-2) | |
| Date | Time | Friday, Oct. 24 | 3:00 p.m. | |
| Location | DeVincent Field; Philadelphia, Pa. | |
| Series History | UMass leads, 18-1-0. Last meeting: UMass 7, La Salle 1; Oct. 18, 2014 | |
| Live Statistics | Sidearm Sports | |
| Game Blog | Cover It Live | |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | La Salle | |
| @UMassFH | @UMassAthletics | ||
| UMass Field Hockey | ||
More on UMass field hockey is available through UMassAthletics.com.
Steven Iacobellis' big weekend and subsequent Hockey East Player of the week and Co-UMass Athlete of the Week accolades received coverage from one of his hometown news outlets, Tri-Cities Now.
In today's Daily Collegian, Jason Kates takes a look at the play of UMass' line of sophomores Ray Pigozzi and Steven Iacobellis and freshman Patrick Lee, who combined for 10 points in the Minutemen's win at Michigan State last Saturday.
Read: UMass' second line playing and succeeding with young talent early in the season
As the Minutemen prepare to head to Boston to face Northeastern and Boston College this weekend, Anthony Chiusano has this preview in today's Daily Collegian of the pair of matchups against Hockey East foes.
Read: UMass hockey hopes first win will propel them past Hockey East rivals
Arthur Hayden has a piece in today's Daily Collegian on how UMass women's soccer still controls its own destiny for a berth into the Atlantic 10 Tournament. The Minutewomen have two weeks and four matches left in the regular season.
Read: UMass women's soccer controls its own destiny as conference tournament approaches
Arthur Hayden has a piece in today's Daily Collegian on how UMass women's soccer still controls its own destiny for a berth into the Atlantic 10 Tournament. The Minutewomen have two weeks and four matches left in the regular season.
Read: UMass women's soccer controls its own destiny as conference tournament approaches
Matt Kinnear of Inside Lacrosse stopped by UMass women's lacrosse practice earlier this fall to check out the Minutewomen and speak with head coach Angela McMahon. While the Minutewomen graduated one of its most successful (and largest) senior classes last spring after its sixth straight Atlantic 10 Championship win, Coach McMahon feels the team has the ability to win the league again for another NCAA Tournament appearance.
In today's Daily Collegian, Ross Gienieczko takes a look at the contributions the freshman class has made in the early going for the Minutemen. The Class of 2018 has five of the team's eight goals on the season through the first three games.
Read: Trio of freshmen leading UMass hockey's offense early in the season
Adam Aucoin of the Daily Collegian has a recap of the ITA Northeast Regional and the success Anna Woosely had over the weekend reaching the Round of 32. Overall, the Minutewomen had four players reach the Main Draw with Woosley leading the way going 4-1 over the weekend in singles play.
Dan Maynes of the Springfield Republican spoke with Toledo head coach Matt Campbell during Monday's MAC Coaches Teleconference. Campbell said he has been impressed with the progress of the UMass football program, especially under Whipple, and thinks the Minutemen are a very competitive team this season.
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Collegian has a story focusing on the improved play of both the offensive and defensive lines for the UMass football team. The Eastern Michigan game was the best of the year for the defensive line which was able to contain dual threat quarterback Reggie Bell for much of the day. The offensive line has been playing well lately with the UMass running game able to contribute more to the offensive game production.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a piece on seniors Dan Maynes and Stanley Andre and what the current win means to them. With the Minutemen playing the best football of their careers, the duo each are enjoying the way the program is progressing under head coach Mark Whipple.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story focusing on UMass football's back-to-back wins and how close the Minutemen were to being bowl eligible this year. He says those close games bode well for UMass heading into the future as it only loses a handful of seniors and graduate students from this year's team.
Listen to the podcast of the October 20, 2014 edition of the Bud Light UMass Football Show featuring head coach Mark Whipple, sophomore offensive lineman Fabian Hoeller, and senior defensive lineman Daniel Maynes looking back at the win over Eastern Michigan and previewing the Toledo game.
Congratulations to UMass hockey on having two goals from last weekend make the NCAA's Top-5 National Plays of the Week! Jake Horton's tally from Saturday night is No. 3 and Patrick Lee's game winner with 9.9 seconds left in regulation is No. 1. Check them out!
Post by UMass Athletics.
Join head coach John Micheletto and player guests Ray Pigozzi and Zack LaRue tonight at 7 p.m. the Hangar Pub & Grill in Amherst for the Bud Light UMass Hockey Show. Coach Micheletto and hosts Brock Hines and Adam Frenier recap the Michigan State trip and preview this weekend's Hockey East tilts against Northeastern and Boston College.
The live radio show airs from 7-8 p.m. on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9) in the Pioneer Valley. Additionally, fans can listen online at WHMP.com or by downloading the TuneIn Radio app on their mobile devices.
To interact with the broadcast team, tweet your questions for Coach Micheletto @UMassSportsNet or click here to "Ask the Coach". For additional information and a complete show schedule, visit our hockey radio information page.
The live radio show airs from 7-8 p.m. on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9) in the Pioneer Valley. Additionally, fans can listen online at WHMP.com or by downloading the TuneIn Radio app on their mobile devices.
To interact with the broadcast team, tweet your questions for Coach Micheletto @UMassSportsNet or click here to "Ask the Coach". For additional information and a complete show schedule, visit our hockey radio information page.
University of Massachusetts field hockey alum Hannah Prince (2010-13) earned her first international cap for Team USA during the second friendly contest for the U.S. side on its current New Zealand tour. Check out a recap of the game below:
New Zealand Edges USA in second test match in Stratford | TeamUSA.org
Team USA, including UMass alum Will Manny (2010-13), defeated Notre Dame, 17-14 in the Seatown Classic, hosted in Tukwila, Washington, on Sunday, Oct. 19. Manny finished with a pair of goals and six groundballs in the win. Read about the contest through InsideLacrosse.com below:
USA Claws Back, Beats Notre Dame in Front of Record Crowd | Inside Lacrosse
Join head coach Mark Whipple tonight from 7-8 p.m. at The Hangar on University Drive in Amherst for the Bud Light UMass Football Show. Host Josh Maurer and coach Whipple will look back at the Minutemen's win against Eastern Michigan and preview Saturday's matchup at Toledo. Player guests include sophomore offensive lineman Fabian Hoeller and senior defensive lineman Daniel Maynes.
If you can't make it to The Hangar, listen live on 105.5 FM (Springfield) and 1440 AM (Worcester). Fans can also listen live online at WEEI.com/UMass or on mobile devices by downloading the TuneIn Radio app. A podcast of the show will be available on UMassAthletics.com Tuesday morning.
Submit a question for Coach Whipple by tweeting @UMassSportsNet or by clicking here. Selected questions will be used during tonight's show.
Listen Live | TuneIn Radio App | Show Schedule and Information | UMass Podcasts
If you can't make it to The Hangar, listen live on 105.5 FM (Springfield) and 1440 AM (Worcester). Fans can also listen live online at WEEI.com/UMass or on mobile devices by downloading the TuneIn Radio app. A podcast of the show will be available on UMassAthletics.com Tuesday morning.
Submit a question for Coach Whipple by tweeting @UMassSportsNet or by clicking here. Selected questions will be used during tonight's show.
Listen Live | TuneIn Radio App | Show Schedule and Information | UMass Podcasts
The Daily Hampshire Gazette had a brief recap of UMass hockey's dramatic win at Michigan State on Saturday night.
Anthony Chiusano of the Daily Collegian spoke with men's soccer coach Devin O'Neill following Sunday's loss to No. 18 Saint Louis and authored the following story.
Victor Pusateri of the Daily Collegian has his first swimming story of the year. He recaps the men's and women's teams' dual meet with Army from Saturday.
Ross Gienieczko of the Daily Collegian has a recap of Friday's 4-1 loss to Dayton.
Marc-Jean Louis of the Daily Collegian also has a video recap of the five goals scored, including the first of Alex DeSantis' career late in the contest for the Minutemen. Note: It was originally credited to Peter Alvarenga but changed after reviewing the team video.
Jason Kates has a recap of UMass hockey's split at Michigan State this past weekend, which included the squad's first victory of the season, 4-3 over the Spartans on Saturday night and was fueled by 11 points from underclassmen.
Read: Underclassmen lead UMass hockey to first victory of the season
Lauren Allymohamed provided UMass with an overtime game-winning goal in the 82nd minute as the Minutewomen defeated Boston University, 2-1 at Garber Field on Sunday. Daily Collegian reporter Tyler Fiedler was on-hand for the game and wrote a recap of the action:
UMass field hockey gets back to .500 with win over BU Sunday | Daily Collegian
UMass field hockey blanked Davidson, 4-0 on Friday afternoon to increase its current Atlantic 10 Conference winning streak to five consecutive games. Daily Collegian writer Jamie Cushman has a report on the game:
UMass field hockey shuts out Davidson in 4-0 win | Daily Collegian
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a look at the defensive effort by the Minutemen in the win over Eastern Michigan on Saturday. Vautour said the effort was the best of the season as UMass was able to disrupt EMU quarterback Reggie Bell and pitch a second half shut out.
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has a story on how an improved running game and defensive play have helped the UMass football team over the last two weeks.
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has an update on where Tajae Sharpe now stands in the UMass record book for several receiving categories after his 13-catch, 193 yard performance against Eastern Michigan.
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has continued coverage of UMass football's win over Eastern Michigan last Saturday. Linebacker Jovan Santos-Knox said in the post game interview that the defense has been enjoying the success of the offense over the past few games where both units have been playing much better than at the start of the year.
A big running day by Shadrach Abrokwah who scored four touchdowns along with Tajae Sharpe whose 13 receptions put him past Victor Cruz on the program's career receptions list helped the Minutemen get past Eastern Michigan 36-14 on Saturday afternoon. UMass has won two-straight games now going into next weekend's match-up at Toledo.
- Balanced offense leads UMass football to second straight win | GazetteNet.com
- Tajae Sharpe has career highs in receptions, yardage in Minuteman win | GazetteNet.com
- UMass football wins its second straight - Sports - The Boston Globe
- Minutemen own winning streak | Boston Herald
- UMass routs Eastern Michigan, earns second win - ESPN Boston
- UMass tops Eastern Michigan 36-14, puts together first FBS winning streak : The Daily Collegian
- Shadrach Abrokwah has career day in UMass football's 36-14 win over Eastern Michigan. : The Daily Collegian
- UMass football's Sharpe continues his banner season in 36-14 win over Eastern Michigan : The Daily Collegian
- Ex-St. John's star Abrokwah powers UMass to win - Worcester Telegram & Gazette - telegram.com
- Quick hits: UMass football makes it two straight with 36-14 win over Eastern Michigan | masslive.com
- Four-touchdown special: Former walk-on Shadrach Abrokwah powers UMass football with career day | masslive.com
- By the numbers: UMass football dominates 4th-quarter time of possession in win | masslive.com
- X-factor to non-factor: UMass defense negates dynamic Eastern Michigan quarterback Reggie Bell | masslive.com
It's game day at Gillette Stadium today as the UMass football team hosts Eastern Michigan for the ever-popular Band Day. Read below for today's previews of the game along with all the information on how to watch and where to listen if you can't be there.
| Massachusetts (1-6, 1-2 MAC) vs Eastern Michigan (2-4, 1-1 MAC) | |
| Date | Saturday, Oct. 18 at 3:00 p.m. (ET) |
| Location | Foxboro, Mass. | Gillette Stadium (68,756) |
| Tickets | 866-UMASS-TIX | Ticket Info |
| TV | ESPN3 |
| Radio | 105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield/Amherst), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester), 95.9 FM WATD (South Shore), 1200 AM WXKS (Boston, Worcester, Manchester, Providence); Listen Online | Use the TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen |
| Online Video | www.espn3.com |
| Live Stats | |
| Promotions | Band Day & Educators Day |
| Social Media | Twitter.com/UMassAthletics | Live Game Blog |
| MAC Teleconference | Whipple's Monday Conference Call Quotes (10/13) |
| Game Notes | Massachusetts Notes | Depth Chart | News Clips | 2014 Media Guide |
- Elijah Wilkinson, UMass line excel | Boston Herald
- How to stop Reggie Bell Jr.: UMass defenders break down the keys to containing Eastern Michigan's quarterback | masslive.com
- UMass running back Lorenzo Woodley hoping for consistency, health coming off latest breakout performance | masslive.com
- UMass football vs. Eastern Michigan: Improving Minutemen look for 1st FBS winning streak | masslive.com
- Mid-season awards: UMass tight end Jean Sifrin makes Phil Steele's All-MAC 1st team, three others named 2nd-teamers | masslive.com
- UMass aims for second straight win, hosts improving Eastern Michigan | GazetteNet.com
UMass field hockey hosts non-conference regional rival Boston University for its next game, a Sunday, Oct. 19 contest on Garber Field at 2 p.m. More information on the game is available below:
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | |
| Game 16 | Massachusetts (7-8) vs. Boston University (8-6) |
| Date | Time | Sunday, Oct. 19 | 2:00 p.m. |
| Location | Garber Field; Amherst, Mass. |
| Series History | Boston University leads, 18-15-2. Last meeting: UMass 3, BU 1; Oct. 6, 2013 |
| Live Statistics | |
| Live Video | Atlantic 10 Digital Network |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | Boston University |
| @UMassFH | @UMassAthletics | |
| UMass Field Hockey | |
More on the field hockey program is available through UMassAthletics.com.
UMass field hockey head coach Carla Tagliente and sophomore forward Nicole Miller spoke to members of the local media after the Minutewomen dispatched Davidson, 4-0 at Garber Field on Friday afternoon. Check out what Tagliente and Miller had to say about the team win below:
More on UMass field hockey can be found throughUMassAthletics.com.
UMass field hockey defeated Davidson, 4-0, in the first meeting between the teams on the strength of a lockdown defensive performance and one goal each from Hailey Cockrum, Izzie Delario, Melanie Kreusch and Nicole Miller. Check out highlights of the game below courtesy of UMass Sports Network:
More on the Minutewomen can be found through UMassAthletics.com.
UMass field hockey hosts the newest member of the Atlantic 10 Conference, Davidson, on Friday at 3 p.m. in the first game between the schools in program history. Check out some information on how to follow along below:
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | |
| Game 15 | Massachusetts (6-8, 4-1) vs. Davidson (2-12, 1-3) |
| Date | Time | Friday, Oct. 17 | 3:00 p.m. |
| Location | Garber Field; Amherst, Mass. |
| Series History | First meeting. |
| Live Statistics | |
| Live Video | Atlantic 10 Digital Network |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | Davidson |
| @UMassFH | @UMassAthletics | |
| UMass Field Hockey | |
More on UMass field hockey is available through UMassAthletics.com.
Andrew MacDougall of the Boston Globe has a feature on UMass football quarterback Blake Frohnapfel and the year he has had so far for the Minutemen. Frohnapfel is one of the national passing leaders entering the weekend and has turned the UMass offense into one of the best in the Mid-American Conference.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story today on how freshman QB Ross Comis helped the Minutemen prepare for dual-threat Eastern Michigan QB Reginald Bell during the week. Comis along with Elgin Long and Shaquille Harris all split time running the scout team offense this week to help prepare the Minutemen for the speed of Bell.
Congratulations to former UMass netminder Jonathan Quick who tied Rogie Vachon's L.A. Kings franchise record with his 32nd career shutout last night, making 43 saves and stopping all three St. Louis shootout attempts.
NHL.com: Quick makes 43 saves to help Kings edge Blues
Andrew Cyr of the Daily Collegian takes a look at how dual-threat Reginald Bell, Jr., poses a threat for the UMass defense and what the keys are to contain the quarterback after he had a break out game against Buffalo last week.
Victor Pusateri of the Daily Collegian has a feature on freshman tennis player Ana Yrazusta who is off to a strong start for the Minutewomen. Yrazusta admits that the transition from Las Palmas, Spain to Massachusetts has been a challenge, but that having several international teammates has helped in her first few months away from home.
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Collegian has a feature story on Tajae Sharpe and his strong start to the 2014 campaign through seven games. Because of his play-making abilities, Sharpe is facing additional attention from opposing defenses such as last week against Kent State.
Ross Gienieczko previews UMass hockey's weekend trip to Michigan State, the first pair of contests in a six-game road swing. The Minutemen will take on the Spartans both Friday and Saturday night at 7 p.m. in East Lansing, Mich.
In today's Daily Collegian, Arthur Hayden has a preview of women's soccer's match at Rhode Island on Saturday. The Minutewomen will be taking on the Rams at 7 p.m. in Kingston, R.I.
Read: Women's soccer prepare for the unknown in matchup against Rhode Island
UMass head coach Derek Kellogg was among the 14 head men's basketball coaches from around the Atlantic 10 who participated in the annual media day at the Barclays Center on Tuesday. The day began with the Minutemen being picked to finish fourth in the preseason poll for the second-consecutive year. Here are some stories from UMass beat writers, along with some national articles and from writers in other member schools markets.
Campus Insiders Interview...
.@CoachKellogg gets his first question at A-10 media day... On how the team will be w/o Chaz Williams. pic.twitter.com/G8Qbbrtt4x
-- UMass Athletics (@UMassAthletics) October 14, 2014
.@CoachKellogg and @CDiSano44 on #A10Live at Media Day pic.twitter.com/11sDG9Dex3
-- UMass Athletics (@UMassAthletics) October 14, 2014
Daily Collegian reporter Jamie Cushman stopped by field hockey practice on Tuesday and spoke with head coach Carla Tagliente, senior Lauren Allymohamed and freshmen Sarah Hawkshaw and Melanie Kreusch for a story on the immediate impacts made by Hawkshaw and Kreusch.
Hawkshaw and Kreusch on international students from Ireland and Belgium, respectively, and have combined for 22 points via nine goals and four assists through the opening 14 games played.
Kreusch, Hawkshaw stepping up for UMass field hockey | Daily Collegian
Christopher Martinez of the Daily Collegian staff took time yesterday to speak with UMass rowing head coach Jim Dietz for a Q&A session regarding Dietz's life-long involvement in the sport. Martinez and Dietz touched on what Dietz expects from the Minutewomen following their run to the 2014 NCAA Championships, how he became the coach he is now and his favorite memories of leading this team.
Q&A with UMass rowing coach Jim Dietz | Daily Collegian
Former UMass defenseman had a two-goal night last night to help the San Jose Sharks to a 6-5 overtime win over the Washington Capitals to improve their record to 3-0 to start the year.
Irwin became just the second former Minuteman to post a multi-goal effort in the NHL, joining Greg Mauldin who had four points (2g, 2a) against Minnesota on Nov. 27, 2010, while playing for the Colorado Avalanche.
Check out the video of Irwin's goals below:
Today in the Daily Collegian, Frank Corona takes a look at UMass women's soccer's start to the Atlantic 10 season.
"However, based on their play so far, the Minutewomen are showing that they can be a serious force in conference play in the upcoming weeks."
Read: UMass Women's soccer elevates play against Atlantic 10 opponents
In today's Daily Collegian, Jason Kates has a piece on UMass hockey senior forward Zack LaRue who was named one of the Minutemen's alternate captains last Friday.
Read: UMass hockey's LaRue ready for increased responsibility
University of Massachusetts field hockey alums Alesha Widdall (2008-11) and Hannah Prince (2010-13), as well as volunteer assistant Melissa Gonzalez, made the nearly 9,000 mile trip from the USA Field Hockey training center in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to New Zealand where the U.S. National Team is set to play a six-game test series with the hosts.
Take a look behind the scenes of the early days of the trip courtesy of the U.S. National Team.
Jeff Goodman has 10 observations on his ESPN Insider Blog. Goodman was at practice last week to watch the Minutemen as they get ready for 2014-15. His main question - can UMass sustain the success it had last season.
Nicholas Casale of the Daily Collegian has a feature story on UMass men's soccer midfielder Luke Pavone who is finding success on the pitch despite facing several adverse moments over the past year.
Marc Jean-Louis of the Daily Collegian has a recap of the men's cross country team's performance at the New England Championship meet last week in Boston at Franklin Park.
Today's headlines covering UMass football take a look at some health issues faced by the Minutemen coming out of the Kent State game, how a consistent effort in practice this week can pay dividends against Eastern Michigan, and several profiles on key performers from the weekend.
- Notebook: UMass coach Mark Whipple hopeful about availability of injured players | GazetteNet.com
- UMass football seeks consistency as important week of practice looms : The Daily Collegian
- UMass football's Jean Sifrin added to Mackey Award watch list for nation's best tight end | masslive.com
- UMass football a 2-touchdown favorite against Eastern Michigan in quest for back-to-back wins | masslive.com
- Logan Laurent steps up in field-goal battle: Is the back-up punter UMass football's answer at kicker? | masslive.com
- Blake Frohnapfel by the numbers: A look at the UMass quarterback's breakout season | masslive.com
On the October 13 edition of the Bud Light UMass Football Show live from The Hangar, head coach Mark Whipple and host Josh Maurer look back at the win over Kent State and preview Saturday's meeting against Eastern Michigan at Gillette Stadium. Plus, Lorenzo Woodley talks about taking advantage of opportunities last Saturday and Kassan Messiah discusses the significance of his name and his role in the defense.
Joe Saade of the Daily Collegian staff wrote a feature story on the importance of junior goalkeeper Sam Carlino to the UMass field hockey team. Carlino is in her third season as the starting goalkeeper for the Minutewomen as the squad looks to earn its third consecutive A-10 title and NCAA Tournament trip.
Sam Carlino remains a rock in net for UMass field hockey | Daily Collegian
John Connolly of the Boston Herald has a New England football recap today where he looks at some of the highlights of UMass football's win at Kent State on Saturday.
Saturday's road win snapped a 12-game losing streak, and marked the first time this season that the Minutemen held an opponent to fewer than 30 points. UMass (1-6, 1-2 Mid-American Conference) has now scored 40 or more points in three consecutive games, only the third time it has accomplished that feat in the 132-year history of the program.
The John Mackey Award unveiled its Midseason Watch List on Monday with UMass tight end Jean Sifrin being added to the group. The award is presented annually to college football's top tight end. Sifrin is the second player this year to be named to a national award watch list after Tajae Sharpe was added to the Biletnikoff Award for best wide receiver. This is also the second year that a UMass tight end has been on the Mackey Award watch list after Rob Blanchflower was on it in 2013.
Dan Malone of the Springfield Republican has an injury update after Mark Whipple's Monday conference call with reporters saying Marken Michel and Matt Sparks could be able to play this weekend. Sparks missed the Kent State game with injury, while Michel was injured during the game.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story on running back Lorenzo Woodley who played a huge factor in Saturday's win at Kent State with 160 yards rushing. Woodley was critical late in the game as the Minutemen were able to hold the ball to run the clock in the third and fourth quarters.
After a week off, the Bud Light UMass Football Show returns tonight from 7-8 p.m on the UMass Sports Network. Join head coach Mark Whipple and player guests live at The Hangar Pub and Grill on University Drive in Amherst. Host Josh Maurer and coach Whipple will look back at the Minutemen's win against Kent State and preview Saturday's matchup against Eastern Michigan at Gillette Stadium.
If you can't make it to The Hangar, listen live on 105.5 FM (Springfield) and 1440 AM (Worcester). Fans can also listen live online at WEEI.com/UMass or on mobile devices by downloading the TuneIn Radio app. A podcast of the show will be available on UMassAthletics.com Tuesday morning.
Submit a question for Coach Whipple by tweeting @UMassSportsNet or by clicking here. Selected questions will be used during tonight's show.
Listen Live | TuneIn Radio App | Show Schedule and Information | UMass Podcasts
If you can't make it to The Hangar, listen live on 105.5 FM (Springfield) and 1440 AM (Worcester). Fans can also listen live online at WEEI.com/UMass or on mobile devices by downloading the TuneIn Radio app. A podcast of the show will be available on UMassAthletics.com Tuesday morning.
Submit a question for Coach Whipple by tweeting @UMassSportsNet or by clicking here. Selected questions will be used during tonight's show.
Listen Live | TuneIn Radio App | Show Schedule and Information | UMass Podcasts
USA Today had this post yesterday (with video) on For The Win about former Minuteman Jonathan Quick Jonathan Quick making a young fan's day by slipping him a secret autograph while he was on the bench during a preseason game against the Colorado Avalanche.
Read: Jonathan Quick signs secret autograph for fan from the bench
Arthur Hayden had this recap of women's soccer's 2-1 loss at George Washington on Saturday.
Read: UMass women's soccer falls short in comeback bid against George Washington
- UMass earns first win of the season - Sports - The Boston Globe
- UMass tastes victory | Boston Herald
- UMass snaps 12-game losing streak, beats Kent State 40-17 | GazetteNet.com
- Notebook: Backup punter Logan Laurent gives UMass a leg up in place-kicking game | GazetteNet.com
- FINAL: UMass football downs Kent State 40-17 on the road for 1st win | masslive.com
- Five takeaways from UMass football's win at Kent State: A long streak is snapped, Blake Frohnapfel survives scary hit | masslive.com
- Lorenzo Woodley rushes for 160 yards, touchdown to close out UMass football win over Kent State | masslive.com
- UMass football gets first win: Long-awaited victory sweet for snakebitten Minutemen | masslive.com
- UMass outlasts Kent State for first win of season - Worcester Telegram & Gazette - telegram.com
- UMass finishes off Kent State 40-17, earns first victory of 2014 : The Daily Collegian
- Lorenzo Woodley, Jackson Porter bounce back in 40-17 win over Kent State | Daily Collegian Sports
- Kent State falls to UMass, 40-17, to remain winless | cleveland.com
The UMass field hockey team switches gears and goes back to non-conference competition for Sunday's matchup at Columbia (7-4 overall). Here are ways to follow along today:
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | |
| Game 14 | Massachusetts (6-7) at Columbia (7-4) |
| Date | Time | Sunday, Oct. 12 | 1:00 p.m. |
| Location | Baker Athletics Complex; New York, N.Y. |
| Series History | First meeting. |
| Live Statistics | NeuLion |
| Game Blog | Cover It Live |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | Columbia |
| @UMassFH | @UMassAthletics | |
| UMass Field Hockey | |
More on the program is available through UMassAthletics.com.
The UMass football team takes on Kent State today at 2 PM in Kent, Ohio as both teams are looking for their first wins of the season. Check out the details below to see where you can watch and listen to the game on all of your devices.
| Massachusetts (0-6, 0-2 MAC) at Kent State (0-5, 0-2 MAC) | |
| Date | Saturday, Oct. 11 at 2:00 p.m. (ET) |
| Location | Kent, Ohio | Dix Stadium (25,319) |
| Tickets | 866-UMASS-TIX | Ticket Info |
| TV | ESPN3 |
| Radio | 105.5 FM WEEI (Springfield/Amherst), 1440 AM WVEI (Worcester), 95.9 FM WATD (South Shore), 1200 AM WXKS (Boston, Worcester, Manchester, Providence); Listen Online | Use the TuneIn App for Mobile Devices to listen |
| Online Video | www.espn3.com |
| Live Stats | Live Stats |
| Social Media | Twitter.com/UMassAthletics | Live Game Blog |
| MAC Teleconference | Whipple's Monday Conference Call Quotes (10/6) |
| Game Notes | Massachusetts Notes | Depth Chart | News Clips | 2014 Media Guide |
John Connolly of the Boston Herald has a preview of Saturday's UMass football at Kent State game which includes a look at the role Tajae Sharpe has played in the success of the Minutemen's offense this season. Sharpe is one of the top wide receivers in the MAC and one of the top 10 wideouts in the nation entering this weekend.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a preview of Saturday's game at Kent State and how the Minutemen prepare defensively when not knowing which quarterback will start.
Inside Lacrosse staff writer Matt Kinnear stopped by Amherst, Mass., and visited a UMass men's lacrosse practice to catch some fall ball preparations. Check out Kinnear's report regarding the Minutemen below:
Fall All-Access: UMass | Matt Kinnear, Inside Lacrosse
Julian Benbow of the Boston Globe has a feature story on Blake Frohnapel and his adjustment to working in Mark Whipple's offense. This story also touches on the decision to go for the game-winning touchdown at Miami (Ohio) with the clock set to restart, potentially under three seconds.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a story focusing on some tweaks the UMass football team made this week during practice to change up its routine heading into the Kent State game. Blake Frohnapfel and Daniel Maynes are quoted on some of their pre-game rituals.
The website CollegeSportsMadness.com has announced it's preseason Atlantic 10 All-Conference teams. Cady Lalanne and Trey Davis were both honored from UMass, with Lalanne on the first team and Davis on the fourth team. The teams appear to be done with position played as a criteria, as opposed to doing a first team of the best five players and so on. Additionally, all 14 teams have at least one player chosen among the 20 selections.
Here's the CSM intro to their teams...
College Sports Madness is announcing the 2014 - 2015 Preseason All-Conference Men's Basketball Teams. The staff at College Sports Madness has picked the top men's basketball players from each conference. These players are expected to make significant contributions to their teams during this coming season and deserve significant recognition.
You can view the entire selection of teams here...
The men's soccer team had it's best offensive performance of the season on Wednesday night at Hartford, only to see the Hawks score the final two goals of the game, including the golden goal four minutes into overtime for a 2-1 victory. The loss was the fourth-straight for the Minutemen, who will return to Atlantic 10 play on Saturday against VCU at Rudd Field. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. and admission is free.
Matt Vautour has a preview in advance of tonight's UMass hockey season opener against Boston University at the Mullins Center at 7 p.m.
Read: UMass ready to drop puck vs Boston University, Hockey East, 2014-15 season
Jeff Goodman of ESPN posted his Atlantic 10 Conference preview on Thursday. He polled many of the 14 head coaches and offered a consensus of their thoughts on a variety of topics. It's an ESPN Insider article so, while I would like to give you the entire post, I will respect the subscriber rules as an Insider and give you the UMass stuff.
UMass is picked tied for 4th with Richmond. VCU got every first place vote.
His roundup of the coach's thoughts:
On the mystery team: "UMass. Without Chaz Williams and some of their veterans that really bought in, it'll be interesting to see if Derek Kellogg can keep that program where it can compete for one of the top spots in the league. Chaz was so tough, and looked like a great leader. I'm not sure they will be able to find someone who can do what he did."
Now most UMass fans will agree with his assessment about how important Chaz was to the team, but at the same time are anxious to see what the program will be like in the years A.C. - After Chaz. It's nice to see that a number of the coaches feel the same way.
ESPN Senior Writer Jeff Goodman spent the day in Amherst on Wednesday, talking with Derrick Gordon about his summer and what the junior guard expected out of the upcoming season - his first as an openly gay Division I men's basketball player.
AMHERST, Mass. -- UMass guard Derrick Gordon told ESPN that he would have quit basketball if he did not come out publicly as gay last April.
The 6-foot-2 junior, who averaged 9.4 points last season for a UMass team that lost to Tennessee in the NCAA tournament, said he was beyond miserable and was on the verge of quitting the sport.
"I was coming out or giving up basketball," Gordon told ESPN on Wednesday. "It was breaking me down."
Gordon said he had lived with the secret since when he entered college at Western Kentucky. He transferred to UMass after his freshman season and rarely -- if ever -- hung around his teammates.
"My secret," Gordon said in explaining why he was a loner in college. "I didn't want to be put in a situation where they found out."
Gordon told his parents, brother and teammates just days before making a public announcement to ESPN that he was set to become the first active Division I men's basketball player to be openly gay. Gordon said the support he's received from everyone has been overwhelming, and that his life has completely changed, although the experience wasn't quite so easy for his twin brother, Darryl.
Read the complete story here...
UMass field hockey hits the road to Philadelphia this weekend to face an Atlantic 10 foe in Saint Joseph's before a non-conference game at Columbia. The Minutewomen head to Saint Joseph's on Friday for a 3:30 p.m. game and travel to Columbia for a Sunday contest at 1 p.m. Check out some notes on the series with St. Joe's below:
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | |
| Game 13 | Massachusetts (5-7, 3-1) at Saint Joseph's (6-6, 2-2) |
| Date | Time | Friday, Oct. 10 | 3:30 p.m. |
| Location | Ellen Ryan Field; Philadelphia, Pa. |
| Series History | UMass leads, 28-4. Last meeting: UMass 9, Saint Joseph's 1; Oct. 20, 2013 |
| Live Statistics | NeuLion |
| Live Video | Atlantic 10 Digital Network |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | Saint Joseph's |
| @UMassFH | @UMassAthletics | |
| UMass Field Hockey | |
Master Tesfatsion of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune had this feature story on Minnesota Vikings offensive lineman and former UMass standout Vladimir Ducasse and his amazing journey to the NFL.
Mike Lowe of the Portland Press Herald has a feature story on freshman running back Andrew Libby. Libby is seeing a considerable amount of playing time especially considering he missed all of last fall, his senior season at Thornton Academy, after tearing his ACL.
Andrew Libby's position on the University of Massachusetts football roster is not listed as running back. Or wide receiver. Or even fullback. It simply says: athlete.
"That's exactly what he is," said Marcel Shipp, the running backs coach for the Minutemen. "He plays special teams, he runs, he catches the ball, he can block like a fullback.
"He doesn't have a set position. He's just a guy who can make plays."
That Libby is making any plays at all right now is somewhat amazing.
Victor Pusateri of the Daily Collegian has a preview of the UMass tennis team's match on Thursday at Connecticut. This will be the first dual match of the fall season for the Minutewomen who have been very impressive in a pair of opening tournaments.
The New York Giants signed Michael Cox to the active 53-man roster his week and Julian Talley to the practice squad as announced by the club. Talley had been activated to the 53-man roster previously.
Jason Kates spoke with highly-touted UMass hockey freshman Dennis Kravchenko for this piece that is a part of the Daily Collegian's UMass Hockey Preview Issue.
UMass alum Victor Cruz and the Victor Cruz Foundation will host an event called "HalloweenLand" on Saturday, Oct. 25 in New York City. A host of New York professional athletes will be on hand for the kids' event with proceeds going to the Boys & Girls Club of America.
For the Collegian UMass Hockey Preview issue, Anthony Chiusano highlights leading returning scorers Steven Iacobellis and Ray Pigozzi in this piece:
Read: Sophomores prepare to take on heightened roles for UMass hockey
Jason Kates spoke with redshirt sophomore Frank Vatrano about his role for the Minutemen as he enters his first full season of college hockey.
Today we have several previews of Saturday's match-up at Kent State along with an injury update on a couple of key players for the Minutemen. UMass takes on the Golden Flashes at Dix Stadium at 2 PM on Saturday. The game will be aired on the UMass Sports Network and streamed online via ESPN3/WatchESPN.
- UMass safety Trey Dudley-Giles expected to play Saturday vs Kent State | GazetteNet.com
- UMass football injury report: Trey Dudley-Giles, Rodney Mills expected back at practice; J.T. Blyden questionable for Saturday | masslive.com
- UMass football faces uncertainty this Saturday against Kent State : The Daily Collegian
- Winless Kent State keeps pushing ahead in trying season | cleveland.com
Anthony Chiusano profiles redshirt senior Troy Power in this piece for the Daily Collegian's Hockey Preview Issue. Power is serving as team captain for a second season in 2014-15.
Troy Power eager to lead young UMass hockey team in his final season
For one of his pieces for the Collegian's special UMass Hockey Issue, Ross Gienieczko spoke with Oleg Yevenko about an eventful summer that included participating in the IIHF World Championship and Boston Bruins Development Camp, improving his game and his role as a leader for the UMass young defensive corps.
Read Oleg Yevenko's improvement aided by experiences with Belarus, Boston Bruins
With the UMass hockey season starting up this Friday with the Minutemen playing host to Boston University at the Mullins Center, Matt Vautour spoke with three members of the sophomore class, Steven Iacobellis, Ray Pigozzi and Frank Vatrano, about the upcoming 2014-15 campaign.
Read: UMass hockey looking to veteran sophomore class to make an offensive impact this season
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a notebook on UMass football which includes an update on Tajae Sharpe being named to the Biletnikoff Award Watch List on Tuesday morning.
"It's a great honor. It's real humbling and a great honor to be mentioned with those other guys," Sharpe said. "I wasn't thinking about it at all. I was just trying to go out every week and play the best I can. I didn't have any awards, especially an award as great as that, on my mind. When you work hard things like that happen."
Matt Vautour of the Daly Hampshire Gazette spoke with Derrick Gordon on Monday about the transition the junior guard has gone through since coming out in April as the first openly gay Division I men's basketball player.
Andrew Cyr of the Daily Collegian has a story on how the UMass football team is bouncing back after a tough loss at Miami on Saturday - the fourth game this season decided by less than a touchdown and the 3rd in which UMass led at halftime. Cyr says the Minutemen are just a few plays away from realistically being 4-2 overall instead of 0-6.
Dan Malone of MassLive spoke with head coach Derek Kellogg about the similarities and differences between last year's 24-win team and the prospects of this year's team.
Dan also chatted with DK about how the level of expectations are changing after ending the program's NCAA Tournament drought last season.
Nick Canelas is the newest writer for the Maroon Musket web site and will be covering the men's basketball team this season. His first post is a story on freshman Donte Clark.
If Donte Clark wanted to play basketball last year, he had to do it like any other University of Massachusetts student would: by finding a pickup game at the recreation center.
Donte Clark sat out last season as an academic nonqualifier at UMass last season. (Photo Courtesy Daniel Malone/MassLive.com)
So that's exactly what he did.
But it didn't take long for others to figure out that the 6-foot-4 shooting guard was more than just your average pickup player.
"They definitely knew I wasn't a regular student when I was out there playing," he said.
For Clark, dominating his peers was just a way to get his basketball fix, filling the void created by watching his future UMass teammates make a run to the NCAA tournament.
Once a highly touted recruit, the Charlotte, North Carolina, native came to UMass as a nonqualifier after failing to meet the academic requirements to attend Virginia Tech - the school he originally committed to. By rule, Clark wasn't allowed to play or practice last season, limiting him to a mere spectator while the Minutemen were on the court.
"It was definitely difficult to watch," Clark said. "I got tired of sitting there, watching everybody play. I was pretty impatient so I wanted to get back out there."
Fortunately for Clark, that wait finally ended on Saturday when the Minutemen officially began practicing full-time in preparation for the 2014-15 season. And he's already caught the attention of his coaches and teammates.
Read the entire story here...
Listen to the podcast of the October 7, 2014 edition of The Bud Light UMass Hockey Show on WHMP live from The Hangar Pub & Grill in Amherst. Head coach John Micheletto and player guests Troy Power and Steven Iacobellis discuss preseason practice and preview the season opener against Boston University with hosts Brock Hines and Adam Frenier. Visit our hockey radio information page for the complete radio show schedule.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette visited with a few members of the men's basketball team on Monday evening and wrote about the return to the court for transfer Jabarie Hinds and redshirt freshman Zach Coleman.
Join head coach John Micheletto and player guests Troy Power and Steven Iacobellis tonight at 7 p.m. the Hangar Pub & Grill in Amherst for the first episode of the Bud Light UMass Hockey Show for 2014-15. Coach Micheletto and hosts Brock Hines and Adam Frenier will preview Friday night's season opener against Boston University.
The live radio show airs from 7-8 p.m. on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9) in the Pioneer Valley. Additionally, fans can listen online at WHMP.com or by downloading the TuneIn Radio app on their mobile devices.
To interact with the broadcast team, tweet your questions for Coach Micheletto @UMassSportsNet or click here to "Ask the Coach". For additional information and a complete show schedule, visit our hockey radio information page.
The live radio show airs from 7-8 p.m. on WHMP (AM 1400/1240, FM 96.9) in the Pioneer Valley. Additionally, fans can listen online at WHMP.com or by downloading the TuneIn Radio app on their mobile devices.
To interact with the broadcast team, tweet your questions for Coach Micheletto @UMassSportsNet or click here to "Ask the Coach". For additional information and a complete show schedule, visit our hockey radio information page.
Mark Chiarelli of the Daily Collegian spoke with senior Cady Lalanne and junior Derrick Gordon about the disappointment of last season's loss to Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament and the outlook for the 2014-15 team.
Daily Collegian sports editor Mark Chiarelli spent some time at historic Curry Hicks Cage on Saturday and took in part of the men's basketball team's first practice of the season. He also wrote about the optimistic outlook that comes with the start of the 2014-15 season.
The men's soccer team suffered a tough 1-0 setback to Saint Joseph's in the Atlantic 10 opener on Saturday. The game was played a sloppy, rainy conditions, making scoring opportunities tough to come by. Nicholas Casale of the Daily Collegian has this recap of the contest.
Video highlights from the Daily Collegian's Marc Jean-Louis.
UMass field hockey defeated Saint Francis, 3-2 on Sunday afternoon to snap the Red Flash's eight-game season-opening win streak. Melanie Kreusch accounted for each of those UMass goals while Izzie Delario assisted on all three. Read more about the win with the Daily Collegian's recap:
Melanie Kreusch has career day in UMass' win over Saint Francis | Tyler Fielder, Daily Collegian
Miami rallied back from a 27-point deficit on Saturday to defeat UMass 42-41 at Yager Stadium in what was a tale of two halves for the Minutemen. UMass led 41-21 at the break, but a tough second half marred by turnovers opened the door for the RedHawks. The Minutemen were able to manage a last minute drive down to the six-yard line, but a play with three seconds left in overtime fell just short of the goal line.
In case you missed them, here are the highlights from UMass hockey's 5-2 exhibition win over Dalhousie on Saturday.
Anthony Chiusano of the Daily Collegian had a recap of UMass hockey's 5-2 exhibition win over Dalhousie on Saturday that talked about the impact of the Minutemen's freshman class and redshirt sophomore Frank Vatrano.
Read: UMass hockey defeats Dalhousie in Saturday exhibition game
Arthur Hayden of the Daily Collegian had this recap of women's soccer's Atlantic 10 opener in which junior co-captain Jackie Bruno scored the game-tying goal in her return to action.
Read: Jackie Bruno's equalizer secures a tie for UMass against George Mason
UMass alumna Tamara Tatham (2003-07) and the Canadian Women's Basketball National Team defeated France, 55-40 during the placement rounds of the FIBA World Championship on Saturday. The victory propels Canada into the 5th-6th place game against China on Sunday, Oct. 5.
Defense Propels Canada To Victory Against France At FIBA Championship | Canada Basketball
Box Score: Canada 55, France 40 | FIBA
Former UMass women's basketball standout Tamara Tatham (2003-07) had four points, three rebounds, an assist and one steal for the Canadian National Team, but the squad fell to No. 2 internationally-ranked Australia, 63-52 in the FIBA World Championship quarterfinals on Friday.
With the loss, Team Canada moves to the consolation round but is guaranteed to finish eighth or better after the squad entered competition ranked No. 9 in the world. Read more below:
Canada Falls To #2 Ranked Australia In FIBA Quarterfinals | Canada Basketball
Box Score: Australia 63, Canada 52 | FIBA
The ECHL's website, ECHL.com, has this profile of UMass hockey alum Dean Stork, who is entering his fifth season as head coach of the Greenville Road Warriors.
UMass field hockey hosts its first Atlantic 10 opponent of the season when Lock Haven comes through Amherst for a Friday afternoon contest that starts at 4 p.m. Game information is provided below for MinuteFans.
| University of Massachusetts Field Hockey Game Notes | |
| Game 11 | Massachusetts (3-7, 1-1) vs. Lock Haven (7-3, 2-0) |
| Date | Time | Friday, Oct. 3 | 4:00 p.m. |
| Location | Garber Field; Amherst, Mass. |
| Series History | UMass leads, 5-0. Last meeting: Massachusetts 4, Lock Haven 2; Nov. 1, 2013 |
| Live Statistics | |
| Watch Live | Atlantic 10 Digital Network |
| Team Information | Massachusetts | Lock Haven |
| @UMassFH | @UMassAthletics | |
| UMass Field Hockey | |
More news and statistics for the field hockey program can be found on UMassAthletics.com.
Julian Benbow of the Boston Globe has a feature story on Tajae Sharpe who is having a breakout season for UMass football. The wide receiver has nearly matched his season total in receiving yardage from last season and is on pace for a 1,000 yard season. Additionally, Sharpe has begun moving into the all-time career top-10 list for receptions, receiving yardage and touchdowns at UMass.
Matt Vautour of the Daily Hampshire Gazette has a feature story on the relationship forged by UMass football quarterback Blake Frohnapfel and head coach Mark Whipple. That relationship has translated into an improved offense for the Minutemen.
"I've never had that kind of relationship with a coach before. That's been great. I wouldn't say that's what I was looking for, but it's been an added bonus," said Frohnapfel, who'll try to earn his first victory on Saturday when the Minutemen travel to Miami (Ohio) for a 2:30 p.m. game. "I've really enjoyed being here. Having a head coach, who is an offensive guy and a quarterback guy, has been great."
Rich Thompson of the Boston Herald has a feature on UMass football fullback/tight end Rodney Mills' breakout season for the Minutemen so far in 2014. After spending two years working his way onto the field, Mills has become one of UMass' top playmakers with four touchdown receptions on just eight catches in the first five games of the year.
Ross Gienieczko of the Daily Collegian has a preview of this Saturday's Atlantic 10 opener for the men's soccer team as the Minutemen host Saint Joseph's at Rudd Field. Head coach Devin O'Neill says the team has had opportunities to score, but needs to finish those chances to be successful in league play.
Jason Kates of the Daily Collegian has a feature story on Matthew Mooney of the men's soccer team. The freshman midfielder has started seven of eight games so far this season and has played the fifth-most minutes of any player.
Arthur Hayden of the Daily Collegian has a preview of the Atlantic 10 opener against George Mason for the UMass women's soccer team on Friday afternoon at Rudd Field. Hayden predicts the game will be a defensive battle based on how each team has played so far this season.
Tom Mulherin of the Daily Collegian has a preview of the UMass women's soccer team's opening weekend of Atlantic 10 play and what the team will need to do to be successful. The Minutewomen will host George Mason at Rudd Field on Friday afternoon before facing Saint Joseph's on Sunday.
Here's a look at some of the headlines on Thursday as the Minutemen get their final practice in this afternoon before departing tomorrow for Miami (Ohio).
- UMass notebook: Mark Whipple leaves decisions on head injuries to medical staff | GazetteNet.com
- UMass linebacker Jovan Santos-Knox: 'There's no excuse for losing' when the Minutemen score 42 points against an opponent | masslive.com
- After breakout game last week, UMass quarterback Blake Frohnapfel looking for offense to get even better | masslive.com
- Heavy offensive line rotation helping to keep UMass blockers fresh as Minutemen look to cure running game woes | masslive.com
- In a battle of winless teams, the Minutemen are hungry to get their first win of the season at Miami (OH) : The Daily Collegian
- UMass football rushing attack bogged down by minor mistakes : The Daily Collegian
- UMass tight end Jean Sifrin focused on helping the Minutemen earn a victory : The Daily Collegian
- UMass releases nonconference football contracts | GazetteNet.com
- Recovering from injury, UMass linebacker Shane Huber likely to redshirt 2014 season | masslive.com
Team Canada, including UMass women's basketball alumna Tamara Tatham (2003-07), advanced through the first knockout game to reach the FIBA World Championship quarterfinals with a 91-71 win over the Czech Republic on Wednesday. Read about the win below:
Canada Advances To Quarterfinals With 91-71 Win Over Czech Republic | Canada Basketball
Box Score: Canada 91, Czech Republic 71 | FIBA
UMass women's basketball alumna Tamara Tatham (2003-07) and Team Canada advanced to the second round of the FIBA World Championship despite a loss to France, 63-59, on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Tatham provided 11 points, a pair of rebounds, one assist and a steal in the loss. The Canadian side faces the Czech Republic on Wednesday, Oct. 1, in its first elimination game.
Canadian Women's Basketball Team Advances In 2014 FIBA World Championship | Canada Basketball
Canadian Women Lose To France At Basketball Worlds | CBC Sports
Box Score: France 63, Canada 59 | FIBA