FB: USA South Athletic Conference

[Uncle Jessie]

That's something we could do but we need to get out and see more stadiums.

I like that idea also. Maybe in the time being Ryan Tipps and Pat Cummings (the old mid Atlantic beat writer) can do a top 5 stadiums in the mid Atlantic region.

[abnrgr]

What about the cheerleaders of the ODAC? That would be a good story line.........as long as Lama is not doing it.

[SU97]

My comments are based on what I witnessed. You will have to judge for yourself after you see them.

Kickerdad, I think back in July I threw out my preseason rank of 5th place for AU.  Something to the effect of "won't pull an SU and rock a first to worst, but..."  There's a little reason for that and I think it's what your guys are going through.  I also think it's what will springboard NCWC this year...

Experience and talent.  That is, at the end of the day, all you need to have a shot at winning in this league.

AU had a group of talented Seniors last year and the experience to go along with the ability.  A lot of those guys had a number of years of game experience under their belt and that's what gave them a foundation to be successful.  The talent then pushed those guys over the top.  So a letdown, in essence, was inevitable.  Because those guys had significant experience, it meant that the next class(es) were not getting that same intensive experience. They may have gotten some playing time - but it was probably against SU or Greensboro.. I imagine that is why we are seeing the NCWC squad pushing for a top finish this year.  It's a solid group of experienced guys who have gone through together, and they have some talent to go along with it.  Which leads us back to AU, where the current squad has not had a simular game and situational experience that last year's crop of seniors enjoyed.

SU experienced the same thing AU is going through. The class that came through in 2004 was stacked with talented seniors, something like 20+ guys.  Most of those guys had 3 to 4 years of starting experience - even a few who started as freshmen, not to mention some quality talent.  You lean on those seniors for leadership and other aspects that go with being in the mix.  When they graduated, it created a hole in the classes afterwards - guys who didn't have that same 3 to 4 year opportunity.  Unfortunately, SU has not found it's way out of that situation.  That should turn around at some point.   

So stick with it this year.  You mentioned earlier that you guys had some talented freshmen in camp, so you have the basic building blocks for another run.  You just may have to wait a little while.  Just hope you don't have to wait as long as we are up here...

[Uncle Jessie]

I might head on over to CNU this weekend to see the game. Can anyone tell me a good seafood restaurant nearby the campus? I've been in the mood for some crab legs. maybe a little live music as well.

[SU97]

I might head on over to CNU this weekend to see the game. Can anyone tell me a good seafood restaurant nearby the campus? I've been in the mood for some crab legs. maybe a little live music as well.

It's been about 4 or 5 years, but there is a crabshack joint at the fishing pier that was great. Can't remember what it was called. Good seafood, good bar.

[Ryan Tipps]

That's something we could do but we need to get out and see more stadiums.

I like that idea also. Maybe in the time being Ryan Tipps and Pat Cummings (the old mid Atlantic beat writer) can do a top 5 stadiums in the mid Atlantic region.

This weekend I'm headed to Hampden-Sydney to see its new digs. I've seen the online photos, and it looks pretty awesome there. You'll get my first-hand impressions next week. I'm guessing, though, that this is going to be a top 5 regional contender.

And Pat,
With nominations from your ATR columnists, coupled with what you and Keith have seen in person, I imagine you could get a pretty good idea of the best in the land. And, if there's a new stadium that's "discovered" the following year, all the better to have this as a more organic, evolving list. Schools would eat up those bragging rights.

[Uncle Jessie]

I just took a look at the Hampden-Sydney pics on the web. WOW, nice stadium. I love the presidents/press box.

[CNU85]

What about the cheerleaders of the ODAC? That would be a good story line.........as long as Lama is not doing it.

not doing what? the story or the cheering? 

[CNU85]

I might head on over to CNU this weekend to see the game. Can anyone tell me a good seafood restaurant nearby the campus? I've been in the mood for some crab legs. maybe a little live music as well.

It's been about 4 or 5 years, but there is a crabshack joint at the fishing pier that was great. Can't remember what it was called. Good seafood, good bar.

It's called the Crabshack...good place...it's on the fishing pier next to the James River Bridge. Not too far from CNU. Also, about 15 minutes away in Hampton is one of my favorites - Surf Rider. It's at a marina and off the beaten path, but very nice. If that's a possibility, let me know and I'll make sure you're able to get proper directions. OR - you could head down to the Yorktown waterfront...lots of new stuff down there...Riverwalk is the name of the restaurant (I think - not 100%) and for good old redneck music, there's the Yorktown Pub. If you're not interested in a beer, even closer to CNU is Bill's Seafood. Iced Tea is about as hard as they get on the drinks...maybe a coke with a lime? Nah, no limes there.....but good food. Or, another one of my favorites...it's a chain owned by the Outback folks.....Bonefish Grill. It's also about 3 miles from campus.

Hope that helps....if you need more info, send me a message or email and I'll help out.

[ProudFightingScot]

Get the bang bang shrimp at Bonefish Grill.  It is awesome!

[wilburt]

Another article on Chowan joining CIAA and leaving (left) D3 to go to D2. 

http://www.fayobserver.com/article?id=273230

[kickerdad]

To Ryan Tipps aka WCLegacy

Very nice write up for the Mid Atlanctic Region this week. I notice that you live in Bedford. I have always referred to that part of the state as "God's Country". It is beautiful in the Blue Ridge, especially in the fall.

[abnrgr]

85
Good point

[Ryan Tipps]

To Ryan Tipps aka WCLegacy

Very nice write up for the Mid Atlanctic Region this week. I notice that you live in Bedford. I have always referred to that part of the state as "God's Country". It is beautiful in the Blue Ridge, especially in the fall.

Thanks, kickerdad.

I really like the area I'm in. Rolling hills, country roads, mountains in the distance. This will be my first fall living here, and I'm looking forward to it.

[Hampton U SID]

Get the bang bang shrimp at Bonefish Grill.  It is awesome!

Bonefish has great food....just suggest getting a reservation especially on a weekend....It's also a bit pricy