Photo / Trevecca Athletics Fresh off their first-ever NCAA Division II national ranking, Trevecca men’s soccer makes history on home turf behind Chris Douglas’ hat trick and Hunter Walker’s record-setting shutout. A Night for the Record Books at Trojan Soccer Pitch NASHVILLE, TN - Entering Wednesday night’s match, expectation and excitement filled the air at the Trojan Soccer Pitch. After a week layoff, the Trevecca Nazarene University men’s soccer team returned home carrying unprecedented momentum. Just one day prior, head coach Danny Leavy’s squad debuted at No. 20 in the United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division II poll—earning the program’s first national coaches' poll ranking in its Division II history after previously receiving votes for three consecutive weeks. With national visibility and crucial Gulf South Conference (GSC) points on the line, Trevecca welcomed the Spring Hill College Badgers for a match that quickly turned into a landmark showcase for Trojan soccer. Defensive Tightness to Offensive Explosion The contest began as a tactical, tightly contested defensive battle. Through the opening 40 minutes, clear-cut scoring opportunities were sparse, with Trevecca managing just three shots and Spring Hill generating one. However, in the 43rd minute, the Trojans broke the deadlock. Senior attacker Chris Douglas found the back of the net off passes from Phillip Collins and Haden Brown to give Trevecca a 1-0 advantage right before halftime. That opening goal opened the floodgates. In the 55th minute, Levi Jones doubled the Trojans' lead, finishing a setup from Zion Jones to mark his first goal since the season opener against King University. From there, Douglas completely took over. In the 67th minute, after Daniel Shiel struck the post, Douglas was right there to tap home the rebound. Eleven minutes later, Shiel delivered a pinpoint cross that Douglas headed home in the 78th minute to seal a brilliant hat trick and cap off the 4-0 victory. Rewriting the Program History Books The dominant performance didn't just secure three vital points; it rewrote Trevecca’s NCAA-era record books: Chris Douglas moved into first place in Division II in goals per match (1.18) and tied for second in total goals. His hat trick elevated his season totals to 13 goals and 30 points—both setting new single-season program marks for Trevecca’s NCAA era, surpassing Jonathan Baskin’s 10 goals in 2012 and Jeremiah Wright’s 25 points in 2013. Hunter Walker, the sophomore goalkeeper from Franklin, Tennessee, recorded three saves to earn his sixth clean sheet of the season. This breaks his own single-season record from last year. Walker also earned his 11th career shutout, officially surpassing Braydon Brown's career mark of 10.5 set from 2011–2014. 10-Win Milestone: The victory pushed Trevecca to 10-1-2 overall, tying the overall program record of 10 wins set by Stan Herod’s 2003 team. Looking Ahead to the GSC Championship Race With two regular-season matches remaining, Trevecca sits just one point behind the University of Alabama-Huntsville and three points behind league leader Auburn University Montgomery in the GSC standings. However, with six available points remaining for Trevecca compared to just three for UAH, the Trojans control their own destiny. Winning out would guarantee Trevecca at least a share of the GSC crown. Next up, the Trojans head south on Saturday for a high-stakes road battle against Auburn Montgomery (9-1-3, 6-0-2 GSC) at 3:30 p.m., where the winner will claim the top seed in the upcoming GSC Championship.

MURFREESBORO, TN - In a wild, back-and-forth Conference USA battle filled with lead changes, big plays, and resilience, Middle Tennessee State quarterback Roman Gagliano delivered a signature performance Tuesday night, accounting for four touchdowns as the Blue Raiders edged Delaware 33-30 at Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium. Gagliano completed 22 of 32 passes for 291 yards and three touchdowns while adding a 1-yard rushing score. The victory improved MTSU to 3-3 overall and 1-1 in CUSA, marking the program’s first conference win of the season under head coach Derek Mason. Delaware fell to 2-4 and 0-2. The game featured multiple swings. Delaware struck first with a 33-yard field goal, but MTSU answered with a 47-yard kick from Dominic Bourgeois and a safety to lead 5-3 after the first quarter. Gagliano’s short touchdown run made it 12-3 early in the second before the Blue Hens responded. A late first-half interception by Gagliano set up a trick-play touchdown pass to Delaware’s Tyler Bell, giving the visitors a 16-12 halftime edge. MTSU wasted no time responding after the break. On the first play of the third quarter, Gagliano hit tight end Koraun Perdue for an 80-yard touchdown, flipping the lead to 19-16. Delaware answered with a 33-yard scoring strike from Bell to Josh Humes, but Gagliano found Neo Clifton for an 18-yard touchdown to put the Blue Raiders back in front 26-23. Delaware regained the lead at 30-26 on a 23-yard touchdown pass from Bell to Kaderris Roberts early in the fourth. Trailing by four with under 10 minutes left, Gagliano and the offense answered with a methodical 10-play, 93-yard drive. He capped it with a 14-yard touchdown pass to Clifton with 3:06 remaining, giving MTSU the lead for good at 33-30. Bryce Williams sealed the win with an interception late, allowing the Blue Raiders to run out the clock. The defense recorded five sacks—more than doubling its season total entering the game—and limited Delaware’s run game while forcing the Blue Hens into difficult situations. “The interception was an uncharacteristic and stupid mistake that obviously I’ll learn from,” Gagliano said. “I just kept playing the game that nobody knew we had to play to win. Once you get one [conference win], it kind of just snowballs. That’s the goal going into next week.” Gagliano praised Clifton’s growth and the team’s gritty culture under Mason. “It’s a new culture that Coach Mason has brought in… We all look each other in the eyes and remember how far we’ve come and that we’re built for this.” Mason called it a heavyweight fight and highlighted the group’s mental toughness. “I saw this group set their chin, and we just got back to work… These guys are learning how to reset their chin a little bit in a conference where you have to.” He also credited the defense for simply “doing their job” to generate pressure and the home crowd for creating a difference-making atmosphere. Perdue finished with 103 receiving yards and the long score, while Clifton hauled in two touchdowns. Bell threw for 306 yards and two scores for Delaware in place of the injured starter. MTSU now turns its attention to a road trip against FIU next week, carrying the confidence of a hard-fought conference victory and a bounce-back performance from its quarterback after a difficult outing against Kansas.

Photo / Cumberland Athletics LEBANON, TN - Cumberland University’s football team delivered a statement performance Sunday afternoon, blanking Andrew College 62-0 in a Mid-South Conference matchup that showcased both a relentless ground attack and a stifling defense. Playing in front of a home crowd at the campus field, the Phoenix piled up 318 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 52 carries, averaging more than six yards per attempt. The offense controlled the tempo from the opening drive and never let Andrew generate sustained momentum. Rashod Daniel led the charge with 114 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 14 carries. He also hauled in a 35-yard touchdown reception, finishing with four total scores. Pierce Meacham added 80 yards and two rushing touchdowns on 13 carries, while Ladarius Smith and Luke Parker each found the end zone on the ground. Cumberland opened the scoring in the first quarter when Smith broke free for a 12-yard touchdown run. A field goal later in the period made it 10-0. Daniel then took over in the second quarter, scoring twice — including the 35-yard catch — to push the lead to 23-0 by halftime. The Phoenix poured it on after the break. A 21-point third quarter featured rushing scores from Daniel, Meacham and Parker. Cumberland added 17 more points in the fourth, with Daniel and Meacham scoring again before Chase Dodson connected on a field goal. The final margin stood at 62-0. While the offense piled up points, the defense was equally dominant. Cumberland limited Andrew to just 40 total yards on 53 plays — 42 rushing and minus-two passing. The visitors managed only four first downs and converted just two of 14 third-down attempts. The Phoenix recorded two sacks, multiple tackles for loss and forced nine punts. Daniel Doegan sealed the defensive effort with a 40-yard interception return. The shutout marked Cumberland’s first of the season. The victory keeps the Phoenix rolling as they prepare for a tougher test next weekend. Cumberland will travel to face No. 13 Campbellsville, a Tigers squad that recently upended the Cumberlands. For Nashville-area fans following Mid-South Conference play, Sunday’s one-sided result offered a clear reminder of the Phoenix’s potential when both sides of the ball click at the same time.

From championship player to culture-builder — the next chapter of women’s basketball in Music City begins now. NASHVILLE, TN - The UPSHOT League’s newest franchise has its first leader. Last Wednesdy (Oct 7, 2026), the Nashville Vibe announced that two-time WNBA champion and longtime coach Yolanda Moore will serve as the team’s inaugural head coach and general manager, marking a major milestone for professional women’s basketball in the city. Moore arrives with more than two decades of experience as a player, coach, and basketball commentator. As a collegiate standout at the University of Mississippi, she earned First Team All-SEC honors in both 1995 and 1996. She went on to win back-to-back WNBA titles with the Houston Comets in 1997 and 1998. In recognition of her playing career, she was inducted into the Ole Miss Sports Hall of Fame in 2010 and named an SEC Legend by the Southeastern Conference in 2012. Her coaching résumé is equally impressive. Moore engineered successful turnarounds at LSU Eunice and Clark Atlanta University, guiding Clark Atlanta to the 2018 SIAC Conference Tournament Championship and earning SIAC Coach of the Year honors. She has also participated in several NBA coaching development programs, serving as a guest coach for the Indiana Mad Ants during the G-League Winter Showcase, head coach of the NBA Academy International Team at the Atlanta Summer Tournament, and an on-court clinician at the NBA Basketball without Borders Coaches Clinic in Japan. “It is an honor to be named Nashville’s first head coach,” Moore said. “This game has given me the opportunity to compete, grow, and lead at every level, and I’m excited to create those same opportunities for the next generation of Vibe players. We want to build a winning culture in Nashville rooted in how we compete on the court and how we show up for the community.” Nashville Vibe President and CEO Nancy VanReece praised the hire. “We are thrilled to welcome Yolanda Moore as head coach and general manager of the Nashville Vibe. Her commitment to basketball excellence matches the standard we want to set for this team from day one. I’m excited for our players to learn from her and for Nashville to see the team she builds.” UPSHOT Deputy Commissioner Taj McWilliams-Franklin also highlighted the significance of the appointment. “Naming Yolanda Moore as the Nashville Vibe’s first head coach is a tremendous moment for this franchise and for the League. Coach Moore has built a career defined by excellence, leadership, and a genuine commitment to developing players. Her ability to connect with athletes, build strong cultures, and lead with purpose makes her an exceptional fit for Nashville.” The announcement follows the franchise’s September 15 name and identity reveal. The Vibe will tip off its inaugural season at Vanderbilt Memorial Gymnasium in May 2027 as the UPSHOT League expands for its second season. The league currently features six teams: Jacksonville Waves, Charlotte Crown, Greensboro Groove, Savannah Steel, Baltimore Starlings, and Nashville Vibe. Season memberships, group outing packages, and official Vibe merchandise are now available at NashvilleVibe.com. With Moore now at the helm, Nashville’s professional women’s basketball chapter is officially underway. Stay tuned.

Photo / Cumberland Athletics HENDERSON, TN - Cumberland University continued its strong start in Mid-South Conference play Tuesday night, rallying late in the fourth set to defeat Freed-Hardeman University 3-1 and move into second place in the conference standings. The Phoenix improved to 14-11 overall and 4-1 in Mid-South Conference play, trailing only the University of the Cumberlands (Ky.), which sits atop the conference at 5-0. Cumberland has now won five consecutive matches. Cumberland controlled the opening two sets, winning 25-18 and 25-20, before Freed-Hardeman answered with a 26-24 victory in the third set to force a fourth-set battle. The fourth set provided the night's most important stretch of volleyball. Freed-Hardeman, playing at home, stayed within striking distance throughout the final set and eventually pulled within 20-21. Cumberland responded with a crucial defensive stand at the net. Hailey Jones teamed with AJ Bryant on one block, followed by another block from Jones and Carola Schnidrig, helping the Phoenix regain control. Schnidrig then delivered an important kill from Carlee Rogers to push Cumberland ahead 23-20. After Freed-Hardeman cut the deficit to 23-21, Rogers answered with another key play, recording a service ace to put Cumberland on the verge of closing out the match. Freed-Hardeman refused to go quietly, cutting the margin to 24-22. But Cumberland settled down and finished the match when Rogers produced a kill from Kaleigh Glass, giving the Phoenix a 25-22 fourth-set victory and the 3-1 match win. Schnidrig led Cumberland's attack with 11 kills, while Bianca Guceanu added seven. Jones contributed six kills and was particularly valuable at the net, finishing with six blocks. Jacey Hubbell added four kills. Rogers was instrumental in directing the Phoenix offense, recording 30 assists and four service aces, while also adding 10 digs. Glass led Cumberland defensively with 13 digs. As a team, the Phoenix finished with 15 service aces, with Jones and Schnidrig recording four apiece and Rogers adding four. The victory also marked Cumberland's fifth consecutive win and kept the Phoenix firmly in the conference's upper tier. With a 4-1 league record, Cumberland is now alone in second place behind the undefeated Cumberlands Patriots. The Phoenix will look to continue their momentum Friday when they travel to face Campbellsville University (Ky.) in another Mid-South Conference matchup.

Photo / Bethel Athletics MCKENZIE, TN - The Fisk University women’s volleyball team continued its dominant run Tuesday night, defeating Bethel University 3-1 (25-14, 29-31, 25-11, 25-6) to stretch its winning streak to 13 consecutive matches. The Lady Bulldogs have not dropped a contest since Sept. 29 and remain one of the hottest teams in the conference. Fisk controlled the opening set from the start. Setter Kaia Barnett orchestrated the offense effectively, feeding Shelby Chamblin and Morgan Walters for early kills while La’Niyah Lumpkin provided a strong presence at the net. Attack errors by Bethel and a service ace from Chennille McClellan helped Fisk pull away, closing the set 25-14. The second set proved far more competitive. Bethel pushed the Lady Bulldogs to the brink, forcing extra points in a back-and-forth battle that featured multiple lead changes and timeouts. Emma Fistarol and Kennedi Morrison delivered key kills for the visitors, and Bethel eventually edged Fisk 31-29 to even the match at one set apiece. Fisk responded emphatically in the third set. The Lady Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, riding a balanced attack and solid blocking. Kills from Laila Esters, Chamblin, and Jayla Bond, combined with service aces from Barnett and Reagan Jones, propelled Fisk to a decisive 25-11 victory. Bethel struggled to find rhythm against Fisk’s defense, which forced multiple attack errors. The fourth set was a statement performance. Fisk exploded out of the gate and maintained relentless pressure, limiting Bethel to just six points. Jordan Eager delivered a strong serving run that included several aces, while Reagan Jones and Chamblin continued to find the floor. The Lady Bulldogs closed the match in emphatic fashion, 25-6, sealing their 13th straight win. Throughout the evening, Fisk showcased the balanced attack and defensive intensity that have defined the streak. Barnett distributed the ball effectively, Chamblin and Lumpkin provided consistent production at the net, and the team’s ability to bounce back after dropping the second set underscored its resilience. The victory keeps Fisk’s momentum rolling as the team builds toward the latter portion of the season. With the streak now at 13 and no losses since late September, the Lady Bulldogs have established themselves as a formidable force. Players and coaches alike continue to emphasize focus and consistency as the winning run grows. Fisk will look to keep the streak alive in upcoming matches, carrying the confidence gained from another hard-fought conference victory. Next up: Oakwood (AL) Oct. 8

Photo / Donald Page - Tennessee Titans. BALTIMORE, MD - The Tennessee Titans made some good plays in Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. They also, once again, did enough to get themselves beat. “It’s just frustrating overall as a whole,” head coach Robert Saleh said after the game. “I do appreciate that everyone came out and fought.” Sunday’s 24-18 loss at M&T Bank Stadium dropped the Titans’ record to 0-4 for the second consecutive season. Quarterback Cam Ward completed 20-of-31 passes for 222 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Rookie receiver Carnell Tate had nine catches for 145 yards. Defensively, the Titans kept former teammate Derrick Henry in check, allowing 73 yards and one touchdown on 23 carries. But Tennessee hurt itself with a pair of first-half turnovers, including one on its opening possession, and failed to convert a first-and-goal opportunity that helped change the complexion of the game. It was an ominous start. On the Titans’ second offensive play, a flip pass from Ward went off the hands of running back Tony Pollard and was intercepted. Five plays later, Henry scored on a five-yard touchdown run to put Baltimore up 7-0. Tennessee answered with a 10-play, 70-yard drive capped by Pollard’s three-yard touchdown run to tie the score. But the Ravens reclaimed the lead on a 19-yard touchdown pass from Lamar Jackson to Zay Flowers, making it 14-7 early in the second quarter. Then came the tide-turning sequence. The Titans had first-and-goal at the Ravens’ eight-yard line, but four straight runs by Pollard—including a direct-snap carry from the two on fourth-and-goal—produced no points. Baltimore responded by marching 98 yards in eight plays, capped by Jackson’s touchdown pass to Mark Andrews that made it 21-7. Late in the half, Ward connected with Tate for a 35-yard gain, but Tate fumbled after the catch. Ravens kicker Tyler Loop cashed it in with a 64-yard field goal as time expired, sending Baltimore into the locker room with a 24-7 lead. Jackson suffered an ankle injury late in the first half and did not return. Backup Tyler Huntley took over, and the Ravens were held scoreless the rest of the way. The Titans managed only a 33-yard field goal by Joey Slye in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 24-10. Tennessee had too many empty possessions in the second half. Ward finally connected with Wan’Dale Robinson for a three-yard touchdown with 1:12 remaining and converted the two-point try, but the Ravens recovered the ensuing onside kick and ran out the clock. “Pretty much with every single team, there’s a few things that must happen, and a few things that can’t happen,” tackle JC Latham said. “Turnovers is one of them. … We have to all do a better job at every single area, from top to bottom.” “We have to really hone in on the bad plays, and how we can limit that,” Ward added. Safety Amani Hooker put it simply: “Any time you lose a game, it doesn’t feel good.” The Titans return home next week still searching for their first win of the season.

LEBANON, TN - No. 24 Georgetown College held off No. 25 Cumberland University 21-19 on Saturday at Nokes-Lasater Field, spoiling the Phoenix’s Homecoming and Hall of Fame Weekend in a tense Mid-South Conference opener. Georgetown struck first late in the opening quarter. Quarterback Trevor DeLacey connected with Jamarcus Robinson on a 55-yard touchdown strike at the 11:04 mark, and Braden Widener’s extra point made it 7-0. Cumberland answered early in the second quarter. A methodical 15-play, 74-yard drive ended with Jake Parker’s 4-yard touchdown run at 14:18. Jack Kantner’s extra-point attempt was blocked, leaving the score 7-6. On the ensuing kickoff, Robinson took the return 96 yards to the house, and Widener’s kick pushed the Tigers ahead 14-6. The Phoenix refused to fold. With 1:54 left in the half, Parker found Jordan Parker for a 29-yard touchdown pass. Kantner’s kick made it 14-13 at the break. Cumberland took its first lead of the afternoon early in the third quarter when Kantner drilled a 43-yard field goal at 9:42, putting the Phoenix in front 16-14. Georgetown responded quickly. DeLacey hit running back Guy Bailey on a 25-yard touchdown pass at 4:41, and Widener’s kick restored the Tigers’ lead at 21-16. Kantner brought Cumberland within two again with a 41-yard field goal at 6:05 of the fourth quarter, making the score 21-19. The Phoenix had one final chance after forcing a short punt, but a sack and incomplete passes stalled the drive. Georgetown knelt out the final 1:24 to secure the victory. Cumberland finished with a balanced attack led by Parker’s dual-threat play and a strong ground game featuring Jordan Cason and Jaylen Abston. The defense, anchored by Knox Watson, Eli Denton, Tyriq Edwards and Cannon Johnson, kept Georgetown in check for long stretches but could not overcome the big-play touchdowns and the long kickoff return. The loss drops Cumberland to 3-2 overall and 0-1 in Mid-South play. Georgetown improves to 3-2 and 1-0 in conference. Head coach Tim Mathis and the Phoenix now turn their attention to next Saturday’s road game at Andrew College before a tough stretch of conference contests. The Homecoming crowd at Nokes-Lasater witnessed a classic early-season battle between two ranked programs. Execution on special teams and a handful of critical third-down conversions proved decisive for the visiting Tigers. Final: Georgetown 21, Cumberland 19.

Photo / Trevecca Athletics NASHVILLE, TN - Daniel Shiel delivered a landmark performance Saturday afternoon, scoring all three goals as Trevecca Nazarene men’s soccer defeated Delta State 3-1 at Trojan Soccer Complex. The junior forward’s first career hat trick propelled the Trojans to their eighth win of the season and solidified their place near the top of the Gulf South Conference standings. Trevecca controlled the early tempo and broke through in the 19th minute. After a collision in the box, officials awarded a penalty kick. Shiel stepped up and coolly converted, sending the ball past diving Statesmen goalkeeper Daniel Santema for a 1-0 lead. The successful attempt extended Trevecca’s perfect streak from the penalty spot to 17 consecutive conversions. Less than three minutes later, Shiel struck again. A quick throw-in found Chris Douglas, who fed Shiel in the box. The Northern Ireland native finished off Santema’s left hand to make it 2-0 in the 21st minute, with assists credited to Douglas and Judah Jones. Delta State pulled one back in the 33rd minute when Trevecca goalkeeper Hunter Walker was whistled for a foul in the area. Callum Black converted the resulting penalty, cutting the deficit to 2-1. Despite the setback, Trevecca maintained territorial control and outshot the Statesmen 14-3 in the first half. The second half remained tense until the 79th minute. After Delta State’s Tazjean Bird received a red card, Haden Brown delivered a free kick into the box. Shiel rose above the defense and headed home the insurance goal, completing his hat trick and restoring a two-goal cushion at 3-1. Trevecca finished with a decisive 22-8 advantage in total shots and a 12-6 edge in shots on goal. Walker earned the win with five saves, improving to 8-1-2 on the season. Santema made nine saves in the loss for Delta State. The victory marked Trevecca’s first home win over Delta State and improved the Trojans’ all-time series record to 2-0-1 against the Statesmen since joining the GSC in 2024. With the result, Trevecca Nazarene stands at 8-1-2 overall and 3-1-2 in Gulf South Conference play. The Trojans sit alone in third place in the GSC standings, two points behind Alabama-Huntsville and five points behind league-leading Auburn-Montgomery. The win also moved Trevecca within one victory of the program’s NCAA Division II-era single-season wins record of nine, set in 2012. The Trojans return to action Wednesday evening when they travel to face Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

Photo / MTSU Athletics LAWRENCE, KS - Middle Tennessee football (2-3, 0-1 CUSA) dropped its final non-conference contest of the season, falling 55-0 to the Kansas Jayhawks (2-2) on Saturday afternoon at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The Blue Raider defense started solidly, holding Kansas to a 3-0 lead after the first quarter on a 43-yard field goal. Kansas found its rhythm in the second quarter, adding 17 points to take a 20-0 halftime advantage. The Jayhawks continued to pour it on after the break, outscoring MTSU 35-0 in the second half. Kansas dominated on the ground, racking up 480 rushing yards with two 100-yard performers. Middle Tennessee managed just 55 yards rushing as a team. Antonio Martin Jr. led the Blue Raiders with 40 yards on the ground. Through the air, redshirt sophomore quarterback Roman Gagliano completed 9 of 26 passes for 81 yards with no interceptions. Freshman wide receiver Ziyon Butler paced the receiving corps with two catches for 44 yards, including a career-long 36-yard reception in the fourth quarter. Cam’ron Lacy added two receptions. Defensively, Jackson Lowe and Ashton Taylor each recorded nine tackles to share the team lead. Lowe added a tackle for loss and a pass breakup, while Taylor posted six solo stops. Jayson Lowe contributed eight tackles, including his first career tackle for loss. Special teams provided bright spots. Redshirt senior punter Ashton Logan launched a 76-yard punt in the fourth quarter—the longest of his collegiate career and the fifth-longest in program history. Logan averaged 51.8 yards per punt and boomed four punts of 50-plus yards for the second consecutive game. Wide receiver/kick returner Santana Fleming led the Blue Raiders in all-purpose yards with two kick returns, including a 52-yarder in the second quarter that helped him average 45 yards per return. The game marked MTSU’s first-ever football contest in the state of Kansas and its first matchup against a Big 12 opponent since 2006. The Blue Raiders were held under 100 passing yards for the first time since Nov. 29, 2014. Lacy extended his reception streak to 13 consecutive games, while Gagliano recorded his seventh start without an interception in just eight career starts. Middle Tennessee now enters its bye week before opening a stretch of Conference USA play at home against Delaware on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at 6 p.m. inside Floyd Stadium.

LEBANON, TN - Double the pride, double the rankings. Cumberland University’s soccer programs made national waves this week as the men’s team ascended to the absolute pinnacle of the NAIA and the women’s side secured a Top 25 spot in the first National Selection Committee polls. The Cumberland men’s soccer team reached the mountaintop, earning the No. 1 ranking in the First National Selection Committee Men’s Soccer Poll released Thursday morning. The Phoenix, undefeated at 9-0-2 overall and 3-0 in Mid-South Conference play through 11 matches, jumped from No. 3 to the top after four consecutive victories. Those recent results included a 3-1 road win at Freed-Hardeman, a 4-1 home triumph over SCAD-Savannah, a dominant 5-0 road shutout of Georgetown, and a thrilling 4-2 victory at then-No. 6 Georgia Gwinnett. The Phoenix have scored 38 goals while allowing just 13, putting three or more goals on the board in eight of 11 games and recording three shutouts. Offensively, Luis Cerejo, David Barbakadze and Wesley Mendoza have led the charge. Barbakadze paced the team with 10 goals, while Cerejo contributed eight goals and six assists. In goal, Pau Gelabert has started all 11 matches, posting 27 saves and a .675 save percentage. Cumberland received four first-place votes, edging Olivet Nazarene (three first-place votes) and Tennessee Southern. The ranking comes less than a month after the Phoenix were tied for No. 6 in the initial regular-season poll and marks another milestone in the program’s rapid rise under head coach Brian Davies. Last season the Phoenix finished 14-4-3, reached the Mid-South Championship match, and advanced to the NAIA final site. On the women’s side, Cumberland sits at No. 22 in the first Stadionic-NAIA National Selection Committee Poll. The Phoenix moved from No. 19 in the coaches’ poll after a perfect 5-0 stretch that featured multiple ranked wins. The run began with a 9-0 conference rout of Freed-Hardeman, followed by a 2-1 home victory over now-No. 14 SCAD, a 2-0 Senior Day shutout of Williams Baptist, a 3-0 road win at Georgetown, and a 4-0 home blanking of RV Georgia Gwinnett. Cumberland ranks joint-third nationally with 46 goals and leads the country with eight shutouts. Sophomore forward Victoria Collins leads the attack with 16 goal contributions, while senior forward Uxia Varela has added 11. Senior goalkeeper Sydney Eads has been rock-solid, allowing 0.97 goals per game with a .782 save percentage. Keiser remains No. 1, followed by Indiana Wesleyan and Benedictine (Kan.). In the Mid-South, University of the Cumberlands holds No. 6 and Lindsey Wilson sits at No. 19. Both programs continue building under the Phoenix banner, turning consistent excellence into national recognition.

MURFREESBORO, TN - Middle Tennessee State’s women’s soccer team pushed Liberty to the brink Thursday night but ultimately fell 2-1 in a hard-fought contest that showcased both the Blue Raiders’ resilience and the Lady Flames’ clinical finishing. The Blue Raiders controlled large stretches of the first half, generating early pressure and forcing Liberty goalkeeper Ainsley Leja into several saves. Ania Denham tested Leja twice in the opening 10 minutes, while Hannah Murphy and Megan Carroll also forced stops. Corner kicks and sustained possession suggested MTSU was on the verge of breaking through. Instead, Liberty struck first against the run of play. At 24:57, the Lady Flames capitalized on a breakaway that developed off a Blue Raiders offensive push. Halle Engle finished the chance, assisted by Maddyson Kerley, to give Liberty a 1-0 lead. The goal came after MTSU had created the better opportunities, leaving the hosts frustrated but still competitive. “We came out and played extremely well in the first half, despite being a goal down,” MTSU head coach Aston Rhoden said afterward. “We should have taken some of our chances in the first 20 when we had a lot of momentum.” Liberty grew into the contest after halftime. Early in the second period the visitors created more sustained pressure. At 58:11, Gaby Bazan doubled the lead with an assist from Carly Keene, making it 2-0. The Blue Raiders refused to fold. They continued to press forward and finally broke through at 75:29 when Denham found the net, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and giving the home side hope. MTSU generated late chances, including efforts from Hailey Phillips that Leja handled, but time ran out. Liberty managed the clock effectively in the closing stages, a quality Rhoden acknowledged. “We got one back, and time just ran out,” the coach said. “When you play a good team like Liberty, they’re going to find ways to run the clock and manage their game. I think a 2-2 would have been a nice fair result.” The Blue Raiders’ defensive unit, already stretched by multiple season-ending injuries, showed notable character. Starters Mya Stenehjem and Jess Gray logged full minutes while shifting positions as needed. Goalkeeper Demi Gronauer made several saves, particularly in the second half, to keep MTSU within striking distance. Rhoden praised the group’s next-man-up mentality amid a difficult injury list. “For this team to show up and play the way they play and compete the way they competed… the resiliency and the character that they’ve shown really says a whole lot.” Denham led the attack with multiple shots and the late goal. Phillips and others kept creating chances until the final whistle. Liberty’s depth, with frequent substitutions, proved decisive as the visitors rotated players effectively across both halves. The result left MTSU searching for answers after another narrow defeat, but the performance offered encouragement. The Blue Raiders generated quality opportunities and matched a strong opponent for long stretches. Converting those early chances remains the key difference as they continue their season. Final score: Liberty 2, Middle Tennessee 1.

NASHVILLE, TN - The Trevecca Nazarene University women’s volleyball team delivered a decisive statement. The Trojans swept Kentucky Wesleyan 3-0, improving to 7-8 overall and 4-1 in conference play. They are presently tied for second with Lee in the Gulf South Conference and play against them in a pivotal matchup this Saturday, October 3 in Cleveland, Tennessee. Coach Emily Moore watched her squad execute the game plan with clarity and composure. “Obviously, it was a three-set sweep. We executed our game plan, which is trying to control first contacts, trying to be really defensive, wait for our opportunity to score,” Moore said. “A few unforced errors that I’d like to work on cleaning up moving forward, but really, really pleased with how we played tonight.” The performance reflected a deliberate arc Moore had mapped since preseason. Trevecca endured a demanding non-conference slate that tested a young roster featuring a new setter and players adapting to unfamiliar roles. Those early challenges, Moore noted, prepared the team for conference competition. “We put ourselves through quite the gauntlet... and that’s reflected in our record, but it really prepared us to compete with our conference opponents. You gotta win in conference and make your tournament, but I want this team to be peaking, to be hitting its stride now as we’re going into October.” Standout individual efforts underscored the collective growth. Katilyn Grant, the senior middle blocker and recent offensive player of the week, continued her strong form. “Our team’s really connecting and just proving ourselves,” Grant said. A transfer who found her place at Trevecca last fall, she emphasized trust and shared effort: “I trust everybody behind me and next to me on the court. Once they’re putting in the work, I try to pick up my part too.” Isabella Sherrod, stepping into a larger role after transitioning from defensive specialist to outside hitter, delivered a standout night with double-digit kills. Lily Vanbebber, defensive player of the week who recently surpassed her 1,000th dig for Trevecca, anchored the back row. Setter Brynne Krangnes, also recognized as a player of the week, orchestrated the attack with precision. Junior outside hitter Kayla Bullard, who has grown into a mentoring role, described the night’s focus simply: “We’ve been keeping focuses with keeping easy, easy... staying on top of things and just getting the next ball.” Moore has coached at Trevecca for nine seasons and has been part of Nashville volleyball since 2008. She recruits athletes first and builds systems around them rather than forcing a single style. The result, she said, is a program defined as much by character as by wins. “One of the things I’m most proud of is the culture that we’ve built here... people being excited about who we are as volleyball players, but as people out in the community, on campus, in Nashville.” With the conference season still young and a critical road trip to face Lee looming, the Trojans appear to be finding their rhythm at the right time. A young team that once needed time to connect is now playing with purpose, controlling the ball, and outlasting opponents. For Moore and her players, the sweep was not merely a result—it was confirmation that the arc of the season is tracking exactly where it needs to be.

LAS VEGAS, NV - Major League Baseball’s promise of future stars took center stage Saturday as Minor League Baseball unveiled the All-Star teams and award winners for the International League and Pacific Coast League during the Triple-A Championship Game festivities at MGM Resorts in Las Vegas. Nashville outfielder Luis Lara earned top recognition, named one of three International League All-Star outfielders and the only Sounds player selected for the 2026 season. The honor caps a breakout year for the 21-year-old, who appeared in 78 games for Nashville and turned in one of the most productive seasons in the franchise’s recent memory. Lara’s statistical impact was both broad and consistent. He slashed .321/.432/.470 while pacing the Sounds in runs (67) and stolen bases (24). He ranked among the club leaders in nearly every major category, finishing second in hits (92), third in walks (54), and fourth in total bases (135). He also tied for fourth in triples (three) and found extra-base power repeatedly, tying for sixth in home runs (nine) and doubles (10). He drove in 42 runs to place seventh, and added 22extra-base hits for eighth. Perhaps the most notable power surge came in the home run department. Lara’s nine long balls crushed his previous career-high of four, while also setting a new personal best in RBI. Even after his final Nashville appearance on July 5, his season-long production had already separated him from his peers. Before his midseason path shifted, Lara entered 2026 as the fourth-youngest player in Triple-A. From the beginning of the year until his recall to Milwaukee on July 7, he led the International League in on-base percentage and runs, ranked third in batting average and walks, placed fifth in hits, and tied for eighth in stolen bases. Lara also delivered signature moments, including a career highlight on June 23 vs. Gwinnett, when he went 5-for-5 with two doubles and two RBI. Off the field, his rise is backed by recent organizational commitments. Lara signed a seven-year extension with the Milwaukee Brewers on June 9, months before his major league debut. He has since appeared in 61 games for Milwaukee, hitting .246 with doubles and RBI production, and was twice named to the MLB “Play of the Week.” The selection marks the second time Lara has earned league All-Star recognition, following a Dominican Summer League Mid-Season All-Star nod in 2022. It also underscores Nashville’s recent success in postseason honors, with the Sounds having at least one International League Post-Season All-Star representative in five of the last six seasons.

Photo / MTSU Athletics MURFREESBORO, TN - Middle Tennessee kicked off its Conference USA schedule in memorable fashion on Sunday, using a quick one-two punch and relentless pressure to top Jax State 2-0 at home. The Blue Raiders (8-2-2 overall) wasted little time finding the breakthrough. In the first half, MTSU attacked early and often, outshooting Jax State 8-1, and repeatedly testing Gamecocks goalkeeper Camdyn Magrosky. Despite the constant pressure, the match remained scoreless for long stretches as MTSU’s chances—led by Denham’s active presence in the attacking third—couldn’t get past the last line of defense. Ania Denham, who finished with a game-high impact, set the tone with several dangerous looks, including multiple attempts that forced saves or drew near misses. While Jax State had moments of its own, including opportunities in transition and late-half action, Middle Tennessee controlled the tempo for much of the opening 45 minutes. The turning point arrived in the second half. At 53:24, MTSU struck first when Saachi Bureau found the back of the net. Hailey Phillips delivered the assist, threading a pass that helped create the scoring opportunity, and Bureau converted to make it 1-0. Then, just minutes later, MTSU doubled its lead at 55:20. Hannah Murphy - after an MTSU defensive-and-attacking sequence forced a turnover - capitalized with a sharp finish, sending Middle Tennessee ahead 2-0 and quickly putting the contest out of reach. Head coach Aston Rhoden praised the team’s execution and the energy from the bench, emphasizing resilience after the early pressure. “I am really pleased with the overall performance of the team in terms of what we executed on the field and the support and energy that our bench gave us… it’s great for them to come back, show some resiliency, and most importantly play to our identity,” Rhoden said. Defensively, MTSU protected the lead efficiently. Goalkeeper Ella Sellers made key saves to preserve the shutout, contributing to Middle Tennessee’s eighth clean sheet of the season. Sellers’ performance continued her impressive run in goal, as the Blue Raiders tightened up after the first breakthrough and prevented Jax State from mounting any sustained threat. With the result, Middle Tennessee secured its first three points of the CUSA slate and moved into a first-place tie on the conference leaderboard after week one. Looking ahead, MTSU returns to Murfreesboro to host Liberty on Thursday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m., before a Sunday, Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. matchup against Sam Houston.

Photo / Cumberland Athletics LEBANON, TN - The Cumberland University football team used a powerful rushing attack and three forced turnovers to defeat Florida Memorial University 41-14 on Saturday afternoon at Nokes-Lassiter Field. The Phoenix improved to 3-1 while the Lions dropped to 2-2. Cumberland amassed 321 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns while totaling 453 yards of offense and controlling the clock for 42 minutes and 25 seconds. After a scoreless first quarter, Cumberland broke through with a methodical 19-play, 91-yard drive that consumed more than 10 minutes. Jaylen Abston capped the march with a one-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter, giving the Phoenix a 7-0 lead. Florida Memorial answered quickly. David Buggs connected with Elijah Hopkins on a 19-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7 with 9:51 left in the half. Cumberland regained control almost immediately. Abston scored again on a four-yard run, and Jake Parker added a 13-yard rushing touchdown later in the quarter. The Phoenix took a 21-7 advantage into the locker room. The Lions opened the second half with an eight-yard touchdown run by Nygel Osborne, trimming the deficit to 21-14. Cumberland responded with 20 unanswered points to pull away for good. The Phoenix defense delivered a pivotal play when Jordan Parker recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown, extending the lead to 28-14. Jordan Cason followed with a three-yard scoring run, pushing the margin to 35-14 heading into the fourth quarter. Rashod Daniel finished the scoring with a one-yard touchdown run midway through the final period, capping a 10-play, 67-yard drive that chewed more than five minutes off the clock. The extra-point attempt failed, leaving the final score at 41-14. Jake Parker led the ground game with 125 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries while completing 9 of 12 passes for 132 yards. Cason added 79 rushing yards and a score on 20 carries, and Abston contributed 49 yards with two touchdowns. Cumberland’s defense forced three interceptions, recorded by Cannon Johnson, Eli Denton and Malachi Smith. The Phoenix also posted four tackles for loss and a sack. Cumberland converted 8 of 13 third downs and went 5-for-6 in the red zone while limiting Florida Memorial to just 17:35 of possession. The Phoenix return to Nokes-Lassiter Field next Saturday for Homecoming against No. 25 Georgetown. Kickoff is set for 1:30 p.m. CT.