KOKOMO, Ind. – Jessica Roller is fired up for the first-ever NAIA season of Cougar athletics at Indiana University Kokomo. She is ready to cheer on the teams, but she hopes to root for the Cougars as a member of the new cheerleading squad.

Since the addition of competitive sports last fall, school spirit has reached new heights. This prompted Roller and others to continue the enthusiasm by bringing cheerleading to campus.

"Having cheerleaders at the games will show how excited we are as a campus," Roller said, who cheered in high school. "When the crowd is involved, it makes the games that much more fun."

Roller encourages all students to get involved. As a leadership minor, she believes this will be a great leadership opportunity for students, too.

Chelsea Bower, cheerleading coach.

Coaching the Cougar cheerleaders will be Chelsea Bower, who brings 10 years of experience.

"I want to help build traditions at IU Kokomo," Bower said. "We will bring a lot of new material, some dances and signature cheers, and really get the crowd involved."

Bower looks to build a fun squad of up to eight men and women with sharp skills, experience, and a lot of creativity. They will cheer at all men's home basketball games, and possibly at women's home volleyball games.

She is excited to lead students in a transition from high school to collegiate cheerleading. Bower says engaging the crowd and student section will be a major component of their game performances.

An open gym practice is set for Wednesday, August 29, time and place to be announced. Tryouts will take place Friday, August 31, in the Kelley Student Center, Room 130, from 5 to 7 p.m. Tryouts are open to all full-time students at IU Kokomo.

During the open gym practice, those who try out will learn a dance and cheer to be performed on August 31. Participants will also be expected to perform an original cheer and jumps. Tumbling is optional.

Bower's experience includes four years of cheering at Manchester College. Previously, she coached the junior varsity squad at Maconaquah High School and is the current coach of the 8th grade squad at Lewis Cass Junior-Senior High School.

For more information, contact Chelsea Bower at kosports@iuk.edu or (765) 513-7026.

Story written by Mary Olk. Mary is a senior majoring in communication arts, and is a writer for the Office of Media & Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo kicked off the volleyball season and celebrated its historic first game as a member of the NAIA with a campus tailgate Tuesday, August 21.

Students and staff enjoy some friendly volleyball before the game. See more pictures here.

Students, faculty, staff, athletes and fans mingled on the outdoor basketball court, enjoying hamburgers and hot dogs, music by the Kokomo Perspective's Kokomo 4U, and games, before cheering for the Cougar volleyball team's opening game against Purdue North Central.

Chancellor Michael Harris introduced the volleyball, basketball, and cross country teams, and thanked supporters.

"Indiana University Kokomo has been around for 67 years, and we continue to make history," he said. "In our first season as NAIA members, our volleyball student athletes and coaches are making history playing our first-ever NAIA game. The sports programs are all part of our effort to enhance student success and academic excellence. This is only the beginning."

Lael Burrus, a second-year volleyball player, was thankful so many fans came to the tailgate to show their support not only for her team, but for all the student athletes.

"We're excited to start our season and to do a good job representing IU Kokomo in the NAIA," she said, "It's really cool to have so many people cheering for us."

Volleyball Coach Kristin Snoddy said she'd been excited for the game all day.

"I had some tears in my eyes this morning, and some chills, just thinking about it. We are making IU Kokomo history, and it's humbling to be part of that."

Cross country team members Sandy Beech and Jeremy Gilman enjoyed their first event as student athletes.

Beech transferred to IU Kokomo not only for cross country, but to study medical imaging.

"I wanted to get a degree that matters," she said. "I'm also happy to be able to run on the college level. The athletics program really put the campus on the map."

Freshmen Katharine Calabro, Alexandria Lawhead, Caleb Davis, Tyler Neher, and Doug Francis were excited to attend the tailgate, their first event as college students. They all agree the athletic programs are a positive addition to the student life experience.

Lawhead wanted to go to the tailgate and game "because it makes me feel like I'm part of the campus. It's a good way to meet people."

Davis plans to join the Cougar Crazies, the student section for the athletic events.

"I think the tailgate and the sports bring a lot of energy to the campus. It gets everyone to know each other, and gives us something in common," he said.

Calabro was impressed with how much the campus has grown.

"The athletics are making people take note of IU Kokomo, and then they find out about all the other activities available for students," she said. "I like the attention I get as a student. I'm getting private school attention."

Neher also took note of the growth and changes on campus.

"Everything is so fast-paced, and it's on the move," he said. "I'm excited to be here for the first season of NAIA sports."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – Indiana University Kokomo volleyball Coach Kristen Snoddy said before the season that the Cougars would be vastly improved compared to the programs inaugural season one year ago. And while the Cougars lost its first-ever NAIA game to Purdue University-North Central in straight sets (25-22, 25-23, 18-26), the coach was pleased with many phases of her squads' game.

Courtney Hanson sets up a point against Purdue North Central. See more photos here.

"We had clearly more skilled positions playing tonight than last year," said Snoddy. "That is not to say anything bad about last year's team that helped us get the program going, but we now have key players in some key positions. Good things will come (in the future) because we were not at full strength tonight. We just need to learn to win."

In front of hundreds of IU Kokomo fans, and one year removed from playing as a club program, the Cougars (0-1) showed the NAIA world they were ready for the move up. The Panthers of PNC (2-3) took note of an improved program. Several times in all three sets, the visitors from LaPorte County found themselves trailing. But each time, the Panthers rose to the occasion and took the set win. Coach Snoddy said that is something her team will need to learn to do.

"That is something we will have to learn," said Snoddy. "Maybe we will need to be a little more conscious of the plays we call. We will just need to learn how to close a set."

In the first set, Kokomo jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, and held a 10-6 advantage after an ace by sophomore Emily West (Peru, Ind./Peru). A block by freshman Megan Riley (New Palestine, Ind./New Palestine) gave the Cougars an 11-7 lead. PNC tied the set at 15, IUK regained a 17-15 lead as West served and the Panthers made a pair of errors, but the Panthers took an 18-21 lead following three consecutive IUK errors. Freshman Rachel Allen (Lizton, Ind./Tri-West) tried to rally the Cougars on a pair of kills to cut the lead to 22-24, but it was too little, too late and PNC took set one 25-22.

"I thought our communication in the back (row) lapsed a few times tonight," said Snoddy. "But some of that is confidence. We had Lael Burrus (Denver, Ind./North Miami) play the libero for the first time after setting last year. It is something we need to work on."

An exciting second set included 15 ties and six lead changes with neither team holding a lead larger than two points. With the score tied at 17, the Panthers fired two straight kills to take a two point lead. But West came back with two strong kills sandwiched around a kill by Shelby Spall (Kokomo, Ind./Western) and the Cougars regained the lead.

Spall, coming off a case of bronchitis, tied the set at 22 with another kill, and after a pair of PNC points, IUK recorded a team block at the net to cut the lead to 23-24. But once again, PNC was able to score the final point for a two set lead.

"I attribute a lot of our good play tonight to our setter, Cortney Hanson," said Snoddy. "I think she is one of the best setters in the state and she played well tonight. She has a great set of hands. She is strong at the setter spot. And Carlee Davis (Medaryville, Ind./West Central [Ancilla College]) played strong at the net – she hit the ball hard tonight."

The third set ended in heartbreak for the Cougars. A strong start saw the home team take a quick 3-1 lead thanks to kills by Allen, Spall and Krista Armstrong (Bunker Hill, Ind./Maconaquah). A PNC blocking error gave the Cougars a 10-4 lead, and after another Spall kill the Panthers hurt themselves with an illegal formation call and an illegal substitution penalty – and IUK seemed to be rolling with a comfortable 14-7 lead.

Five IUK errors allowed the Panthers to cut the lead to 20-16, but with Hanson (Winamac, Ind./Pioneer) serving, PNC committed three errors of its own to stretch the Cougars lead to 23-19. A kill from Allen put the Cougars within a service point of the third set win (24-20), but three IUK misses and a PNC block tied the contest at 24. With the Cougars reeling, the Panthers scored a 28-26 set win to seal the match victory.

"We played a little bit back on our heels," said Snoddy of the end of the final set. "We talked about that after the game. But I am excited we could compete like that. It is something to look forward to the rest of the season."

The Cougars travel to the Kickoff Tournament at the Illinois Institute of Technology on Aug. 24-25. They return home on Aug. 28 for a 7 p.m. contest against Purdue University Calumet at the new home of the Cougars – Maple Crest Middle School (located across from the IU Kokomo campus).

By Dean Hockney
Publisher, Sports Journal of Central Indiana

Indiana University serves north central Indiana.

Megan Riley goes for the spike. 

The Cougars jumped out to an early two-set lead, but saw its momentum slowed in the third when Purdue University Calumet took the third set 31-29. IU Kokomo knew they had to come out in the fourth set and match the intensity of the Peregrines. The Cougars refocused and closed out the match, winning the fourth set 25-21.

"I am very excited for our first NAIA win of the season," said Coach Kristen Snoddy. "The girls came out ready to play knowing that at this level you can not take a play off if you want to win."

Lael Burrus (Denver/North Miami H.S.) led the team with 26 digs and Rachel Williams, a Wisconsin native, chipped in 21 digs. Coach Snoddy also credited Sophomore Emily West (Peru/Peru H.S.) with a good defensive game for the Cougars. The offensive attack was lead by freshman Rachel Allen (Lizton, Tri-West H.S.) and Megan Riley (New Palstine, New Palstine H.S.) with 8 and 9 kills respectively.

"I have to give the girls credit," Snoddy said. "They regrouped and matched the other team's intensity to come back and win in the fourth set. We are growing and showing improvement with closing out matches when having the lead. We are headed in the right direction and showing more maturity."

The IU Kokomo Lady Cougars return to action today (August 25) against St. Thomas at 2pm in the second day of matches at the Illinois Institute of Technology Kickoff Tournament.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – Four days after Indiana University Kokomo downed Purdue University Calumet in the Illinois Institute of Technology Kickoff Tournament, the Peregrines traveled to the City of Firsts and returned the favor by downing the Cougars in a five-set volleyball thriller (23-25, 25-14, 15-25, 25-18, 13-15). The loss to a Calumet team that arrived short-handed due to injuries was hard for the Cougars to accept.

Brooke Mathias returns the volleyball. See more photos here.

"I know the girls are super disappointed because we beat this team in the tournament," said IU Kokomo Head Coach Kristen Snoddy. "I don't know – we have a film of it and we will look at it and start working on the things we can improve."

The decisive set saw the home team nearly complete a come-from-behind victory after trailing 8-3, 13-7 and 14-8. A Calumet error, followed by a long baseline hit, started the momentum in the Cougars favor, cutting the lead to 14-10. Rachael Williams (Kendall, Wis./Royall [Goshen College]) entered to serve for Kokomo, and she helped rally the Cougars, thanks to kills by Brittany Nelson (Delphi, Ind./Delphi [Kankakee C.C.]) and Rachel Allen (Lizton, Ind./Tri-West) and a Purdue hit out of bounds. But Calumet's Jesse Miller (Grove City, Ohio/Grove City) raced to the net on a set and fired off the match-winning kill.

"I thought Rachael Williams came in and did a nice job for us in the last set," said Snoddy. "I subbed her in because she has pretty good control over her serves. And Brittany came back from injury and was eligible, and I thought she played well."

The return of Nelson to the Cougars' lineups meant a small learning curve for the squad, and, while not making excuses, Snoddy said both the coaching staff and the team need to learn the new roles that are on the court.

"(Brittany's return) means we have to get used to new body on the court, and we have to adjust to that," Snoddy said. "And as coaches, we are learning on where to put everyone now that our team is healthy."

The Cougars got off to a slow start in all three sets they lost. In the first set, they scored the first point on an ace by freshman Cortney Hanson (Winamac, Ind./Pioneer), only to watch the Peregrines score the next six points and 11 of 13. Kokomo tried to get back in the game. Trailing 11-3, Allen blasted a kill and Calumet had an unforced error to cut the lead to six. Then Megan Riley (New Palestine, Ind./New Palestine) bookended a pair of blocks around a pair of Heather Tolson (Frankfort, Ind./Clinton Prairie [Kankakee C.C.]) kills to trim the Calumet advantage to 11-10. But that is as close as the Cougars would get in the 25-23 loss.

In set three, the Cougars trailed 1-0 and 10-5 en route to the 10-point loss. And in the fifth set, Calumet (1-4) scored the first two points and five of the first seven.

"It seemed like this was a match where whoever got off to a quick start took the set," said Snoddy. "I thought our hitting was a little off tonight. We have some people who have been consistent for us who struggled early."

Snoddy pointed to a bright spot as she thought her squad maintained a competitive attitude the entire match. She noted that on previous nights, the squad did not respond as well to adversity and may not have been able to make the comeback like they did tonight in the fifth set.

"We have had some trouble getting down on ourselves in matches," said the second year Lady Cougars coach. "I didn't feel like we did that tonight. Our play was consistent and our support for each other and our intensity was good."

The Lady Cougars (1-5) return to action on Aug. 31 and Sep. 1 at St. Xavier University before traveling to Anderson University on Sep. 5. They return home on Sep. 20 for a 7 p.m. contest against Indiana University Northwest at the new home of the Lady Cougars – Maple Crest Middle School (located across from the IU Kokomo campus).

By Dean Hockney
Publisher, Sports Journal of Central Indiana
For Indiana University Kokomo

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo will achieve another first Saturday, when its men's and women's cross country teams compete in their first meet.

Cross Country Team

The Cougars will take the field in the Grace College Invitation, Winona Lake. The women's race begins at 10 a.m., followed by the men at 10:45 a.m. Awards are at 11:30 a.m.

Sophomore Sandra Beech said it's exciting to be part of a first-year team.

"I like that we are not only competing, but we are making history and setting the standard for future teams," she said.

Jeremy Gilman, a junior, said the team appreciates the support it has received on campus.

"I think people are excited that we have this new team, and they're interested in how we do this season," he said. "I get positive comments from people who have seen us running on campus and in the community."

Coach Jason VanAlstine said the team is ready after months of training. Practices officially began August 1, but team captains Hannah Ault and Cody Phelps organized informal practices in June and July.

"We're doing something for the first time for our school," VanAlstine said. "We really want to go out and do our best, and hopefully at the end, our times match up with the other teams, who have more experience."

His goal for Saturday is for the teams to gain experience running at the college level. Phelps previously ran at DePaul University and is the only team member who has participated in cross country at the college-level.

"After this weekend, they'll have a better understanding of what it's like to be a college runner. Four of our seven women have never been on a cross country team. Our experience level is all over the board. Running in our first meet will allow us to set some goals for the rest of the season."

He is pleased with his team's progress and attitudes during this first season.

"I couldn't ask for a better group to be in a first team," he said. "They're just excited to be on the team, and they want to go out and represent our school in the best way possible."

Chancellor Michael Harris is proud of the team, and looks forward to a great first season.

"This is another historic first for IU Kokomo, at a time of great accomplishment," Harris said. "Adding another sport to our campus is really exciting. These student athletes have worked so hard. I am proud of them and we're all rooting for them."

The team has run six days a week since August 1, preparing for the distance. Women's races are 5K, or a little more than 3 miles. Men's races are 8K, or about five miles.

VanAlstine encouraged Cougar fans to come cheer for the team at any of the meets, especially the October 6 event at Indiana Wesleyan University, which is the closest to campus.

"We would really like to get fans out there to see how hard we've been working," he said.

The men's team includes freshman Jon Flory (Logansport), sophomores Cody Phelps (Peru) and Javier Vasquez (Frankfort); juniors Cody Young (Kokomo), Jeremy Gilman (Kokomo) Mitch Padfield (Greentown), and Nathan Courter (Greentown); and senior Sam Williamson (Logansport).

The women's team includes freshmen Amy McCauley (Greentown), Kelsey Hosler (Logansport), and Liz White (Greentown); sophomores Hannah Ault (Kokomo), and Sandra Beech (Tampa, Fla.); junior Meggan Adcock (Bunker Hill); and senior Kasey High (Kokomo).

The remaining meet schedule is September 14, Indiana Intercollegiate Invitational at Indiana State University; October 6, Indiana Wesleyan University Invitational; October 12, Wilmington College Invitational; and October 20, Great Lakes Invitational at Aquinas College.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Women's Volleyball vs Vincennes University. See more pictures on flickr.

"Last year against them we scored 12 points in all three games," said second-year Cougar head coach Kristen Snoddy. "As far as the Cougars go, I knew there was a marked difference from last year, and this allowed us to see where we are as a program. So it was a test to see how much we have grown since last year – and clearly we have."

Kokomo came out of the blocks sluggish, losing the first three points before Heather Tolson (Frankfort, Ind./Frankfort) found a hole in the Vincennes defense for a kill. The next nine points belonged to the Trailblazers as Lauren Bratcher and Tiffany Madura dominated the nets while IUK hurt itself with three unforced errors.

The Cougars did not give up despite the start, scoring 10 of the next 16 points as Tolson added three more kills, Shelby Spall (Kokomo, Ind./Western) added an ace and Megan Riley (New Palestine, Ind./New Palestine) added a block and a kill to close the gap to 18-12. But six points was as close as they would get as Vincennes won the set.

"I think we need to go to the net more often and we struggled with passing," said Snoddy. "When we get better passes we can control the ball better."

Despite another slow start in the second set that saw the Cougars trail 4-0, the home squad ratcheted up its play and forced the first tie of the night at 9-9 thanks to a big kill from Spall. Back-to-back kills from Miranda Hammons (Indianapolis/North Adams-Jerome [Ancilla College]) tied the game again at 12.

The Cougars took its first lead of the night at 13-12 on a block at the net by Riley. IUK tied the set again at 14 on a Hammons kill and retook the lead 15-14 on another Riley block. After a nice volley, a long hit by Kokomo gave Vincennes a 16-15 lead – a lead that would not change hands again. Kokomo did rally late on a Spall kill and Riley block, cutting the lead to 24-23, but Kayla Macadlo flew to the net to record the set winning kill.

"Oh, we were right there," said Snoddy. "I know we have some things to work on and we will look at the tape to see where we need to make those improvements so we can win sets like (the second) one. I thought Megan Riley and Rachel Allen (Lizton, Ind./Tri-West) had some big hits, and Cortney Hanson (Winamac, Ind./Pioneer) and Lael Burrus (Denver, Ind./North Miami) played the ball well."

A third slow start for Kokomo spelled doom for the night as Vincennes soared to 7-1 and 11-3 leads before cruising to the 15-point set win. Snoddy noted the play of the Lady Cougars in the third set, saying, "We didn't work together, and unfortunately we quit playing."

The Cougars return to action with a road trip at Franklin College on Sep. 29. IU Kokomo returns home to play Anderson University on Oct. 2, with a 7 p.m. start time at Maple Crest Middle School (located across the street from the IUK campus). The match is Breast Cancer Awareness Night and fans are encouraged to wear pink. The first 100 fans will receive a free IUK volleyball pink T-shirt.

By Dean Hockney

Publisher, Sports Journal of Central Indiana

For Indiana University Kokomo

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana

Cougars celebrate during last years Breast Cancer Awareness match.

The Cougars will play Anderson University at 7 p.m. at the Maple Crest Middle School gym.

Before and throughout the game, there will be information on ways to donate to help find a cure. The Medical Imaging Club will also have giveaways at the game.

The event is co-sponsored by the volleyball team, the Student Athletic and Wellness Board, and the Medical Imaging Club.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Women's Volleyball - Breast Cancer Awareness Game. See flickr slideshow.

A sea of fans in pink Cougars T-shirts filled the Maple Crest Middle School gym to cheer for the team as they battled the Anderson University Ravens. Volleyball team members were in the spirit too, wearing hot pink socks and sparkly pink headbands with their uniforms.

Mary Olk, collegiate coordinator for the Student Athletic and Wellness Board, which co-sponsored the event with the Medical Imaging Club, said it is important to reach out to college-aged women to let them know about the need for annual mammograms.

"Better awareness is key in the fight against breast cancer," she said. "We want to make everyone aware of the need for mammograms, and of the need for donations for breast cancer search. We also want to show support for those who have fought breast cancer."

Jessica Henderson, assistant professor of health sciences, welcomed fans to the game, and thanked them for their support. She was diagnosed with breast cancer 17 years ago.

"As a breast cancer survivor, it excites me to see all the fans out there in their pink," she said. "Each woman diagnosed with breast cancer fights alone, but we can stand behind them." She encouraged everyone to read information in the game program about how to donate to breast cancer research.

"This is helping our mothers, our daughters, and our sisters," she said. "We need funding for research, so we can cure breast cancer and find ways to prevent it."

The Medical Imagine Club distributed gift bags, as a reminder to women to get annual mammograms. Advanced Medical Imaging donated giveaways for the bags, including a shower card showing the correct way to do a breast self-exam.

Hollie Boyles, club president, said as future medical imaging professionals, they have a responsibility to educate people.

"With the technology we have available, we're able to detect breast cancer much earlier than before," she said. "We're helping save lives, but we can't do that if people don't know to take advantage of it. This is a way to give back to our community, for its support of IU Kokomo."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Coach Snoddy talks with players between volleyball sets.

"I feel very honored to have been a part of the initial phase of the Cougar athletic program. What has been particularly special for me is that I was able to combine two of my passions – athletics and the IU Kokomo campus," Snoddy said. "Even though I have stepped down as a head coach, I will continue to follow this new aspect of student life with pride as it matures."

Snoddy guided the Cougars to a 9-25 record in her second season, including a historic first NAIA win – a tough four-set match – against Purdue University Calumet at the Illinois Institute of Technology Kickoff Tournament in August.

"Coach Snoddy was this program's foundation, and without her we wouldn't be where we are today as a team and program," said veteran player Emily West, a sophomore. "She means the world to me, specifically by being there to talk to and get advice."

The Cougars finished the 2012-2013 inaugural NAIA season with a hard-fought, five-set win over Aurora University. They recorded a total of nine wins, eight of which were on the road, as well as a home victory against IU Northwest in a three-set sweep at the end of September.

"Coach Snoddy genuinely cares for our team and wants us to succeed in the classroom and on the court," said sophomore libero Lael Burrus. "She helped establish something that is going to continue at IUK for years to come. I have a great amount of respect for her."

Off the court, Snoddy, a senior lecturer in English, played an important role in helping her team stay focused on academics. She encouraged and mentored the student athletes to concentrate on succeeding in the classroom. In addition, the team devoted time to community service projects, such as spending time with senior citizens during the Senior Olympics at the Kokomo Senior Center.

"We are very appreciative to Kristen Snoddy for launching our women's volleyball program. Having a faculty member as a coach emphasized the campus commitment to an athletic program with a foundation of academic excellence," said Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke. "Kristen is an outstanding instructor who created a quality volleyball program with solid student athletes. Her efforts provide a great vehicle for future successes."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Kokomo, Ind. – Indiana University Kokomo men's basketball team got their first home victory of the season against Purdue University North Central (PNC). The Cougars topped the Panthers, 81-76, in front of a large Homecoming crowd Saturday.

Nathaniel Carroll (32) sweeps around Purdue University North Central for another point. See more photos here."The team played really well tonight," said Head Coach Jace Thompson. "Everyone bought into being a good teammate and committing to our stuff. We had excellent efforts from the role players and they were the ones that made this a win.

"The atmosphere was special tonight. We had a great student section and the parents and community members made it a great college atmosphere. We are lucky to live in a basketball community that supports us," Thompson added.

PNC opened the game with a three-point basket, but Carroll answered with a three for the Cougars to tie it up. The Panthers would push their lead to eight with less than 16 minutes left to go in the first half, courtesy of back-to-back baskets. After the one-minute media timeout, Campbell would get fouled and head to the line to convert the three-point play to pull the Cougars within three.

With about seven minutes left in the first half, IU Kokomo would tie it up at 25-all off a Campbell three point basket and take a one point lead when Northington knocked down two free-throws. PNC went on a 5-0 run to take back the lead, 31-27.

With five minutes to play in the first half, Renbarger cut the lead to one with a basket. The Cougars would tie it up at 34 all after Jalen Tinder scored with less than four minutes left before the half. The Cougars were unable to move off 34 and PNC would go on a 7-0 run until Krhin and Lawrence would combine for three free throws to get the Cougars back within four. Lawrence ended the second half with a basket to cut the lead to four (39-43) heading into the locker room.

Renbarger opened the second half with a basket to cut the lead to two, but a steal by PNC extended their lead back to four (41-45). A basket by Lawerence off a Carroll pass brought the Cougars within one point. The Cougars took the lead after Carroll knocked down a 3-point basket with less than 17 minutes left in the game. Northington hit back-to-back baskets to extend the lead to six with under 15 minutes.

PNC cut the lead to one with under six minutes left in the game until Carroll knocked down two free throws to push the Cougar lead to three. The Panthers would fight back to cut the lead to two with less than three minutes to play. Back-to-back baskets by Renbarger pushed the margin to 6 (76-70). With only two minutes left in the game, PNC was unable to cut into the lead and the Cougars cruised to a 81-76 victory.

The Cougars were able to shake off the poor shooting performance from Tuesday to improve to 40 percent (27-of-66) from the floor and 25 percent (7-of-28) from behind the arc for the game. The Panthers shot 40 percent (26-of-64) from the field and 19 percent (4-of-21) from the three-point line for the game. The Panthers were unable to connect from the three-point line in the second half, going 0-10, while the Cougars knocked down three from long range.

Joby Renbarger finished the game with his second double-double of the season with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Reomey Northington had a team high 17 points and Nathaniel Carroll was the third Cougar in double figure scoring with 15. David Kelly led all scores for the PNC Panthers with 19.

The Cougars (4-6) continue their home stretch hosting Indiana University Northwest Saturday (December 15) at Kokomo High School Gymnasium (Entrance 13). Kokomo High School is located on 2501 South Berkley Road in Kokomo. Tip-off is set for 3 PM against the RedHawks. Live video is available online at http://kokomoperspective.com/video/ or for up-to-the-minute updates, follow Cougar Basketball on Twitter at @IUKBasketball. You can also find the Cougars on Facebook (/IUKBasketball).

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Joby Renbarger grabs a rebound at home in Kokomo High School's South campus gymnasium.

For the last two years, the Indiana University Kokomo Cougars have competed in borrowed high school gyms, as they established women's volleyball and men's basketball teams. By the start of the 2013 season, though, the Cougars will finally have a court to call home.

It won't be just any basketball court — it will be part of the historic Memorial Gym, a legend among Indiana's premiere athletic facilities.

Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke partnered with the City of Kokomo and the Kokomo-Center Township School Corp. to announce plans to renovate the former Memorial Gym swimming pool into a college regulation sized basketball court.

"This is the next step for our athletics programs," she said. "We're excited to have a place our student athletes and their fans can call home, with IU Kokomo Cougars branding and colors. We appreciate this great opportunity to move our athletics forward."

Basketball player Jacob Faust said that having one gym for practices and games will make a difference.

"Right now it's like all of our games are away games, because we have to move our equipment, and we don't practice where we play games," he said. "Now we'll have time to get lots of practice shots in, and to build some home court advantage."

This season is the second for Cougar athletics, and the first in the NAIA. The women's volleyball team played at Maple Crest Middle School, while the men's basketball games are at Kokomo High School. During the first year, volleyball was at Northwestern High School, and basketball was at Western High School.

The gym, which could also be used for special events and meetings, will have a capacity of about 450 people. The court will be college regulation sized, which is about 10 feet longer than a high school court. Men's basketball Coach Jace Thompson said currently, players have to adjust to a longer court when they play other teams with a regulation court.

"The gym will be the best new addition to the athletic program we have had yet," he said. "This is a milestone in how IU Kokomo is branding its programs and taking them to a new level, and shows the support we get from our community in making our campus a first choice campus. Giving our student athletes a place to call theirs is important when recruiting new athletes."

Volleyball player Lael Burrus is excited to practice and play in an IU Kokomo gym. "This is going to be awesome to show recruits," she said. "We will appreciate being able to practice and play in the same place, and not have to move our equipment from place to place."

Reomey Northington, a basketball player, anticipates bigger crowds at the games when they have a home gym.

"A lot of my friends and family have to keep asking where we play," he said. "Now they'll know that we're playing at home."

Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight said the partnership benefits the city and campus, as it will allow the community to host more athletic events.

"Memorial Gym currently brings thousands of visitors," Goodnight said. "IU Kokomo is attracting a new set of visitors to Kokomo, who attend college sporting events."

Kokomo-Center Schools Superintendent Jeff Hauswald called the partnership "a win-win-win among the Kokomo Schools, IU Kokomo and the City of Kokomo, that will attract more events to downtown Kokomo, while helping renovate and preserve a downtown landmark."

Dean of Students Sarah Sarber said while the campus has appreciated use of area school gyms, having its own gym gives the athletic programs more flexibility in scheduling practices, games, and special events.

"This will truly be a game-changer for IU Kokomo athletics," she said. "From recruiting to practice to competition, this addition of the gym will be key. Our student athletes are very excited to have a true home court advantage for the first time."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. – The men and women of Indiana University Kokomo's cheerleading squad made their debut at the Cougars' first home basketball game earlier this December.

IU Kokomo CheerleadersMembers of the 2012-2013 squad are freshmen Courtney Freeman, Kiley Freeman, Maciah Faucett, Alyssa Grant, Caitlyn Myers, Josh Head, Tyler Neher, and Jeremiah Smith, sophomores Aricka Lennon and John Shaw, and juniors Erika Freeman and Ashley Burns.

The squad, as well as Coach Chelsea Bower, is looking forward to building relationships with the other athletes on campus and building a sense of community at IU Kokomo.

"It's really exciting to be the first team, and we hope to keep bringing school spirit and pride to campus through the rest of the athletics season," said Erika Freeman.

Aricka Lennon added that she is thrilled to be part of the momentum as campus moves forward. "It will be cool to look back on our collegiate experiences and see that we made history at IU Kokomo," she said.

The entire squad is happy to be cheering again. Most have had previous varsity cheerleading experience, but haven't cheered since high school. Coach Bower really focused on conditioning the squad in the beginning because of the advanced skills they would be practicing.

"Staying in shape is important to staying safe as we perform cheers, stunts, or dances," said Caitlyn Myers.

The men and women wowed the crowd with their cheers, chants, dances, and stunts during the first home game and IU Kokomo's first-ever homecoming game. The squad is excited to be part of the festivities this year and can't wait to cheer on the Cougars for the rest of the basketball season.

You can come see the squad in action during the men's basketball home game at 3 p.m. Saturday, December 16. The Cougars will face the IU Northwest RedHawks in the Kokomo High School South Campus Gym, entrance 13.

Story written by Mary Olk. Mary is a senior in communication arts and is a writer for the Office of Media and Marketing.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Joby Renbarger at the foul line. Visit Flickr for more pictures.

"Tonight was all about another opportunity to get better," said Head Coach Jace Thompson. "We faced a press for the first time this year, and overall, I thought we did a pretty good job against it."

The Cougars opened play with the first basket, but Salem went on a 15-0 run to take a 2-15 lead. Back-to-back three-point baskets by Nathaniel Carroll (Daleville/Daleville H.S.) and Jerome Campbell (Indianapolis/ Arsenal Tech H.S.) ended the run with less than 13 minutes left in the first half. The Cougars would get within seven (16-23) when Joby Renbarger (Greentown/ Eastern H.S [Ancilla C.C]) hit two free throws with less than eight minutes to go the first half. The Tigers and Cougars traded baskets from the four-minute mark on and SIU would end the first half with a three-point basket for the 18-point half time lead over IUK.

In the second half, the Cougars would cut the lead to 13 (44-57) with less than 13 minutes left in the game after Jacob Faust (Galveston/Lewis Cass H.S. [Mount St. Joseph College]) hit a free throw. From there, the SIU Tigers would continue to build on their lead, shooting 65 percent (17-of-26) from the floor and 83 percent (5-of-6) from behind the arc in the second half. From there, Salem International University cruised to the 89-64 victory over the Cougars.

"We are a young team and it is not an excuse. A lot of our young guys showed flashes of getting better, including John Capps," said Thompson. "Tonight, Renbarger had one of his best games of the year."

Nathaniel Carroll led the Cougars in scoring with 14 points and Joby Renbarger added 10 points against the Tigers. Spencer Krhin and John Capps both finished with seven points for IU Kokomo. Kevin Webb led the Salem International Tigers with 17 points and five rebounds.

The Cougars (5-11) begin their five game road stretch Wednesday, January 9, when they travel to Belleville, Illinois to play Lindenwood Unversity-Belleville. Game time is set for 8 p.m. at the Lynx Arena. For up-to-the-minute updates, follow Cougar Basketball on Twitter at @IUKBasketball and on Facebook (/IUKBasketball). Visit our website at www.iukcougars.com.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Kokomo, Ind. - Indiana University Kokomo has selected Heather Hayes to lead the women's volleyball team in the upcoming 2013-2014 season. Hayes, a social studies teacher at Frankfort High School, wants to further expand on the success from previous inaugural NAIA season.

Heather Hayes"I am thankful to be chosen as the next leader of the volleyball program," said Hayes. "Former Coach Kristen Snoddy did a remarkable job laying the foundation of the program, and I would like to continue to elevate what she started."

Hayes, a first-time college coach, played collegiate volleyball for the University of Montevallo and finished her career at the University of Indianapolis. She has coached at the club volleyball level for 12 years, most recently with the Indy Junior Volleyball Club, which will be advantageous in the recruiting process for IU Kokomo.

"We are excited to have coach Hayes come on board. She will help continue the momentum of the athletic program and get us to a new level," said men's basketball coach Jace Thompson. "She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will be assets to our program."

Hayes also spent 11 years as the varsity head coach at Frankfort High School, amassing 262 wins and a .69 win percentage. She lead her alma mater to eight conference championships, five sectional championships, a trip to the elite eight, and a trip to the state finals.

"I look forward to getting to know the team, enhancing the level of play, and pushing the level of competition to new heights," said Hayes. "Off the court, I hope to further build the positive image of the volleyball program in both the classroom and the community."

The IUK volleyball team will not only have a new coach for the 2013-2014 seasons, but a place to call home. The Cougars have partnered with the City of Kokomo and the Kokomo-Center Township School Corp. to renovate the former Memorial Gym swimming pool into a college regulation sized basketball court that will also function as a volleyball court.

"This is the next step for our athletics programs," said Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke. "We're excited to have a place our student athletes and their fans can call home, with IU Kokomo Cougars branding and colors. We appreciate this great opportunity to move our athletics forward."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Jessica Hatt had never been to an Indiana University Kokomo basketball game before Tuesday night.

Kingston and Students enjoy a fun game and activities. See more photos from the game.Chances are, she will be back.

"Our sports teams are so new, we need our campus to be here to support them and encourage them," she said. "I'm excited to be here to cheer for the Cougars."

Hatt and her Phi Sigma Sigma sorority sisters attended as part of Student Activities Night, an effort to build the crowd, as well as participation in the many organizations available at IU Kokomo.

Brian Arwood, Student Athletic Board director, said clubs, organizations, and sports are all a vital part of the college life experience.

"There is a lot of research showing that students who are involved are more successful academically," he said. "We had great turn out tonight."

The student section was packed with members of Enactus, the M.B.A. Association, the Student Nurse Association, Cougar News, the cross country team, the volleyball team, ROTC, Medical Imaging Club, Psychology Club, Multicultural Student Organization, and Phi Sigma Sigma. Many wore their IU Kokomo red shirts, while a few showed their spirit by painting themselves red and cheering from the front row as the Cougars played Rochester College.

During time outs, Dean Hockney, the voice of the Cougars, read short promotions for student organizations, highlighting what each one offers.

Each group vied to win a pizza party, by having the most students signed in as they arrived at the game. Enactus took top honors, after promoting the event to its members all week.

Enactus members Lisa Ortega and Stephenie McGee were excited to see so many students at the game, especially members of their own club.

"I like to see everyone come out and support the Cougars, and IU Kokomo, and their organizations," McGee said. "It's a great night for all of us."

Ortega said it was a great chance to highlight the many opportunities available on campus.

"The ways you can be involved have grown tremendously, and this puts a great spotlight on them all," she said.

Molly Fisher won pizza for Student Government Association by winning the dizzy bat game at halftime. She was the first to spin around with her head on a bat, run down the court, make a basket, spin again, and run down to make another basket.

She's a regular at the games, and hopes those attending for the first time see how much fun they are, and come back.

"I want everyone to see how much fun you can have in college," she said. "I come to every game that I can, to support my team."

Steven Kiser, a former basketball player, said it's important to the team to have a crowd behind them. He came as a member of Psychology Club and Multicultural Student Organization.

"It feels good when you come out and see a big crowd," he said. "It gives you more motivation when you're playing and getting encouragement."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke and student body vice president Mary Olk present Joann Kaiser the Outstanding Educator Award.

That is Joann Kaiser's philosophy of teaching, one shared by her fellow faculty at Indiana University Kokomo.

Tuesday, February 5, the campus' student athletes hosted faculty and staff appreciation night, at the Cougar men's basketball game, to thank the professors, advisors, admissions counselors, maintenance workers, administrative assistants, and other faculty and staff who care about their success.

Kaiser, lecturer in communication arts, received a special honor — the Student Government Association's Outstanding Educator Award — which is chosen by a student committee, based on student nominations. Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke and Mary Olk, student body vice president, presented the award at halftime.

"I was honored to learn I had received this award," Kaiser said. "It was a great boost to me to know the students appreciate what I do. They're they reason I do what I do. I enjoy getting to know my students, and helping them develop a love of learning."

Kaiser leads a freshman learning community, and teaches communication and theater classes. She began her career at IU Kokomo as an adjunct faculty member in 1988, and has been a full-time lecturer for four years.

Olk said the award is given each semester to honor those "who go above and beyond the call of duty, and who exceed expectations."

While faculty may receive honors within their departments or IU, she said, "I think it means something different when it comes from the students. This is a way of giving back for all the work they do for us."

Kaiser was not the only faculty or staff member honored, though. Throughout the game, Dean Hockney, the Voice of the Cougars, read tributes to many of them, written by student athletes. They praised not only professors, but advisors, assistants, and physical plant workers, thanking them for helping with goal setting, being "encouraging and motivating," teaching "in a fun, relatable-to-life-type way," being "positive and understanding," making writing more enjoyable, and demonstrating work ethic.

Sarah Sarber, dean of students, said it was important for the athletic department to recognize those who help them achieve their goals, not only as athletes, but also as students.

"This night was a way to thank our faculty and staff for their support," she said.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Kokomo, Ind. - Indiana University Kokomo has been accepted to the Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (KIAC) beginning with the 2013-2014 academic year. All Cougar athletic teams immediately will be eligible for conference championships, as well as automatic bids to the NAIA Championships.

"The campus is honored to join the KIAC," said Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke. "It complements our entry into the NAIA and it was the next step in our campus plan to create a competitive athletic program. I know our athletes will excel and compete in this new arena."

The KIAC is an NAIA conference, founded in 1916. With the addition of IU Kokomo, the league's membership increases to 12 institutions this fall. The Cougars will be joining Alice Lloyd College (Pippa Passes, Ky.), Ashbury University (Wilmore, Ky.), Berea College (Berea, Ky.), Brescia University (Owensboro, Ky.), Carlow University (Pittsburg, Pa.), Cincinnati Christian University (Cincinnati, Ohio), IU East (Richmond, Ind.), IU Southeast (New Albany, Ind.), Midway College (Midway, Ky.), Point Park University (Pittsburg, Pa.), and St. Louis College of Pharmacy (St. Louis, Mo.).

"The KIAC is a great fit for us considering the quality of the member schools and the stability of the conference," said Todd Gambill, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management. "We are excited about the platform that the NAIA and the KIAC provides for us to showcase our institution and our students. We look forward to developing partnerships and rivalries with our member schools."

The KIAC sponsors championships in 14 sports, including, baseball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, men's and women's golf, men's and women's soccer, softball, men's and women's tennis, men's and women's track and field and volleyball.

In addition, the KIAC sponsors competition in baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. IU Kokomo competes in men's and women's cross country, women's volleyball, and men's basketball.

"By joining the KIAC, now we will have an opportunity to compare ourselves to conference competition at the end of the season when we are in peak shape," said Jason VanAlstine, head men's and women's cross country coach. "It will be very exciting next year with many new faces, new facilities, and a new conference."

IU Kokomo makes the move to the KIAC after having been a member of the Association of Independent Institutions for the 2012-2013 season. Visit www.kiacsports.com for more information.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

KOKOMO, Ind. — Indiana University Kokomo Interim Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke announces the appointment of Brandon R. Podgorski as the athletic and fitness center director. He began his position Monday, June 3.

Brandon Podgorski"This is another important step in our journey to build a quality athletic program on campus," stated Sciame-Giesecke.

Podgorski, 33, was fitness center director and assistant women's basketball coach at Darton State College, Albany, Ga.

Todd Gambill, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management, said the campus is "fortunate to land someone of Brandon's talent and background.

"He brings us a wealth of experience in both intercollegiate athletics and fitness center management," he said. "I am excited about working with him to develop the first-class programs that are the hallmark of Indiana University."

He will manage the new Milt and Jean Cole Family Wellness and Fitness Center, slated to open in late summer, as well as overseeing the athletics programs. This is the third year for team sports on campus, and the second year in the NAIA. IU Kokomo joined the Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in May.

Podgorski is excited for the opportunity to open a brand-new fitness center, and to develop the athletic programs.

"We're establishing a culture of excellence with our athletic programs," he said. "We are going to expand them and build them to succeed at the conference and national levels. I am happy to open the fitness center, and to see all the excitement about having this facility available for our campus community."

Podgorski has a bachelor's degree in general studies, with a minor in sports marketing and management, from Indiana University; and a master's degree in recreation and sports sciences, with an emphasis on coaching education, from Ohio University.

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana.

Student athletes, Aaron Knupp and Jared Lawrence

The basketball players, both juniors at Indiana University Kokomo, reunited on the court after four years at Blue River Valley High School, in New Castle, Ind.

The pair started their careers on the club team two years ago, and has since seen the Cougars join the NAIA and then become members of the KIAC (Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.) Together, they have helped IU Kokomo reach many firsts, including its first NAIA win against Judson University.

This season, they will lead the team in competition against conference members and vie for a conference championship.

"This year we have the one goal we have all been waiting for the chance to win a conference and make it to the NAIA tournament," said Lawrence. "We have been talking about being a part of a conference and working to win a championship since day one and now have that opportunity."

Off the court, Lawrence and Knupp are models of student athletes for IU Kokomo athletics. Both have set a high standard for what it means to be a Cougar student-athlete with their work on campus, attending campus and athletic events, participating in community events, and working hard in the classroom.

The impact of the character of these two students have on the team, school, and community since the beginning of the basketball program has Jace Thompson, head basketball coach, wondering how he will fill the void once they graduate.

"It's two years away and I've already started worrying about how I could replace these two leaders," said Thompson. "For a coach, these two make the job look easy and make me look good. Our program couldn't be any more proud to have two high school teammates come to us and lead this program.

"I'm looking forward to them finally being upper classmen but worry about the day they are gone."

Lawrence, a business marketing major, and Knupp, a health science major, are not only committed to being champions on the court, but also in the classroom.

"IUK has been great for me academically, and I am looking forward to a degree that says Indiana University," said Knupp. "Wanting to be in the health field, I could not have chosen a better campus known for its great health programs. It has been challenging, but with all the great professors, I have succeeded."

"They have been with us from the beginning of the sports programs, and that says a lot. They believed in the program and in their coach," said Dean of Students Sarah Sarber. "They saw the opportunity to be part of building a program and establishing a tradition and committed to it."

Now upperclassmen, Lawrence and Knupp still have two seasons to continue to impact and build a legacy for IU Kokomo and its athletic program.

"We are really excited about this season and looking forward to practicing and playing in our new gym," said Lawrence. "These last two years have been a great experience as part of the team and university, and we are looking forward to the next two years."

Indiana University Kokomo serves north central Indiana