Medal of Honor Bowl - South Carolina's Premier College Football Bowl Game
Charleston, South Carolina
January, 2018
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Press Releases

January 9, 2015
MOH Bowl Final Practice
American & National Teams Take the Practice Field One Last Time Before Saturday’s Game

By Will Prystowsky

CHARLESTON, SC — The final day of practice for the 2nd Annual Medal of Honor Bowl concluded Friday at Johnson Hagood Stadium with both teams doing a final walk-through before Saturday’s game that kicks off at 2:30 pm. The players were on the field in their Medal of Honor Bowl sweats, going through their responsibilities one last time.

Special teams appeared to be the focus of the American team’s practice Friday with coaches making sure each player knew their responsibilities, and if they went down who the backup was. Friday’s final tune-up had the American team coaches feeling good.

At the end of practice Hall of Fame Coach Willie Jeffries told his players, “You guys have worked hard at practice this week. I am confident you are ready for tomorrow.”

The National team, under former NFL and college head coach Chan Gailey, took a different approach to their practice. While the National team was also in their sweats at the walk-through, they were working on refining their defensive and offensive plays. Coach Gailey wanted to make sure that his guys make the most of their opportunity.

“Tomorrow’s game film will be sent everywhere,” he said. “All NFL teams and the entire Canadian league. We will try to get everyone on the field, so when you are on the field, show who you are and what you can do.”

Both teams will definitely be ready for Saturday’s game, and everyone is focused on the goal of making the NFL. The question now is who will shine the most?

News, Press Release American Team, MOH Bowl, National Team No Comments
January 9, 2015
MOH Bowl Game Participants
NFL Greats Provide Insight to Medal of Honor Bowl Game Participants

By Will Prystowsky

“We want to put on the best football game in America,” proclaimed moderator Warren Peper Thursday night as the Gridiron Greats Player Panel Discussion, part of the Medal of Honor Bowl week, began at Seacoast Church in Mt. Pleasant.

The panel included Chan Gailey, former NFL and college coach and coach of the National team in the Medal of Honor Bowl, and former NFL players Joe DeLamielleure, Joe Jacoby, Paul Krause and Charlie Brown.

The common theme from the panel seemed to be that football was fun and not work. Recalling a story about receiving a key to the Michigan State weight room, DeLamielleure relayed, “Coach (Lou) Saban said that I would overwork myself if I kept training the way I was. But I like to say that I played very hard, and not worked hard.”

“Football was a game that I played, not a job that I had to work,” added Krause, a member of the NFL Hall of Fame.

DeLamielleure, who blocked for the Buffalo Bills and O.J. Simpson, pointed to the United States military saying, “It’s not just about football; it’s about the guys who built our country so we could play football.”

Members of the panel also recalled memorable moments of their playing careers. Jacoby, another Hall of Famer, was a member of the famed “hogs” offensive line for the Washington Redskins. When Peper questioned Jacoby about being the first Redskins offensive lineman to score a touchdown, Jacoby replied, “I was in the right place at the right time. I tripped over the goal line and fell on the ball.”

This and other stories and quips all contributed to the fun, light-hearted nature of Thursday night’s panel discussion involving these NFL greats. Brown, a Lowcountry native and former Redskins receiver, was asked about his long arms and what he would do about fitting his suits, he replied, “Oh, I had no problem with that; I would get them tailor-made.”

Coach Gailey talked about his three G’s of retirement from football: gardening, golf and grandchildren. “I have gotten really good at retirement,” he admitted.

Overall, the panel discussion was a fun and insightful night, and emphasized life after the game. All of the attendees as well as the Medal of Honor Bowl Game participants got a great take on life during and after football.

News, Press Release Game Participants, MOH Bowl, NFL No Comments
January 9, 2015
Grace Beahm/Staff
Medal of Honor Bowl stocked with intriguing prospects

Courtesy of The Post and Courier

Among NFL playoff quarterbacks this season are guys who played college football at Delaware, Eastern Illinois and Miami (Ohio). In other words, an NFL quarterback can come from almost anywhere.

And that’s one reason that 6-7 quarterback Chris Bonner, who played at Division II Colorado State-Pueblo, is considered one of the more intriguing prospects in Saturday’s Medal of Honor Bowl at Johnson Hagood Stadium.

Some pro scouts see Bonner, who weighs 225 pounds, as in the same mold as the Ravens’ Joe Flacco (6-6, 245) of Delaware and the Steelers’ Ben Roethlisberger (6-5, 241) of Miami (Ohio) – big, sturdy QBs who have thrived in the NFL despite playing at small schools.

“Bonner has got a fantastic arm and can throw the ball all over the field,” said Eric Galko of Optimum Scouting. “He was a little erratic this season, but has a lot of potential. I think he could be one of the top four or five quarterbacks in this class. It’s not a great class, and he’s one of the more talented guys out there.”

Bonner completed 56 percent of his throws for 3,291 yards and 30 touchdowns last season, with just eight interceptions.

Another big, strong-armed quarterback with a lot of upside (and a lot of question marks) is Ryan Williams of Miami. The 6-6, 222-pounder was named the Hurricanes’ starter for the 2014 season before suffering a knee injury in spring practice. He ended up playing in just one game.

“Guys like Chris Bonner and Ryan Williams, there are not many of them at that size out there,” Galko said. “If they can make the throws, you certainly like them better than a guy at 6-1.”

Here are some other players Galko considers intriguing prospects:

Linebacker Tank Jakes of Memphis. Undersized at 5-11 and 227 pounds, Jakes was very productive at Memphis with 119 tackles, including 17 for loss, in two seasons. “I think he’s done enough the last two years to show he’s a guy who can rush the passer and make plays,” Galko said.

Receivers Kenny Cook (6-4, 218) of Gardner-Webb and Cam Worthy (6-3, 200) of East Carolina, who on Thursday withdrew from the game after suffering a fractured foot. “Both are small-school guys who have the size to get vertical and make plays in the red zone,” Galko said. Receiver R.J. Harris of New Hampshire is “arguably this class’ best small-school receiver,” according to Galko.

Guard Torrian Wilson (6-3, 305) of Central Florida. “He has the potential to be the highest-drafted guy there (at the Medal of Honor Bowl), or at least the safest pick,” Galko said.

The offensive linemen are probably the strongest position group at the Medal of Honor Bowl. Among the guards, Shaq Mason of Georgia Tech, Matt Rotheram of Pitt and Junior Salt of Utah all ranked among the top 20 at their position by cbssports.com. Among tackles, Quinterrius Eatmon of South Florida, Brey Cook of Arkansas and Blaine Causell of Mississippi State are in the top 35. And among centers, Louisville’s Jake Smith is No. 6 and Marshall’s Chris Jaspere is No. 14.

Among all the Medal of Honor Bowl players, the top-ranked at his position is Florida punter Kyle Christy, ranked No. 3.

Galko said he wouldn’t be surprised to see 10 to 15 Medal of Honor Bowl players picked in this year’s NFL Draft. Last year, the game had three players drafted.

Note: Virginia running back Kevin Parks also withdrew from the game on Thursday after suffering a calf strain.

Top Prospects

Using the NFL Draft rankings at cbssports.com, here are the highest-rated prospects at each position in the Medal of Honor Bowl:

Offense

QB: Jake Waters, Kansas State; Gary Nova, Rutgers

RB: Prince-Tyson Gulley, Syracuse; Synjyn Days, Georgia Tech

WR: Cam Worthy, East Carolina; R.J. Harris, New Hampshire

TE: C.J. Uzomah, Auburn

OT: Brey Cook, Arkansas; Blaine Causell, Mississippi State

OG: Shaq Mason, Georgia Tech; Matt Rotheram, Pitt

C: Jake Smith, Louisville

K: Ty Long, Alabama-Birmingham.

Defense

DE: Shaq Riddick, West Virginia; Brock Hekking, Nevada

DT: Angelo Blackson, Auburn; Kristjan Sokoli, Buffalo

LB: Reshad Cliett, South Florida; Norkeithus Otis, North Carolina; Thurston Armbrister, Miami

S: Brison Williams, South Carolina; Jermaine Whitehead, Auburn

CB: Merrill Noel, Wake Forest; Nick Waisome, Florida State

P: Kyle Christy, Fla.

News, Press Release Medal of Honor Bowl, NFL Draft, The Post and Courier No Comments
January 9, 2015
National Team Indoor Practice
Cold Weather Does Not Hinder National Team’s Practice

By Will Prystowsky

CHARLESTON SC—Cold weather was the overwhelming theme as the National team took the practice field Thursday at The Citadel.

The National team began practice indoors on Thursday under former NFL and college head coach Chan Gailey as they walked through some plays and got stretched out. The National team then headed outside to Willson Field for their 36-play script.

Coach Gailey was very satisfied with Thursday’s practice, even though the outside portion was shortened due to cold weather.

“We got a lot done inside and outside,” he said. “I’m very satisfied with today’s practice result. We got 40 good minutes outside and got through all of our plays.”

Coach Gailey put some wrinkles in the offense, with many screens and reverses taking place. South Carolina wide receiver Damiere Byrd was the recipient of several of these plays as his speed and quickness make him a viable option.

Defense also made several impressive plays. On the first play of the outside portion, Ole Miss linebacker Serderius Bryant hauled in a one-handed interception that would have gone for a touchdown. The National team is loaded with playmakers on both sides of the ball.

When asked about the game Saturday, Coach Gailey said, “I’m confident going into tomorrow’s practice, but there is still some thing’s to work out.”

On Friday, both teams will have their walk-throughs at Johnson Hagood Stadium.

The Medal of Honor Bowl, which will be televised nationally by the NBC Sports Network, is a premier all-star that features the nation’s top draft-eligible college football players as projected for the NFL Draft. The game honors the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, disable veterans, and wounded warriors.

Game tickets, which range from $15-$40, may be secured at the Medal of Honor Bowl Game’s dedicated website www.MOHbowl.com. They will also be available at The Citadel Athletic Ticket Office at 843/953-DOGS (3647). One Lucky ticket holder will drive home with a new Mercedes-Benz, thanks to Baker Motors and Mercedes-Benz.

For more information, please refer to Twitter:@MOHbowl and Facebook.com/MOHbowl

News, Press Release MOH Bowl, National Team, Practice No Comments
January 9, 2015
American Team Quarterbacks Gain the Most from Thursday’s Indoor Practice

By Will Prystowsky

CHARLESTON, SC—The American team practiced in shirts and shorts Thursday inside Deas Hall of The Citadel’s campus due to the cold conditions. Hall of Fame coach Willie Jeffries made sure that this did not allow his team to lose focus.

“We can’t let weather allow us lose focus, no matter if we are in the gym or outside on the field. It is important to make the most of practice.”

Offensive players were running routes and the defense ran to the ball. Players would slow down when appropriate. The team moved mostly at a walk-through pace, but still accomplished a lot. The teams’ four quarterbacks were the ones that got the most work.

Chris Bonner of Colorado State-Pueblo, who stands 6-7, did not have any trouble seeing over the offensive line. Bonner and his receivers were connecting.

The other three quarterbacks, Jake Waters of Kansas State, Terrance Broadway of Louisiana-Lafayette and Tyler Murphy of Boston College were also solid.

Going through the playbook for another practice day will help the quarterbacks when the game kicks off on Saturday at 2:30 pm.

On Friday, both teams will have their walk-throughs at Johnson Hagood Stadium.

The Medal of Honor Bowl, which will be televised nationally by the NBC Sports Network, is a premier all-star that features the nation’s top draft-eligible college football players as projected for the NFL Draft. The game honors the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, disable veterans, and wounded warriors.

Game tickets, which range from $15-$40, may be secured at the Medal of Honor Bowl Game’s dedicated website www.MOHbowl.com. They will also be available at The Citadel Athletic Ticket Office at 843/953-DOGS (3647). One Lucky ticket holder will drive home with a new Mercedes-Benz, thanks to Baker Motors and Mercedes-Benz.

For more information, please refer to Twitter:@MOHbowl and Facebook.com/MOHbowl

News, Players Schedule American Team, Indoor Practice, MOH Bowl No Comments
January 8, 2015
Injuries Force Two Players to Withdraw from Medal of Honor Bowl

CHARLESTON, SC – Two of the Medal of Honor Bowl’s players – Kevin Parks of Virginia and East Carolina’s Cam Worthy – have withdrawn from Saturday’s game due to injuries.

Parks, a running back, suffered a calf strain, while Worthy, a wide receiver, fractured his foot.

Their roster spots will not be replaced.

The Medal of Honor Bowl, which will be televised live nationally by the NBC Sports Network at 2:30 pm, is a premier all-star game the features the nation’s top draft-eligible college football players as projected for the NFL Draft. The game honors the Medal of Honor recipients and the game’s beneficiaries, the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, disabled veterans and wounded warriors.

Tickets, which range from $15-$40, may be secured at the Medal of Honor Bowl Game’s dedicated website www.MOHbowl.com. They are also available at The Citadel Athletic Ticket Office at 843/953-DOGS (3647).

For more information, please refer to Twitter: @MOHbowl and Facebook.com/MOHbowl

News, Press Release Injury, MOH Bowl, Practice No Comments
January 8, 2015
Frank Wooten Columnist
Win one for the Medal of Honor Bowl

Courtesy of The Post and Courier

Charleston is a big-time player in tourism, fine dining and epic history.

It’s just not a big-time sports town.

Not that’s there anything wrong with that.

Sure, Daniel Island has the Family Circle Cup, a high-profile event on the women’s pro tennis circuit. And Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course had the 2012 PGA Championship and the 1991 Ryder Cup. (More on our local athletic-mecca victories later in this column.)

But when the eyes of the nation’s sports fans turn to our state, it’s usually to watch telecasts of college football or basketball games in Clemson or Columbia.

At 2:30 p.m. Saturday, though, NBC Sports Network will carry a football game live from Johnson Hagood Stadium.

And if you’re already mourning the season’s looming end, why not get a final in-person dose of America’s most popular sport at the Medal of Honor Bowl?

After all, that second annual all-star spectacle will feature the best array of football talent at Johnson Hagood since Sept. 2, 1967.

That’s where and when I saw Miami linebacker Wahoo McDaniel kick a 27-yard field goal to lift the Dolphins to a 20-17 NFL exhibition victory over the New Orleans Saints. McDaniel also was a widely beloved pro wrestler who long and frequently graced Charleston’s County Hall with his devastating “Tomahawk Chop,”

No, there aren’t any likely high-round draft choices (or rasslers?) on Saturday’s American (under head coach Willie Jeffries of S.C. State fame) and National (under head coach Chan Gailey of Dallas Cowboys, Georgia Tech and Buffalo Bills fame) teams.

Yet the talent level significantly exceeds last year’s Medal of Honor Bowl. And that inaugural edition included three players who were drafted four months later – and 73 more who were invited to NFL camps as undrafted free agents.

Lest you underrate undrafted free agents and/or players from non-big-time football schools, consider that “America’s Team” (aka the Dallas Cowboys, aka Chris Christie’s Team) signed Tony Romo in 2003 as an undrafted free agent from Eastern Illinois.

Lest you underrate the in-state appeal of Saturday’s game, consider that while it will spotlight pro prospects from across the land, the rosters also include players from The Citadel, Charleston Southern, S.C. State, Furman, Coastal Carolina, Clemson and South Carolina.

And as a decorated (Bronze Star, Purple Heart) combat veteran, Clemson wide receiver Daniel Rodriguez is a particularly fitting participant.

More good reasons to attend the game: It benefits the Medal of Honor Museum and the Wounded Warriors of S.C. – and 15 recipients of our nation’s highest military honor are expected to attend.

But he wasn’t small

Back to Johnson Hagood:

Among the players who have competed there in my lifetime as Citadel Bulldogs before moving up to the NFL: John Small (Atlanta picked him as the school’s only first-round draft choice ever), Stump Mitchell, Travis Jervey (ex-Wando High star and one of the American team’s assistant coaches this week), Andre Roberts (now with the hapless Washington Redskins) and Cortez Allen (now with the playoff-ousted Pittsburgh Steelers).

Among the players who have competed there against The Citadel before moving up to the NFL: Terrell Owens of Chattanooga and the Dallas Cowboys; Dexter Coakley of Wando, Appalachian State and the Dallas Cowboys; Stanford Jennings of Summerville High and Furman; and J.J. Wilcox of Georgia Southern and now the Dallas Cowboys.

Among the high school seniors in the 2010 NUC (National Underclassman Combines) All-World Gridiron Classic at Johnson Hagood: 2012 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel (aka “Johnny Football”) and 2014 Heisman winner Marcus Mariota.

Among the coaches who have trod the Johnson Hagood sidelines …

Frank Howard (Clemson); Tom Nugent (VMI before going to Florida State and Maryland); Billy Murphy (Memphis State); Marvin Bass (South Carolina); Red Parker (The Citadel before Clemson); Thad “Pie” Vann (Southern Mississippi); Jim Carlen (West Virginia before Texas Tech and South Carolina); Lou Holtz (William & Mary before N.C. State, the New York Jets, Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame and South Carolina); Bobby Ross (The Citadel before Maryland, Georgia Tech, the San Diego Chargers and Army); and Dick Sheridan (Furman before N.C. State).

A man-to-man tradition

Beyond football, John Kresse’s triumphant 1979-2002 tenure at the College of Charleston rates a special spot in local sports lore. His Cougars won nearly 80 percent of their games, the 1983 NAIA title and reached four NCAA tournaments with consistently tenacious defense.

In baseball, The Citadel won 1990 College World Series game, and the College of Charleston almost made it to the 2014 College World Series.

And the Charleston RiverDogs (pro baseball), Charleston Battery (pro soccer) and South Carolina Stingrays (pro hockey) all make this a much livelier sports town.

So show TV viewers Saturday that folks around here will show up to see future NFL players, help worthy causes and honor true heroes.

So what if it’s supposed be a bit chilly (near 50) by our spoiled standards?

That’s a lot warmer than it will be in Green Bay on Sunday when Romo leads “America’s Team” to a playoff victory over the Packers.

And you can count on S.C. State’s “Marching 101″ band to heat up Johnson Hagood on Saturday.

Frank Wooten is assistant editor of The Post and Courier. His email is wooten@postandcourier.com.

News, Press Release Bobby Ross, Lou Holtz, Medal of Honor Bowl Game, SC State Marching 101 Band, Tony Romo No Comments
January 8, 2015
Medal of Honor Recipient Donald Ballard is escorted onto the field by a member of the Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders during the 2014 Medal of Honor Bowl. (Paul Zoeller/Staff)
At the Medal of Honor Bowl, the ABCs of what you can see

Courtesy of The Post and Courier

From NFL prospects to the South Carolina State Marching 101, there will be something for everybody at Saturday’s Medal of Honor Bowl at Johnson Hagood Stadium. Here are the ABCs of what you can see:

A American heroes These guys are the real thing, Medal of Honor recipients who will be honored during pregame ceremonies. The Medal of Honor is our country’s highest military honor, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. Fifteen recipients will be recognized Saturday.

B Bulldogs The Citadel has two players in the game, running back Jake Stenson and defensive end Justin Oxendine.

C Cheerleaders Want to brighten a Medal of Honor recipient’s day? Have him escorted to midfield by an Atlanta Falcons cheerleader.

D Draft picks Last year’s game featured three players who were drafted by NFL teams, and 73 who were invited to NFL training camps. Those numbers are sure to increase this year.

E Ellington, Bruce The former two-sport star at South Carolina, now a San Francisco 49er, will make an appearance at Tailgate Fanfest in the Johnson Hagood Stadium parking lot from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

F Fans A total of 5,135 fans braved a windy, blustery day last year for the first Medal of Honor Bowl. Officials are hoping for at least twice that number Saturday.

G Gamecocks USC receiver Damiere Byrd and defensive back Brison Williams will play.

H Hall of Famers Former NFL stars working as coaches include Joe DeLamielleure and Paul Krause. DeLamielleure was a Super Bowl-winning lineman with the Buffalo Bills; Krause, a safety with the Redskins and Vikings, picked off 81 passes in his career.

I Issac Blakeney The 6-6, 225-pounder from Duke is the tallest receiver in the Medal of Honor Bowl. He caught 98 passes for 1,093 yards and 12 touchdowns in his career, and might be a good red-zone target.

J Jeffries, Willie The legendary former South Carolina State coach is the head coach of the American Team. He became the first black head coach at an NCAA Division I school when Wichita State hired him in 1979.

K Kicker Ty Long He and punter Hunter Mullins and receiver J.J. Nelson could be the last Alabama-Birmingham players to wear a Blazers helmet during a game. Their program was controversially dropped by UAB after the 2014 season.

L Long-snapper Nate Boyer The Texas player served in the Green Berets Special Forces and was the first winner of the Armed Services Merit Award, given by the Football Writers Association of America.

M Mercedes-Benz One lucky fan will walk away with a Mercedes-Benz CLA250 from Baker Motor Company. You must be present to win, according to contest rules.

N NBC Sports Network The Medal of Honor Bowl will be televised nationally for the first time. Working the game will be play-by-play man Paul Burmeister, analyst Anthony Herron and sideline reporter Kathryn Tappen.

O Otis, Norkeithus The 6-1, 235-pound linebacker from North Carolina began the season on the Chuck Bednarik Award watch list, but was hobbled by a hamstring injury for much of the season. A good week would boost his draft stock.

P Purple Heart winner Clemson receiver Daniel Rodriguez won a Purple Heart during his service in the Army in Afghanistan. He was wounded during the battle of Kamdesh in Afghanistan on Oct. 3, 2009, when 300 Taliban insurgents battled with 38 U.S. troops. Eight Americans lost their lives and 22 were injured.

Q Quarterbacks Included among the intriguing prospects are 6-7 Chris Bonner of Colorado State-Pueblo and Ryan Williams, a 6-6, 222-pounder from Miami. Williams was slated to start for the Hurricanes this season before he suffered a knee injury during spring practice.

R Raiders The Dorchester Academy team is represented by linebacker Michael Gruber, a Division II All-American at Brevard College and the cousin of legendary Raiders coach Stanley Gruber.

S Seventies soft-rock star John Ford Coley The Lowcountry resident was half of the England Dan and John Ford Coley duo, famed for hits such as “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” and “Love is the Answer.” Coley will sing during halftime.

T Tajh Boyd The former Clemson quarterback will make an appearance along with Ellington at the Tailgate Fanfest.

U Uzomah, C.J. The 6-5, 265-pound tight end from Auburn wasn’t targeted much in Auburn’s no-huddle offense, but a solid performance in the Medal of Honor Bowl will boost his draft chances.

V Very good singers Air National Guard Senior Master Sergeant Denise Phillips from the 142nd Fighter Wing in Oregon will sing the National Anthem; Marine Lt. Col. Mike Corrado will sing at halftime; and the Brady Smith Band will perform at Tailgate Fanfest before the game.

W West Ashley High School Representing his high school is former Wildcats tennis player Gabriel Middlebrook, who went on to play linebacker as a 6-2, 219-pounder at Charleston Southern.

X X-factor It could be former Citadel All-American center Mike Sellers. At 6-0 and 265 pounds, Sellers has played H-back, fullback and linebacker in practice this week for the American Team.

Y You That’s right, you could win a Super Bowl VIP ticket package with a donation of at least $20. See mohbowl.com for details.

Z Zernhelt, John The former Citadel head coach is one of the more than 120 pro scouts on hand this week.

Uncategorized MOH Bowl, NFL, The Citadel No Comments
January 7, 2015
MOHB National Team Practice Day 3
Tight Ends Are the Focus on Offense Wednesday for the National Team

By Will Prystowsky

CHARLESTON SC — Under direction of former NFL and college head coach Chan Gailey, the National team concluded their third day of practice on a cold and windy day at The Citadel’s Willson field on Wednesday afternoon.

However, the cold weather did not stop the National team from having a successful day of practice. The offense looked sharp, and the defense was playing as unit as they made multiple big plays in a scrimmage.

It was clear that Wednesday’s focus on offense was on the tight end position. Auburn’s C.J. Uzomah, and Bowie State’s Khari Lee were all over the field, scoring touchdowns and making blocks leading to touchdowns. Wide receivers were not the only guys who can score for the offense.

While the fundamentals and X’s and O’s were the main focus of the practice, leadership and a little fun were not hard to find.

Rutgers’ quarterback Gary Nova and Clemson offensive linemen David Beasley were having a ball on the practice field as each could be found leading chants or getting their respective positions hyped up for drills.

Only with their teams for less than a week, the National team has found its defensive leader. Navy’s Paul Quessenberry not only kept his fellow linebackers on their toes, but also the entire team. Quessenberry is a natural leader and can be heard all across the field.

The Medal of Honor Bowl, which will be televised nationally by the NBC Sports Network, is a premier all-star that features the nation’s top draft-eligible college football players as projected for the NFL Draft. The game honors the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, disable veterans and wounded warriors.

Game tickets, which range from $15-$40, may be secured at the Medal of Honor Bowl Game’s dedicated website www.MOHbowl.com. They will also be available at The Citadel Athletic Ticket Office at 843/953-DOGS (3647). One Lucky ticket holder will drive home with a new Mercedes-Benz, thanks to Baker Motors and Mercedes-Benz.

For more information, please refer to Twitter:@MOHbowl and Facebook.com/MOHbowl

News, Press Release MOH Bowl, National Team, Practice 1 Comment
January 7, 2015
MOHB American Team 3rd Practice
Physicality and Timing Were the Focus of Wednesday’s American Team Practice

By Will Prystowsky

CHARLESTON, SC — The American team began finding team chemistry as the third day of practice concluded Wednesday afternoon at The Citadel’s Willson Field.

The American team, under supervision of Hall of Fame coach Willie Jeffries, practiced again in pads and helmets. Practice was the most physical so far this week with the thumping sounds of pads occurring on nearly every play.

Linebackers Edwin Jackson of Georgia Southern and Norkeithus Otis of the University of North Carolina were the leaders of the physical play. Both made loud, hard-hitting plays multiple times. One of the defensive coaches was heard saying, “Otis is one of the most instinctive players I ever coached.” Evidently, physicality will not be a problem for Coach Jeffries’ team when Saturday’s game kicks off at 2:30.

On top of the intensity of Wednesday’s practice, timing was another item that was addressed. The quarterback and running back exchange, along with quarterback and wide receiver timing were two big topics during the session. Coach Jeffries is trying to get these guys as sharp in one week as most teams take all summer to obtain.

Florida International wide receiver Glenn Coleman seemed to be the beneficiary of the quarterback-receiver timing drills, catching multiple passes.

The Medal of Honor Bowl, which will be televised nationally by the NBC Sports Network, is a premier all-star that features the nation’s top draft-eligible college football players as projected for the NFL Draft. The game honors the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, disable veterans and wounded warriors.

Game tickets, which range from $15-$40, may be secured at the Medal of Honor Bowl Game’s dedicated website www.MOHbowl.com. They will also be available at The Citadel Athletic Ticket Office at 843/953-DOGS (3647). One Lucky ticket holder will drive home with a new Mercedes-Benz, thanks to Baker Motors and Mercedes-Benz.

For more information, please refer to Twitter:@MOHbowl and Facebook.com/MOHbowl.

News, Press Release American Team, MOH Bowl, Practice No Comments
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Shelly Nuttall Gardner

Shelly Nuttall Gardner is the owner/director of WheelHouse Concepts Inc., a firm specializing in strategic sales and events as well as creative project management.
Shelly Nuttall Gardner
Her current projects include:

* The Medal of Honor Bowl, director of Sales and Marketing. Gardner leads the sponsorship team, oversees the production of events as well as generates community and regional awareness and excitement about The Medal of Honor Bowl through advertising and marketing campaigns.

*Taste of Atlanta, director of Restaurants. Gardner works closely with Atlanta area chefs to produce and coordinate the restaurant participation in this festival, which draws 50,000 attendees annually over the 3 day schedule of culinary events.

*The Stray Dog Society, executive director. This member based social organization is for supporters (both graduate or non-graduate) of The Citadel. Gardner runs the membership and sponsorship campaign, as well as plans and executes the Society’s many events including the tailgate parties before each home game and the Annual Homecoming Jamboree to the sell-out crowd of 1500.

Gardner is originally from Charlotte, and is a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill. Before starting WheelHouse Inc , she was a surgical sales representative for Medtronic’s neurosurgery division.

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Andy Solomon

Native Charlestonian Andy Solomon, who handles the media relations for the Medal of Honor Bowl Game, is concluding his 39th year in athletic administration and his 23rd year as an associate athletics director at The Citadel.
Andy Solomon
Having served in marketing, promotions and sports information capacities since joining The Citadel, Solomon now devotes his efforts on special events and coordinating the school’s licensing program. He also produces The Blue & White, the official publication of The Citadel Brigadier Foundation, and Today’s Blue & White, a weekly electronic newsletter. 

He is also a Visiting Professor in the school’s Health, Exercise and Sport Science Department and teaches Sports Management courses. He has served as the NCAA representative and tournament director at baseball regionals every year since 2003. Solomon also served a term as president of the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame and remains active as a member of the Board of Directors.

Solomon was selected as the inaugural Marketer of the Year (1999-2000) for NCAA Division I-AA and I-AAA institutions by the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators (NACMA) and was named National SID of the Year in 1983 by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), becoming the youngest ever to win the award.

In March 2004, Solomon was inducted into the NAIA Hall of Fame and became the third native Charlestonian to be enshrined in a national sports hall of fame, joining Art Shell (NFL) and Beth Daniel (LPGA). In 2009, he was inducted into Winthrop’s Hall of Fame.

Prior to his arrival at The Citadel, Solomon served in athletic administrative positions at College of Charleston (1973-77), Charleston Southern (1977-78), Winthrop (1978-84) and Limestone (1984-88).  He was the public relations manager at Wild Dunes Resort in 1988-89, and serves as a media relations consultant for the Charleston RiverDogs, the Class A affiliate of the New York Yankees.

Solomon earned his bachelor’s degree from College of Charleston in 1977 and a master’s from Winthrop.  He and his wife, Amy, have two daughters, Anna and Addie.

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Tommy McQueeney

W. Thomas ‘Tommy’ McQueeney is the Chairman and Founder of The Medal of Honor Bowl Game, and works closely with our beneficiaries, The National Medal of Honor Museum and the Wounded Warrior Project.
Tommy McQueeny
A native Charleston area businessman with a background in sports development he chaired the Southern Conference Basketball Championships and the Charleston Area Sports Commission twice. McQueeney also chaired the $44.5 million Johnson Hagood Stadium Revitalization, has served on The Citadel’s Board of Visitors, the MUSC Children’s Hospital Board, and the Patriot’s Point Maritime Museum Foundation.

A 2009 recipient of the Order of the Palmetto, he is a local columnist and author.

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Thomas J O'Rourke

Tom O’Rourke is the Executive Director of the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. Tom’s Agency has been nationally recognized for operating an ever-expanding park system without using tax increases to fund growth.
Tom O'Rourke

Tom has the direct oversight responsibility for over 10,000 acres of parkland consisting of a very diverse offering of parks, programs and services.

Prior to joining Charleston County PRC, Tom was the Director of the Mt. Pleasant Recreation Department in Mt. Pleasant South Carolina, and also worked as Manager of the Sports and Recreation Division for Seamon Whiteside and Associates a Landscape Architect and Engineering firm. Tom’s first job was as a high school Athletic Director and Coach.

Currently Tom spends a significant amount of time educating park and recreation professionals. In the past three years he has spoken at 13 different State Association Conferences and has presented sessions at the NRPA Congress for the past 12 years. He is on the Board of Regents at the NRPA Revenue School, The NRPA Directors School and a past member of the Supervisors Managements School Board.

Tom is the Chair of the Clemson University Parks Recreation and Tourism Management Advisory Board, and the Chair of the Charleston Area Sports Commission Board of Directors.

Recreation is his profession, but his passion has always been coaching. Tom currently is the Pole Vault Coach at Hanahan High School.

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Hoyt "Rusty" Holt, Jr.

Hoyt “Rusty” Holt, Jr. serves as the Medal of Honor Bowl’s Operations Director.

Rusty Holt

Having recently retired from a successful insurance career at New York Life, Holt is an active member of Savannah’s Sports Council, and a charter board member of the Savannah Hockey Committee. Holt was the presiding force behind Savannah’s Inaugural Rock n Roll Marathon in 2011.

Holt is a proud graduate of The Citadel’s class of 1973, earning his B.S. in Business Administration and lettering in both football and track. In 1988, Holt was inducted into The Citadel’s Athletic Hall of Fame for his excellence in both sports – football and track .

Originally from Mullins, SC , he currently shares his time between Savannah and Charleston with Mignon, his wife of 39 years. They are the proud parents of 3 children and 7 grandchildren whom they delight in spending time with.

In addition to his love of sports, and his involvement in The Medal of Honor Bowl, Holt is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys boating, fishing, hunting and riding his Harley Davidson.

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Rick Raybon

Rick Raybon Director of Finance

Senior Financial Executive with more than 35 years of achievement improving corporate financial performance through financial leadership in banking relations, operations, mergers and acquisitions, organizational development and global systems integration.

Raybon has served in senior financial leadership roles with both Northrop Grumman and Litton Industries. Additionally, he has served as an interim CFO in several smaller equity backed businesses.

A 1974 graduate of The Citadel he has also attended executive level leadership courses at both Harvard Business School and Wharton. He is a licensed CPA, a retired Commander, Supply Corps. USNR and resides in Mt. Pleasant, SC with his wife Vicki.

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Samuel Rivers

Samuel Rivers

Bio Coming Soon…

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Cal McCombs

McCombs1200mugCal McCombs enjoyed a standout career as a track and football athlete at The Citadel, graduating in 1967.
His coaching career included stints at The Citadel, the United States Air Force Academy and as Head Football Coach at VMI, where he was named both State of Virginia Coach of the Year and Southern Conference Coach of the Year.

McCombs also spent five years as a top player development scout for the Denver Broncos of the American football League. Through these experiences, he gained a solid reputation for assessing draft-level NFL talent.

His skills in the area of quantifying NCAA football talent brings an enormous asset to the Medal of Honor Bowl.
He coached on the winning American Team in the inaugural Medal of Honor Bowl in January of 2014.

McCombs is a native of Belton, SC, and lives on the Isle of Palms with wife Lynn. They have three children and six grandchildren.

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Austin B. Atkinson, J.D.

Austin B. Atkinson, J.D. Austin B. Atkinson, J.D. is an NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor and is a registered Athlete Agent in the State of South Carolina. Austin earned a B.A. in Political Science from The Citadel in 1999, and a Juris Doctor degree from the Charleston School of Law in 2011.

As an NFL agent, Austin was able to put players from the FBS, FCS, and Division II levels of college football into NFL camps in recent years. His eye for talent at all levels of football is invaluable in his personnel role for the Medal of Honor Bowl.

Active in the community, Austin has served as the Vice-Chairman of the Town of Mount Pleasant Board of Zoning Appeals, member of the Town of Mount Pleasant Historical Commission, Past-President of the Mount Pleasant Sertoma Club, assistant coach of the Wando High School boys lacrosse team, and is a member of the Theta Commission of Kappa Alpha Order. Austin lives in Mount Pleasant with his wife and children.

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Roy Hamlin Jr.

roy_hamlinMr. Hamlin’s strong success in video and television projects for the nation’s leading nonprofit and sports organizations has helped him network across a broad range of corporate, celebrity and charitable leaders to achieve important goals. He founded AdCraft Associates, which became recognized as a national leader through innovative marketing. After selling AdCraft Associates to Host Communications, Roy’s next venture, NorthStar Visions, took an innovative approach to a marriage between the sports and entertainment worlds. His Fairway Productions Group has been a leader in television concepts and production.
Mr. Hamlin has produced numerous sports publications and live television broadcast programming, while developing many of today’s accepted sports traditions, including the National Championship Trophy Program, Director’s Cut (Div. I, Div IAA, Div III), Basketball Poll, Women’s Basketball Poll, Football Coaches Poll, Baseball Coaches Poll, Baseball National Championship Trophy, Mohamed Ali Museum and the PGA of America Library.

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