Going Down-Towne

Get The Chicken

2010-04-12T12:40:00.002-05:00

The Angelo State Rams set a conference record this past weekend by hitting five triples in one game. The previous record was four, set by Eastern New Mexico and dated back to 1994. The record had been tied eight times, but was never bested until this past weekend. Several fans have asked what the dugout yells as a player runs around the bases.

If it looks as though as player has a chance at getting a triple, the dugout erupts “GET THE CHICKEN.” More often than not, this occurs after a single player first yells the phrase. From there it becomes an indistinguishable roar until the player reaches third. The genesis of the phrase comes from Rocky II. In the movie, Rocky chases a chicken to train for an upcoming fight. As his coach Mickey tells him, “If you can catch this thing, you can catch greased lightning.”
So, like Mick, the dugout adds words of encouragement as our players round the bases. Strangely, due to this phrase, the word “triple” has been absent for quite some time in the Angelo State locker room. For example:

“Isaac Garcia only needed to get the chicken for the cycle.” Or “Clay Puckett was 2 for 4 on the day with a single and a chicken.”

The Rams play in Durant, Oklahoma this coming weekend, but return to Foster Field the following Tuesday against Hardin Simmons at 6 pm. We hope you can help us cheer:

“Get The Chicken”

GO RAMS!

Celebrity Look-a-Likes

2010-02-21T18:21:00.006-06:00

Everyone knows that the off-field antics from baseball can be a great deal of fun, especially when they are comical. When you have 40 young men, who spend a great deal of time together, the resulting conversations and actions can be down right hysterical. Everyone knows about the camaraderie that is associated with playing on a team. This one is no different. The boys have come together and are treating each other like any other team in the nation. We razz each other to no end. With that comes the celebrity look-a-likes. Sometimes they are just uncanny, and others, may just be comical. I would like to submit some of the look-a-likes to the blog, so that our friends and fans can enjoy them. As a side note we, as teammates, like to razz each other a bit, but only in jest. Here are just a few that we have compiled so far.

Preparing for Ouachita

2010-02-03T14:35:00.009-06:00

The Rams have spent the early part of this week working out a few minor details before opening day, Saturday against Ouachita Baptist. The action is set to begin at 1 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

On Wednesday, the Rams were washed out from practice as rain fell steadily over the Concho Valley. This provided ample time for the Rams to catch up on class work and get in an extra gym workout before the busy season schedule arrives. The players are very excited to get underway and with good reason. The Rams have been picked in the top 25 in three college baseball rankings; their highest coming in at number 10 by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association. Ping! Baseball ranked the Rams 16th and Collegiate Baseball ranked the boys of summer 21st. In all, there is a lot to be excited about. It’s going to be a great season.

The Rams have many players returning, looking to improve on last year’s marks, while many of the newcomers add to what Yogi Berra would call our “Deep Depth.” It’s going to be a very exciting year. We look forward to seeing everyone at the Ballpark! Here’s to another great Angelo State baseball season.

GO RAMS!

Below are videos filmed by injured Ram, Brian Brademan, during practice on Monday.

And for a little Fun...

Meet the Rams - Janca, Garcia, Springfield

2010-01-24T21:39:00.012-06:00

Hello again Ram fans. It’s been quite some time since I have had a chance to do this and with the spring just around the corner I feel there is no better time. Today I would like to introduce one of our team captain’s, Sam Janca as well as seniors, Isaac Garcia and Jerris Springfield.

This year, your Rams voted to elect team captains. The criteria for the vote were: 1) the individual must exemplify strength of character, 2) be a great role model, 3) be a good competitor and 4) be an overall great teammate. The vote was unanimous. Seniors Chris Adamson and San Janca were chosen to lead the Rams during the 2010 campaign. The results came as no surprise to anyone in the locker room. Sam and Chris have both shown their natural ability to lead both on and off the field.

Sam Janca, a senior out of Georgetown arrived at Angelo State after a two-year stint with Texas Tech University. Since arriving last fall, Sam has established himself as a mainstay in the Ram rotation. Janca truly is one of the greatest competitors that I have ever had the privilege to play with. His will and determination were displayed on several occasions last year, including his gutsy 10-inning performance against Abilene Christian in the regional semifinals. Janca will never take credit for the win, rather he acts in a manner that reflects what he deems to be the best advice he has ever been given, “be humble.” Sam works just as hard off the field as he does on. During his down time, he and former Ram, Clay Calfee work to develop their Double Barrel Outfitters brand which specializes in guided hunts in west Texas. So whether you’re on the ball field or out hunting the fields, Sam Janca is your guy and we’re happy he’s a Ram.

A few things according to Sam:

Hobbies: Hunting, Drinking Coffee
Major: Animal Business
Favorite Car: Dodge Diesel
Favorite Movie: Buck Commander
Favorite Food: BBQ
Favorite Quote: “Y’all can go to hell and I will go to Texas” – Davy Crockett

Isaac Garcia spent the latter half of the 2009 season on the bench with a wrist injury. He started 39 consecutive games before falling to injury against Abilene Christian. Garcia, who was hitting .386 with seven home runs and 36 RBI seems to have fully recovered in the off season, as he has lead the Rams in hitting both through the fall and early spring. Isaac, a native of El Paso, has many interests that he pursues away from the baseball field, which includes a great passion for music, cars and studying cultures. It’s good to have Isaac back for 2010.

A few things according to Isaac:

Nickname: IZZY
Major: Kinesiology
Favorite Car: Range Rover
Favorite Movie: Man on Fire
Favorite TV Show: Jim Rome is Burning
Dream Job: Professional Baseball Player

Jerris Springfield of New Braunfels returns for his senior season with the Rams. Jerris (or Jerry, according to his favorite professor, Dr. Kara), is majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. Springfield made 16 appearances in relief during the 2009 season, where he earned one win. The Rams hope that Jerris is able to carry his performance over to the coming 2010 season.

A few things according to Jerris:

Hobbies: Hunting, Fishing, Golf
Favorite Class: Marketing
Favorite Car: Ford F-250 Super Duty
Favorite Movie: Tombstone
Favorite Band: Cory Morrow
Favorite Book: Money Ball
Favorite place to Visit: Deer Lease
Dream Job: Fishing Guide

Rams return to class

2010-01-19T21:31:00.003-06:00

“A mind once stretched by a new idea never regains its original dimensions.” – Anonymous

The Rams have returned to class for what is sure to be another outstanding semester. Many spent the day gathering syllabi and collecting the necessary course materials; while others were thrown directly into the fire and came to practice still shocked that the semester has begun. Today was a short, yet very productive practice. The Rams took a break from playing games against each other to work on some fundamental skills. Wednesday, the Rams will take a well deserved day off from team workouts.

Off days are a bit of a rare commodity during the spring semester for baseball players, so when they come about, most take full advantage of them. Often, many of the players will treat themselves to a nice dinner out at a restaurant in town. With the season coming up, many parents and guests will be visiting the San Angelo area. With that in mind I thought this would be a good time to share with our friends, family and fans what the players feel are the five best dining establishments that are unique to San Angelo.

Number 5: Baker Street Coffee House

Offering many different types of coffee and tea’s, Baker Street also offers a deli style menu. Many students spend their nights studying and visiting in the quiet lounge area. They also offer some live entertainment from time to time. If you want a quiet place to grab coffee before these cold opening series, I would recommend Baker Street Coffee House.

Number 4: Old Time Pit BBQ

Located just around the corner from the Ballpark, this place offers what is truly an old time BBQ experience. Patrons walk into the pit itself and choose the cuts of meat they want. The helpings are quite large, especially for the price. If you’re in the mood for good BBQ in San Angelo, look no further.

Number 3: Road Runner Burger Deli

Whether you are stopping in for a bite before the games, or just want a good burger between classes Road Runner is the place to go. Because of it’s proximity to campus, many students frequent this place daily. The food is always good and always fast.

Number 2: Miss Hattie’s Café and Saloon

After reading the Texas Monthly article which rated the Miss Hattie Burger the 26th best in Texas, this has become a frequent stop for many of the players. The burger really does speak for itself. I, along with many others would strongly recommend visiting Miss Hattie’s on your next visit.

Number 1: The Grill

Founded by Virginia Dalbeck-Armenta of “Hell’s Kitchen” fame, this has become a stop for many players looking for a quiet place to sit down and eat or to take family for a nice dinner. The atmosphere is not something common to San Angelo, and the kitchen is open for viewing throughout the restaurant. The Grill offers a very unique menu, with a flair all its own. This is a one of a kind place. The Ram’s highly recommend you drop in.

These are just a few suggestions of the many places that are great to eat here in San Angelo. I hope that they will be of some help while you, our friends, family and fans are planning your next visit. On a side note, Jason Morriss wanted me to include his two favorite restaurants. Sometimes, the man from down under just needs some home cooking, which is why he frequents Outback Steakhouse when he goes out for dinner. Jason then went on to say “The Student Special at Golden Chick is by far the best value in or around San Angelo. A college student just could not survive without it.”

So whether you’re looking for value, or a unique one of a kind dining experience, you can find it on your next trip to San Angelo. See you at the ballpark.

Go Rams!

Baseball season: Now open

2010-01-14T19:00:00.005-06:00

This fall felt like waiting for a package that would never arrive. But, by the soreness in my legs right now, I can say with great confidence that baseball season in San Angelo, Texas, has finally arrived.

Beginning on Sunday, the Rams began their two-a-day practices that have continued through Thursday. Each day the Rams have worked hard at refining the skills that they had gained during the fall workouts. Many teams across the country are using this week to knock the rust off, but the Rams worked very hard over the winter break to come back ready. The greatest evidence of that was on the first day. In order for the players to receive their practice gear, they had to first complete five, 300-yard shuttle runs under a given amount of time. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the 300-yard shuttle, it is comprised of running five, 60-yard lengths. The Rams showed they were ready to get started with the season and everyone earned their practice gear. Since then your Rams have had several good days of practice and are making daily strides toward a great season.

With just a few weeks until the first game, Friday begins our series of Intrasquad games which will be used as what Coach Brooks calls “dress rehearsals” for our opening day on February 6 against Ouachita Baptist. There is a lot of excitement building in the locker room as we prepare to get underway.

This season will surely bring many stories that will fuel this blog. I apologize for not updating over the winter break, but like many of our Rams I returned home to enjoy the holidays with family and was not in direct contact on a daily basis. As promised, I will continue to introduce all of the Ram players this week and next before classes begin on Tuesday.

Welcome back Ram fans. It’s baseball season.

Go Rams!

Fall Conclusion / Meet the Rams

2009-10-22T13:19:00.006-05:00

Fall Conclusion

A few nights ago the Rams ended their fall season on a high note, playing two games against Midland College. Much like the Howard scrimmages, the Rams played two seven inning games and used all of the position players. It was the last chance for the coaching staff to make player evaluations before heading into the off-season weightlifting and running segment. The Rams however will not be putting the ball down entirely. During the break, players will have individual workouts with Coach Brooks to fine tune skills learned throughout the fall. The Rams will take the rest of this week off before beginning the grueling off-season running regimen this coming Monday.

Meet the Rams

This week also marks the comeback of the Meet the Rams Segment. This week we would like to introduce Craig Blair and newcomer Scott Pollard.

Craig Blair has returned this year on the mound for the Rams. After coming to Angelo State from Pflugerville, Texas, Craig was able to amass a very impressive resume with the Rams in his freshman season, winning eight games and saving one in 25 appearances. Blair was able to effectively control his opponents by limiting their batting average to .250 while striking out 29 on the year. Craig also showed his outstanding control on the mound by allowing only 11 walks on the season, all of which was good enough to earn him the Lone Star Conference’s Freshman of the Year award. Craig returns this season as a veteran on the Rams pitching staff and is ready to begin the pursuit of a Lone Star Conference Championship.

A few things according to Craig:

Favorite Teacher at ASU: Dr. Wilke
Major: Kinesiology
Favorite Car: Ferrari F430
Favorite Band/Song: Red Hot Chili Peppers
Favorite Part of the Fall: Fall World Series
Best Advice you've Ever Recieved: Throw strikes
Advice you would give to a Little Leaguer: Never quit and just have fun
How Long Have you been playing: Snce I was four years old
Favorite MLB Player: Roy Oswalt
Childhood Idol: Nolan Ryan
Who Most Inspires You: My dad
Favorite Book: Ball Four - By Jim Bouton

Scott Pollard, a native of Austin, Texas,comes to Angelo State from McLennan Junior College where he hit .310 last season. Pollard has spent much of his time at second base this fall and has shown the ability to make outstanding plays defensively. Scott started a bit slow with his bat, but came on late through the fall. Below is a link showcasing Scott’s defensive flair, as well as a few other highlights from the fall.

A few things according to Scott:

Major: History
Favorite Professor: Mark Lesosky
Favorite Movie: Dark Knight
Favorite Car: Porsche Carrera GT
Favorite Type of Music: Texas Country
Favorite Baseball Team: Houston Astros
Favorite Player: Craig Biggio

http://conchovalleyhomepage.com/media_player.php?media_id=379871

Fall World Series Rosters

2009-10-06T15:40:00.014-05:00

It’s been a busy week around campus for the Rams. The Rams have been competing against other Angelo State athletic teams this week in a penny war. All of the teams have been on campus raising money to be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation. There is a lot of speculation as to which team will raise the most as many teams are waiting to turn in their donations at the last minute, but I would venture to say that your Ram Baseball team is out to an early lead. The fierce competition ends this Friday so that the money can be counted and a presentation of the funds can be made at halftime of the Homecoming football game against Abilene Christian. Regardless of the outcome, every team is a winner for helping such a noble cause. I would also like to thank the students of Angelo State who have so graciously donated throughout this competition.

This week also marks the conclusion of the fall intra-squad games. Intra-squads have been a great way for the coaching staff to evaluate players as well as provide instruction during the fall. In the coming days however, the Rams will have a chance to show off their recently honed skills in the Fall World Series.

The Fall World Series is a lot of fun for all of the players. It’s a time where the roster is split in half and the players get to play for pride points and bragging rights throughout the entire year. At the end of it all, both teams are still Rams and we will sit down and have a team dinner to rehash the week’s events.

This year’s teams are captained by both student assistants, Trey Carter and Michael Gunter. Both coaches sat down in the baseball office and had a draft to establish the teams for this week. Coach Brooks presided over the draft and will continue his duties at the games, as the World Series Commissioner.

The Series will be a best-of-five game series, although all five games will be played. All games will be played at Foster Field. The Schedule for these games is as follows:

Thursday October 8, 2009 – Game 1
Friday October 9, 2009 - Game 2
Tuesday October 13, 2009 – Game 3
Thursday October 15, 2009 – Game 4
Friday October 16, 2009 – Game 5

The rosters are listed below.

Bearcats

Head Coach - Mike Gunter

Pitchers
Jake Albert
Jeff Asby
Chase Barrera
Sean Wincher
Adam Miller
Peyden Bravenec
Jerris Springfield
Craig Blair
Clark McFarlamd
Bryce Bjourklund
Jeff Copeland
Kris Stierwalt

Catchers
Chris Adamson
Nate Adler

Outfielders
Issac Garcia
Garrett McCulley
Travis Lites

Infielders
Greg Towne
Nick Adams
Zak Leonhardt
Zach Klink

Bulldogs

Head Coach - Trey Carter

Pitchers
Jeremy Tietsie
Corey Morehouse
Phillip Clinard
Matt Edwards
Nick Cobler
Sam Janca
Cody Fields
Scott Crook
Michael Robles
Brett Kinsel
Derek Dallas

Catchers
Cade Baxter
Will Hatchett

Outfielders
Matt Rechkemmer
Jesse Husband
Clay Puckett
Austin Lasprilla

Infielders
Scott Pollard
Jason Morriss
Brian Brademan
Keith Towne

Clash against Howard fosters TGP

2009-09-29T23:23:00.008-05:00

The Rams spent today’s practice a little different than most fall days. The Rams not only started their day an hour later, but this time rather than scrimmaging against themselves, the Rams went toe to toe with the Hawks of Howard College.

The Hawks, 2009 Juco National Champions, traveled from Big Spring to play an informal scrimmage at Foster Field. The Rams and Hawks began play at 3 p.m. under a bright west Texas sun. The lineups resembled more of a hockey team today than a normal dugout card as the lineups were arranged more in a fluid, line change format. Due to NCAA regulations regarding instruction time and many players’ class schedules, the game was played with a skeleton crew throughout the day.

The setup of the scrimmage provided a simulation of what game situations would feel like in the upcoming spring season. This is good for players to get a feel for how the coaching staff likes to run games. This is also a great opportunity for what coach Brooks likes to call "Teachable Moments" to arise. The best way for a player and team to learn is to be thrown into the fire. Today the Rams got that chance.

Overall, the day was a success. All of the position players had their chance to get into the action and make their mark. Nick Cobbler, Phillip Clinard, Brett Kinsel, Scott Crook and Adam Miller pitched today for the Rams. It was a great opportunity to see how the pitching staff would fair against an opponent other than their own teammates. The big hit of the day was a homer by Zak Leonhardt, who lined a ball into the left field bullpen.

On the day, the Rams were able to work on many different situations that cannot be simulated during practice as well as begin what Cade Baxter likes to call the “Team Gelling Process” or TGP. The Rams get back to work on Thursday to continue the TGP after a day off tomorrow. Thanks to everyone who came out to Foster Field to check out the action. We hope to see you out again when we face Midland on October 20.

Stay tuned for this week’s Meet the Rams segment. It should be updated in a few days.

GO RAMS!

Meet The Rams (part 2)

2009-09-20T23:45:00.008-05:00

Meet the Rams

This week’s segment of Meet the Rams will highlight the other half of our Australian duo, Jason Morriss as well as newcomer Zak Leonhardt.

Welcome Back to Campus

After a spectacular season last year, Morriss returns this year for his senior season with the Rams. Morriss looks to command the infield again and improve upon his already remarkable season a year ago. Having started all 65 of the Rams games last year, Morriss has proven himself to be a consistent player with the ability to make the spectacular plays. Morriss was also a major contributor to the very potent Ram offense last season, batting .317 and leading the team in runs scored.
Though not as outspoken as his Australian counterpart, Jason leads more by example. Hours before games, before and after practice or on weekends in the fall, Morriss can be found getting extra reps at the field. His hard work paid off last season as he was named to the Lone Star Conference’s second team at second base.

A few things according to Jason Morriss:

Hometown: Brisbane, Australia
Major: Kinesiology
Favorite Place you’ve been in Texas: Dallas
Person Who Most Inspires You: My Father
Favorite Food: Chicken
Favorite Movie: Crocodile Dundee
Favorite Quote: “Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Name a major difference between Texas and Australia:
I grew up on a beach and I am now living in the country. The whole country lifestyle here is still a little weird to me. I can’t get my head around the boots, belt buckles and cowboy hats.

Name three places you mot want to visit: Bora Bora, Boston, Miami

Welcome to Angelo

Zak Leonhardt comes to Angelo State from Blinn College in Brenham, Texas. Originally from Houston, Zak attended Langham Creek High School, the same school as Rams pitcher Corey Morehouse. Leonhardt is a power hitting right hander who has the ability to play both corner infield positions. In the past few weeks at practice Leonhardt has showed off much of his power during batting practice and seems to be enjoying the confines of Foster Field.

A Few Things According to Zak:

Hometown: Houston, Texas
Major: Business Management
Favorite Restaurant in San Angelo: Texas Roadhouse
Favorite Band: Randy Rogers Band
Favorite Baseball Player: Craig Biggio
Favorite Movie: The Sandlot
Favorite Quote: “Don’t date anyone who can’t dance.”
Dream Job: Own my own restaurant
Favorite Baseball Moment: Craig Biggio’s 3000th hit.
Person who most influences you: My Dad

Meet the Rams

2009-09-14T21:50:00.013-05:00

The First Intersquad

As mentioned before, today was our first big test as a team. We passed with flying colors. The day began with a quick stretch which quickly transitioned to pre-game batting practice. With limited time, only a select few were allowed to hit on the field today, the rest warmed up in the cages behind the left field fence. Following batting practice, the team went over bunt defenses one last time, while the starting pitchers warmed up in the bullpens.

Game time. Today didn’t seem anything like a regular practice, or even an ordinary inter-squad, but rather a weekend conference series. Regardless of the number of people in the stands, the energy and competitiveness of the game made it feel like late March.

The setup of the intersquad game is fairly simple. We take the number of innings that we intend to play for the day, divide them into three segments; then the two teams face off in three mini games. The winner is declared by winning two of the three segments. If there is a tie, the team with the fewest number of walks and hit by pitches is declared the winner.

Today we played only six full innings. Six pitchers (three on each team) worked two innings. As the fall and regular season progress, the pitchers will throw more innings as they try to build arm strength up. On the day, the pitching staff only allowed four walks and hit only one batter. It was a good sign, though pitchers usually begin the year more prepared than hitters. The hitters struggled a bit adjusting to the backdrop at Foster Field. Two large yellow signs located on the center field fence make Foster Field one of the most unfriendly places to hit.

Jason Morriss, had the big hit on the day, a first-inning triple. He would later score and give the visiting team an early lead. The home team answered in the bottom half of the first to tie the game at 1-1. Each mini game ended in a tie, so the before mentioned formula was applied to determine the winner. The home team, whose pitching staff allowed no free passes, was awarded the win.

Today also begins the first installment of "Meet the Rams". Each time, I’m going to try and do something a little bit different, so each week players have a chance to share a bit of their own personality. This week, I’d like to start off with a true freshman and our senior comedian, this way we hit both ends of the spectrum early.

Going Down – Under

Many of you who follow the Rams will remember Chris Adamson from last year. After coming over from Clarendon College after his sophomore year, Chris went on to lead the team in hitting, batting .409 on the year with 56 RBI and nine home runs during his junior campaign. Chris was also a constant in the field, making only six errors on the year. (Sometimes sacrificing his face to ensure he did not make an error.) Not too shabby for someone who split time at first and behind the plate. His outstanding year earned him awards such as being named to the first team all conference and all region team, as well as being named second team All American in two separate polls. (CoSIDA and NCBWA) While he continues to play exceedingly well, Adamson also has found a way to help the team in another way; being himself.

Chris Adamson is returning this year as a senior and our resident team comedian. His mere presence in the clubhouse lifts the team everyday. (I’m not sure if it’s his hair or the Australian accent.) Each day Chris’ outlook and demeanor allow grueling practices to become a little more relaxed. Chris, though he has only been here for one year has established himself as a true leader in the clubhouse, on the field and in the community. I asked Chris a series of questions, and these are his responses.

Hometown: Sydney, Australia
Major: Kinesiology
Favorite Baseball Player: Joe Mauer
Dream Job: Pro Surfer
Nickname: Tank
Favorite Food: Chicken
Favorite Band: Hilltop Hoods
Favorite Movie: Remember the Titans
Walk Out Song : Land Down Under – Men At Work
Favorite Quote: “Life’s a Garden – Dig It.”
Sport you would play if you didn’t play baseball: Rugby
Favorite Part About Angelo State : The close knit culture.
Favorite Moment during the 2009 Season: Beating Abilene Christian at the regional to knock them out.
We know what his “REAL” favorite moment was though.

Welcome to Angelo

The Rams also welcome Nick Adams to the team this season. Nick is entering his first of many great college years from Georgetown, Texas, at the age of 19. During practice in the past few weeks Nick has showed good speed on the base paths and a steady glove at shortstop.

Being that this is only his fourth week at school, Nick is coming to find that college classes mean “a lot more reading and homework with a lot less class time.” I’m sure he’ll adjust sooner rather than later. In the mean time, here are a few trivia questions about Nick Adams.

Hometown: Georgetown, Texas (Though he also claims Lake Tahoe, California)
Major: Business
Nickname: AdamBomb
Favorite Player: Jose Reyes
Dream Job: Owning a Surf Shop on the Beach
Favorite Movie: Green Street Hooligans
Favorite Band: Rise Against
Walk-Out Song: Rockstar – Ludacris Ft. R. Kelly

Its here

2009-09-10T22:02:00.006-05:00

It’s Finally Here.

Baseball in the fall has finally begun. After rain had threatened all morning, the skies cleared and made way for baseball in the afternoon. The Rams dusted off their cleats and met for the first time at Foster Field this year. Having removed the field tarp twice in one day, it was time to begin the first official practice. Today marks the first of 24 official practices the Rams will have with the coaching staff during the fall semester and it was a good one. It was a day full of jitters for some, and for others it seemed like business as usual. Most of the new guys fell right into place and most of them looked like returners as we worked today. As expected we worked through several simple drills; Ground balls for the infielders, fly balls for the outfielders, batting practice for the hitters and, of course, lots of running for the pitching staff. We worked through first and third defenses, run downs and a few other refresher courses. In all, it was an excellent first day for everyone none the less and will be a great starting point for the rest of the year.

Today we also talked about growing together as a team and trusting others to do their jobs, support each other and understand that each member on the team should be willing to do whatever it takes to make the team a success. Coach Brooks pointed out that it will take time for this to occur. Sometimes it takes the entire length of a season. He also brought up a valid point that we cannot be expected to be a cohesive team this early in the game because let's face it -“Many of us don’t even know each other’s names yet.”

I will confess. I am definitely in the category of people who do not know everyone’s name yet. So, I will make a conscious effort in the coming days to make sure I can put a face with a name and learn more about my teammates. At the same time, because talking about a day of batting practice and ground balls is not the most exciting blog in the world, I would like to introduce the guys to you as I meet them. I will post interviews periodically with one returning player and one new player so that you Ram fans will have a bit more info about us than just our height, weight and profile picture.

With one day under our belts, we head into day two which is sure to be just as good or better than today. The plan as we know it, pending weather, is to practice tomorrow and take Saturday off to work the Kid’s Carnival at the football tailgate starting at 4 p.m. Sunday we will have one more tune up practice before we begin inter-squads on Monday. There is a lot of talk filling the clubhouse about Monday. Everyone is very excited for the first real test. But really, what’s not to be excited about?

Its baseball in the fall and it’s here.

GO RAMS!

Stepping in to Fall 2009

2009-09-02T22:25:00.000-05:00

Hello Ram Fans!

Welcome to the first installment of my newest project, this blog – “Going Down – Towne.”

For those of you who do not yet know me, I’d like to give a little background about myself. My name is Keith Towne and I am a baseball player here at ASU. This will be my second and final year of school here in the Concho Valley, as I will be out of NCAA eligibility and course hours to take. I will graduate at the conclusion of the spring semester with a Business Management degree.

Prior to ASU, I attended Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. I really enjoyed my time there, but found that it was not the perfect fit for me personally. At Lamar, I redshirted for my freshmen campaign and worked hard to get many of my academics out of the way. Over the next two years I was able to contribute on the baseball field, make some great friends and some special memories, but decided it was time for a change.

Shortly thereafter, I was getting off of a plane in a strange city I had never been to before, meeting three guys at the airport that I had never met before. I remember thinking as I was getting off of the plane, “How will I know how to find Coach Brooks?” Needless to say, I was able to sort through the bustling crowd and find Coaches Brooks, Smith and Lambert sitting at the end of the hall. Actually, aside from the lonely clerk at the rental car desk, I was only able to count four people, including myself. From there, I guess they say the rest is history. I signed to come to Angelo State a week later and have loved every moment since.

So this begins the first week of my final year in school. I took on this project thinking it would be fun to write a blog about the day to day activities of a student-athlete. I also thought it would be a lot of fun to include insight about school, sports and other things related to college life from a fifth year senior’s prospective. I’m going to dedicate this blog to updating all of our Ram fans about the happenings around campus, on the field, at practice and who knows what else throughout the year.

That brings me to today. The Rams have begun their fall semester and we’re already at full steam. Following a week of boring meetings and a lot of housekeeping issues that must be taken care of, it was finally time to hit the ground running, literally. Aside from our busy class schedules, the Rams have started working out on a daily basis. Often times on their own. Pitchers have begun long tossing, hitters taking swings in the cage. It’s has been a bit quieter at the SAY complex this week without Coaches Marty Smith and Blaze Lambert. I want to say thank you to both of these guys for an amazing year and for the knowledge they were able to share with me about the game. I hope they both have a great future at their respective new schools, on their way to outstanding careers. Angelo State will surely miss you.

The first week was a great time for all of the returning guys to catch up on things. It was also a week of getting to know all of the new players. We do have quite a few. We also added a new assistant coach this week, Coach Goodale. I haven’t had much of a chance to get to meet him, but look forward to getting to know him in the coming weeks.

Aside from going to class and meeting all of our new professors, collecting syllabi and trying to get oriented on campus, the players took full advantage of a light study schedule and attended several of the other sporting events on campus.

A group of us were there to cheer and witness volleyball win its own tournament at home and start the season at a perfect 4-0. Congratulations girls. Keep up the good work. We made it over to the soccer field and caught some of the action. It looked as though the girls had a productive scrimmage before they headed to Colorado for the weekend. The football team had a rough first half but pulled it together in the second half to secure a 21-7 victory over Texas A&M Commerce. I’ve bumped into a few football players this week on campus and they are very excited about the upcoming Texas State game. I know a few of our new friends and teammates are making the trek to San Marcos to watch the game first hand. Good Luck Guys!

So, I hope to see you all around campus or at the yard. I’ll do my best to keep you updated on all of the things happening around the ballpark and in the classroom. So here’s to stepping up to the plate for another great year.

GO RAMS!!!