It was another exciting week for women’s softball at Penn State New Kensington. The Lady Lions won all 6 games they played last week and another team member earned national recognition.

Looking ahead, Penn State New Kensington hosts Penn State Fayette on Thursday, April 19 for a conference doubleheader at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell. Games will take place at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. Penn State New Kensington softball is now 9-1 in the PSUAC conference, and Fayette isn't far behind at 6-4.

The Lady Lions come off of a 6-game winning streak, as they swept their opponents Penn State Greater Allegheny, Penn State Hazleton and Penn College last week. According to head coach Mike Marsili, “We hit the ball very well on Saturday and outscored them. Then, on Sunday our pitching held us in the games. Both offense and defense are doing well and everyone is contributing. It’s not just one or two people winning the games for us, everyone is stepping up to contribute.”


Fan Appreciation Day on Thursday:
Fans are encouraged to support Penn State New Kensington on Thursday, April 19 as the girls try to hold onto their conference lead. Free food, drinks and other giveaways will be provided to those in attendance.

Those needing a ride to and from Wolf Pack Park for the fan appreciation game can take advantage of the campus shuttle. The shuttle will be operating continuously during the game, departing from the lion shrine in the front parking lot and traveling to and from the ballfield from 1:30-4:30 p.m. For those with their own transportation, the field is located at the intersection of Wild Life Lodge and Garvers Ferry roads, a short drive from campus.


USCAA honors sophomore Keri Barnes as Player of the Week:
A few weeks ago sophomore pitcher Tarra Oravec was the first Penn State New Kensington softball player to ever receive United States Collegiate Athletic Association’s Player of the Week honors. Now, teammate Keri Barnes, catcher, is in the spotlight as the campus' second recipient of the Player of the Week award.

Barnes had a strong bat last week and went 11 for 20, hitting an impressive .550 average with 14 RBIs and 7 runs. She had 3 doubles and 3 home runs -- one of which came at a very key moment for New Kensington. On Sunday, Penn State New Kensington was tied at 3-3 against Penn College when Barnes hit a 3-run walk off home run in the bottom of the 8th inning to win the game.

Barnes is a psychology major at Penn State New Kensington and she comes to the team from Leechburg Area High School. 


Recap from last week:
April 11 - @ Greater Allegheny W 8-2, W 9-0
April 14 – hosted Penn State Hazleton W 10-4, W 6-3
April 15 – hosted Penn College W 6-3, W 4-3

For more information about women's softball, visit http://psnkathletics.com/sports/sball/index

LADY LIONS BREAK INTO USCAA TOP 20
2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 14 vs Penn State Hazleton
Doubleheader, Wolf Pack Park, Lower Burrell

Sweep Doubleheader at Greater Allegheny
8-2, 9-0

The Penn State New Kensington softball team returns home at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 14, with a conference doubleheader against Penn State Hazleton at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell, Pa.

The New Kensington Lady Lions are coming off a conference doubleheader sweep April 11 at Penn State Greater Allegheny, 8-2 and 9-0. Sophomore pitcher Jenna Swank picked up the two wins, throwing a one-hitter in the nightcap, to raise her record to 4-6 on the year. The team’s bats came alive as Kerri Barnes hit her first home run of the season and added three RBI. Jess George and Katie Colbert had two doubles each and Brooke Churma added two singles.

The victories improved New Kensington’s Penn State University Athletic Conference record to 5-1 and moved the Lady Lions into a first-place tie with Penn State Mont Alto and Penn State Beaver. The team, 7-8 overall, is ranked 19th in this week's USCAA poll. Hazleton, 5-2, is in third place in the PSUAC, a half-game behind New Kensington.

In PSUAC play, Marsili’s squad swept a doubleheader from Penn State Worthington Scranton, 11-1, 16-0, and split with Beaver, losing 9-0 and winning 10-4. Individually, Swank leads the team with a .375 batting average followed by Oravec at .333, and sophomore shortstop Bridget Fisher at .308. Oravec tops the squad in home runs, 2, and RBI, 7.

For a season prospectus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44435.htm#NEWS44435 online.

USCAA HONORS SOPHOMORE PITCHER FOR WINNING DOUBLEHEADER
Throws One-Hitter and Two-Hitter with 10 Strikeouts

Sophomore pitcher Tarra Oravec was named the United States Collegiate Athletic Association’s Player of the Week in softball for the period March 26-31. Oravec, a graduate of Kiski Area High School, scattered three hits with 10 strikeouts in picking up a pair of conference victories over Penn State Worthington Scranton, 9-1 and 13-0.

“Tarra throws hard and has good change-up,” said Mike Marsili, the fourth-year head coach. “At the plate, she is a strong hitter and she has deceptive speed.”

Hours after learning of her USCAA honors on April 3, Oravec validated her selection by pitching and hitting the New Kensington Lady Lions to a 10-4 win over arch-rival Penn State Beaver. While her arm held Beaver at bay for six innings, her bat fueled New Kensington’s six-run fifth inning with a grand slam, one of her three hits on the day. The homer was Oravec’s second of the game and her five RBI was the best of the day for either team. Oravec’s heroics improved her record to 3-1 on the year and New Kensington’s record to 3-1 in the Penn State University Athletic Conference and 5-6 overall.

When she’s not on the mound, Oravec is a stalwart at third base. The administration of justice major has an excellent glove, in addition to hitting for power and average. During the season-opening swing through Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Oravec batted .416 with a home run, three doubles and five RBI.

Oravec’s athletic dexterity on the field is equaled by her academic acumen in the classroom. She is on the Dean’s List, whose membership is reserved for students earning grade-point averages of 3.5 or higher. She expects to earn her bachelor’s degree in 2014 and continue her education in law school.

The Allegheny Township resident joins a select company of Penn State New Kensington athletes who have garnered USCAA Player of the Week honors. Oravec is the first softball player to earn national recognition. In men’s basketball, Ta-Wayne Steele (2011), Justin Reed (2009 and 2010) and Jeremy Hurt (2007) have been honored.  Adam Stawski was named to the honor roll during the 2009 golf season. Heather Stewart earned the award during the 2007 women’s volleyball season.

National honors have been a staple of the campus athletics program since it joined the USCAA in 2005. In the past seven seasons, five student-athletes have been named to the All-America team: Mende Hicks, women’s volleyball (2006-07); Jeremy Hurt, men’s basketball (2007-08); R.J. Hurt, men’s basketball (2007-08); Matt Miller, golf (2008-09); and Stawski, golf, (2009-10).

In addition, four student-athletes were selected to the USCAA Academic All-America team: Matt Knapp, golf (2011-12), Kayla M. Smail, women's volleyball (2008-09); Jeremy Hurt (2006-07 and 2007-08); and Christy Heasley, women’s volleyball (2006-07).

The USCAA is a national organization that is geared to provide athletic opportunities to small colleges — those with enrollments of less than 2,500. It sponsors 11 national championship tournaments in men's and women's sports. Established in 2001, the USCAA was incorporated to provide an opportunity for members to compete on an equal level of competition with schools of similar size and athletic programs. Headquartered in Newport News, Va., the organization has more than 82 member institutions in 24 states, stretching from Maine to California.

CONFERENCE DOUBLEHEADER
2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 14, Wolf Pack Park

The Penn State New Kensington softball team returns home at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 14, with a conference doubleheader against Penn State Hazleton at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell, Pa.

The New Kensington Lady Lions are coming off a doubleheader loss April 5 to Carlow University, the number one team in the country in the USCAA national Coaches' Poll. The team’s bats were silent as the Celtics shut out New Kensington, 8-0 and 1-0.  Sophomore pitcher/third baseman Jenna Swank, 2-6 on the year, took the loss in the opener and sophomore third baseman/pitcher Tarra Oravec, 3-2 dropped the second game.

“Jenna and Tarra pitched well, but we couldn't get anything going offensively,” said Mike Marsili, the fourth-year head coach. “We had many runners in scoring position but couldn't get the timely hit.”

With the losses, New Kensington falls to 5-8 overall. The team remains at 3-1 and tied for second in the Penn State University Athletic Conference.

The Lady Lions travel to McKeesport, Pa., on Wednesday, April 11, for a 2 p.m. conference doubleheader at Penn State Greater Allegheny, 1-1 in the PSUAC.

For a season prospectus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44435.htm#NEWS44435 online.

For the roster, schedule and results, visit http://psnkathletics.com/sports/sball/index online.

LADY LIONS HOST PENN STATE SCRANTON
PSUAC Doubleheader
1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 31,
Wolf Pack Park, Lower Burrell, Pa.

The Penn State New Kensington softball team opens the 2012 season at home at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 31, with a conference doubleheader against Penn State Scranton at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell. The field, located at the intersection of Wild Life Lodge and Garvers Ferry roads, has served as home to the softball team the past four years.

Eerily reminiscent of last year’s truncated season due to numerous weather-related cancellations, the New Kensington Lady Lions' original season opener on March 24 at Chatham University was canceled because of rain. A make-up date has not been scheduled. A year ago, coach Mike Marsilli’s team played only 12 of 20 games.

The New Kensington Lady Lions travel to Monaca, Pa., on Tuesday, April 3, for a 2 p.m. Penn State University Athletic Conference doubleheader at Penn State Beaver. Marsili’s squad begins a 12-game homestand with a 3 p.m. doubleheader on Thursday, April 5, against Carlow College at Wolf Pack Park.

For a season prospectus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44435.htm#NEWS44435 online.

For the full schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39086.htm online.

GOOD PITCHING, STRONG DEFENSE AND
CLUTCH HITTING ARE KEYS TO RETURNING TO THE PLAYOFFS

Fresh from a seven-game, preseason swing through Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Penn State New Kensington softball team and coach Mike Marsili are anxious for the regular season to get underway. The Lady Lions went 2-5 down south and were able to groove their swings and solidify their defense.

“After practicing indoors for a month and a half, it was refreshing to work on a regulation-size field,” said Marsili, beginning his fourth year at the campus. “The trip built confidence in the players and developed team unity. Plus we had a chance to see what areas needed additional work before starting the season.”

According to Marsili, the keys to the season are good pitching, strong defense, and clutch hitting. Excellent team speed complements both the defense and offense.

“Defensively, with our overall speed, we can turn potential hits into outs,” said Marsili, who reconstituted the dormant softball program in 2009.  “Offensively, we can hit-and-run, steal, and take that extra base which puts pressure on our opponents' defense.”

With a blend of savvy veterans and talented newcomers, Marsilli is expecting the team to make a run at the conference title. The coach has been building toward the championship ever since he took over the program in 2009. His first team went 0-14 in the Penn State University Athletic Conference. Last year, the team went 6-6 and just missed the conference playoffs.

“I believe that we can play with anyone in the conference,’ said Marsili, a resident of Vandergrift. “With our pitching, we should be in every game with a chance to win it at the end.”

A veteran infield and pitching staff will be the backbone of the team. Heading the list of returnees is sophomore pitcher Jenna Swank (Ford City High School) who is equally adept at third base and at the plate. She will be the ace of the staff and provide power in the middle of the line-up. In Myrtle Beach, she batted .363 with three doubles and two RBI. Junior first baseman Katie Colbert (Fox Chapel) is a three-year starter with a deft touch around the bag. Colbert was second in fielding percentage in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association.

“Jenna is a very good hitter and will play third when not on the mound,” Marsili said. “Katie has good speed and makes good contact at the plate.”

Sophomore second baseman Sarah Kutchko (Deer Lakes) has great hands and is blossoming into a team leader. With a good glove and a strong arm, sophomore shortstop Bridget Fisher (Burrell) makes the team solid up the middle. She also will be utilized as a relief pitcher.

“Sarah improved as the season progressed last year so she is much more confident going into this season," Marsili said. “Bridget can come in and throw strikes when we need it.”

Newcomers will patrol the outfield and handle the catching duties, as well as share pitching and third base responsibilities. Sophomore Tara Oravec (Kiski Area) will swap positions with Swank throughout the season. When one is pitching, the other will be at the hot corner. Oravec, who can also play the outfield,  hits for power and average. In the preseason, she batted .416 with a home run, three doubles and five RBI.

“Tara is a strong hitte,r and she has deceptive speed,” Marsili said. “On the mound, she throws hard and is working on a good change-up.”

Freshman Brooke Churma (Kiski Area) takes over centerfield, and her exceptional speed can run down hits in the gap and keep opposing runners from taking the extra base. Freshman Korie Krull (Langley) is slated for left field, and she will do some pitching. At the plate, both can move runners with timely hitting.

“Brooke is a switch hitter who can slap it around or drag bunt," Marsili said. “Korie has good speed and can bunt to get on.”

Behind the plate, freshman Jessica George is getting on-the-job training. An infielder by trade, she is adapting to the position and should be steady by the season opener. Sophomore Breanna Cass (Fox Chapel) and freshman Jordan Miller (Harvest Baptist) will vie for starting positions. Cass is a good utility player who can play infield or outfield. Miller is inexperienced but makes up for it by practicing hard.

“We are long on talent but short on depth,” Marsili said. “We are strong up the middle and our speed will surprise a lot of teams. We will be bunting runners into scoring position and using our speed to get them home.”

The Lady Lions opened at home at 1 p.m., Saturday, March 31, with a PSUAC doubleheader against Penn State Scranton at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell. The field, located at the intersection of Wild Life Lodge and Garvers Ferry roads, has served as home to the softball team the past four years. The 22-game schedule features 16 Penn State University Athletic Conference games and six non-conference contests.

Marsili is a former assistant coach at Kiski Area High School. He is a certified coach and conducts numerous clinics throughout the year. His assistant is Brian Eshbaugh, who was the head coach of the Lady Lions for three years, 2002-05. Eshbaugh guided New Kensington to two PSUAC championships.

For full schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39086.htm online.

LADY LIONS PREPARE FOR SEASON OPENER
1:00 p.m, Saturday, March 24, at Chatham University

Playing outdoors for the first time, the Penn State New Kensington softball team came away with two wins during spring break, March 5-9, at the Fastpitch Dreams Spring Classic in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Squeezing seven games into five days, coach Mike Masili’s squad, finished with a 2-5 tournament record against teams from Illinois, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, North Carolina and eastern Pennsylvania. Behind the pitching of sophomore Jenna Swank (Ford City), the New Kensington Lady Lions defeated Wentworth (Mass.) College, 10-9, and Penn State Berks, 5-3. New Kensington fell to Sauk (Ill.) Valley College, 10-1 and 4-3, Rivier (NH) College, 2-0, Juniata College, 12-7, and Guilford (NC) College, 16-2.

Sophomore outfielder Tara Oravec (Kiski Area) topped the squad in hitting, both for average and power, by going 10 for 24 (.416) with a home run, three doubles and five RBI. Swank was equally proficient at the plate, going 8 for 22 (.363) with three doubles and three RBI. Sophomore shortstop Bridget Fisher (Burrell) batted .250 and collected 2 doubles and two RBI on five hits.

Returning to campus means back to indoor workouts as the fields in the area remain unplayable due to the weather. The New Kensington Lady Lions have less than two weeks before opening the season Saturday, March 24, at Chatham University in Pittsburgh. Marsilli hopes the team's home field at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell will be playable for the home opener March 31 against Penn State Scranton.

"We have had so much precipitation, the fields will take time to dry out," said Marsili. "I scheduled Chatham as an away game because they have a synthetic turf field. I don't expect to get on our field until the end of the month."

Last year, Marsili guided the team to a 6-6 PSUAC record and a fifth-place finish in the conference. He is a certified coach and conducts numerous clinics throughout the year. His assistant is Brian Eshbaugh, who was the head coach of the Lady Lions for three years, 2002-05. Eshbaugh guided New Kensington to two PSUAC championships.

For the full softball schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39086.htm online.

Fastpitch Dreams Spring Classic Results
Sauk Valley, L 10-1
Sauk Valley, L 4-3
Wentworth, W 10-9
Penn State Berks, W 5-3
Rivier, L 2-0
Juniata, L 12-7
Guilford, L 16-2
 
Lady Lions Leading Hitters
Tarra Oravec   .416, 10-24, 3 doubles,  home run, 5 RBI
Jenna Swank    .363, 8-22, 3 doubles, 2 RBI
Bridget Fisher   .250, 5-20, 2 doubles, 2 RBI

LADY LIONS TO PLAY PRESEASON TOURNAMENT
"Fastpitch Dreams Spring Classic"
March 5-9

Indoor practice gives way to outdoor games during spring break trip to Myrtle beach.

With the current weather of western Pennsylvania at odds with Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction of two more weeks of winter, the Penn State New Kensington softball team is going with a sure thing and heading to sunny South Carolina.

The New Kensington Lady Lions begin spring training March 5, in Myrtle Beach, with preseason practices and games. Despite the mild winter, unplayable fields are keeping coach Mike Marsili's squad inside.  The 70-degree climate on the east coast of northern South Carolina gives the team the chance to play outside.

"Going to Myrtle Beach gives us a jump on the competition," said Marsili, beginning his fourth season as head coach. "We hope to bond as a team and get to know each other."

During February, Marsili had the team doing its conditioning, fielding, and hitting in the Athletics Center. The squad worked out in the weight room, fielded grounders in the gymnasium, and got its swings inside the batting cage. In addition, pitchers threw on the sidelines while position players executed defensive drills.

"We can only do so much in the gym, so I'll be excited to get them on the field and see what they can do," Marsili said. "The schedule gives the coaches an opportunity to analyze players' strengths and determine their positions."

The team will spend five days in Myrtle Beach for the "Fastpitch Dreams Spring Classic." The Lady Lions will play eight games against six schools, including Sauk Valley College from Illinois, Wentworth College from Boston, Rivier College from New Hampshire, and Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. The itinerary is not all softball. In keeping with the spirit of the campus' spring break, which coincides with the South Carolina sojourn, the players will also have some beach time.

"Each day after the game we have something planned for the players," said Marsili. "Our hotel is right on the ocean, and they can go to the beach or the hotel pool during their free time."

After spring break, classes begin March 14 and that means, most likely, back to indoor workouts. The New Kensington Lady Lions will have 10 days before opening the season Saturday, March 24, at Chatham University in Pittsburgh. Marsilli hopes the team's home field at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell will playable for the home opener March 31 against Penn State Scranton.

"We have had so much precipitation, the fields will take time to dry out," said Marsili. "I scheduled Chatham as an away game because they have a synthetic turf field. I don't expect to get on our field until the end of the month."

Last year, Marsili guided the team to a 6-6 PSUAC record and a fifth-place finish in the conference. He is a certified coach and conducts numerous clinics throughout the year. His assistant is Brian Eshbaugh, who was the head coach of the Lady Lions for three years, 2002-05. Eshbaugh guided New Kensington to two PSUAC championships.

For the full softball schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39086.htm online.

SEVEN HOME DOUBLEHEADFERS
Wolfpack Park, Lower Burrell

PRESEASON TOURNAMENT IN MYRTLE BEACH
Fastpitch Dreams Spring Classic
March 5-9

Despite the recent spate of unseasonably warm weather, the home field of the Penn State New Kensington softball team remains unplayable, relegating preseason practice indoors. The 2012 campaign gets under way at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, with a nonconference game at Chatham University in Pittsburgh.

The Lady Lions are in the midst of conditioning, fielding and hitting in the Athletics Center. Coach Mike Marsilli's squad is working out in the weight room, doing drills in the gymnasium and taking batting practice from the pitching machine inside a 50-foot enclosed net. In addition, pitchers are throwing on the sidelines. If Punxsutawney Phil got it wrong, then an early spring is on the way and the practices can soon move outside. The team can utilize the multi-purpose grass practice field behind the Athletics Center.

Marsilli's squad is set to play seven home doubleheaders at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell, Pa. The field, located at the intersection of Wild Life Lodge and Garvers Ferry roads, has served as home to the softball team the past four years. The 22-game schedule features 16 Penn State University Athletic Conference games and six non-conference contests.

The preseason schedule begins March 5 with spring training in South Carolina. The team will spend a five days in Myrtle Beach for the Fastpitch Dreams Spring Classic. The Lady Lions will play seven games against six schools, including Sauk Valley College from Illinois, Wentworth College from Boston, Rivier College from New Hampshire, and Juniata College in Huntingdon, Pa. The itinerary is not all softball. In keeping with the spirit of campus' spring break, which coincides with the South Carolina sojourn, the players will also have some beach time.

Last year, Marsilli guided the team to a 6-6 PSUAC record and a fifth-place finish in the conference. A former assistant coach at Kiski Area High School, Marsilli begins his fourth year as head coach. He is a certified coach and conducts numerous clinics throughout the year. His assistant is Brian Eshbaugh, who was the head coach of the Lady Lions for three years, 2002-05. Eshbaugh guided New Kensington to two PSUAC championships.

For the full softball schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39086.htm online.

MATT KEPPLE CAPTURES PSUAC/USCAA TITLE

Penn State New Kensington wrestler Matt Kepple captured the 184-pound title Feb. 12 at the Penn State University Athletic Conference/United States Collegiate Athletic Conference National Invitational at Penn State University Park. Kepple, a sophomore engineering major from New Alexandria, Pa., defeated Justin Martz, 6-4, to claim New Kensington’s first individual title. Freshman Mitchell Robinson finished in fourth in the 165-pound weight class. As a team, the New Kensington Lions finished eighth in the ten-team field.

BASKETBALL CONCLUDES 2011-12 CAMPAIGN
7:00 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 8,
Penn State Beaver, Athletics Center

Penn State New Kensington’s men’s basketball team concludes its season at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 8, when first-place Penn State Beaver visits the Athletics Center.

For winter sports schedules, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/28376.htm (basketball) and http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/36290.htm (wrestling).

WINTER SPORTS TEAMS AWAY THIS WEEKEND
Wrestling
1:00 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, Penn State DuBois Duals

Men's Basketball
7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 18, St. Vincent College

With the annual Thanksgiving break looming, the Penn State New Kensington men's basketball and wrestling teams hit the road this week for a pair of contests. Basketball visits St. Vincent College at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, for a non-conference game, and wrestling heads to Penn State DuBois at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, for a conference dual match with Penn College and DuBois.

Basketball opened its Penn State University Athletic Conference schedule at home Nov. 12 with 125-55 victory over Penn State Lehigh Valley. The New Kensington Lions, 2-1 overall and 1-0 in the PSUAC, topped University of Pittsburgh-Titusville, 76-60, in the season opener and fell to Mt. Aloysius College, 131-72, in a non-conference match against an NCAA-III school. Sophomore guard Anthony Brown (Oliver High School) had a double-double, 13 points and 11 rebounds, against the Mounties. Second-year coach Doug Schneider’s high-octane offense is averaging 91 points per game.

COACH DOUG SCHNEIDER EYES RETURN TO CONFERENCE PLAYOFFS
Senior Justin Reed Leads Veteran Team

Last year, a young Penn State New Kensington men’s basketball team went into the final game of the season looking for a victory and an invitation to the conference playoffs. They were denied on both counts. This year, an experienced squad plans an early RSVP for the Penn State University Athletic Conference tournament.

“The team is focused on improving and renewing the tradition and basketball culture at the campus, “said Doug Schneider, second-year coach head coach. “We have set high goals, and our experience, balanced with a quality recruiting class, can help us accomplish those goals.”

With a symmetrical blend of five upperclassmen and five freshmen, Schneider looks for the team to improve on its 6-10 record and third-place finish in the PSUAC-West division a year ago, in his inaugural season.

“With the personnel that we have this year, we should be able to play a more up-tempo and team-oriented style of play,” said Schneider, who as assistant coach helped the New Kensington Lions earn two berths in the PSUAC playoffs. “Our strength is leadership, mental toughness, and teamwork."

Heading the list of returnees is senior co-captain Justin Reed, a two-time All-Conference selection. Reed, a 6’3 swing-man from Saltsburg High School, is an excellent perimeter shooter, and equally adept at taking the ball to the hoop. During his Penn State career, he is averaging 16 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting 81 percent from the foul line. A year ago, the Moween, Pa. native broke the 1,000-point barrier, the first New Kensington player to do so since Dan Polizzano in 2004.

“Justin is our lone senior and has done a lot for this program with his individual contributions,” said Schneider, who earned a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. “He is now focused on team success and in improving on aspects of his game that are necessary to help the team win.”

Joining Reed at captain’s table is sophomore Daryl Harrington from Perry Traditional. The 5-10 guard is the leader on the court and has stepped up his offense to take on more of the scoring burden. Harrington’s backcourt teammate, Anthony Brown (Oliver), is a versatile 5-10 guard who can fill in at many positions.

“Daryl is the ‘voice’ of our team and his leadership will guide his teammates to success,” Schneider said. “Anthony is one of the hardest workers on the floor, and heart and determination make him a player that every team needs on their squad.” 

Junior guard Abe Strapac (Leechburg) and sophomore guard Mike Poydence (Apollo Ridge) are the outside scoring threats for the New Kensington Lions. Strapec can hit the three-pointers that are needed to open up the inside game, and Poydence is excellent from mid-range to beyond the arc.

“Abe is one of our better shooters and his off-season work has helped to increase his role,” Schneider said. “Mike is a pure shooter and he displays patience, determination, and the willingness to accept whatever role is needed to ensure that the team is successful.” 

Newcomers expected to crack the starting line-up and to provide depth off the bench include a pair of speedy guards and two big inside players. Freshman guards Lamont Wright and Victor Chaney are good ball handlers who can drive and look to dish it off underneath. The recipients of those feeds will be 6-8 freshman center Dillen Statler (Ford City) and 6-5 forward Shaquille Hagar.

“Lamont has a high basketball IQ and  the potential to develop into a leader at the collegiate level while Victor is improving on all aspects of his game to increase his playing time,” Schneider said. “Dillen is coachable and has the potential to be an impact player as the season progresses. Shaquille gives us size and athleticism at power forward.”

Freshman guard Dom Strapec, brother of Abe, is currently battling injuries. He is expected to return in January when the conference schedule heats up and provide another threat from the three-point range.

“We have a very ‘hungry’ team that has displayed the willingness to do what it takes to be successful in our conference,” Schneider said. “The key to this year's season is improvement on focus, academics, selflessness, and teamwork.” 

Schneider was named head coach last year after four years as assistant coach under former coach Ryan Shank. The banner year was 2007 when the team went 22-6 and finished sixth in the nation in the United State Collegiate Athletic Association. In the PSUAC, the team went undefeated during the regular season and finished as runner-up for the conference title. The squad was ranked number one in the country for the last six weeks of the season.

As an undergrad at Pitt-Bradford, he was the captain of the basketball team that won two conference titles and received two NCAA Division III playoff berths. The Marienville, Pa., native led the nation in three-point shooting percentage, 54 percent, in 2002.

When he is not coaching, Schneider is a paraeducator at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh. Paraeducators work under the supervision of teachers or other professional practitioners. Their responsibilities include providing other services to youth and their families. Schneider assists WPSD students with both academic and behavior issues. Schneider resides in Apollo, Pa., with his wife, Tiffany, and three-year old son Dalton.

The coach can be contacted at dls86@psu.edu via e-mail.

PROCEEDS SUPPORT "DEREK KOTECKI MEMORIAL FUND"
Campus Sponsors 32nd Annual Race
10:00 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, Athletics Center 

Proceeds from Penn State New Kensington's annual Turkey Trot 5K will benefit the family of Patrolman Derek Kotecki, the Lower Burrell police officer who was slain Oct. 12 in the line of duty. Entry fees for the Nov. 19 race will go to the "Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund" that was set up by the Fraternal Order of Police, Allegheny Valley Lodge #39 for Kotecki's wife and two children, ages 13 and 9.

"Our Turkey Trot is going to be dedicated to the Kotecki family," said Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus.  "This is a great opportunity to get some healthy exercise while benefiting one of our local heroes."

A pre-Thanksgiving fixture at the campus since 1980, the race has grown into a 5K, one of the classic distances of running events.  Open to the public, the 3.1–mile run through the campus and Upper Burrell is set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the campus Athletics Center. There is also a one-mile family fun run/walk that starts at 10:15 a.m.

"I think it is important to create a tradition for students and their families and friends," said Pepsi Hutton, race coordinator and instructor in kinesiology at the campus. "Our goal is to sponsor a fun, family-friendly race to promote health and wellness in the community."  The 5K course begins at the Athletics Center, crosses the upper parking lot and heads down Myers Drive to the turnaround point. Participants then backtrack to the finish line at the Athletics Center.

The entry fee is $15 for college and high school students with ID; $20 for campus faculty and staff; and $25 for local residents. A special family fee of $25 lets four family-members participate in the distances of their choosing.

Frozen turkeys will be awarded to the winners of each of the four age categories: 18-24; 25-32; 33-44; 45-and over. All registrants receive a "Turkey Trot" t-shirt and a goodie bag.

For more information, call or e-mail Hutton at 724-334-6747 or plh20@psu.edu via email.

Those who cannot make the Turkey Trot but wish to support the Kotecki family can donate directly to the Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund, S&T Bank, 4251 Old William Penn Highway, Murrysville, Pa., 15668. In addition, a website has been created in the officer's honor, and the sale of a specially-designed memorial t-shirt will benefit the widow and children.

For more about Patrolman Kotecki and to order a t-shirt, visit http://www.officerkotecki.com/ online.

WRESTLING FEATURES NINE TOURNAMENTS
Three Duals in Athletics Center

BASKETBALL 18-GAME SCHEDULE 
HIGHLIGHTED BY SEVEN HOME GAMES

Penn State New Kensington's winter sports get underway in early November as wrestling and men's basketball open the seasons on the road.

The wrestling team opens the 2011-12 campaign on Nov. 5 with the Knight Open at Clarion University. Under the direction of first-year head coach Doug Joseph, the New Kensington Lions play a nine-match schedule that includes three home duals in the campus Athletics Center and six tournaments on the road. The home matches feature Penn State Fayette on Jan. 7, Penn State Greater Allegheny on Jan. 12, and Penn State Beaver on Jan. 19. Highlights of the away schedule are tournaments at Washington and Jefferson College and Clarion. For the full wrestling schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/36290.htm online.

The men's basketball team opens the 2011-12 season at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, with a non-conference match at the University of Pittsburgh in Titusville. Under the direction of second-year head coach Doug Schneider, the New Kensington Lions will play an 18-game schedule that includes 7 home games in the campus Athletics Center and 15 Penn State University Athletic Conference games. The non-conference schedule includes St. Vincent College and Mt. Aloysius College. Last year, the Lions went 6-10 in the PSUAC and finished third in the West division.

For the full basketball schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/28376.htm online.

For more on New Kensington campus athletics, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/sports.htm online.

FINAL ROUND PSUAC TEAM SCORES
Penn State Hazelton 3331-324-655
Penn State Mont Alto 326-333-659
Penn College 346-326-671
Penn State New Kensington 340-344-684
Penn State Wilkes-Barre 353-347-700
Penn State Schuylkill 360-368-728
Penn State Greater Allegheny 370-362-732

PSUAC TOP FIVE INDIVIDUALS
Nick Tristani (Hazleton) 79-76-155
Cody Dinger (PSNK) 79-80-159
Alex Baker (PSNK) 76-84-160
Chase King (Mont Alto) 80-82-162
Pat Blaney (Hazleton) 80-83-163
Alex Howe (Penn College) 77-86-16

FINAL ROUND USCAA TEAM SCORES
Lindenwood University 303-294-597
Rochester College 302-316-618
Apprentice School 316-316-332
New Hampshire Technical 312-335-647
Penn State Hazelton 331-324-655
Penn State Mont Alto 326-333-659
Penn College 346-326-671
SUNY-ESF 331-341-672
Penn State New Kensington 340-344-684
SUNY-Canton 349-347-696
Penn State Wilkes-Barre 353-347-700
Penn State Schuylkill 360-368-728
Penn State Greater Allegheny 370-362-732
Southern Virginia University 375-364-739
University of Dallas 357-WD

USCAA TOP FIVE INDIVIDUALS
Tommy Stirling (Sou. Maine) 72-68-140
Bo Cook ( Lindenwood) 75-69-144
Ben Hunter (Apprentice) 73-75-148
Khris Bartling (Rochester) 72-78-150
Justin Robinson (Lindenwood) 73-77-150

USCAA ACADEMIC ALL AMERICAN
Matt Knapp, Penn State New Kensington

 
Cody Baker            Matt Knapp                    Alex Baker                             Nate Vertosick

Matt Knapp, Alex Baker, Cody Dinger and Nate Vertosick helped lead the golf team to a
ninth-place finish in the national championships.

PSUAC GOLF CONFERENCE
West Division
Greater Allegheny, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Penn College, Shenango
East Division
Abington, Brandywine, Hazelton, Lehigh Valley, Schuylkill, Wilkes-Barre

For more information contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6069.

2011 OUTLOOK
VETERAN SQUAD POISED FOR RUN AT CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Youth must be served, says the old English proverb. It is an aphorism that is beneficial to the Penn State New Kensington golf team; just not this year.

Anchored by six upperclassmen, four returning starters and a pair of former lettermen, a veteran New Kensington Lions team is poised to make a run at the Penn State University Athletic Conference championship.

Unlike a year ago, when freshmen dominated the roster, and inexperience and uncertainty overshadowed skill, the 2011 squad oozes talent, confidence and maturity. To borrow a phrase from former Baltimore Orioles manager Earl Weaver, the team has "deep-depth," and is solid from top to bottom.

"We have a core group of five players who have the ability to go low at each match," said Bill Woodard, in his tenth year as head coach. "Shooting in the 70s is no longer an achievement, it's an expectation."

The top two seeds for the New Kensington Lions will be a rota of sophomores, Alex Baker (St. Joseph's High School) and Cody Dinger (West Shamokin). Both can consistently shoot in the mid-70s and will share the top spot throughout the season.

Baker was the New Kensington's top finisher at the 2010 United States Collegiate Athletic Association national championships with a two-day total of 84-82-166. He was the team's most consistent player, averaging 83 strokes per round with a low of 82. Dinger was the scoring leader during the regular season, averaging 82.6 while posting rounds of 79, 80 and 81. Both have a nice touch around the green.

"Alex and Cody are aggressive long-hitters whose short games help them recover from stray shots," said Woodard, who doubles as alumni and public relations specialist at the campus."Now that they are more experienced, their course management skills are moving to the forefront, and they aren't relying solely on strength off the tee. They are thinking their way around the course and that will lead to lower scores."

Senior Matt Knapp moves up one spot to the No. 3 player. Last year, his first on the team, Knapp had an 86 average. Since then, he has honed his game and is developing into a player who can break 80 regularly. The 44 year-old Kiski Area High School product is the elder statesman on the team. Prior to entering the business administration program in 2008, Knapp served 17 years in the Army.

"Matt has good length off the tee and is handy around the green," said Woodard. "He doesn’t get rattled by a bad shot and can recover to keep it no worse than bogey. He can  go low at any time, and that is what the team needs to make a run at the conference title."

Settled in at the four slot is senior Nathan Vertosick (St. Joseph's, CCAC-Boyce). Vertosick had a career-low of 83 a year ago and is closing in on his first round in the 70s.

"Nate would be a three on other teams," said Woodard. "He provides insurance in the back of the line-up and can step-up if some of the other players falter."

Battling for the last two rungs on the team ladder is senior Bob Adams (Highlands) and sophomore Nicola DeIuliis (Valley). Adams was a member of the 2007 team that finished second in the Penn State University Athletic Conference championships. DeIuliis is progressing under the tutelage of assistant coach John Mandak and will be spotted in the line-up throughout the season.

Mandak, owner of Valos Candy Co. in Arnold, Pa., begins his second season as volunteer swing coach. He has a keen eye for technique and works with the players to correct swing faults. In addition, he offers players sound advice on executing a variety of shots.  Ron Land, associate professor of engineering at the campus, has served as assistant head coach since 2000.

Last year, Penn State New Kensington finished 10th in the national tournament and fifth in the conference tournament. During the regular season, the team finished third in the PSUAC-West with a 9-10 record.

The New Kensington Lions open the season at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 2, at the Shenango Classic at Tam O'Shanter Golf Course in Hermitage, Pa. The tournament features all six teams from the PSUAC –West division--host Penn State Shenango, Penn College, Mont Alto, Greater Allegheny and Fayette.

The team is entered into six tournaments, highlighted by a home match, the Bernie Guss Invitational, at the Links at Spring Church in Apollo. The postseason, Oct. 10-11, features the PSUAC conference and United States Collegiate Athletic Association national championships at the Penn State Blue Course in State College.
In a collegiate golf tournament, team scores are determined by the total strokes. Teams seed players one through six and group them with the opponent's seeded players. The best four scores out of the six are counted toward the total.

Penn State New Kensington competes in the PSUAC and the USCAA. The PSUAC conference comprises 15 teams from Penn State campuses across the state. The USCAA is a national organization that is geared to provide athletic opportunities to small colleges -- those with enrollments of less than 1,500. Established in 2001, the USCAA was incorporated to provide an opportunity for members to compete on an equal level of competition with schools of similar size and athletic programs. Headquartered in Newport News, Va., the organization has more than 50 member institutions in 24 states, stretching from Maine to California. New Kensington joined the USCAA in 2005.

2010 RECORD: 9-10 PSUAC; 5th Place

PSUAC GOLF CONFERENCE
West Division
Greater Allegheny, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Penn College, Shenango
East Division
Abington, Brandywine, Hazelton, Lehigh Valley, Schuylkill, Wilkes-Barre

For more information contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6069.

PENN STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

Men's Soccer
Home, Saturday, Oct. 15, 1:00 p.m.
vs. Penn College, PSNK Soccer Field

Women's Volleyball
Away, Saturday, Oct. 15, 
Noon at Penn State Greater Allegheny

Away, Sunday, Oct. 16
Noon at Penn State Fayette

The Penn State New Kensington women's volleyball concludes its regular season on the road with two Penn State University Athletic Conference matches: noon, Saturday, Oct. 15, at Penn State Greater Allegheny and noon, Sunday, Oct. 16, at Penn State Fayette. The Lady Lions are 4-6 in the PSUAC and 4-7 overall. The men's soccer team returns home for its regular season finale, a PSUAC match at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 against Penn College. The team is 4-3 in the PSUAC and 5-6 overall. For more on campus sports, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/sports.htm online.

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FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

DEFENSE KEY TO SEASON

A strong and athletic defense will be the hallmark of the 2011 Penn State New Kensington women's volleyball team.

With a blend of savvy veterans and confident freshmen, head coach Dave McGeary will count on his team's ability to read opponents' attack positions and to be in the best position to counter with digs and blocks.

"Our lack of height directs us to play defensive, opportunistic volleyball," said McGeary, who begins his second year as coach."We will force the opposing team to earn their points while trying to take advantage of their missed opportunities."

Last year, a young New Kensington squad finished 2-14 in the Penn State University Athletic Conference. The Lady Lions were competitive in all matches but showed  inexperience at critical moments during the game.

This year, inexperience has given way to maturity, and with maturity comes the ability to maintain composure throughout the match. With the addition of talented and athletic freshmen, McGeary's team can be in position to win games.

"We have a strong core of athletic players returning, and we have a nice mix of talented recruits," said McGeary, a graduate of Dickinson College with a degree in economics. "Our on-court maturity should complement our skill set nicely."

Heading the list of returnees are sophomores, middle hitter Doreen Akins (Lenape), outside hitter Rachel Sportelli (Highlands) and her twin, outside hitter Valerie Sportelli (Highlands). According to McGeary, the trio has worked hard in the pre-season on hitting and serving.

"Doreen gives us strength and consistency in the middle, especially on blocks," said McGeary, a resident of New Kensington and Valley High School graduate.  "Rachel and Valerie mirror each other as strong side hitters and middle back defensive players."

Newcomers expected to crack the starting line-up from the outset are freshmen Melissa Daugherty (Plum) and Tammy Ferriera (Penn Trafford). Daugherty adds another strong outside hitter to the team, and Ferriera takes on setter duties.

"We are expecting significant contributions from Melissa, whose overall skills and experience should provide a solid presence on the court," said McGeary, who also serves as advisor to the student club, Group Investigating God. "Tammy brings good setting skills to the team."

Battling for additional court time will be sophomore defensive specialist Taylor Pastovic (Highlands), freshman outside hitter/defensive specialist Jessica George (Burrell), freshman outside hitter Kara Shaley (West Shamokin) and freshman outside hitter/defensive specialist Katie Colbert (Fox Chapel).

"We are athletic and will play gritty defense," McGeary said. "We should be a strong and consistent serving team, which will keep us in every game."

FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF PRIDE WRESTLING IS
PASSIONATE ABOUT DEVELOPING STUDENT ATHLETES
Demands Discipline in the Classroom and on the Mat

"I want to help students develop their wrestling skills, strengthen their minds and bodies, and gain character. I am passionate about helping these athletes become the great wrestlers and the great men that they are destined to become."--Doug Joseph

Pride Wrestling founder Doug Joseph was selected as the new head wrestling coach at Penn State New Kensington. This was announced recently by Dave Murray, director of athletics.

A former assistant coach at Kiski Area High School and Gannon University, Joseph replaces Scott Morgan who resigned in March after the inaugural season at the campus. Joseph brings to the campus a passion for developing young men in all aspects of their collegiate lives, both academically and athletically.

"I want to help students develop their wrestling skills, strengthen their minds and bodies, and gain character," said Joseph, who continues to direct activities for the Pride organization. "I am passionate about helping these athletes become the great wrestlers and the great men that they are destined to become." 

After a stellar wrestling career at Gannon, where he won the 197-pound NCAA national championship in 2001, Joseph earned a degree in secondary sports management with a concentration in wellness and fitness at California University of Pennsylvania. In 2004, he established the Pride organization for wrestlers of all ages. Pride helps wrestlers to develop their skills while learning about respect, about determination, and discipline

"Wrestling isn’t just about a sport, winning and losing, it is about molding you into a good person," said Joseph, who is a Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association wrestling official. "We stress that working hard can help them achieve their goals, and they can still have fun doing it." 

The new coach's first challenge in building a collegiate program is recruiting players who can develop the skills needed to be successful on the mat and the character needed to be successful in the classroom, as well as in the community. As a part of his coaching philosophy, Joseph believes that athletic and educational development gives students the tools that are essential for success in life. These attributes can be found in the wrestlers from local high schools.

"The Alle-Kiski Valley is a hot spot for wrestling and Penn State New Kensington sits in heart of that spot," said Joseph, a product of Kiski Area High School. "We have a ton of great talent right here in our local community, and I plan to give these kids a chance to go after their dreams."

Wrestling is in the blood of the Joseph family and the bloodline can be traced back for generations. His grandfather, father and uncles were wrestlers, as was his grandmother (her maiden name was Restler). Doug's three younger brothers left their wrestling imprimatur on state universities in western Pennsylvania: Stephen at Edinboro; Andrew at Slippery Rock; and Scott at Clarion.

The family coaching pedigree is equally impressive. The father, Stephen Sr., directed the Kiski Area Youth Wrestling program for more than 20 years while serving as an assistant at the high school. Stephen Jr. coaches at Pine Richland High School after a stop at Valley High School. In addition to coaching at Gannon and Kiski Area, Doug was Summit Academy's first wrestling coach. 
Murray expects Joseph, who studied under Chuck Tursky, the legendary Kiski Area coach, to revive a storied program that traces its roots back to the 1970s. Bob Darby, retired instructor of kinesiology and director of athletics, was the first head coach.

"Doug is well regarded in the community, and his wrestling background and experience with building a program from scratch makes him a good fit to head the campus wrestling revival," said Murray, himself a former soccer coach at Geneva College.

Joseph inherits a roster dominated by freshmen. Although the team finished 0-10 in dual matches, individuals provided numerous bright spots. Lou Gardone and Mark Irwin earned berths in the National Collegiate Wrestling Association national championships. Gardone, a 197-pound junior was seeded fourth in the nationals by virtue of winning the NCWA Mid-East regional. On the year, he fashioned a team-best 12-6 record.  Irwin, a 147-pound freshman from Pittsburgh, was selected as a wildcard for the nationals after medaling with a sixth-place showing in the Mid-East tournament. Due to logistical difficulties at the tournament, neither got the chance to vie for a national title. With the expertise of Joseph, both expect to make a return trip next year.

"I know Coach Joseph from Pride (Wrestling) and he will be great for our program," said Gardone, a graduate of Burrell High School. "He will definitely benefit the team and make me a better wrestler."

Joseph resides in Leechburg with his wife, Rachel, and their three children, Stone, 8, Bear, 2, and Daisy, 1.

LADY LIONS CLOSE WITH SWEEP OF GA
Finish 6-6 in PSUAC

RESULTS
April 28: PSNK 8, 10; PS Greater Allegheny 0, 1

WP: Bridget Fisher (3-3)
2B: Candis Downey (2); Jenna Swank; Amy Wengrzyn
Multi Hits: Katie Colbert, Sarah Kutchko; Sam Motchar;
Downey (4); Swank (4); Wengrzyn

FINAL RECORD
6-6 PSUAC; 6-7 Overall

Under bright sunshine that has been scarce all spring, the Penn State New Kensington softball team closed out one of  its wettest seasons April 28 at home with a doubleheader sweep of Penn State Greater Allegheny, 8-0 and 10-1.

Freshman pitcher Bridget Fisher threw two complete games even her record at 3-3. Fisher's battery mate, senior catcher Candis Downey, supplied the offense with two doubles and two singles. Freshman Jenna Swank was potent at the plate with a double and three singles.

2011 PROSPECTUS

Coach Mike Marsilli has the team doing its conditioning, fielding, and hitting in the Athletics Center. The squad is working out in the weight room, fielding grounders in the gymnasium, and getting its swings inside the batting cage. In addition, pitchers are throwing on the sidelines while position players are executing defensive drills.

With a blend of savvy veterans and talented newcomers, Marsilli is expecting the team to make a run at the conference title.  The third-year coach has been building toward the championship ever since he took over the program in 2009. His first team went 0-14 in the Penn State University Athletic Conference. He turned it around last year, guiding the New Kensington Lady Lions to 9-9 record and a berth in the PSUAC Final Four.

"With a playoff appearance last year, the team should be very confident going into the season," said Marsilli. "The players are working hard to get better, and this year's team should be very competitive."

Pitching and defense have been the hallmarks of all Marsilli's teams, and both attributes will be on display this season. On offense, he has some speed, so bunting and stealing will help generate runs.

"I think that our pitching and defense can limit the opposition to one or two runs per game," said Marsilli, a resident of Vandergrift." On offense, we will go one base at a time and sacrifice runners into scoring position."

Fueling the optimism is the return of five starters, led by senior catcher Candis Downey, the team's pitching ace a year ago. Pressed into service after the team lost two pitchers in the preseason, Downey pitched every inning of every game, and fashioned a 10-13 overall record. The Swissvale, Pa. native's arm was matched only by her speed and deft touch at the plate. As the leadoff hitter, she had a knack for getting on base, as her.361 average attested. Downey, the campus' Female Athlete of the Year, topped the squad with 12 stolen bases and was second in batting average.With two freshmen taking over the mound duties this season, Downey remains a part of the battery as she moves to her natural position behind the plate.

"Candis can bunt, slap, and steal bases, and that makes her an excellent leadoff hitter," said Marsilli, who is a certified softball coach." She also has a strong arm that can catch runners trying to steal on us."

The outfield will be anchored by sophomore left fielder Amy Wengrzyn, who led the team in four categories--.439 batting average, 25 hits, two homers, and 17 runs batted in. The Franklin Regional High School graduate scored 15 runs and was named PSUAC Player of the Week for the week of April 20.

"Amy hits for average and can hit to all fields with power," said Marsilli. "She is our top hitter as well as a student of the game."

Sophomore Katie Colbert returns for her second season as starting first baseman.  Solid around the bag, Colbert was second in the nation in fielding percentage last year. Rounding out the returning starters is sophomore Brianna Ring. She will patrol centerfield and gives Marsilli a solid unit up the middle.

"Katie is a line drive hitter, and she has good speed on the bases," said Marsilli. "Brianna makes good contact at the plate, and she is a good bunter."
Heading the list of newcomers are the pair of first-year hurlers, Jenna Swank and Bridget Fisher, who will share the pitching responsibilities. Swank is a power pitcher and Fisher is finesse pitcher.

"They complement each other," said Marsilli. "Jenna is a hard thrower with a good change up while Bridget can hit her spots."
At second base, freshman Sarah Kutcho has moved to the forefront. In right field, sophomore Jessica Ankeny and freshmen Maria Guido and Lauren Peace will battle for a starting slot.

"Sarah is learning the position and has the tools to be a solid second baseman," said Marsilli. "Maria, Lauren and Jess will be counted on to platoon in right field."
"Our pitching and defense will be our strengths, as well as the experience and confidence we gained last year," said Marsilli. "We don't have much depth, so avoiding injuries will be the key to the season."

For the full softball schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39082.htm online.

JACK ADAMS EARNS TOP HONORS IN PSUAC 

Jack Adams, who guided Penn State New Kensington to the conference finals, was named "Coach of the Year,' recently the Penn State University Athletic Conference.

The men's soccer team's improbable march to the PSUAC title game in its inaugural season ended Oct. 30 with a 2-0 loss in the championship game against top-ranked Penn College in Williamsport, Pa. Adams' squad finished 7-4 in the PSUAC and 8-9 overall. With only one upperclassman, the roster was anchored by 16 freshmen. Despite its inexperience, Adams' molded the team into a cohesive unit that was efficient on offense and stingy on defense. The Lion's are poised to contend for the title next year and earn a coveted slot in the nationals.

A former soccer standout and captain at Grove City College, Adams brought a wealth of energy and passion to the position when he was named head coach a year ago. He created the program from scratch, recruited a full roster of student-athletes, and competed successfully with the established programs in the conference.

Adams graduated from Pine Richland High School before earning his bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship with a minor in economics. The Pittsburgh native was named the Grove City's most valuable player in his senior season.

For more about campus athletics, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/29228.htm online.

SCOTT MORGAN REVIVES PROGRAM THAT WAS DORMANT FOR 35 YEARS

After a 35-year hiatus, wrestling returned in fall 2010 at Penn State New Kensington as an intercollegiate sport. Former Pennsylvania high school wrestling champion Scott Morgan was tapped to revive the program that was dormant since 1975.

"Scott's wrestling background and experience with building a program from scratch make him a good fit to head the campus wrestling revival," said Dave Murray, director of athletics.

An accomplished wrestler, Morgan was the 2004 Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) champion. He was the captain and four-year starter at Norwin High School, and duplicated the double duty for the Mountain Cats at the University of Pittsburgh-Johnston where he earned his bachelor's degree in communications in 2009.

The new coach has assembled an eight-man team that currently fills seven of the ten collegiate weight classes. The roster includes Grayson Hixson, 133 pounds (Knoch High School); Mark Irwin, 141 (Carlynton); Steve Bickerstaff, 149 (Norwin); Mike Nader, 157 (Valley); Reyshahn Holliday, 157 (Penn Hills); Matt Kepple, 174 (Greensburg Salem); Craig Synan, 184 (Hampton); and Lou Gardone , 197 (Burrell). Two additional weight classes will be filled in January when Westmoreland County Community College transfer students Nolan Greenwald, 165, (Burrell) and Tyler Condron,184 (Burrell), join the squad for the spring semester.

"We have a young, but eager team who is ready to go," said Morgan, a native of Irwin "It's a matter now of filling the gaps and putting it all together.  The two new recruits should be a big help and fill two of those gaps."

The New Kensington Lions debuted Nov. 13 at the Washington and Jefferson College Open, a tournament that features individual wrestlers from colleges and universities in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. Irwin, Knepple and Gardone won matches in their respective weight classes. Morgan is pleased with the team's progress as the individual efforts carried over to the duals matches. The team is 1-2 in head-to-head competition, defeating Penn State Dubois and falling to Ohio Valley University and Washington and Jefferson.

"Each individual on the team has had his moments so far," said Morgan, "So things are looking brighter in the future and we expect to record some wins as a team."

When he is not on the mat, Morgan is on the recruiting trail, looking to increase the roster, and generating awareness of the new sport. As the high school wrestling season gets under way, he will be a familiar face at most local matches and tournaments.

Morgan won't have to venture far for talented recruits, as the New Kensington campus sits in the heart of wrestling country in southwestern Pennsylvania. Local high schools Burrell and Kiski Area are the hot-bed of wrestling, and have a proven track-record as fertile ground for Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) wrestling champions, both team and individual.

"Overall, with this being our first season, we are looking to make our mark as a program," Morgan said. "I've dedicated a good portion of my life to the sport, and I appreciate the opportunity to teach what I have learned over the years. We want to grow the team, not only in numbers, but in performance as well and show everyone we're here to compete."

While campus teams compete in the Penn State University Athletic Conference of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association, the wrestling team will align itself with the National Collegiate Wrestling Association. Wrestling is an emerging sport for the USCAA and only Penn State DuBois offers wrestling in the PSUAC. Home matches will be held in the Athletics Center, home of the basketball and volleyball teams.

Wrestling was a staple of the campus athletic program in the early 1970s. Under the direction of coach Bob Darby, the team competed in the Commonwealth Campus Athletic Conference, the forerunner to the PSUAC. The program was disbanded in 1975. Darby retired in 2006 as athletic director and instructor in kinesiology at the campus.

UPCOMING SCHEDULE
WRESTLING TRAVELS TO MARYLAND
The team heads out-of-state Dec. 10 for the University of Maryland, Baltimore County Duals in Catonsville, Md. The UMBC duals end the 2010 portion of the schedule. For full schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/36290.htm
 

ROSTER

Name		Year		Wt Class		High School
Grayson Hixson		Fr		133		Knoch High School
Mark Irwin		Fr		141		Carlynton
Steve Bickerstaff		Fr		149		Norwin
Mike Nader		Fr		157		Valley
Reyshahn Holliday		Fr		157		Penn Hills
Matt Kepple		Fr		174		Greensburg Salem
Craig Synan		Fr		184		Hampton
Lou Gardone		Fr		197		Burrell

Head Coach: Scott Morgan, smorgan103@gmail.com, 724-552-7124

THREE NEW KENSINGTON PLAYERS
EARN POSTSEASON HONORS
Max Pascal - first team
Justin Rectenwald - second team
Adam Bombalski - second team

In its first year of intercollegiate soccer competition, Penn State New Kensington placed three players on the all-conference teams of the Penn State University Athletic Conference. Max Pascal earned first team honors and Justin Rectenwald, and Adam Bombalski received second team recognition.

"Max was our captain and he demonstrated his maturity on the field throughout the season," said coach Jack Adams, who guided the Lions to the PSUAC final. "Justin is a versatile player with a good work ethic. Adam is an excellent defender who is also an offensive threat on set plays."

Paschal (Plum H.S.), a senior midfielder, led the team in goals and assists with eight and five, respectively. His 21 points were fourth-best in the conference. Rectenwald (Derry), a freshman forward, and co-captain of the team, was second in scoring with 13 points on four goals and five assists. Bombalski (Freeport), a 6-0 a freshmen defender, was a formidable presence in front of the goal. His speed and agility helped goalkeeper Corey Casper post five shutouts

The three players joined Adams on the list of postseason honorees. Adams garnered the PSUAC "Coach of the Year,' award.

The men's soccer team's improbable march to the PSUAC title game in its inaugural season ended with a 2-0 loss in the championship game against top-ranked Penn College in Williamsport, Pa. Adams' squad finished 7-4 in the PSUAC and 8-9 overall. With only one upperclassman, the roster was anchored by 16 freshmen. Despite its inexperience, Adams' molded the team into a cohesive unit that was efficient on offense and stingy on defense. The Lion's are poised to contend for the title next year and earn a coveted slot in the nationals.

For a recap of the season, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43277.htm#NEWS43277

PSUAC ALL CONFERENCE