Thomas University | 2010 News Archives

2010 News Archives

2010 RECORD : 33-17

2010 AII RANKING: #1

2010 NAIA NATIONAL RANKING: NR

Former Night Hawk Ryan Stovall, Named Burlington Royals Player of the Year

September 4, 2010

Former Night Hawk Ryan Stovall was named Player of the Year for the Burlington Royals, a rookie league affiliate of the Kansas City Royals.

Stovall was honored after hitting .303 with 15 doubles, five triples, four home runs, 24 RBI and 12 stolen bases in 61 games for Burlington. In 2009 the native of Live Oak, FL became the first Night Hawk to be selected in the Major League Baseball amataeur draft, when Kansas City selected him in the 19th round. This past season Stovall helped lead the B-Royals to the postseason for the first time in the four years that Burlington has served as a minor league affiliate of the Royals.

Stovall Player Page

TU Baseball Sets Summer Camp Dates

May 12, 2010

TU Baseball has set their camp dates for the summer of 2010.

Baseball will be hosting their camp for kids ages 6-12 from June 14-18. Camp will run from 9AM-12PM. Registration is now open.

Please go to www.thomasu.edu/baseballcamp for more information.

A.I.I. All-Tournament Baseball Team Named

May 10, 2010

(Courtesy of A.I.I. Sports)

The A.I.I. All-Tournament Baseball team has been named.

Tournament champion Houston-Victoria placed four players on the squad. Austin Kent, Most Outstanding Player, was joined by Ryan Gilbert, Pete Ontiveros, and David Baker from UHV. Lambuth's Bart White, Mike Davis and Mitch McClay made the squad. LSU-A's James Howell and Aryo Fleming were also honored for their play. Thomas University's Adam Duncan, Matt Wilson, and Randy Adams also were named to the team.

Lambuth Eliminates Thomas in A.I.I. Baseball Tourney - Advances to Face Houston-Victoria

May 7, 2010

(Courtesy of A.I.I. Sports)

For the second straight year it will be the Eagles of Lambuth University and the Jaguars of Houston-Victoria to decide the A.I.I. Baseball Conference Tournament championship.

The match-up was set-up by Lambuth's 12-7 victory over Thomas Friday night at Pringles Park in Jackson, TN. The hitting of Bart White and the pitching of Zach Hurdt proved to be the difference. White slugged two home runs and drove in five runs. Hurdt pitched a complete game and ran his record to 4-3 on the season.Hurdt stuck out nine and walked only two.

Lambuth and UHV will meet at 11 a.m. Saturday.The Jags hope to close out the tournament with a win which would be their second title in a row. Lambuth hopes to force a second game. TU ends their season at 33-17.

Houston - Victoria Beats Thomas in Wild Game

May 7, 2010

(Courtesy of A.I.I. Sports)

Eighteen runs, thirty hits, four errors, four home runs, six doubles, three hours and seventeen minutes . It all added up to a wild contest in the Friday game between Thomas University and Houston-Victoria in the A.I.I. Baseball Tournament in Jackson, TN.

The Jaguars beat Thomas 10-8 in eleven innings to remain unbeaten in the tourney. David Baker blasted a two-run home run in the inning which proved to be the difference in the highest scoring game of the tournament. It was one of three home runs for the Jags. Anthony Phillips and Jerod Dugas also went deep. Drew Johnson hit the lone dinger for the Night Hawks. Both teams had productive starts. UHV scored three in the first while TU came back with four in the inning. Both teams repeated the same in the fourth inning.

Four diferent hitters , Austin Kent, Ryan Gilbert, Baker, and Anthony Phillips had three hits each for the Jags. Baker drove in three runs for UHV. One of Kent's hits was his third home run of the tournament. Johnson had three hits and three RBI's for the Hawks while teammate Adam Duncan had three and two RBI's. Pete Ontiveros was the winning pitcher while Corey Pye took the loss.

Houston-Victoria moves on to the winners bracket and will play Saturday morning at 11 a.m. Thomas will play Friday night against the winner of the Lambuth and LSU-A.

Thomas University Eliminates Cal State-San Marcos in A.I.I. Baseball Tourney

May 6, 2010

(Courtesy of A.I.I. Sports)

The Thomas University Night Hawks had a 3-1 lead going into the bottom of the seventh only to see the Cougars of Cal State -San Marcos score three runs to take a 4-3 lead. The Hawks trailed going into the ninth but managed to finish strong with a two-run rally to win 5-4 and stay unbeaten in the A.I.I. Baseball Tournament in Jackson, TN.

The loss eliminated the Cougars who finished the season at 31-15. The Hawks moved their record to 33-15 and will play at 11 a.m. Friday in the winner's bracket. TU had 14 hits on the day. Matt Wilson had three hits and two RBI's. Randy Adams knocked in two runs with Drew Johnson adding the other RBI. Sean Medlin picked up the win in relief pushing his record to 5-1 on the year. Eric Julienne was the hard luck loser for the Cougars.

Thomas University Wins Game One of A.I.I. Baseball Tournament

May 5, 2010

(Courtesy of A.I.I. Sports)

The Thomas University Night Hawks scored in every inning and beat Voorhees College 19-1 to open the A.I.I.Baseball tournament in Jackson, TN Wednesday.

The Hawks scored three runs in the first inning and six in the second and never looked back in the contest. TU moved to 32-15 on the season. Voorhees dropped to 10-33 on the year. The Hawks put together a 17-hit attack. Rick Howroyd had four hits and three RBI's. Ruben Rodriguez drove in three runs with three hits. Tyler Davis had four RBI's on the day. Brandon Owens ran his record to 7-4 on the season. Voorhees committed eight errors in the game.

The Hawks will play Cal State- San Marcos who lost to Houston-Victoria 4-3. Game time is Thursday at 4 p.m EST. The Tigers will play Thursday morning at 11 a.m. against Lambuth who lost to LSUA 8-2.

2010 A.I.I. All Conference Baseball Squad Named

May 4, 2010

(Courtesy of A.I.I. Sports)

The 2010 A.I.I. All-Conference Baseball team was announced Tuesday night at the banquet in Jackson TN, the site of this year's tournament

All-Conference:

Catchers
James Howell-LSUA
Rick Howroyd-Thomas

First Base
Mike Davis-Lambuth

Second Base
Demarcus Adams-England-Voorhees

Shortstop
Brent Young-Lambuth

Third Base
Adam Duncan-Thomas

Extra Infielder
Tid Higler-LSUA

Outfield
Arthur James III-Voorhees
Kevin Silvett-CSUSM
Bart White-Lambuth
Drew Johnson-Thomas

DH
David Baker-UHV

Starting Pitcher
Aryo Fleming-LSUA
Brent Ebinger-Lambuth
Jordan Smith-Lambuth
Broc Haymon-UHV

Relief Pitcher
Eric Julienne-CSUSM

Congratulations to these student -athletes on their achievement.

TU Selected as #1 Seed for A.I.I. Tournament

April 26, 2010

This afternoon via conference call the A.I.I. commisioner announced that TU was selected the #1 seed for the 2010 Association of Independent Institutions Conference Tournament to be played at Lambuth University in Jackson, TN May 5-7.

The Night Hawks will open up play against #6 Voorhees College on Wednesday May 5 at 12PM EST. A win would move Thomas into the winners bracket, while a loss would send the Night Hawks into an elimination game. TU will be looking to win the double elimination tournament and earn the program's first ever trip to the National Tournament Opening Round to be played May 18-21 at a location to be announced.

Night Hawks End Regular Season With Double Header Sweep, Await Seeding for A.I.I. Tournament

April 24, 2010

The Night Hawks (31-15) ended their regular season with a double header sweep of the visiting Ave Maria University Gyrenes (21-24) on senior day this afternoon at Varnedoe Stadium.

TU knocked out 15 hits and overcame an early 2-0 deficit to defeat AMU 10-4 in game one of the double header. The Night Hawks trailed the Gyrenes by two heading into the bottom of the first but took the lead scoring four runs on five hits. After tacking on a run in the second, TU opened up their lead to seven by scoring four more times in the third and never looked back. Senior designated hitter Tyler Braddock (1-3, 2R, 2RBI, HR) hit a home run and drove in two. Junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (6-4) picked up the victory after tossing six innings and allowing four runs (two earned) on five hits.

In game two the Night Hawks scored two in the third and two in the fourth to take a 4-0 lead. AMU would score one in the seventh but it would not be enough as TU secured the 4-1 victory and their 31st win of the year. Senior third baseman Ryan Powell (1-2, R, 2RBI, BB, HR) hit his first home run as a Night Hawk in the fourth. Junior Jeremy Jones (8-1) won his eighth game of the year, shutting out the Gyrenes over five innings.

The Night Hawks honored their 14 seniors after game one. "We thank them all for their contributions throughout their careers as a Night Hawk and wish them the best of luck", said Head Coach Mike Lee. "They will be missed but will always be a part of this program. This group of players helped us to back to back 30 win seasons".

2010 Seniors

Randy Adams - Hawthorne, FL

Tyler Braddock - Pierson, FL

Steven Brooker - Tavares, FL

Tyler Davis - Tallahassee, FL

Adam Duncan - Conyers, GA

Rick Howroyd - Tampa, FL

Drew Johnson - Cairo, GA

Daniel Joiner - Perry, FL

Ricky Moulton - Tallahassee, FL

Ryan Powell - Macclenny, FL

Corey Pye - Jacksonville, FL

Ruben Rodriguez, - Thomasville, GA

Jonathan Rossi - Ormond Beach, FL

Matt Wilson - Macclenny, FL

TU concludes the regular season and now awaits their seeding for the 2010 Association of Independent Institutions Conference Tournament to be played at Lambuth University in Jackson, TN May 5-7.

Ave Maria Knocks off TU

April 23, 2010

The visiting Ave Maria University Gyrenes (21-22) knocked off TU (29-15), 7-3, on Friday evening at Varnedoe Stadium.

AVU scored a run in the first and led the rest of the way, scoring one in the third and fifth, then adding three in the sixth before tacking on another in the ninth. TU made it a one run game after scoring a run in the bottom of the fourth and got two runs in their half of the eighth before the Gyrenes shut the door. Senior center fielder Tyler Davis (4-4, 2R, 2RBI, HR) drove in two runs with his eighth home run of the year. Sophomore starting pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (5-4) suffered the loss after allowing six runs (five earned) on ten hits in 5.2 innings.

TU will wrap up their regular season tomorrow with a double header tomorrow against Ave Maria. In between games, Head Coach Mike Lee will honor the 14 seniors on this years team, as they prepare to take the field at Varnedoe Stadium for the last time as a Night Hawk. First pitch is set for 1PM.

Hurricanes Defeat Night Hawks

April 21, 2010

NCAA DII Georgia Southwestern State University Hurricanes (25-16) defeated the Night Hawks (29-14), 8-5, on Wednesday evening at Varnedoe Stadium.

TU mounted a ninth inning rally, scoring a run and loading the bases but were unable to complete the comeback leaving the bases juiced. The Night Hawks left 17 runners on base and in addition to leaving the bases loaded in the ninth, left the bags full in each of the first two innings of the game. Sophomore left fielder Joey Kampfer (3-5, 2RBI, BB) drove in two runs. Freshman starting pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (3-4) took the loss after tossing 5.2 innings and allowing six runs (5 earned) on ten hits.

The Night Hawks wrap up their regular season this weekend with a three game series against Ave Maria University. Friday the teams will face off in a single game at 6PM and the series will conclude with a double header on Saturday beginning at 1PM.

Baseball Game Against Brewton Parker Called Due to Rain

April 20, 2010

This afternoons baseball game at Varnedoe Stadium against the visiting NAIA #16 Brewton Parker College Barons was called due to rain.

The game was called after the top of the first and was cancelled half hour later with a forecast of continued storms over the next couple of hours, it will not be rescheduled. TU returns to action tomorrow, when they welcome NCAA DII Georgia Southwestern University to Varnedoe Stadium for a single game beginning at 5PM

TU Tops AUM in 12 Innings

April 15, 2010

TU (29-13) topped Auburn University-Montgomery (24-18), 12-11, in twelve innings on Thursday evening at Varnedoe Stadium.

A two out walk off base hit by senior second baseman Matt Wilson (4-6, 2R, RBI, 2B) in the bottom of the twelfth drove in freshman pinch runner Josh Smith with the game winning run for the Night Hawks. TU held what seemed to be a secure 6-1 lead entering the top of the seventh but AUM scored two, making it a three run game and then took a three run lead by scoring six in their half of the eighth. TU bounced back to make it a one run game scoring two in the bottom of the inning. Down by one in the ninth senior first baseman Ruben Rodriguez (3-7, R, 2RBI, 2 2B) led off with a double and advanced to third on a stolen base. He would come in to score on a one out base hit by senior designated hitter Tyler Braddock (1-2, R, RBI, BB) to tie the game and send it into extra innings. The teams exchanged single runs the next two innings and in the twelfth the Night hawks walked off with the victory. Senior right fielder Drew Johnson (4-6, 2R, 6RBI, BB, 2B, 2 HR) hit two home runs and drove in six. Senior relief pitcher Corey Pye (2-0) picked up the victory after tossing three innings and allowing one run on two hits.

The Night Hawks will be back at home again on Tuesday March 20 when they welcome NAIA #16 Brewton Parker College to Varnedoe Stadium for a single game beginning at 6PM.

Howroyd Named AI.I. Athlete of the Week

April 13, 2010

Senior catcher Rick Howroyd was named Association of Independent Institutions (A.I.I.) player of the week for the week of April 5-11.

Howroyd was honored after hitting two grand slams in the second inning of a 18-6 Night Hawk victory over Truett-McConnell College. The native of Tampa, FL hit three home runs in the ball game and drove in eleven runs in only two innings of work. He finished the week batting .545 (6-11) overa three game stretch and is leading TU in average (.407) and runs batted in (49).

The honor is the second this season for a Night Hawk after senior Right Fielder Drew Johnson was tabbed as the A.I.I. top male performer on March 31.

NAIA #10 Embry-Riddle Tops Baseball

April 13, 2010

NAIA #10 Embry-Riddle University Eagles (30-13) topped Baseball (28-13), 7-4, in a four hour game that included an hour and 20 minutes of rain delays this afternoon in Daytona Beach, FL.

After a 35 minute rain delay TU got out to a 4-1 lead thru five & 1/2 innings but then the rain came again, this time causing a 45 minute delay. The Eagles came out swinging once play resumed running off junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (5-4) after allowing six runs on five hits in the inning. Owens went 4.2 innings and allowed seven earned runs on nine hits in the loss. Senior right fielder Drew Johnson (3-4, 2RBI) drove in two runs.

Game #2 of the double header was cancelled due to the rain delays. TU will be back in action on Thursday April 15, when they welcome Auburn University-Montgomery to Varnedoe Stadium for a single game beginning at 5PM.

Night Hawks Take Series, Split DH

April 10, 2010

The Night Hawks (28-12) took the three game series 2-1 over the visiting Truett McConnell College Bears (18-17) after splitting a Saturday afternoon double at Varnedoe Stadium.

Truett opened up a 4-1 lead after 4 1/2 innings in game one but TU roared back to tie the game at four with three in the bottom of the fifth. Senior designated hitter Randy Adams (1-2, R, 2RBI, 2BB, HR) had the big hit in the inning, driving a 3-1 pitch over the left field wall for a two run shot which evened the game up. Senior center fielder Tyler Davis (1-3, 2R, RBI, BB) got things started in the bottom of the seventh with a one out walk and moved to second on another walk. With two on and one down, the Night Hawks attempted a sacrifice bunt that was played by the TMC pitcher who threw wide of first allowing Davis to score from second giving TU a 5-4 walk off victory. Junior starting pitcher Jeremy Jones (7-1) picked up his seventh victory of the season with his second complete game of the season.

In the nightcap the Bears once again got off to a hot start with the bat taking, a 7-1 lead into the bottom of the third. A resilient Night Hawk team battled back scoring two in the third and one in the fourth to make it a 7-4 game. TMC stretched their lead to five with two in their half of the fifth but TU answered with a run of their own in the bottom half of the inning. Truett added another insurance run in the sixth and TU battled back to plate three in their next at bat but it would not be enough. TMC shut down the Night Hawks in the seventh to preserve the 10-8 victory and avoid a three game series sweep. Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (2-3, R, 2RBI, BB) drove in two runs. Freshman starting pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (3-3) took the loss after only lasting an inning and allowing seven earned runs on eight hits.

TU will hit the road this coming Tuesday April 13, when they travel to Daytona Beach, FL to face NAIA #11 Embry-Riddle University in a double header beginning at 3PM.

Historic Day for Howroyd Leads TU over Truett

April 9, 2010

Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (3-4, 3R, 11RBI, 3HR) tied an NAIA single game record with 2 grand slam home runs in the same inning to help lead TU (27-11) to a 18-6 seven inning run rule victory over the visiting Truett-McConnell College Bears (17-16) on Friday evening at Varnedoe Stadium.

TU scored four in the bottom of the first with three runs coming off the bat of Howroyd on a drive deep over the left field wall for his first of three home runs in his short day of work. In the second inning the Night Hawks scored 12 runs highlighted by Howroyd's historic two grand slams, to extend the lead to 16-0. Senior center fielder Tyler Davis (2-5, R, 2RBI, HR) got involved in the action by hitting a home run of his own in the second. TU tacked on single runs in the fourth and fifth innings. TMC scored two in the fifth and four in the sixth on the third grand slam of the game, this time it was Truett second baseman Tyler Bourdo (2-4, 2R, 4RBI, HR) who drove a 0-0 pitch over the right field wall. A week ago Truett was able to hang with the Night Hawk bats but this was a different week as TU closed the game out in seven innings. Howroyd drove in eleven runs in only two innings of work to set a Thomas University single game record. His two grand slams in one game also tied the NAIA mark for slams in a game. Senior right fielder Drew Johnson (4-4, 4R, 2RBI, BB) had four hits on the day. Sophomore pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (5-3) picked up his fifth victory of the year.

The series concludes tomorrow with a double header beginning at 1PM.

Baseball Splits Double Header With Truett

April 3, 2010

Baseball (26-11) split a double header with the host Truett-McConnell College Bears (17-14) on Saturday afternoon in Cleveland, GA.

TU dropped game one in walk off fashion, losing 6-4 in the bottom of the eighth. In game two the Night Hawks topped TMC 13-11.

Thomas will be back at Varnedoe Stadium on Friday April 9 at 5PM when they face Truett-McConnell once again to open up a three game series.

Night Hawks Hold Off Bears

April 2, 2010

The Night Hawks (25-10) held off the Truett-McConnell College Bears (16-13) in a 21-19 slugfest victory on Friday evening in Cleveland, GA.

TU opened up a 11-0 lead after an inning and a half but TMC scored five in their half of the second and after TU picked up another run in the third, the Bears scored seven in the next two innings to tie the game at 12. The Night Hawks once again took control of the game with two in the fifth and six in the sixth to take a 20-12 lead. TMC scored one in the sixth and after TU scored one in the ninth, the Bears mounted a rally that plated six runs to make it a two run game. Unfortunately for Truett, junior relief pitcher Sean Medlin entered the game and was able to shut the door on the Bears once and for all picking up his fourth save of the season. The teams combined for 37 hits and eleven errors in the game. Freshman relief pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (3-2) picked up the victory with 5.2 innings pitched out of the pen, allowing nine runs (seven earned) on ten hits. Senior second baseman Ricky Moulton (3-5, 2R, 5RBI, BB, HR) drove in five runs. Sophomore left fielder Joey Kampfer (2-6, 3R, 4RBI, BB, 2B, HR) hit an inside the park home run in his second at bat of the first inning. Senior third baseman Adam Duncan (3-5, 3R, 4RBI, BB, 2B, 2HR) drove in four runs and hit two home runs, he now leads the team with eleven on the season.

Both teams will be back at it again tomorrow as the series concludes with a double header beginning at 1PM.

TU Splits With Spring Hill

March 30, 2010

TU (24-10) split a Tuesday afternoon double header with the visiting Spring Hill College Badgers (20-16) at Varnedoe Stadium.

SHC held a 7-2 advantage after four innings in game one but the Night Hawks came back to score four in the fifth and even up the game. After the Badgers scored one in the sixth, TU opened up a 11-8 advantage and seemed to be in a position to pick up the come from behind victory. However, SHC scored five in the seventh to retake the lead and was able to hold TU to one run in the bottom of the inning for the 13-12 victory. Senior Tyler Davis (2-5, 2R, 3RBI, HR) hit an inside the park home run and drove in three. Junior pitcher Sean Medlin (4-1) took the loss out of the bullpen after allowing two unearned runs on two hits in two thirds of an inning.

In game two TU opened up a 6-1 lead after four but Spring Hill did not go down easy, scoring four in the sixth to make it a one run ball game. Freshman Skyler Sopotnick closed the door on the Badgers with a hitless seventh inning, picking his first save and conserving a 6-5 victory for TU. Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (2-4, R, RBI, HR) hit a solo home run. The Night Hawks committed three errors in the game leading to two unearned runs. Senior pitcher Steven Brooker (1-0) picked up the victory, tossing six innings and allowing five runs (three earned) on fourteen hits.

Thomas hits the road once again this coming Friday when they travel to Cleveland, GA to open up a three game series with Truett-McConnell College in a single game beginning at 3PM. The series concludes with a double header on Saturday beginning at 1PM.

Baseball Rocks Albany State

March 25, 2010

Baseball (23-9) rocked the NCAA DII Albany State University Rams in a 33-15 eight inning run rule victory on Thursday evening in Albany, GA.

TU scored runs in seven of the eight innings and led 9-1 after 1 1/2. The Rams bounced back in the second to make it a 9-6 game but the Night Hawks responded with four in the third to open up a 13-6 advantage. ASU responded by getting two runs back, After TU tacked on two more runs Albany State scored five in the bottom of the fourth and one in the fifth to make it a 15-14 game, the teams found themeselves locked in a hitters dual that may produce many records for both teams, however, it proved to not be the case because only one team kept pouring it on. TU put the game away by scoring eighteen runs over the next three innings and taking down many NAIA, NCAA DII and team records along the way.

Senior right fielder Drew Johnson (6-6, 7R, 8RBI, BB, 2B, 3HR) had a record setting day tying the TU individual game record for hits (6), RBI (8) and HR (3). Fellow senior Ruben Rodriguez (6-8, 5R, 4RBI, 2B, HR) had a big night as well hitting a grand slam and tying the team individual game mark for hits (6). Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (5-6, 7R, 5RBI, 2 2B) set the the TU record for most runs scored in a game with seven. As a team the Night Hawks set the NAIA mark for most hits in a game, bashing the Rams pitching with 35 hits, and most combined runs in a game (48). TU and Albany State tied the NCAA DII mark for most combined hits in a game with 52. The Night Hawks broke all time team single game records for most at bats (60), runs (33), hits (35), runs batted in (31) and doubles (9). All was not pretty for TU, the pitching staff allowed fifteen runs (eight earned) on seventeen hits. Junior relief pitcher Sean Medlin (4-0) had a solid effort out of the pen, throwing four innings and allowing a run on five hits in the victory. Defensively, the Night Hawks left alot to be desired committing five errors.

Thomas returns to Varnedoe Stadium on Tuesday March 30 for a double header against Spring Hill College beginning at 3PM.

NCAA DII GSW Tops TU

March 23, 2010

NCAA DII Georgia Southwestern State University Hurricanes (15-7) topped TU (22-9), 18-10, on Tuesday evening in Americus, GA.

Thomas led 4-1 after 2 1/2 but GSW exploded for seven runs in their half of the third to take a 8-4 lead after three. Both teams matched runs in the next two innings each scoring two in the fourth and one in the fifth. Up 11-7, the Hurricanes plated six runs in their half of the seventh to put the game out of reach. TU tacked on three more in the eighth and GSW added one in the bottom of the inning. Senior third baseman Adam Duncan (1-3, R, 3RBI, BB, HR) hit his team leading ninth home run. Freshman pitcher Devin Carpenter (1-1) lasted only two innings and allowed five earned runs on three hits in the loss.

TU will stay on the road as they next travel to Albany, GA on Thursday March 25 to face Albany State University in a single game beginning at 5PM.

Night Hawks Sweep LSU-A

March 20, 2010

The Night Hawks (22-8) swept a three game series from the visiting Louisiana State University - Alexandria Generals (6-27) by winning both games of a double header on Saturday afternoon at Varnedoe Stadium.

TU held a 10-1 lead after four in game one but LSUA mounted a come back by scoring a run in the fifth and followed with seven in the sixth to make it a one run game. The Night Hawks then buckled down to hold on for the 10-9 victory. Senior third baseman Adam Duncan (2-2, R, 2RBI, BB) and senior designated hitter Randy Adams (1-2, R, 2RBI) each drove in two runs. Junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (5-3) tossed four innings of one run ball in the victory. The Night Hawk bullpen allowed eight runs (one earned) on eight hits. In game two the Generals led 2-0 after one but Thomas bounced back with five runs over the next three innings to take a 5-1 lead. LSUA got a run back in their half of the fifth but sophomore starting pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (4-2) shut down Louisiana State the rest of the way picking up his fourth victory of the year. Mancauskas allowed three runs (one earned) on six hits in his fifth complete game of the season. Duncan (2-3, R, 2RBI, HR) hit his team leading eighth home run and sophomore center fielder Joey Kampfer (2-4, RBI, SB) had two hits.

Baseball will look for their fifth win in a row on Tuesday March 23 when they travel to Americus, GA to face NCAA DII Georgia Southwestern University. First pitch is set for 5PM.

Adams Slams LSU-A

March 19, 2010

Senior designated hitter Randy Adams hit a grand slam in the bottom of the eighth to help lead TU (20-8) to a 9-8 come from behind victory over the visiting Louisiana State University-Alexandria Generals (6-25) on Friday Night at Varnedoe Stadium.

LSUA jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the third but TU came right back to get one back in the bottom half of the inning. The Generals tacked on another in the fourth and once again Thomas responded scoring two runs this time, making it a two run ball game. In the sixth LSUA once again spread their lead with three runs, making it a 8-3 ball game. TU would get one back in the bottom of the inning setting the stage for the dramatic bottom of the eighth. Senior pinch hitter Matt Wilson (0-0, BB) got things started with a lead off walk. Sophomore left fielder Joey Kampfer (0-4, R) then reentered the game as a pinch runner. After a foul pop gave LSUA one out, senior third baseman Adam Duncan (2-4, R, BB, RBI) followed with a single to give TU runners on first and second. The Night Hawks then loaded the bases when senior catcher Rick Howroyd (1-3, 2BB) walked. After a strike out Kampfer scored on a wild pitch trimming the Generals lead to three. Junior pinch hitter Travis Flannagan (0-0, R, BB) then walked to reload the bases for TU, setting the stage for the dramatic two out slam by Adams (2-5, 2R, 4RBI, HR) giving Thomas their first lead of the night. Fresman pitcher Sklyer Sopotnick (2-2) shut the door and picked up the victory with three shutout innings out of the Night Hawk pen.

The series continues tomorrow with a double header beginning at 1PM.

TU Defeats Albany State

March 16, 2010

TU (19-8) got back to their winning ways, defeating the visiting Albany State University Rams, 10-3, on Tuesday afternoon at Varnedoe Stadium.

Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (2-4, 3RBI) drove in three runs and senior center fielder Tyler Davis (2-5, 2RBI) drove in two in the dominating victory. TU was actually behind 2-1 in the fifth but scored three in the bottom of the inning and followed with runs in each of the next three innings to put the game away. Freshman pitcher Devin Carpenter (1-0) picked up his first collegiate victory with five innings of four hit ball, allowing two earned runs. ASU committed six errors in the ball game accounting for two unearned runs for the Night Hawks.

Thomas is back at home on Friday night when they welcome Louisiana State University - Alexandria to Varnedoe Stadium for game one of a three game series. First pitch is at 7PM.

Indiana Tech Hammers Night Hawks

March 14, 2010

The visiting Indiana Institute of Technology Warriors (6-10) avoided a series sweep by hammering the Night Hawks (18-8), 13-2, in a seven inning run rule victory on Sunday afternoon at Varnedoe Stadium.

Leading 3-1 IIT used a seven run fourth inning to take control of the game. They tacked on three more in the seventh and then held TU to only one run for the seven inning run rule victory. Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (2-3, RBI) had two hits and drove in a run. He is now tied for the team lead in runs batter in (22) with senior right fielder Drew Johnson. Sophomore starting pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (3-2) took the loss, allowing ten earned runs on nine hits in only 3.2 innings pitched.

TU will look to bounce back on Tuesday March 16 when they welcome Albany State University to Varnedoe Stadium for a single game beginning at 4PM.

Baseball Sweeps Indiana Tech

March 13, 2010

Baseball (18-7) returned home and swept, 9-4 & 6-2, the visiting Indiana Institute of Technology Warriors (6-9) in a Saturday afternoon double header at Varnedoe Stadium.

TU opened the game with three runs in the first. Indiana Tech got one back in the fourth but the Night Hawks opened their lead to five with three in the bottom half of the inning. Sophomore pinch hitter Robby Latner (1-1, R, 3RBI, HR) hit a crucial pinch hit three run home run in the sixth to stretch the lead to 9-1. The Warriors did not fall easily scoring three in the ninth but did not have enough in them to make the comeback. Junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (4-3) got the win, tossing 5.1 innings and allowing one earned run on seven hits. In game two, IIT took the early 1-0 lead in the second but the Night Hawks bounced back with two in the third and four in the fourth to take a commanding 6-1 lead. Sophomore left fielder Joey Kampfer (2-4, 2R, 3RBI, HR) had the big blow in the fourth hitting a three run home run. The Warriors got a run back in their half of the seventh. Junior starting pitcher Jeremy Jones (5-1) picked up his fifth victory of the season with a commanding six inning performance, allowing one unearned run on five hits.

The series concludes tomorrow afternoon with a single game at 1PM.

TU Splits with Edward Waters

March 9, 2010

TU (16-7) split a Tuesday afternoon doubleheader with Edward Waters College (11-9) in Jacksonville, FL.

EWC shutdown the Night Hawk offense in a 1-0 three hit game one shutout. Edward Waters scored in the third inning and TU was unable to get back the lone run. Junior pitcher Brandon Owens (3-3) took the loss after tossing three innings and allowing one earned run on two hits while striking out four.

The Night Hawk bats woke up in game two scoring three in the first for the early lead. EWC bounced back with two in their half of the first to make it a one run game. The host took the lead with two more in the bottom of the second but TU battled back to retake the lead with three in the fourth. Leading 6-4 in the fourth, junior starting pitcher Jeremy Jones (4-1) had the chance to hold off Edward Waters but allowed two more runs in the bottom of the fourth to notch the game at six. Thomas would score three in the fifth and one in the sixth to put the game away and secure the 10-6 victory. Senior right fielder Drew Johnson (1-4, 3R, 3RBI, BB, HR) and senior catcher Rick Howroyd (4-5, 3RBI, 4 2B) each drove in three runs. Jones pitched four innings for the tough victory and allowed six runs (five earned) on ten hits. Junior relief pitcher Sean Medlin picked up his second save of the year with three innings of shutout ball.

Baseball is back at home this weekend when they open a three game series with Indiana Tech. The teams will square off in a double header beginning at 1PM on Saturday and finish off the series with a single game on Sunday at 1PM.

Royals Top Night Hawks in Championship Game

March 6, 2010

The host Warner University Royals (9-12) defeated the Thomas University Night Hawks (15-6), 7-4, in the championship game of the Warner University tournament this afternoon in Lake Wales, FL.

Warner scored six unearned runs in the first and TU was unable to come all the way back. Freshman pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (1-2) took the tough loss lasting only 0.2 of an inning and surrendering six unearned runs on only two hits while walking four. Senior designated hitter Randy Adams (1-4, R, 2RBI, HR) hit a home run and senior right fielder Drew Johnson (3-4, 2R, RBI) contributed three hits on the day. The loss in the championship game marks the third straight season that the Night Hawks finish second at the tournament.

TU will look to get back on it's winning ways on Tuesday March 9 when they travel to Jacksonville, FL to face Edward Waters College in a double header beginning at 1PM.

Win Streak Reaches Eight

March 5, 2010

Thomas (15-5) extended their winning streak to eight games with two wins at the Warner University Tournament in Lake Wales, FL.

In game one TU defeated NAIA #10 Bellevue University (6-6) 4-3 behind a solid outing on the mound by sophomore starting pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (4-1). The sophomore right hander went all seven for the complete game victory, surrendering only three runs (two earned) on four hits. Senior center fielder Tyler Davis (2-3, R, 2RBI, HR) continued to terrorize pitching at the invitational, collecting two more hits and driving in two. Davis lead off the game with a home run, his second in the last three games.

It took extra innings for the Night Hawks to collect win #8 in a row, scoring three runs in the top of the 8th to break an ten all tie. Junior pitcher Sean Medlin (3-0) allowed a run in the bottom half of the inning but shut the door and conserved the victory killing a SHU rally. Senior first baseman Ruben Rodriguez (3-4, 4R. 5RBI, 2B, 2HR) gave TU insurance in the eighth with a two run home run, his second of the day. However, it was junor catcher Travis Flanagan (1-4, RBI, 2B, SF) who broke the tie with a sacrifice fly to center that plated the go ahead run.

The Night Hawks will face the host Warner University Royals tomorrow in the tournament championship game beginning at 3:30PM.

TU Wins Two at Warner Tournament

March 4, 2010

TU (13-5) won two games this afternoon at the Warner University Tournament in Lake Wales, FL.

Thomas defeated Indiana Wesleyan University (2-6) 16-7 in the morning game. Senior center fielder Tyler Davis (3-4, 4R, 5RBI, BB, 2B, HR) drove in five runs and senior right fielder Drew Johnson (4-5, R, 4RBI, 2B) drove in four. Junior pitcher Jeremy Jones (3-1) picked up the victory after allowing five runs (two earned) in five innings pitched.

In the evening game the Night Hawks defeated the host Warner University Royals (8-12) 4-1. Junior pitcher Brandon Owens (4-2) was masterful, pitching seven innings of four hit ball and allowing one unearned run. Warner took the first inning lead but TU scored two in the third and two in the fourth to take the lead. WU committed three errors that resulted in four unearned runs.

Tomorrow TU will face Bellevue University at 2PM and Siena Heights University at 5PM.

Night Hawks Open Spring Break Road Trip with Victory

March 2, 2010

The Night Hawks (11-5) opened their spring break Florida road trip with a 4-0 shutout victory of the Siena Heights University Saints (1-2) on Tuesday evening in Babson Park, FL.

TU rallied in the fourth inning of game one to score all four runs of the game on three hits and two base on balls. Senior left fielder Tyler Braddock (1-2, 2RBI, BB, SB) drove in two runs. Five Night Hawk pitchers combined to limit SHU to only two hits. Freshman pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (1-1) picked up the victory with a scoreless and hitless sixth inning.

After an off day tomorrow, TU will begin play in the Warner University Tournament in Lake Wales, FL. On Thursday Thomas will face Indiana Wesleyan University at 9:30AM and in the evening will face the host Warner University Royals at 8:00PM.

Catch Tonight's Action Live on Stat Cast

March 2, 2010

Tonight's 7PM game between the Night Hawks (10-5) and Siena Heights University (1-1) can be followed live thru Stat Cast.

Click on the folllowing link to access the Siena Heights University Stat Cast Webpage. CLICK HERE

Baseball Adds Game to Schedule

March 1, 2010

Baseball, currently 10-5 on the year, has added an additional game to the 2010 schedule.

The Night Hawks will face current NAIA #23 Auburn University - Montgomery on April 15 in a single game at Varnedoe Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 5PM.

TU continues on the road this coming week when they head to Florida for their annual spring break trip. Thomas will open up their trip five day road trip with a single neautral site game in Babson Park, FL against Siena Heights on Tuesday March 2 beginning at 7PM. they will continue their trip with participation in the Warner University Tournament in Lake Wales, FL beginning on Wednesday March 3rd.

Series Sweep for Night Hawks

February 27, 2010

The Night Hawks (10-5) won both games of an afternoon double header on Saturday afternoon and swept a three game series from the host Spring Hill College Badgers (10-5) in Mobile, AL.

Junior starting pitcher Jeremy Jones (1-1) went all the way for the game one victory, allowing four earned runs on ten hits. Offensively TU was held to four hits but needed only two of them to mark the difference in the game, using two three run home runs off the bats of senior catcher Rick Howroyd (1-3, R, 3RBI, HR) and senior left fielder Adam Duncan (1-4, R, 3RBI, HR) to account for all the runs in a 6-4 victory.

In the nightcap, Thomas scored three in the fourth and two in the fifth, taking a lead that SHC would never be able to make up. The Badgers managed runs in the fourth and sixth but TU was able to squash both rallies to keep control of the game and secure the 5-2 outcome. Junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (3-1) picked up his third victory of the year and senior relief pitcher Steven Brooker picked up his first save of the year with a scoreless seventh.

TU Knocks off Spring Hill

February 26, 2010

TU (8-5) knocked off the host Spring Hill Badgers (10-3), 5-3, on Friday afternoon in Mobile, AL.

The Night Hawks held a 4-0 lead after 6 1/2 innings but the Badgers made it a one run game in the sixth with three runs. TU added an insurance run in the ninth to put the game away. Sophomore starting pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (2-1) pitched a complete game for the victory, allowing three earned runs on nine hits. Senior center fielder Tyler Davis (2-4, 3R, RBI, 2B, HR, SB) and senior right fielder Drew Johnson (2-4, 2R, RBI, 2B) each drove in a run and senior catcher Rick Howroyd (3-5, 2RBI) drove in two for the Night Hawks.

Action continues tomorrow in Mobile, AL when the two teams will face each other in a double header beginning at 1PM. Follow the action live with Live stats by clicking HERE.

First Pitch Time Changed in Game One of Weekend Series

February 24, 2010

First pitch for game one of a weekend series at Spring Hill College in Mobile, AL on friday February 26 has been chaged to 5PM EST.

The series was due to begin at 7PM EST but due to expected weather the teams will get started earlier in hopes of avoiding the incoming weather. Both teams will match up again on Saturday in a double header beginning at 1PM EST.

Night Hawks Swept by NAIA #4 Southern Poly

February 20, 2010

The Night Hawks (7-5) were swept in a Saturday afternoon double header, 1-5 & 5-15, against NAIA #4 Southern Poly Tech State University (11-0) in Marietta, GA.

A solid pitching effort by sophomore starting pitcher Kurtis Mancauskas (1-1) was wasted in the early game as TU only managed one run on three hits. Mancauskas threw six innings and allowed five runs (four earned) on four hits. The lone TU run came on a solo home run by senior left fielder Adam Duncan (1-3, R, RBI, HR). He now leads the team with five home runs in the early going.

TU jumped out to an early 5-0 lead in game two but SPU got three back in the third to close within two. Southern Poly would then score seven in the fourth and then five in the fifth to put the game away and sweep the three game series. Senior designated hitter Randy Adams (2-3, R, 3RBI, HR) had a stand out day at the plate with three runs batted in. Freshman starting pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (1-1) took the loss on the mound, lasting only 3.1 innings and allowing eight runs (five earned) on three hits.

Thomas will look to end their four game losing streak on February 26 when they travel to Mobile, AL to face Spring Hill College in game one of a three game series, beginning at 6PM.

NAIA #4 Southern Poly Trounces TU

February 19, 2010

NAIA #4 Southern Poly Tech State University (9-0) trounced the visiting TU Night Hawks (7-3), 20-5, on Friday afternoon in Marietta, GA.

TU got out to an early 2-0 lead when senior designated hitter Adam Duncan (1-4, R, 2RBI, HR) hit a two run home run in the top of the first inning. In the bottom half of the inning SPU took over and never looked back, scoring seven runs and following up with eight in the second. Junior Brandon Owens (2-1) took the loss after lasting only 1.2 innings and allowing 15 runs (10 earned) on eleven hits.

The series continues tomorrow in Marietta, GA with both teams facing off in a double header beginning at 1PM.

Brewton Parker Shuts Out Night Hawks

February 17, 2010

Brewton Parker College (6-2) shut out the visiting Night Hawks (7-2), 6-0, on Wednesday evening in Mount Vernon, GA.

TU was unable to get anything going at the plate all evening, scratching out only three hits off the BPC pitcher. Junior pitcher Jeremy Jones (0-1) was touched up for four runs (three earned) on eight hits in the losing effort. Brewton Parker collected ten hits in the winning effort.

The Night Hawks return to action on Friday February 19 when they travel to Marietta, GA to face NAIA #4 Southern Poly Tech University in game one of a three game series. First pitch of the nine inning game is set for 2:30PM, both teams will face off in a double header on Saturday beginning at 1PM.

Mike Lee Wins #300

February 14, 2010 (Courtesy of Brewer Turley, Thomas University Director of Communications)

THOMASVILLE – Thomas University Baseball Coach Mike Lee has logged his 300^th win as skipper of the Night Hawks. The milestone came in an 8-5 win over Talladega College Saturday, Feb. 6.

“It took longer than what I would have wanted, but it’s good to get there. There have been a lot of guys come through this program, and they’re the ones that win the ball games,” he said. Lee joined Thomas University as head baseball coach in 1996, and was named athletic director in 1999. Since that time, he has seen a number of triumphs as a coach. ”Mike is one of the best coaches I have seen in higher education,” said TU President Gary Bonvillian. “He holds his players and himself to a high standard which is why Thomas University has such competitive teams.”

The Night Hawks reached the Region Tournament for the first time in 1999, then again in 2007. In 2009, Lee led his team to the inaugural Association of Independent Institutions Baseball Tournament, the same year he had his first player – Ryan Stovall – drafted to play professional baseball. He has also put together four seasons with 30 or more wins, in 1999, 2001, 2005 and 2009. However, seeing success on the baseball field takes a back seat to success in the classroom, Lee explained.

“One of the best things is to see my guys graduate. In the past five years, we’ve had more than 25 NAIA Scholar Athletes. To see guys graduate, get married, start families, go into professional jobs – that’s what you like to see,” Lee said. “I have really enjoyed this school, and have been blessed to work under good administrators who support athletics,” he said. “The community support has always been there, whether it’s people helping the team out financially, or just coming out to ball games. I’ve seen our fan base get bigger over the last few years, and hopefully things will just keep getting better.”

Lee said he is thankful for a supportive family, who remain his biggest fans throughout often tough game schedules. He and his wife, Retha, have two children, Jessica and Erica.

For more information about Thomas University Baseball, call 226-1621, or visit the team webpage at www.thomasu.edu.

Night Hawks Split With #8 Eagles

February 14, 2010

The Thomas University Night Hawks (7-1) and the visiting NAIA #8 Embry Riddle University Eagles (4-2) split a Sunday afternoon double header, 1-7 & 5-2, at Varnedoe Stadium.

ERU scored seven runs on 16 hits, scoring at least one run in 6 of 9 innings played of game one. The Night Hawks only run came on a eighth inning solo home run by sophomore Joey Kampfer (2-5, R, RBI, HR). Junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (1-1) took the loss.

In game two, a pitchers duel was ended in in the bottom of the seventh when senior pinch hitter Randy Adams (1-1, 3RBI, HR) hit a three run walk off home run breaking a 2-2 tie. Both teams combined for only 10 hits in the seven innings of play. The Eagles opened up the scoring with two in the top of the first but TU scored one in the second and the third to even it up. Sophomore Kurtis Mancauskas (2-0) pitched a complete game allowing two earned runs on six hits.

TU will be looking for their eighth win of the season on Wednesday February 17 when they travel to Mt. Vernon, GA to face Brewton Parker College in their first road game of the season. First pitch is set for 6PM.

Saturday's Game Against # 8 Embry Riddle Cancelled

February 12, 2010

Constant rain and expected freezing tempertarues on Saturday has caused the cancellation of game one of the three game series against #8 Embry Riddle University at Varnedoe Stadium.

The teams are still scheduled to play their double header on Sunday beginning at noon.

Weather Causes Change in Schedule for Embry Riddle Series

February 10, 2010

Due to expected weather problems, this weekends 3-game series with #8 Embry Riddle has been postponed by one day.

The series will now begin with a single game on Saturday, February 13 at 3pm, followed by a doubleheader at 12pm on Sunday.

Albany State game postponed

February 9, 2010

The game scheduled for February 9 has been postponed due to rain. It has been rescheduled for March 25, 2010 at 5pm in Albany.

The Night Hawks return to action on Friday and Saturday when the #8 Embry Ridlle Eagles come to Thomasville. First pitch Friday is set for 4pm.

Baseball Remains Undefeated to Open Season

February 7, 2010

Baseball (6-0) remained undefeated to open the season with a 10-6 victory and a three game series sweep of the visiting Talladega College Tornados (0-6).

Junior shortstop Daniel Blanton (2-4, R, 4RBI, GS) hit a grand slam in an eight run third inning explosion as the Night Hawks overcame an early 1-0 deficit. Talladega got back two in the fourth and one in the sixth but TU knocked home two more in their half of the eighth inning to put the game away. TC added two in the ninth to make it a four run game. Senior designated hitter Adam Duncan (2-3, R, 2RBI, 2BB, HR) drove in two runs and hit a home run. Freshman starting pitcher Skyler Sopotnick (1-0) collected his first collegiate victory after tossing seven innings and allowing four earned runs on eight hits.

Thomas will be looking for their seventh win of the season on Tuesday February 9 when they travel to Albany, GA to face Albany State University. First pitch is set for 2PM.

TU Sweeps Double Header

February 6, 2010

TU (5-0) swept a double header, 11-4 & 8-5, from the visiting Talladega College Tornados (0-5) at Varnedoe Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The game two victory marked the 300th career victory for TU Head Coach Mike Lee.

Talladega took a 2-0 lead in the fourth inning of game one but TU struck back with four runs in the bottom half of the inning to take the lead. The Tornados picked up two to tie the game at four in the fifth, the Night Hawks bounced right back with three in their half of the inning and never looked back scoring four more in the sixth. Senior catcher Rick Howroyd (4-4, R, 2RBI, HR) had four hits for TU. Junior starting pitcher Brandon Owens (2-0) picked up the victory after pitching 4.1 innings and allowing four runs (3 earned).

In the night cap, TU took a 3-0 advantage in the second but TC evened the game in the third. After each team scored one in the fifth, Talladega added another in the sixth but it was the Night Hawks who scored four in the bottom half of the inning who had the last laugh. Sophomore left fielder Joey Kampfer (2-5, R, 3RBI, 3B, SB) drove in three runs and senior center fielder Tyler Davis (2-4, RBI) tacked on two hits of his own. Senior relief pitcher Corey Pye picked up the victory with two innings of three hit ball, allowing one earned run.

The three game series continues tomorrow with a single game beginning at 12PM.

Night Hawks Complete Series Sweep of Montreat

January 31, 2010

The Night Hawks (3-0) completed a season opening series sweep on a chilly Sunday afternoon at Varnedoe Stadium, after sweeping a double header from the visiting Montreat College Cavaliers (0-3), 7-4 & 5-4 (8).

Down 4-3 in the bottom half of the eight, TU rallied to tie the game on a base hit by junior catcher Travis Flannagan (2-3, RBI, 2B) and then picked up a walk off base hit by junior pinch hitter Daniel Blanton (1-1, RBI) to complete a double header sweep of the Cavaliers. Junior relief pitcher Sean Medlin (1-0) picked up the victory with 2.2 innings of three hit ball and three strike outs of the Night Hawk pen.

Montreat held a 2-1 advantage into the fifth inning of game one but self destructed with three errors that led to six TU runs and a 7-2 advantage. Senior right fielder Drew Johnson (2-4, R, 2RBI) drove in two runs. Junior relief pitcher Jeremy Jones (1-0) notched the victory out of the pen, tossing three innings and allowing two runs, one earned, on four hits.

TU will look to remain unbeaten on Friday evening when they welcome Talladega College to Varnedoe Stadium for game one of a three game series beginning at 5PM.

Baseball Blasts off in Season Opener

January 30, 2010

Baseball (1-0), blasted off in their season opener routing the visiting Montreat College Cavaliers (0-1) 18-0 in seven innings on Saturday afternoon at an overcast Varnedoe Stadium.

Three seniors: pinch hitter Adam Duncan (1-1, 2R, 3RBI, BB, HR), catcher Rick Howroyd (3-5, R, 3RBI, HR) and right fielder Drew Johnson (2-3, 2R, 3RBI, BB, HR) each drove in three runs for the Night Hawks. TU sluggeed their way to 19 hits and 4 home runs in the seven inning Run Rule game. Junior Brandon Owens (1-0) picked up his first victory of the year after throwing five innings of three hit ball while striking out five.

The series continues tomorrow with a double header beginning at noon.