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WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 1 801-398-2800 • LHMRiverdale.com CONTENTS STARTING LINEUP

FEATURES

16 WILDCAT NEVER WAVERED Former Wildcat basketball star Kyle Bullinger is working hard to apply his competitive fire and the lessons he learned under in his new role as head coach of the Bonneville High School boys basketball program. BY CHRIS J. MILLER

20 A LIFELONG CONNECTION Brittney Dunbar and Deeshyra Thomas overcame less than perfect first impressions and became great friends during their two seasons together with the WSU women’s basketball team. BY CORIE HOLMES

24 A VOICE OF REASON Associate head coach Eric Duft has been Randy Rahe’s top assistant from day one, and over the past decade has provided a trustworthy and steadying influence on the men’s basketball coaching staff. BY JIM BURTON

28 THROWING THEIR WEIGHT AROUND Senior throwers Justin Herbert and Natasha Powell give the Weber State Track & Field 16 teams a pair of Big Sky All-Conference performers. BY JUSTIN JOHNSON

43 WHY NOT US? Ten years ago, newly appointed head coach Randy Rahe led the Wildcats to the most unlikely title in WSU’s storied men’s basketball history. BY PAUL GRUA

DEPARTMENTS 36 28 4 FROM THE A.D. 6 SNAPSHOTS 14 PLAYIN’ ON PURPLE with Bailey Irwin 35 COMPLIANCE CORNER 44 CREATE A LEGACY 46 NAME GAME 49 THROWBACK TIME

24 20

2 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF WEBER STATE ATHLETICS presented by

Volume 3, Issue 1 — Winter, 2017

Editor in Chief...... Darin Hogge

Executive Editors...... Paul Grua ...... Chris J. Miller ...... Corie Holmes

Creative Director...... Darin Hogge

Contributing Writers...... Chris J. Miller ...... Jim Burton ...... Corie Holmes ...... Darin Hogge ...... Paul Grua ...... Jerry Bovee ...... Justin Johnson ...... Will Pridemore

Photography...... Robert Casey ...... Darin Hogge ...... Justin Johnson

Ad Director...... Dave Champlain

EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: WEBERSTATESPORTS.COM FACEBOOK: facebook.com/WeberStateAthletics TWITTER: @WeberState INSTAGRAM: WSUWildcats

Copyright © 2017 by Weber State Athletics Publications All Rights Reserved Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited.

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 3 From the A.D. A Message from Jerry Bovee

t’s tournament time for Men’s (APR), graduation success ratings & Women’s basketball which (GSR) or federal graduation rates is a telltale sign that spring is compared with student-body just around the corner. I love graduation rates. This is a ground- springtime! It brings a new breaking move that sends a loud and Ihope as the doldrums of a long clear message; that academic winter give way to the freshness and performance in collegiate athletics optimism of the new season. Spring is a priority that will be rewarded brings with it a spirit of change and financially. the anticipation for new opportuni- These changes and many others, ties. At Weber State, we have just along with the new ideas that will concluded the Indoor Track and be generated from the goals they Field season with several great will set, create an exciting climate individual performances at the Big of opportunities that we’re excited Sky Conference Championships. to be part of. The old adage that “the Men’s and women’s basketball are tournament will be distributed. For only thing constant is change” fighting this week for champion- the first time in the history of the certainly seems to separate those ships, and the sports of Softball, Golf willing to embrace it from those who and Tennis are now underway. It is don’t. is certainly a time of transformation poised to be part of the discussions for us too! “The old adage that “the and the resulting solutions that will This theme of change is also only thing constant is come from these new ideas. I believe apparent in the Big Sky Conference change” certainly seems this will ultimately create a better and NCAA Division I athletics. to separate those willing environment for the sustained Recently, The University of North to embrace it from those success of intercollegiate athletics Dakota announced their intention both regionally as well as on a to leave the Big Sky Conference to who don’t. ” national scale. I hope you are as join the Summit League in 2018 and excited and optimistic about the The Missouri Valley Football Con- future of our programs as I am. ference in 2020. Their decision will NCAA, some of the money generated Thank you for your continued create better regional match-ups by the new TV contract with TNT support! and budget saving benefits not only and CBS will be distributed based for UND but also for the institutions on Academic performance metrics We’ll see you at the games. Go in the Big Sky Conference. There is in Division I institutions. Previously, Wildcats! much to be done in order to prepare all revenues were allocated as for this move but it’s exciting to shares based on a conferences’ consider the possibilities that will athletic performance in the NCAA come from this change. tournament. Now, the new revenues Recently the NCAA announced a will be distributed based on three modification of sorts in how reve- different metrics that include Jerry Bovee nues from the Men’s Basketball academic performance ratings Weber State Director of Athletics

4 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 5

Simply Smarter Weber St Program Ad.indd 1 9/15/15 3:56 PM 6 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Weber State spirit squad members help excite the crowd prior to a men’s basketball game during the lights out player introductions at the . (Photo by Robert Casey)

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 7 8 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com The K-9’s in Flight frisbee dog performance group put on a show during halftime of Weber State’s men’s bas- ketball game against Utah Valley on December 17. (Photo by Robert Casey)

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 9 10 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Weber State pole vaulter Shaelynn Wacaser rises toward the bar during the team’s January Indoor Track & Field meet at the Stromberg Complex. (Photo by Robert Casey)

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 11 Jeremy Senglin draws the Utah State defense and looks to kick to an open shooter during Weber State’s win over the Aggies in Logan on Dec. 21 (Photo by Robert Casey)

12 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 13 with Bailey Irwin

Get to know volleyball’s Bailey Irwin, a sophomore setter from Nampa, Idaho as Corie Holmes met up with her a few months back for another edition of Playin’ on Purple.

Playin’ On Purple: What are three things that you always have in your backpack for school? Bailey Irwin: I always have gum with me. My headphones, definitely, and my laptop.

P.O.P. Who is your celebrity crush? B.I. Zac Efron, and I love the High School Musical movies. They are so awesome, and I still watch them to this day.

P.O.P Where do you want to travel that you have never been? B.I. I think it would be so fun to go to Italy. I see these pictures and different stories from people that I know and that they’ve been to, and it’s just a different culture there. And so I think it would be very cool to go experience that.

P.O.P. Name five things that make you happy. B.I. My family, definitely. And I miss them so much. Volleyball, obviously, and this (Sw- enson Gym) is my favorite place to be. I love food. Food always makes me happy. P.O.P. What is your favorite food? B.I. Probably Watermelon. I love Watermelon. I’m a fruit fanatic. Let’s see, that’s three... Summer makes me super happy. I love it when it’s hot. And my best friend Andrea Hale. She makes me happy, and she’s my favorite.

P.O.P. What is the best concert you’ve been to? B.I. Probably the first concert I ever went to, which was Luke Bryan. It was the first day of my eighth grade year, and it was free because it was at a fair. I wiggled my way up to the front, and I actually got his gutar pick, so that was the coolest thing ever. It’s actually not with me at college. It’s at home, so that nothing happens to it. It’s my treasure.

14 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Weber State University

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 15 Weber State University WILDCAT NEVER WAVERED

Former Wildcat basketball star Kyle Bullinger is working hard to apply his competitive fire and the lessons he learned under Randy Rahe in his new role as head coach of the Bonneville High School boys basketball program.

By CHRIS J. MILLER

nyone who has spent ming. He brought that competitive great kids. It’s a joy for me to be in time in a huddle knows edge with him to Weber State, where the education world. Kids are great,’’ what it feels like, when he helped the Wildcats build a tra- Bullinger said. The Lakers just the game is on the line, dition of work ethic and team unity wrapped up the 2016-17 season, that moment when it’s that Coach Randy Rahe and his staff Bullinger’s first as head coach. just you, your coach and strive for year in and year out. While their record wasn’t great, your teammates. The task might be And now he works like crazy to Bullinger loves the process. “Our overwhelming,A but the adrenaline instill that same drive in his basket- kids show up and work and work takes over, the competitive fire ball teams at nearby Bonneville High and compete. I love that.’’ stokes hotter, and you feel like you School. That respect for the process and can accomplish anything. “I am pretty excited about the love of the game was something the Kyle Bullinger had that desire as opportunity to be here at Bonneville. Wildcats knew all about Bullinger a kid growing up in Greybull, Wyo- We have a wonderful faculty and as they recruited him.

16 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WILDCAT NEVER WAVERED

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 17 “We knew how tough Bull was, averaged 28.3 points and 11.5 All-Big Sky Conference honors, and his high character fit what we rebounds that season, best in the while scoring 11.2 points and 6.3 wanted to establish at Weber,’’ WSU state. rebounds a game to lead the ‘Cats associate head coach Eric Duft said But a severe ankle injury derailed to a 20-win season. He also earned about Bullinger. “We were looking his first season at WSU, forcing him Academic All-Conference honors. for that. You love a guy who gives to use his redshirt season in 2007-08. As a senior, the Cats started the you everything he has.’’ By the time the next season rolled season fast, and Bullinger was in “As his career went on at Weber, around, the 6-foot-6, 215-pound thick of the action. But in the sixth Kyle never wavered, never backed Bullinger was raring to go. game of the season, Bullinger down,’’ Duft said. “You could see it As a freshman, Bullinger earned suffered a gruesome elbow injury in the huddle. Kyle was never scared All-Big Sky Conference honorable that forced him to miss nine games. of the moment. He was ready to give mention honors, averaging nearly Still, the Wildcats posted a 25-7 you everything he had.’’ 10 points and 4.5 boards per game record, earned a share of the Big Sky in 31 starts. The Wildcats won the title, and played in the postseason Mr. Consistent Big Sky regular season title that for the third season in a row. Bullinger was the Gatorade Player season. Bullinger started in 112 games as of the Year in Wyoming, helping his Bullinger produced nearly a Cat, and ranked in the top 10 in Mountain View team to finish identical numbers during his three WSU categories when his second in the 2007 state tourna- sophomore season, and blossomed career came to a close. ment during his senior season. He as a junior. He claimed first team

18 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Player Becomes a Coach After graduation, Bullinger began his teaching/coaching career at Fremont High School, spending three years there. Then came the chance to move to Bonneville, where he teaches personal finance and world civilization. “One of the things we emphasize is the importance academics and hard work plays. The habits you are creating are crucial,’’ Bullinger said. Another former Wildcat, forward Frank “Moot” Otis, is one of his assistants. It’s those habits Bullinger refined at Weber State. “It was so fun to be there, and win games,” Bullinger remembered. “I think that’s a staple of a Coach Rahe team. I really enjoyed going to school and obtaining an education. He has fingerprints all over our program.” “You see some of those same qualities in the way he teaches and coaches,’’ Duft said. “Your best coaches are often those blue collar guys that has to earn their way and follow the process. I knew he would do a good job as a coach, and the team to play his way.’’ Bullinger was detail oriented, and organized during his time on campus, Duft recalls. “I do know the people in the Weber State history department love that guy,” WSU’s top assistant added. While at Weber, Bullinger met his wife, Katie, a former Wildcats volleyball player. She also kept him focused on the future. “I credit the Weber State coaching staff, and my parents with instilling in me the idea that college basket- ball was not just about those 4-5 years, but also a preparation for life after basketball. There is such a great value to a college scholar- ship.”

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 19 A LIFELONG CONNECTION

Brittney Dunbar and Deeshyra Thomas overcame less than perfect first impressions and became great friends during their two seasons together with the WSU women’s basketball team.

By CORIE HOLMES

Strangers become teammates and become instant friends. In the fall of shoulders and thought “All right, she teammates become friends and 2014, Dunbar came to Weber State can have a plate.’” friends become family. as a junior college transfer from St. After a few practices Thomas Teammates understand the Petersburg, Florida. She’d never started noticing Dunbar’s skill on struggle and they understand the been to Ogden before and she just the court. victories. Your teammates have seen knew she was there to play basket- “She could compete and she was you at the best of times and the ball. going to make me better and I was worst of times. Sometimes those “We had this big spaghetti dinner excited for the challenge,” Thomas friendships become lifelong connec- my mom had made for all the new said. tions. That’s the case for former girls and to kick off the new school Dunbar had similar first impres- Wildcat Brittney Dunbar and the year. When Brittney showed up and sions of Thomas. lone senior on this year’s squad, started eating dinner I remember “The first time I saw Deeshyra I Deeshyra Thomas from the Women’s thinking ‘Who is this girl and why is could tell that she thought she was Basketball team. she eating my food?’” Thomas said. too cool for school,” Dunbar said. “I Dunbar and Thomas didn’t “At the same time I shrugged my didn’t really like her when I first met

20 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com her. She just acted like she was all there. Last year when she was a everyone looks up to me and I have that and a bag of chips. I do remember leader on the team, and the point to be a strong leader for them and getting a plate of spaghetti and her guard, she knew all of her players myself. I’m never really nervous for looking at me like I was an outsider. and could get the ball where it games because I’m ready and Brit “But just spending time together needed to be and when it needed to helps me get there.” in practices and all the team things be there. The chemistry was always Dunbar even managed to sneak a we had to be around each other for, there with her as the leader that surprise trip to Ogden last December we were able to take it past just everyone looked up to. She has a to support Thomas in a couple home basketball and get to know each high basketball IQ and it’s something games. other.” I’ve been working on since I recog- “I am so upset that I have had to “Brittney was really shy and kept nized it in her.” miss her senior season,” Dunbar to herself at first,” Thomas said. “I Dunbar and Thomas have man- said. “I missed senior night and I’m started inviting her to things and aged to maintain a strong friendship going to miss her graduation. I just pulling her out of her shell. The more despite the distance. Between late absolutely HAD to find a way to I got to know her the more I realized night phone calls and constant watch her during her last season. I how cool she was. Beyond the court messaging the two have remained love that girl and would support her we built that friendship. It was a tight. forever and always. That’s my best really close bond. That’s where it “Last year we were always the friend!” started and from there we have all thing that the kinds of inside jokes, we are always other person competing and she is my other half.” needed,” Thomas Last year, Dunbar graduated from said. “If one per- Weber State and moved to Ireland son was lacking to play professional basketball for in one area the the Maxol Wildcats, putting over other person 4,500 miles between the two friends. would be there The distance has changed the to pick them up game a little for the two former and vice versa. teammates. Even though they aren’t This year with teammates this year, the on court her being over- influence and example resonates seas she’s still between them. been there for “Deeshyra’s heart is my favorite me. thing,” Dunbar said. “In my mind I “Before every wouldn’t want to go play a game with game she calls anyone besides her. I know that if me and asks me I’m playing with her we’re going to about the team be good because she would do and about the anything to win. She just has heart game and how I and never gets scared. She’s not feel about it. We afraid of making the big plays in go over the pressure situations. It’s something game plan and I’ve tried to incorporate in the way she just makes I play. sure that I’m “I miss her smarts for the game,” calm and that I Thomas said. “She just knows the will do what I game inside and out. Whether it was know I need to. offense or defense, she would just She helps me know where I was and get the ball remember that

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 21 The duo is nothing but smiles she’s herself and I’m myself and has to have the hope and let her when they’re together. we’re crazy.” know everything is going to be ok,” “We have the same interests and “I love being able to be weird,” Thomas said. “I want to be there for we’re weird together,” Dunbar said. Dunbar said. “I don’t know what her. I want to give her that hope “It started with basketball but now other word to use besides weird. We because I know she’d do the same it’s everything, even grocery shopping. are weird but it’s refreshing to see for me.” We like the same foods and try to be someone just as weird as you. Just The season wasn’t over for the healthy together. $5 movie night, being able to laugh, we just add onto Wildcats at that point as they you’d find us there. We just had a each other.” received an invitation to the good time together.” Collegiate sports is always full of Women’s Basketball Invitational “I’m really weird,” Thomas said. high and lows. Last year, the Weber post season tournament. One of “Sometimes you try to hide that with State women’s basketball team Thomas’ favorite moment’s on the people who don’t know you but posted a 23-12 record, the most wins court with her best friend, happened when I’m with her I can laugh at in a single season in school history. in the championship game of that myself. I don’t have to put on that The Wildcats competed in a few tournament. little mask to hide. She’s weird too. heartbreaking games amidst their “We had this play all drawn up and When I do something weird she victories and Dunbar and Thomas I was supposed to do something but doesn’t laugh at me, she does something worked through the hard times I was falling and if I fell I was going weird back. Then we look at each together. to get called for a traveling,” Thomas other knowing that we’re both really “Last year when we lost that heart said. “So, I looked up and Brit was weird and that’s ok because we’re breaker against Idaho in the Big Sky right there so I yelled “Best Friend best friends. I love that. I love that tournament, we thought our season take it!” and she took the ball and was over,” Dunbar made a drive to sink the layup. said. “I was a “I’m grateful we were teammates. wreck. I was so sad It’s nice to be able share memories because I knew and moments like that with someone that was it. My who was a part of it and understands season and career the feelings attached to those at Weber State was memories,” Thomas said. over. I was going to Not everyone gets an extraordinary miss playing and relationship, but the duo believes my teammates and they’ve found something that’s one the coaches. I was of a kind. going to miss “We’re going to be best friends everything I was forever,” Thomas said. “I don’t care blessed to have at what happens or where we end up, Weber State. I laid but we’re going to be there for all in bed crying for the big giant moments in each others days. I didn’t get lives and all the little moments in up to shower, or between. This is one of those eat, or brush my connections that is going to last a teeth. Deeshyra life time. Brit is one of those people just reassured me that would do anything for me and that it was going to I know she won’t let me down.” be ok. She went “I didn’t know what a best friend through it with was until I met her,” Dunbar said. me.” “I’m so grateful for everything she’s “I feel like I’m done. She really is the true definition always the one that of a best friend.”

22 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Friends. Football. Food.

Feed Your WildCats! GameDayGreats.com WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 23 A VOICE OF REASON

Associate head coach Eric Duft has been Randy Rahe’s top assistant from day one, and over the past decade has provided a trustworthy and steadying influence on the men’s basketball coaching staff.

By JIM BURTON ometimes the hot seat ing on this concept. Although he’d know one. gets a bit too hot; some- never been a head coach before, he’d “He’s been with me since day one,” times it gets almost spent nearly 20 years as an assistant Rahe said. “I still remember the unbearable. In those and if anyone understood the value phone call I made to him to see if moments, having reli- of having good, reliable help sitting he’d be interested in coming here.” able help is not only one seat away from the hot seat, it Rahe and Duft became acquainted important, it’s downright critical. was him. with each other several years ago, SBefore signing on as Weber State’s And that’s precisely why he when Rahe was an assistant at Utah men’s basketball coach in 2006, selected Eric Duft as his second in State and Duft was an assistant to Randy Rahe had a good understand- command. After all, it takes one to Tim Duryea at Hutchison (Kansas)

24 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Randy Rahe and Eric Duft have led the Weber State men’s basketball team to three Big Sky Conference titles and over 200 wins, the most in Weber State history.

Community College. Interestingly enough, Duryea went on to be one of ’s at USU. He now serves as the Aggies’ head coach. “When Eric agreed to come (to Weber State), I was tickled to death. I knew I had the right guy.” There is passion in Rahe’s voice when he talks about anything related to basketball. That passion — that excitement — is even more notice- able when he speaks of coaching, specifically about having a trust- worthy assistant in the next seat over. He doesn’t hide his feelings about having Dufy, a former point guard at NAIA school Sterling College (Kan- sas), on his coaching staff. “Eric is just made of the right stuff,” Rahe said. “He’s everything you want to have in an assistant coach. No. 1, he’s as loyal as the day is long. He’ll take a bullet for any- body. He’s as honest and as good a person as anybody I’ve ever been “I call him my voice of reason around any of that success if it hadn’t been around.” here. When I get a little crazy and for Eric Duft being on our staff. I Currently in their 11th season things get a little cockeyed, I go to firmly believe that. I know that.” together, Rahe and Duft clearly have him or he comes to me and says, So, to this point in the story we’ve a good rapport, much of it stemming “Okay coach, this is what we’ve got established a couple of key points, for their mutual trust. In fact, Duft to do. We’re fine.” namely that Rahe was once an assis- isn’t just an “assistant coach.” His Rahe isn’t an I-me-my kind of guy, tant coach who came to understand official title is associate head coach. so it’s rare when he acknowledges how a good assistant can make a Duft, Rahe said, is an excellent personal accomplishments like put- world of difference to a head coach. husband and father. He is faithful ting together a really successful Also, that Eric is an exceptional and loyal. He’s also a spiritual person basketball program at Weber State. human being and an excellent assis- and “his values are just impeccable.” Of course when he does admit such tant coach who is often “the voice of Oh and he’s also pretty knowledg- things, he’s doing so to acknowledge reason” within WSU’s tight-knit able about basketball, let’s not forget someone else’s contributions. basketball program. Also, that with- that. “We’ve been fortunate to have a out Duft’s contributions the Wildcats “On top of all that, he really knows little success around here,” Rahe wouldn’t have been so successful the game of basketball,” Rahe said. said. “We never would have achieved over the past few seasons.

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 25 “I think Randy and I, we’ve just always had a good relationship,” Duft said. “We have the same values, we want the same things and when you have that going, then you can be more authentic.” -- Eric Duft

Duft said he remembers the days fit his on-the-court system, but who times. You’re not quite as emotional.” when Rahe, then an assistant at USU, also knew how to conduct them- Whether it’s during a Saturday would make his way to Hutchison, selves off the court. He was also night game or at a mid-week prac- Kansas to have a look at the Blue about doing things the right way, tice, Duft has the autonomy to advise Dragons. That’s when they first which developing a good, reliable Rahe when he needs to rethink a became acquainted. coaching staff. decision. “We weren’t real close or anything In Duft, Rahe doesn’t have a “yes Although they may not always like that, but I met him a few times,” man.” Instead, he’s got someone who reach the same immediate conclu- Duft said. “At least enough to know will tell him the truth above all else. sions, Rahe and Duft always seem to who he was and what he was about.” “We have that relationship,” Duft be on the same page. Who Rahe was, was a coach with said. “I know as a head coach the “I think Randy and I, we’ve just an abiding passion for teaching bas- stress can sometimes cloud your always had a good relationship,” Duft ketball. What he was about, was judgment As an assistant you have said. “We have the same values, we finding the right players to not only a little bit more perspective some- want the same things and when you have that going, then you can be more authentic.” Some coaches surround them- selves with assistants who’ll tell them exactly what they WANT to hear. Other coaches — the smart ones — have assists like Duft, who’ll tell them exactly what they NEED to hear. “Some head coaches, they tell you they want that,” Duft said. “But if you tell them, ‘Hey I think we should do this’ then they get mad and end up firing you. “Randy has never been like that. He wants to know the truth and how (the assistants) are seeing things.” Rahe said that there have been times when he as gone after a referee with a fury, only to sit back in his chair and hear Duft say something like, “That was actually a pretty good call.” On the sidelines, the lead assis- tant’s chair is only inches away from the head coach’s. But in another way, the two chairs are miles apart. After all, there’s only one hot seat.

26 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 27 THROWING THEIR WEIGHT AROUND

28 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com THROWING THEIR WEIGHT AROUND Seniors Justin Herbert and Natasha Powell give the Weber State Track & Field teams a pair of Big Sky All-Conference performers.

by JUSTIN JOHNSON

wo Wildcats who grew up thousands of miles apart will leave Weber State with a lot of memories, and a lot of records, and a sense of family and friendship that can only be forged through intense competition. Seniors Justin Herbert and Natasha Powell, Tboth throwers for the Weber State men’s and women’s track and field teams, have left a last- ing impression on the Wildcats’ record book, and both earned All-Conference honors at the 2017 Big Sky Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships in February. Herbert, a self-described “beg-on” from Huntley, Illinois, had the third-best weight throw mark in school history at the champion- ships, hitting his peak at precisely the right time after what he called a “slow season.” Powell, a native of Pocatello, Idaho, over- came a freak knee injury just weeks before the indoor season started to earn All-Conference honors in both the shot put and weight throw, competing just a stone throw away from where she grew up. Both described their experience at Weber State as incredibly supportive, both from teammates, Director of Track and Field Dan Walker, and strength and conditioning coach Chris Fritz, and each talked about the lifelong friendships they have forged while competing for the Purple and White.

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 29 NATASHA POWELL freak knee injury in Novem- it a fitting finish that she would earn retrieve the implements. ber nearly derailed Natasha two All-Conference honors as a “I remember the exact moment Powell’s senior season senior. I decided I was going to focus on before it began. “My progression throughout my throwing. I was in the middle school AThe Pocatello, Idaho, native, college career has been a result of gym looking at the results from our however, wasn’t going to be denied. hard work and incredible coaching, city meet; I noticed not only had I Instead, she wrapped up the both in the ring and the weight beat all the girls in the city, but I’d indoor portion of her career with room,” Powell said. “Even though beat most of the boys too. The rest the Weber State women’s track and that progression has been a little is history.” field team by earning All-Conference slower than ideal at times, I’ve been Powell is Weber State’s career honors in both the shot put and able to throw (personal records) record holder in the indoor weight weight throw at the Big Sky Indoor every year. I hope to continue throw, and the outdoor hammer Track and Field Championships on working on technical elements of throw, and is fourth in the indoor Feb. 24-25 in Pocatello, Idaho. the throws and getting more shot put and second in the outdoor “In November, I completely explosive. shot. wrecked my knee in a tragic ‘chasing “One of the biggest adjustments “My biggest highlight was breaking a kid around a playground’ incident. in college has been the transition to our school record in the hammer We had no idea what my indoor rotational shot put. I spent my whole throw for the first time,” Powell said. season was going to look like, or if high school career and the first two “I’d had a long and rough season. I was going to have one at all,” Pow- years at Weber State as a glider, and Nothing was going right. Saying I ell said. “I haven’t been able to lift switched because of a back injury. was frustrated is an understate- over 200 pounds, or do any kind of Rotating gives me more time to get ment. box jumps since November, both of the ball moving. It’s also easier on “I was at the conference meet, which are a large part of my training, my body.” and I had taken two throws, and so to come into conference and place Now, with the indoor season wasn’t in position to make the finals 2nd and 3rd after all that is pretty behind her, Powell hopes to continue yet. Justin (Herbert) told me to get damn cool.” improving and build off a challenging, after my next throw and go fast. I Powell threw 48 feet, six inches but ultimately rewarding season as followed his advice, and bam! My in the shot put to finish with the the calendar switches to the outdoor third throw was a new personal silver medal, and took the bronze in season later in March. record, new school record, and put the weight throw at 59 feet, 10 1/2 “I’m constantly learning and me in scoring position.” inches. changing things within my throws,” With her Weber State career “I chose to come to Weber State Powell said. “I hope to keep building nearing its conclusion at the end of because it felt right, and I believed off a fun indoor season, and outdoor the outdoor season, Powell looks that (Director of Track and Field) will be more learning and changing.” back with a lot of fondness on her Dan Walker could deal with me and Powell’s introduction to the time with the Purple and White. make me a whole lot better,” Powell world of track and field came in “My favorite times outside of said. “I can’t even explain how middle school, where she tried out competing at Weber State have been grateful I am for the opportunities a number of different events before with my teammates,” Powell said. I’ve been given here. settling on throwing. “They went from being teammates, “I’ve been able to learn and grow “My first year of track, I tried out to being friends, to being family. We as an athlete and as a person. There’s a handful of events,” Powell said. “I have weekly dinners together, and nowhere else I would have rather played around with the high jump, movie Tuesdays. There’s a hell of a spent these last 4 1/2 years.” hurdles, and relays, but my true love lot of joy to be found in the process Powell’s career at Weber State was in the middle of the field where of doing what you love while being has been one of progression, making the only running required was to surrounded by people that you love.”

30 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 31 JUSTIN HERBERT here is a saying that say, offer. Herbert threw a then-personal “some things are just meant “My freshman year of college, I record 62 feet, three inches to finish to be.” attended Western Illinois University, second and earn All-Conference After spending his freshman where I learned about the hammer honors in the 2016 Indoor Champi- Tseason at Western Illinois, senior and weight throw, which over the onships in Bozeman, Mont., and Justin Herbert made decision to past four years have become my best specifically remembered Coach come to Weber State not knowing events. My sophomore year, when I Walker coming down to congratulate if there would even be a spot for him transferred to WSU, is when I began him after the throw. on the Wildcat men’s track and field to make the most improvement. “Coach Walker ran down the team. “I have a great coach here (Direc- stairs at MSU, and I ran across the “My decision to come to WSU tor of Track and Field Dan Walker), track to go see him,” Herbert said. was the best decision that I have but a major part of my success has “I hugged him, broke down, and he ever made,” Herbert said. “I had a come from my training partners, as told me, ‘You deserve this, you friend that goes here, so I knew well as my strength coach Chris worked so hard’ because that entire about the school, and I also knew Fritz. He understands and imple- off-season I truly worked as hard as that I may not even get the chance ments when we will reach our ‘peak,’ I could to be an All-Conference to be on the team right away. Thankfully, which is always at the indoor or performer. A little sappy, but I will everything worked out and I have outdoor conference meet. A peak is never forget that meet or words that met some people that have taken when our weight training, combined he told me.” me under their wing, given me a with the amount of throws we take, So, why did Herbert choose chance, and allowed me to see my does not fatigue our bodies or tech- throwing events? full potential. I am forever grateful nique, and we can perform optimally “I was drawn to throwing for that, as well as all that continues at the conference meet.” because baseball was the only other to be given to me here.” Herbert is a firm believer in spring sport in high school, which I Herbert, a native of Huntley, Ill., Fritz’s peak methodology, and its didn’t want to play, and I was a bigger wrapped up the indoor portion of results are borne out by the fact that kid than most of the sprinters, his Wildcat career at the Big Sky he has set a new personal record at distance runners, jumpers, and pole Indoor Track and Field champion- the Big Sky championships during vaulters. That left me with throwing ships on Feb. 25 with a throw of 62 all three years of his Weber State as my last choice, and my history feet, four inches in the 35-pound career. teacher at the time, who was the weight throw. The mark was a new After throwing over 60 feet in coach, convinced me to come out personal record, finishing second the Wildcats’ season-opening Wildcat and try to throw.” overall, and earning him All-Confer- Winter Open in December, Herbert’s While it might look similar on ence honors for the second straight focus become more on building and the surface, there is a distinct year. It is also the No. 3 throw in grinding through the season to prepare build-up to throwing that each Weber State history. for the Indoor Championships. individual thrower has. Herbert’s “In Illinois, the IHSA only allowed “I have had a really slow season varies depending on the season, shot put and discus, so I had no idea this year,” Herbert said prior to the with the 35-pound weight throw about the hammer or the weight Indoor Championship meet. “I can’t ball for indoor and the 16-pound throw,” Herbert said. “Each year of expect to PR (personal record) every hammer throw ball for outdoor. high school, I averaged about 20 feet weekend, because the conference “In the weight throw, I do 3-4 of improvement in the discus and meet is where it matters most, but turns, depending on what my training about five feet in the shot put. I until then I am grinding out these objectives are,” Herbert said. threw 53 feet in the shot and 169 last few weeks for a big performance “Whereas with the hammer throw, feet in the discus, which were very at conference which has proven to which is the 16-point ball, I always low marks for any sort of Division I be the case the past three years.” do four turns. Some people are

32 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com explosive and powerful enough to mentors here at Weber State. I’m has two more seasons of outdoor only need two turns in the weight also a Resident Assistant, which has after redshirting last season, hopes and three turns in the hammer, but prepared me for many challenges to be a collegiate coach some day to others can generate more with more and situations that I may face as I give back to the sport. turns. I find that I can build more get older. I’ve learned a lot of skills, “Some of my teammates may power with more turns, so that’s like communication, breaking out of attest to this, but it is my niche, and why I do more. It is rare to see someone my comfort bubble, and overall just the impact that my previous coaches do more than four turns unless it is learning how to deal with people. have had on my experience as an for a drill.” Utah is amazing, and being able to athlete has been amazing,” Herbert Herbert looks back on his three experience somewhere new in the said. “I hope to bring that type of years at Weber State fondly. U.S. has been a great culturally.” positivity, leadership, and mentor- “I have met lifelong friends and As for the future, Herbert, who ship into the lives of others.”

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 33 Ogden Courtyard by Marriott Official Wildcat Athletics Sponsor Make room for a little fun.

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34 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Compliance Corner Extra Benefits

belated nappy New Year, of a student-athlete or their family/ students who are not athletes to pay Wildcat fans. Over our first friends in a restaurant? rent later due to the date of their several issues of Bleed A: No, this would be considered an financial aid disbursement, you may Purple, I’ve covered several extra benefit, and is prohibited. The also make the same accommodation activities (occasional student-athlete would be considered to a student-athlete. meals,A congratulatory advertisements, ineligible and would need to be employing student-athletes) that reinstated with the NCAA. However, Q: Can my business create a special are permissible for boosters to Boosters can provide occasional promotion that provides $100 cash engage in under NCAA rules. This meals to student-athletes in their back to any student-athlete who month, we want to address things homes or on campus, provided that opens a checking account with our that are impermissible to provide, meal is first cleared by the Office of financial institution? namely extra benefits. Athletics Compliance. A: Unless the promotion is something that is available to students in Boosters of Weber State’s athletics Q: Can boosters fundraise or donate general, regardless of athletics programs are prohibited from money to send a student-athlete’s participation, you may not provide providing extra benefits to current parents to an athletic contest? this benefit to a student-athlete. student-athletes, prospective A: No. Under NCAA rules and student-athletes (a.k.a. recruits), or regulations, such an activity would As always, please feel free to contact their families. An extra benefit is any be considered an extra benefit. the Office of Athletics Compliance special arrangement to provide if you have any questions benefits that are not authorized by Q: Is it permissible for a booster to NCAA rules. Receipt of a benefit is provide enrolled student-athletes not considered an extra benefit with professional services (for provided that the benefit was available which a fee would normally be Until next time, to all Weber State students or the charged) for personal reasons? general public. Examples of extra A: No. Professional services provided benefits include things such as at less than normal costs or at no Ogden Courtyard by Marriott 1. Cash (or items with cash value expense to student-athletes are such as gift cards); considered extra benefits. Official Wildcat Athletics Sponsor 2. Use of an automobile, boats, Make room for a little fun. summer homes, etc.; Q: As a booster, can I give a student- 3. Free or reduced cost merchandize, athlete Christmas/birthday/wedding/ meals, housing, storage during graduation presents? summer, etc.; A: No. Boosters are prohibited from We’re on YOUR team. 4. Tickets to sporting events; providing student-athletes with any 5. Special arrangements for credit gifts, privileges or services and Ogden Courtyard by Marriott is the newest addition to on a purchase or use of a service; would be considered by the NCAA downtown Ogden. Our newly renovated hotel and clean and as an extra benefit. comfortable beds are the best way to celebrate after that big 6. Loans of money. Q: I’m a landlord to a few student- win! Make sure you stop by our bistro for breakfast or pick FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS athletes. Can a student-athlete be up a Starbucks Coffee on your way out. Below are answers to some fre- allowed to pay his/her rent at a later Will Pridemore quently asked questions regarding date than our standard due date if Director of Compliance www.ogdencourtyard.com extra benefits: their scholarship check is released [email protected] 247 24th Street Ogden, UT 84401 | (801) 395-2046 later in the month? 801.626.8552 Q: Can a booster pay for the meal A: If it is within your policy to allow

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 35 36 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WHYTen years ago, newly appointed NOT head coach Randy USRahe led the Wildcats? to the most unlikely Big Sky Conference title in WSU’s storied men’s basketball history.

By PAUL GRUA

n March 23, 2006, Randy titles and coaching six Big Sky MVP’s Wildcats to the conference title. Rahe was hired as the and two NBA Draft picks. He has also Rahe will admit his first season’s ninth head coach in become the Big Sky’s career leader 2006-07 squad was not the most Weber State men’s in victories. talented team he has had at Weber basketball history. Rahe But of all the accomplishments he State. But it may go down as one of has gone on to tremen- has made at Weber State, perhaps his favorite teams of all-time. dous success at Weber State in none is bigger than what he did his This season marks the 10th Oleading the Wildcats to five Big Sky very first season in leading the anniversary of the 2007 team that

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 37 won the Big Sky regular season and could that had those intangibles. a couple of games for the Wildcats. tournament and advanced to the After getting hired in late March he “When we finished up the NCAA Tournament. wasn’t able to get his team all recruiting process and had the 10 In 2006, Rahe took over a Wildcat together until school started in new players, we were so late and squad that had failed to qualify for August. It was a difficult summer of we couldn’t get the whole group the Big Sky Tournament for the first worrying for Rahe. together until school started in late time in 25 years. Only three players Newcomers to the Wildcat squad August,” Rahe said. All summer long that were on the squad remained that season were T.J. Benson, Tyler my stomach hurt. I kept thinking, with Rahe for the 2006-07 season. Billings, G.B. Burningham, Daviin ‘How are we going to put this group Only two of those players had played Davis, Dezmon Harris, Steve Panos, together’”? on that team. Rahe had to not only Eric Turner, Artuas Valeika and Weber State was picked to finish learn what it takes to become a head Brody Van Brocklin. Mitch Scholer sixth in Big Sky preseason coaches coach; he had to get some players and Ty Sparrow also saw action in poll and seventh in the media poll late in the process just to be able to field a team. “When I first got the job I told my wife that we only had three players,” Rahe recalled. “She said, ‘well, don’t you need five?’ I said ‘yes we do so we better get out and recruit.’” Returning off the previous squad was David Patten who had played in the two previous seasons and had averaged nearly 10 points per game. The other returner was Dan Henry, a local player, who had seen action in all 27 games the previous season. Those were the only two players that had Division I basketball experience on the 2006-07 Wildcat squad. Juan Pablo Silveria was back for his second year with the team after sitting out the previous year as a redshirt. Coach Rahe had to assemble a coaching staff and get enough players to fill a squad in a very quick amount of time. Rahe hired Eric Duft, Tim Gardner and as his assistant coaches. The staff focused on character and toughness and tried to get the best players they

David Patten, one of only three returning Wildcats in 2006-07, blossomed under Rahe, becoming the team leader and earning Big Sky MVP honors.

38 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com Daviin Davis was one of 11 newcomers that quickly gelled into a cohesive and successful group.

heading into the season. “In our first unofficial practice it was not a group of guys that were very visually impressive as a basketball team,” Patten recalled. “But we talked about it as a team and it was kind of a point of pride for us, how goofy we all were together. I think the reason we became good was because we became really fast friends and were a close team. We gelled so quickly as a team and coach Rahe was a big part of it.” Weber State finished 7-6 in the preseason but opened Big Sky play with back-to-back wins at Northern Colorado and Northern Arizona. Despite returning home and drop- ping a home game to Idaho State, the ’Cats responded with a three- game winning streak to improve to 5-1 in conference play before heading back on the road in the Big Sky. The Wildcats lost by 15 at Montana State and then fell 90-86 in overtime at Montana, and Rahe had concerns that things could splinter and go the other direction. then it was going to be really bad. games, a win over Northern Colo- “After we lost to Montana State, Late that night after the Montana rado on Feb. 1, David Patten suffered David Patten came to me and he was State loss I met with him and we a broken bone in his face, but came crying. He said ‘Coach we aren’t both got on the same page. We back and didn’t miss a game. Playing going to let this thing turn on us. We decided to keep things positive and with a face mask, Patten averaged are going to be OK.’ I told him we just do what we had done early in 16.9 points per game over the aren’t going to let this happen. We the year and we got things rolling remainder of the season. He scored are going to be fine but he needed once again.” 22 points and grabbed seven to be the leader.” The Wildcats did come back rebounds against NAU just two days “Things got a little negative on strong and won the next game at after being injured. that Montana road trip,” Patten Idaho State and then won three The ’Cats went on to lose by 15 at remembered. “We were negative; straight home games to improve to Eastern Washington before facing a Coach Rahe was negative and things 9-3 in league play with four games key road game at Portland State. It weren’t good. If things didn’t change remaining. In one of those home was a game the ’Cats needed to be

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 39 The reward for Dezmon Harris and the Wildcats, a Big Sky title and a matchup against No. 2-seeded UCLA in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

and relied on each other,” Rahe continued. “They knew they had to play as a team to have a chance. We went into every game feeling like we were the underdogs and we put a chip on our shoulder. Our motto was ‘Why not us?’ We said, ‘why can’t we do this?’ I told my staff during the season that we have to make these guys believe they are better than they are. We kept giving them great confidence and we still pushed them hard but we tried to make them believe they are better than what they are. And if they believe, maybe we can win a few.” After the Portland State win the Wildcats returned home and defeated Montana 73-67 on Valentine’s Day to claim at least a share of the Big Sky title. Due to a quirk in the schedule Weber State didn’t play again for 12 days. They were blown out at Sacramento State in the final game of the season, but had already clinched the tiebreaker over Northern Arizona, and claimed the Big Sky title and the right to host the conference tournament. WSU finished the regular season in position to win the conference remembered. “I probably screwed 11-5, tying Northern Arizona. It was title. us up as much as I helped us along just the third time in Big Sky history “That was the biggest game of the the way because I made a lot of that a team with five losses had won season to that point for us,” Rahe mistakes but the whole theme of the the conference title. said. “We fought so hard in that year was togetherness. I told them, To win the Big Sky title in his first game and we ended up winning by ‘I’m going to screw up some, you’re season as head coach was quite an two. We showed incredible fight and going to screw up some but let’s stay accomplishment for Rahe and his toughness and togetherness in that together and have each other’s back group of players who entered the game to find a way to win and got and we’ll find a way and that’s kind season with just two players who us over the hump.” of how it happened.’ had played Division I basketball. Togetherness was what the team “The thing I remember the most “It was so rewarding,” Rahe said. was all about. “The team was is how the kids came together and “It was a little bit surreal. Every learning and I was learning,” Rahe how tough they became together league game I would watch us and

40 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com think we looked like a JV team sion audience, Weber State jumped UCLA, coached by former Weber compared to the other teams. I kept out to 53-37 halftime lead and led State standout player , thinking, ‘how are we going to by as many as 21 in the second half in the NCAA Tournament, and compete?’ It was totally unexpected but the Lumberjacks came storming finished the year 20-12. Rahe was and that’s what made it special.” back and cut the lead to two points named Big Sky Coach of the Year But after claiming the conference with five minutes to play. Weber after an incredible accomplishment title the Wildcats still had work to State was able take make seven free in his first season as a head coach. do. Weber State earned the right throws in the final two minutes and David Patten was named Big Sky host the conference tournament at held on to defeat NAU 88-80 and Most Valuable Player. the Dee Events Center with the claim the Big Sky Tournament title The 2006-07 season didn’t end winner heading to the NCAA and a trip to the NCAA Tournament. with one of the best records in Tournament. “I was so happy for the kids school history and the ’Cats didn’t Weber State faced a tough Port- because of the hard work they put win an NCAA Tournament game, but land State team in the semifinals of into the season and when they won what was accomplished by that the tournament but was able to beat the championship game I just stood team that season is one of the the Vikings 77-74 behind five back and watched them,” Rahe said. remarkable feats in school history. players in double figures. That set “I just wanted to watch our players “I always look back fondly on that up the championship game against and see the joy and happiness and team,” Rahe said. “It is a little bit Northern Arizona whom the Wild- excitement they had from winning surreal seeing what we accom- cats had defeated twice already that it.” plished. It was a special group of season. In front of a national televi- The ’Cats lost to nationally ranked players.”

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 41 42 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 43 Create a Legacy Phil Smith: A Forever Fan

by CORIE HOLMES

eber State athletic each of those teams will have “I grew up going to Weber State events do more $20,000 for recruiting, travel, and games,” Harris said. “I met my than entertain. other program progressions. husband, Jamie, at Weber State in They ignite pas- Sadly, Smith can no loner attend class, he was a golfer for Weber State sion and spirit WSU games, but he will have a major under Mac Madesen. My kids now while uniting the love going to the games, my son, campus and community. The Caden, is a huge sports fanatic and WWildcats give everyone something my daughter, Jada, is the cheerleader to cheer about. Behind the success type so she always watches the of WSU’s athletic programs are dancers. We all hold Weber State in devoted fans like Phil Smith, a our hearts.” season ticket holder from 1974 to Smith’s foundation and legacy gift 2014. will be an asset to the football and Smith proudly never missed a basketball team’s recruiting process. Wildcat football or basketball game Harris is doing some recruiting of and followed his beloved Wildcats her own but not for future Wildcat to away games in Hawaii and the athletes but for future forever fans. Virgin Islands. “I really want people to get more Smith is a forever fan. His support involved,” Harris said. “I try to get of Wildcat Athletics goes beyond other foundation board members, attending games. His love will never friends and other family members end thanks to a legacy gift he to come to the games. WSU deserves arranged before his death. Having the support and love. It’s a great recently received a first distribution family activity and gets everyone of his estate plan amounting to involved.” $20,000, we are reminded of his Smith’s fandom was passed on to generosity and love of the Wildcats. impact on the quality of our pro- the next generation, that generation In naming, WSU Athletics as the grams. Smith’s daughter Nikki is carrying the torch for the next primary beneficiary of his family Harris is now the head of the family generation and will transpire for foundation and requesting the funds foundation and has continued in many more generations, thanks to be even split between Wildcat Smith’s path as an avid Wildcat fan. his legacy gift. Thanks to Smith and football and men’s basketball, Smith Weber State has always been in Harris’ incredible generosity, We all has made certain that every year, Harris’ life and will continue to be so. have something to cheer about.

For more information on becoming a Wildcat Club Athletic Fund member, please call us at 801-626-6576 or visit WeberStateSports.com

44 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com “My scholarship means a lot to me because not a lot of people get the chance to play at the collegiate level. So I thank God every day.”

Richaud Gittens - Basketball Tempe, AZ Class of 2017

Join the Wildcat Club and help support WSU Student-Athlete Scholarships Call 801-626-6576 or visit WeberStateSports.com for more information or to join. WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 45 Name Game Simply Sark

By CHRIS J. MILLER

ark Arslanian, Weber State’s legendary football coach, passed away on Dec. 11, 2016, at the age of 92. Since the mid-1960s, Sfolks in Ogden have referred to their football coach simply as “Sark,” a tribute to the Wildcat legacy he helped build, a tradition that continues to this day. While Arslanian was the head coach at Weber State College for just eight seasons, his presence lives on. It lives on in his record. He is the school’s career leader in winning percentage at .641. It lives on in his two Big Sky championships -- in 1965 and 68 -- and his 8-1 record in his very first season at WSC. It lives on in the national rankings, as high as No. 3 in 1967. Perhaps more importantly, it lives on in “Sark’s Boys,” the many former players who are successful in all facets of life and drew great inspiration from their coach. Football Foundation halls of fame. golf coach Jeff Smith. “His ‘Sark’s Boys’ will continue Sark was preceded in death by Also, former athletic director, his legacy at Weber State,” WSU his wife Verlyn. They had six children. Dutch Belnap, will receive the Reed director of athletics Jerry Bovee said Sons Dave and Paul played and K. Swenson Distinguished Service at the time of his passing. “He was coached at Weber State. Dave Award. a great coach and leader and will Arlsanian was head coach at Weber Of note, four of the five honorees always be an important part of Wild- State from 1989 to 1997, and is also are natives of Northern Utah. Smith cat football.” a member of the WSU Hall of Fame. will be honored posthumously. Arslanian’s achievements include The Wildcat Club Hall of Fame being named national coach of the Robust Hall of Fame class Banquet will be on March 3 as part year by Armenian Weekly, as well Some of the most recognizable of Hall of Fame weekend. For more as successful coaching stops at Dixie names in Weber State athletics make information and tickets, call the College, Colorado State and later in up the 2017 WSU Athletic Hall of Wildcat Club at 801-626-6576. the Canadian and United States Fame class. football leagues. Sark is an inductee The group includes former Olym- Paying it forward into the Weber State Hall of Fame, pian Lindsey Anderson, basketball Weber State’s participation in as well a member of the Pop Warner, standout Nolan Archibald and tennis the NCAA FCS Playoffs was a great Utah Sports and All-American star Eric Styrmoe, as well as former experience for the Wildcats and

46 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com their fans. The 2017 WSU Athletics Hall Notre Dame in Long Beach, Calif. of Fame class: (from left) Dutch Yet, those that ‘Back the ‘Cats’ Belnap, Lindsey Anderson, Nolan The Wildcats are 97-63 overall found a way to pay if forward. Archibald, Eric Styrmoe, and under Amicone. In the days leading up to WSU’s representing the late Jeff Smith, Smith’s daughters Tara and game with Tennessee-Chattanooga, Courtney. Senglin sizzles the south-central area of that state Senior sharpshooter Jeremy Sen- endured a difficult moment when a glin is racking up baskets and climb- school bus crash killed five children ing the record charts. and injured several others. WSU The Texas gunslinger leads the administration and its football forward. I will be the first to donate, nation in 3-pointers per game and squad offered their condolences and and I’m calling on all Wildcat fans is among the NCAA’s best in total 3’s prayers to the residents of that com- to support as well.” and shooting percentage. He munity. recently passed for WSU football coach Jay Hill and Can they do it again? No. 2 on the Weber State career the team took things further, asking The two-time defending Big Sky scoring charts and became the Big Wildcat fans to donate to the vic- Conference champion Weber State Sky all-time leader in 3-pointers in tims. softball team was tabbed to repeat short order. “Earlier this year, my wife Sarah as league champions for the third Senglin will finish his career was diagnosed with cancer,” said straight year in the preseason among the top five in WSU history Hill back in November 2016. “When coaches’ straw poll. The Wildcats in scoring, field goals, assists, free we played at South Dakota shortly return eight starters and 13 letter- throws and 3-pointers as well. after her diagnosis, their fans came winners from its squad that went together to support her and our 37-19 overall (15-5 Big Sky). Thompson honored family. Playing in Chattanooga this Weber State begins its fourth sea- weekend provides our program a son under head coach Mary Kay Weber State senior Megan great avenue to pay that support Amicone on Feb. 10, against face Thompson closed out her volleyball

WeberStateSports.com Fall 2016 Bleed Purple 47 career as a member of the Big Sky Rodney Brady, who died on Jan. 9 at Year. ... Teammate Jonah Williams All-Conference First Team. age 93. ... was named to the Hero Sports FCS Thompson,a senior middle Weber State’s football squad (7-5 All-Freshman First Team. Williams, blocker from Richfield, led the Big overall) ended the season ranked the Meridian, Idaho, native helped Sky in blocks this year with 164 total No. 24 in the FCS Coaches Poll, and the Wildcat lead the Big Sky in pass- on the year and averaged 1.66 No. 25 in the STATS FCS poll. Three ing defense from his position on the blocks per set. Thompson closed out other Big Sky teams were also defensive line. ... the year with 246 kills and averaged ranked in the final poll of the season. This month marks the 15th anni- 2.48 kills per set, and finished her ... versary of the 2002 Olympic Winter career as No. 2 in WSU history in Games in Utah. Weber State hosted block assists and total blocks. Early WSU tight end Andrew Vollert the curling events at The Ice Sheet last season, she helped the Wildcats was named to a handful of FCS during the Games. ... earn their best start in school his- All-Ameria squads after the 2016 Weber State senior linebacker tory with a 9-0 record. season. A junior from San Mateo, Tre’von Johnson had a strong per- Calif., Vollert was named third-team formance in the NFLPA Collegiate Tidbits All-American on both the STATS FCS Bowl in January in Los Angeles. We note the passing of former and Associated Press teams. He was Johnson tied for a game-high six Weber State University president tabbed the Big Sky Newcomer of the tackles, including a tackle for loss, and had a pass breakup and a quar- terback hurry, in helping lead Team American to a 27-7 victory over Team National. ... Speaking of fast starts, the Weber State women’s basketball team won its first five contests of the season, a school record. Coach BethAnn Ord and the Wildcats hosted more than 3,000 screaming school children to their annual Field Trip Day game in mid-December. A late 3-pointer rimmed out as the Wildcats fell to 60-57 to Fresno State at the Dee Events Center. ... Weber State defensive coordina- tor Jason Kaufusi was hired by new Nevada coach Jay Norvell to join his coaching staff.

Chris J. Miller, a 1986 graduate of Weber State, is a former Weber State Signpost sports editor and editor in chief, as well as a former longtime sports editor at the Standard-Examiner. He can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at cjmsports.

Junior tight end Andrew Vollert earned Big Sky Newcomer of the Year and All-American honors for his performance with the Wildcats this past season.

48 Bleed Purple Fall 2016 WeberStateSports.com THROWBACK TIME

Nearly 15 years ago, Jermaine Boyette led the Wildcats to a 73-70 win over Nevada at the Dee Events Center. (Photo by Robert Casey)

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