Diamond Dawgs Debut At No. 7 In Preseason Ranking

UGA Sports Communications

The University of Georgia makes its debut at No. 7 in Collegiate Baseball’s Fabulous 40 preseason baseball poll presented by Big League Chew bubble gum.

Georgia is in its seventh year under Ike Cousins head baseball coach Scott Stricklin. The Bulldogs welcome back 20 returning lettermen and 16 newcomers. Georgia returns seven starting position players including a pair of 2019 draft picks in Gold Glove Award-winning shortstop Cam Shepherd and infielder/outfielder Riley King. Also, several key components of the pitching staff are back including projected first round draft prospects Emerson Hancock and Cole Wilcox. Georgia’s No. 7 preseason ranking is its best in the preseason since 2009 when it was No. 4.

Louisville was chosen as the preseason No. 1 ranked team for 2020 after going 51-18 and finishing third last year at the College World Series. Five teams from the Southeastern Conference are in the 2020 preseason top 10, the most of any league in the nation. They include No. 2 Vanderbilt, No. 6 Mississippi State, No. 7 Georgia, No. 8 Auburn and No. 9 Arkansas while LSU came in at No. 11.

The 2019 Dawgs earned a consensus final top 20 national ranking after going 46-17 including a school record mark of 21-9 in the SEC. Also, Georgia was a national No. 4 seed and for the second straight year played host to an NCAA Regional to cap its finest year in a decade.

The Collegiate Baseball newspaper poll is the oldest college baseball poll. Its birth took place during the 1959 college baseball season. The 2020 Dawg season begins Feb. 14 with a three-game series against Richmond at Foley Field.

Circle of Honor to Add Five Members at Friday Gala

UGA Sports Information

Fourteen-time NCAA champion swimmer Mary DeScenza, track standout Hyleas Fountain — who won four NCAA individual titles in just two years — football greats George Poschner and Hines Ward, and national championship-winning baseball coach Steve Webber will be inducted formally during the Circle of Honor Gala this Friday at the West End Zone facility Sanford Stadium.

Additional honorees at the Friday gala include Bill Hartman Award recipient John Mangan, Circle of Distinction inductee Bill Griffith, as well as national champions and other special honorees from the 2018 calendar year.

The Circle of Honor is designed to pay tribute to extraordinary student-athletes and coaches who by their performance and conduct have brought honor to the university and themselves, and who by their actions have contributed to the tradition of the Dawgs. The criteria for selection also stipulate that each recipient has earned his or her academic degree.

Mary Descenza

In the storied tradition of Georgia women's swimming and diving, DeScenza ranks among the very best. A four-year letterwinner from 2003-06, she won the maximum possible number of All-America honors (28) and was the nation's top collegiate butterfly racer during her time. She won the Honda Award — given annually to the nation's top female collegian in 12 different sports — for the 2005-06 school year.

The Aurora, Illinois, native won the NCAA title in the 200-yard butterfly in each of her four seasons at UGA. She won the NCAA 100-yard fly championships in her final two years. Additionally, she swam legs on eight relay teams that captured national championships. On the conference level, DeScenza won 15 SEC titles, nine individually and six others as a relay team member.

DeScenza has held American records in Short Course Yards, Short Course Meters, Long Course Meters in the 200 butterfly, as well as a share of the record in the Short Course Yards 400 freestyle relay.

DeScenza earned her degree in Biology from UGA in 2007.

Hyleas Fountain

Fountain made quite an impression during her two seasons on the UGA track & field team (2003-04). The Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, native captured four NCAA individual championships, both as a multi-event star and a long jumper.

Fountain transferred to UGA after winning five junior college national titles for Barton Community College in Kansas. She continued her success at Georgia, winning the NCAA heptathlon championship in the 2003 outdoor meet. The next year, Fountain won the 2004 NCAA indoor long jump title and later that spring took first place in both the long jump and pentathlon at the NCAA outdoor meet.

A five-time USA Outdoor multi-event champion, Fountain remained competitive after her collegiate career. She won the heptathlon competition at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials and ultimately won the silver medal at the Olympic Games in Beijing.

George Poschner

A native of Youngstown, Ohio, and a high school teammate of UGA great Frank Sinkwich, Poschner earned letters as an end on three Georgia teams from 1940-42. He earned first-team All-America honors, as well as All-SEC first team, after the national championship season of 1942.

A key victory for Georgia during the 1942 season was a 21-10 come-from-behind win over Alabama. Poschner caught two fourth-quarter touchdown passes from his friend Sinkwich to lead the Dawgs to victory. Georgia closed out the season by defeating UCLA 9-0 in the Rose Bowl and claiming the national championship, the first in program history.

Poschner earned even greater distinction after his graduation from UGA in 1943. Enlisting in the Army, he earned a Purple Heart, Bronze Star and the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions in combat during the Battle of the Bulge in January of 1945. Shot in the head by a German sniper, Poschner lay in a snow drift for three days before being discovered by a U.S. graves registration unit. By the time he was evacuated, however, he had become so badly frostbitten that doctors amputated both of his legs, as well as the fingers in his right hand.

A member of the Georgia Sports (1982) and Orange Bowl (1985) Halls of Fame, Poschner passed away in 2004 at the age of 85.

Hines Ward

In an age of specialization, Hines Ward excelled as a versatile offensive weapon during his four years as a Dawg (1994-97).

Ward touched the ball 515 times during 42 career games at Georgia: 203 times rushing, 144 receiving, 71 passing and another 48 times as a kick returner. He averaged 9.3 yards over each of those touches and accounted for 20 touchdowns.

A native of Rex, Georgia, and a product of Forest Park High School, Ward earned All-SEC first-team honors after his senior season of 1997, when the Dawgs went 10-2 and defeated Wisconsin in the Outback Bowl. He saw action primarily as a receiver and caught 55 passes for 715 yards and six touchdowns. He also set the school record for receptions in a bowl game when he pulled in 12 passes for 122 yards against the Badgers.

Ward was selected in the third round of the 1997 NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He went on to be selected to four Pro Bowls, was a member of two Super Bowl champion teams, and earned MVP honors in Super Bowl 40 in 2006. Ward remains the Steelers' all-time leading receiver with 1,000 catches for 12,083 yards and 85 touchdowns.

Steve Webber

Steve Webber is the winningest baseball coach in Georgia history with 500 victories between 1981 and 1996. His teams averaged 32 victories per season over 16 years.

A native Iowan and graduate of Southern Illinois University, Webber led the Dawg baseball team to its greatest moment to date — the 1990 NCAA championship, defeating Oklahoma State, 2-1, in the College World Series finals. At the time, Georgia became the first SEC program to win the national title in baseball. Ten teams have won the crown subsequently. The 1990 trip to Omaha was Georgia's second under Webber's guidance. His 1987 team won the SEC regular-season title and also earned a spot in the College World Series.

Webber is one of only six head coaches that have played in a College World Series and later coached a College World Series National Championship team. He was named SEC Coach of the Year in 1987 and consensus National Coach of the Year in 1990.

Webber's induction into the Circle of Honor will place him into a small group of unique distinction. He will become just the fifth among all 79 inductees that are not UGA alumni. This group includes Dick Copas, men's golf coach (inducted in 2006); Vince Dooley, head football coach and athletic director (inducted in 2004); Liz Murphey, women's golf coach and senior women's administrator (inducted in 2001); and Suzanne Yoculan, women's gymnastics coach (inducted in 2014).

Trio of Dawgs Named Preseason All-SEC

UGA Sports Communications

University of Georgia junior Aaron Schunk, senior LJ Talley and redshirt sophomore Mason Meadows have been named to the preseason All-Southeastern Conference baseball squad while the Dawgs were picked third in the Eastern Division by league coaches, the SEC announced Thursday.

Schunk, a two-way standout as an infielder and closer, made the first team as a third baseman and the second team as a utility player. Meadows and Talley were second team selections at catcher and second base. Last month, Schunk earned preseason All-America recognition from Baseball America. In 2018, Schunk batted .299 with three home runs, 12 doubles and 38 RBI plus had a 22-game hitting streak. On the mound, he posted eight saves while going 2-2 with a 3.00 ERA in 30 innings with five walks and 31 strikeouts. Meadows, a Freshman All-America selection last year, hit .289-3-25 and set a school record fielding percentage by a catcher at .998. Talley, a three-year starter who owns the school record for best fielding percentage by a second baseman in a season, enjoyed a career year in 2018, batting .276-6-30. All three Dawgs are annual members of the SEC Academic Honor Roll.

Vanderbilt, preseason ranked as high as No. 1 nationally, was predicted to win the 2019 SEC as voted by the league’s 14 baseball coaches. Georgia, preseason ranked as high as No. 9 by D1Baseball.com, was picked to finish third in the Eastern Division behind the Commodores and Florida. LSU was picked to win the Western Division. The Commodores, Gators and Tigers all visit Foley Field this year.

Coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team or players. For the team voting, points were compiled on a 7-6-5-4-3-2-1 basis for each division. Each coach also voted for one team as an overall conference champion. Conference play will begin Friday, March 15. Eight SEC teams are ranked in at least one poll to begin the 2019 campaign. An NCAA-record 10 SEC teams qualified for NCAA Regionals in 2018 with six making a Super Regional and three advancing to the College World Series.

The Dawgs, under the direction of Ike Cousins head baseball coach Scott Stricklin, are a consensus top 15 team in the 2019 preseason rankings. Georgia opens the season Friday, Feb. 15 with a series against Dayton at Foley Field. Season tickets are available to purchase now online at www.georgiadogs.com.

2019 SEC Baseball Coaches Preseason Poll

Eastern Division

1. Vanderbilt (9) – 87

2. Florida (4) - 81

3. Georgia (1) – 68

4. South Carolina – 53

5. Tennessee – 40

6. Kentucky – 30

7. Missouri – 26

Western Division

1. LSU (10) – 88

2. Ole Miss (1) – 65

3. Arkansas (1) – 59

4. Auburn (1) – 57

5. Texas A&M (1) – 48

6. Mississippi State – 47

7. Alabama – 21

() – First place votes


SEC Champion: Vanderbilt (6), LSU (5), Florida (2), Arkansas (1)

2019 SEC Baseball Coaches Preseason All-SEC Team

First Team

C: Philip Clarke, Vanderbilt

1B: Cole Zabowski, Ole Miss

2B: Austin Martin, Vanderbilt*

2B: Noah Campbell, South Carolina*

3B: Aaron Schunk, Georgia

SS: Casey Martin, Arkansas

OF: Heston Kjerstad, Arkansas

OF: Dominic Fletcher, Arkansas

OF: Jake Mangum, Mississippi State

DH/UTL: T.J. Collett, Kentucky

SP: Tanner Burns, Auburn

SP: Zack Thompson, Kentucky

RP: Matt Cronin, Arkansas

Second Team

C: Mason Meadows, Georgia

1B: Tanner Allen, Mississippi State

2B: LJ Talley, Georgia

3B: Tyler Keenan, Ole Miss

SS: Braden Shewmake, Texas A&M

OF: JJ Bleday, Vanderbilt

OF: Antoine Duplantis, LSU

OF: Daniel Cabrera, LSU

DH/UTL: Aaron Schunk, Georgia*

DH/UTL: Chase Cockrell, Ole Miss*

SP: John Doxakis, Texas A&M

SP: Tyler Dyson, Florida

RP: Parker Caracci, Ole Miss

*Tie (ties are not broken)

Athletics Board Convenes for Fall Meeting

UGA Sports Communications

The University of Georgia Athletic Association Board of Directors held its Fall meeting Friday on the UGA campus to discuss both financial and athletic matters.

In a wide-ranging Athletic Director's report, J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Greg McGarity first reflected on the newfound enthusiasm within the overall athletics program. The success of Dawg teams in 2018 — leading to an 8th-place finish in the Learfield Director’s Cup — has helped to make UGA the preferred destination for more and more prospective student-athletes. Along with Georgia’s popularity will come UGA’s continued responsibility to educate and train these young student-athletes, McGarity said.

McGarity also touched on the following additional topics in his report:

> Reflections on the West End Zone dedication that took place Friday. Completion of the $63 million project was the culmination of a joint venture that involved many and varied entities. Most prominent among those mentioned included head coach Kirby Smart and the football staff; the UGA Office of University Architects for Facilities Planning; Deputy Athletic Director Josh Brooks and his Operations staff; and the contractors that contributed work to the project.

> Acknowledgement of the many facility enhancements that have touched nearly every athletic program at UGA in the past decade. Over $167 million in improvements to UGA’s athletic facilities have taken place during this time period, funded by a combination of donations and UGA reserves.

> Recognition of UGAAA’s nutrition program, its growth since the addition of a single staffer in 2011, and the total investment (over $3.6 million annually) in the food and nutritional supplying of Georgia’s student-athletes.

> The improvements in UGA’s fundraising and donor relations, resulting in a record-setting fiscal year 2018, in which over $80 million was raised. McGarity also announced the promotion of Matt Borman, who has directed UGA’s athletic fundraising since December of 2016, to Deputy Director of Athletics.

McGarity then requested approval to allocate $3.1 million of operating reserves to begin construction on a new Equestrian Clubhouse at the team’s complex in Bishop, Georgia, 10 miles south of Athens. The 7,000-square foot facility will provide fully equipped locker room and dressing facilities, a 70-seat team meeting room, sports medicine space, uniform storage and laundry facilities as well as coaches’ space, including an office suite and locker room.

The Equestrian Clubhouse must clear authorization from the USG Board of Regents at its October 2018 meeting – after first serving as an informational item in its September meeting – before construction can begin in December. The projected date of completion for this project is January of 2020.

McGarity also reported that an architect has been chosen to begin designs on another facility project: renovation of the grandstand at the Dan Magill Tennis Complex.

Other highlights of the meeting included:

> Faculty Athletics Representative David Shipley gave a glowing academic report. The most prominent information he shared was the 3.1 overall grade point recorded by all UGA student-athletes in the 2017-18 academic year. That figure matches the all-time highest GPA for a single year, equaling the 3.1 mark of the 2016-17 year.

> Executive Associate Athletic Director for Compliance Will Lawler conducted an educational session for board members approximately 20 minutes in length. Among the topics Lawler covered was the NCAA’s expectations for institutional control.

> Reports from all three student representatives on the Board: Roya Naghepour, a senior from Roswell, Ga.; Kayla Smith, a junior pole vaulter from Indianapolis, Ind.; and Connor O’Neill, a senior men’s basketball player, also from Roswell.

Georgia Football Great Andy Johnson Dies

UGA Sports Communications

Former University of Georgia football great Andy Johnson died in Athens early Wednesday morning following a long illness.

Born Oct. 18, 1952, in Athens Johnson was an All-American quarterback on an Athens High team that was state-champions in class AAA. He also was All-Region in basketball, baseball, and a sprinter on the track team. Johnson was drafted by the Atlanta Braves as a shortstop but decided to continue his education at the University of Georgia on a football scholarship.

Johnson was the starting quarterback on the Dawg's freshman squad in 1970, setting the total offense record of 1,078 yards in five games.

In 1972, his sophomore season, Johnson became the varsity’s starting signal caller and led the Dawgs to an 11-1 campaign which included a 7-3 victory over North Carolina in the Gator Bowl. During that season, Johnson set the SEC sophomore rushing record and was second in the conference in rushing. He set the SEC record for touchdowns scored rushing by a sophomore with 13. Football News named him the nation’s most outstanding sophomore player and the Jacksonville Journal awarded him the SEC’s outstanding sophomore player trophy.

Johnson was plagued by injuries throughout his junior season but still managed to be the Dawgs third leading rusher and second leading passer in the 7-4 season.

In his senior season, Johnson was second on the team in rushing, led the team in passing, and commanded the Dawgs to a 7-4-1 record with a 17-16 victory over Maryland in the Peach Bowl. After his three year tenure was complete, Johnson captured the SEC record for the most yards rushing by a quarterback with 1,799.

While at Georgia, Johnson also competed on the Dawg's baseball team for three years, compiling a .281 career average.

Johnson was drafted in the fifth round by the New England Patriots of the NFL. Johnson played for the Patriots for nine seasons before signing with the Boston Breakers of the USFL in 1983. He was inducted into the State of Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.

He is survived by his wife Charlotte (Chot) and children, Kristy, Brent and Brooke.

Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, May 19, from 3-5 p.m. at Bernstein Funeral Home in Athens. A graveside service will be held Sunday, May 20, at 3:30 p.m. at the Oconee Hill Cemetery in Athens.

Diamond Dawgs Own Tech

UGA Sports Communications

In the 16th annual Farmview Spring Classic, a benefit for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the 15th-ranked Georgia baseball team defeated Georgia Tech 3-1 to sweep the season series Tuesday evening in front of a crowd of 17,741 at SunTrust Park.

Georgia (34-14) extends its win streak against Tech to six games – the longest streak since the Dawgs won six straight in the series from 1985-87. Georgia has won nine of the last 10 meetings between the two schools. In the Spring Classic, which began at Turner Field, Georgia holds the advantage at 11-5.

A 3-run fourth inning featuring an Aaron Schunk home run and a two-run double by Mason Meadows provided enough support for Georgia freshman starter C.J. Smith (1-0) to secure his first-career win. In the lefthander’s third-career start, Smith pitched five innings of one-run ball, while striking out two batters and yielding two hits. The bullpen combination of Tony Locey, Ryan Webb, and Zac Kristofak kept Smith’s win intact, tossing three scoreless innings with eight strikeouts.

Georgia Tech’s Tristin English (2-2) surrendered three runs on eight hits and a walk over five innings to endure the loss. The Yellow Jackets dropped to 27-22 on the season.

The first three innings of the game consisted of scoreless, one-hit frames from each team’s starter, until the Dawgs put across the first runs of the game in the fourth.

On the first pitch of the inning, Schunk went opposite field for a solo home run over the left-center field fence. Later in the inning, Meadows doubled in Cam Shepherd and Michael Curry who both reached on singles, giving Georgia the 3-0 lead.

The Yellow Jackets answered with one run in the next inning. A one-out double by Georgia Tech’s Austin Wilhite put two runners into scoring position in the top of the fifth. Smith limited the damage by yielding one run on a groundout, and then ended the threat with another groundout.

Locey replaced Smith to start the sixth and promptly gave up two singles and a sacrifice bunt, putting two Yellow Jackets into scoring position again. However, Locey got English to strike out looking, and Georgia tapped into the bullpen seeking the third out. Webb entered and walked the first batter faced, but struck out the next, ending the Georgia Tech opportunity.

In the final two innings, Kristofak struck out five of the six batters he faced, clinching the sweep with his fourth save of the season.

Dawg Tracks

-Mason Meadows’ fourth-inning double extended his season-best hitting streak to nine games.

-Aaron Schunk’s fourth-inning home run extended his hitting streak to 16 games, tying a season-best mark he set previously this season.

-Georgia moves to 2-1 at SunTrust Park since it opened in 2017.

Coach's Corner

Ike Cousins Head Baseball Coach Scott Stricklin

On the season sweep of Georgia Tech…

“It’s obviously a big rival for us and this game means everything to our players, our program, our fans; so to be able to not only win the series but sweep, it means a lot.”

On playing in a big ballpark…

“You don’t change anything. You just play baseball, only the dimensions are different, the feel is different, and seeing the ball off the bat is a little bit different. To be honest, we left a lot of runs on the board today. We didn’t play very good offensively. Luckily our pitching and our defense picked us up. That’s what good teams do, they find ways to win somehow, some way and it was the pitching and defense today.”

Player's Perspective

Freshman Pitcher #5 C.J. Smith

On the night…

“It was definitely a great experience. I enjoyed it a lot. I got to go out there and compete with the guys. I try not to think about it too much. I just go out there and throw strikes and let the defense work.”

On his consistency…

“It’s great to be consistent because I have a great defense behind me. I don’t strike out a lot of guys, I just let the defense work behind me.”

On the bullpen…

“I come out of the game, and I have confidence that we’re going to get the game over with. Coach Stricklin told me I was done, and I had faith in the next guy to clean up after us.”

Sophomore 3B #22 Aaron Schunk

On playing at SunTrust Park...

"We just try and do the same thing we've been doing. Coach said, if anything, make it more simple. If you get into a big park, you start thinking you have to do too much, but you really don't. You have to take the same approach, and good things happen."

On preparing for the Florida series this weekend...

"Every bit as we do every other game. We've been very focused on the first game ahead of us, whether that be today, whether that be Friday. Getting to go up against Florida is big for us because we know we can compete against them, and we're going to give them everything we've got."

Next Up

The Dawgs will pick back up on SEC play on the road in Gainesville, Florida against the top-ranked Florida Gators. First pitch of game one is scheduled for Friday at 6:30 pm.

Legendary player, coach Billy Henderson Dies

UGA Sports Communications

Former University of Georgia multi-sport athlete and legendary high school coach Billy Henderson died Wednesday at the age of 89.

Henderson, a two-sport standout for the Dawgs in the late 1940s, earned a total of eight letters. He played on the 1946 and 1948 SEC Championship football teams and was a three-time MVP in baseball. Following graduation, he was drafted and signed by the Chicago Cubs. He spent two years in their organization before deciding on a teaching and coaching career.

His illustrious coaching career included stints at Jefferson High School (1951-53), Athens High (1953-55), Furman University (1956), University of South Carolina (1956-57), Willingham High (1958-70) and Mount DeSales High (1970-73) in Macon before returning to Athens and Clarke Central High School in 1973. He became an icon for the Gladiators, compiling a record of 222-65 and three state championships over 23 seasons. His overall head coaching record was 285-107-16.

Over the years, the success of his teams were not limited to football, owning three state championships in baseball, one in swimming and numerous region titles in all three sports. Also, well over 125 of his players earned college scholarships.

He was named the recipient of the 1995 Bill Hartman Award —the highest honor a former UGA student-athlete can attain. Named for Georgia’s long-time kicking coach and chairman of the Georgia Student Educational Fund, the award recognizes former Dawg student-athletes who have distinguished themselves as alumni. At the time, Henderson was the sixth recipient, joining former NFL quarterback and Atlanta businessman Fran Tarkenton, Atlanta Olympic Committee CEO Billy Payne, former Gov. Carl Sanders, Atlanta developer Tom Cousins and the Dawgs' legendary assistant athletic director Dan Magill.

For his lifetime of contributions to young people, Henderson was honored in March of 1993 by more than 800 people who came together at Clarke Central in “A Tribute to Billy” and in celebration of Billy Henderson Day in Athens. Then Gov. Zell Miller, Sen. Paul Broun and Rep. Louise McBee were among those who sent congratulatory letters and resolutions honoring him.

He also founded the Athens Hall of Fame and conducted youth football camps at the YMCA.

Thirty-three UGA Student-Athletes to Graduate Friday

UGA Sports Communications

Thirty-three University of Georgia student-athletes will receive their undergraduate or graduate degrees Friday, December 15 at the annual fall commencement exercises. The undergraduate ceremonies will begin at 9:30 a.m. in Stegeman Coliseum followed by graduate ceremonies at 2:30pm.

Among the 33 UGA student-athlete graduates are one baseball player, three members of the equestrian team, 12 current and former members of the football team, two members of the women’s golf team, one member of the gymnastics team, two soccer players, one softball player, three men’s swim and dive athletes, two members of the women’s tennis team, two men’s track and field athletes, and four women’s track and field athletes.

Baseball: Jarrett Brown, Sociology.

Equestrian: Madison Beasley, Journalism; Allision Haupt, Landscape Architecture; Jane Sutcliff, Psychology.

Football: Davin Bellamy, Communication Studies; Jeb Blazevich, Risk Management and Insurance; Aulden Bynum, Agribusiness, Agriculture and Applied Economics; Trenton Frix, Risk Management and Insurance; Carson Hall, Sport Management; Amarlo Herrera, Sociology; Matthew Herzwurm, Accounting and Finance; Tim Hill, Sociology; De’Andre Johnson, Consumer Economics; Cameron Nizalek, Master of Sport Management; Thomas Swilley, Sport Management; Kenneth Towns, Master of Sport Management.

Women’s Golf: Manuela Carbajo Re, Master of Sport Management; Harang Lee, Consumer Economics.

Gymnastics: Brandie Jay Dorminey, Master of Sport Management

Soccer: Madison Burdick, Risk Management and Insurance; Kelsey Nix, Psychology.

Softball: Sydni Emanuel, Psychology.

Men’s Swimming & Diving: Walker Wheeler, Management; Taylor Dale, Management; Christopher Powell, Real Estate.

Women’s Tennis: Caroline Brinson, Marketing; Chelsey Gullickson, Comunication Studies.

Men’s Track & Field: Jamario Calhoun, Housing Management and Policy; Reginald Glover, Human Development and Family Science.

Women’s Track & Field: Natalie Bordes, Communication Studies; Sarah Gardner, Marketing; Laurel Sumner, Statistics and Mathematics; Kendell Williams, Advertising.

Diamond Dawgs Drop Home Opener

BASEBALL

Kennesaw State’s Andy Almonte scored the game-winning run in the top of the ninth inning on a two-out fielder’s choice to edge Georgia 2-1 Wednesday at Foley Field in the Dawgs home opener.

Kyle Farmer went 1-4 with an RBI and a double, while Hunter Cole, Sean McLaughlin and J.T. Phillips each recorded a hit apiece for the Dawgs. Cole also added a double and a walk on the evening.

With the loss, Georgia drops to 1-3 on season while Kennesaw State improves to 4-0. Justin McCalvin earned the win for the Owls after allowing just one hit, no runs and three strikeouts through two innings of work. Sophomore Jared Walsh took the loss for the Dawgs, giving up one hit and one run over 1.1 innings.

“We need to get some confidence, and we’ll be in good shape because we’re still working the kinks out,” said coach David Perno. “That’s why you play 56 games, and I’m confident it will come together. I give credit to Kennesaw State, they threw strikes and played well. We just have to create some more scoring opportunities. I thought our pitchers did a good job, and I liked how David Gonzalez did in his debut.”

Gonzalez made the start for Georgia, the first of his career, and he opened the game by recording a strikeout against Jacob Bruce. Neither team scored through the first two innings, and it wasn’t until the third inning that the Dawgs finally placed a runner on base. Justin Bryan reached first in the bottom of the third with one out on an error by the third baseman, but the Dawgs were unable to push any runs across.

In the fourth inning, Gonzalez issued a lead-off walk to Bo Way, and the next batter grounded out to third, allowing Way to advance to second. Max Pentecost then singled to center to score Way, giving Kennesaw State a 1-0 lead. Senior Blake Dieterich entered the game to relieve Gonzalez and forced the next two batters to pop out and strike out, respectively.

Cole recorded Georgia’s first hit of the game in the bottom of the fourth, ripping a two-out double down the left field line, but a fly out to left ended the inning without any runs scored.

Neither team scored in the fifth inning, but Georgia third baseman Curt Powell had a strong defensive effort in the top half of the inning, diving across his body to stop a hard-hit ball down the line that prevented a base hit. Bryan Benzor entered the game to pitch for the Dawgs in the sixth inning, and he surrendered a leadoff single up the middle to Way before Georgia quickly turned a 6-4-3 double play on the ensuing batter to get out of the jam.

The Dawgs finally pushed a run across in the bottom of the sixth inning that began when Phillips recorded a lead-off single up the middle. A sacrifice bunt down the first-base line by Nelson Ward moved Phillips to second with just one out. Two batters later, Farmer dropped the ball in just fair down the left-field line for a two-out double that scored Phillips and tied the game at one run apiece.

The Dawgs retired the Owls in order to start the seventh before threatening to score in the bottom of the inning. Freshman Sean McLaughlin sent a two-out single to center and then advanced to second on a wild throw by the pitcher over to first, but a strikeout ended the inning for the Dawgs.

Georgia brought in reliever Jarrett Brown in the eighth inning, and Brown hit the first batter of the inning, Kal Simmons, to place a runner on first. A sac bunt by the next batter allowed Simmons to move into scoring position at second with just one out. The Dawgs committed an error two batters later that placed runners on the corners with two outs, but Walsh entered the game at this point and came up with a huge strikeout against Pentecost to end the inning

Georgia was unable to score in the bottom of the inning, and in the top of the ninth, Walsh issued a lead-off walk to Almonte to put the go-ahead run on base. A sacrifice bunt down the first base line by Chris McGowan allowed Almonte to move down to second, and an infield base hit by Kody Belcher put runners on the corners with just one out. Walsh then struck out Anthony Duran, but a fielder’s choice on the next play allowed Almonte to score the go-ahead run for the Owls.

Cole drew a one-out walk in the bottom of the ninth as Georgia attempted to rally for the tying run, but two back-to-back fly outs to center field sealed the 2-1 victory for Kennesaw State.

The Dawgs return to action this Saturday in a doubleheader against Belmont. First pitch is set for 1 p.m. at Foley Field. This is a slight change to the schedule as the series with the Bruins was set to begin on Friday. Fans with tickets for Friday’s game can exchange them for a ticket to Saturday’s game at the Foley Field ticket window or to a future game. They can also exchange that ticket to a future home game this year at the UGA Ticket Office. Tickets for Saturday’s game will be good for both games that day.

Diamond Dawgs Win Opener

BASEBALL

Sophomore Jared Walsh made his pitching debut in the ninth and struck out the side plus added a home run Friday to lead Georgia to a 6-5 win over Georgia Southern.

A near-record crowd of 3,103 at JI Clements Stadium were treated to a thriller in the season opener and first meeting between the in-state rivals since 2005.

The Dawgs (1-0) loaded the bases with two outs in the first but came up empty. The Eagles (0-1) used the momentum to build a 2-0 lead in their first at bat. Scooter Williams reached on a leadoff walk and Ben Morgan followed with a base hit. A wild pitch moved both Eagles in to scoring position. On a 3-2 pitch, catcher Chase Griffin delivered a two-run single. He would move to second on a passed ball and then scored on a base hit by Garren Palmer for a 3-0 advantage.

Georgia stormed back in the second, sending 10 men to the plate and surging ahead 5-3. Walsh, who started the game in right field, got the rally started by blasting the first pitch of the frame in to the trees in right field. It was his second career home run. Freshman J.T. Phillips collected an infield single in his debut and came around on an RBI-triple by sophomore Nelson Ward (4-for-5). Senior Curt Powell (3-for-5) tied the game with a run-scoring single. Later in the frame, sophomore Hunter Cole made it 4-3 with an RBI-single and freshman Daniel Nichols capped the scoring with a fielder’s choice. The Dawgs took advantage of a two-out miscue by the Eagles to add a run in the third for a 6-3 lead. The Eagles cut it to 6-5 with a two-out, two-run single by Hunter Thomas off senior Blake Dieterich in the fifth.

Georgia starter Sean McLaughlin tossed four innings and allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits with one walk and four strikeouts in his debut. He became the first freshman pitcher in Dawg history to start a season opener, and he wound up with a victory too. GSU starter Justin Hess got the loss after surrendering six runs on eight hits in three innings. The Eagles got exceptional relief from Josh Stevenson, who blanked the Dawgs for 4.1 innings with no walks and eight strikeouts. He left with two on and one out in the eighth. Chris Myers came on and got senior shortstop Kyle Farmer to hit into a double play to keep it a one-run contest.

Georgia turned to its bullpen again in the bottom of the eighth in sophomore Ross Ripple, and he hit the first two Eagles of the inning. Ripple got Tyler Avera to pop out on a 3-2 offering for the first out. Then with a 1-1 count to Kyle Streicher, the Dawgs lifted Ripple in favor of redshirt sophomore Grant Earls. It was the Dawg debut for Earls who was redshirted in 2011 and was injured and didn’t pitch in 2012. Streicher swung at Earls’ first pitch and bounced one to third for a fielder’s choice as the Dawgs got the runner at second while Eagle left fielder Hunter Thomas made it to third. Pinch-hitter Stryker Brown reached on a four-pitch walk to load the bases for Ben Morgan. He got him to ground out to first to protect the one-run advantage.

In the ninth, Georgia looked to Walsh who was limited to a designated hitter role a year ago while recovering from elbow surgery. This season, he is projected as the closer, and he passed his first test. Entering the game with a 6-5 lead and facing the middle of the Eagle order, Walsh struck out the first two hitters in Griffin and T.D. Davis before allowing an infield hit to Palmer. Then, he battled back to strikeout Thomas to clinch the victory and his first career save.

“This was a good win, a hard-fought game, and it was Jared Walsh day, he did a bit of everything for us,” said coach David Perno. “The top of the order in Nelson Ward and Curt Powell had a very productive day too. Grant Earls came through, and it was the first time he got to pitch as a Dawg, and it was a tough spot in a tight game. This was good atmosphere, great crowd and a good start for us. We need to play better, and we’ve got two more games here. Overall, I was pleased with how we responded.”

Ward set a career-high with a four-hit game including an RBI-triple in Georgia’s five-run outburst. Walsh became the first pitcher since Josh Fields in 2008 to hit a home run and register a save in the same game. Incidentally, Fields did it in the season opener, a 9-7 win over top-ranked Arizona.

The series continues Saturday with first pitch slated for 2:30 p.m.

Diamond Dawgs Ink Eight More To Close Out Early Signing Period

BASEBALL

University of Georgia head baseball coach David Perno announced the signing of eight additional student-athletes during the early signing period for the 2013-14 academic year. Here is a glance at the latest group of signees that completes this year’s early class.

Michael Carpin: Went 5-2 with a 2.02 ERA for the Wando High School Warriors and coach Dirk Thomas as a junior in 2012…He struck out 54 in 45 innings pitched in helping the team to a 20-6 mark and the district playoffs…Son of Tracey and Dennis Carpin.

“Michael is a solid right-handed pitcher with a plus breaking ball, and he’s got very good command with a bright future as a Dawg,” said Perno.

Jarrett Freeland: An All-Region left-handed hitting catcher/infielder/pitcher that batted .371 with four home runs and 23 RBI for the national champion Parkview Panthers and coach Chan Brown…Team went 31-6 en route to region and state titles…Also named a Georgia Dugout Club All-Star and to Team Georgia squad…Hit .417-5-28 as a sophomore as Panthers won state title with a 29-10 record…Played summer baseball with the East Cobb Astros…Son of Tina and Buddy Freeland…“I grew up watching the UGA baseball team, and I had always dreamed of wearing the ‘G’ on my chest,” said Freeland. “I am very humbled and honored for the opportunity to fulfill my dreams of playing at Foley Field for the Dawgs!”

“Jarrett is a physical, big body, versatile student-athlete,” said Perno. “He is a catcher, can play the infield and has a stiff fastball on the mound so he’s got a lot of possibilities for our program.”

Wesley Jones: Ranked No. 31 in the ESPN High School Top 60 and No. 83 among Baseball America Top 100 High School Prospects for the 2013 MLB Draft…A three-year starter at shortstop/pitcher for the Redan Raiders and coach Marvin Pruitt…Batted .566 with 30 RBI as a junior and hit .400-3-27 as a sophomore…Named preseason 1st Team Perfect Game Underclass All-America in 2011 and 2012…Also plays shortstop for the East Cobb Astros summer league team…Son of Lana and Emmett Jones.

“Wesley is one of the best defenders in the Southeast with good action, arm strength, and his bat is coming along,” said Perno. “He is a pro prospect so we’ll see how the draft goes.”

Nick Senzel (Sen-ZELL): An Honor Roll student and All-State selection, batted .407 with seven home runs and team-high 46 RBI as a junior for the Admirals and coach Matt Buckner in 2012…In the 2012 state playoffs, he hit .600 (6-for-10) with seven RBI in helping Farragut post a 35-9 record…Part of state championship team as a sophomore in 2011, batting .341-1-27 to earn All-Region and All-District honors…Played on Diamond Baseball/Simcox Academy 17U summer league team and named to 2012 Perfect Game World Wood Bat All-Tournament team…Son of Jeff Senzel…“I felt like the University of Georgia was the right fit for me,” said Senzel. “It’s going to be a great place to attend school and play baseball.”

“Nick is a blue-collar baseball player who comes from a tremendous program that is used to winning,” said Perno. “He is a versatile infielder, a plus runner and a good student-athlete.”

Zack Sims: A three-sport standout in baseball, football and basketball and preseason All-State selection as a first baseman by the Georgia Dugout Club…A two-time First Team All-Region 8-AA selection and First Team All-State pick by the Georgia Dugout Club as a sophomore…Hit .313 with one home run and 13 RBI as a junior for the North Oconee Titans and coach Dwayne Sapp…Led Titans offensively as a sophomore by hitting .408-7-30 in 25 games…Part of Titan Leadership Club and EPOCS (Excellence Promoted in Oconee Co. Schools) Award for 2010 and 2011…Played summer baseball for Team Elite including second place finish in tournament in Jupiter, Fla. And third in Perfect Game 17U event in East Cobb…Son of Lori and Mitch Sims…“I am excited to be a Georgia Bulldog and look forward to the opportunity to play SEC baseball,” said Sims.

“Zack is a strong, athletic, left-handed hitter who suits our ballpark well,” said Perno.

Blake Shouse (like House): A Dean’s List student and All-Region hitter who batted .349 with nine doubles, three triples and 35 RBI in 57 games and made one appearance on the mound for Middle Georgia College and coach Craig Young…Helped the Warriors go 46-13 and win the conference and runner up in the region…A 2011 Honor graduate of Rutland High School in Macon where he played for coach Wally Pritchard…Tossed school’s first no-hitter as a senior against Veterans…A four-time All-Region selection for the Hurricanes…Son of Tammy and Steve Shouse…“I’m excited and honored to have the opportunity to join the UGA baseball program,” said Shouse.

“Blake is a two-way guy for Middle Georgia, and pitching is in his future but he does swing a good bat too,” said Perno. “He is a potential star on the mound.”

Robert Tyler: Ranked No. 98 among Baseball America Top 100 High School Prospects for the 2013 MLB Draft… Participated in the Perfect Game All-America Classic at Petco Park in San Diego as well as the Under Armour All-America game at Wrigley Field…Went 8-0 with a 0.73 ERA and averaged 10.9 strikeouts per game in the regular season for the Crisp County Cougars and coach Bill Pate…Also batted .377 with a team-best 24 RBI…Named Region Player of the Year along with Scholar Athlete of the Year…Son of Andrea and Rob Tyler…Played summer baseball for the Savannah Chain.

“Rob is the most projectable right-hander in the state with a 93-to-95 mile per hour fastball,” said Perno. “He’s a guy who can log many innings in his career at Georgia if he gets through the draft.”

Stephen Wrenn: Ranked No. 36 in ESPN High School Top 60 and No. 53 among Baseball America Top 100 High School Prospects for the 2013 MLB Draft…A scholar-athlete and outfielder/pitcher for the Walton Raiders and coach Shane Amos…Batted .404-3-21 with a team-high 25 stolen bases as a junior plus went 5-2 with a 2.82 ERA and team-best 60 strikeouts in 44.2 innings pitched…Two-time MVP selection, also won Hustle Award and team’s Cy Young Award…Led team in batting as a sophomore at .422-3-23 and posted a 6-3 record, 2.03 ERA with 64 strikeouts in 64 innings pitched…Earned 2012 East Cobb Offensive Player of the Year in summer baseball league and won WWBA National Championship for East Cobb Yankees…Son of Lisa and Steve Wrenn…“I can’t wait to join the Georgia baseball family and compete for a College World Series title,” said Wrenn.

“Stephen is an impact freshmen who can step in and play the outfield,” said Perno. “He has great tools and is one of the fastest players in his class who will be one to watch in the pro draft.”

Along with the five members announced earlier this month, this year’s early class features a total of 11 high school seniors and two from the junior college ranks. Eleven of the 13 new Dawgs hail from Georgia with one each from South Carolina and Tennessee.

2013 Georgia Baseball Early Signing Class

Name POS. B-T HT. WT. HOMETOWN (Previous School)

Mike Bell INF R-R 5-11 180 Union City, Ga. (Langston Hughes HS)

Michael Carpin RHP L-R 6-2 200 Mt. Pleasant, S.C. (Wando HS)

Clint Frazier OF R-R 6-0 195 Loganville, Ga. (Loganville HS)

Jarrett Freeland C/INF/P L-R 6-6 210 Lilburn, Ga. (Parkview HS)

Connor Jones LHP R-L 6-3 185 Johns Creek, Ga. (Johns Creek HS)

Wesley Jones INF R-R 6-2 185 Lithonia, Ga. (Redan HS)

Ryan Lawlor LHP L-R 6-0 185 Savannah, Ga. (Middle Georgia College)

Nick Senzel INF R-R 6-0 185 Knoxville, Tenn. (Farragut HS)

Blake Shouse P/INF R-R 6-2 185 Macon, Ga. (Middle Georgia College)

Zack Sims 1B L-L 6-3 215 Bogart, Ga. (North Oconee HS)

Robert Tyler RHP L-R 6-4 195 Cordele, Ga. (Crisp County HS)

Skyler Weber C L-R 5-10 175 Gainesville, Ga. (Gainesville HS)

Stephen Wrenn OF R-R 6-2 175 Marietta, Ga. (Walton HS)

48 UGA Student-Athletes Named to SEC First-Year Academic Honor Roll

Forty-eight student-athletes from the University of Georgia have been named to the 2011-2012 Southeastern Conference First-Year Academic Honor Roll, according to an announcement this week by the SEC office.

In order to qualify for the SEC First-Year Academic Honor Roll, each student-athlete must: have a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or higher at the nominating institution; be on scholarship or a letter winner; have completed 24 semester hours of non-remedial credit at the nominating institution; and have been a member of the varsity team for the sport’s entire NCAA Championship segment.

The following UGA students received first-year honors:

Baseball:
Justin Bryan, Lavonia, Ga., Business; Hunter Cole, Moore, S.C., Biology; Pete Nagel, Metter, Ga., Sport Management; DJ Smith, Woodstock, Ga., Criminal Justice; John Taylor, Carnesville, Ga., Business.

Equestrian:
Kylee Arbuckle, Torrance, Calif., Business; Samantha Belcher, Carbondale, Colo., Animal Science; Madi Berger, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Animal Science; Madi Clark, Brighton, Mich., Animal Health; Morgan Justiss, Alpharetta, Ga., Business; Megan Southam, Langley, B.C., Biology; Paige Stawicki, Argyle, Texas, Genetics; Lauren Tieche, Jamestown, N.Y., Business.

Football:
David Andrews, Johns Creek, Ga., Agribusiness; Chris Conley, Dallas, Ga., Journalism; Watts Dantzler, Dalton, Ga., Health & Physical Education.

Men’s Golf:
Nicholas Reach, Moscow, Pa., Business.

Soccer:
Kathleen Eastman, Jackson Hole, Wyo., English; Jenna Owens, Highlands Ranch, Colo., Exercise & Sport Science.

Softball:
Gracie Goulder, Scottsdale, Ariz., Special Education; Niaja Griffin, Orlando, Fla., Recreation & Leisure Studies.

Men’s Swimming & Diving:
Nic Fink, Morristown, N.J., Agriculture Engineering; Derek Onken, Marietta, Ga., Mathematics; Luke Upchurch, Duluth, Ga., Exercise & Sport Science.

Women’s Swimming & Diving:
Olivia Boggs, Smyrna, Ga., Business; Sommers Creed, Braselton, Ga., Unspecified; Lauren Harrington, Memphis, Tenn., Journalism; Maddie Locus, Sugarland, Texas, Mathematics; Jordan Mattern, Aurora, Colo., Biology; Amber McDermott, Mill Creek, Wash., Journalism; Anna Neumeister, Marietta, Ga., Business; Darcie O’Brien, Lawrenceville, Ga., Journalism; Shannon O’Malley, Marietta, Ga., Unspecified.

Women’s Tennis:
Lauren Herring, Greenville, N.C., International Affairs.

Men’s Track & Field:
Brendan Hoban, Duluth, Ga., Turfgrass Management; Cameron Meyer, Lake Charles, La., Sport Management; Zach Sims, McDonough, Ga., Mathematics; Austin Ulich, Alpharetta, Ga., Business.

Women’s Track & Field:
Anna Bowles, Evans, Ga., Exercise & Sport Science; Quintunya Chapman, Hinesville, Ga., Exercise & Sport Science; Rachel Gibson, Marietta, Ga., Sport Management; Carly Hamilton, Springboro, Ohio, Business; Taylor Hollingsworth, Columbus, Ga., Nutrition Science; Brooke Koblitz, Alpharetta, Ga., Mathematics Education; Morgann Leleux, New Iberia, La., Journalism; Sarah Perry, Lawrenceville, Ga., Biology; Allison Updike, Nesquehoning, Pa., Sport Management.

Volleyball:
Gaby Smiley, Alpharetta, Ga., Exercise & Sport Science.

Baseball Staff Reorganized

BASEBALL

University of Georgia baseball coach David Perno announced Thursday a reorganization of his current coaching staff.

Assistant coach Jason Eller, who recently completed his 10th season with the Dawgs including his sixth as a full-time assistant, will now serve as the Pitching Coach. For the past two years, he has assisted Perno with the pitchers. In 2011, the Dawgs reduced their Earned Run Average (ERA) by 3.61 runs a game. In 2012, Georgia’s ERA was its lowest in the aluminum bat era which dates back to 1974. Perno and Eller assumed control of the pitching staff following the 2010 season when the Dawgs finished with an 8.51 ERA. Since then, Georgia’s ERA improved to 4.90 in 2011 and then 3.86 in 2012.

“Jason understands our system extremely well and has been a part of my staff for a long time,” said Perno. “He’s done a good job, and his main focus now will be on pitching and developing our starters. We will continue to work together with our bullpen.”

Assistant coach Allen Osborne, who is in his third stint with the Dawgs including his third year as a full-time assistant, will add the duties of Recruiting Coordinator. Since returning to Georgia in June of 2010, Osborne has served as the hitting instructor, third base coach and assisted in recruiting and camps.

“Since Allen’s return, our recruiting has gone to another level, and a large part of the credit goes to him,” said Perno. “This year’s class is potentially the best we’ve ever had that will make it to campus.”

The 2012 Major League Baseball draft concluded Wednesday, and Perno said he is looking forward to the 2013 season.

“We’re encouraged about the way the draft turned out with our signees,” Perno added. “Also we’re excited about Kyle Farmer returning for his senior year. He’s going to lead a veteran group that includes seniors Curt Powell, Brett DeLoach, Bryan Benzor and Blake Dieterich.”

Farmer, a three-year starter at shortstop, led the team with 41 RBI while hitting .302 in 2012. He was drafted in the 35th round by the New York Yankees Wednesday.Powell earned All-SEC second team honors as a starting third baseman. He batted a team-best .355 with 12 stolen bases. DeLoach hit .303 as a starting catcher/designated hitter. Benzor went 5-4 with a 4.95 ERA and two saves in 26 appearances while Dieterich posted a 3-4 mark, 3.52 ERA and a team-best seven saves in 27 games. Georgia went 31-26 this past season and set a school record for highest fielding percentage with a .978 mark.

Wood Drafted By Braves

BASEBALL

University of Georgia left-hander Alex Wood has been selected by the Atlanta Braves in the second round of the Major League Baseball Draft Tuesday.

Wood, a 6-4, 220-pound native of Charlotte, North Carolina, was the 85th overall pick in the draft.

Wood posted a 7-3 record and 2.73 ERA in 15 starts for the Dawgs who went 31-26. An All-SEC second team selection, Wood registered 100 strikeouts and 21 walks in 102.1 innings pitched with two complete games and a team-best seven pickoffs. His 2.73 ERA was the lowest by a Dawg starter since 1989. For his career, Wood was 13-10 with a 3.57 ERA in 32 appearances including 30 starts. He had 180 strikeouts and 47 walks in 204.1 innings pitched. He went 6-7 with a 4.44 ERA in 2011 after being limited to just one outing in 2010 while recovering from surgery.

Also, the number two overall pick in the draft was Dawg signee Byron Buxton. A 6-3, 180-pound outfielder from Baxley, he was selected by the Minnesota Twins Monday night, and the pick value at number two overall is $6.2 million. Buxton hit .513 with 35 stolen bases and went 10-0 on the mound in leading Appling County to a state title. It was the Twins highest pick since taking Joe Mauer with the first overall selection in 2001.

Also in the second round Tuesday, Dawg signee Joe DeCarlo was taken with the 64th overall pick by the Seattle Mariners. A 6-1, 205-pound infielder, he was a standout at Garnett Valley High in Glenn Mills, Penn.

Three picks later, Dawg signee Duane Underwood was drafted by the Chicago Cubs with the 67th overall selection. A 6-3, 210-pound right-hander was a two-way star for Pope High School in Marietta.

UGA Athletic Board Report

UGA ATHLETICS

A fiscal year 2013 budget of $92,130,725 and three facility-related projects were approved Thursday highlighting the quarterly meeting of the University of Georgia Athletic Association Board of Directors.

The facility-related projects totaling an estimated $2,731,000 include:

1. $1,006,000 to upgrade scoreboards at baseball, softball and soccer. The existing scoreboards at each of these venues have been in service for seven years. The upgrades would replace the video displays which will provide an enhanced game-day experience for fans and student-athletes.

2. $1,350,000 to begin the process of renovations to Foley Field. A segment of the funds will be dedicated to aesthetic enhancements to the facility, which includes a sound system improvement, new landscaping beyond the outfield wall and improvements to Kudzu Hill, which will be completed prior to the 2013 baseball season. A segment of funds will be dedicated to an architect and engineer and construction manager to begin planning for renovations and enhances to the main entry, exterior plaza, concourses, concession stands and rest rooms, and handicapped accessibility throughout the facility, which would include renovations to the press box. A timetable for this segment of the project has not been determined.

3. $375,000 for Sanford Stadium Gate 10 renovations (under the bridge). The project improves the main entrance gate and passageway to include a large arched entry portal and piers, wider pathways, and new campus standard light poles to improve safety features.

The athletic director’s report also included an update on the three-year extension of football coach Mark Richt’s contract. The contract, which is expected to be finalized and signed soon, will provide the potential for performance bonuses to double from the current $400,000 maximum to $800,000. Included will be bonuses for appearances in the SEC Championship game, BCS national championship game, BCS non-championship bowl game, non-BCS bowl games, and top five finish in the national polls. There is also a provision for a team academic performance bonus of $50,000 which was part of his current contract.

Diamond Dawgs Rally Past Auburn

BASEBALL

Kyle Farmer’s RBI-single capped a two-run rally as Georgia clinched another SEC series with a 6-5 win over Auburn in 11 innings Saturday at Foley Field.

Georgia (27-20, 11-12) never led Saturday until Farmer’s walk-off base hit as the Tigers fell to 25-21 overall and 10-13 in the SEC. It was Farmer’s second walk-off hit this season, also delivering against Kennesaw State at Coolray Field on March 6 when the Dawgs posted a 3-2 decision. A total of more than 60 former Dawg baseball letterman were among the crowd of 2,438 as Georgia held its annual Alumni Day.

Auburn built a 4-2 lead after six innings. The Tigers struck first with a solo homerun by Justin Bryant who went 4-for-4 with a walk on the afternoon. Creede Simpson scored in the fourth off an RBI single by Garrett Cooper. Auburn would plate two more runs including a solo shot off the bat of Simpson later in the game.

Georgia got on the board with three consecutive singles by Levi Hyams, Peter Verdin and Colby May. Conor Welton smacked a line drive at the third basemen, which was bobbled, allowing Verdin to score in the second inning. Later in the fifth, May reached on a walk, advanced to third by a Welton single and was able to score on a wild pitch to make it a two-run affair. The Dawgs trailed 4-2 until the seventh when their bats had some life to tie the contest. Farmer hit a long double over the centerfielder which scored Welton who reached earlier in the inning with a walk. Brett DeLoach followed up with a near identical double scoring Farmer.

Auburn pitcher Daniel Koger tossed for five innings allowing six hits and giving up two runs but did not factor in the decision. Koger was relieved by Derek Varnadore who came in to strike out the side in the sixth. Varnadore went the rest of the way, allowing four runs on five hits over the final 5.2 innings and fell to 2-7.

UGA senior starter Michael Palazzone lasted six innings, giving up four runs on seven hits while tallying five strikeouts. After Palazzone, Georgia got solid relief from senior Chase Hawkins. Jay Swinford, Blake Dieterich and Bryan Benzor. Benzor allowed a run in the 11th but benefited from the Dawg rally to pick up a victory to move his record to 5-4.

After being shut out for four straight innings, the Tigers took a 5-4 lead in the 11th inning. After a single by Bryant, Mitchell Self knocked him in with an RBI double off Benzor. The Dawgs responded with a leadoff walk by Jonathan Hester. Hester advanced to second on a Nelson Ward groundout and later scored on a fielder’s choice by Curt Powell, who reached second on a throwing error. Farmer followed with an RBI single that provided a walk off win. Farmer finished the day 3-for-6 with two RBI.

“I thought we pitched pretty well today and the defense made some big plays,” said coach David Perno. “I liked how we hung in there and battled. We never could break it open; we had some chances early but we didn’t give up a big inning either so that helped. I liked how we responded in the 11th. We’ve been in some close games this year, and I think playing at home helped us today because we’ve lost some tough ones on the road.”

Georgia is now 8-7 in one-run games this year including 3-3 in the SEC and 1-1 in extra innings. The Dawgs wrap up the series Sunday at 2 p.m. Georgia will start freshman Luke Crumley (1-2, 4.44 ERA) while the Tigers counter with freshman right-hander Trey Cochran-Gill (4-1, 2.59 ERA).

Dawgs Post Another Shutout

BASEBALL

Five Georgia pitchers combined on a seven-hit shutout of Savannah State Tuesday at Foley Field, beating the Tigers 5-0.

The Dawgs (8-0) have thrown back-to-back shutouts for the first time since 1986. Freshman David Sosebee made his first career start and pitched two innings in a planned staff day. Georgia’s 10-hit attack was led by freshman Hunter Cole and junior Kyle Farmer, both of whom had two hits and a RBI in four at-bats.

Georgia's bullpen saw a lot of action, with freshman Jarrett Brown, redshirt freshman Jay Swinford and freshman Luke Crumley all pitching two innings, while junior Jesse Scott contributed one inning. Georgia’s staff tallied four strikeouts and just two walks.

The Dawgs took an early lead when Farmer singled to left field to drive in freshman Nelson Ward who reached on his first career triple. Georgia went up 3-0 in third when junior Kevin Ruiz laced a two-run single to center field single that brought in Levi Hyams and Cole.

“I thought Kevin Ruiz got the big hit of the game, it was a 1-0 game until he came through,” said coach David Perno. “We had a lot of young guys go today on the mound, and they did a pretty good job. We still have room to improve in all areas.”

Savannah State (3-5) threatened in the seventh, but Scott overcame a two-on-one-out situation by striking out the next two batters. Scott recorded two of Georgia's four strikeouts. Tommy Freeman went six innings and allowed three runs on seven hits to fall to 0-2.

The Dawgs increased their advantage in the seventh when Farmer scored after Cole popped a single to right field. Georgia added to its lead again in the eighth, when Brett DeLoach drove in Colby May with a single to center field for a 5-0 advantage.

Georgia returns to action Wednesday, February 29th when they host Western Carolina at 5 p.m.

Dawg Degrees

Twenty-seven University of Georgia student-athletes will receive degrees at Fall Commencement on Friday, December 16th at 9:30 a.m., in Stegeman Coliseum.

Among the graduates are 10 football players, three members of the track and field team, three members of the swimming and diving teams, two soccer players, two members of the softball team, two baseball players, two equestrian team members, one gymnast, one women’s basketball player, and one volleyball player.

Baseball: Justin Earls, Lawrenceville, Ga., Sport Management; Carson Schilling, Macon, Ga., Communication Studies,

Women’s Basketball: Meredith Mitchell, Midfield, Ala., Management.

Equestrian: Amelia Rodgers, Burlington, Vt., Animal Science; Kate Stewart, Dawson, Ga.

Football: Justin Anderson, Ocilla, Ga., Housing; Nic Clemons, Griffin, Ga., Child and Family Development; Candler Cook, Atlanta,Ga., Management; Eric Elliot, Kennesaw, Ga., Risk Management and Insurance; Demetric Evans, Haynesville, Ga., Child and Family Development; Bruce Figgins, Columbus, Ga., Communication Studies; Ben Harden, Perry, Ga., Housing; Josh Sailors, Athens, Ga., Biology; Richard Samuel, Cartersville, Ga., Sport Management; Trinton Sturdivant, Wadesboro,N.C.; Finance.

Gymnastics: Hilary Mauro, Boston Mass., Communication Studies.

Soccer: Kelli Corless, Acworth, Ga., Exercise and Sport Science; Caroline Simpson, Atlanta, Ga., Finance.

Softball: Taylor Schlopy, West Hills, Calif., Child and Family Development; Megan Wiggins, Snellville, Ga., Sociology.

Swimming and Diving: Lexie Bryant, Duluth, Ga., Art; Lauren Cartwright, Fayetteville, Ga., Exercise and Sport Science; Chelsea Nauta, Tampa, Fla., Biology.

Track and Field: Alesha Asijie, Mesa, Ariz., Child and Family Development; Odeika Bent, Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sociology and Criminal Justice; LaTroya Darrell, Smith’s Parish, Bermuda, Child and Family Development.

Volleyball: Carla Tietz, St. Charles, Ill., Child and Family Development.

Diamond Dawgs Sign Five Including Nation’s Top-Rated Prospect

BASEBALL

Byron Buxton, who is the nation’s top-rated prospect, along with Morgan Bunting, Joe DeCarlo, David Gonzalez and Matthew Taylor are the latest additions to the baseball recruiting class after each signed a national letter-of-intent to attend UGA, coach David Perno announced Wednesday.

Here is a look at the newest Dawgs who will be joining the program for the 2013 season:

BYRON BUXTON

A 6-2, 170-pound right-handed hitting outfielder from Baxley, Byron is the son of Carrie and Felton Buxton. He is the number one ranked high school prospect in the country by Baseball America. The newspaper’s top 100 is based on future pro potential after getting input from dozens of scouts and college coaches. Buxton attends Appling County where he plays for coach Jeremy Smith and summer baseball with Round Trip coached by Braxton Jeffers. Buxton also plays quarterback for the Pirates. He has participated in various showcase events and been named an All-American by Baseball America and Under Armour.

“Byron is a five-tool prospect and the top-rated recruit in the country,” said Perno. “His speed and arm strength are exceptional and his power is developing plus he is throwing 93-94 miles per hour. He will be one to watch in the pro draft.”

JOE DeCARLO

A 6-1, 205-pound right-handed hitting third baseman from Glenn Mills, Pennsylvania, Joe is the son of Susan and Michael DeCarlo. He is ranked No. 57 on Baseball America’s Top 100 High School Prospects list. A first team All Delco (Delaware County) selection, DeCarlo also made 1st Team All Central as a standout infielder for the Garnett Valley Jaguars and coach Rudy Shiller. He has started since his freshman year when he batted .340 with five home runs. DeCarlo comes from an athletic family featuring his father who played football at the University of Delaware, brothers Nick and Mike played baseball at William & Mary, his sister Alissa played lacrosse at Virginia and his sister Natalie plays Special Olympics basketball.

“Joe is one of the better third baseman we’ve come across in quite some time,” said Perno. “He has a power bat, he’s very strong and one guy we’ll have to battle with when it comes to the professional draft.”

MORGAN BUNTING

A 6-3, 180-pound left-handed hitting first baseman from Atlanta, Morgan is the son of Suzanne and Paul Bunting. He batted a team-best .474 with 10 home runs as a junior for the Woodward Academy War Eagles and coach Jim Minor. Last season, he led them to a 29-5 mark, a 5-AAA region title and the school’s first-ever semifinal appearance in the state playoffs. He was named MVP. He has played summer baseball with the East Cobb Astros and Braves and earned First Team Perfect Game USA All-America honors in 2011.

“The decision to sign with UGA was not hard; Coach Perno and his staff presented a family-oriented environment that really appealed to me,” said Bunting. “I knew that this is where I wanted to spend my college career.”

“Morgan moved to first base from third this summer and has a tall, rangy body and good power from the left side,” said Perno. “He’s got a lot energy and good makeup.”

DAVID GONZALEZ

A 6-1, 200-pound right-handed pitcher from Gainesville, David is the son of Nydia and J.P. Gonzalez. He is a two-way threat for the Gainesville Elephants and coach Jeremy Kemp. A three-year member of the varsity, he went 7-2 with a 3.48 ERA and 71 strikeouts in 52.1 innings as a junior to earn MVP honors. Also, he batted .369 with eight home runs and 29 RBI. As a sophomore, he posted a 7-1 mark, 3.38 ERA with 67 strikeouts in 47.2 innings plus batted .289-4-26.

“I chose UGA because of the great coaches who are very supportive and the university has a great reputation,” said Gonzalez.

“David is a power right-hander who is throwing around 94 miles per hour,” said Perno. “If he throws strikes consistently, he’s going to be very good.”

MATT TAYLOR

A 6-3, 185-pound right-handed hitting utility player from Fitzgerald, Matt is the son of Lisa and Harvey Taylor. A two-sport standout for the Fitzgerald High School Hurricanes, he plays shortstop/pitcher/catcher for coach Jason McDonald. He batted a team-best .462 with four home runs and 32 RBI plus 19 stolen bases as a junior and won five games on the mound with a 2.81 ERA and 74 strikeouts in 69.2 innings pitched. He was named the All-Region utility player, All-Middle Georgia catcher as well as All-Region punter.

“I am excited about the opportunity to play for UGA, and I look forward to representing UGA not only as an athlete but also a student,” said Taylor.

“Matt is an athlete; he can play all over the field, a true utility player,” said Perno. “He has a lot of potential with his bat, and it will be exciting to see him develop as his best baseball is ahead of him as he grows in to his body.”

Georgia is close to wrapping up its early recruiting class as the signing period comes to an end.

Signing Deadline Passes

BASEBALL

Ace pitcher Michael Palazzone, closer Tyler Maloof along with outfielders Peter Verdin and Johnathan Taylor will return to the University of Georgia as the deadline to sign professional contracts passed at midnight Monday.

Palazzone (24th round/Milwaukee), Verdin (39th round/Washington) and Taylor (33rd round/Texas) enter their senior seasons while Maloof (34th round/Cleveland) will be a junior. Also, senior second baseman Levi Hyams and junior shortstop Kyle Farmer round out the nucleus of what will be an experienced team in 2012. Georgia advanced to the final of the NCAA Corvallis Regional in 2011, posting a 33-32 record. The Dawgs finished fourth in the rugged Southeastern Conference that featured national champion South Carolina, CWS finalist Florida and No. 3 Vanderbilt.

Additionally, the Dawgs saw five out of their 11 signees that were selected in the draft opt to come to Georgia.

Left-handed pitcher Jarrett Brown (23rd round/Boston), right-handed pitcher Mike Mancuso (46th round/Chicago White Sox), right-handed pitcher David Sosebee (48th round/Boston), outfielder Hunter Cole (49th round, Washington), and outfielder/pitcher Heath Holder (50th round/Colorado) chose not to sign professional contracts. Also, infielder Tyler Palmer (4th round/Florida) did not sign a contract due to a serious arm injury. He is recovering at home in Odum, Georgia. The Dawgs had a school record 18 players (seven current and 11 signees) selected in the 2011 MLB draft.

Palazzone (10-5, 3.14 ERA) was one of the top pitchers in the SEC in 2011 with seven wins over ranked foes and a league-best four complete games. Also, Georgia welcomes back sophomore left-hander Alex Wood (6-7, 4.44 ERA). In his first season as a closer, Maloof finished third nationally with 18 saves which tied a school record. Verdin has been a three-year starter with a .291 career batting average and 32 stolen bases. Taylor sustained a serious neck injury last March and plans to return to school and continue rehabilitation in January.

Hyams (.332-5-38) indicated to MLB teams he would return for his senior season and was not drafted. He led the team in batting and set a school record with a .983 fielding percentage for a second baseman. Farmer (.308-8-58) ranked fifth in the SEC in RBI and led the team in home runs. Both made the NCAA Corvallis Regional All-Tournament team.

“The fact that we have several key juniors that decided to come back for their senior year is going to make a huge impact for us this coming season compared to what the freshmen who didn’t show up could’ve done for us,” said coach David Perno. “The biggest part of this recruiting class was the pitching, and we feel good about who made it. We lost some bats overall, and hoped to keep a few of those but when you look at the signing bonuses, they had their number, and they got it. Overall, our coaches did a nice job with this class. I look at the veterans we’re going to have in 2012; they know how close we were last year and they battled all season. It reminds me of the team we had in 2008 that featured a good mix of veterans with some talented freshmen.”

The Dawgs will begin fall practice on September 19th, and the college baseball season will open on February 17th.

Dawgs In the 2011 MLB Draft

Zach Cone, OF, Texas, 1st Round Compensation, 37th overall; Signed pro $873K

Cecil Tanner, RHP, Oakland, 23rd Round, 706th overall; Signed pro

Michael Palazzone, RHP, 24th Round, 731st overall; DNS

Johnathan Taylor, OF, Texas, 33rd Round, 1,014th overall; DNS-Jan.

Tyler Maloof, RHP, Cleveland, 34th Round, 1,028th overall; DNS

Peter Verdin, OF, Washington, 39th Round, 1,177th overall; DNS

Chase Davidson, OF, Houston, 41st Round, 1,240th overall; Signed pro

Ben Cornwell, RHP, Seattle, Graduated, Signed as a free agent

Dawg Recruiting Class Members In the 2011 MLB Draft

Dante Bichette, Jr., INF, N.Y. Yankees, 1st Round Compensation, 51st overall; Signed $750K

Tyler Palmer, INF, Florida, 4th Round, 133rd overall; Injured, did not sign

Patrick Leonard, INF, Kansas City, 5th Round, 156th overall; Signed $600K

Matthew Taylor, LHP, Baltimore, 5th Round, 155th overall; Signed $160K

Nick Delmonico, C/INF, Baltimore, 6th Round, 185th overall; Signed $1.525 million

Tyler Greene, INF, Philadelphia, 11th Round, 361st overall; Signed $375K

Jarrett Brown, LHP, Boston, 23rd Round, 712th overall; DNS

Mike Mancuso, RHP, Chicago White Sox, 46th Round, 1,401st overall; DNS-Jan.

David Sosebee, RHP, Boston, 48th Round, 1,462nd overall; DNS

Hunter Cole, OF, Washington, 49th Round, 1,477th overall; DNS

Heath Holder, OF/RHP, Colorado, 50th Round, 1,518th overall; DNS

DNS=Did not sign, enrolled at Georgia; DNS-Jan. Did not sign, plans to enroll in Jan.

*Signing bonus amounts according to Baseball America