Tomorrow, Monday, all students are back on campus to begin their spring semester classes. It's been awfully quiet around the athletic complex the past 5 weeks and with the return of the students and the beginning of spring sports practices, the PEC is sure to be alive again very soon.
It promises to be a great spring for the Pioneer football program. Recruiting continues to go well and we are confident we will bring in both the quality and quantity of players we need to make the jump to the top of the MWC. And our current players are determined to make massive improvements in their strength, speed, and flexibility this spring.
All eyes continue to be focused on September 4th when we kick off the 2010 season with a home date versus Macalester College.
Go Pioneers!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Why We Play Division III Athletics
This an old piece, but the anonymous author puts great perspective on the beauty of the truest of amateur athletics. Division III.
It's not about getting a scholarship, getting drafted, or making SportsCenter. It's a deep need in us that comes from the heart. We need to practice, to play, to lift, to hustle, to sweat. We do it all for our teammates and for the student in our calculus class that we don't even know. We don't practice with a future major league first baseman; we practice with a future sports agent. We don't lift weights with a future Olympic wrestler; we lift with a future doctor. We don't run with a future Wimbledon champion; we run with a future CEO. It's a bigger part of us than our friends and family can understand.
It's not about getting a scholarship, getting drafted, or making SportsCenter. It's a deep need in us that comes from the heart. We need to practice, to play, to lift, to hustle, to sweat. We do it all for our teammates and for the student in our calculus class that we don't even know. We don't practice with a future major league first baseman; we practice with a future sports agent. We don't lift weights with a future Olympic wrestler; we lift with a future doctor. We don't run with a future Wimbledon champion; we run with a future CEO. It's a bigger part of us than our friends and family can understand.
Sometimes we play for 2,000 fans; sometimes 25. But we still play hard. You cheer for us because you know us. You know more than just our names. Like all of you, we are students first. We don't sign autographs. But we do sign graduate school applications, MCAT exams, and student body petitions. When we miss a kick or strike out, we don't let down an entire state. We only let down our teammates, coaches, and fans. But the hurt is still the same.
We train hard, lift, throw, run, kick, tackle, shoot, dribble, and lift some more, and in the morning we go to class. And in that class we are nothing more than students. It's about pride--in ourselves, in our school. It's about our love and passion for the game. And when it's over, when we walk off that court or field for the last time, our hearts crumble. Those tears are real. But deep down inside, we are very proud of ourselves.
We will forever be what few can claim...college athletes.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Internship at the Fiesta Bowl
Sophomore wide receiver, Mike McLeran, is a native of Phoenix, Arizona and just a couple weeks ago had the privilege of working at both the Insight.com and Fiesta Bowl games as a media relations intern.
Here's Mike's experience, in his own words:
This winter break I helped out with Media Relations for the Insight.com Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl. I worked in both Media Registration and Media Hospitality. In Media Registration I checked the media into their hotels. I would also give them their credentials so that they were allowed on the field and in the press box. I am still kicking myself for not working the day that Erin Andrews came in but I did get to meet her body guard, I guess that counts for something. I also gave the media the gifts that the Insight.com and Fiesta Bowl provided for them. They gave nice backpacks to the Insight.com media people and the Fiesta’s media received fancy Fossil watches engraved with the Fiesta Bowl logo. I also helped set up the stages for the press conferences that were held for the Boise State and TCU coaches and players.
Mike standing next to the Fiesta Bowl trophy
Watching a press conference first hand is a truly amazing experience. It was really cool to see how a press conference is run and handled in person because you only get to see a blurb on TV when really the players and coaches talk for 15 to 30 minutes about all kinds of things. Also when security was distracted by the press conference I got my picture taken next to the Fiesta Bowl trophy, which is valued at 1.5 million dollars and would take about three beastly men to carry.
For the Media Hospitality part the Insight.com and Fiesta Bowl rented a suite at the hotel which was bigger than my house. Here the media would come to hang out and relax. I helped set this suite up and in order to get it ready for the media we unloaded trucks of Frito O'Lay chips, Tostitos dip, booze, and other beverages that filled two bedrooms to the ceiling. From all the free chips I probably gained about 30 pounds. Besides all the free food and drinks the suite also had tons of TVs, arcade games, two fire places, a heated pool, and poker tables. My job in the hospitality suite was to entertain and talk to the media and make sure they had everything they needed, such as food and drinks, but it was mostly just me hanging out talking sports with them. I met tons of great people and it was truly one of the best experiences I have ever had. They treated me outstanding and gave me free tickets to pretty much any event that I wanted to go to. I am looking forward to doing it again next year and the possibility of getting a game day assignment where I would be down on the field or in the press box.
This experience gave me an inside look at what has to be done to put on an event of this size and I can confidently say the Insight.com and Fiesta Bowl staff does a phenomenal job. Happy New Year and God Bless.
Monday, January 11, 2010
New Athletics Website!
Today, Grinnell College unveiled it's new website which included a new athletics site as well! Both are still technically "Under Construction" so there's plenty of work still to be done on each, but it's refreshing and exciting to say the least!
Check them out:
New College homepage
New Athletics site
Check them out:
New College homepage
New Athletics site
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
We are very excited about 2010 and the opportunities that await the Pioneer football team in the upcoming year!
We want to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year! And go Pioneers!
We are very excited about 2010 and the opportunities that await the Pioneer football team in the upcoming year!
We want to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year! And go Pioneers!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Coach Profiles: Cody Robertson
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Next up is offensive line coach, Cody Robertson!
Name: Cody Robertson
Hometown: Lafayette, CO
Alma Mater: Colorado College
Family: Dad (Greg), Mom (Kathy Jo), Step-Dad (Andy)
Position/Title at Grinnell: Assistant Football Coach, Offensive Line
What brought you to Grinnell?
I had the opportunity to coach in a system I was familiar with, having played for Coach Hawsey. I also love being involved with a program that is trying to create a new winning tradition.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
My greatest joy comes from working with the players. The things they accomplish here at Grinnell simply amaze me.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
Our victory this past year vs. Lawrence. After a tough start to the year, we came out as a team and played a complete football game. The big smiles all the players had on their faces after the game was very rewarding!
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
CC offered me the two things I was looking for in a school: the opportunity to play football and a unique academic experience in the Block Plan. I also was energized by the chance to build a program into a winner.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I believe that a coach's true goal is to get players to accomplish something they didn't know they could accomplish before they started.
Favorite movie: It's probably a tie between Die Hard, The Searchers, and Bloodsport
Favorite book: Wild at Heartby John Elderage
Favorite food(s): I love all kinds of food
Favorite travel location: Texas, it has a little bit of everything
Hobbies and Interests: Hunting, music/concerts, reading, watching The Office, working out
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I was the Geography Bee Champion of my school in 8th grade and I still believe that one day Wile E. Coyote will catch the Road Runner
Next up is offensive line coach, Cody Robertson!
Name: Cody Robertson
Hometown: Lafayette, CO
Alma Mater: Colorado College
Family: Dad (Greg), Mom (Kathy Jo), Step-Dad (Andy)
Position/Title at Grinnell: Assistant Football Coach, Offensive Line
What brought you to Grinnell?
I had the opportunity to coach in a system I was familiar with, having played for Coach Hawsey. I also love being involved with a program that is trying to create a new winning tradition.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
My greatest joy comes from working with the players. The things they accomplish here at Grinnell simply amaze me.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
Our victory this past year vs. Lawrence. After a tough start to the year, we came out as a team and played a complete football game. The big smiles all the players had on their faces after the game was very rewarding!
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
CC offered me the two things I was looking for in a school: the opportunity to play football and a unique academic experience in the Block Plan. I also was energized by the chance to build a program into a winner.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I believe that a coach's true goal is to get players to accomplish something they didn't know they could accomplish before they started.
Favorite movie: It's probably a tie between Die Hard, The Searchers, and Bloodsport
Favorite book: Wild at Heartby John Elderage
Favorite food(s): I love all kinds of food
Favorite travel location: Texas, it has a little bit of everything
Hobbies and Interests: Hunting, music/concerts, reading, watching The Office, working out
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I was the Geography Bee Champion of my school in 8th grade and I still believe that one day Wile E. Coyote will catch the Road Runner
Monday, December 21, 2009
Winter Break!
Friday was the last day of final exams around here and it's now officially winter break! The students won't be back on campus until January 23rd, so it's sure to be quiet around the athletic complex until then. There will be limited, if any, postings here on the blog until shortly after the first of the year.
In the meantime, we want to wish everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season!
Go Pioneers!
In the meantime, we want to wish everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season!
Go Pioneers!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Coach's Profiles: Jeff Pedersen
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week leading up until Christmas, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Next up is defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, Jeff Pedersen!
Name: Jeff Pedersen
Hometown: Kremmling, CO
Alma Mater: Grinnell College '02
Family: Wife - Jordan Esbrook '01, daughter - Frances Belle Pedersen, 10 months
Position/Title at Grinnell: Defensive Coordinator, Fitness Center Director, Interim Head Women's Track and Field Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
As a student I chose Grinnell because of the great education they offered, as well as the chance to play two sports. I was also excited about the opportunity to contribute right away. I knew I would be getting on the field at least for special teams, as a freshman. As a coach, the opportunity to come back to my alma mater was very exciting. Also, as a student here I really enjoyed not only the campus but the town of Grinnell as well. It was a great place for me as a student and it is going to be a great place for me to raise a family.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
I still love the competitive aspect of athletics. It is much different as a coach than it was as a player, but it is definitely still there. I also love the relationships with the players. I love getting to know the guys and hopefully having a positive impact on them. Most times I hope they learn as much from me as I do from them.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
I'm going to cheat on this question! As a player, my favorite memory of one specific time was clinching the conference championship with a victory over Lawrence my freshman year. I didn't appreciate it as much as I should have at the time, I didn't know how much it really meant and how hard it really is to win the conference championship. My other favorite memory of playing at Grinnell are the friendships I made with my teammates. There are too many to mention them all, but I was lucky enough to play with a few of my high school teammates and my brother, so that was very special to me. As a coach, we won my first game as an offensive coordinator with a pretty dramatic comeback. We beat Ripon, who has traditionally been a very good team, with a 93 yard scoring drive, scoring with about 30 seconds left in the game. I can still remember pretty much every play of that drive, especially the first play which should have been an interception to end the game!
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
See above.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
A few years back I read the Dean Smith biography "The Carolina Way". In it Smith outlined his philosophy of "play hard, play smart, play together". That really struck a chord with me, as it put words to how I had always approached the game as a player. So, I have adopted that philosophy as my own as a coach. I feel like it is the coach's responsibility to make sure that the team plays smart, that is the responsibility of the players to make sure they play hard, and that it is the responsibility of everyone associated with the program to make sure that we play together. I like to take this same approach to every aspect of the program, from lifting weights to recruiting, whatever it may be.
Favorite movie: "Spies Like Us" or "The Princess Bride"
Favorite book: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Favorite food(s): Duck with wine and blue cheese sauce
Favorite travel location: I love going back home to visit my family in Colorado. Also, though I've only been there once, the Outer Banks in North Carolina were amazing.
Hobbies and Interests: Hunting and fishing are my biggest hobbies. I also love watching the Cubs.
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: My grandfather Leo changed the spelling of our family name from Peterson to Pedersen during World War II. There were quite a few Peterson's stationed near him and he wanted to make sure he stood out. My name has been spelled wrong a countless number of times, but it always reminds me of him every time.
Next up is defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, Jeff Pedersen!
Name: Jeff Pedersen
Hometown: Kremmling, CO
Alma Mater: Grinnell College '02
Family: Wife - Jordan Esbrook '01, daughter - Frances Belle Pedersen, 10 months
Position/Title at Grinnell: Defensive Coordinator, Fitness Center Director, Interim Head Women's Track and Field Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
As a student I chose Grinnell because of the great education they offered, as well as the chance to play two sports. I was also excited about the opportunity to contribute right away. I knew I would be getting on the field at least for special teams, as a freshman. As a coach, the opportunity to come back to my alma mater was very exciting. Also, as a student here I really enjoyed not only the campus but the town of Grinnell as well. It was a great place for me as a student and it is going to be a great place for me to raise a family.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
I still love the competitive aspect of athletics. It is much different as a coach than it was as a player, but it is definitely still there. I also love the relationships with the players. I love getting to know the guys and hopefully having a positive impact on them. Most times I hope they learn as much from me as I do from them.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
I'm going to cheat on this question! As a player, my favorite memory of one specific time was clinching the conference championship with a victory over Lawrence my freshman year. I didn't appreciate it as much as I should have at the time, I didn't know how much it really meant and how hard it really is to win the conference championship. My other favorite memory of playing at Grinnell are the friendships I made with my teammates. There are too many to mention them all, but I was lucky enough to play with a few of my high school teammates and my brother, so that was very special to me. As a coach, we won my first game as an offensive coordinator with a pretty dramatic comeback. We beat Ripon, who has traditionally been a very good team, with a 93 yard scoring drive, scoring with about 30 seconds left in the game. I can still remember pretty much every play of that drive, especially the first play which should have been an interception to end the game!
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
See above.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
A few years back I read the Dean Smith biography "The Carolina Way". In it Smith outlined his philosophy of "play hard, play smart, play together". That really struck a chord with me, as it put words to how I had always approached the game as a player. So, I have adopted that philosophy as my own as a coach. I feel like it is the coach's responsibility to make sure that the team plays smart, that is the responsibility of the players to make sure they play hard, and that it is the responsibility of everyone associated with the program to make sure that we play together. I like to take this same approach to every aspect of the program, from lifting weights to recruiting, whatever it may be.
Favorite movie: "Spies Like Us" or "The Princess Bride"
Favorite book: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Favorite food(s): Duck with wine and blue cheese sauce
Favorite travel location: I love going back home to visit my family in Colorado. Also, though I've only been there once, the Outer Banks in North Carolina were amazing.
Hobbies and Interests: Hunting and fishing are my biggest hobbies. I also love watching the Cubs.
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: My grandfather Leo changed the spelling of our family name from Peterson to Pedersen during World War II. There were quite a few Peterson's stationed near him and he wanted to make sure he stood out. My name has been spelled wrong a countless number of times, but it always reminds me of him every time.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Coach's Profiles: Nino Parker
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week leading up until Christmas, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Next up is running backs coach, Nino Parker!
Name: Nino Parker
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Alma Mater: Grinnell College
Position/Title at Grinnell: Pioneer Fund Assistant/Running Backs Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
I came to Grinnell to pursue an undergraduate degree from one of the top schools in the nation.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
My favorite memory is winning the last game that I played as a student here. I can still remember how happy I felt and I enjoy coaching because I get a chance to help current students pursue that feeling each Saturday in the fall.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
I was drawn to Grinnell because of its academic reputation. Playing football here just made my experience better.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
Work hard, have fun.
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans, Boyz in da Hood
Favorite book: Catch a Fire
Favorite food(s): Hot wings
Favorite travel location: Belize
Hobbies and Interests: Football, basketball, cooking, music, religion
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I didn't play football until my second year at Grinnell.
Next up is running backs coach, Nino Parker!
Name: Nino Parker
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Alma Mater: Grinnell College
Position/Title at Grinnell: Pioneer Fund Assistant/Running Backs Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
I came to Grinnell to pursue an undergraduate degree from one of the top schools in the nation.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
My favorite memory is winning the last game that I played as a student here. I can still remember how happy I felt and I enjoy coaching because I get a chance to help current students pursue that feeling each Saturday in the fall.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
I was drawn to Grinnell because of its academic reputation. Playing football here just made my experience better.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
Work hard, have fun.
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans, Boyz in da Hood
Favorite book: Catch a Fire
Favorite food(s): Hot wings
Favorite travel location: Belize
Hobbies and Interests: Football, basketball, cooking, music, religion
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I didn't play football until my second year at Grinnell.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Coach's Profiles: Tim Hollibaugh
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week leading up until Christmas, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Next up is assistant head coach and defensive line coach, Tim Hollibaugh!
Name: Tim Hollibaugh
Hometown: Logansport, IN
Alma Mater: Hanover College - 1990
Family: Wife - Alison, Children - Ryan (11), Blake (9), and Lindsey (6)
Position/Title at Grinnell: Associate Professor and Assistant Football and Head Baseball Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
The ability to work at a great school at the Division III level while doing the things I love to do (coach and teach).
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
By far the student-athletes.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
Going 10-0 and winning the Midwest Conference in football in 1998.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
I chose Hanover because I could play two sports while receiving my degree.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I am a demanding coach who treats his players as adults. If you cannot give effort while being self-motivated to succeed then you should look to do something else. Team success is far more important than individual success.
Favorite movie: Gladiator
Favorite book: The Lance and the Shield: The Life and Times of Sitting Bull
Favorite food(s): Seafood
Favorite travel location: Yellowstone
Hobbies and Interests: Hunting, Fishing, and Dogs
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I love to travel!
Next up is assistant head coach and defensive line coach, Tim Hollibaugh!
Name: Tim Hollibaugh
Hometown: Logansport, IN
Alma Mater: Hanover College - 1990
Family: Wife - Alison, Children - Ryan (11), Blake (9), and Lindsey (6)
Position/Title at Grinnell: Associate Professor and Assistant Football and Head Baseball Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
The ability to work at a great school at the Division III level while doing the things I love to do (coach and teach).
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
By far the student-athletes.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
Going 10-0 and winning the Midwest Conference in football in 1998.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
I chose Hanover because I could play two sports while receiving my degree.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I am a demanding coach who treats his players as adults. If you cannot give effort while being self-motivated to succeed then you should look to do something else. Team success is far more important than individual success.
Favorite movie: Gladiator
Favorite book: The Lance and the Shield: The Life and Times of Sitting Bull
Favorite food(s): Seafood
Favorite travel location: Yellowstone
Hobbies and Interests: Hunting, Fishing, and Dogs
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I love to travel!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Pioneer Awards Announced
This past Sunday night, the 2009 Grinnell Pioneer football team gathered together for one final time at the team banquet. Along with great food and some bad jokes, the 2009 Pioneer football awards were announced.
Dick Ullrich '33 Award (Most Valuable Offensive or Defensive Back): Marquis Bradley '11.
Abe Rosenbloom '34 Award (Most Valuable Offensive or Defensive Lineman): Mike Tricoli '10
Special Teams Most Valuable Player: Ryan Boehm '10
Steve Kriegel Award (for dedication, desire, and determination): Chad Christoff '10
Troy Barboza Award (Most Inspirational Rookie): Cody Weber '13
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Mike McCabe '13
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Kevin Hwang '13
Congratulations to all the honorees and to the entire 2009 Pioneer team. It was a memorable year and we continue to work towards making 2010 even better!
Dick Ullrich '33 Award (Most Valuable Offensive or Defensive Back): Marquis Bradley '11.
Abe Rosenbloom '34 Award (Most Valuable Offensive or Defensive Lineman): Mike Tricoli '10
Special Teams Most Valuable Player: Ryan Boehm '10
Steve Kriegel Award (for dedication, desire, and determination): Chad Christoff '10
Troy Barboza Award (Most Inspirational Rookie): Cody Weber '13
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Mike McCabe '13
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Kevin Hwang '13
Congratulations to all the honorees and to the entire 2009 Pioneer team. It was a memorable year and we continue to work towards making 2010 even better!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Coach Profiles: Max Hawsey
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week leading up until Christmas, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Next up is me-head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterbacks coach.
Next up is me-head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterbacks coach.
Name: Max Hawsey
Hometown: Elysian Fields TX
Birthplace: Monroe LA
Alma Mater: Austin College, Sherman TX
Family: Wife- Sara Townsend, 3 kids: Marion- 6; Hunter-4; Natalie-2
Position/Title at Grinnell: Head Football Coach/Strength and Conditioning Coordinator
What brought you to Grinnell? Opportunity to be the head coach at one of the most recognized liberal arts college in the nation and rebuild the football program at a place that has all the ingredients to compete for a MWC championship- one of the best athletic facilities in the nation, unbelievable academic resources and great people!
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell? The players! We have extraordinary young men on this football team who come from all over the nation and have very diverse backgrounds. Each player is unique in his own way and I enjoy the day to day interaction with our players because of this.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell? It has to be our game at Lawrence in 2008. The second half was unbelievable. We kept getting interception after interception (6 total for the game). The whole trip was a great experience especially on the way home after a big WIN!
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there? I looked at colleges in Louisiana, Texas and Arkansas. I chose Austin College because it was the best academic school I got admitted into. I liked the fact that it was a small private liberal arts college and that I would get a chance to PLAY a lot of football and not stand on the sideline for a few years. I really liked the coaches as well- Mel Tjeersdma (currently at Northwest Missouri State) was the head coach at the time- he was great. Two assistant coaches at the time- Vance Morris and David Norman- were very personable and showed me they truly cared about me both as a person and a football player.
How would you describe yourself as a coach? I’d like to think of myself as a teacher of the game of football and I always try to relate football to lessons in life. I take a very competitive, no nonsense yet personable approach to coaching. Discipline, attention to detail and hard work are virtues I try to instill in the players. I think there’s an appropriate time to give players a pat in the back and also a time to coach them hard.
As far as my style of coaching football, I want to be fundamentally sound, at times unconventional, and aggressive. I believe in blocking, tackling, taking care of the football on offense, and getting turnovers on defense. I believe in mental and physical toughness, but at the same time making football an enjoyable experience. I like to be creative and unconventional in all three phases- it keeps it fun for the players.
Favorite D1 college team: I’m a huge LSU fan!
Favorite NFL team: Saints- finally a good year to be a Saints fan!
Favorite movie: I have a lot of them, but I’d have to say Indiana Jones- Raiders of the Lost Ark. Pretty much anything with Harrison Ford or Denzel Washington.
Favorite book: I don’t really have one favorite- I do like reading coaches autobiographies. I’ve read books on Lou Holtz, Tom Osborne, Urban Meyer, and Mike Shanahan to name a few.
Favorite food(s): It’s definitely sea food. I really love fried shrimp! Although I also love southern biscuits and gravy for breakfast! You can’t go wrong with beans, rice and cornbread either!
Favorite Travel location: There are a number of them- I really loved Colorado (lived there 5 years). Also Charleston, South Carolina (my wife is from South Carolina), but I really had a great experience at my wife’s family reunion in Washington in a town called Sequim near Seattle. It was a memorable experience.
Hobbies and Interests: Outside of coaching, I don’t have a lot of time for much other than spending time with my family. I enjoy playing with my three kids. I love to watch movies with my wife. I like being outdoors, and working out. I’m sort of a car guy- I owned a 1966 Buick in high school and college- it was pretty sweet!
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I’m a distant cousin to John David Crow- the 1957 Heisman trophy winner at Texas A & M. My older brother- Rex Hawsey is the chief of police in Waskom TX. My daughter, Marion, beat me 17 out of 18 times at the card game "Memory Match" over Thanksgiving weekend!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Ten Footballers Named Academic All-Conference
On Wednesday, 10 Pioneer football players were named to the Midwest Conference Academic All-Conference team. These 10 stellar student-athletes helped Grinnell land the most honorees from the fall sports on this list with a combined 84 among all the sports.
Congrats to Ryan Boehm, Mike Bogard, Trenton Bush, Chad Christoff, Ryan Fletcher, John Hereford, Marc Heronemus, Ben Johnson, Joe Sinnwell, and Jake Thompson on this terrific honor!
See the MWC release here.
Congrats to Ryan Boehm, Mike Bogard, Trenton Bush, Chad Christoff, Ryan Fletcher, John Hereford, Marc Heronemus, Ben Johnson, Joe Sinnwell, and Jake Thompson on this terrific honor!
See the MWC release here.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Coach Profiles: Ben Cooprider
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week leading up until Christmas, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Next up is defensive backs coach, Ben Cooprider!
Name: Ben Cooprider
Hometown: DeKalb, IL/Minneapolis, MN
Alma Mater: Carleton College - B.A. in American Studies (2006); Concordia University - St. Paul - M.A. in Organizational Management with Sports Management emphasis (2009)
Family: Dad (Bob), Mom (Sharon), Brother (Nick-22), and my 7 month old golden retriever, Griswold
Position/Title at Grinnell: Assistant Football and Assistant Baseball Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
The opportunity to coach in a full-time capacity while working with both football and baseball programs at a highly academic liberal arts institution. I also had a connection through my former college baseball coach, who was a graduate and former assistant here at Grinnell.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
I enjoy everything, but it's the people here that make this place great. The administration, from President Osgood to our athletic director, Coach Wallace, the coaches, the support staff, and most of all the student-athletes. Interacting with the student-athletes on a daily basis, hearing about their class work, how their weekend was, or even listening to a funny story, is by far the most enjoyable part of this "job".
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
I have just completed my first baseball and football cycle and already there are too many to pick just one. The two that stand out to me are qualifying for and playing in the MWC Baseball Tournament last May and the defensive backs stellar performance against St. Norbert this fall.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
Looking back I know it was the opportunity to play two sports in college, neither of which I was ready to give up, combined with the awesome education and small-town location. But I'm not sure all of that was going through my mind when I was making the decision. Something in my gut told me to go to Carleton and I could not be more happy or thankful for my choice. The experience of playing sports for four years was fantastic, but the education and friendships I garnered while there will last me a lifetime.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I enjoy everything about being a coach at this level and I think that is evident in the manner in which I approach every day, practice, or meeting. To me, if you don't have passion or excitement for what you are doing then there's no point in doing it. I thoroughly enjoy working with the student-athletes we have at Grinnell and they constantly amaze me with their intelligence, humor, foresight, and respect for those around them.
Favorite movie: "Field of Dreams", but "Caddyshack" and "Animal House" are 1B and 1C.
Favorite book: Usually whatever I'm reading at said point in time. Right now, it's Catcher: How the Man Behind the Plate Became an American Folk Hero by Peter Morris.
Favorite food(s): Anything spicy. Combinations of peanut butter and chocolate. But my absolute favorite food are the Hot Sweet & Tangy Grilled Chicken Wings from Bru's Room in Pompano Beach, Florida.
Favorite travel location: Any cabin on any lake in any small Upper Midwestern town
Hobbies and Interests: Golfing, walking the dog, reading, American history, politics
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I have a large widow's peak. Cindy Crawford went to, and graduated, from my high school as valedictorian of the Class of 1984. I have never been out of the country. My "pointer" and "middle" toes are all longer than my big toes. And the day I came home from the hospital after being born, the temperature outside was 25 degrees below zero with a wind chill of 75 below!
Next up is defensive backs coach, Ben Cooprider!
Name: Ben Cooprider
Hometown: DeKalb, IL/Minneapolis, MN
Alma Mater: Carleton College - B.A. in American Studies (2006); Concordia University - St. Paul - M.A. in Organizational Management with Sports Management emphasis (2009)
Family: Dad (Bob), Mom (Sharon), Brother (Nick-22), and my 7 month old golden retriever, Griswold
Position/Title at Grinnell: Assistant Football and Assistant Baseball Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
The opportunity to coach in a full-time capacity while working with both football and baseball programs at a highly academic liberal arts institution. I also had a connection through my former college baseball coach, who was a graduate and former assistant here at Grinnell.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
I enjoy everything, but it's the people here that make this place great. The administration, from President Osgood to our athletic director, Coach Wallace, the coaches, the support staff, and most of all the student-athletes. Interacting with the student-athletes on a daily basis, hearing about their class work, how their weekend was, or even listening to a funny story, is by far the most enjoyable part of this "job".
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
I have just completed my first baseball and football cycle and already there are too many to pick just one. The two that stand out to me are qualifying for and playing in the MWC Baseball Tournament last May and the defensive backs stellar performance against St. Norbert this fall.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
Looking back I know it was the opportunity to play two sports in college, neither of which I was ready to give up, combined with the awesome education and small-town location. But I'm not sure all of that was going through my mind when I was making the decision. Something in my gut told me to go to Carleton and I could not be more happy or thankful for my choice. The experience of playing sports for four years was fantastic, but the education and friendships I garnered while there will last me a lifetime.
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I enjoy everything about being a coach at this level and I think that is evident in the manner in which I approach every day, practice, or meeting. To me, if you don't have passion or excitement for what you are doing then there's no point in doing it. I thoroughly enjoy working with the student-athletes we have at Grinnell and they constantly amaze me with their intelligence, humor, foresight, and respect for those around them.
Favorite movie: "Field of Dreams", but "Caddyshack" and "Animal House" are 1B and 1C.
Favorite book: Usually whatever I'm reading at said point in time. Right now, it's Catcher: How the Man Behind the Plate Became an American Folk Hero by Peter Morris.
Favorite food(s): Anything spicy. Combinations of peanut butter and chocolate. But my absolute favorite food are the Hot Sweet & Tangy Grilled Chicken Wings from Bru's Room in Pompano Beach, Florida.
Favorite travel location: Any cabin on any lake in any small Upper Midwestern town
Hobbies and Interests: Golfing, walking the dog, reading, American history, politics
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I have a large widow's peak. Cindy Crawford went to, and graduated, from my high school as valedictorian of the Class of 1984. I have never been out of the country. My "pointer" and "middle" toes are all longer than my big toes. And the day I came home from the hospital after being born, the temperature outside was 25 degrees below zero with a wind chill of 75 below!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Food in Grinnell
From the College website comes this story about the high-quality of restaurants and eateries located here in Grinnell:
http://www.grinnell.edu/index8.shtm
http://www.grinnell.edu/index8.shtm
Friday, November 20, 2009
Coach's Profiles: Dave Arseneault
Throughout the season we profiled each of our 14 senior players and now that we've entered the off-season, it's time to meet each member of our coaching staff. We'll spotlight one coach each week leading up until Christmas, proceeding, as we did with the seniors, in alphabetical order.
Leading off, is defensive assistant Dave Arseneault!
Name: Dave Arseneault
Hometown: Grinnell, IA
Alma Mater: I graduated from Grinnell College in 2009. I majored in Economics.
Family: Father - Dave, Mother - Ellie, Sister - Jennie (21)
Position/Title at Grinnell: Assistant Football and Assistant Basketball Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
My father is the head men's basketball coach here at Grinnell.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
I really enjoy the type of players I get to work with on a daily basis. The kids we have at Grinnell are smart, respectful, and extremely hard working.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
Being a part of two Midwest Conference Championship basketball teams during my four year career.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
A couple of things... The academics. Grinnell is one of the best liberal arts schools in the country and I believe the school has fully prepared me for anything I choose to do in the future. I was also very impressed with the athletic department and the athletic facilities. The coaches are friendly and care about their players, and the athletic facilities at Grinnell are incredible. Come check it out if you don't believe me!
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I'm in an interesting position because I went to school with a lot of the players on the team. I think this really helps me communicate with the guys because I can relate to the academic/athletic experience they're having at Grinnell. I also love getting to know the guys as students and people, as well as getting to know them as football players.
Favorite movie: Anchorman
Favorite book: Harry Potter Series and anything written by Bill Simmons "the Sports Guy"
Favorite food(s): Buffalo Wings
Favorite travel location: University of Iowa's Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City... Go Hawks!
Hobbies and Interests: Working out, reading, fantasy basketball and football
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I'm a dual citizen (Canada and the U.S.) and I was invited to tryout for the Canadian National Basketball team after my freshman year of college.
Leading off, is defensive assistant Dave Arseneault!
Name: Dave Arseneault
Hometown: Grinnell, IA
Alma Mater: I graduated from Grinnell College in 2009. I majored in Economics.
Family: Father - Dave, Mother - Ellie, Sister - Jennie (21)
Position/Title at Grinnell: Assistant Football and Assistant Basketball Coach
What brought you to Grinnell?
My father is the head men's basketball coach here at Grinnell.
What do you enjoy about coaching at Grinnell?
I really enjoy the type of players I get to work with on a daily basis. The kids we have at Grinnell are smart, respectful, and extremely hard working.
What is your favorite memory here at Grinnell?
Being a part of two Midwest Conference Championship basketball teams during my four year career.
Why did you choose your alma mater? What drew you there?
A couple of things... The academics. Grinnell is one of the best liberal arts schools in the country and I believe the school has fully prepared me for anything I choose to do in the future. I was also very impressed with the athletic department and the athletic facilities. The coaches are friendly and care about their players, and the athletic facilities at Grinnell are incredible. Come check it out if you don't believe me!
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
I'm in an interesting position because I went to school with a lot of the players on the team. I think this really helps me communicate with the guys because I can relate to the academic/athletic experience they're having at Grinnell. I also love getting to know the guys as students and people, as well as getting to know them as football players.
Favorite movie: Anchorman
Favorite book: Harry Potter Series and anything written by Bill Simmons "the Sports Guy"
Favorite food(s): Buffalo Wings
Favorite travel location: University of Iowa's Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City... Go Hawks!
Hobbies and Interests: Working out, reading, fantasy basketball and football
List at least one random or interesting fact about you: I'm a dual citizen (Canada and the U.S.) and I was invited to tryout for the Canadian National Basketball team after my freshman year of college.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Bradley & Boehm Named All-MWC
Junior linebacker Marquis Bradley (Wichita, KS/Independent) and senior defensive back and return specialist Ryan Boehm (Iowa City, IA/City High) were both named to the All-Midwest Conference Second Team on Wednesday. The Pioneers also had three players recognized as All-MWC Honorable Mention: Sophomore receiver Robert Seer (Saukville, WI/Port Washington), sophomore offensive lineman Chris Jarmon (Boulder, CO/Boulder) and junior safety Marc Heronemus (Topeka, KS/Topeka).
Congrats to all five players! The honor is certainly well received in each case!
To read the Grinnell release please go here.
Congrats to all five players! The honor is certainly well received in each case!
To read the Grinnell release please go here.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
2009 Season Recap
We came into the 2009 season confident that we were a much improved football team over the 3-7 version in 2008. And despite only posting a 2-8 record, it is unquestionable that we have made major strides towards our goal of winning the MWC Championship.
Four of our 8 losses were by a touchdown or less and in two of the other losses we had a chance to win the game in the fourth quarter before squandering it. Compare this to the 2008 season, where only 1 of the 7 losses was by a score, and its obvious that we were more competitive week in and week out this season. The next step is without a doubt the toughest to achieve, however. We have to learn how to win, and make the 3 or 4 more big plays that inevitably decide each and every football game. I'm confident we will get there sooner rather than later.
We are graduating some great seniors and we will of course miss all of them. Fortunately we do have very good players returning on both sides of the ball and on special teams. Two of our top three leading tacklers are back on defense. Our leading receivers are all back and our top returners are back.
We have a bunch of highly motivated guys who want to work even harder this off-season so we win those close games next year. Our players are very excited about the future of this program and have already started working hard to get better for next year.
We have a bunch of highly motivated guys who want to work even harder this off-season so we win those close games next year. Our players are very excited about the future of this program and have already started working hard to get better for next year.
We look forward, already, to the 2010 season and in particular the season opener at home against Macalester College on September 4th!
Stay tuned in the coming days for the beginning of our profile series highlighting our coaching staff!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Pioneers Lose in Season Finale
On a perfect fall day for football, the host Beloit Bucs beat the visiting Pioneers from Grinnell 41-7. For only the second time all season, we were out of the game in the 4th quarter, and considering where this program has been over the last few years, that is a major improvement. It's not at all where we want to be ultimately, but it provides us with some comfort knowing that in 8 of our 10 games, we are competitive until the end and are just a few plays shy of winning a lot of those games.
We now turn our focus as a program and as a coaching staff to the 2010 season and beyond. We open next season at home against Macalester College on September 4th, 2010 and we can't wait to be on the field and start a new season. But first we must put all our efforts into the recruiting process and trying to find a class of student-athletes that can help get us to that next level!
We now turn our focus as a program and as a coaching staff to the 2010 season and beyond. We open next season at home against Macalester College on September 4th, 2010 and we can't wait to be on the field and start a new season. But first we must put all our efforts into the recruiting process and trying to find a class of student-athletes that can help get us to that next level!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)