Unconquered Magazine

SEMINOLE BOOSTERS MAGAZINE

FALL 2019

FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY

21 EXCITING OBSERVATIONS ABOUT ‘19

BOOSTER LIFE

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BOOSTER EVENTS Fall 2019

A) Bill Smith, David Coburn and Chip Baker B) Kari Terezakis, Tony and Sharon Carvalho, Betty Lou and Jim Joanos, Mary and Scott Higgins

C) Left to right: Devyn Flaherty, Chloe Culp, Emma Wilson, Coach Lonni Alameda, Frank Maggio (Manatee Seminole Club President), Rachel Sides (Pinellas Seminole Club President), Jessica Miller (PSC Board Member), Amanda Lafoe (Tampa Bay Seminole Club Board Member), Kevin Smith (Seminole Boosters) and Chris Rotolo (PSC Vice President).

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D) Doug Russell, John Trasher, Mike Martin Sr., Mike Martin Jr., and David Coburn

E) Left to right: Frank Maggio (Manatee Seminole Club President), Joanna White (Seminole Boosters), Coach Lonni Alameda and Rachel Sides (Pinellas Seminole Club President).

F) Gary and Lee Ann Thurston in Greece G) Vice President of University Advancement Tom and Dawn Jennings

H) Mike and Kathy O’Connor with Bob Frey at the Diros

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Caves in Gythion, Greece

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DIRECTORS AT LARGE

SEMINOLE BOOSTERS INC.

2019-20 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

BOB DAVIS Chairman

JIMMY GRAGANELLA Chairman Elect

CHARLIE DUDLEY Secretary

ALAN FLAUMENHAFT Treasurer

TOM JENNINGS Presidential Designee

ED BURR Chairman of the Board of Trustees

DAVID COBURN Director for Intercollegiate Athletics

DOUG RUSSELL Immediate Past Chairman

GARY THURSTON 2nd Immediate Past Chair

CLIF CURRY At-Large

Bill Hagen Rich Heffley Dan Hendrix Nick Iarossi Moises Issa Mike Kosloske Pete Law Brett Lindquist Scott Madden John McCann Richard McMullen Teri Miller DeVoe Moore Brian Murphy

Diana Azor W.O. Bell Jim Boyd Kevin Carpenter Eleanor Connan Marilyn Cox Scott Darling Bill Dawkins Mary Demetree Craig Dewhurst Doug Dunlap Linda Dupree Eric Friall Ernie Garcia

Andy Norman Warner Peacock Craig Ramsey Mark Shelnutt Jim Steiner Jeff Stewart Jeff Stoops Mike Summey Philip Troyer Barry Vaughn Richard Welch Jerry Williams

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Tom Jennings .................................................................... Presidential Designee Ed Burr .....................................................................Board of Trustees Chairman David Coburn .............................................. Director for Intercollegiate Athletics Nan Hillis .................................................................. Foundation Chair Designee Nada Usina.....................................................Women’s Athletics Representative Sam Ambrose .......................................................................... Alumni Chairman Pam Parrewe ................................................................. Athletic Board Designee Wade Wallace....................................................................Varsity Club Designee Manuel Osaba ............................................................Student Booster Designee Bob Davis ......................................................................Seminole Boosters Chair Jimmy Graganella ..................................................Seminole Boosters Vice-Chair Doug Russell ....................................... Seminole Boosters Immediate Past Chair Gary Thurston .............................. Seminole Boosters 2nd Immediate Past Chair

PAST CHAIRS Kathy Atkins-Gunter W.G. Babe Starry* Bob Lee Bannerman* Tom Barron Hurley Booth Dennis Boyle* Steve Brown Spencer Burress* Bob Camp* Joe Camps Bill Carraway Jim Carter Ken Cashin Bob Caton Raymond Cottrell Dave Cowens Carl Domino Bill Dubey* Frank Fain* Mike Fields

Bob Fohl* Andy Haggard Kim Hammond* Bruce Harrell Mike Harrell Ed Haskell, Jr* Sherman Henderson Charlie Hill* Lou Hill* Ron Hobbs Jim Kirk* Chris Kraft George Langford* Lawton Langford W. S. Bill Lee* Douglas Mannheimer Payne Midyette, Sr* Russ Morcom John Olson Syde P. Deeb*

Bill Parker Doyle Pope* Frank Pope* Theo Proctor, Jr David Rancourt Gene Ready* Charles Rosenberg* Doug Russell Godfrey Smith* Lomax Smith Brian Swain Nylah Thompson Gary Thurston Gary Walsingham Herschel Williams* Tommy Williams* Albert Yates* *Deceased

FLORIDA STATE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

PARRISH OWENS At-Large

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DELORES SPEARMAN At-Large

BILL STEPHENSON At-Large

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JOHN THRASHER At-Large President

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Maximo “Max” Alvarez Kathryn Ballard Edward E. “Ed” Burr, Chair William “Billy” Buzzett Emily Fleming “June” Duda Jorge Gonzalez Kris Harper Jim W. Henderson Mark Hillis Craig Mateer Bob Sasser Brent W. Sembler Evan Steinberg John Thrasher (President, Florida State University)

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EXECUTIVE STAFF

Andy Miller ................................................................................ President & CEO Greg Hulen ....................................................................Executive Vice President Paul Phipps .....................................................................Chief Marketing Officer Derril Beech ..................................... Vice President, Marketing & Annual Giving Eric Carr ...... Vice President of Development Coordination, Training & Oversight Mike Dasher ................................................Senior Vice President, Development JP Sinclair ..........................................................................Chief Financial Officer Kari Terezakis ....................................................... Vice President of Stewardship Ben Zierden.................................................... Senior Vice President, Operations

DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS

Tom Carlson .................................... Senior Vice President, North Florida Region Chris Wilson ............................................Director of Development, Atlanta Area Javi Garcia-Tunon .......... Associate Director of Fundraising, Goldcoast of Florida Colson Hosford .......................................Director of Real Estate & Development Billy Sexton ............................................ Director of Development South Florida Kevin Smith .......................Director of Development, Greater Tampa Bay Region Hugh Tomlinson ...................................Director of Development & Gift Planning James Warren .............. Associate Director – Panhandle Area & Big Bend Region Kyle Kashuck ..........................Assistant Director of Development, South Florida

TICKET SALES & BOOSTER MEMBERSHIPS

Mark Cameron .................................. Senior Director of Ticket Sales and Service Forrest Brewton ..................................................Account Executive – New Sales Andrew Pope ......................................................Account Executive – New Sales Fernando Segura ......................................... Account Executive – Premium Sales George Seliga ............................................................. New Ticket Sales Manager Ray Silva ...................................................... Account Executive – Premium Sales Brian Wagner.........................Account Executive – Premium Service & Retention Danielle Friedel ....................................Account Executive – Service & Retention Mikey Drinkard .....................................Account Executive – Service & Retention Ed Servil ...............................................Account Executive – Service & Retention Justin Schaefer ......................Account Executive – Premium Service & Retention Nicole Sullivan ..................................................... Manager – Service & Retention Analisa Trstensky .................................Account Executive – Service & Retention Elena Hooven .......................................Account Executive – Service & Retention Ryan Agcaoili-Mullins ...........................Account Executive – Service & Retention

ACCOUNTING/HUMAN RESOURCES

Chyenne Bibik .......................................................................... Accounting Clerk Amy Hanstein .....................Director of Employee Relations & Accounts Payable Mark Majszak ................................................................................... Comptroller

ADMINISTRATIVE

Patti Barber ..................................................................................... Receptionist

ADVANCEMENT SERVICES

Patrick Harrity ............................................................Web Application Specialist Pheobe Metzger ................................................... Director of Advanced Services

COACHES CLUBS

TBA .............................................................. Assistant Director of Annual Giving

FSU TRADEMARK LICENSING

Katie Watt ......................................................... Director of Trademark Licensing Garrett O’Connor ...............................Assistant Director of Trademark Licensing

GIFT PROCESSING

Logan Byrd ....................................................................Gift Processing Manager Alex Pope .................................................................... Gift Processing Specialist David Newman..................................... Mail Processing & Records Management

MARKETING

Monica Perez ..................................................................Director of Graphic Arts Joanna White .......................................................... Assistant Director of Events

STEWARDSHIP

Blake Moore .................................................. Stewardship & Events Coordinator

VARSITY CLUB

Betsy Hosey ....................................................................Director of Varsity Club

COLLEGETOWN

Erin Owens.............................................................................. Director of Events

Unconquered magazine (USPS 18182) is published quarterly by Seminole

CONTACT Send correspondence to Derril Beech, at the address shown above or

Boosters, Inc., 225 University Center, Suite 5100, Tallahassee, Florida, 32306.

by email to derril.beech@fsu.edu. Telephone: (850) 644-3484.

(850) 644-3484, Fax: (850) 222-5929. POSTMASTER: send change of address to, Unconquered magazine, care of Seminole Boosters, Florida State University

MAGAZINE STAFF

Center, Suite C-5100, 5th Floor, Tallahassee, Florida, 32306. Periodicals Postage

Publishers: Andy Miller, Jerry Kutz

Paid at Tallahassee, FL, Volume 35, Issue 3.

Managing editor: Derril Beech Design, layout, production, pre-press: Learfield IMG College

All advertising revenues directly support programs of the Seminole Boosters,

Featured photographers: Ross Obley, Mike Olivella, Ryals Lee

Inc. For advertising rates, please contact the sales representatives listed below.

Contributing photographers: Seminole Boosters, FSU Sports Information,

© 2019, Seminole Boosters, Inc. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed herein

Andrew Salinero/FSView, Sara Davis/ACC, the ACC, Maury Neipris, Jeff

do not necessarily reflect those of Florida State University faculty, staff or

Romance Columnists: Charlie Barnes, Jerry Kutz

administration.

Contributing writers: Derril Beech, Jim Crosby, Jerry Kutz, Tim Linafelt, Jeff OVERVIEW

Romance, FSU Sports Information, Bob Thomas, Kerry Dunning, Jim Crosby,

Unconquered magazine celebrates Seminole athletics and the indomitable spirit of its student-athletes who overcome adversity, the passion of its coaches and

Jim Henry Copy editor: Bob Ferrante

educators who help students reach beyond their limits and the devotion of donors who redefine the boundaries of generosity by giving scholarships that change lives and who make donations that build first-class athletic facilities. By sharing their stories of transformational experiences — on the athletic playing field, in the classroom and in life — Unconquered magazine encourages the growth of responsible world citizenship and cross-cultural understanding. Each issue carries stories on what makes student-athletes great and how they were shaped by their experience at FSU, features on Seminole community sports legends and profiles of donors who make contributions.

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Q&A Boosters President

Andy Miller SEMINOLE BOOSTERS: From your point of view, what’s your assessment of the realignment of the Seminole Boosters, Athletic Department and University Administration?

ANDY MILLER: The main goal of realignment was to bring the Athletic Department, Seminole Boosters and University Administration in greater sync with each other.

It was felt strongly by all parties that a governing body was needed to oversee all aspects of the athletic program.

on the Seminole Boosters’ Board will be expanded to serve on many important committees.

FSU Athletic Association was created to foster a greater understanding of the issues facing athletics and provide a forum and process for vetting possible solutions and approving the overall direction for the program.

SB: What progress can you see in the near term?

AM: I feel we will be better able to prioritize projects and programs, develop strategic and financial planning as well as address areas affecting revenue growth such as scheduling, ticket pricing and priority, parking, traffic, hotel rates and fan amenities, among other important topics.

SB: What necessitated this action and why now?

AM: The times and landscape of Sports and Entertainment are rapidly changing at the collegiate and professional level. Live attendance at sporting events is on a decline while expenses are up.

Television, while positive from a revenue and exposure stand point, greatly affects ticket sales and contributions.

Atlantic Coast Conference distributions are currently not competitive on a national level. Every decision made needs to have critical input from the three main bodies represented on the FSUAA Board, i.e. Seminole Boosters, Athletics and University.

Finally, the Seminole Booster CEO will have an additional title as Senior Associate Athletic Director, which will allow the Boosters greater access to the Athletic Department where and when discussions occur and proposals are formulated that may impact development.

SB: Are there any final thoughts regarding the process and the changes that were made?

AM: My first response would be while organization is most important, it’s the people who drive the program and allow success to occur. What has allowed a positive and productive outcome were leaders who put the long term, best interest of the University first.

It was not forced. The process was collaborative. We kept what was working well and added a layer that will serve the University for years to come.

SB: How will the current Seminole Boosters Organization be affected?

AM: I see the addition of FSUAA to be a great change. So many of the decisions we make in athletics have market impact. We believe we have the tools and experience to offer guidance relative to fund raising feasibility and revenue potential when considering projects.

A personal thanks to President John Thrasher, Board of Trustee Chairman Ed Burr, Seminole Booster Chairman Doug Russell, Athletic Director David Coburn, Seminole Booster Chair Elect Bob Davis, former Seminole Booster Chair Lawton Langford, the Seminole Booster Board of Directors and many others who contributed their time and expertise.

The University recognized the entrepreneurial nature of Seminole Boosters and recommended the governance structure of the organization be maintained and the Seminole Boosters Chair serve as a valuable member of the five-person FSUAA Board. Additionally the Chair Elect and CEO will be invited to attend every meeting and participate in the discussion. The Athletic Director’s role

SB: On a different topic, talk about the newest addition to College Town and to the member’s benefits, 51 on Madison?

AM: 51 on Madison is a private club exclusively for members of Seminole Boosters. It will operate on weekends as a private club and cater special events, private parties and corporate outings during the week.

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Q & A

Pike Brothers Joe Fixel, Andy Miller, Mickey Fernandez, Mike Martin, Gene Deckerhoff, Doug Russell, David Gutting, and Eric Carr on the 2019 Seminole Boosters Mediterranean Cruise The club features indoor and outdoor space. It is equipped with a full production kitchen, capable of doing multiple events on and off site. 51 on Madison is managed by Club Corp, which also manages the University Center Club, Dunlap Champions Club and the new Jack Nicklausdesigned Seminole Golf Club.

The number 51 in the name was derived from the founding of the University in 1851 and the founding of Seminole Boosters in 1951. The story behind the name is told on the cornerstone plaque affixed to the building.

The name 51 on Madison is a tribute to our university and a benefit to the thousands of loyal donors who are the foundation of our highly successful program. Enjoy!

SB: Speaking of new Booster benefits, tell us about the new Unconquered Magazine website.

AM: The Unconquered Magazine is extremely well received by members and we wanted to extend our frequency and reach using technology. The website allows us to be more nimble with information so we will now be able to quickly and economically deliver information, which is critical to our mission, directly to our members’ cell phones, tablets and laptops.

UnconqueredMagazine.com will allow us to recognize more donors, update fundraising efforts and achievements and keep our members informed about more events they will want to attend.

We’ll also be able to bundle those stories into a digital magazine for those of us who still like a magazine feel.

If you haven’t visited yet, check out Unconquered Magazine.com

Doug Russell and former FSU Sr. Vice President Jerry Kutz. Do you plan to do podcasts too?

AM: The podcasts are part of our desire to communicate clearly with donors on a more regular basis. Podcasts are beneficial to our members who can listen while taking a walk or driving to work and hear the emotion in the voice of our featured guests. I think our readers may agree when listening to the podcast with David, Doug and Jerry discussing the new FSU Athletic Association.

It’s one thing to read about the agreement but it is much more convincing and informative when you hear the excitement in David and Doug’s voices.

Our podcasts will introduce our members to the people who have expertise on whatever the topic is. We want our members to hear it directly from the source and hear their emotion.

SB: Who will produce the podcasts and how frequently will Booster members receive them?

AM: The podcasts will be sent to Seminole Booster members on a monthly basis. They will be archived on the UnconqueredMagazine.com website, so members can listen to them whenever they choose. The podcasts are produced by the Osceola, and specifically Jerry Kutz, who is very familiar with the Boosters’ communications needs. When Jerry retired as Sr. Vice President of Communications, he was offered an opportunity to buy back the Osceola, a publication he co-founded in 1982 and sold before coming to work for the Boosters in 2000. Our Executive Vice President, Greg Hulen, suggested we contract Osceola since Jerry and his staff are reporting FSU sports every day. They’ll produce unique content for our members monthly while providing FSU sports content to theOsceola.com subscribers on a daily basis.

SB: Seminole Boosters recently produced a podcast featuring Athletic Director David Coburn, Seminole Booster Chair

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IN HONOR OF NUMBER 21 ON THE COVER

HERE’S OUR 21 REASONS TO BE EXCITED ABOUT THE ’19 SEASON! Six athletes have been selected to preseason watch lists as the nation’s best at that position: Marvin Wilson (DT), Tamorrion Terry (WR), Logan Tyler (P), Dontavious Jackson (LB), Tre McKitty (TE), and Cam Akers (RB) Plus, DeCalon Brooks was named to the Wuerffel Trophy watch list for his achievement in the community and classroom.

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“Success breeds success.” FSU has 20 commitments from 2020 prospects and a top-10 ranking.

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Weekend activities and events in Tallahassee on game weekend – Friday Night Block Party, CollegeTown, Tailgating, the Player Walk, Spear Lighting, Sod Talk, and More!

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A New Offensive Scheme led by New OC Kendal Briles

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Seeing your friends, old and new, at Doak!

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New OL coach Randy Clements – he knows how to help execute Briles offense

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This team is bigger, faster and stronger thanks to Coach O. although some athletes have successfully dropped weight too!

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New WR coach Ron Dugans – He has garnet and gold in his blood and has proven himself in this role

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It’s college football season!

Interesting match-ups including the season opener against preseason No. 25 Boise State in Jacksonville. They have a new starting quarterback, return their entire O-Line and have a veteran defense.

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Hotel prices are back to a fair rate, flights too! (page 40-42)

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To see rising stars and athletes coming off injuries like offensive lineman Dontae Lucas and running back Khalan Laborn, respectively

Supporting these student-athletes. Football is their skill and each one has a story like defensive end Janarius Robinson, who is the first in his family to attend college.

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Mark Snyder will oversee special teams with each assistant coach involved in some aspect of the kicking game. That function will be better.

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The coaches are communicating and in sync

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Living out the Florida State traditions—the chop, the chant, Doak, the Unconquered Spirit!

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Fast Forward – the Briles + Taggart offense will produce

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New Season. New Team. New Process. New Goals.

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The feeling you get when Renegade rears back and that spear hits the grass. There’s just nothing like it!

The Marching Chiefs leading us all together in the War Chant.

The NCAA Transfer portal provided FSU with two players at positions of need, quarterback Alex Hornibrook and offensive tackle Ryan Roberts, who will compete for starting jobs.

See you at Doak! Go Noles!

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2019 FOOTBALL FAN GUIDE

30 52 FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

TABLE OF CONTENTS Booster Life ..........................................................................1 Masthead .............................................................................2 Q&A with Andy Miller ........................................................... 4 Giving Back Through Education and Helping People ............ 12 Unconquered Campaign .....................................................14 2018-19 Award Winners....................................................... 17 A Habit of Helping ............................................................... 18 2019 Florida State Athletics Hall of Fame .............................20 Boosters Add Value to Memberships ................................... 21 Boosters Chairman Bob Davis Leads the Way ......................22 TD Club Seeks to Raise Money for Student-Athletes Career Development .......................24 Three Moments That Changed Seminole Fortunes ..............26 Reasons to be Excited About Attending Home Games this Season .................... 40 Around the ACC in 2019 ......................................................46 On Madison in CollegeTown ................................................50

Women’s and Men’s Basketball Schedules ............................58 The Eternal Flame ...............................................................63 Newest ’Noles ....................................................................65 2019 Spring Tour .................................................................66 The More You Nole .............................................................68

ON THE COVER Marvin Wilson is a monster on the defensive interior for FSU. He recorded 3.5 sacks last year and was named to the 2019 All-ACC preseason football team.

(Cover photo by Ross Obley)

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GIVING BACK THROUGH EDUCATION AND HELPING PEOPLE 12

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Jim Henderson was a math major at Florida State in the late 1960s, studying and working toward his degree. A conversation with a friend then set him on a path to a new major but also one that would pave the way for a successful business career.

“One of my friends one day was telling me they have an equivalent of math over in the business department but it’s incredible where the salaries are going,” Henderson said. “It was the accounting school.”

Henderson found his passion and graduated in 1969, beginning a career where he started at Ernst & Ernst before eventually holding CFO roles with a variety of companies. He would later become president of Brown & Brown before retiring in 2010.

It was a brief retirement.

Henderson “got bored” and jumped back into the business world, starting AssuredPartners in 2011. Just eight years later, the commercial insurance brokerage firm is now the 12th largest agency in the U.S. “We now have around 6,000 employees and $1.3 billion in revenue,” Henderson said. “It’s grown rapidly.”

While Henderson has been busy with AssuredPartners, he has also retained close ties to Florida State and joined the Board of Trustees in 2018 after his appointment by Gov. Rick Scott.

Henderson’s five-year appointment will continue through 2022.

An extensive business background, including 18 years of service as a trustee for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, made Henderson an easy choice.

“It’s a very, very good board,” Henderson said. “We have a very good chairman. We have a very good president. John Thrasher does a fantastic job of blending the university purpose with the ability to go to the Capitol and get the money to back it up.”

Henderson knew when he was appointed to the Board of Trustees that he wanted to give more than just his time and expertise. He and his wife, Carole, had the desire to make considerable contributions to FSU athletics and the construction of the new business school.

“What better way of giving back is there than through education and helping people?” Henderson said. “You see such a direct positive impact of your contribution. To help kids in their career, what they’re doing and where they’re going. I don’t think you can find a better place to devote your resources.”

The Hendersons chose to direct $1 million toward FSU athletics, with half going to scholarships and half to the new football operations building. Jim Henderson has seen up close the success of the athletics program, with another top-10 finish in the Director’s Cup in 2018-19. And he is bullish about the future of the football program.

“I am very optimistic about coach Willie Taggart,” Henderson said. “I am very hopeful that a good person can succeed and win a championship. This year, the president and the board have been very supportive in looking at the coaching changes and to give him all the weapons that he needs to get the program where he would like to have it.

“Facilities cost money. Myself and others, we need to step up to help provide that. It is a facilities war out there and I don’t

think we would expect our players and our coaches to have anything but the best.

“Jim and Carole understand business and the needs of athletics and the university and are willing to give of their time, expertise and the resources they have earned,” said Seminole Booster President and CEO Andy Miller. “They also care deeply about enhancing the lives of all of FSU’s students, including our student-athletes.”

Equally important to facilities are the student-athletes. The Hendersons want to bolster a scholarship fund to help ensure student-athletes will achieve their dreams of earning a college degree without incurring debt. Henderson notes that some college football, basketball and baseball players are visible in the headlines for their contracts and signing bonuses, but the majority of student-athletes are preparing for another career path.

“For those who can go on to the pros, they do well,” Henderson said. “For those who do not, we probably need to do those things that help them as well as a graduate and leave with the skills to make sure their life goes forward well. Education is such a key.

Improving and changing their life. If you’re not going to be a top draft pick or play a pro sport, let’s see what we can do to help them.”

Before making the contributions to athletics, Henderson said he had extensive conversations with Taggart but also BOT Chairman Ed Burr and Athletics Director David Coburn.

Henderson already had a strong relationship with FSU leadership but it was reinforced during conversations with those men, and it is clear that Henderson’s accounting background connected with Coburn’s budget mindset.

“I like his people, I trust them,” Henderson said. “They love the university. I get a little too busy to micro manage that. I think we need to trust them and see if we can’t provide the resources to continue to take us forward.”

Coburn has been a chief of staff under Thrasher and T.K. Wetherell. He appreciates that the Hendersons want what is best for all of the FSU community.

“Jim Henderson certainly understands business and business processes and is a great resource for the FSU Board of Trustees and me personally as athletic director,” said Coburn. “He is a person who is not only a great sounding board but also one who cares deeply about the university and our students including our student-athletes.”

Henderson also wanted to give back to the business school that helped put him on his career trajectory. He also realizes that FSU has consistently produced business-school graduates who have contributed to the success of Assured Partners.

“Our company recruits at Florida State,” Henderson said.

“Our company, and me specifically, we’ve made another $500,000 pledge to the new school of business building and a classroom to be named after our company and after me. It was another way to give back for the education that I received. The skills helped perpetuate my career.”

It’s this gift, as well as those to athletics, that will help sustain a legacy for future students and athletes at FSU.

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UNCONQUERED CAMPAIGN: GOLF RENOVATIONS NEAR COMPLETION, SOFTBALL UPGRADES TO BEGIN

By GREG HULEN As another sports season begins at FSU, the $100 million Unconquered Campaign continues in its second year looking to maintain the momentum generated over the past 20 months. With over $73 million pledged in support to the projects and initiatives of the campaign and $10 million already given, there is no denying the commitment of the alumni and friends of Florida State to the success of Seminole student-athletes.

“The Unconquered Campaign has been a clear demonstration of what makes FSU one of the top programs in college athletics,” said Andy Miller, President & CEO of Seminole Boosters. “Those with a passion for the success of FSU student-athletes on and off the fields and courts of competition are partnering with Seminole Boosters through this campaign. These long-term investments by our donors and administration will position our athletic department to maintain the comprehensive excellence we have all come to enjoy in Tallahassee.”

“I am pleased with the status of the campaign but know we still have a long way to go to reach our $100 million goal,” said campaign co-chair John Crowe. “Great progress has been made, and Nylah Thompson and I have challenged the staff to maintain their focus and energy to reach our campaign goal and beyond. In the world of college athletics everyone is always getting better, we can’t take our foot off the gas.”

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SPRING TOUR UPDATE During a spring tour stop, at the home of Jeff and Aggie Stoops in Jupiter, Florida, Seminole Boosters received a new $2.5 million commitment. This will be in support of the Football Operations project and provide additional funding for use at the Athletic Director’s discretion. The Stoops are long-time FSU supporters and Jeff is a previous member of the Board of Trustees. With the Stoops’ commitment, Seminole Boosters has now received 18 pledges of $1 million or more to the campaign.

GOAL MET FOR TWO PROJECTS Two projects in the Unconquered Campaign have already reached their initial funding goals: the renovations of the course at the Seminole Golf Club and the renovations to the softball stadium. The staff will continue fundraising towards both projects.

The softball stadium renovations will begin this fall. This $1.6 million investment will cover the stands and provide much-needed shade for fans as well as the bullpen areas. As softball continues to grow its profile nationally and at FSU, this is a clear demonstration to recruits and our studentathletes that the Seminoles intend to remain at the top of the softball world.

The fans of the softball program clearly displayed their commitment to future success with the fundraising goal reached in less than eight months and over $800,000

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already given toward these pledges.

“It has been amazing to see how quickly we have reached our initial goal in softball,” Thompson said. “It is the result of the commitment of Coach Alameda and her staff to building relationships with donors through her Coaches Club program. When the plan for the stadium was presented, this group stepped up and responded. The family culture around the softball program extends to our donors and fans. What we are seeing in this effort is the result of relationships built over many years by Lonni and her program. It is exciting, but not surprising, to see.”

The golf project has surpassed its initial goal of $4.5 million in donor funding thanks to a second commitment

by Ed and Billie Jo Burr to increase their total commitment to the project to $1 million. Construction at the course has been ongoing and anticipated to conclude in late 2019.

When completed, it will be one of the finest golf courses in the region and a major asset for the university.

“It is really exciting to see everything be finalized at the course,” men’s golf coach Trey Jones said. “Each person who has had a chance to take a course tour has been impressed. This will be tremendous for the future of FSU’s golf programs and golf at FSU and Tallahassee. I can’t wait for it to be opened.”

Seminole Boosters will be hosting a “first round” for founding donors to the project this fall, and the course will open to members and the university community in early 2020.

The Seminole Golf Club will be managed by long-time FSU partner, Club Corp. Club Corp, which also manages the University Center Club and the new 51 on Madison in CollegeTown, is one of the nation’s largest operators of private golf clubs in the United States and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. The company’s management team will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the course including the sale of memberships. Look for information on memberships coming later in August.

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES The facility investments that will be made as a result of the loyal and generous contributions of Unconquered Campaign donors will allow FSU to maintain its status as a leader in intercollegiate athletics. Coming off a No. 7

Florida State University and Seminole Boosters, Inc. recognize the following donors for their selfless generosity by contributing $50,000 or more to athletic scholarships and facilities. It is because of these gifts that Florida State University remains UNCONQUERED.

Astro Travel & Tours, Inc. Jeff & Wendy Clark Peter Collins, Peter Jones, Bill Lloyd, and John Thiel James and Patsy Coleman Century 21 Commander Realty, Charles Commander Jimmy and Lisa Graganella The Vaughn Family Jon and Susanne Powers John and Janie Robinson Alicia Crew and Janet Stoner The Stoops Family Foundation Frank T. Vicino, Jr. From May 24-July 29, 2019

ranking in the 2018-19 Director’s Cup rankings, and with many of our programs expected to compete for ACC and national championships, it is truly a special time to be a Seminole!

Seminole Golf course renovations are progressing.

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AWA R D W I N N E R S

Florida State finished at No. 7 in the all-sports Director’s Cup standings, giving the Seminoles the top spot among ACC schools.

This was FSU’s second-best finish in school history.

The baseball team’s run through the postseason – a fifthplace tie – helped boost the Seminoles. FSU was in eighth place in the June 12 standings, which took into account all sports going into the baseball College World Series. And it represented a steady climb from a spot just inside the top 15 a month ago.

“We are extremely proud of our top 10 finish in the Directors’ Cup and in reaching our second-highest finish ever,” said Florida State athletics director David Coburn. “It is a tribute to the outstanding student-athletes, coaches, staff, support units and Seminole Boosters we have at FSU, and our shared commitment to be a national leader in every sport.

“I would like to thank all of them for their contributions to this outstanding year in Seminole Athletics.”

Stanford won the Director’s Cup, followed by Michigan, Florida Texas and USC. UCLA was sixth, then FSU. After FSU, Virginia, Duke and North Carolina rounded out the top 10.

That string of four ACC schools in the top 10 is the best of any major conference, edging out the three from the Pac-12.

The Seminoles had a good spring, with a fifth-place finish in beach volleyball, ninth-place finish in softball, 10th-place finish in women’s track and field, and 12th-place finish in women’s golf leading the way. FSU also garnered top-20 finishes in men’s and women’s tennis as well as men’s track and field.

FSU’S RECENT DIRECTOR’S CUP FINISHES FSU 7 9 13 22 11 12 11 5 9 5

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Year 2018-19 2017-18 2016-17 2015-16 2014-15 2013-14 2012-13 2011-12 2010-11 2009-10

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ACC Rank 1st 1st 2nd 5th 4th 4th 2nd 1st 4th 2nd

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A HABIT OF HELPING

Mike Summey has been a successful entrepreneur, author and investor, but his greatest accomplishment has been helping others

By JEFF ROMANCE Hard work and helping others have always been a part of Mike Summey’s life.

From his humble beginnings in a small coal-mining town in West Virginia to amassing a 500-property real estate portfolio throughout the Southeast, Summey focused on his desire, discipline and dedication to become the success that he is today.

When he was 21, Summey was laid off from his Northrop defense plant job. Instead of filing for unemployment or looking for another factory job, he decided to go out on his own and start a sign company and vowed to never work for someone else again.

“I invested my $300 severance pay in an old van and started a small

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sign shop on my own,” Summey said. “From Day 1, I made sure to put money back into my business. It was a struggle for sure, but I was able to make it grow.”

Three decades later, that local sign shop in the back of a van was a multimillion dollar billboard company with offices in two states. Although the business was a great success, Summey’s crowning achievement was his invention of the single pole billboard that is still used throughout the world today. Because Summey was always a firm believer in helping others, he shared his single-pole design with his competitors and never collected any royalties from his invention.

Summey sold his billboard company

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in 1997 and “functionally retired” to spend his time with his family and handle his real estate portfolio.

In 1999, Summey took his sons, Jason and Matt, on a college tour that included a stop at Florida State, where they met Coach Bobby Bowden for the first time.

“We made the trip down to Tallahassee and Coach Bowden could not have been a nicer gentleman to my boys. He treated them like gold,” Summey said. “Jason had always been a Florida State fan, and that trip made his mind up that FSU was the school for him.”

It was Jason’s passion for FSU that helped Summey see the light about becoming a Florida State fan and eventually a Seminole Booster.

Left: Mike and grandson Grayson singing National Anthem in the Dunlap Champions Club.

Right: Mike, wife Linda, and quarterback James Blackman.

Below: Son Matt with his Apache helicopter in Iraq. FSU spear decal on a Hellfire missile.

“I was actually a big Clemson fan back in the ‘80s,” Summey said. “I was friends with head coach Danny Ford and they had just won their first national title and I put up some billboards for them.

“But now that Jason comes to Florida State and the Seminoles are doing dynamite in football he told me ‘Dad, you either need to change allegiances or get a new son.’”

Although his son “strong-armed” him into becoming an FSU supporter, Summey eventually got involved with Seminoles Boosters and became a season ticket holder in 2001.

“We started coming down to all of the home games and our fondness for the university just grew and grew,” Summey said.

Even after Jason graduated from Florida State in 2003, Summey would fly his wife, Linda, and other family

members back to Tallahassee to see all of the home football games.

When his sons had children of their own, the Summey family flights from Asheville to Tallahassee had to expand to two planes. Summey’s younger son, Matt, flies Apache helicopters in the Army, so he would fly the second plane.

As the Summey family grew in numbers (he now has five grandchildren), they became famous for their extraordinary tailgate parties behind the Psychology building next to Mike Long Track. Their tailgating area was shared with about eight other families and was affectionately known as “Seminole City.”

“Our parties were so legendary that we had our own D.J. who would play music and host a private radio talk show that other tailgate areas would tune into,” Summey said. “We were

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even selected as ‘Tailgate of the Year’ in 2013.”

As Summey got more involved with Seminole Boosters his tailgate parties transitioned to the Champions Club.

He is currently a Platinum Chief and has 11 season tickets for whichever members of the Summey family will join him on the flight from North Carolina.

While Summey was managing his real estate investments in his “retirement,” he wanted to do more for the university that he fell in love with.

In 2016, he donated a 12,000-square foot commercial property to Seminole Boosters.

Summey’s generosity didn’t stop with the donation of a major gift.

He also helped Seminole Boosters secure a qualified appraisal and was instrumental in the liquidation of the property, which resulted in a net gift of $556,000 that will go toward scholarships and other commitments.

“I’ve always been one who tries to give back. It’s invigorating to know that you’ve helped a little bit for some of the success that is taking place at Florida State,” Summey said. “It’s great to see the success of Collegetown, the indoor practice facility, and the other investments that the Boosters have going.”

Whether as a Seminole Booster, a reserve Sheriff’s deputy in Buncombe County, or a volunteer pilot for Wounded Warriors, Mike Summey has spent a lifetime of working hard and helping others. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

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H A L L O F FA M E

MICKEY DILLARD (1978-80) A four-year letter winner who still ranks fourth in school history with 1,734 career points nearly 40 years after his career ended in 1981. Dillard, a David, Fla., native, was a member of two NCAA Tournament teams (1978 and 1980). He averaged a career-high 20.5 points per game as a redshirt junior in 1980 – the 15th-best single-season average in school history. Dillard is ranked third in school history for career field goals (643) and free throws made (448) and tied for ninth in steals (165).

SUSAN KUIJKEN (2006-09) The most decorated women’s distance runner in FSU history, Kuijken is the Seminoles’ only four-time cross country All-American and was a five-time All-American on the track.

The Nigmegen, Netherlands, native won NCAA titles in the 2008 indoor 3,000-meter runs and the 2009 outdoor 1,500-meter runs and owns FSU records in both events. She led FSU to three consecutive top-three NCAA cross country finishes and led the Seminoles to five team titles. Kuijken represented the Netherlands in the 5000- and 10,000-meter runs at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

MIKE MARTIN SR. (1980-2019) A legend if there ever was one, Mike Martin is not only the winningest coach in college baseball history with 2,029 victories, but he also has the most wins of any coach in NCAA history in any sport. Martin starred for the Seminoles as a player from 1965-66 and was an assistant coach from 197579 before taking over as head coach for the next 40 seasons. Already inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame, Martin took the Seminoles to the College World Series a record 17 times. FSU reached 40 or more wins ever year under Martin and he led the Seminoles into the NCAA Tournament each year. He coached 18 first-round draft picks, four Golden Spikes winners (Mike Fuentes, Mike Loynd, J.D. Drew and Buster Posey), two Dick Howser Trophy winners, 94 All-Americans and 141 All-ACC selections.

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DICK NICHOLS (1968-70) Dick Nichols starred as a second baseman and outfielder for the Seminoles from 1968-70.

The Jacksonville native was a three-year letter winner and two-year starter. He led the Seminoles’ in hitting in 1969 (.336) and 1970 (.338) and finished with a career .336 batting average. He was the leadoff hitter for the 1970 team that reached the championship game of the College World Series. He was a first-team All-America selection by The Sporting News and a second-team selection by the American Baseball Coaches Association. He stole a team-high 34 bases and hit a teamhigh six triples in 1970.

RICK STOCKSTILL (1979-81) Rick Stockstill was the starting quarterback for Bobby Bowden’s 1980 and 1981 football teams. Bowden credits the Fernandina Beach, Fla., native for his leadership and toughness in guiding the Seminoles as they emerged as a national power. Stockstill led the 1980 team to a 10-2 record and No. 5 final ranking in the Associated Press poll. The 1980 Orange Bowl pitted No. 2 FSU against No. 4 Oklahoma, giving the Seminoles a chance at the national title, but the Sooners won 18-17. Stockstill remains in FSU’s career top 25 in touchdown passes (26), passing yards (2,834) and total offense (2,616) among others.

CAROLINE WESTRUP (2006-09) Caroline Westrup is the only four-time All-American in FSU golf history. She led the Seminoles to four consecutive NCAA Tournaments, and earned AllACC honors throughout her collegiate career. The native of Skane, Sweden, won five individual tournament championships and led the Seminoles to four team titles. She posted a career-low round score of 66 five times over her career, which is one short of the school record. She served as team captain three times.

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MEMBERSHIPS

BOOSTERS ADD VALUE TO MEMBERSHIPS

By MARK CAMERON Years ago being a season-ticket holder was a straightforward proposition. You received the best seat in the stadium and a per-game discount by agreeing to purchase every home game in a set bundle.

However, in 2019 things have changed. Everything is becoming “unbundled” and the rise of secondary-ticket markets no longer ensure season-ticket holders have the biggest discount. This is something I’ve seen up close and personal over the last decade.

Before being promoted to Sr. Director of Ticket Sales, Service and Retention last July, I spent over five years on the front lines as a Sales Account Executive and Manager for Seminole Boosters. I held thousands of conversations with Florida State alumni, fans, season ticket holders, Seminole Booster members, and single-game ticket buyers.

While price objections would come up often, the root of the complaint usually stemmed from value. FSU fans didn’t have a problem with what they were paying, but rather had an issue with lack of value in what they were receiving. Over the past 12 months, it was our mission to add value to the season ticket and Seminole Booster memberships.

First, we had to find somewhere to start. We researched membership rewards and benefits offered by dozens of professional sports teams, collegiate athletic departments, and even a few programs outside of sports. We had several conversations with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who ranked No. 1 in Overall Customer Service in the 2018 NFL Voice of the Fan Report, which marked the fifth time in the last seven years they were best among season pass members. As it turns out, they completely revamped their season member benefits and access just before the string of No. 1 rankings.

Using what we learned, it became our goal to have an allencompassing membership that would add value to all of our members. From member discounts to exclusive access and amenities, our new model would provide a 360-degree view of membership that is missing from primary or secondary market single-game ticket purchases. There are benefit tiers based on your type of membership: Seminole Boosters, season ticket and Dunlap Champions Club members. All members will have access to a new online loyalty program, launching in August. Without further ado, here are the new membership benefits and amenities for One Tribe members.

ONE TRIBE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS & AMENITIES VALUE & MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS Booster STH Club STH 10% off at select College Town merchants 10% off game-day tailgate set-up via Tailgate Guys Various ticket discounts (e.g. 20% off Boise St. from 1/1-7/26) 10%+ off additional single game home tickets in the main stands 20%+ off additional single game home tickets in Dunlap Champions Club EXCLUSIVE ACCESS Booster STH Club STH Access to experiences and items via One Tribe loyalty program Access to exclusive events throughout the year Access to exclusive content, such as Unconquered Magazine online Access to 51 on Madison (advanced reservations for Tomahawks+) Access to year-round Club events such as Pillar of Champions series AMENITIES & RECOGNITION Booster STH Club STH Game day parking pass and tailgate access (Warrior level & up) Yearly One Tribe membership card and tag packet Assigned personal customer service representative Season ticket access to best locations and member pricing Personalized nameplate on your seat for season STH: Season Ticket Holder; Club STH: Dunlap Champions Club Season Ticket Holder

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BOOSTER CHAIRMAN BOB DAVIS LEADS THE WAY

By JIM CROSBY Florida State Athletics has a new look entering the final quarter of 2019. On the playing fields and in the arenas the teams will still portray the same athletic excellence. Administratively the entire support program just got stronger with the creation of the Florida State University Athletics Association (FSUAA) on which Seminole Booster Chair Bob Davis will serve an important role.

Therein lies an interesting story.

Davis was a season-ticket holder and Golden Chief, living in Orlando, when Eric Carr, Booster Senior VP for Central Florida, asked him if he would be interested in getting involved with the Boosters. That brief conversation would have major ramifications for the Boosters down-the-line.

“I said ‘Sure,’ ” Davis recalls, then adds: “I didn’t have any idea what that meant.”

The Boosters immediately tapped into Davis’s extensive auditing expertise to strengthen the organization’s financial controls, which had recently experienced its first breach. Davis led an audit team, which was able to report all the money was recovered and put procedures in place to prevent reoccurrence.

After only two years on the Booster board Davis was presented the prestigious Godfrey Smith Award of Excellence.

Mike Harrell, Booster chairman at the time, told Unconquered: “The result of Bob’s work made him the perfect candidate for the award. He was a rock star.”

Harrell also pointed out that the hundreds of hours of volunteer work was something the boosters could not have afforded.

“Bonnie and I are really proud of the entire sport program recognizing our success on and off the field,” Davis said.

Now, Davis has moved up the booster-board ladder to become Chair. He says: “It happened because I had available time,” then adds, with a smile: “You’ve been around long enough to know if you have time available they are going to take advantage of it.”

It just so happens that Davis’ new appointment as chair comes at an advantageous time for Florida State. As Booster Chair, Davis will also be a member of the new FSUAA. “I’ve known Bob Davis for seven years. He is a very honest, hard-working person who does what he says he will do,” said Carr. “He enjoys serving and helping out.”

While some were wondering how the Seminole Boosters would feel about the new Association, Davis says: “My perception of what is happening with FSUAA is that it is good for us. We retained a lot of the governance, hiring and firing, and things we wanted to do.”

He pointed out a major difference that not only makes it better for the Boosters but for the entire athletics program. “In the past we have been told here is a project we need done and we need for you to collect the money for it. Now we have a seat at the table and we can assess a project. Is it a good thing right now? Or do we need to raise a little more money for it? So I think the whole concept is going to bring Athletics and the Boosters much closer together.”

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Bob and Bonnie Davis Davis is already impressed with a task that AD David Coburn has asked the FSUAA committee to complete. “He has asked the chief financial officer of Seminole Boosters and the chief financial officer of Athletics to collaborate on their 5- to 10-year forecasts – a consolidated forecast that has never been done before.” He adds that this will be a big help with prioritization when numerous capital projects are proposed, matching the funds needed to build those projects with fundraising resources.

Conversely, Davis has a request for Coburn, who he says is the best thing that could have happened to FSU Athletics: “My whole purpose (as Booster chairman) is to lead the board, so I have set some organizational goals as well as some personal goals. Some things it would be nice to accomplish this year. I have asked David if he could set up a meeting with each of the head coaches for that purpose because there are members I have never met personally. I just want to have that conversation, to make that personal connection.

“It would be nice to hear what each of the coaches have to say about their program,” Davis said.

Responding to a growing, diversified market, Davis wants to seek out young, successful alums, including women and minorities, to ensure Seminole Boosters and Athletics addresses all opportunities across their entire market.

Obviously a strong supporter of all Seminole sports, Davis is looking forward to the fall sports, especially football. Count him as one who is a strong believer that FSU has the right man for the job in Willie Taggart.

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B O B DAV I S

“I like Coach Taggart’s approach in making our football players the best people they can be. If they are successful in the classroom and as a person they are going to be successful on the football field. I think that is happening. He came in late, so he had to rush to put a coaching staff together. But I think he has made some great hires that are good for the staff.”

He enjoyed attending the College World Series and watching Coach Mike Martin Sr. close out his legendary career. “Coach Martin is such a gentleman. He goes out of his way to speak to everyone and to sign every autograph. I think he was having a good time. He couldn’t ask for a better way to end his career,” said Davis.

In July, Davis and his wife, Bonnie, were able to have dinner with Mike and Carol Martin one evening during the Booster’s Mediterranean Cruise. Additionally, Davis asked to be assigned to different tables each evening to meet as many Boosters as possible. Even when he was relaxing, Davis was working.

“It was just a great opportunity, in a relaxed atmosphere, to talk to different Boosters, show them our appreciation for all they have done for FSU,” Davis said. “And, again, to learn about their perspective of the Boosters and Athletics and we are doing right and how we can improve. It is so much easier to hear from an outside person than to pat ourselves on the back all the time.”

When it comes to Seminole sports, the Davises are all in. Bob says his wife was attached to Auburn when they got married.

That changed. “She is now a big FSU fan. I don’t think she has

any Auburn clothing in her closet anymore.”

He also points out that his whole family is comprised of Seminole supporters: “Both of my daughters are now Boosters.

I told them if I am going to be chairman you are going to have to spend some of your money.”

When his daughter Lindsey was in law school at Florida State, they purchased a condo for her to live in. Even though Lindsey has graduated, Bob and Bonnie are the ones practically living in Tallahassee. They travel from Orlando and spend at least one week each month in the Capital City. With Bob’s new assignment, time in Tally may increase.

An avid golfer Davis, for a variety of reasons, saw his time on the links dramatically decreased. “I had to give up golf for about six months. Then I went out and played a round and was only two strokes off.” Following that success, he is considering a new golfing strategy. He laughs and says, “I have decided that maybe I will take a year off from golf and see if I can break par. Should be twice as good as I was after six months off.”

Finding enjoyment in life and work is what Bob Davis does exceptionally well.

Obviously for such a time as this he is absolutely the best person for the dual role of Booster Chairman and FSUAA board member.

Davis optimistically sums up the situation: “I think the whole new association is going to be a huge win for Florida State University.”

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Jonathan Romero, Doug Russell, coach Willie Taggart, Debbie Russell, Tyler Russell and Will Rodriguez at the inaugural event.

TD Club raises money for student-athlete development

By PATRICK BURNHAM Fundraising has long been a responsibility for college head coaches regardless of sport.

For quite some time all sports at FSU, except for football, have had a “Coaches Club,” which runs through Seminoles Boosters, Inc., and allows for boosters and fans to contribute money that is restricted to their favorite sports program.

The money raised by these clubs funds special projects over and above the expenses covered by the program’s annual operating budget.

FSU football will now have a Coaches Club called the Touchdown Club with money raised primarily to fund student-athlete development and career planning initiatives for FSU’s football athletes. Those initiatives will include guest speakers, career exploration and job shadowing field trips, financial literacy and more.

The newly formed club kicked off fundraising in June with the inaugural Touchdown Club Golf Classic hosted

by Seminoles coach Willie Taggart and his staff at Golden Eagle Country Club in Tallahassee. The tournament was a collaborative effort between the football office and Seminole Boosters and led by volunteer tournament chairman Doug Russell with assistance from Woody Simmons.

“The Touchdown Club was Coach Taggart’s idea,” Russell said. “He approached the Boosters with an idea to have a

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golf tournament and we were so pleased to work together.

Coincidentally, this came as the Boosters, Athletics and the University were completing our alignment. The golf tournament was symbolic of how our alignment should work. In approximately 30 days, Boosters and Athletics, working together, launched the inaugural Touchdown Club format.”

The Touchdown Club Golf Classic was a success in year one and accomplished both of its goals.

“Coach Taggart’s mission was two-fold,” said Russell. “First, hold a tournament where fans and supporters can get up close to football, coaches, athletes and staff. Second, have an event that will help fund Coach Taggart’s Coaches Club. One hundred percent of the funds raised are restricted to football.

Coach believes in being available to our fans and supporters and he believes this Touchdown Club tournament will continue to grow and sell out.”

The first-year tournament was a huge success and sold out quickly.

“We sold the foursomes for $1,500 per team or $2,500 per team, if paired with a Seminole celebrity, and capped out with 22 teams,” Russell said.

Taggart is excited about the potential of the Touchdown Club and believes it will benefit the football program while establishing relationships with FSU supporters.

“There is so much passion for Florida State football,” Taggart

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said when asked about the Club and the event. “There are so many people who love and care about the program. I can’t tell you how many people I have been around who tell me about their love of FSU football and how much they care for it.”

Russell believes the tournament will help in developing relationships between the football program and its supporters and is also a great example of the team work between Boosters and Athletics.

“Coach Taggart wants to be accessible and available to our fans and supporters,” said Russell. “Again, this Touchdown Club tournament will be our best opportunity to get close and stay close to FSU football. The inaugural event was so much fun and a complete success. It will always be easier to reach our goals when all – Boosters, Athletics and the University – are simultaneously pulling in the same direction.”

In addition to raising money through the golf tournament, the Touchdown Club will launch a fundraising campaign with donor levels ranging from 2-Star members ($1,000) to 5-Star members ($25,000) and benefits including newsletters, team-issued apparel and invitations to special events including events like the golf tournament. A special category called the Starting Eleven ($50,000) includes a long list of benefits including a sponsored foursome in the tournament.

The Touchdown Club gives former athletes a way to give back to football, Taggart believes, and specifically to areas like student development and career planning, which they care deeply about.

The tournament format allowed former athletes and Boosters to spend time with each of the current coaches.

“We put a member of the coaching staff at every hole so the attendees could interact and meet every member of the coaching staff,” said Kristin Tubeck, who runs special events for Seminole Boosters. She and Kari Terezakis, who manages stewardship for the Boosters, worked with members of the football office, including Julie Reed, who is assistant director of football operations, Director of Player Development Trae Hackett and Assistant Athletic Director for Football Sharrod Everett.

While the Touchdown Club will host the tournament annually, they are looking for the ideal date to do it.

“We would like to incorporate as many former Seminoles as possible, many of whom are still in the NFL,” said Tubeck.

“So we are looking at schedules right now to try and come up with the best time for next year’s tournament.”

Coach Taggart is excited about the success of the tournament and the future for the Touchdown Club and the funding it will provide for the career development for his players.

“To put this tournament together in a short amount of time and to get the turnout we did, to me, says a lot about what this tournament can be and should be,” Taggart said. “And, again, with all the passion people have for Florida State football we expect it will get even better.”

For more information, or to join the Touchdown Club, please visit: FSUCoachesClubs.com or call 850.644.3484 or text TOUCHDOWN to 850.644.1830.

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Columnist

THREE MOMENTS THAT CHANGED SEMINOLE FORTUNES

Charlie Barnes is the retired Senior Vice President and Executive Director of Seminole Boosters; he is also President of the Seminole Greek Alumni Foundation.

They say it was breezy the night that quarterback Don Grant threw the first pass in Seminole football history. The wind kicked up a bit and the ball drifted into the hands of a Stetson defensive back. Grant’s second pass was complete to FSU fullback Ken MacLean.

MacLean had played for the Gators as a freshman before military service in World War II. Today, 75 years later, his 1944 touchdown run from scrimmage against Georgia remains the longest in the history of that Florida-Georgia series.

Grant was also a military veteran. FSU’s first quarterback went on to become a Founder of the FSU Varsity Club and a Charter Member of the first Golden Chiefs in 1975, serving for three decades on the Seminole Boosters Board of Directors.

MacLean, Grant and a number of other local boys enrolled in the new Florida State University and wanted to start a team to play football again. No, we weren’t officially the Seminoles quite yet on October 18, 1947, but it was the first football game in Florida State University history. Two more games would be

CHARLIE BARNES

Contact him at cbarnes161@comcast.net

played that fall before our students voted Seminoles to be our honored symbol.

Had you been there on that October evening, you might have noticed a group of older men standing together for a photo. They were alumni of the Florida State College, members of the State of Florida Championship football team of 1904. Their College was abruptly closed by the Legislature in 1905 and converted to the Florida Female Academy. College football was absent from Tallahassee for the next 42 years.

That first play on the night of October 18, 1947, was the singularity that marked a unique beginning in college football.

Only three National Championships have ever been won by any school that began playing football after World War II. All three of those National Championship trophies are on display in the Moore Center. FSU is the only one.

A second singularity that changed the course of Seminole fortunes in the public eye took place in the Arizona desert after the 1987 season. At that time there were only five “major” bowls. Anything other

A Danny McManus led offense dominated Nebraska on the game winning drive.

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CHARLIE BARNES

than Rose, Sugar, Orange, Fiesta or Cotton was considered a step down. Florida State had won coveted invitations to play in the Orange Bowl twice, 1979 and 1980, losing to Oklahoma both times. We had also played in the inaugural Fiesta Bowl in 1971, a game that remained the highest-scoring major bowl game with 83 total points until the 2012 Orange Bowl blowout of West Virginia’s 70 points over Clemson’s 33.

Being crowned champions of one of the five major bowls was an initiation ceremony reserved only for the elite of college football, and FSU had not yet earned that honor. That is, not until January 1, 1988.

The game started early, around 11 o’clock and the sun was not yet high. It was a scorcher. At first the Seminoles looked snake bit as Nebraska rolled to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. But quarterback Danny McManus hit Dayne Williams and Herb Gainer for three scores and FSU led going into halftime 21-14. By the end of the third quarter Nebraska took a tenuous lead again 28-24.

With minutes left, the Huskers led by 4 and moved methodically down to the Seminoles’ 2-yard line.

But Nebraska fumbled the ball, and linebacker Paul McGowan pounced.

Time was running out as McManus drove the field. With fourth-andgoal from the Nebraska 15, McManus threw a frozen rope to Ron Lewis for the winning touchdown.

That one day, that major bowl win over mighty Nebraska, the 11-1 record and No. 2 national finish set the stage for what was to come. That victory marked the beginning of The Dynasty, the unprecedented run of 14 years of top-4 finishes and two national championships, including in 1999 the only team ever to go wireto-wire ranked No. 1.

The final of our three signature moments occurred during the 1993 football season. The famed Seminoles vs. Irish showdown in South Bend 26 years ago was likely the catalyst that led to today’s structured College

Dave Roberts (83), Dayne Williams (49), Jason Kaipers (62), John Brown (50) and Mark Salva (63) celebrate.

Football Playoff.

NBC owned broadcast rights to all Notre Dame games and they were allin to market this No. 1 vs. No. 2 match as the first so-called “Game of the Century.” ESPN rode the glory train and covered every possible element of the contest in their 24-hour cycle.

This was to be the very first onlocation broadcast of “College GameDay.” The national hype and buildup were unprecedented. Heisman winner Charlie Ward led the Seminole offense. Lombardi winner Aaron Taylor led the Irish defense. Sports Illustrated devoted a dozen pages in an elaborate run-up feature complete with colorful cartoons of the key players and personalities, plus lists of whimsical reasons why each team would win or lose.

It was all great fun, and the game itself commanded the largest nationwide television audience in 12 years.

Post-game coverage was highlighted by Team Captain Matt Frier’s impassioned and very public

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plea to the media to not drop the Seminoles lower that No. 2. “The people want to see Florida State and Notre Dame play again!”

It appeared to the world as if No. 1 Notre Dame was headed to play for the national championship. But the following week, despite scoring five touchdowns against Boston College, the Irish fell to BC on a 41-yard field goal as time expired.

In South Bend there was much shrieking and rending of garments, the loudest and most persistent noise coming from coach Lou Holtz, who chased every microphone and camera claiming the deciding factor should be “head to head competition.”

Given that they had beaten Florida State in South Bend, Notre Dame demanded to be given the chance for a do-over against Florida State in the national championship. But that was to be expected of the Irish.

Any program having been awarded a Heisman Trophy for a 2-8 team (1956) surely must believe that they are due extraordinary dispensation simply based on their innate wonderfulness.

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CHARLIE BARNES

None of this lobbying sat well with three other teams, all undefeated at the time, who thought they should be in the national championship game – Nebraska, West Virginia and Auburn – each of whom had lost no games and were sporting flawless 11-0 records.

The fire beneath these simmering resentments never went out. It didn’t help matters that Nebraska – selected to play FSU for the national championship – entered the Orange Bowl as a 16½-point underdog. Yes, you read that correctly.

For their part, the Auburn Tigers declared themselves to be the 1993 National Champions. The NCAA had forbidden Auburn to play in a bowl game, but – in Auburn’s view – the NCAA did not name an official national champion in football anyway, so why not award the trophy to the only undefeated team left after all the bowl smoke cleared?

At the end of the 2018 season, Sportswriter Bill Connelly summed it up, “After 1993, it would only take a Bowl Coalition, a Bowl Alliance, a Bowl Championship Series, a BCS formula modified to the point of parody, an all-SEC national title game, and a couple decades of increasingly amplified complaints for college football to establish a system that only screws half of FBS instead of 90 percent.”

Well, perhaps the story isn’t finished to everyone’s satisfaction after all.

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Ronald Lewis (7), Reggie Johnson (80) and Pat Carter celebrate.

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2019 Schedule DATE Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9 Nov. 16 Nov. 30

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OPPONENT vs. Boise State at Jacksonville (ESPN) ULM (ACC Network) at Virginia (ACC Network) Louisville NC State at Clemson at Wake Forest Syracuse Miami at Boston College Alabama State at Florida

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TIME 7 p.m.

5 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD

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A LOOK AT THE SEMINOLES’ OFFENSE

By BOB FERRANTE

QUARTERBACK All signs point to redshirt sophomore James Blackman leading the Seminoles against Boise State in Jacksonville.

Blackman has the strongest arm of the group as well as the ability to push the ball downfield, a desire of coach Willie Taggart’s as well as offensive coordinator Kendal Briles.

Blackman completed 58 percent of his passes as a true freshman and improved to 64.7 percent in 2018. It was a small sample size as Blackman threw just 51 passes last year, but he was 29 of 46 (63 percent) with four touchdown passes and one interception in a road start against NC State in November.

He’s a natural leader, has respect of teammates and good chemistry with receivers.

Who will be the backup quarterback?

One option is graduate transfer Alex Hornibrook because of his experience (704 college passes) at Wisconsin as well as leadership.

If their appeals are cleared – at press time no decision had been announced – transfers Jordan Travis (Louisville) or Wyatt Rector (Western Michigan) could be in the mix.

Travis improved as the spring went on and connected with receivers on short and intermediate routes in the spring game, completing 22 of 28 passes for 241 yards (and distributing

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TAMORRION TERRY WAS A DYNAMIC DEEP THREAT, KEYSHAWN HELTON EMERGED AS A TOUGH, SLOT OPTION AND TRE’SHAUN HARRISON SHOWED HIS CAPABILITIES. THEN THERE IS THE MATURITY DISPLAYED BY D.J. MATTHEWS, WHO TAGGART HAS CALLED THE MOST IMPROVED PLAYER FROM THE SPRING.

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the ball well to seven receivers).

Rector is an unknown after seeing only a few reps at Western Michigan before transferring and enrolling at FSU in May.

RUNNING BACK Cam Akers was running like he did in 2017, with confidence and without nagging injuries. Khalan Laborn was running, cutting and doing more than anyone could have expected just seven months after knee surgery. Anthony Grant was running and looking like anything but a No. 3 tailback, showing that he is a viable option for playing time. Florida State is fortunate to have three talented options at tailback and they could benefit significantly from new coordinator Kendal Briles’ fast-paced offense.

What was missing from Akers last year, in Taggart’s view, was the patience to let rushing lanes open. (Akers also had foot/ankle

injuries that slowed him in 2018.)

There were times where there was nowhere to go, but others where Akers could have turned an opportunity into a big gain. If there is patience and confidence as Akers goes into his junior season, then the offense could again achieve run-pass balance and the Seminoles will put more points on the scoreboard.

It’s worth noting that Briles had 1,000-yard rushers in 201516 at Baylor and 2017 at Florida Atlantic.

Laborn wore a heavy knee brace during spring practices but otherwise showed no signs that he missed 11 games due to injury (he had one reception for 37 yards and three kick returns against Virginia Tech before being sidelined). He has excellent vision, make-you-miss ability and is dangerous as a rusher or receiver out of the backfield. He could be used as a slot receiver,

he could line up alongside a quarterback and catch short flare passes or take handoffs. The object of Briles’ offense is to get the ball into playmakers’ hands in space and Laborn is an ideal, versatile option.

WIDE RECEIVER/ TIGHT END Tamorrion Terry was a dynamic deep threat, Keyshawn Helton emerged as a tough, slot option and Tre’Shaun Harrison showed his capabilities. Then there is the maturity displayed by D.J. Matthews, who Taggart has called the most improved player from the spring. From Terry, Matthews and Keith Gavin to second-year options like Helton, Harrison, Warren Thompson, Jordan Young, Ontaria Wilson and D’Marcus Adams, this is as deep a group on the offensive side of the ball that FSU has going into 2019.

Terry is 6-foot-4 and 203

pounds and is every bit as gifted athletically as any receiver in the nation. It’s notable that while Clemson Justyn Ross averaged 21.7 yards per reception, tops in the ACC, Terry was second among receivers with 30 or more catches (21.3 yards per reception).

Helton is just 5-foot-9 and 165 pounds but is fearless and plays with a chip on his shoulder, darting over the middle and taking on tacklers head on. The 6-foot-2 Harrison was mostly used on end arounds and should see more passes come his way in the fall. Warren Thompson (6-3, 201 pounds) could also emerge after a redshirt year.

ALL SIGNS POINT TO REDSHIRT SOPHOMORE JAMES BLACKMAN LEADING THE SEMINOLES AGAINST BOISE STATE IN JACKSONVILLE.

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Tight end Tre’ McKitty offers a flexible skill set, a player who can line up off tackle, in the slot or in the backfield. McKitty (6-5, 245) is a tough matchup for linebackers or safeties because he runs like a receiver. Briles will also try to use McKitty’s size and physicality in the red zone.

OFFENSIVE LINE New offensive line coach Randy Clements has a group that lacks starting experience but has depth and has embraced the new schemes installed by offensive coordinator Kendal Briles.

The Seminoles played nine different offensive line combinations in 2018. And the odds are in FSU’s favor that the group won’t have as many injuries in 2019.

Clements developed some of the Big 12’s top linemen when he was at Baylor. The tempo utilized by his coaching friend, Briles, allows for linemen to hold their blocks for less time. It’s a builtin advantage of the scheme and one that should help what will be a younger, less experienced line in 2019.

Graduate transfer Ryan Roberts from Northern Illinois should solidify left tackle. Baveon Johnson appears to have the inside track at center as he was praised for his development by FSU coach Willie Taggart this spring.

Scott, Cole Minshew and early enrollee Dontae Lucas will be vying for starting jobs at the guard spots. But also don’t forget that Andrew Boselli is back as a walk-on. Right tackle may be up for grabs between Chaz Neal and incoming freshmen Ira Henry and Darius Washington.

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IF THERE IS PATIENCE AND CONFIDENCE AS CAM AKERS GOES INTO HIS JUNIOR SEASON, THEN THE OFFENSE COULD ACHIEVE RUN-PASS BALANCE AND THE SEMINOLES WILL PUT MORE POINTS ON THE SCOREBOARD.

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A LOOK AT THE SEMINOLES’ DEFENSE

By BOB FERRANTE

DEFENSIVE LINE Florida State is loaded with talent at defensive tackle, led by preseason All-American Marvin Wilson. The Seminoles should generate a good push up the middle with a deep rotation of interior linemen. But FSU will need to continue its development of defensive ends after losing first-round pick Brian Burns (who had 10 sacks in 2018) to the Carolina Panthers.

The spring was one where FSU experimented with 3-4 defensive fronts, and it’s likely fans will see multiple alignments this fall.

Defensive tackles coach Odell Haggins now also will coach the ends. Defensive ends could be stand-up rushers. So could linebackers. FSU will use its personnel in various ways to try and get after quarterbacks.

Joshua Kaindoh has the size, athleticism and motor that coaches look for in a defensive end. He’s shown at times the ability to get to the passer as well as the willingness to chase down running backs in the open field. Kaindoh has produced on a limited number of snaps, recording 19 tackles and three sacks in 2018, and now he could be in line for a starting job. Another junior, Janarius Robinson, has often shown the raw skills to be successful. He made eight starts last season and had 27 tackles as well as one sack.

Wilson made 42 tackles and

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ODELL HAGGINS WILL NOW COACH THE DEFENSIVE ENDS WHO COULD BE STAND-UP RUSHERS

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FLORIDA STATE IS LOADED WITH TALENT AT DEFENSIVE TACKLE, LED BY PRESEASON ALL-AMERICAN MARVIN WILSON. THE SEMINOLES SHOULD GENERATE A GOOD PUSH UP THE MIDDLE WITH A DEEP ROTATION OF INTERIOR LINEMEN.

had 3.5 sacks last season, showing the ability to stuff the run but also the physicality to break free from blockers to pursue the quarterback. His numbers may be limited because he will see constant double-teams, but Wilson will continue to fight each snap and look for opportunities to make plays. Cory Durden, who came on late in 2018 and had 22 tackles and two sacks, likely has the inside track for more playing time. Robert Cooper, who has shed a few pounds and was down to 369 this spring, is a massive presence. Ja’len Parks, who missed the season due to injury, has a chance to make up for lost time.

Quality depth is a good thing and FSU has it on the interior.

LINEBACKER Putting a player in position to make plays, especially if it is where he is naturally suited, can be very good. That was the mindset this offseason for Florida State as leading tackler Hamsah Nasirildeen will move up from safety to linebacker. It’s not all that often that a leading tackler makes a position change, but this is one that should make the player and the linebacking corps better.

It can’t be understated that Dontavious Jackson’s decision to return for his senior season adds stability to the linebacker unit, allowing him to communicate alignment and play calls and direct the middle of the

defense. Jackson recorded 75 tackles and added a sack and an interception last season. Jackson was consistently good against the run (an 88 score by Pro Football Focus). Good defenses need leaders at all three levels, and Jackson provides that as well as production.

True freshman Jaleel McRae soaks up the game like a sponge, with players raving this spring about the early enrollee and his desire to listen and then take those lessons out on the field. He has “great football awareness,” coach Willie Taggart said. Regardless of whether McRae slides into a starting spot, he made a case for why he should earn playing time this fall.

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DEFENSIVE BACKS FSU coaches have tried Stanford Samuels III at corner and safety, and he’s likely back to corner for his junior season.

Levonta Taylor has played corner, and did it at a high level before an injury-plagued 2018, but could be a nickel or safety this fall. Jaiden Lars-Woodbey is also back at safety following a freshman season at linebacker.

Samuels, at 6-foot-2 and 185 pounds, matches up well with larger receivers and is an ideal corner for defensive coordinator Harlon Barnett, who likes to play press man. Samuel is shorter at 5-10 but holds up well when battling taller receivers. Taylor has great instincts and should

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match up well on a slot receiver or converge in open space on tailbacks. Lars-Woodbey excelled in high school at safety. Similar to the Nasirildeen move mentioned above, these three adjustments should strengthen the defensive backfield.

FSU landed four heralded defensive backs in the class of 2019: Akeem Dent, Travis Jay, Brendan Gant and Raymond Woodie III. If the position weren’t so deep already, it would be easy to think any of the true freshmen could jump in and play. Coaches and veterans were impressed by Dent from the first few spring practices as the early enrollee showcased his instincts and skill set.

It’s tough to picture any of the four taking a redshirt. But with coaches being able to play someone up to four games without losing a year of eligibility, there is a path to playing time to see how they perform as well as the ability to take on specialteams roles.

SPECIAL TEAMS Assistant coach Mark Snyder takes over as special teams coordinator.

Punter Logan Tyler showed good hang time and better consistency as he averaged 43.2 yards per punt.

Ricky Aguayo made 11 of 17 field-goal attempts in 2018 and will receive a challenge from freshman Ryan Fitzgerald. D.J. Matthews was seventh in the FBS in punt returns (13.5 yards) but FSU needs to improve its kick returns (20.2 yards), an area where Khalan Laborn could help after missing all but the 2018 opener after having knee surgery.

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STANFORD SAMUELS III, AT 6-FOOT-2 AND 185 POUNDS, MATCHES UP WELL WITH LARGER RECEIVERS AND IS AN IDEAL CORNER FOR DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR HARLON BARNETT, WHO LIKES TO PLAY PRESS MAN.

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On Monday evenings, Seminole fans have the chance to hear from FSU head coach Willie Taggart and “The Voice of the Seminoles,” Gene Deckerhoff, during the Willie Taggart Talk Show live from the Four Points in downtown Tallahassee. Coach Taggart’s radio show is an hour-long broadcast beginning at 7 p.m. The show features coach Taggart and Deckerhoff reviewing the previous week’s game and looking forward to the next opponent while working to provide insights to the program and interacting with fans.

EDGEWATER BEACH & GOLF RESORT Expansive views of the most beautiful beaches in the world packaged with the most beautiful stadium in college football. Edgewater offers a choice of Golf Villas and Beachfront condos, activities and amenities with golf course and beach views. Includes charter service to Doak Campbell Stadium and the choice of stadium or Dunlap Champions Club seats, which feature air-conditioned clubs, food and beverage with beer, wine and mixed drinks available for purchase.

1-BEDROOM GOLF VILLA & 2 STADIUM SEATS $499 One-bedroom Golf Villa, two stadium seats (add $80 Miami).

2-BEDROOM BEACHFRONT & 4 STADIUM SEATS $789 Two-bedroom Golf Villa, four stadium seats (add $160 Miami).

1-BEDROOM GOLF VILLA & 2 DUNLAP CHAMPIONS CLUB SEATS $729 One-bedroom Golf Villa, two club seats (add $110 Miami).

2-BEDROOM BEACHFRONT & 4 DUNLAP CHAMPIONS CLUB SEATS $1,249 Two-bedroom beachfront, four club seats (add $220 Miami).

REASONS TO BE EXCITED ABOUT ATTENDING HOME GAMES THIS SEASON

By JERRY KUTZ, special to Unconquered

Add tax and parking fee.

Reservations (877) 807-4830

If you want to be tempted to plan a Seminole Getaway Weekend this fall – maybe with a beach day, round of golf or a redfish involved – you’re in the right place.

Many of our readers travel a long way to see their Seminoles play (and party with friends) and we know the cost of travel is a factor.

In this issue, we share theosceola.com findings on the price of travel, some of which may surprise you. Throughout the fall, theOsceola.com will report on lodging-ticket packages and fun events – both indoor and outdoor – to help readers find experiences to make their visits to games more memorable and affordable. We hope to turn Seminole games into destination weekends.

Let’s not kid ourselves, a good-looking team is the main draw and in this issue of Unconquered, you’ll find a number of articles explaining why football is going to be better looking. But on these pages, we’re going to focus on our travel findings to tickle your sense of adventure.

FLYING INTO A HOME GAME

Would you believe a direct flight from Fort Lauderdale to Jacksonville is $60 round trip? Crazy! How about Baltimore under $90? Roundtrip!

Jacksonville has attractive prices on round-trip flights from major Seminole markets, especially the Northeast and South Florida. So before you write off a getaway to Doak, check out the price into JAX. And don’t sleep on flights to Tallahassee especially if you

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ST. JAMES BAY GOLF RESORT Nestled in the North Florida pines and along the Gulf Coast waters that shape the Panhandle’s famous Big Bend, St. James Bay Golf Club offers premier lodging in the heart of the Forgotten Coast, where the fishing is prime year-round and the championship golf course is the area’s only Audubon Signature Sanctuary.

Condominiums have vaulted ceilings, kitchen, laundry, and a view of the course. Crooked River Grill, which is on site, features the best in Southern and Coastal-inspired comfort food with a full-service bar.

3-BEDROOM CONDOMINIUM (MAX OF 8) $199 2-BEDROOM CONDOMINIUM (MAX OF 6) $149

are travelling from the Mid or Far west. While the Capital City can’t touch JAX prices from SoFla or the Northeast, you may prefer to fly directly to TLH when the difference is less than $100 per person.

Lodging includes: A welcome cocktail, 10 percent off breakfast, lunch and access to gym, pools, tennis courts and driving range.

Optional: Round of golf with cart ($40) and game tickets (vary by game). Ask about arranging transportation to the games, fishing charters and water activities.

MANY LODGING OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE

There are good, better and best options depending on your budget, time and interest. We’ll start with the destination packages Seminole Boosters and the Osceola has organized for you on Panama City Beach and at St. James Bay Resort (see offers in this spread). We also cover Tallahassee lodging options and fly-stay packages in Jacksonville.

Our goal is to offer affordable options to give you a reason to come home to Doak this fall.

Reservations (850) 697-9606 jessica@stjamesbay.com

OSCEOLA EXPERIENCE AT ST. JAMES BAY OR EDGEWATER BEACH & GOLF RESORTS

If you want to experience the beauty of the area, while enjoying a home football game, check out St. James Bay Resort, which is just an hour south of Doak on the Gulf of Mexico or Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort in beautiful Panama City Beach.

A two-bedroom condo at St. James Bay is $149 a night.

If two couples travel together, the cost per couple drops to $75 each and there’s room for the kids on the couch and a kitchen to minimize the cost of a meal or two. If you rent a three-bedroom and split it three ways, the cost drops even more. Do the math when four friends come to play golf or fish and the cost per person per night drops to $37.505 per person per night.

Packages at Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort in Panama City Beach are similar when you consider you are getting a ticket to the game and transportation.

When considering Panama City Beach (ECP) you should know airfares are better if you fly in on a Thursday or Monday. Flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Nashville, for example, drop to $178 and allow you to enjoy extra round of golf or day at the beach.

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THE JAX PACK

Package a great flight into JAX with a hotel and a rental car. Your search engine offers vacation packages at the Marriott Sawgrass or on Amelia Island, great choices for the Boise State game or a three-day destination weekend. But if your focus is only Seminole football, select a convenient airport hotel or another affordable option on the way to Tallahassee.

For example, your search engine will show Marriott’s Aloft for $113. If you select it with two $90 airfares, your core travel costs including a rental car ($50) and a tank of gas are less than $500 for two. Add food and beverage and a pair of game tickets (see ticket story page 30-31) and you have an affordable football getaway.

ROUNDTRIP AIR JAX

TLH

Baltimore ............................................. $88 ...............................$336 Boston ................................................$137 ...............................$254 Chicago .............................................. $166 ...............................$257 Denver ............................................... $169 ...............................$238 Fort Lauderdale/Miami ....................$60-80 ........................ $179-210 Houston ............................................. $204 ...............................$238 Kansas City ........................................ $255 ...............................$255 Key West ............................................ $178 ............................... $179 Los Angeles .........................................$285 ...............................$289 Louisville .............................................$235 ............................... $235 Memphis .............................................$235 ............................... $178

WANT TO STAY IN THE TALLAHASSEE AREA?

Nashville ............................................ $178 ...............................$178

Many want get to Tallahassee in time to enjoy the lighting of the spear and to revel at the Friday Night Block Party.

Local hotel prices vary by game. Every room is $299 a night or less for the home opener with many rooms available for $149 or less. Prices rise above $300 a night for high demand games but you can still find properties at $149 or less per night.

Some hotels are not requiring a two-night stay, especially those further from Doak, so try booking one night on your search engine.

Put your creative hat on – the garnet one with the gold FS – and visit Airbnb or VRBO where you will find hundreds of properties with something for everyone.

If you or the spouse demand privacy, you’ll find nice Midtown condos for $150 a night and homes for $200 to $250.

But you don’t have to stop there. Add more fun to your football weekend by packaging in a natural resource at the beach, on the flats or a river, and by enjoying the campus traditions on game day (see Osceola experience box below).

Where there’s a will there’s a way. We want to help you find your way back home to have fun and to give your team a home field advantage.

New Orleans ........................................$176 ............................... $179 New York .............................................$157 ...............................$279 Orlando ...............................................$185 ..................................NA Pittsburgh............................................$250 ............................... $235 Philadelphia.........................................$113 ...............................$255 Raleigh/Durham ................................. $138 ...............................$178 Richmond ............................................ $153 ............................... $238 Salt Lake City ...................................... $401 ............................... $275 San Francisco ................................ $315-425 ............................... $314 Seattle ..........................................$297-390 ........................ $290-330 St. Louis ..............................................$235 ............................... $237 Tampa ..........................................$219-244 ..................................NA Washington, DC ................................. $108 ...............................$310 West Palm Beach ................................ $230 ...............................$290 Note: Prices as of 7/26/2019. Prices vary by weekend with savings on Thursday or Monday. Use your search engine to find a schedule to suit you and your budget. Flying Thursday or Monday also provides time to turn a football weekend into a destination experiences with a beach day, on the St. Marks Wildlife Refuge, testing the new Seminole

See you at Doak!

golf course or enjoying other leisure pursuits.

OSCEOLA EXPERIENCE OUTDOORS Bend a rod with Captain Mike McNamara during redfish season on the pristine St. Marks saltwater flats. Ask about kayak and paddleboard trips on clear rivers or an eco or photo tour. Trek North Florida’s Piney Forests. Contact Mike at redfish@stmarksoutfitters.com.

OSCEOLA EXPERIENCE TRADITION Friday dusk: Lighting of the Spear on Langford Green across from University Center Club in South Endzone of Doak.

5-10 pm: Dinner, drinks and music on the Terrace of Doak Campbell Stadium overlooking Bobby Bowden Field. For UCC membership info call 850.644.8528.

5-10 pm: Friday Night Block Party on Madison in CollegeTown (see page 50).

5-10 pm: Dinner, drinks at Seminole Boosters’ upscale club “51 on

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Madison” in CollegeTown. Exclusively for Seminole Booster members.

Reservations required. Call 850.241.7152.

Gameday: All festivities on east side of Doak near Dick Howser Stadium 2.5 hours prior to kick: Cheer the players as they walk from the busses to the lockerroom.

2 hours prior: Check out the Marching Chiefs “skull session” in Dick Howser Stadium.

1.5 hours prior: The Sod Talks at the Sod Cemetery, right outside Howser. Meet former players and listen to their tales of games past.

Get a selfie and an autograph to treasure.

1 hour prior: See Osceola’s Ceremonial garb and makeup applied (inside stadium under NE endzone).

15 minutes prior: Be in your seats to see the greatest tradition in college sports as Renegade rears and Osceola plants the flaming spear.

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AROUND THE ACC IN 2019 Looking Ahead

A large number of Florida State athletes have been named to preseason watch lists. Among those are Cam Akers (Maxwell Award, Walker Award), Tamorrion Terry (Biletnikoff Award), Tre’ McKitty (Mackey Award) and Marvin Wilson (Bednarik Award). Linebacker DeCalon Brooks is a candidate for the “Good Works” team for his community service.

Nine ACC teams — Boston College, Clemson, Florida State, Louisville, Miami, Pitt, Virginia, Virginia Tech and Wake Forest – have returning quarterbacks in 2019 who started at least six games.

Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence headlines the group with a league-best 30 TD passes while going 11-0 as a starter last season. Virginia’s Bryce Perkins is the league’s top returning athlete in total offense, having accounted for 3,602 yards in 2018, including 2,680 passing yards and 923 rushing yards (most of any returning QB).

Nine athletes who have rushed for more than 1,000 yards in their careers are slated to return in 2019. Boston College’s AJ Dillon leads the way with 2,697 career rushing yards, including 1,108 last season.

ACC Player of the Year Travis Etienne has 2,424 yards through two seasons, including a league-high 1,658 rushing yards last year.

The ACC Network debuts on Aug. 22 and will feature games, studio shows and documentaries. Former FSU quarterback EJ Manuel as well as longtime coach Mark Richt, who began his career as an FSU graduate assistant in 1985, will be studio analysts.

Among the documentaries that will air include the “Bowden Dynasty,” the 2017 movie that was produced by FSU graduate John Corry. To see if your provider carries the ACC Network, go to www.getACCN.com.

ACC GAMES TO WATCH IN 2019 WEEK ZERO Aug. 24.....................................Miami vs. Florida, 7 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 1 Aug. 29 .................. Ga. Tech at Clemson, 8 p.m. (ACC Network) Aug. 31 .......North Carolina vs. South Carolina, 3:30 p.m. (ESPN) FSU vs. Boise State, 7 p.m. (ESPN) WEEK 2 Sept. 7 ................................ ULM at FSU, 5 p.m. (ACC Network) WEEK 3 Sept. 14 ...................................... Pitt at Penn State, noon (ABC) FSU at Virginia, 7:30 p.m. (ACC Network) WEEK 4 Sept. 21 ........................................................... Louisville at FSU UCF at Pitt WEEK 5 Sept. 28 ....................... Virginia at Notre Dame, 3:30 p.m. (NBC) NC State at FSU WEEK 6 Oct. 5 ......................................................Virginia Tech at Miami WEEK 7 Oct. 11 ..................................... Virginia at Miami, 8 p.m. (ESPN) Oct. 12..............................................................FSU at Clemson WEEK 8 Oct. 19 ........................................................FSU at Wake Forest

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING “I want us to be an aggressive football team offensively, defensively and special teams,” said Taggart. “See a football team that’s fast in every aspect and explosive on both sides of the ball. You do that by knowing what you are doing. You do it by executing. I thought our players have done a great job this off-season working amongst themselves to make sure they go out and execute at a high level. Our identity is to be aggressive, to be explosive, and have fun and win.” — FSU coach Willie Taggart “What do you have to do to beat Clemson? Play your A game, take care of the football, be able to run the football, find a way to disrupt them on offense.

Those are easier things said than done. Very hard to do against them.” —

WEEK 9 Oct. 26 ........................................... Boston College at Clemson Syracuse at FSU WEEK 10 Nov. 2 .........................Va. Tech at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m. (NBC) Miami at FSU WEEK 11 Nov. 9 ..................................................... FSU at Boston College WEEK 12 Nov. 16 .................................................... Alabama State at FSU

Boston College coach Steve Addazio “I’ve always been the biggest critic of myself. I’m definitely self-motivated to do better more so for personal reasons rather than having a lot of attention on me. I definitely want to be the best version of me I can. Last year gave me something to work on and gave me a platform to strive for this year, kind of overachieve on that. I’m just making sure that I’m all I can be for this team. I think what separates a good quarterback from great quarterback is the ability to win a championship. Having that as a motivation, just keep going.” — Virginia quarterback Bryce Perkins

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WEEK 13 Nov. 23 ............ Boston College at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m. (NBC) Nov. 29 .........................................................Va. Tech at Virginia WEEK 14 Nov. 30 ............................................ Clemson at South Carolina FSU at Florida Georgia at Ga. Tech North Carolina at NC State CHAMPIONSHIP WEEK Dec. 7 .....................................ACC title game at Charlotte, N.C.

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FOOTBALL

“He’s a great coach. He always been like a dad to me. Ever since he came here, he believed in me. Ever since he came to Florida State, he just believed in me.

He always told me to stay focused, work on your craft, whatever you have going on on and off the field. Just be yourself. That’s what I am right now.” — FSU wide receiver Tamorrion Terry (on Taggart)

“That game is like a holiday to me. And hopefully it won’t be very long until it becomes a game like what I suspect it should that the winner has the inside track not just to winning the ACC but to winning the national “I think we got a lot of outstanding coaches. The ACC, this is 12 years

championship. That’s how I remember it. If you look back to who won

for me, is at a height that it is by far the best football conference it’s

the national championship in those given years, it usually came down

been. It’s as good as any football conference in the country. … I think

to who won that game. There’s been a mutual respect between the two

every team in our division believes it can win a championship right

programs. It’s a heated rivalry, for sure, but I think both schools have

now. The proof is in the pudding, which is what I like. You’re going

always respected each other because we always play before we got in

to win it on the field. There are not going to be any gifts in any game

the ACC together. … You look at the game the last three years, it doesn’t

you play in the ACC any more. That’s when you know you’ve arrived

seem like it matters what everybody’s record is and what they got

as a conference. We want to make all of your guys’ jobs really tough

going on when they come in, the games weirdly all turn into one-point

in picking a champion. That’s our goal as coaches. So we’ll see. Don’t

games. It’s just bizarre how that happens.” — Miami first-year coach

change your pick halfway through now.” — Duke coach David Cutcliffe

Manny Diaz (who was an FSU grad assistant in the late 1990s)

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COLLEGETOWN

UPCOMING EVENTS Aug. 24-25 Madison Social Six-Year Anniversary Celebration Aug. 31-Sept. 2 Labor Day Weekend Sale at Gypsea Boutique Sept. 6 Tally and Fin Grand Opening Sept. 13 Dueling Pianos at Township Sept. 16 BB Studios One-Year Anniversary Celebration Sept. 30 Centrale Three-Year Anniversary Celebration Oct. 4 National Taco Day at Tin Lizzy’s Oct. 5 Tallahassee Oktoberfest at Township Oct. 17 Leon County Sheriff’s Office Annual Patrol Stroll: All In for a Cure Oct. 31 Halloween on Madison (see details below) Dec. 1 Township Three-Year Anniversary Celebration Dec. 7 Dueling Pianos at Township Dec 14 Alumni Holiday Night Dec. 31 New Years Eve on Madison

HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT ON MADISON! If you have not yet considered hosting an event on Madison, let us show you why you should. Contact the Director of Events & Marketing, Erin Owens, to book now! erin@fsucollegetown.net

VENUE SPOTLIGHTS 51 ON MADISON 51 on Madison is a private club for Seminole Booster Members and a unique culinary experience that pushes the boundaries yet always remains true to its deep Tallahassee roots. Nestled in the heart of CollegeTown, it’s a vibrant collision of unparalleled game weekend activation, year-round community fellowship networking, best-in-class meeting space and compelling food and beverage offerings.

HALLOWEEN ON MADISON Who says Halloween is just for the kiddos? Join us Oct. 31 for some spooktacular fun in Tallahassee’s premier entertainment district! From adult trick-or-treating to hauntingly delicious boozy treats, Talloween has never been this big on Madison.

THE GATHERING Situated between downtown and just steps from Doak Campbell Stadium, The Gathering combines a sophisticated industrial setting with true southern hospitality. It’s a full-service venue equipped with tables, chairs, linens integrated audio-visual, WiFi and more.

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WOMEN’S SOCCER COACH: Mark Krikorian (258-60-30 since arriving at FSU in 2005).

TOP RETURNERS (2018 STATS): Sr. Deyna Castellanos: 10 Goals, 8 Assists, 28 Points; So. Yujie Zhao: 7 Goals, 5 Assists, 19 Points; R-Jr. Kristen McFarland: 6 Goals, 1 Assist, 13 Points; R-So. Brooke Bollinger: 9 Goals Allowed, 0.45 Goals Against Average, 38 Saves, 10 shutouts, 13-4-2 record; R-Sr. Caroline Jeffers: 5 Goals Allowed, .52 Goals Against Average, 12 Saves, five shutouts, 7-0-1 record.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Abby Newton is a transfer from LSU, where she started 24 games and scored four goals and recorded three assists. She is the 2017-18 Gatorade Girls Player of the Year from Florida. Heather Payne is a member of Ireland’s National Team. She was a FAI U17 International Player of the year nominee (2018) and the FAI U16 International Player of the year (2015). Jenna Nighswonger is a member of the U14, U16, U17, U18, U19, U20 and U23 U.S. National Team. Paige LeBerge had 72 career goals in high school, Manchester Central record.

2019 Schedule

DATE OPPONENT Aug. 22 TCU Aug. 25 Wisconsin Aug. 29 at UCLA Sept. 1 at Southern California Sept. 6 Florida Sept. 8 Samford Sept. 12 Colorado Sept. 15 at Villanova Sept. 20 Boston College* Sept. 26 at Clemson* Sept. 29 at Syracuse* Oct. 5 Pitt* Oct. 10 at Virginia Tech* Oct. 13 Virginia* Oct. 18 Miami* Oct. 24 at North Carolina* Oct. 27 at Wake Forest* Oct. 31 Duke* *ACC opponent

TIME 7 p.m.

5 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

4 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

5 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

8 p.m.

TOP HOME MATCHES: Florida (September 6), Virginia (October 13), Duke (October 31). The Seminoles were 11-23 at home in 2018.

GAMES ON TV: FSU will also host Wisconsin on Aug. 25 at 5 p.m. in a game that will air on the new ACC Network. It is the first of seven games slated to air on the league’s new channel.

NOTEWORTHY: Junior Gabby Carle was a part of the Canadian National Team in the 2019 Women’s World Cup. … The Seminoles have won six ACC titles and played in four College Cups, the final four of NCAA women’s soccer, under Krikorian. … As the Seminoles look to repeat as national champion, it’s worth noting that they used 14 different starting lineups through the 27 matches of 2018 due to a combination of injuries, international call ups and illnesses. It’s that kind of depth that brings optimism for 2019.

Deyna Castellanos

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FA L L S P O R T S

WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY 2019 Schedule

COACH: Kelly Phillips (fifth season) TOP RETURNERS: Elizabeth Funderburk, Soph.; Maudie Skyring, Jr.; Jodie Judd, Jr.; Addi Coggins, RS Soph.; Kayla Easterly, RS Soph.; Jennifer Lima, Jr.; Megan Mooney, Sr.; Ellie Wallace, RS Soph.

DATE Aug. 30 Sept. 14 Sept. 20 Oct. 4

TOP NEWCOMERS: Ava Peeples, Fr.; Rebecca Clark, Fr.; Yasmine Abbes, Fr.; Lauren Ryan, Jr. (Villanova transfer) SEASON OPENER: Covered Bridge Open on Aug. 30 at Boone, N.C. HOME MEETS: FSU Invitational (Oct. 11), NCAA South Region Championships (Nov. 15) NEED TO ‘NOLE: The Seminoles return five of seven runners from team that qualified for the NCAA Championships for the first time since 2014 … FSU won its first South Region team title since 2013 … Though they must replace All-American Militsa Mircheva the ‘Noles return All-ACC freshman Funderburk and fellow All-Region performers

Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 19 Nov. 1 Nov. 15 Nov. 23

OPPONENT LOCATION Covered Bridge Open Boone, N.C. Mountain Dew Invitational Gainesville, Fla. Va. Tech Alumni Invitational Blacksburg, Va. Joe Piane Notre Dame Invitational Notre Dame, Ind. FSU Invitational Tallahassee, Fla. UAB Blazer Invitational Birmingham, Ala. NCAA Pre-Nationals Terre Haute, Ind. ACC Championships Blacksburg, Va. NCAA South Region Championships Tallahassee, Fla. NCAA Championships Terre Haute, Ind.

Skyring, Mooney and Judd … Phillips’ fifth team may be the deepest in program history, thanks to the addition of prep stars Peeples, Clark and Abbes and the arrival of transfer Ryan, who earned All-Region XC honors and has national championship meet experience.

Maudie Skyring, Elizabeth Funderburk, Ellie Wallace, Militsa Mircheva, Jodie Judd, Althea Hewitt, Jennifer Lima 54

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MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY 2019 Schedule

COACH: Bob Braman (16th season) TOP RETURNERS: Caleb Pottorff, RS Soph.; Steven Cross, Sr.; Paul Stafford, Soph.; Tyson Murray, RS Sr.; Matthew Newland, Soph.

DATE Aug. 30 Sept. 20 Oct. 4

TOP NEWCOMERS: Jacob Holmes, RS Fr.; Silas Griffith, Jr. (Lipscomb transfer); Kasey Knevelbaard, Sr. (Southern Utah transfer) SEASON OPENER: Covered Bridge Open on Aug. 30 at Boone, N.C. HOME MEETS: FSU Invitational (Oct. 11), NCAA South Region Championships (Nov. 15) NEED TO ‘NOLE: The Seminoles return 5 of 7 runners from a team that qualified for the NCAA Championships for the first time since 2015 … FSU has reached the NCAA Championship meet 13 times in 19 seasons under Braman … Pottorff returns off an All-ACC freshman season and is

Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 19 Nov. 1 Nov. 15 Nov. 23

OPPONENT Covered Bridge Open Va. Tech Alumni Invitational Joe Piane Notre Dame Invitational FSU Invitational UAB Blazer Invitational NCAA Pre-Nationals ACC Championships NCAA South Region Championships NCAA Championships

LOCATION Boone, N.C. Blacksburg, Va. Notre Dame, Ind. Tallahassee, Fla. Birmingham, Ala. Terre Haute, Ind. Blacksburg, Va. Tallahassee, Fla. Terre Haute, Ind.

joined by 2018 All-Region performers Cross and Stafford … Holmes, a standout from New Zealand, missed last season due to injury … Knevelbaard is a two-time AllAmerican on the track (mile, 1500) and a 2-time NCAA XC Championships competitor…Griffith is a two-time AllASUN XC performer.

Matthew Newland, Caleb Pottorff, Paul Stafford, Toby Hardwick, Istvan Szogi, Steven Cross, Tyson Murray

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FA L L S P O R T S

VOLLEYBALL COACH: Chris Poole (824-310 overall record, 274-79 in 11 seasons at FSU).

TWO TOP RETURNERS: Taryn Knuth and Payton Caffrey were named to the All-ACC First Team and AVCA Honorable Mention All-Americans in 2018. Caffrey led the team with 476 kills and added 181 digs, 62 blocks and 25 aces. Knuth finished third in the NCAA with 188 blocks and 1.72 blocks per set. She also added 264 kills offensively and had 28 digs.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Haley Frank, Marissa Stockman and Jasmyn Martin. Frank, a libero from Oviedo, Fla., graduated from high school a year early in order to play at FSU for the 2019 season and her club team has been ranked No. 1 in the country in each of the last three seasons. Stockman is a sophomore transfer from Illinois State that was named to the MVC All-Freshman Team in 2018 as a middle blocker.

She led the conference in hitting percentage (.355) as a freshman and started all 33 matches for the Redbirds.

Martin is an outside hitter that has transferred to FSU after two years at Minnesota. She played in 137 sets and had 226 kills during her time at Minnesota.

KEY MATCHES: FSU plays Wisconsin (Aug 30) and Minnesota (Aug 31) in Chapel Hill, N.C. as part of the ACC/ Big Ten Challenge. Minnesota finished 2018 as the No. 7 team in the country and Wisconsin was No. 8. The annual match against Florida will be in Gainesville on Sept. 17.

The ‘Noles will play 2018 ACC champion Pittsburgh twice – Oct. 6 at home and Nov. 22 on the road. FSU will also play host to Miami on Oct. 30.

2019 Schedule

DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 vs. Wisconsin Aug. 31 vs. Minnesota Sep. 6 vs. Florida Atlantic Sept. 7 vs. Colorado State Sept. 8 at TCU Sept. 13 Stony Brook Sept. 14 St. John’s Sept. 14 Florida A&M Sept. 17 at Florida Sept. 20 Alabama Sept. 27 at Duke* Sept. 29 at Wake Forest* Oct. 4 Virginia* Oct. 6 Pitt* Oct. 11 at NC State* Oct. 13 at North Carolina* Oct. 18 Boston College* Oct. 20 Syracuse* Oct. 25 at Georgia Tech* Oct. 27 at Clemson* Oct. 30 Miami* Nov. 1 at Virginia Tech* Nov. 8 Notre Dame* Nov. 10 Louisville* Nov. 17 North Carolina* Nov. 22 at Pitt* Nov. 24 Duke* Nov. 27 at Miami* *ACC opponent

NOTEWORTHY: One of the big things about this season is how many new faces there will be. Of the current 16-member roster, seven are new to the program, and two others didn’t play last year. There is also a possibility of some NCAA waivers allowing one or two others to join the roster for 2019.

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TIME 3:30 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

5 p.m.

2 p.m.

2 p.m.

6 p.m.

Noon 6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

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Noon TBA Noon 6:30 p.m.

Noon 7 p.m.

1 p.m.

TBA 6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

TBA 1 p.m.

3 p.m..

TOASTING

TALLAHASSEE ALL NOLES

IT’S ALL IN TALLAHASSEE You can almost taste fall here in Tallahassee. And whether you have an appetite for food or adventure, we’re serving it up. New restaurants, re-imagined breweries, magnifi cent museums, outdoor concerts and over 700 miles of natural trails to explore make for the perfect getaway.

No wonder we’ve just been named one of the top ten cities in the South. Come see for yourself.

VisitTallahassee.com

2019-20 SEMINOLES WOMEN’S BASKETBALL SCHEDULE The Florida State women’s basketball team will play a challenging home schedule that includes a December matchup against preseason No. 13 Michigan State.

FSU opens the season on Nov. 13 at home against Charleston Southern. The Seminoles will also play host to nine ACC opponents in Notre Dame, North Carolina, Miami, Clemson, Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, Virginia and Boston College.

“I’m thrilled that our fans can enjoy an extra ACC home game as part of the league’s new 18-game schedule,” FSU coach Sue Semrau said. “Our fans will be able to watch an extra game from what is the best basketball conference in the country.

Between what we have in store in non-conference and ACC action, the 2019-20 season is shaping up to be an entertaining one.”

All-America forward Kiah Gillespie headlines a group of three returning seniors that also include guards Nicki Ekhomu and Nausia Woolfolk.

Gillespie became FSU’s 19th All-American a season ago when she averaged 16.2 points, 9.3 rebounds and nailed 53 3-pointers. She became the first Seminole to lead her team in points, rebounds and 3-point field goals.

The rest of the ACC schedule, including road opponents and game times, will be announced later in the summer.

Season tickets for the 2019-20 season are on sale now on Seminoles.com. Fans can also purchase season tickets by calling 1-888-FSU-NOLE. Nov. 5 Nov. 9 Nov. 13 Nov. 17 Nov. 23 Nov. 26 Nov. 30 Dec. 5 Dec. 15 Dec. 18 Dec. 22

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Charleston Southern at LSU Jacksonville Samford at Illinois-Chicago at Florida at Texas A&M Michigan State St. John’s North Florida Michigan at Uncasville, Conn.

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2019-20 SEMINOLES MEN’S BASKETBALL SCHEDULE Marquee games at Florida, against Tennessee in the Emerald Coast Classic, at Indiana in the ACC/ Big Ten Challenge and six games at home in the Donald L. Tucker Center highlight the Florida State Men’s Basketball non-conference schedule.

The Seminoles will play 11 out-of-conference games in addition to its first 20-game ACC schedule – including their season opener at Pittsburgh on Nov. 6. Florida State’s game against Pitt marks the first time in school history the Seminoles will play a conference game to begin their overall season.

Following the opener at Pitt, the Seminoles will play their annual in-state rivalry game at Florida on Nov. 10 as they look for their school-record sixth consecutive victory against the Gators. FSU has won five consecutive games against Florida including victories in both of its last two trips to Gainesville (73-71 on December 30, 2015 and 83-66 on December 4, 2017).

“We are going to face a number of challenging games early this season,” said FSU coach Leonard Hamilton. “But this team and these players will be ready to face the competition on the nonconference schedule. With the competition we will face early on – including playing an ACC game to open the season — our preparation from day one will be more important than ever. We are going to be a good team and will be challenged every night we play whether its playing early or playing 20 ACC games.”

FSU opens its home portion of its non-conference schedule against Western Carolina on Nov. 15 in the first of four consecutive games at home. The Seminoles will also play exhibition games on Oct. 22 and Nov. 1 against teams to be announced.

Season tickets are on sale now at seminoles.com or by calling the FSU ticket office at 1-888-378-6653.

Nov. 6 Nov. 15 Nov. 20 Nov. 23 Nov. 25 Nov. 29

Nov. 30

Dec. 3 Dec. 17 Dec. 21

Dec. 28 SEMINOLE-BOOSTERS.COM

at Pittsburgh Western Carolina Chattanooga St. Francis (Pa.) Chicago State vs. Tennessee at Emerald Coast Classic (Niceville, Fla.) vs. Purdue or VCU at Emerald Coast Classic (Niceville, Fla.) at Indiana in ACC/Big Ten Challenge North Florida Team TBA at orange Bowl Classic (Sunrise, Fla.) North Alabama

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Todd Hunter

REMEMBERING OUR

FELLOW SEMINOLES

Alumni and friends have contributed so much in so many ways to demonstrate their love for Florida State Athletics. Their contributions and dedication have helped create an elite athletic program that shines among the brightest in the nation. We are thankful for their generosity, dedication and Seminole spirit.

REMEMBERING OUR Connie M. Alford Tallahassee, FL 1948friends Alumni and

Sonny Hilyard Longwood, FL contributed1965 so much

Todd Cameron Hunter, Sr. was born in Elizabeth, N.J., in 1957. After moving to Tallahassee, he graduated from Leon High School and then Florida State University in 1985 with a Bachelor’s degree in Risk Management and Insurance.

Todd had a very successful four-decade career in wealth management and owned his own company, Strategic Wealth Management Advisors, Inc. He was deeply involved in the community and served on several Boards and volunteer organizations. Todd was passionate about spending time at St. Teresa Beach, being on the water, playing guitar, golfing and tennis. He cherished his family and the friendships with his Leon 1974 State Championship football team, Phi Delts, golfing buddies, his 100s and countless others. Todd and his family are eternally grateful for his TMH Cancer Center, Emory Hospital, Dr. Pain and Hospice caretakers. Todd was also a longtime Golden Chief and advocate for Seminole Boosters and Florida State University.

FELLOW SEMINOLES

Frank Fain have in so many ways to demonstrate their love for Florida State Seminole Boosters mourn passing ofprogram Dr. Frank Fain, Athletics.

Their contributions and dedication have helped create an elite the athletic that shines among Todd C. Hunter Dr. Robert A. “Bob” Anderson 1991 Chairman of the Seminole Boosters Board of the brightest We are thankful for their generosity, dedication and Seminole spirit.

FL Rockledge, FL in the nation. Tallahassee, Directors and longtime resident of Brevard County. He 1985 Carolyn F. Broadbent Tallahassee, FL

Kathy L. Lee Tallahassee, FL

Mildred H. Bryant Smyrna, GA 1952

Aubrey C. Mayo Tallahassee, FL

Stephen C. Bullock Mc Alpin, FL 1978

Dr. Barbara C. Palmer Tallahassee, FL 1972

Norman Frank Fain Melbourne, FL 1957

Roger L. Richardson Flowery Branch, GA

Marshall L. Frinks Tallahassee, FL James G. Heisler Jr. Tallahassee, FL 1966 Men’s Swimming

Don W. Sparkman Ponte Vedra Beach, FL Jack Stansel Wimauma, FL 1964 Elliot Toole Tallahassee, FL 1968

and his wife, Jo Ann, raised two Seminole daughters, and led the advancement of Florida State’s interest in the area. Frank was born and raised in Quincy, Fla., before moving to Tallahassee to receive his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in 1957. From there he went on to earn his Doctorate of Medicine from University of Alabama in 1962. Most recently, Frank brought life back in to the Brevard County Seminole Club and helped bring together many Seminoles in his hometown. Over the years Frank made considerable monetary donations to FSU as well as the Board by helping to advance the development of the University Center Building. Frank is a true Seminole and will be greatly missed.

Sutton Goodrich Hilyard, Jr. Sutton Goodrich Hilyard, Jr., (Sonny), passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 29, 2018 at 74. Sonny was born in Miami Beach in 1943. He was the son of Sutton Hilyard, Sr. and Minnie Ruth Hilyard, both from Tullahoma, Tenn. Sonny was a high school athlete, playing football, baseball and basketball at Saint Leo College Preparatory School. He then went on to attend Florida State University and was a lifetime Seminole fan. After graduating from FSU, he attended Stetson Law School where he graduated 3rd in his class. Before beginning his law career, Sonny served in Vietnam in DeNang as a 1st Lieutenant and had a platoon in the 554th MP Battalion. Upon returning from Vietnam, he and his family settled in Orlando where Sonny began his career as an attorney retiring from the same firm 43 years later as a Senior Partner of Hilyard, Bogan & Palmer, PA. Sonny was a Seminole Booster at FSU for 35 years and loved going to Tallahassee for football games. His daughter and granddaughter also graduated from FSU. He was an avid golfer and also loved inshore and sport fishing, fishing at exotic locations as well as his favorite local spots at Mosquito Lagoon in New Smyrna Beach and Captiva Island with his wife, Donna. He was a loving husband, a caring father and grandfather and a loyal friend. He filled a room with his big personality and will be dearly missed. He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Donna Hilyard, his daughters, Holly Scheuerle Berger – ’87 (Ed) and Nicole Irby (Mark), their mother, Sherry Hilyard, and four grandchildren, Taylor Scheuerle ‘2018, Sutton Scheuerle, Maclain Irby and Colin Irby.

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colLegE foOtbalL is mayheM

This season protect yourself from Mayhem with Allstate.

Š 2019 Allstate Insurance Co.

NEWEST ’NOLES

We proudly welcome the newest members of our Seminole Booster Family

A

B

C

D

E

F

A) Kathleen and Mitch Pugh, a boy, Hudson Luke Pugh, born August 25, 2018. B) Tyler and Ashley Thimmes, a girl, Avery Anne Thimmes, born May 27, 2019. C) Chris and Maury Smith, a girl, Lilah Grace Smith, born May 6, 2019. D) Rob and Amy Walters, a boy, Malcom Walters, born May 18, 2019. E) Tyler & Brittany Henderson, a boy, William “Nolen” Henderson, born June 12, 2019. F) Dan and Katie Pugh, a boy, Charlie Pugh, born July 15, 2019.

If you know a Seminole Booster member who has welcomed a New ‘Nole into the world, please send their name and photo so we can welcome them to their Seminole family. Send to Kari Terezakis (kterezakis@fsu.edu).

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JACKSONVILLE Gold Sponsor Florida Blue-Jon Urbanek Garnet Sponsors St. John & Partners ~ Dan St. John BCM Services ~ Denise Wallace & Michael Coleman CSI Companies-Andrew Cihlar Bill Stephenson Greg Morris Benefactors Taylor, Day, Grimm & Boyd ~ Chris Mueller State Farm ~ Craig Dewhurst Pinch A Penny of Mandarin ~ David Allen Brown & Brown Insurance ~ Josh Becksmith Hartley Press ~ Mike Hartley Fionn McCools ~ Patty Trousdell Weeks Utility Services ~ Rich Weeks Scott Noe John Cooksey-McCall Servixes Patrons Ben & Marty Walker The Prism Group ~ Bert Costa, CFP State Farm ~ Chris Bedford Jim Edmiston Mark Roberts Marty Blue Seminole Boosters, Inc. ~ Max Zahn Nat Cole Jax Sports Council ~ Rick Catlett Shane Hoddinott GHG Insurance ~ Tim Gaskin Billy Hohmann Par 3 Sponsors Fionn McCools ~ Patty Trousdell ServPro ~ Bryce Clark

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Jax Sports Council ~ Rick Catlett Atlantic Infiniti ~ Bob Harrington PANAMA CITY Annette & Jimmy Williams Brock Lawn & Pest Control Carla Thacker Commander Realty Curiosity MG Daco Electric Derby Electric Edgewater Resort James Cox, Therapy One Nick Crossman The UPS Store of PCB PCB Destinations Southern Orthopedic Specialists Wonderworks ATLANTA Garnet Sponsor John Zibrida Sideline Sponsors Richly Blessed LLC David D. Mobley, Jr. CPA TALLAHASSEE Gold Richard McMullen Tri-Eagle Visual Solutions Garnet Wells Fargo – Josh Jordan & Kyle Crilow Tomahawk Aloft Tallahassee Campus USA Four Points Sheraton Holiday Inn Hotel Duval Jason Bremann

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Osceola B&T Fencing Cone Distributing Corner Pocket Heather E Wells Family Medicine Josh Brown Enterprise Lisa Miller & Associates Maple Street Biscuit Company Mooney Container Services Salvo Pools Stanley Steemer Verity Health Center Spear Casa Grande DoubleTree Tallahassee Elite Sporting Goods Hampton Inn and Suites – Railroad Avenue Metal Fabrication Trader Joe’s ORLANDO Garnet Sponsors Element Funding Gentry’s BBQ General Store NICK O’LEARY SCHOLARSHIP TOURNAMENT Gold Sponsors The Nicklaus & O’Leary Families Orthopedix MD Caufield & Wheeler, Inc. Doug Porter The Madden Family Parrish & Cat Owens Seminole Tribe of Florida Southern Certified Incorporated South Florida Ford Dealers State Farm – Kelly V. Hagar Templeton & Company Tolliver Powder Coating

SPRING TOUR

Gift Bag Sponsor Tsamoutales Strategies Hole In One Sponsor South Florida Ford Dealers FORT MYERS Gold Sponsor Tanya Grannemann Garnet Sponsor Hollander & Hanuka Sideline Sponsor Family Thrift Center Event Partners Downtown House of Pizza Dinas at Sabal Springs Millennial Brewing Company QUARTERBACK CLASSIC Tournament Host Bob Basham Quarterback Sponsor Stahl & Associates Insurance Gold Sponsors Adamczyk Law Firm, PLLC Bouchard Insurance Duke Energy Lance Barton Rowlson & Company, P.A. Tallahassee Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat Golf Cart Sponsor Holcomb & Leung, P.A.

Driving Range Sponsor Ken Marks/Tallahassee Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat Putting Green Sponsor The Ernie Garcia Group at Morgan Stanley Cigar Sponsor John Holcomb Nylah Thompson & H.L. Hartford Bar & Liquor Sponsor American Social Vodka Sponsor Touch Vodka Tournament Partners Glory Days Grill PDQ Old Memorial Golf Club Spear It BREVARD Ben Bailey David Treffer Ed & Loretta St. Mary Frank & Jo Ann Fain Guy & Delores Spearman Justin Saenz Mike & Patti Eubank Mike & Jennifer Sundquist Rusty Fischer OCALA Gold Sponsors BMW of Ocala Landscaping Sod & Beyond

Mark D. Shelnutt, Attorney at Law PA Matt & Danielle Leeds Nylah Thompson & H.L. Hartford Judith Dunlap Patrick M. Hill, Independent Financial Partners, Inc. Porsche of Ocala Verteks Consulting Banquet Sponsors American Panel Bedford Greene Bill & Elaine Trice Center State Bank Colleen M. Duris, Attorney at Law Drew Ditty, Allstate Insurance Company Duncan Family Eye Care Center of Ocala Furce Pest Control Kyle Futch Family Papa John’s Pizza Robert Piccione – Allied Marketing Insurance Group, Inc. Veterinary Allergy & Skin Center at the Institute of Veterinary Specialists Gift in Kind Frank Brickey, Epapermint Louis Wellen, Torch Sunglasses Robert Heagy, Ocala Copy Center Jim Kirk Scholarship Donations Marion County Seminole Club SOUTH FLORIDA Sideline Sponsor Desnoyers CPA

Former ‘Nole Bryant McFadden with James Blackman and coach Willie Taggart at the South Florida tour stop.

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COMPLIANCE

QUICK TIPS FOR ALL SEMINOLE FANS 1. FSU is responsible for the actions of all boosters, season ticket holders and fans – including great supporters like you.

Greetings, In preparation for the upcoming football season and new academic year, our compliance team would like to remind all Seminole fans of 10 quick tips that are important for fans to know.

2. Free or discounted items/services to student-athletes are not permitted unless available to the general public.

If you have any questions or concerns related to compliance, please feel free to contact our office using the contact information listed below. We greatly appreciate your continued support of Florida State Athletics.

5. Never arrange to give or give money to recruits, student-athletes or their friend(s)/family.

Go ‘Noles!

8. Don’t sell items with the name, image or signature of a student-athlete.

3. Never perform a favor for a student-athlete or recruit before calling FSU compliance.

4. Don’t call, tweet, meet or greet recruits.

6. Never loan your car or provide transportation to recruits, student-athletes or their friend(s)/family.

7.

Never buy tickets, clothing, equipment or awards from student-athletes.

9. Breaking NCAA rules can render recruits and student-athletes ineligible to compete.

10. To help protect our student-athletes and the integrity of FSU – Always ask before you act!

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