Earlham Football

Game Day

2011-09-24T07:11:00.000-07:00

Trying to pass the time as we wait for an evening game with Anderson University tonight. Makes for a very long day. The team and coaches are excited to take the field. We load up the bus at 3:30....cannot wait. Last evening Chuck Yates spoke to the team at the "Rock." Great words of wisdom from Chuck. Players enjoyed listening to one of their professors talk to them about football and team work.

Homecoming

2011-09-18T21:05:00.000-07:00

Friday evening we had HOF inductee Brice Sayne EC '82 speak to the players at the "Rock" followed with the HOF banquet. Legendary President Landrum Bolling entertained the audience with his stories. President David Dawson and Del Harris also spoke to the crowd. Very nice to hear David Dawson's vision for EC Athletics as we move forward. Very refreshing. My teammate Brice Sayne received his induction plaque from Frank Carr and Don Siler as Brian Sayne, Mike Olexia and Andy Avery looked on. Once again, Frank and Don did an exceptional job. Congratulations to HOF inductees Laurel Stewart and David McGuire, both very deserving as well.

The game versus Manchester was up and down with EC battling to a 17-13 loss. Our players were finally able to respond with good play in all aspects of the game. We ran out of time as we needed to answer Manchester's last score with a TD. I am so very proud of these young men. They battled to the very end and deserved the win. For more about the game you can venture over to www.goearlham.com

After the game we all met up in the tailgating quarters next to Darrell Beane Stadium. Donna and I had a wonderful time visiting with Earlham players and their families from the past 30 years. If you are a football alum and have not been back to Earlham for a homecoming game you are missing some good times. Many stories were told...and yes stretched just a little. I love all of you wonderful young men. Thanks for all you have meant to my family through the years.

Now, on to the Next.....Anderson

US News & Report

2011-09-16T06:53:00.000-07:00

In the overall rankings of “Best Liberal Arts Colleges,” Earlham ranked 68th (up slightly from 75th in 2011), slightly below DePauw, St. Olaf, Wabash, Reed, and Beloit and slightly above Kalamazoo, Berea, Wooster and Knox. US News also ranks “Strong Commitment to Teaching” among various institutional categories and among National Liberal Arts Colleges, Earlham ranks eighth, sharing that position with some very good peers. That ranking is as follows: 1. Carleton2. Swarthmore3. Grinnell, Oberlin, Williams6. Amherst, St. Olaf8. Davidson, Earlham College, Haverford, Wabash12. Hendrix, Kenyon, Macalester15. Beloit, Berea, Centre, Lewis & Clark, Pomona, Reed, Rhodes In the ranking of “Proportion of International Students,” Earlham ranks 8th with 16% (after Soka University of America, Tougaloo College, Mount Holyoke, Wesleyan (GA), Bryn Athyn College of New Church, Principia, and College of the Atlantic. You might be interested in another national comparison that was released recently by the Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium that focuses on the Baccalaureate Origins of Students Earning Doctorates. That comparsion includes data covering the graduating classes of 1995 - 2004 (i.e. 10-year window) and includes doctorates earned in U.S. institutions over the period of 2000-2009. There are 1457 institutions in the total report. In that listing, Earlham is a very respectable 28th on this list (i.e top 2%). Indeed, as in the past, Earlham is, by a large measure, the highest Indiana school on the list. In fact, Earlham does better on this measure than all but 12 of the top 50 National Liberal Arts Colleges in the US News survey. Moreover, this comparison has special significance in that it is an objective measure of the outcomes of undergraduate education.

Game Week

2011-08-31T06:47:00.000-07:00

This is game week. We depart for Sewanee this Friday at 11:00am. The team will be stopping off at Western Kentucky in Bowling Green, KY for our walk through before we continue on down to our hotel. Meanwhile, it is practice in preparation for Sewanee University. We had a pretty good scrimmage vs. Ohio Wesleyan University last Friday. We played everyone and got them on film for evaluation in game situations. Coaches have been working hard with the players throughout pre-season and we feel good about this year's team.

almost

2011-08-24T02:25:00.000-07:00

We are almost ready. Last nights practice was decent. The conditioning effort was amazing. everyone is improving....getting better every day. Great coaching staff. Concerned about some ankles, and hoping they heal fast. Everyone is grinding. Work Wins!

Short Scrimmage

2011-08-20T04:49:00.000-07:00

Our first live scrimmage went very well. Offense and Defense had some bright outcomes. Offense scored twice on sustained drives. A Rhythm was developed and I was pleased with the units consistency. Defense had two 3-and-outs. They played hard down on the goal line. Obviously, we had some breakdowns on both sides of the ball and these things can be rectified. Over-all for the first scrimmage I like our direction. Back to work today.

Sunday Practice

2011-08-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

Big rain storm right in the middle of practice. We had some of the largest rain drops I have witnessed in some time. Wet ball drill. Mud with no footing. Gotta love football in these conditions. Players worked through the weather adversity and had a great time. At the conclusion of practice we conditioned hard and players left everything on the field. Evening meetings followed with some icebreakers with the team. Great stories from the players. I laughed until I cried. So funny. Great group of young men.

EC Practice

2011-08-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Earlham Football began the 2011 season on Friday. All but two made their "Man Maker" conditioning test Saturday at 6:30am. Yesterday we concluded our two days of practices in shorts. Good work by the team. Everyone is focused on learning the system and getting better. Today is Pro Pad. Time for a little hitting. Let's see what we have among us. Roll Quake

Attitude

2011-07-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

It’s your attitude, not your aptitude that enables you to reach a higher altitude, if you have enough intestinal fortitude!

As we begin a new football season and for the student athletes, a new school year, let’s remember what real success is all about. Below is a poem written by Coach Grant Teaff, former Baylor University head coach, AFCA Coach of the year in 1974, National Football Foundation/College Hall of Fame Coach, and now the Executive Director of the American Football Coaches Association.

SUCCESS

Success is in the way you walk the paths of life each day, it’s in the little things you do and in the things you say.

It’s not in reaching heights or fame.
It’s not alone in reaching goals, which all men seek to claim.

Success is being big of heart, and clean and broad of mind.
Success is being faithful to your friend, and to the stranger kind.

Success is in your family, friends, and teammates that you love, and what they learn from you.
Success is having Character in everything you do.

Why d3

2011-07-02T06:18:00.000-07:00

It is not about getting a scholarship, getting drafted, or making sports center. It is a deep need in us that comes from the heart. We need to practice, to play, to lift, and to hustle, to sweat. We do it all for our teammates and for the student in our calculus class that we do not even know. We do not practice with a future NFL linebacker; we practice with a future peace corp. volunteer. We do not lift with a future first round pick; we lift with a future doctor. We do not run with a future free agent; we run with a future CEO. It is a bigger part of us than our friends and family can understand. Sometimes we play for 4,000 fans; sometimes 400. But, we still play hard.

You cheer for us because you know us. You know more than just our names. Like all of you we are students first. We do not sign autographs. We sign graduate school applications, MCAT exams, and student body petitions. When we miss a kick or a tackle, we do not let down an entire state. We only let down our teammates, coaches and fans. The hurt is still the same. We train hard, lift, throw, run, kick, tackle and lift some more, and in the morning we go to class. In that class we are nothing more than students. It is about pride in us, in our school. It is about our love and passion for the game of football. When it is over, when we walk off the field for the last time, our hearts crumble. Those tears are real. But, deep down inside, we are very proud of ourselves. We will forever be what few can claim. We are college football players.

-A Earlham College football player (Shaun Humphrey)

No Condolence for you

2011-06-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

Honor denied some families of fallen troops. After two years of consistent attempts my brother and sister in-law, who are trying to change a White-house policy for fallen Veterans like my Nephew Chance the national media finally takes interest. Go HERE to see Gregg and Jannett on the CBS News. Their strength and perseverance toward their son is powerful. Love you Gregg.

Summer Visits

2011-06-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

Earlham Football would like to invite you to attend one of our individual July Summer Visitation Days. Please email me now to register for your very own visit. The campus visits are weekdays beginning July 5th and will run until July 30th.

Visit Day

* Individual Meeting with the Head Coach
* Personalized Campus Tour
* Admissions Interview
* Athletic Facility and Football Tour
* Chalk/Talk - Offense or Defense

Email today to schedule your personalized visit. keeslge@earlham.edu

Coach K.

Football Alumni Award

2011-06-23T07:02:00.000-07:00

It is with great honor that I announce Don Siler (EC '95) as the recipient of this years Earlham College Football Alumni Award. He is a member of the Earlham College Hall of Fame and current President of the E Club. Don was was named to the NCAC All-Decade team and is a 3-time 1st Team All-NCAC member. He has been actively involved in our football program since his graduation in 1995. We are grateful for all of his efforts through the years.

Concussions in Football

2011-05-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

When Allen Pinkett became a captain at Notre Dame, he wanted to follow in Dave Duerson's footsteps.

The kind of example Duerson set for Pinkett, he wanted to pass on to younger players coming up in the Fighting Irish football program.

"Really, all I did was think about what Dave did, how he carried himself," Pinkett told the crowd Sunday night at Forest Hills. "That's the model that I used."

Pinkett, who went on to play for the Houston Oilers, was part of a panel that discussed sports head injuries and also served as a tribute to Duerson, who passed away unexpectedly in February.

Duerson was an All-American safety at Notre Dame and went on to play for two Super Bowl champions. He committed suicide, and it is believed concussions he received during his career played a role in his death.

The Muncie native had evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain disease that afflicts athletes because of repeated brain trauma.

The panel was part of a fundraiser for Wernle Youth and Family Treatment Center. Duerson was scheduled to lead both Sunday's event and today's Wernle Coaches for Kids Golf Classic. Pinkett will host the golf tournament, also at Forest Hills.

Duerson had a huge impact on many different people, said Wernle CEO Darrell Gordon, another Notre Dame football standout.

"He was so excited of having the opportunity to be on our campus, to meet with our young men, to share with them the importance of them staying persistent and committed to the transformation of their lives," Gordon said of Duerson.

"His death has brought attention to a media topic across this nation ... Dave Duerson was a victim and a martyr of this issue."

Speaking on the panel were Pinkett, former NFL players and Richmond natives Vagas Ferguson and Paul Flatley, Indianapolis Colts team physician Henry Feuer, Earlham College coach Gerry Keesling, John Baren of Wernle and Alicia Duerson, who was married to Dave Duerson for 26 years.

The panel was moderated by Dr. Brad Barrett of General Surgeons Inc., in Richmond. Barrett also was a student trainer at Notre Dame when Duerson played there.

Topics included NFL stories, the evolution of helmets and the league's concussion policy.

"I played back in the 60s when your head was a weapon, literally," Flatley said. "You were encouraged to use it for blocking ... There were a lot of hits and there still are. Players today are faster, in better condition than they were 50 years ago and the helmets are better.

"... But you still have collisions. That's the thing about the game. If I were a young parent with kids, should I allow my sons to play the game knowing there is going to be some concussion potential?"

Alicia Duerson noted the need for more education when it comes to head injuries.

"This is like the tip of the iceberg," she said. "People who played along with Dave and behind Dave or in front of Dave, this is only the tip.

"... I would say, along with education, there needs to be major funding. If there is testing out there, or if there is help for them, they need the help."

A Break

2011-05-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

Heading up to the lakes for a little R&R with my oldest son. We are going to Northern Indiana for some Rainbow trout. Hopefully, we will catch our limit. Back to work in the office next week.

Description of Earlham Football

2011-05-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

"Earlham College football, a program of the highest integrity, is characterized by the excellence our student-athletes have achieved in the classroom as well as on the athletic field. Earlham College, with its fine facilities and commitment to excellence, certainly offers the student-athlete the opportunity to excel in both arenas.
We're interested in young men who exhibit an unmatched work ethic and are challenged by adding to this unique tradition. Earlham, whose greatest strengths are its people and diversity, offers a challenging and exciting atmosphere for all of our students."

Destiny

2011-04-29T11:48:00.001-07:00

“Watch your thoughts for they become words. Choose your words, for they become actions. Understand your actions, for they become habits. Study your habits, for they will become your character. Develop your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

Failure and Success

2011-04-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

THE FORMULA FOR FAILURE AND SUCCESS
(from The Five Major Pieces to the Life Puzzle by Jim Rohn)

Failure is not a single, cataclysmic event. We do not fail overnight. Failure is the inevitable result of an accumulation of poor thinking and poor choices. To put it more simply, failure is nothing more than a few errors in judgment repeated every day.
Now why would someone make an error in judgment and then be so foolish as to repeat it every day? The answer is because he or she does not think that it matters.
On their own, our daily acts do not seem that important. A minor oversight, a poor decision, or a wasted hour generally doesn’t result in an instant and measurable impact. More often than not, we escape from any immediate consequences of our deeds.
If we have not bothered to read a single book in the past ninety days, this lack of discipline does not seem to have any immediate impact on our lives. And since nothing drastic happened to us after the first ninety days, we repeat this error in judgment for another ninety days, and on and on it goes. Why? Because it doesn’t seem to matter. And herein lies the great danger. Far worse than not reading the books is not even realizing that it matters!
Those who eat too many of the wrong foods are contributing to a future health problem, but the joy of the moment overshadows the consequence of the future. It does not seem to matter. Those who smoke too much or drink too much go on making these poor choices year after year after year… because it doesn’t seem to matter. But the pain and regret of these errors in judgment have only been delayed for a future time. Consequences are seldom instant; instead, they accumulate until the inevitable day of reckoning finally arrives and the price must be paid for our poor choices – choices that didn’t seem to matter.
Failure’s most dangerous attribute is its subtlety. In the short term those little errors don’t seem to make any difference. We do not seem to be failing. In fact, sometimes these accumulated errors in judgment occur throughout a period of great joy and prosperity in our lives. Since nothing terrible happens to us, since there are no instant consequences to capture our attention, we simply drift from one day to the next, repeating the errors, thinking the wrong thoughts, listening to the wrong voices and making the wrong choices. The sky did not fall in on us yesterday; therefore the act was probably harmless. Since it seemed to have no measurable consequence, it is probably safe to repeat.
But we must become better educated than that!
If at the end of the day when we made our first error in judgment the sky had fallen in on us, we undoubtedly would have taken immediate steps to ensure that the act would never be repeated again. Like the child who places his hand on a hot burner despite his parents’ warnings, we would have had an instantaneous experience accompanying our error in judgment.
Unfortunately, failure does not shout out its warnings as our parents once did. This is why it is imperative to refine our philosophy in order to be able to make better choices. With a powerful, personal philosophy guiding our every step, we become more aware of our errors in judgment and more aware that each error really does matter.
Now here is the great news. Just like the formula for failure, the formula for success is easy to follow: It’s a few simple disciplines practiced every day.
Now here is an interesting question worth pondering: How can we change the errors in the formula for failure into the disciplines required in the formula for success? The answer is by making the future an important part of our current philosophy.
Both success and failure involve future consequences, namely the inevitable rewards or unavoidable regrets resulting from past activities. If this is true, why don’t more people take time to ponder the future? The answer is simple: They are so caught up in the current moment that it doesn’t seem to matter. The problems and the rewards of today are so absorbing to some human beings that they never pause long enough to think about tomorrow.
But what if we did develop a new discipline to take just a few minutes every day to look a little further down the road? We would then be able to foresee the impending consequences of our current conduct. Armed with that valuable information, we would be able to take the necessary action to change our errors into new success-oriented disciplines. In other words, by disciplining ourselves to see the future in advance, we would be able to change our thinking, amend our errors and develop new habits to replace the old.
One of the exciting things about the formula for success – a few simple disciplines practiced every day – is that the results are almost immediate. As we voluntarily change daily errors into daily disciplines, we experience positive results in a very short period of time. When we change our diet, our health improves noticeably in just a few weeks. When we start exercising, we feel a new vitality almost immediately. When we begin reading, we experience a growing awareness and a new level of self-confidence. Whatever new discipline we begin to practice daily will produce exciting results that will drive us to become even better at developing new disciplines.
The real magic of new disciplines is that they will cause us to amend our thinking. If we were to start today to read the books, keep a journal, attend the classes, listen more and observe more, then today would be the first day of a new life leading to a better future. If we were to start today to try harder, and in every way make a conscious and consistent effort to change subtle and deadly errors into constructive and rewarding disciplines, we would never again settle for a life of existence once we have tasted the fruits of a life of substance!

Excellence

2011-04-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

The quality of a man’s life is in direct proportion to his commitment to excellence, regardless of his chosen field of endeavor.
- Vince Lombardi
Green Bay & HOF Coach
Super Bowl trophy named after him

To my Nephew

2011-04-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

My brother and his son Chancy

SPC Chancellor Keesling
We miss you Chancy. I think of you everyday and so thankful that you were in our lives for 25 years.

EYES WIDE OPEN Exhibit is on the campus of Earlham College today and here are the boots of my Nephew SPC Chancellor Keesling
This exhibit of combat boots represents Indiana soldiers killed in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. A smaller collection of different shoes represents civilian deaths. The traveling exhibit is sponsored by American Friends Service Committee and has been brought to Earlham College and the Richmond Area Peace Coalition in cooperation with the One War is too Many Coalition.

"Charlie Benner Recruiting Weekend"

2011-04-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

Every year we hold the Football Weekend in conjunction with our last Spring Football practice and invite our recruiting class along with any local alumni who might venture out to watch and tell some stories. This is a day of fun, football and a lot of food. Charlie Benner, who passed away this past winter, always attended. He always enjoyed meeting the future EC football players and seeing the current and past players each and every year. This year we will be changing the name of this event to "The Charlie Benner Recruiting Weekend." I will be making the proclamation at the conclusion of this year's practice and before we eat (around 3:00pm) on Sunday, April 17th. Charlie has been one of Earlham's top football fans for the past 40 years.

I miss you Charlie Mac

Spring Ball

2011-04-05T05:20:00.000-07:00

Spring Ball began with a bang. Players are working hard every day. We are getting stronger as a team, which was our main objective in this off-season. We have continued our strength program into the spring. The implementation of offense and defense is going very well. Players are picking up the material quickly. Obviously, without contact much is left to be unseen, but the mental aspects have impressed the coaches. Very proud of this group of guys and the coaching staff's efforts.

Spring Break

2011-03-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the last days of spring break. Visited with my oldest and his wife. He has a new job and just put his house on the market. Crossing our fingers they can get it sold. Stayed in a cabin down by Bloomington for a short time with my wife and youngest son. Relaxing three days. Now it is time to get back to campus for some Spring Ball.

Spring Football Schedule

2011-02-18T14:38:00.000-08:00

Earlham Spring Football

Sunday's where all coaches and players can be in attendance

* The focus will be on offense/defense installation

MTW am workouts will be lifting and stations

* The focus will be on getting our athletes better
* Track athletes participation in the am is optional....but if you plan to attend one we expect you to attend all.

Week 1
March 21-22-23 MTW - 6:00am - 7:30am
March 27 - Sunday 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Week 2
March 28-29-30 MTW - 6:00am - 7:30am
April 3 - Sunday 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Week 3
April 4-5-6 MTW - 6:00am - 7:30am
April 10 - Sunday 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Week 4
April 11-12-13 MTW - 6:00am - 7:30
April 16 - FOOTBALL WEEKEND (Recruits for Overnight)
April 17 - Sunday - 1:00pm - 3:00pm (Conclude with Cookout at Darrell Beane Stadium)

Leadership Breakfast

2011-01-28T05:34:00.000-08:00

This morning the Earlham Football team had their second Leadership Breakfast. Every team requires leadership. The most successful teams at any level are driven by the players in the locker room, in the weight room, on the practice field, in the classroom, everywhere. Certain standards are set by the players, a certain level of expectation in terms of preparation, effort, and dedication.

One of the greatest responsibilities we have is to support others and ourselves in living at our highest and best. Whether we're parents, partners, friends or leaders, it is incumbent upon us to help others to live as close to their unique potential as we can.

With everything we say and do, we're influencing, positively or negatively, the people we care about. The ideal is to do this with consideration and intention. Here are ten ways you can help others see and realize the best that's within them.

1. Believe in hem
2. Encourage them
3. Expect a lot
4. Tell the truth
5. Be a role model
6. Share yourself
7. Challenge them
8. Ask good questions
9. Acknowledge them
10.Spend time with them

My favorite leadership proverb is:
"He who thinketh he leadeth, and has no one following him, is only taking a walk."

Happy Holidays

2010-12-26T06:22:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Have a wonderful Holiday and enjoy all of the Bowl games. Always a great time in the Keesling Household.

The Keeslings

On the Road

2010-12-06T19:42:00.001-08:00

The Coaching Staff is on the road recruiting. We are turning over every leaf to find good student/athletes who have the ability to make it in the classroom as well as compete to play right away.

Work Wins

2010-09-22T08:14:00.000-07:00

"This too shall pass." We are working hard to become a better and smarter football team. Our players are determined to overcome our setbacks from the previous Saturday's. We have a long way to go, but "Work Wins." Thomas Paine said, "I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection." We are going to work every day. We are fighting through our frustrations and inconsistent play. On to the next.

Tough one

2010-09-07T10:37:00.001-07:00

This opening game was a tough loss. Very difficult to describe the disappoint in the Quake's performance on the field. I loved our character and fight throughout the contest. Our players battled to the very end, but with little offense and the defense giving up some big plays the outcome was not close to what we had hoped and worked all pre-season to obtain....a victory. We will get better. We will improve. I believe in these young men and their potential to be a good football team.

Scrimmage

2010-08-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we scrimmaged Ohio Wesleyan. It felt good to see some of the coaches from our old conference (NCAC). The day was hot and we were able to get much accomplished. Probably, the most important result from the day is there were no injuries. The new guys performed very well and we were able to evaluate their performance on Sunday. We have a nice team. The unity is coming along nicely and we are anxious to begin the season. We open this Saturday at home against Sewanee. I have never competed against the school so it will be a first for all of us. We are focused on good fundamentals and technique. Hope everyone is as anxious as I to kick off the football season.

Athletic Weight Room

2010-07-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

We have just completed phase 2 in establishing an Athletic only Weight Room for our student/athletes. Check out some of our new photos.

EC Golf Classic

2010-06-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

CHAMPIONS

Once again, we had an outstanding golf outing for Earlham Football. We had football playing alumni from every decade going back to the 60's. If you have never played with us you should. Great fun. Great food. Great friendships. Thank you to everyone who attended the 2010 EC Golf Classic. Special thanks goes out to my assistant coach Matt Macy. He works diligently to make each classic the best ever and he hit the ball out of the park this year.

I hope you will join us in 2011.

2010 Football Alumni Award

2010-06-27T16:02:00.000-07:00

Kevin "Bobo" Handley

The Alumni of the year award was created in 2002 to honor an alumnus who has gone above and beyond to give back to the EC football program. Sam Hogenauer was the initial recipient of the award. Each year we will be honoring an individual, which typifies the type of effort and love for Earlham College football as Sam has bestowed through the many years. We have established a plaque, which will list all recipients and will hang in our locker room at Darrell Beane Stadium.

This year's recipient is Kevin "Bobo" Handley EC'98. Kevin is the Chief Academic Officer at Galileo Charter School. In addition, Kevin was the recipient of the Shane Smith Award in 1997.

2002 - Sam Hogenauer EC'69
2005 - Greg Williams EC'89
2006 - Bob Fawley EC'76
2007 - Stan Hill EC'93
2008 - John Loose EC'64
2009 - Pete "Flip" Rauner EC'85
2010 - Kevin "Bobo" Handley EC'98

Earlham Football Recruiting Class of 2014

2010-05-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

As promised here is the class of 2014 for Earlham College Football. This is one of our best classes in recent times.

#32 D’Andre Baker 5’10” 195 Running Back
Gary, IN Roosevelt H.S.

#35 Jamal Calhoun 5’9” 205 Wide Receiver
Gary, IN Roosevelt H.S.

#55 Nick Chaney 6’2” 225 Linebacker
Loveland, OH Loveland H.S.

#25 Justin Darden 5’8” 165 Running Back/Defensive Back
Muncie, IN Central H.S.

#44 Tyler Declare 5’10” 215 Line Backer
Abbotsford, B.C. W.J. Mouat Secondary School

#30 Woody Earls 5’9” 195 Running Back
New Lebanon, OH Dixie H.S. (Transfer from Ohio Wesleyan)

#76 Ryan Hayes 6’3” 265 Offensive Line
New Lebanon, OH Dixie H.S.

#78 Bryan James 6’5” 270 Offensive Line
Upland, IN Eastbrook H.S.

#20 James Kayhill 6’0” 200 Running Back
Powder Springs, GA Hillgrove H.S.

#18 Kaleb Lingg 6’1” 180 Defensive Back/Wide Receiver
Dayton, OH Northridge H.S.

#12 Richard Martinez 6’0” 180 Defensive Back
Hialeah Gardens, FL Mater Academy H.S.

#68 Nate McCormack 6’4” 220 Defensive Line
Cicero, IN Hamilton Heights H.S.

#22 Ryan McCray 5’11” 180 Defensive Back
Lexington, KY Henry Clay H.S.

#86 Cameron Mitchell 5’10” 165 Wide Receiver
Merrillville, IN Merrillville H.S.

#26 Eilliot Parker 5’9” 170 Defensive Back
Merrillville, IN Merrillville H.S.

#59 Andrew Pierce 6’3” 275 Offensive Line
Boonville, IN Boonville H.S.

#46 Blake Rodenberger 6’0” 220 Line Backer
Bellefontaine, OH Ben Logan H.S.

#87 Kyle Shannon 6’3” 175 Wide Receiver
Gary, IN Har-Ber H.S.

#89 Grant Shreve 6’4” 175 Kicker
Zionsville, IN Zionsville Community H.S.

#57 Alex Shrewsberry 6’1” 270 Offensive Line
Zionsville, IN Zionsville Community H.S.

#74 Kirsten Smith 6’2” 300 Offensive Line
Gary, IN West H.S.

#2 Dorian Stroud 5’10” 185 Defensive Back
South Bend, IN John Adams H.S.

#17 Tyler Templeton 6’5” 200 Wide Receiver
North Ridgeville, OH North Ridgeville H.S.

#40 Nathan Wallace 6’0” 190 Line Backer
Noblesville, IN Noblesville H.S.

#49 Andy West 6’2” 185 Line Backer
Richmond, IN Richmond H.S.

#27 Carlton Wilcoxson 5’11” 165 Defensive Back
St. Louis, MO Ladue H.S.

#15 Tyree Williams 5’8” 180 Running Back
Elkhart, IN Central H.S.

Coming Up

2010-05-18T20:56:00.001-07:00

I will be posting our 2010 Recruiting class in the very near future. Stay tuned.

The Beginning

2010-03-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

Here is the beginning work for our new weight room. We are gutting the old locker room and will build a brand new strength facility for our football program

Football Weight Room

2010-03-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

We could not go outside today because of the rain. So we had some of our players help demo the old locker room. We are going to create a Football Weight Room in our old locker room. This weight room will be 2000 square feet. Watch how the room is transformed in 40 minutes by our guys.

DANCE LIKE NO ONES WATCHING

2010-02-25T20:57:00.001-08:00

We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage.

We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, or when we retire. The truth is there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, and a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life." This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness.

Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have. And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time...and remember that time waits for no one. So stop waiting until you finish school, go back to school, lose ten pounds, gain ten pounds, have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, retire, get married, get divorced...until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until the first or fifteenth, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you are born again? To decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy...

Happiness is found in the journey, not a destination.

Thought for the day: Work like you don't need money, Love like you've never been hurt, and dance like no one's watching. Author Crystal Boyd

Recruiting

2010-02-25T20:37:00.001-08:00

We are narrowing down our pool. Recruits are getting their applications completed and FAFSA's are coming in. It is such a long process. We have been pushing since last July. This will be the largest recruiting class in some time at Earlham. We feel pretty good about bringing in 30 1st years. Hope everything plays out with financial aid. That is the last big piece of the puzzle in most all cases.

Spring break is just around the corner and I am planning some R&R with Donna up on Lake Erie with some of our College friends. Looking forward to a little getaway.

Update

2010-02-16T19:48:00.000-08:00

Just returned from Florida where we attended recruiting fairs in Ft. Myers and the Tampa area. Though it was extremely cold for Florida at least there wasn't any snow. We talked with 60 qualified student/athletes. Very impressed with the organization of both fairs. Was able to visit with my In-laws in Ft. Myers.

I am still struggling with the Super Bowl outcome. Happy for New Orleans, but disappointed still the same. Find it hard to watch NFL Network, which is only an ugly reminder of the Colts loss. Can't imagine how difficult it is for the Colts players and staff. To get so close and come up short.

Most of our players are heading home for Mid-Semester break. Recruiting has kept me from posting on this blog as much as I'd like.....priorities.

Super Bowl

2010-01-26T18:48:00.000-08:00

Wow. What a weekend. Colts back to Miami and the Super Bowl. Couldn't be happier for Coach Caldwell and the Indianapolis Colts. I was a nervous wreck, but the Colts persevered. Go Colts!

Winter

2010-01-13T21:22:00.000-08:00

Great time in Orlando, FL but it was freezing cold. Convention had 6,000 + coaches on hand. I enjoyed listening to Lou Holtz as one of the Master Coaches. Can you believe the coaching turnover? Had a team meeting today. Nice to see all of our players after the break. Time to get busy. This is the time when players make their biggest gains for next fall. Big weekend for recruiting. Organizing the Indiana Football Hall of Fame Clinic. Colts vs. Ravens. So much to do....so little time.

Bowl Season

2010-01-08T13:27:00.001-08:00

Wow, what a tremendous College Bowl season. We had the luxury to watch many great teams and coaches battling it out on the gridiron for their schools. Sad that it is over. Well, it is off to the AFCA National Coaches Convention in Orlando, FL where the weekend forecast is a high 43 degrees (yeehaw). When we return it will be time to ramp up our recruiting visits to campus. Players will get back in the weight room and were off and running in the second semester. NFL play-offs...Go Colts. Congratulations to Wisconsin Whitewater with their National Championship. Oh yeah, to Alabama as well. Nothing like d3 football.

Football

2009-12-12T21:06:00.000-08:00

Have a blazing fire going. Watching the taped State Championship game with Warren Central against Carmel. Great 5A State finals game. Can't seem to get enough football. Watched the 1AA semi-final game earlier today. What a surprise Mount Union vs. Whitewater in d3 Championship...again. Had some recruits on campus today. Excited for the Colts vs. Broncos tomorrow. Probably should go to bed and get some sleep.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T08:26:00.000-08:00

Donna and I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. We hope everyone takes the time to enjoy their families and give thanks for the people we have in our lives.

4th Quarter win

2009-11-16T07:34:00.000-08:00

The Colts come back from 17 down in the 4th quarter was similar to our win against Denison. We were down 17 points and scored 21 points in the 4th with the go ahead score occurring with 30 seconds left in the game. What a great football weekend. Earlham and the Colts win with 4th quarter comebacks. Jayson Murphy's smile says it all. Awesome.

Last NCAC Win

2009-11-15T13:34:00.000-08:00

What a great end to the 2009 season. Down 17-0 at the start of the 4th quarter our team battled back to beat Denison 21-17 to finish the season 5-5 (5th place in the NCAC). This after the NCAC coaches selected us 9th in the pre-season, again, for the second year in a row. We finished 3rd in 2008 and 5th in 2009. We are very proud of this football team and the outstanding senior leadership which was shown every week. We are building a winner, the right way. "On to the next.....HCAC."

Final Game

2009-11-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

This Saturday will be the final game of the 2009 season as our football team travels to Granville, OH to play Denison University. The "Rock" ceremony for the seniors on Friday followed with Saturday's game will wrap up the 09 campaign. Every year I say the same thing, "this is a great group of young men." Earlham College does an outstanding job of developing our students and you need not look any further than our football team. Year after year I am always saddened at this point in time as another group finishes their football career and moves on with their lives. I wish to thank them for all they have done through their four years. I am so proud of my seniors......once again.

Senior Day WIN

2009-11-05T09:27:00.000-08:00

What a great victory for our seniors last Saturday against Kenyon 21-9. I was so proud of our football team, but especially happy for our seniors. This is a great group of young men who have overcome much during their 4 years and now have a chance to finish the season above 500. They are very deserving and I am hopeful we can accomplish a winning season.

First NCAC win

2009-10-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

HIRAM, Ohio — Defense was the name of the game for the Earlham College football team on Saturday as the Quakers defeated Hiram College 10-7 in a North Coast Athletic Conference contest. Read More

Changing Conferences

2009-10-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

RICHMOND, Ind. — Earlham College’s change in athletic conferences became official on Thursday after a lengthy application process and many discussions on campus.

The Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference announced that Earlham would become the 10th member of the league that was founded in 1987 as the Indiana Collegiate Athletic Conference. The name was changed in 1998 when schools from Ohio joined the group. Read more

Football at Earlham

2009-09-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

Steve Boyce EC '62 wrote in the 2006 Earlhamite, "I think that Earlham was--and--is a great place to be who you are. For those of us who played football, we had the opportunity to enjoy it without being defined by that particular activity. And I think the same is true for those who had other interests. All people are valued for reasons completely apart from the activities they choose. That kind of culture was alive and well at Earlham, maybe more so than any place I've been."

At Earlham our players line up every day for the love of the game. This Saturday we will entertain The College of Wooster as they come to town for our first Northcoast Conference Football game of the season. Go Quake!

Chris Owens Selected to the All State/AFCA Good Works Team

2009-09-22T08:50:00.001-07:00

Senior Chris Owens is one of 22 College players selected to the All State/AFCA Good Works Team. Read More

Earlham Wins Again

2009-09-21T10:56:00.000-07:00

We head into our Bye week with a 37-34 win over Anderson University, which moves us to 2-1 for the season. Great production from our football team last Saturday evening at Anderson. We were able to hold on in a great game between two good teams.

Congratulations to Dorian Jenkins

2009-09-14T06:17:00.000-07:00

Northcoast Athletic Conference Player of the Week
Pass attempts/completions: 12/19
Passing yards: 234 net, 41 long
Passing touchdowns: 1, long 7 yds
Rush attempts: 8
Rushing yards: 37 net, 4.6 avg, 9 long
Rushing touchdowns: 1, long: 9 yds

Dorian Jenkins scored twice, once on a rush and once through the air, to lead the Quakers to a 31-21 victory over Manchester. The win puts Earlham in the “W” column for the first time and lifts the team to a 1-1 record. Jenkins seven-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter helped the Quakers regain the lead at 24-17, then he capped a five-play, 42-yard drive with a nine-yard TD run to give Earlham its decisive 10-point lead. He finished with 234 yards and a touchdown on 12-of-19 passing and also 37 yards rushing on eight attempts, with one touchdown.

Manchester Game

2009-09-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

This weekend was bitter sweet for me personally. On one hand I was very happy with our win over Manchester (31-21), but they lost their senior QB (Caleb Grimes) to a very serious knee injury. My heart and prayers go out to Caleb and his family. I am hopeful he has a strong recovery. We have battled against Caleb through the years and I have found him to be a very competitive football player. To our players I was proud to watch you battle through the highs and lows against a very good Manchester football team. Just as I told you last week I wish to repeat this week. "Nothing is ever as good as it seems and nothing is ever as bad as it seems and somewhere in between is where reality falls."

Rose Game

2009-09-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

Did not turn out at all what I expected. We made a great deal of mistakes through out the game and did not play anywhere close to our capabilities. Maybe we were tight. The want was there for our team but the execution was lost somewhere. Rose Hulman is a very good football team and I wish them well the rest of the season and I do not want to take anything away from their play.....but. I know we can play much better and I expect our team to respond this week. "Regrets are a waste of time. They are the past crippling you in the present."

The Sword

2009-09-01T09:27:00.001-07:00

This is Rose week. The "Battle of the Border" for the "Sword." Our players are working hard everyday in preparation for victory. We have fallen short in recent years and it is our time for victory. Players are in a Special Team meeting right now with Coach Macy. Practice at 4:15 and then Rose film tonight after dinner. Nothing is going to be left undone. As I type I am listening to "In the Air Tonight" over the radio. Omen....I think so. Go Quake!

Media Day

2009-08-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

Today is Media Day for the EC Football team. I'll add pictures at a later date. The pictures above are from last year. We have pictures followed with a walk through. Easy day for our players, which will allow them to get their legs back before our scrimmage tomorrow. Anxious to see how we fare against someone other than ourselves.

Pre-Season Concluded

2009-08-25T08:01:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was the conclusion of pre-season here at Earlham. Today our players are registering for classes with their advisers and tomorrow begins the academic school year. We had an exceptional pre-season. Players worked extremely hard throughout and performed well with everything we asked of them. My coaching staff is outstanding and coached hard throughout the schedule. Coaches raised the bar for our team and we improved every day. In football practice you either get better or you get worse....you never stay the same. We improved every day. I am so excited to see how we perform this weekend in our scrimmage with Hanover College. I have high expectations for this football team. Our seniors are showing great leadership every day.

2009 Seniors

2009-08-18T08:39:00.001-07:00

1st Double Practice

2009-08-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Wow! Yesterday was tough. The morning practice was very hot and humid....and then it rained for 10 minutes and you could cut the air with a knife in the afternoon. I cannot remember a more hot and humid practice than what we experienced yesterday. Very proud of our football for gutting through two very difficult practices. We accomplished a great deal and became a better football team. Here is hoping today is cooler.

EC Football weekend

2009-08-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had our 2nd Pro Pad practice and in the afternoon the team went swimming at a local stone quarry. They all had a great time. In the evening we went to Joe's for pizza. This morning the players had an opportunity to sleep in. We had weights and meetings after lunch and now heading out for our 3rd Pro Pad practice. The young guys are really picking up the information well.

The Quake

2009-08-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

Richmond meets "The Quake"

Meetings

2009-08-11T18:05:00.000-07:00

Everyone reported on time. Coaches are in meetings with players going through installation for tomorrow afternoons practice. We have physicals and equipment issue in the morning and weight testing in the early afternoon. Tomorrow evening 1st shorts and helmet practice. I love football.

Football Begins

2009-08-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

Last evening with my lovely wife and best friend. Tomorrow is report day for Earlham College football. Players come in from all over to check in and get started on the 2009 season. I love to see how hard they all have worked for the past 3 months. Team meeting at 5:00 and then to Joe's for "Meet the Quake" night and some pizza. Then back to campus for evening meetings.

HOF

2009-08-08T08:50:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite days. The induction ceremony at Canton. To watch the stories on NFL Network. To hear the stories re-told by my football idols. To see their tears and feel my tears. What a great day. The power and glory from the game can only be truly felt by those who wore a helmet. Many folks watch the games. They cheer for their favorite teams (high school, college, pro), but only those people who were lucky enough to strap up their chin straps and hear the pop...pop...pop as their teammates get ready to go into battle can truly appreciate what the game means. You cannot put those feelings into words. Magical is all that comes to mind. Have a great season, whether you are playing, coaching or watching. Another football season is here.

To Earlham Football Alums

2009-08-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

Hope to see your Booster club dues. Your contribution is valuable in helping us build a football program you can be proud of. Last season Earlham finished 3rd in the NCAC. We have set our sites on finishing even higher and making you proud of your Alma mater. Please support YOUR football team. Your blood and sweat set the foundation and we talk about you at the ROCK every week. Now it is time for us to take the next step in building this program. Booster money goes directly to the players. We now provide travel shirts and sweats for our players. Players purchase nothing. Everything is provided, which is the way it should be in college. We have also established a big tent and tailgate area. We want to provide the best experience for our football alumni, YOU. Hope you will make a game this fall. We are home 6 times in Darrell Beane Stadium.

Fairbanks Grizzlies Football

2009-08-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

Fairbanks Grizzlies Football

FAIRBANKS — Fairbanks Grizzlies quarterback Justin Rummell doesn’t feel like he plays for a 7-7 team, and he looks to prove it in the Indoor Football League postseason.

“We feel like we’re a better football team than our record shows,” Rummell said, “and we’re ready to win some games in the playoffs.”

The Grizzlies take on the Colorado Ice (5-9) at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Carlson Center in Fairbanks’ first professional football playoff game.

The winner of the first-round game will head to Billings, Mont., for a Pacific Division showdown with the 12-2 Billings Outlaws.

Despite more than doubling last season’s wins and sweeping their intrastate rival, the Alaska Wild of Anchorage, the postseason still carries a theme of redemption for the Grizzlies.

Fairbanks roared to a 2-0 start with a road win over the Wild and a 72-41 home opener against the Maryland Maniacs.

But that was followed by the worst loss in franchise history, a 74-3 defeat at the hands of the Outlaws.

Since then, the Grizzlies have looked stellar — defeating three playoff teams throughout the season — and disjointed — dropping four straight games from May 23 to June 20.

Those high and low points depended on consistency, Grizzlies coach Sean Ponder said.

Putting four good quarters together is Fairbanks’ main concern on Sunday, he said, because when the Grizzlies are firing on all cylinders, they’re a championship team.

“It’s never perfect, but sometimes the offense is clicking and the defense is struggling or the defense is playing well and the offense is struggling,” Ponder said. “We can’t do that.”

Rummell noticed the Grizzlies playing out of tune in their four-game losing streak, but said they have played in step with one another in the past month.

“I feel like the last three or four weeks the defense has really stepped up,” he said “and I feel like the offense is more on the same page.”

The addition of Marchent Faustin to the offensive line has given Fairbanks’ pass protection more strength, Rummell said, as Faustin and Eric Gaskins are reliable substitutes, which helps all the big men up front stay energetic.

The quarterback-receiver relationship continues to improve, even this late in the season, Rummell added.

The senses

2009-08-02T19:58:00.001-07:00

I would like to wish all those high school football players who start pre-season in the morning all the best. August is a great month with the smell of sweaty gear and icy-hot in the locker room. The terrible feel of pulling up your cold wet dirty football pants for the afternoon practice. Sitting down to stretch in the morning dew. Looking for any shade you can find on a water break. Yes, August is a great month. I am jealous you all get to start. Have fun.

Chris Owens

2009-07-24T06:29:00.001-07:00

Earlham athlete honored
PALLADIUM-ITEM
Earlham College senior Chris Owens was nominated for a national honor on Thursday.
He is one of 106 players from all levels of college football eligible for the Allstate Insurance Company/American Football Coaches Association Good Works Team.
"What a wonderful recognition for a great young man," Earlham football coach Gerry Keesling said. "Chris is one of the finest football players I have ever coached and with all of his abilities on the football field they pale in comparison to Chris as a person."
The Good Works Team honors players who make contributions to their communities in the areas of volunteerism and civic involvement.
"Chris always places the welfare of others before his own," Keesling said. "I am very proud and honored to have him as a leader in our football program at Earlham College."
Owens has completed over 1,500 hours of community service since coming to Earlham in 2005.
He has volunteered at the following Richmond-area organizations: Townsend Community Center, Reid Hospital and Health Services, Pauline Trueblood, Richmond State Hospital, Wernle Children's Home, Make-A-Wish Foundation, March of Dimes Foundation, United Way, Galileo Charter Schools, Habitat for Humanity, Upward Bound and Earlham Explore-A-College.
Owens was an all-North Coast Athletic Conference second team selection last year. He had 59 catches for 702 yards and scored six touchdowns.
The final Good Works Team will have 22 members, 11 from NCAA Division 1-A and 11 players from the remaining divisions.

A little more about us

2009-07-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

A head coach’s knowledge is directly attributed to the staff around him. By hiring intelligent and experienced coaches your staff will challenge each other. Their knowledge of the game hones your philosophy on a daily basis. We talk on the phone with our peers when we have pertinent questions pertaining to a particular situation. The coaching fraternity is a close-knit group where ideas are discussed in great detail. In addition, we attend as many football clinics and conventions as possible. I spent three days with Hal Mumme and the Kentucky coaching staff during their spring break between 1998 and 2000 and it was that time and experience, which allowed our offense to move in a new direction. This decision helped catapult our offensive production from that time to the present. Two years ago we brought the defensive coordinator from Georgia Military to our campus and spent five days implementing their 3-3-5 defense, which has helped us improve our defensive production. We adopted a punt philosophy from the University of Toledo in 2004, which has reduced punt blocks and improved our coverage. We have established a philosophy within our system built on speed, which fits the type of players we are consistently able to recruit here at Earlham. Continually, we are looking for any edge that will improve our teaching and enable our athletes here at Earlham to succeed.

Considering our players intelligence we can teach our players more than other programs can expect their players to learn. An Earlham coach needs to think of ways of exploiting the intelligence of his players.

On the other hand, we don't have as many players as other programs. Therefore, we must be creative in the way we approach our practice setting. With fewer people to perform in practice, the allotted time wrapped around labs and other classes, we must be smart and well organized to be productive.

Staying abreast with new strategies is paramount. I read in order to learn more about the game and leadership. What I learn is directly related to my profession. I read professional journals, of course, and books about specific techniques and fundamentals of the game. As a coach one must stay abreast of the ever-changing techniques, fundamentals and schemes. By reading articles, published in various journals and magazines, written by their peers a coach can stay on top of his game. I have subscriptions to six different magazines (and we are not talking Sports Illustrated either). Biographies of our presidential leaders and generals in America’s military help provide qualities a coach can use on the football field.

My father graduated from Earlham in 1956 and my son graduated in 2006. I have been coming to Earlham events as long as I can remember and I am proud to be a part of three generations at Earlham. I cannot explain the feeling I still get when driving down College Avenue in the fall. Maybe the houses and the changing colors on the trees take me back to my youth. I truly love this place. I guess I always have. I enjoy the way this community can have our different worlds at Earlham and accept one another.

Character

2009-07-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Character is deciding beforehand that you are going to do the right thing.
Character is how you treat people who can do absolutely nothing for you.
Character is how you behave during the petty aggravations of everyday life.
Character is how you react when the pressure is on.
Character is keeping appointments, being on time, honoring your commitments.
Character is choosing the harder right instead of the easier wrong.
Character is setting priorities that honor God, family, country and then career.
Character is what you do when you think nobody is watching you.

Philosophy for our program

2009-07-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

Vision Statement

We are determined to make being a member of our football team a special privilege and honor. We also want our players to achieve positive recognition on our campus and within our community.

STATEMENT OF POLICY: Mission

Our mission is to take the student-athlete where he cannot take himself. We will foster an environment that teaches young men to:
1. Relentlessly pursue and win the NCAC Championship.
2. Appreciate and embrace cultural diversity.
3. Achieve an exemplary foundation of leadership and academic success.

Our mission is based on the values of family, successful attitudes, and team chemistry. We believe in honesty, integrity, and strength of character, care, and confidence. We embrace a commitment to excellence, loyalty, selflessness, trust, and humility. We teach overcoming adversity, establishing priorities, goal setting, and value of diversity.

The game is played to win. Everything must be done with that in mind. Players like discipline. If handled judiciously and fairly, it will contribute to our winning. They do not like harassment. Discipline breeds success, harassment breeds contempt.

The success of the program will rise or fall on the ability, initiative and ambition of the coaching staff. The most important single characteristic of a successful COACH OF CHAMPIONS is found in his ability to teach.

The most important element in a successful football program is MORALE. Almost all decisions will be guided by what is best for total and squad moral. It is our belief that discipline, well-earned pride, and a high degree of unselfishness contributes to achieving desirable morale.

MAJOR GOALS:

1. See that all of our players graduate
2. Build a successful program within the ideals and philosophy that govern the college.
3. Re-establish the tradition. We define tradition as "good winning habits established and maintained over a period of time.

Memory Lane

2009-07-12T06:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Donna and I went to Mike Johnson's wedding reception. He was married in Vegas and had his reception last night in Logansport, Indiana. We had a good time and re-told a few stories. Mike was a sophomore at Wes-Del high school when I was hired to be their football coach in 1982. The youngest football coach in the state that year. We had some good teams and even better times. After graduation Mike became my freshmen coach and has gone on to a great coaching career at Pioneer High School. I am so proud of him.

Time

2009-07-11T09:53:00.001-07:00

Time waits for no One. Nothing stays the same, which is all the more reason to get everything out of everyday. Soak up each day as a sponge soaks up water. Hold no regrets at the end of each day. Tell the ones in your life how much they mean to you. Live today like there is no tomorrow and go to bed like tomorrow is Christmas. Have a great day.

Vince Lombardi

2009-07-01T08:10:00.000-07:00

"When Pride Still Mattered" is a book written by David Maraniss about Vince Lombardi. Though I have read many books about the legendary coach I was enthralled with this depiction of the man. This book covers a magnitude of events both in society as well as in sport, which parallels us today. In 1951 George Sokolsky wrote in the Christian Science Monitor, "When the morals of man are considered we are halted by the astonishing retreat of the 20th century with its excess of divorces, its broken homes....We need to know why our people are not outraged at the shameless corruption of our century. Something has gone terribly wrong with us and we need to know what it is and why it happened." This same passage could have been written today. We are left with the impression that these are the worst of times, but history continues to repeat itself. Are we worse off today than in any other time in history? Names change, but the issues continue to remain. How about the sporting world in these trying times? General MacArthur said, "competitive sports keeps alive in us a spirit and vitality. It teaches the strong to know when they are weak and the brave to face themselves when they are afraid. To be proud and unbound in defeat and yet humble and gentle in victory. And to master ourselves before we attempt to master others. And to learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep. And to give the predominance of courage over timidity." Then as now society tends to look at the corruption in sport instead of its beauty. Whether you are a coach, teacher, athlete or businessman this book is an excellent read. Enjoy!

Chancellor Keesling

2009-06-24T07:32:00.000-07:00

We miss you. I lost my Nephew in Iraq. Senseless. I am numb and feel terrible for my brother and his family. Such a tragic loss of life. May God watch over our families in these trying times. My heart is sad every day.

Summer Campus Visits

2009-06-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

Earlham College
Richmond, Indiana
Summer Football Campus Visits

Monday – July 6th
Monday – July 13th
Monday – July 20th
Monday – July 27th

Contact Earlham College Head Football Coach Gerry Keesling keeslge@earlham.edu to schedule your football visit TODAY.

Be Passionate

2009-06-10T18:42:00.000-07:00

I cannot imagine myself in an occupation in which I was not passionate. I love being a football coach and feel coaching is my calling. I love going to work everyday. One of the purposes in attending college is to search for that passion. The excitement to get out of bed every day. A college education can open your eyes to occupations and opportunities unknown to you. Find your calling, dream big and then do your best. Passion will turn your dreams into reality! Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke of passion in this citation. “If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the host of heaven and earth will pause to say, “Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well." Achievers are driven by a passion for what they do, an overpowering feeling that compels them to do their best. Whatever your calling do your best.

Be Prepared

2009-06-08T20:14:00.000-07:00

Success does not come without preparation. An old saying describes this necessary ingredient. Hub Etchison once said, "You can not sit down and slide up hill." To play the game of football and not prepare your body would be nice, but the body needs to be trained. An athlete must work and prepare his body for the season. To be at your best you must lift and run. There is not a secret pill one can take to get into shape. At Earlham College our football players are expected to report to camp in shape. Self-motivation to hit the gym when all of your (non-playing) buddies are hanging out is the most difficult part of the summer break. The college football player must be disciplined to work when the thought of sweating is the last thing on his mind. Be prepared and seize the day.

The Memorial

2009-06-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

Coach Macy and I had a great time at the Memorial this past Friday. We followed Tiger and Els for 5 holes. Good food and good golf. Just a great day for following golf.

The game is to be played one play at a time

2009-06-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

Many years ago I came across this writing by Crystal Boyd and it is so poignant to the game of football. So many times we focus so intently on the score board that we forget to enjoy the game. The game is played one play at a time. The true beauty in the game of the football is the next play, and after the whistle sounds we look for the next play.

DANCE LIKE NO ONES WATCHING

"We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage.

We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, or when we retire. The truth is there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, and a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life." This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness.

Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have. And treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time...and remember that time waits for no one. So stop waiting until you finish school, go back to school, lose ten pounds, gain ten pounds, have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, retire, get married, get divorced...until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until the first or fifteenth, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you are born again? To decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy..."

Happiness is a journey, not a destination.

Thought for the day: Work like you don't need money, Love like you've never been hurt, and dance like no one's watching.

Author Crystal Boyd

Earlham College Football finalizes 2013 recruiting class

2009-05-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Earlham Football just completed their recruiting for 2009. Twenty three commits representing six different states will report to pre-season camp this August. This freshman class could be the most talented class we have had in the last ten years. Overall, this is a ‘banner” recruiting class, which our coaches are very excited about developing into a championship team!

Name Pos Ht Wt Hometown (High School)
Andy Cain WR 5’11 175 Hamilton, OH (Hamilton)
Mark Christianson WR 6’2 140 Chicago, IL (Chicago Prep)
Rowdy Daswon TE 6’4 225 Gas City, IN (Mississenewa)
Robert Dolph RB 5’10 180 Springfield, OH (Springfield Shawnee)
John Edouassaint RB 5’6 155 West Palm, FL (Palm Beach Lakes)
Bob Endicott NG 5’10 235 Vero Beach, FL(Sebastian River)
Arlen Faulkner SS 5’8 165 Indianapolis, IN (Lawrence North)
Kyle Fischer OC 6’5 265 Connersville, IN (Connersville)
Brandt Fisher NG 6’0 250 Camby, IN (Mooresville)
Travis Fox OG 6’1 280 New Castle, IN (New Castle)
Sean Gardner RB 6’0 220 Connersville, IN (Connersville)
Logan Goodwin DE 5’11 205 Pekin, IN (Eastern)
Shawn Kinnett LB 5’10 180 Mooresville, IN (Mooresville)
Dakota McElley WR 5’10 165 Lawrenceburg, IN (Lawrenceburg)
James Mees QB 6’6 185 North Ridgeville,OH(North Ridgeville)
Eric Parton DE 6’1 215 Madison, WI (Middleton)
Mark Piacitelli OT 6’4 280 Lake Havasu City, AZ (Lake Vasau)
Kevin Powers RB 5’10 190 Hernando, FL (Lecanta)
James Rinker WR 6’6 185 Gaston, IN (Mississenewa)
TJ Sanders OG 6’1 245 Depauw, IN (North Harrison)
Levi Simpson DC/P 5’10 180 New Salisbury, IN (North Harrison)
Tim Stickel TE 6'4 225 Fountain City, IN (Northeastern)
Josh Storms OG 6’0 275 Rushville, IN (New Castle)
Nick Westfall SS 6’0 185 Mooresville, IN (Mooresville)

Why one plays the game of football

2009-05-28T09:39:00.001-07:00

Leadership by doing

2009-05-27T06:57:00.001-07:00

The best way to lead is by doing. Be yourself. I have three rules for leadership.
1. Do the right thing
2. Treat others like you would like to be treated
3. Do the best you can

These three rules answer the three universal questions everyone ask.
1. Can I trust you?
2. Do you care about me?
3. Are you committed to excellence?

I believe if you follow these three rules your teammates will look at you and try to emulate your behavior. Again, leadership is about doing not saying or talking. Words are cheap and easy to come by, but WORK WINS!

Finding the right fit

2009-05-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

It is the intent of our staff to recruit the best football players who fit at Earlham College. After that, nothing is simple. Fit is a crucial aspect of the recruiting process. Football recruiting is a two-sided responsibility of the athlete and coaching staff. It is part investigation, part observation, part numbers crunching, and a good bit of gut feeling. My role, as I see it, is to help guide the student-athlete in making a good college choice—not convince him to attend Earlham College. I do that by showing interest, developing a relationship, providing time with team members, and by giving honest and forthright information about the program and the institution to potential athletes. Regardless of how that student’s football career ends up, I want that student to have made a good college choice. Due to our academic standing, facilities, and great fan support, Earlham is often seen as that good choice.

We create our pool of potential recruits in various and important ways. Names will be generated by previous game observation, recommendations from coaches, alumni, or friends, athletes, or parents making an initial contact, or from a myriad of recruiting organizations. While we may have specific needs to be met through recruiting, our efforts are not limited by those needs. Our program’s success is due, in part, to the competition amongst our athletes—good players making good players better.

Athletic recruiting is not separate from the general admissions recruiting at Earlham College. In fact it seems irresponsible if it were. It is also important to note that athletics, along with community service and social organizations, may well be the deciding factors for a student. Generally their investigative efforts have brought them to a short list of schools that are a good academic fit, but the differences in those schools will be extracurricular activities or the atmosphere and feeling that they get at each place, the gut feeling that guides them to the decision that is right for them. In order to make that "gut" decision we encourage recruits to overnight at some point during the process. I believe it is imperative for the high school senior to spend the night in the dorm. To hang out with the players and preferably go to a class or two. Eat in the dinning facility and basically get a feel for what it would be like to attend our school.

We will be having summer day visits in July. Let me know if you are interested.

Indy 500

2009-05-24T05:16:00.001-07:00

It is just after 8:00am and one of my favorite non-football days. Listening to the Indy 500 on the radio brings back so many good memories of my youth. As a young boy growing up in Indiana we always had the radio on and listened to the race while we worked around the house or in the garden. Good memories. I am cheering for Panther Racing because I have a former player Mike Kitchel (Centerville, IN) who is a member of the Panther Racing Team. Mike was a hs Quarterback whom we converted to a receiver. We nicknamed him "Mr. 3rd Down." Find him on 3rd down and throw him the ball. Mike was one of the best I have coached. He majored in English and won the Earlham College Journalism award, and has done pretty well for himself. Good Luck Kitch.

Earlham College Football Group

2009-05-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

Having a lot of fun with the Group "Earlham College Football" I started on Facebook. Gathering all the members of "The Rock" back together. A strong tradition of family and football. Yes, winning football games is a good thing, but more importantly, are the memories and friendships you create in a college football program. At Earlham this is what we do extremely well. Playing for The Quake is an experience like no other. I wouldn't change my experiences for all the wins in the world. My victories come in all shapes and sizes and they all wear an EC Football jersey. If you have ever broken a huddle by saying the words "EC Pride" then you should join our group. If you have stayed away from your alma mater then you should join our group and re-introduce yourself to some of the best years of your life. Go Quake.

Recruiting

2009-05-20T05:17:00.000-07:00

We are finalizing our recruiting class here at Earlham College. I will produce a final count in the coming week, but for now I'll say it is a great class in quality (both in athleticism and character). I am very pleased with our coaching staffs efforts this recruiting season. D3 recruiting is such a long process. We are beginning the recruiting of juniors by collecting questionnaires online. We will begin to bring recruits to campus in July and continue visits throughout the football season. Our staff goes on the road in November and December. We have campus visits anytime students are on campus. Here is our recruiting Calendar.

May - Gathering Recruiting Questionnaires, High School Recruiting Fairs
July - Campus visits begin
Sept. - Nov. - Game visits
Nov. - Dec. - Coaches on the road, Campus visits continue (prefer overnights at this time)
Jan. - March - Anytime Visits Begin
April - Confirming the class, Home visits.

Our staff puts in many hours to sort through thousands of high school players in order to invite 25 to our roster. We do not mass recruit. Every single recruit we invite has been researched thoroughly. We do not have scout teams. We do not have travel squads. Our players are coached every single day and more importantly, taught the system daily. Therefore, our coaches can see them take snaps with our system on a daily basis to determine (from start to finish) who should be playing on Saturday. Our retention rate is much higher than most every other d3 program. We are seldom 3 deep at any position. Usually 2 deep at each position. This gives more opportunity for everyone in our program to be coached and taught our system. I want to have a personal relationship with every single player in our program.

Intro

2009-05-19T18:50:00.000-07:00

This is my introductory blog. I am beginning this blog to keep everyone who is interested up on the happenings of Earlham College Football and the program we are building here at EC. Last season we finished 3rd in the Northcoast Athletic Conference (NCAC). I am so proud of the 2008 football team, especially the 7 seniors (Tilmon Clark, Ben Marschand, Drew Hosier, Colin McCullough, Juan Hernandez, Chris Owens, Randy Kerns). My coaching staff is outstanding. The offensive coordinator is Tom Dunham. With 30+ years of coaching football, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge, particularly in throwing the ball. Tom coaches our wide receivers. Nick Johnson is our defensive coordinator and is very adept in the 3-3-5 defensive package, and coaches our Lbers. Nick is an EC Grad and the head track coach. He is in charge of our academic process. Our offensive line coach, Matt Macy is the best oline coach I have had. He brings so much to our program in terms of intensity, organization and structure. Matt is my right hand man. He follows through with anything I need. The secondary is in great hands with Brent O'Brien. He was so impressive in his first year that I have elevated him to Co-defensive coordinator. Nick and Brent work extremely well together. Patrick Piper, running backs, has been with me the longest. Patrick brings an enthusiasm to practice every day. New to the staff this year is Mark Hoffman. Most recently, Mark was the head coach at National Trail. Mark will be coaching our defensive line. I expect great things from Coach Hoff. Also new to the staff is Chad Smith (his parents were classmates with me at EC, but he chose Kenyon College). No harm as Chad will be attending our MAT program and assisting with the offensive line. Tyler Arnold will also be entering into our MAT program from Wooster and he will assist in the secondary. I believe this to be an outstanding group of coaches who will do EC proud in 2009.