SBU Football Bearcats

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2011-11-02T13:05:00.000-05:00

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Q&A with Coach Allen about spring practices

2011-03-07T15:22:00.001-06:00

The SBU Bearcats football team will start the 15 NCAA allowed spring practices on Monday March 14th. Keith Allen, entering his 5th year as the Bearcats Head Coach, talks about the upcoming spring sessions.

How has this off-season training been going as compared to 2010?

"The biggest difference I see as the head coach is that these guys are becoming students of the game, they are coming over during their free time watching film from last year and asking a lot of questions! These guys are beginning to understand what it takes to win and have been putting in the extra work this off-season to earn the right to expect to win each game they play. For the first time in school history everyone on our roster has a winning record at SBU, their expectations have changed from hoping to win to expecting to win." Allen added " The cohesion we have as a coaching staff is showing in the cohesion of team. The kids know our standard of performance and level of expectations which is crucial to the overall progress of the team."

How Excited are you to finally start Spring Practice?

It's the best part of what we do in the Spring! I enjoy recruiting and the off-season conditioning, but I really love being around our players and have a chance to see them improve on the field and gel as a cohesive team. It's nice to focus on the game of football without the pressure of anyone worrying about a Saturday and how their performance will be. We can just work on the game of football and not be rushed trying to put in certain plays. I just love teaching and coaching."

What to you hope to accomplish with the 2011 spring practices?

"Our first goal is always to become fundamentally sound in every aspect, offense, defense, and special teams. We will focus on footwork, alignment and assignments. Our coaches have tweaked what we do both offensively and defensively, so it will be great for our kids to get those 15 opportunities to learn and improve. Our second goal is to challenge our kids to define our two-deep on both sides of the ball. The Third goal as a program is to keep changing the atmosphere and mindset of what the Bearcat football program is all about- our guys need to expect and believe that they can execute every play and win every game in 2011.

You lost 8 starters last year. What are your concerns and are you excited to see who steps up in the leadership roles?

"We had 14 seniors last year, 8 of which were starters, which is a great compliment to the program that we're able to keep seniors around each and every year. This off-season we have been meeting twice a week to discuss character, leadership and what it really means to be a Christian leader on and off the field. Our concerns are just like every coach in America, we need more linemen. We lost a monster in graduating Ino Vitale, but we have addressed that in recruiting and will continue to develop the depth we need at offensive and defensive line. One of the most important positions in football is the quarterback position, and losing Steve Gachette is definitely a concern. We have 5 guys this spring going to compete for that role, so I expect to see them all have a great Spring. Everyone on our roster will have to compete every practice. They will have to prove and earn their leadership role on our team during these 15 practices, I am excited about the great character and leadership these kids will display. "

Key Returners?

"We return 16 starters from last years 7-4 team, so we are very excited!"

"Offensively, we have 3 starters on offensive line returning with 2 guys coming back with substantial playing time. That is huge for us up front. We return our entire running back core with Thad Everson, Justin Duhaney, Tiras Harris and Chris Culbreth, so I am definitely excited about our running game! At Wide Receiver our loan returner Charles Johnson will be returning for his Senior year after leading the team with 81 receptions in 2010. It seems that every year we lose an entire WR core, but every year we've had a great group of guys to meet the challenge and I expect 2011 to be no different."

"Defensively, we are returning 8 starters. Six of our entire back seven and two linemen. I expect great things from our Linebackers Shaquille Shedd, Andre Hicks and Austin Otwell. Our secondary should be more experienced with Anthony Wiggins, Chris Muhammad, Chris Hawkins and Karre Wallace. Our Defensive line is anchored by seniors Casey Smith and Ben Tautola. We expect a lot of our younger guys to step up this spring and become impact players this fall."

"In the kicking game we return our Long snapper, J.T. Brown, and kicker Andrew Kocurek. With our recruiting class and returning talent at the specialists position I expect us to dramatically improve in the kicking game. We return all of our return specialists which went 2nd in the nation last year in Punt returns!"

"Again, overall I am excited about the players we have returning and going through Spring Drills!"

Can you complete this sentence: Come the end of the spring practices, the Bearcats will be better at ...?

"Playing the game of football as a team. It's not about the offense and how many points they can score; and it's not about the defense and how many sacks and picks they can get; it's about the football team coming together as a whole, all phases and playing and winning together."

Any comments for the Bearcat fans and alumni out there?

"We hope to see you at some of our practices and our 3rd annual Spring game. I also hope everyone will participate in our First Annual 5 on 5 flag football tournament the day of the Spring Game on April 16th. We need your support to take this team to a higher level. I know our fans, alumni, student body and community will be proud of this first class group of young men that wear the purple of the SBU Bearcats."

2011 Recruiting Class

2011-02-03T14:26:00.002-06:00

Recruiting Class Recap:

“With SBU having back to back winning seasons for the first time in 23 years, we had very specific goals for our 2011 recruiting class. After the last game of the record breaking 2010 season, we had a team meeting and explained our goals and expectations for 2011. We told our players that everyone has a job to do to prepare for 2011. Our coaching staff’s job was to recruit players to replace everyone on our roster and their job was to work so hard that it would be tough for any newcomer to beat them out. I feel that our coaching staff has done a great job this year of signing the student-athletes that can contribute to our team immediately, either by playing in a starring role or providing competition and quality depth at their position. Our immediate needs on offense were at the offensive line, wide receiver and quarterback positions. Defensively, we had immediate needs at the defensive line. In the kicking game we needed to find a punter. We are very excited about the guys we have signed and the mid-year transfers that are already on campus. These guys are not only great football players, they are quality people off the field as well. This recruiting class is exemplified by young men with great character, hard work ethic, solid academics and a burning desire to compete on the football field.

Again, our coaching staff did a great job recruiting and I applaud their hard work and effort. I also appreciate all the support and help our athletic administration, faculty and staff gave us in recruiting such a strong class. We will be finalizing this recruiting class over the next few weeks with a few more talented student athletes. Our fans can expect another great season with this signing class.”

2011 Signees Mid Year Bios

Kortney Bennett (Los Angeles, CA ) – DE, 6’3, 260, JR

College : LA Peirce College

Coach Allen: “Kortney is a big body edge player that we believe will wreak havoc on opposing QBs. His size and strength allows him to control the corner in the run game as well. Having him this spring will be a great benefit to learning our system inside and out before this season.”

Daniel Connors (Monterrey, CA) – QB, 6’6, 202, JR

High School : Pacific Grove High School / Monterrey Peninsula C.C.

Head Coach : Coach Roggeman / Coach Rasmussen

Planned College Major : Sports Management

Coach Allen: “Dan is a monster signal caller with his 6’6 stature. His ability to see everything and run the offense will be a huge advantage for us this spring. His size and strength is a big plus, but it his ability to run the ball is the main reason we see him competing for the job this spring.”

Chuck Stevens (New Orleans, LA) – OL, 6’6, 325, JR

High School : McDonough 35 College Prep / Arizona Western

Head Coach : Coach Reese / Coach Minick

Planned College Major : Sports Management

Coach Allen: “Chuck is a physical presence on our campus this spring. He is a technician who can overpower defender at times taking over the game. Having him this spring will beef up our already impressive line-up. His physique and aptitude will allow us to play him a multiple positions on our line.”

Brandon Colainni (Moon Township, PA) – OL, 6’3, 300, JR

High School : Moon Area High School / Valley Forge Military College

Head Coach : Coach Capuano / Coach DiCarlo

Planned College Major : Psychology

Coach Allen: “Brandon comes to us from the Steel City and brings that blue collar attitude to our team. From the moment he stepped on campus people have responded to him. His eagerness to finish his blocks is his highest quality. He wants you on the ground if at all possible and when you see his film that is what you get. We expect big things out of him this spring and fall.

Eddie Shields (Shawnee, KS) – WR, 5’7, 150, JR

High School : Shawnee Mission North High School / Coffeyville Community College

Head Coach : Coach Majors / Coach Dulin

Planned College Major : Sports Management

Notes: 18 catches, 193 yards, 2 TDs

Coach Allen: “Eddie is a quick jitter bug type athlete that joins us this spring from Coffeyville CC. He has a great attitude and has been working hard everyday to compete in our offense. Once we put the pads on this spring we look to Eddie has have an immediate impact for our wide receiver corp.”

Charles Bolden II (South Holland, IL) – WR-DB, 6’2, 189, JR

High School : Seton Academy / Grossmont College (San Diego, CA)

Head Coach : Coach Jordan

Planned College Major : Business Management

Coach Allen: “Charles is a big time athlete that we see starting somewhere either on offense or defense for us once spring ball is all said and done. His skill catch and run with it excite us about him at wideout, but ability to cover people has us wondering which position well be the final resting place for him.”

Collin Pape (Peoria, AZ) – FS, 5’11, 182, JR

High School : Sunrise Mountain / Glendale Community College

Head Coach : Coach Bell

Planned College Major : Sports Management

Coach Allen: “Collin is a great cover man that we can see competing for being the leader in the back end for us this spring into the fall. He was a standout player Glendale CC, and we don’t look for that to change while he plays for us.”

2011 Signees Bios

Tyler Park (Keller, TX) – QB, 6’1, 185, FR

High School : Keller High School

Head Coach : Coach Atkinson

Planned College Major : Athletic Training

Notes: Team Offensive MVP, 1560 Yards Passing, 128-198 64.5% Completion Percentage, 11 Passing TD’s and 4 Rushing TD’s on 358 yards rushing.

Coach Allen: “Tyler is a dynamic player that comes from a program that runs a very similar offense to ours. We expect to see him compete for playing time right away.”

Trey Schucker (Clarksville, AR) – QB, 6’3, 215, FR

High School : Clarksville High School

Head Coach : Coach Banning

Planned College Major : Physical Therapy

Notes:

Coach Allen: “Trey is a versatile player that can come in a play a multitude of positions. Under Coach Banning at Clarksville Trey ran the offense from the QB spot and played defense as well. With his natural size and strength we expect him to compete at quarterback but is physical enough to play any number of positions.”

Jon Hawes (Springdale, AR) – WR, 6’3, 205, FR

High School : Shiloh Christian School

Head Coach : Coach Floyd

Planned College Major : Undecided

Notes: 4.51 40 Yard Dash, 907 Yards Recieving on 48 Catches, 8 Interceptions and 4 Fumble Recoveries in Senior Season with 13 TD’s. Ark.Sports.360 Best of Class 2011, Northwest Arkansas All Area Team, All Conference, 3 Year Record 40-3, 3 Time Arkansas 4A State Champions, 3 Straight Years Nationally Ranked. Also was Arkansas 4A State Champion and Arkansas 4A State Runner-Up in Track 4x400 meters.

Coach Allen: “Jon is a winner plain and simple. Jon played for the Arkansas power Shiloh Christian where he won three State Championships in a row. He is a big play threat that attacks the ball when it is in the air. His size and stature allows him to out position defenders and has the speed to get over the top.”

Stephen Carr (The Woodlands, TX ) – OL, 6’4, 275, FR

High School : The Woodlands High School

Head Coach : Coach Schmid

Planned College Major : Business

Notes: 1^st Team All District 14-5A Offensive Lineman, 2008 Freshmen Wrestler of the Year.

Coach Allen: “Stephen is a big physical lineman that has the ability to take over games up front. He was a standout while at The Woodlands one of Texas’ finest schools. His size and strength allows him to overpower defender creating run lanes, and has excellent feet while pass blocking.”

Blake King (Duncanville, TX ) – OL, 6’4, 235, FR

High School : Duncanville High School

Head Coach : Coach Dicus

Planned College Major : Sports Management

Notes: 2010 All-District Team

Coach Allen: “Blake is a dynamic athlete upfront that has the speed and quickness to compete at TE as well. He has long arms and fast feet which allow him to handle edge runners, along with having the ability to get down field in the screen game as well.”

Austin Molitor (Bentonville, AR ) – WR/Punter, 6’5, 190, FR

High School : Bentonville High School

Head Coach : Coach Lunney

Notes: All Conference 7A West Wide Receiver

Coach Allen: “Austin has one of the best legs for a high school kid I’ve seen in awhile. He is not your typical punter however because he also played wideout for the State Championship Tigers as well. He actually had more big plays there because he wasn’t called upon to often to punt. We hope that trend will be the same for us this fall.”

David Layman (Prairie Grove, AR ) – LS, 5’11’, 205, FR

High School : Prairie Grove High School

Head Coach : Coach Abshier

Coach Allen: “David is a product of hard work and determined effort. His ability to snap the football wear it needs to be excites us. We feel fortunate to have signed a ranked Rubio Snapping product. We look for David to compete for all our long snapping duties.”

Alex Bartlett (Harrisonville, MO ) – SS, 6’0, 180, FR

High School : Harrisonville High School

Head Coach : Coach Lliteras

Planned College Major : Criminal Justice

Coach Allen: “Alex comes from one of the best High Schools in the state. He knows how to work and what it takes to win a championship. His instinctive style of play allows him to be around the ball at all times. Alex is a great addition to our team.”

Blake Poncio (Katy, TX ) – SS, 5’11, 185, FR

High School : Seven Lakes High School

Head Coach : Coach O’Keefe

Planned College Major : Business / Law School

Notes: 1^st Team All District 2008 and 2010 / 245 Tackles and 3 Blocked Kicks in three years.

Coach Allen: “Blake is a hitter there is no doubt about that. As soon as you turn on his highlight tape and see play one you know this kid can play. He is a downhill player that will strike you every chance he gets, but has great awareness to put himself in position to defend the pass as well. We are looking for big things out of Blake this Fall.”

Josh Caver (Pasadena, TX ) – DL, 6’3, 280, FR

High School : Pasadena Memorial High School

Head Coach : Coach Snelson

Planned College Major : Education

Notes: 1st Team All District DL, Most outstanding DL Award, 50 Tackles, 12 Tackles for Loss.

Coach Allen: “Josh is a product of SBU Alumni Coach Snelson at Memorial High in Pasadena. He plays big in the middle and disturbs offensive attacks with his effort to get in the backfield. When we look for defensive lineman we want guys that will cause havoc on the other side of scrimmage and Josh is our man for that.”

Nathan Mourik (Pasadena, TX ) – WR, 6’2, 185, FR

High School : Pasadena Memorial High School

Head Coach : Coach Snelson

Planned College Major : Criminal Justice

Coach Allen: “Nathan is another determined athlete that is a result of Coach Snelson’s tutelage. Playmaker is the only description suitable for Nathan. When Memorial needed a play it was Nathan they called on. His ability to attack the ball at its highest point and come down with it is one trait we love about him, but it is his YAC yard capability that we are most excited about. We look for him to be an immediate impact for us here.”

2011 Signing Day Interview

2011-02-03T12:07:00.002-06:00

1. Coach, talk about your overall 2011 recruiting class:

2. What was the biggest difference you noticed this year recruiting?

I believe we were able to recruit a higher caliber player than years past. I think back-to-back winning seasons and a great coaching staff that enjoys recruiting has helped us be more competitive when it comes to recruiting. Recruits are coming to our campus and are getting a first hand look at our team, coaches, and campus and realize we are a tight knit group!

3. What excites you the most about this recruiting class?

Besides the overall talent this recruiting class has is their individual desire to be at SBU. We put a premium on finding student athletes that wanted to be a part of what we are doing and what we are about. When you find a kid that can play and wants to be at your program, then you have a special athlete. I understand most kids at the age of 10 aren't dreaming to play football at SBU or any other NCAA D2 program they are dreaming about the DI schools. With that being said, I always tell our recruits that if you end up playing football at SBU then you were purposed or destined to be here. It's that special of a place.

4. Any signee stand out above the rest?

They all will play an intregal part in this program, otherwise we wouldn't have signed them. Ask me the same question in 3-4 years and I'll have a better answer.

5. Why so many recruits from out of state?

Believe it or not, we have a huge alumni base in the Dallas and Houston area , especially former football players that are now high school coaches. Those guys had a great experience at SBU are really help us in locating great players in their areas!

Southwest Baptist University Athletics - SBU football looks for seventh straight against St. Joseph's

2010-10-29T18:09:00.000-05:00

Southwest Baptist University Athletics - SBU football looks for seventh straight against St. Joseph's

Faith impacts football team - Sports

2010-05-12T23:16:00.000-05:00

Faith impacts football team - Sports

Spring Game tomorrow

2010-04-23T12:07:00.000-05:00

Can't wait to see all of our alumni and fans tomorrow at the Spring Game and Golf Outing! Should be fun!

Southwest Baptist University Athletics - Football set to open spring practice

2010-03-26T13:27:00.000-05:00

Southwest Baptist University Athletics - Football set to open spring practice

Southwest Baptist University Athletics - SBU Bearcat football announces 2010 schedule

2010-03-15T23:33:00.000-05:00

Southwest Baptist University Athletics - SBU Bearcat football announces 2010 schedule

Q & A with Coach Allen about Spring Practice:

2010-03-12T14:26:00.002-06:00

The SBU Bearcats football team will start the 15 NCAA allowed spring practices on Monday March 29th. Keith Allen, entering his 4th year as the Bearcats Head Coach, talks about the upcoming spring sessions.

How has this off-season training been going as compared to 2009?

"The biggest difference I see as the head coach is that these guys are hungry! I mean they know what it means to be a competitor and what it takes to win. They won six out of their last seven games last year and want to build on that success and winning season. Our team last season experienced every type of game possible: Blowing out an opponent; being blown out; losing a fourth quarter lead; coming back and winning in the second half; playing in overtime; and having the game come down to the last play of regulation with the ball on the goal line. Seriously, some players don't experience all those types of games in their career let alone one season." Allen added " The cohesion we have as a coaching staff is showing in the cohesion of team. The kids know our standard of performance and level of expectations which is crucial to the overall progress of the team."

How Excited are you to finally start Spring Practice?

It's the best part of what we do in the Spring! I enjoy recruiting and the off-season conditioning, but I really love being around our players and have a chance to see them improve on the field and gel as a cohesive team. It's nice to focus on the game of football without the pressure of anyone worrying about a Saturday and how their performance will be. We can just work on the game of football and not be rushed trying to put in certain plays. I just love teaching and coaching."

What to you hope to accomplish with the 2010 spring practices?

"Our first goal is always to become fundamentally sound in every aspect, offense, defense, and special teams. We will focus on footwork, alignment and assignments. Our coaches have tweaked what we do both offensively and defensively, so it will be great for our kids to get those 15 opportunities to learn and improve. Our second goal is to challenge our kids to define our two-deep on both sides of the ball. The Third goal as a program is to keep changing the atmosphere and mindset of what the Bearcat football program is all about- our guys need to expect and believe that they can execute every play and win every game in 2010.

You lost 11 starters last year. What are your concerns and are you excited to see who steps up in the leadership roles?

"We had 16 seniors last year, 11 of which were starters, which is a great compliment to the program that we're able to keep seniors around each and every year. This off-season to help develop that leadership role we've been meeting twice a week to discuss character, leadership and what it really means to be a Christian leader on and off the field. Our concerns are just like every coach in America, we need more linemen. We have addressed that in recruiting and will continue to develop the depth we need at offensive and defensive line. One of the most important positions in football is the quarterback position, and Steve Gachette is definitely the leader of this team and we expect him to keep getting better. Other guys will have to prove and earn their leadership role on our team during these 15 practices, I am excited about the great character and leadership these kids will display. "

Can you complete this sentence: Come the end of the spring practices, the Bearcats will be better at ...?

"Playing the game of football as a team. It's not about the offense and how many points they can score; and it's not about the defense and how many sacks and picks they can get; it's about the football team coming together as a whole, all phases and playing and winning together."

Any comments for the Bearcat fans and alumni out there?

"We hope to see you at some of our practices and our 3rd annual Golf Outing and Spring game. We need your support to take this team to a higher level. I know our fans, alumni, student body and community will be proud of this first class group of young men that wear the purple of the SBU Bearcats."

Related Links
Spring Practice Schedule
2010 SBU Football Golf tournament

2010 SPRING SCHEDULE

2010-03-09T13:01:00.000-06:00

2010 Spring Practice Schedule:

Date	Time	Practice # / Event
Monday, March 29	7:00 pm	Practice #1- Helmets
Wednesday, March 31	4:00 pm	Practice #2- Helmets
Friday, April 2	10:30 am	Practice #3
Monday, April 5	7:00 pm	Practice #4
Wednesday, April 7	4:00 pm	Practice #5
Friday, April 9	4:00 pm	Practice #6
Saturday, April 10	10:30 am	Practice #7- Scrimmage
Monday, April 12	7:00 pm	Practice #8
Wednesday, April 14	4:00 pm	Practice #9
Friday, April 16	4:00 pm	Practice #10
Saturday, April 17	10:30 am	Practice #11- Scrimmage
Monday, April 19	7:00 pm	Practice #12
Wednesday, April 21	4:00 pm	Practice #13
Friday, April 23	4:00 pm	Practice #14
Saturday, April 24	3:00 pm	Purple / White Spring Game

* Schedule is subject to change- please check with the SBU Football Office for daily schedule.

2010 Schedule

2010-03-08T16:43:00.001-06:00

August 28	Central Missouri	6:00 PM
*September 4*	*at Truman State*	*7:00 PM*
September 11	Bacone College	1:30 PM
September 18	William Jewell	1:30 PM
*September 25*	at Southern Nazarene	*6:00 PM*
*October 2*	*at Urbana*	*12:00 PM*
*October 9*	*at Lincoln*	*2:00 PM*
October 23	*Central State (homecoming)	2:00 PM
October 30	Saint Joseph's College	1:30 PM
*November 6*	*at Southeast Missouri (FCS)*	*1:00 PM*
*November 13*	*at Arkansas Tech*	*2:00 PM*

2009 Football Banquet

2009-12-12T21:20:00.002-06:00

We just had our 2009 Football Banquet! Our award winners this year:
Scout team Player of the Year: Gerard Anderson
Offensive Newcomer of the Year: Derrick Okafor
Defensive Newcomer of the Year: Ino Vitale
Special Teams player of the Year: Jameson Manuma
Offensive Player of the Year: Steve Gachette
Defensive Player of the Year: Jarred Schumpert
Dr. Jim Sell's Spirit Award winner: Tyrin Holt

Congrats to our 2009 Seniors and Award recipients!

Southwest Baptist University - Bearcat football earns winning season with 54-13 victory over Missouri S&T

2009-11-13T11:31:00.000-06:00

Southwest Baptist University - Bearcat football earns winning season with 54-13 victory over Missouri S&T

First winning season since 2001

2009-11-13T11:28:00.000-06:00

After an 0-4 start to the 2009 season, the SBU Bearcats turned things around in a big way by winning six of their last seven games including Saturday's 54-13 rout of Missouri S&T. Quarterback Steve Gachette threw five touchdown passes and three players scored twice including senior linebacker Jarred Schumpert, who rushed for and caught his first career offensive touchdowns.Schumpert was among 17 seniors honored before the game and capped off his brilliant SBU career by rushing for a one-yard touchdown in the third quarter. He followed that with a two-yard touchdown catch in the fourth period. The Gilmer, Texas, native ended his four years with Bearcats as the only player in school history to lead the team in tackles for four straight seasons."Our kids went out in style and executed well," said head coach Keith Allen. "I was proud of them for taking charge of the game. They remembered what the Miners did to us last year and were determined not to let it happen again. I'm also proud of their effort all season. After being 0-4, we told them, 'it's not how you start, but how you finish.' "After an early 6-6 tie, the Bearcats took the lead for good late in the first quarter on a one-yard touchdown run by Thad Everson. Gachette threw for two scores in the second quarter giving the Bearcats a 27-6 halftime cushion. The Bearcats would tack on two touchdowns in the third quarter and two more in the fourth, giving them their comfortable victory.The Bearcats finished with a flurry, winning six of their last seven games, which were the most wins in a seven game stretch in school history. The 6-5 mark was the first winning season for SBU since 2001.Harlon Hill candidate Steve Gachette added to his resume with five touchdown passes, giving him 28 on the season, breaking his 2008 record of 27 scores. Gachette completed 31 of 39 passes for 407 yards, while also rushing for 163 yards on 15 carries. Gachette ended 2009 with 3990 yards in total offense (975 rush, 3015 pass), which easily surpassed his 2008 former record total of 3360.Two of Gachette's strikes went to seniors Elon Paige and Johnnie King. Paige caught five passes for 74 yards while King caught five for 69 yards. Another senior, John Austin, grabbed six passes for 78 yards. Jameson Manuma had two touchdown catches among his four catches for 82 yards. Justin Duhaney rushed for 71 yards on 11 carries while Thad Everson had two touchdown runs.Senior Tyrin Holt led the 'Cats in his final game with 12 tackles while seniors Lavarus Rue and Shawn Kilduff had interceptions on the day.The seniors honored before the game were Tyler Anderson, John Austin, Scott Crain, Tyrin Holt, Anthony Jackson, Jordan Jackson, Willie Johnson, Shawn Kilduff, Johnnie King, Andrew Lindeman, Henry Ogunjimi, Elon Paige, Tyler Rickard, Lavarus Rue, Jarred Schumpert, Kyle Swallows, and trainer Molly Bryan. After going 0-11 in 2007, the Bearcats went 5-6 last year and bettered that by one this season. The eleven wins were more than the previous five seasons (2003-07) combined.

5-5 with one game left

2009-11-01T11:59:00.002-06:00

We came back after a half-time deficit and won a big road game against a good St. Joseph's College team. We are now 5-5 with one more game left. This will be our Senior Game, so our kids better be ready to come out a play their tails off for one more game!

SBU beats Central Oklahoma 31-23

2009-10-03T21:53:00.000-05:00

SBU football does it again! SBU upset the UCO Bronchos in Edmond
Oklahoma on UCO's homecoming. Our kids played their hearts out to win
today. We now are getting ready for our game next Saturday (which is
our homecoming). God bless

Big Win over Kentucky Wesleyan

2009-09-27T13:06:00.003-05:00

Our team finally put together a complete game on all three phases and won against Kentucky Wesleyan 50-20. It was great to see our kids and fans enjoy the victory afterwards! We are getting better every week and now have a tough challenge on the road against a very good Central Oklahoma team!

NWMSU game notes

2009-09-05T18:49:00.002-05:00

We had a tough one versus #8 NWMSU thursday night- had it tied 14-14 with 6 minutes left in the 3rd quarter. We had a chance to tie it again to make it 21-21, instead came up short and let them score and take the game away from us. Kids played hard- three turnovers and some execution errors are just too much when you play a great NWMSU team.

Players of the game: Johnnie King- Offense, Tyrin Holt- Defense.

This week we play Harding in Searcy!

NWMSU tomorrow

2009-09-02T13:24:00.002-05:00

Well, here we are- less than two days away from game #2 versus the Nationally Ranked, four time consecutive National Champion runner up Northwest Missouri State University. They are a very solid football team with something to prove after last weeks loss to Abilene Christian University.

Our guys have been working hard and are ready for the challenge of playing a team of NWMSU's caliber.

Look for us to play fast, hard and disciplined- We hope to see you out there in the stands cheering for SBU!

Q & A with Coach Allen about the 2009 season

2009-08-30T19:22:00.003-05:00

The SBU Bearcats football team has started the 2009 campaign with a loss to a ranked Central Missouri team. Keith Allen, entering his 3rd year as the Bearcats Head Coach, talks about the upcoming season.

After game 1, how has your team changed or grown from the 2008 team? "Last year's team could have given up after giving up 13 unanswered points in the first few minutes of the game, but this year's team will never give up. Our kids know how hard they have worked and they understand that this hard work will pay off!"

What to you hope to accomplish with the 2009 season? "I want to see our kids play complete games, execute their assignments. This 2009 team will be a team that plays with enthusiam and effort every down. If we do those simple things, this will be a very successfull team with a winning record."

Who has stepped up in the leadership roles?"On offense- Steve Gachette, Johnnie King and Eric Mateos have been the leaders this fall, on defense- Tyrin Holt and Jarred Schumpert have really stepped up in the leadership role. This team has matured alot over the last 12 months and I am excited to see what the future holds for them. "

What's the biggest thing you want people to say about the SBU Bearcat football program? "It's not the same 'ole Bearcats anymore. I want opponents, when they see us on their schedule, to be saying this is the "oh crud" game, where they know that we are going to battle every play and give them everything we got and in turn they are going to have to battle as well. Right now we are still a few team's homecoming game and believe me, that will change!"

Any comments for the Bearcat fans and alumni out there in cyberspace? "Hope to see you Thursday night at 6:00 PM- It's black out night!

Sunday Church Service

2009-08-30T14:05:00.001-05:00

Church service today at Grace Fellowship Baptist Church was awesome! Our kids got to hear two strong testimonies and a great sermon. Also the lunch was outstanding- Thanks to GFBC for hosting us!

UCM Game

2009-08-28T09:26:00.000-05:00

We came up short tonight, we blew a 28-20 lead in the second half. Kids played hard and gave great effort, just made too many mistakes! We will clean it up this week and get ready for NWMU.

TOMORROW

2009-08-26T08:22:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is the big day! We kick off vs Central!

Last practice of Camp tonight

2009-08-21T14:04:00.000-05:00

Practice tonight at 6:15- should be a great one- it's the last practice of Fall Camp! Tomorrow the players get a well deserved day off!

Seven Days

2009-08-20T13:10:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it- only 7 days till we kickoff against Central Missouri. Our kids have been practicing hard and giving great effort- I know you are going to be impressed with this football team. Come out and support your SBU Bearcats Thursday night in Warrensburg at 7:00 PM!

Day 3

2009-08-08T11:07:00.004-05:00

Today is day three of our Fall Camp. Our young guys are figuring out our tempo and style, but are doing a great job of working through. Today's practice will be the first one in shoulder pads. I will let you know how we look- also, stay more informed by following me on twitter!
http://twitter.com/coachkeithallen

28 Days

2009-07-30T23:35:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted. Only 28 days till kick off vs UCM. Our kids report Tuesday and we get going!

SBU Bearcats 2009!

44 Days

2009-07-14T11:53:00.002-05:00

Well, it's been a busy summer for us. My wife and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary by renewing our vows in a hot air balloon looking over Napa Valley. We bought and moved into a new 5 bedroom house that has a pool and deck large enough for our football team to come over. With the help of the team we moved houses in less than 3 hours- great team building!!!!!

Also, we have over 40 guys in town getting better everday this summer- I am so excited about 2009!

It's a great time to be a BEARCAT!

Discipline over the Summer

2009-06-09T19:47:00.001-05:00

78 Days till kick off!

“We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons.” -Jim Rohn

Less than 90 days till Kickoff!

2009-05-30T07:34:00.004-05:00

Are you ready for some football? I am, last week was finals for our guys.

They did a great job, we 17 guys with a 3.0 or better GPA this Spring. Way to go guys!

Summer classes begin this week, so our guy will be back! Remember, we kickoff in 89 days.

Finals week at SBU

2009-05-18T22:25:00.000-05:00

This week is finals week at SBU. Our kids have been working hard both
academically and athletically. Good luck to all the students!

Finals week at SBU

2009-05-18T22:16:00.000-05:00

This week is finals week at SBU. Our kids

Missouri Weather

2009-05-09T09:35:00.002-05:00

Well, we had some high winds and hard rains yesterday. Power was out for the morning, but all was normal by the afternoon. SBU's campus suffered only minor damage. We had a tree blow down on a car, but fortunately the person in the car suffered only minor injuries.

New look

2009-05-05T23:31:00.002-05:00

We have officially become a "Nike" Football team. They came down and put our football team head to toe in Nike. Our uniforms look really sharp. I think our fans and alumni will like our new look!

Finishing Strong

2009-05-05T23:26:00.002-05:00

Our guys are finishing the semester strong. They are lifting and conditioning everyday, so I am pleased with the team. We voted on our "Blackwatch" and the 13 members are:
Andrew Lindeman (OL), Johnnie King (WR), Steven Gachette (QB), Tyrin Holt (DB), Jarred Schumpert (LB), Chris Tejeda (DL), Will Ramirez (DL), Shawn Kilduff (LB), Jordan Jackson (DB), Scott Crain (OL), Eric Mateos (OL), Deandre Brown (RB), John Austin (WR), The first 6 are also the 2009 team captains.

Donor plates on our lockers

2009-04-30T18:01:00.000-05:00

We are looking for some friends of the program to sponsor 37 of the
lockers in our locker room that so not have donor name plates.
Donation is $100 for each locker to sponsor. Call the football office
for open locker numbers. Alumni, this is a great way for you make
sure the guy who wears your number lives up to your standards!

Purple / White game

2009-04-26T17:57:00.000-05:00

We finished our 2009 spring practices this weekend with our 2nd annual
Purple / White spring game. I was very pleased with the progress we
made as a team. Our guys played hard and gave great effort. We had a
great turnout to the game with our fans, signees & recruits!

Scrimmage #2

2009-04-18T17:32:00.000-05:00

We just finished scrimmage #2. Our guys are flying around with great
intensity and effort. Still a few mistakes but we will clean it up.
Hope to see you the 25th for the purple/white spring game.

Practice #10

2009-04-16T10:12:00.001-05:00

We just finished practice #10 last night and we have our second scrimmage this Saturday morning at 11:00 AM. Our offense is lookinh great and our defense is getting better everyday. I hope you'll come out and support your bearcats!

Scrimmage #1

2009-04-10T13:02:00.002-05:00

We just got off the field for our first scrimmage. We had an MIAA crew officiate the game so our guys could work more game like situations. The field was in sloppy conditions due to the thunderstorms we had overnight, but our guys came out today and got better.

OFFENSE: Our offense picked up right where we left off in 2008. We struggled a little on the goal line offensively (mainly because we didn't put our GL Offense on the field). I am really seeing (Steve) Gachette improve as a leader of this team. Our OL and RB's really stepped up and began to display of a more aggresive running attack. Our WR's did a great job of finding the football and making plays. Our offense overall is getting better and better everyday!

DEFENSE: Our linebacker play and secondary play was getting much better and they did a great job of finishing and tackling. Our DL gave great effort, but the depth of our DL for the spring made the rotations very hard and for an 80 play scrimmage the wore down at the end. The defense overall gave great effort and swarmed to the football.

SPECIAL TEAMS: We only went live for punt and FG today. Our punt team did a great job of protecting and covering. We didn't get a bpunt blocked in 2008 and if we keep working on it, we won't get one blocked in 2009. Our FG team did a great job with operation and execution (especially with the sloppy conditions)

We hope to see you at our next scrimmage Saturday the 18th at 11:00am

Practice #6

2009-04-07T23:13:00.002-05:00

We just finished practice #6. Our offense had a great practice and moved the ball very well. Our defense looked good as well and is continually improving. We will continue to stress fundamentals and great effort. Next practice is Thursday at 4:00pm!

Practice #5

2009-04-06T23:48:00.000-05:00

With the close of practice #5 tonight, the Bearcats are 33% done with
spring practices. Coach Allen says "We are improving with each
practice but it's hard to know exactly where we are until our first
scrimmage this Friday morning. Then we will see our guys fly around
and be physical."

Q & A with Coach Allen about Spring Practices:

2009-04-05T12:41:00.000-05:00

The SBU Bearcats football team started the 15 NCAA allowed spring practices on Monday March 30th. Keith Allen, entering his 3rd year as the Bearcats Head Coach, talks about the upcoming spring sessions.

How much fun is it for you, as a coach, to get on the field again in the spring?

"It's the best part of what we do in the Spring! I enjoy recruiting and the off-season conditioning, but I really love being around our players and have a chance to see them improve on the field and gel as a cohesive team. It's nice to focus on the game of football without the pressure of anyone worrying about a Saturday and how their performance will be. We can just work on the game of football and not be rushed trying to put in certain plays. I just love teaching and coaching."

What to you hope to accomplish with the 2009 spring practices?

"Our first goal is to become fundamentally sound in every aspect, offense, defense, and special teams. We will focus on footwork, alignment and assignments, which will be beneficial. Our second goal is to find out who our playmakers are and make sure we have them in the right spot. The third goal is to establish a first class defense to go along with our offense. With promotion of Zach Wilkerson as defensive coordinator and the hiring of Darnell Walker as our secondary coach I expect to see a new swagger and attitude on defense, especially with the addition of our 2009 signing class. On Offense, I know coach (J.C.) Dawkins and staff will keep our offense as one of the best in the nation. The fourth goal as a program is we need to keep changing the mindset of what the Bearcat football program is all about- our guys need to expect and believe that they can execute every play and win every game in 2009.

You lost a big senior class last year. Are you excited to see who steps up in the leadership roles?

"We had 21 seniors last year, which is a great compliment to the program that we're able to keep seniors around each and every year. This year is another big class of seniors, so this off-season, we've been meeting twice a week to discuss leadership and what it really means to be a Christian leader on and off the field. I am also very excited about the progress our guys have made in the weight room this off-season under Coach (Ben) Blake and really expect it to spill over into these spring practices. One of the most important positions in football is the quarterback position, and Steve Gachette is really coming around as a leader of this team. Other guys will have to prove and earn their leadership role on our team during these 15 practices, I am excited about the great leadership these kids will display. "

Can you complete this sentence: Come the end of the spring practices, the Bearcats will be better at ...?

"Being a better team. We want our players to believe in themselves, believe in each other and believe in the coaches, and the coaches need to believe in them. At the end of spring ball, we need to have that confidence that we are a strong team, knowing we will face adversity, but knowing that if we face it together as a team we can overcome any bumps in the road."

Any comments for the Bearcat fans and alumni out there in cyberspace?

"We hope to see you at some of our practices and our 2nd annual Golf Outing and Spring game. We need your support to take this team to a higher level. I know our fans, alumni, student body and community will be pround of this first class group of young men that wear the purple of the SBU Bearcats."

Related Links
http://www.coachallen.com/offseasonSchedule.html

Spring practice #3

2009-04-03T19:26:00.001-05:00

We just finished practice #3. Our guys are flying around and playing
with great enthsuiam. Tomorrow morning at 9:00 am we go full pads and
will get after it. Hope to see you there. It's a great time to be a
bearcat!

Practice #1

2009-03-31T19:13:00.000-05:00

We officially started spring practice Monday night. I was very
excited about our intensity, tempo, enthusiam and effort. The offense
picked up right where we left off at the end of the '08 season. Our
defense, under new leadership, came out with a new swagger and swarm
attitude. Hope to see you at one of our practices this spring.

Spring ball starts Monday night

2009-03-29T08:49:00.000-05:00

We start spring ball Monday! We are excited about the 15
opportunities we have to prepare for the 2009 season. Come by and
visit us, the practicw schedule is posted on
http:/www.coachallen.com

Spring Break

2009-03-20T16:29:00.000-05:00

We are officially on spring break. We will have our new coach on
board next week. Get ready for some football 'cause we start the 30th!

Change

2009-03-13T10:23:00.003-05:00

E.J. Junior, our former Defensive Coordinator, just took the Head Coaching job at Central State University. We are excited about the opportunity he has there!

We are aleady interviewing outstanding candidates for the open position and will hopefully have someone in place next week.

Morning workout update

2009-03-05T08:04:00.002-06:00

We got finished with another one of our "4th Quarter Conditioning" drills. Our guys have responded well. Also, today will be great day for our guys to enjoy the warm Spring weather.

"I hated every minute of training but I said "Don't quit, suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion." - Muhammad Ali

Don't forget about our Golf Outing on April 25th

Winter Conditioning Update

2009-03-04T12:33:00.004-06:00

Our players are working hard this off-season. We've got two more weeks of winter conditioning and then start Spring Ball on March 30th! Don't forget about our Golf Outing on April 25th

University of Missouri coaches clinic

2009-02-27T12:02:00.000-06:00

Our coaching staff is speaking at the MU football clinic this
weekend. It is the first time that any SBU coaching staff has been
invited to speak.

Blood drive

2009-02-26T16:53:00.000-06:00

We had 58 guys give blood a few weeks ago. We are learning what it
means to be servant leaders.

Mobile update

2009-02-26T13:39:00.000-06:00

We are updating via iPhone. We had a great recruiting class and our
guys are working very hard.

Big Home Win

2008-09-16T03:48:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a great game! Our players played hard and our fans were awesome. Our defense had 4 fourth down stops and our offense was 7 for 7 in the red zone. Our Bearcat fans stayed until the end, despite all the rain- THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT. We are excited about being home again this week against Bethany. We hope that we get the great fan support of our students, faculty and staff again. Remember- If you are a loud, passionate fan we have a neat opportunity for you: You can join our Coaches Crew - a student body group sponsored by me- free t-shirts, face paint, food, etc for just attending the games and being fans. We can't wait to see you at the game!

First Home Game- Coaches Crew

2008-09-08T15:05:00.000-05:00

We are excited about being home this week against Harding. After two tough road games, we are ready to be able to play in front of the SBU Students. We hope that we get the great fan support of our students, faculty and staff. We have a few neat things going on for our fans: Coaches Crew- a student body group sponsored by me- free t-shirts, face paint, food, etc for just attending the games and being fans. Bleacher Creatures- a group of kids that get free attendance and free activities throughout the season. About Harding- we are 0-4 against them and we are ready for a high scoring exciting game. We can't wait to see you at the game!

Northwest this week

2008-09-04T15:04:00.000-05:00

Our kids have had a good week of practice (thus far) and we look forward to the challenge of playing a team of Northwest Missouri's caliber. Coach Tjeerdsma and his staff have done an outstanding job and he is a coach that has done alot for our profession and I admire them for those qualities. Again thanks for all of your support and we hope to see you Saturday night in Maryville.

SEMO Game

2008-08-29T15:04:00.000-05:00

We had our opportunities last night to put away SEMO. Our team did a great job of getting on top of them early, but we were unable to stay on top as we lost a 10 point lead in the 4th quarter. Our kids have worked hard and I know this is very disappointing, but we will learn from our mistakes and press on! Thank you for your support of this Bearcat Football team as we continue to press on!

Scrimmage #2

2008-08-16T15:03:00.000-05:00

We had our second scrimmage yesterday and are starting to look pretty good. Click here to watch our highlights from the last scrimmage. There are only 12 days left until we begin the 2008 season at SEMO. Fans and Alumni, feel free to come by and visit one of our practices!

Full Pads!

2008-08-11T15:03:00.000-05:00

Practice #5 is today. The last day of acclimatization and the first day we are allowed to have full pads on by NCAA rules! Our players have shown up in good shape and have been picking up where we left off in the Spring. There are only 17 days left until we begin the 2008 season at SEMO. Fans and Alumni, feel free to come by and visit one of our practices!

Reporting Day!

2008-08-05T15:02:00.000-05:00

We are reporting to camp today and begin drills Thursday. Our first opponent, SEMO, reported yesterday and began drills today. This means, we are two practices behind them when we start. Their coach stated that he had 60 players working out all summer in Cape. Our players must be ready in 22 days to take this SEMO teams that has had more practice, more players, and more players working out this summer! We hope to see you at our game. Bearcat fans, are you ready for some football?

More Good News

2008-07-24T15:02:00.000-05:00

We have just finished making our team meeting room a "Smart Room". It now has surround sound and new mounted projectors. We also have a new computer video server for all of our football video, so we can watch all our video in any office with a laptop. We can't wait to get started- 12 day till we report

Reporting Date- 17 days

2008-07-19T15:01:00.000-05:00

Our family just got back from a week long vacation in Mexico. I am recharged and can't wait for August 5th. I am very excited about what are kids have done over the summer AND KNOW WE'LL BE MUCH IMPROVED. A note to our newcomers- we need you to come to camp in great shape- you only have 17 days until we start!

Loaded up and Truckin'

2008-07-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

Alot of exciting things are happening for Bearcat Football this summer. We just launched the new coachallen.com website, we just got new platforms and dumbbells for the weightroom, and so much more. We have a great group of players that are already back in town to get ready for the '08 season. To paraphrase Jerry Reed, "East bound and down, loaded up and truckin', we're gonna do what they say can't be done. We've got a long way to go and a short time to get there. "

65 Days

2008-06-24T14:58:00.000-05:00

As I walked into the office today I notice, as I notice everyday, there is one less day till kickoff. For some that's a great thing and others a scary thing. For the Bearcat football program this is a great thing-we are one day closer to show people what we are about! Our players report August 5th so they report in 42 days (6 weeks)!