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LIBERTY FLAMES

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General Information 2006 Big South Individual Statistics ...... 110 Staff ...... 111 Media Information...... 2 Big South Member Quick Facts ...... 111 Flames Sports Network ...... 4 Big South Conference Quick Facts ...... 111 LibertyFlames.com...... 5 Big South Composite Schedule...... 112 Lynchburg/Central Virginia ...... 6 Travel Information ...... 7 Recommended Hotels/Restaurants...... 7 2006 Season in Review Dr. Jerry Falwell Tribute ...... 172 St. Paul’s ...... 114 Glenville State ...... 115 The University Towson ...... 116 Savannah State ...... 117 2007 Football Schedule Liberty University ...... 8 Wake Forest ...... 118 Sept. 1 TUSCULUM 7 p.m. Academic Affairs for Athletics ...... 12 William & Mary ...... 119 8 SHIPPENSBURG 7 p.m. Strength and Conditioning ...... 14 Gardner-Webb...... 120 15 at William & Mary 7 p.m. Sports Medicine ...... 16 Coastal Carolina ...... 121 22 at Elon 1:30 p.m. Athletic Compliance ...... 18 Western Carolina ...... 122 29 ST. FRANCIS, PA. 7 p.m. Equipment...... 19 Charleston Southern ...... 123 (Parents’ Weekend) ...... 20 VMI...... 124 Oct. 6 at Toledo 7 p.m. Williams Football Operation Center...... 21 2006 Results and Statistics...... 125 13 Open Week Flames Game Day Experience...... 22 2006 Awards and Honors...... 130 20 at Charleston Southern * 1:30 p.m. Athletic Facilities...... 25 27 PRESBYTERIAN 1 p.m. Athletic Administration ...... 27 (Homecoming) Athletic Excellence ...... 32 The Records Flames Honor Roll ...... 34 Chronology ...... 132 Nov. 3 COASTAL CAROLINA * 1 p.m. Flames in the Pros...... 37 Individual Records ...... 135 10 VMI * 1 p.m. Rushing Records...... 138 (Senior Day) Previewing the 2007 Season Passing Records...... 140 17 at Gardner-Webb * 1:30 p.m. Total Offense Records...... 141 24 NCAA FCS (I-AA) Playoffs (First Round) TBA 2007 Outlook ...... 37 Receiving Records ...... 142 Dec. 1 NCAA FCS (I-AA) Playoffs (Quarterfinals) TBA Flames Quick Facts...... 40 Single Game Top Five...... 143 8 NCAA FCS (I-AA) Playoffs (Semifinals) TBA Season Top Five ...... 146 15 NCAA FCS (I-AA) Playoffs TBA The Coaches Career Top Five...... 149 National Championship – Chattanooga, Tenn. Class Rankings...... 152 Head Coach ...... 48 Year-by-Year Leaders ...... 153 Danny Rocco Quick Facts ...... 49 * - Big South Conference game Team Records ...... 156 Pete Sundheim ...... 51 All Times are EST and are subject to change Outstanding Seasons...... 156 ...... 52 Bold indicates home games The Last Time ...... 158 Tom Clark...... 53 Opponent Records ...... 159 Frank Hickson...... 54 All-Time Assistant Coaches...... 160 Certificate Marshall Roberts ...... 55 Williams Stadium Records...... 161 Charlie Skalaski...... 56 The Liberty University football media guide has been Attendance Records...... 162 Brandon Streeter ...... 57 judged among the Top 20 nationally for the 13th year in a Year-by-Year Results ...... 163 Chad Wilt ...... 58 row in a publications contest coordinated by the College Series Records ...... 167 Robert Wimberly ...... 59 Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA). The All-Time Roster ...... 168 Support Staff ...... 60 2002 edition of the Liberty University football media guide was awarded “Best Cover” in the nation and the 1998 edi- Athletic Phone Directory tion of the Liberty University football guide earned eighth Flames Player Profiles place in the nation. Since 1977, publications produced by University Switchboard ...... (434) 582-2000 Alphabetical Roster...... 66 Liberty University Sports Information Department have won Athletic Department ...... (434) 582-2100 Numerical Roster ...... 67 58 CoSIDA and NAIA-SIDA certificates at the national and Football Office ...... (434) 582-2040 Geographical Roster...... 68 regional levels, including 14 “Best in the Nation” awards. Ticket Office ...... (434) 582-7452 Preseason Depth Chart...... 68 Player Profiles ...... 70 The 2007 Flames Football Media Guide is a publication of For further information on Liberty football, contact the Newcomers ...... 92 the Liberty University Department of Intercollegiate Liberty University Office of Athletic Media Relations: Athletics and is produced by the Office of Athletic Media Relations. 2007 Opponents Office of Athletic Media Relations Tusculum ...... 94 Liberty University Editor: Todd Wetmore Shippensburg ...... 95 1971 University Blvd. Assistant Editors: Ryan Bomberger, Vincent Briedis, Paul Carmany William & Mary ...... 96 Lynchburg, VA 24502 Contributors: Owen Benson, Kirk Jewell, Brad Johnson, Courtney Elon ...... 97 Johnson, Josh Keys, Shannon McKain, Ryan Powell, Khalil Reed, St. Francis, Pa...... 98 Phone: (434) 582-2292 Mollie Richards, and Brad Salois Toledo...... 99 FAX: (434) 582-2076 Cover Photography: Colt Freeman, Kevin Giedd, Todd Hundley, Les Charleston Southern ...... 100 Press Box Phone: (434) 582-4628 Schofer and Alex Towers Presbyterian ...... 101 Contributing Photographers: Photo Archives, Rich Coastal Carolina ...... 102 Assistant AD for Athletic Media Relations/ Clarkson & Associates, Photo Archives, Bob DeVaul, VMI...... 103 Football Contact: Todd Wetmore Colt Freeman, Don Garlock, Kevin Giedd, Jamie Hall, Todd Hundley, Gardner-Webb...... 104 Cell Phone: (434) 841-8974 Photo Archives, Tim Lyons, Jeff Raymond, Les Schofer, E-Mail Address: [email protected] Alex Towers, Corkey Trewin, Jessica Weber, Barry Whitten, Ted Woodford, Big South Conference Liberty Archives Layout/Typesetting: Heather Lehosit, Morgantown Printing & Binding, Big South Overview and History...... 106 Morgantown, W.Va. 2006 Big South Results...... 106 Printing: Morgantown Printing & Binding, Morgantown, W.Va. 2006 Big South All-Conference ...... 107 2006 Big South Team Statistics ...... 108

LibertyFlames.com 1 LIBERTY FLAMES

Media Information

interviews Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Media Information Media Meal game weeks. Liberty University home football games are A meal will be provided for the media prior to played at Williams Stadium on Liberty each home football game. All media with creden- Tuesday interviews: University’s main campus. The press box is tials will be served a catered meal 90 minutes Head coach Danny Rocco will host a weekly located at the top of the West stands, nearest prior to kickoff. Soft drinks will be available media press conference each Tuesday during the Hancock Athletic Center. Media parking is throughout the game and a snack will be served the season to address the media. The press available in the Blue Lot directly across from the at halftime. conference will be held in a designated area in stadium (P-I parking lot). the Williams Football Operations Center. The Radio crews broadcast from the second level Game Press Services press conference will start at 1 p.m. and run for of the press box. Facilities for filming and video 30 minutes. taping are on the roof of the press box. Media The Office of Athletic Media Relations staff representatives working at field-level must check will be at your service throughout the game. All Requested players and members of the coach- in at the press box to secure sideline passes. members of the media will be provided with pro- ing staff can be available for one-on-one inter- Sideline passes must be displayed at all times grams, game notes, media guides and other per- views following Coach Rocco’s weekly press con- while at field level, and NCAA sideline rules tinent information. Abbreviated statistics will be ference. Player/coaching staff interviews will must be observed at all times. available at the conclusion of each quarter and start at 1:30 p.m. and runs for 30 minutes. full game statistics, including play-by-play, indi- However, players will not be asked to miss class vidual and team statistics, will be available time or any other academic/team requirements Media Credentials shortly after the conclusion of each home con- for these interviews. Working press credentials for Liberty home test. Wireless internet access, telephones and a football games can be obtained by contacting fax machine will also be available for the Wednesday and Thursday interviews: the Liberty University Office of Athletic Media media’s use throughout the entire game. Head coach Danny Rocco, members of the Relations. Due to space limitations, seating can- coaching staff and players will be available after not be guaranteed unless ample notice is given. Interview Policies practices on Wednesday and Thursday. If you Requests from sports writers of daily newspa- request an interview, you are advised to arrive at Head coach Danny Rocco has requested a 24- pers and sports directors of television stations, least 15 minutes before the scheduled finish hour notice on all interviews, including inter- along with media agencies covering the visiting time of practice in case practice finishes early. views for himself, members of the coaching staff team, will receive top priority. Only accredited Coach Rocco, members of the coaching staff and the players. Please plan ahead and call the photographers on assignments may work on the and players will not be held if you are not pres- Office of Athletic Media Relations when request- sidelines. Credentials can be mailed (with signifi- ent when practice concludes. ing interviews. Every effort will be made to cant prior notice) or they can be picked up at the ensure the requested individual(s) are available Will Call booth at the South Gate outside Postgame interviews: with prior notice. Williams Stadium. Proper identification will be The Liberty University football locker room is required when picking up credentials at Will Call. closed to members of the media at all times, Preseason camp interview schedule: both at home and on the road. Players and coaches are available after each Media Parking Home postgame interviews: preseason practice session for post-practice Williams Stadium parking is located to the Head coach Danny Rocco and requested play- interviews for a designated amount of time. If East of the stadium in the Blue Lot (P-1 parking ers/member of the coaching staff will be avail- you need to conduct an interview during a differ- lot). No cars will be admitted into the Blue Lot able after a brief 10-minute cooling off period ent time, please contact the Office of Athletic without a proper media parking permit. Please after each home game. Interviews will be con- Media Relations for alternate plans. However, call the Office of Athletic Media Relations and ducted in a designed area inside the Williams due to the rigorous time schedule of preseason request a permit in advance. Football Operation Center, beginning with Coach camp, it is requested that every effort be made Rocco followed by requested players/coaching to conduct interviews following these practice staff member. Media members will be escorted sessions. Game Sideline Policies down on the field by a member of the Athletic The NCAA maintains a strict sideline control Media Relations staff with approximately five Preseason Camp Schedule (All dates in Aug.) policy in an effort to keep the playing area as minutes left in the fourth quarter. After the team 2 – Reporting date clear of people as possible. All sideline photog- leaves the playing field and enters the locker 3 – First practice with no pads raphers must have a clearly visible credential at room, a member of the Athletic Media Relations 5 – First practice in shells all times. All credentials must be arranged in staff will escort the media to the designated 7 – First practice in full pads advance with the Office of Athletic Media interview area. Relations and can be picked up at the Will Call 8 – First two-a-day practice 19 – Liberty Media Day (2:30 p.m.) window at the South Gate. Photographers are Road postgame interviews: 25 – Final preseason camp practice not allowed in the team box at any time. Head coach Danny Rocco and requested play- 27 – First game week practice University personnel will be on the sidelines to ers/member of the coaching staff will be avail- ensure that all credentials are clearly visible and able after a brief 10-minute cooling off period Regular season interview schedule during game week: the team box is clear of any non-team person- after each road game. Coach Rocco and request- Head coach Danny Rocco, members of foot- nel. ed players/member of the coaching staff will be ball coaching staff and players are available for available for interviews outside of the locker

2 2007 LIBERTY FLAMES

Media Information room or in a designated interview area (if one is notes, features and press releases, available). A member of the Athletic Media LibertyFlames.com is the first place to check for 2007 Flames Media Outlets Relations staff will escort the members of the the latest Liberty football news. Electronic Media media to the designated interview area. Flames Online also provides ticket informa- WRVL - FLAMES SPORTS NETWORK tion, links to other great sites, as well as, infor- Jerry Edwards, Station Manager mation on how to listen to live play-by-play broad- WRVL-Radio, Box 25,000 | Lynchburg, VA 24506 Daily Practices casts of every Flames football game. Flames Phone: (434) 582-3688 | Fax: (434) 582-2994 During the season, Liberty practices are con- Online also provides comprehensive coverage of ducted at Williams Stadium. Practices start at Liberty’s 18 intercollegiate athletic sports, as WWMC – THE LIGHT approximately 3:30 p.m., and last for two hours. well as, a complete look at Liberty University Jamie Hall, Station Manager If you wish to attend practice or conduct an Athletic Department. Log on to Flames Online at WWMC – 90.9 FM “The Light” interview following practice, please call the LibertyFlames.com today. 1971 University Blvd. | Lynchburg, VA 24502 Office of Athletic Media Relations to fill your Phone: (434) 582-3691 | Fax: (434) 582-7461 request and verify practice times. WDBJ-TV/CHANNEL 7 Visiting Radio Stations Mike Stevens, Sports Director Liberty University Office of 2807 Hershberger Road NW | Roanoke, VA 24017 Liberty University will have normal phone lines Phone: (540) 344-7000 | Fax: (540) 344-5097 in the press box for use by visiting broadcasters. Athletic Media Relations Originating stations which require ISDN lines Phone: (434) 582-2292 | Fax: (434) 582-2076 WFXR/WJPR-TV/CHANNEL 21/27 must call the Office of Athletic Media Relations 1765 Airport Road | Lynchburg, VA 24502 in advance to order the line. All expenses for Phone: (434) 239-2700 | Fax: (434) 239-4871 ISDN lines will be incurred by the originating sta- tion. Please clear up any questions on equip- WSET-TV/CHANNEL 13 ment prior to game day. All calls must be made Dennis Carter, Sports Director collect or direct dial from the station to the 2320 Langhorne Rd. | Lynchburg, VA 24051 booth. The game day emergency line in case of Phone: (434) 528-1313 | Fax: (434) 847-8800 technical difficulties is (434) 582-4628. WSLS-TV/CHANNEL 10 Flames Sports Network - Radio John Appicello, Sports Director P.O. Box 10 | Roanoke, VA 24022 Every Liberty football game will be carried on Phone: (540) 981-9126 | Fax: (540) 343-2059 the Flames Sports Radio Network. Network broadcasts will be distributed through the WRVL- Print Media Radio facility, located on the Liberty University LIBERTY CHAMPION campus. The flagship station will be WRVL 88.3 Todd Wetmore Ryan Bomberger Assistant AD for Athletic Media Associate Athletic Media Sports Editor FM. Any stations wishing to do so may become a Relations Relations Director 1971 University Blvd. | Lynchburg, VA 24502 part of the Flames Sports Network. Regular SID contact for: SID contact for: Phone: (434) 582-2124 | Fax: (434) 582-2420 game fees will be charged. Contact the Flames Football, softball and wrestling Baseball, men’s and women’s soccer [email protected] and men’s and women’s tennis Sports Network (434) 582-3688 or the Liberty [email protected] LYNCHBURG NEWS AND ADVANCE University Office of Athletic Media Relations TBA, Sports Editor (434) 582-2292 for more information concerning Chris Lang, Beat Writer a reciprocal agreement or about a broadcast 101 Wyndale Drive from the Liberty University campus. P.O. Box 10129 | Lynchburg, VA 24506 Phone: (434) 385-5554 | Fax: (434) 385-5538 Visiting Video RICHMOND TIMES DISPATCH All visiting video personnel for coaches’ shows Sports Editor or for coaching game film must have a credential P.O. Box 85333 | Richmond, VA 23293 to be admitted to the video deck. All video per- Phone: (804) 649-6554 | Fax: (804) 775-8085 sonnel will shoot from the roof of the Williams Stadium press box. All credential arrangements THE ROANOKE TIMES must be made through the Office of Athletic Sports Editor Media Relations in advance. P.O. Box 2491 | Roanoke, VA 24010 Vincent Briedis Paul Carmany Phone: (540) 981-3100 | Fax: (540) 524-4698 LibertyFlames.com Assistant Athletic Media Assistant Athletic Media Relations Director Relations Director Wire Services Liberty’s Flames Online, located at SID contact for: Men’s basketball, SID contact for: Men’s and women’s LibertyFlames.com on the World Wide Web, is an men’s golf and athletic web site cross country/track and field, volley- Associated Press [email protected] ball and women’s basketball Sports Desk interactive online site offering everything for the [email protected] Liberty football fan. From updated statistics, 600 East Main St. | Richmond, VA 23219-2684 player and coach’s profiles, to weekly game Phone: (800) 552-9935 | Fax (800) 357-8525

LibertyFlames.com 3 LIBERTY FLAMES

Flames Sports Network

casters in Central Virginia. In addi- During the coming season, the television tion to his work with the network, extension of FSN will air all six home football Edwards is the general manager of games, a majority of home men’s and women’s WRVL, 88.3 FM Victory Radio, a basketball contests and all home volleyball 50,000-watt FM station located on matches. the Liberty campus. This upcoming year, FSN’s television broad- With the addition of translator cast team will consist of Lee Beaumont (volley- stations, WRVL’s broadcasting ball color commentator), Jamie Hall (women’s signal will soon cover the major basketball color commentator), Ray Jones (foot- metropolitan areas of the state, as ball color commentator, volleyball play-by-play, well as, the Raleigh and men’s and women’s basketball play-by-play) Burlington, N.C., areas. Mike Tilley (football play-by-play) and Tim Joining Edwards on Scarborough (men’s basketball color commenta- the radio broadcast crew is tor) a seasoned group, including The FSN’s television broadcast team consists Paul Rutigliano, Jamie Hall, of trained professionals who have worked for H.J. Owen, Chris Wygal and most of the major sporting networks in the Mark Edwards. After a suc- United States, including ESPN, ABC Sports, CBS cessful first year with the net- Sports, NBC Sports, NASCAR, SportSouth, work, Rutigliano returns to the Comcast and FoxSports. radio booth to provide in-depth FSN’s television broadcasting of Liberty’s analysis as a color commentator. home athletics events is handled through the Rutigliano brings a unique perspec- Liberty Channel, a satellite/cable network offer- Flames Sports Network tive to the network, which includes insight ing family-friendly television. radio crew into the program, as he currently serves as The Liberty Channel can be viewed in the Throughout the 2007-08 school year, during the Flames’ Assistant AD for Football Operations. greater Lynchburg area on most cable systems, the Flames’ football and basketball seasons, Hall, station manager of WRVL’s sister sta- as well as, on the SkyAngel Satellite Network, Liberty athletics fans will be able to catch all the tion, WWMC 90.9 FM “The Light,” returns for his the third-largest satellite network in the United action, home and away, on the Flames Sports 11th year with the network and will once again States, behind DirectTV and DISH Network. Network. serve as a sideline reporter. Owen is entering Liberty athletics will also be broadcast on WDRL- The Flames Sports Network (FSN) is com- his 13th year as the network’s official statisti- TV which covers more than 1.5 million house- prised of both Liberty’s radio and television net- cian and Wygal returns for his sixth year as holds in its footprint. works. FSN has covered Liberty’s athletics FSN’s radio engineer. The newest member to the Anyone looking for more information about teams for the last 27 years, traveling to over 30 radio crew is Mark Edwards, who currently hosts FSN’s television broadcasts or interested in pick- states, and traveling outside the continental Liberty’s pregame tailgating and postgame wrap- ing up the broadcasts via satellite should con- United States to areas such as Alaska, Hawaii, up shows. tact Bruce Carey, Liberty University Assistant Mexico and Puerto Rico. The Flames Sports Network expanded its out- Athletic Director for Television Media, at (434) Liberty athletics has been broadcast over the reach during the 2003-04 season with the addi- 582-2708 or by email at [email protected]. radio airways since 1981, when the Flames tion of television coverage for home men’s and Sports Network was formed. Jerry Edwards was women’s basketball games. hired to handle play-by-play duties for both the football and men’s basketball programs, a posi- tion he maintains to this day. The radio network has had working relation- ships with as many as 12 stations on various occasions over the last three decades. A unique and attractive selling point of the Flames on the radio is the opportunity Liberty University athlet- ics offers to potential sponsors. Sponsors who join FSN have the chance to help market a pro- gram based upon Christian principles, which is fully aligned with the NCAA Division I level of intercollegiate athletics. Heading up the radio network efforts for the 27th-consecutive year will be Edwards. Affectionately known as the “Voice of the Flames,” he has been part of the network staff since its inception, and presently serves as the network director, handling game production and planning. Edwards’ efforts have earned him recognition as one of the finest sports broad-

4 2007 Liberty Flames Football LIBERTY FLAMES

LibertyFlames.com

For the most complete and up-to-date informa- For the eighth-consecutive season, Liberty will also be available each week, giving the Flame tion on the Liberty University Athletics stream live audio coverage for each football fanatic the latest insight into the football pro- Department, log on to the program’s official web game throughout the 2007 season. Fans can gram’s game-day preparation. site – LibertyFlames.com – the best avenue to click on the audio link found on the Football Football is not the only sport covered by find out breaking news on the Flames’ football Game Day Central page and hear Jerry Edwards, LibertyFlames.com. You can access rosters, program. the “Voice of the Flames” for the last 26 years, players and coaches’ bios, statistics and sched- Updated daily, LibertyFlames.com is a premier call the action on the gridiron. ules for each of Liberty’s 18 NCAA Division I- site which provides Liberty fans with the most A new feature debuting on LibertyFlames.com sponsored athletics programs. Fans can catch comprehensive coverage of Liberty’s football this year for football will be the addition of a live up on the latest athletics department news and program on the world wide web. It includes video streaming link. Fans can watch each of notes just by clicking on the numerous links updated rosters, players and coaches’ bios, Liberty’s six home games and all road Big South found on LibertyFlames.com. player features, game releases, statistics, Conference games via The Edge, presented by LibertyFlames.com not only brings you closer schedule, results and so much more. Aeropostale. to the action but also exists to make your life Within the site, the Flame faithful will be able The Edge is a subscription-based service pro- easier. Flame fans can visit LibertyFlames.com to access live audio and video coverage for vided by the Big South where fans can watch live to purchase tickets or find information about joining the Liberty University Flames Club, the Liberty’s football games throughout the 2007 video streaming for football, men’s and women’s athletics department’s booster club. season. basketball games, conference championship LibertyFlames.com is the only place family, Returning for its second season as a feature events and select Olympic sport contests friends and fans of the Liberty University on LibertyFlames.com will be Liberty’s Football throughout the 2007-08 season. Athletics Department need to go to get the Game Day Central. The expansive web page pro- Throughout a normal game week, Liberty fans newest sports information on the Flames. Your vides Liberty fans with virtually everything they will also find unique items to better prepare latest updates are just a click of the mouse need to prepare for the upcoming game. The them for the pending contest, including head away – visit LibertyFlames.com today! web page includes links to both teams’ rosters, coach Danny Rocco’s weekly Tuesday afternoon updated stats, weekly game notes and more. press conference and his postgame analysis. LIBERTYFLAMES.COM Select player and coaching staff interviews will THE NO. 1 ONLINE DESTINATION FOR LIBERTY ATHLETICS

LibertyFlames.com 5 The city of Lynchburg was founded in October 1786, George Washington in 1750, when he etched his initials as Monument Terrace when it was granted its charter. Named after its founder, the site’s first surveyor. Located in downtown Lynchburg is a 139-step staircase John Lynch, the city is located in the heart of Virginia, nes- which honors veterans from Lynchburg who fought and died tled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is locat- Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest Retreat for our nation in various wars. ed on the south bank of the James River, in a region rich in Situated less than eight miles from Liberty’s campus is history, culture and outdoor recreational opportunities. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest Retreat in Forest, Va. Civil War Nicknamed the “Hill City,” Lynchburg is one of the old- Located 60 miles from his famous Monticello home, Poplar June 17-18, 1864, served as a two-day, inconclusive, est cities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is built on Forest was an important part of Jefferson’s life – a private bloody battle within the city of Lynchburg which spilled into seven hills, creating spectacular vistas and a unique retreat, situated far from the public scrutiny and demands nearby Bedford (originally named Liberty). Over 3,000 municipal layout. Lynchburg was ranked “Second Best on his time. In 1806, while he was President, Jefferson Confederate dead are buried in the Old Confederate Small City” by Money Magazine and included in the Top 50 directed the masons in laying the foundation for the Cemetery located near the center of town. “Best Places to Raise a Family” by Reader’s Digest. dwelling, which is considered his most personal architec- Lynchburg is also one of the safest communities in the tural creation and landscape. The retreat is a place where Appomattox Court House nation (ranked seventh safest according to the FBI), offer- he came to find rest and leisure, to rekindle his creativity Roughly 25 miles from Liberty’s campus, Appomattox ing the comfort of feeling secure wherever you go. and to enjoy private time with his family. Court House, the historic site where our nation was reunit- With a population of approximately 64,000, Lynchburg ed when Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant, proper is considerably smaller than many metropolitan sub- Lynchburg Hillcats Baseball Club ending the Civil War. urbs. The city and five surrounding counties represent a Professional baseball was first played in Lynchburg in population of more than 222,000, in a region of remark- 1886, and the city has had a franchise on a regular basis National D-Day Memorial able diversity, industry and historic significance. since 1939. The Lynchburg Hillcats, a member of the The National D-Day Memorial is in nearby Bedford, a Carolina League and the Class “A” affiliate of the community which suffered the most severe casualties per In and Around Lynchburg Pittsburgh Pirates, is the city’s current franchise. The capita during the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. Hillcats play on Calvin Falwell Field at Lynchburg City Natural Bridge Stadium, and the city boasts over 500 players and coaches One of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the who have gone to “The Show,” including Darryl Strawberry, Natural Bridge is higher than Niagara Falls, was formerly Aramis Ramirez, Bronson Arroyo and Dwight Gooden. owned by Thomas Jefferson and its rock was carved by

6 2007 Liberty Flames Football Lynchburg To: Miles Hrs. Tusculum – Greeneville, Tenn. 256 4:25 Shippensburg – Shippensburg, Pa. 238 4:15 William & Mary – Williamsburg, Va. 170 2:45 Elon – Elon, N.C. 109 2:15 St. Francis – Loretto, Pa. 312 7:25 Toledo – Toledo, Ohio 576 9:25 Charleston Southern - Charleston, S.C. 410 7:00 Presbyterian – Clinton, S.C. 312 5:25 Coastal Carolina – Conway, S.C. 295 6:00 VMI - Lexington, Va. 75 1:30 Gardner-Webb – Boiling Springs, N.C. 250 4:30 To Lynchburg:

FROM 29 NORTH (from Danville, Va.) - Take 29 North to Lynchburg. After passing the Lynchburg Regional Airport on left, take the 460 East exit. Go one mile to the Liberty University exit. Go straight through stop sign onto the Liberty University cam- pus.

FROM 29 SOUTH (from Charlottesville, Va.) - Take 29 Business South to Lynchburg. Take the second Candler's Mountain Road exit. Take a right at the second light. Take another right at the second light onto University Blvd. Go a 1/2 mile to Liberty University.

FROM 460 EAST (from Roanoke, Va.) - Take 460 East to Lynchburg. Take the Liberty University exit. Go straight through stop sign onto the Liberty University campus. Go a 1/4 mile to Liberty University.

FROM 460 WEST (from Richmond, Va.) - Take 460 West to Lynchburg. Take the Candler's Mountain Road/Liberty University exit. Take a left at the first light onto University Blvd. Go a 1/4 mile to Liberty University.

FROM I-95 (from Richmond, Va.) - Take 64 West to Charlottesville, and then take 29 South from Charlottesville to Lynchburg. (See above directions from 29 South)

Flames Diamond Other Sleep Inn LU Dining Services Shakers Hotel Property 3620 Candlers Mountain Road 1971 University Boulevard 3401 Candlers Mountain Road Holiday Inn Select (434) 846-6900 (434) 582-2247 (434) 847-7425 601 Main Street Extended Stay America (434) 528-2500 Flames Diamond Dining Property Panera Bread Sundae Grill 1910 University Boulevard 3911 Wards Road 3700 Candlers Mountain Road (434) 239-8863 Ramada Inn Applebee’s (434) 239-6992 (434) 846-5076 3436 Odd Fellows Road 3624 Candlers Mountain Road Flames Preferred Hotel Property (434) 847-7500 (434) 528-2626 Ryan’s Steakhouse Other 2623 Wards Road Days Inn Big South Conference Chick-fil-A (434) 237-5069 McDonald’s 3320 Candlers Mountain Road Local Choice Hotels 4003 Wards Road 2135 Wards Road: (434) 847-8655 (434) 239-2557 Taco Bell (434) 239-7852 (Call 877-240-2929 to receive 2210 Wards Road 4030 Wards Road: Kirkley Hotel 15% discount – Crown Sterling (434) 237-3965 (434) 237-5623 2900 Candlers Mountain Road LU Code #00211890) 6120 Fort Avenue River Ridge Mall: (434) 237-6333 (434) 239-7744 Flames Preferred Dining Property (434) 237-4216 Comfort Inn Wingate Rt. 29 & Odd Fellows Road Golden Corral Dairy Queen Sonic Drive-In 3777 Candlers Mountain Road (434) 847-9041 4005 Wards Road 8021 Timberlake Road 3805 Wards Road (434) 845-1700 (434) 832-6440 (434) 237-7030 (434) 832-8122

LibertyFlames.com 7 In centuries gone by, "liberty" was just a concept - an idea feared by tyrants and dreamed of by the opposed. In more recent history, "liberty" became a cause and a deeply held belief worth fighting and dying for. Today, Liberty University has become a place where students call home … where people dare to dream big dreams and then work to see those dreams come to pass … where old-fashioned values and morality still survive and thrive in a world which appears to have forgotten the meaning of the word … where the undeniable Truth of the Ages still reigns supreme … where the whole person is edu- cated - body, mind and soul … a place where you can learn, grow and achieve wholeness as you become all God created you to be. The Mission To produce Christ-centered men and women with the values, knowledge and skills required to impact tomorrow's world … the mission is carried out for resident students, through both undergraduate and graduate programs, through a rigorous academic program and structured social environment … also, it is carried out externally for students who can't make the trek to the campus in a comparable aca- demic program but without the structure of the resi- dent community, through a distance learning pro- gram. A Brief History For more than 36 years, Liberty University has produced graduates with the values, knowledge and skills required to impact the world. Founded by Dr. Jerry Falwell and Dr. Elmer Towns in 1971, Liberty University is a private, coeducational, undergraduate and graduate institution. The University offers over 60 programs of study that contribute to the University’s standing as the world’s largest distinc- tively Christian, academically excellent and spiritually vibrant institution. The 5,000-acre campus serves over 25,000 resident and external students with a diverse student body made up of individuals from all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and 81 nations. Liberty is truly a representation of what God can do with a dream and a heart that desires to honor Him. Location Situated in Lynchburg, Va., Liberty University is nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and located on the south bank of the his- toric James River, in a region rich in history, culture and outdoor recreational opportunities. Liberty University Faculty Liberty University’s over 350 full-time and more than 300 part-time faculty are committed to engag- ing with students in the challenge of exploring vital links between faith and learning. There are over 450 institutions of higher learning represented among this impressive group. Liberty’s commitment to personalized education also ensures that the student-to-professor ratio is nicely balanced at 25:1. Degree Programs In higher education, the principal means of ensur- ing quality is accreditation by a recognized accredit- ing body or agency. Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), and nationally accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). Additionally, a number of spe- cific programs are approved by accrediting and licensing bodies for specific disciplines (i.e. our nursing, sport management and education pro- grams). SACS and TRACS, in turn, are both recog- nized accrediting bodies by the United States Department of Education. Spiritual Life The Spiritual Life Department prepares students to make a global impact for the glory of God - wher- ever He leads them. Life-changing campus church and convocation services connect students with their Creator through passionate worship and powerful Biblical messages custom designed for this collegiate generation. These services give Liberty students first-hand encounters with the most influential Christians on the planet. Each semester the Campus Pastor’s Office per- sonally trains over 1,000 student leaders who are the catalysts for the positive peer pressure and Biblical community which is the glue of Liberty University. Each year, these student leaders minis- ter personally to their peers and commit to love, pray for, pray with and personally disciple every stu- dent on campus. Every student’s relationship with Christ is a priority. Light Ministries facilitates Liberty’s global vision by providing dozens of opportunities each year for the Liberty community to participate in cross-cultural missions experiences. Already over 7,000 students have boarded planes to take the Gospel of Jesus Christ to over three million people. The Spiritual Life Department is radically commit- ted to aligning the Liberty community with the Great Commandment and Great Commission of Jesus Christ. As the spiritual fires are sparked in hearts - Spiritual Life fans the flame.

10 2007 Liberty Flames Football NOTABLE SPEAKERS ...... Bobby Bowden ...... Current member of the NFL’s Florida State Head Football Coach ...... George Bush ...... Former NFL player 41st President of the United States Lee Guetterman ...... George W. Bush ...... Former Major League Baseball player 43rd President of the United States Aaron Horton ...... Newt Gingrich ...... Member of the band Escape Velocity Former Speaker of the House Angela Elwell Hunt ...... Reverend Billy Graham ...... Award-winning author Evangelist Mark Lowry ...... Sean Hannity ...... Christian comedian and vocalist Host of Fox News’ Hannity & Colmes Kevin Max ...... Jesse Helms ...... Grammy Award Winning Member of dc Talk Former Senator Jody McBrayer ...... Tim LaHaye ...... Member of Christian vocal group Avalon Sean Hannity Best-Selling Co-Author of the “Left Behind” series Toby McKeehan ...... Fox News John McCain ...... Grammy Award Winning Member of dc Talk/ Senator (R-Arizona) Platinum Solo Recording Artist (tobyMac) Newt Gingrich Ronald Reagan ...... James McKnight ...... Former Speaker of the House 40th President of the United States Former NFL player Clarence Thomas ...... Julius Nwosu ...... Supreme Court Justice Former NBA player Rick Warren ...... Tony Perkins ...... Best-Selling Author of “A Purpose-Driven Life” President of Family Research Council/Former Louisiana State Representative NOTABLE ALUMNI Adrian Smith ...... Peter Aluma ...... Senator (R-Nebraska) Senator John McCain Former NBA player Michael Tait ...... Sid Bream ...... Grammy Award Winning Member of dc Talk R-Arizona Former Major League Baseball player Randy Tomlin ...... Katie Feenstra ...... Former Major League Baseball player Current member of the WNBA’s Detroit Shock

Siid Brream

TobyMac Platinum Selling Recording Artist Katiie Feenstra Senator Adriian Smiith R-Nebraska

DC Talk Samkon Gado Four-Time Grammy Award Winning Recording Artists

LibertyFlames.com 11 Academic Affairs for Athletics

Liberty student-athletes continue to score high marks in the classroom, as well as on the playing field due to the efforts of the Liberty University Academic Affairs for Athletics Department. Equipped with facilities at the , Williams Football Operations Center and the Hancock Athletic Center, student-athletes have convenient locations to utilize the staff and resources. Student-athletes receive everything from computer use and tutorial services to lessons on study skills, time management and organizational skills.

Liberty’s NCAA Divison I CoSIDA Academic All-Americans 2006-07 Big South Presidential

JASON BENHAM HEATHER SAGAN Honor Roll - Football Members Third-Team (Baseball) First-Team (Track/Cross Country) Steven Ackley 1998 2002 Jonathan Brummel Michael Corral KRISTIN COLSON KRISTAL THARP Chuck Duffey Second-Team (Volleyball) Second-Team (Women’s Basketball) Colin Dugan 2005 2005 Mike Godsil Jay Cline Ryan Greiser Second-Team (Football) 2005 HOLLY DEEM CATHY WILLIAMS Matt Lambros Third-Team (Track) Third-Team (Cross Country) Derek Lisko 1998 1998 Donald Manns Josh Musselman JENNIFER HODGES ARLENE ZELINSKAS Jason Myers Third-Team (Women's Soccer) Second-Team (Track) Kyle O’Donnell 1999 2007 Dan Pope Nate Revell DANIELLE MCNANEY Kevin Richard First-Team (Track) Chris Rocco Jarrod Everson 2005 Jordan Spaeth First-Team (Football) 1998 Second-Team (Track) Richard Thom Second-Team (Football) 1997 2004 Soeren Wendland

12 2007 Liberty Flames Football Academic Affairs for CHAMPS / Life Skills Athletics Staff The mission of the NCAA is to maintain lenge, athletic teams competed against intercollegiate athletics as one another and earned points an integral part of the based on participation campus educational as well as program and the stu- accomplishment dent-athlete as an inte- in Academic gral part of the student Excellence, body. With this in mind, Athletic the CHAMPS/Life Performance, Skills Program was Personal & Team created to support the student Enhancement and SAAC development initiatives of its member Communication. Kristie Beitz institutions and to enhance the quality Additionally, the Academic Affairs for Associate Athletic Director for Academic Affairs of the student-athlete experience within Athletics Department designs work- the university setting. shops and seminars each year for During the 2006-07 student-athletes, which focus on aca- academic year, Liberty demics, personal aware- University’s Academic Affairs ness, career planning, for Athletics Department diversity training and launched the Flames ALL financial responsibility. Teams Competition. In this chal-

STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SAAC) The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a body of student-athletes (two representa- tives from each athletic team), cheerleaders and student trainers who have been selected by the Liberty Athletics Administration, coaches and student-athletes. SAAC provides its members an Andy Coleman environment to express opinions, concerns and new ideas which could enhance the student-ath- Director of Academics for Football letes’ experience at Liberty. The committee also offers student-athletes an opportunity to have a more personal relationship with members of the athletics department administration and the community by assisting local charities and community programs.

Tanya Payne of the Liberty women’s soccer team was selected for the 2007-08 academic year to be the Big South Representative to the NCAA Division I National SAAC. She is the first Liberty student-athlete to be voted by all Big South schools to serve in this function. She will travel to the NCAA national convention and rep- resent the all Big South student-athletes when voting on legislation. Tanya Payne

Laurie Gulluscio Academic Coordinator for Olympic Sports Director of CHAMP Life Skills

Buck Romero Director of Academics for Basketball

LibertyFlames.com 13 Strength and Conditioning

The football program utilizes a brand-new weight tioning coach. “This facility shows a representation complex in the Williams Football Operations Center. of Liberty University and its commitment to excel- Opened in Jan. 2007, this 16,000-square foot lence for its athletics programs.” weight facility is a state-of-the-art workout area, Liberty athletics will be ahead of the curve in boasting 24 custom-made strength and conditioning with module units which can this facility. The facility is built be used for but are not for the future and designed limited to cleans, bench for the program to grow. Five and squat. years from now, the nuances These modules were of the facility will begin to developed for the first become commonplace for time for Liberty football. top-flight NCAA Division I The power racks have programs. over 500 holes in them The facility maximizes to give the Liberty ath- money and space. The power lete unprecedented racks also include a spot for choices to work the pre- dumb bells for the student- cise body area they want athletes’ convenience. The to exercise. Power racks spacious complex includes available on the market everything from cardio now only have 80 holes machines to weighted vests and limit the training of the athlete. for plyometrics, giving the student-athlete the very “This is the best football weight room in America,” best equipment to train with. said Bill Gillespie, Liberty’s head strength and condi-

14 2007 Liberty Flames Football Strength and Conditioning Staff

Bill Gillespie Head Strength & Conditioning Coordinator

Dave Williams Associate Strength & Conditioning Coordinator

The Liberty Flames Strength & Conditioning program is headed by world-renowned weightlifter Bill Gillespie who brings NFL and Pac-10 experience to “The Mountain.”

Anne Goudeau Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach

Blaine McCorkle Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach

Shane Miller Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach

LibertyFlames.com 15 Sports Medicine

The student-athlete at Liberty University has the luxury of Field House at Williams Stadium, located at the south end of having one of the most dedicated sports medicine teams in the the football complex, the Hancock Athletic Center, the Vines country. The staff is headed by Chris Casola, Head Athletic Center and the Crowder-Muckel Fieldhouse, neighboring Trainer, who oversees medical care for the Flames football Worthington Stadium. team. Madeline Bosek, Jesse Cops, Barry Finke, Scott Lawrenson, Aaron Schreiner, Jessica Stephens and Steve Woof Williams Football Operations Center Training Room are Athletic Certified Trainers Quick Facts: (ATC) serving as Assistant Athletic Trainers under • 3,200-square foot training Casola. In conjunction with room services available through • Two plunge pools team physicians, Dr. Gregg • Hydroworks underwater Albers and Dr. Richard Lane treadmill at Light Medical, the Liberty • Doctor’s exam room University Athletic Training offices staff utilizes two hospitals, • Top of the line modalities Lynchburg General Hospital - Heat and Virginia Baptist, for any - Cold emergency or general med- - Compression ical needs. Liberty is also for- - Electrical stimulation tunate to have team orthopeadic services from Central Virginia - Ultrasound Orthopaedics along with assistance and consultation from - LASER and Rehab Associates of Central Virginia. cervical/lumbar Housed in the beautiful 3,200-square foot Football Training traction table Room located in the Football Operations Center, the main ath- letic training room is a modern facility complete with the latest equipment. Satellite athletic training rooms are located in the

16 2007 Liberty Flames Football Sports Medicine Staff

Chris Casola Head Athletic Trainer

Madeline Bosek Assistant Athletic Trainer

Jesse Cops Assistant Athletic Trainer

Barry Finke Assistant Athletic Trainer

Scott Lawrenson Assistant Athletic Trainer

Aaron Schreiner Assistant Athletic Trainer

Jessica Stephens Assistant Athletic Trainer

Steve Woof Assistant Athletic Trainer

LibertyFlames.com 17 not permitted to contact a prospect (or members of the prospect’s family) by letter, telephone or in-person (on or off-campus) for the purpose of soliciting their participation in the athletic program. Liberty faculty members are permit- ted to have contact with the prospects, but only while on the campus during Athletics Compliance unofficial visits or off-campus, in the locale of the institution, when a prospect is on an official visit. Liberty University’s Athletics Compliance Office monitors and verifies compli- A prospect remains a prospect even after he or she signs a Letter of Intent ance with all NCAA, Big South Conference and University requirements. The or financial aid agreement to attend the University. The prospect does not office educates not only the athletics staff, administration and student-ath- lose his/her prospect status until the start of classes at Liberty or the begin- letes, but also University faculty, staff and administration as well as other indi- ning of official team practice prior to the start of classes. viduals and entities with athletics interests. Liberty University is committed and compelled to the principle of institutional The prohibition of contact with a prospect is intended to relate to unavoid- control in the operation of its athletics department in a way that is constantly able incidental contacts with a prospect by representatives of a member within the rules and regulations of the NCAA, Big South Conference and the institution’s athletics interest. It is understood that such a contact is not pre- University. As the University strives for excellence on and off the field of compe- arranged by the athletics representative or an athletics department staff mem- tition, the highest regard for ethical conduct must also be sought. In order for ber; is not made for the purpose of recruitment of the prospect; and involves the athletics department to exist, outside participation is required and must be only normal civility. For example, if you meet a high school student or junior col- emphasized. Any inappropriate activity outside the rules and regulations of the lege student-athlete, you can talk with them about anything except Liberty ath- NCAA could jeopardize student-athletes’ eligibility to compete athletically. letics. If you are attending a public function and find yourself talking to the par- Everyone involved inside or outside the University must do his or her part in ents of a prospect, you can talk about anything that doesn’t relate to the ath- order to foster an environment that is supportive of the NCAA operating princi- letics department. ple of competitive equity. Each person has a role and responsibility, which includes accountability and integrity when it comes to compliance with NCAA If a student-athlete accepts any benefits or special consideration based on rules and regulations. The communication process is a must when it comes to his or her status as an athlete or because of athletic skill, the student-ath- understanding how each person fits within the structure of the NCAA’s rules lete will lose all eligibility for intercollegiate athletic participation. Do not do and regulations. anything for prospective or enrolled student-athletes without specific authoriza- If you have any questions regarding NCAA rules and regulations, especially tion from the Liberty Athletics Compliance Office. those dealing with prospects and student-athletes, please contact the athletics compliance office. Liberty’s athletic programs need your help and support, so Representatives of athletics interests are reminded that NCAA rules regard- please cooperate to ensure the success of Flames Athletics, on and off the ing enrolled student-athletes remain in effect throughout the entire year, field. including summer breaks. When student-athletes complete their final season of eligibility, they must abide by NCAA rules until the end of that academic year If you have a question about NCAA rules and your interaction with Liberty and/or until they are no longer receiving athletics financial aid. coaches, student-athletes or staff please contact. Interaction with boosters and Liberty MIKE HAGEN Director of Compliance Athletics Compliance Office student-athletes Liberty University 1971 University Blvd. It’s easy to form a relationship with Liberty student-athletes as you cheer Lynchburg, VA 24502 them on and watch them compete. Building these types of relationships is not (434) 582-2100 only fun for fans but also important in the lives of student-athletes. In an effort [email protected] to make sure that the eligibility of every student-athlete is not harmed, please look over these few guidelines for what can and can not be provided to a stu- dent-athlete, and remember that if you have any questions, please contact the “Five Rules of Athletics Compliance” Liberty Athletics Compliance Office. Only coaches and athletics department staff members are permitted to be involved in the recruiting process. Alumni, friends and “other representatives What a booster can do: of athletics interest, i.e. “boosters” who are not employed by the University are Provide summer employment to a student-athlete, provided he/she is paid the going rate and only for work actually performed. Provide a meal to a student-athlete or the team at their home (not a restaurant). They can also provide a ride to their home for the meal.

What a booster cannot provide a student-athlete (just to name a few): Give a gift of clothing or equipment. Provide free or reduced housing costs. Give cash or co-sign on loans. Arrange for employment of a relative. Provide rentals or purchases of any type. Provide use of a car. Pay the costs for a student-athlete’s friends or family to visit campus. Free medical or professional services. Provide free use of a phone for long-distance calls. Provide funds for entertainment of an athlete, their friends or relatives.

This page was prepared by the Liberty Athletic Compliance Office to assist alumni, student-athletes, boosters and friends in complying with NCAA rules and regulations governing the conduct of the Liberty University Athletics Program.

18 2007 Liberty Flames Football