Concordia Cougar Football

Player of the Week

2011-09-13T09:48:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Jacob Koehler. Jacob was named NAC Offensive Player of the Week for his play in the Cougars 28-10 victory over the University of Chicago.

http://northernac.org/sports/fball/2011-12/releases/20110912q08hrx

September 11, 2011

2011-09-13T09:33:00.002-05:00

Before last Saturday's game against the University of Chicago, fans, coaches, players paused to reflect on the tragedy that took place on September 11, 2001. Senior Defensive End, Kasey Ray took time to write some words that were read by team chaplain Bill Stevenson. Here are Kasey's words:

On the morning of December 7, 1941 the day that Pearl Harbor was attacked President Franklin Roosevelt declared “this is a day that will live in infamy”. 60 years later, my generation experienced its own horrifying “day of infamy”.

Both of these two tragic mornings shocked our nation, and shocked the world. Much is to be remembered from the morning of September 11th. Those of us old enough are reminded of that fateful morning, and visualize the smoked filled towers just moments before their collapse. The words confusion, anger, and terror come to mind when thinking back to that day. For quite some time, America watched in horror as television personalities struggled to make sense of that morning’s unbelievable events. Seldom before had our nation, a nation that prided itself in its status as one of the most advanced nations in the world, been humbled so definitively. When we look back on that morning, it’s hard not to focus on the negatives of 911. But with time comes perspective, and today, we are able to look back on that day as a turning point in our nation’s history. As Americans, we could have focused on the terror and agony caused by the few that impacted so many, yet instead, America rose up as one unified nation. Ordinary men became heroes. Firemen, policemen, and other public servants gave their lives for the protection of others. When faced with great tribulation, America responded not with fear, but with love for his neighbor. In one terrifying moment, those who sought to destroy our nation helped us triumph in unifying it. So let us remember September 11th, not for the ills that befell our nation, but for the hope and unity that was born. May God bless America, and may America bless God in all that we do, and may it always be in His name.

Field Improvements

2011-07-15T09:50:00.009-05:00

Concordia University is currently installing a new football field. Progress of the project can be seen here.

Saturday's Game at Maranatha Baptist Bible College

2010-10-29T17:48:00.001-05:00

Saturday's game at Maranatha Baptist Bible College will not have video or audio. Please check Concordia Athletics Twitter account for updates throughout the game.

http://twitter.com/#!/CUChicagoSports

Players of the Week!

2010-10-26T08:32:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to junior Defensive Back David Sodetz. David earned Northern Athletics Conference Defensive Player of the Week honors for his role in the Cougars 48-7 victory over visiting Lakeland College. David had two interceptions in the game. The first interception was returned 33 yards for a touchdown giving the Cougars a 14-0 lead.

Receiving multiple honors was senior Running Back Khyree Copeland. Khyree was named Northern Athletics Conference Offensive Player of the Week and Concordia University Chicago Male Athlete of the Week. Khyree broke his previous single game rushing record of 221 yards, set last season, with a 333 yard effort against Lakeland. He had touchdown runs of 39 and 95 yards. Khyree also became the first Cougar to go over 1000 yards rushing in a season.

http://northernac.org/sports/football/weekly_awards/

http://www.cucougars.com/awards.aspx?aow=24

JV Team

2010-10-17T09:21:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to the JV Football team. This was the most successful JV season in Cougar Football history. The JV team finished with a 2-2 record with both wins coming against conference rivals Benedictine University and Aurora University. The progress made by these players throughout the season was very exciting for the coaching staff!

More Awards!

2010-10-14T06:06:00.003-05:00

The Cougar Football team has received more awards. Sophomore Jake Koehler was named Northern Athletics Conference Special Teams Player of the Week for his punting in Saturday's game against the Warriors. Jake had four punts that combined for an average of 40.5 yards. http://northernac.org/sports/football/weekly_awards/

Senior Mike Marotta was named Concordia University Chicago Male Athlete of the Week for his accomplishments in last Saturday's Homecoming game against WLC. Mike was 24 of 43 passing for 377 yards and 2 touchdowns. http://www.cucougars.com/awards.aspx?aow=18

Congrats to Jake and Mike.

Copeland Tops 3000 Yards!

2010-10-14T06:00:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to senior running back Khyree Copeland. In last Saturday's Homecoming victory over Wisconsin Lutheran, Copeland rushed for 61 yards. Those 61 yards were enough for Copeland to surpass 3000 yards for his career. Copeland is already the record holder for career yardage at Concordia. Read more about Copeland's feat at http://northernac.org/releases/2010/2010_10/20101012b.html.

Congrats to Jamal Thomas

2010-10-07T09:02:00.002-05:00

Jamal Thomas was named Northern Athletics Conference Offensive Player of the Week and Concordia University Chicago Male Athlete of the Week for his play in the Cougars 47-41 loss last Saturday against Benedictine University. Jamal had 10 catches for a school record of 231 yards. The 231 yards broke the 1984 record that was held by former Chicago Bear Todd Black. Jamal was also featured in his home town paper for his actions. Congrats Jamal!http://starbanner.com/article/20101006/SPORTS/101009825/1005/SPORTS?Title=Lake-Weir-grad-enjoys-huge-game-for-Concordia

Saturday's Game vs Benedictine

2010-09-29T09:36:00.002-05:00

Fans planning on attending Saturday's Conference Opener against Benedictine University, you can find information about the game (parking, tailgating, etc.) on Benedictine's GameDay Central site http://athletics.ben.edu/sports/2010/9/23/FB_0923104642.aspx?path=football.

Fans not able to attend can watch the game live online at http://www.vidtechsportsvision.com/.

Go COUGARS!

Congratulations Marty Beckman!

2010-09-22T11:55:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to sophomore DL Marty Beckman was named Concordia Chicago Male Athlete of the Week! Marty had 7 solo tackles and 3 assists in the Cougars victory over St Scholastica. Marty also tied a school record with 4 sacks in the game.

Congratulatios Mike Egebrecht!

2010-09-22T09:04:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to senior WR Mike Egebrecht! Mike was named Offensive Player of the Week for his 14 catches, 162 yards receiving and 2 touchdowns in the Cougars victory over visiting St Scholastica.

Back to Winning!

2010-09-21T15:39:00.002-05:00

The Cougars got back to winning on Saturday with a 49-7 victory over the visiting Saints of St Scholastica. The game started off well with a 63 yard kickoff return by sophomore WR Johnny Johnson (Miami Gardens, FL). A couple plays later the Cougars found the endzone with a pass from Mike Marotta (Brookfield, IL) to Mike Egebrecht (Wheeling, IL).

Marotta finished with 5 touchdown passes on the day. Defensively sophomore Defensive End Marty Beckman (Parma, OH) had a standout day with 4 sacks. Beckman led the defense that held St Scholastica to a 0.4 yards per carry rushing average on 36 carries.

For more information on the game, please visit www.cucougars.com.

Back in Action!

2010-09-18T08:02:00.002-05:00

The Cougars will be back in action today as they face the Saints of St. Scholastica. The Cougars will attempt to get back on the winning track at 1:00. The game is an official GOLD RUSH game. All fans in attendance are invited to wear a GOLD shirt in support of the team. Official GOLD RUSH shirts will be sold at the game by the CUC Women's Basketball team. The game is scheduled to have a live video webcast. Please check the Concordia University website for the link (www.cuchicago.edu). GO COUGARS!

D3football.com Team of the Week

2009-11-14T07:35:00.002-06:00

Kyhree Copeland (Jr, Jacksonville, FL/Potter's House) keeps accumulating accolades. For his efforts against Aurora University, Kyhree was named to the D3football.com Team of the Week. for Week 10. Please read the write up about Khyree at http://www.d3football.com/tow/. Congratulations!

Congratulations for two Cougars!

2009-11-10T10:15:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to senior Francisco Vargas (Burbank, IL/Reavis) for being named to the ESPN the Magazine 2nd Team All-Academic Team for Region V (Midwest). Student-athletes are nominated for the Academic All-American honors based on a minimum 3.30 cumulative grade-point average and athletic accomplishments. No freshmen or first-year transfers are eligible. The awards are sponsored by ESPN The Magazine and are voted on by members of CoSIDA (College Sports Information Directors of America).

Another congrats is in order for junior running back Khyree Copeland. For the second week in a row, Khyree was named Northern Athletics Conference Offensive Player of the Week. Khyree set school records for single-game, season and career rushing yards in Saturday's win over Aurora University. His first carry of the second half put him at 2,192 for his career (27 games). Khyree scored touchdowns of 66, 1 and 80 yards, the latter putting him over the top for a single game with 221 (previous record 205) and season with 882 (previous 834). His effort led the Cougars to a school-record eighth win.

Congratulations!

2009-11-03T14:51:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to junior Khyree Copeland (Potter's House Academy, Jacksonville, FL). Khyree was named Northern Athletics Conference Offensive Player of the week for his accomplishments against Concordia University Wisconsin. Khyree recorded his 11th career 100 yard rushing game of his career in the Cougars 22-21 double-overtime win. Khyree scored on a 5o yard run giving the Cougars a 14-7 lead in the third quarter. The junior went over the 2,000-yard rushing mark with an 11-yard run midway through the third quarter and is now 121 yards away from setting CUC's all-time rushing record that has stood since 1964.

Congratulations!

2009-10-28T10:11:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to freshman Johnny Johnson (Miami, Norland). Johnny was named Special Teams Player of the Week for his accomplishments against Maranatha Baptist Bible College. In his first ever return he took a punt 51 yards for a touchdown. He also had kickoff returns of 25 and 20 in the Cougars 64-14 victory.

Announcements for the Maranantha Game!!!

2009-10-22T12:47:00.001-05:00

GO COUGARS!!! I can hear you all cheering now! We’re at home to tailgate in the D.J. Parking Lot this weekend for our game against Maranatha Bible Baptist College. I still have a ton of chips so please don’t add any to the mix. The boys have been requesting brats so I’m thinking we’ll do that and probably pulled pork sandwiches. If you can bring something in the way of a side dish or dessert to share that would be fabulous. Any leftover food goes home with the players so please know that it doesn’t go to waste.

HOMECOMING FAMILY SPIRIT PACKS AND STUDENT SPIRIT PACKS… Order yours now!
The Family Spirit Pack includes a beautiful corsage, 4 strands of beads (2 maroon and 2 gold) and a football clapper. The cost is only $5.00 each. The student pack has the beads and the clapper for $2.00 each. If you can let Joan Weeks know how many you want that would be very helpful. Her email is: packerbruce@comcast.net
You can also order from her this week at tailgate.

One of the freshman freedom and responsibility classes is collecting hygiene products for homeless folks. They are in need of the following new items:
· Hand towels
· Wash clothes
· Fingernail clippers (not toenail clippers)
· Bath-size bars of soap (3 oz. +)
· Band-aids ®
· Toothbrushes (individually packaged, not child-sized)
· Tubes of toothpaste (4.5 oz. +)
· Combs (large and sturdy)
· One gallon Ziploc ® bags
They will be collecting them at the game this weekend so if you would like to help out they would appreciate it!

I am looking forward to seeing all of you this weekend! Be safe and God bless.
Ginny Illich

Congratulations!

2009-10-19T16:44:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to QB Mike Marotta. Mike was named Northern Athletics Conference Offensive Player of the Week. In Saturday's game Mike was 29 for 41 for 411 yards and 5 touchdowns in Concordia's 41-32 victory over Lakeland College.

D3football.com

2009-10-14T10:17:00.002-05:00

The Cougars have been featured an a weekly article called "Around the Midwest". You can find this article by clicking on the following link. http://www.d3football.com/columns/around-the-region/midwest/2009/NATHC%27s+other+Concordia+challenging+the+norm

Homecoming Spirit Pack Info

2009-10-13T13:50:00.000-05:00

Homecoming is right around the corner and we want to remind you that Family Spirit Packs are available for only $5.00 each. They include a corsage, 4 strands of beads (2 maroon and 2 gold)) and a football clapper. There is also a Student Spirit Pack available that includes the beads and the clapper for only $2.00 each. These can be pre-ordered (and we would appreciate that so we know how many to make) by emailing Joan Weeks at: packerbruce@comcast.net. If you have any questions you can contact either Joan or myself. Have a fabulous day! GO COUGARS!!!

Info for those making the trip to Lakeland College

2009-10-12T16:54:00.001-05:00

Greetings from the Party Planner!

I’m looking forward to seeing you this weekend at Lakeland College. This week the football field is right on the campus of Lakeland College so it should be easy to find. We will be gathering for our celebration dinner after the game at the Wilderness Bar & Grill in Plymouth, WI. Join me for great atmosphere and wonderful food. As always, if you could let me know who to expect, that would be helpful. My cell (in case there is anyone who doesn’t have it) is 815-236-1702.

Wilderness Bar & Grill
N5575 State Road 57Plymouth, WI 53073-4236(920) 893-0160

Total Distance to restaurant from the College is 9. 8 miles. ETA 13.2 minutes.
Directions to Wilderness Bar & Grill from the College are:
W3718 South Dr. Plymouth, WI 53073 Depart South Dr
1
Turn right onto CR-M (0.5 mi)
2
Turn right to stay on CR-A / CR-M (1.0 mi)
3
Keep straight onto CR-A (2.0 mi)
4
Turn left onto SR-57 (6.2 mi)

Arrive at N5575 State Road 57, Plymouth, WI 53073

Afterward you can take Rt. 23 east to Rt. 43 to go home.

GO COUGARS!!!

Announcements about this Saturday's Game vs. Rockford

2009-10-08T08:37:00.000-05:00

TAILGATE WEEKEND! Get warmed up… we’re serving chili-cheese-dogs and burgers. Please if you can contribute a side dish or dessert that would be wonderful. I have more chips than we’ll need so that would be the only thing not to bring.

Joan Weeks will be taking orders for Homecoming Family Spirit Packs. They include a corsage, 4 strands of beads (2 maroon and 2 gold) and a football clapper so we can make a ton of noise as we cheer our Cougars on to victory. The packs are only $5.00. We will also have Student Spirit Packs (or supplement packs if you prefer) available for $2.00 that have the 4 strands of beads and the football clapper. Get your orders in early!

Have a great day and I’ll look forward to seeing you all this weekend!

Info for those traveling to this weekend's game in Wisconsin

2009-10-01T15:08:00.003-05:00

Greetings! This week as we travel to Wauwatosa to take on the Warriors of Wisconsin Lutheran we will be offering a little German cuisine for dinner. Thank you to Cathy Sandow for finding Kegels Inn in Milwaukee. You can go check out their website at: http://www.kegelsinn.com/ It is a beautiful German restaurant. You can also see the menu right there online too. Let me know if you have questions.
They are really busy this Saturday so we need to get there pretty quickly after the game and they have another group right behind us so please plan accordingly. It is only 5 miles from the field at 5901 W. National Ave. in Milwaukee. Directions via maps on us are:

Route Summary
Total Distance: 5.0 miles
Estimated Time: 8.5 minutes

Show numbered turn points on map route
10200 W. Watertown Plank Rd. Wauwatosa, WI (Address of field)
Depart W Watertown Plank Rd
1Make a U-turn at W Innovation Dr (0.2 mi)
2Take ramp right and follow signs for US-45 / Zoo Fwy South (1.1 mi)
3Take ramp left for I-94 East toward Milwaukee (2.4 mi)
4At exit 307B, take ramp right and follow signs for Hawley Rd (0.2 mi)
5Turn right onto S Hawley Rd (0.4 mi)
6Road name changes to S 60th St (0.5 mi)
7Turn left onto SR-59 / W National Ave
Arrive at 5901 W. National Ave. Milwaukee, WI

Please email or call me if you intend to join us. I've made a reservation for 4:30 for aprox 20 but would like to be able to update it with the restaurant if necessary. Hope to see a bunch of you there!

Ginny’s Cell number is: 815-236-1702. Email: ginny.illich@gmail.com or virginia.illich@cuchicago.edu.

GO COUGARS!!!

Saturday's Game vs Wisconsin Lutheran College

2009-09-30T10:00:00.002-05:00

Saturday's game against the Warriors of Wisconsin Lutheran will have Live Audio provided by Wisconsin Lutheran. Fans can listen and cheer on your Cougars live over the internet at http://wlcsports.com/webcast.asp.

Congratulations!

2009-09-17T15:01:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Defensive Back Jarin Davis (Potter's House/Jacksonville, FL) who was named Conference Defensive Player of the week for his play against Eureka College. In the 34-21 victory, Jarin recorded 8 tackles, 3 pass break-ups and an interception. Congratulations Jarin.

Announcement about JV game on Sept. 21st!

2009-09-15T14:01:00.001-05:00

Hello Cougar Parents and Players,

I wanted to send out a separate e-mail to let you know that our second JV game will be this coming Monday at 3:00 pm at Elmhurst College. If you have any questions please let me know.

Thank you,

Coach Pries

Cougar Football - Week 2 Recap and Week 3 Announcements

2009-09-15T13:12:00.002-05:00

Hello Cougar Fans,

Hope you had a great weekend and enjoyed the Cougars 2nd win of the season! Thank you to all of you who came out for our first ever Gold Rush Game. We had an excellent crowd as well as a great number of people who stayed after to tailgate after our victory over the Red Devils. We also want to especially thank all of you who helped feed the team after the game. I'm pretty sure no one went away hungry after the game. It was also great to see so many families at the game who had to travel quite a ways to get here - I know your sons appreciate your unwavering support!

In regards to the game, it wasn't the prettiest victory but it was very encouraging to see our offense, defense, and special teams all step up and make plays when they had to. As a coaching staff we were especially excited about the two fumbles we recovered on kickoffs, our 4th down stops of Eureka's offense, and our clutch pass receptions at crucial times during the game. Both players and coaches know we have work to do as we continue to move forward but we are definitely very encouraged with starting the season 2-0. We are looking forward to our final non-conference game vs. Olivet.

Here are some announcements about the game this Saturday:

* Directions to Olivet can be found on their website at www.olivetcollege.edu
* We have not heard yet if there is space available for our fans to tailgate. We will let you know as soon as we find out.
* From what we can tell , Olivet will not be live streaming the game. We did see that they will have live stats throughout the game on their website.
* If you are driving to the game please plan on possibly hitting some additional traffic when you go from Illinois to Michigan due to the Notre Dame game.
* Lastly, please be aware that we will be playing at 1 pm eastern time so we will be losing an hour as we head into Michigan.

If you have any questions please let me know. Thanks again for your great support!

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Live Video of the Game

2009-09-11T12:27:00.002-05:00

The Cougars game versus Eureka College will be broadcast live via webstream. You can see the action live by clicking on the following link. http://www.cuchicago.edu/multimedia/live.asp

Cougar Football Announcements

2009-09-10T13:37:00.002-05:00

Hello Cougar Parents and Families,

Hope everything is well with you and your families. I’m sure you’ve heard by now about our win last week vs. St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN. It was quite the road trip but definitely worth it since we came home with a victory. If you haven’t read the details about the game they can be found on Concordia’s website or on our Cougar Football Blog, which I’ll mention later. I’m sure it will be mentioned in the game summaries, but our offense set a new school record for yardage in the game, which is a great accomplishment for Coach Janousky and his unit. On top of the win, our players handled the trip exceptionally well and we received numerous positive comments from restaurant and hotel workers about their behavior and attitude. Just thought I would pass that on.

The main reason I’m writing is to remind you of a number of things as we head into this weekend:

· Our game on Saturday vs. Eureka at 1 pm is designated as a “Gold Rush” game, so if you have any gold articles of clothing please support the Cougars by wearing it for the game.
· If you are arriving early for the game and would like to eat lunch on campus, it is being offered outside near David-Johnathan Hall. It is all you can eat and the cost is $8.39 a person.
· Our team chaplain Bill Stevenson will be a leading a prayer prior to the game at 12:30 pm. He will be meeting anyone who is interested under the Alumni Tent at the South end of the bleachers.
· Many of our parents will be tailgating in the David-Johnathan parking lot, which can be entered off of Augusta Street, just east of Monroe. If you are planning on tailgating, feel free to bring a side dish for after the game to help feed the players. You can bring the dish to the players’ tables following the game so we can get most of the extra food in one location for them.
· Watch for Cougar Spirit Packs to be coming soon in preparation of Homecoming on Oct. 31.

*** Please note that the JV game on Sunday at home has been moved to a 3:00 pm start, not 4:00 pm.

*** Please check out our blog at http://concordiacougarfootball.blogspot.com. This contains weekly updates, announcements, and links to some very useful information.

Please call me or e-mail me with any questions you may have. Hope to see you this weekend!

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Office-708-209-3001
E-mail-lonnie.pries@cuchicago.edu

JV Game Time Change

2009-09-10T08:43:00.002-05:00

The JV game against conference rival Aurora University on Sunday September 13, 2009 originally scheduled for 4:00 PM has been changed to 3:00 PM.

Gold Rush Game

2009-09-09T10:15:00.002-05:00

This Saturday's game against the Eureka College Red Devils will be a "GOLD RUSH GAME"! The Cougars are asking ALL fans to wear a yellow shirt of some kind. Official Gold Rush shirts will be sold prior to the game for $5.00. They can also be purchased during lunch in the KCC on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Congratulations!

2009-09-09T10:12:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Quarterback Mike Marotta. Mike completed 21 passes for 451 yards, both career bests, earning him Offensive Player of the Week honors for the conference (Northern Athletics Conference). He led the Cougars to a new school-record 631 yards of total offense, breaking record of 607 that had stood since 1985. His 43-yard touchdown came on the first play from scrimmage for the Cougars.

St. Scholastica Game Review

2009-09-08T06:43:00.001-05:00

Please read the game notes from last Saturday's game against the College of St. Scholastica at http://www.cuchicago.edu/athletics/sportnews_pop.asp?id=1363.

Congratulations!

2009-09-07T12:44:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to the offense for a tremendous game on Saturday. They posted a new high record for Concordia in total yards with 631 yards from scrimmage. The previous high was 607 yards set back in 1985.

Cougar Football Preview by Jim Egan

2009-09-03T09:41:00.002-05:00

When it comes to numbers increasing, the football team is very blessed this year. The current roster is at 95 - yes, just five short of the century mark! As some of you long-time observers can probably guess, this is a new record for the Cougar program. Head coach Lonnie Pries, along with Erich Janousky and Dan Rohde (offensive and defensive coordinator respectively), have put a lot of time and effort into the recruiting effort in the last few years, and the results are certainly impressive!

The Cougars are also happy to return several key players from last year's team. Coach Pries reports that, "A lot of the guys had good sessions during spring ball, and they came into camp in mid-August in good shape and with a lot of confidence. Between that and the new talent that is here, we feel very good about the season that is before us."

On offense, the Cougars return the trio of quarterback Mike Marotta, running back Khyree Copeland and wide receiver Mike Egebrecht. These three helped the Cougars to rank among the Northern Athletics Conference leaders last year in passing offense (208.8 per game, first), total offense (329.5, second) and points per game (21.0, third). The offensive numbers were the team's best since the 1987 season, a year in which the Cougars went 7-2 and tied for the program's all-time best season record. Marotta threw for 1,586 yards and 12 touchdowns last year. Egebrecht, Marotta's favorite target, had 49 catches for 687 yards and five touchdowns, and few Cougar fans will soon forget the two of them hooking up for a touchdown pass in the final 20 seconds of last year's Homecoming game to produce a thrilling win over Lakeland College. Copeland ran for 756 yards last year, and his 11 rushing touchdowns broke a season record that had stood for 20 years. Incidentally, Copeland has 1,410 yards rushing over his first two seasons and is almost two-thirds of the way to CUC's career mark of 2,191 yards that has been in place since 1964.

There is quality depth at all three of these skill positions. Senior Jared Mundt, sophomore Eddie Anderson, and freshmen Jake Koehler (Belvidere, IL - Rockford Lutheran H.S.) and Marquezie Edmonds (Waukegan, IL - H.S.) are behind Marotta at quarterback. Justin Peacock returns at running back after not playing in 2008, and he and freshman Jordan Morren (Rockford, MI - H.S.) will provide good options behind Copeland. Returning receivers include Nate Bahr, Lukas Weeks, Clinton Boyd, Savonte Hunt and Mike Mentz. Newcomers to this position include Terrance Miller, over from the defensive side, and freshmen Jonathan Johnson (Miami Gardens, FL - Norland H.S.), Ross Maroe (Rockford, MI - H.S.) and Dwayne Pillow (Chicago, IL - Lane Tech H.S.).

Something new to the Cougars' offense this year will be the use of the tight end. Former defensive lineman Ian Jackson looks to be a key player at this position, but Michael Brown (Orlando, FL - Lyman H.S.), Chris Brune (Fort Wayne, IN - Concordia Lutheran H.S.), Antonio Daily (Chicago, IL - Curie H.S.) and Jacob Schumacher (Bristol, CT - Eastern H.S.) will all compete for playing time.Three starters return to the offensive line

Three starters return to the offensive line, looking to open up the holes for the backs and provide solid pass protection. Back are senior Francisco Vargas, junior Mason Thompson and sophomore Scott Abrams. Chip Wylie shifts from defense to offense to claim one of the guard spots, and Anthony Pennella looks to take on the key role in the middle as he replaces four-year starter Phil Klopke at center.

The defense comes back as a much healthier unit in 2009, and the Cougars hope that this will provide the stability for a more successful season. Like the offense, the defense will return a fair number of starters as they look to strengthen their play against the run and increase the number of takeaways.

Matt Boswell returns as a third-year starter on the defensive line, and he is joined by David Dwyer, an offensive lineman in 2007 who is back after missing last year. A big group of sophomores will compete for the remaining spots on the line; they include Marty Beckman, Michael Dingman, Kasey Ray, Justin Richardson and Michael Yurk. Freshman Rich Meglio (Carol Stream, IL - Glenbard North H.S.) and Darius Shade (Chicago, IL - Hyde Park H.S.) will also look to become part of the mix.

Also returning after missing last year due to injury is inside linebacker D.J. Cooper. He and Jason Talos (47.5 tackles in 2008) will anchor the interior of the Cougars' defense with help from returning players Brock Harding, Austin Wollert and Tim Zbytniewski. On the outside, Cory Howard shifts over from the defensive line. He is joined by Dominique Claridy and Nick Britton (moving over from wide receiver in the 2007 season). Newcomers Larry Barajaz (Chicago, IL - Walther Lutheran H.S.) and transfers Chris Decker (Ocala, FL - Gainesville Santa Fe C.C.), Mike Kearney (Brookfield, IL - Quincy University) and Curtis Underwood (Delray Beach, FL - Florida Atlantic University) are in the competition for what Coach Pries calls "one of the toughest positions to gauge. This position has produced probably the toughest competition for starting jobs."

Senior Jarin Davis (four interceptions, nine pass break-ups) is back as the leader of the secondary, although he moves from corner to free safety this year. Malcolm Godwin, another returner from the 2007 team, will hold down the strong safety position, and the cornerback spots will be claimed by David Sodetz (four interceptions) and either Dennsa Mohamed or freshman Sam Key (Chicago, IL - Luther South H.S.). Freshman Matt Rolf (Rochester, MI - Lutheran Northwest H.S.) will also add depth to the secondary.

Freshman Andrew Shine (Carol Stream, IL - Glenbard North H.S.) will be the team's place-kicker this season. Shine's ability to handle the pressure was a huge factor in his emerging from a group of candidates, according to Pries. Senior Lukas Weeks, who "had a great pre-season" will handle the punting duties.

The Cougars open up the season this Saturday with a long trip north to Duluth, Minnesota where they will face first-time opponent St. Scholastica. The following Saturday, Sept. 12 will be the home opener against Eureka College. This will be "Gold Rush Day" at Concordia, and we will give you some details in tomorrow's update. This is going to be an exciting season here at Concordia, and we hope that you're all along for the ride!

Directions to Away Contests

2009-08-28T08:51:00.002-05:00

Need directions to an away game to watch the Cougars? Simply click the link below and you will find a complete list of all teams the Cougars will visit this season.
http://www.cuchicago.edu/athletics/directions.asp

Watch the St. Scholastica game live!

2009-08-26T12:04:00.002-05:00

Parents, friends and fans, you will be able to watch the first football game of the season against the College of St. Scholastica live on the web. Please visit St. Scholastica's website at http://www.csssaints.com/sports/2008/9/30/multimedia.aspx?tab=livebroadcasts to tune in. Go COUGARS!

Concordia Parent's Discount

2009-08-17T18:38:00.004-05:00

The Red Roof Inn in Spirit Mountain, MN is offering a discount to parents who wish to travel to watch the Cougars open their season against the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN. A single queen bed is $109.99 and two queen beds is $118.99. To make a reservation please call 1-800-777-8530. Reservations must be made by August 21, 2009. Parents just need to mention about the discount to receive rate if room type is still available. There is a 14 day cancellation policy.

Cougar Football Pride Night

2009-08-10T11:26:00.003-05:00

First Annual Cougar Football Pride Night: Dinner and Fundraiser
Come and join your fellow cougar football alumni and friends in a night of socializing and fun. Meet Coach Lonnie Pries and the coaches as the discuss the 2009 cougar football season. All proceeds go towards the Cougar Football Program.
Date: September 12, 2009
Location: Chammps Americana
2301 Fountain Lane
Lombard, IL 60148
Time: 7:00-9:30 (after the home football game vs. Eureka College @ 1:00 PM)
Cost: $65 (Includes dinner and raffle tickets)
Cash bar
RSVP: Coach Lonnie Pries at 708-209-3001 or Lonnie.Pries@cuchicago.edu

Spring Football Game

2009-04-01T14:22:00.002-05:00

The 2009 Spring Football game that was originally scheduled for Sunday April 5th from 2:00 to 4:00 PM has been moved up to Saturday April 4th from 2:00 to 4:00 PM due to the chance of rain on Sunday. All fans are invited to come and watch. The coaches ask that you park in the David Jonathan Parking Lot. Tailgating is welcome and encouraged!

Go Cougars!

Banquet

2009-01-09T10:12:00.003-06:00

Hello Cougars!

We hope you all had a very blessed Christmas and that you will have a great 2009! We are looking forward to the spring semester with Spring Ball as well as the upcoming 2009 football season!

Our banquet date has been set for Sunday, February 8. It will be held in the KCC, starting at 5:30 pm. We hope you can attend! This will be a wonderful evening of honoring our players, especially our seniors. If you have specific questions, please feel free to email me at any time.

Also, we wanted to thank each of you for your part in our 2008 season. The encouraging cheering for the players, the amazing amount of food dished out to the players and others at tailgating, being members of the Gridiron Club, helping behind the scenes, helping with Homecoming, capturing memorable pictures, ETC, is ALL appreciated! THANK YOU! It's a pleasure to work with you to encourage our Cougars!

Hope to see you at the banquet!

~ Jennie

Congratulations

2008-11-22T10:30:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to six Cougar players who were honored last Monday by the coaches of the Northern Athletic Football Conference. These six Cougars were named to the first ever All-Conference team. RB Kyhree Copeland (Jacksonville, FL) and WR Jamal Thomas (Weirsdale, FL) were both honored as First Team selections. DB Jarin Davis (Jacksonville, FL), WR Mike Egebrecht (Wheeling, IL), LB Steve Malok (Niles, IL) and OL Mason Thompson (Ocala, FL) all received Honorable Mention recognition. Congratulations to these six men!

2008-11-13T09:26:00.000-06:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #36
11-13-08

Last Game of the 2008 Season
Come cheer on the Cougars at Benedictine University, in Lisle, IL, this Saturday, at 1:00! The weather forecast predicts that it will be a high of 37 degrees with possible snow flurries, so dress accordingly! In the past, some Cougar fans have tailgated there, so if you’re interested, feel free! I have heard that some will be there bright and early in the morning, so just look for fellow Cougar fans if you’d like to mark the last game in this way. Go Cougars!

Directions to the game from Concordia:
(20 miles) – Harlem Ave. south to I-290 west. I-290 to split, bear left for I-88 tollway west (towards Aurora). I-88 west about nine miles from tollbooth to I-53 south. I-53 south 1 ½ - 2 miles to Maple Ave., turn right. Maple west for 1 ½ miles to College Ave., campus will be on SW corner. Entrances to parking lots are along both Maple and College.

Bible Verse of the Week…
“He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.” Job 9:10

Go Cougars!

New Link for Radio Broadcast

2008-11-08T11:50:00.002-06:00

11-8-08 Football Game Radio Broadcast

There has been a problem with the usual link on the main athletics page. The link for today's radio broadcast is:

www.cuchicago.edu/wcgr

Sorry for the inconvenience. Go Cougars!

2008-11-04T23:51:00.001-06:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #35
11-4-08

Coach Pries’ Corner
Cougar Fans,
After getting back on track the two weeks prior, we headed up to Wisconsin and took a step backward in our progress this season. I wish I could point to a certain area that made some improvements from the week prior, but I don’t really feel that there is one. For the most part we were satisfied with our effort, but we were not satisfied with the number of physical, as well as mental, mistakes we made. Both the coaching staff and players know that we need to recommit ourselves for these last two weeks so that we can finish strong and look to improve on last year’s win total.
We are looking forward to our last home game this week vs. Aurora. Hopefully you can be there as we battle the first place team in our conference and also recognize our seniors as they play their final home game of their careers. See you on Saturday!

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Last Home Game/Senior Day
Come and cheer on the Cougars at the last home game. Please note that the starting time is at 12:00 rather than the usual 1:00 time. We will be recognizing our senior players and their parents, as these players play their last home game as a Concordia Cougar. Dress warmly – weather .com says that it will be a high of only 46 degrees with a 50% chance of rain/snow showers. Go Cougars!!

Feed the Team
For our last home game, please feel welcome to bring whatever you think our players would like to eat (just about anything) :) and/or whatever you would like to prepare. Our players are always appreciative of the food after the game, and I’m sure they’ll enjoy the variety. We will have two grills available. Thanks, in advance!

Player Spotlight
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Jamal Thomas
Nickname:
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business
Career Ambition: Own my own company
Favorite pre-game food: Anything
Most people don’t know that you: I can’t swim
Why did you choose Concordia? I really don’t know
Favorite musical performer:
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Barry Sanders
Three words that would best descry
ibe you: Smart, passionate, fast
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Making money
Favorite book: Tear of the Tigers
Best childhood memory: All of them
Biggest role model and why: Mother because she is so strong.
Favorite food: Everything but seafood
Place you would most like to travel: Everywhere
Favorite movie: 5 heartbeat
Favorite animal:

Name: Ben Price
Nickname: Kicker
Year in School: Senior
Major: Accounting
Career Ambition: CPA
Favorite pre-game meal:
Most people don’t know that you: Play the violin
Why did you choose Concordia?: Redirection
Favorite musical performer: The Format
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My grandfather, I want to be like him
Favorite NFL player: Mason Crosby
Three words that would best describe you: Energetic, outgoing, and goofy
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Have a family, be a CPA
Favorite book: The Bible
Best childhood memory: Getting a dog
Biggest role model and why: Grandfather, he is an awesome man who loves and is loved by everyone
Favorite food: Mexican
Place you would most like to travel: Australia
Favorite movie: all comedy
Favorite animal: Dogs

Name:John Lally
Nickname: Lally
Year in School: Senior
Major: Secondary Education - History
Career Ambition: Football coach/teacher
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: are an Eagle Scout
Why did you choose Concordia? It picked me
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Tony Dungy, he’s a great man
Favorite NFL player: Tommie Harris
Three words that would best describe you: Talkative and humble
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Coaching
Favorite book: Quiet Strength
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Parents, they raised me. Enough said
Favorite food: Pasta
Place you would most like to travel: Ireland
Favorite movie: Inside man
Favorite animal: Dogs

Name:Steve Malok
Nickname:
Year in School: Senior
Major: Exercise Strength
Career Ambition: Personal trainer and football coach
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta and Chicken
Most people don’t know that you: Do Sudoku
Why did you choose Concordia? Good teaching school and could play football with Klopke
Favorite musical performer: Lil’ Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Ray Lewis
Three words that would best describe you: Determined, quiet, helpful
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
College defensive coordinator and personal trainer
Favorite book: Quiet Strength by Tony Dungy
Best childhood memory: Playing with my little sister
Biggest role model and why: My mom, she taught me everything
Favorite food: Pizza
Place you would most like to travel:
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Shark

Bible Verse of the Week…
“Happy is the person whose sins are forgiven, whose wrongs are pardoned.” Psalm 32:1

Go Cougars!

2008-10-27T16:30:00.001-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #34
10-27-08

Coach Pries’ Corner
Hello Cougar Fans,
Thanks to all of you who were able to come to the game this past weekend and brave the chilly conditions. We didn’t have quite the dramatic finish like we did at homecoming, but it was still a very close ball game throughout the contest. Our defense came out very strong in the first half and our offense moved the ball very effectively, but Maranantha stayed close and then made a run at us in the second half. We were finally able to secure the victory when we intercepted a Maranantha pass to stop their final drive of the ball game. It had been a while since we had won on the road, so we appreciate the victory and the fact that it moved us to the middle of the pack in our conference. With our current conference record of 2-2, we find ourselves one game back of Concordia Mequon who we take on this upcoming Saturday. As it is their homecoming, we expect a very nice crowd to be in attendance. I’m sure we will have a good number of Cougar Faithfuls there as well. Hope to see you there.

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Directions to Concordia Mequon
Come and cheer on the Cougars at Concordia Mequon this Saturday! Directions are from CUC:

Nov. 1 – Concordia University, Mequon, WI (110 miles) – Harlem Ave. north to North Ave., turn left. North Ave. west to First Ave., turn right. Bear left immediately to pick up River Rd. (about ½ mile down). River Rd. to Irving Park Rd., turn left. Irving Park Rd. west about two miles to I-294 north. Follow I-294/I-94 north about 90 miles (2 tolls) into downtown Milwaukee. Take I-43 cutoff north towards Sheboygan/ Green Bay. Go about 15 miles more to exit 85 (Mequon Rd.). Turn left, go west under highway to first light (Port Washington Rd.), turn right. Go north two miles on Port Washington (you will parallel I-43) to Highland Rd. (four-way stop sign), turn right. Go over highway, look for first left turn (frontage road). Look for driveway on right into main parking lot for gym. Football field is just north of gym.
Go Cougars!!

Game Photos
Thanks to Ginny (Mama) Illich for more awesome pictures! All pictures are now on her webpage, found right here on our blog, to the right. Thanks, Ginny!

Player Spotlight
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Merrell Davis
Nickname: Scooter
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business
Career Ambition: To own an architecture firm
Favorite pre-game food: Whatever I have with me
Most people don’t know that you: I’m strong but it doesn’t look like it
Why did you choose Concordia? Because I felt welcome
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne or Usher
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Barak, because he is the future president
Favorite NFL player: LT
Three words that would best describe you: Merrell G. Davis
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Telling people what they need to have done by next week
Favorite book: Manchild in the Promiseland
Best childhood memory: Racing my little brother in the street barefooted
Biggest role model and why: Mom, because she helped me to get where I am
Favorite food: Tacos
Place you would most like to travel: Venezuela
Favorite movie: Paid in Full
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Ian Jackson
Nickname: Jarrell
Year in School: Junior
Major: Natural Sciences (pre-dental)
Career Ambition: Become a prominent dental expert and own my own clinics
Favorite pre-game food: Salt & Vinegar Chips and Kool-aid
Most people don’t know that you: Went 8-1 as a QB freshman year of high school
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Cassidy
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Martin Luther King Jr. because of his great mind and expression abilities
Favorite NFL player: Michael Strahan
Three words that would best describe you: Intelligent, dedicated, persistant
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Making at least $200,000 a year
Favorite book: Goosebumps Series – R.L. Stine
Best childhood memory: Little League Baseball
Biggest role model and why:
Favorite food: Ribs
Place you would most like to travel: Puerto Rico
Favorite movie: Love & Basketball
Favorite animal: Rotwiller

Name:Kevin Chesney
Nickname: Kenny
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Physical Education
Career Ambition: PE Teacher
Favorite pre-game food: Lucky Charms
Most people don’t know that you: I enjoy Celine Dion
Why did you choose Concordia? Number of graduation teachers
Favorite musical performer: Pink Floyd
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Kyle Maynard, he’s the man
Favorite NFL player: Fred Taylor
Three words that would best describe you: Outgoing, honest, hard-working
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Teaching PE
Favorite book: The Odyssey
Best childhood memory: First football meeting
Biggest role model and why:Walter Payton
Favorite food: Gyros
Place you would most like to travel: Egypt
Favorite movie: Snatch
Favorite animal: Turtle

Name:Alex Bahizi
Nickname: Bahizi
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business
Career Ambition: Sports agent
Favorite pre-game food: Chicken
Most people don’t know that you: Love cars
Why did you choose Concordia? Education
Favorite musical performer: Lil’ Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Bryan Dawkins
Three words that would best describe you: Cool, funny, strong
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working and racing my Evo
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory: Going to Six Flags
Biggest role model and why: Tiki Barber
Favorite food: Steak
Place you would most like to travel: Cali
Favorite movie: Fast and the Furious / Never Back Down
Favorite animal: Dogs

Name: Phillip Thomas
Nickname: Pac-Man
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Art
Career Ambition:
Favorite pre-game food: Honey bun and bottled water
Most people don’t know that you: are going to be in the league
Why did you choose Concordia? To find a different path in life
Favorite musical performer: All R&B
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: I am my favorite NFL player
Three words that would best describe you: Athletic, funny, outgoing
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Playin in the league
Favorite book: Curious George
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Myself
Favorite food: Candy yams, chicken, greens
Place you would most like to travel: Everywhere
Favorite movie: Biker Boyz
Favorite animal: Lion, the most fierce

Name: Larry Mayne
Nickname: Lil Larry
Year in School: Junior
Major: Law and Justice
Career Ambition: FBI Agent
Favorite pre-game food: Milk chocolate, expresso
Most people don’t know that you: are scared of heights
Why did you choose Concordia? Football, close to home
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Alicia Keys
Favorite NFL player: Brian Dawkins
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, sociable, determined
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working for the government
Favorite book: Cicue du Freak
Best childhood memory: climbing in the sewer for Ninja Turtles
Biggest role model and why: My brother, I learned from his mistakes
Favorite food: KFC mashed potatoes
Place you would most like to travel: Stonehenge
Favorite movie: Training Day
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Justin Richardson
Nickname: J-Rich
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Exercise and natural science
Career Ambition: To make my mom proud
Favorite pre-game food: I don’t have one
Most people don’t know that you: Have a twin
Favorite musical performer: None
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Jesus because I want to
Favorite NFL player: Don’t have one
Three words that would best describe you: Kind, funny
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working to help sick and injured people
Favorite book: Don’ have one
Best childhood memory: Sunday dinner with my family
Biggest role model and why: My mother
Favorite food: Nachos
Place you would most like to travel: All of Asia
Favorite movie: Friday
Favorite animal: Cougar

Name: Mason Thompson
Nickname:
Year in School:Sophomore
Major: Phys. Ed
Career Ambition: To become a successful teacher/coach
Favorite pre-game food: Sandwiches
Most people don’t know that you: Miss home a lot
Why did you choose Concordia? Great atmosphere on and off the field
Favorite musical performer:
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Big Cat, because he’s an outgoing awesome guy
Favorite NFL player: Chris Hovan
Three words that would best describe you: Big, Strong, Sweet
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Coaching football
Favorite book: Freak the Mighty
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: My mother, she’s been through so much and is still very strong
Place you would most like to travel: Grand Canyon
Favorite movie: 300
Favorite animal: Dog

Bible Verse of the Week…
“The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve…”
Matthew 20:28

Go Cougars!

2008-10-23T16:59:00.002-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #33
10-23-08

Coach Pries’ Corner
Cougar Fans,
A very special thank you to everyone who was at the homecoming game this past weekend. I heard from a number of people how impressed they were with the fan involvement and cheering that went on in a very entertaining and exciting game. I am so very proud of our players and our staff for staying focused and battling back to defeat Lakeland in the final seconds after losing the lead late in the 4th quarter. The victory was especially rewarding after losing a couple of tough contests in our first two conference games. The growth that has taken place in our players was obvious as they battled through adversity in the 2nd half and came back to win with a 14 play drive that resulted in the go ahead score. It is the first time since 1994 that our program has defeated Lakeland, a team that has regularly battled for the conference championship in recent years. It made for a very memorable homecoming game!
This weekend we will look to build on this past weekend’s victory and continue to improve as we head to Maranantha Baptist in Watertown, WI. We would love to see you there as we look to capture our first road win of the year.

In His Service,

Coach Pries

JV Game
Those of you who were able to attend the JV game this past Monday saw a tremendous football game. The team went up against the JV squad from North Central, a program currently ranked in the country.
It was a back and forth game, highlighted by Kevin Maropoulos intercepting 3 passes and taking two of them back for touchdowns, one for over 90 yards. North Central took the lead late in the 4th quarter but the Cougars battled back and drove to within field goal distance for a last chance at the win. Unfortunately, the field goal attempt was blocked and the Cougars lost 22-21, but the team played extremely well on both sides of the ball and battled throughout the game.

Homecoming 08
Thanks to everyone who helped make Homecoming 08 a memorable one! Thanks to Joan Weeks for arranging the corsages and boutonnieres, for Ginny Illich for heading up the decorating, for all who wore the Homecoming shirts or the Gold Rush shirts, for those who helped feed the team following their victory, and for the amazing cheering that took place! Thanks also to the CUC faculty for all they did administratively and also for providing the great band, the face painting, etc. Thanks to our 1983 football alumni for returning for the weekend; it was great to have you here! It was wonderful to see so many out-of-town and out-of-state families! AND…..our very own Phil Klopke, #57, was crowned the 2008 Homecoming King! Congrats, Phil!!

Game Photos
Thanks to Ginny (Mama) Illich for more awesome pictures! All pictures are now on her webpage, found right here on our blog, to the right. Thanks, Ginny!

Directions to Maranatha…
Oct. 25 – Maranatha Baptist Bible College, Watertown, WI (125 miles) – From CUC - Harlem Ave. north to North Ave., turn left. North Ave. west to First Ave., turn right. Bear left immediately to pick up River Rd. (about ½ mile down). River Rd. to Irving Park Rd., turn left. Irving Park Rd. west about two miles to I-294 north. Follow I-294/I-94 north about 85 miles (2 tolls) into south Milwaukee, look for I-894 bypass west. Follow I-894 west/north to I-94 west. Take I-94 west 29 miles to Route 26 north. Follow Route 26 about 10 miles into Watertown to Main Street, turn left. West on Main about a mile, entrance to campus will be on left

Off the Field – From Helmets to Hairnets….
Our football team did something amazing lately, off the field, but I knew I could not explain it well, so I asked Kasey Ray to write an article describing their experience. Thanks, Kasey, and way to go, Cougars!

Concordia University celebrated their midterm break, Friday, October 10, which served as their first holiday off of school since the Labor Day weekend in September. The Concordia football team was looking forward to a chance to sleep until practice at 11:00 that morning, when a surprise announcement after Thursday’s practice called them all to gather in the gymnasium to assist with a service project at 9:30 am. Though disappointed in the lack of an opportunity to sleep in, the entire football team arrived early the next morning, ready to learn about the charity, “Feed my Starving Children”.
I remember entering the room and laughing; every football player on the team was there, decked out in hairnets, rather than helmets. I sat down and learned about the task ahead of our group. Groups of about ten students were supposed to gather around a table, and quickly, in assembly line fashion, package vegetarian meals of rice, soy, vegetables, and chicken flavoring. The process would go as follows: First, you would dump a scoop of chicken flavoring, vegetables, soy product, and rice (in that order) into a large funnel, which would drop it down into a bag. The person holding the bag would pass it on to another athlete, who would weigh the bag to make sure we were packaging the right amount of food. After ensuring that we had the right amount, they would pass it on to two more students, who would seal the bag airtight, using a machine that melted the plastic bag shut. Finally, the finished product would be passed on to a final student, in charge of packaging each packet into boxes of 36. My group decided that they wanted to make it a competition, to see if we could get the most boxes filled in the hour of time we were given, and you could tell that they were serious about it. I still remember captain Jarin Davis, and senior John Lally screaming in my ear, telling me to hurry up, as I worked furiously at the (surprisingly challenging) task of opening a bag and placing it at the bottom of the funnel. Don’t laugh! It’s a lot harder than it sounds... All right, so maybe I didn’t have the most difficult of jobs, but we were certainly taking our tasks very seriously in the effort to get as much done as possible. I remember senior Phil Klopke telling our table that our group cheer for every completed box should be, “We love [senior captain] Steve Malok”. Our group had a really great time, as we spent most of the time hollering at anyone who slowed us down, and talking “some smack” (as Coach Pries calls it) to the groups around us.
Before I discuss the results of our morning’s activity, I should probably give a little more information on Feed my Starving Children. FMSC, as they are called, is a Christian non-profit organization whose intentions are simple: feed starving children everywhere. They are chiefly located in Minnesota; however, they have a location in the Chicago-land area in nearby Aurora, Ill. They run nearly entirely off of monetary donations, which go directly back into purchasing food in bulk from American farmers to fill each packet. Much of the world is vegetarian, either by local customs or religion, so to make their meals universally accessible, FMSC packs as much nutrition and protein as possible into each vegetarian serving. Each packet, which only weighs about 380 grams or .85 pounds, feeds a child six meals, which gives a depiction of just how emaciated the children are who receive this food.
With just over 100 students helping out, Concordia athletes packed over 220 boxes of food! My group ended up packing 42 boxes, while another group of football players packed 41. The entire football team represented very well, packaging way over half of the shipment. Bragging rights aside, 220 boxes was well over 2 boxes per person, which was a remarkable total. With 220 boxes of food, each containing 36 packets, each providing 6 meals, our combined effort, if my math is correct, provided over 47, 520 meals to children in desperate need. Or, if each child has three meals a day, feeds over 43 children for an entire year.
The Concordia football team is active in much more than just on the field events, as this service project shows. Feed my Starving Children was an absolute blessing to attend, as it showed us football players a little perspective and reminded each of us to truly appreciate the blessings God has given us. As He gave us the opportunity to serve others, so must we do with a joyous heart and an appreciation of our situation, and the hardships of those around us. For as we spend our energy playing the game we love, others must spend their energy searching for food, just trying to survive. That afternoon, after the football team was dismissed for the rest of the day, several players returned to help out at a different session in the afternoon, on their day off from school without even having been asked. The commitment and attitude shown by this Cougar football team shows that these athletes aren’t just learning to be better football players, but better men, glorifying God every step of the way.
To Him be all glory, forever and ever,
Amen.

Weekly Game Re-Cap
Visit Concordia’s website, www.cuchicago.edu, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Player Spotlight
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Randy Mixson
Nickname: Dread
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business Administration
Career Ambition: Open up my own business
Favorite pre-game food: Shrimp alfredo
Most people don’t know that you:
Why did you choose Concordia? I love the Cougars
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My mother, I love her to death
Favorite NFL player: Mike Peterson
Three words that would best describe you: Loyal, smart, sexy
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Expanding my business
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory: First kiss
Biggest role model and why: My brother, I would be happy to be half the man he is
Favorite food: Mac and Cheese
Place you would most like to travel: Silver Fox
Favorite movie: Pineapple Express
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Jarin Davis
Nickname: JD
Year in School: Junior
Major: Exercise Science
Career Ambition: Support my family
Favorite pre-game food: Strawberries
Most people don’t know that you: Can draw
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Bob Marley
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Keisha Cole, that’s my wife to be….
Favorite NFL player: Any Jaguar player
Three words that would best describe you: Quiet, respectful, hardworking
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working for a professional team as a trainer
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory: Catching 10lb catfish
Biggest role model and why: My mother, she is hardworking
Favorite food: Pineapples
Place you would most like to travel: Rome
Favorite movie: Little Rascals
Favorite animal: Panther

Name: Lukas Weeks
Nickname: Weeks
Year in School: Junior
Major: Law and Justice and Sociology
Career Ambition: Cop or FBI agent
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit
Most people don’t know that you: Won a 8A high school state championship in 2004
Why did you choose Concordia? Football and my education
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne or Lincoln Park
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre, he’s my idol and reason why I played football
Favorite NFL player: Brett Favre
Three words that would best describe you: Nice, hard-working, competitive
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working in the FBI
Favorite book: The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
Best childhood memory: Going to my first Green Bay Packers game
Biggest role model and why: Favre, great competitor and has a great attitude towards life and being a man
Favorite food: Steak and sweet potato
Place you would most like to travel: Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas
Favorite movie: 300
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Roy Anderson
Nickname: Roy
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Kinesiology
Career Ambition: To teach and coach
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Are a twin and played football since I was six
Why did you choose Concordia?
Favorite musical performer: Rascal Flatts
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre, so I can ask him a lot of questions and I love the Packers
Favorite NFL player: Donald Driver
Three words that would best describe you: Athletic, intelligent, easy going
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Coaching and teaching
Favorite book: Summer of all Fear
Best childhood memory: Scoring winning touchdown on team trip to Florida
Biggest role model and why: Dallas Clark, slow receiver who catches everything
Favorite food: Cheese
Place you would most like to travel: Hawaii
Favorite movie: The Elf
Favorite animal: Koala Bear

Name: Phillip Thomas
Nickname: Pac-Man
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Art
Career Ambition:
Favorite pre-game food: Honey bun and bottled water
Most people don’t know that you: are going to be in the league
Why did you choose Concordia? To find a different path in life
Favorite musical performer: All R&B
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: I am my favorite NFL player
Three words that would best describe you: Athletic, funny, outgoing
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Playin in the league
Favorite book: Curious George
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Myself
Favorite food: Candy yams, chicken, greens
Place you would most like to travel: Everywhere
Favorite movie: Biker Boyz
Favorite animal: Lion, the most fierce

Name: Larry Mayne
Nickname: Lil Larry
Year in School: Junior
Major: Law and Justice
Career Ambition: FBI Agent
Favorite pre-game food: Milk chocolate, expresso
Most people don’t know that you: are scared of heights
Why did you choose Concordia? Football, close to home
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Alicia Keys
Favorite NFL player: Brian Dawkins
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, sociable, determined
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working for the government
Favorite book: Cicue du Freak
Best childhood memory: climbing in the sewer for Ninja Turtles
Biggest role model and why: My brother, I learned from his mistakes
Favorite food: KFC mashed potatoes
Place you would most like to travel: Stonehenge
Favorite movie: Training Day
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Justin Richardson
Nickname: J-Rich
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Exercise and natural science
Career Ambition: To make my mom proud
Favorite pre-game food: I don’t have one
Most people don’t know that you: Have a twin
Favorite musical performer: None
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Jesus because I want to
Favorite NFL player: Don’t have one
Three words that would best describe you: Kind, funny
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working to help sick and injured people
Favorite book: Don’ have one
Best childhood memory: Sunday dinner with my family
Biggest role model and why: My mother
Favorite food: Nachos
Place you would most like to travel: All of Asia
Favorite movie: Friday
Favorite animal: Cougar

Name: Mason Thompson
Nickname:
Year in School:Sophomore
Major: Phys. Ed
Career Ambition: To become a successful teacher/coach
Favorite pre-game food: Sandwiches
Most people don’t know that you: Miss home a lot
Why did you choose Concordia? Great atmosphere on and off the field
Favorite musical performer:
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Big Cat, because he’s an outgoing awesome guy
Favorite NFL player: Chris Hovan
Three words that would best describe you: Big, Strong, Sweet
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Coaching football
Favorite book: Freak the Mighty
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: My mother, she’s been through so much and is still very strong
Place you would most like to travel: Grand Canyon
Favorite movie: 300
Favorite animal: Dog

Bible Verse of the Week…
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8

Go Cougars!

Gridiron Newsletter

2008-10-15T23:55:00.002-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #32
10-15-08

Coach Pries’ Corner
Cougar Fans,

We are obviously disappointed, yet at the same time encouraged, after last week’s game vs. Rockford. Those of you who were at the game saw a very entertaining contest where both teams deserved to win. Our offense moved the ball and scored as well as they have all season, and our defense made stops when they needed to in order to give us a chance to win. We had the opportunity during the end of regulation to win our first conference game but came up short and then lost in overtime, 41-38. I cannot tell you enough how proud we are of our players’ effort and how their attitude has stayed very positive and unselfish through some very close, tough losses. When we found out after the game about Chip’s father’s death, it reminded us how a loss of a game pales in comparison to a loss of a loved one. It has been great to see how the team has come together during this tough time and I am very excited to see how the team performs this week. A number of our players and coaches will be attending Chip’s dad’s funeral on Friday and then we will look forward to seeing you at our Homecoming game vs. Lakeland on Saturday.

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Chuck Wylie
Our deepest sympathies are extended to Chip Wylie, #77, and his family upon the passing of his father, Chuck Wylie, last Saturday. Chuck suffered a heart attack, had open heart surgery, and passed away shortly after. Lonnie and I met Chuck when Lonnie coached at Milwaukee Lutheran, where Chip played football. Chuck was a father who supported the activities of his son, and we saw that in his support of Chip’s high school football career. He then supported Chip in coming to Concordia and playing football here. Chuck became an avid Concordia Cougar fan, attended most games, wrote some of our recaps for us last year, helped grill the post-game meal for the players recently, volunteered to help in any way he could, and could be heard in the stands cheering for Chip and the Cougars. He was a very special part of our Cougar Football Family, and we will miss him very much. This week’s Homecoming game will be dedicated to Chuck. Please keep Chip in your prayers during this very difficult time. The visitation will be this Friday, October 17 at 4:00 pm and the funeral will follow at 6:00 pm and take place at the Schmidt and Bartelt Funeral Home in Menomonee Falls, WI.

Upcoming JV Game
Our final JV game will be a home game at 4 pm on Monday, Oct. 20, versus North Central’s JV. Come and cheer on the Cougars! Lots of great football coming up!! Go Cougars!!

Feed the Team
Thank you, once again, for all who brought the delicious food for the players after the last home game! It’s great to see the players being cared for and supported! Thanks to all of you for continuing to create a Cougar Family atmosphere!
For this Homecoming game, we asked the players what they would like us to serve them, and the players’ choice was……actually a tie between burgers/brats and the pulled pork/beef that we served recently. Therefore, we will serve them both! J Please feel free to bring any variety of the above, and we will fire up the grills after the game to cook a great meal for our deserving players! Additionally, any side dishes, fruit, dessert, etc. are always appreciated! Thanks, in advance!

Homecoming 08
Lots of great plans for Homecoming 08! Come cheer on the Cougars as we take on Lakeland College from Wisconsin. Weather.com says mostly SUNNY….and a high of 61. Good football weather. As you’ll see below, we are asking fans to wear GOLD!

Corsages and Boutonnieres
This year, once again, we will be offering corsages and boutonnieres for our Cougar Fans for Homecoming. They are a yellow carnation with a football charm and a maroon bow. If you would like to purchase one for the game, at $5 each, please contact Joan Weeks at packerbruce@comcast.net. At this point, there are just a few left for purchase. They can be picked up and paid for at her tailgating area Saturday morning before the game. Thanks!

Yellow /Gold Shirts, please!!
For Saturday, we have a “Gold Rush” theme. Students will be wearing gold shirts, and we are asking parents to wear gold/yellow shirts as well.

Decorating with Ginny
Ginny Illich will be heading up the decorations this year. If you would like to help decorate the stands on Saturday morning, please email her at virginia.illich@cuchicago.edu. Thanks!

Tailgating
Tailgating as usual will take place! We will welcome alumni, former players and other fans to tailgate with us!

If anyone has an “extra” grill that they could provide for our community grilling, please let Jennie know. We now have 2 grills that are used to cook for the players and for any fans to use, but for Homecoming it would be good to have a few more grills! Thanks!

Bookstore Hours (Lower Level, KCC)
Bookstore Blow OutSaturday 10/18
9:00 am - 2:00 pmNote Special Hours!

Nearly everything’s on sale, so you can stock up on Cougar and Concordia gear. With pricesslashed 10–50%, there’s something for everyone! Click here to see what’s on sale.

Pep Rally and Coronation
4:30 p.m. on FridayPillars Lawn. Join Charlie T. Cougar, students, and alumni to celebrate this fall’s Cougar athletes and greet the newly crowned Homecoming King & Queen and their court.

Illini-Badger Conference Champions
Cougars Crowned Co-Champions“The Concordia Football Cougars were crowned co-champions of the Illini-Badger conference, finishing with a conference record of 3-1 (5-3-1 overall).The success of the 1983 football team was a result of the combination of a number of individual efforts and the outstanding leadership of Head Coach Jim Braun and his staff...experiencing Concordia's "winningest" season since 1975..." The Spectator - Dec 9, 1983 Vol. LXIII No. 3
This October marks the 25th anniversary of our dance as the 1983 Illini-Badger Conference Champions, and we hope you’ll plan to join us to celebrate at Homecoming Weekend, October 17-19, 2008. We’ve put together a reunion, with the help of Paige Craig ’99, Director of Alumni Relations, to help celebrate past victories and cheer on this year’s Cougar team.

For more Homecoming information, visit http://www.cuchicago.edu/homecoming/.

Game Photos
Thanks to Ginny (Mama) Illich for more awesome pictures! All pictures are now on her webpage, found right here on our blog, to the right. Thanks, Ginny!

Weekly Game Re-Cap
Visit Concordia’s website, www.cuchicago.edu, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Scott Abrams
Nickname: Tank
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Law and Justice
Career Ambition: Police Officer
Favorite pre-game food: Chicken and Rice
Most people don’t know that you: I’m shy.
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Bone Thugs ‘n Harmony
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Jeff Saturday because he is one of the best offensive linemen to play the game.
Favorite NFL player: Lawrence Taylor
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, loyal, responsible
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working a full time job supporting my family.
Favorite book: Eye of the Tiger
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: My parents because they raised me to be a great person and I want to pass that on to my kids.
Favorite food: Hamburger and Fries
Place you would most like to travel: Virgin Islands
Favorite movie: Any Given Sunday
Favorite animal: Tiger

Name: Mickey Davis
Nickname:
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Sport Management
Career Ambition: Playing pro/stock broker/ coaching football/ architecture
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit Salad
Most people don’t know that you: Box
Why did you choose Concordia? Great school, pursue degree, and play football
Favorite musical performer: DMX
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Lisa Raye
Favorite NFL player: Shawne Merriman
Three words that would best describe you: Determined, competitive, intelligent
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Coaching or architect
Favorite book: “Catcher in the Rye”
Best childhood memory: Watching my older brother play high school football
Biggest role model and why: My mother, always there to keep me focused and on the right track.
Favorite food: Chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Brazil
Favorite movie: Belly
Favorite animal: Pitbull

Name: Robenson Pierre
Nickname: Pierre
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Exercise and Physiology
Career Ambition: Doctor in Physical Therapy and sports med.
Favorite pre-game food: Chicken
Most people don’t know that you: sing
Why did you choose Concordia? Opportunity
Favorite musical performer: Too many
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Dontae Coldpepper
Three words that would best describe you: Unique, determined, lost
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working at my dream career
Favorite book: Copper Sun
Best childhood memory: Living in New Jersey
Biggest role model and why: None
Favorite food: Chicken and rice
Place you would most like to travel: The islands
Favorite movie: 300+Hostle
Favorite animal: Black Panther

Name: Dominique Claridy
Nickname: Dommy-Poo
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Sociology
Career Ambition: Sociologist
Favorite pre-game food: None
Most people don’t know that you: help coach football in the spring.
Why did you choose Concordia? To get out of Florida and away from family
Favorite musical performer: Usher
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Lito Sheppard
Favorite NFL player: Lito Sheppard
Three words that would best describe you: Crazy, big, and fat
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Becoming a sociologist
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Playing football with cousin Bruce Johnson
Favorite food: Ribs
Place you would most like to travel: Brazil
Favorite movie:
Favorite animal: Tiger

Name: Jared Mundt
Nickname: Bud
Year in School: Junior
Major: Secondary Math Education
Career Ambition: To teach and coach at a high school.
Favorite pre-game food: Steak
Most people don’t know that you:
Why did you choose Concordia? I felt at home here.
Favorite musical performer: Carrie Underwood
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Tony Romo
Three words that would best describe you:
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Teaching and coaching
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Father, he’s always been there for me.
Favorite food: Pizza
Place you would most like to travel: Florida
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Phil Klopke
Nickname: “Klopke”
Year in School: Senior
Major: DCE
Career Ambition: Youth Ministry
Favorite pre-game food: Peanut Butter Power Bar
Most people don’t know that you: I am diabetic
Why did you choose Concordia? For Youth Ministry
Favorite musical performer: Hillsong United
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Reggie White
Three words that would best describe you:
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Ministry in the Church
Favorite book: Velvet Elvis
Best childhood memory: Living in Southern IL
Biggest role model and why: Father, Mother
Favorite food: Tacos
Place you would most like to travel: Africa
Favorite movie: Braveheart
Favorite animal: Gorilla

Name: David Ewart
Nickname: David
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business
Career Ambition: Businessman
Favorite pre-game food: Sunflower Seeds
Most people don’t know that you: Blackbelt in Taekwondo
Why did you choose Concordia? Location, education, football team
Favorite musical performer: Game
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Me
Favorite NFL player: Mike Peterson
Three words that would best describe you: Beast, Beast, beast.
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Favorite book: Alchemist
Best childhood memory: Birth
Biggest role model and why: Dad, wise
Favorite food: Ackee and salt fish
Place you would most like to travel: Africa, Brazil
Favorite movie: Friday
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Caleb Farina
Nickname: The Undertaker
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Phys. Ed
Career Ambition: High School Coach
Favorite pre-game food: PB & J
Most people don’t know that you: Went to Bonaiza
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Young Jeezy
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Coach Meier, He’s the man
Favorite NFL player: Chad Ochocinco
Three words that would best describe you: Humorous, Outgoing, friendly
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Coaching at Concordia
Favorite book: The Da Vinci Code
Best childhood memory: My First T.D.
Biggest role model and why: Chad Johnson, his personality is the best.
Place you would most like to travel: Europe
Favorite movie: Superbad
Favorite animal: Bear

Bible Verse of the Week
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Go Cougars!

Homecoming Corsages and Boutonnieres

2008-10-12T15:18:00.004-05:00

Special Homecoming Corsage or Boutonniere for Cougar Fans

This year, once again, we will be offering corsages and boutonniers for our Cougar Fans for Homecoming. They are a yellow carnation with a football charm and a maroon bow. If you would like to purchase one for the game, at $5 each, please contact Joan Weeks at packerbruce@comcast.net by THURSDAY AFTERNOON. Please let her know how many corsages and/or boutonniers you would like. They can be picked up and paid for at her tailgating area Saturday morning before the game. I do apologize for not getting this information on the blog earlier. If you know of other Cougar fans who may not read the blog before Wednesday, feel free to pass the word! Thanks!

Gridiron Newsletter

2008-10-08T16:06:00.002-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #31
10-08-08

Coach Pries’ Corner…
Hello Cougar Fans,
Thank you to everyone who came out to our first conference game this past weekend. If you had to leave at halftime, you saw our better half, since we couldn’t hold on to our lead and ended up dropping the contest to Wisconsin Lutheran. We definitely made improvements in certain areas but we again made too many key mistakes that our opponent took advantage of and turned into points. It is obviously discouraging to lose, especially in a game where we had the lead for a good portion of it. It was encouraging to see our players deal with some very tough moments in the game and continue to stick to the game plan for the entire contest. If we continue to improve and eliminate our costly mistakes, we know that victories will also take place. Again, thank you for your continued support and we hope to see you at Rockford this weekend. On another note, please mark your calendars for our final JV game, which will be a home game at 4 pm on Monday, Oct. 20, versus North Central’s JV.

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Game at Rockford…
Come and cheer on the Cougars as they travel to Rockford, IL! Kickoff is at 1:00 pm. Weather.com says it will be 77 degrees and sunny! Beautiful weather for October in Illinois! Go Cougars!

Directions from Concordia:
Oct. 11 – Rockford College, Rockford, IL (76 miles) – Harlem Ave. south to I-290 west. I-290 to split, bear right (watch for Rockford signs). I-290/53 to I-90 (Jane Addams Tollway) west. I-90 west for about 50 miles (2 tolls) into Rockford, exit at State Street (Route 20 business, look for Clock Tower Inn). Turn right off of ramp, you will be going west towards downtown Rockford. State Street west for three miles, exit for college will be on right after you go past St. Anthony Hospital. Follow drive into main parking lot on right, football stadium will be visible.

Feed the Team…
Thank you, once again, for all who brought the delicious food for the players after the game!!! It’s great to see the players being cared for and supported! Thanks to all of you for continuing to create a Cougar Family atmosphere!

Upcoming JV Game…
Our final JV game will be a home game at 4 pm on Monday, Oct. 20, versus North Central’s JV. Come and cheer on the Cougars!

Homecoming 08…
Lots of great plans for Homecoming…

Tailgating as usual will take place! We will welcome alumni, former players and other fans to tailgate with us!

If anyone has an “extra” grill that they could provide for our community grilling, please let Jennie know. We now have 2 grills that are used to cook for the players and for any fans to use, but for Homecoming it would be good to have a few more grills! Thanks!

Show Your School Spirit and Help Kappa Delta Pi by Purchasing a 2008 Homecoming T-Shirt. Wear your Cougar Pride at Homecoming with 2008 theme-inspired apparel. Each short-sleeved, T-shirt costs $10, and proceeds help Kappa Delta Pi, Concordia's education honors society, live out their mission "to lead, to serve, to teach." Shirts can be pre-ordered by Thursday, October 9 at crfalumni@CUChicago.edu. A limited number of shirts will also be available for purchase on Saturday, October 18. Click here to see this year's design.

Bookstore Hours (Lower Level, KCC)
Bookstore Blow OutSaturday 10/18
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Nearly everything’s on sale, so you can stock up on Cougar and Concordia gear. With prices slashed 10–50%, there’s something for everyone! Click here to see what’s on sale.

Lodging
On campus housing is not available for Homecoming Week 2008. Click here for a list of lodging suggestions in the area.

Pep Rally and Coronation - 4:30 p.m. on the Pillars Lawn. Join Charlie T. Cougar, students, and alumni to celebrate this fall’s Cougar athletes and greet the newly crowned Homecoming King & Queen and their court.

1983 Illini-Badger Conference Champions returning for Homecoming
Cougars Crowned Co-Champions - “The Concordia Football Cougars were crowned co-champions of the Illini-Badger conference, finishing with a conference record of 3-1 (5-3-1 overall).The success of the 1983 football team was a result of the combination of a number of individual efforts and the outstanding leadership of Head Coach Jim Braun and his staff...experiencing Concordia's "winningest" season since 1975..." The Spectator - Dec 9, 1983 Vol. LXIII No. 3

Let's warlmly welcome this team to Homecoming '08! They will have a special, reserved area in Tailgate Alley!

For more Homecoming information, visit http://www.cuchicago.edu/homecoming/.

Game Photos…
Thanks to Ginny (Mama) Illich for more awesome pictures! All pictures are now on her webpage, found right here on our blog, to the right. Thanks, Ginny!

Weekly Game Re-Cap…
Visit Concordia’s website, www.cuchicago.edu, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Rob Anderson
Nickname: Rob
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Physical education
Career Ambition: PE Teacher
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Were in sport “Rise” magazine for football
Why did you choose Concordia? Play football and get a great education
Favorite musical performer: Kenny Chesney
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre, he’s my idol
Favorite NFL player: Brett Favre
Three words that would best describe you: Competitive, leader, intelligent
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching p.e. and coaching football
Favorite book: Holes
Best childhood memory: Going to Florida with my football team
Biggest role model and why: Mother – strong, always pushed me to do my best
Favorite food: Lasagna
Place you would most like to travel: Italy
Favorite movie: Varsity Blues
Favorite animal: Elephant

Name: Cory Volkman
Nickname:
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Secondary ed./PE Major/Theology Minor
Career Ambition: Coach
Favorite pre-game food: Chipotle
Most people don’t know that you: Eat Chipotle every Friday
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Pantera
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Jessica Alba, she’s funny
Favorite NFL player: Ray Lewis
Three words that would best describe you:
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Sleeping all day and playing softball
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory: Playing ball with my dad
Biggest role model and why: My dad
Favorite food: Chipotle
Place you would most like to travel: Home
Favorite movie: Nightmare on Elm Street
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Brock Harding
Nickname:
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Law and Justice
Career Ambition: Detective
Favorite pre-game food: Spaghetti
Most people don’t know that you: That I’m agnostic
Why did you choose Concordia? Play football and still go to a good school
Favorite musical performer: Nirvana
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Jessica Alba, she is beautiful and I would like to see if she’s an airhead or not
Favorite NFL player: Earnest Graham
Three words that would best describe you: A hard worker
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Doing a job I love
Favorite book: “The Mist” by Stephen King
Best childhood memory: My first Christmas that I remember
Biggest role model and why: Ghondi, he helped India get independence without ever doing an act of violence
Favorite food: Sausage and crawdad jambalaya
Place you would most like to travel: The whole world
Favorite movie: Idiocracy
Favorite animal: Shark

Name: Seth Illich
Nickname: Big Illich
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Director of Christian Education
Career Ambition: To be a successful DCE and then buy, own, and operate a hotel and ski resort when I retire
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit and granola bars
Most people don’t know that you: Teach skiing
Why did you choose Concordia? For the DCE program and football team
Favorite musical performer: Pillar
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? A professional chef for good food
Favorite NFL player: Mark Tauscher
Three words that would best describe you: Large, friendly, easy-going
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working for a church
Favorite book: Playing for Pizza
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Reggie White – he was a religious football player
Favorite food: Italian
Place you would most like to travel: Switzerland
Favorite movie: Boondock Saints
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Anthony Bukauskas
Nickname: Anthony
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Physical education
Career Ambition: Teach high school and coach football and track
Favorite pre-game food: No preference
Most people don’t know that you:
Why did you choose Concordia? Education
Favorite musical performer: U2
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Walter Payton, great person and player
Favorite NFL player:
Three words that would best describe you: Dedicated, dependable, hard worker
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Favorite book: Never Die Easy (biography of Walter Payton)
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why:
Favorite food: Sausage Pizza
Place you would most like to travel: Anywhere in Alaska
Favorite movie: Friday Night Lights
Favorite animal: Polar Bear

Name: Chip Wylie
Nickname: Chip
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Psychology
Career Ambition: Psychologist and coach
Favorite pre-game food: Chipotle
Most people don’t know that you: Like to sing
Why did you choose Concordia? Play football for Coach Pries
Favorite musical performer: O-Tep
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: AJ Hawk
Three words that would best describe you: Very, very big
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Coaching and still going to school
Favorite book: The Never Ending Bathroom Book
Best childhood memory: Hanging out with my cousin
Biggest role model and why:
Favorite food: Chipotle
Place you would most like to travel: Mexico
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Cat

Name: Kevin Maropoulos
Nickname: Kevin
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Physical education
Career Ambition: P.E. Teacher
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit
Most people don’t know that you: Coach wrestling
Why did you choose Concordia? Location and staff
Favorite musical performer: Shinedown
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My Father
Favorite NFL player: Dick Butkus, John Lynch
Three words that would best describe you: Athletic, determined, emotional
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching and taking care of my family
Favorite book: Spy Catcher by Tom Clance
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Dad
Favorite food: Medium rare steak with a baked potato
Place you would most like to travel: Germany
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Penguin

Name: Michael Dingman
Nickname: Ding
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business/psychology
Career Ambition: Therapist
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Want to learn to ballroom dance
Why did you choose Concordia? Education, city, a winter, football
Favorite musical performer: Ever Stays Red
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My great-grandma so we could talk about life
Favorite NFL player: Jared Allan
Three words that would best describe you: Hard working, smart, team player
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Living a great life
Favorite book: Green Mile
Best childhood memory: My father
Biggest role model and why: God and my grandfather
Favorite food: Pork chops
Place you would most like to travel: Greece
Favorite movie: Gladiator
Favorite animal: Gorillas

Bible Verse of the Week…
“I think of how much you have helped me; I sing for joy in the shadow of your protective wings.” Psalm 63:7

Go Cougars!

Media Guide

2008-10-08T09:07:00.003-05:00

The 2008 Media Guide is completed and loaded on the web. You can find it at http://www.cuchicago.edu/athletics/men/football/documents/FB_Media_Guide.pdf. Thank you very much to Sports Information Director Jim Egan and Men's Soccer Coach Micah Middendorf for their hard work.

2008-09-30T16:07:00.002-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #30
9-30-08

Coach Pries’ Corner…

Hello Cougar Fans,
I hope you had a great weekend! I know the Bears fans are very happy after the big win on Sunday evening. Thank you to everyone who made the trip up to Milwaukee for our JV game vs. Marquette University on Saturday. We had a great fan turnout and they saw our program get back in the victory column with an exciting 28-14 win.
There were a number of big plays on both sides of the ball, with the offense getting into the end zone 4 times and the defense grabbing 4 interceptions. The team played extremely hard in all facets of the game and we are very pleased with the final result. As we head into conference play vs. Wisconsin Lutheran we are looking forward to a great week of practice and a strong unified performance this Saturday. We will be having some recruits in attendance at the game so if they happen to venture through tailgate alley feel free to say hello to them. Hope to see you on Saturday!

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Third Home Game…
Join us as we cheer on the Cougars at their third home game vs. Wisconsin Lutheran at 1:00! Weather.com says it will be 66 degrees and sunny! Go Cougars!

Tailgating…
Please join us before the game as well as after the game to tailgate! This is a great way to support our players and get to know other Concordia families, fans and alumni! Although we tend to hang out by our own vehicles, please feel free to wander and introduce yourselves to other fellow fans! Whether you pick up fast food for dinner or grill out, we invite you to be a part of the tailgating community!

Community Grill...
Near the middle of the lot, near the player’s table, we will have a grill or two available for anyone who would like to use it. This way, you can simply bring some great meat to grill without having to haul your grill to each game! Another great way to meet more people! We will also use these grills to cook for the players.

Please see previous blog posts for general information regarding tailgating procedures. And thanks for your great cooperation!

Feed the Team…
(This is optional, and no one should feel obligated!)
For this week, the theme will be a variety of meat. For those who are able to prepare the food ahead of time, you could consider making pulled pork sandwiches, barbecued beef or pork sandwiches, beef and gravy, or any type you would like. This could then be reheated after the game. For those who would like to cook after the game, you can feel free to bring something to grill such as brats, Italian Sausage, etc. Please bring buns if you would like to have them served with the meat. Side dishes, fruit, dessert, Gatorade or water are always welcome.

If you have a second and could email me what you plan to bring, then I will have an idea of what and how much to expect. Feel free to email me as late as 9:00 Saturday morning at jenniepries@comcast.net. And if you don’t get a chance to email me, feel free to bring the food anyway! I don’t think we can have “too much” for all these hungry players! Thanks in advance to any who can help support our boys!

Home Games Announced on the Radio…
For the broadcast of our home football games, please go to www.cuchicago.edu/wcgr which is the web site for our radio station. Enjoy!

Cougar Gridiron Club News (Booster Club)
The Cougar Gridiron Club (booster club) was established two years ago. All annual fees are used for the improvement of the football program in various areas. If you would like to become a member, please contact Coach Pries or Jennie. Please know that you do not have to be an official (paying) member to attend meetings and to participate. ALL are welcome to be a part of it!!

If you have any questions, comments, ideas, or if you need a registration form, please feel free to email Coach or Jennie.

Thank you to all those who have joined the Gridiron Club! Your support for the football program is greatly appreciated!

Seat Reservations
For the Gridiron members who are expecting your seat reservation decals, they are available. Please visit Bruce Weeks in Tailgate Alley to pick them up. Bruce is usually parked at the northernmost part of the lot. Just look for lots of Packer paraphernalia and you’ll be in the right place.

Cougar Gear
If you would like to order any Cougar gear such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, etc, please go to www.milwaukeesportinggoods.com and order directly from there. Please let Jennie know if you have any questions.

Game Photos…
One of our parents, Ginny Illich, has graciously agreed to take photos of all of our games. These will be posted on our blog early each week. Thanks, Ginny!

Weekly Game Re-Cap…
Visit Concordia’s website, www.cuchicago.edu, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Ricky Lach
Nickname: Ricky Bobby
Year in School: Senior
Major: Physical education
Career Ambition: PE Teacher and Coach
Favorite pre-game food: Nothing
Most people don’t know that you: Collect movies
Why did you choose Concordia? Great atmosphere
Favorite musical performer:
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? God, because I have many questions
Favorite NFL player: Brian Urlacher
Three words that would best describe you: Believable, irrisistable, helpful
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Have a house, family
Favorite book: Sports Illustrated
Best childhood memory: Snowmobiling on the lake in Wisconsin
Biggest role model and why: Grandfather, he is who I want to be like throughout life
Favorite food: Steak
Place you would most like to travel: Europe
Favorite movie: 300 and The Rock
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: LaRon Glover
Nickname: Flash
Year in School: Freshmore (sophomore by end of 1st semester)
Major: Elementary education
Career Ambition: Teacher, personal trainer, body builder
Favorite pre-game food: Salad
Most people don’t know that you: Are a proud father of a beautiful little girl named “Aubrey”
Why did you choose Concordia? Great financial aid package and Coach Pries
Favorite musical performer: Jay Z
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Deion Sanders, because I’ve always admired the way he played the game
Favorite NFL player: Ed Reed
Three words that would best describe you: Smart, strong, dedicated
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Successful teacher and competitive body builder at the professional level
Favorite book: Bible
Best childhood memory: First time scoring a touchdown
Biggest role model and why: Mother, because she raised three kids as a single parent and still was able to get her degree
Favorite food: Chinese food
Place you would most like to travel: Amsterdam, Germany
Favorite movie: The Godfather I, II, III
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Andres Garcia
Nickname: Dre
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Accounting
Career Ambition:
Favorite pre-game food: Sub Sandwich
Most people don’t know that you: are Hispanic
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: 50, Kanye West, Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Beyonce, she looks good
Favorite NFL player: Ray Lewis and Palumalu
Three words that would best describe you: Real, hungry, crazy
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory: Playing football with my brothers
Biggest role model and why:My brother kept me out of trouble
Favorite food: Any
Place you would most like to travel: Brazil
Favorite movie: Any Given Sunday
Favorite animal:

Name: Jonathan Stephens
Nickname: J.O.
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Business, sports management
Career Ambition: Get Rich
Favorite pre-game food: Fruits
Most people don’t know that you: Are in a dance group called A+
Why did you choose Concordia? Closer to my family
Favorite musical performer: Frasier Boy, Gucci Mane, Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Dwayne Wade, he’s my cousin and I’ve never met him in person
Favorite NFL player: Sean Taylor
Three words that would best describe you: Cool, calm, collected
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Living a good life
Favorite book: Ben Carson’s: The Gift
Best childhood memory: Having fun with my dad
Biggest role model and why: My mother and track coaches. Both sacrificed a lot for me so I can be where I’m at today
Favorite food: Anything with cheese and Sweet Baby Rays
Place you would most like to travel: Egypt
Favorite movie: Any Given Sunday, 300, anything that makes me laugh
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Anthony Pennella
Nickname:
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Secondary education
Career Ambition: High school history teacher and football and track coach
Favorite pre-game food: Trail mix
Most people don’t know that you: Listen to Motown music
Why did you choose Concordia? Really liked coaches, team members, and academic prestige
Favorite musical performer: James Taylor
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Dick Butkus, he plays the game with more passion than any other player
Favorite NFL player: Olin Kruetz
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, empathetic, nice
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching and coaching in the Western Suburbs of Chicago
Favorite book: Wins, losses, and lessons
Best childhood memory: Pee wee football
Biggest role model and why: My mom, she raised two boys when my dad died and couldn’t of done a better job
Favorite food: Pizza
Place you would most like to travel: Ireland, Italy
Favorite movie: The Godfather
Favorite animal: Cougars

Name: Mike Marotta
Nickname:
Year in School: Junior
Major: Physical education
Career Ambition: Be a great teacher and coach
Favorite pre-game food: Banana or peanut butter power bar
Most people don’t know that you: Love chick flicks
Why did you choose Concordia? Get a great education, play football, and friends
Favorite musical performer:
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Tom Brady, find out what he does to be so unstoppable
Favorite NFL player: Tom Brady
Three words that would best describe you: Outgoing, ambitious, honest
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Married with kids, teaching PE and an offensive coordinator somewhere
Favorite book: The Heart of a Champion
Best childhood memory: Going to CABA World Series 3 times
Biggest role model and why: My father, because how hard he works. He taught me to never give up and settle for less than what I believe in
Favorite food: Benihana
Place you would most like to travel: Italy and Sicily
Favorite movie: Miracle
Favorite animal: Tiger

Name: Martin Beckman
Nickname: Marty
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Secondary ed/history
Career Ambition: Teacher
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta or granola bar
Most people don’t know that you: Played safety first year of high school
Why did you choose Concordia? Financial purposes, job placement for intended major
Favorite musical performer: Blink 182, I’ll listen to anything
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Dwight Freeney
Three words that would best describe you: Easy going, determined
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching and coaching
Favorite book: Spy Catcher by Tom Clancey
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Dad
Favorite food: Medium rare steak with a baked potato
Place you would most like to travel: Germany
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Penguin

Name: Michael Dingman
Nickname: Ding
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business/psychology
Career Ambition: Therapist
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Want to learn to ballroom dance
Why did you choose Concordia? Education, city, a winter, football
Favorite musical performer: Ever Stays Red
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My great-grandma so we could talk about life
Favorite NFL player: Jared Allan
Three words that would best describe you: Hard working, smart, team player
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Living a great life
Favorite book: Harry Porter the 4th
Best childhood memory: All star baseball
Biggest role model and why: Jerry Rice, good work ethic
Favorite food: Pasta
Place you would most like to travel: Italy, France
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Hippo

Bible Verse of the Week…
“Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as something done for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23

Go Cougars!

2008-09-24T23:25:00.002-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #29
9-25-08

Coach Pries’ Corner…
Thank you to everyone who came and supported the team this past Saturday and a special thank you to everyone who contributed to the meal that was provided for the team in “tailgate alley” following the game. We were not sure whether we would like having a bye week before we start conference play, but after our performance on Saturday we are glad about having the time to prepare before we host Wisconsin Lutheran on October 4th. Despite the disappointing loss, I am confident that our coaches and players will be that much more prepared and ready for when we open conference play. When losses take place there is usually an opportunity to grow and learn from the experience. The question is whether or not we take advantage of this opportunity and strive to get better. I feel that the members of our program have already done this since Saturday and I am excited to see how we apply what we learned in the weeks to come. Again, thank you for your great support and we look forward to seeing you at our next contest.

In His Service,

Coach Pries

JV Game
This Saturday we have a junior varsity game vs. Marquette University’s Club Team. The game will be played at Valley Field in Milwaukee, WI. The address is 1818 Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI, and game time is 3:00 p.m. Valley Field is located right across from the Potawatomi Casino in downtown Milwaukee. Hope to see you there!

Feed the Team…
THANK YOU to all who brought food and drinks for the team at the last home game! It was great to see these players eating so much and even saying that they had eaten way too much! Whether you brought food for the player table or offered it from your own grill, we appreciate how you continue to foster this football family atmosphere! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

Cougar Gear – update on orders
For anyone who has already ordered gear, thank you for your patience. The sporting goods company said that orders should be in this week. We hope that we can distribute them to the players by Friday.

If you would like to order any Cougar gear such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, etc, please go to www.milwaukeesportinggoods.com and order directly from there. Please let Jennie know if you have any questions.

Weekly Game Re-Cap…
Visit Concordia’s website, www.cuchicago.edu, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Jonathan Hand
Nickname: Hand
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Lutheran K-12 PE and Exercise Science
Career Ambition: Coach and Teach
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Been an OL and DL till college
Why did you choose Concordia? Lutheran education and chance to play football
Favorite musical performer: Eminem
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Arnold Swartzeneger because he’s the man
Favorite NFL player: Troy Palomoula
Three words that would best describe you: Personable, friendly, thoughtful
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Coaching a football team to a championship
Favorite book: The Bible
Best childhood memory: Football in the snow with Schultz’s
Biggest role model and why: Cousin J.R. because he works so hard and showed me that if you work hard enough you can earn anything
Favorite food: Steak and sweet potatoes
Place you would most like to travel: Hawaii
Favorite movie: The Italian Job
Favorite animal: Horse

Name: Mike Mentz
Nickname: Mike
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Exercise science
Career Ambition: Physical therapist/athletic trainer
Favorite pre-game food: Salad/fruit
Most people don’t know that you: Are a huge Mizzou fan
Why did you choose Concordia? Football and major
Favorite musical performer: Blink 182
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Rick Ankiel
Favorite NFL player: Wes Welker
Three words that would best describe you: Sarcastic
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
In a clinic practicing pt or for a pro team
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory: Vacations
Biggest role model and why: My brother, he has always been what and who I wanna be
Favorite food: Steak
Place you would most like to travel: Europe
Favorite movie: Superbad / Dumb and Dumber / Boondock Saints
Favorite animal: Bear

Name: Michael Egebrecht
Nickname: Eggy
Year in School: Junior
Major: Exercise science
Career Ambition: Be a physical therapist
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit
Most people don’t know that you: Have broken my nose 9 times
Why did you choose Concordia? Football and education
Favorite musical performer: Breaking Benjamin
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Michael Jordan, come on its Michael Jordan
Favorite NFL player: Chad Johnson
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, extremely handsome, leader
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Own my own physical therapy place and raising a family
Favorite book: Cat in the Hat
Best childhood memory: Being with my grandpa…fishing and hanging out
Biggest role model and why:Parents, they mean everything to me
Favorite food: Homemade ribs
Place you would most like to travel: Australia
Favorite movie: Shawshank Redemption
Favorite animal: Koalas

Name: Keven Landry-Pass
Nickname:
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Exercise Science
Career Ambition: Become an athletic trainer
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Sing in the shower
Why did you choose Concordia? My major and to grow spiritually
Favorite musical performer:
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My grandma because she passed away before I could say goodbye
Favorite NFL player: Jeff Saturday or Dan Koppen
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, outgoing, expressive
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Be a trainer
Favorite book: Angela’s Ashes
Best childhood memory: Playing the Orange Bowl Championship in little league football
Biggest role model and why: My parents because they never stopped believing in me
Favorite food: Chinese
Place you would most like to travel: Rome or Spain for the running of the bulls
Favorite movie: Step brothers
Favorite animal: Pitbull

Name: Jacob Henckel
Nickname: Big Red
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Exercise Science
Career Ambition: Athletic training
Favorite pre-game food: Steak
Most people don’t know that you: Participated in track and field
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Seather
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre, to learn what I can
Favorite NFL player: Reggie White, the Minister of Defense
Three words that would best describe you: Loyal, Positive, Friendly
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working for some sports team
Favorite book: Left Behind
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Mom, she has done what she can to help me out
Favorite food: Prime rib
Place you would most like to travel: Alaska
Favorite movie: Water Boy
Favorite animal: Kawala

Name: Kasey Ray
Nickname: Kasey Ray
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Mathematics
Career Ambition: Undecided
Favorite pre-game food: Anything
Most people don’t know that you: Used to be in theatre in high school
Why did you choose Concordia? Coach Pries is the best college coach an athlete could ask for
Favorite musical performer: Mainstay
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? The Queen of England. That accent just gets to me
Favorite NFL player: Kurt Warner
Three words that would best describe you: Tall, skinny, Italian
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
No idea
Favorite book: Les Miserables
Best childhood memory: Playing in the championship game in little league baseball
Biggest role model and why: Chip Hilton
Favorite food: Steak
Place you would most like to travel: France
Favorite movie: Casablanca
Favorite animal: Prairie dog

Name: DJ Cooper
Nickname: Cadillac Coop,Coop de Ville, Coop the Poop
Year in School: Junior
Major: Mathematics, focus on computer science
Career Ambition: Be an engineer somewhere
Favorite pre-game food: Nothing
Most people don’t know that you: I’m an open book
Why did you choose Concordia? The feel of the campus and people and chance to grow in my faith
Favorite musical performer: Led Zeppelin
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My Grandpa Cooper, never got to know him like I wish I could’ve
Three words that would best describe you: Kinda smart, nice, good guy
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Have some sort of job I enjoy with my lovely wife and kids
Favorite book: Bible
Best childhood memory: Sitting at Lambert and watching planes fly overhead
Biggest role model and why: My dad, everything I want to be
Favorite movie: To End all Wars
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Michael Yurk
Nickname: Lurch
Year in School: Freshman
Major: DCE with specification in youth ministry
Career Ambition: To become a DCE with a large youth group
Favorite pre-game food: Chicken tenders
Most people don’t know that you: I did not play football in high school
Why did you choose Concordia? Because of my major and its relative location to GA
Favorite musical performer: 3 Doors Down
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre
Favorite NFL player: Calvin Johnson
Three words that would best describe you: Enduring, hard working, and courteous
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working at a church
Favorite book: The Five People You’ll Meet in Heaven
Best childhood memory: Going with my dad for ice cream after football practice
Biggest role model and why: Brett Favre, he endured so much pain physically, surely I can make it through mine
Favorite food: Steak with blue cheese butter
Place you would most like to travel: Germany
Favorite movie: A Walk to Remember
Favorite animal: Basset Hound

Bible Verse of the Week…
“ I, the Lord, will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” Psalm 32:8

Go Cougars!

Grilling Help

2008-09-19T09:51:00.002-05:00

We have had many hamburgers that have been donated for our players' table for tomorrow's post-game tailgating. I am looking for help in getting these grilled right after the game, before the players come out. I will begin grilling on the community grill near the players' table. If you can throw some burgers on your own grill, that would be GREAT! Please come on over to the players' table to get the burgers and then return them after they're grilled. This way the players can enjoy some great burgers without having to wait so long! Thank you! Go Cougars! ~Jennie

Cougar Gridiron News

2008-09-17T09:10:00.003-05:00

Cougar Gridiron News
Written by: Jennie Pries
Edition #28
9-16-08

Coach Pries’ Corner…
Thank you to everyone who came and supported the Cougars in the less than ideal conditions at Eureka this past weekend. Unfortunately, we did not play well and were defeated by the Red Devils. We did not adapt to the conditions, and we were also outplayed by our opponent. They capitalized on our mistakes, and we missed many opportunities to make plays ourselves. Our staff and our players were not satisfied with any part of our performance. We are looking forward to improving our play as well as seeing what kind of character we have as we take on a very experienced and talented Olivet team this Saturday.

A very encouraging event was our JV game this past Sunday vs. Aurora. After Saturday’s game, I was curious to see how some of our players would bounce back the very next day at Aurora. They executed well, hit hard, and played with a great amount of passion and enthusiasm. It was a great way to start off our week. We are looking forward to an intense, aggressive, and sharp week of practice as we get ready for this Saturday’s game. Hope to see you there!

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Second Home Game…
Join us as we cheer on the Cougars at their second home game vs. Olivet at 1:00! Weather.com says it will be 77 degrees and sunny! Go Cougars!

Tailgating…
Please join us before the game as well as after the game to tailgate! This is a great way to support our players and get to know other Concordia families, fans and alumni! Although we tend to hang out by our own vehicles, please feel free to wander and introduce yourselves to other fellow fans! Whether you pick up fast food for dinner or grill out, we invite you to be a part of the tailgating community! We had a large group of tailgaters at the first home game, and it was great to see so many people getting to know each other. Thank you for adhering to our guidelines and making it a safe and fun atmosphere!! We look forward to seeing even more tailgaters! All are welcome!

Community Grill...
Near the middle of the lot, near the player’s table, we will have a grill available for anyone who would like to use it. This way, you can simply bring some great meat to grill without having to haul your grill to each game! Another great way to meet more people!

General information regarding tailgating:
(Please note new procedures which will ensure safe tailgating.)

- Tailgating takes place in the David Jonathan parking lot, which is located at the corner of Augusta and Monroe, just south of the football field.
- Please enter the parking lot from Augusta, not from Monroe. Only those who need handicapped parking are allowed to enter from Monroe.
- Tailgating is first come, first served. Please drive to the northernmost part of the lot to find available spots. We will fill the lot from the north to the south.
- A new procedure for this year, to ensure our safety, is to have an “escort” walk ahead of your car when driving into the lot and also when backing out and leaving the lot. Upon entering and exiting, please have one of the passengers of your car escort you in to ensure that children are not in danger. If you don’t have a passenger, please ask someone nearby and we will be glad to help out! We do have a number of children in the parking lot who easily forget that it is indeed a parking lot with cars, so we appreciate your care in this matter!
- Please keep the middle of the lot clear with enough width for a care to pass through.
- Do not use extra spots for grills, chairs, etc.
- Please print off the “Cougar Tailgate Parking Pass,” located on the blog, and place on your dashboard to allow entrance into the Tailgating parking lot (also known as Tailgate Alley.) (You can copy and paste it into a word document and then print.) We have had problems in the past with the opposing team parking in our lot, so we would like you to show our security guard that you are indeed a Cougar Tailgating fan. Thanks!

Feed the Team…
After each home game, win or lose, our players come out to Tailgate Alley to hang out with families and fans. In the past, our tailgaters have been extremely generous to our players by bringing “extra” food so our hungry players can have something to eat.

This year, we would like to make this a bit easier for our tailgaters and also make it more special for our players. We will have tables set up for the players only, so they have a place to hang out, especially the players who do not have family attending the games. If you would like to bring some food or drinks for the players, we ask that you would place it on the “Football Players Only” table after the game. This is optional, and no one should feel obligated! Also, if you have a few lawn chairs that you could set near the table, it would give them a bit more seating. Thanks!

Also, each week we will have a theme for the players’ meal. For this week, the theme will be another good ole Midwestern grill -out of hamburgers (or other meat). So, feel free to bring hamburger meat and hamburger buns, or fruit, dessert, Gatorade or water. You can grill it on your own grill for the players or use the community grill that is provided. (It may be easiest if we also bring hamburger buns to accompany the meat you grill to ensure that all our hamburgers have a bun! J

If you have a second and could email me what you plan to bring, then I will have an idea of what and how much to expect. Feel free to email me as late as 9:00 Saturday morning at jenniepries@comcast.net. And if you don’t get a chance to email me, feel free to bring the food anyway! I don’t think we can have “too much” for all these hungry players! Thanks in advance to any who can help support our boys!

THANK YOU to all who brought food and drinks for the team at the last home game! It was great to see these players eating so much and even saying that they had eaten way too much! J Whether you brought food for the player table or offered it from your own grill, we appreciate how you continue to foster this football family atmosphere! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

Home Games Announced on the Radio…
For the broadcast of our home football games, please go to www.cuchicago.edu/wcgr which is the web site for our radio station. Enjoy!

Cougar Gridiron Club News (Booster Club)...
The Cougar Gridiron Club (booster club) was established two years ago. All annual fees are used for the improvement of the football program in various areas. If you would like to become a member, please contact Coach Pries or Jennie. Please know that you do not have to be an official (paying) member to attend meetings and to participate. ALL are welcome to be a part of it!!

If you have any questions, comments, ideas, or if you need a registration form, please feel free to email Coach or Jennie.

Thank you to all those who have joined the Gridiron Club! Your support for the football program is greatly appreciated!

Seat Reservations...
For the Gridiron members who are expecting your seat reservation decals, they are available. Please visit Bruce Weeks in Tailgate Alley to pick them up. Bruce is usually parked at the northernmost part of the lot. Just look for lots of Packer paraphernalia and you’ll be in the right place. Once you receive your decals, feel free to find a favorite spot in the stands and place the decals on the bleachers for your reserved seating throughout the season! Enjoy!

Cougar Gear...
If you would like to order any Cougar gear such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, etc, please go to http://www.milwaukeesportinggoods.com/ and order directly from there. Please let Jennie know if you have any questions.

Contact Information...
Need to get in touch with a coach? Here you go…

Erich Janousky
708-209-3019
erich.janousky@cuchicago.edu

Lonnie Pries
414.534.5281
Lonnie.pries@cuchicago.edu

Dan Rohde
708-209-3516
Daniel.rohde@cuchicago.edu

Game Photos…
One of our parents, Ginny Illich, has graciously agreed to take photos of all of our games. These will be posted on our blog early each week. Check out the blog for the great pictures from the scrimmage. Thanks, Ginny! This week we have pictures from the JV game at Aurora, but not from Eureka. If anyone has pictures from Eureka, please email them to Jennie and we can get them onto the blog. Thanks!!

Directions to Away Games…
Oct. 11 – Rockford College, Rockford, IL (76 miles) – Harlem Ave. south to I-290 west. I-290 to split, bear right (watch for Rockford signs). I-290/53 to I-90 (Jane Addams Tollway) west. I-90 west for about 50 miles (2 tolls) into Rockford, exit at State Street (Route 20 business, look for Clock Tower Inn). Turn right off of ramp, you will be going west towards downtown Rockford. State Street west for three miles, exit for college will be on right after you go past St. Anthony Hospital. Follow drive into main parking lot on right, football stadium will be visible.

Weekly Game Re-Cap…
Visit Concordia’s website, http://www.cucicago.edu/, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Edrod Valcin
Nickname: Eddie
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business
Career Ambition: Marketing Exec.
Favorite pre-game food: Brown rice and baked chicken
Most people don’t know that you: Love to cook
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Lisa Raye
Favorite NFL player: Willie Parker
Three words that would best describe you: Non-chalant, funny, smart
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Marketing Executive
Favorite book: The Bible
Best childhood memory: Going to the Everglades
Biggest role model and why: Mom – took care of me and my siblings
Favorite food: Ham-fried rice and honey chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Back home to Miami
Favorite movie: Friday Night Lights
Favorite animal: Alligator

Name: Andrew Howe
Nickname: Bus
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Theology
Career Ambition: Lutheran Pastor
Favorite pre-game food: Steak
Most people don’t know that you: Want to b a pastor
Why did you choose Concordia? God led me here
Favorite musical performer: Craig Morgan
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Grandma, she died when I was 5
Favorite NFL player: Roy Williams
Three words that would best describe you:
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Working and starting a family
Favorite book: Bible
Best childhood memory: Traveling to Washington D.C.
Biggest role model and why: Grandpas – they have taught me a lot of important things
Favorite food: Bratwurst
Place you would most like to travel: Germany or Central America
Favorite movie: Remember the Titans
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Tim Zbytniewski
Nickname: Sputnik
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Secondary Education
Career Ambition: Teacher/Football Coach
Favorite pre-game food: Bananas
Most people don’t know that you:Are an Eagle Scout
Why did you choose Concordia? Coaches, Christ-based school, Opportunities
Favorite musical performer: Trace Adkins
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Reggie White – to learn about his faith and his secrets of football
Favorite NFL player: Donald Driver
Three words that would best describe you: Helpful, determined, comical
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching and coaching
Favorite book: Firebringer
Best childhood memory: Watching the Packers win Super Bowl XXXI
Biggest role model and why:Parents, they have taught me so much about life and have brought me through a lot of stuff
Favorite food: Chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Jamaica
Favorite movie: Rambo 4
Favorite animal: Whitetail deer

Name: Bryan Tabor
Nickname: Tabes
Year in School: Junior
Major: Business Management and Exercise Science
Career Ambition: Own my own fitness club
Favorite pre-game food: All kinds of fruit with a PB & J
Most people don’t know that you: Enjoy dance off’s
Why did you choose Concordia? Close to home, good reputation
Favorite musical performer: Garth Brooks
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Matt Boswell, he rocks my world
Favorite NFL player: Devin Hester
Three words that would best describe you: Awesome, handsome, modest
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Married with children and hopefully my own business
Favorite book: Harry Potter
Best childhood memory: Meeting Santa
Biggest role model and why: My uncle, the amount of success and respect he has developed through his years
Favorite food: Pineapple
Place you would most like to travel: Italy or Japan
Favorite movie: Caddyshack
Favorite animal: Orangutang

Name: Matt Boswell
Nickname: Boz
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Secondary education – physical ed
Career Ambition: Be a PE teacher and coach football
Favorite pre-game food: Granola bar
Most people don’t know that you: Used to play soccer
Why did you choose Concordia? Great coaching staff, great school
Favorite musical performer: Radiohead
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Bryan Tabor, he is awesome
Favorite NFL player: Brian Urlacher
Three words that would best describe you: Persistant, considerate, energetic
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching and coaching
Favorite book: Bill Romanowski bibliography
Best childhood memory: Old swingset
Biggest role model and why: My parents made me who I am
Favorite food: Cheeseburger
Place you would most like to travel: Ireland
Favorite movie: Boondock Saints
Favorite animal: Dogs

Name: Jason Talos
Nickname:
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Accounting
Career Ambition: CPA
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Love to cook
Why did you choose Concordia? To get a good education
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Walter Payton, he was the greatest running back ever and I would love to meet him
Favorite NFL player: Ray Lewis
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, outgoing, thoughtful
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Hopefully teaching kids how to play football or baseball
Favorite book: Outsiders
Best childhood memory: Playing sports all day, every day
Biggest role model and why: My father, he has always been there for me and turned me into a man
Favorite food: Rice
Place you would most like to travel: Rome
Favorite movie: Goodfellas
Favorite animal: Cougar

Name: Eddie Anderson
Nickname: EA Sports
Year in School: Freshman
Major: English
Career Ambition: Teach high school/coach football
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Like to write
Why did you choose Concordia? Good teaching internship
Favorite musical performer: Eminem/Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Michael Phelps, he is a kid at heart and he’s the greatest athlete ever
Favorite NFL player: Peyton Manning
Three words that would best describe you: Outgoing, crazy, funny
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Teaching/coaching
Favorite book: None
Best childhood memory: Playing outside everyday
Biggest role model and why: Michael Jordan/he’s a champion on and off the court
Favorite food: Tacos
Place you would most like to travel: Hawaii
Favorite movie: Face off
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Clinton Boyd Jr.
Nickname:
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Computer science/minor in sociology
Career Ambition: Become a CEO at a big time computer company
Favorite pre-game food: None
Most people don’t know that you: Play chess
Why did you choose Concordia? I love the atmosphere on campus, I really feel that I can make an impact here on the field and in class
Favorite musical performer: Young Jeezy
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Martin Luther King Jr. because he is a big reason I carry myself the way I do
Favorite NFL player: Randy Moss
Three words that would best describe you: Fearless, dedicated, trustworthy
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Started on my career path
Favorite book: The Giver
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: My older brother
Favorite food: Philly cheesteak
Place you would most like to travel: France
Favorite movie: Troy
Favorite animal: German Shepherd

Name: Savonte Hunt
Nickname: Te aka Lil Te from Arthur
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Business Management
Career Ambition: Own a business
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit and chicken
Most people don’t know that you: Wear #27 in practice to represent my cousin Johnny Adams who passed last year
Why did you choose Concordia? Wanted to get away
Favorite musical performer: T.I.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Megan Goode, because I think I have a chance with her
Favorite NFL player: Adrian Peterson
Three words that would best describe you: Motivated, hardworking, funny
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Enjoying being rich
Favorite book:
Best childhood memory:Doing MC Hammer’s dance for my kindergarten graduation
Biggest role model and why: Michael Jordan, he worked hard for what he got
Favorite food: My mamas fried chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Carribean
Favorite movie: American Gangster
Favorite animal: Bird

Bible Verse of the Week…
“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.”
Psalm 54:4

Go Cougars!

2008-09-16T22:39:00.001-05:00

Cougar Tailgate Parking
Pass

Please print this (copy and paste) and place on your dashboard if you wish to park and/or tailgate in Tailgate Alley (David Jonathan parking lot.)
Thanks!

Please remember to have an escort walking in front of your vehicle when entering and exiting the lot to ensure the safety of our tailgaters and children.
Thanks!

Newsletter 9-10-08

2008-09-10T22:56:00.004-05:00

Cougar Gridiron Newsletter
Written by: Jennie Pries Edition #27
9-10-08

Coach Pries’ Corner…
Hello Cougar Fans! Thank you to everyone who made it to our season opener vs. Blackburn College this past weekend. If you did make it, you saw a pretty entertaining game. We started off a bit sluggish in the first quarter, but it was exciting to see the offense put the pedal down and light up the scoreboard in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. For our first game we were satisfied in a number of areas, but we also see many things that we can do better. As we head into this weekend’s game at Eureka, the players and coaches are very focused on improving in these areas and coming out ready to play our first road game.

I also wanted to thank all of the parents who came and participated in the post-game tailgating! We may have set a record for the number of brats that were digested in a short amount of time. It was great to see the parking lot full of fans, parents, families, and players after the game. The players appreciated all of the hospitality and food that was available for them. Thank you again for making game day a great experience!

Lastly, I wanted to inform you of a couple of other events that some of our players participated in on Monday evening. Our team chaplain, Bill Stevenson (a former Cougar himself), led a Bible study with a group of our players following dinner on Monday and discussed the topic of prayer. Later that evening a number of our players attended the first Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting of the school year. It was a fun and quite messy event! In addition to seeing these student-athletes do great things on the field, it is encouraging for me to see them get involved in some of these other opportunities on campus.

We can’t wait for this weekend – hope to see you there!!

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Away Game This Saturday…
Come cheer on the Cougars AT Eureka College this Saturday, September 13th. Kickoff is at 1:00! (We don’t organize any tailgating activities for away games, but feel free to tailgate on your own, or try to find other Cougar families who may be tailgating. We also don’t feed the team after the games since they usually stop at a restaurant on the way home.)

These directions to Eureka are from Concordia:

- Turn RIGHT onto N HARLEM AVE/IL-43, 1.7 mi
- Merge onto I-290 W/EISENHOWER EXPY W, 5.2 mi
- Keep LEFT to take I-88 W/RONALD REAGAN MEMORIAL TOLLWAY via EXIT 15A toward AURORA/I-294 S/INDIANA (Portions toll). 0.5 mi
- Merge onto I-294 S toward INDIANA (Portions toll). 7.2 mi
- Merge onto I-55 S toward STEVENSON EXPY/ST, 91.3 mi
- Take the US-24 exit, EXIT 187, toward CHENOA/EI PASO. 0.4 mi
- Take the ramp toward EL PASO. 0.0 mi
- Turn LEFT onto US-24/E 3100 NORTH RD. Continue to follow US-24. 28 mi
- Turn LEFT onto S MAIN ST/IL-117. 0.5 mi
- Turn LEFT onto E COLLEGE ST. 0.2 mi
- End at 300 E College Ave Eureka, IL 61530-1562

Estimated Time: 2 hours 33 minutes Estimated Distance: 135.21 miles

Away JV Game This Sunday…
Come cheer on the Cougars for more football on Sunday!
Date: Sunday, September 14, 2008
Opponent: Aurora’s JV
Location: Aurora University – Aurora, IL
Gametime: 3:30 p.m.

Close to half of our players will be suiting up to take on Aurora’s JV squad. They will be given the opportunity to get some extended playing time, gain experience, and show the coaching staff the progress they have made so far this season. Again, we don’t organize any tailgating activities for away games, but feel free to tailgate on your own, or try to find other Cougar families who may be tailgating. The following directions are from Concordia:
- I-290 West/Eisenhower Expy W, 4.6 mi
- Keep LEFT to take I-88 W/ RONALD REAGAN MEMORIAL TOLLWAY via EXIT 15A toward AURORA/ I-294 S/ INDIANA (Portions toll), 2.0 mi
- Keep RIGHT at the fork to continue on I-88 W/ RONALD REAGAN MEMORIAL TOLLWAY (Portions toll), 19.2 mi
- Take the NORTH FARNSWORTH AVE exit. 0.4 mi
- Turn SHARP LEFT onto N FARNSWORTH AVE/ CR-77. Continue to follow N FARNSWORTH AVE, 0.5 mi
- Turn RIGHT onto MOLITOR RD, 0.4 mi
- Turn LEFT onto CHURCH RD, 0.9 mi
- Turn RIGHT onto E INDIAN TRL, 2.2 mi
- Turn LEFT onto N ELMWOOD DR, 1.6 mi
- Turn RIGHT onto KENSINGTON PL, 0.4 mi
- Turn LEFT onto S GLADSTONE AVE, 0.2 mi
- End at 347 S Gladstone Ave Aurora, IL 60506
- Estimated Time: 55 minutes Estimated Distance: 34.52 miles

Thank you!
Thank you so much to all of you who helped feed our hungry boys after the game last week! We had ample food donations for our “player table” and the players also made the rounds to the other food that was offered from individual families. They seemed well fed and happy! Thank you so much for helping to make them feel part of a Family. Your generosity and care speaks volumes to these young men, especially those who are far away from their families. We want them to feel that they have a “second” Family here at Concordia, and you are making that happen. Thank you!!

Feed the Team…
If you are thinking ahead to the next HOME game (on September 20th), we are planning to have another grill-out for our player table. Since we grilled brats last week, we will be grilling hamburgers for them next. If you would like to contribute, please feel free to bring any of the following: hamburgers as well as hamburger buns, toppings such as onions, tomatoes, lettuce, etc., fruit, dessert, Gatorade, or water. We brought lots of chips last time, but they didn’t seem as popular as the main course, fruit and desserts. J Thanks, in advance!

Cougar Gridiron Club News (Booster Club)…
The Cougar Gridiron Club (booster club) was established two years ago. All annual fees are used for the improvement of the football program in various areas. If you would like to become a member, please contact Coach Pries or Jennie. Please know that you do not have to be an official (paying) member to attend meetings and to participate. ALL are welcome to be a part of it!!

If you have any questions, comments, ideas, or if you need a registration form, please feel free to email Coach or Jennie.

Thank you to all those who have joined the Gridiron Club! Your support for the football program is greatly appreciated!

Cougar Gear…
If you would like to order any Cougar gear such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, etc, please go to http://www.milwaukeesportinggoods.com/ and order directly from there. Please let Jennie know if you have any questions.

Contact Information…
Need to get in touch with a coach? Here you go…

Erich Janousky
708.209.3019
erich.janousky@cuchicago.edu

Lonnie Pries
414.534.5281
Lonnie.pries@cuchicago.edu

Dan Rohde
708.209.3516
Daniel.rohde@cuchicago.edu

Cougar Tailgate Parking Pass
Sorry for the confusion at the first home game! When we posted the newsletter onto the blog last week, some information was omitted accidentally, including the Cougar Tailgate Parking Pass. In next week’s newsletter, I will have the Parking Pass included so that you can print it and put it on your dashboard for entrance into the David Jonathan parking lot.

Game Photos…
One of our parents, Ginny Illich, has graciously agreed to take photos of all of our games. These will be posted on our blog early each week. Check out the blog for the great pictures from the first home game. Thanks, Ginny!

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: David Sodetz
Nickname:
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Law and Justice
Career Ambition: Fire Fighter
Favorite pre-game food: French toast and orange juice
Most people don’t know that you: Like to be romantic
Why did you choose Concordia? To play football at the next level
Favorite musical performer: Aero Smith
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre, to meet the greatest QB ever
Favorite NFL player: Brett Favre
Three words that would best describe you: Outgoing, creative, smart
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? A fire fighter and have a great family
Favorite book: My Bloody Life
Best childhood memory: Wiget football
Biggest role model and why: Brett Favre because he never gives up and plays every game
Favorite food: Lemon rice chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Costa Rica
Favorite movie: The Departed
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Felipe Hernandez
Nickname: Pipee
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Architecture
Career Ambition: Architect
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta!
Most people don’t know that you: Are 5'6" and playing football! HaHa!
Why did you choose Concordia? A great opportunity to get a great education
Favorite musical performer: Sting and The Police
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My grandmother because I never had a chance to really know who she was
Favorite NFL player: Dan Marino
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, smart, friendly
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Designing buildings in Miami, Chicago, and New York
Favorite book: Child Called It
Best childhood memory: Playing pop-warner football for the Miami Beach Bulldogs
Biggest role model and why: My father - he didn't really know what he wanted when he was young, and overcame those difficult obstacles, now he has his master's in social work
Favorite food: Rice, beans, and steak
Place you would most like to travel: Paris, France
Favorite movie: Forrest Gump
Favorite animal: Dog - Boxer

Name: Drew Davidson
Nickname: Hey You
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Media communications
Career Ambition: Get a job with ESPN or play major league baseball
Favorite pre-game food: Gatorade and gum
Most people don’t know that you: Really like baseball
Why did you choose Concordia? Becasue I felt it was the right place to be
Favorite musical performer: Coldplay
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? George W. Bush
Favorite NFL player: Bobby Carpenter, Dallas Cowboys
Three words that would best describe you: Really good athlete
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Hopefully have a job and be involved in sports
Favorite book: The Bible
Best childhood memory: All of them
Biggest role model and why: My parents
Favorite food: Buffalo Wings
Place you would most like to travel: Cooperstown
Favorite movie: Anchorman
Favorite animal: Hippopotomus

Name: Chris Corley
Nickname: Lil Dawg
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Physical therapist
Career Ambition: Football player
Favorite pre-game food: Spaghetti
Most people don’t know that you: Are easy going
Why did you choose Concordia? To better myself as a man
Favorite musical performer: Lil Boosie
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Beyonce
Favorite NFL player: Jones Drew
Three words that would best describe you: Crazy and humorous
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? In the NFL
Favorite book: Captain Underpants
Best childhood memory: Pop warner football
Biggest role model and why: Noel Devine because in high school he was a problem child
Favorite food: Spaghetti
Place you would most like to travel: Brazil
Favorite movie: Boyz in the Hood
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Khyree Copeland
Nickname: Kid
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Sports management
Career Ambition: Be a scout and coach for a bit, then learn how draw and start a cartoon
Favorite pre-game food: Chicken alfredo
Most people don’t know that you: I'm quick
Why did you choose Concordia? To get out of Florida
Favorite musical performer: Lil Boosie
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Monesha Headen
Favorite NFL player: Sean Taylor - RIP
Three words that would best describe you: I don't know
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Probably overseas being either a scout or still playing
Favorite book: Friday Night Lights
Best childhood memory: Can't remember
Biggest role model and why: Parents, they gave up a lot so I could have a future
Favorite food: Seafood
Place you would most like to travel: Virgin Island
Favorite movie: The Incredible Hulk
Favorite animal: A white tiger

Name: Terrence Miller
Nickname: Da Train
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Sports Med
Career Ambition: Sport doctor
Favorite pre-game food: Pizza
Most people don’t know that you: Play the drums
Why did you choose Concordia? God led me here
Favorite musical performer: Lil Boosie
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My whole family - it never happened
Favorite NFL player: Maurice Jones-Drew
Three words that would best describe you: Man of Valor
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? God's will
Favorite book: The Bible
Best childhood memory: Playing football with my brother
Biggest role model and why: Jesus, who's better?
Favorite food: Pizza
Place you would most like to travel: Africa
Favorite movie: Friday Night Lights
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Nate Bahr
Nickname: Bahr
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Physical education - secondary education
Career Ambition: Father, teacher, coach
Favorite pre-game food: Quaker toasted oatmeal squares
Most people don’t know that you: Wish Concordia had golf, because I love it
Why did you choose Concordia? Coach Pries and football, parents, alumni, quality academic tradition
Favorite musical performer: Old Michael Jackson
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Tiger Woods, would love to learn how he is so mentally tough
Favorite NFL player: Brett Favre, no doubt about it
Three words that would best describe you: Fun
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Father, teacher, coach
Favorite book: Bourne Series
Best childhood memory: Playing sports with my dad and brothers
Biggest role model and why:
Favorite food: Quiznos classic club with bacon
Place you would most like to travel: Scotland - to play golf
Favorite movie: The Dark Knight
Favorite animal: Easy - Cougar

Name: Alon Heywood
Nickname: Superman
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Communications
Career Ambition: To help people
Favorite pre-game food: Chicken alfredo
Most people don’t know that you: Are very kind even though I don't smile a lot
Why did you choose Concordia? I wanted to go to a small school and play football
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Jesus
Favorite NFL player: Ladanian Tomlinson
Three words that would best describe you: Determined, honest, God-fearing
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now?
Helping people in every area
Favorite book: The Bible
Best childhood memory: Going to the beach at the US Virgin Islands (my birthplace)
Biggest role model and why: Jesus, He is perfect
Favorite food: Lasagna
Place you would most like to travel: Europe
Favorite movie: The Incredible Hulk
Favorite animal: White Tiger

Bible Verse of the Week…
“With God’s help we will do mighty things.” ~Psalm 60:12

Go Cougars!

Game Pictures

2008-09-10T08:32:00.003-05:00

A link to pictures from last weeks game against Blackburn College has been added on the right side of this page. Again many thanks to Ginny Illich for taking and providing these pictures.

Congratulations!

2008-09-09T08:49:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to RB Khyree Copeland from Jacksonville, FL (Potter's House Academy) who was named Offensive Player of the Week for the September 6th game. Khyree ran for 136 yards on 17 carries for an 8 yard per carry average. On three of those 17 carries, Khyree and the Cougar offense found the endzone.
Please check out the full writeup on the Northern Athletics Conference website at http://northernac.org/sports/football/weekly_awards/.

Second Quarter Outburst Fuels Cougars' Win over Blackburn - Jim Egan

2008-09-08T14:45:00.001-05:00

September 6, 2008 - It took a little while for the Concordia Chicago football team to get things going in Saturday's season opener against Blackburn College. However, once the Cougars got their engines roaring, there was no stopping them. A big 27-point second quarter put the home team in charge of the contest, and they would cruise to a 41-15 victory. The rout marked the third straight season-opening victory for Cougar head coach Lonnie Pries.
Blackburn won the toss and marched down the field on their opening drive. The Beavers reached the 24, but the defense stiffened and freshman Terrence Miller's (Jacksonville, FL/Potter's House Academy) tackle on a fourth-down pass play gave the Cougars their first possession. However, the Cougars fumbled the ball away moments later, and the defense was called upon again to keep the visitors at bay. They were successful yet again when Miller and Cory Howard (Ocala, FL/Vanguard) brought down quarterback Chris Farrar two yards short of the marker on a fourth-and-five at the 31.
The Cougars' third possession would finally result in a score. Junior Mike Marotta (Brookfield, IL/Riverside-Brookfield) completed passes of 13 yards to Mike Egebrecht (Wheeling, IL/Buffalo Grove), 12 yards to Lukas Weeks (Downers Grove, IL/South) and 12 yards to Savonte Hunt (Archer, FL/Buchholz) to move the ball into the red zone. The Cougars reached the six-yard line and, on third down, Khyree Copeland (Jacksonville, FL/Potter's House Academy) ran left, found a hole and raced into the end zone. The extra point missed, leaving the score at 6-0 Cougars with 13:12 remaining in the second quarter.
Concordia struck again on their next possession, marching 85 yards in nine plays. A 19-yard run by Copeland and 18-yard reception by Egebrecht provided the big plays on the drive, and Egebrecht would wind up with the score when he hauled in a 10-yard pass from Marotta in the back corner of the end zone. The extra point by Ben Price (Georgetown, TX/Georgetown) upped Concordia's lead to 13-0.
Blackburn would answer with their initial score, getting some strong inside rushing by Donovan Lewis. The drive stalled at the seven, and Brad Shaner came on to boot a 25-yard field goal with 1:22 remaining in the half.
The final 82 seconds of the half would serve to swing all momentum to the home team. Marotta completed a 42-yard pass to freshman Jamal Thomas (Weirsdale, FL/Lake Weir) to put the Cougars in striking range. Three plays later, Marotta found Weeks from 12 yards out for a 20-3 lead. It appeared as if that would be the halftime score but, on the first play after the kickoff, Blackburn fumbled while trying to run out the clock. Howard recovered at the eight, and the Cougars needed just two plays to punch it in for another score. Copeland would do the honors from a yard out, and the teams went into the half with Concordia leading 27-3.
Blackburn found the end zone with 5:39 remaining in the third quarter, following a 17-yard interception return by Josh Glisson. Farrar's pass to Bryan Reynolds put the Beavers at the one-yard line, and Lewis plunged in on the next play. A two-point conversion was unsuccessful, and Concordia's lead was trimmed to 27-9. However, the Cougars needed just 16 seconds to answer that score. Copeland took a hand-off on the first play after the kickoff and outraced the defense 67 yards for his third touchdown of the afternoon and a 34-9 lead.
Concordia's speed manifested itself again on the next possession as Thomas caught a short pass from Marotta and accelerated past the secondary to reach the end zone some 69 yards later. Price's kick gave the Cougars their final point of the day with 2:15 remaining in the third.
Blackburn ended the scoring early in the fourth, marching 58 yards to score on a five-yard run by Dee Cannon. The rest of the quarter was played mostly between the tackles for both teams, giving Coach Pries the opportunity to play more of the freshmen. Running back Chris Corley (Jacksonville, FL/University Christian) capitalized on his opportunity, carrying the ball six times and gaining 39 yards with a long of 13.
Copeland finished with 136 rushing yards on 17 carries, accounting for much of the team's 180 yards on the ground. The Cougars passed for 236 yards, with Marotta throwing 12-23 for 229 and three touchdowns. Blackburn, by contrast, ran for 186 yards on 56 carries and threw for 153 yards on a combined 11 of 25. Concordia's defense was led by senior Steve Malok (Niles, IL/Buffalo Grove) with five solo tackles and four tackle assists. The Cougars were credited with two takeaways on Howard's fumble recovery and freshman David Sodetz's (Chicago, IL/Kennedy) interception.
"We started out slowly, but our defense came up with a couple of big stops, and our speed accounted for some big plays once we found our offensive rhythm," said Pries. "I think our offensive line played a great game, and they made a lot of things possible for us in both our running and passing games."
The Cougars will travel to Eureka College next Saturday for a 1:00 game against their former Illini-Badger conference rival.

Cougar Football Preview - by Jim Egan, Concordia SID

2008-09-05T15:11:00.002-05:00

Our Cougar football team takes the field at 1:00 tomorrow for the 2008 season opener against Blackburn College. Concordia will be looking for their third straight opening win over the Battlin' Beavers following last year's 33-14 win in Carlinville and a 13-3 win in 2006, the game that got Coach Lonnie Pries' CUC coaching career off to a roaring start. Coach Pries has moved the team forward in each of his first two years, and this year will look to be more of the same while dealing with the challenges of play in the new (for football) Northern Athletics Conference. Gone are the old Illini-Badger rivals Greenville and MacMurray (although Eureka will stay on this year as a non-conference opponent), and in their place will be new football rivals Wisconsin Lutheran (Oct. 4), Rockford (Oct. 11) and Maranatha Baptist (Oct. 25).
Tomorrow's game will feature the debut of several players while still retaining many of the familiar faces from last year. On offense, Mike Marotta will start at quarterback, having held off the challenges from a couple of newcomers in camp. Marotta will not be a stranger in the position, as he started five games in 2007 and led the team to wins over Benedictine and MacMurray. The junior QB will have plenty of targets, as is customary with the Cougars' offense of the last few years. Lukas Weeks and Savonte Hunt have earned starting positions at wide receiver and slotback respectively, while speedster Jamal Thomas (Weirsdale, FL/Lake Weir H.S.) will also figure prominently at receiver. A hearty "welcome back" goes out to Mike Egebrecht who sat out the 2007 season but has rejoined the team to contribute at slotback and possibly as a return man for special teams.Khyree Copeland will pose a threat to opposing defenses once again in the backfield. The 5'8" sophomore rushed for over 650 yards last year and enjoyed his best game against Blackburn with a combined 225 yards in rushing and receiving. Copeland's speed and elusiveness may become even more dangerous this year behind an offensive line that returns three starters (Francisco Vargas, Mason Thompson, Phil Klopke), a fourth-year veteran (John Lally) and a converted defensive lineman (Chip Wylie). The offensive line averages 6'1" and 280 pounds per man, and the combination of size and experience bodes very well for both the rushing and passing games.
On defense, the Cougars' three-man front will include two returning sophomore ends in Matt Boswell and Cory Howard, and they will flank freshman nose guard and Walther Lutheran grad Steven Campbell. The core of linebackers will feature an interesting mix of new and old - the newcomers are middle linebacker David Ewart (Ocala, FL/Lake Weir H.S.) and outside backer Terrence Miller (Jacksonville, FL/Potter's House Academy). Senior Ricky Lach, like Egebrecht, is back after missing the 2007 season, and he is expected to hold down the other outside position. The two inside positions are held by senior Steve Malok and sophomore Jason Talos.In the secondary, the experience and leadership of junior Jarin Davis will come into play at one of the corner positions. Cory Volkman will play at the other corner, while newcomer Jonathan Stephens (South Holland, IL/Thornridge H.S.) will step in at the free safety position. Stephens is another player that may have the ability to contribute on special teams.
The Cougars were picked to finish seventh in this year's pre-season poll of the NAC coaches, but Pries and the Cougars have higher expectations. "Lakeland and Concordia Wisconsin are always tough, and Rockford may be the best of our new conference opponents," allows Pries. "But our confidence has grown in leaps and bounds these past two years, and we are fully confident that we can compete and win against anybody if we take care of our business."

Cougar Gridiron Newsletter

2008-09-04T13:25:00.006-05:00

Coach Pries’ Corner…
Welcome back to a new season of Cougar Football! This Saturday’s game vs. Blackburn College couldn’t have come soon enough. We are looking forward to finally hitting someone else besides ourselves. For those of you who were at our Maroon and Gold Scrimmage this past Saturday, you were able to see firsthand some of the many improvements we have already made from last year. Our special teams will be much improved, our team speed has greatly increased, and our overall depth is evident as shown by the quality of the play throughout our scrimmage. On top of all that, we have twice as many returners as last year, which brings with it much needed experience and veteran leadership. Our base offense and defense will remain the same, and we hope to improve dramatically on both sides of the ball.

Thank you for your great support, and I look forward to serving your sons throughout this season and the school year.

In His Service,

Coach Pries

Welcome to the Cougar Football Family!
To all the new and returning families ~ WELCOME to the 2008 season!! We are so glad that you are a part of our Cougar Football Family at Concordia, and we hope that your time here will create many wonderful memories!

Please feel free to introduce yourselves to each other at our first home game so that we can get to know one another. We have families from a number of different states this year, and we want everyone to feel welcomed!

First Home Game:
Join us as we cheer on the Cougars at their first home game vs. Blackburn at 1:00! Weather.com says it will be 75 degrees and sunny! Go Cougars!

Tailgating…
Please join us before the game as well as after the game to tailgate! This is a great way to support our players and get to know other Concordia families, fans and alumni! Although we tend to hang out by our own vehicles, please feel free to wander and introduce yourselves to other fellow fans! Whether you pick up fast food for dinner or grill out, we invite you to be a part of the tailgating community!

Community Grill:
Near the middle of the lot, we will have a grill available for anyone who would like to use it. This way, you can simply bring some great meat to grill without having to haul your grill to each game! Another great way to meet more people!

General information regarding tailgating: (Please note new procedures which will ensure safe tailgating.)

- Tailgating takes place in the David Jonathan parking lot, which is located at the corner of Augusta and Monroe, just south of the football field. See map below. This is labeled as “Restricted Parking Lot 1” on the map (but it’s not restricted to the Cougar fans!) J
- Please enter the parking lot from Augusta, not from Monroe. Only those who need handicapped parking are allowed to enter from Monroe.
- Tailgating is first come, first served. Please drive to the northernmost part of the lot to find available spots. We will fill the lot from the north to the south.
- A new procedure for this year, to ensure our safety, is to have an “escort” walk ahead of your car when driving into the lot and also when backing out and leaving the lot. Upon entering and exiting, please have one of the passengers of your car escort you in to ensure that children are not in danger. If you don’t have a passenger, please ask someone nearby and we will be glad to help out! We do have a number of children in the parking lot who easily forget that it is indeed a parking lot with cars, so we appreciate your care in this matter!
- Please keep the middle of the lot clear with enough width for a care to pass through.
- Do not use extra spots for grills, chairs, etc.
- Please print off the “Cougar Tailgate Parking Pass” (located at the very end of this newsletter) and place on your dashboard to allow entrance into the Tailgating parking lot (also known as Tailgate Alley.) We have had problems in the past with the opposing team parking in our lot, so we would like you to show our security guard that you are indeed a Cougar Tailgating fan. Thanks!

Feed the Team…
After each home game, win or lose, our players come out to Tailgate Alley to hang out with families and fans. In the past, our tailgaters have been extremely generous to our players by bringing “extra” food so our hungry players can have something to eat.

This year, we would like to make this a bit easier for our tailgaters and also make it more special for our players. We will have tables and some chairs set up for the players only, so they have a place to hang out, especially the players who do not have family attending the games. If you would like to bring some food or drinks for the players, we ask that you would place it on the “Football Players Only” table after the game. This is optional, and no one should feel obligated! Also, if you have a few lawn chairs that you could set near the table, it would give them a bit more seating. Thanks!

Also, each week we will have a theme for the players’ meal. For example, in November, when it’s cold, we will feed them a chili meal. For this week, the theme will be a good ole Midwestern grill out. So, feel free to bring brats (especially all you from Wisconsin), J hamburgers, chicken, etc. You can grill it on your own grill for the players or use the community grill that is provided. It may be easiest if we also bring brat/hamburger buns to accompany the meat you grill. Or feel free to bring side dishes such as potato salad, etc. Desserts are always a big hit for our guys, and drinks could include water or Gatorade, etc. If someone would like to pick up plates, forks, napkins, ketchup, mustard, etc. that would be great.

If you have a second and could email me what you plan to bring, then I will have an idea of what and how much to expect. Feel free to email me as late as 9:00 Saturday morning at jenniepries@comcast.net. And if you don’t get a chance to email me, feel free to bring the food anyway! I don’t think we can have “too much” for all these hungry players! Thanks in advance to any who can help support our boys!

Home Games Announced on the Radio…
For the broadcast of our home football games, please go to www.cuchicago.edu/wcgr which is the web site for our radio station. Enjoy!

Cougar Gridiron Club News (Booster Club)
The Cougar Gridiron Club (booster club) was established two years ago. All annual fees are used for the improvement of the football program in various areas. If you would like to become a member, please contact Coach Pries or Jennie. Please know that you do not have to be an official (paying) member to attend meetings and to participate. ALL are welcome to be a part of it!!

If you have any questions, comments, ideas, or if you need a registration form, please feel free to email Coach or Jennie.

Thank you to all those who have joined the Gridiron Club! Your support for the football program is greatly appreciated!

Cougar Gear
If you would like to order any Cougar gear such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, etc, please go to http://www.milwaukeesportinggoods.com/ and order directly from there. Please let Jennie know if you have any questions.

Contact Information
Need to get in touch with a coach? Here you go…

Erich Janousky
708.209.3019
erich.janousky@cuchicago.edu

Lonnie Pries
414.534.5281
lonnie.pries@cuchicago.edu

Dan Rohde
708.209.3516
daniel.rohde@cuchicago.edu

Game Photos…
One of our parents, Ginny Illich, has graciously agreed to take photos of all of our games. These will be posted on our blog early each week. Check out the blog for the great pictures from the scrimmage. Thanks, Ginny!

Weekly Game Re-Cap…
Visit Concordia’s website, http://www.cuchicago.edu/athletics/men/football/index.asp, to find a detailed recap of each game. Go to “athletics” and then “football” to find the articles written by Jim Egan. Thanks, Jim!!

Last Week’s Scrimmage…
Thanks to the parents who attended the scrimmage last Saturday as well as tailgated. It was great to see the boys back out on the Gridiron! See the blog for some great pics.

Community Comment
The following is an email that Lonnie received last year:

On Friday night my family (which includes my husband, our five year old daughter and our two year old son) and I went to Krispy Kreme south on Harlem. When we pulled up I saw a group of about 8-10 adolescent guys and I immediately hoped that they would not be loud or vulgar in front of myself and especially not my children. I was pleasantly surprised to see that these young guys were extremely quiet and were not at all what I was dreading (I know – shame on me for stereotyping.) I then noticed that they were Concordia football players and so I introduced myself and my son, who is already crazy about football. One of the guys gave him a card with your schedule and my son was very happy. So I wanted to make sure that I sent a note to their football coach on how well mannered they were and on their gentleness and nice disposition they displayed when interacting with my son, who talked about them for the remainder of the evening. I wish them the best for the remainder of their college careers and throughout the rest of their life’s endeavors.

May God keep you,

Tomeka Holloway

Player Spotlight….
This section will spotlight a few players at a time so that you can learn who is really behind the helmet…

Name: Eric Lewis
Nickname: Lew Lew
Year in School: Senior
Major: Physical education / K-12
Career Ambition: Teach elementary PE and coach football
Favorite pre-game food: None
Most people don’t know that you: Wanted to be an actor
Why did you choose Concordia? The people here
Favorite musical performer: Kenny Chesney
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My grandfather, I never met him and would have liked to
Favorite NFL player: Brett Favre
Three words that would best describe you: Energetic, dedicated, fun
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Hopefully teaching and coaching
Favorite book: The Outsiders
Best childhood memory: Seeing the Packers play at Lambeau Field
Biggest role model and why: Older cousins, they keep me focused
Favorite food: Pasta
Place you would most like to travel: Brazil and Ireland
Favorite movie: The Program
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Randall Tisdale
Nickname: Randy / Tiz
Year in School: Senior
Major: Management
Career Ambition: Entreprenuer
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit
Most people don’t know that you:
Why did you choose Concordia? Its location
Favorite musical performer: Erika Badu
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My mother, she’s the best thing that happened to me
Favorite NFL player: Donavon Darius
Three words that would best describe you: Determined, focus, loving
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Supporting my family, working hard to make a better life
Favorite book: The Divine Nine
Best childhood memory: The birth of both of my little brothers
Biggest role model and why: Barack Obama, he’s showing anything is possible
Favorite food: Black beans and rice
Place you would most like to travel: Brazil
Favorite movie: Love and basketball
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Dennsa Mohamed
Nickname: D-Money
Year in School: Junior
Major: Biology and Chemistry
Career Ambition: Become a pharmacist
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta and marina meat sauce w/ garlic bread
Most people don’t know that you: Are a senior this year academically
Why did you choose Concordia? It allowed me to get an education as well as play sports
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? My father because he has great insight into real life experiences
Favorite NFL player: Antrel Rolle
Three words that would best describe you: Dependable, passionate, hard-working
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? I will be a big pharmacist at a major medical center
Favorite book: Letters to a Black Brother
Best childhood memory: My trip to Disneyland with my mom and sister
Biggest role model and why: Uncle Omar because he has
accomplished what I am striving to be
Favorite food: Italian food
Place you would most like to travel: The Smithsonian in D.C.
Favorite movie: Super bad
Favorite animal: Tiger

Name: Francisco Vargas
Nickname: Cisco
Year in School: Junior
Major: Law and Justice
Career Ambition: Chicago police officer
Favorite pre-game food: Fruit
Most people don’t know that you: Listen to country music
Why did you choose Concordia? Opportunity to play football
Favorite musical performer: R. Kelly
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?
Favorite NFL player: Anyone on the Bears
Three words that would best describe you: Fun, unique, calm
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working as a lawyer
Favorite book: The Kite Runner
Best childhood memory: Playing youth football
Biggest role model and why: My dad, taught me how to work hard for what you want
Favorite food: Everything
Place you would most like to travel: Anywhere in Spain
Favorite movie: Friday night lights
Favorite animal: Lion

Name: Cory Howard
Nickname: Cho
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Business management
Career Ambition: Own a business
Favorite pre-game food: Mac and cheese
Most people don’t know that you: Used to play center in h.s.
Why did you choose Concordia? Get away from home, higher education, play football
Favorite musical performer: Fergie
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Vida Guerra, take one look at her and you tell me
Favorite NFL player: Dallas Cowboys
Three words that would best describe you: Laid back, determined
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Playing DE for the Dallas Cowboys
Favorite book: Where’s Waldo
Best childhood memory: Getting hit by a rock on my forehead
Biggest role model and why: Mom, no matter what life throws at her she overcomes it
Favorite food: Fried chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Hawaii
Favorite movie: Transformers
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Jon Rich
Nickname: Jon
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Business
Career Ambition: Own my own business
Favorite pre-game food: Spaghetti
Most people don’t know that you:
Why did you choose Concordia? Football
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Brett Favre, have grown up watching him and love how he plays
Favorite NFL player: Brett Favre
Three words that would best describe you: Funny, easy going
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Working for a big company
Favorite book: Face book
Best childhood memory: Catching my first fish
Biggest role model and why: My dad, he works hard and his priorities straight
Favorite food: BBQ ribs
Place you would most like to travel: Hawaii
Favorite movie: Wedding Crashers
Favorite animal: Dog

Name: Gianni Esposito
Nickname: Gio
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Business
Career Ambition: Financial advisor
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Play guitar
Why did you choose Concordia? Loved the coaches
Favorite musical performer: Jimi Hendrix
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Einstein, maybe a little of his genius would rub off on me
Favorite NFL player: Walter Payton
Three words that would best describe you: Quiet, funny, witty
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Hopefully in a steady job
Favorite book: Of Mice and Men
Best childhood memory: Learning how to ride a bike
Biggest role model and why: Jesus Christ, the only one worth
following in the footsteps of
Favorite food: Burrito
Place you would most like to travel: Northern Italy
Favorite movie: A Clockwork Orange
Favorite animal: Monkeys

Name: Steve Campbell
Nickname: Campbell
Year in School: Freshman
Major: Accounting
Career Ambition: Be all I can be
Favorite pre-game food: Pasta
Most people don’t know that you: Tumble
Why did you choose Concordia? To get a great education and play football
Favorite musical performer: Lil Wayne
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why? Ray Lewis, he’s my idol
Favorite NFL player: Ray Lewis
Three words that would best describe you: Cool, calm, collective
What do you think you will be doing ten years from now? Living life with my family
Favorite book: The Outsiders
Best childhood memory:
Biggest role model and why: Grandfather, taught me the value of hard work
Favorite food: Chicken
Place you would most like to travel: Hawaii
Favorite movie: All About the Benjamins
Favorite animal: Snake

Mom to Mom…
To all of you Moms…Please know that you can contact me anytime. Also know that I am praying for you throughout the year, knowing that it must be an adjustment, to say the least, to have your son away at school. My son is only 7 (oops – 7 ½ as he always reminds me), and I can’t imagine how difficult it will be someday. I’m sure you’re proud of your son’s college progress, but I’m sure you also miss him. Again, please know that there is a female among all the football players and coaches who you can contact if you need anything at all!

Here is a little something I read recently that a mom can relate to… J

~ I told my boys, aged nine and six, that I wanted to stop and get some hair coloring. My six year old asked what color I was getting and why. I told him that it was just to cover my gray and left it at that. They were like kids in a candy store, searching for the “perfect” color. We agreed on one, bought it, and left. That weekend, at church, a lady said she really liked the color of my hair. My nine-year-old beamed and said, “Thanks, I picked it out!”

Bible Verse of the Week…
“Cast the whole of your cares (all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all) on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.”
~ I Peter 5:7

Go Cougars!

Pictures

2008-09-01T10:06:00.003-05:00

After each weeks game parents and friends are invited to submit any pictures they have taken to be listed on the blog for all Cougar fans to see. The best way to share your pictures is to upload them into one of the various online photo albums such as "Shutterfly" or "Photobucket." Please email the link to Jennie Pries at jenniepries@comcast.net. The links will be posted here on the blog on the right hand side of the page.

A special thank you to Ginny Illich for the pictures from Saturday's Maroon and Gold Scrimmage!

2008 Cougar Scrimmage

2008-08-26T11:06:00.002-05:00

2008 Cougar Scrimmage
Saturday, August 23
Warm ups – 8:30 am
Scrimmage – 9:00 am

Tailgating
Tailgating will take place following the scrimmage in the David Jonathan parking lot located at the corner of Augusta Street and Monroe Street.
Whether you bring a grill or just a cold sandwich, come and join the Cougar Family!
This is a great way to get to know fellow parents and fans and also show our fan support to our COUGARS!
We will have a table set up for players who do not have family in the area. If you have extra food (of any kind) to bring for this table, that is always appreciated by our players! Feel free to introduce yourself to them at the table and show them your support!
Questions? Contact Jennie Pries at jenniepries@comcast.net or

414-378-5342

Go Cougars!

Preseason Camp 2008

2008-08-23T12:54:00.003-05:00

2008 Cougar Football started on Saturday August 16th with the 76 players moving in and getting situated in their dorms. This year's team has players from all across the United States. There is a strong contingent from the Illinois/Chicagoland area as well as Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, Ohio, Texas and Florida.
Practices officially started on Sunday the 17th with testing and a strong emphasis on position technique. As the week has progressed there has been a tremendous amount of improvement. The coaching staff has been implementing the offense and defense at a faster than normal pace and thankfully the players are picking up the new schemes and terminology just as fast. We look forward to a successful and entertaining season. GO COUGARS!

2008 Cougar Football Hackfest

2008-08-07T13:57:00.004-05:00

Our Second Annual Cougar Football "Hackfest" Golf Outing was a great success. Nearly sixty golfers attended the event and enjoyed great weather, "exceptional" golf and an awesome steak dinner to wrap up the day. A number of foursomes were made up of former Cougar Alumni and also some current Cougar football players. A foursome including members of the 1987 conference championship team claimed first place with a winning score of 9 below par. The '87 members included Paul Ebert, Randy Smith, and Erik Otten.

Please mark your calenders for the 2009 Cougar Football Hackfest which will take place on Monday July 27th. The outing will once again be

2008 CIT Pep Rally

2008-02-08T11:37:00.000-06:00

Dancers are: Jaron Success (Ocala, FL), Mason Thompson (Ocala, FL), Austin Wollert (Lamar, CO), Matt Boswell (Des Planies, IL), Jarvis Davis (Tallahassee, FL), David Dwyer (St. Louis, MO), Reggie Williams (Melrose Park, IL), Nate Bahr (Nashotah, WI) and Jon Hand (Wood River, IL).