The MCC Athletics Blog

Officially the "unofficial" MCC Athletic Blog; created for all Eagle fans- so that they can keep tabs of their favorite JuCo team.

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Saturday

MCC to leave MACJC State Athletic Assoc.


Meridian Community College has resigned its membership in the Mississippi Association of Community & Junior Colleges Athletic Conference (MACJC), effective with the culmination of any playoffs for which the Eagles might qualify in the 2007-08 school year. Thereafter, MCC will return to competing as an independent beginning with the Fall 2008 semester, according to Dr. Scott Elliott, MCC president.

Elliott submitted MCC’s resignation letter to the MACJC on Sept. 21. The 10th-year MCC president explained that Meridian’s Board of Trustees recently made the decision in response to the MACJC’s newly adopted recruiting guidelines for MCC, which Elliott opined would negatively impact the Eagles’ ability to field consistently competitive teams.

“This is not something we’re happy about,” Elliott said. “It’s just something that we felt compelled to do. Philosophically, I still feel that Meridian should participate in the state organization for community colleges in all respects, athletics included.”

“Having said that,” Elliott continued, “every college also owes it to its constituents to try to conduct quality programs, whether it’s biology or baseball. MCC’s trustees and I simply concluded that, from our perspective, the newly adopted MACJC guidelines for MCC would diminish our ability to consistently deliver quality athletic programs. Therefore, we felt compelled to go in another direction.”

MCC rejoined the MACJC in 2002 after several years as a member of what was then known as the Miss-Lou Conference. During its second stint in the MACJC (2002 to date), the Eagles won 14 state championships, including two in baseball and two in women’s softball and several others in golf and men’s and women’s tennis.

The root issue with MCC where athletic recruiting is concerned, Elliott said, is that Meridian is unique among the state’s community colleges, in that it has only a one-county district shared with another community college (East Mississippi C.C.). Other Mississippi community colleges have as many as 11 counties comprising their recruiting district. For all practical purposes, MCC does not have a viable recruiting district for student-athletes. So, in 2002, the MACJC worked out certain dispensations to try to level the playing field for Meridian.

Recently, a committee of community college presidents was convened by the MACJC to evaluate the 2002 Meridian recruiting guidelines. That committee recommended a new recruiting format for Meridian,which was adopted by the MACJC presidents during their monthly meeting in August.

Elliott emphasized that MCC “does not bear any ill will toward our sister institutions (the other 14 public community colleges comprising the MACJC)” in resigning its membership.

“I have great respect for my fellow presidents,” Elliott said. “They are all honorable people. It’s just that most of them respectfully disagree with me as to the impact these new guidelines will have on Meridian’s ability to recruit competitively. In approving the new guidelines, I’m sure they voted for what they felt was in the best interest of their colleges and the league. Conversely, in resigning from the conference, I feel we are acting in the best interest of Meridian Community College.”

Elliott noted that he hopes MACJC schools – especially those in the East Mississippi region – will consent to continue playing Meridian in non-conference competitions in the future.

“Playing our traditional rivals in the region has been fun these past five years, and it has also proven a cost-effective measure,” Elliott said. “We’ve had some big crowds at our games, so I hope that can continue. However, in the past when MCC functioned as an independent in athletics, few MACJC schools agreed to play us. That will be up to officials at the other colleges. I can’t speak for them. All I can say is that MCC would like to continue those competitions, but there will be no hard feelings if my colleagues feel differently.”

As to the specifics of the new MACJC recruiting guidelines for Meridian, Elliott said that they are too complex to attempt to detail in a press release or sound bite.

“Suffice it to say,” he reiterated, “we felt that the original guidelines established in 2002 afforded MCC a reasonable opportunity to compete for state and regional championships. We were never guaranteed success, but we were afforded what we felt was an equitable opportunity to be successful. We knew when we rejoined the league that it was doubtful that MCC could continue to compete year-in and year-out on a national level, but the trade-off, both philosophically and financially, in rejoining the state conference was worth it to us. Now, we feel that the pendulum has swung a bit too far in the opposite direction, so this is the best choice we feel we can make at this time.”

“Of course, there are always two sides to every story,” Elliott summed. “I have simply offered Meridian’s perspective. My fellow presidents obviously have their own. Again, there are no hard feelings, and if the MACJC ever determines to open up the state for recruiting such that all student-athletes would have the opportunity to sign with any college of their choice, then I would personally love for MCC to re-affiliate with the league. As to whether that opportunity will arise in the future, I couldn’t predict.”

Wednesday

MCC soccer keeps rolling


(MERIDIAN)- The Meridian Community College Lady Eagle soccer team continued to roll as they defeated MACJC South Division rival Pearl River Community College before a packed home crowd on Tuesday night.

It was another impressive night for MCC sophomore, Holly Head. Head, a Vicksburg native, racked up all four goals for the Lady Eagles in a 4-0 shut-out of PRCC.

The Lady Eagles 7-1-1 (7-1) are sitting in first place in the South Division and will continue their hunt for a state crown by hosting East Central Community College on October 3.

"It's been six years coming and man is it fun,” said head coach Alex George.

“I'm just going to enjoy the ride and cherish every single win.”

Sophomore Lady Eagle team captain, McKenzie Butler added to her coach’s excitement.

"I have never been more relaxed and confident than I am now, this is a team you want to win for and a coach that knows how to motivate us to win," said Butler.

“Coach George gave each of us a rose before the game which sent a symbolic message to us that he is all about this program. And, in return, we showed him our appreciation."

In men's action, after a 3-1 early lead, the Eagle's gave up two late goals to PRCC to send play into overtime at a 3-3 tie.

After completion of two overtime periods, the game ended in a tie with both teams receiving 1 point in division play.

"We went up 3-1 and instead of keeping our foot on the gas it looked as if we were more worried about keeping them from scoring,” said George.

“I told the guys after the match that you can't let up on any opponent. They want it just as bad and when you have the opportunity you have to finish the job in order to seal the deal. We didn't do that tonight.”

The Eagles 7-1-1 (6-1-1) are still in a good position for post-season play as they defeated PRCC 4-2 in a previous divisional game back in August.

The Eagles will be in division action on Oct. 3 as they will host East Central Community College.

As a break from divisional play, MCC will host its annual Rush Invitational Soccer Classic September 28 and 29 at MCC. Teams from Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Louisiana will be showcased in the tournament. A schedule of game times can be found on the MCC soccer website (www.meridaincc.edu/soccer).

Monday

MCC “White” Claims Runner-Up; Burton, Konieczny All Tournament at Rush Inv.

(MERIDIAN) –Behind strong efforts from sophomore Michael Burton and freshman Joe Konieczny, the Meridian Community College golf teams both posted top-3 finishes on Monday at the MCC/Rush Fall Invitational. The MCC “White” team fired 608 (303-305) to claim team runner-up while MCC’s “green” team posted a 611 (308-303) to finish third.

Burton, a sophomore from West Lauderdale High School, closed out the tournament with a career-best 1-over-par 73, in his second round on Monday. For the tournament, Burton finished with a 3-over par, 147 (74-73), also a career best, and was named to the All Tournament Team. Konieczny, a freshman from Mooreville, MS, fired a career best 2-under-par 70 in his second round. The Mississippi State transfer finished in 2nd place overall and was named to his second consecutive All Tournament team with a 36-hole total of even-par, 144 (74-70).

Mississippi Gulf Coast claimed the team title with a 588 (300-288) team score. The Bulldogs were led by sophomore Stone Thames, who claimed the individual medalist title with a 4-under par 140 (69-71).

Other MCC scores included, Clay Bounds (79-74) and Joshua Ivy (80-73) with 153, Ryan Hill (75-79) with 154, Jarrod Moulds (75-80) with 155, John Everett (78-79) with 157, Bryant Self (77-81) with 158, Curt Sparks (79-80) with 159, and Jarrod Lemaster (79-83) with 162.

MCC’s next golf action will be October 22-23 in the Indian Bayou Colligate Classic in Destin, FL.

Team Scores:

MS Gulf Coast 588
MCC “White” 608
MCC “Green” 611
MS Gulf Coast “Blue” 639
Co Lin 634
Pearl River 659
East Central 663
NE Mississippi 676

Sunday

MCC Golf to host annual Fall Invitational at Briarwood CC


(MERIDIAN) – The Meridian Community College Eagle golf team returns to competition on Monday, Sept. 24 in the MCC/Rush Fall Invitational. The one day, 36-hole event is being hosted by MCC and will take place at Briarwood Country Club.

The Eagles are coming off a record setting year, which included a third place finish in the 2007 NJCAA Div. II men’s golf national championship. MCC recently posted back-to-back top-three finishes in their season opening events, at NW Shoals (AL) and John A. Logan (IL).

“Our first tournament round this year tied our lowest score from all of last season (284), and we had a pretty strong year last season,” said MCC head coach Sean Covich.

“But ever since then we’ve been steadily shooting higher, so hopefully playing at one of our home courses (Briarwood) will help correct that trend.”

Copiah-Lincoln Community College, East Central Community College, Northeast Mississippi Community College, Pearl River Community College and arch-rival Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College will join MCC in the field this week at Briarwood.

This week’s tournament will be MCC’s only home event in the fall. The Green and White will participate in six fall events, including two in Alabama, one in Illinois and one in Florida.

The format for the event will be five players competing and counting the lowest four scores turned in after each round. Freshmen Clay Bounds, John Everett and Joe Konieczny will join sophomores Bryant Self and Curt Sparks to highlight the starters on MCC’s “Green” team. The trio of Bounds, Konieczny and Self have earned All Tournament Team honors in their first two events this fall.

Local players-Michael Burton, Ryan Hill, Josh Ivy, and Jarrod Moulds will join Alabama-native Jarrod Lemaster to make up the MCC “White” team. Both Ivy and Lemaster were starters on MCC’s National Championship Tournament team in May of 2007.

The Eagles won last years MCC/Rush Fall Invitational by 31 strokes over Gulf Coast with a score of 583 (299-284). Joshua Ivy won medalist honors with a 2-under par 142 (74-68).

Play will begin at 8:00 AM with a shotgun start. First place and second place teams will be awarded along with individual medalist honors and five all tournament team awards.

Saturday

MCC soccer sweeps Jones

(ELLISVILLE, Miss)- The Meridian Community College soccer teams claimed their fifth straight MACJC South Division sweep with two victories over Jones County Junior College on the road in Ellisville Saturday afternoon.

Holly Head, Molly Moon and Chelsa Jones scored one goal as the Lady Eagles won 3-0 over JCJC

The Lady Eagles improved to 6-1-1 (6-1) on the year.

In men’s action, Brett Murphree scored two goals as the Eagles won 4-0 over Jones Co.

MCC improved to 7-1 (6-1) on the year.

Meridian will host Pearl River on Tuesday night on the MCC campus.

Friday

MCC soccer to face JCJC

(MERIDIAN) The Meridian Community College soccer teams will travel to nearby Ellisville to face MACJC South Division opponent- Jones County Junior College on Saturday.

MCC spilt a pair of games with Jones back on August 28 in Meridian.

The Lady Eagles took a 5-0 shutout victory over Jones while the men were defeated by the Bobcats, 3-2.

The JCJC defeat remains Eagles only blemish on the season.

Both Meridian teams are in front in the MACJC South Division race at 5-1. The Lady Eagles are 5-1-1 overall while the Eagles are 6-1 on the season.

“This will be a big road test for us,” said MCC head soccer coach Alex George.

“We’d like to stay atop the standings.”

The Lady Eagles and Lady Bobcats take to the field at 2:00 PM, while the men do battle at 4:00 PM on the Jones County Junior College campus.

Wednesday

MCC soccer with a sweep over Co-Lin


(WESSON, Miss)- The Meridian Community College soccer teams continued their winning ways with a sweep of MACJC South Division foe- Copiah Lincoln Community College on the road in Wesson Wednesday afternoon.

Crystal Davidson scored two goals and Holly Head scored one goal as they led the Lady Eagles to a 3-1 victory over Co-Lin.

The Lady Eagles improved to 5-1-1 (5-1) on the year.

“We played pretty solid,” said head coach Alex George

“The only goal for them was on a mistake we made in front of our goal trying to clear out, so besides that we played pretty well.”

In men’s action, Matt Clifton scored two goals and Lance Dodd added one more goal to secure a 3-2 win for MCC over Co-Lin.

The Eagles led at half 1-0 before coming out and scoring two goals quickly in the second half.

MCC improved to 6-1 (5-1) on the year.

“We played good enough to win, but not great,” said George.

“There are some things that we have to improve on by Saturday.”

Meridian will be on the road Saturday as they travel south to face Jones County in “The Battle of I-59.” MCC spilt a contest with JCJC earlier this year at home, Lady Eagles won in a shutout 5-0 and the Eagles lost 2-3, it is the only loss for the Eagles in division play thus far.

Tuesday

Two former MCC basketball players join West Alabama

(LIVINGSTON, Ala.)- Two former Meridian Community College standouts are among 10 new faces on West Alabama’s men’s basketball team this coming fall.

Calvin Payton and Maurice Naylor both join the Tigers following two years under the tutelage of coach George Brooks.

Payton, a wing forward, averaged double figures with 12 points. Naylor, a former Meridian High School standout, tallied 12 points and eight boards per contest. He posted a season-high 21 points last year against Gulf Coast.

MCC soccer preps for road game v. Co Lin


(MERIDIAN) The Meridian Community College soccer teams are coming off an impressive weekend sweep over MACJC South Division rival, Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Lady Eagles wasted no time in staking their bid for a championship birth as they claimed a 3-0 victory against Gulf Coast in last Saturday's women's soccer action.

Scoring for the Lady Eagles was Jill Rush, who netted two goals, and Kari Lieberman claimed the lone goal.

"I could sense the urgency of my girls throughout the week,” said MCC soccer coach Alex George.

“We knew going into the match that it would be a battle that had to be won in the air as Gulf Coast plays a lot of aerial attack. We focused on that during our training sessions and I saw the benefits Saturday.”

In the men's action, the Eagles held on to a 2-1 win in the night cap.

Scoring for the Eagles was freshman Pascagoula native Matt Clifton and sophomore Terry Silva of Starkville.

The close contest was a game of momentum and missed opportunities for both teams.

“We had multiple shots on goal that slightly missed their mark while Gulf Coast could have easily pulled away with several break away opportunities that just went wide,” said George.

“I thought both teams were very balanced and it could have gone either way. I will take the win no matter how it comes.”

Both teams are sitting in the driver's seat for a first place MACJC South Division spot.

The Eagles return to action Wednesday, September 19 as they travel to Co-Lin Community College.

Lady Eagles are 4-1-1 (4-1) on the season, while the Eagles are 5-1 (4-1) on the year. Co Lin’s Lady Wolves are 5-2 (3-2) on the year, while the Wolves are 3-4 (2-3) on the year.

Monday

MCC Golf claims top three finish in Illinois


MARION, Ill. – Meridian Community College’s golf team wrapped up competition at the JA Logan Fall invitational in a tie for third place after posting a final round score of 312 on Monday. MCC finished the tournament tied with Parkland (Ill) College. The top-3 finish was MCC’s second consecutive on the fall season. The Eagles finished third at the NW Shoals Invitational last week out of 9 teams, and third this week out of 12 teams.

Mississippi State transfer Joe Konieczny was MCC’s top finisher. The freshman notched an even par 72 on the day, which was the low score of the final round for the Eagles. Konieczny completed the tournament at 5-over par, which set him tied at 6th among all individuals, earning his first career all tournament team honor.

Freshman Jarrod Moulds entered Monday at 2-over par, but finished the 36-hole event at 6-over after scoring a final round of 76. Freshman Clay Bounds shot a round of 80 Monday, finishing at 10-over for the two-day event. Sophomore Bryant Self registered an 84 in the final round, he finished at 19-over par. Sophomore Joshua Ivy shot an 85 on the final day after an opening round of 89.

Ryan Hill, competing as an individual for MCC, matched his first round score of 75 on Monday to finish 6-over for the event.

Host-JA Logan College claimed the crown with rounds of 298-290. Indian Hills (Iowa) College was second followed by MCC and Parkland College.

MCC will resume fall play on September 24, when the Eagles will play host to their annual Rush Fall Invitational at Briarwood Country Club in Meridian.

Sunday

MCC Golf in 2nd at Illinois Tourny


MARION, Ill. – Meridian Community College freshman golfer Jarrod Moulds led the Eagles to 2nd place after round one of the J.A. Logan Fall Invitational. Moulds was MCC’s low score with a 2-over par score of 74 at the 7,150 yard long, par 72 Kokopelli Golf Club in Marion, Illinois.

Freshman Clay Bounds carded MCC’s next lowest round of the day with a 3-over par 75.

Freshman Joseph Konieczny added a 5-over par 77, while sophomore Bryant Self shot 6-over par, 78.

Sophomore Joshua Ivy shot 17–over, 89 while Ryan Hill, playing as an individual, shot 3–over par, 75.

Host school- J.A. Logan College has the 18-hole clubhouse lead at 10-over par, 298. MCC is in 2nd place with a 16-over par, 304. Indian Hills College of Iowa is in 3rd, just one shot back of MCC with a 17-over 305.

“This is a long course, kind of a major championship set-up at over 7,000 yards long and with fast, firm bent grass greens,” said MCC head coach Sean Covich.

“If we can learn to value par on each and every hole, and save a few shots that we didn’t today, we should be in the hunt by tomorrow afternoon.”

Individually, Indian Hills’ Charles Dunghill is in first place with a 1-under par 71. Three other golfers are in a tie for 2nd with even par, 72. MCC’s Moulds is tied for 5th with a 75.

Final round of the 36-hole event will get underway Monday morning at 8:00 am.

MCC Scores
Jarrod Moulds 74 (+2)
Clay Bounds 75 (+3)
Jospeh Konieczny 77 (+5)
Bryant Self 78 (+6)
Joshua Ivy 89 (+17)

Ryan Hill [individual] 75 (+3)


Team Scores
1. John A. Logan College 298
2. Meridian CC 304
3. Indian Hills College 305
4. Parkland College 306
5. MS Gulf Coast CC 312
6. Rend Lake College 314
t7. Danville College 320
t7. Lincoln College 320
9. Illinois Central College 327
t10. Kaskaskia College 332
t10. John Wood College 332
12. Lincoln Trail College 341

MCC Golf, JA Logan Fall Inv pictures






MCC Golf Pictures, Illinois practice round










Saturday

MCC Golf in Illinois Tourament


(MARION, Ill.) - The Meridian Community College golf team enjoyed a late afternoon practice round at the Kokopelli Golf Course on Saturday, site of the 2007 JA Logan College Fall Invitational golf tournament.

“We had a nice round today after a long drive,” said MCC head coach Sean Covich.

“The course is well over 7,000 yards long and is set up like a major championship. I am very excited to see how we play a very challenging golf course.”

MCC will begin play at 10:40 AM on Sunday. Clay Bounds, who tied a MCC golf record with a 4-under par round 67 last week, will lead things off for the Eagles. Jarrod Moulds will begin play at 10:50 AM, followed by Bryant Self at 11:00 AM, Joe Konieczny at 11:10 AM and then Joshua Ivy at 11:20 AM. Ryan Hill, an individual for MCC, will begin play after 12:00 PM.

MCC will be paired with Illinois Central College and Rend Lake College, both of Illinois.

“This is a great event with a great field,” said Covich.

“Most of the top teams in our division are here, including our arch-rival, Mississippi Gulf Coast.”

The tournament is scheduled for two 18-hole rounds, starting on Sunday and concluding on Monday.

Scoring results will be available by visiting www.golfstat.com.

Friday

MCC Golf Preps for Illinois Trip


MERIDIAN, Miss. – Meridian Community College Eagle golf team returns to competition on Sunday, Sept. 16 in the JA Logan College Fall Invitational in Marion, IL. The 36-hole event will continue thru Monday at the Kokopelli Golf Club, which plays to a par 72 at over 7,105 yards.

The Eagles are coming off a third place finish at the NW Shoals Fall Invitational last week. MCC tied their lowest round in two seasons with a 284 team score on the first round at the NW Shoals event.

Host-John A Logan College, Indian Hills College, Rend Lake College, Illinois Central College, and arch-rival Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College will join MCC in the field this week in Illinois.

MCC head coach Sean Covich will start two freshmen in the #1 and #2 slots, as Meridian junior golfers Clay Bounds and Jarrod Moulds start in their second colligate event. Along with the freshmen, Eagle sophomores Joshua Ivy, Bryant Self and MSU-transfer Joseph Konieczny will start in the top five for MCC. Koniecnzy earns a start after sophomore Jarrod Lemaster was suspended Friday due to violation of team rules, according to MCC golf coach Sean Covich. .

Eagle freshman Ryan Hill will compete for MCC as an individual.

Tee times begin both days at 8:00 AM. Nearly 75 junior college golfers will compete in the event. First place and second place teams will be awarded along with individual medalist honors and five all tournament team awards.

Wednesday

MCC Golf Claims Runner Up at Mississippi College


BRANDON, Miss. – The Meridian Community College B-Team golfers competed in the Mississippi College Fall Invitational on Wednesday at the 6,900 yard par-72 Patrick Farms Golf Club. MCC was the lone two-year college in the six team field which played 18 holes.

The Eagles competed against four-year schools, Belhaven College, Louisiana College, Millsaps College, Mississippi College and Tugaloo College.

MCC freshman Joe Konieczny led the Eagles with a 4-over par 76. Konieczny finished 5th overall.

Sophomore Curt Sparks and freshman Blain Henderson each posted rounds of 79, while sophomore Michael Burton and freshman Taylor McCrary both shot an 81.

Freshman John Everett, who competed as an individual, closed out MCC’s scoring with an 84.

Host-Mississippi College won the tournament title with a team score of 310. MCC’s B-team finished second with a team score of 315, Louisiana College claimed third with a team score of 318.

LC’s, John Willie, fired a 1-over par 73 to claim top medalist honors.

MCC’s A-team will be in action this week when they travel to Marion, IL to play in the JA Logan Fall Invitational on Sunday and Monday.

The Eagles will then return to action on Monday, September 24 when they host the MCC/Rush Fall Invitational at Briarwood Country Club in Meridian.

Tuesday

Bounds, Self All Tourament Team, MCC 3rd at NW Shoals Inv.


MUSCLA SHOALS, Ala. – The Meridian Community College golf team came into the final round of the Northwest Shoals Fall Invitational tied for the lead with Wallace State at 1-over par, 569.

The Eagles fired a final round 290 to place third, one shot behind Central Alabama who finished second at 858 and six shots behind first round co-leader, Wallace State at 853

MCC’s 54-hole total of 859 (284-285-290) was good enough for a +7 team score.

MCC freshman Clay Bounds led the way for the Eagles with a 1-under par 54 hole total of 212 (67-71-74). Bounds tied for 3rd overall and was named to the All Tournament team.

MCC sophomore Bryant Self continued his steady play with a three round score of even-par, 213 (72-71-70). Self was named to the All Tournament team in a tie for 6th place overall.

Other MCC scores included Josh Ivy 219 (70-71-78), Jarrod Lemaster 223 (73-76-74) Jarrod Moulds 224 (78-74-72) and Ryan Hill 233 (82-76-75).

Andrew Freeman of Wallace State won the individual medalist title with a 5 under par 208 (70-69-69).

MCC’s B-team will be in action Wednesday at the Mississippi College Fall Invitational.

Monday

Bounds leads MCC golf at NW Shoals Invitational

MCC Scores
Clay Bounds (67-71)
Joshua Ivy (71-70)
Bryant Self (72-71)
Jarrod Lemaster (76-73)
Jarrod Moulds (74-78)
{Individual} Ryan Hill (82-76)




(Muscle Shoals, Ala.) The Meridian Community College golf team posted an even par score of 284 and then a 1-over par score of 285 in their first 36 holes of competition Monday at the Northwest Shoals Fall Invitational.

MCC stands tied for first on the clubhouse leaderboard heading into Tuesday's final round with Wallace State. Both teams are at 1-over par, 569.

Playing in his first colligate tournament, MCC freshman Clay Bounds leads all MCC competitors at 4-under par, 138. The Meridian native and former Lamar School standout opened with a 4-under par 67 and closed with a round of 71 in the second round. Bounds, who is the freshman team captain for MCC, stands in first place in the medalist individual race. Three other golfers are only one shots off the pace at 139.

MCC sophomore Joshua Ivy stands at 1-under par, 141. The sophomore team captain and Quitman native cared a round of even-par 71 in the morning and a 1-under par 70 in the afternoon.

“Both our team captains (Clay & Josh) played extremely well today,” said MCC head coach Sean Covich.

“But honestly I thought the entire team played steady. If you add up all 10 scores, we averaged a 72.3, and that’s with scores that we threw out.”

Eagle sophomores Bryant Self and Jarrod Lemaster added to the scores with 36 hole totals of 143 and 149 respectively. Self shot 72, 71 while Lemaster, an Alabama native, shot 76, 73.

MCC freshman and former Lamar standout, Jarrod Moulds rounded out the Eagles team scoring with a 152. Moulds shot 74, 78.

MCC sophomore and former West Lauderdale golfer, Ryan Hill competed as an individual for the Eagles. Hill shot 158 with rounds of 82, 78.

“As a team, we had certain goals in mind and I’d say right now after shooting 284, 285 we’re right where we want to be heading into the final round.”

The final round will get underway at 8:00 am Tuesday morning at Cypress Lakes Country Club. MCC is slated to begin play at 9:40 a.m. The final round of the two day, 54-hole event will be 18 holes.




NWSCC Fall Invitational
Cypress Lakes CC
Muscle Shoals AL
Team Results


t1 Meridian CC (284-285) 569, +1
t1 Wallace State CC (283-286) 569, +1
3 Central Alabama CC (284-294) 578, +10
4 Faulkner State CC (291-295) 586, +18
5 North Alabama, U. of (289-305) 594, +26
6 Northwest Shoals CC (298-299) 597, +29
7 Martin Methodist Co. (309-306) 615, +47
8 East Central CC (319-316) 635, +67

Sunday

Pictures from MCC Golf: practice round in Muscle Shoals, AL















Friday

MCC Begins 2007-08 Golf Season In Alabama


(MERIDIAN)- The Meridian Community College golf team will begin play in the 2007-08 season at the Northwest Shoals Community College Fall Invitational Monday, September 10 at the Cypress Lakes Country Club in Muscle Shoals, AL.

This trip will mark the third straight time that Eagles have opened up their season in Alabama.

The Eagles will join over 10 teams in the tournament field.

"This is a wonderful event with a lot of great programs represented," said MCC head coach Sean Covich. "We will use this event to see how we stand with the top programs from around the region."

Former Lamar High School standout golfers, Clay Bounds and Jarrod Moulds will lead MCC into the event as freshmen. A talented sophomore trio of Joshua Ivy, Jarrod Lemaster and Bryant Self will round out the MCC starting five.

“Clay and Jarrod have really played well in qualifying and earned the top two spots,” said Covich.

“All three of the sophomores played in the national championship for us last season, so I think that the freshmen will learn from their leadership in this first event.”

Former West Lauderdale High School golfer Ryan Hill will compete for the Eagles as an individual.

MCC will tee off at 8:00 a.m. CT Monday at the 6,605-yard, par-71 Cypress Lakes Country Club. The 54-hole event will be in the shotgun start format, with the teams playing 36 holes on day one and 18 holes on day two.

Thursday

Hart Advances to RD of 32 in US Sr Am Championship


(SUNRIVER, OR) – Lou Hart of Meridian advanced all the way to the round of 32 in this year’s US Women’s Senior Am before falling to Lisa Smego of Olympia, Washington 5 & 3. Hart finished the qualifying round tied for seventh place posting a two day total of 73 – 77, 150. In her first round match on Monday, Hart defeated Nancy Fitzgerald of Carmel, Indiana 2 & 1.

This year’s championship is being played September 1 – 6 at the Sunriver Resort in Sunriver, Oregon. For more information on the tournament visit the U.S. Women’s Senior Amateur Homepage (www.seniorwam.org).

Three former MCC Eagles on same field in MLB game


Last night the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers faced off in a Major Leagues Baseball game with the Rangers winning a close 1-run game, 3-2.

In that game three former Meridian Community College baseball players were on the same field.

Paul Phillips and Jason Smith of the Royals and Bill White of the Rangers all played baseball for MCC in the mid-to-late 1990’s.

Phillips and Smith played in 1996 while White played in 1999 for the Eagles.

Phillips went to Alabama before entering into the MLB, while White played for Jacksonville State following his MCC career before turning professional. Smith was drafted in 1996 by the Cubs organization.

Phillips, who graduated from West Lauderdale High School, is a catcher for the Royals. He has a .265 career batting average in the majors.

Smith, who hails from Demopolis, AL, plays third base for KC. He has 16 career homeruns in the majors, with five of those coming this season with KC.

White, who is originally from Kentucky, is a pitcher for the Rangers. He signed with Texas as a free agent March 28 and made 43 appearances at Double-A Frisco, where he was 2-0 with two saves and struck out 64 batters.

Wednesday

MCC soccer sweeps East Central


The Meridian Community College soccer teams traveled to nearby Decatur to face MACJC South Division opponent- East Central Community College Wednesday night.

MCC swept the pair of games versus their rival on the road.

The MCC women’s team took a 2-1 victory while the men defeated the Warriors soundly, 8-1.

Both Meridian teams now stand at 2-1 in the MACJC South Division. The Lady Eagles are 2-1-1 overall while the Eagles are 3-1 on the season.

Lady Eagle freshman, Holly Head scored MCC’s two goals to lead the Lady Eagles to victory.

“This was a big road win for the ladies,” said MCC head soccer coach Alex George.

“Anytime you go on the road in our division and pull out a close one it feels good.”

MCC men took to the field with heavy hearts.

Over the holiday weekend, former Northeast Lauderdale High School standout and MCC sophomore, Coleman Hobgood was severely injured in a car accident. Hobgood remains hospitalized in Jackson.

The Eagles dedicated their game v. East Central to Hobgood.

MCC sophomore Terry Silva scored his second hat trick this season.

The Eagles led 2-1 at half then pulled away with six goals in the second half

“We wanted to come out and dedicate this game to Coleman and his family,” said George.

“Our prayers are with them and we were glad to get the win for him.”

Meridian will be on the road Saturday as the Eagles travel to play Southwest Mississippi CC in Summit.

MCC Golf Announces 2007 Fall Schedule


(MERIDIAN) – The Meridian Community College golf team has announced their 2007 fall schedule according to head coach Sean Covich.

Once again the Eagles will begin their season in Alabama. Last season MCC opened up play in the Central Alabama Fall Invitational, this year they will begin play on September 10-11 at the Northwest Shoals Fall Invitational College Golf Tournament.

The 54-hole Northwest Shoals event will be played at the 6,605 yard, par 71 Cypress Lakes Country Club in Muscle Shoals, AL.

“This is a great event for us to begin our season with,” said Covich.

“The top junior college teams from the Mississippi-Alabama-Georgia region will be there, so it’s a good barometer for where we stand.”

MCC will then send a B-team to participate in the Mississippi College Fall Invitational on September 12. The one day 18-hole event will be played in Brandon at the 6,900 yard, par 72 Patrick Farms Golf Club.

The Eagles then travel out of the southern part of the United States to head to the Midwest region by visiting Illinois.

MCC will participate in the John A. Logan Invitational on September 16-17 in Marion, IL.

The 36-hole even will take place at the renowned Kokopelli Golf Club which measures 7,150 yards and plays to a par 72.

“This is another wonderful trip for us,” said Covich.

“JA Logan College finished in the top 5 at the national championship in 2007, 4th place just one stroke behind us. So this will be a great event- sort of a rematch from nationals last season.”

Following their September travels, MCC will come home September 24 to host their annual MCC/Rush Fall Invitational.

This one day, 36-hole event will be held at Briarwood Country Club here in Meridian.

MCC will continue their out-of-state events with participation in the prestigious Indian Bayou Colligate Classic in Destin, FL on October 22-23.

The 36-hole event, hosted by the University of North Alabama, will take place on the 7,078 yard, par 72 Indian Bayou Golf Course.

“We are honored to be one of only two junior college teams in the entire field for this prestigious event,” said Covich.

“It is a first class event with NCAA teams from all over the South. It will give our guys great exposure and a chance to play a world class course.”

MCC will conclude their 2007 fall slate with a trip to the University of Mobile’s Fall Classic on November 5-6.

The Eagles placed in the top-5 at this four year college/university dominated event in 2006. The Eagles were the top Div II Junior College team in the field last season and return this year to play the historic 6,850 yard, par 72 Azalea City Golf Course.

MCC will look to build on their record setting season in 2006-07 under second year head coach Sean Covich.

The Eagles captured a school record 9 tournament titles on their way to the programs third consecutive MACJC State/Region 23 title and a 3rd place finish in the national championship.

Local area natives - Clay Bounds (freshman team captain), Michael Burton, John Everett, Ryan Hill, Joshua Ivy (sophomore team captain) and Jarrod Moulds will look to help the Eagles this season.

Out-of-area players, Blaine henderson (Lucedale, MS), Joe Konieczny (Mooreville, MS), Jarrod Lemaster (Scottsboro, AL), Taylor McCrary (Hattiesburg, MS), Bryant Self (Tupelo, MS) and Curt Sparks (Belmont, MS) will make up the rest of the MCC golf roster.

Tuesday

MCC takes on ECCC in "Battle of I-20"


(MERIDIAN) – The Meridian Community College soccer teams are preparing for their second consecutive division road contest today v. local rival East Central. MCC is coming off another split decision.

Both the Eagles and Lady Eagles traveled to Poplarville, MS and faced MACJC South Division foe Pearl River this past Friday.

The Lady Eagles played first in an overtime battle.

MCC controlled most of the first half until Pearl River scored late, right before intermission. The score was 3-2 MCC leading in the second half with just 5:00 left when Pearl River scored a corner kick to tie up the contest at 3-3, and force overtime.

In the overtime period Pearl River scored with 2:00 minutes left to claim a 4-3 victory over the Lady Eagles.

“We aren't going to let it affect us,” said head soccer coach Alex George.

“We have a good team and we will bounce back.”

The MCC men’s squad won 4-2 in the nightcap on Friday v. Pearl River.

Coach George credited the win as a “group effort,” giving special mention to Eagles goalkeeper Mario DiRaimo, who knocked down some last minute Pearl River scoring attempts.

“We controlled most of the second half and pulled away nicely to secure the victory,” said George.

“We just have to take them one at a time and not overlook anyone. That is our key.”

Both MCC squads will challenge ECCC in a crucial MACJC South Division contest in “The Battle of I-20” (in reference to the main thoroughfare that connects the two schools).

Lady Eagles are 1-1-1 (1-1) on the season, while the Eagles are 2-1 (1-1).

Women begin play at 3:00 PM in Decatur. Men take to the field immediately following at 5:00 PM.