The Lumberjack



Students Serving The Cal Poly Humboldt Campus and Community Since 1929

Category: Sports

  • Tom Brady is the G.O.A.T.

    Tom Brady is the G.O.A.T.

    NFL fans are one week away from the Super Bowl clash between the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles in what will mark the eighth time in 16 years that Patriots quarterback Tom Brady will be the starter in the big game.

    It is time to end the debate: Tom Brady is the greatest quarterback in NFL history, and his case is only going to get stronger.

    In the NFL, there are players who play over a decade without ever reaching the Super Bowl, let alone players who spend their entire careers chasing that beloved trophy.

    Brady has been to eight now. At this point, his appearance in the game has become more of an expectation than a surprise.

    The University of Michigan alumnus has accomplished unimaginable things during his time in the NFL: five Super Bowls, four Super Bowl MVPs, two regular season MVPs, 13 Pro Bowl selections and three first-team All-Pro selections.

    Since taking over the starting quarterback job for the Patriots during week two of the 2001 season, Brady has never missed the playoffs (the Pats did not make the playoffs during the 2008 season when Brady suffered a torn ACL during week one).

    In addition, Brady has appeared in each of the past seven AFC championship games and has gone to the Super Bowl in four of those years.

    Up until last year, Brady seemed to be embedded under Joe Montana as the second best quarterback to ever play. But that was before his epic 25-point comeback over Matt Ryan and the Falcons, which was by far the largest comeback in Super Bowl history.

    With his all-time leading fifth Super Bowl victory on the line, Brady’s Patriots were down 28-3 with two minutes and eight seconds left in the third quarter.

    Brady, the former sixth-round pick, responded by turning in possibly his best performance ever by throwing for 466 yards (a Super Bowl record) and two touchdowns to shock the Falcons in overtime.

    Last year’s game may have cemented Brady to be above the rest, but this year’s matchup with Philadelphia is shaping up to be a phenominal encore.

    This season’s Eagles is perhaps the best team that Brady has faced in the Super Bowl so far, as they are the only team to face him with a top-five offense and defense.

    While New England is a five-point favorite, many experts are predicting an Eagles upset due to their high-scoring offensive attack, led by quarterback Nick Foles, and the Eagles’ stout defense.

    If the past is any indication, Brady will overcome this upcoming obstacle and win his sixth Super Bowl ring, which will end all discussions about who the greatest of all time is.

    At this point, it’s not even a race, Brady is just running on his own.

  • Jacks ball appoints coach White as interim coach

    Jacks ball appoints coach White as interim coach

    A new leader has been chosen to usher the Lumberjacks football team into the 2018 season.

    Jacks offensive line coach Cory White has officially been given the title of Humboldt State’s interim head football coach, as announced at a press conference on Jan. 29.

    Coach White was a student athlete at HSU about 17 years ago and never did he think he would find his way back in the program on the other side of the table.

    “I am an alum,” White said. “I am a Jack. I was once too sitting in those meeting rooms, listening to the head coach, competing on the field and really never thought I would be in these shoes today.”

    Coach White has 14 years of experience coaching college football. He has coached at every level including Division II, Division III and junior college. Before coming to HSU in the fall of 2016, coach White was the director of football operations at Division I Football Bowl Subdivision in New Mexico State for a year.

    Along with coach White, interim athletic director Duncan Robins is greatly contributing to the work being done in keeping the normalcy of the football program for current student athletes.

    “Not only do we have a strong coaching staff,” Robins said, “but everyone is comfortable with Cory leading them, so this interim position was a natural one to offer to Cory and he has accepted.”

    Robins is specifically hired by collegiate athletic programs to improve their organization. He was hired at HSU during June of last year and his first task was to figure out what the budgets looked like.

    After several months of Robins and HSU President Lisa Rossbacher trying to figure out whether or not the football program could be saved, it was announced the program would be back for another year with the help of outstanding boosters.

    “We have a recruiting effort going on,” Robins said. “We have spring season being planned, we have a 10-game fall season waiting for us and our student athletes have some normalcy to their daily routines.”

    Both White and Robins expressed their thanks for previous head football coach Rob Smith for all of the hard work and recognition he has brought to the football program.

    Smith announced his resignation in a press conference a few weeks ago. Jan. 30 would have marked Smith’s 10th year as Jacks head football coach.

    “There is a reason why coach Smith was here for 10 years,” White said. “This is a place of longevity.”

    Senior linebacker Connor Cox has played for the Jacks since his first year in 2015. He is an Arcata native and attended Arcata High School just before coming to HSU.

    “Nothing has really changed for us,” Cox said. “We are up every morning, like all prior years, doing the same workouts and putting in the same effort.”

    With a strong football program still in route for the fall 2018 season, coach White plans on working to make this whole endeavor worth it.

    “Humboldt football is here to stay,” White said.

  • This week in sports history

    This week in sports history

    Jan. 30 will mark the 10-year anniversary of Jacks head football coach Rob Smith’s hiring. Smith has earned the conference’s Coach of the Year award four times and guided Humboldt State University to national recognition since being hired in 2008.

    Feb. 2, 1892 was the longest boxing match under modern rules ever recorded. The match lasted 77 rounds in Nameoki, Illinois between Harry Sharpe & Frank Crosby.

    On Feb. 3, 1876 Albert Spalding, with only $800, started his sporting goods company manufacturing the first official baseball, tennis ball, basketball, golf ball and football. The balls are still being used to this day in professional sports.

  • Cappa shines in Alabama

    Cappa shines in Alabama

    Jacks star left tackle gearing up for NFL draft in April.

    Humboldt State University football player Alex Cappa tore down the house at the 69th annual Reese’s Senior Bowl on Jan. 27 in Mobile, Alabama.

    This year’s match-up featured top NFL prospects from around the country. The game was located at Ladd-Peebles Stadium aired on the NFL Network.

    “I had a lot of fun being out there,” Cappa said. “It was great representing HSU and smaller schools.”

    “There were a few (NCAA) Division II guys out there and I tried showing them that all guys, at all levels, are able to compete against anybody.”

    Cappa has earned a series of accomplishments while starting at left tackle over the past four years at HSU.

    Not only was Cappa a finalist for the Gene Upshaw Award, he also earned his fourth consecutive Great Northwest Atlantic Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year Award in 2017.

    The biggest factor for the left tackle position in the NFL is the player’s ability to pass, block and stop the defensive end from getting to the quarterback.

    At 6 feet and 7 inches, scouts are questioning if Cappa’s ability to protect the quarterback from elusive pass rushers will translate on the big stage.

    “The critics aren’t paying attention because he throws them out the club, regardless of how fast or strong they are,” HSU senior right guard Robert Williams said. “His football IQ is insanely high. All he has to do is use his right or left hand and he’ll toss you.”

    Cappa started the game at left guard. Eventually, he played the left tackle and right guard positions for the South Team. They went on to win 45-16, thanks to the help of University of Richmond QB Kyle Lauletta, who threw three passing touchdowns.

    Potential draftees will most likely participate at the NFL Scouting Combine event, which is hosted from Feb. 27 to March 5. The NFL Draft will then take place on April 26-28 in Arlington, Texas.

    According to Sports Blog Nation: Stampede Blue, Cappa could be chosen before the end of the second draft day.

    “It’s gonna be exciting no matter what,” Emily Morehead, Cappa’s partner of nearly seven years, said. “His draft is during my finals period. So, all I hope is that he gets that phone call while I’m not in a final.”

    Regardless of the round that Cappa is drafted, he will always be a legend at HSU.

  • Jacks pull off road victory at Chico State

    Jacks pull off road victory at Chico State

    The Humboldt State University women’s basketball team defeated conference rival Chico State on the road 69-60 on Saturday. The win moved the Jacks past the Wildcats into third place in the conference. It also changed their record to 10-8 overall with a 9-4 record in the conference, as opposed to Chico’s 10-7 record with an 8-5 record in the conference.

    The Jacks had a big advantage in the inside, as they won the overall rebound battle 31-19. They also outscored the Wildcats in the paint 34-28. Head coach Michelle Bento-Jackson was adamant about the importance of their inside play after the game.

    “We were able to get extra possessions by being aggressive on the offensive boards,” Jackson said. “And we did a good job of preventing Chico from getting offensive rebounds.”

    Humboldt was lead by their standout siblings Tyla and Tyra Turner, who scored 14 points each to lead the team. They were able to compensate for a bad outing, shooting wise by getting to the free-throw line and converting at a high rate. At the charity stripe, Tyra ended up 6-8 and Tyla shot a perfect 10-10.

    The Jacks also got big contributions from junior forward Isamar Conde, scoring 11 points, and junior guard Jovanah Arrington, who scored 10 points.

    The Jacks will face another tough rematch on the road next week against Cal State Los Angeles on Friday at 5:30 p.m. In their first match earlier this season, the Jacks won by the score of 83-73.

     

  • Jacks ball struggles again

    Jacks ball struggles again

    The Humboldt State men’s basketball team was torched for a 74-36 loss to Chico State on Saturday in what was a forgettable performance.

    The Jack’s record moves to 6-13 overall (3-10 in conference), while Chico improved to 12-5 (9-4 conference).

    It was a rough game all around for Humboldt, but the stat that really stood out was the field goal percentage, as the Jacks shot a mere 18.3 percent (11-60) compared to Chico’s 43.3 percent (26-60). They lost the battle on the glass as well, as they were out-rebounded 52-35. This ugly loss dropped the Jacks to 4-10 in their last ten games.

    There were not a lot of bright spots in this one, as no one on the team reached double-digits in points. However, Jack Kaub and Kameron Curl tied for the team lead in points scored with six each.

    Humboldt faces another tough task in their next game, as they will travel to Cal State Los Angeles on Friday at 7:30 p.m. to face the Golden Eagles. The Jacks won their first meeting of the season by the score of 69-64.

  • This week in sports history

    This week in sports history

    The San Francisco 49ers beat the Cincinnati Bengals 26-21 in Super Bowl XVI on Jan. 24, 1982. This was the first of San Francisco’s five total Super Bowl championships that they would win in the next 15 years.

    The first ever college basketball game was played on Jan. 27, 1894. The University of Chicago beat Chicago YMCA 19-11.

    Jan. 30 will mark the 10-year anniversary of Jacks head
    football coach Rob Smith’s hiring. Smith has earned the conference’s
    Coach of the Year award four times and guided Humboldt State University to national
    recognition since being hired in 2008.

  • Jacks comeback falls short

    Jacks comeback falls short

    The Jacks men’s basketball team fell just short of a big comeback on Jan. 13 against the Cal State University at San Bernadino Coyotes at Lumberjack Arena. They lost the game 90-79 and fell to 6-12 overall and 3-9 in conference.

    Jacks junior guard Romario Wilson had a great night, scoring 24 points on a perfect 13-13 from the free throw line. Wilson and his teammates are working hard to improve everyday and he believes the team has what it takes to go on a run.

    “We can hang with the best of them,” Wilson said. It shows that we have the talent and the skill-sets to win big-time games. It’s all on us to go get it. We have 10 games left, and we’ve got to finish off strong so we can make a push to get into this tournament.”

    Despite the Jacks subpar record, they still have a chance to win their conference tournament and win an outright bid to the national tourney. Their play against some above average competition suggests they have the ability to make some real noise if they were to win a bid to the big dance.

    The Coyotes established a 47-21 lead with 2:58 left in the half and led 49-31 at the break, but the Jacks had a “never say die” attitude and came out strong in the second half. They cut the deficit to just 10 but the Coyotes kept coming, knocking down consecutive 3-pointers.

    Jacks head coach Steve Kinder was proud of his team for not giving up and staying in the game until the end.

    “Out of halftime I thought our guys responded extremely well,” Kinder said. “They showed some grit, they showed some guts, they showed some toughness and made two really good pushes in the second half. We’re proud of our Lumberjacks, but it just wasn’t enough for the victory.”

    Jacks junior guard Kameron Curl had 12 points but struggled from the 3-point-line shooting 2-10. Senior forward Davasyia Hagger added 10 points as did fellow senior, Austin Pomrehn. The Jacks performed at an elite level from the free-throw line, hitting 30-of-33 shots.

    The Jacks look to get back on track on Jan. 20 as they travel to face conference rival Chico State. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.

  • Redwood Curtain is a diamond in the rough

    Redwood Curtain is a diamond in the rough

    Like a scene from Jurassic Park, huge prehistoric trees line the fairway of the Redwood Curtain Disc Golf Course, and getting lost in the thick forest was inevitable for Connor Evans and his dad on their first visit.

    “We didn’t have a map. We didn’t know the course at all. First time for him playing disc golf probably,” Evans said. “It was a shit show. It was a lot of fun. We got so lost, but that’s how The Curtain goes.”

    Evans is the president of the Disc Golf Club at Humboldt State University. Unlike most other universities, there is a disc golf course located right in the back of campus among the redwoods.

    “We’re a pretty diverse club,” Evans said. “We get a lot of different students, and The Curtain is our home course.”

    The Redwood Curtain, as it’s named, has been around for more than 30 years and is known for holes that thread their way through redwoods and ferns. With many narrow fairways and lots of trees for obstacles, many disc golfers agree that it is one of the more difficult courses to master in the world.

    The club tends to the course and makes sure it stays clean. HSU alum Wyatt Bettis is the team’s coach.

    “This course is unlike anything in the world,” Bettis said. “Its huge redwoods, trying to navigate through them, just the beauty, the ferns, it’s more of a beautiful course than anything. Whenever I think about playing disc golf, I imagine playing through the redwoods.”

    Disc golf, also referred to as frisbee golf, is rapidly evolving and becoming one of the most-played sports locally. There’s the Redwood Curtain course as well as College of the Redwoods, Manila, Mad River and Cooper’s Gulch.

    According to the HSU club team, The Curtain ranks above all others. It offers a high level of difficulty along with beautiful scenery that is unmatched.

    Dennis Hanson is the Disc Golf Club’s safety officer and has been playing the sport for eight years. He enjoys the local aspect of the Redwood Curtain and not having to go far to play a round.

    “We feel like its part of the school,” Hanson said. “We feel like it’s our course. So we try to take care of it, feel pride for it and keep it up to date.”

    For a course that is loved so much throughout the disc golf community, the Redwood Curtain remains a lesser-known accommodation that HSU provides for their students. Also, it’s good just to get out in nature to lower that end-of-semester stress.

    The disc golf team starts playing competitively against other universities this spring. Students interested in showing off their skills can contact Bettis or check out their practices on Sunday mornings at the Redwood Bowl.

    “It’s something that’s here in Arcata,” Hanson said. “You don’t have to go too far to play and it’s really local, which is why it’s so special to me.”

  • Lady Jacks win big vs Coyotes

    Lady Jacks win big vs Coyotes

    The Jacks women’s basketball team took care of business Saturday night by dismantling the California State University, San Bernardino Coyotes 71-53 at the Lumberjack Arena.

    It was a slow start to the game as both teams struggled to score a bucket. The score was tied at 2-2 until just over five minutes of play.

    The Jacks’ twin sister duo of sophomore guards Tyra and Tyla Turner began to turn it on in the second quarter. Their teammates responded and HSU took a 13-point lead with 3:01 left on the clock, but the Coyotes closed out the first half on a 7-0 run to cut the deficit down to six points.

    HSU head coach Michelle Bento-Jackson was proud of her team for turning it up on the defensive side of the ball.

    “Their two leading scorers Parks and Knox were scoreless at halftime,” Jackson said. “So we felt like we did a darn good job on the defensive end. We never really got into a great flow offensively early on, which I’m sure was pretty boring for the fans.”

    The action picked up in the second half as the Coyotes came out strong with six unanswered points to tie it up at 27, but HSU took control of the game and finished the third quarter with a nine-point lead.

    The Jacks’ bench outscored the Coyotes 25-12 thanks largely in part to the play of junior guard Jovanah Arrington. She knocked down two three-pointers and had 14 points total.

    “I just came in with a mindset to be ultra aggressive,” Arrington said. “It sets a tone for the whole team when you do it as an individual and it gives us good looks on offense and good looks on defense.”

    The Jacks took charge of the game in the fourth quarter and built a commanding 22-point lead with 2:58 left to seal the deal.

    Jacks guard Tyla Turner finished the game with 15 points and a game-high five steals, while sister Tyra finished with 12 points and four assists. Senior forward Kindall Murie finished with 10 points and five boards.

    The result improved HSU to 9-8 overall and 8-4 in conference play, while CSUSB dropped to 6-10 overall and 4-8 in conference.

    The Jacks hit the road this week for a clash against conference rival Chico State on Saturday, Jan. 20. Tip-off is at 5:30 p.m..

     

  • Winning ways

    Winning ways

    ‘Tis the season for fantasy football playoffs and for those that made their league playoffs, congratulations! If you didn’t, then you’re already on the right track to next season’s playoffs by reading my column.

    As this is my first fantasy football column I should let you know that I’ve been in the game for 18 years and winning is my top priority every season. We will dive into all the positions and examine the match-ups that will help you in your playoff run this year.

    Remember, don’t get cute. I am not endorsing these players to be started over guys that have been your bread and butter all season long. Think and choose wisely.

    Winning Quarterbacks

    Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs: Smith exploded on Sunday, throwing for over 350 yards with four touchdown tosses. He scrambled for 70 yards to show off his legs. The Chiefs quarterback gets another blow up match up against the Raiders who have given up the fifth most points to opposing passers.

    Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers: Rivers had a huge day against the Browns that could have been even bigger as the Chargers failed to convert five red zone trips into touchdowns. Rivers has now completed 76.3 percent of his passes for 781 yards and four touchdowns over the past two weeks and now hosts a Washington defense that is in the middle of the pack but expect Rivers to take advantage and have another fine day, making him a strong QB1 option this week.

    Winning Running Backs

    Rex Burkhead and Dion Lewis, Patriots: The New England backfield has been a mess over the years but it seems to have finally taken form as a two headed machine. Lewis and Burkhead have both averaged double-digit touches since the week nine byes and travel to play the Miami Dolphins whose defense has given up the seventh most points to opposing running backs this season.

    Mike Davis, Seattle Seahawks: There is finally a workhorse in Seattle and he’s available in a lot of leagues. Davis took it to the No. 1 run defense on Sunday night, finishing for over 100 yards from scrimmage on 4.0 yards per carry against the Eagles. Eddie Lacy, J.D McKissic and Thomas Rawls saw only one carry each while Davis took control of the backfield with 16 rushes and four targets. Davis has the potential to win a lot of people fantasy trophies this year. Pick him up.

    Winning Wide Receivers

    Marquise Goodwin, San Francisco 49ers: With Jimmy Garoppolo finally under center for the red and gold, the offense looked much more efficient, holding the ball for over 19 minutes more than the Bears in Week 13. Goodwin converted all eight of his targets for 99 yards and the Niners face two of the leagues worst pass defenses in the Texans and the Titans for the next two weeks. Consider Goodwin for the WR3 discussion.

    Josh Gordon, Cleveland Browns: This superstar made his return from a two year hiatus this Sunday against the Chargers and turned 11 targets into four catches for 85 yards. The only other receiver to get more yards than Gordon against the Chargers was Odell Beckham Jr. in week five. Gordon gets favorable match ups for the fantasy playoffs against Green Bay and the Baltimore Ravens, who just lost their best corner for the year. If you are looking for wide receiver help, look no further than Gordon as a WR3 option.

    Winning Tight Ends

    Hunter Henry, San Diego Chargers: The Antonio Gates era is at its end and Hunter Henry is reaping the rewards. The Chargers have finally realized how important a part of the offense Henry is and it is showing in the stats. Henry now has 12 receptions for 157 yards and a score over the last two weeks and now gets another favorable match up against a Redskins D that has given up the fourth most points to opposing tight ends this season. Get Henry in your lineups this weekend as a strong TE1.

    Cameron Brate, Tamp Bay Buccaneers: Brate is back on the streaming radar as his favorite QB Jameis Winston is back under center. Winston constantly looks Brate’s way in the red zone and it showed Sunday when Brate caught a TD from 28 yards out and then later at 11 yards out. If you don’t have a top five tight end, Brate deserves your consideration to help you to a fantasy football title.

     

  • Jacks ball safe for now

    Jacks ball safe for now

    By｜Keaundrey Clark & Skye Kimya

    Through trials and tribulations, Humboldt State football will be playing another year in the Redwood Bowl, as was announced by President Lisa Rossbacher and Interim Athletic Director Duncan Robbins on Tuesday, Dec. 5.

    In front of HSU students, athletes, boosters, administration and coaches, it was announced that the team will return after months of doubt by Rossbacher.

    “Through a lot of work by the boosters and the community,” said Rossbacher. “Alumni generating pledges for support make this possible for next year. “

    President Rossbacher said she was impressed by the passionate group of boosters who led a recent fund drive. This convinced her they could bring in the resources needed to help continue the football program.

    Six months of doubt have been put to bed for now, as boosters led by Jim Redd and Ceva Courtemanche worked endlessly to provide a solution to HSU Athletics financial woes. Redd and SaveHSUAthletics were able to confirm that almost $511 thousand in pledges and donations for 2017-18 has been reached.

    “Not all of this is local community, there are previous athletes from all over the United States that have donated,” said Redd. “People that have just heard about our cause that have donated. It just speaks volumes, that athletics and the student athletes are very important to this community.”

    The future of Jacks football, which is the University’s most expensive athletics program, had been in question due to financial challenges.

    The Athletics Department, Office of Advancement and the boosters struggled to maintain a balanced and working relationship to find a solution to the department’s financial woes. In terms of balancing the budget, the University is working to address an ongoing structural deficit that has been on Rossbacher’s plate for a few years now.

    With an additional $395 thousand for year two, $375 thousand for year three, $355 thousand for year four and $335 thousand for the fifth year, the community of Humboldt showed how much HSU football means to them.

    “We never gave up,”said Redd. “We kept fighting until the very end and the community support is absolutely unbelievable.”

    Several players walked away from the Redwood Bowl Plaza this afternoon with plenty of appreciation for their community and Rossbacher.

    “It feels great, it feels like I got a lot of relief off of my shoulders. Now I can get ready and focus for next season,” said returning player Jamere Austin.

    Plenty of players have been worried about where they would have headed next, but they are looking forward to continuing in their first step foward after today’s decision – Spring Ball.

    “President Rossbacher made the right decision,” said returning player Joey Sweeney. “Next year should be a really good year.”

    Head Coach Rob Smith held a meeting with players, urging them to notify their families that the team will be back. He understands that because of the uncertainty surrounding the program some players won’t return. But he hopes players will stay and be a Jack for life.

    “Most coaches and most players had kind of checked out, they saw the writing on the wall, anticipated the program not being here next year and were preparing for life after this,” said Smith. “Now we all kind of need to get together and figure out how to move forward.”

    One of HSU’s best defenders, junior linebacker Curtis Williams, is excited for the prospects of a great season next year.

    “It feels great,” said Williams. “Knowing we have another season is a great feeling.”

    Humboldt State has been playing football for decades. The prospect of losing the team is something the players, coaches, school and community couldn’t face. Head Coach Rob Smith has his work cut out for him next season.

    “Coaches will come and go, Presidents will come and go, but this team belongs to Humboldt State,” said Smith

     

  • Jacks Pass

    Men’s basketball

    Humboldt State basketball is off to a 3-4 start and have one more game left before the calendar hits December. The Jacks have been led by Junior Guard Tyras Rattler Jr. He leads the team with 15.5 points per game. He’s top 10 in the conference in scoring. Transfer student and former University of Hawaii football player Davasyia Hagger has owned the glass for the Jacks pulling down almost eight rebounds a night, that good for fifth most in the conference. Thursday the Jacks take on Cal State Monterey Bay.

    Women’s Basketball

    Humboldt State basketball is off to a 2-5 start with tough losses in November. The Jacks were able to get a conference win this past Saturday against Cal State San Bernardino. The Jacks have been led by newcomer Sophomore Guard Tyla Turner. Sister of last years Freshman of the Year, Tyra Turner. She leads the team with 16.6 points per game. Her average is the seventh highest in the conference. Defensively Turner and Junior Forward Isamar Conde have been excellent for the Jacks with almost yeo steals a game. Thursday the Jacks head South to face Cal State Monterey Bay.

    Football

    Senior left tackle Alex Cappa received an official invitation to participate in the 2018 Reese’s Senior Bowl.

    The Senior Bowl is the top postseason all-star game and it annually features the country’s best senior collegiate football players and top NFL draft prospects. The players will represent North and South squads, coaching staffs for two National Football League teams will work with the players in preparation for the draft.

    Cappa became the Great Northwest Athletic Conference’s first four-time Offensive Lineman of the Year following the 2017 season, and he is a finalist for the Gene Upshaw Award, an honor given to the nation’s top lineman.

    “I am just really excited,” said Cappa. “It is a great opportunity for small school players, and it’s a great opportunity to showcase what I am able to do.”

  • Cross Country National Championship

    Cross Country National Championship

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    On the track’s first 400 meters, she gets her foot stepped on. She looked down and felt her shoe was coming off. Moments later kicks her shoe off. There was no turning back at that point.

    This is how Junior Tatiana Gillick’s afternoon was spent during the NCAA Cross Country National Championships. Gillick who faced a number of hurdles and obstacles throughout the season, had to face one more, but she didn’t let that stop her.

    Just moments into the National Championships another runner stepped on Gillick’s shoe and pulled it loose. Gillick kept running as the shoe came off halfway through the first turn, she left it on the course and continued the run.

    “Having the fortitude and resilience during the season helped her.” said Cross Country Head Coach Jamie Harris. The toughness and resilience she showed this year was one of the reasons she helped HSU Women’s Cross Country be one of the best in Division Two this season.

    Gillick started the season in adverse fashion as she started the season in a boot, suffered a shoulder injury during the season, she also fell during the California Collegiate Athletic Association championship meet.

    “She was a unique challenge as a coach because she started the season injured,” said Harris.

    Gillick was brought back slowly from injury this year, gradually getting race ready. It took her a few races to get back to the level she displayed last season. She had multiple top 10 finishes this season.

    Saturday wasn’t what Gillick was hoping for, but the Junior All-American looks poised to return next season. For her and her teammates she gained expiernces that will her HSU Cross Country next year.

    “Don’t let the huge crowds psyche you out,”said Gillick. “You have a chance just like everyone else. Everyone who’s get to nationals, at that point you have the power to get an All-American spot.”

    The junior will try for All-American honors next season. HSU Women’s Cross Country hasn’t had a runner receive All-American honors since Bridget Berg in 2011.

    “The silver lining is that Tatiana’s a junior, and has next year to aim for the coveted All-American,” said Head Coach Sarah Ingram. “It’s been a valuable experience for her, and the goal for next year is to get the whole team out here.”

    Despite completing the 6k race with just one shoe, Gillick crossed the finish line in 22:17.7, good enough for a 79th place out of 247 runners.

  • Lucas Miller – A marine and Humboldt hero

    Lucas Miller – A marine and Humboldt hero

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    Lucas Miller is a local product of Humboldt, he was honored by Humboldt Heroes, a local recognition for Humboldt Veterans. Lucas starred at Mckinleyville High from 2007 to 2011. After he served in the Marines before coming back to to play for Humboldt State University.

    LJ: What made you decide to join the marines?

    LM: In my opinion, It’s the most honorable branch of service. Tat that moment in my life my attention should be served in the military. I had always had a passion for it.

    LJ: What was it like when you first enlisted, where you nervous, scared, anxious?

    LM: I was definitely anxious at first, then it kinda hit you in the face. You have to move on your feet, so there’s not really time to feel sorry for yourself. Had to roll with the punches.

    LJ: How has being in the military changed you life for the better?

    LM: It definitely gave me a lot of core values.

    LJ: What one thing you you take from military that you use in daily life, a routine, a motto, anything?

    LM:Communication, I took the ability to communicate, you learn how to communicate with everybody. It could be verbal or non-verbal. Communication in hostile or regular situations. It helps to be able to talk to people everyday.

    LJ: What was the hardest moment you faced when you were serving?

    LM: Being away from family, I missed them a lot.

    LJ: For anyone interested in joining the military, what would you tell them.

    LM: Go for it, know what you want to do, do your research. If that’s what you want to do I think it’s a great decision.

    LJ: What does being honored by Humboldt Heros mean to you, especially as a member of the community yourself?

    LM: I means that sometime in my life someone looked to me for something I’ve been doing all my life.

  • Jacks win big in first home game

    Jacks win big in first home game

    The Lumberjacks men’s basketball team won its first home game of the year in dominating fashion by dismantling the Pacific Union Pioneers 110-66.

    Jacks junior forward Jack Kaub was perfect from the field, scoring 15 points on just seven shots while also adding five assists to an all-around great game. “To play like we did today was really good for us,” Kaub said. “It was definitely a confidence booster and if we play the right way and play as a team we can win a lot of games.”

    Junior guard Tyras Rattler Jr. was 92.7 FM ESPN’s player of the game by scoring a double-double with 10 points, 10 boards and added six assists but Jacks head coach Steve Kinder especially appreciated Rattler for his contributions on the defensive side of the ball.

    “His defensive stance out on the floor is as good as anybody that has put on a Lumberjack uniform in quite a while,” Kinder said. “He can really intimidate an opponent just by his stance and his quickness with his hands. That’s a stat that doesn’t show up.”

    The Jacks did a great job of taking care of the paint and crashing boards, outrebounding the Pioneers by 17. This Jacks team is big and they’re ready to compete this season. Coach Kinder is excited by his squad’s all-around performance and the depth and size of the bench.

    “Just your length on the floor,” Coach Kinder said. “Your ability to get tips, your ability to be in lanes and shorten the court defensively, makes a difference in the game of basketball.”

    The Jacks bench made a huge difference in this game by outscoring the Pioneers reserves by 44 points. Jack’s junior forward Calvin Young II was the first man off the bench and didn’t miss a shot, leading all players with 16 points and adding two blocks.

    The 3-point shot was landing for the Jacks as the team was repeatedly left open by the struggling Pioneers defense. The home team shot over 50 percent from three on 17 shots. Senior guard Ashton Pomrehn made four threes off the bench and junior guard Kameron Curl added three more to the Jacks total.

    These Lumberjacks are high flyers and it was apparent on this night, especially for junior starting forward Davasyia Hagger, who was all over the court dunking on the Pioneers left and right. Hagger finished the game with 14 points and five boards on 66 percent from the field. With the Jacks new added size and athleticism, they should be exciting to watch this season.

    The Jacks get ready this week to host rival Chico State on Saturday, Nov. 18 at Lumberjack Arena in a game that will be televised on ESPN3. Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. and Jacks fans are encouraged to wear all white for the “White Out” themed game.

    “I think this game in particular, “ Coach Kinder said. “Playing as hard as we did, taking charges, grabbing loose balls, saving the ball out of bounds, those types of things will generate some focus to prepare for Chico.”

     

  • Ja’Quan Gardner best of HSU football

    Ja’Quan Gardner best of HSU football

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    Senior Running Back Ja’Quan Gardner will go down as one of the best football players to ever wear a Humboldt State Lumberjack football jersey. The respect he gets from the community, coaches and his teammates is what keeps him going on the field. Keaundrey Clark has a profile on Gardner.

  • Best of Humboldt sports this weekend

    Best of Humboldt sports this weekend

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    Football

    No. 16-ranked Humboldt State was unable to overcome a 28-point deficit as it fell to No. 7 Central Washington 42-28 Saturday in Redwood Bowl.

    The Lumberjacks finish the season with a 8-2 overall record and a 6-2 mark in Great Northwest Athletic Conference play.

    “Let’s give credit to Central Washington, they are the best team in the GNAC – that’s clear,” said Head Coach Rob Smith. “Today they were much better than we were, much better prepared and much better coached.”

    Senior running back Ja’Quan Gardner got the Jacks on the board before halftime with a run that found the end zone from three yards out with 14 seconds on the clock. Gardner was stiffled by the Central Washington defensed, he finished the game with 11 carries for 22 yards and a touchdown.

    HSU fought back in the second half. Davaeon Johnson picked off Central Washington QB Reilly Hennessey on the first drive of the half, he returned the pick 77 yards for a touchdown. Next possession a double pass with senior Chase Krivashei caught the Wildcats off guard. A 37 yards to a wide open Jamere Austin brought the game within 14 points.

    “Our kids weren’t going to roll over,” said Smith. “I told them at halftime we have two choices, respond or roll over, and we responded in that third quarter.”

    JacksBall got one more score with its senior led duo of Webber and Gardner. A 19-yard touchdown pass from Webber to Gardner brought the score to 42-28. Webber threw for 300-yards.

    “We are 8-2 and that is a very successful season,” said Smith. “These 24 seniors that end their career today – what a special group they are.”

    The Jacks honored their 24 seniors during pregame ceremonies, and 5,467 fans were on hand for the regular season finale.

    Women’s Basketball

    Humboldt State women’s basketball ended the West Region Crossover Classic play at 0-2 with a 54-50 loss to Western Washington Saturday afternoon.

    Jovanah Arrington led the Jacks with 13 points off the bench. Sophomore Tyla Turner like Arrington had double digit points with 11 and a team-high six rebounds and three assists.

    HSU returns to Lumberjack Arena Wednesday to play Notre Dame de Namur in a non – conference game, tipoff is at 7 p.m.

    Saturday they play on ESPN3 facing archrival Chico State.

    Men’s Basketball

    Humboldt State’s men’s basketball team will host its 2017-18 home opener Monday night against Pacific Union at 6 p.m. at Lumberjack Arena.

    The Jacks won its first game of the year, a 90-81 win over Palm Beach Atlantic (Fla.) this past weekend, the team dropped it’s two next games in the Disney Division II Tip-Off Classic, falling to Saint Leo 66-65 and Upper Iowa 60-55.

    Tyras Rattler Jr. led the Jacks with 22 points against Palm Beach Atlantic. He scored 14 points against Saint Leo.. Colin Caslick scored 11 points to lead the Jacks versus Upper Iowa.

    “The most positive thing about our basketball team right now is our depth,” said the coach. “We played every guy in every game and everybody had a contribution. Outside of Tyras, we don’t have one particular player who’s scoring a lot of points. It’s spread-out and we’re sharing the ball well.”

    Cross Country

    Junior Tatiana Gillick has earned an at-large bid to represent Humboldt State at the 2017 NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Championships.

    This will be Gillick’s first NCAA DII Cross Country Championships appearance.

    The championship will be at the Angel’s Mound in Evansville, Ind., on Sat., Nov. 18. She finished in eighth place at regionals, and she completed the 6k race with a time of 21:30.0.

    Gillick helped the Jacks to a ninth place finish at regionals in Monmouth, Ore, two weekends ago and was awarded All-Region honors for her performance.

    Volleyball

    On senior night where the jacks honored their six seniors prior to the game,

    Humboldt State volleyball lost to Cal Poly Pomona in straight sets Saturday night in Lumberjack Arena.

    The loss moves the Green and Gold to 3-21 overall and 2-16 in conference play to end the 2017 campaign.

    Freshman Lauren Reid led the Jacks with seven kills. Redshirt Freshman Kayla Costello had a season-high 14 assists. Junior Sarah Shively finished with a team-high 15 digs and two aces.

  • The Jacks fall to Central Washington

    The Jacks fall to Central Washington

    The Jacks say goodbye to its 2017 season and potentially the Redwood Bowl after a tough loss of 42-28 against No. 7 Central Washington (10-0). The game was aired on ESPN3 and will go down in the books as a game day to remember for both its ups and its downs.

    “That’s a good football team,” Coach Smith said. “They are going to represent our conference very well in the playoffs.”

    Thompson.Ian.Feature-5880.jpg
    Photo credit: Ian Thompson

    Central Washington’s 21-0 lead within the first 10 minutes of the game made it difficult for the Jacks to run through the rest of the game.

    At the start of the second half sophomore Davaeon Johnson attempted to turn the game around with a returned 77-yard touchdown picked off of Central Washington QB Reilly Hennessey.

    On the Jack’s next possession of the ball, a trick play featured a backward pass to senior Chase Krivashei which was then thrown to Jamere Austin in the end zone for a 37-yard touchdown pass, putting the Jack’s back on the board with a score of 35-21.

    “It was a good momentum boost,” Johnson said, “we scored 14 points unanswered, but it just wasn’t enough.”

    The Jacks needed the victory to have a chance in the Division II playoffs. Central Washington will represent the conference with their likely earned No. 1 seed.

    “Even in this game we were behind,” Senior Alex Cappa said, “but we continued to fight, just like the whole year, and I think that really exemplifies what our team is about.”

    The No. 16 Jacks finished the season with an 8-2 overall record and a 6-2 record in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. Despite the road blocks, the Jacks pulled through and had what many would consider a very accomplishing season.

    Unfortunately, The Jack’s football program is looking at a possible cut for reasons several supporters have yet to understand.

    Thompson.Ian.Feature-5855.jpg
    Shamir Geisinger (#29) of the wildcats dives to the end zone for a touchdown during the fourth quarter at the HSU Redwood bowl during the November 11 game. Photo credit: Ian Thompson

    “I don’t think anyone fully understands how difficult it has been to function daily with this cloud hanging over our heads,” Coach Rob Smith said. “There is a decision looming, and some people could possibly be very hurt by it.”

    President Lisa Rossbacher spoke to public on Monday, about the facts and prolonged decision of the Jack’s program. She pushed the decision for HSU Football and it’s destiny to December 1. Hurting potential recruiting efforts for the Jacks if the team were able to continue next fall.

    The possible cut made senior night even more bittersweet for the 24 seniors that may never get to return to the Redwood Bowl with the same football spirits.

    “We just tried to stay focused,” Senior Robert Webber said, “there is not much we can do about the outside noise. We try to keep it within the locker room and play for each other.”

    Head Coach Rob Smith continues to feel kindly about the hard work and dedication these boys have put in since January.

    “There is always an end to what you do,” Coach Smith said. “You don’t put in the work that we do unless you truly love what it is that you are doing.”

  • Jacks vs. Alums

    Jacks vs. Alums

    Great players of Humboldt State men’s basketball past came back to play in the annual alumni game against your current Jacks team on Oct. 28. at Lumberjack Arena.

    The now visiting HSU alums put together a talented squad of players to give the Jacks all they could handle, including 14-year international player Austin Nichols. Nichols led the Jacks to the D-2 Final Four in 2004.

    “I like the direction of the program,” Nichols said. “They look really sharp and play well as a team. It’s still early, so they had some chemistry issues but they just gotta stay the course and buy into what [coach] is saying.”

    IMG_5710
    acks junior forward Jack Kaub (32) attempts the floater over the HSU alumni defender. The Jacks beat the alumni 93-82 on Oct. 28 at Lumberjack Arena.

    The Jacks players were able to come out and play at a high level against some stiff competition and showed why they will be a force this season by winning the game 93-82. Coach Steve Kinder was pleasantly surprised by his team’s success.

    “It was a great experience for us to play against great competition and play well,” Coach Kinder said. “You’re playing against guys like Austin Nichols and Kevin Johnson…guys that are still playing overseas professional ball.”

    The players should be confident heading into games next weekend as the regular season is all set to begin. Without much of a preseason, the alumni game is a good way to see where the team needs improvement.

    IMG_5763
    The Jacks Basketball team (white) faced off against HSU alumni (green) on Oct. 28 at Lumberjacks Arena. The Jacks beat the alumni 93-82.

    Jacks redshirt senior guard, Will Taylor is a leader on the court and the alumni game is a sign of the start of the regular season games.

    “We don’t have a ton of preseason games and next week we’re going to play D-II teams,” Taylor said. “This is our last chance to tune up against an opponent other than ourselves, so we take it very seriously.”

    The season kicks off on Nov. 3 in Anaheim but the Jacks first home game is Nov. 13 against the Pacific Union Pioneers.

    Jacks redshirt junior guard, Tyras Rattler is ready for the real games to begin but loves playing against the alumni. Rattler scored 22 points and added five boards in the game.

    “I like meeting the people that played before me, I learn from them and they give me good advice,” said Rattler. “Our goal is to go to the national championship and get a trophy. That’s our goal and we’re gonna try to get that.”

     

     

     

     

  • Jacks Ball dominates Western Oregon

    Jacks Ball dominates Western Oregon

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    The Lumberjacks have faced a tough Western Oregon squad for the second time this season, a rowdy Redwood Bowl on the edge of their seats during the team’s amazing 42-32 victory against the Wolves.

    The first game against the Wolves came down to a missed extra point. This time the Jacks knew they had to come out stronger.

    “We had to come out and play our game,” said All-American tailback Ja’Quan Gardner.

    Gardner played his usual brand of Jacks Ball as he carried the ball 35 times for 215-yards and three touchdowns.

    Thompson.Ian.Feature-4273_Print_Color
    Ja’Quan Gardner diving into the end zone. | Ian Benjamin Finnegan Thompson

    “It’s another win for the Jacks,” said Gardner.

    A minute didn’t even tick off the scoreboard as the Senior Quarterback Robert Webber connected with Senior Marjani Ellison for a 53-yard touchdown reception. The Jacks would come back a few minutes later with a 17-yard Gardner touchdown run.

    Humboldt State’s offensive line led by All-American and NFL prospect Senior Alex Cappa controlled and dominated all night long.

    “We were able to limit mistakes from the last game,” said Cappa It’s about executing our assignment and doing what we do.”

    Up 14-0, Western Oregon got into the endzone with a one-yard score from quarterback Phillip Fenumiai. A field goal and 90-yard punt-return for a touchdown later and the Wolves rattled off 21-straight points to take the team.

    Gardner came to the rescue with two more touchdowns of three and two-yards to take a 11-point lead before halftime.

    Thompson.Ian.Feature-4325_Print_Color
    Ja’Quan Gardner running down the field. | Ian Benjamin Finnegan Thompson

    “We had an 11-point lead at half, we came out and got two touchdowns late in the second half which really was the difference in the game,” said head coach Rob Smith.

    Two Webber touchdown passes to junior Jamere Austin and Senior Chase Krivashei in the second half put the game away for the Jacks.

    “Proud of our kids, our defense played well with a few exceptions,” said Smith, “All in all we played well.”

    The Jacks will travel to British Columbia to face Simon Frasier, the Jacks hung up 72 points the last time these two teams faced. A week later the Jacks will face Western Colorado State.

    In three weeks the Jacks will have it’s final home game of the regular season against No.8 ranked Central Washington. The only team to hand the Jacks a loss this season.

    “Everything is still out there for us,” said Smith. “These kids have stuck to it, come out and got it done and we’re in the hunt. That’s all we can ask for.”

     

  • Humboldt State athletics shows kindness with Sonoma State

    Humboldt State athletics shows kindness with Sonoma State

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    Sports glorifies the competitive spirit where one should be better than their opponent, every little advantage or slip-up can mean victory or defeat. It’s rare to see sportsmanship, and more rare to see acts of kindness when it’s least expected.

    Humboldt State athletics showed it’s sportsmanship this past weekend when Sonoma State’s soccer program used its facilities this past weekend as the Northern California wildfires have displaced many in the Sonoma and Napa Counties.

    Sonomastate2.jpg
    College Creek Field Photo credit: Iridian Casarez

    “As soon as we heard about fires and people being displaced we contacted Sonoma State to see what we could do,” said Interim Athletic Director Duncan Robbins. “We were worried about our friends down there.”

    Sonoma State closed Oct. 9, and opened back up last Wednesday, making it nine days that the school was closed. The soccer teams haven’t played in two weeks because of the bad air quality which resulted in two cancelled games.

    The team has spent some of that tie in the community helping families who have been displaced by the fires.

    “Our teams have been taking the time off to do a lot of volunteer work,” said associate athletic director Brandon Bronzan “We’ve been at evacuation shelters passing stuff out to those in need, we’ll do clinics to raise for those who’s lost their houses.”

    The fire even claimed the home of Sonoma State President Judy Sakaki.

    Senior Katie Mohr’s family had to evacuate several times because of the fire, luckily her childhood home where her parents live did not burn down.

    “It feels good, we have a really good team and support system,” said Mohr. “It feels good to get away from it all and we know we have bigger reason and purpose to play for.”

    In its first games since Oct. 8, the Seawolves men’s team went 2-0 defeating Cal State L.A. and Dominguez Hills. The nationally ranked women’s team defeated Cal State L.A. and tied with Dominguez Hills.

    If you would like to help and make a donation, here are some charities you can donate to: the Humane Society of Sonoma County, Humane Society of Napa County and Yuba-Sutter SPCA.

  • Jacks top Western Oregon

    By | Keaundrey Clark

    Football was alive and well Saturday night as the Humboldt State Lumberjacks defeated Western Oregon 42-32.

    It was the arm of Senior Quarterback Robert Webber and the legs of all-American running back that helped lead the jacks to victory as they both scores three touchdowns on the night.

    This win tied the all-time series 5-5. The Jacks are winners of 5 out of the last 6.

    The Jacks are now 6-1 and will go to British Columbia as they face Simon Fraser next Saturday.