Chargers get close, but can’t find endzone often enough
After starting the game with a 30 yard completion from Mark Nicolet to Chad Gurica, it looked like the Charger offense would have its way with Michigan Tech. The Huskies’ defense would have a stellar first half, stopping deep Charger drives twice on 4th down.
Hillsdale kicked an apparent fieldgoal but Keith Otterbein and his staff took the points off the board when an off-sides penalty by the Huskies gave Hillsdale the first down. Before the Chargers could convert, MTU took the ball away an interception to limit Hillsdale to 6 first half points.
The Chargers’ lone score of the first half was an 18 yard pass from Nicolet to Gurica. Mark Petro’s extra point was blocked. 14-6 Tech at the half.
After MTU’s Lee Marana picked up a fumble by his own QB for a 17 yard touchdown, the Charger defense made its own noise in the second half. Tom Korte sacked MTU quarterback Steve Short on a 4th down attempt. The Chargers then picked up a break a series later when the Chargers recovered a muffed punt.
Hillsdale drew within 2 points midway through the 4th quarter when Nicolet kept an option and snuck in from the 1. On the conversion attempt, throwback pass from Phil Martin to Nicolet was complete but the Charger qb could get into the endzone for the tie.
The Huskies used ball-contol to burn the final 6 minutes, handing Hillsdale its 3rd loss of the season. 14 to 12.
Nicolet had the most accurate day of his career completing 18 of 22 passes for 204 yards, 1 passing touchdown and a rushing touchdown.
Nick Gurica had a huge day catching 9 balls for 141 yards and a touchdown.
Phil Martin beocmes the 2nd player in Hillsdale history to eclipse 3000 yards. He had 59 yards on 20 carries in this game.
Tradition • Character • Service
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Hillsdale-Tech Update
Hillsdale 6
MTU 7 (H)
Hillsdale
Rushing 38yds.
Passing 165 yds.
Nicolet 12/14 165 yds. 1TD 1INT
Gurica: TD 7 catches/ 119 yds.
Jared Kell: Int.
Tech
Rushing 88 yds.
Passing 73 yds.
QB Steve Short: 7/10 73 1INT 1TD
MTU 7 (H)
Hillsdale
Rushing 38yds.
Passing 165 yds.
Nicolet 12/14 165 yds. 1TD 1INT
Gurica: TD 7 catches/ 119 yds.
Jared Kell: Int.
Tech
Rushing 88 yds.
Passing 73 yds.
QB Steve Short: 7/10 73 1INT 1TD
Friday, September 29, 2006
Close game has happy ending for Chargers
Full Story from The Hillsdale Collegian
Saturday night lights
By Liz Klimas
Collegian Reporter
It rained excitement and mist Saturday night for the Chargers’ second home game and second win of the season as they beat Ferris State University 29-27.
Though weather conditions were not ideal for players and fans, students said it was important to brave getting wet for support of the team.
“It is good for the moral of the team, and it is good to show school spirit,” sophomore Geoff Matteson said.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
For Those about to Rock
Here is the latest design to be added to the Chargerblue.com Online Store. In no way is it supposed to be like any heavy metal groups' logo, especially one known for being back in black.
Support Chargerblue.com with a purchase today. 24 designs now available.
A Couple More Pics
Nancy Rumsey sent us two more pictures for the Flickr site. Thanks Nancy!
Take your digital camera to the next Chargers's game and send your photos this way.
Take your digital camera to the next Chargers's game and send your photos this way.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Muddy Waters Memorial Set 10/8
Hillsdale College Press Release
Memorial service for Frank “Muddy” Waters scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. Hillsdale, Mich. — A memorial service for former Hillsdale College football coach Frank “Muddy” Waters will be held on campus on Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. inside the Jesse Philips Arena. Waters passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 20 in Saginaw, Mich. He was the head football coach at Hillsdale College from 1954-1973, and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 11, 2000. Waters is the all-time winningest coach in Hillsdale’s 115-year football history, winning 138 games during his career. His coaching accomplishments include seven straight MIAA titles, spanning from 1954-1960, and a 34-game winning streak, that spanned parts of four seasons. He was the NAIA Coach of the Year in 1957, and was part of the inaugural class inducted into the Hillsdale College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997. The football stadium at Hillsdale College was named for Waters in the early 1970s. The memorial service will be open to the public. Jesse Philips Arena is located inside the George Roche Sports Complex, located at 201 Oak Street in Hillsdale.
Memorial service for Frank “Muddy” Waters scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. Hillsdale, Mich. — A memorial service for former Hillsdale College football coach Frank “Muddy” Waters will be held on campus on Sunday, Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. inside the Jesse Philips Arena. Waters passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 20 in Saginaw, Mich. He was the head football coach at Hillsdale College from 1954-1973, and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 11, 2000. Waters is the all-time winningest coach in Hillsdale’s 115-year football history, winning 138 games during his career. His coaching accomplishments include seven straight MIAA titles, spanning from 1954-1960, and a 34-game winning streak, that spanned parts of four seasons. He was the NAIA Coach of the Year in 1957, and was part of the inaugural class inducted into the Hillsdale College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997. The football stadium at Hillsdale College was named for Waters in the early 1970s. The memorial service will be open to the public. Jesse Philips Arena is located inside the George Roche Sports Complex, located at 201 Oak Street in Hillsdale.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Close game has happy ending for Chargers
Close game has happy ending for Chargers
Rich McGowan, Sports Editor
517.437.6022
Hillsdale College was all too familiar with this situation.
In their last two games, the Chargers saw their opponents go for game–winning touchdowns in the wanning minutes of the fourth quarter.
Saturday night Ferris State took possession at their own 36–yard line with 1:14 to play. After doing damage with his legs all night, Bulldog quarterback C.J. Van Wieren was forced to throw and when Ferris failed to convert on 4th–and–7 Hillsdale could breath easy as they came out on the right end of a 29–27 score.
Full story on Hillsdale.net
This One was for Muddy; Hillsdale Rallies to Upend Ferris State
Official Press Release
Hillsdale College
Sept. 23, 2006 - It was the kind of football Saturday that would have made Frank "Muddy" Waters smile.
One of the teams he used to coach, Saginaw Valley, pulled out a dramatic win Saturday. The team he started his career with, Hillsdale College, got a much-needed victory in front of a soaked, but enthusiastic home crowd, 29-27 Saturday night.
The win improves Hillsdale to 2-2 overall and in the GLIAC on the season, while the Bulldogs were sent to their first defeat of the campaign, and are now 3-1 and 2-1 in the conference.
Waters passed away Wednesday morning at the age of 83. The Hillsdale players wore "Muddy" stickers on their helmets, and the coaching staff wore "Muddy" buttons to remember the legendary coach. Although the new ProGrass artificial surface turf didn't get muddy, the steady mist of rain added atmosphere to an already dramatic evening.
full story
Hillsdale College
Sept. 23, 2006 - It was the kind of football Saturday that would have made Frank "Muddy" Waters smile.
One of the teams he used to coach, Saginaw Valley, pulled out a dramatic win Saturday. The team he started his career with, Hillsdale College, got a much-needed victory in front of a soaked, but enthusiastic home crowd, 29-27 Saturday night.
The win improves Hillsdale to 2-2 overall and in the GLIAC on the season, while the Bulldogs were sent to their first defeat of the campaign, and are now 3-1 and 2-1 in the conference.
Waters passed away Wednesday morning at the age of 83. The Hillsdale players wore "Muddy" stickers on their helmets, and the coaching staff wore "Muddy" buttons to remember the legendary coach. Although the new ProGrass artificial surface turf didn't get muddy, the steady mist of rain added atmosphere to an already dramatic evening.
full story
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Chargers Host Undefeated Bulldogs
Chagers host unbeaten Bulldogs
Hillsdale Daily News
Rich McGowan, Sports Editor
517.437.6022
Though Hillsdale College has lost its last two games on long touchdown passes late in the fourth quarter, Charger coach Keith Otterbein said there wasn’t as bitter a taste left in his team’s mouth after last week’s loss to Ashland as there was after the Chargers’ home–opening loss to Northern Michigan two weeks ago.
He said if the Chargers continue to play with the passion and effort they showed in Ashland, they’ll find themselves on the winning end of the scoreboard more often.
“They realize they’re a good football team, that’s a point I keep emphasizing to them,” Otterbein said. “We’re a good football team and if we keep playing the same way...we’ll be just fine.”
The Chargers play their only night game of the season on Saturday as the host Ferris State at 7 p.m. The Bulldogs enter the game with a 3–0 record coming off an upset of No. 5–ranked Saginaw Valley State. Ferris took a 26–8 lead into halftime before hanging on in the fourth quarter as the Bulldog defense forced a Cardinal fumble at the 1–yard line in the game’s final minute to preserve a 26–23 win.
“It was a nail–biter it was a lot like our last two games,” Otterbein said. “It came down to the last possession and Ferris made a goal–line stand and they’re 3–0 now, they’re playing with a lot of fire and a lot of heart.”
Along with a wave of momentum, Ferris will bring an offensive line averaging 6 feet 5 inches and 306 pounds per man and a defense holding opponents to just 63 rushing yards a game.
“They defensive line is exceptional,” Otterbein said. “They’re big, they’re strong and move around. Their offensive line is giant. They’re making plays, they’re doing a good job and certainly we have to play well to win on Saturday.”
Saturday’s will be the first for the Chargers since the passing away of former football coach Frank “Muddy” Waters. Waters, a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, led the team from 1954–73 and established Hillsdale as one of the best small college team in the country.
The Chargers will wear stickers bearing Waters’ name on their helmets this weekend.
While Waters’ passing has left the Charger program saddened, Otterbein said when kickoff arrives on Saturday his players will be ready for Ferris.
“I addressed after practice (Wednesday) Muddy’s passing and talked to our team about the influence he had on our program and his impact on the Charger football family,” Otterbein said. “It certainly is a sad time for us, but I don’t think you ever go out and win one for the Gipper. We’re trying to just go and win a game regardless.”
Hillsdale Daily News
Rich McGowan, Sports Editor
517.437.6022
Though Hillsdale College has lost its last two games on long touchdown passes late in the fourth quarter, Charger coach Keith Otterbein said there wasn’t as bitter a taste left in his team’s mouth after last week’s loss to Ashland as there was after the Chargers’ home–opening loss to Northern Michigan two weeks ago.
He said if the Chargers continue to play with the passion and effort they showed in Ashland, they’ll find themselves on the winning end of the scoreboard more often.
“They realize they’re a good football team, that’s a point I keep emphasizing to them,” Otterbein said. “We’re a good football team and if we keep playing the same way...we’ll be just fine.”
The Chargers play their only night game of the season on Saturday as the host Ferris State at 7 p.m. The Bulldogs enter the game with a 3–0 record coming off an upset of No. 5–ranked Saginaw Valley State. Ferris took a 26–8 lead into halftime before hanging on in the fourth quarter as the Bulldog defense forced a Cardinal fumble at the 1–yard line in the game’s final minute to preserve a 26–23 win.
“It was a nail–biter it was a lot like our last two games,” Otterbein said. “It came down to the last possession and Ferris made a goal–line stand and they’re 3–0 now, they’re playing with a lot of fire and a lot of heart.”
Along with a wave of momentum, Ferris will bring an offensive line averaging 6 feet 5 inches and 306 pounds per man and a defense holding opponents to just 63 rushing yards a game.
“They defensive line is exceptional,” Otterbein said. “They’re big, they’re strong and move around. Their offensive line is giant. They’re making plays, they’re doing a good job and certainly we have to play well to win on Saturday.”
Saturday’s will be the first for the Chargers since the passing away of former football coach Frank “Muddy” Waters. Waters, a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, led the team from 1954–73 and established Hillsdale as one of the best small college team in the country.
The Chargers will wear stickers bearing Waters’ name on their helmets this weekend.
While Waters’ passing has left the Charger program saddened, Otterbein said when kickoff arrives on Saturday his players will be ready for Ferris.
“I addressed after practice (Wednesday) Muddy’s passing and talked to our team about the influence he had on our program and his impact on the Charger football family,” Otterbein said. “It certainly is a sad time for us, but I don’t think you ever go out and win one for the Gipper. We’re trying to just go and win a game regardless.”
Friday, September 22, 2006
Spirit Club Bridging the Gap
This was in last week's Collegian. Great effort by non-athletes to bring the Hillsdale campus together! Let's hope this grows and grows!
Spirit Club works to bridge gap
By Maria Schmitt
Hillsdale Collegian
Collegian Freelancer
Look out, athletes – goody baskets and fans are coming your way. Thanks to the new program, My Charger…Our Champs!, athletes can expect a lot more attention and support this year from the student body.
Instated this year by the Spirit Club and the Student Activities Office, the program was created to bring athletes and non-athletes closer by allowing students to “adopt an athlete” for a season.
“We wanted to bridge the gap between students and athletes,” said Rebekah Dell, director of Student Activities.
The idea for the program arose two years ago during the leadership training program for head resident advisors, but the program itself did not become a reality until the administration approved it this year.
The Spirit Club, another product of the leadership training program, is working on creating traditions at Hillsdale College and inciting more school spirit. “It’s been a lot of fun to watch it all come together,” Dell said.
Spirit Club president Anna Ashmore said the program is showing good results so far. “It’s taken flight,” she said. “It’s amazing.”
In a total of three days, all 94 Hillsdale football players had been adopted. Adopters pulled names from a “cup of champs” and signed up to support their athletes for the entire season.
Full Story
Spirit Club works to bridge gap
By Maria Schmitt
Hillsdale Collegian
Collegian Freelancer
Look out, athletes – goody baskets and fans are coming your way. Thanks to the new program, My Charger…Our Champs!, athletes can expect a lot more attention and support this year from the student body.
Instated this year by the Spirit Club and the Student Activities Office, the program was created to bring athletes and non-athletes closer by allowing students to “adopt an athlete” for a season.
“We wanted to bridge the gap between students and athletes,” said Rebekah Dell, director of Student Activities.
The idea for the program arose two years ago during the leadership training program for head resident advisors, but the program itself did not become a reality until the administration approved it this year.
The Spirit Club, another product of the leadership training program, is working on creating traditions at Hillsdale College and inciting more school spirit. “It’s been a lot of fun to watch it all come together,” Dell said.
Spirit Club president Anna Ashmore said the program is showing good results so far. “It’s taken flight,” she said. “It’s amazing.”
In a total of three days, all 94 Hillsdale football players had been adopted. Adopters pulled names from a “cup of champs” and signed up to support their athletes for the entire season.
Full Story
Thursday, September 21, 2006
The Essence of Muddy Waters
News of Muddy's passing is being printed across the country and most articles are a rewrite of the same story or Hillsdale's release, but I saw a quote in the Lansing State Journal that really sums up why so many people were deeply touched by this man's life. More than winning football games, this is why Muddy was so great:
"He’ll be remembered as a very generous person who gave his time to a lot of young men and mentored a lot of young men,” said “Murky” Waters, who played at MSU under Duffy Daugherty in the late 1960s. “He didn’t care if a kid was a first-stringer or a last-stringer, if he had a problem, my dad would bend over backward to solve it.
“He believed in everybody.”
"He’ll be remembered as a very generous person who gave his time to a lot of young men and mentored a lot of young men,” said “Murky” Waters, who played at MSU under Duffy Daugherty in the late 1960s. “He didn’t care if a kid was a first-stringer or a last-stringer, if he had a problem, my dad would bend over backward to solve it.
“He believed in everybody.”
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Goodbye Muddy
Frank 'Muddy' Waters dies at 83
Sep. 20, 2006
CBS SportsLine.com wire reports
SAGINAW, Mich. -- Frank "Muddy" Waters, the College Football Hall of Fame coach who had a successful run at Hillsdale College and finished his long career at Michigan State, died Wednesday. He was 83.
Waters died of congestive heart failure in Saginaw, where he had lived several months at an assisted living facility after moving from the Lansing area, Hillsdale spokesman Brad Monastiere said.
Waters coached at Hillsdale from 1954 through 1973, spent the following five seasons at Saginaw Valley State, then was head coach at Michigan State from 1980 through 1982.
Hillsdale won the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association championship in each of Waters' first seven years there. His 1955 team went 9-0 and gained national recognition for refusing to play in the Tangerine Bowl when bowl officials said the team's black players couldn't dress for the game in Orlando, Fla.
Waters' record at Hillsdale was 138-47-5. He started the Saginaw Valley State football program and led the Cardinals to a 24-26-2 record in five seasons.
Waters finished his coaching career at his alma mater, Michigan State, where his Spartans went 10-23 in three seasons.
"Muddy was a true Spartan," Michigan State athletic director Ron Mason said. "He was a caring, wonderful person who represented himself, his program, our university well to our alumni and our fans. We're deeply saddened by his passing, and all of our thoughts are with Muddy's family and friends in this difficult time."
Waters was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. He also was a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame and was named NAIA coach of the year in 1957, when Hillsdale lost 27-26 to Pittsburg State in the national championship game.
Waters is survived by three sons. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou, and another son.
Funeral arrangements were incomplete. A memorial service was being planned at the Hillsdale campus, where the football stadium is named for Waters, Monastiere said.
Sep. 20, 2006
CBS SportsLine.com wire reports
SAGINAW, Mich. -- Frank "Muddy" Waters, the College Football Hall of Fame coach who had a successful run at Hillsdale College and finished his long career at Michigan State, died Wednesday. He was 83.
Waters died of congestive heart failure in Saginaw, where he had lived several months at an assisted living facility after moving from the Lansing area, Hillsdale spokesman Brad Monastiere said.
Waters coached at Hillsdale from 1954 through 1973, spent the following five seasons at Saginaw Valley State, then was head coach at Michigan State from 1980 through 1982.
Hillsdale won the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association championship in each of Waters' first seven years there. His 1955 team went 9-0 and gained national recognition for refusing to play in the Tangerine Bowl when bowl officials said the team's black players couldn't dress for the game in Orlando, Fla.
Waters' record at Hillsdale was 138-47-5. He started the Saginaw Valley State football program and led the Cardinals to a 24-26-2 record in five seasons.
Waters finished his coaching career at his alma mater, Michigan State, where his Spartans went 10-23 in three seasons.
"Muddy was a true Spartan," Michigan State athletic director Ron Mason said. "He was a caring, wonderful person who represented himself, his program, our university well to our alumni and our fans. We're deeply saddened by his passing, and all of our thoughts are with Muddy's family and friends in this difficult time."
Waters was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. He also was a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame and was named NAIA coach of the year in 1957, when Hillsdale lost 27-26 to Pittsburg State in the national championship game.
Waters is survived by three sons. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou, and another son.
Funeral arrangements were incomplete. A memorial service was being planned at the Hillsdale campus, where the football stadium is named for Waters, Monastiere said.
Free Food U
NCAA drops hammer on Ferris Football players for gravy-training free food with expired meal cards. The ten players suspended can serve their time at any point throughout the season. Whether any of those will be in effect during Saturday's game at Hillsdale is unknown.
Ferris State suspends 10 football players
Friday, September 01, 2006
By Howie Beardsley
The Grand Rapids Press
Ten members of the Ferris State football team have been suspended at least one game for illegally obtaining meals through the school's dining services in the summer of 2005.
The players are safety Nick Beaudry (three games), middle linebacker Rob Evenboer (three), guard Allen Feigel (one), quarterback Ryan Kaul (two), Grand Haven All-American linebacker Mike Klobucher (one), center/guard Rob Lukofsky (three), linebacker Nick Maeder (one), linebacker Kevin Noe (one), defensive tackle Jereld Sawyer (two), and quarterback C.J. Van Wieren (three) of West Ottawa.
All 10 players are either starters or found on the squad's two-deep roster.
According to Ferris State athletic director Tom Kirinovic, the NCAA allows the school to spread out the suspensions over the Bulldogs' first five games, beginning with Saturday's season opener at Kentucky State.
All the players were handed NCAA sanctions for using student identification cards, which had been activated for use last summer, to purchase meals beyond the authorized time period for the cards.
Because of a processing error by the university, their cards were not de-activated at the proper time, and the athletes continued to illegally access dining services.
"During preseason camp, the student-athletes buy their meals with those cards before the (dormitory) halls open for the school year," Kirinovic said. "In the case of the kids involved, their meal cards were not turned off as they should have been, and they continued to obtain meals they shouldn't have been able to obtain."
Because Ferris State self-reported the unauthorized receipt of goods or services to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the NCAA did not discipline the FSU athletic department or football program.
"It's unfortunate that some of our players exhibited poor judgment in this matter. All the students have subsequently paid for the meals in question."
Improper use of the dining cards ranged from $6 to $1,144, and involved students and student-athletes at Ferris State.
"We've been told not to talk about this with anyone," Van Wieren said.
When asked if he was playing Saturday, the junior replied: "Possibly, but I can't talk about it."
Because the illegal meal purchases were made last summer, some of the football players involved are no longer eligible for competition, or graduated.
"Any kid involved has had their personal accounts billed by the university," Kirinovic said.
Ferris State suspends 10 football players
Friday, September 01, 2006
By Howie Beardsley
The Grand Rapids Press
Ten members of the Ferris State football team have been suspended at least one game for illegally obtaining meals through the school's dining services in the summer of 2005.
The players are safety Nick Beaudry (three games), middle linebacker Rob Evenboer (three), guard Allen Feigel (one), quarterback Ryan Kaul (two), Grand Haven All-American linebacker Mike Klobucher (one), center/guard Rob Lukofsky (three), linebacker Nick Maeder (one), linebacker Kevin Noe (one), defensive tackle Jereld Sawyer (two), and quarterback C.J. Van Wieren (three) of West Ottawa.
All 10 players are either starters or found on the squad's two-deep roster.
According to Ferris State athletic director Tom Kirinovic, the NCAA allows the school to spread out the suspensions over the Bulldogs' first five games, beginning with Saturday's season opener at Kentucky State.
All the players were handed NCAA sanctions for using student identification cards, which had been activated for use last summer, to purchase meals beyond the authorized time period for the cards.
Because of a processing error by the university, their cards were not de-activated at the proper time, and the athletes continued to illegally access dining services.
"During preseason camp, the student-athletes buy their meals with those cards before the (dormitory) halls open for the school year," Kirinovic said. "In the case of the kids involved, their meal cards were not turned off as they should have been, and they continued to obtain meals they shouldn't have been able to obtain."
Because Ferris State self-reported the unauthorized receipt of goods or services to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the NCAA did not discipline the FSU athletic department or football program.
"It's unfortunate that some of our players exhibited poor judgment in this matter. All the students have subsequently paid for the meals in question."
Improper use of the dining cards ranged from $6 to $1,144, and involved students and student-athletes at Ferris State.
"We've been told not to talk about this with anyone," Van Wieren said.
When asked if he was playing Saturday, the junior replied: "Possibly, but I can't talk about it."
Because the illegal meal purchases were made last summer, some of the football players involved are no longer eligible for competition, or graduated.
"Any kid involved has had their personal accounts billed by the university," Kirinovic said.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
New Podcast Now Online
Episode 7 is up and online at The Charger Comment.
Highlights from the Ashland Game
A look at Ferris St.
Schulte and Larking to be inducted
Highlights from the Ashland Game
A look at Ferris St.
Schulte and Larking to be inducted
Monday, September 18, 2006
Schulte to Become Youngest Charger HOF Member Ever
Chargers induct New HOF Members during Saturday Night's Ferris State Game
It is hard to believe that it has been 12 years since Scott Schulte last carried the football for Hillsdale College. Without a doubt one of the greatest ever to wear the Charger blue, Schulte had an amazing ability to turn a play that looked like disaster in the backfield into a game changing breakaway to the endzone. Images of him simply tying defenders into knots are still vivid in my mind.
Without Scott Schulte, we probably would not have claimed a share of the 1992 league championship...and I would have gotten to play more. Okay....probably not....But as silly as Schulte made me look every single day trying to tackle him during my years of scout team duty, made it really hard to move up the ranks of the linebacking corps. But oh well, I will gladly take the ring and the privilege of calling this guy my teammate over the alternative. Besides in all honesty, trying to run him down each play probably made me a lot better, just not good enough to crack the fly-around defensive line-up that also played a big roll in that championship.
His numbers are astounding. After a freshman year spent as back up to another pretty good tailback Jeff Cameron, Schulte exploded for consecutive years of 1144, 1582, and 1499 yards rushing. His 4,495 career yards are almost 1,900 more than Phil Martin's second-place all time mark of 2,700 plus yards. Schulte also owns 3 of the top 5 single-season rushing marks. The 1582 yards gained in 1992 is the all-time Hillsdale single season record. His 1499 gained in 1993 is 2nd and his 1144 is 5th all time.
Schulte was the MIFC (now GLIAC) Offensive MVP in 1992 and 1993.
Also entering the Hall this year is Jim Larkin, a 2 time All-American who later served 3 years on Muddy Waters' staff and took over the Saginaw Valley program in 1980.
Ceremonies for the entire class of 2006 inductees take place Saturday evening with a dinner and enshrinement ceremonies at halftime of the Chargers' game with Ferris State.
Complete Hillsdale College Release
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Chargers Drop Another Heartbreaker
With the ball in Ashland's redzone, down by 6, and in the closing minute, it looked Hillsdale may pull out a huge road victory today. Unfortunately, the Chargers ran out of downs and lose to Ashland 24-30 in a close and hard fought game.
Hillsdale battled back from a 10-0 defecit and were tied at 24-24 with just under 4 minutes to play before Eagle qb Jon Ferguson tossed the game winning 71 yard touchdown pass.
Hillsdale falls to 1-2 and faces Ferris State next Saturday night.
Hillsdale battled back from a 10-0 defecit and were tied at 24-24 with just under 4 minutes to play before Eagle qb Jon Ferguson tossed the game winning 71 yard touchdown pass.
Hillsdale falls to 1-2 and faces Ferris State next Saturday night.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Ex-Catholic Central stars line up for Hillsdale
Ex-Catholic Central stars line up for Hillsdale
Friday, September 15, 2006
The Grand Rapids Press
The Hillsdale football roster has a pair of familiar names from one City League school.
Former Catholic Central standouts Tom Korte and Alex Mileskiewicz, both sophomores, currently are playing for the Chargers.
Korte, a two-sport star during his prep career, has led the team in tackles with a combined 15 in two games as a starting linebacker. He also has one interception.
Mileskiewicz, a defensive back, has two tackles for a Hillsdale team that routed Gannon in its opener, 35-7, before losing last week to Northern Michigan 31-24. The Chargers travel to Ashland on Saturday. Kick-off is 1 p.m.
Friday, September 15, 2006
The Grand Rapids Press
The Hillsdale football roster has a pair of familiar names from one City League school.
Former Catholic Central standouts Tom Korte and Alex Mileskiewicz, both sophomores, currently are playing for the Chargers.
Korte, a two-sport star during his prep career, has led the team in tackles with a combined 15 in two games as a starting linebacker. He also has one interception.
Mileskiewicz, a defensive back, has two tackles for a Hillsdale team that routed Gannon in its opener, 35-7, before losing last week to Northern Michigan 31-24. The Chargers travel to Ashland on Saturday. Kick-off is 1 p.m.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
What the Heck is This?
Hillsdale.net photoWhat is this? Hillsdale College students cheering at games? Verrry Nice!Saturday's home opener featured a great showing by the student body to get out and support the Chargers. More than one player commented that they really appreciated the atmosphere. The new Charger mascot was a nice addition. Does he have a name yet?
Monday, September 11, 2006
NMU Pics Posted
Thanks again to Nancy Rumsey for sharing another set of her pictures. Check them out at our Flickr site.
Request for Design Ideas
After a flood of creativity this summer kicked off the Chargerblue.com Online Stores at e-shirts and Cafe Press, it is now time to ask you the users of this site to tell me what else you would like to see available. Just email me suggestions and together we can make them happen...Well as long as they are in good taste.
Possibilities include:
Offensive/Defensive Position Groups
Off-Campus "Houses"
Un-Official Fraternities/Organizations
Quotes/Slogans
Ideas for new Graphics
Alumni Groups
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Rivera's Clutch Play Dooms Hillsdale
The Hillsdale Chargers lost at home Saturday 31 to 24 to Northern Michigan University. The following are some thoughts from Charger radio play-by-play broadcaster Andy Brown.
As devastating as Nick Gurrica's punt return turnover was, it was not the reason the Chargers lost the Northern game. Hillsdale's defense had the Wildcat offense third and long on the drive directly following Gurica's muff. Northern quarterback Buddy Rivera found Greg Raspberry for a 19-yard touchdown pass, but only after Andy Dion had Rivera all but sacked, and then another Charger nearly brought him down. That play began a 17-0 run that put Northern ahead for the first time, and ultimately lifted the Wildcats to the victory.
Time and time again, on third or even fourth down and long, Buddy Rivera found wide open receivers for big plays to keep drives going, or to put points on the board. None of these clutch conversions could rival Rivera's play on 4th and 10 with just over 4 minutes left in the game. Rivera hooked up with Tyler Schrauben on a 12-yard route that kept Northern alive. Just four plays later, Rivera hit a wide open Greg Raspberry on a 55-yard touchdown pass that effectively broke Hillsdale's back.
Sure, people will ask what on earth the Chargers' secondary was doing, especially on that final touchdown pass. But the bigger factor to me was the fact that Buddy Rivera refused to allow his team to lose. The Chargers were one play away from blowing Northern out in the first quarter, but a little luck and Rivera's determination made the difference.
As devastating as Nick Gurrica's punt return turnover was, it was not the reason the Chargers lost the Northern game. Hillsdale's defense had the Wildcat offense third and long on the drive directly following Gurica's muff. Northern quarterback Buddy Rivera found Greg Raspberry for a 19-yard touchdown pass, but only after Andy Dion had Rivera all but sacked, and then another Charger nearly brought him down. That play began a 17-0 run that put Northern ahead for the first time, and ultimately lifted the Wildcats to the victory.
Time and time again, on third or even fourth down and long, Buddy Rivera found wide open receivers for big plays to keep drives going, or to put points on the board. None of these clutch conversions could rival Rivera's play on 4th and 10 with just over 4 minutes left in the game. Rivera hooked up with Tyler Schrauben on a 12-yard route that kept Northern alive. Just four plays later, Rivera hit a wide open Greg Raspberry on a 55-yard touchdown pass that effectively broke Hillsdale's back.
Sure, people will ask what on earth the Chargers' secondary was doing, especially on that final touchdown pass. But the bigger factor to me was the fact that Buddy Rivera refused to allow his team to lose. The Chargers were one play away from blowing Northern out in the first quarter, but a little luck and Rivera's determination made the difference.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Hillsdale will test Wildcats' rushing game
Hillsdale will test Wildcats’ rushing game
By KURT MENSCHING, Journal Sports Writer
MARQUETTE – You get no breaks when you’re a football team struggling to pull your way up the standings of a tough conference.
Northern Michigan University had to make its own luck last Saturday against one of the better defenses in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
The Wildcats get to do it all over again when they travel to Hillsdale College for a 2:30 p.m. game Saturday.
“My biggest concern was we hadn’t faced a lot of adversity,” NMU coach Bernie Anderson said after practice Wednesday. “We faced some adversity Saturday, and we passed that test.”
The Wildcats beat Indianapolis, 27-20, in overtime after trailing by 13 points in the fourth quarter.
In contrast, the Chargers beat Gannon University, 35-7, on the road and took the ball away four times.
“They (Hillsdale) are much improved, from what we can see on film, over a year ago,” Anderson said. “They were a good football team a year ago. They’re very tough to beat at home – football’s the sport at their school. They’ve had a national championship in their history.
“We know what they’re capable of, but we just have to concentrate on ourselves, not Hillsdale.”
To that extent, quarterback Buddy Rivera continues to do well with Anderson’s new offensive scheme.
Rivera accounted for all four touchdowns in the Superior Dome, two on the ground and two through the air.
The problem area Anderson sees come in the rushing game – on both sides of the line of scrimmage.
The Wildcats pushed the ball just 100 yards on the ground, and the NMU defense didn’t do a great job of stopping the run, either.
“We’re a young football team up front, our line, it’s a new system, and we played against a very good defense,” Anderson said. “When you put those in the same mixture, you’re going to struggle a little bit. With time, we’ll get better with that part.”
Hillsdale’s Phil Martin moved the ball 155 yards and scored twice in the opener. Anderson expects the Wildcats to see a lot of him and knows NMU’s success will begin with its ability to stop the run.
“After giving up (200) yards rushing, if I was an opponent coming to play Northern Michigan right now, I’d look to rush the football,” Anderson said.
The game in southern Michigan gives Anderson his first chance to travel with his team.
“It gives us some private time, nice relaxing on the bus,” he said. “We get to eat together as a team. We’re in the hotel, We get a good night’s rest.
“And we get an opportunity to beat someone on their home field.
“I kind of like that setting. I think our players will, too.”
By KURT MENSCHING, Journal Sports Writer
MARQUETTE – You get no breaks when you’re a football team struggling to pull your way up the standings of a tough conference.
Northern Michigan University had to make its own luck last Saturday against one of the better defenses in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
The Wildcats get to do it all over again when they travel to Hillsdale College for a 2:30 p.m. game Saturday.
“My biggest concern was we hadn’t faced a lot of adversity,” NMU coach Bernie Anderson said after practice Wednesday. “We faced some adversity Saturday, and we passed that test.”
The Wildcats beat Indianapolis, 27-20, in overtime after trailing by 13 points in the fourth quarter.
In contrast, the Chargers beat Gannon University, 35-7, on the road and took the ball away four times.
“They (Hillsdale) are much improved, from what we can see on film, over a year ago,” Anderson said. “They were a good football team a year ago. They’re very tough to beat at home – football’s the sport at their school. They’ve had a national championship in their history.
“We know what they’re capable of, but we just have to concentrate on ourselves, not Hillsdale.”
To that extent, quarterback Buddy Rivera continues to do well with Anderson’s new offensive scheme.
Rivera accounted for all four touchdowns in the Superior Dome, two on the ground and two through the air.
The problem area Anderson sees come in the rushing game – on both sides of the line of scrimmage.
The Wildcats pushed the ball just 100 yards on the ground, and the NMU defense didn’t do a great job of stopping the run, either.
“We’re a young football team up front, our line, it’s a new system, and we played against a very good defense,” Anderson said. “When you put those in the same mixture, you’re going to struggle a little bit. With time, we’ll get better with that part.”
Hillsdale’s Phil Martin moved the ball 155 yards and scored twice in the opener. Anderson expects the Wildcats to see a lot of him and knows NMU’s success will begin with its ability to stop the run.
“After giving up (200) yards rushing, if I was an opponent coming to play Northern Michigan right now, I’d look to rush the football,” Anderson said.
The game in southern Michigan gives Anderson his first chance to travel with his team.
“It gives us some private time, nice relaxing on the bus,” he said. “We get to eat together as a team. We’re in the hotel, We get a good night’s rest.
“And we get an opportunity to beat someone on their home field.
“I kind of like that setting. I think our players will, too.”
Monday, September 04, 2006
Steadily Rolling Along
Looking back over the Chargers' last four wins (3 to end last year and Saturday's victory) Phil Martin is averaging 132.25 yards per game with 5 touchdowns.
Mark Nicolet has thrown just one pick in his last 4 starts. He is 57 of 100 for 694 yards. That is an average of 173.5 yards per game or 12.18 yards per completion.
Mark Nicolet has thrown just one pick in his last 4 starts. He is 57 of 100 for 694 yards. That is an average of 173.5 yards per game or 12.18 yards per completion.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Hillsdale Opens in Impressive Fashion
Chargers Explode in 2nd Quarter Enroute to big Win
After a scoreless 1st quarter, Mark Nicolet and the Charger offense erupted for 21 points in the first 9 minutes of the second quarter, all thanks to big plays on offense, defense, and special teams.
The Chargers forced 3 first half turnovers including interceptions from Tom Korte and Jared Kell.
Mark Nicolet plunged in from the 1 yard line on the first play of the 2nd quarter capping a drive set up by a great Nick Gurica punt return.
The Chargers would come right back following Korte’s interception. Phil Martin took a direct snap and scored from 27 yards out. Greg Dixon added a 1 yard TD to round out the first half scoring. Mark Petro was 3 of 3 on extra-points in the first half.
In the first half, Hillsdale outgained Gannon 176 yards to 94. The Knights’ only drive was stymied just before the half with Kell’s pick. The Charger defense held Gannon and the heralded Baby Bush Jon Richardson to just 7 yards on 6 carries the entire day.
The Charger special teams helped the offense again in the 3rd quarter with punt block. Brett Neller picked up a big 4th down conversion that would eventually lead to a Nicolet keeper putting Hillsdale up 27-0. Petro’s kick tacked on the extra-point.
After giving up a Gannon touchdown and having a punt blocked, the Charger defense got the offense the ball back. Phil Martin has always played well against Gannon, but has excelled in the 4th quarter. Martin had his biggest gain of the day with a 54 yard scamper and then finalized the drive with a 2 yard drive. Hillsdale 35, Gannon 7.
Nicolet finishes the day 12 of 19 for 126 yards and no interceptions. Martin was the game’s leading rusher with 155 yards and 2 touchdowns. Hillsdale limits Gannon to 21 rushing yards on 21 carries. Kell and Korte each had 6 tackles. Steve Balone added 5.
After a scoreless 1st quarter, Mark Nicolet and the Charger offense erupted for 21 points in the first 9 minutes of the second quarter, all thanks to big plays on offense, defense, and special teams.
The Chargers forced 3 first half turnovers including interceptions from Tom Korte and Jared Kell.
Mark Nicolet plunged in from the 1 yard line on the first play of the 2nd quarter capping a drive set up by a great Nick Gurica punt return.
The Chargers would come right back following Korte’s interception. Phil Martin took a direct snap and scored from 27 yards out. Greg Dixon added a 1 yard TD to round out the first half scoring. Mark Petro was 3 of 3 on extra-points in the first half.
In the first half, Hillsdale outgained Gannon 176 yards to 94. The Knights’ only drive was stymied just before the half with Kell’s pick. The Charger defense held Gannon and the heralded Baby Bush Jon Richardson to just 7 yards on 6 carries the entire day.
The Charger special teams helped the offense again in the 3rd quarter with punt block. Brett Neller picked up a big 4th down conversion that would eventually lead to a Nicolet keeper putting Hillsdale up 27-0. Petro’s kick tacked on the extra-point.
After giving up a Gannon touchdown and having a punt blocked, the Charger defense got the offense the ball back. Phil Martin has always played well against Gannon, but has excelled in the 4th quarter. Martin had his biggest gain of the day with a 54 yard scamper and then finalized the drive with a 2 yard drive. Hillsdale 35, Gannon 7.
Nicolet finishes the day 12 of 19 for 126 yards and no interceptions. Martin was the game’s leading rusher with 155 yards and 2 touchdowns. Hillsdale limits Gannon to 21 rushing yards on 21 carries. Kell and Korte each had 6 tackles. Steve Balone added 5.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
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