News Releases

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Voted No. 4 in the Nation by NJCAA

Posted on February 8th, 2010

Owens’ Brittany Darling looks to score in a recent Express women’s basketball game.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Continuing to build on a season of success, the Owens Community College women’s basketball team is currently ranked No. 4 in the nation among Division II basketball teams by the NJCAA.

“Being ranked among the elite teams in the country is quite an achievement for the Owens women’s basketball program,” said Michael Llanas, Owens Women’s Basketball Head Coach. “I’m very proud of our players who really have been putting forth the hard work and effort on the basketball court.”

Llanas added, “We’re honored by this recognition, but certainly understand that we have a lot of difficult games ahead of us. Our goal is to continue to improve as a team each day and bring home a conference championship and beyond.”

Owens is off to its best start in program history with an impressive 22-2 overall record and an 8-0 mark (first place) in the OCCAC. The Express has won 15 games in a row to include victories over Cuyahoga CC 87-44, Edison State CC 76-65, Lakeland CC 65-52, Glen Oaks CC 94-54 and Sinclair CC 87-72. Eleven players have started games this season for the Express, who are outscoring opponents by nearly 24 points per game.

Express freshman guard Jasmine Blanton of Toledo (Notre Dame Academy) leads a balanced attack in scoring at 16.6 points per game and 3.7 assists. Brittany Darling of Curtice (Genoa H.S.), a sophomore center, is adding 13.7 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.8 blocks per game, while sophomore guard/forward Sarah Clark of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.) is totaling 11 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists for Owens.

Owens women’s basketball team members also include Ashley Hooker of Toledo, sophomore guard/forward (Whitmer H.S.), 4 points per game; Kaila Corrothers of Detroit, sophomore guard (Detroit Consortium H.S.), 7.9 points per game; Rashanna Johnson of Columbus, point guard (Whitehall-Yearling H.S.), 5.2 points per game; Nasumbi Beard of Mansfield, point guard (Ontario H.S.), 6.6 points per game; Demi Moschetti of Perrysburg, forward/center (Perrysburg H.S.), 6.7 points per game; Jordan Floyd of Waterville, guard/forward (Anthony Wayne H.S.), 2 points per game; Renee Bidlack of Payne, forward (Wayne Trace H.S.), 4.2 points per game; Gabbie Cerovski of Hebron, guard (Lakewood H.S.), 2.4 points per game; Saige Meyer of Deshler, guard (Patrick Henry H.S.), 2.2 points per game, and Karrah Windau of Carey, forward (Carey H.S.), 3.1 points per game.

The team’s only losses this season occurred in November by a total of four points – a one-point setback to Schoolcraft College, the top-ranked team in NJCAA Division II; and a three-point loss to Hillsborough Community College, an NJCAA Division I team in Florida.

Jasmine Blanton leads Owens in scoring with a 16.6 points per game average.

This coming weekend, Owens travels to Cincinnati to face its archrival Cincinnati State Technical and Community College (14-8, 6-1) on Saturday, Feb. 6. The game begins at 1 p.m. Owens will battle Lorain County Community College (1-7, 9-12) in home action on Wednesday, Feb. 10, starting at 5:30 p.m. The Express will entertain Columbus State Community College on Saturday, Feb. 13. The home game starts at 1 p.m.

All home games are free and occur at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

One of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio, Owens Community College is a fully accredited two-year, state-assisted institution of higher education that has served Northwest Ohio since 1965. With a commitment to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability, the College serves the diverse academic needs of credit and non-credit students on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses. Owens offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Reschedules Home Game Against Glen Oaks, Jan. 25

Posted on January 19th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball home game originally scheduled for Dec. 30 against Glen Oaks Community College will occur on Monday, Jan. 25. The Express will play at 5 p.m.

All home games are played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express has amassed an overall record of 15-2 and is 2-0 (first place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Llanas’ team is currently on an eight-game winning and is ranked No. 7 in the most recent NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball poll.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Softball Student-Athletes and Coaches to Help Needy Families at Oregon Food For Thought, Jan. 18

Posted on January 15th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Express women’s softball team will be providing a helping hand to those in need during this coming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday as 20 student-athletes and coaches volunteer their time at Food For Thought on Monday, Jan. 18.

Beginning at 9 a.m., the softball team will be painting the waiting room, assembling survival backpacks for the homeless, and stocking and sorting food items at the organization’s Food Pantry, which is located in New Harvest Christian Church (3540 Seaman Rd.) in Oregon. In addition, Owens’ student-athletes and coaches will be separating non-perishable food and basic hygiene items for eventual delivery to needy families and individuals in Haiti as part the relief efforts.

“Community service is about helping others and Owens Community College’s Softball Program is proud to lend a hand to the Food For Thought organization,” said Duane Lanham, Owens Head Coach of the Women’s Softball Program. “It is important for our student-athletes to become societal contributors and engage in community outreach and service. There are many families who are struggling with such basic needs as food. Our student-athletes and coaches are honored to play a small role in Food For Thoughts’ efforts to eliminate hunger and to make a positive difference in the lives those who are less fortunate.”

The Express women’s softball completed the 2009 season with a 27-13 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-0 record) title in the program’s history. Led by Head Coach Duane Lanham, Owens lost to Lansing Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships. The softball team will be volunteering at Food for Thought in Oregon until 2 p.m.

Food For Thought in Oregon was founded with the overall mission of assisting the needy through the organization’s stationary food pantry, mobile food pantry and picnic program. Six days per week, Food For Thought is dedicated to providing community outreach services to thousands of individuals as part of their efforts to increase access to food for hungry people.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete Named NJCAA National Player of the Week

Posted on January 14th, 2010

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball student-athlete Jasmine Blanton of Toledo (pre-physical therapist assistant major) has been selected as the NJCAA Division II National Player of the Week for her efforts in helping the Express secure four victories during the holiday season.

Blanton, a Notre Dame Academy graduate, averaged 18 points and 8.2 rebounds in victories over Alpena Community College 106-61, Mott Community College 75-61, Jackson Community College 83-51 and Lake Michigan Community College 83-64. The honor by the freshman guard is the second in the history of the women’s basketball program. Former Owens women’s basketball student-athlete and now Assistant Coach Melanie Schroeder achieved the honor in 2007.

This coming weekend, Owens will travel to Columbus where they will square off against Columbus State Community College (10-7, 1-1) on Saturday, Jan. 16. The game begins at 1 p.m.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Baseball Hitting and Pitching School, Jan. 15-17

Posted on December 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area baseball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as men’s baseball hosts a three-day Express Baseball Hitting and Pitching School, Friday-Sunday, Jan. 15-17.

The baseball pitching school will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Friday (Jan. 15), while the hitting school will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (Jan. 16-17) in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include Owens Express Head Coach Bob Schultz and Assistant Coaches Tom DeMarco and Gabe Medina. Youth ages 8-18 will be divided by age groups and receive individual instruction on baseball skills, which will include an evaluation of each player’s hitting, pitching, throwing and defensive techniques. In addition, attendees will learn about custom exercises for baseball and gain tips on improving their hitting and pitching.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball, which was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge. Participants are encouraged to wear baseball pants or sweats, T-shirts and tennis shoes.

The camp fee for the three-day school is $85 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. Owens’ camp fee is $35 per player for individuals interested in attending the pitching school only, while the camp fee for only the hitting school is $65 per player. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Express Volleyball Pink-Themed ‘Volley for the Cure’ Event Raises $1,900 for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research

Posted on December 4th, 2009

Owens’ volleyball team poses for a group photo at the conclusion of the their “Volley for the Cure” event.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Pink volleyballs, pink T-shirts, pink cookies, pink cupcakes, pink bracelets and pink necklaces were appropriately abundant on a recent evening at Owens Community College’s Student Health and Activities Center as the Express women’s volleyball team and Student Activities raised funds to help support the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the American Cancer Society and the two organization’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer. Both fans and student-athletes alike wore pink and purchased pink food and clothing items in honor of breast cancer awareness during the Express’ home match against Lorain County Community College.

In a little over two hours, the Owens volleyball team and Student Activities collected over $1,900 through various “pink-themed” activities, which included a bake sale, game ball raffle, T-shirt sale and a pink game worn Express volleyball jersey silent auction.

“Breast cancer can occur at any time in a woman’s life,” said sophomore outside hitter Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.). “Nearly everyone either personally or through a loved one or friend has been affected by cancer in some one way. Owens’ ‘Volley for the Cure’ provides an opportunity to raise public awareness and funds for this terrible disease.”

Express sophomore defensive specialist Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.) added, “It is our responsibility as women to help in educating other women about breast cancer. Everyone’s efforts are needed to support the breast cancer awareness and research cause and hopefully one day a cure can be found.”

In addition to contributions raised, the Express volleyball team won the match against Lorain County Community College in three consecutive games 25-10, 25-10 and 25-20.

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure was established in 1982 by Nancy Brinker to honor the memory of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer at the age of 36. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. More than $1 billion has been raised to aid the fight against breast cancer in the world. The American Cancer Society is a nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.

The Express women’s volleyball program recently ended their 2009 season with a 32-20 overall record and tied for second place (9-3) in the OCCAC. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the team’s season concluded with a loss to St. Clair County Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Express volleyball team members include Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield (Mansfield Senior H.S.), Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.), Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. (Mason H.S.), Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.), Alyssa Wielfaert of Toledo (Start H.S.), Danielle Bateson of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.), Amanda Schuster of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.), Lauren Lind of Millbury (Lake H.S.), Jessica Knueve of Kalida (Kalida H.S.), Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville (Eastwood H.S.), Kara Seals of Temperance, Mich. (Bedford H.S.), Maureen Kurtz of Tiffin (Mohawk H.S.), Shelby Schuster of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.) and Leigha Poulson of Shreve (Triway H.S.).

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Owens Community College Hosts Second Annual Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage, Nov. 19

Posted on November 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Twenty high school varsity girls basketball teams will have the opportunity to compete against some of the best high schools from around the region as part of the second annual Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage hosted by Owens Community College on Thursday, Nov. 19.

The basketball mega scrimmage will occur from 5-10 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Varsity girls basketball teams competing in the Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage include Notre Dame Academy, Whitmer High School, Central Catholic High School, Libbey High School, Stryker High School, Lake High School, Delphos St. John High School, Toledo Christian School, Calvert High School, Ottawa Hills High School, Archbold High School, Fostoria St. Wendelin High School, Detroit CMA High School, Perrysburg High School, Bellevue High School, Clay High School, Delphos Jefferson High School, Northwood High School, Ida High School and Mason High School. Each high school varsity team will compete in several games throughout the scrimmage.

The Express women’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Mike Llanas. Early in the 2009-10 campaign, the Express’ overall record stands at 4-1 after five games. Owens is currently ranked No. 9 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Admission to the basketball mega scrimmage is $2 per person. For more information, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Express Baseball Student-Athletes and Coaches to Help Needy Families at Toledo Seagate Food Bank, Nov. 21

Posted on November 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Express men’s baseball team will be providing a helping hand to those in need during this Thanksgiving holiday season as 27 student-athletes and coaches volunteer their time at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Beginning at 9 a.m., the baseball team will be sorting thousands of recently donated food items from the Toledo Seagate Food Bank’s annual holiday donation drive titled “Stuff the Truck”. In addition to sorting the collected items, Owens’ student-athletes and coaches will be packing the various donations for eventual delivery to needy families and individuals throughout Northwest Ohio.

“There many people throughout Northwest Ohio who are without food on a daily basis,” said Bob Schultz, Owens Head Coach of the Men’s Baseball Program. “The Owens Community College Express baseball team is proud to once again help the Toledo Seagate Food Bank in their efforts to fight hunger and make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

Schultz added, “In today’s economic times there are even more families who are struggling. I encourage people to make a donation to their area food bank as supplies are very low.”

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll and lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships. The baseball team will be volunteering at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank until 11:30 a.m.

Individuals interested in donating to the “Stuff the Truck” holiday collection drive this weekend can drop off their items at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank, which is located at 526 High St. in Toledo. Items being collected include canned meats, grocery/food items, chilled and frozen foods, canned/frozen/bottled beverages, detergents, and paper goods, among other donations. For more information about the “Stuff the Truck” holiday collection drive, call (419) 244-6996.

Owens Men’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 13-14

Posted on November 13th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team will take an overall 0-2 record into this weekend as they host their annual Express Tip-Off Classic tournament, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 13-14.

Beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, the host Express will face Kellogg Community College, while Hillsborough Community College will take on TCI College of Technology at 6 p.m. in the earlier game.

On Saturday (Nov. 14), the consolation game will occur at 5 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will follow the consolation game and begin at 7 p.m.

Owens Women’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 14-15

Posted on November 13th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team will take an overall 3-0 record into this weekend as they host their annual Express Tip-Off Classic tournament, Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 14-15.

Beginning at 12 p.m. on Saturday, the host Express will face Delta College, while Hillsborough Community College will take on TCI College of Technology at 2 p.m.

On Sunday (Nov. 15), the consolation game will occur at 12 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will follow the consolation game and begin at 2 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is currently ranked No. 11 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Nov. 6-8

Posted on November 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s volleyball team will look to advance to their seventh national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich., Friday-Sunday, Nov. 6-8.

Coached by Sonny Lewis, the Express will take a 30-18 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play against Schoolcraft College (21-15) at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6 in quarterfinal action. If they would advance, the Express will play the winner of the Henry Ford Community College (8-16)/St. Clair County Community College (35-11) match at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7 in the semifinals. The championship match will occur at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Columbus State Community College (35-7), Mott Community College (14-29), Macomb Community College (31-6) and Oakland Community College (32-11).

Lewis’ squad finished 9-3 (second place tie) in the OCCAC regular season standings.

The NJCAA Division II National Championship will be held Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 19-21 in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Owens Community College Express Men’s Basketball Opens Season Against Henry Ford Community College, Nov. 5

Posted on November 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball will begin its 2009-10 campaign with a season-opening home contest against Henry Ford Community College on Thursday, Nov. 5. The game will begin at 7 p.m.

All home games are free and held at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s basketball program is led by third-year Head Coach Kevin Skaggs. His Assistant Coaches are Corey Tucker and Allen Drake (Interim). Owens finished the 2008-09 season with a 15-16 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. The Express lost to Cuyahoga Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“We’re really looking forward to the beginning of the basketball regular season,” said Skaggs. “We have a great group of incoming first-year student-athletes who want to be a part of the Express men’s basketball tradition. At the same time, the team is extremely young with only two returning veterans. I am really proud of this team as they are working extremely hard and putting forth the effort that is necessary to compete against some of the top teams in the country.”

Skaggs added, “The conference should once again be very competitive with several teams vying for the title. Our goal is to be one of those teams shooting for a conference crown in January and February.”

Owens has two returning players, including Joshua Robinson of Elkhart, Ind. (Elkhart Central H.S.) and Michael Lee of Inkster, Mich. (Wayne Memorial H.S.). During the 2008-09 season, the sophomore guard and team captain averaged 8.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. Lee, a sophomore guard and team captain, averaged 8.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.9 assists for Owens.

First-year players are Traymone Camak of Toledo, guard (Rogers H.S.); Virgil McGuire of Jackson, Mich., guard (Jackson H.S.); Calvin Edwards of Delaware, guard/forward (Rutherford B. Hayes H.S.); Tommy Kralovic of Rossford, guard (Rossford H.S.); Earl Hardison of Westland, Mich., guard (John Glenn H.S.); Jonathan Dunn of Toledo, guard/forward (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.); Derrick Sanderfer Jr. of Toledo, guard/forward (Rogers H.S.); Dylan Jablonski of Erie, Mich., center (Mason H.S.); Bruce Huntley Jr. of Toledo, guard/forward (Central Catholic H.S.); Jeff Delva of Detroit, center (Western International H.S.); Craig Short of Toledo, forward/center (Rogers H.S.), and Dalante Heard of Toledo, center (Rogers H.S.).

Owens Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete Named NJCAA Pre-Season All-American

Posted on November 2nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball student-athlete Sarah Clark of Delphos has been named to the NJCAA Division II Pre-Season All-American Second Team.

Clark, a Delphos St. John’s High School graduate, led the team with a 15.3 points per game average last year. Additionally, the sophomore guard/forward averaged 7.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals. Her postseason honors included being named to the OCCAC All-Conference Second Team.

The Express women’s basketball program opens its 2009-10 season this evening (Monday, Nov. 2) against Mott Community College. The game will begin at 6 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

In addition, the Owens women’s basketball program has earned the distinction of being ranked No. 11 in the NJCAA Division II preseason poll. Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa received the No. 1 ranking.

The Express ended last season with an 18-12 overall record and a third-place finish in the OCCAC (7-5 record). Owens lost to Oakland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Champship.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Opens Season Against Mott Community College, Nov. 2

Posted on October 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball will open its 2009-10 season against Mott Community College on Monday, Nov. 2. The season opener will begin at 6 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is led by sixth-year Head Coach Michael Llanas. During his fifth year at the helm, Llanas led the Express to an 18-12 overall record and a third-place finish in the OCCAC (7-5 record). Owens lost to Oakland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships last year. Llanas’ Assistant Coaches are Stephen Perry and Melanie Schroeder.

All home games are free and occur at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Our coaching staff is very excited about this year’s team,” Llanas said. “We have a great group of both first-year and returning players who bring high intensity, great athleticism and a strong work ethic to the basketball court each and every day. This team has the opportunity to be very successful and achieve great things both during the regular season and in the postseason.”

The Express have five players returning from last year’s team, including Sarah Clark of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.) and Ashley Hooker of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.). In 2008-09, Clark led the team with a 15.3 points per game average. The sophomore guard/forward also averaged 7.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.3 steals for the Express. Her postseason honors included OCCAC All-Conference Second Team selection. Hooker, a sophomore guard/forward, averaged 3.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1 assist during the 2008-09 season. She received the team’s Most Improved Player award and was an NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team selection.

Also returning to Llanas’ squad are Kaila Corrothers of Detroit (Detroit Consortium H.S.), Kelsey Perry of Willard (Willard H.S.) and Brittany Darling of Curtice (Genoa H.S.). Corrothers, a sophomore guard, averaged 4.2 points during the season. During the 2008-09 season, Perry, a sophomore guard, averaged two points, 1.6 rebounds and one assist for the Express. Darling is a sophomore center and averaged 7.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.1 blocks for the women’s basketball program last year.

First-year players to the Express women’s basketball program are Rashanna Johnson of Columbus, point guard (Whitehall-Yearling H.S.); Nasumbi Beard of Mansfield, point guard (Ontario H.S.); Demi Moschetti of Perrysburg, forward/center (Perrysburg H.S.); Jasmine Blanton of Toledo, guard (Notre Dame Academy); Jordan Floyd of Waterville, guard/forward (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Renee Bidlack of Payne, forward (Wayne Trace H.S.); Gabbie Cerovski of Hebron, guard (Lakewood H.S.); Saige Meyer of Deshler, guard (Patrick Henry H.S.), and Karrah Windau of Carey, forward (Carey H.S.).

Owens Express Men’s Soccer Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Oct. 31 – Nov. 1

Posted on October 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s soccer team will look to advance to their first national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Soccer Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Cuyahoga Community College in Parma, Ohio, Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 31 – Nov. 1.

Coached by Art Johnson, the Express will take a 12-6-1 overall record into the four-team single elimination tournament where they will play Schoolcraft College (13-1-1) at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 31. If they would advance, the Express will play the Cincinnati State CC (15-2-1)/Ancilla College (9-5-0) winner at 12 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1 in the championship game.

If they should win, the Express will host the NJCAA Region XXIV champion for the District D title and right to advance on to the NJCAA Division I national tournament. The championship match would occur on Friday, Nov. 6.

Johnson’s team finished in second place in the final Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (3-3 record) standings.

The NJCAA Division I National Championship will be held, Nov. 19-22 in Trenton, N.J.

Owens Express Volleyball to Host ‘Volley for the Cure’ During Match Against Lorain County Community College, Oct. 28

Posted on October 20th, 2009

Last year’s “Volley for the Cure” event raised over $400 for breast cancer research.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College volleyball program is encouraging area residents to help in supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the organization’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer by making a donation during the Express’ home match against Lorain County Community College on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The match begins at 6 p.m.

Admission to the home match is $3 per person ($1 for Owens students) with all the proceeds benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure initiative. Additionally, each attendee’s entrance ticket will serve as a raffle ticket for the chance to win the evening’s pink game ball signed by the current Express volleyball team. The match will take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

In addition to the admission donation, individuals will have the opportunity to participate in various fundraisers throughout the evening, which will be located at several tables inside the Student Health and Activities Center gymnasium entrance. The Express volleyball team will be wearing pink jersey uniforms during the match, as well as hosting a bake sale and a silent auction to win a pink game worn Express volleyball jersey. Breast cancer awareness T-shirts, pins, bracelets, necklaces and wall-of-hope cards will also be available for purchase during the “Volley for the Cure” event. All money raised by the team will go directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Express women’s volleyball program has amassed a 28-15 overall record and currently is in second place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, their conference record is 7-1.

In the span of two hours last year, the Owens volleyball program collected over $400 through various “pink-themed” activities. For more information about the “Volley for the Cure” event, call (567) 661-7974 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7974.

Owens Express Baseball Hosts Prospect Open Tryouts, Oct. 17

Posted on October 14th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s baseball at Owens Community College during 2010-11 academic year are invited to a Prospect Open Tryout on Saturday, Oct. 17.

The Prospect Open Tryout begins at 9 a.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Scholarships are still available. Owens Express players must be high school graduates and should bring their own equipment. For more information on the open tryout, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Express Volleyball Entertains Top-Ranked Columbus State in Regular Season Match, Oct. 2

Posted on October 1st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The nine-time defending Ohio Community College Athletic Association champion Owens Community College women’s volleyball program will entertain top-ranked Columbus State Community College in a crucial match to determine regular season supremacy in the conference on Friday, Oct. 2.

The match will begin at 6 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to home matches is free.

The Express women’s volleyball program has amassed an 18-12 overall record and currently tied for first place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, their conference record is 4-0. Owens has won 10 out of the last 11 conference titles.

Columbus State enters the match as the No. 1 ranked team in the latest NJCAA Division II regular season poll. The Cougars have an overall record of 25-2 and a 4-0 mark (first place tie) in the OCCAC.

On Saturday, Oct. 3, Owens will host the Express Quadrangular involving Columbus State, Mott Community College (9-17) and Schoolcraft College (18-9). Beginning at 11 a.m., the host Express will face Mott, while Columbus State will take on Schoolcraft. Later that same day at 1 p.m., Owens will take on Schoolcraft. The other match will feature Columbus State against Mott. All matches will take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center.

Owens Men’s Baseball Reschedules Express Alumni Game for Oct. 10

Posted on October 1st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s baseball alumni game, which was originally scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 11, will now occur on Saturday, Oct. 10.

The exhibition game will begin at 11 a.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the exhibition game is free and open to the public.

For more information, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Community College Postpones Express Four-Person Golf Scramble for Oct. 4

Posted on October 1st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College seventh annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble originally scheduled for this Sunday, Oct. 4 at Detwiler Golf Club in Toledo has been postponed. A makeup date has not been scheduled at this time.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Men’s Baseball to Host Express Alumni Game, Oct. 11

Posted on September 24th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The current Owens Community College men’s baseball team will compete against some of the top former student-athletes in the program’s history as the Express host their annual alumni baseball game on Sunday, Oct. 11.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

The Express will open its 2010 season in March with games in South Carolina.

Owens men’s baseball is still accepting registrations for those former student-athletes interested in playing in the alumni game. For more information, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Community College Presents Seventh Annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble, Oct. 4

Posted on September 17th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf to benefit golf student-athletes and the intercollegiate program as Owens Community College presents its seventh annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. The event will occur on Sunday, Oct. 4.

Organized by Owens’ Department of Athletics, the golf outing will be held at Detwiler Golf Club in Toledo. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch and an awards program.

The four-person golf scramble competition will begin at 1 p.m. Owens’ event will conclude with participants recalling their golfing experience during a short awards program, which will recognize the top foursome, as well as the longest drive and closest to the pin contests.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble by entering a team. The entry fee is only $60 per player and all proceeds from the event will benefit the intercollegiate athletic golf program at Owens.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured five match and invitational titles during the 2009 spring season, highlighted by its third consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also captured its fourth NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 317-314 (631) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Individuals must register prior to the date of the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Seven Owens Community College Student-Athletes Named NJCAA Academic All-Americans

Posted on August 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Seven Owens Community College student-athletes have been selected to the 2008-09 Academic All-American Team by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) for their outstanding accomplishments in the classroom and on the athletic playing field.

Yousef Aliakbar of Perrysburg (men’s soccer) Distinguished Academic All-American; Lorenzo Carrion-Bistolfi of Medell”n, Colombia (men’s soccer) Distinguished Academic All-American; Jeanne Bockey of Delphos (women’s basketball) Distinguished Academic All-American; Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo (women’s softball) Distinguished Academic All-American; Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich. (women’s softball) Academic All-American; Mallory Imbery of Curtice (women’s volleyball) Academic All-American, and Casey Winckowski of Oregon (men’s baseball) Academic All-American are among only 51 student-athletes since 1994 to receive the award at Owens.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of our seven Academic All-Americans for their hard work and dedication exhibited within the classroom,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “Their success as scholars is a positive reflection on the College’s athletic programs and commitment shown toward educational values.”

Rickard added, “As good as the seven of them are academically, they are even better people and citizens in their respective communities.”

Aliakbar, a freshman midfielder (associate of science, general concentration) from Maumee Valley Country Day School, was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection and achieved a 3.87 grade point average for the academic year. Last season, he totaled four goals, six assists and 14 points for the Express men’s soccer program, which finished with a 10-8-2 overall record and a 2-3-1 mark (third place) in the OCCAC.

A freshman defender from Centro Educacional Conquistadores, Carrion-Bistolfi (international business) earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and was an NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team and an OCCAC All-Conference First Team selection. Also named team Defensive MVP, he achieved a 3.87 grade point average during the academic year and totaled one shot as a defender for the 10-win Express men’s soccer program.

Bockey (middle childhood education) is a sophomore guard from Delphos St. John’s High School. Her postseason accomplishments include OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection and the Mark Henry Award. Bockey helped the program finish third in the OCCAC (7-5 record) with an 18-12 overall record by averaging 12.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.1 steals. She achieved a 3.81 grade point average during the academic year.

Helminiak, a sophomore first baseman from Springfield High School, was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. She was an integral part of the Express women’s softball program this past year, which captured the OCCAC title (8-0 record) and completed the season with a 27-13 overall record. Helminiak (early childhood education) was second on the team with nine homeruns and compiled a .310 batting average. She achieved a 3.81 grade point average during the academic year.

A sophomore shortstop from Ida High School, Sepesy (pre-nursing and associate of science, general concentration) earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and received the team’s Heart of a Champion Award. She collected 22 hits and nine RBIs and scored 22 runs for the 27-13 Express women’s softball program. Sepesy achieved a 3.64 grade point average during the academic year.

Imbery (adolescence education) is a sophomore outside hitter from Genoa High School. She helped the program capture its ninth consecutive OCCAC championship (10-0 record) and a 39-15 overall record by totaling 17 kills, 18 digs and nine blocks. She achieved a 3.73 grade point average during the academic year.

Winckowski, a sophomore infielder and pitcher from Clay High School, was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. He was an integral part of the Express men’s baseball program this past year, which captured the OCCAC title (11-4 record) and completed the season with a 34-10 overall record. Winckowski (associate of arts, general concentration) led the team with four homeruns, recorded 40 hits and 37 RBIs, and compiled a .345 batting average. He achieved a 3.68 grade point average during the academic year.

Selection criterion for the honored recipients is based upon achieving between 3.60-3.79 grade point average for NJCAA Distinguished Academic All-American honors and 3.80-4.0 grade point average for NJCAA Academic All-American status.

Owens Community College Express Soccer Opens Season at Delta College Invitational, Aug. 29-30

Posted on August 26th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s soccer will look to contend for its first-ever conference title by opening the 2009 schedule at the Delta College Invitational in Midland, Mich., Aug. 29-30. The Express will take on Kellogg Community College on Saturday (Aug. 29) and Delta College on Sunday (Aug. 30). Both matches will begin at 1 p.m.

The Express will open its home season against Lorain County Community College on Wednesday, Sept. 2. The home opener will start at 4:30 p.m. All home matches are played at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

The Owens men’s soccer program is led by Head Coach Art Johnson. Johnson’s Assistant Coaches are Jeremiah McNutt and Keith Closson.

The 2008 edition of Express men’s soccer completed its eleventh season as an Owens athletic program this past year. The Express finished with a 10-8-2 overall record and in third place in the final OCCAC (2-3-1 record) standings.

“I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season,” Johnson said. “We have an extremely talented group of players that are collectively working hard and putting forth the effort to become a championship-caliber team.”

Johnson added, “Our schedule is once again extremely difficult as there are not any easy matches. The success of our team will come down to continuous improvement on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball.”

The Express has five players returning from last year’s team. Among the second-year players on Johnson’s squad is Lorenzo Carrion-Bistolfi of Medell”n, Colombia (Centro Educacional Conquistadores). In 2008, the sophomore was named to the NJCAA Distinguished Academic All-American team and earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors. Additionally, he was chosen team Defensive MVP and was an NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team and an OCCAC All-Conference First Team selection. Carrion-Bistolfi totaled one shot an Express defender.

Also returning to the Express program are Jon Moore of Toledo (Toledo Christian Schools) and Jahvan Russell of Montego Bay, Jamaica (Cornwall College). Moore, a sophomore defender, recorded four assists and four points on five shots for the Express. In 2008, Russell, a sophomore midfielder, totaled two goals, three assists and seven points on 23 shots. Both Moore and Russell earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors.

Other returning student-athletes include Lawrence Vincent of Bensalem, Pa. (Conwell-Egan Catholic H.S.) and Jay Sesock of Davisburg, Mich. (Holly H.S.). Vincent is a sophomore midfielder. In 2008, he recorded three assists and three points on seven shots for Owens. A sophomore midfielder, Sesock recorded one goal, one assist and three points on five shots last year.

First-year players to the Express men’s soccer program are Pavle Udovicic of Belgrade, Serbia, goalie (Sportska Gimnazija Belgrade School); Cody Katschke of Martin, midfielder and defender (Genoa H.S.); Jerry Doekieh of Bristol, Pa., defender (Harry S. Truman H.S.); Michael Hamouda of Toledo, midfielder (Rainhill H.S.); John Caldwell of Holly, Mich., defender (Holly H.S.); Rodcliff Hall of West Yarmouth, Mass., forward (William Knibb Memorial H.S.); Mikhail Weatherly of Montego Bay, Jamaica, forward (Cornwall College); Ricky Dempsey of Oregon, forward and midfielder (Clay H.S.); Adam Beat of Norwalk, defender (Norwalk H.S.); Brian Kirton of Bridgetown, Barbados, midfielder and defender (Queen’s College); Robert Jablonski of Swanton, midfielder (Central Catholic H.S.); Andrew Whitmore of Toledo, defender (Start H.S.); Yadi Aliakbar of Perrysburg, midfielder and forward (St. Francis de Sales H.S.); and Dustin Lamon of Findlay, goalie (Liberty-Benton H.S.).

Owens Community College Express Volleyball Opens Season at Grand Rapids Invitational, Aug. 28-29

Posted on August 19th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The nine-time OCCAC defending Owens Community College women’s volleyball program will open its 2009 season with a tournament, Friday-Saturday, Aug. 28-29 at Grand Rapids Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The Owens volleyball program is led by nine-year Head Coach Sonny Lewis. During his eighth season as the Head Volleyball Coach at Owens, Lewis led the Express to 39 wins. Lewis’ Assistant Coaches are Denny Caldwell and Alison Mugler.

The Express will open its home campaign by hosting the Owens Express Invitational, Friday-Sunday, Sept. 4-6. All home matches are played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

Last season, the Express women’s volleyball program ended their season with a 39-15 overall record. The program captured its ninth consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 10-0 conference record. Owens has won 10 out of the last 11 conference titles.

The Express’ season concluded with a loss to Columbus State Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“I am very optimistic about the upcoming season,” Lewis stated. “We are very young with 10 incoming freshmen. However, the first-year student-athletes are extremely talented and have achieved a considerable amount of success at the high school level. We have great veteran leadership and expectations remain extremely high with the goal of continuing the tradition of Express volleyball excellence both on and off the court.”

The Express have four players returning from last year’s championship team, including NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team selection Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield (Mansfield Senior H.S.). In 2008, the sophomore outside hitter recorded 155 kills, 110 digs and 21 aces for the Express in 88 games.

Lewis’ squad also returns Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.), Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. (Mason H.S.) and Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.). Drew, a sophomore defensive specialist, played in 82 games and recorded 106 digs. Additionally, Drew earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors. Hearn is a sophomore outside hitter. In 2008, she recorded 133 kills, 159 digs and 23 aces in 101 games. Thomas is sophomore outside hitter and was third on the team with 33 aces. She also recorded 51 kills and 30 digs in 60 games.

First-year players to the Express women’s volleyball program are Alyssa Wielfaert of Toledo, defensive specialist (Start H.S.); Danielle Bateson of Fostoria, outside hitter (Fostoria H.S.); Amanda Schuster of Sylvania, middle blocker (Sylvania Southview H.S.); Lauren Lind of Millbury, outside hitter (Lake H.S.); Jessica Knueve of Kalida, outside hitter (Kalida H.S.); Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville, defensive specialist (Eastwood H.S.); Kara Seals of Temperance, Mich., outside hitter (Bedford H.S.); Maureen Kurtz of Tiffin, middle blocker (Mohawk H.S.); Shelby Schuster of Sylvania, setter and outside hitter (Sylvania Southview H.S.); and Leigha Poulson of Shreve, setter (Triway H.S.).

Owens Men’s Soccer to Host Express Alumni Match, Aug. 15

Posted on August 11th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s soccer team will conclude its 2009 preseason by hosting an Express alumni match on Saturday, Aug. 15.

The scrimmage match will begin at 1 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Express will host Ancilla College in its regular season home opening match at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5. Admission to all home matches is free.

The men’s soccer program, led by Head Coach Art Johnson, this past year completed its eleventh season as an Owens athletic program. The Express finished with a 10-8-2 overall record. Johnson’s team finished in third place in the final OCCAC (2-3-1 record) standings.

Owens Express Soccer to Hold Open Tryouts, Aug. 1

Posted on July 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s soccer at Owens Community College are invited to open tryouts on Saturday, Aug. 1.

The open tryouts begin at 10 a.m. and will be held at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Scholarships are still available and prospective Owens Express student-athletes must be high school graduates. For more information on the open tryouts, call (567) 661-7938 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7938.

Owens Express Student-Athletes Named OCCAC 2008-09 Academic All-Conference

Posted on July 21st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Nineteen Owens Community College student-athletes have received Academic All-Conference honors by the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) in recognition of their scholarly achievements for the 2008-09 academic year.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of these student-athletes who have demonstrated both hard work and exceptional commitment to academic achievement,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “Their success as scholars is a positive reflection on each athletic program and the dedication shown toward educational values.”

Selection criterion for the honored recipients is based upon achieving a minimum 3.30 grade point average.

Owens has been a member of the OCCAC since 1987. The other member schools comprising the OCCAC are Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Edison State Community College, Lakeland Community College, Lorain County Community College and Sinclair Community College.

Student-athletes receiving OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors include:

Brittney Bradner of Toledo (journalism), a Cardinal Stritch H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.53 grade point average.
Amanda Drew of Maumee (biology), a Springfield H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.71 grade point average.
Mallory Imbery of Curtice (adolescence education), a Genoa H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.73 grade point average.
Corine Williams of Toledo (associate of science, general concentration and pre-nursing), a Bowsher H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.58 grade point average.
Yousef Aliakbar of Perrysburg (associate of science, general concentration), a Maumee Valley Country Day School graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.87 grade point average.
Lorenzo Bistolfi of Medell”n, Colombia (international business), a Centro Educacional Conquistadores graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.87 grade point average.
Jon Moore of Toledo (pre-business administration), a Toledo Christian Schools graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.84 grade point average.
Jahvan Russell of Montego Bay, Jamaica (accounting), a Cornwall College graduate (men’s soccer) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Jeanne Bockey of Delphos (middle childhood education), a Delphos St. John H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.81 grade point average.
Unique Lane of Xenia (criminal justice technology), a Xenia H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.36 grade point average.
Brittany Simon of Lewisville, Texas (associate of science, general concentration), a Lewisville H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.30 grade point average.
Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse (pre-business administration and accounting), an Anthony Wayne H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.40 grade point average.
Jared Gibbons of West Carrollton (associate of arts, general concentration), a West Carrollton H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.34 grade point average.
Casey Winckowski of Oregon (associate of arts, general concentration), a Clay H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.68 grade point average.
Mike Kistler of Fremont (pre-business administration), a Fremont St. Joe H.S. graduate (men’s golf) with a 3.75 grade point average.
Jolynn Brossia of Curtice (pre-physical therapist assistant), a Genoa H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.62 grade point average.
Magan Gerding of Perrysburg (architectural engineering technology), a Northview H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.55 grade point average.
Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo (early childhood education), a Springfield H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.81 grade point average.
Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich. (pre-nursing and associate of science, general concentration), an Ida H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.64 grade point average.

Owens Community College Hosts Detroit Pistons Youth Basketball Training Camp, July 31 – Aug. 1

Posted on July 1st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as part of the Detroit Pistons 2009 Youth Basketball Training Camp Tour, Friday-Saturday, July 31 – Aug. 1.

The youth basketball training camp runs from 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College is proud to once again collaborate with the Detroit Pistons organization and host an exciting week of basketball for area youth throughout Northwest Ohio,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics.

Camp instructors for the two-day event will include Detroit Pistons officials and players, Michigan college and high school coaches, and current and former collegiate basketball superstars. Youth in grades 1-11 will receive instruction on various basketball skills, highlighted by ball handling, passing, shooting, defense and rebounding. Additionally, participants will be evaluated on their skill level and compete in games and a variety of contests.

The registration fee for the camp is $99 per participant and space is limited. In addition, each individual will receive a Detroit Pistons’ navy blue reversible training camp jersey and a basketball.

During the past 12 years more than 25,000 boys and girls have attended the Detroit Pistons Training Camp Tour occurring throughout Ohio and Michigan. For more information, call (567) 661-7973, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973 or (248) 377-8653.

Owens Community College to Host ‘Back to School’ Cheerleading Competition, Aug. 16

Posted on June 30th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area cheerleading teams and individuals will have the opportunity to test their ability against some of the best squads and participants in Ohio as Owens Community College serves as host to a “Back to School” Cheerleading Competition on Sunday, Aug. 16.

Presented by Owens’ Cheerleading Program, the competition will begin at 10 a.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The cheerleading competition is open to area schools and all-star and community cheerleading programs, as well as pee wee through senior and middle school through high school teams and individuals. Competition categories include team, individual, stunt group and co-ed partner in non-mount, mount and all-star divisions. The “Back to School” Cheerleading Competition is open to preschool- through college-age participants.

Routines performed in all three divisions cannot exceed two minutes and 30 seconds in length. Non-mount and mount routines are allowed a maximum of one minute and 30 seconds for the music section, while all-star divisions may perform their entire routine to music. The routines must include one cheer, one chant and a dance. A panel of judges will critique all divisions with the top teams and individuals in each division receiving awards.

In addition to the existing three divisions, the cheerleading competition will offer a new sideline spirit division, which is free to any team wanting to participate in their respective age categories. Each team will perform a one minute “crowd involvement” cheer in which they should display methods of getting the crowd to stand up, clap and cheer. Technical skills are encouraged to be kept to minimum and will not be judged. The use of signs, flags, banners and other spirit-related items are recommended.

Since 2001, the Owens Cheerleading Program has earned regional and national acclaim for cheerleading, garnering several awards. Such honors include first place finishes at JamFest – Collegiate Open Cheer and the Ohio Cheerleading and Dance Team Championships. In addition, Owens’ squad was second at the Cheerleaders of America Open Championship, the Cheerleaders of America Midwest Open and the Ohio Winter Nationals. In 2006, the group was recognized nationally by being named the American Championships Coed College National Champions and was chosen to dance to the music of the legendary Rolling Stones as part of the Super Bowl XL halftime show. The Owens Cheerleading Program is led by Head Coach Jessica Nekoranec.

The cheerleading competition registration fees are $20 per individuals and stunt teams and $40 per team divisions. The registration deadline is July 22 and space is limited. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973, or (419) 575-2436.

Owens Community College to Host Mitchell-Jackson Youth Basketball Camp, July 27-30

Posted on June 24th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth will have the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of basketball and life lessons as basketball stars Todd Mitchell and Jim Jackson host their annual basketball camp at Owens Community College, Monday-Thursday, July 27-30. This marks the third year that the annual basketball camp is being held at Owens Community College.

The four-day youth basketball camp runs from 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Owens Community College appreciates the opportunity to once again play an active role in supporting a longstanding community outreach program dedicated to enriching the lives of area youth through education and the sport of basketball,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “Todd Mitchell and Jim Jackson are both leaders on and off the basketball court and Owens is proud to collaborate on such a worthwhile initiative effecting area youth throughout Northwest Ohio.”

Camp instructors for the four-day event will include college and professional basketball standouts Mitchell and Jackson, as well as area high school coaches and current and former collegiate basketball players. Boys and girls entering grades 5-12 will receive instruction on various basketball skills, highlighted by ball handling, passing, shooting, defense and rebounding.

Additionally, participants will learn about teamwork, eating healthy and making the right decisions in life. Attendees will also be evaluated on their skill level and compete in games and a variety of contests.

The camp registration fee is $75 per participant and space is limited. Lunch is provided daily and each attendee will receive a basketball camp jersey. For more information, call (419) 720-5252.

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Announces Signing of Seven Student-Athletes to Scholarships

Posted on June 23rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Seven high school student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate men’s basketball for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2009-10 academic year.

The Owens men’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs and competes at the NJCAA Division II level. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the NJCAA Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition for its student-athletes.

The Express men’s basketball team finished the 2008-09 campaign with a 15-16 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings. Owens lost to Cuyahoga Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“The incoming freshmen class is extremely talented, both within the classroom and on the playing field,” said Skaggs. “Each of them brings exceptional athletic skills, which complement an experienced group of student-athletes returning from last year’s team. Our expectations remain the same as previous seasons with the ultimate goal of a conference championship.”

First-year student-athletes receiving men’s basketball scholarships are Dalante Heard of Toledo, center (Rogers H.S.); Traymone Camak of Toledo, point guard (Rogers H.S.); Derrick Sanderfer Jr. of Toledo, forward (Rogers H.S.); Bruce Huntley of Toledo, guard (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Tommy Kralovic of Rossford, guard (Rossford H.S.); Virgil McGuire of Jackson, Mich., point guard (Jackson H.S.); and Earl Hardiman of Westland, Mich., guard/forward (John Glenn H.S.).

Owens Community College Express Honors Baseball, Golf and Softball Programs

Posted on June 18th, 2009

Amanda Temple

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored its spring athletic programs for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Student-athletes participating in baseball, golf and softball were recognized for their athletic achievements, highlighted by Amanda Temple of Toledo being named NJCAA Division II First Team All-American in women’s softball.

Temple, a freshman infielder from Whitmer High School, set an Owens softball record for RBIs (54) in a season. In addition, her 54 RBIs ranked No. 34 in the country among NJCAA Division II women’s softball student-athletes. Temple also led the team in hits (55), doubles (13), triples (8), batting average (.509) and on base percentage (.567).

Her honors included selection to the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII teams. Additionally, Temple received Owens’ Most Valuable Player Award.

Express women’s softball completed the 2009 season with a 27-13 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-0 record) title in the program’s history. Led by Head Coach Duane Lanham, Owens lost to Lansing Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured five match and invitational titles during the recently-completed season, highlighted by its third consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Championship Invitational. The program also captured its fourth NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 317-314 (631) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Women’s softball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Amanda Temple
Most Improved Player – Kendall Kulakowski of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.)
Offensive Player of the Year – Allison Braun of Celina (Celina H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Danielle Hahn of Castalia (Margaretta H.S.)
Heart of a Champion Award – Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich. (Ida H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Lynsey McIntire of Woodville (Eastwood H.S.)
OCCAC Pitcher of the Year – Kendall Kulakowski
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Duane Lanham
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Amanda Temple, Kendall Kulakowski, Lynsey McIntire, Allison Braun and Danielle Hahn
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Amanda Temple and Danielle Hahn
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Amanda Temple, Danielle Hahn and Kendall Kulakowski
NJCAA Division II All-American First Team – Amanda Temple

Members of the Express women’s softball program also were Melinda Johnson of Bellevue (Bellevue H.S.), Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo (Springfield H.S.), Amanda Hensley of Fremont (Fremont St. Joe H.S.), Kayleigh Damron of Napoleon (Napoleon H.S.), Aimee Stranyak of Ida, Mich. (Ida H.S.), Kristina Kruzel of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.), Jessica Russell of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Haley Whitcomb of Sandusky (Perkins H.S.), Sasha Matyi of Maumee (Maumee H.S.), Chelsea Lingenfelter of Lima (Lima Shawnee H.S.), Kiley Thornton of Ida, Mich. (Ida H.S.), Lydia Eckel of Genoa (Genoa H.S.), Christine Zappone of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Magan Gerding of Perrysburg (Northview H.S.), Heather Whitcomb of Sandusky (Perkins H.S.), Aerica Susor of Curtice (Genoa H.S.) and Jolynn Brossia of Curtice (Genoa H.S.).

Men’s baseball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Joe Engle of Sidney (Sidney H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Jared Gibbons of West Carrollton (West Carrollton H.S.)
Coaches Award – Tim DeCant of Northwood (Lake H.S.)
Defensive Player Award – Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse (Anthony Wayne H.S.)
Offensive Player Award – Joe Engle
Outstanding Batting Average Award – Joe Engle
Outstanding Pitching Award – Eric Vaughan of Delta (Delta H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Joe Engle
OCCAC Pitcher of the Year – Nate Cress of Frankton, Ind. (Frankton H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Joe Engle, Nate Cress, Eric Vaughan, Jared Gibbons and Adam Bailey of Springboro (Springboro H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Joe Engle

Owens Express men’s baseball team members also were Casey Winckowski of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Craig Kidston of Bryan (North Central H.S.), Brian Shafer of Green Springs (Clyde H.S.), Kevin Dorsten of Huber Heights (Wayne H.S.), Neal Linthicum of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.), Joe Maurer of Toledo (Start H.S.), Josh Stewart of Massillon (Massillon Perry H.S.), Ben Fox of Huber Heights (Wayne H.S.), Bryan Daniel of Englewood (Northmont H.S.), Justin Adkins of Clay Center (Genoa H.S.), Joel Gattoni of Thornhill, Canada (Langstaff Secondary School), Michael Romano of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Ross Joost of Sherwood (Fairview H.S.), Josh Newman of Dayton (Northmont H.S.), Ross Knierim of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Tom Wojciechowski of Genoa (Genoa H.S.) and Bryan Bogart of Canal Winchester (Canal Winchester H.S.).

Golf awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Jimmy Bell of Rossford (Rossford H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Andrew Biggert of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.)
Coaches Award – Jacob Williams of Fostoria (St. Wendelin H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Jimmy Bell
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Jimmy Bell, Andrew Biggert and Jacob Williams
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Jared Radabaugh of Findlay (Liberty-Benton H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Jimmy Bell

Express golf team members also included Chris Flynn of Maumee (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.), Jordan Kalmbach of Erie, Mich. (Mason H.S.), Mike Kistler of Fremont (Fremont St. Joe H.S.), Jarrod Maneval of Liberty Center (Liberty Center H.S.) and Adam Schmitz of Carey (Carey H.S.).

Owens Community College Hosts Express Volleyball Camp, July 13-15

Posted on June 15th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area volleyball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s volleyball program hosts a three-day Express Volleyball Camp, Monday-Wednesday, July 13-15.

The volleyball camp will offer two separate sessions daily from 9-11:30 a.m. for grades 4-7 and from 12:30-4 p.m. for grades 8-12 in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express women’s volleyball coaching staff, area coaches, and current and former collegiate players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on volleyball skills in their designated area, including outsider hitter, middle blocker, setter and defensive specialist. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for volleyball and gain tips on improving their passing efficiency.

Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, Owens Express women’s volleyball completed their 2008 season with a 39-15 overall record. The program captured its ninth consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 10-0 conference record. Owens has now won 10 out of the last 11 conference titles. The team’s season concluded with a loss to Columbus State Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $80 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7939 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7939.

Owens Community College Express Baseball Holds Major League Baseball Open Tryouts, June 22

Posted on June 15th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents interested in playing professional baseball are invited to Owens Community College as the Major League Scouting Bureau hosts an open tryout on Monday, June 22.

Presented by the Major League Scouting Bureau and Owens Community College, the free open tryout will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The open tryout camp is open to all individuals over 16 years of age. All players should bring their own equipment and sign a liability wavier to participate. If a player is under age 21, a parent or legal guardian must also sign the waiver. A waiver form can be obtained in advance at www.mlb.com or at the open tryout registration. Owens’ registration will occur at 8:30 a.m. on the day of open tryouts.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2009 season with a 34-10 overall record and captured its eighth regular season Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-4 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Sub-Region XII Championships.

For more information on the open tryout, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936, or (419) 466-7269.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Girls Team Shootout, June 26-27

Posted on June 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school girls basketball teams interested in competing against some of the best high schools from the Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio regions are invited to participate in a two-day Express Girls “Summer Slam” Team Shootout hosted by Owens Community College, Friday-Saturday, June 26-27.

The basketball team shootout competition will begin each day at 9 a.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Each high school team will be guaranteed four games per day and basketball programs will have the opportunity to compete on either Friday or Saturday, or both days. The camp fee is $150 per team for one day or $200 per team for both days.

The Express women’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Mike Llanas and completed their season with an 18-12 overall record and finished in third place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (7-5 record). Llanas’ squad lost to Oakland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The number of participating teams is limited and reservations are required. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Girls ‘Summer Slam’ Basketball Camp, June 22-25

Posted on June 2nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players ages 8 through 15 the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s basketball program hosts an Express Girls “Summer Slam” Individual Basketball Camp, June 22-25.

The basketball camp will occur each day from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express women’s basketball coaching staff and current players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on basketball skills in their designated positions. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for basketball and gain tips on improving their offensive and defensive skills.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $75 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt and awards. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Express Golf to Hold Open Tryouts, June 8-9

Posted on May 28th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate golf at Owens Community College are invited to open tryouts Monday-Tuesday, June 8-9.

Open tryouts begin at 8 a.m. on Monday, June 8 at Lakeland Golf Club in Fostoria and at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9 at Loudon Meadows Golf Club in Fostoria.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured five match and invitational titles during the recently-completed season, highlighted by its third consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also captured its fourth NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 317-314 (631) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Scholarships are available to both males and females and prospective Owens Express players must be high school graduates. Registration is required prior to open tryouts and the green fee for each day is $8. For more information on the open tryouts, call (567) 661-2643 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2643.

Owens Express Golf Student-Athlete Competes in NJCAA National Championship Tournament, May 19-22

Posted on May 14th, 2009

Jimmy Bell

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College student-athlete Jimmy Bell of Rossford will have the opportunity to compete against some of the country’s best intercollegiate golfers for a national championship title as the Express sophomore participates in the NJCAA Division II National Championships, May 19-22.

The 2007 Rossford High School graduate advanced to the national championship tournament after shooting a total score of 228 (78-77-73) and finishing ninth place at the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Golf Championships. The Owens six-member team finished sixth at the regional championships, which was held at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich., after rounds of 316-316-309 (941).

Bell (pre-business administration major) will take a 75.9 season scoring average into the NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament, which will be held at Goose Pond Colony Golf Course in Scottsboro, Ala. The four-day 72-hole NJCAA tournament will consist of four rounds beginning at 7 a.m. each day. Tee times for the no-cut event will be set prior to the tournament in accordance with NJCAA rules. Over 140 individuals will compete for the individual national title.

“I am extremely proud of Jimmy Bell and his efforts on the golf course,” said Gilbert Guerrero, Owens Head Coach of the golf program. “Jimmy has worked very hard and has served as a team leader from day one of the season. He has earned the right to compete for a national championship title and will represent Owens Community College and the golf program well at the NJCAA tournament.”

Bell’s postseason honors include selection as the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Player of the Year and Top Medalist with a 75.7 scoring average. He also was named to the NJCAA All-Region XII Team.

The Express golf team captured five match and invitational titles during the recently-completed season, highlighted by its third consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also captured its fourth NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 317-314 (631) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Owens Community College Express Golf Competes in NJCAA Regional Championships, May 11-12

Posted on May 6th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Express golf begins its postseason run toward a national title as the program competes in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Golf Championships next week. The tournament will be held at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich., Monday-Tuesday, May 11-12.

The Express golf team captured five match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by its third consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also captured its fourth NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 317-314 (631) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Now in its fourth year as an intercollegiate athletic program, Owens will compete against 17 intercollegiate golf programs and over 100 individuals in the two-day 54-hole NJCAA Region XII tournament. The program must finish as one of the top two teams to advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, May 19-22. Individuals can also advance to the national championship tournament. Owens made its second trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships in 2008, finishing 10th in the tournament.

Owens Express golf student-athletes include Jimmy Bell of Rossford, 75.9 scoring average (Rossford H.S.); Andrew Biggert of Oak Harbor, 79.5 scoring average (Oak Harbor H.S.); Jacob Williams of Fostoria, 79.4 scoring average (St. Wendelin H.S.); Chris Flynn of Maumee, 81.0 scoring average (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.); Jordan Kalmbach of Erie, Mich., 84.0 scoring average (Mason H.S.); Mike Kistler of Fremont, 84.0 scoring average (Fremont St. Joe H.S.); Jarrod Maneval of Liberty Center, 84.3 scoring average (Liberty Center H.S.); Jared Radabaugh of Findlay, 80.1 scoring average (Liberty-Benton H.S.), and Adam Schmitz of Carey, 85.3 scoring average (Carey H.S.).

Owens Express Women’s Softball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, May 7-8

Posted on May 4th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s softball team will look to advance to the national championship tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Softball Championship this week. The tournament will be held in Battle Creek, Mich., Thursday-Friday, May 7-8.

Coached by Duane Lanham, the Express will take a 23-11 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play the winner of the Kellogg CC/Kalamazoo Valley CC game at 12 p.m. on Thursday, May 7. If they would advance, the Express will play at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The championship game will occur at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 8.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Kellogg Community College (23-21), Kalamazoo Valley Community College (26-15), Jackson Community College (24-18), Muskegon Community College (42-12) and Lansing Community College (46-3).

This past weekend, Lanham’s team captured the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Women’s Softball Postseason Tournament Championship with victories over Cuyahoga Community College and Lakeland Community College. Additionally, Owens won its seventh regular season OCCAC (8-0 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fourth in the last five years.

The NJCAA Division II Softball National Championship will be held May 14-16 in Normal, Ill.

Owens Honors Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs

Posted on May 1st, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored the Express basketball programs at its annual awards banquet for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Student-athletes participating in men’s and women’s basketball were recognized for their athletic achievements.

Women’s Basketball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Unique Lane of Xenia (Xenia H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Ashley Hooker of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Brittany Simon of Lewisville, Texas (Lewisville H.S.)
Coaches Award – Stephanie McCord of Bryan (Fayette H.S.)
Mark Henry Award – Jeanne Bockey of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Unique Lane
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Sarah Clark of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Josie Smith of Galloway (Central Crossing H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Unique Lane
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Ashley Hooker

Express women’s basketball team members also included Rachelle Allen of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Kaila Corrothers of Detroit (Detroit Consortium H.S.), Kelsey Perry of Willard (Willard H.S.), Molly Boetz of Stryker (Stryker H.S.) and Brittany Darling of Curtice (Genoa H.S.).

Led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs, the Express men’s basketball team finished the 2008-09 campaign with a 15-16 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens lost to Cuyahoga Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Men’s Basketball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – DeAngelo Jordan of Detroit (Highland Park H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Brandon Drake of Ann Arbor, Mich. (Ann Arbor Huron H.S.)
Coaches Award – Brett McDougle of Oregon (Clay H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – DeAngelo Jordan and Tommie Clark of Romulus, Mich. (Romulus H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Justin Manns of Winston-Salem, N.C. (East Forsyth H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Justin Manns

Members of the Owens Express men’s basketball team also were Fletcher Noble of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Eric Thomas of Ypsilanti, Mich. (Willow Run H.S.), Nick Owens of Lambertville, Mich. (State Line Christian H.S.), Donald Lucious of Milwaukee (Pulaski H.S.), Michael Lee of Inkster, Mich. (Wayne Memorial H.S.), Chris Wade of Lawton, Okla. (MacArthur H.S.), Joshua Robinson of Elkhart, Ind. (Elkhart Central H.S.), Ronnie Phillips of Cincinnati (Harmony Prep H.S.) and Mario Graham of Detroit (Madison H.S.).

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Student-Athlete Continues Intercollegiate Career at Kent State

Posted on April 27th, 2009

Owens student-athlete Justin Manns signs his national letter of intent while men’s basketball coaches (L to R) Corey Tucker and Kevin Skaggs observe.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball student-athlete Justin Manns of Winston-Salem, N.C., recently signed a national letter of intent to continue his intercollegiate career at Kent State University.

“I am really excited to continue my academic and athletic career at Kent State University,” said Manns. “I would not have this outstanding opportunity without the help and support of many individuals at Owens Community College, including the men’s basketball coaches, professors, advisors and my teammates. They have made a huge difference in my life and for that I am grateful.”

Justin Manns attempts to dunk against a defender in a game earlier this year. (photo courtesy of Jennifer Mixon)

Last season, Manns (associate of science, general concentration) averaged 8.9 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.7 blocks shots per game for the Express. The sophomore center earned Honorable Mention OCCAC All-Conference honors and was named to the NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team. Manns is a 2007 graduate of East Forsyth High School in Kernersville, N.C.

“This (signing with Kent State) is a great opportunity for Justin to continue his college education and athletic career at a higher level,” said Owens Men’s Basketball Head Coach Kevin Skaggs. “I am extremely happy to see him succeed.”

Led by Head Coach Skaggs, the Express men’s basketball team finished the 2008-09 campaign with a 15-16 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens lost to Cuyahoga Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The Kent State Golden Flashes finished their 2008-09 season with a 19-15 overall record.

Two-year Express men’s basketball team member Justin Manns averaged 8.9 points this past season. (photo courtesy of Sarah Kurmin)

Owens Community College Express Softball Hosts OCCAC Postseason Tournament, May 2

Posted on April 23rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s softball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in and host the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Women’s Softball Postseason Tournament Championship on Saturday, May 2.

The OCCAC Postseason Tournament will take place at the College’s Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all tournament games is free. The winner of the OCCAC Postseason Tournament advances to the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Softball Championship, which will be held May 7-8 in Battle Creek, Mich.

Teams participating in the tournament will include Owens Community College, Cuyahoga Community College and Lakeland Community College.

Coached by Duane Lanham, the Express will take a 20-8 overall record into the round robin tournament where they will play Cuyahoga (4-16) at 11 a.m. on Saturday (May 2) in game one action. Game two on Saturday will feature Lakeland (10-16) versus Owens at 12:30 p.m. Lakeland and Cuyahoga will play each other in round robin tournament game three action starting at 2 p.m. The OCCAC championship game will occur at 4 p.m. on Saturday (May 2) against the two teams with the best records.

Lanham’s team recently captured its seventh OCCAC regular season title (8-0 record) in the program’s history.

For more information about the tournament, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Express Baseball Hosts OCCAC Postseason Tournament, April 25-26

Posted on April 22nd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s baseball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in and host the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Men’s Baseball Postseason Tournament Championship, Saturday-Sunday, April 25-26.

The OCCAC Postseason Tournament will take place at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all tournament games is free. The winner of the OCCAC Postseason Tournament advances to the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Baseball Championship, which will be held May 8-10 in Battle Creek, Mich.

Teams participating in the tournament will include Owens Community College, Sinclair Community College, Cuyahoga Community College and Lakeland Community College.

Coached by Bob Schultz, the Express will take a 31-6 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play Lakeland (2-22) at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 25 in semifinal action. The other semifinal game on Saturday will feature Sinclair (29-10) versus Cuyahoga (3-21) at 12:30 p.m.

The losers of the Owens/Lakeland and Sinclair/Cuyahoga games will play at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday (April 25). The other game on Saturday will feature the winners of the Owens/Lakeland and Sinclair/Cuyahoga games at 4:30 p.m. A consolation bracket game will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 26. The OCCAC championship game will occur at 1 p.m. on Sunday (April 26). If necessary, a second OCCAC championship game would take place at 4 p.m. in the double elimination tournament.

Schultz’s team captured its eighth OCCAC regular season title (10-2 record) in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fifth in the last six years. Owens Express men’s baseball is ranked No. 10 in the latest NJCAA Division II poll.

For more information about the tournament, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Student-Athlete to Sign National Letter of Intent with Kent State, April 17

Posted on April 16th, 2009

Justin Manns

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball student-athlete Justin Manns of Winston-Salem, N.C., will sign a national letter of intent to continue his collegiate career at Kent State University on Friday, April 17. The official signing ceremony will take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center at 3 p.m.

The Kent State Golden Flashes finished their 2008-09 season with a 19-15 overall record.

Owens Community College’s Bob Schultz Earns Career Baseball Victory 200

Posted on April 13th, 2009

Bob Schultz

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Head Coach Bob Schultz recently reached a milestone in his illustrious baseball career by earning victory No. 200 with an 8-5 win over Grand Rapids Community College.

“It has been a privilege to coach so many talented players and with such tremendous assistant coaches over the years,” said Schultz. “The accomplishment is not about the wins. It’s about helping our student-athletes develop lifelong skills that will enable them to succeed in their academic and athletic endeavors, as well as become leaders within their communities.”

Schultz, a Walbridge resident, began his head coaching career at Owens during the 2003 season. In his first year, he led the Express to 38 victories. Schultz, whose career record now stands at 211-104-1, has never recorded a losing season during his seven-year tenure at Owens and has more victories than any other coach in program history. He has guided the Express to many notable achievements, including four conference championships in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2008. Prior to his position as Head Coach, Schultz served as an Express Assistant Coach for five years.

The 2009 edition of the men’s baseball program has an overall record of 24-5 and a 5-1 mark (first place) in the OCCAC. Owens is ranked No. 12 in the current NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Express Golf Opens Season at Kalamazoo Valley Invite, April 3

Posted on March 26th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College golf will make its 2009 season debut at the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Invitational on Friday, April 3. In addition to the Express, community colleges expected to compete in the non-conference invitational include Muskegon Community College, Ancilla College, Grand Rapids Community College, Glen Oaks Community College, Schoolcraft College, Kirtland Community College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College.

The match will begin at 10 a.m. and take place at Stonehedge North Golf Course in Augusta, Mich. Owens’ home intercollegiate golf events will occur at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Admission to all Express golf events is free and open to the public.

Owens’ golf program is guided by third-year Head Coach Gil Guerrero. His Assistant Coach is former Express golf student-athlete Josh Williams.

The Express golf team this past year made its second trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, finishing 10th in the tournament. In addition, Owens captured six match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by its second consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Championship Invitational.

The program also won its second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 294-302 (596) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg and finished second at the NJCAA Region XII Championships at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich., after rounds of 300-300-304 (904). Additionally, Owens was ranked No. 14 in the final regular season NJCAA Division II poll.

“Our golf team is extremely young as we lost five outstanding student-athletes from last year’s conference championship squad,” stated Guerrero. “I am expecting our veterans to play a significant role in providing leadership and guidance for the incoming class of student-athletes. Each individual will certainly play a crucial role in our team’s success.”

Guerrero added, “Even though we are young and inexperienced at the collegiate level, our goal remains the same as previous years, which is to bring home another conference title and advance to the national championship tournament.”

The Express have three players returning from last year’s conference championship team, including Jimmy Bell of Rossford (Rossford H.S.). In 2008, the sophomore earned First Team OCCAC All-Conference honors and compiled a 77.1 scoring average.

Guerrero’s squad also returns Andrew Biggert of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.) and Jacob Williams of Fostoria (St. Wendelin H.S.). In 2008, Biggert, a sophomore, completed the golf season with an 80.0 scoring average, while Williams, also a sophomore, compiled an 80.3 scoring average for the Express.

First-year players to the Express golf program are Chris Flynn of Maumee (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.), Jordan Kalmbach of Erie, Mich. (Mason H.S.), Mike Kistler of Fremont (Fremont St. Joe H.S.), Jarrod Maneval of Liberty Center (Liberty Center H.S.), Jared Radabaugh of Findlay (Liberty-Benton H.S.) and Adam Schmitz of Carey (Carey H.S.).

Owens Express Baseball Opens Home Schedule against Bowling Green State University Club, March 17

Posted on March 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s baseball program will open the 2009 home portion of its schedule against Bowling Green State University Club on Tuesday, March 17. The game will begin at 3 p.m.

All home games are played at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

Bob Schultz begins his seventh year as Head Coach of the Owens men’s baseball program. In the past six years, he has guided the Express to many notable achievements, including four conference championships in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2008. Prior to his position as Head Coach, Schultz served as an Express Assistant Coach for five years. His Assistant Coaches are Gabe Medina and Tom DeMarco.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2008 season with a 31-6-1 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (14-2 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fourth in the last five years. Owens Express men’s baseball, which was ranked No. 9 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Early in the 2009 season, Owens has a compiled an 8-1 overall record following games played in South Carolina.

“Our coaching staff is very optimistic about this year’s team,” stated Schultz. “We have a great group of student-athletes who are extremely hard workers. They are also very unselfish and willing to do whatever it takes for the team to succeed.”

He added, “Overall, our club is relatively young with only four returning players. However, we are going to lean heavily on them to lead our talented freshmen group. Team defense and hitting will certainly be two of our strongest areas this season, while pitching will be a work in progress. From top to bottom, the OCCAC should be extremely competitive this year, and I expect the men’s baseball program to once again play a significant role in who wins the championship.”

The Express has four players returning from last year’s championship team, including Casey Winckowski of Oregon (Clay H.S.) and Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse (Anthony Wayne H.S.). In 2008, Winckowski, a sophomore infielder and pitcher, earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors. He collected 26 hits and 10 RBIs and compiled a .491 batting average. In addition, Winckowski posted a 2-0 pitching record. Brentlinger, a sophomore catcher and infielder, collected 20 hits and 13 RBIs and compiled a .476 batting average. In addition, he was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection.

Schultz’s squad also returns Craig Kidston of Bryan (North Central H.S.) and Brian Shafer of Green Springs (Clyde H.S.). Kidston, a sophomore pitcher and infielder, posted a 3-0 record and a 3.60 earned run average. He also recorded one save and 17 strikeouts. Shafer is a sophomore infielder. In 2008, he collected 11 hits, had 13 RBIs and compiled a .367 batting average.

First-year players to the Express men’s baseball program are Jared Gibbons of West Carrollton, infield (West Carrollton H.S.); Eric Vaughan of Delta, pitcher (Delta H.S.); Kevin Dorsten of Huber Heights, pitcher (Wayne H.S.); Neal Linthicum of Perrysburg, pitcher (Perrysburg H.S.); Joe Maurer of Toledo, catcher (Start H.S.); Josh Stewart of Massillon, infield (Massillon Perry H.S.); Ben Fox of Huber Heights, infield (Wayne H.S.); Bryan Daniel of Englewood, outfield (Northmont H.S.); Tim DeCant of Northwood, outfield (Lake H.S.); Justin Adkins of Clay Center, catcher (Genoa H.S.); Nate Cress of Frankton, Ind., pitcher (Frankton H.S.); Joel Gattoni of Thornhill, Canada, pitcher (Langstaff Secondary School); Michael Romano of Oregon, outfield (Clay H.S.); Adam Bailey of Springboro, pitcher (Springboro H.S.); Ross Joost of Sherwood, pitcher and infield (Fairview H.S.); Josh Newman of Dayton, outfield (Northmont H.S.); Joe Engle of Sidney, infield (Sidney H.S.); Ross Knierim of Oregon, infield (Clay H.S.); Tom Wojciechowski of Genoa, pitcher (Genoa H.S.), and Bryan Bogart of Canal Winchester, infield (Canal Winchester H.S.).

Owens Express Softball Opens Home Season Against Bowling Green State University Club, March 21

Posted on March 12th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s softball will open its 2009 home season against Bowling Green State University Club on Saturday, March 21. The game will begin at 12 p.m.

All home games will be played at the College’s Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

The Owens softball program is guided by sixth-year Head Coach Duane Lanham. His Assistant Coaches are Michael Murphy and Kevin Snyder.

Express women’s softball completed the 2008 season with a 25-16 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-1 record) title in the program’s history. Owens was ranked No. 24 in the final NJCAA Division II poll and lost to Grand Rapids Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships. The Express has captured three out of the last four OCCAC regular season championships (2005, 2006 and 2008).

Owens began its season on the road with games in Florida as part of the program’s annual spring break trip.

“I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season,” said Lanham. “We have great veteran leadership from our returning players who know how to win. The team also has a very talented group of first-year players who will definitely contribute to our success. I would expect our team to once again be in the title hunt for another OCCAC championship.”

Owens has 11 players returning from last year’s championship team, including Danielle Hahn of Castalia (Margaretta H.S.) and Melinda Johnson of Bellevue (Bellevue H.S.). In 2008, Hahn, a sophomore outfielder, was named OCCAC Player of the Year. Her postseason accolades also included First Team OCCAC All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII, as well as the team’s Offensive Player of the Year award. She led the team with 48 hits, 16 stolen bases and a .429 batting average. Johnson is a sophomore pitcher. She compiled a 13-8 record, two saves and a 1.66 earned run average. Additionally, Johnson was a First Team OCCAC All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII selection and the OCCAC Pitcher of the Year. Her honors also included being named the team’s Most Improved Player award recipient.

Lanham’s squad also returns Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo (Springfield H.S.), Amanda Hensley of Fremont (Fremont St. Joe H.S.) and Kayleigh Damron of Napoleon (Napoleon H.S.). Helminiak, a sophomore first basemen, earned First Team OCCAC All-Conference and OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and was named the recipient of the team’s Defensive Player of the Year award. She was the team leader with 10 homeruns and 36 RBIs. Hensley is a sophomore outfielder and was a First Team OCCAC All-Conference selection last year. She collected 33 hits, had 19 RBIs and compiled a .375 batting average. Damron, a sophomore catcher, earned the team’s Heart of the Champion Award last year. She collected 13 hits and eight RBIs and compiled a .260 batting average.

Returning sophomore student-athletes to the Owens team also include Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich., shortstop (Ida H.S.); Aimee Stranyak of Ida, Mich., third base (Ida H.S.); Kristina Kruzel of Perrysburg, outfield (Perrysburg H.S.); Jessica Russell of Toledo, first base (Whitmer H.S.); Lynsey McIntire of Woodville, catcher (Eastwood H.S.), and Kendall Kulakowski of Toledo, pitcher (Whitmer H.S.).

First-year players to the Express women’s softball program are Haley Whitcomb of Sandusky, catcher (Perkins H.S.); Sasha Matyi of Maumee, shortstop (Maumee H.S.); Chelsea Lingenfelter of Lima, pitcher (Lima Shawnee H.S.); Christy Henneman of Walbridge, catcher (Lake H.S.); Kiley Thornton of Ida, Mich., outfield (Ida H.S.); Allison Braun of Celina, third base (Celina H.S.), and Lydia Eckel of Genoa, third base (Genoa H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Christine Zappone of Holland, second base (Springfield H.S.); Magan Gerding of Perrysburg, catcher (Northview H.S.); Heather Whitcomb of Sandusky, outfield (Perkins H.S.); Aerica Susor of Curtice, pitcher (Genoa H.S.); Amanda Temple of Toledo, third base (Whitmer H.S.), and Jolynn Brossia of Curtice, second base (Genoa H.S.).

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 6-8

Posted on March 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a third national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District 7) Men’s Basketball Championship this weekend. The tournament will be held at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Friday-Sunday, March 6-8.

Coached by Kevin Skaggs, the Express will take a 15-15 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will battle Cuyahoga Community College (5-10) at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 6. If they would advance, the Express will play at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 7 against Cincinnati State Community College (15-7) in the semifinals. The championship game will occur at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 8.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Lakeland Community College (14-16), Columbus State Community College (25-2) and Sinclair Community College (19-10).

Skaggs’ team enters the tournament having won three out of its last four games. Additionally, the Express finished in third place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-6 record).

The NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championship will be held March 18-21 in Danville, Ill.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Hosts NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 6-8

Posted on March 3rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in and host the NJCAA Region XII (District H) Women’s Basketball Championship, Friday-Saturday, March 6-8.

Teams participating in the tournament will include Schoolcraft College, Columbus State Community College, Delta College, Owens Community College, Kirtland Community College, Oakland Community College and St. Clair County Community College.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express will take a 17-11 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will play Kirtland (18-9) at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6 in quarterfinal action. Other quarterfinal games on Friday will feature Oakland (21-7) versus St. Clair County (18-11) at 3 p.m. and Columbus State (12-15) versus Delta (15-10) at 7 p.m.

The winner of the Owens/Kirtland game will play the Oakland/St. Clair County winner at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 7. The other semifinal game on Saturday will feature Columbus State/Delta versus Schoolcraft (28-2) and begin at 4 p.m. The championship game will occur at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 8.

Illanas’ team enters the tournament having won four out of its last five games. Additionally, the Express finished in third place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (7-5 record).

The NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championship will be held March 18-21 in East Peoria, Ill.

Tickets for the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Basketball Championships are $3 per person. Children ages 5 or under are admitted free, as well as Owens students, employees and alumni with valid College identification. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Basketball Teams Conclude Regular Home Season Against Sinclair CC, Feb. 21

Posted on February 23rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball programs will conclude the regular season home portion of their schedules with games against Sinclair Community College on Saturday, Feb. 21. The women’s team will play Sinclair (11-11, 3-6) at 1 p.m., while the Express men will battle the Tartan Pride (17-7, 6-4) beginning at 3 p.m.

Both games will be played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to home games is free.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 15-11 overall record and currently is in fourth place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 5-5.

The 2008-09 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 14-14 and a 7-5 mark (fourth place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

In the coming week, Owens will end the regular season in Piqua, Ohio, against Edison State Community College on Saturday, Feb. 28. The Express women and men will square off against Edison State at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively.

Former Owens Express Soccer Student-Athlete Signs With FC Dallas Organization

Posted on February 13th, 2009

Owens’ Sean Bucknor is the first-ever Express student-athlete to play professionally in Major League Soccer (MLS).

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Express soccer standout Sean Bucknor of Montego Bay, Jamaica has signed a contract with the FC Dallas professional organization. The Cornwall College (Montego Bay, Jamaica) graduate is the first-ever Express student-athlete in the soccer program’s history to play professionally in Major League Soccer (MLS).

“We’re very happy to have Sean Bucknor with us,” said FC Dallas Head Coach Schellas Hyndman. “Sean is an athletic player who has great size, strength and speed. He’s very enthusiastic, you can see the hunger in his eyes, and he’s going to be a difficult player for opponents to handle.”

FC Dallas, a charter member of MLS, opens its 2009 home season on March 21 against the Chicago Fire. Last year, FC Dallas finished with an 8-10-12 overall record and fifth place in the MLS Western Conference Standings.

“I am very proud and excited that Sean has an opportunity to compete at the professional level,” said Art Johnson, Owens Head Coach of the Express men’s soccer program. “He is extremely athletic and a talented goal scorer. I expect him to make a very smooth transition to the MLS.”

While at Owens, Bucknor became the first men’s soccer student-athlete to earn All-American recognition, receiving the honor in 2006 and 2007. During his sophomore season in 2007, he broke several school records, including most goals and points for a career with 56 and 123, respectively. He was fourth in the country in points scored with 64.

In addition to his All-American honors, Bucknor was a two-time OCCAC Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year, and earned NJCAA All-Region XII First Team honors in 2006 and 2007. The men’s soccer program compiled a 21-17-3 overall record during his career. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bucknor also was a member of the Jamaica Under 17 National Team.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Baseball Fielding Camp, Feb. 21

Posted on February 10th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area baseball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as men’s baseball hosts a one-day Express Baseball Fielding Camp on Saturday, Feb. 21.

The baseball fielding camp will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include Owens Express Head Coach Bob Schultz and Assistant Coaches Tom DeMarco and Gabe Medina. Youth ages 8-18 will be divided by age groups and receive individual instruction on baseball defensive skills and techniques. In addition, attendees will learn about custom exercises for baseball and gain tips on improving their fielding.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge. Participants are encouraged to wear baseball pants or sweats, T-shirts and tennis shoes.

The camp fee for the one-day event is $35 per player. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Express Men’s Soccer Announces Signing of Six Student-Athletes to Scholarships

Posted on February 10th, 2009

First-year student-athletes receiving Owens men’s soccer scholarships include (Back Row L to R) Adam Beat, John Caldwell, Cody Katschke, Dustin Lamon, (Front Row L to R) Jerry Doekieh and Ricky Dempsey.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Six high school student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate men’s soccer for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2009-10 academic year.

The Owens men’s soccer program is led by Head Coach Art Johnson and competes at the NJCAA Division II level. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the NJCAA Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition for its student-athletes.

The men’s soccer program recently completed its eleventh season as an Owens athletic program and finished with a 10-8-2 overall record. The Express finished in third place in the final OCCAC (2-3-1 record) standings.

“The Express soccer program is proud to welcome the incoming freshmen class to Owens Community College,” said Johnson. “These six individuals are leaders both on the soccer field and in the classroom and have garnered many accolades at their respective schools. They will certainly provide a strong nucleus of talent at each skill position, which improves our chances of making a run at a conference championship.”

First-year student-athletes receiving men’s soccer scholarships are Dustin Lamon of Findlay, goalkeeper (Liberty Benton H.S.); Jerry Doekieh of Bristol, Pa., defender (Harry S. Truman H.S.); Ricky Dempsey of Oregon, forward (Clay H.S.); Cody Katschke of Martin, midfielder (Genoa H.S.); Adam Beat of Norwalk, defender (Norwalk H.S.); and John Caldwell of Holly, Mich., defender (Holly H.S.).

Owens Express Basketball Programs Accepting Donations to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters During Home Games, Feb. 1-21

Posted on January 30th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College basketball programs are encouraging area residents to help in supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio and their efforts of providing quality mentoring relationships between children and adults by making a donation at one of the upcoming Express home games, Feb. 1, 4, 18 and 21. The donations are being raised in conjunction with Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Bowl for Kids’ Sake initiative.

On Sunday, Feb. 1, Owens women and men will entertain Cincinnati State Community College at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Additional home contests in which the teams will be accepting donations include Wednesday, Feb. 4 against Cuyahoga Community College (5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. games); Wednesday, Feb. 18 against Lakeland Community College (5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. games); and Saturday, Feb. 21 against Sinclair Community College (1 p.m. and 3 p.m. games). The women’s team will play the first game in each of the doubleheader contests.

All home games are free and take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Individuals are encouraged to bring their donations to a designated table, which will be located inside the Student Health and Activities Center gymnasium entrance, during the basketball games. All donations will be presented to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio when the two teams bowl as part of Bowl for Kids’ Sake on Sunday, Feb. 22. Owens basketball team members will test their bowling skills at Imperial Lanes in Toledo.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 12-7 overall record and currently is tied for second place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 2-1.

The 2008-09 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 9-11 and a 2-2 mark (fourth place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

For more information about the Big Brothers Big Sisters donation drive, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Express Basketball Reschedules Home Games Against Cincinnati State, Feb. 1

Posted on January 23rd, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball home games originally scheduled for Jan. 10 against Cincinnati State Community College will occur on Sunday, Feb. 1. The women’s team will play at 1 p.m. against the Surge, while the Express men will battle Cincinnati State beginning at 3 p.m.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 12-6 overall record and currently is tied for first place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 2-0. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 17 in the nation.

The 2008-09 edition of the men’s basketball program has an overall record of 9-10 and a 2-1 mark (fourth place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Announces Signing of Three Student-Athletes to Scholarships

Posted on January 16th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Three high school student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate women’s volleyball for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2009-10 academic year.

The Owens women’s volleyball program is led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis and competes at the NJCAA Division II level. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the NJCAA Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition for its student-athletes.

The Express women’s volleyball program ended their 2008 season with a 39-15 overall record. The program captured its ninth consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 10-0 conference record. Owens has now won 10 out of the last 11 conference titles. The team’s season concluded with a loss to Columbus State Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“Maureen, Amanda and Shelby are extremely talented, both within the classroom and on the playing field,” said Lewis. “Each of them brings exceptional athletic skills, which complement a very talented and experienced group of girls returning from last year’s championship squad. Our expectations remain the same as previous seasons with the ultimate goal being another conference title.”

First-year student-athletes receiving women’s volleyball scholarships are Maureen Kurtz of Tiffin, middle blocker and outside hitter (Mohawk H.S.); Amanda Schuster of Sylvania, middle blocker (Southview H.S.), and Shelby Schuster of Sylvania, outside hitter and setter (Southview H.S.).

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Cancels Home Game Originally Scheduled For Jan. 21

Posted on January 15th, 2009

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball home game originally scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 21 against Lorain County Community College at 5:30 p.m. has been canceled.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Honors Fall Athletic Programs

Posted on December 23rd, 2008

Brittney Bradner

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored its fall athletic programs for displaying outstanding excellence during intercollegiate competition. Express student-athletes participating in women’s volleyball and men’s soccer were recognized for their athletic achievements, highlighted by Brittney Bradner of Toledo (journalism major) being named NJCAA Division II Honorable Mention All-American in women’s volleyball.

This marks 12 out of 13 years that at least one Owens volleyball player has received All-American honors. Bradner’s other honors included Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Player of the Year and several NJCAA All-Region XII awards.

Bradner, a sophomore middle blocker from Cardinal Stritch High School, led the team with 179 blocks and recorded 357 kills.

The Express women’s volleyball program ended their 2008 season with a 39-15 overall record. The program captured its ninth consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 10-0 conference record. Owens has now won 10 out of the last 11 conference titles. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the team’s season concluded with a loss to Columbus State Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The men’s soccer program, led by Head Coach Art Johnson, recently completed its eleventh season as an Owens athletic program. The Express finished with a 10-8-2 overall record. Johnson’s team finished in third place in the final OCCAC (2-3-1 record) standings.

Women’s Volleyball Awards:

Offensive Most Valuable Player – Brittney Bradner
Defensive Most Valuable Player – Corine Williams of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Katie Mullis of Clinton, Mich. (Lenawee Christian H.S.)
Coaches Award – Kathy Sabbagh of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Brittney Bradner
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Sonny Lewis
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Brittney Bradner, Katie Mullis, Amanda Mick of Defiance (Defiance H.S.) and Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich. (Roosevelt H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Chazara Small of Monroe, Mich. (Monroe H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Brittney Bradner and Katie Mullis
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Brittney Bradner and Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield (Mansfield Senior H.S.)
NJCAA All-American Division II Honorable Mention – Brittney Bradner

Owens Express volleyball team members also included Kristen Gyori of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Karie Marroquin of Fremont (Fremont Ross H.S.), Mallory Imbery of Curtice (Genoa H.S.), Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.), Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. (Mason H.S.) and Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.).

Men’s Soccer Awards:

Most Valuable Player – Evan ChatÈ of Pauillac, France (LycÈe Odilon Redon H.S.)
Offensive MVP – Henry Quoikapor of Vineland, N.J. (Vineland H.S. South)
Defensive MVP – Lorenzo Carrion-Bistolfi of Medell”n, Colombia (Centro Educacional Conquistadores)
Most Improved Player – Alex Moore of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.)
Coaches Award – Jonathon Kijowski of Norwalk (Norwalk H.S.)
OCCAC Offensive Player of the Year – Evan ChatÈ
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Evan ChatÈ and Lorenzo Carrion-Bistolfi
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Henry Quoikapor and Jonathon Kijowski
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Evan ChatÈ
NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team – Lorenzo Bistolfi

Members of the Owens Express men’s soccer team also included Brock Kennedy of Davisburg, Mich. (Holly H.S.), Lewis Kwai of Bamenda, Cameroon (GBHS Bamenda), Erik Bauerle of Waterville (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Jason Zeides of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.), Jon Moore of Toledo (Toledo Christian Schools), Abel Johnson of Golden Valley, Minn. (Buduburam Community Senior School), Jahvan Russell of Montego Bay, Jamaica (Cornwall College), Lawrence Vincent of Bensalem, Pa. (Conwell-Egan Catholic H.S.), Julio Ortega Vasquez of Bogot·, Colombia (Colegio Parroquial de los Santos Apostoles), Brandon Duval of Milan, Mich. (Milan H.S.), Ed Brito of Napoleon (Napoleon H.S.), Jordan Schotter of Toledo (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.), Jay Sesock of Davisburg, Mich. (Holly H.S.), Dan Doe of Bristol, Pa. (Harry S. Truman H.S.) and Yousef Aliakbar of Perrysburg (Maumee Valley Country Day School).

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Baseball Hitting and Pitching School, Jan. 16-18

Posted on December 16th, 2008

The baseball pitching school will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Friday (Jan. 16), while the hitting school will occur from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (Jan. 17-18) in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge. Participants are encouraged to wear baseball pants or sweats, T-shirts and tennis shoes.

Owens Express Volleyball Pink-Themed ‘Volley for the Cure’ Event Raises Funds for Breast Cancer Awareness and Research

Posted on December 3rd, 2008

Owens’ volleyball team poses for a group photo at the conclusion of their “Volley for the Cure” event.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Pink volleyballs, pink T-shirts, pink cookies, pink cupcakes, pink ribbons and pink socks were appropriately abundant on a recent Saturday afternoon at Owens Community College’s Student Health and Activities Center as the Express women’s volleyball team raised funds to help support the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the organization’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer. Both fans and student-athletes alike wore pink and purchased pink food and clothing items in honor of breast cancer awareness during the Express’ home match against Sinclair Community College.

In the span of two hours, the Owens volleyball program collected over $400 through various “pink-themed” activities, which included a bake sale, game ball raffle, T-shirt sale and freewill donation.

Owens Express volleyball fans purchased an array of “pink-themed” items during “Volley for the Cure” such as pink cupcakes and pink T-shirts.

For Amanda Mick of Defiance (Defiance H.S.), the “Volley for the Cure” event hit home in a personal way as her mother, Mary, is a breast cancer survivor. Additionally, several of Mick’s extended family lost their fight against the devastating disease.

“Just about every person knows someone who has been affected by cancer,” said the sophomore middle blocker. “Events such as ‘Volley for the Cure’ make a difference by showing support for cancer victims and raising public awareness. Cancer has impacted my life personally and I want to do whatever I can to help the cause.”

Owens’ Brittney Bradner of Toledo (Cardinal Stritch H.S.), a sophomore middle blocker on the Express women’s volleyball team added, “As a woman, I feel that it is our responsibility to raise awareness about an issue that affects so many other women on a daily basis. It is important to give back and help others who are or will be afflicted with this terrible disease. The ultimate goal is to find a cure.”

Express sophomore setter Kathy Sabbagh of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.) concluded the “pink-themed” day by encouraging others to help in the breast cancer fight.

“Every contribution makes a difference,” she stated. “I encourage others to support the Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s cancer research efforts.”

The Express volleyball team to include (L to R) Amanda Drew of Maumee #4, Mallory Imbery of Curtice #6 and Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield #12 wore pink T-shirts to raise breast cancer awareness.

In addition to contributions raised, the Express volleyball team won the match against Sinclair Community College by a decisive 25-17, 25-12, 25-23 margin.

Owens’ Kristen Gyori of Oregon serves a pink volleyball while Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich., in her pink and white striped socks, awaits game action.

The Express women’s volleyball program ended their 2008 season with a 39-15 overall record. The program captured its ninth consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 10-0 conference record. Owens has now won 10 out of the last 11 conference titles. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the team’s season concluded with a loss to Columbus State Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Express volleyball team members include Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich. (Roosevelt H.S.); Kristen Gyori of Oregon (Clay H.S.); Kathy Sabbagh of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.); Brittney Bradner of Toledo (Cardinal Stritch H.S.); Karie Marroquin of Fremont (Fremont Ross H.S.); Mallory Imbery of Curtice (Genoa H.S.); Katie Mullis of Clinton, Mich. (Lenawee Christian H.S.); Amanda Mick of Defiance (Defiance H.S.); Amanda Drew of Maumee (Springfield H.S.); Corine Williams of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.); Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. (Mason H.S.); Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield (Mansfield Senior H.S.); Chazara Small of Monroe, Mich. (Monroe H.S.); and Brooke Thomas of Findlay (Findlay H.S.).

Owens Community College Hosts First-Ever Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage, Nov. 21

Posted on November 19th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Sixteen high school varsity girls basketball teams will have the opportunity to compete against some of the best high schools from around the region as part of the first-ever Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage hosted by Owens Community College on Friday, Nov. 21.

The basketball mega scrimmage will occur from 5:30-9:30 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to the basketball mega scrimmage is free and open to the public.

Varsity girls basketball teams competing in the Express Girls High School Mega Scrimmage include Elmwood H.S., Wayne Trace H.S., Perrysburg H.S., Scott H.S., Paulding H.S., Libbey H.S., Otsego H.S., Northwood H.S., Lake H.S., Clay H.S., Fostoria St. Wendelin H.S., Norwalk St. Paul H.S., Notre Dame Academy, Monroe H.S., Piqua H.S. and Anthony Wayne H.S. Each high school varsity team will compete in several games throughout the scrimmage.

The Express women’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Mike Llanas and completed their 2007-08 season with a 23-10 overall record and finished tied for second in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (10-4 record). Llanas’ squad, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Mott Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships. Early in the 2008-09 campaign, the Express’ overall record stands at 2-3 after five games.

In addition, the Owens women’s basketball team will be accepting freewill donations throughout the evening to benefit the program. For more information, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Express Baseball Student-Athletes and Coaches to Help Needy Families at Toledo Seagate Food Bank, Nov. 22

Posted on November 17th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Express men’s baseball team will be providing a helping hand to those in need during this Thanksgiving holiday season as 29 student-athletes and coaches volunteer their time at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank on Saturday, Nov. 22.

Beginning at 8:30 a.m., the baseball team will be sorting thousands of recently donated food items from the Toledo Seagate Food Bank’s annual holiday donation drive titled “Stuff the Truck”. In addition to sorting the collected items, Owens’ student-athletes and coaches will be packing the various donations for eventual delivery to needy families and individuals throughout Northwest Ohio.

Owens Community College Express Men’s Basketball Opens Season Against Delta College, Nov. 7

Posted on November 5th, 2008

Men’s Basketball 2008-09

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball will begin its 2008-09 campaign with a season-opening home contest against Delta College on Friday, Nov. 7. The game will begin at 8 p.m.

All home games are free and held at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s basketball program is led by second-year Head Coach Kevin Skaggs. His Assistant Coaches are Marcus Evans and Corey Tucker. Owens finished the 2007-08 season with a 10-19 overall record and a 3-11 mark (sixth place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings.

“We’re really looking forward to the beginning of the basketball regular season,” said Skaggs. “We have a nice blend of talent, both first-year student-athletes and returning veterans. Our team is really working hard and putting forth the effort that is necessary to compete for a conference title and beyond.”

Skaggs added, “The conference schedule should be very competitive with several teams vying for the title. Our goal is to be one of those teams shooting for a conference crown, as well as a national tournament invitation.”

In addition, the Owens men’s basketball program has earned the distinction of being ranked No. 22 in the NJCAA Division II preseason poll. Mott Community College in Flint, Mich. received the No. 1 ranking.

Owens has seven returning players, including Fletcher Noble of Holland (Springfield H.S.) and DeAngelo Jordan of Detroit (Highland Park H.S.). During the 2007-08 season, the sophomore guard and team captain averaged 5.3 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game. Jordan, a sophomore forward and team captain, averaged 3.9 points and 2.6 rebounds for Owens.

Other returning players to the Express roster include Eric Thomas of Ypsilanti, Mich., guard (Willow Run H.S.); Nick Owens of Lambertville, Mich., guard (State Line Christian H.S.); Brandon Drake of Ann Arbor, Mich., guard (Ann Arbor Huron H.S.); Brett McDougle of Oregon, forward (Clay H.S.); and Justin Manns of Winston-Salem, N.C., center (East Forsyth H.S.).

In 2007-08, Thomas, a sophomore, averaged 4.2 points and 1.2 rebounds per game for the Express. Owens, also a sophomore, contributed 2.8 points and 1 rebound per game, while Drake, a sophomore, averaged 0.7 points and 1 rebound for Owens. Last year, McDougle, a sophomore, contributed 2.1 points, 2 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. Manns, in 2007-08, averaged 2.4 points and 2.1 rebounds for Owens. The sophomore’s postseason honors included being named the recipient of the team’s Most Improved Player award.

First-year players are Donald Lucious of Milwaukee, guard (Pulaski H.S.); Tommie Clark of Romulus, Mich., guard (Romulus H.S.); Michael Lee of Inkster, Mich., guard (Wayne Memorial H.S.); Chris Wade of Lawton, Okla., guard (MacArthur H.S.); Joshua Robinson of Elkhart, Ind., guard (Elkhart Central H.S.); Ronnie Phillips of Cincinnati, forward (Harmony Prep H.S.); Terren Jones of Adrian, Mich., forward (Madison H.S.); Mario Graham of Detroit, guard (Madison H.S.); and Brew Story of Bedford Heights, forward (Benedictine H.S.).

Owens Men’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 7-8

Posted on November 4th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team will open its 2008-09 basketball campaign this weekend as they host the Express Tip-Off Classic, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 7-8.

Beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, Hillsborough Community College will take on Technical Career Institute at 6 p.m., while the host Express will face Delta College at 8 p.m.

On Saturday (Nov. 8), the consolation game will occur at 5 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will take place following the consolation game at 7 p.m.

The Owens men’s basketball program is currently ranked No. 22 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Women’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 8-9

Posted on November 4th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team will open its regular season this weekend as they host their annual Express Tip-Off Classic tournament, Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 8-9.

Beginning at 12 p.m. on Saturday, the host Express will face Delta College, while Hillsborough Community College will take on Kellogg Community College at 2 p.m.

On Sunday (Nov. 9), the consolation game will occur at 1 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will follow the consolation game and begin at 3 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is currently ranked No. 17 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Posted on October 27th, 2008

Coached by Sonny Lewis, the Express will take a 36-13 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play against Mott Community College (9-25) at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31 in quarterfinal action. If they would advance, the Express will play the winner of the Macomb Community College (17-25)/Oakland Community College (22-13) match at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1 in the semifinals. The championship match will occur at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Schoolcraft College (30-7), St. Clair County Community College (31-12) and Columbus State Community College (28-6).

On Saturday (Oct. 25), the Express women’s volleyball team captured its ninth consecutive OCCAC regular season championship with a hard-fought road match victory over Columbus State Community College (25-19, 26-24, 16-25, 26-24). Owens has won 10 out of the last 11 OCCAC regular season championships. Lewis’ squad finished 10-0 in the OCCAC regular season standings and was ranked No. 14 in the latest NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll.

The NJCAA Division II National Championship will be held Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 20-22 in Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Opens Season Against Delta College, Nov. 8

Posted on October 23rd, 2008

Women’s Basketball Team 2008-09

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball will open its 2008-09 season against Delta College in the Tip-Off Classic on Saturday, Nov. 8. The season opener will begin at 12 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is led by fifth-year Head Coach Michael Llanas. During his fourth year, Llanas led the Express to a 23-10 overall record and a second-place finish in the OCCAC (10-4 record). Owens, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Mott Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships last year. Llanas’ Assistant Coach is Stephen Perry.

All home games are free and occur at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“Our coaching staff is very excited about this year’s team and extremely optimistic about the upcoming season,” Llanas said. “We have a great group of both first-year and returning players who really support and respect each other on and off the basketball court. Each student-athlete really knows the others’ strengthens and weaknesses, which will certainly play a key factor in our success.”

Llanas added, “This team has a great opportunity to be very successful and once again contend for conference championship.”

The Express have five players returning from last year’s team, including Unique Lane of Xenia (Xenia H.S.) and Jeanne Bockey of Delphos (Delphos St. John’s H.S.). In 2007-08, Lane averaged 10.4 points, 1.1 assists, 1.1 steals and led the team with 7.1 rebounds. The sophomore guard/forward also was the team leader with an 81.5 free throw percentage. Her postseason honors included OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention and OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. Bockey, a sophomore guard, averaged 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.1 steals during the 2007-08 season. She was named to the OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention and OCCAC Academic All-Conference teams.

Also returning to Llanas’ squad are Josie Smith of Galloway (Central Crossing H.S.), Rachelle Allen of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.) and Stephanie McCord of Bryan (Fayette H.S.).

Smith, a sophomore point guard, averaged 7.8 points, 4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.7 steals during the season. Her postseason honors included being named Owens’ Most Improved Player award recipient and selection to the NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team. During the 2007-08 season, Allen, a sophomore guard, averaged 2.9 points and 1.3 rebounds for the Express. McCord is a sophomore guard and averaged 4.9 points and 2.3 rebounds for the Express women’s basketball program last year.

First-year players to the Express women’s basketball program are Kaila Corrothers of Detroit, point guard (Detroit Consortium H.S.); Brittany Simon of Lewisville, Texas, point guard (Lewisville H.S.); Kelsey Perry of Willard, point guard (Willard H.S.); Molly Boetz of Stryker, guard/forward (Stryker H.S.); Sarah Clark of Delphos, guard/forward (Delphos St. John’s H.S.); Chelsea Henry of Bryan, guard/forward (Stryker H.S.); Ashley Hooker of Toledo, forward (Whitmer H.S.); Ceirra Moxley of East Liverpool, center (East Liverpool H.S.), and Brittany Darling of Curtice, center (Genoa H.S.).

Owens Express Volleyball to Host ‘Volley for the Cure’ During Upcoming Match Against Sinclair Community College, Oct. 11

Posted on October 2nd, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College volleyball program is encouraging area residents to help in supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the organization’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer by making a donation during the Express’ home match against Sinclair Community College on Saturday, Oct. 11. The match begins at 11 a.m.

All home matches are free and take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Individuals are encouraged to bring their donations to a designated table, which will be located inside the Student Health and Activities Center gymnasium entrance, during the match. In addition, the Express volleyball team will be wearing pink shirts during match, as well as hosting a bake sale and game ball raffle. All money raised by the team will go directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Express women’s volleyball program has amassed a 28-9 overall record and currently is in first place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, their conference record is 5-0. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s volleyball is ranked No. 17 in the nation.

For more information about the “Volley for the Cure” event, call (567) 661-7939 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7939.

Owens Community College Reschedules Sixth Annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble, Sept. 28

Posted on September 23rd, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf to benefit golf student-athletes and the intercollegiate program as Owens Community College presents its sixth annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. The event, originally scheduled for Sept. 14, will occur on Sunday, Sept. 28.

Organized by Owens’ Student Enrichment and Athletics, the golf outing will be held at Detwiler Golf Club in Toledo. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch and an awards program.

The four-person golf scramble competition will begin at 8:30 a.m. Owens’ event will conclude with participants recalling their golfing experience during a short awards program, which will recognize the top foursome, as well as the longest drive, closest to the pin, the most accurate drive and a putting contest.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble by entering a team. The entry fee is only $50 per player and all proceeds from the event will benefit the intercollegiate athletic golf program at Owens.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team this past year made its second trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, finishing 10th in the tournament. In addition, Owens captured six match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by its second consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Championship Invitational.

The program also won its second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 294-302 (596) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg and finished second at the NJCAA Region XII Championships at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich. after rounds of 300-300-304 (904). Additionally, Owens was ranked No. 14 in the final regular season NJCAA Division II poll.

Individuals must register prior to the date of the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. For more information, call (567) 661-2643 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2643.

Owens Volleyball Student-Athlete Named NJCAA Pre-Season All-American

Posted on August 21st, 2008

Chelsea Stover

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s volleyball student-athlete Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich., has been named to the NJCAA Division II Pre-Season All-American Second Team.

Stover, a Roosevelt High School graduate, averaged 3.2 kills and 2.8 digs per game for the Express last year. In addition, the sophomore outside hitter was the team leader with 109 aces and recorded 456 kills and 361 digs in 146 games. Her postseason honors included being named to the OCCAC All-Conference First Team and NJCAA All-Region XII Team.

Additionally, the Owens women’s volleyball program has earned the distinction of being ranked No. 13 in the NJCAA Division II preseason poll. Kishwaukee College in Malta, Ill., received the No. 1 ranking.

The eight-time OCCAC defending Express women’s volleyball program will open its 2008 season with a tournament, Friday-Saturday, Aug. 22-23 at Kellogg Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich. Owens will open its home campaign by hosting the Owens Express Invitational, Friday-Sunday, Aug. 29-31.

Last season, the Express women’s volleyball program ended their season with a 36-13 overall record. The program captured its eighth consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 11-1 conference record. Owens has won nine out of the last 10 conference titles.

Owens Community College Express Soccer Opens Season at Delta College Invitational, Aug. 23-24

Posted on August 21st, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s soccer will look to contend for its first-ever conference title by opening the 2008 schedule at the Delta College Invitational in Midland, Mich., Aug. 23-24. The Express will take on Macomb Community College on Saturday (Aug. 23) and Delta College on Sunday (Aug. 24). Both matches will begin at 1 p.m.

The Express will open its home season against Jackson Community College on Wednesday, Aug. 27. The home opener will start at 4:30 p.m. All home matches are played at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

The Owens men’s soccer program is led by Head Coach Art Johnson. Johnson’s Assistant Coach is Jeremiah McNutt.

The 2007 edition of Express men’s soccer completed its tenth season as an Owens athletic program this past year. The Express finished with a 15-5-2 overall record and tied for second place in the final OCCAC (3-3 record). Owens was ranked No. 19 in the final NJCAA Division I poll and lost to Macomb Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season,” Johnson said. “This team has a lot of potential. However, we are extremely young with only six returning players from last year’s squad. The first few games will tell us a lot about where we are as a team.”

Johnson added, “I am really counting on our veterans to provide strong leadership, which will be critical to our success this year.”

The Express has six players returning from last year’s team. Among the second-year players on Johnson’s squad is OCCAC All-Conference First Team member Evan ChatÈ of Pauillac, France (LycÈe Odilon Redon H.S.). In 2007, the sophomore forward was second on the team with eight goals and tallied four assists and 20 points on 54 shots. In addition to his OCCAC honors, ChatÈ was named the team’s Offensive MVP.

Also returning to the Express program are Jonathon Kijowski of Norwalk (Norwalk H.S.) and Brock Kennedy of Davisburg, Mich. (Holly H.S.). Kijowski, a sophomore defender, totaled one assist and one point and played an integral role on the Express defense. In 2007, Kennedy, a sophomore goalie, recorded 73 saves and posted seven shutouts in 22 games.

Other returning student-athletes include Lewis Kwai of Bamenda, Cameroon, defender (GBHS Bamenda); Erik Bauerle of Waterville, midfielder (Anthony Wayne H.S.); and Henry Quoikapor of Vineland, N.J., forward (Vineland H.S. South).

First-year players to the Express men’s soccer program are Jason Zeides of Perrysburg, goalie (Perrysburg H.S.); Jon Moore of Toledo, defender (Toledo Christian Schools); Abel Johnson of Golden Valley, Minn., defender (Buduburam Community Senior School); Jahvan Russell of Montego Bay, Jamaica, midfielder (Cornwall College); Lawrence Vincent of Bensalem, Pa., midfielder (Conwell-Egan Catholic H.S.); Julio Ortega Vasquez of Bogot·, Colombia, midfielder (Colegio Parroquial de los Santos Apostoles); Brandon Duval of Milan, Mich., midfielder (Milan H.S.); Ed Brito of Napoleon, midfielder (Napoleon H.S.); Jordan Schotter of Toledo, forward (St. John’s Jesuit H.S.); Alex Moore of Bowling Green, defender (Bowling Green H.S.); Lorenzo Bistolfi of Medell”n, Colombia, defender (Centro Educacional Conquistadores); Jay Sesock of Davisburg, Mich., midfielder (Holly H.S.); Dan Doe of Bristol, Pa., forward / midfielder (Harry S. Truman H.S.); and Yousef Aliakbar of Perrysburg, midfielder (Maumee Valley Country Day School).

Owens Community College Announces New Look for Express Athletics

Posted on August 19th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College intercollegiate athletics will begin the 2008-09 season with an enhanced look and brand identity as the academic institution unveils a new version of the Express logo.

Designed by Hart Associates in Maumee, in conjunction with the College’s offices of Student Enrichment and Athletics and Marketing and Communications, the new logo will adorn campus apparel and appear in various publications, as well as Owens athletic facilities beginning this Fall Semester.

“Owens Community College has enjoyed a long-standing tradition of producing championship caliber teams and highly successful student-athletes within the academic classroom,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “The new Express logo embodies the spirit and tradition of our academic institution and reflects the energy, electricity and excitement of Owens athletics.”

Owens’ new Express logo, which eliminates the Jaguar image from the words “Owens Express”, features a sleek design of accented, bold lettering that highlights the College’s traditional red and white colors. Strength, power and movement are represented within the distinctive capital “E” that encapsulates the words “Owens” and “Express”, creating a unique identifier for the academic institution’s intercollegiate athletics.

The current Express logo depicting a Jaguar dates back to 1994. Prior to the Jaguar logo, Owens Express served as a stand-alone identity from 1988-94. Owens (then Michael J. Owens Technical College and Owens Technical College) was known as the Trojans in the 1970s and 80s. The original logo nickname for Owens (then Penta County Technical Institute) was the Jaguars, which was established in 1966.

Owens Express intercollegiate athletic teams include women’s volleyball, men’s soccer, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s baseball and women’s softball. The College has been a member of the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference since 1987.

An array of merchandise with the new Owens Express logo will be available at the College’s Bookstore on the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses in the near future.

Owens Community College Express Volleyball Opens Season at Kellogg Invitational, Aug. 22-23

Posted on August 18th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The eight-time OCCAC defending Owens Community College women’s volleyball program will open its 2008 season with a tournament, Friday-Saturday, Aug. 22-23 at Kellogg Community College in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The Owens volleyball program is led by eight-year Head Coach Sonny Lewis. During his seventh season as the Head Volleyball Coach at Owens, Lewis led the Express to 36 wins. Lewis’ Assistant Coaches are Denny Caldwell and Stephen Boston.

The Express will open its home campaign by hosting the Owens Express Invitational, Friday-Sunday, Aug. 29-31. All home matches are played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

The Express’ season concluded with a loss to Macomb Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“I am very excited about the 2008 season,” Lewis stated. “We have a very experienced team with eight returners and they will be called upon to provide leadership and guidance for our extremely talented first-year student-athletes. Our expectations remain extremely high with the goal of continuing the tradition of Express volleyball excellence both on and off the court.”

The Express have eight players returning from last year’s championship team, including OCCAC All-Conference First Team and NJCAA All-Region XII Team selection Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich. (Roosevelt H.S.). In 2007, the sophomore outside hitter was the team leader with 109 aces. She also recorded 456 kills and 361 digs in 146 games.

Lewis’ squad also returns Kristen Gyori of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Kathy Sabbagh of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.) and Brittney Bradner of Toledo (Cardinal Stritch H.S.). Gyori, a sophomore setter, led the team with 961 assists and recorded 30 aces and 190 digs in 149 games. Sabbagh is a sophomore setter. In 2007, she was honored with the team’s Most Improved Player Award and recorded 356 digs, 122 assists and 21 aces in 130 games. Bradner is a sophomore middle blocker and was an OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention selection. Last year, she led the team with 187 blocks and recorded 236 kills in 137 games. Additionally, Bradner earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors.

Returning sophomore student-athletes to the Owens team also include Karie Marroquin of Fremont, defensive specialist (Fremont Ross H.S.); Mallory Imbery of Curtice, outside hitter (Genoa H.S.); Katie Mullis of Clinton, Mich., middle blocker (Lenawee Christian H.S.); and Amanda Mick of Defiance, middle blocker (Defiance H.S.).

First-year players to the Express women’s volleyball program are Amanda Drew of Maumee, defensive specialist (Springfield H.S.); Corine Williams of Toledo, defensive specialist (Bowsher H.S.); Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich., outside hitter (Mason H.S.); Ja’Lisa Graham of Mansfield, outside hitter (Mansfield Senior H.S.); Chazara Small of Monroe, Mich., outside hitter (Monroe H.S.); and Brooke Thomas of Findlay, outside hitter (Findlay H.S.).

Five Owens Community College Student-Athletes Named NJCAA Academic All-Americans

Posted on July 9th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Five Owens Community College student-athletes have been selected to the 2007-08 Academic All-American Team by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) for their outstanding accomplishments in the classroom and on the athletic playing field.

Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse (men’s baseball), David Davis of Detroit (men’s basketball), Laura Gerhardt of South Milwaukee, Wis. (women’s basketball), Stephanie Matthews of Delta (women’s softball) and Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic (women’s basketball) are among only 44 student-athletes since 1994 to receive the award at Owens.

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of our five Academic All-Americans for their hard work and dedication exhibited within the classroom,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “Their success as scholars is a positive reflection on the College’s athletic programs and commitment shown toward educational values.”

Rickard added, “As good as the five of them are academically, they are even better people and citizens in their respective communities.”

Brentlinger, a freshman catcher (pre-business administration) from Anthony Wayne High School, was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection and achieved a 3.64 grade point average for the academic year. Last season, he collected 20 hits, had 13 RBIs and compiled a .476 batting average for the Express men’s baseball program, which finished with a 31-6-1 overall record and a 14-2 mark (first place) in the OCCAC.

A sophomore forward from Melvindale High School, Davis (associate of science, general concentration) earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and was named the Coaches Award recipient. He achieved a 3.60 grade point average during the academic year and averaged 6.1 points and five rebounds for the 10-19 Express men’s basketball team.

Gerhardt (associate of arts, general concentration) is a sophomore center from South Milwaukee High School. Her postseason accomplishments include OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. Gerhardt helped the program finish tied for second in the OCCAC (10-4 record) and with a 23-10 overall record by averaging 5.2 points and 5.7 rebounds. She achieved a 3.76 grade point average during the academic year.

Matthews, a sophomore catcher from Delta High School, was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. She was an integral part of the Express women’s softball program this past year, which captured the OCCAC title (11-1 record) and completed the season with a 25-16 overall record. Matthews (registered nursing) compiled a .222 batting average and had three RBIs. She achieved a 3.62 grade point average during the academic year.

A sophomore guard from Miller City High School, Schroeder (physical therapist assistant) earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and was the team’s Defensive Player of the Year recipient. She averaged 7.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.7 steals for the 23-10 Express women’s basketball program. Schroeder achieved a 3.65 grade point average during the academic year.

Owens Express Men’s Baseball Announces Signing of 16 Student-Athletes to Scholarships

Posted on July 2nd, 2008

First-year Owens student-athletes signing letters-of-intent include (back row L to R) Nate Cress, Justin Adkins, Bryan Bogart, Ross Joost, Joe Mauer, Justin Walker, Joe Engle and Josh Newman. Front row student-athletes include (L to R) Tim DeCant, David Moss, Jared Gibbons, Bryan Daniel, Kevin Dorsten, Ross Knierim and Michael Romano. Absent is Josh Stidham.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Sixteen high school student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate men’s baseball for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2008-09 academic year.

The Owens men’s baseball program is led by Head Coach Bob Schultz and competes at the NJCAA Division II level. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the NJCAA Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition for its student-athletes.

The men’s baseball program finished the 2008 season with a 31-6-1 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (14-2 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fourth in the last five years. Owens Express men’s baseball, which was ranked No. 9 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“The incoming freshmen class of student-athletes are extremely talented, both within the classroom and on the playing field,” said Schultz. “Each individual will have the opportunity to compete for playing time and contribute to the team’s success. Our expectations remain the same as previous seasons with the ultimate goal being a conference title. The men’s baseball program is very happy to welcome these student-athletes to Owens Community College.”

First-year student-athletes receiving men’s baseball scholarships are Ross Knierim of Oregon, shortstop (Clay H.S.); Joshua Stidham of Whitehouse, pitcher (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Michael Romano of Oregon, outfield and first base (Clay H.S.); Ross Joost of Sherwood, first base and pitcher (Fairview H.S.); Kevin Dorsten of Huber Heights, pitcher (Wayne H.S.); Joe Mauer of Toledo, catcher (Start H.S.); Bryan Bogart of Canal Winchester, pitcher (Canal Winchester H.S.); Bryan Daniel of Englewood, outfield (Northmont H.S.); Josh Newman of Dayton, outfield and pitcher (Northmont H.S.); Justin Adkins of Clay Center, catcher (Genoa H.S.); Joe Engle of Sidney, third base (Sidney H.S.); Nate Cress of Frankton, Ind., pitcher (Frankton H.S.); David Moss of Piqua, first base (Covington H.S.); Jared Gibbons of West Carrollton, second base and outfield (West Carrollton H.S.); Justin Walker of Fort Wayne, Ind., pitcher (Wayne H.S.); and Tim DeCant of Northwood, outfield (Lake H.S.).

Owens Community College to Host Mitchell-Jackson Youth Basketball Camp, July 14-17

Posted on June 26th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth will have the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of basketball and life lessons as basketball stars Todd Mitchell and Jim Jackson host their annual basketball camp at Owens Community College, Monday-Thursday, July 14-17. This marks the second year that the annual basketball camp is being held at Owens Community College.

The camp registration fee is $75 per participant and space is limited. Lunch is provided each day and each attendee will receive a basketball camp jersey. For more information, call (419) 720-5252.

Owens Community College Express Honors Baseball, Golf and Softball Programs

Posted on June 25th, 2008

Austin Ritson

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored its spring athletic programs for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Student-athletes participating in baseball, golf and softball were recognized for their athletic achievements, highlighted by Austin Ritson of Toledo being named NJCAA Division II Honorable Mention All-American in men’s baseball.

Ritson, a sophomore pitcher and infielder from Whitmer High School, set an Owens baseball record for batting average (.511) in a season. In addition, his .511 batting average ranked No. 6 in the country among NJCAA Division II men’s baseball student-athletes. Ritson also led the team in RBIs (35) and homeruns (5).

His honors included Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Player of the Year and selection to the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference All-Conference and NJCAA All-Region XII teams. Additionally, Ritson was named Owens’ Most Valuable Player.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2008 season with a 31-6-1 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (14-2 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fourth in the last five years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 9 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Led by Head Coach Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The program also won its second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 294-302 (596) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg and finished second at the NJCAA Region XII Championships at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich. after rounds of 300-300-304 (904). Additionally, Owens was ranked No. 14 in the final regular season NJCAA Division II poll.

Express women’s softball completed the 2008 season with a 25-16 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-1 record) title in the program’s history. Led by Head Coach Duane Lanham, Owens women’s softball was ranked No. 24 in the final NJCAA Division II poll. Owens lost to Grand Rapids Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Men’s baseball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Austin Ritson of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Michael Nyitrai Jr. of Toledo (Start H.S.)
Coaches Award – Dominick Coduti of Northwood (Northwood H.S.)
Defensive Player Award – Jason Cress of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Austin Ritson
OCCAC Pitcher of the Year – Ajay Meyer of Hamler (Patrick Henry H.S.)
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Bob Schultz
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Austin Ritson, Ajay Meyer, Dominick Coduti, Jordan Schultz of Defiance (Defiance H.S.) and Vasilios Mila of Miami (American Senior H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Austin Ritson and Ajay Meyer
NJCAA Division II Third Team All-American Team – Austin Ritson

Owens Express men’s baseball team members also were Brent Graham of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Alex Majewski of Toledo (St. Francis de Sales H.S.), Martin Suarez of Miami (Barbara Goleman Senior H.S.), Scott Stevenson II of Gibsonburg (Gibsonburg H.S.), Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Joshua Story of Louisville, Ky. (Fern Creek H.S.), Philip Hack of Sylvania (St. Francis de Sales H.S.), Casey Winckowski of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Brian Shafer of Green Springs (Clyde H.S.), Tyler Proctor of Bowling Green, Ky. (Warren Central H.S.), Jared Wolff of Rossford (Eastwood H.S.), Kevin Dunn of Curtice (Genoa H.S.), Ryan Munch of Northwood (Central Catholic H.S.), Zakk Hanna of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.), Juan Pinero III of Bronx, N.Y. (Christopher Columbus H.S.), Travis Brewer of Perrysburg (Rossford H.S.) and Craig Kidston of Pioneer (North Central H.S.).

Golf awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Adam Crisp of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Ben DeArmond of Lambertville, Mich. (Bedford H.S.)
Coaches Award – Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich. (Monroe H.S.), Chris Hummer of Toledo (Start H.S.) and Jason Smith of Toledo (Anthony Wayne H.S.)
OCCAC Co-Player of the Year – Adam Crisp
OCCAC Co-Player of the Year – Jason Smith
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Gilbert Guerrero
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Adam Crisp, Jason Smith, Ben DeArmond, Chris Hummer, Joey Bussdieker and Jimmy Bell of Rossford (Rossford H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Adam Crisp, Chris Hummer and Joey Bussdieker

Express golf team members also included Andy Biggert of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.) and Jacob Williams of Fostoria (St. Wendelin H.S.).

Women’s softball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Amanda Coressel of Malinta (Patrick Henry H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Melinda Johnson of Bellevue (Bellevue H.S.)
Offensive Player of the Year – Danielle Hahn of Castalia (Margaretta H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo (Springfield H.S.)
Heart of a Champion Award – Kayleigh Damron of Napoleon (Napoleon H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Danielle Hahn
OCCAC Pitcher of the Year – Melinda Johnson
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Duane Lanham
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Danielle Hahn, Melinda Johnson, Amanda Coressel, Katelyn Helminiak and Amanda Hensley of Fremont (Fremont St. Joe H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Danielle Hahn and Melinda Johnson

Members of the Express women’s softball program also were Stephanie Matthews of Delta (Delta H.S.), Amanda Averesch of Leipsic (Miller City H.S.), Jessica Maniaci of Monroe, Mich. (Monroe H.S.), Amanda Salmons of Berlin Heights (Edison H.S.), Miranda Milleson of Gibsonburg (Gibsonburg H.S.), Aimee Stranyak of Ida, Mich. (Ida H.S.), Kristina Kruzel of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.), Whitney Risner of Wapakoneta (Lima Shawnee H.S.), Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich. (Ida H.S.), Ashleigh Barron of Ottawa Lake, Mich. (Whiteford H.S.), Emily Kuhn of Tiffin (Hopewell-Loudon H.S.), Jessica Russell of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Lynsey McIntire of Woodville (Eastwood H.S.), Shawna Fannin of Huron (Edison H.S.) and Kendall Kulakowski of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.).

Owens Community College Hosts Detroit Pistons Youth Basketball Training Camp, July 21-24

Posted on June 24th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as part of the Detroit Pistons 2008 Youth Basketball Training Camp Tour, Monday-Thursday, July 21-24.

The youth basketball training camp runs from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors for the four-day event will include Detroit Pistons officials and players, Michigan college and high school coaches, and current and former collegiate basketball superstars. Youth in grades 1-11 will receive instruction on various basketball skills, highlighted by ball handling, passing, shooting, defense and rebounding. Additionally, participants will be evaluated on their skill level and compete in games and a variety of contests.

The registration fee for the camp is $179 per participant and space is limited. In addition, each individual will receive a Detroit Pistons’ navy blue reversible training camp jersey and a basketball.

During the past 11 years more than 22,000 boys and girls have attended the Detroit Pistons Training Camp Tour occurring throughout Ohio and Michigan. For more information, call (567) 661-7973, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973 or (248) 377-8653.

Owens Express Student-Athletes Named OCCAC 2007-08 Academic All-Conference

Posted on June 13th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Twenty-one Owens Community College student-athletes have received Academic All-Conference honors by the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) in recognition of their scholarly achievements for the 2007-08 academic year.

Selection criterion for the honored recipients is based upon achieving a minimum 3.30 grade point average.

Owens has been a member of the OCCAC since 1987. The other member schools comprising the OCCAC are Clark State Community College, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Edison State Community College, Lakeland Community College, Lorain County Community College and Sinclair Community College.

Student-athletes receiving OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors include:

Brittney Bradner of Toledo (communication arts), a Cardinal Stritch H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.32 grade point average.
Stacia Fritz of Norwalk (pre-physical therapist assistant), a St. Paul H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.36 grade point average.
Mallory Imbery of Curtice (adolescence education), a Genoa H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.77 grade point average.
Nathan Baer of Northwood (accounting), a Lake H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.38 grade point average.
Davon Jones of San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago (associate of arts, general concentration), a Presentation College graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.54 grade point average.
David Davis of Detroit (associate of science, general concentration), a Melvindale H.S. graduate (men’s basketball) with a 3.60 grade point average.
Jeanne Bockey of Delphos (middle childhood education), a Delphos St. John H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.81 grade point average.
Laura Gerhardt of South Milwaukee, Wis. (associate of arts, general concentration), a South Milwaukee H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.76 grade point average.
Unique Lane of Xenia (criminal justice technology), a Xenia H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 4.00 grade point average.
Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic (physical therapist assistant), a Miller City H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.65 grade point average.
Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse (pre-business administration), an Anthony Wayne H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.59 grade point average.
Michael Nyitrai of Toledo (business management), a Start H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.34 grade point average.
Casey Winckowski of Oregon (associate of arts, general concentration), a Clay H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.64 grade point average.
Ben DeArmond of Lambertville, Mich. (pre-business administration), a Bedford H.S. graduate (men’s golf) with a 3.88 grade point average.
Amanda Averesch of Leipsic (pre-business administration), a Miller City H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.45 grade point average.
Ashleigh Barron of Ottawa Lake, Mich. (pre-nursing), a Whiteford H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.55 grade point average.
Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo (early childhood education), a Springfield H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.54 grade point average.
Stephanie Matthews of Delta (registered nursing), a Delta H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.62 grade point average.
Miranda Milleson of Gibsonburg (criminal justice technology), a Gibsonburg H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.74 grade point average.
Amanda Salmons of Berlin Heights (dental hygiene), an Edison H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.37 grade point average.
Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich. (pre-nursing), an Ida H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.30 grade point average.

Owens Express Golf to Hold Open Tryouts, June 11-13

Posted on June 4th, 2008

Open tryouts begin at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 11 at Heather Downs Country Club in Toledo, at 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 12 at Detwiler Golf Club in Toledo and at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, June 13 at Maumee Bay State Park Golf Course in Oregon.

The program also won its second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 294-302 (596) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg and finished second at the NJCAA Region XII Championships at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich. after rounds of 300-300-304 (904). Additionally, Owens was ranked No. 14 in the final regular season NJCAA Division II poll.

Scholarships are available to both males and females and prospective Owens Express players must be high school graduates. Registration is required prior to open tryouts. For more information on the open tryouts, call (567) 661-2643 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 2643.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Volleyball Camp, June 30 – July 3

Posted on June 2nd, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area volleyball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s volleyball program hosts a four-day Express Volleyball Camp, Monday-Thursday, June 30 – July 3.

Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, Owens completed the 2007 season with a 36-13 overall record. The program captured its eighth consecutive OCCAC regular season championship, finishing with an overall 11-1 conference record and was ranked No. 15 in the final NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll. Owens has won nine out of the last 10 conference titles. The Express lost to Macomb Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

Registration deadline for the Express Volleyball Camp is June 15. The camp fee is $80 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7939 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7939.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Boys Basketball Camp, June 16-19

Posted on May 21st, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players in grades three through eight the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the men’s basketball program hosts an Express Boys Individual Basketball Camp, June 16-19.

The basketball camp will occur each day from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express men’s basketball coaching staff and current and former intercollegiate players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on basketball skills in their designated positions, as well as learn about sportsmanship and basketball conditioning activities. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for basketball and gain tips on improving their offensive and defensive skills.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $50 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7940 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7940.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Girls Team Shootout, June 20-21

Posted on May 20th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school varsity girls basketball teams interested in competing against some of the best high schools from the Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio regions are invited to participate in a two-day Express Girls “Summer Slam” Team Shootout hosted by Owens Community College, Friday-Saturday, June 20-21.

Each high school varsity team will be guaranteed four games per day and basketball programs will have the opportunity to compete on either Friday or Saturday, or both days. The camp fee is $175 per team for one day.

The Express women’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Mike Llanas and completed their season with a 23-10 overall record and finished tied for second in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (10-4 record). Llanas’ squad, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Mott Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The number of participating teams is limited and the reservation deadline is June 13. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Community College Express Baseball Holds Open Tryouts for Pitchers and Catchers, June 8

Posted on May 20th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s baseball at Owens Community College are invited to an open tryout on Sunday, June 8. The open tryout is only for pitchers and catchers.

The open tryout begins at 12 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2008 season with a 31-6-1 overall record and captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (14-2 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fourth in the last five years. Owens Express men’s baseball was ranked No. 9 in the final NJCAA Division II poll.
Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens lost to Lakeland Community College in the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Girls ‘Summer Slam’ Basketball Camp, June 23-26

Posted on May 13th, 2008

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $75 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt and awards. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7941 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7941.

Owens Express Men’s Baseball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, May 9-11

Posted on May 6th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s baseball team will look to advance to its third World Series national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Baseball Championships this coming weekend. The tournament will be held at Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek, Mich., Friday-Sunday, May 9-11.

Coached by Bob Schultz, the Express will take a 31-4-1 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play Kalamazoo Valley Community College at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 9. If they would advance, the Express will play at 6 p.m. on Friday. The championship game will occur at 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 11.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Grand Rapids Community College (23-22), Kalamazoo Valley Community College (31-16-1), Jackson Community College (25-22), Muskegon Community College (31-11), Lakeland Community College (22-12), Sinclair Community College (21-15) and Kellogg Community College (23-16).

Schultz’s team captured its seventh Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (14-2 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the fourth in the last five years. Owens Express men’s baseball is ranked No. 9 in the final NJCAA Division II poll.

The NJCAA Division II World Series National Championships will be held May 24-31 in Millington, Tenn.

Owens Express Women’s Softball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, May 8-9

Posted on May 5th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s softball team will look to advance to the national championship tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Women’s Softball Championships this week. The tournament will be held in Midland, Mich., Thursday-Friday, May 8-9.

Coached by Duane Lanham, the Express will take a 25-14 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play the winner of the Muskegon CC/Kalamazoo Valley CC game at 12 p.m. on Thursday, May 8. If they would advance, the Express will play at 6 p.m. on Thursday. The championship game will occur at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 9.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Grand Rapids Community College (22-29), Kalamazoo Valley Community College (27-14), Jackson Community College (23-14), Muskegon Community College (23-30) and Lansing Community College (43-3).

Lanham’s team captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (11-1 record) title in the program’s history. The conference championship is the third in the last four years. Owens Express women’s softball is ranked No. 24 in the final NJCAA Division II poll.

The NJCAA Division II Softball National Championships will be held Thursday-Saturday, May 15-17 in Bloomington, Ill.

Owens Community College Express Golf Competes in NJCAA Regional Championships, May 5-6

Posted on May 2nd, 2008

The Express golf team captured six match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by its second consecutive first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program also captured its second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 294-302 (596) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Owens is ranked No. 14 in the most recent NJCAA Division II poll.

Now in its third year as an intercollegiate athletic program, Owens will compete against 18 intercollegiate golf programs and 112 individuals in the two-day 54-hole NJCAA Region XII tournament. The program must finish as one of the top three teams to advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, May 20-23. Individuals can also advance to the national championship tournament. Owens made its first trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships in 2006, finishing 14th in the tournament.

Owens Express golf student-athletes include Jimmy Bell of Rossford, 77.7 scoring average (Rossford H.S.); Andy Biggert of Oak Harbor, 80.1 scoring average (Oak Harbor H.S.); Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich., 75.6 scoring average (Monroe H.S.); Adam Crisp of Toledo, 74.8 scoring average (Bowsher H.S.); Ben DeArmond of Lambertville, Mich., 79.4 scoring average (Bedford H.S.); Chris Hummer of Toledo, 76.8 scoring average (Start H.S.); Jason Smith of Toledo, 76.0 scoring average (Anthony Wayne H.S.), and Jacob Williams of Fostoria, 79.7 scoring average (St. Wendelin H.S.).

Owens Honors Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs

Posted on April 14th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored the Express basketball programs at its annual awards banquet for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Nearly 30 student-athletes participating in men’s and women’s basketball were recognized for their athletic achievements.

Women’s Basketball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Shelli Liverpool of Cleveland Heights (Cleveland Heights H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Josie Smith of Galloway (Central Crossing H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic (Miller City H.S.)
Coaches Award – Candace Black of Detroit (Communication and Media Arts H.S.) and Nikki Coates of Bolingbrook, Ill. (Bolingbrook H.S.)
Mark Henry Award – Melissa Moore of Urbancrest (Central Crossing H.S.)
OCCAC Newcomer of the Year – Shelli Liverpool
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Shelli Liverpool
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Unique Lane of Xenia (Xenia H.S.) and Jeanne Bockey of Delphos (Delphos St. John H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Shelli Liverpool
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Shelli Liverpool and Josie Smith

Express women’s basketball team members also included Rachelle Allen of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Stephanie McCord of Bryan (Fayette H.S.), Amanda White of Vandalia (Butler H.S.), Stacie Coressel of Hamler (Patrick Henry H.S.), Joan Anderson of Maumee (St. Ursula Academy) and Laura Gerhardt of South Milwaukee, Wis. (South Milwaukee H.S.).

Led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs, the Express men’s basketball team finished the 2007-08 campaign with a 10-19 overall record and a 3-11 mark (sixth place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference regular season standings.

Men’s Basketball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – DeAndre Hall of Pontiac, Mich. (Pontiac Northern H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Justin Manns of Winston-Salem, N.C. (East Forsyth H.S.)
Sixth Man Award – T.R. Ellis of Detroit (Melvindale H.S.)
Coaches Award – David Davis of Detroit (Melvindale H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – DeAndre Hall
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Wes Taylor of Oregon (Clay H.S.) and Sedelle Broyles of Canton (Canton McKinley H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – DeAndre Hall

Members of the Owens Express men’s basketball team also were Brandon Dawson of Inkster, Mich. (Inkster H.S.), James Walker of Toledo (Scott H.S.), Fletcher Noble of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Nick Owens of Lambertville, Mich. (State Line Christian H.S.), DeAngelo Jordan of Detroit (Highland Park H.S.), Brandon Drake of Ann Arbor, Mich. (Ann Arbor Huron H.S.), Brett McDougle of Oregon (Clay H.S.) and Verdell Billingsley of Cleveland (Lakewood H.S.).

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Announces Signing of Six Student-Athletes to Scholarships

Posted on April 14th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Six high school student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate women’s basketball for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2008-09 academic year.

The Owens women’s basketball program is led by Head Coach Mike Llanas and competes at the NJCAA Division II level. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the NJCAA Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition for its student-athletes.

The women’s basketball program completed the 2007-08 season with a 23-10 overall record and finished tied for second in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (10-4 record). Llanas’ squad, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Mott Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“The incoming freshmen class of student-athletes are extremely talented and have achieved a considerable amount of success at the high school level,” said Llanas. “I expect each individual to have an immediate impact on the program and continue the athletic and academic excellence of Express women’s basketball. We are very happy to welcome them to Owens Community College.”

First-year student-athletes receiving women’s basketball scholarships are Brittany Darling of Curtice, center (Genoa H.S.); Molly Boetz of Stryker, guard (Stryker H.S.); Kelsey Perry of Willard, guard (Willard H.S.); Kaila Corrothers of Detroit, guard (Detroit Consortium Prep); Sarah Clark of Delphos, guard (Delphos St. John H.S.); and Ashley Hooker of Toledo, forward (Whitmer H.S.).

Owens Express Golf Opens Season at Cincinnati State Invite, April 4

Posted on April 3rd, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College golf will make its 2008 season debut at the Cincinnati State Community College Invitational on Friday, April 4. The Express will compete against Cincinnati State, Columbus State Community College, Lakeland Community College and Lorain County Community College in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) invitational.

The match will begin at 9 a.m. and take place at Wildwood Golf Club in Middletown, Ohio. Owens’ home intercollegiate golf events will occur at Heather Downs County Club in Toledo and Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Admission to all Express golf events is free and open to the public.

Owens’ golf program is guided by second-year Head Coach Gil Guerrero. His Assistant Coach is former Express golf student-athlete Josh Williams.

The Express golf team captured nine match and invitational titles in 2007, highlighted by a first-place finish in the OCCAC Championship Invitational. The program won its first-ever conference title and second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 308-308 (616) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Owens also set the record for the lowest round in OCCAC history, shooting a four-player score of 284 at the Pine Ridge Golf Course in Wickliffe, Ohio. The previous record of 286 was held by Columbus State. The golf team finished third at the NJCAA Region XII Championships after rounds of 310-311-309 (930).

“This is arguably the most talented group of student-athletes ever to play for the Owens Community College golf program,” stated Guerrero. “Our student-athletes have achieved a considerable amount of success in golf on both the high school and college level. I expect our veterans to play a significant role in providing leadership and guidance for the extremely talented incoming class of student-athletes. Each individual will certainly play a crucial role in our team’s success.”

Guerrero added, “Our goal is to once again bring home another conference title and compete for a national championship.”

The Express have three players returning from last year’s conference championship team, including Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich. (Monroe H.S.). In 2007, Bussdieker earned NJCAA Honorable Mention All-American honors and was named OCCAC Player of the Year and Top Medalist with a 76.5 conference scoring average. The sophomore also compiled a 76.1 scoring average and finished tied for 13th place at the NJCAA Division II National Championships after rounds of 72-72-72-73 (289).

Guerrero’s squad also returns Chris Hummer of Toledo (Start H.S.) and Jason Smith of Toledo (Anthony Wayne H.S.). In 2007, Hummer, a sophomore, completed the golf season with an 81.8 scoring average, while Smith, also a sophomore, compiled a 78.9 scoring average. Smith’s postseason honors included OCCAC First Team All-Conference selection.

First-year players to the Express golf program are Jimmy Bell of Rossford (Rossford H.S.), Andy Biggert of Oak Harbor (Oak Harbor H.S.), Adam Crisp of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.), Ben DeArmond of Lambertville, Mich. (Bedford H.S.) and Jacob Williams of Fostoria (St. Wendelin H.S.).

Owens Community College Express Baseball and Softball Cancels Home Games Originally Scheduled For March 15

Posted on March 14th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s baseball and women’s softball home games originally scheduled for this Saturday, March 15 against (baseball game) Muskegon Community College at 12 p.m. and (softball game) Bowling Green State University Club at 1 p.m. have been canceled. No make-up dates have been announced.

Express men’s baseball will now open its home season on Friday, March 21 against Grand Rapids Community College at 12 p.m., while the women’s softball team will entertain Mercyhurst North East at home on Monday, March 24 at 3 p.m.

All home games are played at the College’s Baseball and Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Softball Opens Home Season Against Bowling Green State University Club, March 15

Posted on March 13th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s softball will open its 2008 home season against Bowling Green State University Club on Saturday, March 15. The game will begin at 1 p.m.

All home games will be played at the College’s Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

The Owens softball program is guided by fifth-year Head Coach Duane Lanham. His Assistant Coaches are Michael Murphy and Kevin Snyder.

Express women’s softball completed the 2007 season with a 16-31 overall record and a 5-7 mark (third place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Recently, Owens captured back-to-back OCCAC regular season championships in 2005 and 2006.

Owens currently has a compiled a 1-8 overall record this season following games in Florida.

“We have a very young and inexperienced team entering the 2008 season,” said Lanham. “However, the incoming first-year student-athletes are extremely talented and ready to contribute in a variety of areas. We also have great veteran leadership from our two returning players. I think we should be right in the title hunt mix if we continue to mature and grow as a team.”

The two Express players returning from last year’s team are Amanda Coressel of Malinta (Patrick Henry H.S.) and Stephanie Matthews of Detla (Delta H.S.). In 2007, Coressel, a sophomore shortstop, earned the team’s Heart of a Champion award. She collected 39 hits and 22 runs and compiled a .331 batting average. Coressel also was second on the team with 10 stolen bases. Matthews is a sophomore catcher. She collected 29 hits and 21 RBIs and compiled a .293 batting average. Additionally, Matthews earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and received the team’s Most Improved Player award.

First-year players to the Express women’s softball program are Amanda Averesch of Leipsic, second base (Miller City H.S.); Jessica Maniaci of Monroe, Mich., second base (Monroe H.S.); Melinda Johnson of Bellevue, pitcher (Bellevue H.S.); Danielle Hahn of Castalia, outfield (Margaretta H.S.); Kayleigh Damron of Napoleon, catcher (Napoleon H.S.); Amanda Salmons of Berlin Heights, third base (Edison H.S.); Miranda Milleson of Gibsonburg, pitcher (Gibsonburg H.S.); Aimee Stranyak of Ida, Mich., third base (Ida H.S.); Kristina Kruzel of Perrysburg, outfield (Perrysburg H.S.); Katelyn Helminiak of Toledo, first base (Springfield H.S.), and Whitney Risner of Wapakoneta, second base (Lima Shawnee H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Rachel Sepesy of Ida, Mich., shortstop (Ida H.S.); Ashleigh Barron of Ottawa Lake, Mich., third base (Whiteford H.S.); Emily Kuhn of Tiffin, third base (Hopewell-Loudon H.S.); Amanda Hensley of Fremont, outfield (Fremont St. Joe H.S.); Jessica Russell of Toledo, first base (Whitmer H.S.); Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic, shortstop (Miller City H.S.); Lynsey McIntire of Woodville, catcher (Eastwood H.S.); Shawna Fannin of Huron, pitcher (Edison H.S.), and Kendall Kulakowski of Toledo, pitcher (Whitmer H.S.).

Owens Express Baseball Opens Home Schedule Against Muskegon Community College, March 15

Posted on March 11th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s baseball program will open the 2008 home portion of its schedule against Muskegon Community College on Saturday, March 15. The game will begin at 12 p.m.

All home games are played at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

Bob Schultz begins his sixth year as Head Coach of the Owens men’s baseball program. In the past five years, he has guided the Express to many notable achievements, including three conference championships in 2004, 2005 and 2007. Prior to his position as Head Coach, Schultz served as an Express Assistant Coach for five years. His Assistant Coach is Gabe Medina.

The men’s baseball program finished the 2006-07 campaign with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title in the program’s history. Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Kellogg Community College. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference is a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001.

Early in 2008 season, Owens has a compiled an 8-0-1 overall record following games played in Florida.

“Our coaching staff is very excited about this season,” stated Schultz. “We have a great core group of returning student-athletes, which will provide a lot of leadership, depth and experience for the ball club. Our incoming first-year student-athletes are also extremely talented.”

He added, “Great pitching and fundamentally-sound baseball are essential to our team’s success. This team has a great opportunity to once again play a significant part in who wins the OCCAC championship.”

The Express has 10 players returning from last year’s team, including Michael Nyitrai Jr. of Toledo (Start H.S.) and Austin Ritson of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.). In 2007, Nyitrai Jr., a sophomore catcher, earned First Team OCCAC All-Conference honors. He led the team with four homeruns and 11 doubles. Ritson, a sophomore pitcher and infielder, collected 32 hits and 34 runs and had 19 RBIs. In addition, he was an NJCAA Region XII All-Tournament Team selection.

Schultz’s squad also returns Brent Graham of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Jason Cress of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.) and Ajay Meyer of Hamler (Patrick Henry H.S.). Graham, a sophomore infielder and outfielder, recorded 22 hits and 24 runs and compiled a .300 batting average. Cress is a sophomore shortstop. In 2007, he was honored with the team’s Defensive Player Award and recorded three homeruns and 19 runs. Meyer is a sophomore pitcher and compiled a 2-0 record and a 1.35 earned run average.

Returning sophomore student-athletes to the Owens team also include Dominick Coduti of Northwood, outfield (Northwood H.S.); Gabriel Espineira of Miami, pitcher (Hialeah H.S.); Alex Majewski of Toledo, pitcher (St. Francis de Sales H.S.); Jordan Schultz of Defiance, catcher (Defiance H.S.), and Martin Suarez of Miami, pitcher (Barbara Goleman Senior H.S.).

First-year players to the Express men’s baseball program are Scott Stevenson II of Gibsonburg, outfield (Gibsonburg H.S.); Vasilios Mila of Miami, infield/outfield (American Senior H.S.); Adam Brentlinger of Whitehouse, catcher (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Joshua Story of Louisville, Ky., outfield (Fern Creek H.S.); Philip Hack of Sylvania, pitcher (St. Francis de Sales H.S.); Casey Winckowski of Oregon, infield (Clay H.S.); Brian Shafer of Green Springs, infield (Clyde H.S.); Tyler Proctor of Bowling Green, Ky., infield/pitcher (Warren Central H.S.); Jared Wolff of Rossford, outfield (Eastwood H.S.); Kevin Dunn of Curtice, pitcher (Genoa H.S.); Ryan Munch of Northwood, outfield (Central Catholic H.S.); Zakk Hanna of Bowling Green, pitcher (Bowling Green H.S.); Juan Pinero III of Bronx, N.Y., pitcher (Christopher Columbus H.S.); Travis Brewer of Perrysburg, pitcher (Rossford H.S.), and Craig Kidston of Pioneer, pitcher (North Central H.S.).

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 5-8

Posted on March 3rd, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District H) Women’s Basketball Championship this week. The tournament will be held at Oakland Community College in Waterford, Mich., Wednesday-Saturday, March 5-8.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express will take a 21-9 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will play Kirtland Community College (13-14) at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 5 in quarterfinal action. If they would advance, the Express will play the winner of the Oakland Community College (21-8)/St. Clair County Community College (13-16) game at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 7 in the semifinals. The championship game will occur at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 8.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Delta College (12-15), Mott Community College (16-12), Schoolcraft College (26-4), Macomb Community College (13-14) and Columbus State Community College (20-6).

Illanas’ team enters the tournament having won four out of its last five games. Additionally, the Express finished tied for second in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (10-4 record). Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 28 in the most recent NJCAA Division II poll.

The NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championship will be held Wednesday-Saturday, March 19-22 in East Peoria, Ill.

Owens Express Basketball Programs Bowl Strikes, Spares and Gutter Balls to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters

Posted on February 12th, 2008

Owens Express basketball teams take time to pose for a group photo prior to bowling for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Strikes, spares and the occasional gutter ball were abundant on a recent Sunday afternoon at Toledo’s Imperial Lanes as Owens Community College’s basketball programs traded their basketball shoes for bowling shoes and participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio’s Bowl for Kids’ Sake initiative.

In addition to bowling for Bowl for Kids’ Sake, the two teams made a donation of over $200 to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio from contributions raised during recent collection drives held at Express home basketball games. Donation efforts will be used to help Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio in providing quality mentoring relationships between children and adults.

Owens’ Melissa Moore of Urbancrest (Central Crossing H.S.) takes aim at a strike during Bowl for Kids’ Sake.

“It’s important to give back to your community,” said Stacie Coressel of Hamler (Patrick Henry H.S.), Owens sophomore guard on the Express women’s basketball team. “My parents were my role models and I understand how important it is to have someone to look up to. Big Brothers Big Sisters is an outstanding organization and it feels good to lend a helping hand.”

According to Owens Express men’s basketball sophomore guard Sedelle Broyles of Canton (Canton McKinley H.S.), a big brother or big sister can leave a lasting impact on a young child. “I am thankful for my big brother. He meant a lot to me when I was younger. Unfortunately, not everyone has a big brother or big sister. It’s good that the Owens basketball teams are stepping up and helping Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Broyles.

On the basketball court this year, the Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 19-8 overall record and currently is in third place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 8-3. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 25 in the nation.

The 2007-08 edition of the men’s basketball program has experienced similar success as the women’s team. Owens has an overall record of 17-8 and an 8-3 mark (second place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio.

Express student-athlete Brett McDougle of Oregon (Clay H.S.) sizes up the pins prior to bowling his first ball at Imperial Lanes.

On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers associate degrees that transfer to baccalaureate degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 130 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university. For more information, visit www.owens.edu.

Owens Express Basketball Programs Test Bowling Skills to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters, Feb. 10

Posted on February 8th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College basketball programs will put their bowling skills to the test for a good cause as the two teams participate in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio’s Bowl for Kids’ Sake initiative on Sunday, Feb. 10. Both teams will be bowling at Imperial Lanes in Toledo at 3 p.m.

In addition to bowling, the two teams will make a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio from contributions raised during recent collection drives held at Express home basketball games. Donation efforts will be used to help Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio in providing quality mentoring relationships between children and adults.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed an 18-8 overall record and currently is in third place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 7-3. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 25 in the nation.

The 2007-08 edition of the men’s basketball program has experienced similar success as the women’s team. Owens has an overall record of 17-7 and an 8-2 mark (second place) in the OCCAC and is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

Owens Men’s and Women’s Basketball Entertains Cincinnati State on Express ‘Red Out’ Day, Feb. 2

Posted on January 31st, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball programs will entertain archrival the Cincinnati State Community College Surge in crucial conference games as part of doubleheader action during Express “Red Out” Day on Saturday, Feb. 2. The women’s team will play at 1 p.m. against the Surge (15-7, 6-3), while the Express men will battle Cincinnati State (19-2, 9-0) beginning at 3 p.m.

Both games will be played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to home games is free. In addition, fans are encouraged to wear red in support of the Express basketball teams.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 16-7 overall record and currently is in second place in the OCCAC standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 6-2. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 17 in the nation.

The 2007-08 edition of the men’s basketball program has experienced similar success as the women’s team. Owens has an overall record of 15-7 and a 6-2 mark (second place) in the OCCAC. The Express is led by Head Coach Kevin Skaggs.

The next home men’s and women’s basketball games will occur on Saturday, Feb. 9 as the Express entertain Columbus State Community College. The women’s team will play at 1 p.m., while the Express men will take on Columbus State beginning at 3 p.m.

Owens Express Basketball Programs Accepting Donations to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters During Upcoming Home Games

Posted on January 28th, 2008

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College basketball programs are encouraging area residents to help in supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio and their efforts of providing quality mentoring relationships between children and adults by making a donation at one of the upcoming Express home games, Jan. 31 and Feb. 2 and 9. The donations are being raised in conjunction with Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Bowl for Kids’ Sake initiative in February.

The Express women will host Ohio State University Club on Thursday, Jan. 31 at 5:30 p.m., while the men’s team will take on Indiana Tech JVs that same day starting at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, Feb. 2, Owens men and women will entertain Cincinnati State Community College at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The last day that the two teams will be accepting donations is Saturday, Feb. 9 when the Express men and women host Columbus State Community College at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

All home games are free and take place in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Individuals are encouraged to bring their donations to a designated table, which will be located inside the Student Health and Activities Center gymnasium entrance, during the basketball games. All donations will be presented to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio when the two teams bowl as part of Bowl for Kids’ Sake on Sunday, Feb. 10. Owens basketball team members will test their bowling skills at Imperial Lanes in Toledo.

For more information about the Big Brothers Big Sisters donation drive, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Baseball Hitting School, Jan. 19-20

Posted on December 14th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area baseball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as men’s baseball hosts a two-day Express Baseball Hitting School, Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 19-20.

The baseball hitting school runs daily from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include Owens Express Head Coach Bob Schultz and Assistant Coaches Jason Halka and Gabe Medina. Youth ages 8-18 will be divided by age groups and receive individual instruction on baseball skills, which will include an evaluation of each player’s hitting, throwing and defensive techniques. In addition, attendees will learn about custom exercises for baseball and gain tips on improving their hitting.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2007 season with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title in the program’s history. Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Kellogg Community College. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference is a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge. Participants are encouraged to wear baseball pants or sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes.

The camp fee is $80 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Community College Honors Fall Athletic Programs

Posted on December 13th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored its fall athletic programs for displaying outstanding excellence during intercollegiate competition. Thirty-four student-athletes participating in women’s volleyball and men’s soccer were recognized for their athletic achievements, highlighted by Stephanie Champine of Lambertville, Mich., being named NJCAA Division II Second Team All-American in women’s volleyball, while Sean Bucknor of Springfield, Mass., received NJCAA Division I First Team All-American honors in men’s soccer.

Last year, Champine and Bucknor were Honorable Mention and Second Team All-American selections, respectively.

This marks 11 out of 12 years that at least one Owens volleyball player has received All-American honors. Champine’s other honors included Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Player of the Year 2007 (second consecutive year) and several NJCAA All-Region XII awards.

Champine, a sophomore outside hitter from Bedford High School, holds several Owens volleyball records, including kills for a season (595) and career (1,129) and hitting efficiency for a season (.360) and career (.330).

Bucknor is a sophomore from Cornwall College. The Express forward is the first men’s soccer student-athlete to earn All-American recognition, receiving the honor in 2006 and 2007. During the 2007 season, Bucknor broke several school records, including most goals and points for a career with 56 and 123, respectively. He was fourth in the country in points scored with 64. In addition to his All-American honors, Bucknor was named OCCAC Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, and NJCAA All-Region XII First Team.

Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, the Express completed its season with a 36-13 overall record. The program captured its eighth consecutive OCCAC regular season championship, finishing with an overall 11-1 conference record and was ranked No. 15 in the final NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll. Owens has won nine out of the last 10 conference titles. The Express lost to Macomb Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

The men’s soccer program, led by Head Coach Art Johnson, recently completed its tenth season as an Owens athletic program. The Express finished with a 15-5-2 overall record. Johnson’s team finished tied for second place in the final OCCAC (3-3 record) standings and was ranked No. 19 in the final NJCAA Division I poll. The Express lost to Macomb Community College in the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Women’s Volleyball Awards:
Most Valuable Player – Stephanie Champine
Most Improved Player – Kathryn Sabbagh of Fostoria (Fostoria H.S.)
Coaches Award – Lindsay Word of Edon (Edon H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Stephanie Champine
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Sonny Lewis
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Stephanie Champine, Lindsay Word and Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich. (Roosevelt H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference Honorable Mention – Brittney Bradner of Toledo (Cardinal Stritch H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Stephanie Champine and Chelsea Stover
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Stephanie Champine
NJCAA All-American Division II Second Team – Stephanie Champine

Owens Express volleyball team members also included Kim Zimmerman of Maumee (Maumee H.S.), Karie Marroquin of Fremont (Fremont Ross H.S.), Kristen Gyori of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Chelsey Malaczewski of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Mallory Imbery of Curtice (Genoa H.S.), Erin Wax of Green Springs (Clyde H.S.), Katie Mullis of Clinton, Mich. (Lenawee Christian H.S.), Amanda Mick of Defiance (Defiance H.S.) and Stacia Fritz of Norwalk (St. Paul H.S.).

Men’s Soccer Awards:
Most Valuable Player – Sean Bucknor
Offensive MVP – Evan ChatÈ of Vendays, France (LycÈe Odilon Redon H.S.)
Defensive MVP – Davon Jones of San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago (Presentation College)
Most Improved Player – Lovein Babona of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.)
Coaches Award – Nathan Baer of Northwood (Lake H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Sean Bucknor
OCCAC Offensive Player of the Year – Sean Bucknor
OCCAC Defensive Player of the Year – Davon Jones
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Evan ChatÈ, Sean Bucknor and Stephen Byer of Palmiste, Trinidad & Tobago (Presentation College)
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Davon Jones and Zane Polack of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII First Team – Sean Bucknor and Stephen Byer
NJCAA All-Region XII Second Team – Davon Jones
NJCAA All-American Division I First Team – Sean Bucknor

Members of the Owens Express men’s soccer team also included Nathan Stevely of Wapakoneta (Wapakoneta H.S.), David Skoczyn of Celina (Celina H.S.), Housam Adoure-Zehaim of Maumee (Springfield H.S.), Gilbert King of Norwalk (Norwalk H.S.), Joshua McKinney of Sylvania (Southview H.S.), Tyler Lange of Norwalk (Norwalk H.S.), Jonathon Kijowski of Norwalk (Norwalk H.S.), Erik Bauerle of Waterville (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Joe Cook of Swanton (Anthony Wayne H.S.), Lewis Kwai of Buea, Cameroon (Buea H.S.), Henry Quoikapor of Vineland, N.J. (Vineland H.S. South), Chris Duval of Milan, Mich. (Milan H.S.) and Brock Kennedy of Davisburg, Mich. (Holly H.S.).

Owens Express Baseball Student-Athletes and Coaches Lend Helping Hand to Needy Families at Toledo Seagate Food Bank

Posted on November 27th, 2007

Owens baseball student-athletes and coaches stuffed hundreds of boxes with thousands of donated food items for eventual delivery to needy families.

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – For many families struggling financially, the holidays can often serve as a difficult time to view life with a positive outlook. Twenty-eight Owens Community College Express men’s baseball student-athletes and coaches recently spent a Saturday morning making sure hundreds of Northwest Ohio needy families look forward to the upcoming holiday season with optimism by lending a helping hand at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank.

The team traded their baseball gloves for work gloves and proceeded to sort and stuff hundreds of brown boxes with thousands of donated food items for eventual delivery to needy families and individuals in 18 counties and at over 400 non-profit organizations throughout Northwest Ohio. The initiative was part of the Toledo Seagate Food Bank’s annual holiday donation drive titled “Stuff the Truck”.

According to Express sophomore infielder Austin Ritson of Toledo (Whitmer High School graduate), its feels good to be able to give back to those individuals faced with hardship. “I am very thankful for everything that has been provided for me and it seems only right to want to help others and make a difference in their lives,” explained Ritson.

“There are many people throughout Northwest Ohio who are without food on a daily basis,” stated Bob Schultz, Owens Head Coach of the men’s baseball program and a long-time Toledo Seagate Food Bank volunteer. “The Owens Community College Express baseball team is proud to help the Toledo Seagate Food Bank in its efforts to fight hunger and make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

On the baseball field this past year, the Express finished with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title in the program’s history. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference was a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001.

Twenty-eight student-athletes and coaches volunteered their time at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank.

However, the victories and records pale in comparison to the hundreds of lives affected as a result of the team’s volunteerism, according to Toledo Seagate Food Bank Executive Director Deborah Vas. “Volunteerism is really one of our staples at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank. Our organization could not survive without volunteers,” she explained.

Vas added, “The Toledo Seagate Food Bank is extremely grateful to the Owens Community College baseball team. The help they provided today would have taken three weeks to accomplish. Their volunteer efforts are much appreciated.”

The Toledo Seagate Food Bank was established in 1982 as a regional food clearing house serving 18 Northwest Ohio counties. The Food Bank collects donated food from manufacturers, processors, wholesale and retail grocers, and individuals, as it becomes available. Annually, the organization distributes over 15 million pounds of food to over 500 organizational programs, such food pantries, community resource centers, churches, soup kitchens and senior centers, among other agencies. Since its founding, the Food Bank has assisted over 21,000 individuals and needy families.

Owens Express 2007-08 Cheerleading Squad Looks to Continue Program’s Cheerleading Excellence

Posted on November 20th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents will once again be entertained by outstanding halftime dance routines as Owens Community College’s Competitive Cheerleading team performs at home men’s basketball games during the 2007-08 season.

Already this year, the Express program is building upon its success in competition on a state level by recently finishing in first place at AmeriCheer’s annual Ohio Championships in Columbus. The first place finish is the program’s second consecutive state title.

In 2006, the Express were recognized nationally by being named the American Championships Coed College National Champions and earned an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dance to the music of the legendary Rolling Stones as part of the Super Bowl XL halftime show.

“We have a very talented and spirited squad to cheer on the Owens Express basketball team this year,” said Tracy Rollins, Owens Competitive Cheerleading Head Coach. “This year’s team is really putting forth the time and effort that it takes to achieve success at a very high level. I expect the team to have a very successful season and continue Owens’ tradition of cheerleading excellence.”

Since 2001, the Owens Competitive Cheerleading program has earned regional and national acclaim for cheerleading, garnering several awards. Such honors include first place finishes at JamFest – Collegiate Open Cheer and the Ohio Cheerleading and Dance Team Championships. In addition, Owens’ squad was second at the Cheerleaders of America Open Championship, the Cheerleaders of America Midwest Open and the Ohio Winter Nationals.

The Owens Competitive Cheerleading program is led by seventh-year Head Coach Tracy Rollins. A Perrysburg resident, she previously served as a cheerleading coach for nine years at Lake Junior, Bowling Green and Eastwood high schools, and currently works with CheerStarz Extreme All-Star squad. Coach Rollins also worked with the National Cheerleading Association organizing various cheer clinics throughout Northwest Ohio. Her squads are known for their creativity and have won various awards in all competitions.

Returning student-athletes to the Owens Express program include Stephanie Welling of Rossford (Rossford H.S.), Danielle Grady of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Stephanie Mason of Toledo (Central Catholic H.S.) and Elizabeth Kaczmarek of Grand Rapids (Anthony Wayne H.S.).

First-year performers are Ellen Smolenski of Toledo (Start H.S.), Brandi Wuellner of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.), Stacie Majewski of Rossford (Rossford H.S.), Jessica Leonhard of Toledo (Toledo Christian Schools), Ainsley Kretz of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.), Sonja Moog of Montpelier (Montpelier H.S.), Ashley Duhamel of Perrysburg (Perrysburg H.S.), Susan Friess of Perrysburg (Rossford H.S.), Abbie Kowalinski of Sylvania (Northview H.S.), Becky Bailiff of Holland (Springfield H.S.), Brandi Giles of Toledo (Waite H.S.), Tera Carroll of Toledo (Waite H.S.), Andrea Zaciewski of Genoa (Genoa H.S.), Kellie Fragoso of Genoa (Genoa H.S.) and Jon Davis of Toledo (Waite H.S.).

Owens Express Baseball Student-Athletes and Coaches to Help Needy Families at Toledo Seagate Food Bank, Nov. 17

Posted on November 15th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College Express men’s baseball team will be providing a helping hand to those in need during this Thanksgiving holiday season as 28 student-athletes and coaches volunteer their time at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank on Saturday, Nov. 17.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2007 season with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title – third in the last four years – in the program’s history. Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Kellogg Community College. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference is a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001. The baseball team will be volunteering at the Toledo Seagate Food Bank until 11 a.m.

Owens Women’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 10-11

Posted on November 8th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College women’s basketball team will take an overall 2-0 record into this weekend as they host their annual Express Tip-Off Classic tournament, Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 10-11.

Beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, the host Express will face The Ohio State University Club team, while Hillsborough Community College will take on Lansing Community College at 2:30 p.m.

On Sunday (Nov. 11), the consolation game will occur at 1 p.m. The Tip-Off Classic championship contest will follow the consolation game and begin 3 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is currently ranked No. 16 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Men’s Basketball to Host Express Tip-Off Classic, Nov. 9-10

Posted on November 7th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s basketball team will take an overall 1-0 record into this weekend as they host the Express Tip-Off Classic, Friday-Saturday, Nov. 9-10.

Beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, Hillsborough Community College will take on Grand Rapids Community College at 6 p.m., while the host Express will face Kellogg Community College at 8 p.m.

On Saturday (Nov. 10), Kellogg C.C. will battle Hillsborough C.C. at 5 p.m. and Owens will entertain Grand Rapids C.C. in the nightcap at 7 p.m.

The Owens men’s basketball program is currently ranked No. 34 in the NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Opens Season at Kirtland Community College, Nov. 3

Posted on November 1st, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College women’s basketball will open its 2007-08 season at Kirtland Community College (Roscommon, Mich.) on Saturday, Nov. 3. The season opener will begin at 1 p.m.

The Owens women’s basketball program is led by fourth-year Head Coach Michael Llanas. During his third year, Llanas led the Express to a 21-11 overall record and an OCCAC (12-2 record) title, sixth overall and first since the 1998-99 basketball season. Owens, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships last year. Llanas’ Assistant Coaches are Christa Strube and Stephen Perry.

The Express will open its home campaign against the University of Toledo Club team on Wednesday, Nov. 7. The home opener begins at 6 p.m. All home games are free and occur at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

“I am very excited about this year’s team and extremely optimistic about the upcoming season,” Llanas said. “We have great veteran leadership and a strong incoming class of student-athletes. Our expectations are extremely high with the goal of defending our conference title and building on the tradition of Express basketball excellence both on and off the court.”

In addition, the Owens women’s basketball program has earned the distinction of being ranked No. 16 in the NJCAA Division II preseason poll. Kankakee Community College in Kankakee, Ill., received the No. 1 ranking.

The Express have seven players returning from last year’s team, including Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic (Miller City H.S.). In 2006-07, the sophomore guard played in 32 games and averaged 9.3 points, 5 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.3 steals. She was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection, the team’s Defensive Player of the Year, and NJCAA Division II and OCCAC player of the week during the season.

Also returning to Llanas’ squad are Candace Black of Detroit (Communication and Media Arts H.S.) and Laura Gerhardt of South Milwaukee, Wis., (South Milwaukee H.S.).

Black, a sophomore guard, played in 32 games and averaged 5.6 points, 4 rebounds and led the team with 3.1 assists. Her postseason honors included being named Owens’ co-Coaches Award recipient. During the 2006-07 season, Gerhardt, a sophomore center, averaged 5.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 31 games for the Express. She earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors.

Returning players also include Stacie Coressel of Hamler, sophomore forward, 1.2 points average (Patrick Henry H.S.); Joan Anderson of Maumee, sophomore guard, 2.4 points average (St. Ursula Academy); Melissa Moore of Urbancrest, sophomore guard, 3.4 points average (Central Crossing H.S.); and Nikki Coates of Bolingbrook, Ill., sophomore center, 3.2 points average (Bolingbrook H.S.).

First-year players to the Express women’s basketball program are Josie Smith of Galloway, guard (Central Crossing H.S.); Rachelle Allen of Toledo, guard (Whitmer H.S.); Shelli Liverpool of Cleveland Heights, forward (Cleveland Heights H.S.); Unique Lane of Xenia, forward (Xenia H.S.); Stephanie McCord of Bryan, guard (Fayette H.S.); Amanda White of Vandalia, forward (Butler H.S.); Jeanne Bockey of Delphos, guard (Delphos St. John H.S.); and Shadonna Boose of Saginaw, Mich., guard (Buena Vista H.S.).

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Open Season with Road Contest Against Schoolcraft College, Nov. 3

Posted on October 31st, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s basketball will begin its 2007-08 campaign with a season-opening road contest against Schoolcraft College (Livonia, Mich.) on Saturday, Nov. 3. The game will begin at 11 a.m.

The Express will open its home campaign by hosting Kellogg Community College in the Tip-Off Classic on Friday, Nov. 9 at 8 p.m. All home games are free and held at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center (SHAC) on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s basketball program is led by first-year Head Coach Kevin Skaggs. Coach Skaggs succeeds Jack Trainer, who accepted a teaching and basketball head coaching position at Portsmouth’s Clay High School near his hometown of Waverly this past summer. Prior to being named Express Head Coach, Skaggs served as an Express men’s basketball full-time Assistant Coach for two years and three years as a volunteer Assistant Coach. During that time, he helped lead the Express to an overall 129-36 record. His Assistant Coaches are Marcus Evans and Corey Tucker.

The Express men’s basketball team finished the 2006-07 campaign with a 22-12 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season standings. Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Cincinnati State Community College. The program was ranked as high as No. 4 in the NJCAA Division II men’s basketball poll.

“We’re really looking forward to the beginning of the regular basketball season,” said Skaggs. “We have a great group of student-athletes who are working extremely hard on the basketball court and in the classroom. Our veteran leadership will play a huge role in the team’s success. Their work ethic and positive attitude is rubbing off on our younger players and will make a difference throughout the season.”

Skaggs added, “The conference schedule should be very competitive and we will need to be ready to play and consistently put forth the effort to become a championship-caliber team.”

In addition, the Owens men’s basketball program has earned the distinction of being ranked No. 34 in the NJCAA Division II preseason poll. Mott Community College in Flint, Mich., who Owens will play at home on Friday, Nov. 16, received the No. 1 ranking.

Owens has six returning players, including DeAndre Hall of Pontiac, Mich. (Pontiac Northern H.S.). During the 2006-07 season, the sophomore forward averaged 14.6 points and grabbed 5.9 rebounds per game. His postseason honors included OCCAC All-Conference Second Team and NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team selection.

Other returning players to the Express roster include Wes Taylor of Oregon, forward (Clay H.S.) and Sedelle Broyles of Canton, guard (Canton McKinley H.S.).

In 2006-07, Taylor, a sophomore, averaged 13.1 points and 4.1 rebounds per game for the Express. Broyles, also a sophomore, contributed 4.1 points and 1.9 assists per game.

Returning players also include T.R. Ellis of Detroit, sophomore guard, 2.2 points average (Melvindale H.S.); Brandon Dawson of Inkster, Mich., sophomore guard, 1.5 points average (Inkster H.S.); and David Davis of Detroit, sophomore forward, 1.2 points average (Melvindale H.S.).

First-year players are James Walker of Toledo, guard (Scott H.S.); Fletcher Noble of Holland, guard (Springfield H.S.); Eric Thomas of Ypsilanti, Mich., guard (Willow Run H.S.); Nick Owens of Lambertville, Mich., guard (State Line Christian H.S.); DeAngelo Jordan of Detroit, forward (Highland Park H.S.); Brandon Drake of Ann Arbor, Mich., guard (Ann Arbor Huron H.S.); Brett McDougle of Oregon, forward (Clay H.S.); Julian Wesley of Canton, forward (Timken Senior H.S.); Justin Manns of Winston-Salem, N.C., forward (East Forsyth H.S.); and Verdell Billingsley of Cleveland, forward (Lakewood H.S.).

Owens Express Women’s Volleyball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Nov. 1-3

Posted on October 29th, 2007

Coached by Sonny Lewis, the Express will take a 34-11 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play on Friday, Nov. 2. Time and opponent for the Friday match are yet to be determined. The championship match will occur at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3.

On Saturday (Oct. 27), the Express women’s volleyball team captured its eighth consecutive OCCAC regular season championship with a decisive road match victory over Lakeland Community College (30-19, 30-10, 30-11). Owens has won nine out of the last 10 OCCAC regular season championships. Lewis’ squad finished 11-1 in the OCCAC regular season standings and was ranked No. 15 in the last NJCAA Division II volleyball regular season poll.

The NJCAA Division II National Championship will be held Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 15-17, in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Owens Express Men’s Soccer Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, Oct. 27-28

Posted on October 25th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s soccer team will look to advance to their first national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Soccer Championships this weekend. The tournament will be held at Lakeland Community College in Kirtland, Ohio, Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 27-28.

Coached by Art Johnson, the Express will take a 14-4-2 overall record into the four-team single elimination tournament where they will play Schoolcraft College (14-3-2) at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27. If they would advance, the Express will play the Cincinnati State CC (14-0-1)/Macomb CC (8-6-1) winner at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 28, in the championship game.

If they should win, the Express will host the NJCAA Region XXIV champion for the District D title and right to advance onto the NJCAA Division I national tournament. The championship match would occur on Saturday, Nov. 3.

Johnson’s team finished tied for second place in the final Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (3-3 record) standings. Owens Express men’s soccer is ranked No. 19 in the final NJCAA Division I poll.

The NJCAA Division I National Championship will be held Thursday-Sunday, Nov. 15-18, in Tyler, Texas.

Five Owens Community College Student-Athletes Named NJCAA Academic All-Americans

Posted on October 18th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Five Owens Community College student-athletes have been selected to the 2006-07 Academic All-American Team by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) for their outstanding accomplishments in the classroom and on the athletic playing field.

Ryan Davis of Tucson, Ariz. (men’s soccer), Laura Gerkensmeyer of Genoa (women’s volleyball), Sarah Gerkensmeyer of Genoa (women’s volleyball), Justin McIntyre of Monroe, Mich. (men’s soccer) and Jeremy Sheeks of Bowling Green (men’s baseball) are among only 39 student-athletes since 1994 to receive the award at Owens.

Rickard added, “As good as the five of them are academically, they are even better people and citizens in their respective communities.”

Davis, a sophomore midfielder (associate of arts, general concentration) from Mountain View High School, was an OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection and achieved a 3.76 grade point average for the academic year. Last season, he recorded one goal and seven assists for the Express men’s soccer program, which finished with a 4-14-1 overall record and a 2-6 mark (fifth place) in the OCCAC.

A sophomore outside hitter from Genoa High School, Laura Gerkensmeyer (health information technology) earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors. She achieved a 3.87 grade point average during the academic year and was third on the 33-10 Express women’s volleyball team with 244 digs.

Sarah Gerkensmeyer (health information technology) is a sophomore outside hitter from Genoa High School. Her postseason accomplishments include OCCAC Academic All-Conference selection. Gerkensmeyer helped the program win its seventh consecutive OCCAC regular season championship by recording 197 blocks and 78 digs. She achieved a 4.0 grade point average during the academic year.

McIntyre, a sophomore midfielder from Monroe High School, is a two-time NJCAA Academic All-American Team selection. He was an integral part of the Express men’s soccer program this past year, recording two goals and two assists. McIntyre (associate of science, general concentration) earned OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors and achieved a 3.67 grade point average during the academic year.

A sophomore pitcher from Otsego High School, Sheeks (criminal justice technology) earned both OCCAC Athletic All-Conference and Academic All-Conference honors. He compiled a 5-1 record and registered 49 strikeouts for the 35-9 Express men’s baseball program. Sheeks achieved a 3.90 grade point average during the academic year.

No. 12 Ranked Owens Express Men’s Soccer to Host Cincinnati State in Crucial Conference Match, Oct. 6

Posted on October 4th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Continuing to build on a season of success, Owens Community College Express men’s soccer will host the Cincinnati State Community College Surge in a pivotal match to determine the frontrunner for the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) title on Saturday, Oct. 6.

The match begins at 2 p.m. at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to home games is free.

Express men’s soccer is off to its best start in program history, amassing an 11-1-1 overall record. Led by Head Coach Art Johnson, their conference record is 3-1 (second place). In this week’s NJCAA Division I poll, Owens Express men’s soccer is ranked No. 12 in the nation.

Cincinnati State’s overall record stands at 10-0-1. The Surge, currently ranked No. 11 nationally in the NJCAA Division I poll, is in first place in the OCCAC with a 3-0 record.

Owens started the season with a record-setting seven consecutive wins. The Express is currently on a four-game winning streak and has captured victories over Cuyahoga Community College 3-1, Lakeland Community College 3-0 and Mercyhurst College – North East 8-0. Men’s soccer is looking to securing their first conference title in program history.

Following the Cincinnati State match, the Express will have two home contests remaining on its regular season schedule. Owens will entertain Monroe Community College on Saturday, Oct. 20 at 4 p.m., while Delta College will be the home opponent on Sunday, Oct. 21 at 1 p.m.

Road matches include trips to Schoolcraft College (Oct. 10), Lakeland Community College (Oct. 17) and Macomb Community College (Oct. 24).

Owens Community College Presents Fifth Annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble, Oct. 7

Posted on September 18th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area residents are invited to enjoy a day of golf to benefit golf student-athletes and the intercollegiate program as Owens Community College presents its fifth annual Express Four-Person Golf Scramble. The event will occur on Sunday, Oct. 7.

Organized by Owens’ Student Enrichment and Athletics, the golf outing will be held at Heatherdowns Country Club in Toledo. The event will feature 18-holes of golf, lunch and an awards program.

The four-person golf scramble competition will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Registration will occur at 9:30 a.m. The day will conclude with participants recalling their golfing experience during a short awards program, which will recognize the top foursome in three divisions (open, mixed and senior), as well as the longest drive, closest to the pin, the most accurate drive and a putting contest.

Individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to support the Express Four-Person Golf Scramble by entering a team. The entry fee is only $55 for individuals who register in advance and $60 for those who register the day of the event.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the intercollegiate athletic golf program at Owens. Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured nine match and invitational titles this past season, highlighted by a first-place finish in the OCCAC Championship Invitational. The program won its first-ever conference title and second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 308-308 (616) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

The Express also set the record for the lowest round in OCCAC history, shooting a four-player score of 284 at the Pine Ridge Golf Course in Wickliffe. The previous record of 286 was held by Columbus State Community College. The Owens team finished third at the NJCAA Region XII Championships after rounds of 310-311-309 (930).

For more information, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Express Soccer Opens Season at College of DuPage, Aug. 25

Posted on August 23rd, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College men’s soccer will look to contend for its first-ever conference title by opening the 2007 schedule against the College of DuPage in South Bend, Ind., on Saturday, Aug. 25. The match will begin at 3 p.m.

The Express will open its home season against Schoolcraft College on Wednesday, Aug. 29. All home matches are played at the College’s Soccer Field on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

The Owens men’s soccer program is led by Head Coach Art Johnson of Toledo. Johnson’s Assistant Coaches are Jeremiah McNutt of Toledo and Brian Walsh of Perrysburg.

The 2006 edition of Express men’s soccer completed its ninth season as an Owens athletic program this past year. The Express finished with a 4-14-1 overall record and a 2-6 mark (fifth place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC).

Johnson added, “Our early season non-conference schedule is once again extremely difficult and will be a huge test. The success of our team will come down to continuous improvement on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball.”

The Express has seven players returning from last year’s team. Among the second-year players on Johnson’s squad is NJCAA Division I Second Team All-American Sean Bucknor of Springfield, Mass. (Cornwall College). In 2006, the sophomore forward broke several school records, including most goals and points for a season with 28 and 59, respectively. In addition to his All-American honors, Bucknor was named OCCAC Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year, and NJCAA All-Region XII First Team, among other accolades.

Also returning to the Express program are Nathan Stevely of Wapakoneta (Wapakoneta H.S.) and David Skoczyn of Celina (Celina H.S.). Stevely, a sophomore forward, was third on the team with 20 points. He totaled seven goals and six assists on 27 shots for the season. In 2006, Skoczyn, a sophomore goalie, was named the team’s Most Improved Player recipient and recorded 30 saves in nine games for the Express.

Other returning student-athletes include Housam Adoure-Zehaim of Maumee, midfielder (Springfield H.S.); Gilbert King of Norwalk, defender (Norwalk H.S.); Nathan Baer of Northwood, defender (Lake H.S.); and Zane Polack of Bowling Green, midfielder (Bowling Green H.S.).

First-year players to the Express men’s soccer program are Joshua McKinney of Sylvania, goalie (Southview H.S.); Tyler Lange of Norwalk, defender (Norwalk H.S.); Lovein Babona of Toledo, defender (Whitmer H.S.); Davon Jones of San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago, defender (Presentation College); Evan ChatÈ of Vendays, France, midfielder (LycÈe Odilon Redon H.S.); Jonathon Kijowski of Norwalk, defender (Norwalk H.S.); Erik Bauerle of Waterville, midfielder (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Joe Cook of Swanton, midfielder (Anthony Wayne H.S.); Lewis Kwai of Buea, Cameroon, defender (Buea H.S.); Henry Quoikapor of Vineland, N.J., midfielder (Vineland H.S. South); Chris Duval of Milan, Mich., defender (Milan H.S.); Stephen Byer of Palmiste, Trinidad & Tobago, forward (Presentation College); and Brock Kennedy of Davisburg, Mich., goalie (Holly H.S.).

Owens Community College Express Volleyball Opens Season at Kellogg Invitational, Aug. 24-25

Posted on August 22nd, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The seven-time OCCAC defending Owens Community College women’s volleyball program will open its 2007 season with a tournament, Friday-Saturday, Aug. 24-25 at Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek, Mich.

The Owens volleyball program is led by seventh-year Head Coach Sonny Lewis of Toledo. During his sixth season as the Head Volleyball Coach at Owens, Lewis led the Express to 33 wins. Lewis’ Assistant Coaches are Rachel Mohler of Maumee and Stephen Boston of Bowling Green.

The Express will open its home campaign by hosting the Owens Express Invitational, Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 1-2. All home matches are played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home matches is free.

Last season, the Express women’s volleyball program ended their season with a 33-10 overall record. The program captured its seventh consecutive OCCAC championship, finishing with an overall 9-1 conference record. Owens has won eight out of the last nine conference titles.

The Express’ season concluded with a loss to Schoolcraft College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“I am very excited about the 2007 season,” Lewis stated. “We are very young with 11 incoming freshmen. However, the first-year student-athletes are extremely talented and have achieved a considerable amount of success at the high school level. We have great veteran leadership and expectations remain extremely high with the goal of continuing the tradition of Express volleyball excellence both on and off the court.”

The Express have three players returning from last year’s championship team, including NJCAA Division II Honorable Mention All-American selection Stephanie Champine of Lambertville, Mich. (Bedford H.S.). In 2006, the sophomore outside hitter also was named OCCAC Player of the Year, OCCAC All-Conference First Team and NJCAA All-Region XII Team, and team MVP, among other accolades. She holds Owens’ volleyball records with 595 kills for a season, 35 kills for a match, 4.88 kills per game and a .360 hitting efficiency for a season.

Also returning to Lewis’ squad is Kim Zimmerman of Maumee (Maumee H.S.) and Lindsay Word of Edon (Edon H.S.). Zimmerman, a sophomore rightside hitter, played in 79 games and recorded 114 kills, 23 aces and 71 digs. In 2006, Word, a sophomore middle hitter and rightside hitter, recorded 133 kills, 24 assists, 12 aces and 51 digs in 80 games.

First-year players to the Express women’s volleyball program are Karie Marroquin of Fremont, setter (Fremont Ross H.S.); Kristen Gyori of Oregon, setter (Clay H.S.); Chelsey Malaczewski of Toledo, defensive specialist (Whitmer H.S.); Mallory Imbery of Curtice, rightside hitter (Genoa H.S.); Erin Wax of Green Springs, defensive specialist (Clyde H.S.); Kathryn Sabbagh of Fostoria, defensive specialist (Fostoria H.S.); Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich., outside hitter (Roosevelt H.S.); Katie Mullis of Clinton, Mich., middle blocker (Lenawee Christian H.S.); Amanda Mick of Defiance, middle blocker (Defiance H.S.); Stacia Fritz of Norwalk, defensive specialist (St. Paul H.S.); and Brittney Bradner of Toledo, middle blocker (Cardinal Stritch H.S.).

Owens Community College Named OCCAC All-Academic Conference Champion

Posted on August 21st, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Express athletics is being honored for academic excellence by receiving the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) All-Academic Award for the 2006-07 academic year. This marks the sixth time in the College’s history that Express athletics has earned the award.

“Owens Community College is very proud of our student-athletes, not only for their outstanding performance during intercollegiate competition but also for their strong work ethic within the classroom,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “The academic success of our student-athletes would not be possible without the guidance of Owens’ excellent faculty and outstanding coaching and support staffs.”

Selection criteria for the All-Academic Award is based upon the highest number of student-athletes within the OCCAC achieving a 3.30 grade point average or higher. Owens’ athletic programs earned the highest honor with 21 student-athletes attaining a 3.30 grade point average or better.

During the 2006-07 academic year Owens had scholar-athletes on six of its teams. Among the athletic teams with scholar-athlete recipients were women’s volleyball (four), men’s soccer (seven), women’s basketball (three), men’s basketball (one), women’s softball (three) and men’s baseball (three). Five student-athletes also were named NJCAA Academic All-Americans.

Owens Express Golf Holds Open Tryouts, Aug. 15

Posted on August 13th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate golf at Owens Community College are invited to an open tryout on Wednesday, Aug. 15.

The open tryout begins at 7 a.m. and will be held at Heatherdown Country Club in Toledo. The green fee for the open tryout is $10.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured nine match and invitational titles this past season, highlighted by a first-place finish in the OCCAC Championship Invitational. The program won its first-ever conference title and second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 308-308 (616) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Scholarships are available to both males and females. Prospective student-athletes must be full-time registered Owens students. For more information on the open tryout, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Holds Open Tryouts, Aug. 16 and 23

Posted on August 9th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s basketball at Owens Community College are invited to open tryouts in August.

The first open tryout will occur on Thursday, Aug 16. from 4-6 p.m., while the second open tryout will take place on Thursday, Aug. 23 from 6-8 p.m. Both tryouts will be held at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Scholarships are still available. Prospective student-athletes must be full-time registered Owens students. For more information on the open tryouts, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Names New Men’s Basketball Head Coach

Posted on August 8th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College has named Express Assistant Coach Kevin Skaggs to the position of Head Coach for the men’s basketball program. Coach Skaggs succeeds Jack Trainer, who recently accepted a teaching and basketball head coaching position at Portsmouth’s Clay High School near his hometown of Waverly.

“We are thrilled to announce Kevin Skaggs as the new Head Coach of the Owens men’s basketball program,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Director of Athletics. “Kevin is an exceptional leader who embraces the College’s mission and vision and will serve as an outstanding mentor and teacher for our student-athletes.”

Skaggs has served as an Express men’s basketball full-time Assistant Coach for two years and three years as a volunteer Assistant Coach. During that time, he helped lead the Express to an overall 129-36 record. His 17 years of college coaching experience also includes previously serving as Head Coach of the men’s basketball program at Alma College for six years and at Kalamazoo Valley Community College as a men’s basketball Assistant Coach for six years.

In addition to his basketball coaching experience, Skaggs served as the Assistant Coach for men’s and women’s cross country at Alma College from 1995-2000.

“I am very appreciative to have the opportunity to serve as Head Coach of the Express men’s basketball program and look forward to continuing Owens’ championship-level of success on the court and in the classroom,” Skaggs said.

Skaggs currently serves as Assistant Principal at Gesu School in Toledo. The Erie, Mich., resident earned an associate’s degree in physical education from Kellogg Community College, a bachelor’s degree in social work from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in sports administration from Western Michigan University.

Owens Community College Express Women’s Volleyball Announces Signing of 10 Student-Athletes

Posted on July 3rd, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Ten recent high school graduates have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate women’s volleyball for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2007-08 academic year.

Led by Head Coach Sonny Lewis, women’s volleyball will be beginning its fourteenth year as an Owens athletic program. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition, fees and books for its student-athletes.

The Express completed its 2006 season with a 33-10 overall record. The program captured its seventh consecutive OCCAC regular season championship, finishing with an overall 9-1 conference record. Owens has won eight out of the last nine conference titles. The Express lost to Schoolcraft College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

“The incoming freshmen class of student-athletes are extremely talented and have achieved a considerable amount of success at the high school level,” said Lewis. “I expect each individual to have an immediate impact on the program and continue the athletic and academic excellence of Express women’s volleyball. We are very happy to welcome them to Owens Community College.”

First-year student-athletes receiving women’s volleyball scholarships are Brittney Bradner of Toledo, a Cardinal Stritch H.S. graduate (middle blocker); Stacia Fritz of Norwalk, a Norwalk St. Paul H.S. graduate (defensive specialist); Kristen Gyori of Oregon, a Clay H.S. graduate (setter); Mallory Imbery of Curtice, a Genoa H.S. graduate (outside hitter); Karie Marroquin of Fremont, a Fremont Ross H.S. graduate (setter); Amanda Mick of Defiance, a Defiance H.S. graduate (middle blocker); Kathleen Mullis of Adrian, Mich., a Lenawee Christian School graduate (middle blocker); Chelsea Stover of Wyandotte, Mich., a Roosevelt H.S. graduate (outside hitter); Erin Wax of Green Springs, a Clyde H.S. graduate (defensive specialist); and Kathryn Sabbagh of Fostoria, a Fostoria H.S. graduate (outside hitter and defensive specialist).

Owens Express Student-Athletes Named OCCAC 2006-07 Academic All-Conference

Posted on June 27th, 2007

“Owens Community College is extremely proud of these student-athletes who have demonstrated both hard work and exceptional commitment to academic achievement,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Interim Director of Athletics. “Their success as scholars is a positive reflection on each athletic program and the dedication shown toward educational values.”

Selection criterion for the honored recipients is based upon achieving a minimum 3.30 grade point average.

Owens has been a member of the OCCAC since 1987. The eight other member schools comprising the OCCAC are Clark State Community College, Cincinnati State Community College, Columbus State Community College, Cuyahoga Community College, Edison State Community College, Lakeland Community College, Sinclair Community College and Lorain County Community College.

Student-athletes receiving OCCAC Academic All-Conference honors include:

Laura Gerkensmeyer of Genoa (health information technology), a Genoa H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.87 grade point average.
Sarah Gerkensmeyer of Genoa (health information technology), a Genoa H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Amanda Hensley of Fremont (fine art), a Fremont St. Joe H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.39 grade point average.
Andria Niese of Ottawa (pre-radiography), an Ottawa-Glandorf H.S. graduate (women’s volleyball) with a 3.31 grade point average.
Nathan Baer of Northwood (criminal justice technology), a Lake H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.40 grade point average.
Ryan Davis of Tucson, Ariz. (associate of arts, general concentration), a Mountain View H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.76 grade point average.
Matheus DeSouza of Livingston, Texas (business management), a Livingston H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 4.0 grade point average.
Adam Grzybowski of Lima (criminal justice technology), a Findlay H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.35 grade point average.
Jeff Kuehne of Maumee (pre-professional engineering), a Maumee H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.40 grade point average.
Justin McIntyre of Monroe, Mich. (associate of science, general concentration), a Monroe H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.67 grade point average.
Justin Williams of Lima (business management), a Lima Senior H.S. graduate (men’s soccer) with a 3.38 grade point average.
Joan Anderson of Maumee (associate of arts, general concentration), a St. Ursula Academy graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.54 grade point average.
Laura Gerhardt of South Milwaukee, Wis. (associate of arts, general concentration), a South Milwaukee H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.52 grade point average.
Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic (associate of science, general concentration), a Miller City H.S. graduate (women’s basketball) with a 3.69 grade point average.
David Davis of Detroit, Mich. (associate of arts, general concentration), a Melvindale H.S. graduate (men’s basketball) with a 3.73 grade point average.
Kevin Neilly of Toledo (criminal justice technology), a Start H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.42 grade point average.
Joshua Pheils of Rossford (pre-business administration), a Rossford H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.52 grade point average.
Jeremy Sheeks of Bowling Green (criminal justice technology), an Otsego H.S. graduate (men’s baseball) with a 3.90 grade point average.
Ashley Henney of Oregon (small business management), a Clay H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.40 grade point average.
Stephanie Matthews of Delta (pre-nursing), a Delta H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.59 grade point average.
Megan Stump of Bettsville (pre-dental hygiene), a Bettsville H.S. graduate (women’s softball) with a 3.52 grade point average.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Volleyball Team Tournament, July 21-22

Posted on June 22nd, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area high school varsity girls volleyball teams interested in competing against some of the best high schools from the Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio regions are invited to participate in a two-day Express Volleyball Team Tournament hosted by Owens Community College, Saturday-Sunday, July 21-22.

The volleyball team tournament competition will begin each day at 10 a.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Each high school varsity team will be guaranteed five matches per day and volleyball programs will have the opportunity to compete on either Saturday or Sunday, or both days. The camp fee is $100 per team for one day and $200 per team for two days. Tournament championship teams will receive T-shirts.

The number of participating teams is limited. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7939 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7939.

Owens Community College Express Baseball Holds Second Open Tryouts for Pitchers, July 7

Posted on June 22nd, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s baseball at Owens Community College are invited to a second open tryout on Saturday, July 7. The open tryout is only for pitchers.

The open tryout begins at 10 a.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2007 season with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title – third in the last four years – in the program’s history. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Kellogg Community College. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference is a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001.

Owens Community College Express Honors Golf, Baseball and Softball Programs

Posted on June 20th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored its spring athletic programs for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Student-athletes participating in golf, baseball and softball were recognized for their athletic achievements, highlighted by Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich. being named NJCAA Division II Honorable Mention All-American in men’s golf.

Bussdieker, a freshman from Monroe High School, is the first men’s golf student-athlete to earn All-American recognition. During the 2007 season, Bussdieker tied for 13th place at the NJCAA Division II National Championships after a total score of 289 plus one (72-72-72-73) during four rounds of competition. His 13th place finish is the best in the program’s brief two-year history. He advanced to the national championship tournament after shooting a total score of 225 (75-75-75) and finishing tied for first at the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Golf Championships.

In addition to his All-American honors, Bussdieker was named Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Player of the Year and Top Medalist with a 76.5 scoring average. He also was selected to the NJCAA All-Region XII First Team, among other accolades.

Led by Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured nine match and invitational titles this past season, highlighted by a first-place finish in the OCCAC Championship Invitational. The program won its first-ever conference title and second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional Championship after rounds of 308-308 (616) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Earlier this year, the Express set the record for the lowest round in OCCAC history, shooting a four-player score of 284 at the Pine Ridge Golf Course in Wickliffe. The previous record of 286 was held by Columbus State Community College. The Owens team also finished third at the NJCAA Region XII Championships after rounds of 310-311-309 (930).

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2007 season with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth OCCAC (16-4 record) title – third in the last four years – in the program’s history. Led by Head Coach Bob Schultz, Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Kellogg Community College. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference is a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001.

Express women’s softball completed the 2007 season with a 16-31 overall record and a 5-7 mark (third place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Led by Head Coach Duane Lanham, the Express captured back-to-back OCCAC regular season championships in 2005 and 2006.

Golf awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Joey Bussdieker
Most Improved Player – Brian Bowker of Van Buren (Van Buren H.S.)
Coaches Award – Josh Williams of Fostoria (Arcadia H.S.) and Robert Jackson of Maumee (Toledo Christian H.S.)
OCCAC Player of the Year – Joey Bussdieker
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Gilbert Guerrero
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Joey Bussdieker, Robert Jackson, Jason Smith of Toledo (Anthony Wayne H.S.) and Ryan Brown of Temperance, Mich. (Bedford H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Joey Bussdieker
NJCAA Division II National Championship All-Tournament Team – Joey Bussdieker
NJCAA Division II All-American Honorable Mention – Joey Bussdieker

Express golf team members also included Vanessa Herbert of Oregon (Clay H.S.) and Chris Hummer of Toledo (Start H.S.).

Men’s baseball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Steve Weigle of Naples, Fla. (Naples H.S.)
Coaches Award – Joshua Pheils of Rossford (Rossford H.S.)
Offensive Player Award – Aaron Stewart of Toledo (Start H.S.)
Defensive Player Award – Jason Cress of Bowling Green (Bowling Green H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Steve Weigle, Aaron Stewart, Albert Ayala of Hialeah, Fla. (Barbara Goleman Senior H.S), Jeremy Sheeks of Bowling Green (Otsego H.S.) and Michael Nyitrai of Toledo (Start H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Aaron Stewart and Steve Weigle
NJCAA Region XII All-Tournament Team – Albert Ayala, Steve Weigle and Austin Ritson of Toledo (Whitmer H.S.)

Owens Express men’s baseball team members also were Brandon Best of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.), Scott Conley of Millbury (Lake H.S.), Dominick Coduti of Northwood (Northwood H.S.), Brent Graham of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Adam McNalley of Clay Center (Genoa H.S.), Manoli Pahoulis of Warren (Howland H.S.), Kevin Neilly of Toledo (Start H.S.), Bryan Conley of Millbury (Lake H.S.), Gabriel Espineira of Miami, Fla. (Hialeah H.S.), Andrew Jay Meyer of Hamler (Patrick Henry H.S.), Alex Majewski of Toledo (St. Francis de Sales H.S.), John Paul Akers of Naples, Fla. (Naples H.S.), Tony Pozega of Warren (Howland H.S.) and Martin Suarez of Miami, Fla. (Barbara Goleman Senior H.S.).

Women’s softball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Jessica Snyder of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Stephanie Matthews of Delta (Delta H.S.)
Offensive Player of the Year – Ashley Henney of Oregon (Clay H.S.)
Defensive Player of the Year – Lisa Pfaender of Rossford (Rossford H.S.)
Coaches Award – Brittany Staccone of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.)
Heart of a Champion Award – Amanda Coressel of Malinta (Patrick Henry H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Corrine D’Emilio of Oregon (Cardinal Stritch H.S.), Ashley Henney, Brittany Staccone, Jessica Snyder and Lisa Pfaender
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Jessica Snyder

Members of the Express women’s softball program also were Janie Reichert of Perrysburg (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.), Tristan Donaghy of Findlay (Vanlue H.S.), Amanda Cogley of Lima (Lima Bath H.S.), Allison Barry of Toledo (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.), Megan Stump of Bettsville (Bettsville H.S.), Jill Schumm of Tiffin (Hopewell-Loudon H.S.), Lauren Proy of Sandusky (Sandusky H.S.), Lindsey McDonald of Toledo (Rogers H.S.) and Tiffany Harding of Toledo (Bowsher H.S.).

Owens Community College Hosts Detroit Pistons Youth Training Camp, July 23-26

Posted on June 19th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as part of the Detroit Pistons 2007 Youth Basketball Training Camp, Monday-Thursday, July 23-26.

The registration fee for the camp is $175 per participant and space is limited.

During the past 10 years more than 20,000 boys and girls have attended the Detroit Pistons Training Camp Tour occurring throughout Ohio and Michigan. For more information, call (567) 661-7973, 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973 or (248) 377-8653.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Volleyball Camp, July 16-19

Posted on June 13th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area volleyball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s volleyball program hosts a four-day Express Volleyball Camp, Monday-Thursday, July 16-19.

The volleyball camp will offer two separate sessions daily from 9-11:30 a.m. for grades 4-7 and from 1-4:30 p.m. for grades 8-12 in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express women’s volleyball coaching staff, area coaches and current and former collegiate players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on volleyball skills in their designated area, including outsider hitter, middle blocker, setter and defensive specialist. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for volleyball and gain tips on improving their passing efficiency.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $80 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7939 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7939.

Owens Community College to Host Mitchell-Jackson Youth Basketball Camp, July 9-12

Posted on June 13th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Area youth will have the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of basketball and life lessons as basketball stars Todd Mitchell and Jim Jackson host their annual basketball camp at Owens Community College, Monday-Thursday, July 9-12. This marks the first year that the annual basketball camp is being held at Owens Community College.

“Owens Community College appreciates the opportunity to play an active role in supporting a longstanding community outreach program dedicated to enriching the lives of area youth through education and the sport of basketball,” said Edward Willis, Owens Special Assistant for Community Outreach and Engagement. “Todd Mitchell and Jim Jackson are both leaders on and off the basketball court and Owens is proud to collaborate on such a worthwhile initiative effecting area youth throughout Northwest Ohio.”

Sponsored by Owens Community College, ProMedica Health System Sports Care and Marco’s Pizza, the camp registration fee is $75 per participant and space is limited. Lunch is provided each day and each attendee will receive a basketball camp jersey. For more information, call (419) 720-5252.

Owens Community College Express Baseball Holds Open Tryouts for Pitchers, June 14

Posted on June 5th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate men’s baseball at Owens Community College are invited to an open tryout on Thursday, June 14. The open tryout is only for pitchers.

The open tryout begins at 4 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens men’s baseball program finished the 2007 season with a 35-9 overall record and captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title – third in the last four years – in the program’s history. Coached by Bob Schultz, Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Kellogg Community College. Additionally, the 16 victories in conference is a school record for most wins in a season, surpassing the previous mark of 15 in 2001.

Owens Community College Express Named All-Sports Conference Champion

Posted on June 4th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College Express athletics has captured the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) All-Sports Award. The honor marks the sixth conference title in the last decade for the College.

Owens has garnered nine all-sports championships in the College’s history. Academic years in which the Express has been named all-sports conference champions are 1994-95, 1995-96, 1998-99, 1999-2000, 2000-01, 2001-02, 2002-03, 2004-05 and 2006-07.

“Owens Community College is very proud of our student-athletes for their hard work both in the classroom and during intercollegiate competition,” said Michael Rickard, Owens Interim Director of Athletics. “Owens has enjoyed a long-standing tradition of producing championship caliber teams. The success that our athletic program has achieved would not have been possible without exceptional student-athletes and coaching staffs.”

During this past year Express teams were conference champions in men’s baseball, women’s volleyball, men’s golf and women’s basketball. Both the men’s basketball and women’s softball teams finished in third place, while men’s soccer was fifth place in the conference standings.

Lakeland Community College finished runner-up to Owens.

Owens Express Softball Holds Open Tryouts, June 12

Posted on May 31st, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate women’s softball at Owens Community College are invited to an open tryout on Tuesday, June 12.

The open tryout begins at 5 p.m. and will be held at the College’s Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township.

The Owens women’s softball program finished the 2007 season with a 16-31 overall record and a 5-7 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season standings. Led by head coach Duane Lanham, the Express captured back-to-back OCCAC regular season championships in 2005 and 2006.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Girls Basketball Camp, June 18-21

Posted on May 29th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players ages 8 through 16 the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the women’s basketball program hosts an Express Girls Basketball Camp, June 18-21.

The Express women’s basketball program is led by head coach Mike Llanas and completed the 2006-07 season with a 21-11 overall record and captured its first OCCAC (12-2 record) title, sixth overall, since the 1998-99 basketball season. Llanas’ squad, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $70 per player, which includes a camp basketball and T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Boys Basketball Camp, June 11-14

Posted on May 24th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College will offer area basketball players ages 8 through 16 the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as the men’s basketball program hosts an Express Boys Basketball Camp, June 11-14.

Camp instructors will include the Owens Express men’s basketball coaching staff and current players. Each camp participant will receive individual instruction on basketball skills in their designated positions. In addition, attendees will learn about drills and exercises for basketball and gain tips on improving their offensive and defensive skills.

The Express men’s basketball team finished the 2006-07 campaign with a 22-12 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season standings. Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Cincinnati State Community College. The team was ranked as high as No. 4 in the NJCAA Division II men’s basketball poll.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge.

The camp fee is $70 per player, which includes a camp basketball and T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Golf Holds Open Tryouts, June 13-14

Posted on May 22nd, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Prospective high school graduates and area residents interested in playing intercollegiate golf at Owens Community College are invited to a two-day open tryout Wednesday-Thursday, June 13-14.

The open tryout begins at 7 a.m. each day and will be held at Heatherdown Country Club in Toledo. The green fee for both days is $20. Participants in the top 10 will advance to second round competition yet to be determined.

Scholarships are available to both males and females. Owens Express players must be high school graduates. For more information on the open tryout, call (567) 661-7973 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7973.

Owens Express Golf Student-Athlete Competes in NJCAA National Championship Tournament, May 22-25

Posted on May 21st, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College student-athlete Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich., will have the opportunity to compete against some of the country’s best intercollegiate golfers for a national championship title as the Express freshman participates in the NJCAA Division II National Championships, May 22-25.

The 2005 Monroe High School graduate advanced to the national championship tournament after shooting a total score of 225 (75-75-75) and finishing tied for first at the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Golf Championships. The Owens six-member team finished third at the regional championships, which was held at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek, Mich., after rounds of 310-311-309 (930).

Bussdieker (Associate of Arts, General Concentration) will take a 75.7 season scoring average into the NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament, which will be held at Goose Pond Colony Golf Course in Scottsboro, Ala. The four-day 72-hole NJCAA tournament will consist of four rounds beginning at 7 a.m. each day. Tee times for the no-cut event will be set prior to the tournament in accordance with NJCAA rules. One hundred sixty individuals will compete for the individual national title.

“I am extremely proud of Joey Bussdieker and his efforts on the golf course,” said Gilbert Guerrero, Owens Head Coach of the golf program. “Joey has worked very hard and has served as a team leader from day one of the season. He has earned the right to compete for a national championship title and will represent Owens Community College and the golf program well at the NJCAA tournament.”

Bussdieker’s postseason honors include selection as the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Player of the Year and Top Medalist with a 76.5 scoring average. He also was named to the NJCAA All-Region XII Team.

The Express golf team captured nine match and invitational titles this past season, highlighted by a first-place finish in the OCCAC Championship Invitational. The program won its first-ever conference title and second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 308-308 (616) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg.

Earlier this year, the Express set the record for the lowest round in OCCAC history, shooting a four-player score of 284 at the Pine Ridge Golf Course in Wickliffe. The previous record of 286 was held by Columbus State Community College. Owens made its first trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships in 2006, finishing 14th in the tournament.

Owens Honors Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs

Posted on May 16th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – Owens Community College recently honored the Express basketball programs at its annual awards banquet for displaying excellence during intercollegiate competition. Twenty-eight student-athletes participating in men’s and women’s basketball were recognized for their athletic achievements.

Led by head coach Jack Trainer, the Express men’s basketball team finished the 2006-07 campaign with a 22-12 overall record and an 8-6 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season standings. Owens advanced to the finals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Cincinnati State Community College. Trainer’s team was ranked as high as No. 4 in the NJCAA Division II men’s basketball poll.

Men’s Basketball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Julian Logan of Kalamazoo, Mich. (Loy Norrix H.S.)
Most Improved Player – DeAndre Hall of Pontiac, Mich. (Pontiac Northern H.S.)
Coaches Award – Brandon Dawson of Inkster, Mich. (Inkster H.S.) and David Davis of Detroit (Melvindale H.S.)
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Julian Logan
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – DeAndre Hall
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Julian Logan
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – DeAndre Hall

Members of the Owens Express men’s basketball team also were Chris Trobaugh of Elkhart, Ind. (Jimtown H.S.), Noah Williams of Cleveland (Shaker Heights H.S.), Kyle Lightner of Toledo (Scott H.S.), Sedelle Broyles of Canton (Canton McKinley H.S.), C.J. Simmons of Inkster, Mich. (Ypsilanti H.S.), T.R. Ellis of Inkster, Mich. (Melvindale H.S.), Gabe Gibbs of Eastpointe, Mich. (Detroit Community H.S.), Wes Taylor of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Blayne Welling of Hicksville (Hicksville H.S.) and Michael Gibson of Inkster, Mich. (Belleville H.S.).

The Express women’s basketball program is led by head coach Mike Llanas and completed their season with a 21-11 overall record and captured its first OCCAC (12-2 record) title, sixth overall, since the 1998-99 basketball season. Llanas’ squad, which was ranked No. 28 in the final NJCAA Division II poll, lost to Lakeland Community College in the semifinals of the NJCAA Region XII Championships.

Women’s Basketball awards presented were:

Most Valuable Player – Tia Simms of Fremont (Fremont Ross H.S.)
Most Improved Player – Joan Anderson of Maumee (St. Ursula Academy)
Defensive Player of the Year – Tashe Jacobs of Findlay (Findlay H.S.) and Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic (Miller City H.S.)
Coaches Award – Candace Black of Detroit, Mich. (Communication and Media Arts H.S.) and Nikki Coates of Bolingbrook, Ill. (Bolingbrook H.S.)
Mark Henry Award – Amanda Cogley of Lima (Lima Bath H.S.)
OCCAC Coach of the Year – Mike Llanas
OCCAC All-Conference First Team – Tia Simms
OCCAC All-Conference Second Team – Nikki Van Dine of Columbus (Westland H.S.)
NJCAA All-Region XII Team – Tia Simms
NJCAA All-Region XII Tournament Team – Tia Simms

Express women’s basketball team members also included Amanda Coressel of Malinta (Patrick Henry H.S.), Melissa Moore of Urbancrest (Central Crossing H.S.), Laura Gerhardt of South Milwaukee, Wis. (South Milwaukee H.S.), Kendra Johnson of Kalamazoo, Mich. (Loy Norrix H.S.), Stacie Coressel of Hamler (Patrick Henry H.S.) and Kristine Roberts of Findlay (Findlay H.S.).

Owens Express Men’s Baseball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, May 11-13

Posted on May 9th, 2007

PERRYSBURG TOWNSHIP, OH – The Owens Community College men’s baseball team will look to advance to its third World Series national tournament as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII Men’s Baseball Championships this weekend. The tournament will be held at Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek, Mich., Friday-Sunday, May 11-13.

Coached by Bob Schultz, the Express will take a 32-7 overall record into the double elimination tournament where they will play Jackson Community College at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 11. If they would advance, the Express will play the Grand Rapids CC/Kalamazoo Valley CC winner at 6 p.m. on Friday. The championship game will occur at 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 13.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Grand Rapids Community College, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Jackson Community College, Sinclair Community College, Macomb Community College, Kellogg Community College and Mott Community College.

Schultz’s team captured its sixth Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (16-4 record) title – third in the last four years – in the program’s history. Owens Express men’s baseball is ranked No. 18 in the final NJCAA Division II poll.

The NJCAA Division II World Series National Championships will be held Saturday-Friday, May 26 – June 1 in Millington, Tenn.

Owens Community College Express Golf Competes in NJCAA Regional Championships, May 7-8

Posted on May 3rd, 2007

Coached by Gilbert Guerrero, the Express golf team captured nine match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by a first-place finish in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) Championship Invitational. The program captured its first-ever conference title and second NJCAA Region XII Sub-Regional championship after rounds of 308-308 (616) at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Owens is ranked No. 35 in the most recent NJCAA Division II poll.

Now in its second year as an intercollegiate athletic program, Owens will compete against eight intercollegiate golf programs and 64 individuals in the two-day 54-hole NJCAA Region XII tournament. The program must finish as one of the top two teams to advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, May 22-25. The top 16 student-athletes will also advance to the national tournament. Owens made its first trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships last year, finishing 14th in the tournament.

Owens Express golf student-athletes include Ryan Brown of Temperance, Mich., 76.8 scoring average (Bedford H.S.); Brian Bowker of Van Buren, 80.5 scoring average (Van Buren H.S.); Josh Williams of Fostoria, 80.5 scoring average (Arcadia H.S.); Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich., 76.5 scoring average (Monroe H.S.); Vanessa Herbert of Oregon, 101.1 scoring average (Clay H.S.); Chris Hummer of Toledo, 80.6 scoring average (Start H.S.); Robert Jackson of Maumee, 77.5 scoring average (Toledo Christian H.S.), and Jason Smith of Toledo, 78.5 scoring average (Anthony Wayne H.S.).

Owens Express Golf Opens Home Season Against Oakland and St. Clair County Community Colleges, April 1

Posted on March 30th, 2007

Owens Community College golf will make its 2007 home debut by hosting St. Clair County Community College and Oakland Community College in a tri match on Sunday, April 1.

The match will begin at 10 a.m. and be held at Heatherdown Country Club in Toledo. All other home intercollegiate golf events will occur at Belmont Country Club in Perrysburg. Admission to all Express golf events is free and open to the public.

In 2006, Express golf completed its first season as an Owens intercollegiate athletic program. The golf program made its first trip to the NJCAA Division II National Championships, finishing 14th in the tournament. Owens captured six match and invitational titles during the season, highlighted by a first place finish in the NJCAA Sub-Regional. The program earned its trip to the nationals by defeating Oakland Community College 16-17 in a sudden-victory playoff in the NJCAA Region XII Championships. Owens is led by first-year Head Coach Gilbert Guerrero.

Early in 2007, the Owens Express golf program finished 17th at the 22-team Goose Pond Colonial Invitational in Scottsboro, Ala., and third out of eight teams at the Shawnee State Invitational in Portsmouth, Ohio. In addition, the College will, for the first time, have the opportunity to compete in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC). Last year, the program received provisional membership.

“We have an extremely talented group of student-athletes who have achieved a considerable amount of success in golf,” stated Guerrero. “The opportunity to compete in last year’s NJCAA national championship tournament was a great learning experience for our team. I expect our veterans to build upon that experience and provide the necessary leadership to elevate this program to a new level of excellence, resulting in a return trip to nationals.”

Guerrero added, “This is the first year that our program can compete for an OCCAC title and I expect our team to be in the middle of the championship race.”

The Express have three players returning from last year’s team, including Ryan Brown of Temperance, Mich. (Bedford H.S.). In 2006, Brown was an NJCAA All-Region XII Team selection and the recipient of the program’s Most Improved Player award. The sophomore also compiled a 79.72 scoring average and finished 71st at the NJCAA Division II National Championships after rounds of 77-78-74-76 (305).

Guerrero’s squad also returns Brian Bowker of Van Buren (Van Buren H.S.) and Josh Williams of Fostoria (Arcadia H.S.). In 2006, Bowker, a sophomore, compiled a 79.74 scoring average and shot a national championship tournament total of 300 (73-76-75-76) and tied for 52nd, while Williams, a sophomore, completed his season with a 81.64 scoring average and shot rounds of 84-79-80-82 and tied for 114th place at the NJCAA nationals.

First-year players to the Express golf program are Joey Bussdieker of Monroe, Mich. (Monroe H.S.), Vanessa Herbert of Oregon (Clay H.S.), Chris Hummer of Toledo (Start H.S.), Robert Jackson of Maumee (Toledo Christian H.S.) and Jason Smith of Toledo (Anthony Wayne H.S.).

The College’s golf program is a Division II member of the NJCAA and participates in the OCCAC. Owens primarily competes against other community colleges from Ohio and Michigan. Academic institutions from the OCCAC competing in intercollegiate golf include Lakeland Community College, Columbus State Community College, Sinclair Community College, Lorain County Community College and Cincinnati State Community College.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Express Softball Opens Home Season Against Lorain County Community College, March 31

Posted on March 20th, 2007

Owens Community College women’s softball will open its 2007 home season against Lorain County Community College on Saturday, March 31. The game will begin at 1 p.m.

All home games will be played at the College’s Softball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

The Owens softball program is guided by fourth-year Head Coach Duane Lanham. His Assistant Coaches are Michael Murphy and Stephanie Taylor.

The Express women’s softball program this past year finished with a 39-11 overall record and captured its second consecutive Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season championship with a 16-0 mark. Owens advanced to the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Lansing Community College. The women’s softball team was ranked as high as No. 13 in the NJCAA Division II women’s softball poll.

Owens currently has a compiled a 0-11 overall record this season following games in Florida.

“We have very young and inexperienced team entering the 2007 season,” said Lanham. “However, our potential is enormous. Our first-year players are extremely talented and we are expecting a lot out of them.”

Lanham added, “I really believe that our team will continue to improve as the season progresses. The goal certainly has not changed from previous seasons. We want to win another OCCAC championship. We have great veteran leadership from our returning players who know how to win. I think we should be right in the mix if we continue to mature and grow as a team.”

The two Express players returning from last year’s conference championship team include OCCAC All-Conference selection Jessica Snyder of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.). In 2006, the sophomore third baseman was second on the team with 66 hits, 49 runs and a .431 batting average. Snyder also collected 39 RBIs.

Lanham’s squad also returns Ashley Henney of Oregon (Clay H.S.). Henney, a sophomore second baseman, collected 36 hits, had 28 RBIs and compiled a .353 batting average. Her postseason honors included being named OCCAC Academic All-Conference.

First-year players to the Express women’s softball program are Corrine D’Emilio of Oregon, outfield (Cardinal Stritch H.S.); Janie Reichert of Perrysburg, outfield (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.); Lisa Pfaender of Rossford, outfield (Rossford H.S.); Stephanie Matthews of Delta, catcher (Delta H.S.); Tristan Donaghy of Findlay, outfield (Vanlue H.S.); Amanda Cogley of Lima, first base (Lima Bath H.S.); Allison Barry of Toledo, pitcher (Toledo Central Catholic H.S.), and Brittany Staccone of Toledo, outfield (Bowsher H.S.).

Express first-year players also include Megan Stump of Bettsville, catcher (Bettsville H.S.); Amanda Coressel of Malinta, shortstop (Patrick Henry H.S.); Jill Schumm of Tiffin, catcher (Hopewell-Loudon H.S.); Lauren Proy of Sandusky, pitcher (Sandusky H.S.); Janea Castiglione of Monroe, Mich., pitcher (Monroe Jefferson H.S.); Lindsey McDonald of Toledo, first base (Rogers H.S.), and Tiffany Harding of Toledo, third base (Bowsher H.S.).

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Express Baseball Opens Home Schedule Against Lorain County Community College, March 24

Posted on March 19th, 2007

The Owens Community College men’s baseball program will open the 2007 home portion of its schedule against Lorain County Community College on Saturday, March 24. The game will begin at 1 p.m.

All home games are played at the College’s Baseball Complex on the Toledo-area Campus. Owens is located on Oregon Road in Perrysburg Township. Admission to all home games is free.

Bob Schultz begins his fifth year as Head Coach of the Owens men’s baseball program. In the past four years, he has guided the Express to many notable achievements, including two conference championships in 2004 and 2005. Prior to his position as Head Coach, Schultz served as an Express Assistant Coach for five years. His Assistant Coaches are Gabe Medina and Jason Halka.

The men’s baseball program finished the 2005-06 campaign with a 32-21 overall record and an 11-9 mark (third place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season standings.

The Express completed the recent fall season with an 8-3 overall record and are tied with Lakeland Community College for first place in the OCCAC with a 7-3 record. Early in 2007, Owens has a compiled a 6-2 overall record following games played in South Carolina.

He added, “Overall, our club is relatively young with only five returning players. However, we are going to lean heavily on their veteran leadership and experience. From top to bottom, the OCCAC should be extremely competitive this year, and I expect the men’s baseball program to once again play a significant part in who wins the championship.”

The Express have five players returning from last year’s team, including Joshua Pheils of Rossford (Rossford H.S.) and Brandon Best of Sylvania (Sylvania Southview H.S.). In 2005-06, Pheils, a sophomore pitcher, compiled a 6-3 record and registered 31 strikeouts, while Best, a sophomore pitcher and outfielder, collected 40 hits and 26 runs and had 18 RBIs. Best also pitched in four games and posted a 1-0 record and a 3.52 earned run average.

Schultz’s squad also returns Jeremy Sheeks of Bowling Green (Otsego H.S.), Steve Weigle of Naples, Fla. (Naples H.S.) and Scott Conley of Millbury (Lake H.S.). Sheeks, a sophomore pitcher, compiled a 1-1 record and recorded one save in eight games. His postseason honors included being named to the OCCAC All-Academic team. Weigle is a sophomore outfielder. In 2005-06, he recorded 13 stolen bases and 26 runs. Weigle also compiled a .337 batting average. Conley is a sophomore pitcher and compiled a 2-3 record and registered two saves in 10 games.

First-year players to the Express men’s baseball program are Dominick Coduti of Northwood, infield (Northwood H.S.); Albert Ayala of Hialeah, Fla., pitcher (Barbara Goleman Senior H.S.); Brent Graham of Oregon, pitcher (Clay H.S.); Adam McNalley of Clay Center, third base (Genoa H.S.); Jason Cress of Bowling Green, shortstop (Bowling Green H.S.); Manoli Pahoulis of Warren, outfield (Howland H.S.); Kevin Neilly of Toledo, outfield (Start H.S.); Bryan Conley of Millbury, pitcher (Lake H.S.); Austin Ritson of Toledo, infield (Whitmer H.S.); Michael Nyitrai of Toledo, catcher (Start H.S.); Aaron Stewart of Toledo, first base and pitcher (Start H.S.); Gabriel Espineira of Miami, Fla., pitcher (Hialeah H.S.); Andrew Jay Meyer of Hamler, pitcher (Patrick Henry H.S.); Alex Majewski of Toledo, pitcher (St. Francis de Sales H.S.); John Paul Akers of Naples, Fla., pitcher (Naples H.S.); Tony Pozega of Warren, outfield (Howland H.S.), and Martin Suarez of Miami, Fla., pitcher (Barbara Goleman Senior H.S.).

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Community College Express Men’s Soccer Announces Signing of Five Student-Athletes

Posted on March 12th, 2007

Four high school seniors and one high school graduate have signed national letters of intent to play NJCAA intercollegiate men’s soccer for the Owens Community College Express during the upcoming 2007-08 academic year.

Led by Head Coach Art Johnson, men’s soccer will be beginning its tenth year as an Owens athletic program. Participating in intercollegiate athletics at the Division II level allows the College to offer scholarships to pay for tuition, fees and books for its student-athletes.

The men’s soccer program finished the 2006 campaign with a 6-12-1 overall record and a 2-6 mark (fifth place) in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) regular season standings.

“Erik, Evan, Brock, Jonathon and Tyler are extremely talented student-athletes and have achieved a considerable amount of success at the high school level,” said Johnson. “I expect each individual to have an immediate impact on the program. This recruiting class is a cornerstone for the future of Express men’s soccer and we are happy to welcome them to Owens Community College.”

First-year student-athletes receiving men’s soccer scholarships are Erik Bauerle of Waterville, an Anthony Wayne H.S. senior (midfielder); Evan Chate of Vendays, France, a Lycee Odilon Redon H.S. graduate (midfielder); Brock Kennedy of Davisburg, Mich., a Holly H.S. senior (goalkeeper); Jonathon Kijowski of Norwalk, a Norwalk H.S. senior (midfielder), and Tyler Lange of Norwalk, a Norwalk H.S. senior (forward).

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Express Men’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 9-11

Posted on March 5th, 2007

The Owens Community College men’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a third national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District 7) Men’s Basketball Championships this weekend. The tournament will be held at Cincinnati State Community College in Cincinnati, Friday-Sunday, March 9-11.

Coached by Jack Trainer, the Express will take a 20-11 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will battle Clark State Community College (11-17, 5-9) at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 9. If they would advance, the Express will play at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 10 in the semifinals. The championship game will occur at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 11.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Lakeland Community College (23-7, 11-3), Cuyahoga Community College (12-15, 2-12), Edison State Community College (19-8, 7-7), Columbus State Community College (13-15, 6-8) and Cincinnati State Community College (24-4, 13-1).

Trainer’s team enters the tournament having won five out of its last six games. Additionally, the Express finished third in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (8-6 record).

The NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championships will be held Wednesday-Saturday, March 21-24 in Danville, Ill.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Student-Athlete Named NJCAA National Player of the Week

Posted on March 1st, 2007

Melanie Schroeder

Owens Community College women’s basketball student-athlete Melanie Schroeder of Leipsic has been selected as the NJCAA Division II National Player of the Week for her efforts in helping the Express secure two victories and win the program’s first Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) title since the 1998-99 basketball season.

Schroeder, a Miller City High School graduate, averaged 17.5 points and 10 rebounds in victories over Cuyahoga Community College 72-59 and Cincinnati State Community College 64-55, respectively. The honor by the freshman guard is the first in the history of the women’s basketball program. Schroeder’s season averages are 9.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game.

Additionally, Schroeder, an associate of science (general concentration) major, was named OCCAC Player of the Week.

Owens begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District H) Women’s Basketball Championships this weekend. The tournament will be held at Oakland Community College in Waterford, Mich., Thursday-Saturday, March 1-3.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express will take a 20-10 (12-2 OCCAC) record into the single elimination tournament where they will await the winner of the St. Clair County Community College/Kirtland Community College game. Owens will play at 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 1 in quarterfinal action.

Llanas’ team is currently on an 11-game winning streak and is ranked No. 29 in the most recent NJCAA Division II poll.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Express Women’s Basketball Competes in NJCAA Region XII Tournament, March 1-3

Posted on February 27th, 2007

The Owens Community College women’s basketball team begins its postseason run toward a national title as the Express compete in the NJCAA Region XII (District H) Women’s Basketball Championships this weekend. The tournament will be held at Oakland Community College in Waterford, Mich., Thursday-Saturday, March 1-3.

Coached by Michael Llanas, the Express will take a 20-10 overall record into the single elimination tournament where they will await the winner of the St. Clair County Community College/Kirtland Community College game. Owens will play at 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 1 in quarterfinal action. If they would advance, the Express will play at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, March 2 in the semifinals. The championship game will occur at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 3.

Other teams participating in the tournament include Delta College, Oakland Community College, Mott Community College, Schoolcraft College, Wayne County Community College, Kirtland Community College, Lakeland Community College, Columbus State Community College and St. Clair County Community College.

Llanas’ team is currently on an 11-game winning streak and captured its first Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (12-2 record) title, sixth overall, since the 1998-99 basketball season. Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 28 in the most recent NJCAA Division II poll.

The NJCAA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championships will be held Wednesday-Saturday, March 14-17 in Phoenix.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Community College Hosts Express Baseball Pitching School, March 3

Posted on February 19th, 2007

Owens Community College will offer area baseball players the opportunity to learn about the fundamentals of the sport as men’s baseball hosts an Express Baseball Pitching School on Saturday, March 3

The baseball pitching school will occur from 2:30-6:30 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus.

Camp instructors will include Owens Express Head Coach Bob Schultz and Assistant Coaches Jason Halka and Gabe Medina. Youth ages 8-18 will be divided by age groups and receive individual instruction on baseball skills, which will include an evaluation of each player’s pitching mechanics and defensive techniques. In addition, attendees will learn about custom exercises for baseball and gain tips on improving their pitching.

The men’s baseball program finished the 2006 campaign with a 32-21 overall record and an 11-9 mark (third place) in the OCCAC regular season standings. Owens advanced to the NJCAA Region XII Championships before losing to Macomb Community College. The program captured back-to-back OCCAC regular season titles in 2004 and 2005.

Parents and coaches are invited to attend the camp to listen and observe at no additional charge. Participants are encouraged to wear baseball pants or sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes. Individuals should also bring a hand towel for use in a towel pitching drill.

The camp fee is $45 per player, which includes a camp T-shirt. For more information, or to register, call (567) 661-7936 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7936.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Express Basketball Teams Conclude Regular Home Season Against Clark State, Feb. 17

Posted on February 15th, 2007

Owens Community College men’s and women’s basketball programs will conclude the regular season home portion of their schedules with games against Clark State Community College on Saturday, Feb. 17. The women’s team will play Clark State (4-18, 1-10) at 1 p.m., while the Express men will battle Clark State (10-15, 4-7) beginning at 3 p.m.

Both games will be played at the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus. Admission to home games is free.

The Express women’s basketball program has amassed a 17-10 overall record and currently is in first place in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) standings. Led by Head Coach Michael Llanas, their conference record is 9-2. In this week’s NJCAA Division II poll, Owens Express women’s basketball is ranked No. 29 in the nation.

Owens is currently on an eight-game winning streak and has captured victories over highly-competitive Sinclair Community College 72-51 and Columbus State Community College 67-35. The Express are looking to secure their first conference title, sixth overall, since the 1998-99 season.

The 2006-07 edition of the men’s basketball program has experienced similar success as the women’s team. Owens has an overall record of 18-10 and a 6-5 mark (fourth place) in the OCCAC.

Guided by Head Coach Jack Trainer, the Express recently has compiled wins over Sinclair Community College 78-75 and Columbus State Community College 67-60.

In the coming week, the Express will travel to Cleveland to take on Cuyahoga Community College in make-up contests on Wednesday, Feb. 21. The women’s team will play at 5:30 p.m., while the Express men will take on Cuyahoga beginning at 7 p.m. Owens will end the regular season in Cincinnati against Cincinnati State Community College on Saturday, Feb. 24. The Express women and men will square off against Cincinnati State at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Owens Hosts Cheerleading Competition for Youth and High School Students, Jan. 27

Posted on January 19th, 2007

More than 40 cheerleading teams will have the opportunity to test their ability against some of the best squads in Ohio as Owens Community College hosts its annual Cheerleading Competition on Saturday, Jan. 27.

Sponsored by Owens’ Competitive Cheerleading Program, the competition is from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. in the College’s Student Health and Activities Center on the Toledo-area Campus.

“I anticipate a very exciting weekend of cheerleading with participants incorporating a lot of spirit, energy and enthusiasm into their routines,” said Tracy Rollins, Owens Competitive Cheerleading Head Coach. “Many cheerleading squads ranging from high school varsity to pee wee are expected to compete.”

Cheerleading squad participants are between preschool and 12th grade. Additionally, there will be an open competition for individuals ages 18 and over. Divisions for the competition will include Specialty, Cheer Squads and School. Specific categories are Individual Cheer, Individual Tumble, Recreation Leagues, All Stars, Junior High, Freshmen, Junior Varsity, Small Varsity, Large Varsity and Collegiate/Open.

Routines performed by each team cannot exceed two minutes and 30 seconds in length, while individual routines cannot exceed 1 minute and 30 seconds in length. Both routines are allowed a maximum of one minute and 15 seconds for the music section. The routines must include one cheer, one chant and a dance. A panel of judges will critique all divisions with the top three teams in each division receiving awards.

High schools and junior high schools participating in the various categories are Northview, Bowsher, Clay, Whitmer, Rossford, Patrick Henry, Fremont, Carey and Northwood, among others.

Since 2001, the Owens Competitive Cheerleading Program has earned regional and national acclaim for cheerleading, garnering several awards. Such honors include first place finishes at JamFest – Collegiate Open Cheer and the Ohio Cheerleading and Dance Team Championships. In addition, Owens’ squad was second at the Cheerleaders of America Open Championship, the Cheerleaders of America Midwest Open and the Ohio Winter Nationals. In 2006, the group was recognized nationally by being named the American Championships Coed College National Champions and was chosen to dance to the music of the legendary Rolling Stones as part of the Super Bowl XL halftime show.

Tickets for the competition, which is open to the general public, are $5 for adults, $2 for youth and free for children under the age of 3. For more information, call (567) 661-7935 or 1-800-GO-OWENS, Ext. 7935.

Owens Community College is one of the fastest-growing higher educational institutions in Ohio. On the Toledo-area and Findlay-area campuses, Owens serves more than 45,000 credit and non-credit students. Owens is committed to providing small classes, personal attention and unmatched affordability. Owens Community College offers baccalaureate transfer degrees in the Arts and Sciences and over 150 technical program areas in Agriculture, Business, Health Sciences, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Skilled Trades, and Engineering and Transportation Technologies. Owens students also can earn the first two years of a bachelor’s degree with a smooth transfer to any area four-year college or university.

Brooke Hearn of Luna Pier, Mich. prepares to serve during the match against Lorain County Community College.	Express Volleyball Assistant Coach Alison Mugler looks on during volleyball action in her “Volley for the Cure” pink shirt.	Hundreds of individuals attend Owens’ “Volley for the Cure”, which raised over $1,900 for breast cancer awareness and research.
Pink-frosted cupcakes were among many items available for purchase to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the American Cancer Society.	Owens’ Amanda Drew of Maumee visits with her daughter Aundrea Stewart after the match’s conclusion.	Express volleyball student-athletes Amanda Drew of Maumee (left) and Alyssa LaVoy of Pemberville await game action in their pink and white socks.