News

Future E.C. Player Making a Big Impression – 1/12/2012

A future E.C. player is making a great impression on the court for his play on his high school basketball team. Dakota Woodward has committed to play ball for the Royals next year. The high school senior is the starting point guard on his team and is leading his team in scoring, averaging 18 points a game. But he is not mainly concerned with scoring. His high school coach says that he has to tell him to shoot more sometimes. He is more concerned with running his team’s offense and playing great full court defense. He is responsible for applying full court pressure to the opposing team’s ball handlers. “I just like to get a good W says Woodward. I don’t like to think about myself too much. I’m a team player, and that’s how I like to play ball. As long as I get the win, then I’m content. If I’m shooting the ball well and passing well then that’s a bonus.” Woodward doesn’t necessarily look to be the scorer but he can certainly score when he is called upon to. Against 7A Bentonville this year Dakota scored 29 points while hitting 8 three pointers in the game. So he is certainly capable.

Ecclesia basketball coach Brian Burnett is really excited about the future of Ecclesia basketball with great quality standouts like Woodward coming into the program. “I am really excited to get Dakota next year. He is a great young man with some great skills. He is a very hard worker and is a great shooter and passer. I think he will have a good chance to step in and really help out.”

The future looks bright for Ecclesia basketball with quality players choosing to play for the Royals. The Royals don’t have any seniors so they hope to keep the team together and continue to add quality guys to continue to build the program.

Ecclesia College @ Roger’s State University – 12/12/2011

The Ecclesia Royals (3-13) traveled to Claremore, OK to face Roger’s State University Monday night. Roger’s State was recently ranked number 5 in the nation at the NAIA D1 level. The first match-up between these two schools made for an exciting half as the Royals were able to hang around for the first half but eventually lost the game 66-96.

Monday night was a different story as the Royals were unable to come out strong and RSU was able to extend their lead rapidly in the first 10 minutes of the game. The Royals kicked it into gear and played with the heart and determination we are used to seeing out of this young group and prevented RSU from extending their lead any further for the final 10 minutes of the half. The score at the break was 46-25.

The second half again showed the true spirit of the Ecclesia Royals basketball program as the players were picking each other up and continued to play their absolute best despite the half-time score. Unfortunately the number 5 team in the nation was too much to match and the Royals lost the game with a final score of 97-61. The Royals were led by Sophomore David Eichler with 13 points while Junior Bryant Jackson chipped in 11 points off the bench in just his third game back from injury.

The Royals will face Lyon College on Saturday, December 17th at HOME at Har-Ber- High School for the final game of 2011.

Ecclesia College @ John Brown University – 12/5/2011

The Ecclesia Royals (3-11) traveled to Siloam Springs, AR to face John Brown University (9-1) for their second match-up of the year. The first match-up resulted in a 80-54 loss at home for the Royals.

The Royals could not match the defensive intensity or offensive patience of JBU and lost the game 88-51. Sophomore Harold Reed and Sophomore David Eichler were the only two Royals to reach double figures with14 points and 11 points respectively. Tucker Trumbo led JBU with 18 points.

The Royals will face NAIA D1 Roger’s State University and their second match-up of the year on Monday, December 12, 2011. RSU is ranked in the top 5 nationally.

Williams Baptist College @ Ecclesia College 12/3/11

The Ecclesia Royals played host to Williams Baptist on Saturday December 3rd, 211 in the second portion of the “Home and Home” match-up between the two. WBC came out on top earlier in the season with a 53-52 win that came down to the final seconds.

The Royals, determined for revenge, struck first and opened up with a 7-0 lead. After a time-out by WBC, the Royals opponents regrouped and were able to get back into the game. After this, WBC was able to take a 42-28 lead into the break. The Royals held WBC to only 16 first half points in their first meeting. Only 4 players were able to score in the first half for the Royals led by Freshmen Brandon Brzozkiewicz who had 12 first half points.

The Royals opened the second half looking like a completely different team and were getting defensive stop after defensive stop, but could not convert on offense. The lead was whittled down to 7 with under 12 minutes remaining but the Royals could not push any further and surrendered the lead further. The game ended with WBC earning their second victory on the season, both of which came over the Royals, 85-66.

The Royals will face John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR in their second match-up of the year tonight (Monday, December 05, 2011).

Ecclesia College @ Ozark Christian College – 11/29/11

The Royals traveled to Joplin, MO to face Ozark Christian College in a double-header with the Women’s programs. OCC was the first to strike in the game and held a comfortable lead for the entire half. Lack of defense from the Royals hurt them down the stretch. At the break, OCC led the Royals 48-39.

The Royals used the entire second half to cut the lead and were in a perfect position to take the lead with just under 3 minutes remaining, but costly turnovers hurt their chances. The Royals did not give up and with under a 30 seconds remaining, Sophomore Harold Reed hit a 3-pointer to put the Royals down 1. After a quick foul by the Royals, OCC knocked down both free throws to extend the lead to 3 again. The Royals called timeout with 5.8 seconds left to draw up a play which ended with a good look at the basket but a missed opportunity to tie the game. OCC won their second game of the season with a 92-89 victory over the Royals.

Freshman, Brandon Brzozkiewicz, led the Royals with 26 points making that his fourth straight double-digit scoring performance while Sophomore Harold Reed added in 23 points and 4 assists. Freshmen Jason Holmstrom added 9 points and 11 rebounds. OCC was led by Hunter Jacobs who posted a double-double with 23 points and 10 rebounds.

The Royals will face Williams Baptist College on 12/3 at 4:00pm at Har-Ber High School. The last game between these two ended at the buzzer with a 53-52 loss for the Royals earlier in the season.

Rogers State University @ Ecclesia College – 11/28/11

The Eccesia Royals (3-8) returned from the Thanksgiving break to face one of the top ranked NAIA –D1 programs in the nation, Rogers State University. RSU hosts 5 NCAA D1 transfers and on their roster but the Royals, as is typical with this hard-nosed team, were the first to strike. In fact, the Royals battled back and forth with the lead much of the first half but eventually went into the break behind 10 with a score of 45-35. Sophomore David Eichler and Sophomore Harold Reed led the team at half with 10 points and 9 points respectively.

RSU entered the second half with something to prove and went on run to extend their lead by almost 20 just under 7 minutes into the second. The Royals would not back down and responded with a run of their own but it was too little too late for the Royals in the end as the final score was 96-66 keeping Rogers State perfect on the year at 6-0.

The Royals were led by Eichler and Reed in scoring with 16 points and 15 points respectively. Freshmen Brandon Brzozkiewicz rained in his third straight double- digit scoring performance with 13 points on the night.

The Royals will face NCCAA D2 Ozark Christian College in Joplin, MO tomorrow night at 7:30.

Ecclesia Royals vs University of Central Arkansas @ UCA

The Ecclesia Royals (3-6) traveled to Conway, AR to face NCAA Division 1 University of Central Arkansas (1-3) at the Farris Center. The Bears of UCA were looking for their first win of the season, but they would have to earn it from the young and extremely talented Royals.

The first half remained close despite UCA’s efforts to pull away as Ecclesia was able to stay in the game by an impressive team effort. The athleticism and size of UCA was a challenge for the Royals to match but as is the case with every game this young team faces, they used every ounce of heart they had to make up for their lack of size. Led by an incredible rebounding effort by freshman Jason Holmstrom who had 15 rebounds for the game, which led both teams, the Royals went into the half down 14 after a buzzer beating 3 - pointer by the Bears.

The Royals came out flat in the second half and the Bears were able to capitalize, leading by as much as 29 at one point. The Royals refused to give up however, and in the last 5 minutes of the game freshmen Brandon Brzozkiewicz put on a shooting clinic hitting 5 threes in the final 5 minutes of the game, some as deep as 30 feet from the basket (8 feet behind the 3-point line).

The Royals ended up losing by just 15 as the final score was 90-75. Holmstrom led the Royals with 19 points to go along with his 15 rebounds as well as 4 assists, while Brzozkiewicz added 18 points. Sophomore David Eichler and freshmen Cody Collins both grabbed 8 rebounds apiece. Eichler also had 12 points and 4 assists for the game.

This young Royals program has more heart than any opponent they have faced as they refuse to give up in any game they play, no matter the score. This group of players is going to be an absolute delight to watch grow and develop throughout their current season, as well as their careers here at Ecclesia College.

The Royals will face the extremely talented NAIA Division 1 Rogers State at HOME on Monday, November 28th, 2011. Come watch the Royals at Har-Ber High School. Admission Monday night will be FREE. Go Royals!

Ecclesia College vs. Blessed Hope Baptist College

11/17/2011

The Ecclesia Royals (3-4) faced Blessed Hope Baptist College (BHBC) on Thursday night in Springdale, AR. The Royals entered the night off of a win against Robert Morris University the previous week and looked to continue the streak.

Ecclesia jumped out to a 26-0 lead to start the half capitalizing off of BHBC’s turnovers. The halftime score was 51-17 with the Royals on top. Antonio Minnieweather saw his first action of the year and took advantage of every minute as he led the Royals in scoring with 12 points in 10 minutes of playing time.

The final score was 99-29 giving the Royals their first home victory of the year and third overall. All ten Royals that played scored.

The Royals will face University of Arkansas-Fort Smith on Monday night in Fort Smith, AR.

Ecclesia Royals vs University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Lions @ UAFS

The Ecclesia Royals (3-5) traveled to Fort Smith, AR to face the Lions of University of Arkansas – Fort Smith (4-1). The game started out with the Royals keeping stride with the very talented NCAA Division 2 team. Poor shooting percentage would come to haunt the Royals down the stretch. The Royals went into the half down 37-19 after shooting 16% from the field. The Lions came out hot in the second half and extended their lead to 40 by the end of the game. The final score was 88-48.

The Lions of UAFS had a size advantage for the game as the Royals gave up nearly 3 inches at every position. The Lions had five players score in double figures led by Dusan Stojanovic with 18.

The Royals were led by an impressive shooting display by freshmen Brandon Brzozkiewicz who had 14 points. He was the only player to reach double figures for the Royals.

The Royals will face NCAA Division 1 University of Central Arkansas tomorrow night, Tuesday, November 22, 2011.

November 12, 2011 – Ecclesia vs. Robert Morris University

The Ecclesia Royals (2-4) faced the Robert Morris Eagles (2-1) in their second game of the Rhema Classic in Broken Arrow, OK. After losing their first game of the tournament, the Royals came out with something to prove. They opened up to a 4-0 lead but allowed the Eagles to go on a 12-4 run. After a quick timeout, the Royals came out playing well and were able to take the lead back with 10 minutes left in the first half. Once the Royals took the lead, they never looked back. The Royals went into the half with a 41-35 lead and were able to control the game and prevent Robert Morris from making a run. With a final score of 86-73, the Royals were able to secure their second win of the season.

Sophomore David Eichler and Freshmen Jason Holmstrom both had double-doubles with 20 points and 10 rebounds each while Sophomore Harold Reed, who had an excellent game at the point guard position, was able to contribute with 17 points, 9 assists, and 5 steals. Eichler was selected to the 2011 Rhema Classic All-Tournament Team.

The Royals will face Blessed Hope Bible College on Thursday at Home at Har-Ber High School.

November 11, 2011

Ecclesia Royals vs. Rhema Bible College

The Ecclesia Royals (1-4) faced the Rhema Eagles (1-0) at the Rhema Classic in Broken Arrow, OK on November 11, 2011, while the Women’s basketball teams from the two schools also contended.

The Royals came out flat but were able to stay in the game through some great bench play. Brandon Brzozkiewicz provided a spark off the bench that was able to keep the Royals in the game but Rhema went into halftime with a 43-33 lead.

Rhema’s Kasey Byrd came out hot, hitting four of his first five threes of the game. In the second half, the Royals played with more heart and were able to cut the lead to four but collapsed at the end of the game eventually losing 90-76. The Royal’s top performers were Harold Reed and Jason Holmstrom, who both had 16 points. Holmstrom also was able to grab 11 rebounds before fouling out of the game. In the end Rhema out-performed the Royals as they had 5 players in double figures for the game.

The Royals will be playing in their second game of the tournament November 12, 2011 against Robert Morris University who is currently undefeated in the tournament.

November 5, 2011

Ecclesia vs. Williams Baptist

The Ecclesia Royals (1-3) faced NAIA – Division 1 Williams Baptist College (WBC, 1-0) in their second game of the two-game road trip on Saturday, November 05, 2011. The game not only served as the opening game of the 2011-2012 season for the WBC Eagles but was also their homecoming.

The Royals jumped out on top of WBC with an early lead and quieted the capacity crowd. The Royals defense was too much for WBC as they were only able to score 16 points in the first half. The Royals also struggled to score however, and went into the break with just a 22-16 lead.

The Royals picked up right where they left off to start the second half and extended their lead to eleven. WBC responded with short runs and slowly brought themselves back into the game. With the score tied and less than four minutes remaining, it was a brand new ball game. The crowd came alive in the final three minutes to rally the WBC Eagles passed the Royals. Some key threes hit by WBC in the final minutes of the game were enough to do it. WBC was only 4-23 from three for the entire game, three of which came in the last four minutes of the game.

The Royals were led by the outstanding effort of Junior Harold Reed who led all scorers with 25 points and also added 5 assists and 4 rebounds. Wes Livingston of WBC led the Eagles with 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists.

The Royals have a five day break until they travel to Tulsa, OK to play in the Rhema Classic where they will face Rhema Bible on Friday, November 11 and Robert Morris on Saturday, November 12.

November 4, 2011

Ecclesia vs. Lyon

The Ecclesia Royals (1-2) played at Lyon College (1-0) in Batesville, AR on Friday, November 4th, 2011 to open up the first of a two-game road trip. The Royals entered the game coming off of a win against Central Baptist College and the Scotts of Lyon College entered with a win over Victory University.

Both teams started out slow but the Royals’ were able to secure a halftime lead of 38-29. Careless turnovers in the second half allowed the Scotts to whittle away at the deficit until it was all tied up halfway through the second half. The Royals led by as many as 5 after this but could not hold on to a large enough lead to secure the win. Foul trouble ate away at the Royals in the closing minutes as Junior Harold Reed and Freshmen Jason Holmstrom both fouled out of the game. Holmstrom had 16 points and 3 rebounds to end the game while Reed added 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists.

The game ended with a final score of 85-75 and the second loss of the season for the Royals. Sophomore David Eichler led the Royals in scoring with 17 points and also added in 5 rebounds. The Scotts had five players in double figures for the game, four of which led the team with 13 points apiece.

November 1, 2011

Ecclesia vs. Central Baptist

The Ecclesia Royals (1-1) traveled to Conway, AR to face Central Baptist College (CBC) (0-3) on Tuesday, November 1st, 2011 in a double header with the women’s team. After splitting with CBC in the 2010-2011 season, the Royals came into the game very focused.

The Royals did their best to match the high energy of the nearly filled gymnasium but CBC opened up with a 6 point lead. But the Royals responded and the game went back and forth for the remainder of the half as neither team could secure a lead, or the ball. Both teams had a combined 51 turnovers for the game, the majority of which were in the first half. Going into halftime the Royals were down 37-36.

The second half featured a completely different Royals team, led by an impressive rebounding performance from Freshmen Jason Holmstrom and Freshmen Cody Collins who had a combined 24 rebounds. Holmstrom and Collins also added in 12 points and 10 points respectively. The Royals capitalized on CBC turnovers and missed shots to extend the lead to 13 with about ten minutes left in the game. CBC responded with their own run, but never got within more than 5 the rest of the game and the Royals were able to secure their first win of the young season with a final score of 83-77.

The Royals displayed an all-around team effort with four players scoring in double figures including Junior Harold Reed who led the Royals in scoring with 18 points. Sophomore David Eichler chipped in 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists and Freshmen R.C. Colbert had a well-rounded game with 9 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 7 steals.

CBC was led by Spencer Carraway who had 30 points and Tommy Williams with 19 points and 9 rebounds.

October 29, 2011

Ecclesia vs. JBU

The Royals played their home opener Saturday October 29, 2011 against John Brown University (JBU, NAIA D1). JBU finished last season with a 22-9 record and returned 4 starters to their program this season. The Royals, who finished 12-15 last year, return only 1 player from last season, and no starters.

With the offs against them, the young Royals program delivered the first blow of the game going up by as much as 6 with 9:50 remaining in the first half. JBU could not find a way to score against Ecclesia’s defensive pressure and great team rebounding. After a JBU timeout midway through the first half, the visiting team responded with a 20-4 run putting the Royals down 49-33 going into the break. JBU hit 7-10 from three in the first half alone.

JBU picked up the second half right where they left off and continued to stretch their lead with great outside shooting. The final score was 80-54 with JBU on top. The Royals forced 17 JBU turnovers but had 18 turnovers themselves and were beat 35-24 in the rebounding battle. Sophomore Levi Roberts and Freshmen R.C. Colbert led the Royals with 10 points apiece followed by Freshmen Jason Holmstrom and Sophomore David Eichler who had 9 and 8 points respectively. Holmstrom and Eichler both had 4 rebounds as well. JBU had 4 players in double figures with Coleson Rakestraw and Abel Galliguez leading the way with 11 points apiece.

Ecclesia College Basketball Coach Signs Trio from Farmington High School.  See CHANNEL 5 NEWS COVERAGE.

May 31, 2011

Brian Burnett, men’s basketball coach at Ecclesia College in Springdale, is proud to announce the upcoming signing of a dynamic trio from Farmington High School. The Farmington men’s team had a winning season this past year. The fact that these three are used to playing together will certainly make a difference.

Included are Kendall Buchanan, a great scorer, Collin Woodward, a pure shooter, and Cody Collins, who will bring depth to the inside. Kendall and Cody are graduating this year, while Collin graduated last year.

Also recently signed on for the Ecclesia College basketball team are Jason Holmstrom, an all-conference player from Har-Ber High School in Springdale, and Will Worthing and Tyler Sanderlin, both from Bentonville High School.

Kendall, Collin, Will and Tyler will all play guard, while Cody will be a forward.

Coach Burnett said, “ I am excited to sign all these young men, knowing how much dynamic experience they will bring to next year’s Ecclesia College men’s basketball program!

Royals Hire Assistant Coach, T.K. Smith

May 27, 2011

The Ecclesia Mens basketball team has hired an assistant coach for the upcoming season. “Tyler Smith was hired recently and has already hit the ground running” says coach Burnett. Tyler is already busy organizing workouts and recruiting. “I am really excited about the boost that Tyler is going to provide to the program” says coach Burnett. “He is going to be a busy guy. Not only is he going to be my assistant coach but he is also going to be the JV coach if we have the numbers to have a JV program. Not to mention being the strength and conditioning coach. He will definitely have a lot of responsibility. I obviously have a lot of faith in him. He has a lot of knowledge about the game of basketball. He has had some good coaching during his playing career.” Tyler recently graduated from the University of Central Arkansas where he played for Coach Williamson.

Ecclesia Signs Harber Standout

Ecclesia has signed Harber High School standout Jason Holstrom to play basketball for the Royals next year. Jason was an all conference player for the Wildcats last year in the tough 7A west conference. “I love the way Jason plays the game. He plays so hard all the time and never backs down. He is a mentally tough player.  Not only can he score, but he's great on the boards as well. He played the 4 in high school but may end up playing the 3 spot for us. Wherever he is on the court I know I won’t have to worry about his intensity.”

“Another thing that I really like about Jason is the type of a young man that he is. Jason comes from a great family and is just a great kid. I am excited to have him be a part of our program next year.”

For details about recruiting, contact Coach Burnett at bburnett2002@yahoo.com

Ecclesia Greets New Coaching Staff
Burnett, Lang take over young programs

By Josh Souza
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

ELM SPRINGS –– Coaching changes have been the theme for Ecclesia College over the past few weeks, with head men’s coach J.D. Parker and head women’s coach Kevin Meythaler departing from the College.
The Royals search for a successor to both positions came to an end Sunday evening. School President  Oren Paris selected Brian Burnett to take over the men’s program and just hours later named Kendra Knoner as the new women’s coach.
“We have confidence in both Coach Burnett and Coach Knoner and we are excited about what they can do for the program,” Paris said. “Both of these coaches have ties to a storied program (John Brown University) and a man who I greatly respect, Coach John (Sheehy), speaks very highly of them.”
Parker, who helped pioneer the EC basketball program, has taken a job as the new men’s coach at Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Mississippi. The Royals were nine games over .500 during his tenure.
“We are so grateful for all the contributions coach Parker and made during his time at Ecclesia,” Paris said. “Both he and coach Meythaler served with excellence throughout the last four years and they deserve a lot of credit in building not only this basketball program, but this athletic department in general.” 
Burnett has an impressive resume as an assistant coach, including last season when he helped guide the EC women to the NCCAA national title game. Before coming to Ecclesia Burnett served as an assistant to John Sheehy for three seasons at JBU.
“I am excited to be a part of Ecclesia basketball,” Burnett said. “My time here has been great so far and I am looking forward to the upcoming season. I have a great group to work with.”
Meythaler announced his departure from the school last month, due in part because of health concerns.
Knoner takes over a talented Lady Royal squad that will return four starters from a team that lost just four games over the final three months of the season. Knoner was a standout player at JBU, where she retired as the all time leading scorer for women’s basketball.

Womack Delivers Knock-Out Blow In Rhema Classic
Ecclesia Ties Best Start In School History

By Josh Souza, 11/14/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

BROKEN ARROW, OKLAHOMA---For over 20 minutes Eric Womack struggled to find his shot. He got open looks, clanged balls off the rim, and saw them seemingly spiral around every point of the hoop except the net.

The Ecclesia senior, and single season 3-point record holder, finished the first half zero-for-5 from the floor before unleashing a team high 14 points in the second, including the game winning 3-pointer with 1:00 left in regulation to give the Royals a 65-62 win over Robert Morris University Saturday evening at the Rhema Bible Classic.

The clutch 3-pointer by Womack pushed Ecclesia’s record to 6-1 on the season, tying the best start in school history set by the 2008-2009 squad that went on to reach the NCCAA National Tournament.

“We didn’t shoot the ball well at all in the first half, but the guys kept their heads up and our seniors really did a great job of setting the tone early in the second,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “Going into the game we didn’t really know much about (Robert Morris) but they had a tough team. One of the best we’ve seen.”

Ecclesia trailed 29-26 at the half after shooting a season low 8-of-27 from the floor. The Royals would re-group to improve that mark to 13-of-24 in the second led by Womacks’ four 3-pointers.

Elroy Youngblood (14) continued is recent trend of big second half scoring, as the Royal senior poured in double figures offensively for the third game in a row, as did Travis Smith (11).

“Eric (Womack) kept firing and eventually he found his shot…sometimes you just have to keep shooting” Parker said. “I thought the biggest difference for us was limiting (Robert Morris’) possessions in the second half.”

Robert Morris was led by Anthony Patton, who turned in a game high 26 points. Teammate Ethram  Davis chipped in a healthy double-double with 18 points and 14  rebounds.

The lead changed hands 10 times before Womack delivered the knock-out blow late in the contest. Ecclesia will be in action again Monday when they take on Northeastern State College in Talequah, Oklahoma

Royals Rally Past Rhema
Smith Scores 20 Off Ecclesia Bench

By Josh Souza
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

BROKEN ARROW, OKLAHOMA---Ecclesia overcame early foul trouble and a 10 point first half deficit to claim a 60-48 win over Rhema Bible College during the Rhema Classic Friday evening.

Royal’s leading scorer Robert Valentine and back-court mate Elroy Youngblood were each tagged with a two early fouls and it wouldn’t be long before tournament hosting Rhema would capitalize, building a 32-22 lead at intermission.

“We struggled in the first half with (Robert) Valentine and (Elroy) Youngblood both on the bench,” said Ecclesia coach JD Parker. “I thought we did a great job of making adjustments and limiting (Rhema’s) shots in the second half. It really made the difference for us.”

Mike McGhee (12) and Robert Sanders (10) set the tempo for a productive offensive first half for Rhema, however the Royals would re-group shut-down Sanders and company down the stretch.

Youngblood (11) would help spark an Ecclesia second half rally, as the Royals held Rhema to just 6-of-26 shooting. Ecclesia (5-1) received large contributions from Junior Travis Smith, who turned in 20 points and nine rebounds off the bench.

Smith, a graduate of Fayetteville Christian, has been spark-plug off Ecclesia’s bench all season averaging 14 points and nearly eight rebounds per game.

Hot Start Fuels Home Win
Outside Shooting Deadly In Home Opener

By Josh Souza, 11/10/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia came out firing and hitting, as the Royals used an 5-of-7 start from 3-point land to spark a 75-65 win over Champions Baptist College during the teams home opener Tuesday evening at the All-Star Sports Arena.

Senior Ryan Cooper (11 points, 3 blocks) initiated the early start, hitting on his first three attempts from behind the arch. Freshman guard Tyler Shaver would get into the act nearly as soon as he checked in off the Royal bench.

Shaver, who finished with eight points and seven steals, sparked a 10-0 Ecclesia run with consecutive 3-pointers that would push Ecclesia out to a 17-12 lead. The Royals never trailed following the 14:00 mark of the first half.

The Ecclesia defense held Champions Baptist to just 28 first half points, 20 of which came from James Manthe, who went on to score a game high 35. The Royals forced 17 Tiger turnovers.

Ecclesia was led offensively by Robert Valentine (18) and Travis Smith (15). Smith was part of an Ecclesia bench that outscored Champions Baptist 33-0. Champions was led by Manthe and Tommy McGonagall (16).

Defense Tough In Road Win

By Josh Souza, 11/7/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

WALNUT RIDGE----Ecclesia erupted for 47 second half points to knock-off Williams Baptist 80-52 in men’s collegiate action Saturday afternoon. The Royals displayed a stifling defense that held Williams to just 33% shooting from the field.

“We came out aggressive in the second half and were able to match what (Williams) was able to do on offense,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We got it going early and were able to hit a couple 3-pointers to gain the momentum.”

Ecclesia (3-1) canned five 3-pointers in the second half to pull away from Williams, as the Eagles were unable to match the Royals firepower. EC senior Elroy Youngblood (11) sparked the offensive burst with 10 points in the second half to go along with four assist.

Royal guard Robert Valentine led all scorers with 22 points including 4-of-5 from behind the arch, while Travis Smith spearheaded a productive Ecclesia bench with 13 points and 13 rebounds.

“Our bench play is very crucial to our teams success,” Parker said. “We play 10-to-12 guys in the rotation. They are all expected to step in and play their roles…tonight they all did a great job.”

Ecclesia finished the night 54% from the field and 88 % from the free throw line. Williams (0-2) had three players finish in double figures offensively; Alex Garmeth (12), Jeremy Hanson (10), and Marcus Massey (10).

The Royals will be in action for their first home contest of the season Tuesday, when they play host to Champions Baptist (4-0) at 7pm.

Valentine, Smith Lead EC In Close Call 

By Josh Souza, 10/30/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director
joshtaylorsouza@yahoo.com

PARAGOULD---Ecclesia survived a sloppy second half to hold off tournament hosting Crowley’s Ridge 68-66 in men’s collegiate action Saturday evening. The Royals led by 15 with ten minutes to play and nearly saw the lead evaporate, before using a pair of free throws by Robert Valentine with five seconds remaining to squelch the late Pioneer rally.

Valentine finished 19 points to lead all scorers, while teammate Travis Smith added 15 as the only two Royals to finish with double figures offensively.

“We definitely didn’t play our best game tonight, but I think there are a lot of positives we can take away from the win,” said Ecclesia coach JD Parker. “I wasn’t pleased with the way we took care of the ball late in the game, but that is something we’ll have to work to improve.

“It wasn’t so much the number of turnovers that was frustrating,” continued Parker. “It was the way we made them. We travel to Lyon on Thursday and we are going to have to take care of the ball better if we want to have a chance to win.”

Crowley’s Ridge (1-1) trailed by 12 at the half, but the Pioneers clawed their way back late in the second led by Zach Mitchell (19) and Chase Halbrook (12). CRC had four players finish with double figures.

With the win, Ecclesia moves to 2-0 on the season. The Royals will look to stay perfect this Thursday when they travel to Lyon College.

Freshman Shaver Scores 14 In Debut
New Comers Pave Way In Season Opener

By Josh Souza, 10/31/09
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

PARAGOULD---Ecclesia came into the 2009-2010 season with nine returning players on its roster, however it would be the Royals three new additions that paved the way to a 91-49 win over Western Kentucky in the opening round of the Crowley’s Ridge Classic Friday evening.

Freshman Tyler Shaver along with junior transfers Travis Smith (11) and Robert Valentine (8) each finished in double figures in a contest that saw all 12 Royals contribute points offensively. Western Kentucky (2-1) had no player score more than nine.

“Tyler played well, as did everyone who came off the bench,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We showed a lot of depth tonight. It was good to get all the guys significant time and they all proved that they deserved it.”

Shaver finished with a game high 14 points off the bench in his collegiate debut. Shaver spearheaded an Ecclesia bench that went on to score 49 points, more than the entire Western Kentucky squad.

Ecclesia seniors Ryan Cooper (12) and Eric Womack each finished in double figures as the Royals (1-0) connected on 16 3-pointers. With the win Ecclesia will advance to play Crowley’s Ridge College today at 3pm. The Royals hold a 7-0 lifetime mark against the Pioneers. 


Senior Class To Lead Ecclesia in ‘09

By Josh Souza, 10/19/09 
Ecclesia Sports Information Director

SPRINGDALE---Over the past four years Ecclesia has quickly
risen from the brink of obscurity to the ranks of the well
respected among NCCAA division one programs, thanks in large
part to a 23-11 season in 2008-2009 that culminated in the
schools’ first national tournament birth.

The program has seen a steady incline in wins since its
initial 9-17 showing four years ago, and if that trend is to
continue it will start with the play of the Royals senior
class. The trio of Elroy Youngblood (6‘4“), Eric Womack
(6’4”), and Ryan Cooper (6’7”) will all be crucial
pieces to the puzzle as Ecclesia looks to replace its top thee
scorers from a year ago.

“I think all three guys bring a different element to the
table and everything they bring is equally important,”
said Ecclesia coach, JD Parker. “Elroy (Youngblood), is a
very athletic guard and Eric (Womack) can shoot the lights
out. We are expecting a big year from Ryan (Cooper). He is
our most experienced post player and he has a good perimeter
game as well that makes him hard to guard.”

Womack set the schools’ single season 3-point record with
51 money balls last season, shooting a deadly 40.0% from
behind the arch. The Hot Springs native will be joined on
the front line by Cooper and sophomores Nelson Boren
(6’8”) Matt McCoy (6’8”), and Spencer King
(6’5”).

“We had a great year last season, and I think if we stay
focused and don’t get ahead of ourselves we can do even
better this year,” Cooper said. “I think we have a great
mix of returning players and new players. We have a very
versatile team from top to bottom…we can all do a lot of
different things.”

Cooper, who transferred to Ecclesia from Northern Arkansas
Community College as a junior, averaged six points and six
rebounds off the bench last season. Youngblood comes into
the season ranked second on school’s all time rebound and
steals list and will be looked upon to lead the Royals
defense again this year.

Youngblood finished with 200 rebounds and 47 steals during
his junior campaign, while shooting a team high 56.4% from
the field. The Ecclesia back-court is loaded with depth and
will lean on Youngblood as well as junior Cody Wilmath and
new comers Travis Smith (6’3), Robert Valentine (6’2),
and freshman point guard Tyler Shaver, who averaged 18
points a game as a senior at McDonald County High
School.   

Ecclesia plays a tough non-conference schedule with road
trips to Prairie View A&M, Sam Houston State, and UCA.
The Royals open up their season October 30 as they travel to
Paragould to take part in the Crowley’s Ridge Classic.


Royals to put on Putt-Putt Tournament October 15th
Written Sept, 23, 2009 by Josh Souza, Ecclesia Sports Information Director, 479-414-5948, joshtaylorsouza@yahoo.com

SPRINGDALE---Ecclesia College will be holding its first annual M.D.R. Properties miniature golf tournament on October 15th at Locomotion Family Fun Park in Fayetteville. The benefit will help raise money for the Ecclesia men’s basketball program as well as promote the Royals 2009-2010 season which will began in late October.
“We really hope to see a good turnout from the Ecclesia student body as well as families around the community,” Ecclesia coach JD Parker said. “We try to stay involved with kids in the area as much as we can and this fundraiser will be a great chance to expand on that philosophy.”
The event will run from 5pm-10 and includes four divisions: 18-up, 12-18, 11-under, and a division for Ecclesia students and faculty. There will be minimum donation of $5 required for students and a minimum $10 donation for adults. 
Prizes will be given to the top three scores for each division a there will be a silent auction on the agenda as well. Dinner will also be held prior to the event for Ecclesia students as part of the Universities’ meal plan. 
The auction will be conducted by All-American Sports Merchandise and will include sports memorabilia from the Razorbacks, St. Louis Cardinals, and Dallas Cowboys, as well as a $180 weekend get-away to Hot Springs Village.
“We are still seeking sponsors for this event and anyone who wants to volunteer their services is more than welcome to do so,” Parker said. “This is a very cost-friendly event and one that can be fun for the whole family.”

Royals Give Back
Written Sept. 28, 2009 by Josh Souza, Ecclesia Sports Information Director (479) 414-5948

SPRINGDALE---Successful seasons always begin with productive off-seasons, a message not lost on Ecclesia College where pre-season preparation goes far beyond mere X’s and O’s. The Royals seemingly have as much work to do off the floor as they do on this fall, with a number of camps and community benefits on the agenda.
The latest project came last Friday when the Ecclesia players entered week three of a fall instructional program they are conducting with the K-3 students of Providence Classical Academy in Rogers.
“This is a great opportunity for the guys to get hands on with the people of this community and that is something we take a lot of pride in,” Ecclesia Head Coach JD Parker said. “Several of these players are going into the coaching field after graduation so this is also a chance to learn how to work with kids.
Providence Classical Academy is in the midst of starting its own Prep basketball program this season, under the direction of Coach Austin Bivens, who approached Parker with the idea of starting the mini-camp for the younger students of Providence.
“We like to do anything we can do to get involved with local youth programs,” Parker said.  “With Providence being a private Christian school in the process of building a program from the ground up it is really a great fit for both sides.”
Nearly 30 Providence students were on hand for the mini-clinic that included instruction on several fundamental drills conducted by Ecclesia players and coaches. 
“My son (Aidan) has had a great time so far and I think this is a great program,” Providence parent Joy Looney said of the camp. “They are learning a lot about the game but more than anything this is just a good experience for the kids.”
The sessions will run throughout the fall on Friday mornings from 10a.m. -11 a.m. at the All-Star Sports Arena in Springdale. 
“We are very thankful for Coach Parker and his players for helping our kids out,” Bivens said. “It really is a lot of fun for these kids. Every week they look forward to seeing the players and getting on the floor with them.”

Sealy To Join Coaching Staff
Writen Sept. 28, 2009 by Josh Souza, Ecclesia Sports Information Director 479-414-5948

SPRINGDALE---For the first time in its four year existence the Ecclesia men’s basketball program will have a fulltime assistant coach this season however, the new position is anything but a new face around campus.
Former Ecclesia standout Oscar Sealy will serve as assistant to coach JD Parker, ironically helping the Royals fill the void left by his departure. Sealy graduated last Spring as the schools all time leader in points and rebounds.
“I never wanted to see my seniors go last season, and that goes especially for Oscar (Sealy),” said head coach JD Parker. “He was such a big part of our team’s success I was thrilled to be able to bring him back as a coach. I think it will be a great opportunity for (Sealy) as well as the younger guys.
“Oscar has a great mind for this game and his presence is great on several levels,” continued Parker. “He will be able to relate to these guys and he knows what it takes to be a great student athlete.”
Sealy, a native of Panama City Panama, was a three year starter at Ecclesia and finished with over 1,000 points and 800 rebounds, averaging nearly a double-double during his senior season. 
“I was very happy for the opportunity to stay around and coach these new guys,” Sealy said. “Coaching is something I have wanted to do for as long as I can remember and having the chance to come into a collegiate level program right after graduation is a great situation for me personally.”
Sealy’s biggest task this season will be getting the Royals young front line up to speed, namely sophomores Nelson Boren and Matt McCoy.
“I think both of those guys have a lot of potential,” Sealy said. “(McCoy) is a well rounded offensive player and (Boren) is long and athletic. The biggest key for both of them right now is getting reps in practice and learning how to play stronger in the paint.”

Royals Add New Weapons
Written Sept. 10, 2009 by Josh Souza, EC Sports Information Director

SPRINGDALE — Ecclesia College, starting its fourth year under coach JD Parker, will look to build on the success it enjoyed during the 2008-09 season with the addition of four new recruits, three of which have been recent standouts in the Northwest Arkansas prep ranks. The list includes Travis Smith (Fayetteville Christian), Tyler Shaver (McDonald County, Mo.) and Kaleb Houston (Huntsville). Also joining the Royals will be junior transfer Robert Valentine (Lake View Terrace, CA).

The Royals return nine players from the team that finished 23-11 last season including a 13-1 home record. The influx of new talent should help Ecclesia repeat that kind of success in 2010. “We have some guys coming in this season that can really do a multitude of things,” Parker said. “We have a few holes left from last season, but this has a chance to be a really good group.”

Smith, a 6-foot-3 junior, could play up to four positions in the Royals' motion offense. A native of the Bahamas, Smith enjoyed a stellar career at Fayetteville Christian which included a state title in 2007 before moving on to Northern Oklahoma State College for a two year stint with the Jets. The move to Ecclesia will reunite Smith with former Fayetteville Christian running-mate Phillip McCartney, also a native of the Bahamas.

“(Travis) Smith and (Robert) Valentine are very athletic players,” Parker said. “(Smith) is long and can handle the ball well and both guys can score in a variety of ways. They already have some collegiate experience which should help them early on.”

Shaver, who averaged 18 points a game for McDonald County(Anderson, Mo.) as a senior in 2009, will see adequate time a point guard, as the Royals look to replace three-year starter Jarrome Addison. “Right now I am just trying to get adjusted to the speed of the game,” Shaver said. “I need to be able to handle the ball well in order for our offense to have success this year and that is what I am focused on right now. I think as guard I look to distribute the ball first and let the points come later."  Houston will add more ammunition in a backcourt full of sharp-shooters. The 6-foot freshman was a member of the 2007 Huntsville state championship team.