Unlimited october 2015

THE OFFICIAL ONLINE

MAGAZINE OF TENNESSEE TECH

ATHLETICS

unlimited

His long, tough road to become a Golden Eagle If all you know about Jacob Buttram is his name and position, you have missed the entire story.

Brother vs. Brother

We take an inside look at Golden Eagle football brothers Jordan and Joshua Smith

I Know That One

Can you match the movie quotation with the character who spoke it and the movie it appeared in?

Plus:

* Chatter * How Well Do You Know * Playlist * My Cookeville ...and some great photos

September / October / November 2015

Volume 4, Issue 1

photo by Tony Marable

IN FOCUS

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Rockets red glare...

Fireworks light up the sky above Tucker Stadium following the Golden Eagles 29-22 victory over Mercer in the team’s first home game of the season.

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with appreciation From the editor

Some folks accuse me of being ancient, maybe pushing 100 years old. Mostly it’s my youthful staff members, all six of whom are in their 20s. Yes, I’m older (and wiser, I hope) than they are. I’m wrapping up 33 years at Tennessee Tech as this magazine is published. That’s one-third of the entire history of this university.

I’ve seen the best of times and the worst of times in Tennessee Tech athletics. And, I’ve seen a lot more of the good life than they’ve been around for.

But, no, my memories don’t reach all the way back to World War I. Not even World War II. Nor the Korean conflict, for that matter.

I do remember the turmoil of Vietnam. My birthdate was drawn as No. 1 in the selective service (the draft) when I was 17 years old, one year before I was eligible for service.

I remember when the date was drawn and announced live on the radio (that’s how we learned the news in the 60s), my dad caught his breath for instance and gripped the steering wheel really, really tightly before he realized I was too young. Still, it was startling to hear my birthday called. I wonder how many young men, a mere year older than me who had the same birth date, went to war. And how many didn’t come back.

That was a different time. Soldiers, Marines and others who served were not treated nicely by Americans. The men (there were no women in combat back then) who fought in that war came back to a country that didn’t appreciate them or respect them.

Thankfully, times have evolved. Today, most Americans appreciate the sacrifices made by the service men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces. And the sacrifices made by their families.

So, when Tennessee Tech hosts its annual Military and Public Safety Appreciation Night in Tucker Stadium, we pay a momentary tribute to those people who have served with honor in the armed forces. And to those firefighters and police officers who protect and serve all of us.

That’s why I wanted to tell the story of Jacob Buttram, a member of the Golden Eagle football team that most fans have never heard of, at least not because of his play. He hasn’t seen any playing time, but he has certainly paid his dues. Working side-by-side with his teammates and providing a measure of mature leadership. When it was in the mid 90s and humid, and some of his teammates were struggling during summer individual workouts, he gently reminded them of the men and women overseas, serving in deadly conditions, no chance to shower, no escape from the baking temperatures in the deserts of Afghanistan. Eating food from a plastic pouch. Their lives on the line nearly every day.

It wasn’t just words. Jacob has been there, done that. A tough workout against tackling dummies on artificial turf is a walk in the park compared with where he was just a couple years ago.

He reminds his Golden Eagle teammates of that. And we need to be reminded, too, of what Jacob Buttram did for each of us. What every service member has done for all of us, now and throughout the years.

Please help show your appreciation for the lives we can lead today because of the lives many of them gave yesterday.

Rob Schabert

Assistant Athletic Director / Editor Please send your feedback to: sportsinfo@tntech.edu

On the cover The story of how Jacob Buttram became a Golden Eagle is a compelling one. For Military Appreciation Night (Oct. 3), we tell his story. For the cover photo, Jacob is joined by eight cadets from Tennessee Tech ROTC. Shown, from left, Gavin Huffman (Bristol), Chase Scott (Cookeville), Luke Hornby (Cookeville), Dylon Bowman (Cookeville), Buttram, Mason Johnson (Hendersonville), Adam Neff (Livingston), Jaehyeon Lee (Bucheon, South Korea), and Jeremiah Johnson (Red Boiling Springs).

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fresh faces Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2015-16

Colby Brown / Sophomore / Football

Tampa, Fla.

F A four-year starter at Plant High School, Colby’s high school numbers were stunning, passing for 2,983 yards and 31 touchdowns, and rushing for 182 yards and four touchdowns in his final season. He had a completion mark of 71 percent and broke the school record for passing yards in a single game when he threw for 519 yards, a record previously held by former Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray. Colby spent one season at Coffeyville (Kan.) Community College where he was off to a sensational start in 2014 before sustaining a season-ending injury. Playing in the first four games, the versatile quarterback ranked second in the nation with a pass completion mark of 68 percent. Colby was fifth nationally with 13 touchdown passes in four contests, and eighth in the nation with 1,070 passing yards. He also rushed for 154 yards, giving him 1,224 yards of total offense, an average of 306 yards per game.

Matthew Giles / Freshman / Golf

Louisville, Tenn.

F Matthew lettered for four years under head coach Rob Daugherty at Alcoa High School. He led his team to the 2013 Class A/AA State title, tying for fifth individually. He tied for eighth place in the 2012 state tournament, helping his team to a runner-up finish. He also helped guide AHS to two district championships and three region titles. Matthew took home All-Blount County honors three times and was named First-Team All-State twice. He took home PrepXtra First-Team honors after helping Alcoa win the 2013 state title by 17 strokes. He posted a scoring average of 35.4 per nine holes as a senior and a mark of 37.9 for his prep career, and tied for 15th at the Tennessee Junior Amateur and at the Scott Stallings/Under Armour AJGC Championship. Son of Mark and Teresa Giles, he was born on March 24, 1997. Matthew is majoring in civil engineering.

Hollee Sadler / Freshman / Golf

Manchester, Tenn.

F Hollee was a two-sport athlete at Coffee County Central High School, lettering three years in golf for head coach Mike Ray. She helped lead CCCHS to District 8-AAA titles in 2013 and 2014, and also led her team to back-to-back region championships and a runner-up finish at the TSSAA Class AAA State Championships. She placed third at the TSSAA Class AAA State tournament individually and qualified in both 2012 and 2013. She was both district and region individual champion in 2014. She also captured the individual district crown in 2013 and took home District 8-AAA Player of the Year honors in both 2013 and 2014.

Hollee was named the Lady Raider Player of the Year three times, voted team MVP in each of her three seasons, and named the Manchester Times Female Athlete of the Year in 2013. The daughter of Kenny and Lisa Sadler, she was born May 31, 1996. She is majoring in mechanical engineering.

Amos Kipchirchir / Freshman / Cross Country

Eldoret, Kenya

F Posting times similar to the other two signees at nearly every distance, Kipchirchir owns the fastest performance of the trio at 8,000-meters, which is the standard distance he will be running for the Golden Eagles during his cross country career. He has covered that distance in 24:30.15, and has a 10K PR of 30:32.47. His top time at 800m is 1:50.22, with a 1,500m effort of 3:48 and a 5,000-meter best of 14:27.56.

Darrius Stafford / Freshman / Football

Memphis, Tenn.

F Darrius was a three-year starter at Kirby High School in Memphis, where he was one of the region’s top receivers as well as a defensive back that opponent quarterbacks learned to stay away from. As a receiver for coach Jeremy Orsagh’s team, Stafford had 63 catches in his senior season for 1,047 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning first-team all-region honors. As a cornerback, he made 48 tackles and added five interceptions for the Cougars, earning second-team all-region honors as a defensive back. He was named to the Memphis Commercial Appeal Best of Preps team, and was chosen to play in the 2014-15 National All-American Bowl.The son of Nikia Stafford, he was born April 13, 1997 in Memphis. He is majoring in business.

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fresh faces Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2015-16

Dani Robb / Freshman / Soccer

Papillion, Neb.

F Dani lettered four years in soccer at Papillion La-Vista High School in Papillion, Neb. She was the team captain under head coach Melissa Ingwers, and scored three goals and notched 11 assists as a senior. She helped guide the team to two Metro Championships and three District runners-up. In her 2014 club soccer season, she helped guide her team to a U18 Nebraska State Cup finalist, a National League finalist, and Region II NPL championship. On the ODP circuit, Dani got called up to play on the Nebraska State team where she traveled to Germany for two international friendlies and Denmark to play an International Tournament where she helped lead the team to tournament championship, playing Sweden, Denmark, and Germany, scoring the game winning goal and notching three assists in the championship. Daughter of Steve and Cass Robb, Dani was born May 3, 1997. She intends to major in communications/media studies.

Shaneice James / Freshman / Volleyball

Cleveland, Ohio

F Shaneice comes to Tennessee Tech with an impressive resume having set many Beachwood High records. She completed her prep career with a school record 15 blocks in a single match and with career highs in blocks in a season (128). She holds the record for blocks in a career (274), most digs in a match (20), most digs in a career (320), most serving aces in a match (8) and most serving aces in a career (64).

Shaneice earned First Team All-Chagrin Valley Conference and Second Team All-Northeast Lakes District in her junior and senior seasons.

Anthony Flemister / Freshman / Football

Chattanooga, Tenn.

F A two-time all-district selection for coach Charles Fant at Notre Dame High School, Anthony Flemister was a lockdown pass defender who pulled down 15 career interceptions. As a senior, he helped the Fighting Irish to a 12-2 overall record, the District 7-AA championship and the TSSAA state playoff semifinals.

He had four picks in his senior season, returning two of those for touchdowns. Twice selected the team’s Defensive Back of the Year, he was a second-team Chattanooga Times-Free Press Best of Preps selection.

The son of Althea and Anthony Flemister, Sr., his full name is Anthony Lowell Flemister. Born July 5, 1997 in Chattanooga,he is majoring in basic business.

Jenna Storms / Freshman / Cross Country

Cottonwood, Calif.

F Jenna is a two-time National Junior Olympics cross country All-American, as well as a West Valley High School Scholar-Athlete. She is the third-ranked 1,500-meter runner in California who won the Northern Section CIF cross country championship. She was also the Division V section champion. She has posted outstanding times at distances ranging from 800m (2:23) all the way up to 5,000m (18:41). In between, she has clocked times of 4:42 at 1,500m and 10:15 at 3,000.

Allyson Dunn / Sophomore / Golf

Kingsport, Tenn.

F Allyson lettered four years as a starter on the varsity women’s golf team at Sullivan South High School. She took home All-Conference honors each season, capturing two individual conference championships and earning AllState accolades three times. As a senior, she captured the Big 8 Conference title after firing off a school-record 68.

She tabbed All-District three times, All-Region three times, and earned Big 8 Conference Player of the Year twice.

Allyson led SSHS to TSSAA DT A/AA state title in 2013 and third-place finishes in 2011 and 2012, finished in the Top 6 individually at the state tournament three times, and placed fourth at the Tennessee Girls Junior Amateur in 2014, firing the only sub-par score of the event with a 70 in the third round. She won the 83rd Tennessee Women’s Amateur Championship in 2015. She played in all 9 events as a true freshman at ETSU, ending with a scoring average of 78.74. Daughter of Marc and Marty Dunn, Allyson was born June 25, 1996. She is majoring in molecular

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fresh faces Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2015-16

Molly Kafader / Freshman / Soccer

Nashville, Tenn.

F Molly was a two-sport athlete at Martin Luther King Academic Magnet in Nashville, lettering in basketball and soccer. As a center back and midfielder, she took home All-District honors all four years, All-Region honors as a senior, Offensive MVP recognition as a senior, and All-State for three years. She was team captain her senior year. In basketball Molly was named a two-time All-District recipient after averaging 10.5 points per game as a junior and 13.0 as a senior. In soccer she scored 19 goals as a senior and 15 goals as a junior. She led team to a district runner-up finish as a senior. She was a four-time Honor Roll recipient.

Daughter of Mark and Lisa Kafader, she was born November 23, 1996.

Taylor Underwood / Freshman / Football

Hazel Green, Ala.

F A big man with huge potential in the Golden Eagle defensive line, Taylor Underwood was a three-year standout for coach Matthew Putnam’s Trojans at Hazel Green High School. Named honorable mention all-region as a junior, he was voted winner of the team’s Defensive Line Punisher award as a senior. Twice placing on the All-Academic team, he also won the team’s Player Award, and was outstanding in Area Big Man Weight Competition the past two years, placing first in 2013 and second in 2014. The son of Bobby and Susan Underwood, Taylor was born September 19, 1996 in Huntsville, Ala. He is enrolled in general curriculum.

Jessica Oliver / Freshman / Volleyball

Murfreesboro, Tenn.

F Jessica brings a local feel to the roster, hailing from Murfreesboro, Tenn., at Blackman High School. A setter by trade, Oliver led the Blaze in assists in 2012, 2013, and 2014. She finished her career with 1,097 assists. In 2013 and 2014, Oliver was named All-District, and in 2014 she earned All-Region honors. She received the Blackman High All-Sport MVP Award in 2014. Jessica also has made a name for herself in the classroom, earning Honors Awards in Biology, English, and Spanish, as well as serving as a Girls’ State Delegate.

Noah Rotich / Freshman / Cross Country

Eldoret, Kenya

F Another Golden Eagle newcomer who owns a 10,000-meter time under 30 minutes, Noah has a personal-best of 29:55.37 at that distance. He completed his top 5K race in 14:29.47 and has a 24:55 effort at 8,000-meters. In a shorter race, he has posted a PR of 3:48.76 over 1,500-meters.

Brady Bose / Freshman / Football

Ashland City, Tenn.

F Brady began his collegiate career this fall after sitting out all of the 2014-15 campaign. Bringing great size to the defensive line, he will provide depth up front and possibly challenge for a starting role. He will see action in passing situations and can be an effective pass rusher because of his good reactions and potential to knock down passes. A two-way player and four-year letterwinner for coach Cody Finley at Cheatham County High School, he also played basketball two seasons. He accepted team and district honors on both sides of scrimmage during his career with the Cubs, helping post a 12-1 record and advance to the TSSAA playoffs after capturing the District 11-AA championship as a senior. He was chosen as an all-state defensive end in 2012, selected for the Tennessee East/West All-Star game and voted first-team all-state by the Tennessee Sportswriters Association. The son of Michael and Loretta Bose, his full name is Brady Taylor Bose. Born July 7, 1995, he is majoring in EXPW.

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Feeling Social?

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photo by Ben Corda

IN FOCUS

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Different view, same goofballs...

Membersof the Golden Eagle soccer team sophomore class clown around during the team’s annual Photo Day on the Tech soccer field. Clockwise from top right are Zoie Hensley, McKenzie McCloud, Mary Francis Hoots, Cassidy Ortman, Karigan Owens, Abby Collins, Lauren Brewer and Michaella Keyes.

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IN FOCUS

Looks like we made it...

The white Golden Eagle football helmet is certainly in good company in the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlatna. Just above and to the left are two ranked opponents Tech has faced in recent years, with Oregon above and TCU to the left. How many more recent Tech opponents can you spot?

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photos by Spencer Williamson

IN FOCUS

Good for two...

Golden Eagle wide receiver Krys Cates had plenty of attention as he ran his route on Tech’s try for two points against Mercer. Despite two defenders draped all over him, Cates made the catch for the PAT.

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cover story His long, tough road to become a Golden For Eagle

This particular tournament -- this three-day festival of golf sprinkled with fun, competition, camaraderie and memories – hasn’t always borne the name of Hall of Fame golfer and coach Bobby Nichols.

What began more than three decades ago as a one-day gathering at one golf course has grown and grown, much the same way the title of the event has taken on a life of its own with the addition of sponsors and presenters, plus a nod to the much-missed Nichols.

It’s now the Pepsi Bobby Nichols Golden Eagle Scramble presented by Budweisier, and the 2015 edition of the event – the 35th year of the festivities – is coming up June Written

by Rob Schabert 5-6-7 at three golf courses in the Cookeville area.

Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Information

J

acob Buttram is a defensive end on the Tennessee Tech football team. He stands 6-foot-2, weighs 250 pounds, and comes from Huntsville, Tenn. That much you can find out by looking at the Golden Eagle roster.

And if you stop reading right there, you will miss the entire story.

“I was in the eighth grade when he was a senior in 2003,” Jacob explains about Rusty Washam, a standout football player at Scott County High School.

“When I was a freshman, he joined the Marine Corps right out of high school, and my sophomore year the Marine recruiter started talking to me about joining.”

On February 14, 2006, Washam was killed in action while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“I was a junior in high school. He had always come back and talked about how proud he was to be a Marine. He came back home, and actually volunteered to go back to Iraq,” Buttram recalls.

“The whole team went to his funeral. It was sad, very sad, but it was pretty amazing how the while county came together for his funeral.”

Jacob and three of his high school teammates, three cousins from the tiny town of Robbins, talked to the recruiter about the Marines.

“We all talked to the same recruiter, Todd Garris, and all four of us decided that college could wait.”

Jacob Buttram, along with Josey and Lucas Chambers, and Steven Kries, all joined the Marines out of high school. One of the factors in their decision was the memory of Rusty Washam.

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“If they would have asked, I would have gone back.

You don’t think about the danger. You’re just fighting for the guy on your left and the guy on your right, and you know they will do everything they can to bring you home.

That’s what we’re trained for.”

Jacob Buttram is the oldest player on the Tennessee Tech roster at 25 years old. He spent one season on the roster working in the weight room and learning the systems of coach Watson Brown.

This season, he is ready to play but has yet to see any action.

ating on January 9, 2009, and moving on to Marine Combat Training at Camp Geiger in Jacksonville, N.C.

“It was much more hands-on,” Buttram recalls.

“Boot camp was designed to mentally break you down and teach you to do things the Marine way. Combat Training was to teach us maneuvers and weapons and train us for combat.”

Jacob was 18 years old when he joined the Marines,

Next on the agenda was Fort Knox where he the first from his family to serve in the military. His attended Tank School for three months. brother, Josh, has since joined the Air Force.

“You get distributed to your job, and my first

“It wasn’t too difficult,” he says about informing was as a tank operator,” he says. “They taught me to be his parents of his life-changing decision. “They knew a mechanic, to load it, to drive it, to fire it.” how I was. If I say I’m going to do something, I do it.”

And from there, he was assigned to the 2nd Tank Battalion, Alpha Company, at Camp Lejeune, N.C. And so, he did. He signed on with the U.S. Marine

“I thought I’d be with tanks for awhile, but one Bobby Nichols and Malcolm outCombat the grip Corps and reported to Paris Island on October 13, (kneeling) day they came to“Mutt” us andQuillen told us(rear), that check the 2nd of some of the Golden Eagle Scramb;e’s earlier hole sponsors, from left, 2007. He spent three months in boot camp, gradu- Jackie Borden, Danny Elmore and Allen Ray. Jim Woodford, continued on page 19

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cover story Engineers needed volunteers. A few of us did that. We knew it was one of the most dangerous jobs. It was basically infantry.”

Jacob was assigned to the Route Clearance Plattoon 2, a group of Marines whose job it is to clear IED’s (Improvised Explosive Device).

“We trained for one year before we went. We’d be practicing sweeping for IEDs and sometimes you’d hear a noise or see a puff of powder, and you realized if this wasn’t training, if this was actually in a combat situation, it would have fired.

“I realized that I might be an amputee, or I might be dead.”

That’s a frightening thought.

“It’s about 90 percent adrenaline and excitement, and about 10 percent scared,” Jacob said. “We learned to take the fight to them.”

Jacob out front of a “Buffalo” sweeping for IEDs in the Sangin Valley.

A “Buffalo” digs up any IEDs they might find.

In April of 2011 – about the time the Golden Eagle football team was in the midst of spring drills preparing for what would be an OVC championship season – Jacob Buttram was deployed to Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, where he would serve in the Sangin Valley.

It’s considered the most kinetic place in Afghanistan.

“There was no such thing as a typical day,” he says. “They were always different. One day we might be chillin’ and the next day we’re out looking for IEDs. We had to keep our mind sharp all the time.”

As Buttram explains, there was no running water, they are MREs (Meal Ready to Eat), took bottled water showers, and went to the bathroom into trach bags.

“They told us to always be prepared,” he says.

Those meals weren’t the most effective way to stay nourished, but they had to do.

“We had about 24 different meals to choose from,” he explains. “My favorite was beef stew. The worst was the veggie omelet. It was actually awful.”

Buttram and his platoon worked two or three weeks, then had two or three days off.

“We never lost anyone when I was there,” he says. “We had the best platoon in the Company. We found more IEDs than any other platoon.” continued on page 20

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cover story

He was in Afghanistan through October of 2011 – about the time the Golden Eagle football team was in the middle of a season that would bring the OVC championship trophy to Cookeville.

“We knew when we were coming back, and it got a little tough the last couple of weeks,” he recalls. “We went out on night routes, and we drove through the night.

When we were all finished, we traded off our stuff to the platoon replacing us and headed out.

He arrived back home on October 31, 2011 – Halloween Night. He began his leave, and that night a man was shot in his hometown.

He spent his final year in the Marines back working with tanks, and was out on September 22, 2012.

ABOVE: Jacob is shown out front during his high school playing days at Scott County High School. With him in back, fro left, are Chaz Sexton (now in the U.S. Navy), Steve Kries (who joined the Marines with Jacob), and Cody Yancey.

AT RIGHT: Jacob at FOB Nolay in Afghanistan

OPPOSITE PAGE TOP: From left, CPL Jacob Buttram, LT Jon Brooks, and CPL Brian Hyliak

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cover story

“It’s about 90 percent adrenaline and excitement, and about 10 percent scared.”

“If they would have asked, I would have gone back,” he says. “I loved it. You don’t think about the danger. You’re just fighting for the guy on your left and the guys on your right, and you know they will do everything they can to bring you home. That’s what we’re trained for.”

“I thought I would try out college,” he explains, going to nearby Roane State Community College for one semester to secure the credits needed to enroll at Tennessee Tech. He started at Tech in the fall of 2013, beginning work toward a degree in Exercise Science, Physical Education and Wellness (EXPW), with a goal of becoming a Strength and Conditioning Coach.

“I think he will make a good strength coach,” says Casey Kramer, the Director of Tech’s Athletic Performance Center. “He pays great attention to detail. He gets everything right down to the inch and he has a great work ethic. You only have to tell him once and he will do it, and do it right. He is diligent in everything he does.

“Once he learns the ins and outs of the program and the science,” I think he’ll make a very good coach. “He has had to work for every thing. Every inch he’s gained, he’s had to work for.”

Jacob first joined the Golden Eagle football program for the 2014-15 season, working out in the Athletic Performance Center as a walk-on and spending time on the scout team. continued on page 22

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This season he is prepared if he’s called upon at defensive end. In the meantime, he continues to provide the mature leadership that comes from his experience as a Marine.

“This past summer, when it was pretty hot and some of the guys were huffing and puffing, I tried to remind them that football is fun. Sure it was hard and hot, but it could be a lot worse.”

Kramer saw that commitment on the hot turf of Overall Field.

“He was valuable to the team during the summer because of how hard he trained in the workouts and his general attitude. He’s here because he want s to be here. He works hard because he wants to. That

rubs off on the other guys. His consistency in his positive attitude adds to the team. He’s a hard-working guy who’s always going to do things right.”

That positive attitude comes from Buttram enjoying an opportunity that many of his fellow Marines may never have.

“When I was in, we all talked about someday having a chance to play college football, but it’s not something that’s going to happen for most of them,” he says.

“This is the same kind of camaraderie,” he said.

Jacob is on schedule to graduate in May 2016, and plans to stay at Tech to add a master’s degree.

Whether he sees playing time or spends his time on the Golden Eagle football team on the sidelines, he will always be looked to for leadership.

“It was a very humbling experience last year at Military Appreciation Day,” Buttram recalls. “Coach Brown asked the entire team to thank me for my service. I told the team that if they have family members who are veterans, they needed to call them and thank them.”

ABOVE: Route Clearance Platoon 2 gathered for this group photo just days before leaving Afghanistan. The platoon didn’t sufer any casualties during Buttram’s deployment.

LEFT: Inside the turret of a MRAP (mine resistant ambush protection) vehicle during an assignment that had the platoon out for more than a month.

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photo by Tony Marable

IN FOCUS

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Right outta the gate...

Several new faces are dotted throughout the Golden Eagle cross country programs. In the women’s race at the Vanderbilt Commodore Classic, some of the necomers in the race include Madison Stremler, Sarah Brandt, Purity Murray, De’Airrien Jackson, Sonel Bezuidenhout, and Jenna Storms.

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photos by Jim Dillomn

IN FOCUS

Upset Special...

The Golden Eagle soccer team enjoyed an historic victory on August 30 when it claimed a 2-1 victory over visiting Alabama, the program’s first victory over a team from the Southeastern Conference.

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photo by Sean Setters

IN FOCUS

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Showin’ off that bling...

Members of the Tech softball and tennis teams pose with their Ohio Valley Conference championship rings, which were presented at halftime of the football game vs. Mercer, Sept. 19.

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I know that one...

Oh, you’ve heard these lines You know you have. You’ve seen these movies, too. So, go ahead. We dare you. Who said it?

And which movie was it? Match the line with the movie and the character. If you can get 14 or more, you’ve done well.

MOVIE LINE “Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory lasts forever.”

“If you can dodge a wrench. You can dodge a ball.”

“If you’re not first, you’re last!”

“You trying to say Jesus Christ can’t hit a curveball?”

“Wax on, right hand. Wax off, left hand. Wax on, wax off” “You make sure they remember, forever, the night they played the Titans!”

“You play ball like a girl!”

“There’s no crying in baseball!”

“Show me the money!”

“You’re killin’ me, Smalls.”

“Yo Adrian! I did it!”

“If you build it they will come.”

“Juuuuuuuuust a bit outside.”

“I’ll make it.”

“I believe in the soul.. the small of a woman’s bad, the hanging curveball, high fiber, good scotch....”

“Billy, listen to me. White men can’t jump.”

“Quack. Quack. Quack.”

“Today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the Earth.”

“It’s in the hole!”

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CHARACTER MOVIE

CHARACTERS TO CHOOSE FROM:

MOVIES TO CHOOSE FROM:

1) Shane Falco

a) The Sandlot

2) Jimmy Dugan

b) Bull Durham

3) Rocky Balboa

c) The Replacements

4) Harry Doyle

d) Dodgeball

5) Coach Yoast

e) White Men Cant Jump

6) Ricky Bobby

f ) Talladega Nights

7) Eddie Harris

g) Remember the Titans

8) Mr. Miyagi

h) The Pride of the Yankees

9) Crash Davis

i) A League of Their Own

10) Ham Porter

j) Jerry Maguire

11) Patches O’Houlihan

k) Rocky II

12) Jerry Maguire

l) Field of Dreams

13) Ham Porter

m) Major League

14) Jimmy Chitwood

n) Hoosiers o) The Karate Kid p) Caddyshack q) The Mighty Ducks

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Brother vs.

Brother

We put Golden Eagle football players Joshua (left) and Jordan Smith to the test for 10 rounds.

Here’s howthey stack up...

I pretty much like all music Rap, R&B and country music. My favorite rapper is J. Cole because he tells stories in his songs and he is so lyrically gifted. My favorite singers would probably be Usher and Sam Smith and country artist Keith Urban and my friend Tucker Beathard who just signed with Big Machine label. I just love how dedicated he is to his craft and how every song touches a different emotion.

ROUND 1 My favorite kind of music/my favorite musical artist and why:

My favorite kind of music is Hip Hop and R&B, but I do not discriminate when it comes to music. I love so many different artists it’s hard to narrow it to just one, but I would say Kid Cudi because he is a very unique artist who tells stories about his life as well as life in general. His level of artistry is through the roof.

I would have a salad with lots of croutons and a decent amount of ranch, a fully loaded baked potato, steak and macaroni and cheese and for dessert banana pudding.

ROUND 2 If I get to select the menu for a special event meal, I would choose (for instance, Italian food or Chinese food). Describe the menu, including dessert:

If I had the opportunity to choose the menu for a special event I would keep it American, and I’d definitely have to have prime rib, mashed potatoes, and asparagus. The dessert choice is a no brainer; it would have to be strawberry cheesecake.

My ideal car would be a white Audi R8

ROUND 3 My ideal car and color:

My ideal car would be a white Dodge Challenger with black rims

Paris, London, Australia, Los Angeles, Italy, and Barcelona. I would just enjoy immersing myself in the culture, the language and take a lot of pictures and enjoy the food.

ROUND 4 If I have a job that allows me much time off to travel, some ideas for perfect vacation locations and activities:

I’ve always been interested in visiting South America, specifically Brazil. However Spain and Puerto Rico would be nice, as well. I’d love to see a professional soccer game, watch the Running of the Bulls and see a bullfight, and of course sightsee to learn more about each place.

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I don’t dress up much for school, usually just ball shorts and shirt, something very basic, but when I do dress up I like to match and look good. I dress up for the occasion and always end up asking Jordan on his opinion of my clothes before I head out the house.

ROUND 5 My thoughts on the clothing I select to wear and why:

On campus I usually go for the athletic look (shorts and sweats), I choose not to dress up too often, simply because I want to be comfortable when walking around all day. Off the field I’m a very fashion-conscious guy, and I take pride in looking good whenever I get the chance. My parents always told me my appearance was important so that’s what stuck with me.

Sports movies such as Remember the Titans and suspenseful action thrillers Furious 7, Jurassic World, and Hunger Games

ROUND 6 My choice in movies is:

I’m a sucker for sports movies of any kind such as Remember the Titans, and Love and Basketball, just to name a couple. I also love comedy, because I’m a goofy guy and love to laugh.

My favorite cause is the Alzheimer’s organizations. I had my grandmother pass away from Alzheimer’s.

ROUND 7 My favorite cause or organization and why:

I am a huge fan of the Mustard Seed Ranch here in Cookeville. I, along with teammates, had the opportunity a few years back to volunteer there, and we had an amazing time and experience.

The environment and the people are what make it such a great place.

My dream job would be opening up a physical therapy facility with my brother it would have an attached weight room similar to D1 with a little bit of a different set up.

ROUND 8 My intended career choice/job or career of my dreams:

The job of my dreams is to be the head physical therapist for a professional/collegiate sports team, or to have a private practice therapy facility that works with top athletes from around the world not only on therapy, but sports physiology.

I am a good student-athlete I have maintained a 3.35 GPA. I love to learn new things as well as compete against my brother in the classroom with grades. Our parents taught us not to be mediocre, if you’re going to do something do it right to your best ability and that’s where my competitive drive comes out the most

ROUND 9 What kind of a student are you. Describe your classwork/grades:

I’ve been a very successful student while at TTU. I have a 3.54 GPA and have made the Dean’s List several times, Athletic Director’s Honor Roll every semester I have been in college, and I have also been on the OVC Commissioner’s Honor Roll. This spring I was named the Minority Student-Athlete of the Year. I was also fortunate enough to be honored along with my brother as the student-athletes of the game. School is very important to me, and I try my best to apply myself in each course.

I do read. My favorite book is Lord of the Flies by William Golding because the chaos to me is beautiful. It’s a microcosm of how the world is today.

ROUND 10 Do you read? If so, list an all-time favorite book or author and why. If not, why:

I dabble here and there when I get the time which is hardly ever. I would not consider myself a reader by any means.

However, I love To Kill a Mockingbird, because of the story line and the heroism shown in the book as it pertains to racial inequality.

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fresh faces Some of the newcomers who are making their debut in 2015-16

Landon Albert / Freshman / Golf

Hendersonville, Tenn.

F Landon was a five-year letterwinner at Hendersonville High School. He helped lead his team to two Tennessee Class AAA State Championship titles, one in 2011 and another in 2013. He took home FirstTeam All-County honors after finishing as the runner up in the 2013 Tennessee Class AAA Regional as an individual, and won the Foxland Harbor Men’s club championship in the fall of 2013. Daughter of Kelly and Vickey Albert, Landon was born March 14, 1997. He intends to major in business.

Alyssa Montgomery / Freshman / Soccer

Lexington, Ky.

F Alyssa started for four years as a midfielder and forward at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in Lexington, Ky. and took home a whole host of honors, including Varsity Rookie of the Year, Best Offensive Player, two-time All-Region Honorable Mention, First-Team All-City, First Team All-State and Region II Player of the Year honors as a senior. She scored 11 goals and added 14 assists as a senior. Despite not playing as a junior due to an injury, she compiled 29 goals and 42 assists throughout her career. Alyssa played club as part of the Javanon Soccer Club where she was a seven-time state champion. Daughter of Eric and Lisa Montgomery, she was born February 26, 1997. Alyssa intends on majoring in computer science.

D’Airrien Jackson / Freshman / Track & Field

Alviso, Calif.

F An exceptional runner in the sprints all the way up to the 800m, D’Airrien was among not only the best in the sate of California, her times put her on the national charts. She competed at Wilcox High School in Santa Clara. She ran a PR of 12.42 in the 100m and has a 25.18 in the 200m during her high school career.

In the 400m, her personal best of 54.90 was the 11th best in California this year, it was also ranked No. 65 in the USA.

Kirsten Brugere / Freshman / Volleyball

St. Charles, Mo.

F Kirsten brings a defensive consistency to the Golden Eagles program, as she has been suiting up in the libero jersey for Francis Howell for all four years of her prep career, and was a two-year letter winner. In her junior and senior seasons she was named First Team All-District. She was named First Team All-Conference in her senior season and Second Team All-Conference in her junior season. Kirsten finished her career with 837 digs and 60 service aces. Off the court, she earned two All-Academic Team awards.

Courtney Manning / Freshman / Soccer

Nashville, Tenn.

F A two-sport athlete at Franklin Road Academy in Nashville, Courtney lettered in swim and soccer. She suited up on varsity as a center-mid for all four years. She received All-District, All-Region, All-State, Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, and DII TSWA All-State recognition. She finished her career with 31 goals and nine assists. In 2011 Courtney scored three goals and added two assists. In 2012 she had five goals and four assists. In 2013 she scored eight goals, and in 2014 she scored 15 goals and notched three assists. She helped lead the team to a pair of state finalist appearances and academically secured a spot on the Dean’s List in 2011-12 and 2014-15. Daughter of Jere and Kris Manning, Courtney was born November 1, 1996. She is majoring in nursing.

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photo by Sean Setters

IN FOCUS

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Uplifting...

Junior lineman WIlliam Chatmon hoists redshirt freshman runningback Dorian Carter after the youngster reached the end zone against Mercer to score the first TD of his Tech career.

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photo by Dave Winder

IN FOCUS

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Keep your eye on the ball...

Freshman Matthew Giles hits a solid shout out of the bunker during play at the Murray State Invitational in the Miller Memorial Golf Course in Murray, Ky.

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photo by Jim Dillon

IN FOCUS

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Tight Fit...

After striking the jersey with his serve to win it during the voleyball timeout serve contest, Noah Medley found out the size small shirt might not be the best fit for him.

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chatter SUPER POWER “Oh, you know I always talk about this.

I would be invisible. If you are invisible you can get away with anything. You could do anything in the world you wanted.

You could go on any flight for free. It’s the ultimate superpower I think.”

Hailing from London, England, Ryan Martin is a 6-foot-9 basketball player majoring in sociology.

After a two-year stint at South Plains College, Martin joins the Golden Eagle basketball team for his first season of action in 2015-16 following a redshirt year in 2014-15. We asked the newcomer to answer a few personal questions:

FAVORITE TEAMS “Soccer (or as Ryan calls it fútbol) would be Arsenal. NBA is the Knicks. College is actually Syracuse because I really liked Carmelo Anthony growing up.”

Favorite song FAVORITE FOOD “That’s tough. I’ve got Caribbean heritage in me, so I think it would probably be jerk chicken and rice and peas with some coleslaw on the side and a bit of mac-&cheese.”

CARTOON CHARACTER “I would be Goku from Dragon Ball Z. I love the way he always pushed the boundaries. At whatever level he was, he always found a way to exceed that level and keep his family safe and save the human race.

So if there’s anyone that could do it, Goku could do it.”

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“Say It” by Tory Lanez

ideal first date “I would want to take someone to a pretty exclusive restaurant and get to know them a little better. I don’t agree with the movies because if you go to the movies you don’t really get to know someone, so it kind of defeats the point of a first date. But then afterwards maybe go for a walk in the park.”

ANIMAL “A cheetah, because they are really fast.”

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my cookeville What sets Cookeville and the spectacular Upper Cumberland Region apart?

We ask folks familiar with the region for their opinions. For this edition, we get the thoughts of former Golden Eagle runningback OTTIS PHILLIPS.

SETS US APART...

MUSN’T MISS...

Each December the sixteen best High School Football Teams across Tennessee come here to decide who will be State Champs.

Cookeville serves as the host city because of the friendliness, hospitality, and enthusiasm shown by 700 volunteers working over three days to insure that the participants have an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the Historic West End area with great restaurants, museums, unique shops, a train depot, and a huge historic “Cream City” neon sign that lights up the night sky. In Dogwood Park, catch a concert, go wading in the city fountain or stroll along the walking trails.

REASON I’M HERE...

REV IT UP...

I live less than 3 miles from where my great, great grandfather farmed in the late 1700’s. I worked for 10 years living in three different cities and two other states, but nothing compared to the beauty of this area or the quality of life in Cookeville. I came home 24 years ago and stayed.

I love my motorcycle.

On any day I can leave my driveway and in 10 minutes be on one of 12 scenic rides called “Carve the Cumberland”. This area is quickly becoming a motorcycle destination with great roads, incredible scenery, and numerous points of interest.

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playlist

A native of Lexington, Ky., Evan Fraliex is a pitcher on the Tennessee Tech baseball team. We asked Evan to share the top songs on his playlist.

Before a game: Old Thing (Matoma Remix)

- Notorious BIG Return of the Mack

- Mark Morrison “I like to listen to those songs before a game because they are fun songs to listen to and help me stay relaxed and loose before getting on the field.”

While Studying: Lay Me Down

- Sam Smith and John Legend Daughters (“Or any John Mayer song, really.”)

- John Mayer “The songs help me relax from my day and start to switch my mind from baseball to studying.”

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photos by Jim Dillon

IN FOCUS

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Celebrate good times...

Setter Sharon Anderson (7) leads the celebration following a point for the Golden Eagles in their win against Western Carolina duirng the Golden Eagle Invitational presetned by Hampton Inn. INSET: Shaneice James and Kellie Williams get in on the celebratory action, too.

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photo by SPencer Williams

IN FOCUS

Who needs two hands?...

Golden Eagle receiver Jordan Smith shows enough concentration to haul in this onehanded catch despite tight coverage by the Mercer defender.

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photo by Cody Bryant

IN FOCUS

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Focus, PLEASE!...

Who says photo day doesn’t have its challenges? The Tennessee Tech men’s (below) and women’s (inset above) golf teams had a little fun during their annual photo day, even when the camera WAS flashing.

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photo by Spencer W

IN FOCUS

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Teamwork...

Several Golden Eagle defenders arive to stop the ball carrier in Tech’s home-opening victoy over Mercer.

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do you really know

Cody Dodd?

Golden Eagle fans know Tennessee Tech volleyball stars Cody Dodd, Allison Morrett, and Alyssa Povey. But do those three teammates really know each other?

Allison Morrett

Cody decided she would put her teammates to the test. She answered a series of questions before Allison and Alyssa entered the room, and then without any preparation Allison and Alyssa put their knowledge to the test to see just how well they knewCody Dodd.

Here are their answers and the results:

Cody Dodd

Alyssa Povey

Question: What is Cody’s favorite food?

Alyssa: Cookout!

Allison: Uuhh, a quesadilla?

Alyssa: Frozen mango chunks…?

Correct answer: Mac & Cheese Score: Alyssa: 0-1 Allison: 0-1 Question: What song can you always catch Cody dancing to?

Allison: The Hillary Duff station.

Alyssa: Tip Toe Wing In My Jawdinz Correct answer: Anything by Hillary Duff Score: Alyssa: 0-2 Allison: 1-2 Question: What is Cody’s middle name?

Alyssa and Allison (same time): Jewell.

Can you spell it?

Alyssa and Allison (same time): J-E-W-E-L-L Correct answer: Jewell.

Score: Alyssa: 1-3 Allison: 2-3

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do you really know

Cody Dodd?

Question: What is Cody’s biggest fear?

Allison: Toads!

Alyssa: Umm I don’t know. That’s a hard one…she isn’t afraid of anything.

(Pause) Alyssa: Not getting married?

Correct answer: Frogs Score: Alyssa: 1-4 Allison: 3-4 Question: If Cody was a Disney princess, who would she be?

Alyssa (said with authority): Rapunzel!

Allison: … Sure?

Correct answer: Rapunzel Score: Alyssa: 2-5 Allison: 4-5 Question: What is Cody’s favorite movie?

Allison: I’m going to guess, She’s the Man? Alyssa: Yea… That’s the only one.

Correct answer: She’s the Man Score: Alyssa: 3-6 Allison: 5-6 Question: Does Cody have siblings?

Allison and Alyssa (same time): Yes, one sister.

What is her name?

(Long Pause) Alyssa: She lives in Florida!

(Pause) Cody: What’s her name?!

(Pause) Alyssa: I’m not good under a lot of pressure… Does it start with an A? Cody: An A?!

Correct answer: Yes, a sister named Lindsey.

FINAL SCORE:

Alyssa: 3.5 - 7

Allison: 5.5 - 7

Allison and Alyssa may not have passed the Cody Dodd test with flying colors, but it’s safe to say that they do know their teammate pretty well.

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basketball

Get ready for an exciting season of basketball with the Golden Eagles.

Here are the team’s schedules.

2015-16 Women’s Schedule Date Nov. 7 Nov. 10 Nov. 14 Nov. 16 Nov. 19 Nov. 22 Nov. 27 Dec. 1 Dec. 3 Dec. 5 Dec. 13 Dec. 18 Dec. 20 Dec. 22 Dec. 28 Dec. 31 Jan. 2 Jan. 7 Jan. 9 Jan. 13 Jan. 16 Jan. 21 Jan. 23 Jan. 27 Jan. 30 Feb. 6 Feb. 10 Feb.13 Feb. 17 Feb. 20 Feb. 27 Mar. 2-5 Mar. 18-21 Mar. 25-28 Apr. 3-5

Opponent Tennessee Wesleyan (EXH) Martin Methodist (EXH) Arkansas State (DH) Mercer Georgia State Lipscomb at Northern Kentucky Southern Miss at Xavier at UNC Greensboro Clemson Louisville (DH) at Middle Tennessee Wichita State at Georgia Eastern Illinois * (DH) SIUE * (DH) at Murray State * (DH) at Austin Peay * (DH) at UT Martin * (DH) Southeast Missouri * (DH) Tennessee State * at Eastern Kentucky * (DH) at Morehead State * Belmont * (DH) at Jacksonville State * (DH) at Tennessee State * (DH) Jacksonville State * (DH) Morehead State * at Belmont * (DH) Eastern Kentucky * (DH) OVC Tournament NCAA Tourney – 1sr / 2nd Rounds NCAA Tourney – Regionals NCAA Tourney – Final Four

All times listed are Central * Denotes Ohio Valley Conference game (EXH) Denotes exhibition game (DH) Denotes doubleheader Bold indicates home games

2015-16 Men’s Schedule

Site COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE Covington, Ky. COOKEVILLE Cincinnati, Ohio Greensboro, N.C. COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE Murfreesboro, Tenn.

COOKEVILLE Athens, Ga. COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE Murray, Ky. Clarksville, Tenn.

Martin, Tenn.

COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE Richmond, Ky. Morehead, Ky. COOKEVILLE Jacksonville, Ala. Nashville, Tenn.

COOKEVILLE COOKEVILLE Nashville, Tenn.

COOKEVILLE Nashville, Tenn.

TBA TBA TBA

Time 6 p.m.

6 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

11 a.m.

1 p.m.

6 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

1 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5 p.m.

4 p.m.

11 a.m.

5:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

3 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

3 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

TBA TBA TBA TBA

Date Opponent Nov. 14 Piedmont College (DH) Nov. 16 at Air Force $ Nov. 18 at New Mexico State $ Nov. 24 Jackson State Nov. 27 Robert Morris $ Nov. 28 UC Clermont (DH) Nov. 29 Mississippi Valley State $ Dec. 2 East Tennessee State Dec. 5 at Lipscomb Dec. 12 at Arkansas Dec. 15 at Chattanooga Dec. 18 Miami (Ohio) (DH) Dec. 22 at Iowa Dec. 31 Eastern Illinois * (DH) Jan. 2 SIUE * (DH) Jan. 7 at Murray State * (DH) Jan. 9 at Austin Peay * (DH) Jan. 13 at UT Martin * (DH) Jan. 16 Southeast Missouri * (DH) Jan. 21 at Morehead State * Jan. 23 at Eastern Kentucky * (DH) Jan. 28 Tennessee State * Jan. 30 Belmont * (DH) Feb. 6 at Jacksonville State * (DH) Feb. 10 at Tennessee State * (DH) Feb. 13 Jacksonville State * (DH) Feb. 20 at Belmont * (DH) Feb. 25 Morehead State * Feb. 27 Eastern Kentucky * (DH) Mar. 2-5 OVC Tournament Mar. 15-30NCAA Tourney – 1st/2nd Rds Mar. 24-27NCAA Tourney – Regionals Apr. 2-4 NCAA Tourney – Final Four

Site Time COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Colorado Springs, Colo. 8 p.m.

Las Cruces, N. M. 6 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 6 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 6 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 5:30 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 2 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 6 p.m.

Nashville, Tenn.

6:30 p.m.

Fayetteville, Ark. 7 p.m.

Chattanooga, Tenn.

6 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Iowa City, Iowa 7:30 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 3 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Murray, Ky. 7 p.m.

Clarksville, Tenn.

7 p.m.

Martin, Tenn.

6 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Morehead, Ky. 6 p.m.

Richmond, Ky. 3 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 8 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Jacksonville, Ala. 4:30 p.m.

Nashville, Tenn.

7:30 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Nashville, Tenn.

5 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 6 p.m.

COOKEVILLE 7:30 p.m.

Nashville, Tenn.

TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

All times listed are Central $ Denotes Air Force Classic * Denotes Ohio Valley Conference game # Denotes game follows Robert Morris vs. Mississippi Valley game (DH) Denotes doubleheader Bold indicates home games

CALL 931-372-3940 FOR TICKETS 57

kets

First thing tomorrow, call to order tic