Sports Archives

SEARCY — Following another legendary campaign on the national stage, the Harding men’s track and field program has made its mark on a global scale. Seven members of the Bisons’ track and field program finished the 2026 outdoor season ranked among the top 500 athletes in......

SEARCY — The historic nature of the 2026 Harding women’s track and field season has reached a global scale. Four members of the Lady Bisons’ track and field program finished the 2026 outdoor campaign ranked among the top 500 athletes in the world in their......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens The list of Henry Hawk’s athletic accomplishments is long and impressive, but his proudest accomplishment has been his work with quadriplegic patients. The Conway man has been a personal trainer for five people over the years who surpassed their initial prognoses.......

SEARCY — Former Harding catcher Collin Helms has signed a professional contract with the Washington Wild Things of the Frontier League, the team announced Wednesday. The signing reunites Helms with his former Bisons teammate, pitcher Maddox Long, in Washington, Pennsylvania. Helms will wear No. 1 and is active for......

The 68th Annual Petit Jean Antique Auto Show and Swap Meet begins Wednesday, June 17th, and runs through Saturday, June 20th. There will be car swap meet places, arts and crafts, food vendors and a big car show on Saturday. The public is welcome and......

Hometown: I was born in Hattiesburg, Miss., in 1986. My family moved to Russellville (Pope County) when I was in second grade, and that is where I grew up and graduated high school. My family now lives in Conway, and we love every minute of......

The Conway Regional Health Foundation’s 30th Annual Golf Classic raised $117,490 in support of healthcare scholarships. To mark the Foundation’s 30th Anniversary, the milestone event brought together an incredible community of supporters who believe in investing in the future of healthcare. Thanks to the generosity of 47 sponsors, 41......

TROY, Alabama — Little Rock’s historic postseason run came to an end Saturday afternoon as Troy defeated the Trojans 7-2 in Game 2 of the NCAA Super Regional at Riddle-Pace Field. While the season ended one step short of Omaha, the 2026 Trojans cemented their......

By David Grimes Buddy and Walt Coleman not only worked together at the family dairy business, but they also made history by becoming the first father and son to referee an NCAA football game together. Three generations of Coleman officials have carried a Central Arkansas......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Athletics Department has announced the seven-member class that will be inducted into the UCA Sports Hall of Fame on October 24, 2026. The induction brunch will take place at 10:00 a.m. in the Student Center ballroom and the......

HATTIESBURG, Miss. – Little Rock is headed to the Super Regional round for the first time in program history. The next game will be played at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 5, at Riddle-Pace Field in Troy, Ala. The Trojans continued one of the most......

SEARCY — Harding senior Karli Roux and freshman Brooke Coffman highlighted the final Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Division II national rankings, earning All-America honors and rewriting the program’s record book to cap the 2026 season. The duo finished the year ranked No. 8 nationally and No. 2 in the Central......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Athletics Department earned two of the Atlantic Sun Conference’s highest honors for the 2025-26 academic year, claiming both the Bill Bibb Trophy and the Jesse C. Fletcher Trophy. The league announced its annual awards on Thursday, May 28th,......

LITTLE ROCK —  Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA) announced that senior Chloe Parish of Conway has signed with the women’s rifle team at Georgia Southern University of Statesboro, Georgia. Parish, a multiple-time Junior Olympic qualifier and winner of the Arkansas CMP 3×20 Air Rifle Match in 2024, 2025 and 2026,......

CONWAY — Wesley McClure has been selected as the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference’s Men’s Tennis Player-of-the-Year, the SCAC office announced on Tuesday. The voting was conducted by the league’s head coaches and sports information directors. McClure, a sophomore from Little Rock, dominated the No. 1 singles wire-to-wire......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College Athletic Director Lyle Middleton has announced a change in leadership in the baseball program with a new head coach named for the revival of the cross country program. Dr. Aaron Brister will transition from the role of head baseball coach......

CONWAY — Hendrix College will send two student-athletes to the 2026 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships as B Adams and Westin Bruce both made the cut and will compete on the national stage for the first time in their collegiate careers. Adams will compete in the women’s discus, with......

HOT SPRINGS — Two members of the National Park College (NPC) baseball team were named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II All-Region 2 second team this week for their outstanding efforts on the field this season. Righthanded relief pitcher Maddax Kincannon (Fort Smith) was selected to the All-Region......

LITTLE ROCK — Championship season arrives in Little Rock this week as the Trojans host the Ohio Valley Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championship at the Coleman Sports Complex for the first time ever.  The Trojans will look to defend their home track as this......

CONWAY — Wesley McClure has been selected as the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference’s Men’s Tennis Player-of-the-Year, the SCAC office announced on Tuesday. The voting was conducted by the league’s head coaches and sports information directors. McClure, a sophomore from Little Rock, dominated the No. 1 singles wire-to-wire......

Williamsburg, Ky. — Looking to keep their season alive, Central Baptist College baseball took on Missouri Baptist Tuesday in an elimination game at Stigall Field. CBC (34-20) got a run in fourth inning, but MBU (40-11) knocked the Mustangs out, ending their season by a......

By David Grimes Nancy Turner Williams grew up like a lot of kids in Arkansas, shooting BB guns, but she ended up becoming a world champion trap shooter. She was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2005 as part of the......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock battled toe-to-toe with in-state rival Arkansas State for much of Tuesday night before the Red Wolves used a late surge to pull away for a 12-0 victory at Gary Hogan Field. “We hit the ball hard, but we were getting......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics has named Nathan Bacon as its next head baseball coach. Bacon brings more than a decade of collegiate coaching, recruiting and player development experience to NPC, along with a proven record of building competitive programs and......

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Propelled by a masterful performance from junior Vivian Volion, the Harding Lady Bisons made a significant move up the leaderboard Tuesday during the second round of the NCAA Division II Central Regional at St. Joseph Country Club. Harding carded a team score of......

Branson, Mo. – Looking to continue their hot start to the American Midwest Conference tournament, Central Baptist College softball looked to advance to the AMC Championship game for the fifth time. CBC (29-23) lost the first game of the day to Columbia (25-13) 6-0 before......

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Central Arkansas (26-19, 13-8) secured a 6–3 victory over Bellarmine (17-26, 9-12) on Sunday at Knights Field. The Bears have now won 3 ASUN series in a row and have swept their ASUN opponents in their last 2 series. Central Arkansas capitalized......

OZARK, Mo. – Looking for a third trip to the American Midwest Conference Tournament championship game, Central Baptist College baseball took on Williams Baptist University Tuesday with a trip to the finals on the line. CBC (33-18) scored twice in the third inning and beat......

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Little Rock didn’t just win stroke play at the Ohio Valley Conference Championship—it dominated it from start to finish. The Trojans delivered a historic performance at Purdue’s Ackerman Hills, finishing at 28-under par to claim the No. 1 seed by 45......

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The Great American Conference announced the final GAC women’s track & field athletes of the week for the 2026 outdoor season. Harding swept the awards as Tetiana Kharashchuk captured the track honor and Cadence Sansom earned the field accolade. #theGAC TRACK ATHLETE OF THE WEEK – Tetiana......

LITTLE ROCK — The Central Arkansas track and field dominated the Little Rock Invitational last weekend, claiming the Governor’s I-40 Showdown. Both the men’s and women’s squads earned decisive wins in the two-day meet, earning an impressive 63 top-five finishes in the process. Overall, the men......

SEARCY — Collin Helms homered twice and drove in five runs as No. 3-seeded Harding overcame a late deficit to defeat Delta State 11-8 on Tuesday night at Jerry Moore Field, extending the Bisons’ winning streak to nine games. Helms, who recently joined the 200-hit club, spearheaded......

With one out in the ninth, Chaplain ripped a walk-off double to deep center, scoring Austin Coyle from second and lifting Little Rock to a 5-4 comeback win over UT Rio Grande Valley Tuesday night at Gary Hogan Field. “I just trust in The Lord, when things......

MELBOURNE — Beginning the final 18 holes in fourth place, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to make a charge on Tuesday in the final round of the AMC Championship at Cooper’s Hawk Golf Club in Melbourne. CBC closed with a final round of 314......

RUSTON, La. – Little Rock continued to show its offensive spark and resilience Tuesday night, highlighted by a standout performance from Angel Cano, but the Trojans came up short against Louisiana Tech, 9-3, at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park. Cano powered the Trojan lineup,......

TULSA, Okla. — Central Arkansas (19-18, 7-8) secured a 5–3 victory over Oral Roberts University (20-14, 11-1) on Tuesday at Chapman Park, their second win over the Golden Eagles in as many games this season. Nate Negre hit two home runs, and the Bears scored three runs......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) freshman catcher Kaitlyn Moreno (Lewisville, Texas) has been named National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Region 2 Player of the Week following a dominant week at the plate. During week 10 of NJCAA reporting, Moreno led NPC (19-19, 11-7)......

TULSA, Okla. — Senior Madeleine Wilson carded a 5-over 76 to lead a steady second-day effort on Tuesday for the Harding Lady Bisons, who climbed one spot into seventh place Tuesday at the Great American Conference Women’s Golf Championships. Harding posted a team score of 312 (+28) in......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – For the second time this season, Ryleigh Keele was voted the American Midwest Conference softball pitcher of the week which is presented by AMCOnTheGo. Keele also earned the honor on Feb. 2. Keele went 4-0 on the week with a 1.08 ERA,......

Conway, Ark.- The University of Central Arkansas announces their 2026 football schedule. Due to some changes with reclassification for North Dakota State University and United Athletic Conference expansion, the Bears made some adjustments to their 2026 schedule. The Bears will now play a balanced twelve-game......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The No. 40-ranked Harding men’s tennis team displayed its depth and dominant form Tuesday afternoon, rolling to a 6-1 victory over Christian Brothers at the Leftwich Tennis Center. The Bisons (11-6) swept the doubles point and claimed five of the six singles matches......

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Little Rock went toe-to-toe with in-state rival and No. 22 Arkansas deep into the game Tuesday night at Baum-Walker Stadium in a 7-0 loss. The game was scoreless after four innings. Arkansas took a 1-0 lead in the fifth and scored five......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Playing a rescheduled doubleheader, Central Baptist College softball was at Stars Park April 7 for an American Midwest Conference contest. CBC (20-14, 5-1 AMC) swept the doubleheader from HSSU (2-20, 1-13 AMC) by scores of 3-0 and 7-6. GAME ONE –......

By David Grimes Bobby Tiner’s accomplishments on the football field spanned over four decades, both as a player and a coach. Tiner was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 1990 as part of the 32nd class, joining Geese Ausbie, Leota Barham,......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock Director of Athletics Frank M. Cuervo proudly announced March 26 that veteran head coach Travis Ford, one of college basketball’s most accomplished program builders and respected leaders, has been named the Trojans’ new men’s basketball head coach, pending finalization of the contract......

CONWAY — Playing an American Midwest Conference opponent for the first time this season, Central Baptist College softball hosted the Williams Baptist Eagles this afternoon at City of Colleges Park. CBC (14-14, 1-1 AMC) split with WBU (19-9, 3-1 AMC), winning game one 4-3 before......

TEMPE, Ariz. — The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) released its updated NCAA Division II national rankings Wednesday, with the Harding men’s tennis team moving up one spot to No. 40 in the country. The climb comes as the Bisons (10-6) solidified their standing as one of the premier......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock track & field heads back to Texas this week, traveling to compete in the Carl Kight Invite and Multi hosted by Stephen F. Austin University. The two-day meet will take place April 2–3 in Nacogdoches. The Trojans will send a......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas Beach Bears capped off the UCA Spring Break Invitational with a pair of wins on Saturday, defeating Mary Hardin-Baylor 4-1 and sweeping Southwest Baptist 5-0 on Senior Day at the Beach Bear Sand Courts. Between matches, UCA honored its senior class......

LITTLE ROCK — A strong pitching performance on a scheduled bullpen day, combined with a late offensive surge, carried Little Rock to a 7-1 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Tuesday at Gary Hogan Field. Making his first Division I start, Brayden Walls earned the victory after tossing......

PENSACOLA, Fla. — Senior Karli Roux etched her name further into the Harding record books Tuesday afternoon, securing a historic individual victory even as the Lady Bisons fell 6-1 to No. 2-ranked West Florida at the Carson Tennis Complex. Roux, ranked No. 33 nationally, provided the highlight of......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas (13-11, 3-3) came from behind to edge Bellarmine University (7-15, 2-4) with an 8-7 victory at Bear Stadium on Sunday, March 22. Central Arkansas rallied with a four-run sixth inning, which included a home run, to secure the win. Central Arkansas......

HICKORY, NORTH CAROLINA — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s basketball team (21-12) wrapped up its season Wednesday in the consolation round of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament, falling to Lansing Community College (LCC), 68-62. Facing an early 9-2......

MELBOURNE, Ark. — Entering the final round of the American Midwest Conference Preview in third and fourth place, Central Baptist College women’s and men’s golf teed off Tuesday, looking to make a move in the final round. Both teams improved their scores, but didn’t move......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s basketball team (21-10) earned an automatic bid into the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Division 2 Women’s Basketball National Tournament, held March 16-21 at the Tarlton Complex in Hickory, North Carolina. The tournament will......

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – The Little Rock Trojans men’s golf finished tied for sixth place at the Michael A. Marino Classic, closing the tournament at three-over par at the historic Dunes Golf & Beach Club. Little Rock posted rounds of +3, -6 and +6 over the three-day event to finish......

St. Joseph High School’s Bulldog Baseball Team defeated the Bigelow Panthers 7-0 at Conway’s Curtis Walker Park on March 16.  Freshman Cy Davis pitched five shutout innings, and senior Trevor Jackson closed out the victory by keeping Bigelow scoreless. ...

By David Grimes Cliff Lee of Saline County, displayed big-time talent early on in life, and it led to a long Major League career, capped off by winning the Cy Young Award. He was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2011......

TEMPE, Ariz. – The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) released its updated NCAA Division II national rankings Wednesday, and the Harding women’s tennis program reached a new milestone as senior Karli Roux and freshman Brooke Coffman vaulted to No. 4 in the nation in doubles. The ascent marks the highest national ranking for......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas (10-7) edged out Oral Roberts University (7-9) with an 8-7 victory on Tuesday at Bear Stadium. The Bears built a six-run lead in the second inning, which proved crucial as the Golden Eagles rallied but the Bears never lost the lead......

TEMPE, Ariz. — The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) released its updated NCAA Division II national rankings on Wednesday, and the Harding men’s tennis program is well-represented across the board. Highlighting the release is a historic move for the doubles pair of Adrian Solorzano and Cian Mikkelsen, who jumped to No.......

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Central Arkansas (8-5) beats SEC member Vanderbilt (7-6) with a 5-4 victory on Tuesday at Hawkins Field. The Bears built a crucial lead with three runs in the third inning and held on for the win. Central Arkansas started the scoring in......

SEARCY — The Harding women’s basketball team appeared in the WBCA NCAA Division II Top 25 Coaches’ Poll for the 14th consecutive week, landing at No. 14 in the latest rankings released Tuesday. The Lady Bisons (22-4) moved down four spots from No. 10 following a......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas (5-3) defeated Northwestern State University (5-3) with a final score of 13-5 on Sunday at Bear Stadium. Central Arkansas amassed 16 hits, including a grand slam, and recorded 13 RBIs, while Northwestern State managed 8 hits and a home run in......

CONWAY — Wrapping up the regular season in front of home fans at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse on Feb. 21, Central Baptist College women’s basketball hosted Stephens College with the possibility of their highest finish ever in the American Midwest Conference on the line. CBC (11-15, 8-10 AMC) trailed......

SEARCY — Harding head football coach Roddy Mote announced the program’s full coaching staff for the 2026 season on Tuesday, finalizing a group deeply rooted in the culture of “The Brotherhood.” The staff features a mix of championship-winning continuity and the return of several decorated alumni who......

CONWAY — Playing at City of Colleges Park for the first time this season, Central Baptist College softball hosted the #22 Texas A&M-Texarkana Eagles in a doubleheader. CBC (3-11) got swept 14-4 and 11-3 by TAMUT (5-3). GAME ONE – #22 TAMUT 14, CBC 4......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Little Rock Trojans blasted six home runs and scored in each of the first seven innings Tuesday night, then held off a late surge from the Memphis Tigers to secure a wild 12-11 victory at FedEx Park. Angel Cano and Cade Martin each launched two......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk sophomore forward Kaharie Loggins (Chicago, Illinois) was named National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Region 2 Player of the Week for his outstanding performance on the court this week. In the 11th week of reporting this season, Loggins averaged 21 points per......

CONWAY — Chloey-Rei Brown has been named the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference’s Offensive Player of the Week after a string of impressive performances over the weekend. The freshman guard averaged 20.5 points and 8.0 assists in Hendrix’s weekend sweep over Centenary and LeTourneau. She scored 20 points......

By David Grimes Van Compton left an indelible mark on the University of Arkansas at Little Rock athletic program after spending almost four decades with the Trojans. Compton will be inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2026 as part of the......

By Colleen Holt Greenbrier School District has found a great way for its youngest students to develop their basketball skills in fun and exciting ways, while learning how to work together as a team. Through the Lil’ Dribblers after-school program, students can learn ball-handling skills,......

RUSSELLVILLE — Following a weekend where she posted one of the fastest times in the nation, Harding senior Tetiana Kharashchuk has been named the Great American Conference Women’s Indoor Track Athlete of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday. A native of Kolomiyia, Ukraine, Kharashchuk delivered a standout......

FLORENCE, Ala. — Central Ark. (15-10, 10-2 ASUN) secured a 72-65 victory over North Ala. (7-16, 2-10 ASUN) on Monday night at CB&S Bank Arena at Flowers Hall. Central Ark. overcame an eight-point first-half deficit, outscoring North Ala. 43-28 in the second half. The Bears......

Brock Herman continued his late-season surge with a pair of victories last week, earning his second consecutive Pac-12 Wrestler of the Week award, announced Tuesday morning. Herman, ranked No. 20 at 149 pounds by FloWrestling, picked up wins in duals at Oklahoma State and at home......

North Little Rock — Playing at DeSalvo Memorial Stadium for the first time this season, Central Baptist College baseball hosted the Arkansas Baptist College Buffaloes in a doubleheader this afternoon. CBC (5-3) swept the doubleheader, taking game one 19-4 before winning game two 9-1 over ABC (0-2). ......

CONWAY — Hendrix suffered back-to-back losses on Feb. 6-7 at Grove Gymnasium to fall to 1-11 in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference and 1-20 overall. On Feb. 6, the Warriors fell to Centenary 74-51. The Gents shot 42.4% from the field and nailed 7-of-31 three-pointers, while......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – Little Rock men’s track and field made a statement across the Ohio Valley Conference, sweeping the weekly male indoor awards as junior Devin Stevens (Track Athlete of the Week), senior Deshawn Roberts (Co-Field Athlete of the Week), and freshman Jeremiah Patton (Freshman of the Week) earned top honors.......

RUSSELLVILLE — Following a historic performance that saw him reset the program standard in the long jump, Harding senior Anton Kopytko has been named the Great American Conference Men’s Indoor Field Athlete of the Week, as announced by the league office on Tuesday. A native of Dnipro,......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn.  – Little Rock track and field delivered a dominant weekend of performances, sweeping the Ohio Valley Conference Freshman of the Week honors while Colter Maya also claimed Shared OVC Male Track Athlete of the Week. Freshmen Maya and Jordan Morgan earned the conference recognition following standout showings at......

St. Louis, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference presented their softball player and pitcher of the week for the first time this season, and a pair of Central Baptist College players were the selections. Kori Truelove earned AMC Player of the Week, while Ryleigh Keele......

CONWAY — The ASUN Conference announces Camren Hunter as the Men’s Basketball Player of the Week. The Bears went 2-0 last week, part of the five-game winning streak they are on, beating Queens in North Carolina and then beating EKU at home. Camren Hunter scored 31 points at Queens......

LITTLE ROCK — After a big road win at UT Martin Tuesday night, the Trojan women’s basketball team begins a two-game homestand. The Trojans (11-11, 7-5) meet Lindenwood (17-7, 9-4) at 5 p.m. tonight, Feb. 5, at the Jack Stephens Center. The men’s game will......

CONWAY — Hendrix rallied from a 2-0 deficit to defeat John Brown on Saturday evening after falling to Harding in the season-opening match to secure a doubleheader split. Wesley McClure and James Thomson got a win in the No. 1 doubles but Harding took the doubles point with......

NEW ORLEANS – Following a dominant season opener in Alabama, the Harding men’s track and field team has debuted at No. 14 in the nation in the first NCAA Division II National Track & Field Rating Index (TFRI) of the 2026 indoor season. The rankings, released Tuesday by......

HOT SPRINGS — Three members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s basketball team recently broke all-time program records in assists, rebounding and blocks. Sophomore guard Khayla Garrett (Brownsboro, Texas) recently became NPC’s all-time leader in assists, surpassing former Nighthawk India Atkins’ (Bryant) record, which stood......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk sophomore forward Pete Moe II (Indianapolis, Indiana) was named National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Region 2 Player of the Week for his outstanding performance on the court this week. In the 10th week of reporting this season, Moe led NPC with 34......

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — The Trojans will look to regain their winning ways tonight, Jan. 22, when they travel to face SEMO. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. Trey Schaap will have the call on 106.7 Buz2, and a video stream will be available on ESPN+. Little Rock......

SEARCY — Due to an inclement weather forecast for the upcoming weekend, Harding University athletics has announced a schedule change for the basketball doubleheader against Ouachita Baptist originally scheduled for Saturday afternoon. Harding’s road games against Arkansas Tech on Thursday will be played as scheduled.  Both......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas (9-10, 4-2 ASUN) secured a decisive 98-69 victory over North Florida (3-16, 1-5 ASUN) on Saturday at the Farris Center. Nine Bears scored for the Bears including six in double digits. The Bears capitalized on a robust offensive performance, including 14......

CONWAY — Playing in front of a home crowd for the first time in 2026, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted #22 Columbia Saturday for homecoming at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (6-12, 3-3 AMC) led one time and fell to #22 CC (17-1, 6-0 AMC)......

LITTLE ROCK – Little Rock Athletics is preparing to salute the extraordinary men and women who serve and protect our community both at home and abroad. Trojan Nation will rally together for two spirited Hometown Heroes events honoring military members and first responders. Little Rock will celebrate......

RICHMOND, Ky. — Central Arkansas (7-10, 2-2 ASUN) fell to Eastern Kentucky (6-11, 2-2 ASUN) 79-75 in a closely contested matchup at Baptist Health Arena on Saturday night. This marked the Bears’ second consecutive overtime loss on the road. Despite recording nine steals and scoring......

SEARCY — The Harding University men’s tennis team will begin its 2026 spring campaign ranked among the nation’s best, checking in at No. 24 in the ITA Collegiate Tennis Division II National Team Rankings released Wednesday, Jan. 14. This initial spring ranking marks the first for......

St. Louis, Mo. – For the third time this season, Central Baptist College’s Raigan Head has earned weekly honors from the American Midwest Conference presented by AMCOnTheGo. Head earned her second offensive player of the week selection (Nov. 3) this week after earning defensive player of the week back on Dec. 15.  Head had a......

Johnathan Lawson was named Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Week.  Lawson is the first Little Rock Trojan to earn the honor this season, after leading the Trojans to a pair of road victories at SIUE and Lindenwood....

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball has announced the promotion of Cole Rodriguez to interim head baseball coach. Rodriguez served this season as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the Nighthawks, playing a key role in player development, roster building, and the continued growth of......

SEARCY — The Harding women’s basketball team held its ground in the national rankings this week, remaining at No. 17 in the WBCA NCAA Division II Coaches’ Poll released Tuesday. The Lady Bisons (10-2) received 193 points in the voting, maintaining their position from the......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas (7-8, 2-0 ASUN) secured a decisive 93-73 victory over Stetson (5-10, 1-1 ASUN) on Saturday night at the Farris Center. The Bears capitalized on turnovers, scoring 19 points from the Hatters’ 15 giveaways, and added 38 points from the bench to......

LITTLE ROCK — For the second time this season and the fourth time in his career, Little Rock’s Matty Bianchi has been named Pac-12 Wrestler of the Week. Bianchi previously earned the honor on Nov. 19 earlier this season, as well as Feb. 11, 2025, and Feb. 1,......

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Playing for the first time in the 2026 calendar year, Central Baptist College women’s basketball took on the Mission University Patriots Tuesday in an American Midwest Conference contest at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse. CBC (4-7, 1-2 AMC) led 27-13 after one quarter but......

By David Grimes Hubert “Geese” Ausbie was one of the biggest stars on one of the most recognizable teams in the world, the Harlem Globetrotters. Ausbie was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 1990 as part of the 32nd class, along......

SEARCY — The No. 2 Harding Bisons placed six players on the 2025 Division II Conference Commissioners Association (D2CCA) All-America Team announced Wednesday, including a staggering three offensive linemen on the First Team. Harding led all schools with five First Team selections. The selections come......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletic Director and head baseball coach Rich Thompson was selected as a Minor League Manager for the Seattle Mariners last week. Since 2020, Thompson has served as head coach of Nighthawk baseball, where he led the team......

CONWAY — Central Ark. (5-7, 0-0 ASUN) defeated Kansas Christian (3-8) decisively, 102-47, on Wednesday at the Farris Center. The event was highlighted as “Education Day,” with over 2,000 middle school and elementary students in attendance, creating an energetic atmosphere. Central Ark. capitalized on turnovers,......

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – A season-opening conference road trip continues for Little Rock Thursday night. The Trojans (2-9, 0-1 OVC) face Southern Indiana (3-7) at Liberty Arena.  The Trojans dropped their OVC opener at Morehead State on Tuesday night. Thursday night’s game is the opener for USI.  Trojan......

CONWAY – Opening American Midwest Conference play without the conference’s leading scorer, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Hornets of Harris-Stowe State on Dec. 11 at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (4-8, 1-0 AMC) needed an extra five minutes to defeat HSSU (1-9, 0-2 AMC) 91-85 to open......

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – In three seasons in the Ohio Valley Conference, Little Rock has won its league opener each year, but the Trojans have started 2–0 only once, during the inaugural season. On Thursday night, Little Rock will have another chance to begin OVC play......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk sophomore guard Khyra Garrett (Brownsboro, Texas) was named National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Region 2 Player of the Week for her outstanding performance on the court this week. In the sixth week of reporting this season, Garrett averaged......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS continues its broadcast of the 2025 Centennial Bank High School Football Championships live from War Memorial Stadium this Saturday, Dec. 13, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). Games will be broadcast statewide over the air, on cable and on satellite......

MONTICELLO, Ark. — Freshman Alli McAda erupted for a career-high 30 points and 13 rebounds to power No. 12 Harding to an 86-64 victory over Arkansas-Monticello on Tuesday night at Steelman Fieldhouse. Bouncing back from its first loss of the season, Harding (8-1, 2-1 Great American Conference) dismantled......

COMMERCE, Texas — Central Ark. fell to East Texas A&M, 75-68, on Sunday night at the Field House. Despite leading at halftime, Central Ark. [4-6, 0-0 ASUN] was outscored by 10 points in the second half. Central Arkansas and East Texas A&M engaged in a......

CONWAY —The University of Central Arkansas Board of Trustees held its regularly scheduled meeting Friday, Dec. 5, where members saw conceptual renderings of a proposed multipurpose arena following a recent feasibility study and approved the revised FY 2025-26 base operating budget. WER Architects shared findings......

LITTLE ROCK — One of the most influential and enduring leaders in Little Rock Athletics history is stepping away. Head volleyball coach Van Compton, a cornerstone of the department for nearly four decades, has announced her retirement after serving the institution since 1986. Compton first arrived at......

LITTLE ROCK — For the third time in program history, a Harding University football player has been named a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, the NCAA Division II College Football Player of the Year. Junior running back Andrew Miller was announced Wednesday as one of eight......

HOT SPRINGS — Four members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s soccer teams were named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II All-Region 2 Team this week for their outstanding efforts on the pitch this season. Freshman midfielder Brittney Maldonado (Rogers) led the......

CONWAY — Playing at home for the third time in the past eight days, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the MidAmerica Nazarene Pioneers on Nov. 29 at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (3-7) trailed at halftime and fell 84-71 to MNU (7-4). MacArthur Reed, Jr.,......

Thirty-two St. Joseph High School seniors went through the University of Central Arkansas Challenge Course on Oct. 30. For some, it was the scariest thing they’d ever been through. “It really pushed me out of my comfort zone,” said Sarai Flanagin. “I was nervous about the heights......

When Coach Zackery was honored with the 14th annual Steve Willbanks Award in October, he was awarded paintings by Emily Moll.   Zackery is holding a painting she created of his granddaughters, Xyon and Zoe’.  The canvas which sits on the basketball court is of......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Eddie Glover of Conway has some advice for anyone wanting to live a long, healthy life: Stay off the couch and get active. Glover, 88, practices what he preaches. In 2023, he was inducted into the National Senior Softball Hall of......

By David Grimes Stan Lee began winning golf tournaments as a teenager in Heber Springs and kept on winning, culminating with a victory at the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship. Lee was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2015 as part of......

CHARLESTON, Ill. —Little Rock grabbed early momentum in Sunday’s first-round matchup with SEMO, winning two of the first three sets. However, the Trojans were unable to capitalize, falling in five sets during the Ohio Valley Conference Championships at Gardella Family Court. Little Rock (16-15) saw......

LITTLE ROCK — Playing their penultimate non-conference game of the season, Central Baptist College women’s basketball was at Mims Gymnasium for a rematch with the Philander Smith Panthers. CBC (2-5) led early, but struggled late and lost to PSU (5-4) 69-46. Raigan Head led the......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas (2-4, 0-0 ASUN) secured a decisive victory over Eastern Wash. (1-5, 0-0 Big Sky), winning 92-65 on Saturday night at the Farris Center. Central Ark. capitalized on Eastern Wash.’s turnovers, scoring 38 points off turnovers and recording 14......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s basketball team exploded for 61 second-half points to roll past NAIA opponent Mission 114-55 on Saturday night at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. The 114 points tied for the ninth-most scored in a single game in program history and the most......

FAYETTEVILLE — For the second straight week, the Trojan women’s basketball team is facing an in-state rival on the road. Little Rock travels to Fayetteville today to take on the University of Arkansas. Tip time is 6:30 p.m. at Bud Walton Arena. Due to scheduling......

Oklahoma City — Wrestling in a Sooner Athletic Conference dual for the first time this season, Central Baptist College (CBC) was on the mat for seven matches on Tuesday at Abe Lemons Arena against Oklahoma City University. CBC lost all 10 matches, falling 60-0. Seven......

CONWAY — The awards continue to roll in for the Central Arkansas volleyball team, with five Sugar Bears claiming ASUN honors for their seasons. The Sugar Bears earned one First Team All-ASUN selection, three on the Third Team and one All-Freshman nod. “What an honor to......

SUWANEE, Ga. — Jake Blice has been named the SCAC Football Offensive Player of the Week after leading Hendrix to a 55-28 win over Lyon in the Warriors’ regular season finale on Nov. 15. The sophomore gunslinger tossed a career-high 5 touchdowns on the day and accounted......

FAYETTEVILLE — Central Ark. (1-2) fell to Arkansas (2-1) 93-56 on Tuesday at Bud Walton Arena, as Arkansas, ranked #21 in the country, used a strong second-half performance to widen their lead. Camren Hunter opened the scoring for the Bears with a layup at 19:05. Despite......

SEARCY — The Harding volleyball team showed their grit Tuesday night, overcoming a first-set loss and a fierce Southern Arkansas challenge to win 3-1 (20-25, 25-22, 25-22, 25-17) at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House in Great American Conference action. After the match, Harding honored seniors Maegan Jones and Jacey......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock freshman Megan Stewart has been named the Missouri Valley Conference Freshman Swimmer of the Week following her standout performance at Arkansas over the weekend. Stewart continued her impressive debut season by capturing first place in the 400 IM with a school-record time......

Four separate locations – Four Central Baptist College programs: volleyball, men’s basketball, women’s basketball and wrestling were in action in various locations on Saturday. Here is how everything turned out: CBC 3, UHSP 0; COLUMBIA 3, CBC 1 Volleyball avenged an earlier loss to UHSP......

LITTLE ROCK — After starting his season with a win over a ranked opponent on a national stage, Little Rock’s Stephen Little earned the first Pac-12 Wrestler of the Week honor, announced Wednesday morning by the conference.  Little – a redshirt junior from Sturgis, Ky. – is......

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — North Carolina defeated Central Ark. 94-54 on Monday at the Dean Smith Center. This game marked the first-ever meeting between the two teams. Central Ark. (0-1, 0-0 ASUN) scored 21 points from the bench but couldn’t keep pace with North Carolina.......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference announced their women’s soccer all-conference teams this morning and a pair of Mustangs earned selection. Congratulations to Kitanna Richards and Peyton Siebenmann on their selections this season. Both earned second-team selections by the AMC. Richards, who earned......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced its volleyball players of the week for the ninth week of the season, and Harding’s Maddie Burrough was honored with the Defensive Player of the Week award. Maddie Burrough collected a match-high 19 digs as the Lady Bisons defeated Arkansas-Monticello in......

By David Grimes Joe Johnson is one of the most talented basketball players to ever come out of the state of Arkansas, and he parlayed those gifts into a 17-year NBA All-Star career. Johnson was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock Women’s Soccer capped off a historic regular season with major Ohio Valley Conference recognition, highlighted by sophomore forward Maria Schuller being named the OVC Forward of the Year. Senior goalkeeper Peyton Urban, senior midfielder Amaya Arias, and junior defender Candice Kilderry joined Schuller on the All-OVC First......

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — The Harding University men’s golf team earned its best finish of the fall season, placing second in a tight contest at The Tulsa Cup, with junior Jose Arzu taking the individual championship in a dramatic playoff on Tuesday. The Bisons fired a......

CONWAY — Four Central Baptist College Mustang teams were in action on Oct. 25, with both men’s and women’s soccer in St. Louis for American Midwest Conference matches against Harris-Stowe State, volleyball in Walnut Ridge for an AMC tri-match against both Cottey and Williams Baptist......

CONWAY — Hendrix defeated Lyon College 38-21 Oct. 25 on what was a windy, rainy afternoon at Young-Wise Memorial Stadium. The game was originally scheduled for a 6 p.m. kick before being pushed up to 12 p.m. due to inclement weather. Auvic White led all participants with......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears are set to celebrate Senior Day on Saturday against Jacksonville inside the Prince Center. Saturday’s Senior Day match will begin at 11 a.m. as the Sugar Bears honor their senior class in their final regular-season home appearance. UCA (10-10, 7-3 ASUN) continues......

LITTLE ROCK — Freshman Megan Stewart has been named the Missouri Valley Conference Freshman of the Week following an outstanding performance at the Rice Fall Splash in Houston. Stewart continued to make an early mark in her debut season, collecting an individual event victory and contributing to multiple top......

SEARCY — The Harding University women’s basketball team will open the 2025-26 season ranked No. 25 in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Division II Top 25 Preseason Poll, the program announced Tuesday. The ranking is the first preseason appearance for the Lady Bisons in......

CONWAY — This year, the Operation Red White, & Brave (ORWB) Foundation is excited to host the 3rd Annual ORWB Golf Tournament on Nov. 10 at Conway Country Club and is inviting teams to participate. The event offers a chance to come together as a......

IRVING, Texas — The National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame on Wednesday named 16 finalists for the 2025 William V. Campbell Trophy®, college football’s premier scholar-athlete award. Among them is Harding University defensive back Ty Dugger, making Harding history as the program’s first-ever......

CONWAY — Stepping out of American Midwest Conference play for the final time this season, on Tuesday Central Baptist College volleyball hosted the Philander Smith Panthers at Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (5-18) took set three from PSU (13-9) 25-19 but lost the other three sets with......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced its women’s soccer players of the week for the seventh week of the season, with Harding senior Whitney Thomas earning the Offensive Player of the Week honor. Whitney Thomas, a senior forward from Benbrook, Texas, scored her third goal of the season, converting......

CONWAY — After helping the Bears tame the Lions on Oct. 11, Central Arkansas football’s Landen Chambers was named the UAC Offensive Player of the Week, the conference announced Oct. 13. Chambers was instrumental in the win over North Alabama, rushing for 184 yards and three touchdowns......

CONWAY — Hendrix continued its stellar form in league play last Friday evening with a 3-1 win over LeTourneau. The Warriors clinched a season double over the YellowJackets in emphatic form, responding to a second-set loss by taking the final two sets. Ana Bastos led all participants with......

SEARCY — The No. 2 Harding Bisons had two players honored as Great American Conference Football Players of the Week following their 35-7 road win against Southeastern Oklahoma State. Senior running back Braden Jay was named Offensive Player of the Week, and senior linebacker Clark Griffin earned Defensive Player of......

LITTLE ROCK — Red-hot Little Rock continues its homestand Thursday, hosting last-place Western Illinois as OVC Offensive Player of the Week and nationally ranked goal scorer Maria Schuller looks to extend her scoring streak and help the Trojans solidify a top-three seed in the upcoming conference tournament.......

CONWAY — Playing for the third time this week and the second time at home, Central Baptist College men’s soccer hosted the Royals of Ecclesia College on Saturday at the Conway Soccer Complex. CBC (3-5-1) made two second-half goals to beat EC (4-3-2) 2-0 and......

FLORENCE, Ala. — Central Arkansas (3-4) dominated North Alabama (1-5) on Oct. 11, with a 49-21 victory at Braly Stadium, highlighted by a 28-point second quarter. Central Arkansas opened the first quarter with a decisive defensive play, as Mark Dorsey sacked North Alabama’s quarterback Ari Patu, forcing......

LITTLE ROCK — After a standout weekend in her collegiate debut season, freshman Amara Addison has been named the Missouri Valley Conference Freshman Swimmer of the Week following her performance at the 2025 Little Rock Fall Invite. Addison claimed victories in both the 50-yard backstroke and the 100-yard......

CONWAY — Hendrix left no doubt in their first-ever football game in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference with a 60-21 blowout win over Austin College on Oct. 11, which was Homecoming weekend. The Warriors have scored 107 points over their last two contests after their 47-28......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS will broadcast the 2025 6A-2A Centennial Bank State Volleyball Championships presented by Everett Buick GMC live from Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs beginning Saturday, Nov. 1, at 11 a.m. in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association. Games will be broadcast......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas announced that it will formally opt in to the NCAA House Settlement, with implementation beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year. This landmark decision positions UCA alongside other NCAA member institutions embracing a new era of college athletics that......

HOT SPRINGS —National Park College (NPC) will host the world premiere of its women’s basketball documentary, FEARLESS, Monday, October 20 at 6 p.m. in the Student Commons at NPC. Following a season erased by low numbers, FEARLESS chronicles NPC’s rise from the ashes to claim the National Junior......

CONWAY — The United Way of Central Arkansas invites readers to sign up for the 11th Annual United Way Turkey Trot 5K and Gobble Wobble Kid’s Mile that is planned for Thursday, Nov. 27. It’s time to lace up your running shoes and kick off......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Wednesday, the Great American Conference released the results of the 2025-26 women’s basketball preseason coaches poll. Harding and Southern Nazarene each received 111 points to tie for first place. The Lady Bisons claimed five first-place votes. A season ago, the Lady Bisons......

CONWAY — A Superintendent’s Revenge Golf Tournament will be held Oct. 11 at Conway Country Club and half of the proceeds will be donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas and North Louisiana.  “This is my second year raising money for the Ronald McDonald House......

MARTIN, Tenn. — Little Rock stormed out of the gate during Tuesday’s Ohio Valley Conference match and never looked back, rolling to a sweep of UT Martin at the Skyhawk Fieldhouse by scores of 25-13, 25-19, and 25-14. The Trojans (7-7, 2-0) and extended their......

HENDERSON, Tenn. — Entering the final day in seventh place, Central Baptist College women’s golf looked to move forward on Oct. 1 in the final 18 holes of the Freed-Hardeman Fall Invitational at Chickasaw Golf Club. CBC closed with a 422 to finish in seventh......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference (GAC) announced its weekly soccer honors, with two Harding University Lady Bisons sweeping the defensive awards for the fourth week of the season. Sophomore defender Skylar Henley was named the GAC Defensive Player of the Week, and junior Maysa Willis earned GAC Goalkeeper......

By David Grimes Mickey O’Quinn was a great player and coach, but his biggest contribution to sports may have been his developmental and innovative work in athletic strength training. O’Quinn was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2005 as part of......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock Department of Athletics is proud to announce its 2026 Hall of Fame class, celebrating a distinguished group that has made a lasting impact on Trojan history. This year’s class features one iconic coach, a record-setting team, a special contributor, and......

SEARCY – Harding football is ranked No. 2 in the American Football Coaches Association Poll for the fourth straight week after its 31-12 victory at Southern Arkansas on Saturday. The Bisons have been ranked in 81 consecutive polls. This week Harding returns home to host......

CONWAY — In a match that had everything — momentum swings, clutch moments, and edge-of-your-seat drama — the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears stunned the Oklahoma Sooners 3-2 in non-conference volleyball, winning 25-19, 20-25, 25-18, 21-25, 16-14 at the Farris Center on Sunday. The......

LITTLE ROCK — Race officials with the Little Rock Marathon announced today that registration for the 2026 Little Rockers Kids Marathon, presented by the Hatcher Agency, opened Sept. 17. The Little Rockers Kids Marathon will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s soccer team (3-2) ascended into the Top 20 of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II rankings this week, placing 18th in Monday’s poll.  After opening the season with a loss to then-nationally-ranked......

NORTHBROOK, Ill. — Allstate and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) today announced the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, honoring 22 college football players and one head coach for their extraordinary commitment to community service. Among the recipients of this tremendous honor is Hendrix’s Auvic......

The University of Central Arkansas’s ROTC hosted a climb at 6 a.m. today at Estes Stadium to remember the 2,977 lives lost on 9/11. Participants were invited to climb the bleachers or walk the football field in remembrance of the terrible day 24 years ago. ......

#2 Harding Bisons (1-0, 1-0) vs. Southwestern Okla. Bulldogs (0-1, 0-1)Sept. 11 • 7 p.m. • Searcy, Ark. • First Security Stadium REMINDER: All ticket sales for Thursday’s game will be cashless. You can purchase your general admission tickets HERE. The concession stand and the merchandise trailers......

TEXARKANA, Texas – Looking to bounce back from a tough loss on Saturday, Central Baptist College women’s soccer was at Morgan Field Tuesday night for a match against the Eagles of Texas A&M-Texarkana. CBC (0-4-1) surrendered three goals in the first half and two in......

LITTLE ROCK — Junior libero Andrea Roman picked up in 2025 where she left off the season before, when she finished 6th nationally in digs as a sophomore. This year, her stellar defensive play is once again making a difference, and it’s earned her the Defensive Player of......

By David Grimes The Arkansas Storm is preparing to officially take the field in 2026. The Storm will play in the International Football Alliance (IFA), which features teams from the United States and Mexico. Team owner Coy Flynn of Maumelle has been busy this year......

By David Grimes Ron Calcagni is one of the winningest quarterbacks in University of Arkansas history, and in 1978, he led the team to a victory that will live forever in Razorback lore. Calcagni was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2015......

By Rita Halter Thomas Beauty, brains and a beast on the field. That quickly sums up Kylee Branscum of Mayflower. And she’s all that. This driven perfectionist pushes herself to be the best she can be on- and off-the-field. She not only has received several......

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Little Rock women’s golf closed out its first event of the 2025-26 season Tuesday. The Trojans finished 13th at the Boilermaker Invitational played at the Kampen-Cosler Course. Little Rock battled against a strong field that saw Ole Miss edge Indiana by one......

#2 Harding Bisons (0-0, 0-0) vs. Northwestern Okla. Rangers (0-0, 0-0)Sept. 4, 2025 • 6 p.m. • Alva, Okla. • Ranger Field Starting 11 for Harding vs. Northwestern Okla.Below are 11 Facts and Stats about this week’s game. You can read the full game notes by......

CONWAY — Looking to rebound from a season-opening loss, Central Baptist College women’s soccer returned to the Conway Soccer Complex recently to host the Saints of Randall University. CBC (0-1-1) took the lead early in the second half, allowed two goals in three minutes, and......

CONWAY — The wait is over and Central Arkansas football is back. The Bears open their 2025 season under the bright lights of Columbia, Missouri, this Thursday night when they take on the Tigers of Mizzou. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. and the game......

Little Rock Wrestling continues to make waves thanks to junior Brennan Van Hoecke bringing home a bronze medal on Aug. 20 after reaching the podium at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games in Asuncion, Paraguay.  The Fort Myers, Fla. native needed just 21 seconds to pin his......

PINE BLUFF — Little Rock scored seven as it rolled past Arkansas-Pine Bluff. It is the Trojans’ 13th straight win against the Golden Lions and second straight 7-0 win. It was also their seventh straight shutout over UAPB.  The sweltering Sunday heat and heavy humidity......

This year, the ORWB Foundation is excited to host the 3rd Annual ORWB Golf Tournament on Nov. 10 at the beautiful Conway Country Club. The event gives the community a chance to come together, raise funds, and honor the courage, sacrifice and service of our......

SEARCY — The Harding Bisons will open the 2025 football season ranked No. 2 in the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Division II Coaches Poll, the second straight season that Harding has been in the preseason top two. Harding is also No. 2 in the......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) Aviation Academy and UCA Foundation Inc. will host a grand opening of the new Bill Cope Memorial Hangar at the Conway Municipal Airport at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 22. The event is open to the public......

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) Commemorative Clock Tower ribbon cutting is scheduled for September 4, at 10:30 a.m. Funded by the UACCM Foundation, this community landmark provides a gathering space in the heart of campus while also representing the college’s rich......

CONWAY — Coming off a trip to the NAIA Opening Round in San Antonio, Texas, Central Baptist College head softball coach Keith Hinson has announced the 2026 schedule for the Mustang softball team. The 50-game schedule includes three tournaments and 11 doubleheaders in front of......

LITTLE ROCK – Little Rock Trojan junior swimmer Olivia Elgin qualified for the U.S. Open swim meet this past summer while at the Speedo Sectionals. Elgin swam in the Speedo Sectionals in Columbia, Mo., this past summer. She placed second in the 100-meter freestyle with a time......

CONWAY — Phil Steele has released his Preseason All-UAC selections, with Central Arkansas football claiming seven spots across the three teams. The Bears earned four spots on the publication’s preseason offensive teams, and three spots on the defensive side of the ball. Just like the All-UAC......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Harding women’s soccer team is the favorite to win the Great American Conference, according to the 2025 preseason coaches poll released Tuesday. The Lady Bisons received four first-place votes after finishing last season with their best regular season record since 2018 (6-4-2......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College men’s basketball coach Cody Henson has announced the 2025-26 schedule for his Mustangs. The 26-game slate includes 12 games in front of the home fans inside A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. The season begins at home on Oct. 23rd when CBC hosts in-state......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock Soccer program is entering the 2025 season with strong expectations by placing third in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) preseason poll. The conference predicts the Trojans to finish in third place behind Tennessee Tech and Lindenwood, two schools that......

By David Grimes Meet the man who has guided Oaklawn Park race track in Hot Springs in adapting with new products and services for almost four decades, helping the facility become one of the premier horse racing venues of the 21st century. Jackson was inducted......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball team was selected to participate in the inaugural Natural State Baseball Showcase, announced in a press conference at Dickey-Stephens Park at CHI St. Vincent Field on July 31.  Sponsored by Arkansas Division of Higher Education and......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of a new head men’s basketball coach. Cody Henson has been hired to replace Sam Kohnke, who departed last month after four seasons at the helm. “After reviewing a strong pool of......

LITTLE ROCK — The 2025 Little Rock Wrestling season was historic, and the Trojans are aiming for even more success this year — and they want to see you there! Season tickets for the 2025–26 season are on sale now, and the full schedule has......

SEARCY – The Harding Bisons football team is the favorite to win the Great American Conference, receiving nine first-place votes in the 2025 preseason coaches’ poll. Harding won the 2023 title outright and shared the 2024 championship. The Bisons are coming off a 12-2 season......

By David Grimes An overflow crowd gathered at the Clinton Presidential Library on July 15 to hear an energetic and inspirational speech from University of Arkansas basketball coach John Calipari. The head Hog was the featured speaker at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club......

HOT SPRINGS — Twenty-eight student-athletes for National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics’ baseball, softball, women’s basketball and men’s and women’s soccer teams were named to the 2024-25 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-Academic teams this week for their outstanding performance and dedication in the......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas football is officially underway, with day one of Fall Camp now in the books. The Bears practiced for three hours under the morning sun but fought through with good energy and attitude. “I think we attacked at a high rate of speed,......

Three Little Rock golfers were honored by the Golf Coaches of America Tuesday. Matteo Cristoni, Archie Smith and Rhett South earned NCAA Division I Cobalt Golf All-America Scholar honors for the 2024-25 season.  “It’s great to see these guys rewarded not only for the fantastic golf they played last year but also......

The 11th annual Little Rock Golf Shamble is set for Monday, Aug. 18, at Pleasant Valley Country Club. The popular event is a fundraiser for both the Trojan women’s and men’s golf squads at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. “We are looking forward to our......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s golf program continues to excel both on the course and in the classroom, as Finlay Cummings, Christian Lindgreen, Dennis Staykov, and José Arzú have been named 2024-25 Cobalt Golf All-America Scholars by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA). Harding was one of only......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Director of Athletics Matt Whiting announces a pair of changes, one to the department’s administration and one to its women’s soccer staff. Head Coach Jeremy Bishop will be transitioning to a new role for the Bears, joining the administration as the Assistant Athletic......

SEARCY — Nine members of the Harding University women’s track and field team have earned All-Academic Athlete honors from the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) for their outstanding performance both in competition and in the classroom during the recent season.......

LITTLE ROCK — Chris Curry has described Little Rock baseball’s run through the Baton Rouge Regional earlier this summer as “program changing.” Curry said he’s been stopped numerous times recently at the grocery store or the gas pump by a fan wanting to offer congratulations.  Third baseman Ty......

CONWAY — Senior offensive lineman Will Diggins opens the fall with the first preseason award of the year. The Bryant (Saline County) native was named to a Stats Perform FCS Preseason Third Team All-American, the organization announced on Tuesday. Diggins, the 2022 ASUN Freshman of the Year,......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Wednesday, the Great American Conference honored Harding’s Sage Hawley as its 2024-25 Female Scholar Athlete of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes Hawley’s exceptional achievements both academically and athletically. Hawley is now the fourth Lady Bison to receive the Female Scholar Athlete of the......

CONWAY — The Hendrix Warriors have unveiled their schedule for the 2025 season. The schedule features six home games, including Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference foes Austin College, Texas Lutheran, Centenary College and McMurry University. Sept. 6th vs Maryville CollegeThe Warriors open up the season in a......

LITTLE ROCK — With a new coach and a large group of new runners, the Little Rock Cross Country has officially released its competition schedule for the 2025 season, with four meets on the calendar leading into the Ohio Valley Conference Championships in October. Little......

Natural State Baseball is pleased to announce its 2025 All-Arkansas Collegiate Team and Awards. Little Rock is the team of the year. The Trojans captured the nation’s attention in a historic run at the end of the season, taking LSU to a 7th game in......

CONWAY — The United Athletic Conference has released its Preseason All-Conference selections, with Central Arkansas football receiving five athletes across the 27 honorees. The Bears earned three spots on the league’s preseason offensive team, and two spots on the defensive side of the ball. Two senior......

SEARCY – Harding University women’s track and field high jumper Kiera Blankinship has been named to the College Sports Communicators Second Team Academic All-America, recognizing her exceptional achievements both on the track and in the classroom. It was her second career Academic All-America honor. Blankinship, a senior......

LITTLE ROCK – The Little Rock swim and dive team received a prestigious academic award from the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) recently. CSCAA Executive Director Samantha Baranay informed Little Rock head coach Nathan Townsend and Director of Athletics Frank M. Cuervo that the squad earned the CSCAA......

On July 15, the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission’s executive director, DuShun Scarbrough, Sr., led a special halftime King legacy recognition ceremony  at the NBA Summer League. Scarbrough honored Warren LeGarie, executive director and co-founder of the NBA Summer League; Albert Hall, co-founder and president of HallPass......

After a strong finish in 2024, Little Rock soccer is again primed to compete for an Ohio Valley Conference championship.  The 2025 schedule was unveiled this week and includes 19 matches  – 17 regular-season and two exhibitions.  “The goal of our nonconference schedule is to prepare us......

LITTLE ROCK — The soccer field at the Coleman Athletic Complex will have a new look for the 2025 season with the installation of a new surface, which will not only provide Little Rock student-athletes with a new playing surface, but one that will reduce......

CONWAY — Director of Athletics Matt Whiting has announced a new head coach for the Central Arkansas STUNT team, hiring Chloe Moxley to lead the Bears’ newest program. Moxley joins the Purple and Gray after a successful playing career at the University of Kentucky, and will now lead......

SEARCY — Harding University women’s golfer Sarah Kmiecik has been named to the College Sports Communicators Second Team Academic All-America, recognizing her exceptional achievements both on the course and in the classroom. Kmiecik, a senior athletically and a graduate student academically, maintained a perfect 4.00 undergraduate grade-point average......

Little Rock rounded out the spring signing period with six more players, including one of the top Arkansas high school Class of 2025 prospects. Throughout the spring, the Trojans inked Western Kentucky transfer Braxton Bayless, Penn State transfer Kachi Nzeh, Pratt (Kan.) Community College guard Khasen Robinson and......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas baseball program has added Heath Holliday to its coaching staff for the 2025-26 season. Holliday will be the Bears’ hitting/catching coach and recruiting coordinator, according to head coach Nick Harlan. Holliday comes to UCA from a one-year stint......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College head volleyball coach Halee Hensley has announced the 2025 schedule for her team. The schedule includes 32 matches, with 13 matches played in front of the home fans at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. The season begins at home on Aug. 26......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk sophomore infielder Quaterrion Walton (Atlanta, Georgia) was named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Baseball All-American Second Team recently for his outstanding efforts on the diamond this season. In a season where Walton was......

The University of Central Arkansas bid farewell to Associate Athletic Director and Media Relations contact Steve East on Monday when he retired. After 31 years at the university, he sent his final press release to the media and said he looked forward to the freedom......

SEARCY — Five members of the Harding men’s track and field team have been named to the Academic All-District Team by the Collegiate Sports Communicators (CSC), recognizing their excellence in both academics and athletics. Spencer Helms, a fifth-year senior and All-American in the discus, will now......

By David Grimes Mel McGaha was a multisport star at the University of Arkansas, but like a lot of college and professional athletes of the World War II era, he put his career on hold to serve his country. McGaha was inducted into the Arkansas......

Sherwood is hosting a Third Thursday in the Park free concert tonight from 7 to 9 p.m. at City Hall Park. Families are encouraged to attend. Seven local food trucks will be on site as well. “This month, we’re bringing the high-energy country duo Cliff......

HOT SPRINGS — Five members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team were named to Natural State Baseball’s 2025 All-Arkansas Collegiate Team for their remarkable contributions on the field this season.  Sophomore infielder Quaterrion Walton (Atlanta, Georgia) was recognized as the All-Arkansas Team’s......

SEARCY – The Harding women’s golf team is celebrating remarkable academic and athletic achievements, as five of its dedicated student-athletes have been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District® Team for NCAA Division II. To be eligible for Academic All-District consideration, a student-athlete must......

SEARCY – The Harding softball program continues to excel not only on the diamond, but in the classroom, as three of its outstanding student-athletes have been recognized with prestigious College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District® honors. Riley Price, Macy Ham, and Kaya Lee were all selected for the NCAA......

CONWAY — Head softball coach Kayla Lucas has announced the final addition to her coaching staff, bringing in former Maryland and FAU standout Trinity Schlotterbeck as the program’s pitching coach. “Trinity has everything we’re looking for in a coach, she has a ton of experience in the circle,......

St. Joseph High School’s Athletic Director was recognized on June 16 as the 2024-25 recipient of the Raymond Bright Award for High School Coach of the Year in the City of Conway.  Luke Davis is the school’s head volleyball and baseball coach. The ceremony was......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team has selected its next head coach.  Dorrie Cormier will serve as the Nighthawks’ third softball coach in program history. A native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Cormier most recently served as the assistant community manager for......

The University of Central Arkansas Aviation Academy welcomed eight cadets to campus through a new flight training program with the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) that kicked off Friday, June 6. This is UCA’s first year to participate in the AFJROTC program.......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock Soccer program is proud to announce the addition of eight student-athletes to the Trojan roster for the upcoming 2025 fall season. The new players – all incoming freshmen – hail from Texas, California, Georgia, the Netherlands, and Australia, as......

SEARCY — The Harding University baseball team capped off a remarkable season by earning the No. 30 spot in the final American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) poll, marking only the second time in program history the Bisons have appeared in the final national rankings. The......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The Ohio Valley Conference announced its 18 Community Service honorees Wednesday morning. Among those were two Little Rock student-athletes. Senior women’s golfer Katja Mueller and men’s cross country/track and field athlete Joel Allen were both honored. The awards, first bestowed in 2022-23, are based on activities......

SEARCY – Harding University’s athletic department concluded a remarkable 2024-25 academic year by securing a 25th-place finish among over 300 institutions in the prestigious NACDA DII Learfield Directors’ Cup Standings. This marks the Bisons’ second consecutive year in the top 25 and their third straight in......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball program has added a second Australian student-athlete to the roster in guard Harrison Beauchamp, according to UCA head coach John Shulman. Beauchamp is a 6-foot-6 freshman guard from Victoria, Australia who most recently played at Marcelin......

Little Rock student-athletes finished out the school year strong academically. The department posted a 3.45 GPA for the winter semester. That is the 24th consecutive semester the Trojans have posted a 3.0 or higher department-wide GPA. The cumulative GPA for the 2024-25 school year is 3.43,......

SEARCY – Harding University men’s tennis senior Cas de Ruiter has achieved a monumental milestone, becoming the first player in program history to earn NCAA Division II All-America honors since Harding transitioned to NCAA Division II competition during the 1997-98 season. The prestigious All-America recognition is awarded......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball program has three new additions to the coaching staff, according to head coach John Shulman. Will Braden has been added as an assistant coach, while Jake Frankiewicz will be the new graduate assistant. Ivan Hadzic has......

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – On Monday, the Great American Conference announced Harding University as the winner of both the 2024-25 Commissioner’s Cup and the President’s Trophy. For an incredible fourth-straight season, the Bisons and Lady Bisons have captured both All-Sports championships. The GAC awards the Commissioner’s......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas will induct a class of seven new members into the UCA Sports Hall of Fame on Oct. 4 in conjunction with the football weekend against Utah Tech. The newest class of inductees includes: Dr. Bill Bandy (meritorious service);......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College men’s soccer coach Dylan Perdue has announced the 2025 schedule for the CBC Mustangs. The schedule includes a full 18-match slate with nine home matches being played at the brand-new Conway Soccer Complex located at 2100 N. Museum Road next......

BATON ROUGE, LA. – New York Giant outfielder Bobby Thomson hit the “Shot heard around the world” to beat the Brooklyn Dodgers for the 1951 National League pennant. On Saturday, Little Rock junior Angel Cano hit a three-run homer of his own that helped make school history with......

By David Grimes Harold Horton passed away peacefully at his home on May 3, 2025, at the age of 85. On behalf of David Grimes, the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame and 501 LIFE Magazine, we thank his family for allowing us to share his story with our......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears have signed a tall, talented forward from Australia for their 2025-26 roster, according to head coach John Shulman. Truman Byrne is a 6-foot-10, 220-pounder from Melbourne, Australia. He attended Berwick College where he averaged 16.5 points, 11......

LITTLE ROCK — Texas junior college prospect Jarahle Daniels has signed with the Trojans women’s basketball team.  Daniels comes to Little Rock from Kilgore College where she averaged 11.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game last winter. Daniels helped lead the Rangers to......

SEARCY — Harding men’s and women’s track and field competed last week at the NCAA Division II Championships in Pueblo, Colorado. Harding’s men entered the meet ranked No. 8 nationally, and Harding’s women were ranked No. 23. Team Scores after Day 2Harding Men: 37 points, 5th......

DELAND, Fla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears could not ride their hot start to a victory May 23 and were eliminated from the 2025 ASUN Championship with a 12-5 loss to the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles at Melching Field. The Bears, the fourth......

CONWAY — Some mascots enter the scene quietly. Others, like Altus — Hendrix College’s newest pride and powerhouse — burst onto campus and instantly raise the bar. This bold, orange-loving spirit machine is more than just a face on the sidelines — he’s the heart of......

For the second straight year, the Little Rock Athletic Department finished strong in the OVC Commissioner’s Cup standings. After winning the Cup last year, the Trojans (104.5) took a close second to SEMO (107) this year.  “I’m incredibly proud of the exceptional performances delivered by Trojan......

SEARCY — Harding senior right-hander Maddox Long and junior third baseman Logan Lacey have both received numerous postseason awards. Below is the list of awards for each player. Maddox Long National Collegiate Baseball Writers’ Association First Team All-AmericaD2CCA First Team All-AmericaNCBWA Central Region Pitcher of the Year and First......

JACKSONVILLE — Jacksonville’s annual Youth Fishing Derby returns for a morning of outdoor excitement, big catches and even bigger prizes! The event will take place on Saturday, June 14, at the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation Shooting Sports Complex, located at 2800 Graham Road. Registration is......

DELAND, Fla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears led the host Stetson Hatters 2-0 early in Tuesday’s ASUN Championship opening game, but the defending champions came back and took advantage of four UCA errors to take a 10-2 victory in the tournament opener. The......

Canton, Ga. — On May 7, the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) released the All-SAA teams, with nine Hendrix student-athletes earning All-Conference honors for the 2025 season. Austin Rabago, Dylan Kalmus, and Aiden Leggett were named to the All-SAA Second Team. Rabago slashed .345/.420/.458 as the Warriors’ third baseman and was......

WARRENSBURG, Mo. – Logan Lacey and Cooper Newsom each had three hits, and Coulton Doyle and Newsom both hit two home runs as No. 8 Harding defeated No. 5 Arkansas Tech 14-5 in an NCAA Division II Central Region Tournament game Saturday at Crane Stadium. The win advances Harding (41-18) to......

Trojan baseball wraps up its Ohio Valley Conference regular season in Cape Girardeau, Mo., at Capaha Field with a three-game series against SEMO starting at 6 p.m., Thursday. The two teams meet at the same time on Friday with a 2 p.m., Saturday finale scheduled.......

HOT SPRINGS — Six members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team were named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II All-Region 2 Team this week for their outstanding efforts on the field this season. Sophomore pitcher Bailee Cowell (Clarksville)......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears had 13 hits and scored eight times on Tuesday but still dropped the final mid-week game of the season 11-8 to the Memphis Tigers at FedEx Park. The Tigers (22-30) had 15 hits and scored in......

SEARCY — Harding University women’s tennis players Natalia Alvarez and Alexia Zarate Valdez have been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District team. The CSC Academic All-District teams recognize top student-athletes for their performance in the classroom and on the court. To be eligible, student-athletes must have......

SAN ANTONIO — Looking to stay in the NAIA Opening Round, Central Baptist College took on the #19 Middle Georgia State Knights May 13 in an elimination game at St. Mary’s Softball Stadium. CBC (31-27) led early but couldn’t stop MGA (39-9), seeing their season come......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball team (33-22-1, 15-9) recently concluded its season in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 Tournament, hosted by Majestic Park. NPC defeated Northern Oklahoma College-Enid (NOC-Enid), 4-2, in the first round, followed by a......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) has been selected to host the upcoming National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 Baseball Tournament, scheduled for May 7–11 at Majestic Park in Hot Springs — the first time the tournament will be played in Arkansas. The......

By David Grimes Terri Johnson is not only an Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame inductee, she has also served as the organization’s Executive Director over the past decade, leading the group to new heights.  One of the best female athletes the state has ever produced, she grew......

EDMOND, Okla. – Harding women’s golf team concluded its season with a 10th-place finish at the NCAA Central Regional, held at Kickingbird Golf Course in Edmond, Oklahoma. The Lady Bisons carded a three-round total of +49, with scores of 301, 298, and 290. Individual Results:......

TOLM Group Foundation will host a Pickleball Tournament from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. May 17 in Morrilton. There are Men’s/Coed Doubles and Women’s Doubles and it is open to anyone. Participants receive a tournament T-shirt. For more information, visit tolmgrp.com or contact Austin Foshee......

MELBOURNE, Ark. — Entering the final round in third place, Central Baptist College men’s golf was on the course at Cooper’s Hawk Golf Club on Tuesday for the concluding 18 holes of the American Midwest Conference Championship. CBC shot a final round 314 for a......

SEARCY — Harding senior Maddox Long was named the Great American Conference (GAC) Pitcher of the Year for the second consecutive season, headlining a list of four Harding baseball players who received All-GAC honors. Junior Logan Lacey was also named to the GAC All-Defensive Team. The Bisons finished the......

LITTLE ROCK — The Trojans men’s golf team is back in the NCAA Regionals. For the first time since 2023, the 2025 Ohio Valley Conference Champions will be competing for college golf’s ultimate prize. That quest begins at Auburn, Ala., May 12-14. The Trojans are......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (30-17-1, 13-7) won three of four National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 games against SAU Tech last week, earning 9-1 and 15-0 wins in the first two games of the series while......

CONWAY — The Bellarmine Knights scored five runs in the first two innings to salvage the final game of their ASUN series with the University of Central Arkansas Bears on Sunday with a 6-2 victory at Bear Stadium. The Bears won the series 2-1 with......

HARRISON — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks softball team (26-18, 17-5) swept its National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 series against North Arkansas College Tuesday, taking a 2-1 extra-inning victory in game one and earning a 6-3 win in the finale. Game......

LITTLE ROCK — After an extended break following their home meet two weeks ago, the Little Rock Track and Field teams begin the home stretch toward the conference championships with competitors in Des Moines, Iowa, and Jonesboro, Arkansas, this weekend. The Trojans will have a......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears got a 10-0 walk-off win in eight innings over the UAPB Golden Lions on Tuesday night at Bear Stadium, and flirted with the school’s first no-hitter since 2020. UCA’s trio of pitchers, starter Jacob Pannell and relievers......

OZARK, Mo. – Playing their final road doubleheader of the season this afternoon, Central Baptist College softball took on new American Midwest Conference rival Mission University today at the Ozark Sports Complex. CBC (26-22, 15-7 AMC) finished their road schedule with a sweep of MU......

CONWAY — Hendrix continued its losing skid with a pair of losses to in-state foe Lyon on Monday night at Warrior Softball Field. Game 1 (L, 4-3) After Lyon opened the scoring with a single run in the top of the first, Hendrix responded with a......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk freshman guard Khyra Garrett (Brownsboro, Texas) was named an honorable mention to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Women’s Basketball All-American Team this week for her outstanding efforts on the court this season. As NJCAA......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears picked up another transfer in Rylie Marshall from Harding University, according to head coach John Shulman. Marshall, a 6-foot-2, 170-pound guard from Beebe, Ark., played three seasons for the NCAA Division II Bisons and was a two-time......

SEARCY — Harding defeated Ouachita Baptist 6-1 in a women’s tennis match Tuesday, marking the 26th consecutive victory for the Lady Bisons in the series. Harding (9-11, 2-2 GAC) won two of the three doubles matches to secure the doubles point. The No. 40-ranked duo......

ALTON, Ill. – Sitting in fourth place after one round of the Missouri Baptist Spring Invitational, Central Baptist College men’s golf played the final 18 holes on Tuesday at the Spencer Olin Golf Course. CBC closed with a 329 and finished sixth, five shots off......

OXFORD, Miss. – Cooper Chaplain enjoyed a special homecoming Tuesday afternoon at Ole Miss.  The Trojans second baseman, and Jackson, Miss., native led the charge as Little Rock upset No. 11 Ole Miss at Oxford-University Stadium/Swayze Field.  Chaplain was 3-for-5 with 3 RBI in the 7-3 win.......

CONWAY  — The University of Central Arkansas Bears scored first Tuesday night but the Memphis Tigers cruised to a 13-3 run-rule victory in non-conference action at Bear Stadium. The Bears (14-21) got an RBI double by freshman catcher Carter Alexander that scored designated hitter Casey Shipley......

EDINBURGH, Ind. — The Warriors made the 9+ hour trip to Edinburgh, Indiana to compete in the Spalding Preview hosted at Timbergate Golf Course on April 13. The men finished 2nd out of 10 teams, their third second place team finish this season. Oliver Naumann ended the......

EL DORADO, Ark. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (25-15-1, 10-6) lost its National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 doubleheader at South Arkansas College Saturday, falling, 3-1, in the opener and dropping a 29-7 decision in the finale. NPC fell......

MONKEY ISLAND, Okla. — Sarah Kmiecik led the Harding women’s golf team with a fourth-place individual finish at the Spring Regional Preview, which concluded Tuesday at Shangri-La Country Club. Kmiecik carded a 3-under-par 141 (71-70) over the two rounds. As a team, the Lady Bisons finished fourth......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Entering the day in a three-way tie for first place in the American Midwest Conference, Central Baptist College softball took on the 15th-ranked Spartans of Missouri Baptist on Tuesday at Spartan Field. CBC (21-17, 10-2 AMC) split the doubleheader with #15......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas has added a highly touted and highly talented transfer in Union University’s Parker Applegate, according to head coach John Shulman. Applegate, from Murfreesboro, Tenn., played two seasons at Union, in Jackson, Tenn. The 6-foot-8, 215-pound forward averaged 12.3......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (24-12-1) swept its National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 doubleheader on Tuesday with Arkansas State University Mid-South (ASU Mid-South) at Majestic Park Monday, earning a 10-0 victory in the opener and rallying......

CONWAY — Hendrix remains winless in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) this season following a 19-2 loss to Rhodes on Monday night at Young-Wise Memorial Stadium.It was a match that was dominated by the Lynx from beginning to end as Rhodes set the mercy rule......

SEARCY — Harding University men’s basketball standout Wyatt Gilbert has been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District team, the organization announced Tuesday. The Academic All-District teams recognize the nation’s top student-athletes for their outstanding achievements in the classroom and on the court. Gilbert, a senior......

TISHOMINGO, Okla. – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks softball team (18-16, 9-3) dropped its National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 series against No. 2 Murray State College Tuesday, taking a 9-0 defeat in game one and falling short, 3-2, in the finale. The Nighthawks......

MAGNOLIA, Ark. — The 10th-ranked Harding softball team fell in both games of the Great American Conference doubleheader Monday at 17th-ranked Southern Arkansas. The Lady Bisons fell 2-0 and 4-0. Harding falls to 33-8 overall and 17-6 in the GAC. Southern Arkansas improves to 32-5......

SEARCY — The Harding women’s tennis team has two singles players and a doubles team ranked nationally, according to the latest Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) rankings. Alexia Zarate Valdez leads the way for the Lady Bisons, earning a No. 12 national ranking in singles with a......

MANHEIM, Pa. — A program-high seven Trojans on the Little Rock wrestling team received NCAA Division I Men’s Scholar All-America honors this morning, as announced by the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA). Join us in applauding Nasir Bailey, Matty Bianchi, Joseph Bianchi, Brock DelSignore, Austin Keal, Stephen Little and Brennan Van Hoecke for representing what it truly......

North Little Rock — The Arkansas Activities Association has hired Dax Hill to the role of associate executive director of officials. Hill will replace Don Brodell, who is retiring on June 30, 2025, after 25 years of service to the AAA.  Hill’s hire was approved......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears have added Malchiah Marable to the program, according to head coach John Shulman. Marable, originally from Washington, D.C., comes to UCA from Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Va. At Hargrave, Marable, a 6-foot-9, 220-pound forward/center, averaged 11......

CONWAY — Looking to stay perfect in both American Midwest Conference play and at home this season, Central Baptist College softball hosted the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis in a doubleheader recently at City of Colleges Park. CBC (17-15, 6-0 AMC)......

HOT SPRINGS — Two members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team (15-13) earned National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 honors this week for their outstanding efforts on the diamond. Freshman third baseman Bre Phillips (Conway) was named Region 2 Player of......

By David Grimes As successful as Cliff Garrison was at coaching basketball at Hendrix College, his life off the court is even more remarkable. Garrison was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) in 2004 as part of the 46th class, along with Jesse Branch,......

The 43rd annual Toad Suck Daze 10K/5K race will be held Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, and it’s time to register kids and adults! Participants will have a “toadily” good time, and all funds raised will assist non-profits in Central Arkansas that support......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — Don Brodell has served the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) in various roles for more than 25 years but his run will come to an end as he has announced his decision to retire this summer.  Brodell served in many roles as......

STANFORD, Calif. — The Little Rock Men’s Golf team is in California for the remainder of the week, competing in the prestigious The Goodwin tournament at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco. The three-day event will feature 31 collegiate programs, with 18 holes played each day. The Trojans......

Danville, Ky. — Hendrix opened up conference play in the Southern Athletic Association on Saturday with a 15-4 loss to the Centre Colonels. Centre scored five goals to open the game before Peyton Refling got the Warriors on the scoreboard early in the second inning with an......

SEARCY — For the seventh straight week, the Harding softball team was ranked in this week’s National Fast Pitch Coaches Association Division II Poll. The Lady Bisons stayed at No. 13. Harding and Southern Arkansas (23rd) are the only Great American Conference teams in the......

CONWAY — Competing in town for the second time this season, Central Baptist College track and field was at the Bill Stephens Track Complex last Saturday for the Martin Invitational, hosted by Central Arkansas. Four men’s competitors were on the track and in the pit......

SEARCY — The 15th-ranked Harding baseball team fell to Arkansas-Monticello 7-0 in a nonconference game on Tuesday. Harding’s offense was unable to get going, managing just six hits, grounding into three double plays and leaving eight runners stranded. Nathan Bowie, Logan Lacey, Collin Helms, Coulton Doyle, Cooper Newsom, and Ty Kirkbride each......

CABOT — Sitting within striking distance of the overall lead after 36 holes, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to capture their third tournament win of the season at their own Spring Invitational at Cypress Creek Golf Course on Tuesday. CBC closed with a final......

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Bears scored six times in the top of the first inning Tuesday, but the Little Rock Trojans dominated after that in a 23-9 victory in Round 1 of the “I-40 Showdown” at Gary Hogan Field. The Bears......

A school record in the final event — the 400 freestyle relay — capped off a strong postseason showing for the Little Rock swimming and diving team at the CSCAA National Invitational Championships (NIC) this past week. Their performance helped the team secure a 27th-place......

CONWAY — Hendrix dropped both games of a two-game homestand versus Grinnell College. The Pioneers outlasted the Warriors 18-15 in the first game before shellacking Hendrix 17-3 in a run rule-shortened affair on Tuesday evening. Game 1 (L, 18-15) Connor Bryson put the Pioneers down in......

SEARCY – The 13th-ranked Harding softball team swept Union in a non-conference doubleheader Tuesday. The Lady Bisons won 1-0 and 6-2. Harding has now won 13 straight and improves to 27-3 overall. Union falls to 7-22 on the season.  GAME ONE – Harding 1, Union......

ARLINGTON, Texas – Little Rock jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning and cruised to a 10-6 victory over UT Arlington (6-10) Sunday afternoon at Clay Gould Ball Park. Ty Rhoades, Cooper Chaplain and Zach Henry each drove in two runs apiece. Jack Cline picked up his second win......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas tennis team opened ASUN conference play with a tough weekend on the road, falling 6-1 to Stetson last Friday before narrowly dropping a 4-3 decision to FGCU on Sunday. Against Stetson, the Sugar Bears fought hard but struggled to gain......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears were shut out for the first time this season on Sunday as Evansville pitchers Kevin Reed and Sam Sandy combined for an 8-0 victory in the series finale at Bear Stadium. Reed, who went 7 innings and......

TRENTON, Mo. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s basketball team fell to No. 12 North Central Missouri College in the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Central Plains District Tournament championship Saturday, 70-59. Turnovers and fouls plagued both teams in a low-scoring first......

SEARCY – The 15th-ranked Harding softball team won both games of the Great American Conference doubleheader over Arkansas Tech Tuesday. The Lady Bisons won the first game 4-1 and the second game 4-0. It was Harding’s fifth shutout of the season as it improves to......

BOULDER CITY, Nev. — Tuesday marked the final day of competition for the Little Rock women’s golf team, after being on the road for two weeks, as the ladies finished in 5th place at the 2024 Jackrabbit Invitational at Boulder Creek Golf Club.  Team Leaderboard | Individual Leaderbooard ......

OZARK, Mo. — Looking for an American Midwest Conference series sweep against Mission, Central Baptist College baseball was back at US Ballpark on March 8 for the final two games of the four-game series. CBC (11-11, 9-3 AMC) split the day with MU (13-5, 8-4......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears threatened in the ninth inning but had the tying run thrown out at the plate in a 6-5 loss to the Evansville Purple Aces in Game 2 at Bear Stadium on March 8. Evansville, which evened the......

SEARCY – The Harding men’s tennis team is ranked No. 9 in this week’s national rankings. Senior Cas de Ruiter is ranked No. 8 nationally in singles, with teammate Adrian Solorzano at No. 26. Harding also has two doubles teams ranked. De Ruiter and Solorzano are ranked No. 16......

LAFAYETTE, La. — The Little Rock men’s golf team finished 4th at the Louisiana Classics, marking an eight-place improvement from last year. The tournament concluded Tuesday at Oakbourne Country Club. The Trojans’ strong spring season continues, as they have consistently placed in the top five at......

SEARCY — The 2025 Arkansas Regional Robotics Tournament is set to return to Searcy Lion Arena March 7-8, bringing together some of the brightest young minds in engineering, technology and innovation. Hosted by FIRST Robotics, this highly anticipated event is expected to once again make......

WAUKEE, IA. — On March 1, the Trojans shattered two individual school records, showcasing their strength at the Little Rock swimming and diving team’s conference championship. The team also celebrated Delaney Nickles, who earned the Missouri Valley Conference Freshman of the Year award.The team had 10 swimmers score......

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A career night from freshman Nehemiah Turner helped extend the University of Central Arkansas Bears’ season at least another day as the Bears beat the Stetson Hatters 77-72 in the opening round of the ASUN Championship on March 2 at Lipscomb’s Allen......

LITTLE ROCK — Aaron Soltmann of Little Rock and Stefanie Rodell of Mount Pleasant, SC, won the 2025 Little Rock Marathon on Saturday, March 2. Soltmann finished the course with an unofficial time of 2:32:20.9. Rodell crossed the finish line at 3:11:09.8.  All times provided......

CONWAY — Coming off a hard-fought win to open the American Midwest Conference Tournament presented by Tandem HR, #15 Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Columbia Cougars last Saturday for the second time in nine days, this time in the semifinals. #15 CBC (26-4)......

CONWAY — Harding’s men’s track and field team opened its outdoor season with several strong performances at the Hendrix Invitational on March 1. Everett Mumme cleared 5.10 meters (16 feet, 8.75 inches) in the pole vault to earn an NCAA Provisional mark. Mumme’s vault was the......

By David Grimes Alonzo “Lonnie” Clayton may no longer be a household name, but way back in 1892, he gained national acclaim at the age of 15 when he became the youngest jockey to ever win the Kentucky Derby. Clayton was inducted into the Arkansas......

Conway Human Development Center will host the 30th Annual Benefit Bowl-A-Thon on the afternoon of Friday, March 7, at Conway Family Bowl.  “We invite you all to come out and enjoy an afternoon of fun and bowling,” said Saray Murphy, CHDC superintendent. Teams will consist of......

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Little Rock captured back-to-back Pac-12 Dual Meet Champ titles today, finishing their West Coast road swing with a pair of wins against North Dakota State and conference foes CSU-Bakersfield. “Back-to-back is awesome. Really excited for the guys,” said head coach Neil Erisman. “We had......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears are back home at the Farris Center for two games starting tonight with a matchup against the Jacksonville Dolphins. UCA and Jacksonville will tip-off at 6:30 on Scottie Pippen Court. The Bears will then host North Florida......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Everything in Kai Caddy’s past has led him to where he is today. Caddy, 41, of Conway, has been a photographer, designer and videographer since earning his degree in journalism with a minor in art from the University of Central Arkansas......

CONWAY —Doug Petersen has been tabbed to be the inaugural head coach of the Hendrix College women’s flag football program. “I am thrilled that Coach Petersen will be leading our women’s flag football program,” said Director of Athletics Amy Weaver. “He is already a valued......

Photo and story by Stefanie Brazile The sound of marching bands echoed down Pennsylvania Avenue, and the crowd smiled and waved back at Al Coleman and every other Arkansan who walked the 1 ½-mile route back in 1993. William Jefferson Clinton was about to be......

By David Grimes Most Arkansans remember Houston Nutt for his time as a player and coach for the Razorback football team, but many may not be aware of the success he had as a multisport star at Little Rock Central High School. Houston Nutt was inducted into......

SEARCY — Harding’s Karli Roux has been named the Great American Conference Women’s Tennis Player of the Week. Roux, a junior from Cape Town, South Africa, earned the honor after posting a pair of singles victories against Division I opponents. She defeated Ana Hollweg of McNeese State......

TOPEKA, Kansas — The Little Rock Men’s Distance Relay team stole the show at the Washburn Open over the weekend, not only establishing new school, facility, and meet records in the event, but recording the second-fastest time in the nation on the way to winning......

CONWAY –After three-straight one-possession road wins, the Central Arkansas women’s basketball team finally got to come play in front of its home fans on Feb. 1, and it paid off, as the Sugar Bears took a 68-50 win over Queens on Saturday. The win improved......

SEARCY — The Harding University men’s track and field team debuted at No. 19 in the first U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) indoor rankings of the season. The Bisons accumulated 41.04 points, with several athletes contributing to the team’s top-20......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks sophomore pitcher Bailee Cowell (Clarksville) threw the program’s first perfect game Monday as NPC swept Central Baptist College on Opening Day, 5-0, in the opener and a walk-off 10-9 victory in game two.  Cowell dazzled in the opener,......

Little Rock  — Little Rock Men’s Basketball will once again take center stage on ESPNU next month when the Trojans visit first-place Morehead State for an Ohio Valley Conference contest in Morehead, Kentucky. The game was chosen this week for the move to ESPNU by a......

LITTLE ROCK — Playing outside of the American Midwest Conference for the final time this season, #17 Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Philander Smith University Panthers this week inside Crawford J. Mims Gymnasium. CBC (17-4) led at halftime and clamped down defensively......

CONWAY — For the first time since 2005, the University of Central Arkansas Bears took on the West Georgia Wolves last night at the Farris Center. Visit ucasports.com for results. The Wolves, newcomers to the Atlantic Sun Conference this season, and Bears were former conference......

CONWAY — Coming off a 32-22 season and a run to the semifinals of the American Midwest Conference softball tournament, Central Baptist College opens the 2025 season on Friday afternoon at the Louisiana Christian University Play Day. CBC will take on #21 LSU-Alexandria and Houston-Victoria on......

LITTLE ROCK — The Trojans are turning heads as the season reaches its peak, with less than a month until the Missouri Valley Conference Championships. The team has been making waves, earning Swimmer of the Week honors in conference voting. Olivia Elgin was named Swimmer of the......

SEARCY – For the first time, the prestigious Walter Camp All-America team has expanded to include an NCAA Division II edition, and Harding University’s Jake Dugger has been selected as one of the top 25 players in the country. Established in 1889, the Walter Camp All-America team......

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team gutted out another single-possession win in the state of Tennessee last Saturday, picking up a 51-50 win over the Austin Peay Governors. It marked the sixth-straight win for the Sugar Bears, and seventh win in their last eight......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears will be back at the Farris Center tonight for the first time since Jan. 4 when they take on the Austin Peay Governors. Tip-off is set for 6:30 p.m. on Scottie Pippen Court. UCA (5-14, 1-5) played......

WALNUT RIDGE — Playing on the road for the second straight game and making up a game originally scheduled for Jan. 9, #17 Central Baptist College men’s basketball was at the Southerland Mabee Center Monday for an American Midwest Conference clash with rival Williams Baptist.......

DURANT, Okla. — Sage Hawley’s impressive double-double wasn’t enough to overcome Harding’s season-low shooting performance as Southeastern Oklahoma handed the Lady Bisons a 62-49 loss Thursday night. Hawley led Harding with 21 points and 11 rebounds, her eighth double-double of the season, while becoming the second Lady......

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears put up an admirable fight against the second-place Jacksonville Dolphins on Saturday but ultimately fell 72-62 in Atlantic Sun Conference action at Swisher Gymnasium. The Bears (5-14, 1-5), playing their fourth consecutive road game, opened with......

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Playing on the road for the third time last week, Central Baptist College women’s basketball took on the Stars of Stephens College Saturday afternoon in an American Midwest Conference clash inside Silverthorne Arena. CBC (7-8, 5-6 AMC) trailed 32-9 at halftime and......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock’s Jordan Williams has been named Wrestler of the Week following his stellar performance in the multi-team dual. Williams went undefeated, securing a major decision, a decision, and a fall across three duals, playing a crucial role in Little Rock’s dominant showing. Williams......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Tuesday, the Great American Conference released the results of the 2025 GAC baseball ballot. Arkansas-Monticello collected six first-place votes to enter the season as the preseason favorite. Harding received four first-place votes followed by one apiece for Arkansas Tech and Southern Arkansas.......

Conway — After not seeing a basketball court for two days following snow in Central Arkansas, #13 Central Baptist College returned to the court last Saturday at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse for an American Midwest Conference matchup with the Trojans of Hannibal-LaGrange University. #13 CBC (13-3,......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team returns to the Farris Center for two games this week, facing off with North Florida tonight at 6:30 p.m., before battling Stetson on Saturday at 1 p.m. The Sugar Bears are 9-6 midway through January, with a......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Tuesday, the Great American Conference released the results of the 2025 GAC softball ballot. Southern Nazarene collected nine first-place votes to enter the season as the preseason favorite. In 2024, the Crimson Storm enjoyed their best season in their GAC era. They won......

The Little Rock women’s basketball team used a major second-half run on Tuesday to give the Trojans their fifth straight victory. The Trojans (8-8, 6-1) defeated Southeast Missouri 67-63, behind Sug Williams’ double-double performance. Williams ended the night with 11 points and 11 rebounds, her third double-double of......

FORT MYERS, Fla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears are back in Florida for the second consecutive week for a pair of Atlantic Sun Conference games in Jacksonville. UCA (5-12, 1-3) will face the North Florida Ospreys at 6 p.m. (CST) Thursday, then take......

For the second time this month, Johnathan Lawson saved the day with a clutch jumper. The Little Rock junior guard’s driving shot with 1.1 seconds left in the game gave the Trojans a 73-71 win at Southeast Missouri State. His floater late in the game beat UT-Martin......

SEARCY – Harding’s women’s basketball team used a dominant first quarter and clutch free throw shooting down the stretch to secure a 73-62 victory over Oklahoma Baptist on Saturday at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. The Lady Bisons (12-2, 8-0 GAC) scored 10 unanswered points after......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker earned the top individual defensive prize at the FCS level Saturday night when he was awarded 2024 Buck Buchanan Award at the FCS National Awards banquet. Walker, a 6-foot-2, 260-pounder from Stuttgart, Ark., won going......

LITTLE ROCK — The weather outside may be a little frightful Thursday, but the Little Rock men’s basketball team hopes the final score against Morehead State is delightful. The forecast of heavy snow has moved game time to 25 minutes following the women’s contest that......

CONWAY — After recording their first Atlantic Sun Conference victory on Saturday, the University of Central Arkansas Bears will now have to take that momentum on the road Thursday for their first of four consecutive games away from the Farris Center. UCA (5-10, 1-1) will......

CONWAY — Playing for the first time in 2025, #13 Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Pioneers of Crowley’s Ridge College this week for the first time as an American Midwest Conference rival inside A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. #13 CBC (12-3, 6-0 AMC) never trailed,......

SEARCY — Due to impending weather on Thursday, Harding’s basketball games with Southern Nazarene have been moved up.  The women’s game will begin at 3 p.m. with the men’s game to follow at 5 p.m. Links to follow the games will be available on HardingSports.com. ......

LITTLE ROCK — After claiming first place in the Southern Scuffle last weekend, the Pac-12 voted Nasir Bailey as this week’s Wrestler of the Week. “I’m happy for Nasir. He’s worked hard, even through some trials. He has found a way and he’s on track!” Head Coach Neil Erisman on Nasir......

CONWAY — Five University of Central Arkansas Bears were named Tuesday to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Division I Academic All-District team. Jake Gaster, Trace Beard, Chaylin Peine, Kyle Gasaway and Malachi Henry were honored for the Bears. The CSC Academic All-America program recognizes student-athletes......

SEARCY — The Harding football team concluded the 2024 season with a No. 4 ranking in the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Top 25 poll, as well as the D2Football.com poll. The Bisons also finished No. 2 on MasseyRatings.com and No. 3 on NCAA.com’s Power......

CONWAY — It took a half Sunday afternoon at the Farris Center, but the University of Central Arkansas Bears eventually put away the Southwestern Christian Eagles 87-69 in their final non-conference tuneup before conference play begins. UCA (4-9) outscored SCU 49-29 in the second half,......

By David Grimes Dan Hampton’s love of music had him playing in the Jacksonville High School band instead of for the Red Devils’ football team, but the coach finally convinced him to put on the pads as a junior. That decision would lead Hampton to the......

NORMAN, Okla. — The No. 14/15 team in the country, the Oklahoma Sooners, led the University of Central Arkansas Bears by just seven points with 16 minutes to play Sunday before pulling away for an 89-66 victory at the Lloyd Noble Center. The Bears, playing......

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Little Rock Trojans secured victories in two of their three duals at the Collegiate Duals, opening and closing the day with impressive performances. RESULTS#20 Little Rock 24, #16 Missouri 19Little Rock kicked off the day with a thrilling upset over #16 Missouri,......

SEARCY — Three Harding University football players have been recognized for their outstanding performances, with two earning first-team All-America honors and one receiving second-team recognition. Senior defensive lineman Gage Price and senior linebacker Clark Griffin both earned first-team All-America honors. Price, a 6-foot-3, 283-pound nose guard from Hamburg, Arkansas,......

The Little Rock women’s basketball team overcame a double-digit deficit in the third quarter but couldn’t quite pull off the comeback in a 59-56 loss to Eastern Illinois at the Jack Stephens Center Dec. 21.  The Trojans never led the game in the second half......

SEARCY — Harding women’s basketball team cruised to a 72-51 victory over Ouachita Baptist on Dec. 19 at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House, improving to 9-2 overall and 5-0 in the Great American Conference. The win marked Harding’s 30th consecutive home victory and its six straight......

After the final home match of 2024, Little Rock goes undefeated in the Jack Stephens Center for the year after beating UT Chattanooga 32-6. With wins over Arizona State, Cal Poly, Bakersfield, SIUE, Central Missouri, Nebraska-Kearney, Central Michigan, and now UT Chattanooga, 2024 will be......

CONWAY — The University of Arkansas Central Arkansas Bears pulled out a chaotic and hard-fought 73-71 victory over The Citadel on Monday night at the Farris Center. The Bears made their last field goal with 4:22 remaining but did enough down the stretch on the......

SEARCY — Harding University volleyball players Ashley Lamkin, Tatum Fouche, Delaney Garner, and Maegan Lacy were recognized for their academic excellence on Tuesday, earning College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honors. To be eligible for this prestigious award, student-athletes must have reached sophomore status academically and athletically, maintained a cumulative GPA......

Little Rock Director of Athletics Frank M. Cuervo has announced the addition of five executives to the department’s Senior Leadership Team, including Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Revenue Officer Dan Crowley, Associate Director of Athletics for Facilities and Operations Garrett Ton, Associate Director of......

CONWAY — For the third consecutive year, University of Central Arkansas’ David Walker was named the conference Defensive Player of the Year. Walker, a senior from Stuttgart, Ark., earned his second straight United Athletic Conference (UAC) honor on Friday, and was also the Atlantic Sun......

Senior forward Mwani Wilkinson scored 25 points and gave Little Rock a spark in the second half as the Trojans pulled away from Ouachita Baptist, 80-57, Tuesday night at the Jack Stephens Center. Little Rock (6-4) only led the Tigers (5-3) 38-34 at halftime but Wilkinson and......

RUSSELLVILLE — Harding University senior Sage Hawley has been named the Great American Conference Defensive Player of the Week for her outstanding performance in the Lady Bisons’ road wins against Southwestern Oklahoma State and Northwestern Oklahoma State. Hawley, a forward from Memphis, Tennessee, averaged 10.0 rebounds per......

CONWAY (Arkansas PBS)  —  Arkansas PBS continues its broadcast of the 2024 Centennial Bank High School Football Championships live from War Memorial Stadium this Saturday, Dec. 14, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). In the week following the broadcast, championship games will be available to......

In a thrilling dual featuring as many overtime matches as those decided in regulation, Little Rock Wrestling clinched its fourth consecutive victory, remaining undefeated in dual competition with a 6-4 performance on the day. “There were a lot of ups and downs, a lot of......

CONWAY (Arkansas PBS) — Arkansas PBS will kick off the broadcast of the 2024 Centennial Bank High School Football Playoffs live from War Memorial Stadium tonight, Dec. 5, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). In the week following each broadcast, championship games will......

By David Grimes This is the first in a series of articles about the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame (ASHOF) inductees from the 501.  The ASHOF museum is located inside Simmons Bank Arena in North Little Rock.  The initial ASHOF banquet was held in downtown Little Rock at the......

In the long-standing rivalry between Little Rock and Arkansas State, the Red Wolves have earned their fair share of victories. However, none of those have come at the Jack Stephens Center where A-State entered Tuesday’s contest winless in 18 tries. That number is now 19......

RUSSELLVILLE — Harding’s Rylie Marshall has been named the Great American Conference (GAC) Men’s Basketball Offensive Player of the Week for the fourth week of the 2024-25 season. Marshall, a junior guard from Beebe, Arkansas, averaged 23.0 points per game in the Bisons’ recent games against Christian......

CONWAY – Playing their fourth game against a team that went to the NAIA National tournament last season, #10 Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Panthers of Philander Smith University last Saturday at Reddin Fieldhouse. #10 CBC (8-2) led by eight at halftime but......

JACKSON, Miss. —  After kicking off the Millsaps Thanksgiving Classic with a 86-70 win over Mississippi University for Women on Saturday, Hendrix wrapped up their time in Jackson with a 73-65 loss to Huntingdon on Sunday afternoon. Natalie Edmonson led the Warriors with a season-high 16 points......

Little Rock Women’s Basketball returned to the Jack Stephens Center on Tuesday after three straight road games but was handed a 105-57 loss by Murray State in the final non-conference contest before the Thanksgiving holiday. Little Rock fell to 1-5 overall, while the Racers moved......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas wide receiver Malachi Henry was named Monday as one of 25 finalists for the Jerry Rice Award, as announced by Stats Perform. The Jerry Rice Award honors the national freshman of the year in college football’s NCAA Division......

CONWAY — Stepping out of American Midwest Conference play, #11 Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Toppers of Blue Mountain Christian University on Tuesday at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. #11 CBC (8-1) led at halftime and fought off a late charge from BMCU (4-6) to......

CANTON, Ga. — On Nov. 22, the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) named the 2024 All-SAA football selections, with Hendrix landing eight players on the All-SAA teams. The voting was conducted by the league’s eight head coaches. Parker Turley and Kanyn Utley were both named First Team All-SAA on offense......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears swept the weekly Atlantic Sun men’s basketball awards on Monday, with senior Elias Cato being named the ASUN Player of the Week and freshman Layne Taylor earning the ASUN Newcomer of the Week award. Cato, a 6-foot-9......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas quarterback Caleb Koger was named the Co-Freshman of the Week by the Atlantic Sun Conference on Monday. Koger, a 5-foot-11, 175-pounder from Katy, Texas, made his first career start Saturday against Southern Utah and helped the Bears to 498......

Little Rock took two of the first three sets in Tuesday’s conference game against Lindenwood at the Jack Stephens Center, but couldn’t close out the Lions, who went on to rally for a 3-2 win, knocking the Trojans into a three-way tie for third in......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the women’s basketball players of the week for the second week of the 2024-25 season. Henderson State’s Jadah Pickens earned Offensive Player of the Week and Harding’s Rory Geer claimed Defensive Player of the Week. #theGAC WOMEN’S BASKETBALL OFFENSIVE PLAYER......

DENTON, Texas — Competing for the third straight Saturday, Central Baptist College wrestling was at the Mean Green Invitational Nov. 16, hosted by the University of North Texas. Isaiah Hendrix, Mason Nguyen and Jordan Allen-Smith were the competitors for the Mustangs. Hendrix went 1-2 at......

CONWAY — The No. 24 University of Central Arkansas Bears battled through a plethora of injuries last Saturday but could not manage to pull out the victory against Southern Utah in their home finale at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. Playing without their top......

SEARCY — Harding University men’s soccer players Inigo Chavarria and Oliver Eckhardt received Academic All-District accolades from College Sports Communicators. Chavarria, a junior goalkeeper from Jaca, Spain, boasts a 3.53 GPA as an exercise science major. He started 16 of 17 games played. Eckhardt, a sophomore defender from Freiburg,......

With Monday’s overtime loss to Arkansas behind them, the Little Rock Women’s Basketball squad is geared up for a string of tough road games – beginning with tonight’s contest against Auburn at Neville Arena. Tipoff is slated for 7 p.m. while the game is available......

RUSSELLVILLE – The Great American Conference announced the volleyball players of the week for the tenth week of the 2024 season. Southwestern Oklahoma State’s Lacy Mott won Offensive Player of the Week; Harding’s Jacey Lambert and Southern Nazarene’s Tatum Smith shared Defensive Player of the Week while......

St. Louis, Mo. – Entering the American Midwest Conference tournament as the #8 seed, Central Baptist College volleyball was at the Petty Student Resources Center Tuesday night for a quarterfinal matchup with regular season champions Missouri Baptist. CBC (7-14) saw their season come to an......

HOT SPRINGS – National Park College (NPC) held a premiere screening of its men’s basketball national championship documentary, “STAY DOWN: A Championship Story,” in the Eisele Auditorium in NPC’s Frederick M. Dierks Center for Nursing and Health Sciences Monday.  In front of a packed auditorium, Darla......

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The University of Central Arkansas Bears ran into a red-hot Utah Utes squad on Nov. 7 and fell 98-63 at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. Utah (2-0) nailed 10 three-pointers in the first half, and followed that up with nine......

PROVO, Utah — A young but talented University of Central Arkansas basketball team got its feet wet against what could be a Top 25 team in the Brigham Young Cougars on Tuesday night in their season opener at the Marriott Center. The Cougars connected on......

BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s cross country teams competed in the NJCAA Region 2 Championship meet Saturday at Northwest Arkansas Community College, with multiple student-athletes recording personal record times. Freshman Bethany Breshears (Hot Springs) was the Nighthawks’ top finisher......

Little Rock — Trojan freshman Kathrine Vynne captured her second Golfer of the Month award on Wednesday, announced yesterday by the Ohio Valley Conference, giving her both monthly honors handed out this season. In addition to the monthly awards, the Little Rock Women’s Golf team has also......

ARKADELPHIA — Jacey Lambert hammered a career-high 18 kills but Harding fell 25-19, 23-25, 25-22, 25-19 to Ouachita Baptist on Monday at the Sturgis Physical Education Center. Despite the loss, Harding remained in second place in the GAC standings. The match marked the 100th all-time meeting between......

By Dwain Hebda It’s a long way from Mayflower to Paris or Tokyo and back, but Julia Gaffney got there, 50, 100 and 200 meters at a time. In less than a decade, Gaffney, 24, has qualified for two Paralympic Games, at which she’s medaled......

The #6 Harding Bisons (7-1, 7-1) will play Southeastern Okla. (5-3, 5-3) at 7 p.m. tonight in Searcy (White County) at First Security Stadium. Game notes: Below are 11 Facts and Stats about this week’s game. The full game notes are available on the link below.......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) will hold a premiere screening of its men’s basketball national championship documentary, “STAY DOWN: A Championship Story,” at 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, in the Eisele Auditorium in the Frederick M. Dierks Center for Nursing and Health Sciences......

BLUE MOUNTAIN, Miss. — The first game of the Kory Heffentrager era for Central Baptist College women’s basketball tipped off at Tyler Gymnasium Tuesday night as the CBC Lady Mustangs took on the Toppers of Blue Mountain Christian University. CBC (0-1) trailed at halftime and......

ARKADELPHIA — No. 1 Harding suffered its first loss in more than two seasons with a 17-13 loss to No. 9 Ouachita Baptist on Oct. 19 at Cliff Harris Stadium in Arkadelphia. The loss drops Harding to 6-1 overall and in conference. Ouachita Baptist improved......

DANVILLE, Ky. — Hendrix dug itself into a hole to start both the first and second halves in their 35-18 defeat to Centre on Oct. 19. The Colonels scored on their first two drives and found the endzone again late in the first half to take......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the women’s soccer players of the week for the seventh week of the 2024 season. Ouachita Baptist’s McKenna Wright claimed Offensive Player of the Week; Harding’s Skylar Henley earned Defender of the Week, and Southern Nazarene’s Gianna Bonnett won Goalkeeper......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive back Dillon Williams was named the co-United Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday.  Williams, a 6-foot, 190-pound sophomore safety from Southaven, Miss., returned an interception 89 yards for a touchdown, had five total tackles, including......

CANTON, Ga. — On Tuesday, the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) released the 2024-25 women’s basketball preseason poll, with Hendrix earning 7 points in the polling. The voting was conducted among the SAA’s seven head coaches. The complete poll is as follows: 2024-25 WBB PRESEASON POLL RESULTS......

HOT SPRINGS — The fall portion of the 2024-25 Little Rock Women’s Golf season came to an end Tuesday with the final round of the Diamante Intercollegiate, but the Trojans wouldn’t let the sun set on the first half of their schedule without making a......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — Beginning the final stretch of three of the final four American Midwest Conference matches at home, Central Baptist College men’s soccer hosted the Eagles of Williams Baptist Tuesday night at Burns Park. CBC (4-11, 1-4 AMC) allowed one goal in the......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears did just enough to hold off the West Georgia Wolves 34-33 in United Athletic Conference action on Saturday at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The No. 12/13 Bears had a 34-10 lead after a Darius Hale......

LITTLE ROCK — For the first time in program history, the Little Rock Swim and Dive Team has swept the weekly awards, with Jaelle Carlson, Anna Nishikazi and Kyra Apdaca being named MVC Swimmer, Freshman and Diver of the Week, respectively. “As a coaching staff, we are super proud of these three......

CLARKSVILLE — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s cross country teams competed in the Ozarks Invitational Saturday at the University of the Ozarks, with multiple student-athletes recording personal record times. Freshman Bethany Breshears (Hot Springs) was the Nighthawks’ top finisher in the Women’s......

CLARKSVILLE — Running for the final time before the American Midwest Conference meet next month, Central Baptist College cross country was on course Oct. 12 at Clarksville High School for the University of the Ozarks Invitational. Mackenzie Milligan and Bay Davis competed in the women’s......

MOUNT BERRY, Ga. (AP) — Three Harding University tennis players will compete in the ITA Cup, the individual championship for NCAA Division II tennis, beginning Thursday at Berry College. Senior Cas de Ruiter will represent the Harding men’s team in singles, making his first ITA Cup appearance.......

MAUMELLE – Playing for the final time this fall season, Central Baptist College men’s golf teed off on Monday at the Country Club of Arkansas for the first 36 of 54 holes at the CBC Fall Invitational. The Mustangs shot a two-round total of 615......

MACOMB, Ill. – The Little Rock Trojans continue their dominant run as Candice Kilderry records back-to-back game-winning goals, leading to a victory over Western Illinois. The Trojans now hold sole possession of first place in conference play with four games remaining. How It Happened The Trojans dominated possession......

CANTON, Ga. — On Monday, the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) released its weekly SAA Athlete of the Week awards, with Hendrix’s Jensen Pechar getting the nod for Offensive Athlete of the Week for his most recent performances for the Orange and Black.  Pechar scored the opener against Lyon......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The US Hardcourt Pickleball Championship for Amateurs and Seniors will be held this weekend, October 4-6, in Burns Park. Come out and support the players at the Burns Park Pickleball Complex, 4000 Joe Poch Road in Burns Park. The schedule and......

CONWAY — The seventh-ranked University of Central Arkansas Bears made it look easier than expected with another solid ground attack Saturday, running for 281 yards and three touchdowns in a 34-14 victory over No. 19/25 Lamar at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. Senior running......

LITTLE ROCK – The Trojans are turning heads this season, picking up both Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Swimmer of the Week and Freshman of the Week awards in the opening round of conference voting. Jaelle Carlson earned Swimmer of the Week while Beatriz Comini Romero secured Freshman of the Week,......

RUSSELLVILLE – The Great American Conference announced the men’s and women’s cross country runners of the week for the fourth week of the 2024 season.  Harding’s Josphat Meli earned the men’s award and Oklahoma Baptist’s Sophia Strange claimed the women’s honor. #theGAC MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY RUNNER OF......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – For the second time this season, Central Baptist College cross country athlete Chris Palmer has earned American Midwest Conference runner of the week. The selection was made by the conference’s Sports Information Directors in a vote earlier today. Palmer made history......

By Dr. Robert Reising At age 22, he was the world’s best. Overcoming a debilitating disease, he had catapulted through more than two decades with incomparable competitiveness, increased ability and consistent success to emerge the globe’s premier long jumper. In 1928, Eddie Hamm brought unprecedented......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas safety TaMuarion Wilson was named the United Athletic Conference (UAC) Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, the program’s third weekly honor of the season. Wilson, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound senior from Bryant, Ark., filled up his stat sheet in......

BATESVILLE — Two members of the Harding women’s golf team delivered outstanding performances at the 2024 Scots Fall Invitational, held at The Course at Eagle Mountain in Batesville (Independence County). Cooper Meyer, competing as an individual, secured first place with a two-round score of 153......

HOT SPRINGS – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s soccer teams won their National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 2 matches against University of Arkansas Cossatot (UA Cossatot) at Hot Springs World Class High School on Sept. 18, with each team picking......

BATESVILLE – Entering the day four strokes off the individual lead at the Scots Fall Invitational, Abby Kirby looked for her first career win today in the final round at the Course at Eagle Mountain. Kirby, Laney Crutchfield and Thaylia Ramirez all were on course......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears rolled up 309 rushing yards Saturday night and cruised past the Austin Peay Governors 45-17 in their home and United Athletic Conference opener at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The senior duo of Darius Hale and......

MUSKOGEE, Okla. – The Harding golf team delivered a strong performance at the 2024 NSU Men’s Classic, hosted by Northeastern State at Muskogee Country Club. With a total score of 835, Harding claimed second place of 17 teams, just one stroke behind tournament champion Henderson......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Bears will play the Austin Peay Governors at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14, on “The Stripes” at First Security Field at Estes Stadium on the campus. Kickoff is at 6:05 p.m. The 2024 BEARS SCHEDULE: • SATURDAY, AUG. 31......

SEARCY – The Harding Bison men’s soccer team played to a thrilling 2-2 tie against Mississippi College on Tuesday at Stevens Soccer Field in Searcy. Despite being outshot 22-9, the Bisons showed resilience and determination to secure a hard-fought draw. Mississippi College struck first, scoring......

KENNETT, Mo. – Carrying a 10-shot lead into the final round, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to close out their first win of the 2024-25 campaign in the final round today at the Williams Baptist University Invitational. CBC shot a final round 296 for......

LITTLE ROCK – Don’t let the final score fool you … the Little Rock Volleyball team may have gone down in straight sets Sunday against the 21st-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks, but not before pushing them to the limit in two of those sets and scoring more points against......

CONWAY – St. Joseph High School’s boys and girls golf teams played Tuesday on the Links at Cadron Valley Golf and Country Club. They competed with Mayflower and Lamar, and the Bulldogs scored best during the nine-hole competition with a team score of 125. The Mayflower boys......

By Dr. Robert Reising He was a star on one of the most spectacular teams ever fielded in The Natural State. With John Bryce “Bud” Mobley as their “ground-clearing workhorse,” the 1945 Arkansas Tech University “Wonder Boys” demolished every opponent on their schedule, enjoying one......

The Harding Bisons (0-0, 0-0) will play Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm (0-0, 0-0) at 7 p.m. tonight at First Security Stadium in Searcy. The Bisons are the defending national champions. Below are 11 Facts and Stats about this week’s game.  Harding is 68-9 (.883) in......

LITTLE ROCK – The Little Rock Trojans will head to Conway to play UCA for the Governor’s I-40 Showdown tonight at 8 p.m.  Series History The Trojans lead the series all time with a 7-6-3 record. The last time these teams faced was in Little Rock last......

CONWAY – University of Central Arkansas senior defensive end David Walker was named the Co-Defensive Player of the Week in the United Athletic Conference (UAC) on Monday. Walker, a 6-foot-2, 260-pounder from Stuttgart, Ark., had 2.5 sacks, a forced fumble and four total tackles in UCA’s 34-31......

CONWAY – Running for the first time in 2024, Central Baptist College cross country competed Sunday at the UCA Bear Invitational at Beaverfork Lake Park. CBC had seven athletes compete in the men’s and women’s meet, with six competitors crossing the finish line. In the......

SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. – Looking to carry some momentum from Friday’s win, Central Baptist College men’s soccer was at Alumni Field Tuesday night for a match with the Golden Eagles of John Brown University.  CBC (1-2) conceded a goal early and couldn’t capitalize late, falling......

The Sherwood Rotary Club is hosting “Conquer the Climb,” a 5K fun run and a 1-mile family walk/run on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Sherwood Forest, 1111 W. Maryland Avenue in Sherwood. The Sherwood Rotary Club hosts the event. “Lace up your sneakers and get ready......

CONWAY — Conway Regional Health System Biketoberfest has announced its 2024 slate of events and rides scheduled for later this fall.  The month-long celebration promotes Conway’s cycling amenities and routes with rides in four different formats: road, mountain, gravel, and community. The events include rides......

CONWAY (Arkansas PBS) — As part of the network’s Arkansas Live coverage, Arkansas PBS is proud to announce it will be the livestreaming provider for the Little Rock Touchdown Club, giving viewers statewide a coveted front-row seat to talks by NFL Hall of Famers, veteran......

CONWAY — There will definitely be a mix of old and new faces on the University of Central Arkansas special team units this fall. Heading into Saturday’s season opener at Arkansas State, there are ongoing battles for the punting job and the punt and kick......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears had 11 different wide receivers or tight ends record receptions during the 2023 season. Seven of those are no longer with the program, including three of the top four receivers from a year ago. However, UCA head......

SEARCY – Harding University topped the Great American Conference (GAC) with a record 215 student-athletes earning Academic All-Conference honors, the conference announced Wednesday. Academic Achievements: GAC Commissioner’s Recognition: “Division II places the balance of academic and athletic pursuits in its highest regards. I congratulate all......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock Volleyball squad will see its first action Friday evening when the Trojans host Ouachita Baptist University for an exhibition match at 6 pm in the Jack Stephens Center. A weekend of exhibition play will conclude the following afternoon when the......

TULSA, Okla. –After lightning delays pushed the season opener to Friday, the Central Arkansas women’s soccer team fell in its 2024 debut at Tulsa, dropping a 5-2 decision. The Bears had flashes of really good soccer, but the Tulsa offense found timely goals to control......

CONWAY — If there is one thing for certain in college football in the state of Arkansas, a University of Central Arkansas football team coached by Nathan Brown will never lack quality quarterback play. The 2024 edition of the Bears, the seventh season with Brown......

CONWAY — A new era begins for Central Baptist College women’s basketball as new head coach Kory Heffentrager has announced the 2024-25 schedule for her squad. The schedule includes 30 games with four exhibitions and 12 games in front of the fans at A.R. Reddin......

LITTLE ROCK — The 2024 season is officially underway as the Trojans hit the road to Jonesboro, Arkansas, for a season opener against the Arkansas State Red Wolves. Series HistoryThursday’s match will mark the 28th meeting between these programs, with the last official meeting resulting......

SEARCY — The Great American Conference released the 2024 women’s preseason coaches poll, with Harding tied for fifth place. Returning All-GAC Players: Last Season:The Lady Bisons were 4-8-6 overall and fifth in the GAC at 2-5-5.Season Opener: Conference Championship:...

RUSSELLVILLE – The Great American Conference released its 2024 football preseason coaches’ poll on Aug. 1, and Harding, the 2023 NCAA Division II national champions, topped the list with 10 of the 11 available first-place votes. Harding’s Historic 2023 Season 2024 Season Outlook Defensive Unit......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Bears were picked 11th in the 2024 Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 poll on Monday. The Bears, who finished 7-4 overall last season, were one of two teams from the United Athletic Conference (UAC), along with Tarleton......

With a combination of familiar tournaments and some new challenges added this year, head coach Jenna Birch and the Trojans are prepared to venture away from what’s familiar and test their mettle against the unknown. “This season’s schedule will definitely test us … we have some regular......

LITTLE ROCK—The 2024 season has arrived. The Little Rock Trojans will host Texas A&M-Commerce tonight at 6 p.m. and Northwest Mississippi State at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10. Series History Tonight’s match will mark the third time the Trojans have faced the Lions. Currently,......

By KD Reep On a rainy Friday afternoon, Mark DeJesus of Jacksonville waits to see if his great-grandson’s baseball game will be called. The 4-year-old is following in some considerable familial footsteps: his uncle, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather all pursued baseball (and softball) throughout their lives.......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas running back ShunDerrick Powell was named Tuesday to the Walter Payton Award Watch List. The Walter Payton Award is presented annually to the national offensive player of the year at the NCAA Division I FCS level. The award is......

The Little Rock Track & Field programs were each recently recognized for their work in the classroom, with the announcement of the All-Academic Teams for 2024 by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Both the men’s and women’s teams made......

CONWAY — Hendrix College has announced Jordan Toland as its new head Esports coach. Toland returns to his alma mater after serving as the Esports coach, robotics coach, and Project Lead the Way Gateway teacher at the Don Tyson School of Innovation in Springdale. “I could not......

CONWAY — The Bears are back! The University of Central Arkansas Bears reported to Estes Stadium on Wednesday and will open Fall Camp at 9 a.m. Thursday. The Bears, picked to win the United Athletic Conference (UAC) in the preseason coaches’ poll, are a month......

A true dynasty was born in Arkansas high school boys soccer May 18 at Estes Stadium in Conway.  The Conway Wampus Cats needed only one goal to beat Little Rock Catholic, 1-0, to win the Class 6A state championship for the third consecutive season. The......

ARLINGTON, Texas — The University of Central Arkansas Bears were named Tuesday as the preseason favorite to win the second edition of the United Athletic Conference (UAC) football race during UAC Media Day at Texas Live. The Bears also had a league-high of six players......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock Women’s Basketball program welcomed new head coach Steve Wiedower during a press conference on July 23 in the Legends Room of the Jack Stephens Center. Wiedower takes over the program following the retirement of Joe Foley, which was announced last week. Foley......

SEARCY — More than 30 members of Harding’s NCAA II National Championship football team attended the White House College Champions Day on July 22, in Washington, D.C. The event honored all of the NCAA’s 90 national champions from the 2023-24 school year and was held......

CONWAY — The Genesis of Conway Central Arkansas Open saw a couple of Bears claim the top spots in the event. Sophomore Valeria Ramirez cruised to a seven-stroke win over four rounds, and Madison Holmes finished behind her teammate, tying for second place in the Collegiate Series. “I am......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas pitcher Jesse Barker was named a CSC Academic All-American for the second consecutive year on July 2.  Barker, a graduate student from Benton, Ark., earned first-team honors for the second straight season, the only student-athlete on the list to......

LITTLE ROCK – The Little Rock swimming and diving team has officially added 10 swimmers and two divers for the 2024-25 season, a huge boost to a talented team that has shown tremendous progress following head coach Nathan Townsend‘s first season and has begun to rebuild nicely under diving coach Chris......

SEARCY — College Sports Communicators (formerly CoSIDA) named Harding golfer Sam Tandy as its NCAA Division II Men’s At-Large Academic All-American of the Year on July 10. Award History Tandy’s Academics Tandy’s Athletics Tandy became a PING All-American the second straight year after placing on the First......

CONWAY — Golfers Ellie Roth, Haley Vargas, Zoe Slaughter and Elina Sinz were “Loving LIFE” at the Genesis of Conway and Central Arkansas Open Sponsor Appreciation Party that was held July 8 at Genesis of Conway. The women are competing in the tournament this week. Proceeds benefit......

SEARCY — The Nigeria Olympic Committee has released its list of athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics, and among them is Harding University graduate student Omolara Ogunmakinju. Ogunmakinju earned First Team All-America honors for the Lady Bisons with a fourth-place finish in the 400 meters......

LITTLE ROCK — The 2025 Little Rock Marathon registration opens July 17 at LITTLE ROCK MARATHON – Arkansas’ Race For Every Pace. Training schedules and helpful links to hotels and other essential information are already available. The race motto is “Arkansas’s Race for Every Pace” because......

The Little Rock Women’s Golf team has proven all year that being a champion on the field of competition and excelling in the classroom go hand in hand for these Trojans. The Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) acknowledged that again Monday with the release of......

LITTLE ROCK — Will McEntire ended an incredible run as a college baseball pitcher with a $12,250 donation to CARTI on July 1. For his final season, the Bryant native pledged $5 per strikeout to the nonprofit’s Patient Assistance Program, which provides comprehensive support services......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics named Dion Hargrove as Head Men’s Basketball Coach this week.  Hargrove joins NPC after three seasons as head girls’ basketball coach at Bentonville West High School. During his 34-year coaching career, which includes stents at 10......

SEARCY — Former Harding University All-American discus thrower Josh Syrotchen recently placed 14th in the discus at the U.S. Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. His best throw was 59.10 meters. The top three finishers, who had already reached the Olympic standard, will represent the U.S. in......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will induct eight new members this fall into the Class of 2024. The newest class includes Kenneth Allen, Kasey Britt, Verna Curry, Morgan Gilbert, Damien Land, Ricky Richardson, Robert Tate and Genai Walker.  Allen......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College head volleyball coach Halee Hensley has announced the 2024 schedule for the Central Baptist Mustangs. There are 22 games on the schedule including a scrimmage against Arkansas-Monticello, and an Alumni game. Home fans can attend 11 games at Reddin Fieldhouse. ......

Little Rock juniors Abbie Smith and Joel Allen are 2023-24 recipients of the Ohio Valley Conference Community Service Awards, announced today by the OVC. The conference began the awards in 2022-23 and selects one male and one female student-athlete from each member institution. The OVC recognized a......

SEARCY – Harding had three players receive mention on the 2024 All-Arkansas Collegiate Team, released each year by the website Natural State Baseball. Harding right-hander Maddox Long, who has received numerous postseason awards, landed on the All-Arkansas Team as a pitcher. Long went 6-1 with a......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk sophomore pitcher Eli Hutcherson (Cabot) recently received an honorable mention to the 2024 All-Arkansas Collegiate Team.  Presented by Natural State Baseball, the All-Arkansas Collegiate Team recognizes the top collegiate teams, coaches and individual players throughout the year in Arkansas,......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College men’s soccer head coach Dylan Perdue has announced the 2024 schedule for his CBC Mustangs. The schedule includes 17 games and one exhibition, with nine games in front of the home fans. “We created a schedule that will prepare us......

LITTLE ROCK — Five Little Rock teams achieved perfect scores, and four more scored in the Top 10 percent for their respective sports in the latest Academic Progress Rate (APR) report, released earlier this week by the NCAA. Little Rock student-athletes scored a 967 multi-year......

SEARCY — Harding men’s tennis had eight players honored for their academics Thursday by the MIAA. Junior Luis Agullo, junior Edoardo D’Arrigo, junior Cas de Ruiter, senior Hunter Demunbrun, sophomore Caleb Folse, sophomore Cian Mikkelsen and graduate student Bryce Walker were all listed on the 2024 Academic Honor Roll for posting GPAs of......

CONWAY — Hendrix College has announced that it will return to the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) beginning in fall 2025. Hendrix was previously a member of the SCAC from 1992 to 2012. The SCAC strategically aligns with the geographic region of Hendrix College’s student enrollment,......

SEARCY — Harding University secured its highest-ever placement, finishing 16th in the 2023-2024 NACDA Learfield Director’s Cup NCAA Division II standings. The NACDA (National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics) Director’s Cup recognizes overall excellence in collegiate athletics, awarding points based on teams’ national finishes......

SHERWOOD — Sylvan Hills High School announces the hiring of Josh Hill as its new head varsity basketball coach starting in the 2024-2025 academic year. Hill will assume the head coach position as well as coach P.E. starting this fall. He is familiar with the......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas quarterback Will McElvain has been invited to be a counselor at the prestigious 2024 Manning Passing Academy later this month in Thibodaux, La. McElvain, a two-year starter for the Bears from Des Moines, Iowa, will be one of the collegiate......

SEARCY — The Harding University Bisons, fresh off their 2023 NCAA Division II national championship victory, have been ranked No. 1 in Lindy’s magazine’s preseason college football issue. The feature story, penned by Wayne Cavadi, highlights the Bisons’ remarkable journey and prospects for the upcoming......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas had five baseball players named to the 2024 College Sports Communicators (CSC) Division I Academic All-District team on Monday. Jesse Barker, A.J. Mendolia, Drew Sturgeon, Tanner Leonard and Mason Griffin were named to the All-District team. Barker, who......

SEARCY — The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) released its year-end rankings for NCAA Division II this week. Harding University’s men’s tennis team concluded the season ranked 42nd nationally, marking its fifth consecutive season in the top 50 and its highest ranking since finishing 34th in......

The 2024 Arkansas Quiz Bowl champions have been decided in the state conference finals held at Arkansas PBS in Conway, and all matches are now available to watch at myarpbs.org/quizbowl. The Arkansas Governor’s Quiz Bowl Association awarded scholarship money to each team. “Quiz Bowl” is......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Basketball has been a part of Cody Hoover’s life for years, and now it will help pay for his college education. Just not in the way one might expect. Hoover, 18, a 5-foot-10 shooting guard who graduated from Mount Vernon-Enola (MVE)......

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (May 28, 2024) – CARTI will host the 21st Annual Tour de Rock this Saturday, June 1. Known as one of the state’s largest cycling events, the race benefits the Patient Assistance Program, which provides comprehensive support services to reduce potential barriers to treatment.......

EMPORIA, Kan. – Harding men’s outdoor track and field broke a school record by scoring 50 points at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships, hosted by Emporia State University at Francis G. Welch Stadium. The Bisons finished in third place, topping its......

LITTLE ROCK — In just its second year as a member of the Ohio Valley Conference, the Little Rock Trojans have captured the OVC Commissioner’s Cup, awarded annually for overall athletic excellence in league-sponsored championships. It’s the first overall cup win for Little Rock in school......

DELAND, Fla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears saw their memorable run through their first Atlantic Sun Championship end on a hot Saturday afternoon, May 25, with a hard-fought 6-5 semifinal loss to No. 4 seed Kennesaw State at Melching Field at Conrad Park.......

LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation (AGFF) today announced its 2024 Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame inductees and the recipients of its Legacy Award and the Steve Smith Spirit of Giving Award. Honorees will be officially recognized during the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame Banquet, slated......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas Bears graduate Jesse Barker was named the Atlantic Sun Conference Pitcher of the Year on Monday. Barker, a righthander from Benton, Ark., is UCA’s second pitcher to earn the honor in three seasons in the ASUN. Tyler Cleveland was......

The Little Rock Track and Field program will take its largest group to ever compete at the NCAA Regional level and open competition this week in Fayetteville at the NCAA West Prelims, running from Wednesday through Saturday.  The Trojans will be represented by a school-record......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears Men’s and Women’s Track & Field teams are sending athletes to the NCAA West First Round this coming week.  The meet started yesterday and continues through Saturday and is held at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.......

WINTER GARDEN, Fla. — Harding men’s golf is part of a four-way tie for 10th place among 20 teams after Round 1 at the NCAA Division II Championship at Orange County National Golf Center. The top eight teams after three rounds of stroke play advance......

The 16th Annual Kids Run Arkansas, presented by Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center, was held on April 19. The run promotes fun and fitness by rewarding area schools with scholarships for their physical education programs based on the highest participation percentage of each school. The......

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Bears scored on the second pitch of the game and never trailed Tuesday night in beating the Little Rock Trojans 6-3 in the final game of the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown” at Gary Hogan Field. UCA opened the......

CONWAY (Arkansas PBS) — Arkansas PBS will present the 2024 6A-1A Centennial Bank High School Baseball and Softball State Finals live from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway beginning Thursday, May 16, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association. Games will be broadcast statewide over......

ARDMORE, Okla. — Two members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team were named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II All-Region 2 Team this week for their outstanding efforts on the field this season. Sophomore shortstop Logan Nies (Rockwall,......

Local golfers stepped onto the Centennial Valley Country Club greens on May 6, supporting Renewal Ranch during its 6th Annual Kyle Allison Golf Classic, presented by Centennial Bank. More than $50,000 was raised for the ministry. Tournament set-up began early with Phase 1 Renewal Ranch......

SEARCY – Teodor Zlatar, a senior at Harding University, was honored with the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award on Wednesday. Established in 1982, the Ashe Award recognizes male and female student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional sportsmanship and leadership qualities, as well as......

ENID, Okla. — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk sophomore pitcher Eli Hutcherson (Cabot) was named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II All-Region 2 Team this week for his outstanding efforts on the field this season. Hutcherson led the nation in games......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s and women’s track teams had 17 individuals and one relay team invited to the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Emporia, Kan., May 23-25. The event is hosted by Emporia State. Below are Harding’s national competitors: Women Omolara......

CHARLESTON, Ill. — The men’s and women’s track and field teams open the first day of the Ohio Valley Conference Outdoor Championships on Thursday in Charleston, Ill.  Live stats as well as live broadcast of the running events will be available all three days. CHAMPIONSHIP CENTRAL......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The Great American Conference’s three 2024 regular-season champions—Arkansas-Monticello, Arkansas Tech and Harding—as well as defending tournament champion Southern Arkansas advanced out of the GAC Championships best-of-three series and earned spots into the four-team double elimination portion of the event. The Weevils, Wonder......

SHERWOOD — More than 3,000 students from kindergarten through 11th grades connected, literally, to break the Guinness World Record for Longest Human Electric Circuit record. Students and staff from all eight schools in the Sylvan Hills feeder pattern attended the event along with local community......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The American Midwest Conference announced their 2024 All-Tournament Team on Tuesday, and a pair of Central Baptist College Mustang softball players were selected. Abi West and Hannah Work earned selections after helping CBC go 2-2 in the tournament.  West had two......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears used a four-run first inning to take down the Lipscomb Bisons 7-5 in Game 1 of Saturday’s doubleheader at Bear Stadium. The Bisons returned the favor in the nightcap, scoring two runs in the ninth inning to pull out......

FLORENCE, Ala. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears completed their ASUN series sweep of North Alabama on Sunday, beating the Lions 6-3 at Mike D. Lane Field. The conference sweep was UCA’s second straight after taking three games from Bellarmine last weekend at Bear......

Frankie Grey, a Brentwood, N.Y., native, broke the school record in the 400m hurdles, placing third at the East Coast Relays with a personal best time of 51.91. He is currently ranked first in the OVC, 16th in the South Central Region, and 71st in the......

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Entering the final round in second place, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to make history at the American Midwest Conference championship at the Jefferson City Country Club. CBC shot a final round 287, the low round of the day, to......

CONWAY — The Hendrix Warriors’ Men’s Track & Field program celebrated hosting the 2024 Southern Athletic Association (SAA) Outdoor Track & Field Championships with its best finish since 2017. Ethan Armour was named Co-Men’s Athlete of the Meet after earning the highest individual point total......

DES MOINES, Iowa — The University of Central Arkansas Men’s and Women’s Track & Field teams competed in the Drake Relays throughout the week. The women’s team finished in 14th out of 26 teams. The men’s team finished 12th out of 21 teams. Breaking the UCA record,......

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Little Rock men’s and women’s track and field teams completed the final day of the East Coast Relays Saturday.  The Trojans finished in the top 15 in five events. The women’s 4x100m relay team of Maliyah Holland, Takia Palmer, Landri Schreier, and......

CONWAY — Looking to win another American Midwest Conference series, Central Baptist College baseball hosted the Eagles of Williams Baptist University this afternoon at Victory Field on Senior Day. Eight seniors and the family of Andrew Killough were recognized before CBC (34-13, 14-7 AMC) run-ruled......

NEW ORLEANS — Things are heating up across the nation. Here are our M-F Athletic National Athletes of the Week in collegiate track & field for April 22, 2024. NCAA DIVISION II MEN – Dakarai Bush, Harding Fifth Year | SprintsTatum, Texas Dakarai Bush is in postseason form.......

LITTLE ROCK — While their opening round at the OVC Championship was good enough to take the overall lead, the Little Rock Men’s Golf team all but guaranteed itself a spot in the match play round with an impressive second round Monday, carding a team......

EUGENE, Mo. – Teeing off for the final time in 2024, Central Baptist College women’s golf was on course at Redfield Golf and Country Club on Tuesday for the first round of the American Midwest Conference Championship. CBC shot a 355 in round one to......

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – With a weekend series that could decide the Great American Conference champion, Harding opened the door with three early runs and slammed it shut with eight runs in the last two innings of a 12-4 trouncing of Ouachita Baptist at Rab Rodgers......

For the third straight day, the Little Rock Men’s Golf team outplayed the field at the OVC Championship on Tuesday, enabling the Trojans to secure the top seed heading into Wednesday’s match play, where the top four teams from stroke play will face off in......

CONWAY — Playing an American Midwest Conference doubleheader for the final time this season, Central Baptist College softball hosted the Eagles of Williams Baptist University Tuesday afternoon at City of Colleges Park. CBC (30-18, 14-4 AMC) secured the #2 seed in the AMC tournament by......

CONWAY —  The University of Central Arkansas Bears completed the in-state season sweep of Arkansas State on Tuesday night, winning 10-8 at Bear Stadium. The Bears (17-22) also beat the Red Wolves (17-23-1) 8-4 in 12 innings back on Feb. 27 in Jonesboro. UCA tied its......

TUNICA, Mississippi — The Little Rock Women’s Golf team led from start to finish to win the 2024 OVC Championship at Tunica National, the first conference title for the program since 1999 and third overall. It’s the first OVC title for the team, competing in......

ALTON, Ill. – Trailing by only five shots heading into the final round of the Missouri Baptist Invitational, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to capture their second spring tournament victory on Tuesday at the Spencer T. Olin Golf Club. CBC closed with a final......

The Harding men’s tennis team defeated No. 25-ranked Ouachita Baptist in Arkadelphia on Tuesday 5-2. The Bisons are now 13-7 on the season with three additional wins against junior colleges and are 2-1 in conference play. The Bisons have won three of their last four......

OWENS CROSSROADS, Ala. — The Central Arkansas women’s golf team capped the ASUN Championships in eighth place on Tuesday, rounding out its final 18 holes of the 2023-24 season. Madison Holmes took home ninth place at the Championship, her second-straight season earning a top-10 spot......

SEARCY – Riley Price doubled in three runs to give the Harding softball team a 4-1 victory over Arkansas Tech Tuesday in Great American Conference action. It was the third game of the GAC series. Harding won the doubleheader at Arkansas Tech on March 12.......

CONWAY — Needing a pair of wins to keep pace with Williams Baptist and Missouri Baptist at the top of the American Midwest Conference standings, Central Baptist College softball took on the Stars of Stephens College this week at City of Colleges Park on Senior......

WEST POINT, Miss. — The Little Rock Men’s Golf team moved up three spots Wednesday on the final day of the Mossy Oak Collegiate, settling for 11th in a loaded field including two Top 5 nationally-ranked schools. No. 2 Auburn took the team title at -46......

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. — The Great American Conference announced the baseball players of the week for the 11th week of the 2024 season. Arkansas Monticello’s Camden Tanner, Henderson State’s Jordan Allen and Oklahoma Baptist’s Troy Shields shared Player of the Week while Harding’s Maddox Long earned Pitcher of......

HOT SPRINGS—Two members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team were named National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-Americans this week for their outstanding performances this season. Nakavieon White (Odessa, Texas) was named to the All-American first team. An All-American third team......

SEARCY — Following the Bison Open over the weekend, where the Harding women’s outdoor track and field team showcased eight NCAA provisional marks or times, they have advanced one spot to No. 8 on the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association Division......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference announced their softball players of the week for last week and, for the fourth time this season, a Central Baptist College player was recognized.  Abi West was selected as player of the week for the second time......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock junior Anna Dawson earned her second OVC Golfer of the Month award on Monday, claiming the honor for the month of March after posting a 71.9 average over eight rounds and three tournaments during the month. West, who also earned......

FORT MYERS, Fla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears scored first Sunday in their series finale against Florida Gulf Coast but could not hold off the Eagles in a 3-2 loss at Swanson Stadium. The Bears (13-18, 4-8) scored single runs in both the......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Division of Athletics will soon have new leadership as longtime Director of Athletics Dr. Brad Teague has accepted the role as director of the new UCA Aviation Academy and will transition out of athletics. Matt Whiting, currently UCA’s......

After a record breaking weekend at the Bobcat Invitational, Matthew Fox was named the Ohio Valley Conference Male Co-Track Athlete of the Week.  This is Fox’s second OVC weekly honor this season and first for outdoor competition....

SEARCY – Harding men’s tennis is ranked No. 46 in the latest Intercollegiate Tennis Association Rankings. The Bisons are currently 11-7 overall with three additional wins against junior colleges. Harding is 7-7 against Division II opponents. Two Bisons are nationally ranked in singles. Junior Teodor......

STARKVILLE, Miss. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears carried a no-hitter into the 6th inning against No. 23 Mississippi State on Tuesday and eventually survived and pulled off a 7-6 upset of the Bulldogs at storied Dudy Noble Field. UCA (13-15) led 7-2 headed to the......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the men’s and women’s track and field top performers of the week for the third week of the 2024 season. Harding’s Josphat Meli and Anton Kopytko claimed the Men’s Track & Field honors while the Lady Bisons’ Cella......

By Dr. Robert Reising He was distinctive. Without his initiative, competence, and versatility the University of Arkansas’s Athletic Program would not today enjoy the respect of institutional leaders across the nation. Loyally, and often inconspicuously, for forty-two years he served the flagship university in a......

CONWAY — The 42nd annual Toad Suck Daze Run 10K/5K/Wheelchair races are planned for May 4 and are presented by Kiwanis of Conway Arkansas, Conway Regional Health System and Centennial Bank. Kiwanis of Conway Arkansas hopes to raise and donate more than $55,000 to 12 nonprofit organizations that benefit children in......

CONWAY — The Tadpole Trot is planned for 5:45 p.m. Friday, May 3, for ages 3-10 at a new location— the Hendrix College-Young Wise Memorial Stadium.  It costs $15 per entry, and boys and girls will run separately in each race.  To register, visit Toadsuckrun.com....

CONWAY — The official ride of Toad Suck Daze is the Tour de Toad Ride for Literacy. It takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 4 and begins at the Conway Municipal Airport, 3250 Sand Gap Road, Conway. Riders can compete in a virtual,......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s tennis team earned their sixth 7-0 shutout of the season on Wednesday over Freed-Hardeman at the Elliott Tennis Complex. The Bisons improved to 10-6 on the season with three additional victories over junior colleges.  In doubles action, Caleb Folse and......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — The Little Rock Track and Field teams had athletes honored with Ohio Valley Conference weekly honors that were released Wednesday, March 27.  Tyler Moore, Alexia Washington, and Matthew Tyeskie received recognition after their performances at the Texas A&M Invitational this past weekend. Moore......

CONWAY—The Jacksonville Dolphins will visit Conway for the first time this weekend to face the University of Central Arkansas Bears in an Atlantic Sun Conference baseball series. The series, due to Easter Weekend, opens at 6 p.m. Thursday at Bear Stadium. Friday’s game is set......

CONWAY – Playing an in-town opponent for the first time in 16 years, Central Baptist College softball hosted the Warriors of Hendrix College on Tuesday at City of Colleges Park. CBC (12-14) swept the doubleheader, taking game one 4-1 before run ruling the Warriors (5-16)......

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The Great American Conference announced the softball players of the week for the eighth week of the 2024 season. Southern Arkansas’s Jenna Huey garnered Player of the Week and Harding’s Abby Burch claimed Pitcher of the Week.  #theGAC SOFTBALL PLAYER OF THE......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) will host a celebration event for the Nighthawk Men’s Basketball team’s NJCAA Division II National Championship victory at 1:30 Tuesday on campus.  Fans will gather on the steps of the Student Commons to welcome and congratulate the team.......

DANVILLE, Ill. – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (28-1) defeated Johnson County Community College (JCCC), 74-68, Monday in the round of 16 at the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Division 2 Men’s Basketball National Tournament. Despite a 15 day break since......

MONROE, La. — A pair of home runs from Bryce Cermenelli and A.J. Mendolia carried the University of Central Arkansas Bears to a surprisingly easy 11-4 victory over the ULM Warhawks on Tuesday night at Lou St. Amant Field. Cermenelli’s first home run as a......

LITTLE ROCK – The Little Rock wrestling team has returned to the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships for just the second time in program history.  The team qualified five wrestlers for the three-day tournament, which begins March 21....

JACKSON, Tenn. – Emma Curry hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning of game two as the Harding softball team swept Union in a non-conference doubleheader Tuesday. Harding won the first game 1-0 and the second game 12-9. The Lady Bisons have now won......

CABOT — Looking to move up one spot, Central Baptist College men’s golf teed off the final round of the CBC Invitational on Tuesday at Cypress Creek Golf Course needing to erase a 14 shot deficit. The Mustangs shot the second best round of the......

CABOT — Looking to move out of fourth place in the final round, Central Baptist College women’s golf teed off on the final round of the CBC Invitational on Tuesday at Cypress Creek Golf Club. CBC improved by seven shots on day two, but couldn’t......

After opening the 2024 Outdoor Season at the Richard Martin Jr. Invitational at Central Arkansas, three Little Rock Track and Field athletes earned weekly awards.  Nicholas Newby was named the Ohio Valley Conference Male Track Athlete of the Week, while Alexia Washington and Gabriel Torres......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the baseball players of the week for the seventh week of the 2024 season. Henderson State’s Kaden Argenbright earned Player of the Week while Harding’s Griffin Meeker claimed Pitcher of the Week. #theGAC BASEBALL PLAYER OF THE WEEK......

CONWAY — Surviving overtime in their win on March 2, Central Baptist College basketball hosted the Spartans of Missouri Baptist University in the American Midwest Conference tournament championship game presented by Tandem HR. CBC (25-6) avenged A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse, dominating from the start, cruising their......

CONWAY — Women’s basketball head coach Tony Kemper led his team to a couple of monumental achievements Tuesday night, as the Sugar Bears defeated Eastern Kentucky 68-57 to send themselves to an ASUN Championship Final. Not only did it mark the first championship final for......

HOT SPRINGS — The No. 1 ranked National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (27-1) received an at-large invitation to compete in the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Division 2 Men’s Basketball National Tournament, held March 18-23 at the Mary Miller Center in......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Harding softball team swept Arkansas Tech Tuesday in a Great American Conference doubleheader. The Lady Bisons held off the Golden Suns in game one 6-4 and Abby Burch threw a two-hit shutout as Harding won the second game 2-0. The Lady Bisons......

LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock carries the offensive hot streak from the weekend to take the midweek game against Arkansas State. Trojans score a season-high 12 runs with only one scoreless inning. How It Happened It all started in the first inning with a sacrifice fly......

By Dr. Robert Reising “The University of Arkansas (U of A) stayed with me,” Anthony Lucas recently and proudly recalled. Thirty years ago, when other institutions were “cooling” on him because of questionable ACT scores, Lucas opted for the Fayetteville institution, its long-interested football recruiters......

CONWAY — The 19th annual Chase Race & Paws event will be held Saturday, March 9, at Simon Park in downtown Conway. There is a 2-mile walk/run and a 1-mile race for people and their leashed pets. This is a fundraiser that benefits Compass Academy. Join......

CONWAY — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s outdoor track and field teams competed in the 2024 Hendrix Alumni Open Saturday, with sophomore runner Kaylie Goad (Wharton, Texas) winning the third heat of the women’s 400m race and claiming the top spot......

FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Central Arkansas Bears put a ninth-inning scare into the second-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks on Tuesday before falling 9-7 at Baum-Walker Stadium. The Bears (7-7) fought back from a 7-2 deficit after three innings and had the bases loaded in the ninth......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS will present the Class 6A-1A 2024 Centennial Bank High School Basketball State Championships live from Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs beginning Thursday, March 7, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). Games will be broadcast statewide over the air,......

PARAGOULD — Playing their fifth game since last Friday, Central Baptist College baseball was at Pioneer Park on Monday for a matchup with future American Midwest Conference rival Crowley’s Ridge. CBC (13-6) recorded their third straight win, beating CRC (6-7) 15-3. Austin Teal made history......

HOT SPRINGS — Five members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (27-1) were named to the 2023-24 NJCAA Division 2 All-Region team this week for their outstanding performance on the court this season. Sophomore center Taylor Harrell (Houston, Texas) averages 9.7 points for......

The Harding men’s tennis team posted their fourth straight win in sweep fashion, defeating Blue Mountain 7-0 at the Elliott Tennis Complex on Monday afternoon. The Bisons are now 7-4 on the season with three more wins against junior colleges.  For the fourth straight time,......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS will present the Class 6A-1A 2024 Centennial Bank High School Basketball State Finals live from Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs beginning Thursday, March 7, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). Games will be broadcast statewide over the air,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears came from behind once again Sunday and completed the sweep of the Southern Illinois Salukis, winning 13-12 in 10 innings at Bear Stadium. The Bears got their third one-run victory of the weekend — and fourth of......

The Harding women’s golf team shot a 21-over 309 on Tuesday and crawled up the leaderboard to a fourth place finish at 35-over 611. Central Missouri took home the team title with a 6-over 582.  Brenda Sanchez wrapped up another top-10 finish, shooting a 6-over......

HARRISON — The No.1 ranked National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (25-0) remained undefeated with a 108-66 win over North Arkansas College in National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Region 2 play last Thursday. Behind red-hot shooting from sophomore guard Ja’Bryant Hill (Dallas,......

ATLANTA, Ga. — On Monday, the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) released its weekly Athlete of the Week awards, with Peyton Refling winning the honor for the second week running. This week, she was named the SAA’s Offensive Player of the Week for two outstanding offensive......

SEARCY — Harding will send seven individuals and one relay team to the Indoor Track and Field Championships, hosted by Pittsburg State University on March 8-9 in Pittsburg, Kansas. Below are Harding’s invitees: Yves Bilong (Saint-Gilles, France), SO, Triple Jump Dakarai Bush (Tatum, Texas), SR, 400 meters......

Tournament seeding is on the line when the Little Rock women’s basketball team opens a two-game homestand to wrap up the regular season, hosting Tennessee State tonight at the Jack Stephens Center. Tip-off for the game is slated for 5 p.m. and the contest can......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of Halee Hensley as the new head volleyball coach. Hensley replaces Rick Brown, who resigned after two seasons in January. “I’m excited to have Halee join the coaching staff,” said Middleton. “Her......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The No.1 ranked National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (24-0) defeated Shorter College, 84-72, in National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Region 2 play Monday, claiming the NJCAA Region 2 regular season championship.  Sophomore guard Patrick Punch (Houston, Texas) could......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock wrestling team is still rising. The Trojans bump up another spot in the charts to rank 17th in the nation following the culmination of the Pac-12 dual schedule, finishing the year as the dual meet champions in the Pac-12 Conference. After coming......

SEARCY — After two more wins this past week, the Harding women’s basketball team came in at No. 5 in this week’s Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Top 25 Poll. Harding defeated Arkansas Tech at home 80-65 and defeated Southern Arkansas 80-67 on the road last......

BATON ROUGE, La. —  The University of Central Arkansas Bears kept it close with the defending national champions for the second time in three days before falling to the LSU Tigers 4-3 on Monday afternoon at Alex Box Stadium. The Tigers (4-0) had beaten VMI 27-5......

The Harding women’s tennis team closed out their weekend in Texas with a 6-1 loss to Angelo State in Plano, Texas on Sunday afternoon. The Lady Bisons are now 2-2 with an additional two wins over Junior College teams this season.  The Rams opened the......

CONWAY — The Sugar Bear basketball team dominated a short-handed Eastern Kentucky team on Saturday, cruising to an 83-49 win over the Colonels in the Farris Center. It marked the 11th home win for the Sugar Bears, who have just one more home game on......

SEARCY — Harding had its eight-game winning streak come to an end Tuesday with a 15-0 loss to Arkansas-Monticello in a seven-inning nonconference game at Jerry Moore Field. Harding, undefeated at 3-0 in the Great American Conference, returns to action this weekend, hosting Oklahoma Baptist......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — After completing the regular indoor season at the Arkansas Invitational, Little Rock Track and Field teams received Ohio Valley Conference weekly honors.  Frankie Grey and Gabriel Torres received their first honor, while Aaliyah Mathis earned her second of the season. Mathis earned her......

HOT SPRINGS — The No.1 ranked National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (22-0) won its first-ever meeting against Arkansas State University-Newport Monday in the Kettle, picking up a 73-55 victory over the Aviators.  Before the game, National Park College President Dr. John Hogan was......

BENTON — Shifting their series from Burns Park to Benton High School, Central Baptist College baseball hosted the Panthers of Philander Smith tonight in their first ‘home’ game of the season. CBC (5-1) won both games of the doubleheader over PSU (0-5) by identical 8-2......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s golf team had their best round of the tournament on Tuesday, shooting a 10-over 298 in Round 3 to finish the tournament at 45-over 909 and in seventh place. Midwestern State held on for the win, finishing at 19-over 883. ......

CONWAY — The Hendrix Warriors opened the 2024 regular season with wins over Belhaven and Westminster (Mo.) last weekend at Warrior Baseball Field. Game 1 vs Belhaven Hendrix defeated Belhaven on Friday afternoon in a 8-7 thriller that was capped by a Griffin Baird walk-off in......

PITTSBURG, Kan. – The University of Central Arkansas Bears Men’s and Women’s Track & Field teams went to Pittsburg State last weekend for the 9th Annual Indoor Gorilla Classic.  The Bears broke two UCA records, earned 17 top-10 finishes and set 19 personal records. Breaking the......

CONWAY — The Hendrix Warriors dropped their 2024 season opener to the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis (UHSP) in a 12-11 thriller on Feb. 10. It was the women’s lacrosse program’s first ever contest played at Crafton-Faulkner Field at Young-Wise Memorial......

SEARCY – Harding sophomore Rylie Marshall’s stellar performance, with 18 of his team-leading 21 points scored in the first half, propelled the Bisons to an impressive 88-58 victory over Southern Nazarene in Great American Conference men’s basketball action at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House on Saturday.......

Birmingham, Ala. — The Hendrix Men’s and Women’s Track and Field programs both took part in the Samford Bulldog Open last weekend, with two new school records being set by freshmen. Anna Cantrell broke her own record in the indoor 1 mile with a new......

CONWAY — Beast Feast, the annual sportsman banquet hosted by Second Baptist Church’s Men’s Ministry, is planned for this Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds, 2501 East Oak St. The event includes an outdoor exhibit from 2 to 5 p.m. in......

LITTLE ROCK — The Little Rock Men’s Basketball team moved into a tie for third place in the Ohio Valley Conference standings after a 77-57 victory over UT Martin on Tuesday. Five Trojans scored in double-figures for the win. Bradley Douglas led all Trojans with......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College had a busy weekend of athletics last weekend with winter and spring sports crossing over for the first time. Wrestling competed at the Cumberland Open in Tennessee, baseball opened their season on Friday with a doubleheader against Champion Christian in......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears went cold in overtime Saturday and dropped a 73-62 decision to the Stetson Hatters at the Farris Center. UCA (8-17, 4-5) made just 1 of 9 from the field in the extra period and was outscored 13-2......

SEARCY – Coming off a perfect 2-0 weekend on the road in Oklahoma, the Harding Lady Bisons moved up one spot to No. 10 nationally Tuesday in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Top 25 Poll. Harding has an 18-2 overall record and a 13-1 record......

Conway — Playing host for one of the last times this season, the Warriors went to battle Tuesday against the Stormy Petrels of Oglethorpe, coming out on top by a final score of 79-72. This was the Warriors’ first win in SAA play this season. ......

By Dr. Robert Reising Every team winning a national championship has earned an exceptional honor, its  impact forever celebrated throughout history. Similarly, every member of that team can claim a contribution, large or small, to the team’s success, a source of pride that embellishes a......

By Mark Oliver Riverview senior Tucker Cunningham and Harding Academy senior Luv Patel are more than just crosstown rivals on the basketball court.  They’re best friends. Introduced to one another in youth basketball camps around Searcy, the two hoopsters became teammates for Harding Academy in seventh grade......

Many adults continue playing competitive sports as they age. Senior Olympic Basketball is an international organization, with teams from all 50 states and almost every country. Central Arkansas is home to men’s and women’s basketball teams that are some of the best in the nation.......

PITTSBURG, Kan. – Harding sophomore Karyna Vehner broke her own school record in the triple jump and was one of two Lady Bisons to earn NCAA provisional marks at the Wendy’s Pittsburg State Invitational on Saturday inside the Robert W. Plaster Center. Vehner placed fourth......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (18-0) celebrated its third consecutive week ranked No. 1 in National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Division 2 with a 99-85 victory over North Arkansas College Monday. Following a 7-0 run to start the......

CONWAY — Looking to remain undefeated through the first half of American Midwest Conference play, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Spartans of Missouri Baptist on Youth Group Day inside A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (17-4, 7-0 AMC) never trailed by more than four, and......

PITTSBURG, Kan. – Senior Tad Kirby broke the school record in the 60-meter dash and the No. 5-ranked Harding indoor men’s track and field team recorded six provisional marks and one event victory at the Wendy’s Pittsburg State Invitational on Saturday inside the Robert W.......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears needed a win in the worst way and they got a big one last Saturday, knocking off the defending Atlantic Sun Conference champion Kennesaw State 92-87 at the Farris Center. The Bears made 9 of 10 at......

LOCKESBURG — The top-ranked National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (16-0) continued its winning ways with a 102-85 win over University of Arkansas-Cossatot (UA Cossatot) Monday. Despite an 11-day break between games due to icy weather in central Arkansas, NPC showed no signs......

PARAGOULD — Renewing a rivalry on Saturday at the Carter Activities Center, Central Baptist College men’s basketball played their final non-American Midwest Conference game against the Pioneers of Crowley’s Ridge College. CBC (15-4) led at halftime and held off a charge from CRC (3-17) winning......

SEARCY – Coming off a perfect 2-0 home weekend that saw Harding extend its school-record home winning streak to 21 games, the Lady Bisons moved up two spots to No. 14 nationally Tuesday in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association Top 25 Poll. Harding has a......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics named Corey Irvine as Head Men’s and Women’s Soccer Coach this week.  A native of Glasgow, Scotland, Irvine joins NPC after two seasons as Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach at Northwest Mississippi Community College in Senatobia, Mississippi,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears will try to make it two in a row Thursday when they take on the Lipscomb Bisons at 7 p.m. at Allen Arena. The Bears (6-15, 2-1) knocked off Bellarmine 59-57 last Saturday at the Farris Center......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Little Rock Track and Field athletes received Ohio Valley Conference Indoor Honors this week after their strong performance at the Arkansas Invitational on Jan. 12.  Matthew Tyeskie, Aaliyah Mathis, and Alexia Washington garnered the awards released today. Tyeskie earned Co-Male Track Athlete of......

CONWAY — Looking for their fourth straight victory, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Hornets of Harris-Stowe State last Saturday in an American Midwest Conference tilt for homecoming inside A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (13-4, 4-0 AMC) trailed only once and made over half their shots, putting......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team ascended to the top of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 2 rankings this week, placing first in Monday’s poll.  Amid its program-best 15-0 start to the season, NPC remains the only......

CONWAY – Wrapping up their three-game American Midwest Conference homestand this week, Central Baptist College women’s basketball hosted the Hornets of Harris-Stowe State last Saturday in A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (3-7, 2-3 AMC) never trailed, scoring 43 seconds into the game and cruised to a......

Rome, Ga. — The Hendrix Warriors dropped to 0-3 in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) after a 94-79 loss to the Berry Vikings on Jan. 7. Daniel Cobb’s running three-pointer at the buzzer tied the game at 45-45 heading into half after an explosive back-and-forth......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears opened Atlantic Sun Conference play with a victory Saturday for the second time in three years after an 84-81 win at North Alabama. The Bears (5-12, 1-0) now return home to the Farris Center for two consecutive......

HOT SPRINGS — The third-ranked National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team (14-0) opened NJCAA Region 2 play with a 111-86 win over South Arkansas College Monday in the Kettle. From the opening tipoff, the Nighthawks took control of the game and never looked back.......

CONWAY — Playing their first American Midwest Conference contest at home this season, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Eagles of Williams Baptist University on Tuesday at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (11-4, 2-0 AMC) led by 15 at halftime and cruised to an 87-67......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Tuesday, the Great American Conference announced the results of its 2024 GAC softball coaches’ poll. Oklahoma Baptist received eight first-place votes from the league’s head coaches to enter the season as the preseason favorite. Last year, the Bison captured their first GAC......

HOT SPRINGS– The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s basketball team has discontinued the remaining 2023-24 season due to injuries and departures in the program. As of January 5, the team had five players available for competition. After an evaluation of the situation, it was determined......

The Little Rock men’s basketball team had a second-half lead slip away late Saturday, resulting in a 90-88 conference loss to Eastern Illinois at the Jack Stephens Center. The Trojans (8-9, 2-2 OVC) led by eight with 7:30 to play, but the visiting Panthers (8-8,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas’s final non-conference tune-up Wednesday afternoon turned into an early romp as they cruised past Champion Christian 120-54 at the Farris Center. UCA (4-12) set numerous individual career highs and broke a 53-year-old record for team rebounds in a......

Hendrix Warrior Riley Brady earned SAA Athlete of the Week. She averaged 14.3 points and 14.7 rebounds in three games for the Warriors during Winter Break.  Brady recorded her fourth double-double of the season versus Ozarks (Ark.), scoring 16 points and grabbing a career-high of......

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — Little Rock Men’s Basketball swept this week’s Ohio Valley Conference weekly honors. Jamir Chaplin was named the Co-Player of the Week and Co-Newcomer of the Week, while Jaylen Crocker-Johnson was named Freshman of the Week. Chaplin earned his first Player of the......

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Despite a slow start against Alabama A&M, the Central Arkansas women’s basketball team stormed back for a 65-59 win on Dec. 29 over the Bulldogs. The road win sends the Sugar Bears into conference season on a two-game winning streak and eight......

COLUMBIA, Mo. — A dominant rebounding performance carried the Missouri Tigers to a 92-59 victory over the University of Central Arkansas Bears on Saturday, Dec. 30, at Mizzou Arena. The Tigers (8-5) finished the day with 47 rebounds, including 21 on the offensive end that......

By Dr. Robert Reising Bowling fascinated her by age five. The shiny, smooth balls, their unhindered propulsion toward stately targets, and the resultant clatter of success brought sparkle to her spirits and laughter to her lips. The following decade saw that fascination blossom into love......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears showed the effects of a 10-day break Wednesday afternoon in dropping a 65-54 decision at home to the Western Illinois Leathernecks at the Farris Center. The Bears (3-10) shot a season-low 26.7 percent from the field against......

The Little Rock women’s basketball team opens conference play today, Dec. 28 with a rematch of last year’s conference championship game when the Trojans meet Tennessee Tech at 5:30 pm in Cookeville, Tenn. The game can be seen on ESPN+ and heard locally on Sports......

SEARCY — College Sports Communicators (CSC), formerly known as CoSIDA, has recently unveiled the Academic All-District teams for the fall semester. To be eligible for this recognition, student-athletes must have completed their sophomore seasons both academically and athletically, maintained a GPA of 3.50 or higher,......

CONWAY — Hendrix fell to the Dallas Crusaders 69-64 on Dec. 20 at Grove Gymnasium. The Warriors went into halftime with a commanding 36-24 lead, but struggled to maintain their form in the second half while Dallas shot their way back into the contest by......

SEARCY – Nathaniel Wallace, a senior defensive end at Harding University, has been named one of the 36 finalists for the Cliff Harris Award, as announced by the Little Rock Touchdown Club on Saturday. The winner will be announced by the Little Rock Touchdown Club......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker was named Tuesday to the 2023 Stats Perform FCS All-America Team for the second straight season, his third national honor of the season. Walker, a 6-foot-2, 260-pound junior from Stuttgart, Ark., and the UAC Defensive Player of......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – For the third time this season, Central Baptist College has multiple American Midwest Conference athletes of the week. Caroline Citty was selected as the women’s basketball athlete of the week, and David Corretjer was selected as wrestler of the week. Citty......

SEARCY — Harding sophomore Rylie Marshall poured in a career-high 23 points and connected on four 3-pointers, but Henderson State made 14 of its last 19 shots and defeated the Bisons 78-65 on Dec. 14 in Great American Conference men’s basketball action at Rhodes-Reaves Field......

CONWAY — Hendrix met up with the Lyon Scots for the second time in as many weeks and avenged their Nov. 30 loss to the Scots with a fantastic shooting display en route to a 74-64 win on Dec. 15. It was Hendrix’s first home......

SEARCY — Harding had two large scoring runs in the first half and cruised to an 80-62 victory over Henderson State on Dec. 14 in Great American Conference women’s basketball action at Rhodes-Reaves Field House. Harding had a 13-2 run that started early in the......

CONWAY — Returning home for the first time since Nov. 18, Central Baptist College women’s basketball hosted the Patriots of Baptist Bible College on Tuesday at A. R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (1-5) took the lead early and held it the rest of the way, racing......

CHARLESTON, Ill. — Make that two in a row for the University of Central Arkansas Bears. The Bears tied their season-high last Sunday with 13 three-pointers and survived a three-point attempt by the Eastern Illinois Panthers in the final seconds to secure a 73-70 victory......

PITTSBURG, Kan. — Harding men’s indoor track and field got its 2023-24 season underway over the weekend with a pair of competitions at Pittsburg State University. On Friday and Saturday, Harding sophomore Kelmen de Carvalho earned a third-place finish among 17 competitors in the heptathlon......

CONWAY — The Hendrix Warriors fell 79-70 to the Rhodes Lynx to open up play in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) last Saturday afternoon at Grove Gymnasium. The first half proved to be an excellent spell of offensive play with both teams shooting an identical......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas student-athlete Jake Golday was named Monday to the United Athletic Conference (UAC) Football All-Academic Team. Golday, a sophomore linebacker from Arlington, Tenn., had a 3.63 grade-point average in general business. Golday, who played at Arlington High School, was UCA’s......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS continues its broadcast of the 2023 Centennial Bank High School Football Playoffs live from War Memorial Stadium this Saturday, Dec. 9, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). In the week following the broadcast, championship games will be available to......

SEARCY – No. 3 Harding needed one drive. Trailing Grand Valley State by six, with time ticking away in the fourth quarter, against one of the most ferocious defenses in NCAA Division II football, that drive finally came last Saturday. Harding went 73 yards on......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team received its first Top 5 ranking in program history this week, placing fifth in Monday’s National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 2 poll.  One of two 11-0 teams remaining in the nation,......

TULSA, Okla. — The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team nearly pulled off the upset of Tulsa Tuesday night, leading midway through the fourth quarter but ultimately falling 60-58. The Sugar Bears got a shot off on the final possession but couldn’t get it to fall through......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the men’s and women’s basketball players of the week for the fourth week of the 2023-24 season. Arkansas Tech’s Taelon Peter earned the men’s honor while Harding’s Sage Hawley and Northwestern Oklahoma State’s Faith Simpson shared the Women’s......

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Opening the American Midwest Conference portion of their schedule Nov. 30, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the #23 ranked Cougars of Columbia College inside the Arena at Southwell Complex. CBC (8-2, 1-0 AMC) never trailed, leading by as many as......

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears survived a poor first quarter and grabbed a 63-58 victory over the Little Rock Trojans on Dec. 2 in the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown” at the Jack Stephens Center. UCA (5-3), which has now won two......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS kicks off the broadcast of the 2023 Centennial Bank High School Football Playoffs live from War Memorial Stadium today, Nov. 30, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). In the week following each broadcast, championship games will be available to......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team received its first Top 10 ranking in program history this week, placing seventh in Monday’s National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 2 poll.  One of only three 9-0 teams in the nation, NPC......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears made a season-high 13 three-pointers Sunday but came up short in a 79-74 loss to the New Orleans Privateers in the final game of the Central Arkansas Classic at the Farris Center. UCA got five three-pointers from......

Texarkana, Texas — Wrapping up their final road trip in November on Saturday, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Eagles of Texas A&M-Texarkana at the Patterson Center. CBC (7-2) held TAMUT (2-3) to 18 first half points and ended up controlling the second......

DENVER, Colo. – The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team went out West for the first time this season, and engaged in a good, old-fashioned shootout last Friday. Winning 90-84, the Sugar Bears shot the lights out for 40 minutes, posting season-highs in points, three-pointers and free......

CONWAY — Coming off a run to a third-place finish in last year’s American Midwest Conference tournament, Central Baptist College baseball head coach Dr. Aaron Brister has announced the 2024 schedule for the Mustangs. The 50-game schedule includes 22 home games at Burns Park in......

SEARCY – With an undefeated regular season and its third Great American Conference championship, the Harding football team reaped the rewards Wednesday as senior defensive end Nathaniel Wallace earned GAC Defensive Player of the Year, Paul Simmons earned GAC Coach of the Year, and Harding......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears have signed Arden Begaj to an NCAA letter of intent to join the men’s basketball program. Begaj is a 7-foot, 205-pounder from Toronto, Canada, who played at Bill Crothers Secondary School, where he had a 4.0 grade-point average.......

The Conway Wampus Cats will host the Bentonville West Wolverines Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. No tickets will be sold at the game. Click here to purchase tickets for Friday’s Football Playoff Game. This is a AAA event so only AAA passes are accepted for admission,......

CONWAY — The endings just keep getting crazier and crazier for the University of Central Arkansas Bears. The No. 24 Bears drove 83 yards in 19 seconds and finished it with a Hail Mary touchdown pass from Will McElvain to Jarrod Barnes as time expired......

OAKLAND CITY, Ind. – Playing in their second game of their current road trip, Central Baptist College men’s basketball opened the Dunn Hospitality Classic last Friday against the Mighty Oaks of Oakland City University at the Johnson Center. CBC (3-1) led by as many as......

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Central Arkansas Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams traveled to Agri Park last Friday to compete in the NCAA South Central Region Championships. The women’s team finished 13th out of 24 teams and the men’s team finished 17th out of 25 teams. ......

MONTICELLO, Ark. – The Harding volleyball team swept Arkansas-Monticello 3-0 (25-15, 25-15, 25-17) last Thursday in Great American Conference action.  With the win, Harding will share the GAC Regular Season Title with Oklahoma Baptist with both finishing with a 13-3 GAC record. The Lady Bisons......

We all know that special someone who makes LIFE brighter. We want to recognize individuals who are making a real difference in their work, at church or for their community. It’s the nurse who goes above and beyond to give care and compassion … the stylist......

CONWAY — Bryant defeated Conway High School, 52-33, last Friday, Nov. 3. The game was hosted at John McConnell stadium in Conway and had a record attendance of more than 7,500 people who wanted to see the game in person. Thousands also watched the Conway......

TULSA, Okla. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears did a lot right in their season opener at Tulsa on Monday night, but the one thing they struggled with proved to be the difference in a 70-53 loss at the Reynolds Center. The Bears lost......

ST. CHARLES, MISSOURI – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk women’s soccer team (2-10-2) concluded its season Sunday in the NJCAA Central District final, falling to the St. Charles Community College Cougars, 5-0.  Against an aggressive offensive attack from the Cougars early, NPC shined, defensively, with......

Springfield, Mo. – Looking to bounce back after a season-opening loss at home, Central Baptist College women’s basketball took on the Patriots of Baptist Bible College tonight at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse. CBC (0-2) trailed by three at halftime and got outscored 46-18 in the second......

CONWAY — Hendrix fell 47-29 to the Centre Colonels on Saturday at Young-Wise Memorial Stadium in a game that was almost entirely a tale of two different halves. After two failed fourth down attempts deep in Centre territory on their opening two drives, the Warriors......

SEARCY — The Harding volleyball team swept Southern Arkansas 3-0 (25-21, 25-10, 25-13) Monday in Great American Conference action at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. After the match, Harding recognized seniors Sarah Morehead, Libby Hinton, Grecia Soriano, Kelli McKinnon, Logan Smith-Morgan, Emma Winiger and Chloe Ingersoll......

ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s soccer team (12-2-3) ended its season Friday in the NJCAA Central District semifinal, falling to the St. Louis Community College Archers, 3-1.  Battling windy weather, both the Nighthawks and Archers struggled establish their respective offenses......

Columbia, Mo. – Playing in the American Midwest Conference quarterfinals for the first time since 2021, Central Baptist College volleyball took on the Stars of Stephens College tonight at Silverthorne Arena. CBC (14-13) was stymied all night by a potent SC (20-10) offense, falling in......

SEARCY — Harding junior Luke Walling earned NCAA Division II All-Central Region cross-country honors Monday from the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Walling, a native of Smithville, Arkansas, placed 20th of nearly 200 runners at the Central Region Meet, hosted......

HARRISON – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s soccer team concluded its regular season Saturday at North Arkansas College in Harrison (Boone County), finishing with a 2-2 draw against the Pioneers. Despite grabbing an early 2-0 lead on unassisted goals from sophomore midfielder Felix Rocca......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker was named the United Athletic Conference (UAC) Defensive Player of the Week on Monday after a record-setting performance against Tarleton State.  The junior All-American from Stuttgart, Ark., broke a 20-year-old school record with 6.5 tackles......

St. Louis, Mo. – For the second time this season, Central Baptist College volleyball player Mikayla Lawrence has earned American Midwest Conference defensive player of the week. She also earned DPOW on Sept. 4. Lawrence, a senior libero from Beebe, had 28 digs and 11......

SEARCY — Harding football defeated Southeastern Oklahoma 55-0 on Saturday, rushing for 436 yards and forcing five turnovers. Below are updates for regional and national rankings. AFCA Harding remained at No. 4 in the AFCA poll for the second week. The Bisons have never been......

MENA – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s cross-country teams competed in the NJCAA Region 2 Championship at the University of Arkansas-Rich Mountain (Polk County) Friday, with the Nighthawk women earning a third-place team finish and the Nighthawk men finishing fourth in the......

CONWAY – Coming off an 11-14 season, Central Baptist College women’s basketball tips off the 2023-24 season tomorrow night at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse against the Tigers of Champion Christian College. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. or 25 minutes after the conclusion of tomorrow night’s......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — Burns Park Golf Course recently sponsored the 50th Annual Arkansas Open Championship. A total of 126 players representing 14 different states competed in seven divisions.  Theodore Humphrey (pictured) from Houston, Texas, defeated Brett White from Dallas in a playoff to capture......

WALNUT RIDGE – Looking to bounce back from their first American Midwest Conference loss of the season, Central Baptist College women’s soccer was at WBU Soccer Field this afternoon for a match with the Eagles of Williams Baptist. CBC (5-8-3, 3-1-2 AMC) scored four times......

Hendrix entered Saturday night’s contest versus Rhodes on the back of two-consecutive one point losses in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) and needing a win to stay competitive as the race for the SAA title enters the home stretch. And, on a beautiful fall night......

HOT SPRINGS — The Central Arkansas women’s golf team closed out the Diamante Intercollegiate with the second-best round in the field, finishing the event in third place. Gudrun Thorsteinsdottir capped her run in sixth place, a monumental achievement for the freshman. After three rounds of......

ST LOUIS, Mo. – Playing for the third consecutive day, Central Baptist College volleyball was on the court at UHSP Gymnasium this morning for an American Midwest Conference match against the Eutectics of the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis. CBC (12-10,......

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Improving on its score in each round, the Harding women’s golf team placed ninth of 19 teams Tuesday at the Tulsa Cup, played at Forest Ridge Golf Course. Harding shot 322 and 315 in rounds one and two and concluded the......

DALLAS – Shooting 1-under 69, his third round of par or better at this week’s DBU Classic, Harding senior Sam Tandy earned his fourth top-five finish in five events this fall. Harding’s five-man team tied for third in the 14-team event, shooting 11-over 851, tied......

St. Joseph High School’s Cross Country Teams took part in their 2A-2 District Meet on Oct. 23 at Quitman. The runners came home with a number of honors. The Junior Girls Team was Runner-Up among the seven teams that competed. Seventh grader Edith Ramirez was......

SEARCY – Harding senior punter Ryan Fox was named D2Football.com National Special Teams Player of the Week on Wednesday. Fox, a native of Searcy, Arkansas, punted three times in Harding’s 41-10 victory over No. 5 Ouachita Baptist on Saturday. He averaged 45.0 yards per punt,......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – For the second consecutive week, Central Baptist College has swept the American Midwest Conference player of the week awards in soccer. Vitoria Loiola and Daniel Pinkney were named AMC Offensive Players of the Week on Monday. Loiola earned her second award......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas guard Camren Hunter was named Monday to the 2023-24 preseason All-Atlantic Sun basketball team in conjunction with the ASUN Basketball Tip-off event held in Clarksville, Tenn. Hunter, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound junior from Bryant (Saline County) is a two-time All-ASUN......

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish. For the Central Arkansas women’s soccer team, that has been true all season, but never more so than Sunday afternoon. Junior midfielder Kelly Van Gundy ended each half with a goal, lifting the......

ALVA, Okla. – For the second-straight match, the Harding volleyball team defeated its opponent in five sets. The Lady Bisons beat Northwestern Oklahoma 3-2 (25-16, 20-25, 25-16, 21-25, 15-10) in Great American Conference action Thursday. Harding improved its record to 13-7 overall and maintained a......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears used another late touchdown Saturday night to win their fourth consecutive game, a 24-21 victory over their old rival Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The No. 20/25 Bears (5-2, 2-0) led......

ALVA, Okla. – Ninth-ranked Harding scored touchdowns on all seven of its offensive possessions and added two interception returns for touchdowns, cruising to a 62-0 victory over Northwestern Oklahoma on Saturday in Great American Conference action at Ranger Field. With the victory, Harding extended its......

ATLANTA, Ga. – Helping the Bears clinch a spot in the ASUN Championships, Kelly Van Gundy was named the ASUN Player of the Week. It marks the second such weekly award, and the third overall weekly award for the Bears this season. Van Gundy was......

FULTON, Mo. — Playing an American Midwest Conference match for just the second time, Central Baptist College men’s soccer took on the Owls of William Woods today at Firley Field. CBC (4-7-2, 0-0-2 AMC) trailed 1-0 at the half and 2-0 early in the second before......

CONWAY — Facing a 30-6 deficit heading into the fourth quarter, the University of Central Arkansas Bears never blinked, exploding for 32 points in an improbable 38-33 victory over the Southeast Missouri Redhawks at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The Bears led for exactly......

CONWAY — St. Joseph High School’s Cross Country teams competed in the Vilonia Invitational on Oct. 7 and three runners placed in the top ten and received medals for their efforts.  In the Junior Boys two-mile run, Travis Jackson came in 6th with a time......

By Dr. Robert Reising Dandra Thomas. It is impossible to forget her. She was like a meteor that sped across the skies, captured the world’s wonder … and all too soon, suddenly and inexplicably disappeared from view. Although the Conway native lived only 27 years, ......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams are halfway through their season and have earned some recognition. The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association have posted the Week 3 Regional Rankings and the Bears have moved......

SEARCY — With its 64-0 home win over Southwestern Oklahoma on Saturday, Harding football moved up one spot to No. 9 in the latest American Football Coaches Association Top 25 Poll and the D2Football.com poll. The Bisons stayed at No. 5 on MasseyRatings.com. Harding, 5-0......

CEDAR CITY, Utah — The University of Central Arkansas Bears overcame 14 penalties, a nearly one-hour lightning delay and a late two-point conversion attempt to down the Southern Utah Thunderbirds 29-27 in UAC action on Saturday night at Eccles Coliseum.  UCA (3-2, 2-0) got three......

MCKENZIE, Tenn. – Playing their final non-American Midwest Conference opponent of the season, Central Baptist College men’s soccer took on the #13 Bethel Wildcats recently at Wildcat Field. CBC (4-7-1) had both of their chances on goal saved as they fell to #13 BU (9-1)......

CONWAY — Hendrix’s explosive start to the 2023 season sputtered on Saturday as they dropped a heartbreaking 20-19 loss to the Sewanee Tigers. The Warriors gave up an astonishing 10 sacks, and while Buniff recorded 325 yards through the air, there was very little time in......

JACKSON, Miss. — After an 0-2 start to kick off the year, Hendrix has come roaring out of the gates to start conference play with back-to-back 50+ point outings after hanging 53 on Millsaps on Saturday. True to form, Jacob Buniff shone once again. The sophomore......

WOLCOTT, Colo. – Day two of the Golfweek Red Sky Classic saw a terrific outing for junior Madison Holmes, who vaulted into first place with one of the best rounds of her career. The Paragould, Ark., native powered her way down the stretch to move......

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The Great American Conference announced the women’s soccer players of the week for the fourth week of the 2023 season. Southern Nazarene’s Natalie Montanez and Gianna Bonnett collected the Offensive and Goalkeeper accolades while Harding’s Kim Barcenas earned the Defender honor. #theGAC......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference announced their men’s soccer athletes of the week today and a Central Baptist College Mustang earned Offensive Player of the Week. Daniel Pinkney was named Player of the Week today for the second time in his career.......

SEARCY — With its 59-19 home victory over Arkansas-Monticello on Saturday, Harding football moved up one spot to No. 10 in the latest American Football Coaches Association Top 25 Poll, released Monday. Harding has now appeared in 55 consecutive AFCA polls, dating to the final......

FARGO, N.D. – The University of Central Arkansas Bears battled to the end but gave the No. 2 team in the nation too much in the way of penalties and turnovers Saturday in a 49-31 loss to the powerhouse North Dakota State Bison at the......

CONWAY – Returning to A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse for the first time since Aug. 19, Central Baptist College volleyball looked to remain perfect against the Crusaders of Dallas Christian College last Saturday. CBC (6-6) dominated the match, improving their hitting percentage in each set to cruise......

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. – The Harding women’s golf team wrapped up a historic performance at the NSU Classic on Tuesday, surging two spots up the leaderboard and recording an extraordinary school-record score of 7-over 295. Their collective score of 18-over 594 secured a second-place finish,......

CHOUDRANT, La. – Central Arkansas didn’t finish quite as well as it started, as the men’s golf team rounded out the Argent Financial Classic in eighth place after Tuesday’s third round. Buoyed by freshman Mark Stockdale’s top-five finish, saw glimpses of extremely solid golf through......

Oklahoma City – Playing on the road for the second time in three days, Central Baptist College women’s soccer took on the Evangels of Mid-America Christian this afternoon at Dill Soccer Field. CBC (2-5-1) trailed 1-0 at the half before allowing three second-half goals to......

Marshall, Texas — After going 1-2 at the Bear Invite in St. Louis, Hendrix hit the road to take part in the East Texas Baptist Invitational. The Warriors split their opening two matches on Friday, falling to the hosts ETBU in straight sets before dominating the University......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears, and their head coach Nathan Brown, were aware of the discrepancy in talent level that would be on display last Saturday night at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. But Brown said the Bears did exactly what......

Springfield, Mo. – Central Baptist College volleyball was on the road this past Thursday night at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse for a non-American Midwest Conference tilt with the Patriots of Baptist Bible College.  CBC (4-6) took care of business, hitting .289 in the third set to pick......

By Mark Oliver The Little Rock Rangers made waves throughout the 501 this season, fueled by a gritty, talented roster, an energetic fan base, a vibrant soccer culture and maybe even a little luck sprinkled in, too. Composed entirely of amateur players who also compete......

By Dr. Robert Reising The phone call for which he yearned never came. He suffered profound depression when an invitation to sign a professional baseball contract failed to reach him. “It lasted for months … it was one of the most disappointing times of my......

SEARCY — With its 53-20 victory at Southern Nazarene last Thursday, Harding football moved up two spots to No. 12 in the latest American Football Coaches Association Top 25 Poll, released Tuesday. Harding has now appeared in 53 consecutive AFCA polls, dating to the final......

LITTLE ROCK – Five-time Olympic medalist Nastia Liukin will headline the 33rd annual Bolo Bash Reception and Luncheon in October.  This year’s Luncheon, presented by Dillard’s, will be Thursday, Oct. 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at City Center, 315 N. Shackleford Road in Little......

CONWAY — Back at home after two road matches, the Central Arkansas women’s soccer team takes the pitch against Oral Roberts on Thursday. Kicking off at 6 p.m., the Bears and Golden Eagles each look to take the advantage in the all-time series, knotted at 4-4......

SIOUX CENTER, Iowa – Playing on the final day of the Pizza Ranch Classic, Central Baptist College women’s soccer took on the Dordt Defenders on Monday at the Defenders Soccer Complex. CBC (2-3-1) couldn’t break through the DU (3-1-0) defense, allowing two goals in each half to......

CONWAY – The Central Arkansas men’s soccer team suffered an absolute heartbreak Monday night, falling in the final minute of play against the Memphis Tigers. After opening the scoring in the second half, the Bears gave up a pair late to let one slip at the......

St. Joseph High School’s Cross Country teams competed in the Lyon College Invitational meet on Aug. 29 in Batesville. The Junior Girls Team took 3rd Place out of 28 teams. Eighth-grader Avery Cooper and 7th-grader Edith Ramirez were two of the Top 15 runners to......

SEARCY — Fifth-year senior Georgios Petousis headed in a cross from sophomore Seth Albritton to lift Harding men’s soccer to a 2-1 victory over William Jewell on a sweltering Tuesday afternoon at the Stevens Soccer Complex. It was Harding’s first victory of the year and......

LITTLE ROCK — According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s recently released “2023 Hunting Incident Report,” Arkansas hunters last year reported the fewest number of hunting accidents requiring medical attention since 2010. Sixteen incidents were recorded, including two resulting in fatalities. “With nearly 307,000......

The No. 14 ranked Harding Bisons open the season Thursday playing host to Southern Nazarene. #14 Harding Bisons (0-0, 0-0) vs. Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm (0-0, 0-0)Aug. 31, 2023, 6 p.m. Bethany, Okla., SNU Football Stadium Starting 11 for Harding vs. Southern NazareneBelow are 11 Facts......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s soccer received its first national ranking in program history this week, named No. 19 by the NJCAA for its success on the field. NPC opened its season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over preseason No. 13 Pearl......

CONWAY, Ark. – For the first time in five years, University of Central Arkansas head coach Nathan Brown had to identify a new placekicker before the Bears open the 2023 season on Saturday in Stillwater, Okla. Hayden Ray, statistically the top kicker in school history,......

CONWAY – Playing at home for the second consecutive Tuesday, Central Baptist College women’s soccer hosted the Golden Lions of the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff this week at Centennial Soccer Park. CBC (2-1-1) couldn’t cash in on three chances, fighting to a scoreless draw with......

St. Joseph High School’s boys and girls golf teams won 1st Place in their matches on Tuesday against Mayflower and Lamar on the Links at Cadron Valley course.  Matthew Seiter was the boys’ medalist with a nine-hole score of 38. Brendan Baker shot a 44,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas linebacking corps may not get the recognition of other position groups heading into the 2023 season, but Bears’ head coach Nathan Brown said that is not because of lack of talent in that room.  The Bears return four players with......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — Adult 7 v 7 Flag Football sign-up is open through Sept. 7. Games will be played on Sundays and will begin Sept. 10. The price per season is $375 per team with a 15-player max per team. For more information, call......

SEARCY — Harding’s Vlad Malykhin placed 26th in the pole vault Wednesday at the 2023 World Track and Field Championships in Budapest, Hungary. Malykhin, a native of Shostka, Ukraine and two-time NCAA Division II national champion, cleared 5.35 meters or 17 feet, 6.50 inches. Thirteen......

CONWAY — A football team that returns its top three receivers from the previous season is usually one destined to have a quality passing attack. The University of Central Arkansas Bears are one of those teams, with the return of Jarrod Barnes, Christian Richmond and......

CONWAY – Opening the 2023 season with a rare night contest, Central Baptist College women’s soccer hosted the Lions of Freed-Hardeman University this evening at Centennial Soccer Complex. Vitoria Loiola’s 86th minute goal, her second of the contest, gave CBC (2-0) a 2-1 victory over the......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears were the second choice in the first United Athletic Conference (UAC) football coaches’ poll released Monday. UCA received a league-best five first-place votes and 69 overall points but finished second to Eastern Kentucky, which had 71 total......

CONWAY — St. Joseph School’s junior high, junior varsity and varsity volleyball players opened their season Monday night at home against the Atkins Red Devils.  The Lady Bulldogs were victorious in the junior high games by winning in two straight sets.  The junior varsity girls......

CONWAY — Opening the 2023 season at home this afternoon, Central Baptist College volleyball hosted the Missouri Valley College Vikings inside a stuffy A.R. Fieldhouse. CBC (0-2) captured their first set of the season in the second match, but dropped both matches to MVC (2-0)......

CONWAY — The St. Joseph High School boys and girls golf teams had their first matches of the season on Aug. 17 on the Links at Cadron Valley course.  The Bulldogs competed with Conway Christian and Quitman for nine holes each. St. Joseph’s boys tied......

SEARCY – Harding will open the 2023 football season ranked 14th in the American Football Coaches Association Division II Coaches’ Preseason Top 25 Poll. It is the seventh time Harding has been ranked in the AFCA preseason poll and the sixth consecutive year. The Bisons’......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas knocked out more than 100 total plays last Saturday morning in a  scrimmage on The Stripes at Estes Stadium, the first scrimmage work this fall for Coach Nathan Brown’s Bears. “It was good to get out and get our......

Hendrix football will kick off its 11th season following the resurrection of the program back in 2013 and enters into its second decade with the return of a couple familiar faces. Week 1: vs Washington University in St. Louis The Warriors host Washington University in St.......

ATLANTA, Ga. — With the 2023 soccer season right around the corner, the ASUN has released its Preseason All-Conference Team and Coaches Poll, the league announced on Thursday. For the Bears, junior defender Gabby Thies was named to the conference’s team, highlighting the impact that......

SEARCY — Harding men’s cross-country landed second of eight teams in the Great American Conference Preseason Coaches’ Poll, released Tuesday. Harding returns all six of its 2022 All-GAC performers: Noah Haileab, Luke Walling, Zach Reed, Jackson Pruim, Nathan Perry and Matt Ingalsbe. Haileab placed fifth......

SEARCY – Leo Maciejek and Sam Tandy, members of the Harding men’s golf team, were honored with All-America Scholar distinctions by the Golf Coaches Association of America on Wednesday. To be considered eligible, student-athletes must hold sophomore, junior, or senior status both academically and athletically.......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Logan Horton is the godfather of esports in Arkansas, and he’s got a growing organization. Horton, 28, was hired as esports coach at Hendrix College in 2020. Hendrix was one of the state’s early collegiate programs, following Henderson State. Others with official......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College head volleyball coach Rick Brown has announced the 2023 schedule for the CBC volleyball program. The season contains 27 matches and four family weekends among the 10 home matches this season.  “I think we have a very balanced schedule,” said......

By Dr. Robert Reising His modesty is genuine, yet often cleverly cloaked in quips or comic comparisons. He deflects adroitly, too, preferring that others garner praise and credit intended for him. In retirement, after decades of service to his profession, he gains his satisfaction not......

CONWAY — Experience was at the forefront for the University of Central Arkansas Bears on the opening day of Fall Camp on Aug. 3. The Bears, who return nearly 80 percent of their starters from a year ago, worked for a little more than two......

SEARCY  – Harding women’s soccer was selected sixth of seven teams in the Great American Conference Preseason Coaches’ Poll, released Tuesday by the conference office. It will be the 23rd season for Lady Bison head coach Dr. Greg Harris. Harding went 2-10-6 overall last season with......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College Director of Athletics Lyle Middleton has announced the resignation of Director of Soccer Lance Gordon. To replace him, assistant coaches Dylan Perdue and Thabo Masoga have been promoted to head coaches, with Perdue tabbed to lead the men’s program and Masoga in......

The Arkansas State Golf Association and First Tee — Central Arkansas are pleased to announce the award winners of the newly established Arnold Palmer Scholarship. The recipients and their colleges of choice are: • Maggie Huett, Lakeside High School, University of Cincinnati • Collin Spangler, Conway......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas running back ShunDerrick Powell was named to the 2023 Walter Payton Award Preseason Watch list on Wednesday. Powell, a 5-foot-9, 180-pound running back from Hoxie, Ark., transferred to UCA from North Alabama, where he led the ASUN Conference in......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton has announced a transition in the coaching of the Track & Field and Cross Country programs at CBC. Addy Foree, the coach for the past two seasons, has resigned and her sister, Ally Swaim, has been......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas State Golf Association held its Men’s Match-Play Championship at the Burns Park Golf Course this past weekend. The qualifying round was played on July 27, match play on July 28 and 29, and the championship finished up on July......

SEARCY — The Great American Conference unveiled its 2023 football preseason coaches’ poll on Tuesday, with Harding receiving four of the 12 first-place votes and securing the second position in the poll with 113 points. Over the last six seasons, Harding has notched an impressive......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears had five players named to the STATS Perform FCS All-America team on Tuesday. UCA was one of six schools to have as many as five selections. UCA’s players honored include defensive ends David Walker and Logan Jessup,......

SEARCY — For the eighth consecutive season, Harding Baseball earned the American Baseball Coaches Association Team Academic Excellence Award. Harding is one of only six NCAA Division II schools who have earned the honor all eight seasons it has been awarded. To earn the honor,......

SEARCY – Harding University proudly announced the appointment of Travis Lauterbach as the head men’s and women’s golf coach on Monday. Lauterbach’s impressive credentials and extensive experience make him an ideal fit for the position, where he will replace Dustin Howell, who has transitioned into......

HOT SPRINGS – Twenty-five student-athletes for National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics’ baseball, softball and men’s and women’s soccer teams were named to the 2022-23 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-Academic teams this week for their outstanding performance and dedication in the classroom.  Sophomore Logan......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s basketball team received the Team Academic Excellence Award from the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), joining over 300 honored programs on July 20. In addition, seniors Davis Morgan, Sam Henderson, and Taylor Currie were recognized on the NABC Honors......

CONWAY —  Head softball coach Jenny Parsons has been justly rewarded for her leadership in 2023, earning both Extra Inning Softball’s Mid-Major Head Coach of the Year as well as a four-year contract extension from Athletic Director Dr. Brad Teague. The honors come after the greatest......

SEARCY — For the second consecutive season, the Harding women’s golf team ranked among the top 25 in NCAA Division II in team GPA. Harding’s team had a 3.756 GPA to rank 12th in Division II, according to a release from the Women’s Golf Coaches......

LEXINGTON, Ky. — On July 13th, the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) announced the Hendrix Warriors as a recipient of the 2022-23 USMC-AVCA Team Academic Award.  This is the 11th consecutive year that the Warriors have earned this distinction,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears had three players named to the HERO Sports FCS Preseason All-America team on Wednesday. The three selections include defensive end David Walker, safety TaMuarion Wilson and a punt returner Jarrod Barnes. Walker is a 6-foot-2, 260-pounder from......

SEARCY  – Harding women’s tennis received the ITA All-Academic Team honor, with five players earning the ITA Scholar Athlete award on Tuesday. To qualify for the ITA All-Academic Team award, teams needed a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher. Harding’s women achieved a 3.42 GPA, marking......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) announced the addition of National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Division I men’s and women’s outdoor track and field to its sports lineup Friday, with competition beginning in Spring, 2024.  “Track and field is a sport that has......

SEARCY — Five members of the Harding women’s golf team received Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-American Scholar recognition Thursday. Freshman Madeleine Wilson, senior Kodie Winnings, junior Alicia Martinez, junior Brenda Sanchez and freshman Pilar Martinez all met the qualifications with GPAs of 3.50 or higher......

CONWAY — With the release of the ASUN women’s basketball schedule, the Central Arkansas Sugar Bears unveil their entire slate of games for the 2023-24 season, showcasing a schedule stacked with familiar foes for first-year head coach Tony Kemper. “Our program is excited about the......

SEARCY — Harding junior Maddox Long pitched 3.1 innings without allowing an earned run in his first start for the Green Bay (Wisc.) Rockers of the Northwoods League. He is the first Harding pitcher to work in the Northwoods League since Brodie Brumley in 2009.......

By Dr. Robert Reising He was delirious with joy. In the spring of 1948, the perfect gift, totally surprising, catapulted the baseball-loving six-year-old to Cloud Nine — a baseball autographed by every member of the 1948 Detroit Tigers, including his hero, third baseman George Kell.......

By Mary Eggart Coaches have the unique ability to positively affect their players’ lives in ways that are often unparalleled, and Phillip Golden, head baseball coach of Wonderview Schools, is no exception. After 27 years in education and coaching, Golden brought his impressive career to......

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – On Wednesday, the Great American Conference announced Harding University as the winner of the 2022-23 Commissioner’s Cup and the President’s Trophy. The Bisons and Lady Bisons repeated as the dual All-Sports champion. The GAC determines the winner of the Commissioner’s Cup to......

The City of Searcy is set to open its new Tennis and Pickleball Courts at Berryhill at noon on Friday, June 30, at 501 David Drive. The site features eight pickleball courts and six tennis courts.  The celebration will include a ribbon cutting, First Security......

CONWAY — Issakha Niang is the latest student-athlete to join the University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball program. Niang is a 6-foot-8, 215-pound forward who comes to UCA from Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls, Iowa. “I’m very excited about Issa becoming a part of......

A six-and-under softball team from Greenbrier (Faulkner County) won the USA Softball of Arkansas Championship coach-pitch tournament on June 11 in Bryant (Saline County).  The team is coached by Daniel Rasmussen, Justin Smith, Brent Brainerd, Jayla Lessig and Mitch Reynolds....

SEARCY – Junior javelin thrower Anna Kay Clark and senior sprinter/jumper Jenna Akins both received College Sports Communicators (formerly CoSIDA) Academic All-America honors Wednesday. Clark was a Second Team honoree, and Akins was on the Third Team. Clark and Akins’ awards are the 100th and......

Harding freshman third baseman Logan Lacey received the 2023 ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove for his defensive prowess this season. He is the second Harding player in the last three seasons to receive the national award, joining 2021 recipient shortstop Connor Kelly. Lacey, a native of North......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas has restructured its volleyball programs, with both indoor and beach volleyball now under the direction of Coach John Newberry. Newberry, who has been UCA’s indoor coach for the past three seasons and on staff since 2012, will also......

SEARCY — On Tuesday, the 2023 Division II PING All-America Teams came out and listed Harding’s Sam Tandy on the Third Team. He became the second Harding golfer ever to earn All-America, joining Brent Taylor in 1981. On Wednesday, College Sports Communicators (CSC, formerly CoSIDA)......

CONWAY — A ribbon-cutting ceremony for Veterans Plaza at Pompe Park will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, June 23, at 2560 Prince St. The event is free and open to the public. Veterans Plaza will be a space that honors the sacrifices made by......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics announced its next head women’s basketball coach this week. Eddie Broughton Sr. will serve as the Nighthawks’ fourth head women’s basketball coach. Broughton joins NPC from Northeastern State University (NSU), where he served as assistant coach......

CONWAY — A recognizable face has returned to lead the University of Central Arkansas’ defensive unit this fall. Coach Greg Stewart is back as UCA’s defensive coordinator, according to head coach Nathan Brown. Stewart last coached at UCA from 2014-17. “Stewart is a familiar face......

CONWAY — Conway native Summar Roachell has been tabbed to head the University of Central Arkansas women’s golf program, according to Dr. Brad Teague, UCA’s director of athletics.  Roachell comes to UCA from the University of Central Florida, where she served as an assistant coach since June 2022. She is......

AUSTIN, Texas – The University of Central Arkansas baseball coaching staff has undergone some changes, according to head coach Nick Harlan. “Tremendous thought and prayer has gone into securing and building a coaching staff that will help our players develop on and off the field,”......

SEARCY — Harding Men’s Golf Coach Dustin Howell has been honored with the prestigious NCAA Division II Central Region Coach of the Year award, presented by Golf Pride Grips. Howell’s outstanding leadership and coaching prowess guided the Harding team to a remarkable season, culminating in......

CONWAY – A thorough search for an addition to head coach Jenny Parsons’ staff has resulted in the hiring of Kady Self as the Central Arkansas softball team’s newest assistant coach. Self joins a staff that led the Bears to their most successful season in program......

SEARCY — Harding centerfielder Cody Smith received Second Team Academic All-America honors Wednesday from College Sports Communicators (CSC, formerly CoSIDA), becoming the first Harding baseball player ever to two multiple Academic All-America honors. Harding’s other baseball players to earn Academic All-America are Kevin Burton (1995),......

AUSTIN, Texas – University of Central Arkansas’ Jesse Barker was named this week to the 2023 Academic All-America® baseball team as selected by College Sports Communicators (CSC). Barker, a right-handed pitcher from Benton, Ark., was a first-team Academic All-America selection who has a 4.0 grade-point......

SEARCY – Harding men’s tennis concluded the 2023 season ranked No. 4 in the NCAA Division II Central Region, according to the Intercollegiate Tennis Association, who released its postseason regional rankings Thursday. It was the fourth straight season Harding’s men ranked in the top five......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will induct eight new members this fall in the Class of 2023. The newest class includes Melanie Bryant, Charlie Combs, William Franklin, Daniel George, Megan Herbert, Saville (Turp) Johnson, Arch Jones and Tom McConaughey. ......

HOT SPRINGS – National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk freshman second baseman Reagan White (Carrollton, Texas) was named to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) NJCAA Division II South Region Second Team this week for her outstanding performance on the field this season. Voted upon by......

Durham, N.C. — On top of his historic 2023 season, Maximus LaMendola can now add All-Region honors to his impressive list of accolades. The Intercollegiate Men’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA) announced on Monday its Division III All-Region selections, with LaMendola picking up a nod for......

SEARCY — The Harding softball team came in at No. 25 in the final National Fast Pitch Coaches Association Poll that was released Tuesday.  The Lady Bisons finished its season with a 46-14 record. It was the second most wins in a season in program......

CONWAY — Rachel Haberman has rejoined the University of Central Arkansas athletics department as Director of Development. Haberman, a former UCA softball player from Okemah, Okla., spent the last year as an account executive with Peak Sports Management at UCA. She served as a graduate......

By Dr. Robert Reising The wrecking ball did its job in 2007: It demolished Grove Gymnasium, commonly called “Old Grove Gym.” What lingered, however, continues to be precious, almost sacred. In 2023, living memory refuses to allow the unforgettable to disappear and catapults it to......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Burlsworth was a high school football player from Harrison who walked on at the University of Arkansas in 1994. He went on to earn a scholarship, be chosen team captain, be named All-SEC and, in 1998, All-American — the first All-American......

By David Grimes Later this summer, the Arkansas Big Dogs will gear up to defend their gold medal at the Senior Olympics. Officially known as the National Senior Games, the competitions are held biennially in odd-numbered years. This year’s games will take place in Pittsburgh,......

Rochester, N.Y. — After a sensational 2023 campaign that saw him named Southern Athletic Association (SAA) Field Athlete of the Year, Ethan Armour represented Hendrix to compete among the nation’s best at the NCAA Division III Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Rochester, N.Y.......

CONWAY – With all academic awards announced for the 2023 spring season, let’s take a look back at the Spring sports season for the Central Baptist College Mustangs. CBC ended up finishing fifth in the American Midwest Conference President’s Cup standings with their success during......

SEARCY — Harding’s Cian Mikkelsen received the ITA Central Region Rookie of the Year award Tuesday. Mikkelsen, a native of Zoetermeer, Netherlands, had an 8-4 singles record but did his best work on the doubles court, where he went 15-0 with teammate Cas de Ruiter.......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas placed two student-athletes on Athlon’s 2023 FCS Preseason All-America team on Wednesday. Defensive end David Walker is one of eight returning selections from last year’s postseason All-America team. He is joined by defensive back TaMuarion Wilson on the......

MORRILTON — Main Street Morrilton presents First Thursday and Main Street Farmers Market in downtown Morrilton from 4 to 7 p.m. today, June 1. Participating businesses will remain open and will offer special promotions for customers. Big Papa Binns, an Arkansas-based acoustic blues artist, will perform......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas placed two student-athletes on the 2023 ASUN Conference Baseball All-Academic team on May 22, including the co-Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Senior outfielder Kolby Johnson earned his second consecutive spot on the All-Academic team, and was joined this year......

PUEBLO, Colo. – Junior Dakarai Bush won Harding’s second national championship of the weekend on May 27. Sophomore Antiwain Jones added a fifth-place finish in the high jump as the Harding men’s track team concluded its 2023 outdoor season with an 11th-place finish at the......

PUEBLO, Colo. — Harding will have seven men and five women in action this week at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships. To help fans keep up with the Bisons and Lady Bisons, the schedule below tells when Harding’s athletes will be......

Mount Olive, NC – Ethan Armour continued his incredible record-breaking run on Sunday, setting the new Hendrix decathlon record with 6.505 pts at the Mount Olive Final Qualifier, his third time breaking the record this season. Armour also finished first in Pole Vault & Discus Throw.  Armour’s performance......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears have signed center Caleb Carr for the 2023-24 season, according to head coach Anthony Boone. Carr is a 6-foot-10, 250-pounder from Las Cruces (N.M.) High School. He averaged 14 points and 6. 5 rebounds per game for......

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – It was a tale of two games on Saturday, as the Central Arkansas softball team felt the elation of victory before feeling the sting of defeat. The Bears avoided elimination for the first game of the day on Saturday, trouncing Long Island before......

CONWAY — The 2023 Kids All-American Fishing Derby is planned for 7:30 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 3, at Bob Courtway Middle School.  The annual event is sponsored by the Conway Morning Optimist Club for children ages 3 to 13.  There is a “Big......

SEARCY — For the third consecutive season, Harding had five women receive invitations to compete at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The 2023 meet will take place May 25-27 in Pueblo, Colo. The top eight finishers in each event at national......

Arkansas PBS will broadcast the Class 6A-1A 2023 Centennial Bank High School Baseball and Softball State Championships live from the campus of the University of Central Arkansas Thursday, May 18, through Saturday, May 20, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). In the week......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Bears allowed the Little Rock Trojans to score three runs in the eighth inning Tuesday and pull away for an 8-3 victory at Dickey-Stephens Park. The Bears had sliced a three-run deficit to 5-3 with a......

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Southern Athletic Association (SAA) released its All-SAA and Athlete of the Year selections on Wednesday, with Hendrix being well represented by Ethan Armour and Kearon Brown. Armour was named the conference’s Field Athlete of the Year after a record-breaking 2023 season......

SEARCY — A school-record seven Harding men received invitational to compete at the 2023 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships from May 25-27 in Pueblo, Colo. The top eight finishers in each event at national earn First Team All-America honors, with places 9-12......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS will broadcast the 2023 6A-1A Centennial Bank high school baseball and softball state finals live from the University of Central Arkansas beginning Thursday, May 18, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association. Games will be available to watch online the week......

DALLAS, Texas — The 15th-ranked Dallas Baptist Patriots rode a six-run fifth inning to a 12-5 victory over the University of Central Arkansas Bears on Tuesday afternoon at Horner Ballpark. The Patriots (37-12) fell behind 2-1 before powering their way to their 24th victory of......

The Harding Lady Bisons women’s golf team took to the course for Round 2 of the NCAA D2 Central Regional in Larchwood, Iowa on Tuesday. The Lady Bisons shot a 28-over 316, putting them in ninth place at 53-over 629 in the team standings. Brenda......

HOT SPRINGS — Three members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team (34-20) were named to the 2022-23 NJCAA Division II All-Region team this week for their outstanding performance on the field this season. Sophomore center fielder Emma Hayes (Munford, Alabama) received All-Region outfielder honors.......

SHERWOOD — Sylvan Hills High School announced the hiring of Shekinna Stricklen as its new head girls basketball coach starting in the 2023-2024 academic year. Stricklen currently coaches the girls basketball team at Sylvan Hills Middle School. She has already taken on the new title after......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Josh Brown won the American Midwest Conference championship on May 5 in the 110-meter hurdles. Brown’s time of 15.85 was .14 seconds faster than second place and helped him win individually and keep CBC’s streak of four straight seasons with at......

Local golfers and their teams stepped up to the tee as they played to raise money for Renewal Ranch during the 5th annual Kyle Allison Golf Classic, presented by Centennial Bank, on April 24. Morning flight participants walked onto the greens at Centennial Valley Country......

SEARCY – For the ninth-straight week, the Harding softball team was ranked in the latest National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division II poll. The Lady Bisons moved up to No. 16. Harding was ranked 13th for three weeks, 20th for two weeks, 18th, 19th and 17th......

ENID, Okla. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (18-31, 12-20) defeated Northern Oklahoma College-Enid (NOC-Enid) in a four-game NJCAA Region II series over the weekend, splitting Saturday’s games with an 8-2 win and a 13-11 loss and picking up 10-2 and 11-0 victories......

The St, Joseph Bulldogs Baseball Team won the 1A-4 District Baseball Tournament at Nemo Vista Monday, defeating the Wonderview Devil Dogs 12-7.  The Bulldogs won their other game in the tournament last Friday when they beat Guy-Perkins 12-0. They moved on to the Regional Tournament. ...

O’FALLON, Mo. – Beginning play in the American Midwest Conference tournament on Tuesday, Central Baptist College softball was on CarShield Field against Hannibal-LaGrange in a single-elimination game. CBC (23-26) not only beat HLGU (5-33) 15-5 in eight innings in the first game, they took the......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas’s Jesse Barker was named the ASUN Pitcher of the Week for the second time in three weeks on Monday. Barker, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound junior right-hander from Benton, Ark., struck out 11 batters for the second straight week in UCA’s......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens For the fourth consecutive year, women’s professional golf is coming to Conway. With the theme of “Empowering Women to Dream Without Limits,” the Genesis of Conway Central Arkansas Open is part of the Women’s All-Pro Tour and will feature 108 professional......

CONWAY, Ark. (Arkansas PBS) — “Dirt,” an Arkansas PBS documentary about saving soil, will be featured at 10 a.m. Friday, May 5, at the Made in Arkansas Film Festival and at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 11, at the Fayetteville Public Library. “Dirt” has been chosen for the......

For the second straight day, the Harding women’s golf team posted the second-best team round score with a 19-over 307 and passed Southern Arkansas to post their best finish at the GAC Championships since winning the tournament in 2012-13, placing second with a 72-over 936.......

MOUNTAIN HOME – Entering the final round in fourth place, 19 shots off the lead, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to improve their position on the final day of the American Midwest Conference Championship. CBC posted the low round of the day as the......

CONWAY — The Little Rock Trojans scored four runs in the first inning Tuesday and never lost the momentum in taking an 8-2 victory over the University of Central Arkansas Bears in Game 2 of the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown” at Bear Stadium. Little Rock (24-14)......

MENA, Ark. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team (28-18, 12-8) split its NJCAA Region II series against University of Arkansas Rich Mountain (UA Rich Mountain) Saturday, dropping a 4-1 decision in the opener and taking a 11-9 victory in the finale.  Despite outhitting......

The Harding men’s golf team shot an 11-over 299 on Tuesday in Round 3 of the GAC Championships, and finished the tournament in third place, one stroke behind Southern Arkansas, at 14-over 878. Henderson State won the tournament at 1-under 863.  Sam Tandy sank five......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference announced their women’s golfer of the week and Central Baptist College’s Alyssa Hagewood was selected. This is the third time this season that Hagewood has earned recognition. Hagewood won the MBU Invitational for her first career win......

JONESBORO, Ark. – Competing for the last time before the American Midwest Conference Championships, Central Baptist College sent three athletes, Isaiah Stiger, Ally Swaim, and Josh Brown, to compete in the Arkansas State Red Wolves Open. Stiger competed in the long jump, Swaim in her......

SEARCY – For the eighth-straight week, the Harding softball team was ranked in the latest National Fastpitch Coaches Association Division II poll. The Lady Bisons moved up to No. 17. Harding was ranked 13th for three weeks, 20th for two weeks, 18th and 20th last......

FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Central Arkansas Bears kept the 5th-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks in the ballpark Tuesday night and battled hard before falling 6-3 before a crowd of 10,052 at Baum-Walker Stadium. The Bears (16-20) and Razorbacks (30-7) were tied 3-3 at the stretch before......

St. Joseph High School’s baseball team won its Conference Championship on Tuesday shutting out Wonderview 3-0. By doing so, it clinched a one seed for the District Tournament and at least a share of the Conference Championship depending on the results of the game between......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The City of North Little Rock has made great strides in its cleanup efforts and debris removal on streets, in neighborhoods and throughout Burns Park. The city is excited to reopen the Youth Baseball Fields on Monday, April 24, in Burns......

SEARCY — Harding men’s tennis players Cian Mikkelsen and Cas de Ruiter both earned two honors as the MIAA released its postseason honors ahead of the conference tournament. Mikkelsen, a freshman from Zoetermeer, Netherlands, earned MIAA co-Freshman of the Year. De Ruiter, a sophomore from......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (13-27) fell in its NJCAA Region II series against Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) Friday, with a 10-4 defeat in game one and a 14-1 loss in the finale. In a back-and-forth game one,......

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The Central Arkansas women’s golf team put up a terrific fight through the final hole of the ASUN Championships, rounding out the final day of play in third place. Madison Holmes was the low-scorer for the Bears, taking home a top-10 finish......

Alton, Ill. – Opening their final tournament before the American Midwest Conference championship, Alyssa Hagewood, Abby Kirby and Laney Crutchfield were all on the course April 17 for Central Baptist College women’s golf at the Spencer T. Olin Golf Course. Hagewood had the best day......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk freshman pitcher Makenna Keeton (Morrilton) was named NJCAA Region II Player of the Week for her outstanding performance on the field this week.  In a 13-0 victory over SAU Tech on April 13, Keeton dazzled, striking out five......

CONWAY — Playing their final American Midwest Conference home doubleheader of the season this afternoon, Central Baptist College softball took on the Scots of Lyon College at City of Colleges Park. CBC (28-16, 14-4 AMC) swept the doubleheader from Lyon (15-21, 3-13 AMC), winning game......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas right hander Jesse Barker was named the ASUN Conference Pitcher of the Week on Monday. Barker, a junior from Benton, tossed a complete-game shutout last Friday in a 5-0 road victory over the North Florida Ospreys at Harmon Stadium......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas football team helped with a 5K on April 14 at Woodrow Cummins Elementary School. The kids loved interacting with the players who genuinely encouraged the students. “We are grateful for their service to the school,” Krista Ryken wrote.......

CONWAY – In front of a Farris Field record 2,475 fans, the Central Arkansas softball team shut out the No. 9 Arkansas Razorbacks on Tuesday. Kayla Beaver delivered an absolutely dominant performance, striking out eight while allowing just five hits. “It was one of those......

The No. 49 ranked Harding men’s tennis team came back from a 3-1 deficit on Tuesday and defeated No. 13 ranked Ouachita Baptist 4-3 at the Elliott Tennis Complex. The win is the first ranked win of the season for the Bisons and the first......

TISHOMINGO, Okla. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team (23-15, 7-5) dropped its NJCAA Region II series against No. 1 Murray State College Saturday, falling, 10-2, in both games.  A seven-run inning spelled doom for the Nighthawks in the opener, with the undefeated Aggies......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Bears rode a nine-run inning to an easy 15-3 run-rule victory over the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions in non-conference action on Tuesday afternoon at Bear Stadium. The Bears grabbed an early 3-0 lead in the first inning, then......

CLARKSVILLE – Stepping out of American Midwest Conference play for an in-state midweek game, Central Baptist College softball was at Hurie Field on Tuesday for a doubleheader against the University of the Ozarks. CBC (23-15) pounded out 25 hits and 22 runs in a sweep......

SEARCY, Ark. – Harding baseball won a blowout and a nail-biter Tuesday in a nonconference doubleheader sweep of Lane College at Jerry Moore Field. The Bisons won the opener 20-7 and game two 3-2. Harding improved to 25-13 overall, the 18th time the Bisons have......

CONWAY – Playing on Saturday, April 4, at City of Colleges Park for the final time this season, Central Baptist College softball hosted the Comets of Cottey College in an American Midwest Conference doubleheader. Allison Wagle, Averie Ayers, Emily Cole, Heather Hoffman and Katie Smith......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk freshman guard Nakavieon White (Odessa, Texas) was named to the NJCAA All-American third team for his outstanding performance on the court this season.  Averaging 16.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, White led the Nighthawks in scoring,......

MOUNTAIN HOME – Playing for the first time in two weeks, Central Baptist College women’s golf was on course at the Big Creek Golf and Country Club on Monday and Tuesday for the Battle at Big Creek. Alyssa Hagewood, Laney Crutchfield and Abby Kirby all......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas women’s basketball head coach Tony Kemper has announced an addition to his staff, hiring Kaitlynn Pacholke to become the Sugar Bears’ newest assistant coach and recruiting coordinator. Pacholke joins Kemper’s staff after two seasons at Southern Miss, helping the Lady Eagles to a......

SEARCY — Harding women’s outdoor track and field is ranked 22nd in Division II according to the second rankings from the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Harding has 58.88 points in the rankings and is the only Great American Conference program......

SEARCY – Harding men’s outdoor track and field moved up six spots to No. 8 in the second NCAA Division II national rankings according to the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Harding has 112.79 points, up from 81.06 points in the......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (11-21) took one of four games in its NJCAA Region II series against Western Oklahoma State College over the weekend, dropping 12-4 and 10-4 decisions Saturday and avenging a 7-2 loss with a 5-3......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears Men’s and Women’s Track and Field teams are taking a short trip over to Little Rock today and Friday, April 6-7, for the Little Rock Invitational at the Coleman Sports & Recreation Complex. The meet will take......

By Jeremy Higginbotham The Faulkner County Player of the Year Award ceremony took place on Feb. 10 at Herschel Hall in Greenbrier. This is the fourth season the award, sponsored by American Safeguard Insurance and First Security Bank, has been presented. Former Arkansas Razorback and......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the Women’s and Men’s Track & Field athletes of the week for the third weekend of the outdoor season. Oklahoma Baptist’s Olivia Tate and Anisha Henderson earned the Women’s awards. The Bison’s Jonathan Elix shared the Men’s Field......

POTEAU, Okla. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team (19-11, 3-1) split its NJCAA Region II series against Carl Albert State College Sunday, rebounding from a 4-3 loss in the opener to take a 3-2 victory in game two.  On the verge of being......

CONWAY — The Arkansas State Red Wolves took advantage of 12 walks and put together two five-run innings to down the University of Central Arkansas Bears 10-7 on Tuesday night at Bear Stadium. The Red Wolves (8-14) evened the season series at 1-1 after UCA......

CONWAY — Stepping out of American Midwest Conference play, Central Baptist College softball was inside the friendly confines of City of Colleges Park this week for the first time this season, hosting the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions in a doubleheader. CBC (13-13) took......

CONWAY, Ark. – Bases loaded, two outs in the seventh, and Colleen Bare walks off Tulsa with a walk on Tuesday. Coming back from down 4-0, the Bears scored five runs in the final two innings, including four in the seventh, to fend off the......

SEARCY — Harding men’s outdoor track and field is ranked 14th in Division II according to the first rankings from the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Harding has 81.06 points in the rankings and are the only Great American Conference......

West Point, Miss. – Entering the final round 12 shots off the lead, Central Baptist College men’s golf teed off on Tuesday in the final round of the Blue Mountain Spring Classic at the Mossy Oak Golf Course looking for their third straight tournament win.......

BATON ROUGE, La. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears hung with the best team in the nation for four innings Tuesday night before the No. 1 LSU Tigers pulled away for a 10-4 victory at Alex Box Stadium at Skip Bertman Field.  “We looked......

CONWAY — Raising and showing livestock can provide Arkansas youth with numerous benefits, both personal and educational. In an all new “Good Roots” segment, the Phelps family, from Paragould, talks about how livestock projects offer unique opportunities for growth and learning for Arkansas youth. “Good......

EDMOND, Okla. — The Harding men’s golf team posted a 17-over 303 on Tuesday in the third and final round of the Broncho Invitational in Edmond, Oklahoma, and finished the tournament tied for fourth at 49-over 913. Host school, Central Oklahoma took the team title......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Bears Men’s and Women’s Track & Field teams hosted the Richard Martin Jr. Invitational last weekend.  The Bears wrapped up day two with 8 first-place finishes, 34 top-10 finishes, and 22 personal records set. Emma Selph earned first......

JONESBORO — The University of Central Arkansas Bears rallied from a 3-09 deficit on Tuesday by outscoring Arkansas State 7-1 over the final five innings to grab a 7-4 victory over the Red Wolves at Tomlinson-Kell Stadium. UCA’s combination of eight pitchers combined for 14......

SHERWOOD — On March 2 Sylvan Hills High School announced the hiring of Jason Houle as its new head football coach starting in the 2023-2024 academic year. Houle currently works at Sylvan Hills High School as the ALE teacher. Coach Houle is a 2003 graduate......

The Harding men’s golf team shot a 7-over 295 on Tuesday and finished the Hillcat Classic with a 23-over 887, but couldn’t overcome strong performances by Rogers State, Missouri S&T, and Union, and placed fourth. Rogers State won the team title by ten strokes, shooting......

EL DORADO — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball team (7-11) split its NJCAA Region II opener against South Arkansas Community College on March 11, earning a 14-3 win in the opener and dropping a 7-6 decision in the finale. NPC scored early and often......

The Harding women’s golf team posted a 28-over 312 in Round 3 of the Emerald Coast Classic in Destin, Fla., on Tuesday and jumped two spots up the leaderboard to finish at 106-over 958. Henderson State took home the team title with a score of......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK – Playing for the first time ever, Central Baptist College baseball hosted the Panthers of Philander Smith College this afternoon in a doubleheader at Burns Park. CBC (7-10) took both games of the doubleheader; the first game being played on a different......

SEARCY — Nine of Harding’s season-high 18 hits went for extra bases, including a school-record four triples as the Bisons defeated Union (TN) 14-4 on Tuesday at Jerry Moore Field in a game shortened to seven innings due to the NCAA’s 10-run rule. Harding improved......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas will officially add the sport of STUNT to its offerings of varsity athletic programs beginning in the fall of 2023, according to UCA’s director of athletics Dr. Brad Teague. STUNT is one of the fastest-growing female sports in......

The Harding men’s tennis team dropped just one set all day on their way to defeating Rhodes 7-0 on Sunday at the David Elliott Tennis Complex. Harding improves to 6-3 on the season. The win was Harding’s six straight victory against Rhodes.  Harding opened the......

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Bears walked in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth Tuesday at Gary Hogan Field in a 3-2 loss to the Little Rock Trojans in the first of three meetings in the annual “Governor’s I-40......

By Levi Gilbert A year after a devastating upset loss in the state tournament, the Conway Lady Cats traded sorrow for joy last week in Rogers.  Conway invoked the sportsmanship rule against Fayetteville in the quarterfinals and against Central in the semifinals of the 6A......

By Morgan Zimmerman Family, food and basketball — that’s what keeps former Morrilton Devil Dog basketball star and retired National Basketball Association player Jimmy Oliver coming back to the 501. Oliver, who now lives in a small town outside of Akron, Ohio, where he started......

By Carol Rolf Josie Williams is a winner not only on the basketball court but also in school. The 17-year-old senior at Conway Christian High School plays point guard for the Lady Eagles and averages 19.5 points a game. She also scores high in academics,......

SEARCY — In the bottom of the 12th inning, Chelsea Blankenship hit a bunt single back up the middle that scored Madison Fraley from second to defeat Oklahoma Baptist 1-0 Sunday in Great American Conference action. With the win, the Lady Bisons won the series......

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears dropped their third consecutive one-run game to the Missouri State Bears on Sunday, Feb. 26, losing 2-1 in the series finale at Hammons Field. UCA (3-4) got its lone run from a solo home run by......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas closed the Michelle Short Memorial Classic with a hard-fought, 7-6 win over South Dakota State last Sunday, Feb. 26. The lead bounced back and forth throughout the afternoon, finally staying with the Bears after a sixth inning double put the home team......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Playing in the American Midwest Conference tournament semifinals for the sixth straight season, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Spartans of Missouri Baptist University on Feb. 25 inside the Petty Student Resources Center. CBC (21-9) dominated MBU (17-13), trailing......

NASHVILLE, Tenn. _ The University of Central Arkansas Bears knocked off the No. 10 Vanderbilt Commodores 5-4 on Tuesday at Hawkins Field for their first win over the two-time national champions in seven tries. UCA (3-1) had a 5-1 lead after seven innings and then......

SEARCY – Harding’s strong start to the season continued with another doubleheader sweep Tuesday. Harding used a nine-run sixth inning to defeat Williams Baptist 14-4 in the opener and outstanding pitching to take game two 3-0. After playing its first 12 games at home and......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas women’s basketball program discontinued its 2022-23 season on Feb. 21 due to lack of numbers in the program, according to UCA director of athletics Dr. Brad Teague.  The women’s basketball team began its competitive season in November with......

Springfield, Mo. – With weather wreaking havoc on spring sports schedules, Central Baptist College softball took on the Valor of Evangel University Feb. 20 in a doubleheader at University Stadium that was originally scheduled for Feb. 17 at City of Colleges Park. CBC (5-8) split......

The Harding men’s golf team shot a 10-over 298 in Round 3 on Tuesday and finished the Houston Classic at 33-over 897 and finished in seventh place. Cameron took home the team title, shooting an 8-under 856 for the tournament.  Manuel Cue Vargas sank 14......

CONWAY — Looking to bounce back after a narrow defeat last time out, the Central Arkansas women’s basketball team remains on the road on Thursday, playing Bellarmine at the KFC Yum! Center on Thursday. Tip-off against the Knights is slated for 4 p.m. CT. The Sugar......

CONWAY – Wrestling at Reddin Fieldhouse for the final time this season, Central Baptist College wrestling was on the mat for a dual against University of the Ozarks. CBC posted three victories in the match, falling in total score 40-13 to U of O. David......

SEARCY — After a weekend that produced seven NCAA provisional qualifying marks, the Harding men’s indoor track and field team jumped to No. 11 in the latest USTFCCCA Division II Top 25 Rankings. Harding has six athletes ranked in the top 30 in Division II......

WALNUT RIDGE – Playing for the final time on the road during the regular season, Central Baptist College men’s basketball was at the Southerland Mabee Center on Saturday for an American Midwest Conference clash with the Eagles of Williams Baptist University. CBC (18-9, 10-5 AMC)......

ATLANTA, Ga. – After a dominant week one in the circle, redshirt junior Kayla Beaver was named the ASUN Pitcher of the Week. Beaver was an integral part of starting the 2023 softball season 4-0 after a terrific showing at McNeese’s Cowgirl Classic this past......

By Levi Gilbert After being nationally ranked in many polls for two seasons and traveling to play and hosting other nationally ranked teams over several years, the Conway Lady Cats reached a new level of national recognition in January. Conway was one of four teams......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears will play four of their final six ASUN Conference games at home at the Farris Center, beginning tonight when they host the Lipscomb Bisons. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. on Scottie Pippen Court, following the UCA women’s game......

SEARCY — A strong start and a clutch finish lifted Harding to a historic season-opening doubleheader sweep of Delta State on Sunday at Jerry Moore Field. It was the 14th doubleheader ever played between the two schools and Harding’s first sweep. The Statesmen had won......

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Looking to salvage a split on the final day of the Our Lady of the Lake Classic, Central Baptist College softball was on Saints Field today for their final two games against #15 OLLU. CBC (2-3) would accomplish their goal, losing......

The University of Central Arkansas added 26 new football Bears on National Signing Day on Wednesday. The breakdown of new student-athletes is as follows: seven defensive backs; four wide receivers; four offensive linemen; three linebackers; three running backs; two defensive linemen; one quarterback; one tight......

PITTSBURG, Kan. — Five members of the Harding women’s indoor track team were in action Saturday at the Wendy’s Pittsburg State Invitational. Junior Mariah Miller was Harding’s top finisher, placing fourth in the triple jump. On both her first and fourth of six jumps she......

HOT SPRINGS – National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics named Diego Figueroa as head soccer coach this week. Figueroa will serve as the Nighthawks’ third head men’s and women’s soccer coach.  A native of Lima, Peru, Figueroa joins NPC after three seasons at Pearl River Community College in Poplarville, Mississippi, where he......

BATESVILLE — Returning to the mat in state for the second consecutive Saturday, Central Baptist College wrestling was at the American Midwest Conference/Sooner Athletic Conference Duals last Saturday hosted by Lyon College. CBC went 1-3 on the afternoon with a win over Jarvis Christian in......

FORT MYERS, Fla. – The University of Central Arkansas Bears and the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles have played twice since UCA joined the ASUN Conference last year. Both games went to overtime and both times the Eagles came out on top. The third meeting, and......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks men’s and women’s basketball teams swept their NJCAA Region II games against South Arkansas Community College in the Kettle Saturday, with the Nighthawk women defeating the Stars, 86-64, and the Nighthawk men picking up a 104-69 win. ......

By Dr. Robert Reising No one is a close second. In the 1990s, Little Rock’s television station christened Jim Rasco “The Ultimate Sports Fan,” and in 2023, he deserves the title more than ever. Respect for his talents has soared in every region of Arkansas,......

We are honored to announce 47 student-athletes from across Central Arkansas who earned the right to be part of an exclusive team. Congratulations to these young men and women who have worked hard to be standouts on the court! The nominations were weighted equally between on-the-court and......

The 4th annual Arkansas Duck Derby grossed more than $475,000. The funds raised are designated for the Conway Regional Health Foundation and the Men’s Health Initiative, which is a comprehensive program that uses wellness tools, screening programs and disease prevention counseling to empower and educate......

ST. LOUIS Mo. – The American Midwest Conference announced their athletes of the week on Monday and a Central Baptist College track athlete was among the selections. Ally Swaim earned athlete of the week once again, for the third time in her career. Swaim won......

SEARCY — After its first full-squad meet of the season at the Rumble in the Jungle Invitational in Pittsburg, Kan., the Harding men’s indoor track and field team is ranked 21st in the Division II rankings released by the United States Track and Field and......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears return home to the Farris Center for two games where they hope to have a deeper bench than they have had in recent games. UCA played its last game Saturday at North Alabama without five players, including......

CONWAY — Looking to snap a five-game losing streak in the American Midwest Conference, Central Baptist College women’s basketball hosted the Comets of Cottey College on Jan. 21 at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (8-9, 3-9 AMC) overcame a four-point halftime deficit to beat Cottey (8-11,......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Tuesday, the Great American Conference announced the results of its 2023 women’s preseason coaches’ poll. Southeastern Oklahoma State collected three first-place votes to enter the season as the favorite. The Savage Storm defeated Harding in the final of the 2022 GAC Championships......

CONWAY — Finishing the non-American Midwest Conference portion of their schedule on Tuesday, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Panthers of Philander Smith College at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (13-7) trailed 37-29 at halftime and lost to PSC (13-2) 73-51. TaJuan Johnson led......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks men’s and women’s basketball teams swept their NJCAA Region II opener against University of Arkansas Cossatot (UA Cossatot) last Saturday, with the Nighthawk women defeating the Lady Colts, 74-64, and the Nighthawk men picking up a......

CONWAY — Competing at home for the first time this season, Central Baptist College hosted the 2023 CBC Invitational last Saturday at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC would see four wrestlers compete in the 11-hour tournament with Alejandro Mas finishing in fourth place in his weight......

FORT MYERS, Fla. – Playing a Florida Gulf Coast team that is receiving votes in multiple national polls, the Central Arkansas women’s basketball team couldn’t keep up with the barrage of threes from the Eagles, falling 86-31 on Saturday. The loss drops the Sugar Bears to......

SEARCY — Southern Nazarene’s conference-best defense was on display Saturday as the Crimson Storm held Harding to only 28% shooting and defeated the Bisons 70-36 Saturday in Great American Conference men’s basketball action at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. The loss dropped Harding to 5-9 overall......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Wednesday, the Great American Conference announced the results of its 2023 baseball preseason coaches’ poll. Following the program’s first appearance at the NCAA Division II National Championships, Southern Arkansas enters the season as the favorite after receiving 10 first-place votes. In 2022,......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks Basketball will host a health care and first responder appreciation night at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19.  The Nighthawk basketball teams will play host to North Arkansas College in The Kettle on NPC’s campus, beginning with the......

ATLANTA, Ga. – Continuing her lights-out play on the court, Sugar Bear Parris Atkins has been named the ASUN Freshman of the Week for a second time this season, the conference announced Monday afternoon. It marks the second-straight award for Atkins, who claimed last week’s......

POINT LOOKOUT, Mo. – Stepping out of American Midwest Conference play for the penultimate time this season, Central Baptist College men’s basketball was on the floor at the Keeter Center for the return game with College of the Ozarks. The Mustangs (13-5) led by 14......

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Playing shorthanded, along with playing four games in eight days, finally caught up with the University of Central Arkansas Bears last Saturday in an 86-62 loss to the Austin Peay Governors at the Dunn Center. The Bears (5-12, 0-4) played their third consecutive game......

CONWAY — For the second consecutive season, the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles escaped the Farris Center with an overtime victory in ASUN Conference play. The Eagles (12-3, 2-0) outscored the University of Central Arkansas Bears 9-4 in overtime on Monday night to grab a hard-fought......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Hendrix opened up conference play in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) on the road in Memphis, falling to the Rhodes Lynx 61-41 at Mallory Gymnasium. The Warriors trailed 17-10 after the first quarter and the shots would just not fall after that, but that......

CONWAY — The 2022-23 ASUN portion of the schedule got off on the wrong foot for the Central Arkansas women’s basketball team, after the team dropped a 65-45 score to Jacksonville State on Monday. The loss drops the Sugar Bears to 7-5 on the year, now......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — For the first time this season, a Central Baptist College Mustang men’s basketball player has earned American Midwest Conference player of the week. Senior Braylon Steen was selected by vote of the AMC’s Sports Information Director’s recently. Steen had a huge......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Cabot High School Principal Henry Hawkins calls Abe Owen “a servant-leader,” and the CHS senior tries to live up to that description every day. Owen, 18, follows the “I Am Third” life philosophy, echoing the title of Chicago Bears great Gale......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the Women’s Basketball Player of the Week honors on Dec. 21 for the sixth week of the 2022-23 season. Harding’s Sage Hawley captured the award. Hawley claimed her third Player of the Week accolade of the season as......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team will face Alabama A&M at 1 p.m. today at the Farris Center. The team headed into the holiday break on a high note after taming the Lady Tigers of Champion Christian with a 68-48 final score. All eight......

SEARCY — Harding senior Kelli McKinnon became the fourth Lady Bison volleyball player ever to earn College Sports Communicators (formerly CoSIDA) Academic All-America honors when she received a First Team award Wednesday. McKinnon, a middle blocker from Trophy Club, Texas, is an exercise science major......

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Playing an American Midwest Conference opponent on Dec. 13 for the first time this season, Central Baptist College women’s basketball was inside the Mabee Sports Complex for a tilt with the Trojans of Hannibal-LaGrange University. CBC (6-4, 1-4 AMC) used a 32-point second......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears added 21 new football student-athletes to the roster Dec. 21, the first day of the National Signing Period. The Bears picked up nine mid-year transfers, two high school early enrollees and 10 high school signees. The class......

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Stepping back into American Midwest Conference play on Dec. 13, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Trojans of Hannibal-LaGrange at the Mabee Sports Complex. CBC (9-4, 3-1 AMC) started fast, leading 37-14 at the half and cruising to a 70-44......

CONWAY — The national tour of “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage” will bring the Peanuts’ timeless holiday special to life at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the University of Central Arkansas’s Reynolds Performance Hall. 501 LIFE Magazine is a sponsor of the production. “A Charlie......

CONWAY — With the final academic awards being announced last week, the fall sports season for the Central Baptist College Mustang soccer, volleyball and cross country teams came to an end. Every team had at least one athlete recognized on an all-academic team of some......

HOT SPRINGS – National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics has promoted Rich Thompson topermanent Athletic Director this week. Thompson has served as NPC’s Interim Athletic Director since September.  Thompson has served as NPC’s head baseball coach since 2020 and will continue to serve in that role. A native of Australia, Thompson is......

CONWAY — A 45-point second half carried the University of Central Arkansas Bears to a a hard-fought 72-67 victory over the Arkansas State Red Wolves on Tuesday night in front of a loud and rowdy crowd of 2,385 at the Farris Center. The Bears (5-4)......

AUGUSTA, GA — Sage Hawley of Harding University has been named the D2CIDA Division II Women’s Basketball Player of the Week. The junior center from Memphis, Tenn., broke a 25-year-old school record when she scored 43 points in a 105-103 overtime win against Southern Arkansas, hitting 21......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker has been invited to the FCS National Awards banquet in January as one of the three finalists for the 2022 Buck Buchanan Award. Walker, a sophomore from Stuttgart, Ark., joins William and Mary linebacker John......

CONWAY — After dropping their American Midwest Conference home opener last Thursday night, Central Baptist College men’s basketball looked to rebound this afternoon when they welcomed the Cougars of Columbia College into A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (6-4, 2-1 AMC) trailed by a point at halftime......

Muskogee, Okla. – Playing on the road for the fifth time in six games this season, Central Baptist College women’s basketball took on the Warriors of Bacone Nov. 27 at the Muskogee Convention Center. CBC (3-2) used a strong offensive third quarter to pull away......

CONWAY — The Sugar Bears (3-2) defended home court on Saturday, Nov. 26, taking a 65-54 win over crosstown opponent Hendrix. Led by Kierra Prim’s career-highs in points (24) and rebounds (18), Central Arkansas moved to 2-0 at home this season. Kinley Fisher and Parris......

FORT SMITH, Ark. — Harding junior Taylor Currie scored a career-high 31 points Saturday, Nov. 26, but could not carry the Bisons to victory over Oklahoma Christian at the UAFS Thanksgiving Classic. Harding fell 79-56 and next plays Thursday, Dec. 1 at home against Ouachita......

CONWAY — Returning home after a two-game road trip, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Bobcats of College of the Ozarks this afternoon in the renewal of an old Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference rivalry inside A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (5-3) never trailed, leading by......

ATLANTA, Ga. – For the second-straight week, Sugar Bear Kierra Prim has been named the ASUN’s Newcomer of the Week. The award comes after another dominant performance from the first-year player, who led Central Arkansas to a third-straight win on Saturday.Prim put together another incredible......

FORT SMITH, Ark. – Harding junior Taylor Currie scored 21 points and pulled down 12 rebounds, but a late Arkansas-Fort Smith run lifted the Lions to a 70-65 nonconference victory over the Bisons last Friday in the UAFS Thanksgiving Classic at Gayle Kaundart Arena. The......

CHICAGO, Ill. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears will face their second consecutive first-time opponent on Wednesday night when they take on the Loyola Chicago Ramblers at Gentile Arena. The Bears (4-3), who just beat first-time foe Idaho State 81-77 on Sunday afternoon, will......

By Dr. Robert Reising His parents were deaf and unable to speak, yet his learning was normal, his growth likewise, peaking at a handsome 6-foot 4-inches and a solid 225 pounds. His mind creative and his spirit adventurous, his 80 years were filled with confidence,......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Angela Barry of Conway is an artist who just happens to work mostly on edible canvas. Barry, 36, owns A&M Cake Designs, a specialty cake business. She works mainly with cakes and cookies but can do other specialty desserts. Her artistic......

CONWAY — Four turnovers were more than the University of Central Arkansas Bears could overcome on Saturday’s “Senior Day” at First Security Field at Estes Stadium in a 40-17 loss to the Jacksonville State Gamecocks.  Still, the Bears earned an ASUN co-championship, along with Austin Peay and Eastern Kentucky,......

Nevada, Mo. – Taking on new American Midwest Conference opponent Cottey College for the first time ever, Central Baptist College women’s basketball was at Hinkhouse Center today looking to bounce back from a tough loss on Thursday night. CBC (2-2, 0-2 AMC) trailed 35-21 at......

The Harding women’s basketball had 12 players score as they defeated Puerto Rico-Bayamón 88-54 in San Jan, Puerto Rico, yesterday.  Sage Hawley led the Lady Bisons with 14 points while Tate Wells posted a season-high ten points....

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas defensive end David Walker was named a finalist for the 2022 Buck Buchanan Award on Tuesday. The Buck Buchanan is awarded by Stats Perform and goes to the national defensive player of the year in college football’s Division I FCS......

LAWTON, Okla. — Trailing by 15 points at halftime, Harding women’s basketball rallied to take the lead late before dropping its third straight close game 73-71 Tuesday against Cameron, a member of the NCAA II Lone Star Conference. Harding fell to 0-3 on the season......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears dominated the second half Tuesday night in a 55-43 victory over the Lindenwood Lions in their home opener at the Farris Center. UCA (1-2) outscored Lindenwood 33-14 in the second half, led by junior transfer forward......

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Central Arkansas men’s soccer team finished the 2022 ASUN Championship as runners-up for the second-straight season, falling 6-2 to the No. 1 seeded Lipscomb Bisons on Nov. 12. Central Arkansas wraps up the tournament with a 6-5-6 record, hoping now for an......

SEARCY — Harding held Crowley’s Ridge without a field goal for the first six minutes of the second half and pulled away for an 84-55 victory in nonconference action Tuesday at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. With its two wins in Puerto Rico, Harding moves to......

By Jessica Duff Athletic programs in schools teach students many important life skills, including balance, time management and hard work. The Pulaski County Special School District and Maumelle feeder schools are proud of the many accomplishments of our student athletes and athletic programs. Athletic Director......

SEARCY – Andy Schatzley, Harding Baseball’s assistant coach from 2011-19, received Southern League Manager of the Year honors Tuesday. Schatzley managed the Rocket City Trash Pandas, the Double A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels, during the 2022 Minor League Baseball season. “This award is......

Park Hills, Mo. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s soccer team (10-3-4) fell to East Central College (ECC) in the NJCAA Central District semifinal hosted by Mineral Area College on Nov. 2, 3-2. In a back-and-forth defensive battle, early, ECC lit up the scoreboard......

CONWAY — Goalkeeper Zach Schawl played the role of the hero Monday night in the Bears’ ASUN Semifinal match against Bellarmine, coming up with clutch save after clutch save as the Central Arkansas men’s soccer team advanced to its second-straight ASUN Championship match after downing......

WALNUT RIDGE — Looking to advance in the American Midwest Conference tournament for the second straight season, the #8 seed Central Baptist College men’s soccer team took on the #1 seed Williams Baptist University Nov. 5 at Eagle Field. CBC (8-8-3) kept the game scoreless......

JONESBORO — Harding got off to a great start Monday night in an exhibition against NCAA Division I foe Arkansas State. The Bisons led by as many as nine points midway through the first half, but fell 86-55 to the Red Wolves at First National......

RICHMOND, Ky. — A week after putting up record-setting numbers, the University of Central Arkansas offense struggled Nov. 5 in a 42-14 loss to the Eastern Kentucky Colonels in ASUN Conference action at Roy Kidd Stadium. Playing without leading rusher Darius Hale, the Bears put up a......

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. – Competing for the first time this season, Central Baptist College wrestling was on the mat recently at the Rollins Center for the Patriot Open. CBC had 10 wrestlers compete at both the Freshman/Sophomore division and the Open division. David Corretjer (125), Isaiah......

HUNTSVILLE, Ala.  –  The University of Central Arkansas Bears Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams recently traveled to Huntsville, Ala., for the ASUN Conference Championships. The women’s team was led by Sara Steimel and the men’s team was led by Julian Haessner. Overall, the women’s team placed......

HATTIESBURG, Miss. – Wrapping up the Judson on Tuesday, the women’s golf team improved its standing in the final round, moving up into fourth place after posting a 5-over 293 as a team. Madison Holmes and Pim-orn Thitisup maintained their top-10 status, each ending their third......

CONWAY — Hosting another team for the first time ever, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Wildcats of Wiley College this week at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (2-0) led at the break and made over half their second half shots to push past......

SEARCY — The NCAA released its second edition of the Division II Super Region Three rankings Monday with Harding landing at No. 8. The top seven teams in Super Region 3, comprised of teams from the Great American Conference, the MIAA, the Great Lakes Intercollegiate......

CONWAY — Two University of Central Arkansas Bears, Myles Butler and Darius Hale, earned ASUN Player of the Week honors on Monday. Butler, a redshirt freshman wide receiver from Montgomery, Ala., was named the ASUN Freshman of the Week. Hale, a sophomore from Pearland, Texas,......

CONWAY – Gabe Johnson’s jump shot with 2.1 seconds left in regulation gave Central Baptist College men’s basketball a 69-68 win recently in their 2022-23 season opener against the Wildcats of Louisiana Christian University. CBC (1-0) led at the half, but saw their lead dwindle......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears piled up the yards and the points Saturday, cruising past the North Alabama Lions 64-29 in ASUN Conference play on a wet Homecoming evening at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The Bears (4-4, 3-0), coming off......

Hannibal, Mo. – Closing out the regular season on the road on Oct. 29, Central Baptist College men’s soccer looked to end the month of October on a high note against the Trojans of Hannibal-LaGrange in an American Midwest Conference contest. CBC (8-7-3, 1-5-2 AMC)......

By Stefanie Brazile Hundreds of people swarmed the Guy-Perkins High School Thunderbirds’ gym on Oct. 14 to recognize a man who served the district for 40 years and won more basketball games than any other high school coach in Arkansas. Coach John Hutchcraft is a......

SEARCY – The Harding volleyball team swept Ouachita Baptist 3-0 (25-23, 25-16, 25-22) Tuesday in Great American Conference action.  After Tuesday’s results, Harding earned the No. 1 seed in the conference tournament November 10-12 in Shawnee, Oklahoma. With three conference matches remaining, the Lady Bisons......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference released their preseason wrestling poll on Tuesday and Central Baptist College was picked to finish third in the conference. CBC finished fifth in the AMC in the 2021-22 season. CBC returns eight wrestlers from last year including......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas baseball team is readying itself for the 2023 season and its second run through the ASUN Conference. The Bears, under second-year head coach Nick Harlan, open the 2023 season on Feb. 17 with a three-game home series against the......

CONWAY – Playing for the final time at Centennial Soccer Park this season, Central Baptist College men’s soccer hosted the #14 Eagles of Williams Baptist University in an American Midwest Conference match this week. CBC (8-6-3, 1-4-2 AMC) allowed a goal in the first 26......

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Central Arkansas men’s soccer team wrapped up its final road match of the season Tuesday evening with a 1-1 draw against Kansas City.The tie moves the Bears to 6-4-4 on the year with one match left in the regular season. Action was......

CONWAY – Looking to end the regular season on a high note, Central Baptist College women’s soccer, who has already clinched a spot in the upcoming American Midwest Conference tournament, hosted the Eagles of Williams Baptist this week in windy conditions at Centennial Soccer Park.......

NIXA, Mo. — Clinging to a 10-shot lead entering the final round, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to put the clamps on the title recently at the Fremont Hills Challenge on the course at Fremont Hills Country Club. CBC would close with a final......

KENNESAW, Ga. — Make it 2-0 in ASUN Conference play for the University of Central Arkansas Bears. The Bears rolled past the preseason favorite Kennesaw State Owls 51-24 on Saturday afternoon at Fifth Third Bank Stadium behind a dominating defensive effort and a multi-faceted offensive......

MAGNOLIA — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s cross country teams competed in the Lois Davis Invitational at Southern Arkansas University Friday, Oct. 14, with the Nighthawk men finishing sixth overall.  Sophomore Matthew Farias (Miami, FL) clocked in at 29:41.8 for a 23rd-place......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears men’s cross country team has moved up in the South Central Region rankings for the 2022 NCAA Division I Men’s Cross Country Regional Rankings for Week 5.  After dropping from the 7th place position a few weeks ago,......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the eighth Volleyball Player of the Week awards for the 2022 season. Ouachita Baptist’s Riley Braziel earned Offensive Player of the Week, Southern Nazarene’s Madeline Lynch won Defensive Player of the Week and Harding’s Sarah Morehead claimed Setter......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College women’s basketball coach Lyle Middleton has completed his 2022-23 recruiting class. Eight new Mustangs will join the stables this fall. Emma Bates, Kenzie Parker, Jenell Light, Olivia Lambrigtsen, Rhys Anderson, Kristan Hargrove, Tamara Christmas and Maele Van Houtert are the......

ATLANTA, Ga. — After a successful week that saw the men’s soccer team go undefeated, sophomore defender Richy Lapointe-Guevara has been named the ASUN Defensive Player of the Week.  Lapointe-Guevara put up astonishing numbers off the back line, helping the Bears to a draw against......

The Harding women’s golf team posted their best round of the NCAA D2 National Preview on Tuesday, shooting a 30-over 318 and moved up one spot to 13th with a 112-over 976. Dallas Baptist took home the team title with a 32-over 896.  Alicia Martinez moved......

The Harding men’s golf team jumped host Southern Arkansas on Tuesday after shooting a 13-over 301 and finished the Arkansas Collegiate in second with a 51-over 915. Sam Tandy, Manuel Cue Vargas, and Jake Croshaw all posted top-10 finishes for the Bisons. Henderson State took......

BATESVILLE – Playing for the final time as American Midwest Conference opponents, Central Baptist College men’s soccer was at Huser Field recently for a tilt with the Scots of Lyon College. CBC (8-3-3, 1-1-2 AMC) was trying to avenge last season’s two defeats to Lyon......

BATESVILLE – Playing on the road for the second straight match, Central Baptist College women’s soccer was at Huser Field recently for an American Midwest Conference contest against the Scots of Lyon College. In what was the final meeting between the two schools as AMC......

CONWAY — Two more University of Central Arkansas Bears received ASUN Conference weekly honors in football on Monday. Sophomore safety TaMuarion Wilson was named the ASUN Defensive Player of the Week and freshman tight end Jordan Owens was named the ASUN Freshman of the Week.......

JACKSON, Miss. — A week after going blow-for-blow with #5 Trinity, Hendrix hit the road to Jackson seeking their first conference win of the season versus the Millsaps Majors. Millsaps started out on the front foot after turning the Warriors over on downs and drove......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s cross country teams took top honors in the Van Davis Memorial 5K at National Park College Saturday, with each team claiming the overall top spot in each gender category.  Sophomore Brooke Wyatt (Hot......

CONWAY — Playing outside the American Midwest Conference for the final time this season, Central Baptist College men’s soccer hosted the Bucs of Christian Brothers University this afternoon at Centennial Soccer Park. CBC (8-2-2) got an early lead, were tied 1-1 at halftime and lost......

The Harding men’s golf team shot a 2-under 286 on Tuesday in the final round of the Battle for the Belt to finish in second with a 5-over 869. Henderson State, the tournament host, took the team title with a 9-under 855. The Harding women’s......

ATLANTA, Ga. –A great week just got better for Central Arkansas Volleyball. Not only did the Sugar Bears go 3-0 on the week and raise their ASUN record to 2-2, but two of UCA’s players earned conference recognitions. Senior Alexis Stumbough won ASUN Player of......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears picked up two of the four ASUN Conference Football player awards that were announced on Monday by the league office. Sophomore linebacker Demetrias Charles was named the ASUN Defensive Player of the Week, while junior quarterback Will......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens While Keith Jordan doesn’t expect others to duplicate his 2022 adventure — a bike ride from Canada to the U.S.-Mexico border — he does hope they are inspired by his effort. “Don’t be afraid to step out there and do something,”......

By Stefanie Brazile Greenbrier’s True Blue Booster Club organized a stunning pre-game show before the Sept. 9 football game, the second year in a row to commemorate September 11. The six-minute, 28-second ceremony was timed to culminate with a flyover by the Bulldog Flight Formation......

LITTLE ROCK — Central Arkansas got a huge win on the road in Little Rock Tuesday night. The Sugar Bears walked into a tough environment and came out with a big confidence boost headed back into ASUN play. The Sugar Bears will resume play at 6......

IRVING, Texas — The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame (NFF) recently announced the 156 semifinalists for the 2022 William V. Campbell Trophy®, college football’s premier scholar-athlete award. Harding senior defensive back Grant Fitzhugh was one of the semifinalists and one of only......

St. Joseph High School’s Girls Golf Team won the 2A State Championship on Tuesday at the Glenwood Country Club in Glenwood. The last time the Lady Bulldogs won State was in 2010.  A dozen teams and 50 girls from across the state competed on the 18-hole......

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — The University of Central Arkansas’ vaunted running game was stymied Saturday afternoon in a 35-27 loss to the Southeast Missouri Redhawks in non-conference action at Houck Stadium. UCA returns home for the first time since Sept. 1 on Saturday, Oct. 1, hosting the Austin Peay Governors in the ASUN opener.......

SEARCY — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks men’s and women’s cross country teams competed in the Steve Guymon Invitational at Harding University on Sept. 16, with the Nighthawk women finishing in fourth place overall and the Nighthawk men placing third.  NPC men’s and women’s cross......

SEARCY — The Harding volleyball team lost the first set but won the next three to defeat Drury 3-1 (18-25, 25-22, 25-20, 25-15) Tuesday in non-conference action. It was the final non-conference match this season for Harding. Harding improves to 16-1 on the season and......

LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation (OOR) is partnering with Black Women Who Kayak+, LLC (BWWK+) to offer free kayaking from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24, on the Little Maumelle River. Kayakers will access the Little Maumelle via the......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears nabbed three of the four ASUN Conference Player of the Week honors on Monday following Saturday’s 31-16 road victory over Idaho State. Junior linebacker Corley Hooper was named the ASUN Defensive Player of the Week, sophomore running......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics named Rich Thompson as interim Athletics Director this week. Thompson will serve as the Nighthawks’ second Athletics Director. Additionally, NPC Automotive Faculty Jason Armitage has been named NPC’s interim head men’s and women’s cross-country coach. Thompson has served as NPC’s head baseball......

MUSKOGEE, Okla. — Harding junior Sam Tandy turned in his second straight top-10 finish, placing tied for ninth at the 24th Annual NSU Golf Classic, played Monday and Tuesday at Muskogee Golf Club. Tandy shot 1-under 70 in Round 3 Tuesday to finish at 2-under......

The 2A-2 Boys District Golf Tournament was held Tuesday on the Links at Cadron Valley course. St. Joseph, Bigelow, Quitman, Mt. Vernon-Enola, and Izard County High Schools competed. Bigelow was awarded 1st Place with a Team Score of 241. St. Joseph finished in 2nd Place......

CONWAY –Fresh off taking two of three in Memphis this past weekend, the Sugar Bears will head down to the Yellowhammer State on Friday to take on the Jacksonville State Gamecocks to open ASUN conference play. Central Arkansas will then head east to the Peach......

ARKADELPHIA – The Harding volleyball team stayed perfect in Great American Conference action on Tuesday after defeating Ouachita Baptist 3-1 (25-21, 16-25, 26-24, 25-13). Harding will continue Great American Conference action tonight when it hosts Arkansas Tech at 6 p.m. at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House.......

NEW ORLEANS, La. — With the final scorecards calculated and verified, the Central Arkansas women’s golf team finished its first event of the fall on Tuesday, placing eighth in the Green Wave Fall Classic. Led by senior Elin Kumlin’s top-25 finish, the Bears had three......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks women’s soccer team (0-3) dropped its regular season home opener against Dyersburg State Community College on Sunday, 2-0. Dyersburg State Community College took a 1-0 lead with 35:30 remaining in the first half on a shot......

CHOUDRANT, La. — Wrapping up the Jim Rivers Intercollegiate Tuesday afternoon, the Central Arkansas men’s golf team maintained its spot until the final hole, landing in 13th place after three days of play. The Bears finished the course with a team score of 2-under, their......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas men’s soccer team got off to the start they wanted in ASUN play, opening the conference schedule with a gritty 2-0 win over North Florida on Saturday, Sept. 10. Playing with 10 men for the bulk of the second half, the Bears......

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Shooting a 42-under 822, the Harding men’s golf team shattered the 54-hole school record and won the GAC Preview on Monday and Tuesday at Lake Hefner Golf Club. Harding shot 276 in Round 1, 271 in Round 2 and finished the......

CONWAY — Conway Corp began its 22nd season of broadcasting Conway High football last Friday. Viewers can look forward to another season of live coverage. Each week, the broadcast will feature a pregame show at 6:30 p.m. leading to kickoff at 7 p.m. Games will be......

Poteau, Okla. — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks men’s and women’s cross country teams excelled in the Carl Albert State College Invitational on Friday, with the Nighthawk women finishing in first place overall and the Nighthawk men placing two runners in the top 10. ......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Harding freshman Noah Haileab was the Bisons’ top finisher Saturday at the City Auto Memphis Twilight Cross-Country Classic, hosted by the University of Memphis at Mike Rose Soccer Complex. Haileab, a native of Pearland, Texas, placed 14th in the four-mile race, finishing......

High school golfers from St. Joseph, Morrilton and Greenbrier competed Aug. 29 on the Links at Cadron Valley course in Conway. The two medalists were from St. Joseph High School. Matthew Seiter led the boys with a score of 40, while Kaitlyn Kordsmeier shot a......

by Mark Oliver Hot off its best season in more than a decade, Bismarck is determined to show the 501 that the Lions’ winning ways are here to stay.  “Making it to the second round of the playoffs with my favorite group of boys is......

by Mark Oliver  By being able to play every offensive line position, Hot Springs senior Xavier Parker’s versatility gives the Trojans a winning edge in the trenches when it matters most. This season, Parker plans to put his skills to the test in search of......

by Mark Oliver Last year’s nine-win season gave Vilonia a taste of its capabilities on the gridiron.  Led by senior safety/receiver Zach Nolan, the invigorated Eagles return this fall, determined to forge a deep postseason run. “Last season, my team had tons of success, going......

Zachary “Z” Grant put up big numbers for the Beebe Badgers in 2021. In his junior campaign, the Beebe quarterback accounted for more than 2,000 yards of total offense and 25 touchdowns, earning 5A All-State honors in the process.  “Z will be a three-year returning......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears will open the 2022 season with a familiar foe tonight on “The Stripes.” The Bears will host No. 5/8 Missouri State at 7 p.m. at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. It will be the fourth meeting......

By Stefanie Brazile Through the eyes of B.J. McMillen, Greenbrier is the most wonderful place in the world and working with its football team is his purpose. The 42-year-old coach has been part of the team since seventh-grade and the school district recently added his......

By Dwain Hebda  Ask virtually any athlete who reveres their male coach and you’re likely to hear the term “father figure,” an honorarium reserved for men whose impact on their team goes beyond the arena to address issues of life, maturity and success.  Nathan Brown......

By Mark Oliver Boasting a new head coach as well as new faces on both sides of the ball, Riverview seeks to shock the mighty Class 2-4A this season.  “Last season was good enough to show the potential of our team,” senior running back/linebacker Koby......

In 2021, the Lonoke Jackrabbits won eight games in the regular season before falling in the first round of 4A playoffs. Landon Jones earned All-Conference honors for the second straight season, but this year, the senior is ready to help lead Lonoke to a playoff......

The second year in 4A proved much more successful for Landon Rose and the Clinton Yellowjackets. Clinton punched a trip back to the playoffs, and Rose contributed to that effort.   “Landon can play any position we need him to play that week,” said Clinton Head Coach......

By Mark Oliver As last season’s sacks leader in Class 3A, Logan Love quickly made a name for himself on the defensive side of the football. With Quitman transitioning to the Class 2-3A conference this season, the Bulldogs’ defensive end/tight end will undoubtedly be someone......

In the words of Mayflower Head Coach Austin Emerson, senior Noah Gailey is the “hub” of the Mayflower Eagle offense.  As a junior, Gailey connected on 76 of 145 passes for 1,257 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also ran the ball 73 times for 348......

By Mark OliverWhen Bald Knob senior lineman, Renlee Espinosa, began playing football in eighth grade, he knew he would have to work hard to gain his teammates’ respect. So, he put in the time and effort to make an impact early. “One day, in eighth......

Sam Sanders was the spark to the competitive fire that helped the Catholic Rockets earn a berth to the 7A playoffs in 2021. Sanders led the Rockets in tackles and interceptions as a defensive back, earning 7A Central All-Conference honors and 7A All-State honors.  This......

By Mark Oliver A quarterfinals loss in last year’s Class 6A playoffs leaves Benton wanting more. In the highly-competitive 6A East conference, the Panthers are working to be the toughest team on the field every Friday night this fall. “We had a great season last......

By Mark Oliver After falling to rival El Dorado in last year’s playoffs, Lake Hamilton reloads for another shot at the Class 6A title.  Led by one of the top tacklers in the state in senior linebacker Izic Clenney, the Wolves are hungry to bring......

Football has been a part of Jack Harbour’s life for as long as he can remember.  “I can remember playing catch with my dad in the yard and running plays with my brother,” Harbour said. “It was a no-brainer for me to start playing football.......

Jackson Stewart has seen the highs and lows of high school football. His sophomore year, the Mustangs started the season with eight straight wins. A year ago, in his junior campaign, they only managed two wins. Through it all, Stewart, a senior fullback/linebacker, has maintained......

By Mark Oliver Poyen senior running back, Jaedon Zurliene, will never forget his first rushing touchdown of his senior high career. “My favorite football memory was my first rush as a sophomore,” Zurliene said. “We were in the playoffs, and my teammates told me in......

Jamarion “Boogie” Carr and the Conway Wampus Cats gave fans one of those all-time seasons to remember in 2021. Carr led the team in rushing in what was a balanced offensive attack for the Wampus Cats, pushing Conway all the way back to the 7A......

A three-peat is a rare feat. But even rarer? Kade Smith and the Harding Wildcats have their eyes on a four-peat.  “It’s just such an incredible honor to three-peat, and we did it with such a great group of guys,” Smith said. “It was just......

A four-year starter at tackle at the high school level is rare, but that’s exactly what Morrilton has achieved through the talents of Kajalan Black.  “He moved up and started as a ninth grader,” said Morrilton Head Coach Cody McNabb. “He has great feet and......

CONWAY — Conway Corp has been recognized by Cablefax Magazine as a Regional Rainmaker for High School Sports Programming. Conway Corp has broadcast every Conway High School football game since 2001 along with broadcasting select basketball, baseball, softball and soccer games. The company will kick......

CONWAY — Single-game tickets are on sale now for the 2022 Central Arkansas football season which begins Thursday, Sept. 1. Purchase tickets now for the Bears’ five-game home slate at First Security Field at Estes Stadium by calling the Central Arkansas Athletics Ticket Office at......

St. Joseph High School has three new coaches who will lead its basketball, softball, and boys’ soccer programs for the upcoming school year. Chandler Stanek will coach 7th-12th grade boys’ basketball along with teaching 9th grade physical science. Girls’ basketball and softball will be coached......

By Mark Oliver  With just two losses in its past two seasons, Bigelow projects to remain a dominant force in Class 2A this fall. Led by two-time All-Conference honoree Bennett Johnson on both sides of the football, the Panthers aim to deliver Perry County’s first......

By Mark Oliver Amid the ultra-competitive Class 7A Central Conference, Cabot believes it belongs in this season’s championship discussion. “Last season went really well,” Panthers senior lineman Caleb Shirron said. “We finished with an 8-4 record and made it to the second round of the......

Carter McElhany and the Greenbrier Panthers are still riding high off the 2021 season that was one for the record books. The Panthers (12-1) went undefeated in the regular season and made it all the way to the 5A semifinals.  McElhany, a senior receiver, caught......

By Mark OliverAfter missing most of his junior season due to injury, Malvern quarterback Cedric Simmons has been planning his comeback.  “Last season felt like it was going to be another great year for our team,” Simmons said. “When we started losing players to injuries......

Cole Pace is ready to leave it all out on the field for the Catholic Rockets in his senior season.  “Work hard, have fun, and have no regrets,” Pace said. “Sports don’t last forever. I want to be remembered as someone who never took a......

Even in the midst of two consecutive disappointing seasons, there’s still no quit in Conway Christian’s Cooper Johnson. The senior has dug in deep and is ready to help the Eagles turn it around.  “We are going to win games as a team,” Johnson said.......

By Mark Oliver After a 1-4 start last season, Hot Springs Lakeside hit its stride by winning its final four conference games to reach the Class 5A playoffs. Led by senior linebacker Diego Robledo, the Rams plan to build on that momentum to reach new......

Three consecutive playoff trips is nothing to scoff at, and Easton Walker wants to help make it four for the Perryville Mustangs.  “The more effort you put into something, the better the outcome,” Walker said. He earned All-Conference honors the last two seasons with stellar......

By Mark Oliver In order to improve on last year’s four-win season, Searcy understands that its key to success lies within its team strength. “We had a pretty good season last year,” senior left tackle Eli Wilson said. “We struggled at the end due to......

The August issue of 501 LIFE Magazine reveals the names of 29 players chosen for the 12th annual 501 Football Team. Read about the team in the digital issue. 501 LIFE would like to thank this year’s Presenting Sponsors of the 501 Football Team: Arkansas PBS, Conway......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears have done enough in the first two days of Fall Camp to keep head coach Nathan Brown happy. The Bears, who open the 2022 season on Thursday, Sept. 1, at home against Missouri State, spent the first......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Tuesday, the Great American Conference announced the results of its 2022 football preseason coaches’ poll. Harding edged out Ouachita for the top spot by a single point. Last season, the Bisons posted an 11-2 record, won the GAC regular-season title and reached......

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The National Fastpitch Coaches Association, in partnership with Easton, have announced the Easton Top 10, which honors the high school and college teams that post the highest grade point averages in the country. Locked in all year in the classroom, the Bears posted a......

The Conway High School Wampus Cats will be selling athletic passes from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 9, in the south lobby of the Buzz Bolding Arena. This includes student athletic passes, season passes and all sport passes.  Reserved football seating passes will......

St. Joseph School’s Senior High Cheerleaders recently participated with 13 other Arkansas high schools at a National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) three-day camp held at Bryant Junior High. Coaches Abigail and Amy Covington led the group to earn about a dozen awards. These included 1st Place......

By Dr. Robert Reising Few Arkansans with a claim on athletic success enjoy the respect that Greg Flesher has earned. Intelligence, integrity, and empathy have combined to provide the 66-year-old with a winning personality  and a presence communicating sincerity and guaranteeing trust. The lanky 6-footer......

SEARCY – For the seventh consecutive season, Harding Baseball earned the American Baseball Coaches Association Team Academic Excellence Award. Harding is one of only eight NCAA Division II schools who have earned the honor all seven seasons it has been awarded. With a 3.20 team......

CONWAY, Ark. – Four University of Central Arkansas Bears were named to the preseason All-ASUN Football Team recently when the team was released at the 2022 ASUN Media Day at the Omni Hotel Atlanta. The Bears were also picked in a second-place tie in the......

Centennial Bank raised more than $100,000 for the Arkansas State Police Foundation at the 2nd annual John W. Allison Invitational golf tournament. The proceeds will be used for college scholarships and to support the families of troopers who are injured or who have made the......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas baseball had its seventh Major League Baseball draftee in the past five years on Tuesday when pitcher Tyler Cleveland was selected by the Seattle Mariners in the 14th round of the 2022 Draft. Cleveland, from East End, Ark., and......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics named Grant Gartner as interim head soccer coach this week. Gartner will serve as the Nighthawks’ second head men’s and women’s soccer coach.  A Hot Springs native, Gartner earned All-State honors and competed for two Class 5A state titles at Lakeside High School before......

SEARCY — The Harding volleyball team earned the United States Marine Corps and the American Volleyball Coaches Association Team Academic Award Monday for its work in the classroom.  It is the sixteenth time the Lady Bisons have earned the award and the eighth straight year.......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Tuesday, the Great American Conference announced Harding University as the winner of the 2021-22 Commissioner’s Cup and the President’s Trophy – the first time an institution won both of the league’s all-sports awards. The GAC determines the winner of the Commissioner’s Cup......

CONWAY — Josey Weaver has been tabbed to head the University of Central Arkansas’ men’s and women’s track and field and cross country programs, according to Dr. Brad Teague, UCA director of athletics. Weaver comes to UCA from East Carolina University, where he served as head cross......

RUSSELLVILLE — Yesterday, the Great American Conference announced Henderson State golfer Allie Bianchi as its Female Scholar Athlete of the Year and Harding decathlete Matthew Hipshire as its Male Scholar Athlete of the Year. In the classroom, she maintained a 4.00 GPA in finance that led to......

SEARCY — Harding placed five women golfers on the WGCA All-America Scholar Team Tuesday, the most of any Great American Conference program. Harding’s five honorees were sophomore Alicia Martinez, sophomore Brenda Sanchez, sophomore JoJo Perry, junior Kodie Winnings and senior Abbey Bryan. To qualify for......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas basketball signee Johannes Kirsipuu has been selected to compete with the Estonian U20 National Team. Kirsipuu and the national team will have training camp from July 7-12 and will compete in the European Championships from July 15-24. “I am......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College continues recruiting players for women’s soccer. Head coach Lance Gordon has reloaded the program with five new athletes at this point. The five newcomers to the program so far are Karis Guthrie, Sierra Victory, Lexie Sengmanivong, Kenzie Parker and Jaqueline......

HOT SPRINGS — Sixteen student-athletes of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk baseball, softball, cross-country and men’s and women’s basketball teams were recently named to the 2022 NJCAA All-Academic team for their outstanding performance in the classroom.  Sophomore Braylin McKinley (men’s basketball, Fort Smith) and freshmen Panama Mendez......

By Dr. Robert Reising His record as a head coach of girls basketball was amazing, absolutely spectacular. Not only did he win a mind-boggling 732 games, but his multi-decade winning percentage of 72% came on the heels of a dismal, discouraging, three-season coaching debut of......

HOT SPRINGS — With Independence Day falling on a Monday this year, many people are taking full advantage of an extended stay at their favorite lakeside retreat. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is asking that everyone enjoying the revelry be aware of the dangers......

CONWAY — A new season dawns for the University of Central Arkansas women’s basketball team, as the Sugar Bears join the ASUN Conference in announcing the 2022-23 schedule. With a nonconference schedule that features some heavy hitters, followed by the second year in the ASUN, UCA......

SEARCY – Harding had decathlete Matt Hipshire and pole vaulter Dorian Chaigneau named to the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-America Men’s Track and Field and Cross-Country team on June 22. Hipshire was a Second Team honoree, and Chaigneau was Third Team.......

The First Security Conway Kids Triathlon is planned for Aug. 6 at the University of Central Arkansas HPER Center, 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway. This event emphasizes health, self-esteem, self-confidence and fun, in a safe, family-friendly environment.  It kicks-off with a pool-swim in the UCA HPER Center. Later,......

CONWAY — With all the postseason awards now announced, it’s time for the 2022 spring sports season wrap up. Baseball, softball, golf and outdoor track & field all had successful seasons on the field and in the classroom. Baseball finished the 2022 season 27-28 with......

ROYAL – The Hot Springs youth fishing duo of Xander Cobb and Eli Rowton hauled in 10.52 pounds with a five-bass stringer to win the Senior Division of the 4th Annual Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation Commissioners’ Cup presented by Xpress Boats, held last Saturday......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball program has added Johan Crafoord from Sweden, according to head coach Anthony Boone. Crafoord, from Stockholm, Sweden, played most recently at Daytona State where he averaged 16.3 points and 6.2 rebounds and shot 53.5 percent from the......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Health and Safety Program Manager Jessica Ellis recently completed FEMA’s National Emergency Basics Academy (NEMBA), a program designed to provide foundational education in emergency management knowledge, skills and abilities.  To apply for NEMBA, Ellis completed 12 online independent study......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College head volleyball coach Rick Brown has announced the 2022 schedule for the Mustangs. The schedule includes 23 matches with nine at home, including five against opponents from the American Midwest Conference. “In the first half of the season, we are......

SEARCY — Harding tennis players Allison Carpenter and Lindy Carpenter and golfer Abbey Bryan earned CoSIDA At-Large Academic All-America honors Wednesday. Allison Carpenter was on the First Team, Lindy Carpenter was on the Second Team, and Bryan was on the Third Team. All nominees for......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas pitcher Tyler Cleveland added another honor on Wednesday, being named to the 2022 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Division I South All-Region first team. Cleveland, from East End, Ark., was one of four starting pitchers named to the first team. All ABCA/Rawlings......

On June 4, Deluca Properties hosted the Beat the Drum for Foster Care Fishing Derby and raised $2,000 for The Call of Conway and Faulkner counties. The event was held at Lakeview Landing on Overcup Lake and approximately 75 adults and children registered. “We want......

LITTLE ROCK — Turtles are on the move all over Arkansas, and many can be found alongside roads in rural and suburban areas thanks to a wet, relatively cool spring that created excellent foraging areas in ditches and grassy areas beside the hustle of daily......

LITTLE ROCK — Thanks to a proclamation by Gov. Asa Hutchinson, anyone may fish in Arkansas without a fishing license or trout stamp from noon Friday, June 10, through midnight Sunday night, June 12. In addition to license and trout permit requirements being waived, each......

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The accolades continue to roll in for Central Baptist College outfielder Jay French. Today, French was named a First-Team All-American by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. French becomes the second, first-team All-American in program history and the third All-American overall......

CONWAY — Arkansas native Austin Eoff will be the University of Central Arkansas’s new men’s golf coach, UCA director of athletics Dr. Brad Teague announced Saturday. Eoff, from Benton (Saline County) comes to UCA from a stint as assistant men’s golf coach at Purdue University......

After coaching boys’ basketball at St. Joseph School for 26 years, Brent Bruich is transitioning to become the school’s new physical education teacher at the elementary and middle school campuses.  During his tenure, he served as Athletic Director for six years. Bruich’s accomplishments include more than......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will induct eight new members this fall, the 22nd class in the Hall. The new members will be inducted at a banquet on Saturday, Oct. 8 prior to UCA’s home football game with Lindenwood......

Little Rock — Cycling enthusiasts will ride the Tour de Rock route on Saturday, June 4. This is the 19th year for the event which benefits CARTI cancer treatment centers throughout Arkansas. The ride, which starts and ends in North Little Rock, winds and weaves through......

CONWAY — After a dynamite first season at the helm of the University of Central Arkansas softball team, head coach Jenny Parsons has been awarded the 2021-22 Raymond Bright Award, as announced on Tuesday. The award, sponsored by Centennial Bank, is presented each year to both a college coach......

ALLENDALE, Mich. — Sophomore Sierra White and freshman Kiera Blankinship represented Harding Saturday at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships. White, a native of Aledo, Texas, made her second appearance at nationals in the pole vault. She cleared 3.80 meters or 12 feet, 5½ inches and......

GULF SHORES, Ala. — After not competing in a race since May 15, Ally Swaim was on the track at Blackwell Stadium on Thursday, May 26. Swaim was in the first heat of four that afternoon. She finished sixth in her heat with a time......

FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Central Arkansas Bears sent two athletes to the NCAA Track and Field Prelims after their first-place wins in the Javelin Throw and the 400m dash at the ASUN Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Both athletes competed in the NCAA prelims......

The Harding men’s tennis team finished the season ranked 48th in the final Division II Men’s ITA Collegiate Tennis Rankings sponsored by Tennis-Point released on Thursday (May 26). The Bisons also had two doubles teams ranked in the top 50 to finish the season. Arthur Bellan......

LITTLE ROCK —The Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial beginning of summer for Arkansas’s boating fraternity. It’s one of the busiest times on the water, but can be one of the most dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken.  “Thousands of people hit the water for......

FORT COLLINS, Colo. – Keeping in line with the theme of late-inning drama, the Central Arkansas softball team held on for a 5-3 win over the National Softball Invitational Championship’s No. 1 Seed Virginia on Tuesday. After taking a lead midway through the game, the Bears......

University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation will host the 16th annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament on Thursday, June 23, at Morrilton Country Club. The three-person scramble will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Proceeds from the tournament support UACCM’s academic programs......

SEARCY — Harding sophomore golfer Sam Tandy was named to the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-District 7 At-Large team, announced Friday. Tandy, a native of Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a finance major with a 3.97 GPA. In 2021-22, Sam earned First Team......

CONWAY — Junior outfielder Kolby Johnson and sophomore pitcher Tyler Cleveland from the University of Central Arkansas were both named to the ASUN Conference All-Academic baseball team on Tuesday. Johnson, from Pearland, Texas, has a 4.0 grade-point average in Finance and is working toward his MBA.  Cleveland, from East End,......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas’s Tyler Cleveland was named the ASUN Conference Pitcher of the Year on Tuesday when All-Conference awards were announced by the league. Tanner Leonard was also named to the ASUN All-Freshman team. Cleveland, who was the Southland Conference Relief Pitcher of the Year a......

HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has confirmed the presence of an invasive species of snail in Lake Granada and Lake Estrella within Hot Springs Village after following up on a report of the species in April.  Mystery snails are native......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS will broadcast the 2022 1A-6A Centennial Bank high school baseball and softball state finals live from the Benton Schools Athletic Complex beginning tomorrow, May 19, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association. Games will be available to watch online the week......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears dropped the final meeting with the Little Rock Trojans 9-6 on Tuesday night at Bear Stadium after already wrapping up the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown” title with a pair of earlier victories. The Trojans (23-24) broke open a......

SEARCY — Harding women’s track and field had five individuals selected Tuesday to participate in the 2022 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships, hosted May 26-28 at Grand Valley State University Track and Field Stadium in Allendale, Michigan. It is the second straight......

SEARCY — Harding men’s track and field had five individuals selected Tuesday to participate in the 2022 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships, hosted May 26-28 at Grand Valley State University Track and Field Stadium in Allendale, Michigan. Harding’s five individuals are the......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The American Midwest Conference released their final set of Academic All-Conference selections yesterday. 50 Central Baptist College student-athletes from the sports of baseball, softball, men’s & women’s golf and men’s track & field were selected to the Academic All-Conference teams after......

The AGFC recently partnered with members of the Lakeside Fishing Team to place fish habitat structures into Lake Hamilton at Hot Springs. The Lakeside Fishing Team had previously constructed the fish habitat structures with PVC and other donated materials. The structures were assembled and concrete......

SEARCY — Harding softball player Leigha Harris is one of eight finalists for the Schutt Sports / National Fast Pitch Coaches Association Freshman of the Year award. One player from the eight regions received a finalist and Harris represents the central region. The winner will be announced......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas’ Tyler Cleveland was named the ASUN Conference Pitcher of the Week on Monday. Cleveland, a sophomore right hander from East End, Ark. (Sheridan High School), earned his second award of the 2022 season. Cleveland tossed nine innings in UCA’s......

FORT COLLINS, Colo. – After a 33-win season that saw the Central Arkansas softball team finish third in its first ASUN Tournament, the Bears have been invited to the National Invitational Softball Championship as the No. 4 Seed. The NISC will take place from May 20-26. The......

SEARCY — Harding University will host the 2022 Special Olympics Arkansas Summer Games May 12-13. This year’s theme is “Breakthrough.” Athletes will compete in sports including track & field, powerlifting, swimming, tennis, flag football and more. “We are excited to have the Special Olympics Arkansas......

EUGENE, Mo. – Entering the final round of the American Midwest Conference championship in third place, Central Baptist College women’s golf looked to improve their finishing position in today’s final round at the Redfield Golf Club. CBC would wind up not moving, finishing in third......

HOT SPRINGS — Harding junior Coulton Doyle hit a two-run home run at 1:16 a.m. Monday morning to keep the Bisons’ season alive. The game started Sunday at 9:45 p.m. Doyle’s homer came in 11th inning of Harding’s elimination game with Arkansas-Monticello at the Great......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears finished off their first ASUN series sweep of the season on May 8, blasting the North Alabama Lions 16-6 at Bear Stadium. The Bears (22-23), who won their seventh of eight conference series, improved to 16-8 in ASUN play and into......

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – With final events scheduled for today, Central Baptist College Track & Field had four athletes competing in six events this afternoon. Two athletes, Ally Swaim and Josh Brown, medaled while Swaim earned even higher recognition as well. Swaim was named the......

LITTLE ROCK — With turkey hunting season wrapped up, many hunters will be putting away their shotguns until fall, but there’s another spring season that gives Arkansas hunters plenty of reasons to keep the scattergun cleaned and ready. Arkansas’s squirrel season opens May 15, and......

ATLANTA, Ga. — After a successful year in the classroom and on the field, redshirt sophomore outfielder Jenna Wildeman was named to the ASUN All-Academic Team, as announced by the league Monday afternoon. Wildeman earned the honor after posting another semester with a 4.0 grade point......

ATLANTA, Ga. – Four players on the University of Central Arkansas softball team were awarded league honors, as announced by the league office Monday afternoon. Second baseman Mary Kate Brown and outfielder Tremere Harris were named to the conference’s first team, designated player Jaylee Engelkes was named......

JACKSONVILLE — Beebe Shooting Sports’ senior Team White dethroned defending regional champion Mountain Home Bomb Squad as the best in the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program’s North Region, while Southside Jr. Shooting Sports’ Squad A from Independence County was tops among North Region junior teams......

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Averie Ayers tossed a no-hitter for Central Baptist College softball tonight to help the Mustangs stave off elimination from the American Midwest Conference tournament at Battle High School. CBC (25-19) got put into the loser’s bracket by William Woods (21-21), losing 7-1......

HOT SPRINGS — The Harding women’s golf team had sophomores Brenda Sanchez and Alicia Martinez complete the NCAA D2 Central Regional with their best scores of the tournament on Wednesday, May 4, at the Hot Springs Country Club. Henderson State took the team title with a score of 18-over......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) recently hosted the 2021-2022 Nighthawk Athletics Awards. During the event, Nighthawk Athletics recognized athletes, faculty and staff for their outstanding commitment to the College, the athletics program and others.   Dr. George Maxey was recognized with the Faculty MVP......

BENTONVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the Baseball Weekly awards for the final week of the 2022 season. Oklahoma Baptist’s Dan Pruitt won Player of the Week while Arkansas-Monticello’s Derek Potts and Harding’s Carter McCall shared Pitcher of the Week. GAC BASEBALL PLAYER OF THE WEEK......

MOUNTAIN HOME — Entering the final round 15 shots off the lead, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to climb out of sixth place in the American Midwest Conference championship at the Big Creek Golf & Country Club. CBC would close with a final round......

CONWAY — Another addition to the Sugar Bear roster signed Tuesday morning, as Anjanae Mueck put her name on the dotted line to join the club. “We are excited to add Nae to this talented class. Nae gives us some height and experience in the post.......

St. Louis, Mo. — For the second consecutive week and the fifth time in her career, Ally Swaim has been named American Midwest Conference women’s outdoor track athlete of the week. Swaim ran two events this past weekend at the Red Wolves Open in Jonesboro.......

DANVILLE, Ky. — Hendrix midfielder Maximus LaMendola has been named to the Southern Athletic Association All-Tournament Team, the league office announced Sunday following the tournament’s championship game. The sophomore from Dallas scored a game-high three goals, his fifth hat trick of the season, to go......

By Colleen Holt Two Central Arkansas women will be among the approximately 200 athletes competing at this year’s National Senior Olympics. Frances Barger Frances Barger is a veteran of the National Senior Olympics, having competed 10 times. She began running in her 50s, largely as......

By Dr. Robert Reising He appears to have been more myth than mortal, so impoverished was his native setting, so spectacular his athletic play, so successful his post-playing career, so shocking his death. He emerged from a Lonoke County settlement one writer called “dinky” and......

By Dwain Hebda When it comes to sports, Malik Simpson is a standout. No matter if it’s the field, diamond or court, the 15-year-old makes his presence felt with his natural athleticism and his cool head under pressure.  A competitor from an early age, he’s......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced its sixth Track & Field Athlete of the Week awards for the 2022 outdoor season. Harding’s Fallou Gaye and Oklahoma Baptist’s Matthew Higdon won the Men’s honors. The Bison’s Jade Byrd and Southern Nazarene’s Carissa Burns claimed the......

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — This time it took the fifth-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks 10 innings to knock off the University of Central Arkansas Bears 2-1 on Tuesday night in front of a crowd of 10,333 at Dickey-Stephens Park. The Razorbacks scored the go-ahead run in the......

CONWAY — After finishing the regular season on Saturday, Central Baptist College softball had to sit and wait until this afternoon to find out where they would be seeded in the upcoming American Midwest Conference Tournament, which will take place May 3-7 at the Antimi......

The Harding men’s tennis had six players selected to the All-MIAA/GAC Teams on Tuesday, April 26. The six selections for the Bisons were the most honorees in a single season in program history. The Bisons had four players named to the Second Team with six......

CONWAY — Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of Rick Brown to take over the reins of the Mustang volleyball program. Brown becomes the eighth head coach of the program since joining the NAIA in 2010. “I am very excited......

FAYETTEVILLE — Despite taking an early lead, the Central Arkansas softball team couldn’t hang on as the Bears fell to No. 5 Arkansas 3-2 on Tuesday. After leading into the sixth inning, a two-run home run by the Razorbacks proved to be the difference in the......

PARAGOULD — Beginning a five-game road trip to end the regular season today, Central Baptist College baseball was at Pioneer Park this afternoon to take on the Pioneers of Crowley’s Ridge College. CBC (24-24) got their offense rolling in game one, losing on a walk-off......

ARKADELPHIA — Harding senior Chris Witzke ran his remarkable school-record hitting streak to 25 games Tuesday in a nonconference doubleheader loss to Ouachita Baptist at Rab Rodgers Field. Harding (28-17) fell 5-3 and 5-1. The Bisons turn their attention to the weekend, where they will......

ATLANTA — No. 8 seed Hendrix faces top seed and No. 7 ranked Sewanee (Tenn.) on Friday in the Southern Athletic Association Tournament quarterfinals, the league office announced Monday. The tournament is held at Adams Tennis Complex in Murfreesboro, Tenn. The winner of the Hendrix/Sewanee......

LITTLE ROCK — Step out and enjoy some springtime fishing fun with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at one of two special events being hosted by the agency’s Family and Community Fishing Program this Saturday. Both events are open to youth and adults and......

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Playing a road doubleheader for the final time this season, Central Baptist College softball took on the Trojans of Hannibal-LaGrange this afternoon at HLGU Field in a pair of American Midwest Conference contests. CBC (20-18, 8-6 AMC) only mustered three runs and......

CONWAY — The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team announces a couple of additions to the team, signing a pair of transfers making their returns to the state of Arkansas. Transferring in from Mercer, Kinley Fisher makes her return to the Natural State as a three-level scorer,......

The No. 60 Harding men’s tennis team fell in their regular season finale on Tuesday, April 19, at the Ward Tennis Center in Arkadelphia to No. 17 Ouachita Baptist 6-1. The Bisons fell to 9-8 overall and 1-2 in conference play while Ouachita Baptist improved......

TEXARKANA, Texas – Heading to the road for a midweek doubleheader, Central Baptist College baseball took on the Eagles of Texas A&M-Texarkana this afternoon at Dobson Field. The Mustangs (21-22) had leads in both games, but couldn’t slow down the bats of the Eagles (29-18),......

LITTLE ROCK — According to Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Fishing Education coordinator J.J. Gladden, the best partners the AGFC has in recruiting new anglers are adults willing to take the time to visit one of the great streams, lakes or other fishing destinations in......

CONWAY — The Memphis Tigers made the most of their four hits Tuesday night in downing the University of Central Arkansas Bears 3-1 in non-conference action at Bear Stadium. The Tigers (17-16) scored single runs in the second, third and seventh innings and held the......

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – RV/RV Hendrix dropped Tuesday’s doubleheader against Belhaven (Miss.) by scores of 5-4 and 6-2 at USA Stadium field three. In game one, the Blazers scored first in the top of the second inning courtesy of a Dawson Albin (2) solo homer to......

ATLANTA — No. 4 seed Hendrix will face No. 5 seed Rhodes (Tenn.) in the first game of the Berry (Ga.) Pod in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) Tournament, the league office announced Monday. Friday’s game at Kay Williams Field begins at 11 a.m. CT.......

The Harding University women’s golf team shot a 26-over 314 in Round 3 of the GAC Women’s Golf Championships to finish the tournament with a 75-over 939 and in third place. Henderson State won the tournament with a 17-over 881. Brenda Sanchez posted her third......

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Bears rode a six-run eighth inning to an 11-5 victory over the Little Rock Trojans in the second of three meetings in the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown” on Tuesday afternoon at Gary Hogan Field. The Bears (14-17) improved......

On the final day of the GAC Championships, the Harding University men’s golf team shot a 5-over 293 and finished the tournament at 24-over 888 and in fourth place. Henderson State shot a 5-under 283 in Round 3 to jump up and tie Southwestern Oklahoma......

CONWAY — Due to the threat of inclement weather last Saturday, schedule changes were made to the Millsaps (Miss.) at RV/RV Hendrix three-game series in Southern Athletic Association (SAA) play at Warrior Baseball Field. The first game of the series, scheduled for nine innings, was......

Cherokee Village, Ark. — Playing their final tune up before the American Midwest Conference championship next month, Central Baptist College women’s golf was back on the course Monday at Cherokee Village South for the Williams Baptist Spring Classic. CBC opened with a 354 to place......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas moved into a tie for first place on Monday in the ASUN West after its series against the Knights, improving to 7-5 in conference play, tied with Jacksonville State for the top spot in the division. The effort in the circle was......

ATLANTA —  Hendrix’s Agustin Kalinowski has been named the Southern Athletic Association Player of the Week, the league office announced Wednesday. The freshman earns the honor for the first time this season. Kalinowski, ranked No. 22 in the Atlantic South Region, swept a pair of No. 1 singles......

SEARCY — Stepping out of American Midwest Conference play for a midweek contest, Central Baptist College baseball was at Jerry Moore Field tonight to take on the Bisons of Harding University. CBC (17-16) outhit Harding (21-12) 11-10 but only scored four times, falling 12-4 in......

FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Central Arkansas Bears scored first, but not enough after that to keep pace Tuesday night in a 21-9 loss to No. 2 Arkansas in front of a crowd of 9,614 at Baum-Walker Stadium. The Bears (11-16) jumped out to a......

LITTLE ROCK – The Central Arkansas Library System and the Ozark Society will present a free showing of First River: How Arkansas Saved a National Treasure, a new documentary directed by Michelle West in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Buffalo River’s designation as the......

CONWAY — Battling through a rocky start, the University of Central Arkansas softball team (19-15, 4-5 ASUN) came up short against the No. 9 Arkansas Razorbacks Tuesday evening. Setting a Farris Field attendance record with 1,219 fans, the Bears nearly completed a seventh-inning comeback, falling 6-4.......

The No. 48-ranked Harding women’s tennis team battled back from an early deficit and defeated Washburn 4-3 at Southwest Baptist in Bolivar, Mo., in a neutral matchup of regional opponents on Sunday (April 3). Harding has now won 10 of their last 11 matches and......

MILLINGTON, Tenn. — Hendrix finished seventh overall Monday in the Rhodes (Tenn.) Spring Classic. The Warriors improved by six strokes in the third round and shot a 933 (311+314+308) over two days on the par-72, 6,987-yard Mirimichi Golf Course. Hendrix’s Cole Cody tied for eighth overall after......

ATLANTA — The ASUN Conference announced today their selection for Women’s Tennis Player of the Week, and for the second time this season, a University of Central Arkansas tennis player was selected.  After a split weekend for the Bears squad, one player remained perfect: junior Fuka......

RUSSELLVILLE — The Great American Conference announced the Softball Weekly awards for the ninth week of the 2022 season. Harding’s Emma Curry and Southern Nazarene’s Hailey Evans shared Player of the Week while Southern Arkansas’ Kiana Pogroszewski claimed Pitcher of the Week....

JONESBORO — The Arkansas State Red Wolves got a walk-off base hit in the bottom of the 11th inning to beat the University of Central Arkansas Bears 4-3 on Tuesday night at Tomlinson-Kell FIeld. The Red Wolves (5-17) broke a 13-game losing streak, but it......

SEARCY — With eight individuals ranked in the top 15 in an event, the Harding women’s outdoor track and field team opened the 2022 season ranked No. 8 in NCAA Division II by the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association. Harding has......

CONWAY — RV/NR Hendrix lost to Ozarks (Ark.), 8-7 in 13 innings, on Tuesday at Warrior Baseball Field. The Warriors fall to 3-1 against the Eagles this season. Kagen Kennedy batted 3-for-6 with two doubles and two runs scored for Ozarks (7-16). Alex Ray was......

Pine Bluff — Returning to the field for the first time since March 10, Central Baptist College softball took on the Golden Lions of the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff yesterday in a doubleheader at the Torii Hunter Softball Complex. CBC (10-12) split the doubleheader with......

SEARCY — With eight individuals and one relay team ranked in the top 10 in an event, the Harding men’s outdoor track and field team opened the 2022 season ranked No. 8 in NCAA Division II by the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country......

SHAWNEE, Okla. — Playing the final 18 of 54 holes, Central Baptist College men’s golf was on the course this week at the Shawnee Country Club for the final round of the Shawnee Shootout. CBC closed with a final round 379 to finish in ninth......

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Led by a pair of top-10 finishers, the University of Central Arkansas women’s golf team captured a third-place finish at the Chattanooga Classic Tuesday afternoon. Camila Moreno and Elin Kumlin both leapt into the top-10 after shooting 3-under third rounds. Moreno snagged her......

Mena —National Park College (NPC) nabbed the lead late in the game in a 6-5 victory over University of Arkansas -Rich Mountain on March 23. A four-run lead in the seventh inning was just enough for NPC to hold off UARM.   Jadyn Hart was the......

West Point, Miss. – Entering the final round in seventh place, Central Baptist College women’s golf was within striking distance of fourth in the Blue Mountain Golf Classic at the Old Waverly Golf Club. CBC finished with a final round 382 to place fourth with......

AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Central Arkansas Bears managed a pair of runs off the second-ranked Texas Longhorns on Tuesday, but dropped a 7-2 decision at Disch-Falk Field. The Longhorns (18-5) scored all seven of their runs over the first five innings then saw......

LAGRANGE, Ga.  – Hendrix split a doubleheader with LaGrange (Ga.) on Tuesday at LC Softball Complex. The Warriors won game one, 5-4, but lost game two, 10-2 in six innings. In game one, Aubrey Lee and Kendyl Patton each had two hits for Hendrix (14-7). Kelsey......

St. Louis, Mo. – For the second straight week, a Central Baptist College baseball player has been named American Midwest Conference player of the week. This time it was Logan Easterling who was selected, following Andrew Killough’s pitcher of the week selection last week. Easterling......

BOCA RATON, Fla. – After a slow start in game one against Florida Atlantic, the Bears got the bats going in game two of the doubleheader, splitting a pair of games against the Owls Tuesday afternoon. Central Arkansas moves to 16-11 on the year. In addition......

SEARCY – Much is made of the school nicknames when the Harding Bisons take on the Oklahoma Baptist Bison. But this weekend in baseball action at Jerry Moore Field, the extra “s” stood for sweep. Harding won both games of Saturday’s Great American Conference doubleheader......

Guide Craig Yowell (left in photo) enjoys the celebration as angler Eric Underhill, from Colorado, holds on to a 34-inch, 25.8-pound brown trout caught in the Bull Shoals Dam tailwater out of Cranor’s White River Lodge this past weekend. Yowell says the trout took the bait......

LITTLE ROCK — With spring break on the horizon, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission reminds new and occasional anglers that there are nearly 100 locations where people can borrow rods and reels to get out on the water and enjoy a day of fishing. ......

MAUMELLE — Slogging through wet conditions all day long, Central Baptist College men’s golf played the final round of the CBC Mustang Invitational today at the Country Club of Arkansas. CBC finished with a final round 329 to finish with a 649 overall, 11th place and......

HOT SPRINGS — National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball defeated the Northern Oklahoma College-Enid (NOC) Jets in three of the four game series this past weekend at Majestic Park. NPC came away with an 8-3 victory in game one. Payton Windham was the winning pitcher for NPC......

DANVILLE, Ky. — Hendrix defeated Centre (Ky.), 4-2, in the rubber match of a three-game series Monday at Gary Wright Field, as the Orange and Black opened the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) portion of their schedule. The Warriors have won 11 of the last 13......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas sophomore pitcher Jesse Barker was named the ASUN Pitcher of the Week on Monday after earning a win and a save in two appearances last week. Against Little Rock on Wednesday at Bear Stadium, the right hander from Benton, Ark., went......

Arkansas PBS will broadcast the 2022 1A-6A Centennial Bank state high school basketball finals live from the Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena at noon on March 10 in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association. Games will be available to watch online after the......

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Hendrix’s Spencer Dorfneilsen and Nick Quarles combined for nine goals in their team’s 15-8 win over Huntingdon (Ala.) on Sunday at Samford Stadium. The Warriors won their third-straight game against the Hawks. Hendrix (3-2) head coach Jordan Drumheller earned a win in his first try over Huntingdon (2-4)......

PARK CITY, Mo. – For the second straight season, Central Baptist College had a wrestler that was selected to be in the NAIA Wrestling National Championship. Christian Richer, who competed in the 157-pound weight class, was the wrestler this year following the selections of Alejandro......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears returned home for the first time since Feb. 20 and earned a come-from-behind 5-3 win over the South Dakota State Jackrabbits on March 4 at Bear Stadium. The Bears overcame a 3-0 deficit by scoring a combined......

MT. PLEASANT, Texas — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks softball team (7-10) dropped its nonconference series with Northeast Texas Community College on Thursday, falling, 7-4, in game one and taking a 11-3 loss in game two. After taking a 3-1 after two innings in the......

HOT SPRINGS — Valley Springs High School took the top spot in the High School Division of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Archery in the Schools State Championship held March 5 at Bank OZK Arena. Charleston claimed first place in both the Elementary and......

By Levi Gilbert On a team that is stocked with an incredible amount of depth and a wide mix of basketball talents, senior Kalayna King fills an invaluable role on the nationally ranked Conway Lady Cats.  “Kalayna does all the things on the court that......

By Mark Oliver    A semifinalist in the Class 5A state tournament a year ago, Vilonia eyes its return to the postseason with unfinished business.   Led by senior forward Madeleine Tipton, the Lady Eagles are faster and stronger than last year’s 24-win team and have bought-in......

By Mark Oliver   A two-point first-round exit in last year’s Class 6A state tournament has served as Cabot’s motivation for greatness this season.  Finishing the regular season at 15-12, the Lady Panthers entered the postseason on a quest to take care of last year’s unfinished business.......

By Levi Gilbert Get knocked down eight times, stand back up nine.  That was the motto of the 2021-22 Conway Wampus Cat basketball team. Dwayne Lockhart and the Wampus Cats closed out their season Tuesday with an 89-60 loss in the opening round of the......

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will host a special women’s outdoor weekend April 8-10 with workshops throughout the state to engage women in the beginning steps of hunting, fishing, and how to be a larger part of conservation.  The weekend of small workshops began......

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears put up a solid fight Tuesday against No. 5 Vanderbilt before dropping a 5-2 decision at Hawkins Field. The Bears struck out 13 times against Vandy’s ace pitching staff, but also left 10 runners on base......

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS will broadcast the 2022 1A-6A Centennial Bank state high school basketball finals live from the Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena beginning Thursday, March 10, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association. Games will be available to watch online after......

North Little Rock — Switching fields for the final game of the series, Central Baptist College baseball hosted the #20 Stars of Oklahoma City this week at Burns Park. CBC (5-6) could not hold onto to a 10-6 lead in the eighth inning and fell......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks softball team (7-8) swept its nonconference series with Arkansas State University’s club softball team on Monday, winning game one, 6-5, and taking a 9-8 victory in game two.  Despite seeing its six-run lead whittled down by the......

By Becky Bell That is the message the Cabot High School cheerleading squad sent when they recently traveled to Dallas to compete in their first National Cheerleading Association (NCA) Championship. And compete they did! The Cabot High School cheerleaders won the 2022 Game Day Co-Ed......

By Dr. Robert Reising He lived just 59 years, yet his life seemed much longer, so numerous were his friends, fans, and achievements. In death,  as in life , he remains almost iconic — gifted and genuine, charismatic and cordial. Bobby Nix burst upon the......

Photo and story by David Grimes Herschel Hall in Greenbrier was the setting for the 2021 Faulkner County Player of the Year Award ceremony held Feb. 10. In its third year, the award is sponsored by American Safeguard Insurance and First Security Bank. During the......

By Dwain Hebda The ultimate irony of Landon Crawley’s rise through the ranks of auto racing isn’t his skill in adult-level dirt-track racing. It’s the fact that the hottest thing behind the wheel in Arkansas right now can’t legally drive himself to the track for......

By Mark Oliver Maumelle senior guard Carl Daughtery Jr. remembers the lights. He remembers the crowd and remembers the sounds of last year’s Class 5A state championship game in Hot Springs. Most importantly, he remembers watching his opponent capturing the Class 5A state championship crown.......

By Mark Oliver In a season full of milestones for Beebe, the Badgers are ready to turn heads when it matters the most. Leading the way for the Badgers this season is senior point guard Rylie Marshall. An All-State and two-time All-Conference honoree, Marshall owns......

By Levi Gilbert Last season, the Beebe Lady Badgers punched a ticket to the 5A state tournament. Mya Bradley averaged 12 points per game that season for Beebe. “She was a big part of helping us get to the state tournament last year,” Beebe Head......

By Levi Gilbert It’s been a challenging sophomore season in the win column for Sara Daniel, but she’s staying positive for her Searcy Lady Lion teammates. “The relationships I make with my coaches and teammates are my favorite thing about basketball,” Daniel said. “I have......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball team (5-6) swept its home opener on Monday, defeating Henderson State University’s junior varsity team, 11-4, in game one and 10-5 in game two at Babe Ruth Field at Majestic Park.  In game one, NPC got......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — RV/#23 Rhodes (Tenn.), the top seed in the Southern Athletic Association Tournament, defeated No. 8-seed Hendrix, 62-44, on Sunday in the tournament quarterfinals inside Mallory Gymnasium. Hendrix (8-16) led 8-7 after the first quarter and entered halftime tied with the Lynx at......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears battled the best of the ASUN East Division evenly for much of the night Monday before falling 85-66 at the Farris Center. The Bears (9-18, 6-8) led for much of the first half before falling behind by......

The St. Joseph Bulldogs received a conference champion trophy and a District 2A Tournament Runner-Up award on Feb. 19 at the 2A-5 District Tournament at Quitman. The St. Joseph School senior boys basketball team played against Maumelle Charter in the District 2A-5 Tournament Finals held......

By Mark Oliver    After a three-point loss in last year’s Class 4A title game, the Morrilton Devil Dogs have taken the Class 4-4A conference by storm this season and charges into the postseason as one of the hottest teams in the 501.  Senior shooting guard......

By Levi Gilbert The Morrilton Lady Devil Dogs finished the regular season 18-5 and second place in the 4A-4 conference. The second-place finish earned the Lady Devil Dogs a first-round bye in this week’s 4A-4 district tournament and an automatic bid to next week’s 4A......

By Mark Oliver  It has been a season of peaks and valleys for Greenbrier. After a promising 8-0 start to the season, the Panthers have faced adversity, resulting in only a handful of wins since then.  With the postseason on the horizon, the Panthers know......

By Levi Gilbert Emma Rehm first got into basketball all the way back in kindergarten doing Little Dribblers, and she never looked back.  “I love the intensity and energy basketball has and the complete team aspect of it,” Rehm said. “I want to be remembered......

CONWAY — Hendrix’s Agustin Kalinowski played his first collegiate doubles and singles matches Feb. 11 against NCAA Division II Dallas Baptist (Texas) inside Hatcher Tennis Center. The result: 2-0. Kalinowski paired with Eric Meyne to win on the one-line against the Patriots’ tandem of Gabe......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks softball team (4-7) split its nonconference series with the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain (UA Rich Mountain) on Tuesday, taking game one, 3-0, and dropping a 5-4 decision in game two. A complete-game gem from freshman pitcher......

By Levi Gilbert Taylor Jo Hooten has helped continue a legacy of athletic success at Quitman. Entering her senior season as a three-year starter at point guard, Taylor Jo helped lead Quitman to a 91-16 overall record the past three years, which also included a......

By Mark Oliver Nic Shue has learned a lot in his final season with the Quitman Bulldogs. From overcoming injuries to becoming a better leader for his teammates, the senior point guard has turned each lesson into an opportunity for growth on and off the......

By Mark Oliver A long-time student of the game, Perryville senior guard Cade Spinks has seen it all over the past 11 years. From struggles to successes, the senior has made many memories that will last a lifetime.  “I grew up watching professional basketball and......

By Levi Gilbert As the district tournament looms, Alyssa Rudolph and the Perryville Lady Mustangs are staying focused on what they can control.  “We hope to make it to state,” Rudolph said. “This is a reasonable goal for our team as long as each member......

ATLANTA — Hendrix has been picked to finish sixth in the inaugural Southern Athletic Association (SAA) preseason coaches’ poll, the league office announced. The Warriors earned 13 points in the voting. Defending SAA champion Centre (Ky.) garnered four first-place votes and 46 points to secure......

KENNESAW, Ga. — The University of Central Arkansas Bears turned in an impressive 79-75 victory over the Stetson Hatters last Saturday at the Farris Center, and hoped to carry some of that magic on the road for a pair of ASUN Conference games this week. UCA will......

CONWAY — Beginning a stretch of four straight American Midwest Conference games at Reddin Fieldhouse Tuesday night, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Scots of Lyon College. In a game that featured 13 ties and 16 lead changes, CBC (11-13, 7-5 AMC) finally won......

EUNICE, LA — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball team (1-4) dropped its three-game series against No. 1 LSU Eunice over the weekend, falling 2-1 and 9-2 on Saturday and 9-4 on Sunday. Despite holding the Bengals to one hit in the series opener, a two-run......

By Dr. Robert Reising The nickname stuck. Its creator, however, remains unknown—perhaps his father, probably a Chicago sportswriter. In death, as in life, the catchy, poetic “Handsome Ransom” catapults a remarkable athlete to centrality in any discussion of famous sports nicknames. Similarly, overflowing with oddities......

By Levi Gilbert Basketball has been ingrained in Aubrey Evans from an early age, and for her, it’s more than just a game.  “My mom was my basketball coach since third grade, but sadly she lost her battle to breast cancer while I was in......

By Mark Oliver With two games remaining in Class 5-2A conference play this season, the Maumelle Charter Falcons are in prime position to swoop in and take the conference title.  Winners of 16 games this season, the Falcons have already matched last season’s win total.......

By Mark Oliver Before his senior season began, Heber Springs senior forward Zach Thomas set three goals for himself. First, Thomas wanted to drive the Panthers to their first 10-win season in years. Following last year’s winless season, the task appeared ambitious, but through hard......

By Levi Gilbert For Jaylea Hooten, her junior season has been all about building bonds and improving on the court, and with two games remaining in the regular season, the Heber Springs forward is ready to leave it all on the floor. “No wins or......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks basketball teams defeated the junior varsity teams from Crowley’s Ridge College in the Kettle on Monday, with the Nighthawk women (9-11) earning a 81-51 victory and the Nighthawk men (16-6) cruising to a 106-70 win.  In......

By Mark Oliver When we last talked to Conway pitcher Jordan Wicks, the former Wampus Cat was starting his college baseball journey at Kansas State University with the hopes of one day making it to the big show. How time flies. Three years later, Wicks......

By Levi Gilbert Jackson Fox and the Harding Academy Wildcats are in the midst of a wild three-year run. The Wildcats won the 3A basketball championship in 2021, and Fox has won three-straight championships in football the last three years.  Fox started every game for......

By Levi Gilbert Calle Citty is helping lead a young, but talented, Harding Academy Lady Wildcats team.  Citty isn’t a typical junior. She led the team in scoring and rebounding last season as a sophomore, and she was an everyday starter for the state tournament......

By Mark Oliver    When the going got tough for Clinton this season, the Yellowjackets got tougher. With competitive losses against tough teams and confidence-building victories, there’s no denying that things are moving in a positive direction for the program.   Behind junior forward Russ Hensley, the Yellowjackets are determined to......

By Mark Oliver   After dropping a heartbreaker in the first round of the Class 3A state tournament last season, Clinton entered the 2021-22 season with unfinished business.  Hot off of two tournament victories over the Christmas break, the Yellowjackets continue to prove that they are one of......

Columbia, Mo. – Looking to stop their current American Midwest Conference slide, Central Baptist College was inside the Southwell Complex on Jan. 20 for a meeting with the Cougars of Columbia College. CBC (8-11, 4-3 AMC) led only at 2-0 and struggled all night, falling......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks basketball teams swept Williams Baptist University’s junior varsity teams in nonconference play Monday, with the Nighthawk women (7-11) winning, 65-52, and the Nighthawk Men (15-5) picking up a 112-79 victory. In a back and forth first......

LITTLE ROCK — UCA tennis impressed in several ways as they split their doubleheader with a win against Austin Peay and a loss to Arkansas on Jan. 22. One of the biggest stories of the afternoon was the success of sophomore Jaeun Lee. Lee went 3-1......

RICHMOND, Va. — For the 14th-straight semester, the Hendrix men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams each have earned a College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) Scholar All-America Team honor for their efforts in the classroom, CSCAA executive director Greg Earhart announced......

SEARCY — A cold snap late in the second half cost the Harding men’s basketball team on Jan. 22 in a 75-72 loss to Southwestern Oklahoma in Great American Conference play at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. The loss dropped Harding to 4-11 overall and 2-7......

By Levi Gilbert Halen Hoelzeman has enjoyed her time making memories with the Sacred Heart Lady Knights. Last season, she started at forward as a junior, led the team in rebounds, shot 45 percent from the field, earned all-conference honors and helped Sacred Heart make......

By Mark Oliver   Changing the basketball culture of a program is never easy. With the right leadership in place, however, all it takes is a spark to ignite a revolution.   For Sacred Heart, that catalyst is senior point guard Jake Swindell. Despite the challenges that come with......

By Levi Gilbert Trinity Kussmaul has worked her way back onto the court for the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds after missing her junior season a year ago.  “She provided a leadership and motivation for the team even though she was sidelined last year with a season-ending injury,”......

By Mark Oliver   When it comes to the ultra-competitive Class 4-1A conference, Guy-Perkins has proven that it belongs in the discussion among the 501’s elite teams this season.  With numerous quality wins and even remaining competitive in their losses, the Thunderbirds have shown massive improvement since last year’s first-round......

WEST MEMPHIS — The University of Central Arkansas women’s tennis program dropped their first hint of action in the spring. The Bears could not find their rhythm as they battled a top-tier Power of Five program in West Memphis and dropped their first match of the......

St. Louis – For the second time this season, a Central Baptist College men’s basketball player has been selected as Athlete of the Week by the American Midwest Conference. Brevin Brimble earned the selection this week after his performance during three games last week. Brimble,......

WEST MEMPHIS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks basketball teams dropped NJCAA Region II heartbreakers to Arkansas State University Mid-South (ASU Mid-South) on Saturday, with the Nighthawk women (5-11) falling, 57-55, and the Nighthawk Men (12-5) dropping a 71-69 decision. Forcing tough shots early,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears finally lost on their home floor Tuesday night, but they did not go down without a fight. In a game that saw a whopping 24 lead changes and 11 ties, the Jacksonville State Gamecocks squeaked out an......

Conway Corp recently honored Water Systems Foreman Chad Hogan, Safety Coordinator Brent Fason and Customer Care Leader Nicole Pizzolato with awards for their exemplary work performance.  Conway Corp is dedicated to exceeding customers’ expectations through the exceptional work of its’ employees and gives three awards annually......

By Mark Oliver When his team suffered heartbreak in the Class 3A state championship game last year, Mayflower senior B.J. Gilliam had two choices: either give up or get better. He chose the latter. “Losing helped motivate us a lot,” Gilliam said. “We took coming......

By Levi Gilbert Karley Brown is the lone returning senior for the defending champion Mayflower Eagles, and she’s helping get the squad positioned for another post-season run.  “Karley played a huge role in our state championship run last year,” said Mayflower Head Coach Coty Storms.......

By Levi Gilbert Whether on the court or on the farm, Benjamin DeSalvo doesn’t shy away from putting in the work. The senior point guard has high hopes for his final campaign with Nemo Vista.  “My main goal is to not only work on myself......

By Mark Oliver In a season of ebbs and flows, Nemo Vista has found a way to win games when it matters the most. With just one senior on its roster, the Red Hawks have set high expectations for each of its underclassmen in order......

LITTLE ROCK — COVID-19 may have put the brakes on last season’s year-end celebration of deer hunting, but the bucks are back and twice as nice at this year’s Arkansas Big Buck Classic, Jan. 21-23. This also means the return of the Arkansas Game and......

BATESVILLE – Looking for their first win inside Becknell Gymnasium in almost four years, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Scots of Lyon College tonight in an American Midwest Conference contest. CBC (8-8, 4-0 AMC) accomplished their goal, leading by 14 at halftime......

By Mark Oliver With 18 wins under its belt, just about everything Wonderview touches has turned to gold this season. According to Lady Daredevils’ senior point guard Kaitlyn Crafton, the team’s secret to success is simply great chemistry. “Despite just two seniors and three juniors, we......

By Levi Gilbert It was no easy task for Piper Peterson to get back on the court this season, but the senior isn’t afraid to put in the hard work to achieve her goals.  Peterson, a 6-foot-2 post player for Mt. Vernon-Enola, has returned from......

By Levi Gilbert A slow start to the season hasn’t slowed down senior Gavin Smothers and the Mt. Vernon-Enola Warhawks at all. After five consecutive losses in November, the Warhawks found their flight, going 7-2 to close out the year.  With state tournament memories still......

By Mark Oliver Off to a scorching 22-1 start this season, Wonderview has put last season’s state tournament exit in the rearview mirror and appears to be in cruise control heading toward the Class 1A state championship game. Led by All-State junior guard Sam Reynolds,......

Conway – Central Baptist College head softball coach Keith Hinson has announced a second signee to his 2022-23 recruiting class. Olivia Pickard becomes the second future Mustang to sign. Pickard comes to CBC from South Gibson County High School in Tennessee. The Medina, Tenn., native......

CONWAY – A Herculean effort from Lucy Ibeh powered the Sugar Bears to a 71-63 win over Jarvis Christian on Sunday, Jan. 2. After a slow first half, the University of Central Arkansas cranked up the intensity in the second half to get the job done, taking......

By Mark Oliver Don’t let their record fool you, the 1-8 Conway Christian Eagles are getting better each game. Led by budding underclassmen, the Eagles are looking to spread their wings right when it matters the most. “We have a very young team with only......

By Mark Oliver After last year’s first-round exit from the playoffs, the St. Joseph Bulldogs are taking charge of their own destiny this season. Off to a red-hot 10-2 start, the Bulldogs are quickly making waves in the Class 5-2A conference. “Our goals for this......

By Levi Gilbert The 2021-22 season has been a roller coaster ride for Josie Williams and the Conway Christian Lady Eagles, but with the second half underway, Williams’s competitive spirit has her looking ahead and looking up.  As Williams describes it, this 2021 “year of......

By Levi Gilbert On the court, Maggie Mooney’s senior season came to an abrupt end in St. Joseph’s second game due to an ACL injury. But her role as a Lady Bulldog is far from over.  “I will continue to support my team in any......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas’ Ibbe Klintman was named the ASUN Conference Newcomer of the Week on Monday after his performance against Hendrix last week. Klintman, a 6-foot-8, 200-pound guard/forward from Malmo, Sweden, filled up his boxscore in UCA’s 90-56 win over the Warriors. Klintman......

LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Family and Community Fishing Program has begun trout stockings for the 2021-22 winter stocking season at ponds throughout Arkansas. This is the chance to hook into a specially tagged, prize-winning rainbow trout before the water warms......

501 LIFE is proud to present the 501 Basketball Team for 2021-22. The team boasts 40 honorees representing the best student-athletes the 501 has to offer, both on and off the court.  Players were nominated by their coaches and selected by the 501 staff. The......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas women’s basketball team returns to the Farris Center at 1 p.m. today, Dec. 16, to face crosstown foe Central Baptist on Thursday. It’s been a tough stretch for the Sugar Bears, who seek an end to their three-game losing streak. Most recently,......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears had five players named to various All-American teams on Tuesday, including sophomore wide receiver Tyler Hudson who was honored three times. “December is a special time in the Football Championship Subdivision with the playoffs, the Celebration Bowl,......

AUSTIN, Texas – Looking to rebound from a tough loss on Saturday at John Brown, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Rams of Huston-Tillotson University Tuesday, Dec. 14, in their final road game of the 2021 calendar year. CBC (5-8) led at halftime,......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks men’s basketball team (9-3) will host the inaugural Nighthawk Holiday Classic in “The Kettle” at National Park College on Dec. 17-18.  Featuring talented programs from Arkansas, Texas and Missouri, the Nighthawks welcome Southern Arkansas University Tech......

MONTICELLO — The Harding men’s basketball team got within eight in the second half but Arkansas-Monticello went on to win 71-57 in Great American Conference action. Harding falls to 3-6 overall and 1-2 in the GAC. Arkansas-Monticello improves to 6-3 on the season and 2-1......

MONTICELLO — The Harding women’s basketball team jumped out to an 8-0 lead and didn’t look back as they went on to defeat Arkansas-Monticello 73-45 Saturday in Great American Conference action. The Lady Bisons improve to 6-3 on the season and 2-1 in the GAC.......

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Huntingdon (Ala.) defeated Hendrix, 58-50, on Dec. 5 inside Roland Arena. The Hawks snapped the Warriors’ two-game win streak. Hendrix (3-5) overcame a 10-point, first half deficit with a 10-0 run in the third quarter which lasted 2:13, taking its first lead,......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball team played a series of slow-pitch softball exhibition games against the Hot Springs Fire Department at Kimery Park recently.  In a day filled with fun and laughs, each team split up to play three simultaneous......

CONWAY — Jordan Drumheller, who spent the last four seasons (2018-21) as an assistant at Bridgewater (Va.), has been named the fourth head coach in Hendrix history, director of athletics Amy Weaver announced. Drumheller replaces Anthony Biondo, who accepted a non-coaching position with Acxiom, a marketing......

JONESBORO — A 30-point effort from junior Darious Hall was not enough for the University of Central Arkansas Bears to overcome a big first-half deficit Saturday as the Arkansas State Red Wolves prevailed 95-82 at First National Bank Arena. The Bears trailed by as much......

Conway – Opening their American Midwest Conference title defense tonight at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse, Central Baptist College men’s basketball hosted the Eagles of Williams Baptist University on Dec. 2. CBC (3-7, 1-0 AMC) was shooting hot all night long and played great defense, holding the......

COMMERCE, Texas — Sophomore Taylor Currie scored 24 points and Stetson Smithson had his fourth double-double of the season but Texas A&M-Commerce came from behind to defeat Harding 94-83 Monday in nonconference action at the A&M-Commerce Field House. Harding dropped to 3-5 overall and returns to......

LITTLE ROCK – With the opening days of deer and duck seasons in the rearview mirror, some hunters may be looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors without the crowds. Unlike its original celebration on Labor Day Weekend, the second split of dove......

CONWAY – Playing in front of a home crowd for the first time this season, Central Baptist College women’s basketball hosted the Royals of Ecclesia College tonight at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (3-2) held EC (3-6) to just 28 percent shooting from the field and......

MINNEAPOLIS — Hendrix guard Kennedi Burns has been named to the D3hoops.com Team of the Week, presented by Scoutware, which was announced Monday. She becomes the eighth different player in program history to earn the national distinction and first since Sara Dyslin on Feb. 17, 2015. Hendrix players have......

NEW ORLEANS — The University of Central Arkansas Bears followed a good shooting half with a poor one Friday and dropped their finale in the UNO Classic, falling 75-66 at Lakefront Arena. The Bears (1-6) shot 54.2 percent from the field in the opening half......

SEARCY — Sophomore Stetson Smithson recorded his third double-double of the season but Harding fell 80-61 to Arkansas-Fort Smith Saturday in a nonconference matchup at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. The loss dropped Harding to 2-3 on the season. The Bisons begin Great American Conference play......

LITTLE ROCK — The first segment of Arkansas’ regular duck season has come to a close, but that doesn’t mean all of the shooting has stopped. Thanks to special rules enacted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission,......

SHREVEPORT, La. — Madi Pierce tallied her fourth double-double donning the Orange and Black, as Hendrix erased a 10-point, third-quarter deficit, and defeated Centenary (La.), 58-52, on Sunday inside the Gold Dome. The Warriors won their seventh-straight game over the Ladies and improved to 11-1......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas volleyball team finished the season on a high note as they accumulated 15 blocks and dominated their way to a 3-1 season finale. Outside of set one, the Sugar Bears could do no wrong as they stepped up......

CONWAY — The Sugar Bears rebounded from Tuesday’s loss to post their first win of the season Friday night, defeating Hendrix College 74-35 to improve to 1-1 on the young season. Lucy Ibeh posted 18 points and nine rebounds, while freshman Randrea Wright scored 15......

CONWAY — Coming off a hard-fought overtime game their last time out, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the Warriors of Bacone College tonight at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (1-4) led by 16 at the half and shot 59 percent from the floor in......

By Mark Oliver A heartbreaking loss in last year’s Class 6A title game left Lake Hamilton hungry for more coming into 2021. One year later, the Wolves are one of 12 teams remaining in the hunt for this year’s title. With four games separating them from......

ST. LOUIS — After a solid 15-minute start to the University of Central Arkansas Bears season, the Saint Louis Billikens shifted gears and pulled away from them in the second half Tuesday night in a 96-61 victory at Chaifetz Arena in the season opener for......

LITTLE ROCK — Deer are on the move in The Natural State. That means hunters and motorists in Arkansas should keep a watchful eye out, particularly at dawn and dusk.  In addition to the increased deer activity, the shortened days place rush hour during the......

CONWAY — Nyasha Dube’s second goal of the game with 21 seconds left in the second overtime won Central Baptist College men’s soccer their American Midwest Conference tournament quarterfinal game on Nov. 7 at Warrior Field on the Hendrix College campus. CBC (9-9-1) repeated what......

ATLANTA — Hendrix running back Rayfield Conley has been named Southern Athletic Association Offensive Player of the Week, the league office announced Monday. He earns the honor for the first time and becomes the second Warrior to garner the award this season after quarterback Parker Wells earned......

SEARCY — The Harding volleyball team swept Southern Arkansas 3-0 (25-16, 25-16, 25-16) Tuesday in Great American Conference action at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House. After the match, the Lady Bisons recognized seniors Amber Robin and Cooper Monn for their contributions to the Harding volleyball program. Harding......

CONWAY — Coming into tonight’s match on a five-match losing skid, Central Baptist College volleyball hosted the Panthers of Philander Smith tonight at Reddin Fieldhouse. CBC (10-14) used excellent execution to sweep PSC (16-9), avenging a loss to the Panthers back in September. Kylee Sabella,......

SEARCY — It took 1:27 seconds into the first overtime for Carmen Gunn to score the game-winning goal over Ouachita Baptist Tuesday night at the Stevens Soccer Complex. Harding won the thriller 3-2. It was the Lady Bisons first win in overtime since defeating Wayne......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas volleyball dropped their return to the Prince Center as they fell to Lipscomb 3-0. The Sugar Bears hit the ball phenomenally as they posted a .295 hitting percentage but could not muster enough as they fell to the high-powered Bison offense.......

CONWAY — Hendrix shut out Belhaven (Miss.), 1-0, on Oct. 27, at Warrior Soccer Field in the Orange and Black’s regular-season finale. Jeff Trimble’s squad earns its first win in the series and ends a four-game skid overall and two-game win streak by the Blazers.......

By Mark Oliver Although it hasn’t been the season that Bald Knob had hoped for this year, no one in a Bulldogs uniform is hanging their heads. Where some see adversity, others, like senior lineman Colbe McBride, see a silver lining. “Although this year has......

CONWAY — Playing Lyon for the third time in the 2021 calendar year, Central Baptist College men’s soccer hosted the Scots this afternoon in an American Midwest Conference tilt for the final regular season game at Centennial Park this year. CBC (8-8-1, 4-2-1 AMC) got......

SEARCY — The Harding men’s golf team finished the fall portion of their schedule at the Tulsa Cup tied for ninth place with a 15-over 879. Host Rogers State took home the team title with a 17-under 847. Wilmer Haakansson posted an even 72 in......

JACKSON, Miss. — Hendrix rallied from a 2-1 deficit Sunday and won its third-straight match overall and 10th-consecutive against Millsaps (Miss.) following a five-set victory by scores of 14-25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-20 and 15-8 in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) finale for both teams inside......

BEAUMONT, Texas — A week after setting a single-game receiving record, the University of Central Arkansas Bears flirted with another record on Saturday night in a 49-38 victory over the Lamar Cardinals at Provost Umphrey Stadium. The  Bears (3-4, 2-2) turned in a dominating rushing......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears hauled in all four of the weekly ASUN football player of the week awards on Monday. Freshman running back Darius Hale was named the Offensive Player of the Week, freshman running back Kylin James was the Freshman of the......

By Dr. Robert Reising Even his alma mater agreed. Eight years ago, Southern Arkansas University publicly admitted that David Alpe’s name was “synonymous with Malvern High football and athletics,” not with Magnolia and his superb undergraduate athletic feats or even with Arkansas’ Lake Village, the......

DeAirus Whitney and Macie Fritts met during high school in Searcy and have been sweethearts since. She expected they would marry after he graduated with his master’s, but a lucky turn of fate has wedding bells ringing sooner than planned. Both graduated from the University......

By Levi Gilbert Andrew Miller and his fellow seniors at Harding Academy have the chance to do something rare in the nation — winning three straight high school football championships.  Last fall as a junior, Miller carried the ball 161 times for 1,347 yards and......

By Mark Oliver Things are looking up for Beebe this fall. After mustering just two wins last season, the Badgers have already equaled last year’s win total, including the team’s first Class 5A Central conference win in a year. Behind a stronger senior class and......

LITTLE ROCK — The University of Central Arkansas Bears traveled to Little Rock on Saturday Oct. 16 for the Little Rock Open at War Memorial Park.  The women’s team placed first overall out of eight teams and the men’s team placed first overall out of nine......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks women’s and men’s soccer teams were defeated by University of Arkansas Rich Mountain on Sunday, with the women falling, 2-1, and the men dropping a 1-0 decision. In a physical women’s contest, the Nighthawks (2-13) blocked......

CONWAY — Hendrix equaled its longest win streak since 2018 following the Oct. 8, 2-0 shutout of Oglethorpe (Ga.) in Southern Athletic Association (SAA) action at Warrior Soccer Field. The Warriors won their fourth-straight game over the Stormy Petrels to improve to 8-1-1 all-time in......

Two courtesy docks in central Arkansas recently received improvements.  The small existing courtesy dock at Chittman Hill Access on Harris Brake Lake had been battered by winds to the point that it was not a very stable platform for loading and unloading boats. This smaller platform......

By Mark OliverHot off its best season in school history, Poyen aims for new heights in 2021. After achieving a 4-2 record through their non-conference schedule, the Indians are ready to repeat history with a heavy rushing attack and stingy defensive force.   “My favorite football memory was coming home......

By Levi Gilbert The Quitman Bulldogs won their first ever playoff game in 2020, and quarterback William Litton played a big role in that history.  “It was big for the program, but we couldn’t have done it without the impact [last year’s] seniors made,” Litton......

ATLANTA — Central Arkansas volleyball got their first glimpse of ASUN praise as graduate middle blocker Amari Mitchell claimed defensive player of the week for her work against Eastern Kentucky and Bellarmine. As one of the leaders on this youthful Sugar Bears squad, Mitchell is......

CONWAY – Manny Almaraz’s header in the 71st minute tied Saturday’s American Midwest Conference match for Central Baptist College men’s soccer with the Spartans of Missouri Baptist. CBC (5-6-1, 1-0-1 AMC) would hang on through the final 19 regulation minutes and both over times to force......

CONWAY — RV/RV Birmingham-Southern (Ala.) defeated Hendrix, 43-6, on Saturday in Southern Athletic Association action at Young-Wise Memorial Stadium. The Warriors faced their second-straight league opponent which was receiving votes in the AFCA and D3football.com Top 25 polls. Hendrix (1-4, 0-2 SAA) forced a three......

Join hunting pro-staffer and Arkansas native Tim Endsley, AGFC Archery Program Coordinator Curtis Gray and other AGFC staff from 6 to 7 p.m., tonight, as they discuss archery equipment for hunting. They will break down the different gear, how to find the right set up......

By Mark Oliver MALVERN — After falling to eventual Class 4A state champion Shiloh Christian in the playoffs, Malvern spent the offseason focusing on getting stronger, not only in the weight room, but also as leaders. Off to a 3-2 start in 2021, including an unblemished......

By Levi Gilbert Benton continues to be in the upper echelon of 6A football, and senior Cain Simmons has become the cornerstone of the Panther defense. “He’s one of the hardest working players I have ever coached,” said Benton Head Coach Brad Harris. “He is......

CONWAY — Playing in their final non-conference match of the season last Friday, Central Baptist College men’s soccer hosted the Royals of Ecclesia at Centennial Soccer Complex. CBC (5-6) won their fifth match in a row, leading 3-0 at halftime and cruising to a 5-1......

ARKADELPHIA — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks men’s and women’s cross-country teams competed in the Ouachita Tiger Invitational meet, hosted Oct. 1 by Ouachita Baptist University.  In the women’s 5K race, NPC sophomore Meighan Mears (Hot Springs) led the Nighthawks with a time of......

CONWAY — Take an in-depth look at the RV/RV Birmingham-Southern (Ala.) at Hendrix game by reading this week’s game notes and the latest depth charts that are available for download below. Kickoff from Young-Wise Memorial Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. CT Saturday. The game......

ABILENE, Texas – You can get away with spotting an opponent a 21-7 lead when you come back and score 35 unanswered points. That is exactly what the University of Central Arkansas Bears did on Saturday night in Abilene, Texas, overcoming a 21-7 deficit midway......

By Levi Gilbert Entering his senior season, the goals were clear for Maumelle’s Caleb Stroud.  “We want to be state champions in 5A. Playing as a team can get us there,” Stroud said. “I want to play as best as I can and receive a......

By Mark OliverFacing low participation numbers, Cutter Morning Star transitioned to 8-man football this fall in an attempt to create a new football culture in Garland County. After ending its 15-game losing streak last week, the sky’s the limit for the soaring Eagles. “After nearly......

The Boys Golf Team at St. Joseph School won the District 2A-2 Tournament held Sept. 21 at The Links at Cadron Valley course in Conway. Their team score was 246, ahead of Bigelow which shot a 284. Tuckerman came in third place with a 319.......

ATLANTA — Hendrix quarterback Parker Wells has been named Southern Athletic Association Offensive Player of the Week, the league office announced Monday. He earns the honor after only his second collegiate game played. Wells went 17-of-21 through the air for 295 yards and six touchdowns in......

By Mark Oliver After reaching the Class 5A quarterfinals last season, Hot Springs Lakeside believes it has what it takes to win it all in 2021.  Led by senior lineman Steven Cummins, the Rams rely on a stingy defensive core to win games and have only gotten stronger in the......

By Levi Gilbert After enduring a disappointing season in 2020, Payton Lentz and the Conway Christian Eagles are ready to put the past behind them and earn a Friday night W.  “We are striving to get better with every snap in practice and in the......

SEARCY — Harding sophomore Leo Maciejek won his first career tournament on Tuesday, after shooting 3-under 67 in Round 3 to finish the tournament 8-under 205 and won the title on the first playoff hole. Maciejek’s 8-under 205 was the lowest 54-hole score in school history......

CONWAY — Central Arkansas Tennis had a successful weekend during their home tournament as they tallied 12 single wins and nine doubles victories.  The Bears had one top finish and three second-place finishes in terms of singles. They claimed one top finish, two second-place finishes, and......

ATLANTA – Hendrix right side hitter Sadie Walker, no. 14, has been named the Southern Athletic Association Offensive Player of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday. Walker earns the honor for the first time in her career, as the Warriors claimed a conference award for the......

By Levi Gilbert The move up to 4A proved to be a bumpy transition for the Clinton Yellowjackets, but a 2-9 season has left senior Jacob Hutto with a maniacal level of motivation.  “My personal goal for this season is to be the most intense......

By Mark Oliver An 8-0 start and a second-place finish in the Class 4-2A conference were two of Central Arkansas Christian’s biggest accomplishments in 2020. With consistent improvement over the past three seasons, the sky is the limit for the Mustangs in 2021.   “Our team goals this season are to......

By Randy Zellers, Asst. Chief of Communications  LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will host a special women’s outdoor weekend Oct. 1-3 with workshops throughout the state to help ladies learn how to hunt, fish and be a larger part of conservation in......

HOT SPRINGS – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks softball team has selected its next head coach this week.  Autumn Wyatt will serve as the Nighthawks’ second softball coach. A native of Keller, Texas, Wyatt most recently served as the Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance......

By Levi Gilbert Garrett Farnam and the Perryville Mustangs have made the playoffs the past two seasons, but one thing has remained elusive — a post-season victory. Farnam is working to put an end to that this fall.  “It has been a while since our......

By Mark Oliver As the 501’s biggest Cinderella story last season, Bigelow is ready to prove that last year’s success was no fluke.    “Last year, we were committed to not being a losing team anymore,” senior linebacker/receiver Keenan Hobbs said.  This year, we’re looking to......

HOT SPRINGS – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks women’s soccer team earned its first win in program history Sunday, defeating Redlands Community College (El Reno, Okla.), 3-1.  An aggressive offensive game plan led to early success for NPC (1-3), with the Nighthawks scoring two......

CONWAY – University of Central Arkansas junior defensive back Deandre Lamont was named the ASUNDefensive Player of the Week on Monday. Lamont, a nickel safety from Baytown, Texas (Goose Creek Memorial High School), led the Bears with 11 tackles and a fumble recovery in their season......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College has reached an agreement with PrestoSports to provide an updated experience on cbcmustangs.com. The new athletic website was launched on Tuesday and features new things that have not been seen on a previous site. “This website will move us into......

On August 4, community members throughout the 501 gathered at Herschel Hall in Greenbrier to celebrate Kayle Browning as she returned from the Olympic Games. The Wooster native was honored for her silver medal performance in trap shooting. “There is a deep sense of pride......

By Mark Oliver After tasting the playoffs for the first time since 2014, Bismarck appears hungry for more in 2021.  “Being on a losing team in the past, we saw all the negative comments about us online and it motivated us,” senior wide receiver/cornerback Braden......

By Levi Gilbert After two consecutive seasons with just two wins, Gabe Morris is ready to help turn the tide for the Mayflower Eagles. The senior will do it the only way he knows how. “Gabe is one of the hardest workers on the team,”......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Bears will face the defending NCAA champion among their 14-game non-conference schedule for 2021-22. The Bears, for the third consecutive season, will take on the Baylor Bears on Nov. 17 at the Ferrell Center in Waco, Texas. Baylor......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas volleyball program has a unique challenge heading into this season of opportunities. Last year the Sugar Bears faced the fire with a new head coach at the helm, and this year will be another new feat as they......

Conway – Central Baptist College Athletic Director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of Sam Kohnke as the head men’s basketball coach. Kohnke becomes the sixth head coach of the NAIA era for the Mustangs. “This is an opportunity that I’m super excited for and......

We are thrilled to announce the 11th Annual 501 LIFE Football Team! These players were nominated by their respective coaches and selected by members of 501 LIFE for this honor for both their on- and off-the-field attributes. Congratulations to our 2021 team: Andrew Miller (Harding......

By Levi Gilbert After enduring a shoulder injury the past two seasons, there’s just no quit in Jeremiah Canady.  Last fall as a junior, Canady battled through the injury to help push Morrilton to the second round of the 5A playoffs.  “I want to be......

By Mark Oliver Don’t let their 2020 record fool you — Hot Springs has the right pieces in place to compete with the best of the best in the 501. With four losses to high-level competition and three games cancelled due to COVID-19, the Trojans......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College Athletics Director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of Addy Swaim to lead the cross country and track and field programs at CBC. Swaim will become the second coach in the program’s six-year history. “I’m very excited to have Addy......

HOT SPRINGS – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks women’s soccer team suffered its first loss of the season on Sunday, falling to No. 6 Seminole State College (Seminole, OK), 7-0. In the Nighthawks’ first game in program history, NPC fell behind early, struggling to......

Texarkana, Texas – Kicking off the fall sports season on the road, Central Baptist College men’s soccer opened the season on Aug. 21 at Morgan Field against the Eagles of Texas A&M-Texarkana. CBC (0-1) trailed early, got a tying goal before halftime, and lost 2-1......

CONWAY – Hendrix and Wisconsin-River Falls, a member of the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC), have announced a game between the two programs at noon, Sept. 11, inside Young-Wise Memorial Stadium. With the addition of the contest against the Falcons, the Warriors are set to......

CONWAY – After a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the University of Central Arkansas’ Bear Choice Awards, presented by the UCA Bookstore, returned Aug. 17 at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The annual event honors and recognizes UCA’s best and brightest student-athletes for their......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Volleyball head coach John Newberry recently announced the newest edition to the Sugar Bears coaching staff. Aryn Moura, a young prospect of the coaching game, is set to join the UCA staff as an assistant coach. Moura comes......

The annual Ladies Weekend is planned from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday at the Dr. James E. Moore Jr. Camp Robinson Firing Range. Ladies are allowed to use any range (pistol, rifle, trap, skeet and archery) free of charge. The event......

SEARCY – The 2021 Harding football team enters the season ranked No. 22 in the American Football Coaches Association Preseason Division II Coaches’ Poll, released Monday. West Florida, who won the national championship in 2019, is the No. 1-ranked team. Harding’s lone opponent in the......

By Randy Zellers Asst. Chief of Communications with the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission Reprinted with permission. LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas’ archery deer season opens Sept. 25. That may seem like a lifetime away for some dyed-in-the-wool hunters, but it’s a blink of an eye......

CONWAY – Allie Banks has been hired as a Hendrix assistant, head coach Drew Gaeng announced. “I am thrilled to have Coach Banks in our program,” Gaeng said. “She is a great person and an extremely hard worker. She will make a huge impact on......

SEARCY – Aug. 6 was reporting day for the 2021 Harding football team. With 114 players listed on the roster, the Bisons will begin preparations for its first game since the 2019 NCAA Division II playoffs on Sept. 4 at home against East Central. Harding......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas Bears were 14th in the Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 poll released on Monday. UCA, coming off a 5-4 season last fall, drew 561 votes.  A national media panel selects the Stats Perform FCS Top 25. A......

CONWAY – University of Central Arkansas men’s golfer Palmer McSpadden began his journey at the U.S. Amateur on Monday at the Longue Vue Club.  McSpadden is one of 312 golfers in the field taking part in the U.S. Amateur. The tournament will be played at......

CONWAY – Two University of Central Arkansas Bears were named to the 2021 Walter Payton Award Watch List yesterday. Junior quarterback Breylin Smith and sophomore wide receiver Tyler Hudson were two of the 35 FCS players named to the list. Hudson was also a finalist......

CONWAY – Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of a new softball coach to replace Jordon Jones, who resigned in May to take the job at Mid-America Nazarene in Olathe, Kan. Keith Hinson, a long-time club coach, has been hired......

RUSSELLVILLE – On Tuesday, the Great American Conference announced the results of its 2021 football preseason coaches’ poll. Ouachita edged out Harding for the top spot.In 2019, the Tigers won their third-straight GAC regular season title with a second consecutive undefeated regular season. They enter 2021......

By Donna Lampkin Stephens Baseball parents seeking role models for success need look no further than Mike and Christy Wallace of Wooster. Their sons, Paxton and Cayden, are among today’s elite players. Paxton, 22, played three years at Wichita State and left last month after......

By Dr. Robert Reising He was a star on one of the most spectacular teams ever fielded in The Natural State. With John Bryce “Bud” Mobley as their “ground-clearing workhorse,” the 1945 Arkansas Tech University “Wonder Boys” demolished every opponent on their schedule, enjoying one......

ATLANTA, Ga. – University of Central Arkansas’ Tyler Hudson and Jacksonville State’s Nicario Harper were voted the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, respectively, in the first-ever ASUN Conference Preseason Football honors, announced by the league office on Tuesday. Hudson, a sophomore wide receiver, was the Southland Conference......

SEARCY – The Harding men’s golf team recorded a 3.36 team GPA during the 2020-21 school year to earn All-Academic Team status from the Golf Coaches Association of America. All collegiate golf programs with a 3.0 GPA or higher receive the award. Harding has won......

NORMAN, Okla. – The Golf Coaches Association of America announced its yearly Outstanding Team Academic Awards. The Central Arkansas men’s golf team earned Presidents Special Recognition for having a team GPA above a 3.5. The Bears were one of 41 NCAA Division I teams to......

CONWAY – Mark Suire has been named Hendrix head coach, director of athletics Amy Weaver announced. Suire replaces Weaver, who retired from the position in May after 19 seasons (2003-21) with the most wins in program history. “Coach Suire’s resume speaks for itself,” Weaver said. “He brings a......

CONWAY – Head Coach Jenny Parsons and the University of Central Arkansas softball team announced Kayla Lucas as an assistant coach on July 15. Lucas joins the staff in a permanent role after spending last season as a volunteer coach.  Last season, Lucas helped guide......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Thursday, the Great American Conference announced Harding track and field standout Dorian Chaigneau as its Male Athlete of the Year. Chaigneau burst onto the GAC and Division II scene as the freshman from Fontenay-le-Comte, France set school and conference records in the pole......

Conway – Central Baptist College continues their Alumni Spotlight and recently focused on a former baseball player who is now a successful businessman.  Myles Hiebert played four seasons for the Mustangs from 2011-2014, graduating in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in general studies. In 162......

By Randy Zellers, Assistant Chief of Communications for AGFC  LITTLE ROCK — Governor Asa Hutchinson appointed Philip Tappan as the newest member of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at a special announcement July 1 at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center. Tappan......

RUSSELLVILLE — On Monday, the Great American Conference announced Harding University as the winner of the 2021 Commissioner’s Cup and Arkansas Tech as the winner of the President’s Trophy, the league’s two all-sports awards. Harding captured the Commissioner’s Cup – awarded to the GAC school that......

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – The Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) announced its yearly All-American Scholars on Tuesday. The University of Central Arkansas women’s golf team was represented by Elin Kumlin,Pear Rittawee, and Pim-Orn Thitisup who earned All-American Scholar honors. Kumlin picked up her second WGCA All-American Scholar nod. She earned......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears will embark on their first 16-game ASUN Conference basketball schedule beginning in early January. After 15 seasons in the Southland Conference, the Bears will have a whole new slate of conference opponents when the 2021-22 season gets underway on Jan. 6. UCA......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas men’s golf Head Coach Steve Runge was one of 156 competitors that qualified for the 2021 U.S. Senior Open in Nebraska. The Open will take place from July 8-11 on the 6,891-yard, par-70 Omaha Country Club. “I’m really......

CONWAY –  Jeff Price is the newest member of the University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball coaching staff, joining head coach Anthony Boone’s staff as associate head coach. Price comes to UCA from Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio, where he was head men’s basketball......

Fayetteville – Natural State Baseball announced the selections to the 2021 All-Arkansas Team on June 21 and a pair of Central Baptist College Mustangs were named to the team. Kelvin Volquez and Jay French were the two Mustangs recognized for their outstanding seasons. Volquez was......

SEARCY – Natural State Baseball, a social media account that covers college baseball in Arkansas, released its 2021 All-Arkansas Team. Harding senior pitcher Ryder Yakel made the list with third baseman David Butterfield and outfielder Michael Chrisman among those receiving honorable mention. Yakel, the Great American Conference Pitcher of the Year,......

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Hendrix, which won the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) West Division and advanced to the league’s championship game last season, is ranked No. 17 in Lindy’s Sports preseason Top 25, which was released as part of the publication’s 2021 College Football National Preview. The......

CONWAY – An emotional Scottie Pippen, flanked by University of Central Arkansas administrators and the governor of Arkansas, had his name and signature unveiled on the court at the Farris Center on Monday morning prior to the start of the 2021 Scottie Pippen Basketball Camp.......

EUGENE, Ore. – History was made on Wednesday, as Zachary Jewell became just the second track & field student-athlete to earn a Division I All-American honor. Jewell represented the Central Arkansas track & field team at the 2021 NCAA National Championships in Eugene, Ore. Jewell......

SEARCY – Ashley Reeves will be the second head softball coach at Harding University. Athletic Director Jeff Morgan announced Reeves’ hiring Wednesday. She will replace Phil Berry, who restarted the Harding softball program in 2014 and coached the last eight seasons. “Coach Berry has left the softball......

CONWAY — Bennett Pascoe, a senior at Arkansas State University, and former track stand out and alum from Conway Christian School competed last night in the 3000m Steeplechase Semifinals at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The competition is begin held at the new......

By Becky Bell It’s like tennis. It’s kind of like badminton, but not exactly. And you can definitely work up a sweat while playing. Pickleball is the unique name of this sport, which has been growing across the nation for years but has been gaining......

Kansas City, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics announced their softball All-Americans on Tuesday and Central Baptist College shortstop Allison Seats was included in the list. Seats is the second All-American for CBC in the last three years and the sixth all-time. Seats......

University of Central Arkansas freshman pitcher Tyler Cleveland was named a third-team All-American by Collegiate Baseball on June 2. Cleveland, a right hander from Sheridan High School, finished the season with nine saves and six victories over 23 appearances. Cleveland struck out 84 batters in......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas baseball coach Nick Harlan has finalized his first coaching staff after taking over the program last month, and there are several familiar faces. Justin Cunningham has been promoted to associate head coach and will retain his title of recruiting......

St. Joseph School’s Athletic Department held basketball camps last week at the school’s Family Activities Center. Athletic Director and boys basketball head coach Brent Bruich led the camp, along with girls basketball head coach, Kay Lynn Hill, and assistant boys basketball coach, Luke Davis. Additionally,......

Conway – Conway Corp recently presented three Conway High School seniors with scholarships for their performance in the classroom and on the field during the 2020-2021 school year. Maggie Batson was honored as the Ruth Doyle Award winner as the outstanding female athlete, finishing her......

Conway – The 2021 spring sports season came to end this past Thursday with Ally Swaim’s 100-meter hurdles run in the prelims at the NAIA National Track & Field Championship. Spring Sports did not see a single COVID-related cancelation on their schedule through the season,......

FRISCO, Texas – The Southland Conference announced its yearly academic awards for women’s golf May 26. Elin Kumlin represented the Central Arkansas women’s golf team as a First-Team Academic All-Southland Conference honoree.  Kumlin earned First-Team All-SLC earlier this year after an outstanding season. This is......

SEARCY – Freshman Anna Kay Clark and junior Kinga Szarzynska earned All-America honors over the weekend at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Allendale, Michigan. Harding last had multiple outdoor All-Americans in the same season in 2006. Clark earned First Team All-America with a fifth-place......

SEARCY – Four members of the Harding men’s track and field team earned All-America honors over the weekend at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Allendale, Michigan. It was the first time in program history that Harding had four individuals earn......

By Stefanie Brazile Baseball, hot dogs, fried oreos and … splash pads! Baseball isn’t just for those who love the crack of the bat or the sound of a fastball colliding with the catcher’s mitt. At the Arkansas Travelers homefield, the focus is on giving......

CONWAY – The Central Arkansas men’s and women’s track & field teams sent five student-athletes to College Station, Texas, that qualified for the NCAA West Preliminary Championships. The meet began yesterday.  Jordan Atkins qualified for the 110m hurdles. He recorded a UCA record of 14.07......

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas’ Tyler Cleveland was named the 2021 Southland Conference Relief Pitcher of the Year on Monday. Cleveland, a freshman from East End (Perry County) and Sheridan High School, finished the season with nine saves and six victories over 23 appearances. Cleveland......

Hattiesburg, Miss. – Looking to qualify for their second NAIA Softball World Series, #19 Central Baptist College took on the Jaguars of the University of Houston-Victoria on May 19 in the Hattiesburg Bracket Championship Game. CBC led from the first inning until the seventh when......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears did their part last Saturday by beating the McNeese Cowboys 5-4 in the regular-season finale and Senior Day at Bear Stadium. They needed some help from the UIW Cardinals against Lamar to earn their 11th straight berth......

HAMMOND, La. – The Central Arkansas softball team returned to North Oak Park for two games in the Southland Conference Tournament last Saturday. The Bears defeated the Stephen F. Austin Ladyjacks in the first game of the day, 5-4, before they fell to the McNeese......

Hattiesburg, Miss. – Hoping to stave off elimination twice on Tuesday, #19 Central Baptist College softball took on #10 William Carey and #23 Truett McConnell in a pair of elimination games. CBC (34-14) got great pitching and amazing defense and headed to Hattiesburg Bracket title......

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Harding softball team had two players named National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Central Region on May 12. Chelsea Blankenship was named to the first team and Lily Tanski was named to the second team. Blankenship and Tanski join Autumn Humes (2017) and Peyton Mills (2016-19) as the only Harding......

Six-time NBA champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Scottie Pippen will return to his alma mater, the University of Central Arkansas, next month to host a youth basketball camp at the Farris Center. The 2021 Scottie Pippen Basketball Camp will be held June 14-17 on......

Eugene, Mo. – Looking to improve their position on the final day of the American Midwest Conference Championship, Central Baptist College women’s golf was on the course Tuesday at the Redfield Golf and Country Club. The three CBC golfers posted a combined score today of......

University of Central Arkansas cornerback Robert Rochell and wide receiver Tyler Hudson were named to the 2020-21 Stats Perform FCS All-America first team on Monday. Rochell, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound cornerback from Shreveport, La., was drafted last week in the fourth round by the Los Angeles......

Creve Coeur, Mo. – After the first day of just qualifying at the American Midwest Conference Championships, hosted by Missouri Baptist University, Central Baptist College track & field looked for their first-ever conference title in just their third year of existence. CBC would finish seventh......

Cape Girardeau, Mo. – Coming into the final round of the American Midwest Conference Championship at Dalhousie Golf Club eight strokes behind, Central Baptist College men’s golf looked to charge forward on the final day to win the title. CBC would end up shooting a......

CONWAY – University of Central Arkansas’ Coby Potvin earned the Southland Conference Hitter of the Week award on Monday after leading the Bears to a 3-1 series victory last weekend. Potvin, a senior first baseman from Belton, Texas, hit .571 and had an .857 slugging percentage as......

On April 26, Renewal Ranch hosted the 3rd Annual Kyle Allison Golf Classic at Centennial Valley Country Club. Players came from Texas, Oklahoma, and all over Arkansas to honor the memory of Kyle Allison and support the ministry efforts. With 30 teams signed up to play,......

UPDATE: Because of a submission error, Jaydan Hunt was misidentified when this story ran on May 6. A new photo has been added to this story with correct identification. ATLANTA, Ga. – Hendrix’s Madelyn Klinkerman has been named Southern Athletic Association (SAA) Field Athlete of the Year, the......

The Harding women’s tennis team qualified for the 2021 NCAA Division II Women’s Tennis Championship when the bracket was announced on Tuesday night. Harding (16-2, 6-0) claimed the Great American Conference’s automatic bid after winning the GAC Championship against Southeastern Oklahoma State on April 24. ......

By Dr. Robert Reising Nobody is certain. He was probably the first, but perhaps he was simply one of the eight men who, in sportswriter John Christgau’s words, “shook the world of basketball” by introducing the jump shot two generations ago. Regardless of which, Johnny......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk softball team concluded its regular season with two wins over Arkansas State University’s Club team on Sunday, defeating the Lady Red Wolves 13-7 in game one and 10-1 in game two on Sophomore Day at Hot Springs World......

MCKINNEY, Texas – Nate Jolly is in ninth place and leads the University of Central Arkansas men’s golf team after two rounds of the Southland Conference Championship at the Stonebridge Ranch Country Club on April 27. The Bears were in fifth at 613 (+37). Jolly......

Conway – Playing their final doubleheader of the season on April 24 at City of Colleges Park, #18 Central Baptist College softball took on the Spartans on Missouri Baptist University in an AMC DH. CBC (27-9, 14-2 AMC) took care of MBU (14-12, 11-7 AMC)......

SEARCY — Rarely does a 13-1 game have a storybook ending. Tuesday’s Harding University’s game against University of the Ozarks did. With one out and two runners on in the bottom of the seventh inning, Harding’s fifth year senior Connor Kelly connected with a 1-0 pitch......

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Hendrix’s Madelyn Klinkerman captured the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) title in the discus and finished second in the hammer on April 26, helping the Warriors to a fourth-place finish after the second day of the SAA Championships at Wolfe Track and Field Complex on......

Harding University’s women’s track and field team began action at the Great American Conference Outdoor Championship on April 15. Southern Arkansas University was the event’s host. A Harding junior, Cara Mason, won the hammer throw, setting a school record. Mason broke her own Harding record with a......

CONWAY – The University of Central Arkansas men’s and women’s track & field teams return to action on Friday and Saturday for the Red Wolves Open in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The Bears will be joined by host Arkansas State, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Little Rock, Memphis, Christian Brothers,......

LITTLE ROCK — With the crappie spawn in full swing, many anglers have ditched their catfish poles and bass-fishing rods and headed to the bank for some of the best-tasting fish to swim in Arkansas waters. With a slew of spinners, crankbaits, grubs and other......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas Bears wrapped up the “Governor’s I-40 Showdown” competition in style on April 13 with a come-from-behind 4-2 victory over the Little Rock Trojans at Bear Stadium. The Bears (10-16), coming off a 10-day layoff, finished the in-state competition......

Point Lookout, Mo. – Stepping out of conference for a midweek contest, Central Baptist College baseball took on the Bobcats of College of the Ozarks Tuesday afternoon at Davis Field. CBC (18-13) came from behind twice, scoring four in the fifth and three in the......

The University of Central Arkansas team was the runner-up on April 10 at the Murray State Jan Weaver Invite played at Miller Memorial Golf Course. UCA, the leader by a stroke after the first two rounds on April 9, lost to host Murray State by two strokes......

HOT SPRINGS – Three members of the National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s basketball teams were named to the 2021 NJCAA Division II All-Region team this week for their outstanding performance on the court this season.  For the Nighthawk women, sophomore Imani Honey (Mountain Pine)......

CONWAY — The University of Central Arkansas cruised against Northwestern State as they increased their match-winning streak to three.  The Bears claimed both of the doubles matches played and won four of the six singles matches in the 5-2 route against the Lady Demons.  Doubles:......

CONWAY — Hendrix, which is receiving votes in the latest Top 25 rankings, swept a Southern Athletic Association (SAA) doubleheader, each in three sets, against Centre (Ky.) on Saturday inside Grove Gymnasium. The Warriors, who have won eight-straight matches in the series, took the first......

CONWAY — The Sam Houston Bearkats hit five home runs, three by left fielder Jack Rogers, to grab a come-from-behind 10-4 win over the University of Central Arkansas Bears on Saturday afternoon at Bear Stadium. The win gave the Bearkats (12-13, 9-7) a sweep of......

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawks baseball team avoided an NJCAA Region II Division II series sweep to Murray State College over the weekend, picking up a come-from-behind 11-9 win in the series finale on Sunday.In the series opener on Saturday, NPC was held......

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – The University of Central Arkansas came out with a fire that no one had seen all year as they dominated offensively in the 3-1 victory. The Sugar Bears hit another level in the first, second and fourth set as they found their......

FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Central Arkansas Bears went toe to toe with the No. 1 team in the nation for as long as they could Tuesday night before Arkansas’ big bats carried the Razorbacks to a 21-8 victory in front of a crowd of......

Conway, Ark. – Finishing their 11-game homestand recently, the No. 13 Central Baptist College softball took on the Scots of Lyon College at City of Colleges Park. CBC (16-6, 4-0 AMC) took care of business, winning game one 5-1 before taking game two 4-3 in......

The University of Central Arkansas tennis program is ready for a battle as they take on Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in Tyler, Texas. The Bears will have their work cut out for them in this matchup as the Islanders come into tomorrow’s duel 5-0 in SLC......

LITTLE ROCK — With the 2021 youth hunt less than two weeks away, many mentors are already pacing the floor trying to figure out how they are going to get their little hunter on a bird on opening day. Here are a few tips from......

By Dr. Robert Reising He was disappointed, not despondent. Even after multiple surgeries by a world-famous orthopedist had failed to restore long-term effectiveness to his pitching arm, he refused to be discouraged. His obstacles simply challenged him to locate a second path to success and......

St. Louis, Mo. – For the second consecutive week, two different Central Baptist College Mustangs from two different sports took home American Midwest Conference athlete of the week honors. Ally Swaim of the CBC Track and Will Hodges of CBC Baseball were selected from amongst......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears will have a new-look football schedule in 2021, but the significant part of the slate is they will play five home games on “The Stripes” at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The Bears are exiting the Southland Conference......

Conway, Ark. – During a stretch of nine straight games at City of Colleges Park, #14 Central Baptist College softball took on the Warriors of Midland University on March 19. CBC (11-3) pounded out 11 hits and got solid pitching to take care of Midland......

The Arkansas high school basketball championship games will begin today. Tickets for the 2021 Centennial Bank Basketball Finals are available to the public at noon the day BEFORE the game at https://gofan.co/app/school/AAA. They are $8. Tickets must be shown on smartphones, and no paper tickets......

The University of Central Arkansas (7-6, 5-3) takes on their biggest week of the season as they play two top-tier volleyball programs.  The Sugar Bears open-up this tough road stretch as they face Stephen F. Austin (19-5, 7-1) today and finish up the week at Abilene......

HOT SPRINGS, AR. – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s basketball teams suffered NJCAA Region II Division II conference losses to Arkansas State University Mid-South (ASU Mid-South) Saturday, with the Nighthawk women dropping a 66-36 decision and the Nighthawk men losing 105-83.......

ATLANTA – For the second-straight season, Hendrix forward Seth Stanley has been named to the All-Southern Athletic Association (SAA) first team, the league office announced Tuesday. Warriors forward Carl Fitch and guard Craig Collier II were honorable mention selections. Stanley tied for third in the league in scoring, averaging 18.3 points......

ATLANTA – Hendrix guard Kennedi Burns has been voted the Southern Athletic Association (SAA) Newcomer of the Year, the league office announced Tuesday. Warriors forward Kessie Jenkins was named to the All-SAA second team. Burns, also an honorable mention pick, ranked fifth in the league in scoring per game......

Playing on their home field for the first time this season, the #14 Central Baptist College softball team hosted a doubleheader against Crowley’s Ridge College this afternoon at City of Colleges Park. CBC (10-3) had to come from behind three times in game one to......

The University of Central Arkansas claimed their second conference victory March 13 as they bested Southeastern Louisiana.  The Bears won seven of the eight matches today as they pushed through the Lady Lions in a 6-1 route.  “I was excited to get the match at......

FRISCO, Texas – The Southland Conference announced its weekly Pair of the Week yesterday. The tandem of Aly Brinkley and Colene Hamilton picked up the honor of SLC Beach Volleyball Pair of the Week after their outstanding weekend in the sand.  The dynamic duo of......

By Levi Gilbert Sophomore phenom Chloe Clardy is ready to lead the Conway Lady Cats back to championship heights. After earning the Arkansas underclassman of the year award as a freshman and being named as a Wooten Top 100 Player and ranked the No. 8......

By Levi Gilbert Jayden Williams has been on quite the athletic run the last two years.  As a junior last year, Williams took over down the stretch of 6A Central play and into the state tournament, helping lead the Wampus Cats to a championship.  Then,......

Social-distancing requirements may have prevented the typical scene at Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs for this year’s Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program State Championships, but schools from across the state are still competing to see who is the best at Olympic-style archery......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears cruised to a 19-2 victory over the Tarleton State Texans on Saturday, March 6 at Bear Stadium.The Bears (3-3) pounded out 17 hits by 13 different players, including a pinch-hit grand slam from senior Alonso Bibiano in the seventh inning that pushed UCA’s lead to......

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Kickoff for Hendrix’s Southern Athletic Association (SAA) playoff game at War Memorial Stadium has been set for 6 p.m., Saturday, March 13. General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens (55 and older) and current students of an SAA......

By Mark Oliver After finishing in the top eight teams in last year’s Class 6A state tournament, Cabot senior guard Molly Madar and the Lady Panthers are ready to make some magic happen this postseason.  Squeaking into the Class 6A state tournament as the sixth seed from the mighty Class 6A......

By Mark Oliver After finding his niche as a strong perimeter shooter off the bench last season, Brayden Roberts earned his keep in Cabot’s fast-paced offense this season. Although the senior’s high school basketball career came to an end this week, he won’t soon forget the......

The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team punched a ticket to the Southland Conference Tournament with a victory against McNeese on Monday in the Farris Center. Four Sugar Bears finished the game in double-digit points and three of them recorded double-doubles. UCA’s 62-47 victory improves the......

St. Louis, Mo. – Three Central Baptist College Lady Mustangs were selected to the All-Conference teams by the American Midwest Conference, the AMC recently released. Holly Allen, Alexis Augustus and Izzy Arnold all earned selections to all-conference teams, with Arnold’s name appearing on three different......

HOT SPRINGS, AR. – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s and women’s basketball teams suffered conference losses to Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) Saturday, with the Nighthawk women falling, 73-56, and the men dropping, 85-77. Behind six first-quarter points from freshman India Atkins......

By Levi Gilbert The Vilonia Lady Eagles have been on a remarkable run the last four seasons, and senior Lauren Patterson, who has started at point guard since her freshman year, has been a big factor in the success.  Patterson was selected to this year’s......

By Mark Oliver With the postseason finally here, Vilonia is right where it wants to be in the Class 5A title discussion. Behind senior guard/forward Gram Middleton, the Eagles rely on great shooting and stingy defense to win games.  “We’ve had to battle COVID-19 and injuries, but have had......

By Levi Gilbert For the last three years, Kylie Griffin has poured herself into improving the Greenbrier Lady Panther basketball program, and her senior season has paid off with an opportunity to earn a 5A state tournament bid.  “This has been one of my favorite......

By Mark OliverWhen Bryce Webb’s playing days are over at Greenbrier, he will be remembered not only for the games that he’s helped the Panthers win, but also for the way he played the game—a trait the senior learned to value at a young age from his family. “I’ve been......

ATLANTA, Ga. – The ASUN Conference and Western Athletic Conference have agreed on a one-year Football scheduling alliance for the 2021 fall football season. Presented as the ASUN-WAC Challenge, the agreement will allow for seven institutions–three ASUN members and four WAC members–to be eligible for an......

FRISCO, Texas – The Southland Conference announced its weekly Player of the Week honors on Tuesday, and the Central Arkansas softball team swept the awards. Tylar Vernon earned Hitter of the Week, while Kayla Beaver collected Pitcher of the Week honors. Vernon posted an outstanding......

FRISCO, Texas: For the second time this season, the conference is taking notice of what the University of Central Arkansas tennis program is doing as sophomore Fuka Nonoyama was named conference player of the week.  The No. 2 singles player for the Bears took home her second weekly......

HOT SPRINGS, AR. – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team extended its winning streak to five games Monday, defeating Central Baptist College’s junior varsity team, 120-49.   Despite a three-week break between games, NPC showed little rust, utilizing its tough defense to......

By Levi Gilbert Taylor Hooten is striving for excellence and continuing to build on the success of Quitman Lady Bulldog basketball. In three years as a starter, the junior has helped lead Quitman to more than 80 wins, and she’s not finished yet.  “I want......

By Mark Oliver Each time Quitman forward Jacob Cantrell hits the floor, his coaches and teammates know they’re getting two things — a solid leader and a fierce competitor. According to the senior, they’re qualities that run deep in his family bloodline. “I’ve been playing basketball since I was in the......

MATHEWS, La.  – The University of Central Arkansas men’s golf team finished the shortened La Tour Intercollegiate on Feb. 14, which was a cold, wet and windy Sunday. Calhoon started the day tied for 50th after day one. He began the round with a birdie on......

St. Louis, Mo. – Looking to bounce back from a loss on Saturday, Feb. 13, on Valentine’s Day the Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis in an American Midwest Conference contest at UHSP gymnasium.......

HUNTSVILLE, Texas — A dreadful start to the second half put the University of Central Arkansas Bears in a hole they could not recover from Saturday, Feb. 13, in a 97-57 loss to the Sam Houston Bearkats at Johnson Coliseum. Down just 36-34 at halftime, the Bears......

By Levi Gilbert With the regular season concluding this week, Matti Clements and the Harding Academy Lady Wildcats are sharpening their focus as postseason play looms.  “Being a senior this year, I have learned to appreciate each of my teammates and be present in each moment,......

By Mark Oliver It’s been a year of great moments for Nemo Vista. From big wins on the court to making memories with his teammates off the court, senior forward Kaeden Wright isn’t ready for his senior season to end quite yet.  “This season has......

Wichita, Kan. – Looking to try to improve their times in both the 60-meter hurdles and the 400-meter dash, Central Baptist College indoor track athletes Ally Swaim and Dylan Burnham competed last Saturday at the Bethel Thresher Invitational, hosted at Wichita State. Both runners would......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears limited McNeese’s top two scoring threats on Saturday, Feb. 6, but the rest of the Cowboys proved to be the difference in an 80-70 McNeese victory in Southland Conference action at the Farris Center. UCA held McNeese’s Dru Kuxhausen......

Jonesboro, Ark.— The University of Central Arkansas tennis program excelled on Saturday, Feb. 6, as they picked up two significant victories in the doubleheader. The Bears continue their recent hot streak as they grabbed victories against Southeast Missouri State and in-state rival Arkansas State at the......

Dallas, Texas – Looking to finish the Dallas Christian College tournament on a high note, Central Baptist College baseball was back on Crusader Field on Saturday, Feb. 6, for games against Mid-America Christian and Dallas Christian. CBC (2-2) split again, falling 6-0 to Mid-America Christian......

by Mark Oliver Ashley Brown never thought that she’d be where she is today on the basketball court. For many years, the Illinois native held pom poms — not basketballs — on the sidelines as a cheerleader, but life had other plans for Searcy’s senior......

by Mark Oliver After dropping a heartbreaker in the Class 5A state semifinals last year, Maumelle returns this season with a chip on its shoulder. Boasting more experience, more leadership and more hunger for a championship trophy, senior forward Darvis Rasberry and the Hornets are......

By Steve East, Associate AD/Media Relations, UCA ATLANTA, Ga. – The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) Bears and Sugar Bears have a new home. The Central Arkansas athletics program announced in a joint virtual press conference on Jan. 29 that it will become part of......

Central Baptist College head softball coach Jordon Jones has announced the 2021 schedule for the #16 Mustangs. The schedule has 46 regular season games on it, beginning Feb. 5 and includes 18 home games and three doubleheaders against preseason top-25 teams. “Our 2021 schedule is......

FRISCO, Texas — The Southland Conference announced the rescheduled date for the Central Arkansas and McNeese contest that was initially scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 6, at UCA, on Monday. The game has been rescheduled for Monday, March 1, at 5 p.m. at the Farris Center....

For the second game in a row, the University of Central Arkansas Bears had a chance to pull out a victory in the final minutes but came up just short again Saturday in an 81-77 loss to Northwestern State in Southland Conference play at the......

Wichita, Kan. – Competing for the first-time ever, the Central Baptist College indoor track & field team competed in late January at the Friends University NAIA Mid-Season Invitational, hosted by Wichita State University. Ally Swaim made history on Jan. 23, becoming the first-ever indoor track......

HOT SPRINGS, AR. – The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk basketball teams took two games from East Texas Baptist University’s junior varsity teams on Monday, with the Nighthawk women winning, 110-66, and the Nighthawk men winning, 84-63.    In a historic performance for the Nighthawk......

By Dr. Robert Reising One of the nation’s most spectacular pass receivers ever, Ken Kavanaugh, was more than simply an outstanding football player. He was a multi-sport luminary who, in addition to meritoriously serving America in wartime, enriched the nation’s sports landscape for more than......

by Mark Oliver Despite losing four of its first six games to start the season, Wonderview is right back in the mix to defend its Class 4-1A crown. Led by junior guard Caleb Squires, the Daredevils pose a strong threat to not only repeat as......

by Mark Oliver After winning back-to-back state championships her freshman and sophomore seasons, it’s easy to see why Wonderview senior guard Audrey Beck likes to win. “I have a lot of great basketball memories that I will cherish forever, but my favorite memory was winning......

by Mark Oliver A hot start to the season has Sacred Heart firmly entrenched in the Class 1A postseason discussion this year. Led by senior guard McKenzie Greeson, the Lady Rebels boast a well-rounded game plan that can challenge any opponent they face.  Greeson was......

Hot Springs, Arkansas – National Park College (NPC) announced the addition of National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) soccer to its sports lineup on Jan. 13. The College is actively seeking a full-time head coach for men’s and women’s teams which will begin in August 2021. NPC Athletic Director Jason Hudnell......

Due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, Central Baptist College has made the difficult decision to greatly alter programming for Homecoming 2021, which was scheduled for Jan. 29-30, 2021. The basketball games will still take place as scheduled, and a 2021 Homecoming Queen......

by Mark Oliver After breaking even with a 13-13 record last season, Beebe junior point guard Madelyn Atkins isn’t satisfied. This year, the athletic junior is taking charge in her team’s efforts to achieve new heights. “This season has had its ups and downs,” Atkins......

by Mark OliverAfter helping lead Beebe to the state tournament for the first time in six years, Badgers senior guard Logan Worthington is ready to prove that last year’s success was no fluke. “Making state is my favorite basketball memory,” Worthington said. “My goal this......

Looking to carry momentum from a Jan. 12, 25-point win, Central Baptist College (CBC) men’s basketball hosted the Owls of William Woods University on Jan. 14 in American Midwest Conference play.  CBC (7-3, 3-0 AMC) raced out to a 40-25 halftime lead and held on......

The Central Arkansas women’s basketball team bounced back with its first Southland Conference win of the season on Saturday against Nicholls in the Farris Center. Lucy Ibeh produced her second double-double of the season with 31 points and 16 rebounds. The Sugar Bears (3-9, 1-3......

CONWAY, Ark. – Millsaps (Miss.) shot 64 percent (16-of-25) from the field in the second half en route to a 70-59 Jan. 15 win over Hendrix in the season, and Southern Athletic Association (SAA), opener for both teams. Friday’s contest was the first for each......

by Mark Oliver When it comes to love for the game of basketball, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone with more passion for the sport than Artavia Malone. The Guy-Perkins senior guard/forward leads the Lady Thunderbirds with pride and promise this season. “I’ve been playing......

by Mark Oliver After tearing his ACL prior to the start of his senior season, Mt. Vernon-Enola Warhawks senior guard Wesley Booker was forced to find a new way to lead his team this season. “I was really looking forward to my senior year because......

by Mark Oliver Amid a seven-game winning streak, Mt. Vernon-Enola is right where it wants to be with six games remaining in the regular season. With their sights set on avenging last year’s early exit in the Class 1A state tournament, the Lady Warhawks rely......

by Mark Oliver In one year’s time, few teams have improved at the level that Guy-Perkins has. After putting last year’s lopsided season in the rearview mirror, the Thunderbirds are in the driver’s seat for a big playoff push. Leading the Thunderbirds’ turnaround effort is......

By Mark Oliver Morrilton point guard Devin Foster took last year’s second-round state tournament loss personally. This year, the scrappy senior is laser-focused on personal growth and helping his team make an impact in his final year with the Devil Dogs. “Last season, I felt......

By Levi Gilbert Nothing was going to keep Kayla Akers from her senior season — not injuries and not COVID-19.  “During my athletic career, I’ve torn my ACL and meniscus in both of my knees,” Akers said. “Although it set me back, I still pushed......

With Covid-19 making changes to schedules over the entire sports world, Central Baptist College winter sports have been affected as well. Men’s and women’s basketball will open their American Midwest Conference schedules today against UHSP in St. Louis with the home AMC opener for both......

The University of Central Arkansas women’s basketball team looks to bounce back after its loss in the Southland Conference opener; however, the Wednesday, Jan. 6 matchup against New Orleans was postponed because of COVID-19 protocols. A new date for the game has not been determined......

It may still be a while before things look like the above photo in many duck hunting holes. While Arkansas experienced more rain last week than what it had seen through a dry late fall/early winter, the expected flooding for fields and other duck habitat......

By Dr. Robert Reising He officiated more athletic contests than anyone else in the history of The Natural State, and emerging over the decades came a growing recognition of his competence, integrity, and professionalism. James Ralph “Jim” Magie cultivated an excellence in officiating respected in all......

By Mark Oliver It hasn’t been the season that Conway Christian has hoped for so far, but sophomore guard Cooper Ellis and the Eagles have already set their first New Year’s resolution — to start 2021 with the team’s first win of the season. “We......

By Levi Gilbert Early in her senior season, things aren’t going the way Lilly Hill had wanted, but the St. Joseph Lady Bulldog and her teammates are keeping their heads high.  “This season hasn’t gone our way so far, but I know everything will turn......

By Mark OliverComing into his senior season, St. Joseph guard Luke Bruich has only one goal in mind for his Bulldogs — just win. “I want to do all I can to help our team win this season,” Bruich said. “We have not made it......

By Levi Gilbert The Conway Christian Lady Eagles made a giant leap last season, going from a four-win team the year before to a state quarterfinals appearance. Josie Williams was a big reason for the sudden leap.  After averaging 21 points, five rebounds, four assists......

Give this year’s Christmas tree another life after the yuletide celebrations by donating it to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Habitat for the Holidays program.  The long-held tradition of cutting down or purchasing a real Christmas tree for the holiday season has seen a......

By Mark Oliver Following Mayflower’s best finish in school history last year, the Lady Eagles have quickly gained respect and attention throughout the 501. With a new season underway, the senior-laden Lady Eagles are determined to make school history yet again in 2021.  “Winning our......

By Levi Gilbert The Mayflower Eagles have tipped off the 2020-21 season on the right foot, rolling out eight straight wins. For senior Westin Pickell, the best is still yet to come.  “Honestly, just my whole high school career has been amazing,” Pickell said. “I’ve......

Courtesy of the Arkansas Wildlife Fishing Report Biannually, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) Fisheries Staff attempts large-scale habitat work at major Arkansas lakes. Anglers at Greers Ferry Lake should see an immediate benefit in coming months from a large-scale habitat project conducted Nov.......

by Mark Oliver Seven games into the young 2020-21 season, Bigelow is already setting big goals for this year. With four wins in their last five games and a few lopsided wins under their belt, the Panthers are confidently looking forward with no ceiling. “Last......

By Levi Gilbert Chloe Buie and the Bigelow Panthers have unfinished business in 2021. After making it to the 2A quarterfinals last season, the goal is clear for Buie and her teammates. And she’s not afraid to work for it.  “I am looking forward to......

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The final score was not overly significant Saturday night but the game itself certainly was. The undefeated Arkansas Razorbacks used a solid second half to down the University of Central Arkansas Bears 100-75 at Bud Walton Arena for their sixth consecutive victory.......

Lebanon, Tenn. – Competing for the final time in 2020, Central Baptist College wrestling was on the mat recently for a tri-dual against Cumberland University and Midway University hosted by CU. CBC dropped both ends of the tri-dual, 54-0 to CU and 54-3 to MU.......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears will be part of history this December when they become the first regular-season, in-state basketball opponent for the University of Arkansas Razorback  in 70 years, the schools announced Thursday. The Bears and Razorbacks will meet at Bud Walton Arena......

Arkansas PBS will broadcast the 2020 5A and 2A high school football state finals live from War Memorial Stadium Saturday, Dec. 12, in partnership with the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA), offering families and fans a safe viewing option in uncertain times.  This week’s games airing......

The University of Central Arkansas women’s basketball team is back in action on Saturday, Dec. 5, against another Power 5 opponent in Kansas State. The Sugar Bears will be at home for the first time this season and it will be just the third time......

501 LIFE is proud to present the 501 Basketball Team for 2020-21. The team boasts 34 honorees representing the best student-athletes Greater Central Arkansas has to offer both on and off the court.  Players were nominated by their coaches and selected by the 501 staff,......

The University of Central Arkansas has announced the following rules and regulations concerning attendance and ticketing for the 2020-21 basketball seasons at the Farris Center. Due to COVID-19 regulations set forth by the health department, capacity at the Farris Center will be limited to 500......

By Dr. Robert Reising At age 22, he was the world’s best. Overcoming a debilitating disease, he had catapulted through more than two decades with incomparable competitiveness, increased ability and consistent success to emerge the globe’s premier long jumper. In 1928, Eddie Hamm brought unprecedented......

The Conway Wampus Cats are back in the state semifinals for the fourth time in the last two decades. The Wampus Cats take on Bryant on the road Black Friday in the 7A semifinals.  Conway (8-3, 3-2) defeated Little Rock Central, 49-20, last week in......

Photo and article used with permission by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Abbott Young of Conway wasn’t too young to haul in this big rainbow trout at Dry Run Creek (right). According to his dad, Philip Young, Abbott fought this fish for a good......

The Conway Wampus Cats are back home for the second week in a row in the 7A state playoffs thanks to a surprise upset last week in Northwest Arkansas.   The Wampus Cats (7-3, 3-2) took care of Springdale easily at home last week, 66-21, and......

University of Central Arkansas cornerback Robert Rochell became the third player in school history to receive an invitation to the prestigious Reese’s Senior Bowl on Tuesday. Rochell received his invitation at the conclusion of the Bears’ practice, ironically, from the first UCA player to play......

Moore, Okla. – Playing on the road for the second time this season, Central Baptist College women’s basketball took on the Saints of Randall University recently at the Randall Activities Center. CBC (3-0) used a dominant third quarter, where they outscored the Saints (1-3) 18-0......

Central Baptist College head softball coach Jordon Jones has announced the addition of five new signees to her 2022 recruiting class. These five new signees take the total recruiting class up to 12 for next year. The five newest Mustangs are Madalyn Tubbs, Caroline Byers,......

A unique and challenging high school football regular season is in the books, and now comes state football playoff brackets that look like nothing we’ve seen before.  With COVID-19 forcing cancelations throughout the season in all the classifications, the Arkansas Activities Association announced earlier in......

Story provided by CBC Sports Information Muskogee, Okla. – Playing a team for the first time in 10 years, Central Baptist College women’s basketball was on the road Nov. 6 at the Muskogee Convention Center taking on Bacone. CBC (2-0) trailed at halftime, but used......

Story provided by UCA Sports Information The University of Central Arkansas Bears had a pair of players named preseason All-Southland Conference on Nov. 3 and were picked seventh in the SLC preseason poll, as voted on by the league’s coaches and media relations directors. UCA......

by Levi Gilbert With the expanded playoff format, Xavier Credit and the Mayflower Eagles (2-7, 2-4), who earned the No. 5 seed out of the 4-3A, will benefit from an extra week off before playing their first playoff game.  The high school football season was......

by Mark Oliver Malvern senior wide receiver Braxton Allen has experienced many different highs and lows during his Leopard career. From overcoming a winless season his sophomore year to defeating Arkadelphia for the first time in six years, the senior is proud to represent his......

Content provided by Steve East, Associate AD/Media Relations for UCA The University of Central Arkansas Bears turned a depressing start to their Homecoming game on Saturday into a joyous romp over the Missouri Western Griffons, winning 52-10 at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. The......

Content provided by Erik Holth, Sports Information Director for CBC Talladega, Alabama – Looking to bounce back after a tough loss in their season opener, Central Baptist College men’s basketball took on Talladega College recently in the final game of the Fresh Start Classic at......

by Mark Oliver Layne Warrick’s senior season was supposed to be different. Lake Hamilton’s all-state quarterback should have been on the field leading his team to victory. For the past eight games, however, the senior has watched his team go to battle without him. Determined......

by Levi Gilbert Gannon Roberts moved to Arkansas a year ago and immersed himself into Beebe Badger football.  “Gannon moved to Beebe from Oklahoma last year and fit right in with our program, school and community,” said Chris Gunter, second-year head coach at Beebe. “The......

by Susan Peterson Many of us were unproductive during the early months of COVID-19 quarantine; however, Ashley Hutchcraft, basketball coach of the Conway Lady Wampus Cats, utilized her rare downtime to do something creative – write and publish a book!  “Code Talkers: The Expression of......

by Dr. Robert Reising “I can’t eat trophies,” he politely responded when invited by his high school track coach to join the track team. The speedy teenager added that he wanted to concentrate on money-making sports. His decision, indeed, proved wise.  Today, Tommy McCraw enjoys......

by Steve East, Associate AD/Media Relations The University of Central Arkansas Bears will be part of history this December when they become the first regular-season, in-state basketball opponent for the University of Arkansas Razorback’s in 70 years, the schools announced Thursday. The Bears and Razorbacks......

by Levi Gilbert Although his senior season has been interrupted by COVID-19, Houston Motes and the Maumelle Hornets are back on the field and fighting for a top seed out of the 5A Central. After winning four games in 2018, the Maumelle Hornets doubled up......

by Mark Oliver The road to changing the football culture at Bismarck hasn’t been an easy one. Battling injuries and low numbers, the team has endured its share of challenges over the years. Every time Lions senior wide receiver Steven Roberson hits the field, he......

by Mark Oliver 2020 has been a year full of challenges for the England Lions. From a new coaching staff and a new offense to injuries and issues with COVID-19, the team has amassed just one win this season. Where one sees adversity, however, senior......

This tournament gives businesses the opportunity to network and compete on the greens. This four-man scramble gives teams the chance to show off their golf skills and compete for a chance to win the very coveted honor of becoming this year’s CHAMPS! Join us for the 20TH ANNUAL Maumelle......

by Levi Gilbert In so many ways, it hasn’t been the season Robert Taylor had hoped for, but it’s not in his nature to quit. The senior defensive lineman is not giving up on his winless Conway Christian Eagles.  “Our non-conference games were planned to......

The University of Central Arkansas volleyball squad put the final stamp on the fall season after two commanding victories against ULM. The Sugar Bears continued their successful endeavors against the Warhawks, as their explosive offensive came to life after the first set finished. UCA hit......

The Koontz Electric Scholarship Fund, Inc. hosted its 9th annual KECI Invitational Golf Tournament in Morrilton on Thursday, Sept. 24. Since inception, the tournament has raised over $68,000, which is matched by Koontz Electric Company, for a total of $136,000. Forty-six scholarships have been committed......

When it comes to football, Perryville halfback and defensive end Blake Kennedy knows there’s nothing more critical to a team’s success than great chemistry. For the senior, the bonds he has made with his football family on and off the field mean everything to him. ......

Palmer Gilbrech and the Central Arkansas Mustangs are on the precipice of something special.  After winning just one game in 2017, the Mustangs have steadily built back the program, winning five games in 2018 and eight in 2019. Now, the undefeated Mustangs (6-0, 3-0) are......

501 LIFE is celebrating the gridiron in Central Arkansas with its 13th annual 501 Football edition titled “A Season Like No Other.” A publication of Make the Jump Media, this special 28-page issue introduces the 501 Football Team, a story about UCA football and features......

CBC Vollyball team beats Williams Baptist for second AMC win  Walnut Ridge, Ark. – Coming off a non-conference win on Tuesday night, Central Baptist College volleyball returned to American Midwest Conference play this afternoon with a trip to Williams Baptist College to take on the......

Five games into his senior season, Chase Blanton is not where he wants his team to be. Winless through the first half of the season, the Clinton senior lineman and linebacker views his final high school campaign with a glass half-full mentality and is ready......

Austin Haynes will be a player for college coaches to keep an eye on this fall. The senior brings size and agility to both sides of the line of scrimmage for Quitman.  “He will be a three-year starter, and he allows us to do a......

When he was in eighth grade, Garrett Brown dreamed of playing basketball for Benton High School.  When he didn’t make the team, his love of sports inspired him to pick up a football instead. Five years later, the Panthers’ three-year starting quarterback has firmly cemented......

How do you follow up a championship season? For Searcy’s Brock Hohenstein, the motivation is pretty simple — defend the championship and make personal gains.  “I’m just focused on getting faster and stronger,” Hohenstein said. “If you slack too much, you won’t make it on......

Another of the casualties of COVID-19 is the Ouachita Mountain Hikers — but certainly not for long. The club’s Fall Hike Season was delayed, but hopes to begin Oct. 1. According to the club’s website, omhikers.club, the board will meet later in September to consider......

He lost his first bout.  Not three weeks after his 16th birthday, in front of a hometown crowd, he lasted only four rounds against Billy Kennedy, two years his senior. His inauspicious debut on Feb. 9, 1920, hardly foreshadowed the winning and acclaim lying ahead.......

Central Baptist College men’s basketball coach Clint Galyean has added two new assistants to his 2020-21 coaching staff. Joining Coach Galyean and Earl Lawrence, who returns for year two, will be Justin Graham and Sam Kohnke. “We are excited to add Coach Graham and Coach......

The Third Annual Christmas Boot Drive Golf Scramble will be held Monday, Oct. 5, at The Greens at Nutters Chapel in Conway.   Last year, the Christmas Boot Drive helped 227 families, including about 645 children, have a Christmas in 2019. “With the coronavirus, we know that......

Cabot senior quarterback Tyler Gee will never forget the feeling of putting on his jersey for the first time this year — a bittersweet moment that lit a fire within him to achieve greatness in his final season of high school football. “We played against......

Every time Jackson Moll has fallen, he’s gotten right back up.  Moll, a senior running back for Morrilton, broke his collarbone as a sophomore, and then broke his wrist last fall as a junior.  “He was one of our best players [last year] until he......

The American Midwest Conference released its first fall athlete of the week awards for men’s soccer and a pair of Central Baptist College Mustangs were recognized. Andrew Montoya was selected as the defensive player of the week and Nyasha Dube was named offensive player of......

Because of player unavailability among the Arkansas State University football program, the game between the University of Central Arkansas Bears and the ASU Red Wolves scheduled for Saturday in Jonesboro has been postponed. The Bears and Red Wolves will now meet on Saturday, Oct. 10,......

There’s an adage that says that big things come in small packages. When it comes to football in Grant County, the hottest team also happens to be the smallest. Outscoring opponents, 124-22, amid a 3-0 start this season, Poyen has its sights not only on......

The Vilonia Eagles made huge strides in 2019, leapfrogging several 5A West teams to go from consistently missing the playoffs to earning the No. 2 seed. The jump was due in large part to committed players like Luke Trubiano.  “Last year, Luke played a role......

Central Baptist College head men’s basketball coach Clint Galyean has announced two more additions to his roster for 2020-21. Brevin Brimble and Kelvin Robinson will join the team to start practicing soon. Brimble, a native of Colorado Springs, Colo., comes to CBC from Tiffin University,......

After going winless a year ago, Bigelow has quickly become the talk of the 501 this season with a red-hot 2-0 start.  Outscoring its first two opponents, 64-20, the Panthers have combined a tough defensive approach with a new no-huddle offensive scheme to find success......

Caden Sipe and the Harding Academy Wildcats etched their names in the Arkansas high school football history books in 2019, earning a perfect 15-0 record and a 3A state championship. For his part, Sipe was simply amazing at quarterback in his junior campaign, compiling 3,868......

The American Midwest Conference recently released its first preseason polls of 2020 in soccer. WOMEN’S SOCCER Central Baptist College was picked to finish sixth out of the eight teams competing during the fall season. CBC is coming off a 2-15-1 season in Lance Gordon’s first......

The Cardiac Bears are back, and this time on national television. The 11th-ranked University of Central Arkansas Bears allowed an Austin Peay go-ahead touchdown with 1:40 to play late Saturday night in the Guardian Credit Union FCS Kickoff at the Cramton Bowl on ESPN. But......

After losing its head coach two weeks before the start of the season, having more than half its players quit the team, sustaining multiple injuries and mustering just two wins on the field last season, it would have been easy for Fountain Lake to throw......

Ashton White takes advantage of the time he’s given on the gridiron.  In 2019, he tore ligaments in his ankle during fall camp and missed six games after surgery. But he made the most of the four games he saw the field, earning 5A West......

Central Baptist College head softball coach Jordon Jones has announced an addition to her coaching staff for the upcoming season. Former Mustang pitcher Rachel Gregory joined the staff on Aug. 3, replacing Tim House, who left after three seasons. “We are so excited to add......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears added an exclamation point to their 2020 football schedule Monday when they announced a three-game series with perennial FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) power North Dakota State. The series begins on Oct. 3 when the Bears travel to Fargo, N.D.,......

Hot Springs Lakeside senior quarterback Will Ross knows that when it comes to playing your senior season in a COVID-19 landscape, nothing can be taken for granted.  “We are taking every precaution we can to have our season,” Ross said. “We are doing all the......

If there’s something Bryce Bohanon can’t do on the football field, Wampus Cat fans have yet to see it. The electric senior has been lighting up Friday nights since his sophomore season.  On any given down, you could see him line up at receiver, running......

Conway Wampus Cat football is preparing for a season like none we have ever seen. Conway Corp has covered every season since 2001 and is ready to bring Wampus Cat fans their 20th season of coverage. “We know that the athletic department and fans have to......

“I feel blessed…I’m thankful to the Lord” groggily flowed from Billy Joe Murray as he lay in a bed at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS)  on July 27, roughly 34 hours after completion of his successful right kidney transplant. Soon following was a......

For 34 years, Conway High School’s high jump record stood untouchable at a towering 5’4”. In March, Madison Holloway changed that with a 5’6” leap, adding another page to an impressive list of track and field achievements for the young star. “When I began high......

He was one of the most respected, most popular stars on one of the most successful, most celebrated star-studded teams in the history of the National Football League (NFL). Few professional performers have brought greater luster to the county of their birth than Elijah Pitts,......

by Kim Williams For nearly nine decades, Arkansas State Parks have been a destination for generations of residents and visitors alike. During the pandemic, parks throughout Arkansas were a respite during unprecedented times. The department’s mission, to “enhance the quality of life through exceptional outdoor......

Central Baptist College head men’s basketball coach Clint Galyean recently announced 10 newcomers for the Mustangs’ 2020-21 season.  CBC is coming off a 22-9 season that saw them go 16-6 in American Midwest Conference play and win the AMC regular season title. The squad posted......

Recent St. Joseph High School graduate Ryan Davis has signed a letter of intent with Central Baptist College to play baseball for the Mustangs.  Davis – a stand-out pitcher for the Bulldogs – was an All-Conference baseball and basketball player at the school.  He’ll be......

The 501 LIFE staff is proud to present the members of the 2020 edition of the 501 Football Team.  This year’s honorees mark the 10th edition of the 501 Football Team. Sponsors for this year’s team are Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank.......

A day at the golf course can help the Cabot Lions Club continue its vision-screening program for the Cabot community, buy a pair of eyeglasses for a local child or even assist a local adult in receiving a much needed glaucoma or cataract surgery.   The......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears were already scheduled to meet the in-state rival Arkansas State Red Wolves next season in Jonesboro. However, the 2020 pandemic has altered those plans slightly. The Bears and Red Wolves will now meet two years in a row as......

Even though this year’s Conway Kids Triathlon did not take place, organizers worked to continue to provide financial support to the Soul Food Café Mission.  This would have been the 23rd year for the event, which is typically held in August and presented by First......

Conway Corp has been broadcasting Wampus Cat football for nearly two decades and this month will reach into the archives to broadcast three classic Wampus Cat football games. A new classic game will premiere each Friday night in August with replays the following week. Aug.......

by Erik HolthCBC Sports Information Director In the latest installment of the Central Baptist College Alumni Spotlight, which details former athletes, the spotlight shines on Josh Austin. Austin is a 2013 Hall of Fame inductee. He played basketball at CBC from 1999-2001 for Coach Mark......

The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCA) recently announced the 2020 NCAA All-Academic Athletes and All-Academic Team. Both the men’s and women’s track and field teams earned All-Academic Team status. Ajah Criner and Zachary Jewell each collected All-Academic Athlete status for......

PLUMMERVILLE — A winning weight of 10 fish for just over 10 pounds would have most bass-fishing tournament directors contemplating a permanent blacklisting of the lake from their schedule, but Jared Pridmore, director of the Lake Brewer Bass Club and owner of JP Custom Baits,......

by Erik HolthCBC Sports Information Director In the latest installment of the Central Baptist College Alumni Spotlight, which details former athletes, the spotlight shines on the only female Hall of Fame inductee in the school’s athletic history – Bridget “Branscum” Jones. Jones was inducted into......

The Southland Conference has announced its member institutions will not participate in volleyball and soccer competition through Aug. 31. Beginning Sept. 1, Southland members will have the discretion to participate in non-conference volleyball and soccer competition prior to the Conference portion of the 2020 schedules.......

Even though this year’s Conway Kids Triathlon will not take place, organizers are working to continue to provide financial support to the Soul Food Café Mission. “The Conway Kids Triathlon board made the difficult decision to cancel our event,” said Conway Kids Triathlon Race Director......

Wherever he went, points, victories and championships followed. From his earliest years, he refused to envision obstacles he could not overcome — not athletic, not academic, not environmental. He always believed that success lay ahead if, with “eyes on the prize” in the distance, he......

by Tyler Ellyson UNK Communications Last August, Hailey McNee was on the visiting sideline as the University of Nebraska at Kearney volleyball team defeated Wyoming in four sets. The exhibition match jump-started a dream season for the Lopers, whose only loss came in the NCAA......

by Erik Holth CBC Sports Information Director In the latest installment of the Central Baptist College Alumni Spotlight, which details former athletes, the spotlight shines on Hall of Famer Johnny Rice. Rice, a 2015 Athletic Hall of Fame inductee, played basketball from 1986-88 for Coach......

Trey DePriest recently won the 47th Annual Maumelle Classic at the Maumelle Country Club. Fellow Bears Blaine Calhoon, Miles Smith and Nate Jolly all finished inside the Top-20 at the classic.  DePriest finished the tournament with a 213 (-3). He, along with three other golfers,......

It was a special spring for Conway coaches Salty Longing and Craig Conner. Both won championships in their respective sports — boys basketball and boys swimming — and both also received Coach of the Year honors from the Arkansas High School Coaches Association.  The championships......

The University of Central Arkansas Bears dominated the 2020 preseason All-Southland Conference football teams announced on Wednesday with a league-high 13 selections named to the first and second teams. The Bears had eight players named to the first team and five more to the second......

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission this week reopened its doors to public access for the first time since March. All buildings have limited public access as part of the state’s reopening process. “We’ve been working diligently to address the safety of our staff and......

In a recent installment of its alumni spotlight series, Central Baptist College featured Hall of Famer Robert Stewart. Stewart was inducted into the CBC Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010, with the first class ever inducted. He played basketball at CBC from 1972-74 for fellow Hall of......

The University of Central Arkansas volleyball team and Head Coach John Newberry recently announced the addition of the University of Arkansas to the 2020 schedule. For the first time in program history, the Sugar Bears will face the Razorbacks in collegiate competition. UCA will host......

The Second Annual Kyle Allison Golf Classic, benefitting Renewal Ranch, was held June 29 at the Conway Country Club. “The tournament went great,” said Bryce McGhee, director of marketing and fundraising at the Ranch. “We were very pleased with the turnout and were able to......

by Erik HolthSports Information Director In its ongoing alumni spotlight series, Central Baptist College focuses on legends from years past who have died, but still left their mark forever on the school’s athletic programs – Said Thomas, Jim Herring and Eulis England. Thomas was inducted......

Conway High School sophomore Madison Holloway broke a 36-year-old record at the team’s first meet on March 5 during what would become a short track season. Madison broke the Conway High girl’s high jump record of 5’4″set in 1984. She jumped 5’6″ and won the high......

The Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) recently announced its yearly All-American Scholar Team list. UCA sophomore Elin Kumlin earned her second All-American Scholar honor with this year’s nod. Kumlin led the team with an average round of 75.92. She finished with an average score of......

Two more sporting events in the 501 have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.Organizers of the annual Toad Suck Daze Run announced Tuesday via Facebook that this year’s event won’t happen. In addition, an announcement was made this week that the 2020 Minor League......

The 20th Annual Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament will be held Monday, July 13, at the Maumelle Country Club.  Entry fee for the four-person scramble is $500 per team. It includes two golf carts, gift bags with swag, complimentary beverages and a grilled......

The Arkansas Travelers recently announced disc golf at Dickey-Stephens Park on Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, presented by North Little Rock CVB and Budweiser.  Tee times will be available from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on that Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m.......

Central Baptist College women’s basketball head coach Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of a former Mustang onto his staff as an assistant. Kory Westerman, who just ended her career this past semester, will join the women’s basketball staff as an assistant coach on Saturday,......

Incoming freshman Palmer McSpadden recently won the 2020 Arkansas Junior Amateur Championships at the DeSoto Golf Course at Hot Springs Village. For the second consecutive year, an incoming student-athlete has won the Junior Amateur Championship. McSpadden, who is from Fayetteville, opened the tournament with a......

The Arkansas Track Coaches Association (ATCA) recently recognized high school cross country and track and field student athletes for their outstanding achievements during the 2019-20 school year.   These awards are typically celebrated and awarded to deserving highs school athletes at the Arkansas Track and......

Central Baptist College recently launched itssummer Alumni Spotlight Series title “Where Are You Now?” This year, the focus will be on Central Baptist College Athletic Hall of Famers, of which, ceremonies were conducted in 2010-13 and 2015.  Today’s spotlight shines on Bruce Andrews, a 2012......

Tickets for the University of Central Arkansas Bears’ season-opening game in Week 0 (Saturday, Aug. 29) are on sale now at the UCA ticket office. The Bears will take on the Austin Peay Governors in the “Guardian Credit Union FCS Kickoff” at historic Cramton Bowl......

“I love it in the sky” is her mantra. Fascinated by planes and human flight as a youngster, Debbi Brawley confesses that in adulthood she has transitioned  from dream to goal, and today  knows what it is  “to fly” as a skydiver, to experience the......

When we last met with Chris Coover a year ago, the University of Central Arkansas athletic training grad was given the opportunity of a lifetime to serve as an intern for the NFL’s Tennessee Titans. One year later, what began as a journey for professional......

Griffith Olinde, a member of the Central Baptist College Baseball Team, was named a first-team All-American by the NAIA Ball Podcast. Olinde had an outstanding 25 games before the season was canceled, leading the team in hits, home runs, RBIs, on base percentage and slugging......

Last Thursday night, University of Central Arkansas pitcher Gavin Stone was about 15 minutes away from returning for another season at Bear Stadium.But then he got “the call” from the Los Angeles Dodgers just before 10 p.m., setting a new course for his baseball career......

The Second Annual Kyle Allison Golf Classic will be held Monday, June 29, at the Conway Country Club. All proceeds will benefit the ongoing operations and special projects at Renewal Ranch, a faith-based and Christ-centered program for men 21 years of age and older who......

by Mark Oliver For nearly half a century, Conway Youth Football has served as the first step for young athletes in Faulkner County to discover their love for football. It has produced numerous Division I athletes, including former Arkansas Razorbacks and NFL star Peyton Hillis.......

The Fifth Annual Big Buzz Bass Tournament, presented by Bradford Marine and ATV, returns to Lake Maumelle on Saturday, June 13, with more than $6,000 in prizes up for grabs. For the second consecutive year, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is working with 103.7......

The University of Central Arkansas men’s soccer team and Head Coach Ross Duncan recently announced the schedule for the 2020 campaign. UCA returns to the pitch on the road for an exhibition against Lipscomb on Aug. 14. The Bears will have home exhibitions against Lyon......

Conway Corp recently presented four Conway High School seniors with $500 scholarships for their performance in the classroom and in their individual competitive arenas.  Adrienne Robinson was named the Female Scholar Athlete of the Year. She is a four-year letter winner in swim and finished......

The CSI First Tee Character Development Program will offer summer programming starting Monday, June 8.  According to First Tee Character Development Coach Sam Taylor, organizers  have spent the last month continuously monitoring the COVID-19 status in program locations and have developed new safety guidelines and......

The University of Central Arkansas softball team led the Southland Conference with a total of four student-athletes who achieved all-academic team status. The Southland recently announced its 2020 Softball All-Academic team. Junior outfielder Reagan Sperling and sophomore catcher Tylar Vernon earned first-team recognition, while senior......

The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will welcome seven new members this fall. The Class of 2020 will include Larry Crandell, Greg Dunseath, Robyn Smith-Everson, Leslie Clothier-Futrell, Anthony Gardner, Scott Schwartz and Ted Yotter. The Class of 2020 will be the 19th class......

Thanks to a proclamation by Gov. Asa Hutchinson, anyone may fish in Arkansas without a fishing license or trout stamp from noon Friday, June 12, through midnight Sunday night, June 14.   An annual tradition sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and approved......

Central Baptist College baseball coach Dr. Aaron Brister continued to increase his recruiting class with the signing of the 24th player to his 2021 class. Central Arkansas native Spencer Hartwick will join the Mustangs this fall. Hartwick played second base, outfield and pitched for Quitman......

The University of Central Arkansas athletics program has been awarded the prestigious Southland Conference Institutional Academic Performance Award.  This honor is awarded annually to the member institution compiling the highest Academic Progress Rate (APR) average based on a seven-point scale and percentage calculation. UCA captured......

Story and photoby Sonja J. Keith On Memorial Day, Jesse Sullivan honored a special group of Arkansans who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. Jesse, who lives in Conway, is a Realtor with ERA TEAM Real Estate and a reservist with the......

by Dr. Robert Reising No facility in Arkansas has a higher calling. None honors a nobler, more admirable, more deserving group: the men and women of the state who have died in the service of the nation. Nor has War Memorial Stadium been static in......

Metroplan is inviting families to participate in a bike-themed scavenger hunt for National Bike Month. Now through the end of May, children are encouraged to create original artwork or decorate an Ozone Action Days coloring sheet, available on Ditch the Key’s Facebook page, to display......

Central Baptist College Women’s Basketball Coach Lyle Middleton has announced the signing of 10 players to the 2020-21 recruiting class. These 10 are one of the largest recruiting classes for women’s basketball ever and the players signing are Riley Bridges, Alexis McClaren, Brogan Jones, Vicky......

Due to COVID-19, the annual University of Central Arkansas Purple Circle Golf Tournament has been postponed from June 12 to Friday, July 31. It will be held at Centennial Valley Country Club.  The tournament fee is $165 per person or $660 per team. To reserve......

by Donna Lampkin Stephens Before the world as we knew it changed, Conway’s Wampus Cat swimmers won the Class 6A state championship — the school’s first boys title in 32 years. Conway, which had won the 6A-Central title, notched 436 points to knock off perennial......

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and its partners in safe boating throughout the nation encourage everyone to help spread awareness of life jacket safety by wearing their life jacket to work Friday, May 15. “Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day” is an annual......

The 2020 Tour de Rock, benefiting CARTI – scheduled for May 30 – has been postponed due to the global coronavirus pandemic. The new date is set for Saturday, Aug. 15. The route will begin and end on Riverfront Drive and Brother Paul Drive in......

Central Baptist College athletics recently revealed a new set of logos and branding. This is the first update of CBC’s athletic logos since 2012. “Anytime you make changes, it starts a new chapter,” said Athletic Director Lyle Middleton. “While the logo is an exciting new......

Spring is in the air, and many Arkansans are looking for reasons to break away from the house and explore The Natural State.  According to Karen Rowe, nongame bird program leader for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, birdwatching (called “birding” by those who pursue......

Central Baptist College head softball coach Jordon Jones recently announced the addition of two more Central Arkansas natives to her 2021 recruiting class. Tobi Finley and Abigail Barker will join the Mustangs this fall. Finley, an outfielder from Sheridan, is transferring to CBC from Ouachita......

The Southland Conference recently announced its 2019-20 Men’s Golf All-Academic team. Sophomore Brett Daughdrill achieved his first academic honor with a first-team accolade. The Jonesboro native finished the season with the second-best average for the Bears with a 73.39 in 18 rounds played. His best......

While gyms and fitness centers have been closed due to COVID-19, the Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center has offered free online workouts to promote health and fitness. Amanda Castillo has presented free Facebook Live workouts each weekday since the center temporarily closed in March......

Conway Public Schools has named Lakeside’s Leighton Hardin as the new head coach for the Wampus Cat Baseball Program. Hardin, who has been the head coach at Hot Springs Lakeside for the last five years, is known for building up and nurturing talent in his......

Conway Regional Health System hosted its inaugural Breakfast of Champions on March 10. Approximately 50 community leaders and past sponsors of the Conway Regional Golf Classic were in attendance. The 24th annual golf tournament was scheduled for June 1 at Centennial Valley Country Club, but......

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Stacy Hurst announced that beginning Friday, May 1, that campgrounds at Arkansas State Parks will reopen for RV campers with the following limitations:  Campers must use private recreational vehicles with self-contained bathroom facilities. Camping will be only......

by Dr. Robert Reising Conversing with Ronnie Huckeba is pure pleasure. “A people person,” he exudes humility, intelligence and understanding. Within minutes of entering his orbit, strangers are invariably convinced they have gained a new friend. His warm and winning personality has served him commendably......

With many states issuing orders to “stay at home” or “shelter in place,” some Arkansas anglers may worry that their favorite outdoor pursuits are in jeopardy. Although a couple of these states have ordered partial or complete halts to fishing within their borders, most, including......

A historic winter season was wrapped up abruptly for the Mustangs on March the 11, but not before the winter sports season was 99 percent complete. Several players and teams had historic years, including men’s basketball, which set several new records. The Mustang men’s basketball......

The University of Central Arkansas placed two players on the 2020 National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame (NFF) Hampshire Honor Society.UCA tied for the lead in the Southland Conference with a pair of selections, including senior running back D’erek Fernandez and senior defensive......

Like many other organizations in the 501, the Women Run Arkansas Running Club has had to change plans and adapt in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Club is an RRCA organization which was formed in 2000 in response to the need for a statewide......

Central Baptist College Head Volleyball Coach Stephanie Irwin has announced the 2020 fall schedule for the Mustangs. The season includes seven home matches and 29 matches overall after a record-setting 2019 campaign. “I’m looking forward to the fall 2020 season with even more anticipation than......

University of Central Arkansas center Hayden Koval was recently named to the Southland Conference All-Academic men’s basketball team for the second consecutive year. Koval, a 7-foot junior from Prosper, Texas, has a 3.85 grade-point average with an accounting major.  Koval, who set the UCA school......

The Sixth Annual Fishin’ for a Mission bass tournament has joined the list of events that have been cancelled this spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament had been scheduled Saturday, April 18, at Lake Dardanelle State Park at Russellville. “Due to the directive......

For the fifth time in the program’s history, the Conway Wampus Cats are basketball champions.  With Gov. Asa Hutchinson’s recent announcement of the extended closure of public schools through the remainder of the 2019-20 school year due to the impact of COVID-19, this cemented the......

The recent closure of the Buffalo National River eliminates all use of the Buffalo National River Wildlife Management Area until further notice, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. This includes a closure to angling in this section of the Buffalo, as well as......

A pair of Central Baptist College men’s basketball players recently earned All-America honors. Tyrone Alston and Darius Williams were both selected to the NAIA Honorable Mention All-America team, marking the first time that two Mustangs have earned All-American recognition in the same season and the......

PART 2 by Steve EastUCA Sports Information “We all have learned that our work and dedication is for the love of the game. We do not need a stage. The greatness is within us.” Natasha Vincent – UCA women’s golf coach. When the coronavirus (COVID-19)......

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Stacy Hurst on Wednesday that all Arkansas State Parks will be open for day use only effective 8 a.m. Friday, April 3, until further notice. ADPHT is eliminating all overnight stay opportunities. These changes will maintain some access......

With the coronavirus affecting many businesses in the state, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will extend the temporary closure of AGFC offices, nature and education centers and shooting ranges until further notice.  Wildlife management areas, boat ramps, lakes and fishing accesses controlled by the......

PART 1 by Steve EastUCA Sports Information “If I have to give up my senior season of college baseball for someone to get to spend 10+ more years with their grandparents or a baby gets to live a full happy life, then take it away.......

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, in cooperation with Gov. Asa Hutchinson, has waived all fishing license and trout permit requirements for residents and nonresidents through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, March 29.  The special waiver is in response to the extended spring break by many schools......

The Children’s Advocacy Alliance (CAA) has announced its 12th Annual Heroes for Hope Race will be held virtually. Participants may run at their leisure and record their run by 7 p.m. Saturday, April 11. “After careful consideration, the Children’s Advocacy Alliance has made the decision......

Officials with the Toad Suck Daze Race, presented by Conway Regional Health System, have announced postponement of this year’s event in light of the COVID-19 health crisis. According to a Facebook post on the race page, “Due to the outbreak of COVID-19, we are postponing......

Meagin Poole Warren prefers to be a face in the crowd, nothing more — an inconspicuous member of a board of directors — hardly discernible among a collection of capable colleagues on whom she can deflect publicity and praise. The combination of a race director......

by Donna Lampkin Stephens For the second straight year, Vilonia’s Michael Stout has been named the National Federation of State High School Associations Section VI Boys Track and Field Coach of the Year. In his 11th season atop the Eagle program and 17th overall, Stout,......

The Kyle Allison Golf Classic is planned Monday, April 20, at the Conway Country Club. The event raises money for Renewal Ranch, which last year named its annual golf tournament in memory of Kyle. (At press time, this event was still scheduled. Please contact organizers......

The Sixth Annual Fishin’ for a Mission bass tournament will take place Saturday, April 18, at Lake Dardanelle State Park at Russellville. (At press time, this event was still scheduled. Please contact organizers to ensure no changes have been made.) Founded by Amanda and Brian......

by Sonja J. Keith Young people in Central Arkansas and their families are invited each spring to participate in a special event that promotes health and fitness while also supporting school physical education programs. The 12th Annual Kids Run Arkansas is planned 6 p.m. Friday,......

University of Central Arkansas interim head coach Anthony Boone has a new title. He is officially the head coach of the Bears. Dr. Brad Teague, UCA’s director of athletics, announced at the weekly Bear Backers luncheon that the interim tag has been removed from Boone’s......

The Ninth Annual Run for the Fallen is planned Friday, March 20, through Sunday, March 22.  A team of runners will complete a 150-mile run to honor Arkansas service members who have died while serving since Sept. 11, 2001. Each mile is dedicated to an......

Bowling teams from Greenbrier High School scored in the top spots at the recent 5A State Tournament held in Jonesboro. The Greenbrier Lady Panther bowling team won the 5A state championship. The Lady Panthers dominated to win by more than 300 pins for the school’s sixth......

High school basketball state tournaments tip off this week across all classifications.  In the 6A, both Conway teams are in. The Lady Cats earned the No. 2 seed out of the 6A Central and a first-round bye, which has been beneficial to a team that......

Training clinics for this year’s Women Run Arkansas Running Club will start the first week of March in cities across the state. Women Run Arkansas Running Club is an RRCA organization which was formed in 2000 in response to the need for a statewide women’s......

by Levi Gilbert Caleb London’s senior season has been a paradox — filled with change, but still yet, familiar.  After playing in his comfort zone at guard the last two seasons, London has had to move to the post to fill a need. Despite playing......

by Levi Gilbert On Jan. 3, the Conway Lady Cats were seconds away from finishing a 61-51 victory at Marion and closing out a promising 11-3 non-conference run. And that’s when it happened. That’s when standout sophomore Jaiden Thomas’ season hit a tragically different trajectory. ......

Attending church services has many benefits that include spiritual fitness, social wellness and opportunities to serve others in the community. A unique opportunity for serving and blessing a student from the University of Central Arkansas arose last summer for a church member during coffee cup/fellowship......

He was the first. On May 22, 1975, against the Padres in San Diego, Ryan Kurosaki took the mound for the St. Louis Cardinals and an important racial/ethnic barrier was broken. He became the first player with both parents of Japanese ancestry to appear in......

One of Conway’s brightest soccer stars will soon represent the 501 on an international stage. From the first time that he stepped on a soccer field, Will Childers knew that he wanted to do great things with the game. Today, at age 14, the Conway......

After falling in the opening game of the Class 5A state tournament a year ago, Landon Hill has worked hard to give his team another opportunity to play for a state title. With the postseason looming on the horizon, the Vilonia senior forward is all-in down the stretch. ...

It wasn’t the final season that Kobe Dunlap had dreamed of, but where one sees adversity, the Greenbrier Panthers senior sees opportunity and a bright future ahead....

With just three weeks remaining in the 6A regular season, Hannah Ogilvie and the Cabot Lady Panthers (19-3, 7-2) have a firm two-game lead over Bryant and North Little Rock for the No. 3 seed and are within striking distance of both Conway and Northside for the top two seeds. ...

In memory of Eloise “Wheezy” Ann Owen, the Fifth Annual “Walk for Wheezy” will be held on Sunday, Feb. 23, at Cabot Panther Stadium in Cabot....

Ever since Josh Denton first picked up a basketball, the junior shooting guard has always had one goal — to take his game to the next level....

With two regular season games remaining, Libby Stutts and the Heber Springs Lady Panthers have a chance to chase down the two teams in front of them in the 4-4A — Clarksville and Morrilton....

After helping his team reach the Class 3A semifinals last season, Mayflower junior Brandon Patterson is committed to getting his team back to the final four — no matter the cost....

The more than 400 University of Central Arkansas student-athletes continued their outstanding academic work again in the fall 2019 semester, finishing with a combined cumulative grade-point average of 3.17....

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will host its Seventh Annual Freezin’ for a Reason 5K and 10K and Lap for Life on Saturday, Feb. 1....

As the heart of conference play gets under way for many teams in the 501, the Beebe Badgers are hitting their stride at just the right time....

After going 9-18 and missing the postseason last year, Searcy has turned things around with a new look, a new coach and a new goal of a deep postseason run....

It hasn’t been the season that Conway Christian guard Jake DeBusk dreamed of, but it hasn’t stopped him from leading his team on the court. ...

Emily Dather and Conway Christian have made positive strides this season. After a disappointing sophomore campaign that finished with just four wins overall and only one conference win, Conway Christian (6-8, 2-1) has already surpassed both win totals this season. ...

After stumbling in the Class 2A regional tournament a year ago, St. Joseph senior Ryan Davis and the Bulldogs are ready for a big rebound in 2020....

While the final tally is still being calculated, organizers of the Second Annual Arkansas Duck Derby are calling this year’s event a big success....

After being upset in the first round of the Class 4A state tournament last year, Morrilton junior forward Keevon Moore and the Devil Dogs are on a mission to take their game to the next level this season. ...

Organizers for the 501’s premier hunting event – the Second Annual Arkansas Duck Derby – are less than a week away from the big fundraiser....

The Valory Music Co. artist Justin Moore will host the 2020 “Justin Moore St. Jude Golf Classic Presented by Mercedes Benz of Little Rock” this summer at Chenal Country Club in Little Rock....

The University of Central Arkansas Athletics Department has partnered with the Bear Community Champions, Halter’s Body Shop, Sam’s Club and Second Baptist Church for the annual Toys for Tots in December to collect toys for children in need....

On and off the court, Sacred Heart guard Luke Hartman won’t back down from a challenge. In the face of adversity, the senior leader always finds a way to allow positivity to prevail. ...

Alyse Ellis knows what it’s like to be on the biggest of stages, and she’s working to get her and the Mount Vernon-Enola Lady Warhawks back there again. ...

On and off the court, Sacred Heart guard Luke Hartman won’t back down from a challenge. In the face of adversity, the senior leader always finds a way to allow positivity to prevail. ...

Last season, the Bigelow senior girls basketball team finished 31-4, including a trip to the 2A state tournament. Jill Nutt played a big role on the team a year ago as a sophomore, but this year, she knows her role can’t stay static. It has to grow and evolve in her junior campaign. ...

After clinching a share of the Southland Conference championship with their win over the University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals on Nov. 22, the University of Central Arkansas Bears were rewarded with a national seed in the FCS playoffs. ...

Although Chad Simpson “fell in love with archery” in Oklahoma, the relationship reached its zenith only after his move to Arkansas.  ...

One of the best seasons in recent memory came to a close for the UCA Women’s Cross Country Team after placing 13th overall in the NCAA South Central Regional.  ...

With their win earlier in the season against Sam Houston State University, the University of Central Arkansas Volleyball Team guaranteed itself a spot at the Southland Conference championship tournament. ...

501 LIFE is proud to present the 2019-20 edition of its 501 Basketball Team. The team boasts 41 honorees — our largest team yet — representing the best student-athletes the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. ...

All across the 501 and the state, the Arkansas high school football playoffs kick off this Friday with intriguing first-round matchups across all classifications....

The University of Central Arkansas football team returns to the stripes Saturday, Nov. 16, against Stephen F. Austin. On Saturday, UCA will recognize its seniors for Senior Day and it will be the Salute to Service Day.  ...

The Fifth Annual United Way of Central Arkansas Turkey Trot 5K – Family Fun Run and Walk will be held Thursday, Nov. 28, at Centennial Valley Country Club in Conway....

Every football program has an identity. At Greenbrier, the Panthers work together to choose how they are defined on and off the field. It’s a principle that the student athletes like to call “The Panther Way.”...

It has been a season to remember for Magnet Cove. After falling in the opening week, the Panthers have reeled off seven consecutive wins and show no signs of slowing down....

Inclement weather forced the postponement of the inaugural Big Bear Classic, which was planned last Saturday during homecoming at the University of Central Arkansas....

Organizers are making the final arrangements for the 12th Annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon & 10K scheduled Saturday in Conway....

Because Charles and Vanessa Castleberry are university graduates with a love of farm life and animals, it was predictable that their firstborn would possess a similar bent for the academic and the rustic. ...

A recent article titled “Does Fishing Have a Future?” focused on a disturbing trend among Americans that shows fewer anglers hitting the water to wet a line every year....

“I enjoy competition” is a perfect illustration of understatement when uttered by Vernon Gingrich, the 73-year-old athlete from Hot Springs. ...

Haskell Harmony Grove senior William Newton will never forget the rainy October night last season when his Cardinals upset one of the Class 4A’s top teams — a game that will be remembered as one of the best in school history....

The University of Central Arkansas Alumni Association will present the Alumni Service Award and the inaugural Young Alumni Award at a ceremony during Homecoming 2019....

Conway Advocates for Bicycling, in partnership with the City of Hope Outreach, will present its annual Conway Fall Classic Bicycle Tour on Saturday, Sept. 21. ...

Each time he takes the field, Perryville quarterback Reid Standridge is looking for a new way to outsmart his opponent. For the senior, finding a way to win the battle between the ears is the best strategy for leading his team to a win on the scoreboard, too....

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Family and Community Fishing Program welcomes all anglers 50 years and older to Lake Valencia for the largest senior citizen community fishing event in Arkansas at 9 a.m. until noon on Friday, Sept. 6....

The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will add seven new members on the annual Hall of Fame Weekend in Conway on Friday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 14....

For the third year in a row, students and faculty at Anne Watson Elementary School ended the school year with a special run on campus. This year’s event was called the “Dino Dash.” ...

New Orleans’ loss was Conway’s gain. When a California-born, four-sport high school athlete transferred from Tulane University to Hendrix College in the spring of 1960, he launched more than half-a-century of diverse contributions to athletics that continue to enjoy impact in and beyond the Faulkner County city....

Central Baptist College Director of Soccer Operations Lance Gordon recently announced the 2019 schedule for the men’s soccer team at CBC....

Central Baptist College volleyball coach Stephanie Irwin recently announced the seventh signee to her 2019 recruiting class. Shelby Kathcart will join the Mustangs in the fall....

Little Rock Marathon race officials are celebrating the start of the 2020 training season on Tuesday, Aug. 6, at its training kickoff party, presented by Rock City Running and KARK Channel 4. ...

Even though Arkansans enjoy one of the lowest resident hunting and fishing license costs in the nation, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has a special present for everyone’s 65th birthday — one last license that will never expire. ...

From Friday, Aug. 9, through Sunday, Aug. 11, Paws at the Net will be held at Match Point Inc. at Rebsamen Tennis Center in Little Rock. ...

Former Central Baptist College women’s soccer player Kurtsy Oswald is featured this week in the school’s Alumni Spotlight series featured during the summer....

Wonderview High School graduate Jacob Tinsley was just 5 years old when he lost his arm in a mowing accident. However, what was once a tragic accident turned into an opportunity for a young man to teach others how to overcome life’s most difficult obstacles....

After what they describe as a “twin sweep” as national collegiate champion pole vaulters, Tori and Lexi Weeks recently returned to their hometown of Cabot to encourage young people to discover what they are passionate about and work hard to achieve their dreams. As they have done....

With the summer break in full swing, University of Central Arkansas Head Volleyball Coach Jeni Jones Chatman has announced the 2019 schedule that features three prominent non-conference tournaments, a rugged Southland slate and a chance to capture the conference crown in front of the UCA faithful....

It’s time for the next installment in the Central Baptist College summer series “Where Are You Now?” Today, CBC profiles some Mustangs who are playing professional baseball....

Central Baptist College is continuing its summer “Where Are They Now?” series with a Class of 2011 graduate who has had some success in her chosen profession – former softball player Kayla Lucas....

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce recently presented its 19th Annual Golf Tournament at the Country Club of Arkansas....

The University of Central Arkansas men's basketball program has played a Who's Who of college basketball teams over the past 13 years at the NCAA Division I level....

Thirty-six teams participated last week in the annual University of Central Arkansas Purple Circle Golf Tournament at Centennial Valley Golf and Country Club, marking it one of the most successful in the event’s history....

Central Baptist College recently released the first installment in its “Where Are They Now?” series with a feature on former Mustang wrestler John Lopez....

For the second consecutive year, the Kansas Royals nabbed a University of Central Arkansas baseball player, drafting senior pitcher Cody Davenport in the 20th round of the 2019 Major League Baseball Draft....

The annual Purple Circle Golf Tournament, presented by Cousins’ Office Furniture, is set for Friday, June 14, at Centennial Valley Country Club in Conway. ...

Monument Trails, a collection of destination mountain biking trails merging world-class riding with architecture, art and nature, are set to open in several Arkansas State Parks starting in June. ...

The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce will present the 20th Annual Chairman's Memorial Golf Tournament on Friday, June 7, at the River Oaks Golf Club of Searcy. ...

Central Baptist College Athletic Director Lyle Middleton has announced the hiring of a new volleyball coach to replace Sara Mitchell, who resigned April 10 after one season to take a job at a high school in Georgia. ...

More than 600 men, women and children registered for the 36th Annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run and Tadpole Trot, presented by Baptist Health Heart Institute-Conway and Arkansas Cardiology. ...

After playing a tough schedule during the regular season, Central Baptist College softball went 0-2 in the American Midwest Conference tournament and had to wait on pins and needles to see if they would earn an at-large bid....

The Conway Kiwanis Club is making final preparations for this year’s Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K and Tadpole Trot scheduled Saturday at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School....

Conway High School celebrated its senior athletes on Wednesday during its Annual All Sports Senior Recognition Program, held at James Clark Auditorium....

The 14th Annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament will be held Thursday, May 23, at the Morrilton Country Club beginning with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. ...

Schools and shooting teams from throughout Arkansas will converge each Friday and Saturday in Jacksonville over the next five weeks, all hoping to unseat Bald Knob High School’s top senior division team and Nashville’s top junior squad as champions of youth trap shooting in Arkansas....

The Cabot School District recently announced the hiring of Chris Young as its athletic director. Young replaces Rob Coleman, who is returning to his love of coaching as assistant football coach of the Cabot Panthers. ...

The Eighth Annual Hot Springs Fishing Challenge on Lakes Hamilton and Catherine begins Wednesday, May 1, and runs through Wednesday, July 31....

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Family and Community Fishing Program welcomes all anglers 65 years and older to Lake Valencia for the largest senior citizen community fishing event in Arkansas, 9 a.m. until noon, Friday, April 19....

Arkansas Travelers pitcher Darren McCaughan was named Texas League Pitcher of the Week for April 4-14 according to League President Tim Purpura. ...

The Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center is making plans for the 11th Annual Kids Run Arkansas planned 6 p.m. Friday, April 12, in Conway....

The Arkansas Track & Field Hall of Fame will induct its 25th class during a 6:30 p.m. banquet Friday, May 31, in the Silver City Ballroom of the Wyndham Riverfront Hotel in North Little Rock....

Egos were bruised, stereotypes destroyed. City pride hurt. On the night of Sept. 12, 1949, on a newly lighted home field, the heavily favored Heber Springs Merchants Baseball Team was defeated, 5 to 3, by a pitcher who was a girl....

Three members of the Conway High School Track Team recently signed letters of intent to continue competing on the college level....

A large recruiting class has joined the Central Baptist Soccer family, according to a recent announcement by Coach Chris Murphy. ...

St. Joseph High School held its end-of-season basketball awards presentations on March 10. Players, managers and cheerleaders in the seventh through 12th grades were recognized for their achievements....

In an apolitical reflection of remembrance, a team of active duty and reserve airmen, soldiers and Marines and will embark on a 150-mile memorial run in March to honor Arkansas service members who have died since Sept. 11, 2001. ...

With the regular season in the rear-view mirror, just three games separate Conway junior Caleb London and the Wampus Cats from the Class 6A state championship crown....

A year ago, Peyton Caldwell was leading the Edmond Memorial Bulldogs to the Oklahoma state quarterfinals. This year, Searcy’s senior guard is helping his hometown grow beyond the basketball court. ...

He was distinctive. Cliff Lee was one of the greatest pitching talents ever, and yet, on the diamond as well as away from it, he was also “a laid-back dude,” to use Eric Chesterton’s label, a nonchalant, fun-loving, cocky competitor whose antics fascinated fans as well as teammates....

Conway High basketball fans sure have been spoiled for the last decade. The combination of a supportive school system and community and elite local talent and coaching have created the perfect storm of a Conway Lady Cat dynasty. ...

The University of Central Arkansas added 25 new football Bears to the program on Feb. 6, the first day of the NCAA national signing period....

Central Baptist College Head Softball Coach Jordon Jones recently announced a second signee. Dyanah Rippeto will join the Mustangs this fall as the newest member of the softball team....

With just seven regular season games remaining in her high school basketball career, Greenbrier’s Blysse Harmon is simply trying to soak it all in....

After tasting the Class 5A state tournament last season, Brady Jerry and the Greenbrier Panthers are doing everything they can to get back to the big dance — one game at a time....

Central Baptist College Head Softball Coach Jordon Jones recently announced Alexis Hill, a utility player from Bigelow, has joined her 2020 recruiting class....

St. Joseph School eighth-graders Jake Hill and Chloe Skinner were among the recipients of the Marvin Delph Student-Athletes Award presented Jan. 20 at Central Baptist College in Conway. ...

Guy-Perkins senior Rachel Dumont may be the new girl on the basketball court this season, but don’t let the fresh face fool you — the Lady Thunderbirds guard/forward is far from inexperienced when it comes to basketball talent....

Before the baseball season has even begun, Central Baptist College baseball coach Dr. Aaron Brister announced his first signing of the upcoming 2020 recruiting class....

Piper Mullaney and the St. Joseph Bulldogs have big goals entering 2019, and they know those goals have to go through Quitman and Pangburn to be accomplished. ...

The role of leadership can often be heavy, and McKenna Vaught is learning valuable lessons in her junior season at Conway Christian. And they’ve been lessons worth learning. ...

When an injury dimmed the light on his senior season before it began, Conway Christian senior Jacob Wood found a new way to lead his team on and off the basketball court....

After falling in the Class 3A regional tournament a year ago, Mayflower storms the court this season ready to take the Eagles to new heights. ...

Central Baptist College softball coach Jordon Jones has been selected for the Marvin Delph Award by the Conway Athletic Awards Commission. The award recognizes the female sports person of the year. ...

Abbie Jiles is playing out of her mind. Just eight games into the season, the senior is averaging 26.3 points per game in her early quest to lead the Riverview Raiders back to the state championship....

501 LIFE is teaming up with three local businesses to present the 2018-19 edition of the 501 Basketball Team, celebrating student-athletes who are making contributions on and off the court....

The Faulkner County Falcon 12 & Under and 14 & Under teams did well in the NCHVC (National Christian Homeschool Volleyball Championships) tournament held in October in Wichita, Kansas. ...

University of Central Arkansas placekicker Matt Cummins closed his career by earning the Southland Conference Special Teams Player of the Week honor....

“If Arkansas ever had an honest-to-God hero, ‘Footsie’ Britt was that person,” proclaimed Lt. Gov. Mike Huckabee soon after learning of the Carlisle native’s passing on Nov. 26, 1995. It would be an unusual Arkansan who found reason to disagree. ...

Sky Davidson and the Clinton Yellow Jackets have unfinished business. After falling in the 3A quarterfinals in 2017, the Yellow Jackets kept the success rolling this season with a second-straight perfect regular season....

This Friday kicks off the opening round of the football playoffs across all classifications. Twenty-nine 501 schools have punched their tickets to the playoffs with the same goal in mind — reach War Memorial in December. ...

One year removed from a Class 3A quarterfinals appearance, Mayflower soars into the playoffs this season with an impressive 9-1 record, the top scoring offense in Class 3A and a mission to conquer the state of Arkansas. ...

From the rafters of Rupp Arena, the largest basketball-only sports auditorium in the nation, hangs a well-worn jersey on which a name and a number important to Central Arkansans glisten in white on a sea of blue....

Regardless of records or playoff implications, Faulkner County is rife with tension for two communities every year in Week 10 of the high school football schedule. The Greenbrier Panthers and the Vilonia Eagles face off for the First Service Cup in their annual county rivalry Friday, Nov. 2. ...

Bald Knob currently sits on the outside looking in at the sixth spot in the 2-4A, but with two games remaining, the Bulldogs control their own destiny in their first year of moving up to 4A. That’s just how Austin Fisher likes it. ...

Jim Yeager, a coach at Sacred Heart School in Morrilton from 1971-1977, will sign his new book, “Backroads and Ballplayers,” at the Sacred Heart gym from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26, before the basketball game with Maumelle Charter....

The Conway High School Band competed in the Arkansas Showcase of Bands held at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock on Saturday, Oct. 6....

Isaac Clemmons used to spend his Friday nights watching Quitman football games from the bleachers. Now, the senior spends his Fridays putting on a helmet and reeling in touchdowns for the Bulldogs....

Jake Brooks is one of those players who rarely leaves the field. He’s a punishing running back and a bruising linebacker for the Haskell Harmony Grove Cardinals. ...

Senior quarterback JoVoni Johnson scored six rushing touchdowns, and the Wampus Cats’ special teams and defense recovered five fumbles to beat Ft. Smith Southside, 45-19, in heavy rain on the road to open 7A Central play. ...

After suffering a season-ending injury during the first game of his final season, Central Arkansas Christian senior Hugh Miller has found a new way to lead the team he calls his family....

From the gridiron to the halls of Malvern High School, Alex Noble is making his mark as a Leopard. The senior is a standout linebacker for the Leopards on the field and a standout student and citizen off of it....

More than $768,000 collected from wildlife fines is available for Arkansas educators to apply for grants through the AGFC’s Conservation Education Grants Program by Thursday, Oct. 4....

“He was a winner” concluded a respected Arkansas sportswriter recently when asked to describe Ken Stephens, who followed a record-setting two-sport career at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) with 39 years of successful coaching. ...

Tadariyan (TJ) Rogers and Mike Malham have something in common — this is their last season of high school football. And the fates of their final seasons are intertwined....

Plans are in the works for the inaugural Arkansas Duck Derby. The hunt will support men’s health programs at Conway Regional Health System, with proceeds used for the Lodging Assistance and Guest House program for patient families who live out of town and need short-term lodging....

When the Arkansas Vols qualified for the USSSA seventh grade boys Division II National Championship in Florida, head coach Josh Brooks was simply hoping to get his players extra experience in the game they loved. ...

501 LIFE is teaming up with three local businesses to present the eighth edition of the 501 Football Team, celebrating student-athletes who are making contributions on and off the field....

The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will add seven new members in the fall during the annual banquet at the UCA Student Center Ballroom....

The Cabot Lions Club will host its Annual "Memorial" Golf Classic on Monday, Sept. 10, with a shot gun start at 1 p.m. The four-person scramble will be held at Cabot’s Rolling Hills Country Club (located on Mount Carmel Road/Highway 321)....

Little Rock Marathon race officials are celebrating the start of the 2019 training season on Thursday, Aug. 2 at its inaugural Training Kick-Off Party, presented by Rock City Running and Team Heifer....

Greenbrier native Autumn Buczek learned many lessons during her tenure with the Arkansas Lady Razorbacks Softball Team. Not only did these virtues help her become a better competitor, they have also helped pave the way for her future. ...

Passion and potential — she has always possessed both. Even as a third-grader, she loved basketball and could outplay her school mates, boys as well as girls, in school-yard and Pee-Wee encounters....

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is asking anglers and bowfishing enthusiasts to help bring back one of Arkansas’s oldest trophy angling opportunities – the alligator gar....

Conway United Soccer Association (known as Arkansas Rush) and Arkansas United Soccer Club recently announced the two organizations will be joining together to become the sole provider of soccer programming in Conway. ...

Coming off of a third NCAA Tournament Appearance in the past six years, the Central Arkansas Sugar Bears are looking to continue a run off success that has seen them consistently sit at the top of the Southland Conference in 2018....

National Christian College Athletic Association coach of the year and Central Baptist College head softball coach Jordon Jones recently announced the addition of another new player to her squad....

Central Arkansas men’s soccer head coach Ross Duncan recently announced the addition of six more players to his squad, bringing the total number of new faces to the Bears’ roster to 16 for the upcoming 2018 season....

Four Central Baptist College baseball players were selected by Natural State Baseball to their all-state team - Ben Madison, Jose Delmar, Brett Luna and Austin Kuchinski....

Central Arkansas women’s soccer head coach Jeremy Bishop recently announced his squad’s 2018 schedule, one that features a pair of 2017 NCAA Tournament teams and eight opponents that won at least nine games last season....

If there is ever a search for the word that best describes Louis Lee, “grateful” may well prove to be the popular choice....

Central Baptist College women’s basketball coach Lyle Middleton is bringing in five newcomers this fall. Aaliyah Cash, Alexis Augustus, Danielle Wright, Meagan Parham and Sierra Carrier will join CBC in August....

The Kansas City Royals recently grabbed their second and third University of Central Arkansas Bears in the 2018 Major League Baseball draft when they drafted left fielder Hunter Strong in the 25th round and catcher William Hancock in the 31st....

Registration is open for the 11th Annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon & 10K scheduled Saturday, Oct. 20, in Conway. The Soaring Wings Half Marathon and 10K benefits Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christian family home that provides security, love and hope to children who need a chance, through no fault of their own, for as long as they need it. ...

University of Central Arkansas senior Tyler Gray was named the Southland Conference Pitcher of the Year by the league office....

Visitors to Pinnacle Mountain State Park probably have noticed Rattlesnake Ridge, which divides the Maumelle River and Little Maumelle River watersheds. As the state’s 73rd natural area, dedicated May 2, its 373 acres will provide a playground for outdoor enthusiasts....

Rider registration is currently underway for the 15th annual CARTI Tour de Rock, a cycling-based fundraiser benefiting CARTI cancer patients, scheduled for June 2 at North Shore River Walk, 140 Riverfront Dr.,in North Little Rock....

Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center will host free family track nights every Monday in June at the Bill Stephens Track at the University of Central Arkansas....

The final senior regional tournament of the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program featured some amazing performances – five shooters had perfect, 50-for-50 days, while 10 others missed out on a perfect score by a single trap....

Having not lost a game yet in either the Regionals or the World Series, Central Baptist College softball beat Belhaven University on May 19 to win its second NCCAA National Softball Championship (2010)....

Her front yard was important. Recognizing that his 11-year-old daughter had a penchant for basketball, and that Romance, an unincorporated White County community in which they resided, had no public courts that she could hone her skills, Terri Conder-Johnson’s father erected a makeshift goal just a few yards from the main entrance of his family’s modest home....

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will return as presenting sponsor of the 17th Annual Little Rock Marathon Weekend. Registration will open soon. Registration usually opens in August each year, but organizers will be opening 2019 registration by Memorial Day and will be offering discounts....

Organizers of the 11th Annual Tour de Toad are calling this year’s event “the best.” There were 270 riders who participated in the bike ride, with 30 volunteers as well as fans turning out at Cantrell Field, where the race started and finished....

The 13th Annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament will be held Tuesday, May 22, at the Morrilton Country Club beginning with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The three-person scramble is sponsored by the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation. Proceeds from the......

Arkansas and the 501 led the way. For over half a century — for 61 years, to be exact — the baseball team located in Pulaski County has been the “Arkansas Travelers,” the first professional sports franchise named after a state. ...

Central Arkansas Softball senior Kate Myers has received the Southland Conference’s prestigious F.L. McDonald Scholarship, the league’s foremost academic award. It is presented to two student-athletes, one male and one female, as selected by the conference’s Faculty Athletic Representative Community. Myers, a shortstop from Tulsa,......

More than 800 men, women and children registered for the 35th Annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run, presented by Baptist Health Heart Institute/Arkansas Cardiology. The event was held May 5 at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. It includes a 10K Run, 5K Run,......

Organizers predict 2,000 women participate in the Women Run Arkansas 5K Run/Walk planned at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 12, at Conway High School. “The Magic of New Beginnings” was the theme for the 21st edition of the Women Run Arkansas Women Can Run/Walk clinics, which......

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will present its 18th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 17, at the Maumelle Country Club. Sponsorships are available. The tournament is limited to the first paid 26 teams. Registration is $500 per team. The tournament will be divided......

Harding University tennis player Morgan Salvan, a freshman from Millau, France, was named the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Central Region Rookie of the Year. The Central Region is made up of four teams from the Great American Conference, six teams from the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association......

Conway High School celebrated its 136 senior athletes on Tuesday during its Annual All Sport Senior Recognition Program, held at James Clark Auditorium. “During the school year, it can be difficult to express our appreciation for the hard work and dedication all of you put......

The 35th Annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run, presented by Baptist Health Heart Institute/Arkansas Cardiology, and the 11th Annual Tour de Toad Ride, are planned Saturday in Conway. Individuals who participate in both events are eligible for a special Iron Toad medal. TOAD SUCK RUN......

The American Midwest Conference recently announced their all-conference baseball teams at a banquet held in Joplin, Mo. Ben Madison, Austin Kuchinski and Jose Delmar were honored with all-conference selections while Ryan Guyton was the champion of character and Austin Cree, Baker Wilson, Brett Luna, Charley......

Harding University recently announced this year’s recipients of the athletic department’s highest awards. Gavin De Los Santos, a member of the Harding University football team from Hot Springs, was honored in chapel as the men’s 2018 M.E. Berryhill Award winner. Madison Drennan from the cross-country......

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Family and Community Fishing Program will welcome all anglers 50 years and older to Lake Valencia in Maumelle on Friday, May 4, for the largest senior community fishing event in the state. The event will run from 9 a.m.......

Two students at Vilonia High School recently signed national letters of intent to play on the college level. Christian Gardner signed to play football for Bacone College in Muskogee, Okla., and Whitney Marr will play volleyball for Lyon College in Batesville. WHITNEY MARR A daughter......

Woolly Hollow State Park near Greenbrier will host a Kids Fishing Derby from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5. Kids ages 15 and younger are invited to try their luck in Lake Bennett at the park’s annual fishing derby. A drawing at the end......

Sonja Keith photos Organizers are describing this year’s Chase Race and Paws in Downtown Conway the best event to date. “The 2018 Chase Race & Paws was the best ever race event,” said Don Potter, Chase Race founder and race director. The event was started......

Baptist Health Heart Institute and Arkansas Cardiology are showing their community support as the presenting sponsor for this year’s Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run.

The 35th annual event is planned Saturday, May 5, in Conway. 

...

Young people of all ages will soon be hitting the swimming pool as part of the annual Conway Crocs program offered through the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

Chris Brynell, who started the summer swim team, is the coach.

...

The Central Arkansas Volleyball programs will feature some new faces next season, as head coach Jeni Jones Chatman recently announced the addition of six players. The group is split evenly, with three players joining the Sugar Bears for the 2018 indoor season, and three joining the Beach Bears for the 2019 beach campaign. ...

by John Patton

Friday, April 27, will be circled on calendars all over the 501 again this year as parents get their kids ready for one of Conway’s most popular running events.

...

Central Baptist College women’s soccer coach Chris Murphy recently announced the signing of seven athletes to his program for the 2018 season. Kaylee Parker, Alexis Knight, Brieanna Crisel, Jessica Wisenor, Makayla Jones, Ashley Cave and Adrianna Evans are the seven new Mustangs. ...

The 11th Annual Tour de Toad Ride is planned 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5, at Cantrell Field.

Registration begins at 10 a.m. at the new Conway airport, located at 3250 Sand Gap Road. Registration fees ar $25 for the 10-mile family ride, $45 for the 20-mile intermediate ride and $45 for the 40-mile advanced ride. Virtual cyclists can register for $25.

...

The Harding football team, 2017 national semifinalists, had five team members named to the National Football Foundation Hampshire Honor Society.


Harding's honorees included offensive lineman Gavin De Los Santos...

...

The new City of Conway tennis facility, which features eight outdoor tennis courts at Laurel Park, will see its first tournament this month.

The Conway Regional Tennis Classic is planned Friday, April 27, through Sunday, April 29, at the new facility, located at Laurel Park on Prince Street. 

...

The Eighth Annual Renewal Ranch Golf Classic will be held Monday, April 16, at The Greens at Nutters Chapel in Conway.

Registration and complimentary breakfast are planned at 7 a.m., with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be served from noon to 2 p.m. 

...

Central Baptist College softball coach Jordon Jones recently announced the addition of two more signees to her 2019 class. Seniors Ashlyn Spears and Jordan Moody will join the Mustangs in the fall. ...

The Seventh Annual “Hoof It for Heifer” 20K Trail Run will be held Saturday, April 14, on the Boy Scouts of America trail at Petit Jean State Park. 

The fundraiser is organized by the Heifer Volunteer Group based in Conway. 

...

Plans are in the works for the 35th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run, planned Saturday, May 5, in Conway.

Over the years, the race has raised more than $411,000 for local charities. Proceeds from this year’s race will benefit a variety of local non-profits:

...

The 7th Annual Heroes for Hope Race hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Alliance will be held Saturday, April 7, 2018. All participants are encouraged to dress up as their favorite superhero, because every child needs a hero but an abused or neglected child needs a superhero. 

“The Heroes for Hope Race is more than a race, it’s a time to support all of the kids in our community.” said Executive Director Tess Fletcher.

...

The most decorated men’s basketball player in University of Central Arkansas history will get to represent the Purple and Gray one more time at the NABC Reese’s College All-Star Game on Friday in conjunction with the NCAA Final Four. ...

Van Buren County gave him his start. Born on Jan. 4, 1943, on a 160-acre farm between Clinton and Choctaw, Bobby Burnett went on to be labeled “a man playing a boy’s game” by a teammate on the 1964 University of Arkansas football team, the......

Friday, April 27, will be circled on calendars all over the 501 again this year as parents get their kids ready for one of Conway’s most popular running events. Under the guidance of Mallory Lefler, fitness coordinator for the Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center,......

Every student athlete moving from high school into higher education yearns to earn the label “All-American” before graduation. Yet gaining that distinction are only a tiny percentage of the performers competing each year in the nation’s colleges and universities. To claim it twice in a......

by Mark Oliver


Before she was a triathlete, Cabot senior Melanie Abbott was a 10-year-old girl staring anxiously into a pool of water. 

“When I was younger, my family made it a priority for me to become water safe,” Abbott said. “I didn’t know how to swim, but I loved being in the water.

...

The Harding School of Theology will host its 17th Run for the Son 5K on Saturday, March 24, on its campus located at 1000 Cherry Road, Memphis.  ...

NFL offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif of the Kansas City Chiefs will make an appearance at the Bolo Bash® Tennis Tournament on Sunday, April 15, to help the Baptist Health Foundation continue its goal to improve the health of young Arkansans.  ...

The Harding women's basketball team recently had two players named All-Great American Conference. 

Freshman Kellie Lampo was second team and senior Sydney Layrock was honorable mention. Peyton Padgett also earned the GAC Elite Scholar Athlete Award for having a 4.0 GPA.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Trailing by 12 points in the second quarter, the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds rallied for a 71-66 win over Izard County, closing out John Hutchcraft’s legendary coaching career with an 11th state title. 

“It was one of the best wins of my career,” Hutchcraft said.

...

by Levi Gilbert

After falling short in the state finals two out of the last three years, the third time truly was the charm for the Wonderview Lady Daredevils, who defeated Mount Vernon-Enola, 56-40, in the 1A girls’ state championship.  

...

Conway Public Schools has named Clint Ashcraft as the new athletic director for the Wampus Cats.

Ashcraft has been Conway’s head football coach for the last nine years.

...

St. Joseph High School recently held its end-of-season basketball awards presentations. Players, managers and cheerleaders in the seventh through 12th grade were recognized for their achievements. ...

Of the 28 teams playing in high school basketball state championship games this week in Hot Springs, 13 of them call the 501 home. 

Five players from this year’s 501 Basketball Team are vying for championship rings. 

...

The 13th annual Chase Race and Paws will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday, March 10.

"Volunteers are working hard to make this year’s event the best one ever,” said Don Potter, Chase Race founder and race director. “In addition to being the most unique race in the state of Arkansas, there will be a Pet Parade of Adoptable Dogs, and a free pet costume contest.” 

...

The Harding University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee partnered with Make-A-Wish Mid-South to raise more than $8,000 and grant a wish for Alissa Carter, an 11-year-old Searcy girl diagnosed with a critical illness. The reveal celebration was held Feb. 25 in the Rhodes-Reaves Field House at Harding. Hundreds of athletes, students, faculty and staff members gathered for the event. ...

Arkansas high school basketball state tournaments began this week across all classifications. 

Four of the state tournaments (1A, 2A, 5A and 7A) are being hosted in the 501. 

...

Following the fall portion of the 2017-18 season of competition in the Great American Conference, the league office recently announced that 360 student-athletes achieved Academic All-Conference honors in the sports of football, volleyball, men's and women's soccer and men's and women's cross country, 11 more than the previous high for those six sports.
 ...

by Levi Gilbert 

With a win Tuesday over Catholic, the Conway Wampus Cats have locked up a berth into the 7A state playoffs.

With one game remaining, the goal is pretty simple for Scott Ashby and the Wampus Cats. Win at Bryant on Friday, and the No. 3 seed is Conway’s. 

...

by Mark Oliver

As a sophomore, Cabot’s Jalen Brown tasted high school basketball greatness with the school’s first state championship win.

Two years later, the experienced senior looks to bring the crown back home to Lonoke County.

...

by Mark Oliver 


Throughout her basketball career, Cabot senior Lesley Roberts has served her team with strong leadership on the floor.

With the Panthers’ season down to one crucial game, however, the senior must find a way to guide her team to the Class 7A state tournament from the sidelines.

...

The Harding men's and women's cross-country teams recently received All-Academic Team recognition by the United States Track and Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association for posting cumulative GPAs of 3.00 or higher.
 

Harding's men tied for the sixth-highest GPA in Division II at 3.60.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

“The Magic of New Beginnings” is the theme for the 21st edition of the Women Run Arkansas Women Can Run/Walk clinics, which will kick off the first week of March.

The 10-week clinics, which meet twice a week, will culminate in the Women Run Arkansas 5K in Conway on May 12 — the Saturday of Mother’s Day weekend.

...

by Bob Reising

Every student athlete moving from high school into higher education yearns to earn the label “All-American” before graduation.

Yet gaining that distinction are only a tiny percentage of the performers competing each year in the nation’s colleges and universities. 

...

by Mark Oliver


After two years of quick exits in the district tournament, Wonderview is heading back to the Class 1A Regional tournament. With a little bit of luck and a lot of heart, the Daredevils are showing the 501 that you can never count out an underdog.

...

by Levi Gilbert

This week, the second season begins for Shelby Reynolds and the Wonderview Lady Daredevils. The playoffs are here. 

Reynolds has pretty much done it all on the court at Wonderview — won three straight district championships, played in three straight semi-finals games and played in two state championship games (2015 and 2017).

...

The St. Joseph High School Girls Bowling Team competed Feb. 7in the 3A-1A-2A Conference Tournament in Little Rock at Professor Bowl.

St. Joseph was conference champions with a score of 2747. Mountain Pine was runner-Up with a 2654. 

...

The Central Arkansas women’s soccer team recently added seven new players to the roster.

The group, which features players from Arkansas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Texas, is composed of two keepers, two defenders, a midfielder and a pair of midfielders/forwards. 

...

Central Baptist College cross country coach Cezar Terlea recently announced the signing of Cade Griffith at a signing day on the Conway High School campus. Griffith’s signing is a historic one, as he becomes the first runner to ever sign with both cross country and the brand new track and field program, which begins this fall. ...

by Mark Oliver


It’s the one game that every athlete circles on their calendar but no one wants to play — their final home game. On Friday, Jacob Bremmon will take home court for the final time in his basketball career at Heber Springs High School.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Riverview’s Ja’Mon Tyrese “J.T.” Smith has had a singular vision this season — do anything and everything to get the Raiders back to the 4A state tournament. As a sophomore in 2016, Smith helped lead Riverview to the 4A quarterfinals. 

...

The Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program’s 2018 regional tournaments will be held at a dozen schools throughout the state on Saturday, Feb. 10. 

ANASP was established by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission in 2008 and has grown tremendously.

...

by Levi Gilbert

With two regular season games left, Kenzie Woodruff and the Mount Vernon-Enola Lady Warhawks are looking to close out strongly. 

“These last few games are big for us,” Woodruff said. “We have to just go out and do what we know how to do.

...

by Mark Oliver

In a clash between two titanic teams, one long winning streak will be broken Friday as Mount Vernon-Enola travels to take on Quitman. For Warhawks senior Kanyin Martin, his team’s success is a culmination of compromise and chemistry.

...

by Mark Oliver 

When it comes to high school basketball, respect isn’t given — it’s earned. Off to their best season in many years, the Quitman Bulldogs (19-10, 4-2) are finally enjoying the spoils of victory and receiving the respect they deserve. 
“Last year, we lost in the first round of the district tournament,” senior forward Hunter McClung said.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Quitman Lady Bulldogs have had historic success the last two years, and Rieley Hooten has been right in the middle of it all. In her junior campaign, Hooten helped lead the Lady Bulldogs to state championships in basketball, track and cross country. Now, the senior captain has the basketball Lady Bulldogs (25-3, 5-0) poised for another deep playoff run. 

...

Sidney Moncrief — the former Razorback All-American, five-time NBA All Star and two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year — will give a presentation titled “Achieving Greatness” at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, in the Fine Arts Auditorium at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton. ...

by Mark Oliver

After a disappointing early exit from the district tournament a year ago, the Harding Academy Wildcats have one goal this season — make 2018 a year to remember. 

“Last year, we lost in the first round of district and ended our season short,” Wildcats senior forward Travis Turley said.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Harding Lady Wildcats have been spoiled for three seasons by having Eva Elaine Helpenstill, and Coach Rusty Garner knows it.

“Elaine brings a calming, reliable presence for our team,” Garner said. “She also has a high skill level and is a very crafty scorer. Every coach and team should be lucky enough to have a player and teammate like Elaine.”

...

by Mark Oliver

After winning just five games over the past four seasons, Conway Christian has re-emerged this year, taking the Class 4-2A conference by storm as one of the top teams to beat, taking the program to new heights. 

“Coming into this season, Conway Christian hasn’t been known for basketball,” junior guard Jacob Wood said. 

...

by Mark Oliver

Pay no attention to St. Joseph’s record right now. While the Bulldogs may be the underdogs of the Class 4-2A conference, there’s still enough bite left in the team to put together a strong finish. 

“This season has been a hard fight for us, but it’s slowly coming to us,” senior guard Spencer Pope said.

...

by Levi Gilbert

For St. Joseph’s Brianna Wells, basketball, faith and community are inextricably linked. 

“I started playing organized basketball when I was 6 years old with the Upward program,” Wells said. “My older brother played and loved the game, so I followed. We grew up in a neighborhood full of kids, so there were basketball games every day. 

...

by Levi Gilbert

From Alaska to Arkansas, basketball has always been a part of Stormy Stacks’ life. 

“When I lived on an island in Alaska, going to the gym and playing basketball was what everyone did,” Stacks said. “That’s how I started with basketball, and I automatically loved it. My parents were born and raised in Arkansas.

...

From Alaska to Arkansas, basketball has always been a part of Stormy Stacks’ life. “When I lived on an island in Alaska, going to the gym and playing basketball was what everyone did,” Stacks said. “That’s how I started with basketball, and I automatically loved......

by Aaron Nolan

Once in a lifetime is only supposed to happen once, but somehow, some way, a kid from Maumelle, who graduated from the University of Central Arkansas, is getting a twice in a lifetime chance. 

In August 2016, I was asked to be a part of Nexstar Media Group’s Olympic Team in Rio de Janeiro.

...

by Mark Oliver

Fresh off its first state tournament appearance in years, Greenbrier emerges in 2018 as one of the front runners to compete for the Class 5A title. 

“We’re doing pretty well this season,” senior Tanner Tilley said. 

...

by Mark Oliver
 
When a knee injury threatened to take him away from the game he loved, Searcy senior Joe-Todd Smith rediscovered what it was that made him pick up a basketball in the first place. 
 
“In the final game of my freshman season, I tore my ACL,” Smith said. 
...

by Levi Gilbert

A special subset of basketball players exists, and these players face an interesting challenge on the court. Greenbrier’s Breleigh Simmons is a member of this group — she’s a coach’s kid.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Sometimes, the greatest character moments are revealed in times of adversity rather than times of triumph. During a challenging senior basketball season, Searcy’s Sydney Hicks has learned a valuable virtue. 

...

Over the next five seasons, the University of Central Arkansas football Bears will make a return trip to the Hawaiian Islands, resume an in-state rivalry and challenge a pair of Southeastern Conference schools in the non -conference portion of their upcoming schedules under new head coach Nathan Brown. ...

by Mark Oliver

From a young age, Nemo Vista point guard Ethan Hill always had big dreams of playing basketball on a big stage. Midway through his final season with the Red Hawks, the senior dreams of closing out his high school career with a return to the Class 1A state tournament.

...

by Mark Oliver

It’s been a season of peaks and valleys for Sacred Heart High School. 

After kicking off a brand-new season with an impressive 11-2 run, the Rebels have recently fallen on hard times, losing nine of their last 10 games, including six straight losses. At a time where wins aren’t coming, senior forward Andrew Poole says it’s time for his team to rise to the challenge — together. 

...

by Levi Gilbert

After making it to the 1A state tournament as a freshman in 2015, Gracey Acre has one last chance to lead the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds back to the state tournament.

It’s an opportunity the senior isn’t taking for granted. 

...

Central Baptist College head baseball coach Dr. Aaron Brister recently announced his sixth signing for the class of 2022. Kory Wilson of Vilonia is the most current future Mustang to sign his National Letter of Intent... ...

by Mark Oliver

Some say that winning a state championship is one of the hardest feats to accomplish in high school athletics. For senior Tre Minton and the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds, the challenge isn’t winning it once — but rather doing it all again in 2018. 

...

The Garland County Circle of Friends Chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will host the Third Annual Jockey Jog Competitive/Family Run, 5K at 10 a.m. Saturday Jan. 6, in Hot Springs... ...

by Mark Oliver

After a brutal five-loss start to the season, the Faulkner County Falcons are back in the driver’s seat in the Arkansas Homeschool Conference with wins in five of their last six contests and have their eyes on homeschool basketball’s biggest prize — the Gold Ball Championship. 

“At the beginning of the season, we played sloppily,” Falcons senior center Benjamin McNair said. 

...

by Levi Gilbert

Sarah Owen’s senior campaign is a story of growth. Through hard work and improvement, Owen has developed into a go-to leader for the Faulkner County Falcons in her second season with the team.

...

The family of the late Meredith Floyd has established a scholarship in her memory at their alma mater, the University of Central Arkansas – the Meredith Susanne Floyd Endowed Scholarship.

The scholarship will be presented annually to a UCA student-athlete participating in football and pursuing a degree in the field of education.

...

by Bob Reising

He received no offer. In the spring of 1995, Nolan Richardson, head basketball coach at the University of Arkansas, indicated there was no room in his nationally powerful program for Keith Carter, the talented Perryville High School hoop star. 

Keith was disappointed but not discouraged.

...

by Mark Oliver

All his life, Conway native Henry Hawk has experienced success at many different levels. 

From his time as a three-sport all-state athlete at Conway High School and coaching at Ole Main (later North Little Rock) to a high school football state championship and his induction into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, everything Hawk touches seemingly turns to gold.

...

by Mark Oliver

After dropping the first two games of the season, Morrilton has won seven of their last eight games and look to build on the accomplishments of last year.

According to senior guard Rashid Washington, the team’s turnaround is fueled by textbook hard work and dedication.

...

by Levi Gilbert

After suffering an ACL and meniscus tear in May 2016, Katie Turner worked her way back on the court earlier than expected, returning for the second half of her junior campaign last season.

...

by Mark Oliver


Whether it’s on the court with his team, off the court with his peers in the classroom or in the gym with the next generation of Beebe basketball, senior shooting guard Steele Harris can always be seen helping others around him.

...

The Central Arkansas volleyball team is coming off of one of its strongest seasons ever on the court, but the Sugar Bears are also excelling in the classroom, with a league-best three players named to the Southland Conference’s All-Academic Teams.  ...

501 LIFE proudly presents the 2017-18 edition of its 501 Basketball Team. The team boasts 37 honorees, representing some of the best student-athletes the 501 has to offer — both on and off the court. The team is made up of male and female athletes. 

“This year is our biggest team yet, representing more of the great schools and communities in the 501,” said Levi Gilbert, associate editor.

...

by Levi Gilbert

After taking a year off away from basketball, Mayflower’s Ethan York is back on the court to help lead the Eagles. 

York took a break from basketball as a junior to recover from a knee injury. 

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Mayflower Eagles senior girls’ basketball team is still trying to put the pieces together early this season. The starting lineup looks different than it did a year ago as the team is working to figure each other out. Senior Bella York is a key piece to the puzzle as the Eagles head toward conference play. 

...

by Mark Oliver


After a tough junior campaign where her team only managed four wins, Maumelle senior McKenzie Smith is ready for redemption this season. Winners of three of their first five games, the Lady Hornets (3-2) believe they can be a contender in not just the 5A West conference this season, but the entire state of Arkansas.

...

by Mark Oliver

Throughout his basketball career, Vilonia senior Hunter Neely has made many memories on the basketball court. However, one moment stands out above the rest — when he and his team overcame the odds to reach basketball greatness.

...

Conway High School’s Sydney Stiener recently signed a national letter of intent to play golf at Henderson State University.

CHS Golf Coach Janet Taylor welcomed those in attendance at the signing, held at Buzz Bolding Arena, and detailed Sydney’s accomplishments.

...

Central Baptist College head softball coach Jordon Jones recently announced the signing of Allie St. John for the 2019 season. 

St. John, whose sister Kaylee is a junior on the softball team, is a senior this season at Conway High School.

...

The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears will make their third NCAA Tournament appearance on Friday night, heading to Los Angeles, to take on the 10th-seeded Southern California Trojans. The Sugar Bears and Trojans will face off at 9 p.m. CST. ...

The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears faced off with the Abilene Christian Wildcats in the SLC Tournament Finals, looking to secure the third SLC Tournament Championship in program history. The Sugar Bears did just that, picking up their 16th sweep of the season by defeating the Wildcats 25-22, 25-17, 25-22. ...

by Mark Oliver


You may have seen her biking or running the Conway streets on your commute to work. Perhaps you’ve seen her training in the pools around town. Next year, you’ll see her competing on the biggest stage in triathlons — the 2018 World Championships in Australia.

...

by Marissa Mourot 

I’ve been an avid sports fan my entire life and always felt pretty confident that I knew all there was to know about most sports.

After meeting my (now) husband, Mitchell Mourot, I found out that I was wrong. There was a sport out there that I knew very little about.

...

by Bob Reising

“There is no pretense in Jim Lee, perhaps the most honest man I’ve met in sports,” concludes Murray Olderman, speaking of Lonoke County native Jim Lee Howell in his 14th published book, “The Draw of Sport,” appearing earlier this year.

Not only do the nationally acclaimed sportswriter/cartoonist’s words communicate sparkling praise, but they also appear in a volume containing only 118 portraits, chosen from the approximately 6,000 treating the “greatest sports personalities of the last seven decades” that the 95-year-old has created since beginning his award-winning career in 1947. 

...

by Mark Oliver

In just a few short weeks, Central Baptist College freshman golfer Colton Ryan has had the ride of his life.

From tournament wins to national championship appearances, the Benton, La., native has jumpstarted his college career with a big swing. 

...

A large group of family, friends, teammates and even some of her opponents turned out last week to watch as Conway High’s Casey Ott signed to play golf at the University of Kentucky.

Ott is considered to be a top prospect out of Arkansas...

...

The Central Arkansas softball team welcomed eight new additions on National Signing Day last week, according to head coach David Kuhn. 

The group covers the entire field, with three pitchers, a catcher, a shortstop, a third baseman, a utility player and an outfielder...

...

Head men’s basketball coach Jeff Morgan will be Harding University’s new athletic director.

University President Bruce McLarty announced that Morgan, who will continue coaching basketball, would add the athletic director duties starting in August...

...

Theron Durham’s first career goal was an overtime winner for the Central Baptist College men’s soccer team on Tuesday night. The Mustangs (9-10) defeated Missouri Baptist (8-11) 1-0, to advance to their first-ever trip to the American Midwest Conference Championship game, scheduled Friday... ...

Central Baptist College baseball continues to add to their numbers for the 2019 season as head coach Dr. Aaron Brister recently announced the signings of two more players. The two players are Blaine Burge and Brent Morgan, who will both be graduating from high school in May. ...

In an effort to increase ethnic minority running, officials with the National Black Marathoners Association (NBMA) recently announced a workshop at 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, in Little Rock, aimed at organizing ethnic running/walking clubs in Arkansas. The goal is to establish running or walking clubs in various faith-based organizations or ethnic minority communities.  ...

by Bob Reising

Arkansas almost lost him.

After leading Malvern High School to the state’s AAA Football Championship in 1993 and claiming a then-high school state rushing record of 6,010 yards and 68 touchdowns, Madre Hill found himself in the midst of America’s football recruiting wars, coveted by every university seeking to claim or retain national gridiron distinction. 

...

by Mark Oliver
Mike Kemp photos

You may have seen her biking or running the Conway streets on your commute to work. Perhaps you’ve seen her training in the pools around town.

Next year, you’ll see her competing on the biggest stage in triathlons — the 2018 World Championships in Australia.

...

The Ruth Doyle Middle School Girls Volleyball Team finished another regular season undefeated, 12-0.   

The team also won the Gold Bracket of the Greenbrier Invitational tournament to put the icing on the cake for a great group of girls. 

...

The Soaring Wings of Conway Half Marathon will mark its 10th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 21. The race benefits Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christ-centered home for children in need. 

Marla Watson and Amanda Castillo serve as race co-directors for the event, which begins and ends at the McGee Center in West Conway.

...

Harding Academy will host the Seventh Annual Micah Rine Wildcat Legacy Race at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 7. The race begins at the Academy campus and includes a 5K race and 1-mile run/walk. 

The event is named for Micah Rine, a former Harding Academy and Harding University student who was murdered at in 2009 at age 26. 

...

KLIFE Searcy will host its Eighth Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, Sept. 29. The four-man scramble will take place on the Course at River Oaks, 1 Golf Course Dr., with lunch at 11:30 a.m. and shotgun start at 12:30 p.m.

“We love the opportunity to connect community members to our mission, which is to encourage youth to learn about God’s word,”...

...

The Soaring Wings of Conway Half Marathon will mark its 10th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 21. The race benefits Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christ-centered home for children in need. 

Marla Watson and Amanda Castillo serve as race co-directors for the event, which begins and ends at the McGee Center in West Conway.

...

by Bob Reising

Two years before his death in 1994, Alton “Al” Baldwin reminded a reporter of the motto that had always guided his actions: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” 

His life, every day of his 71 years, convincingly illustrates that he was not mouthing an untruth. 

...

The Third Annual Paddle Battle at the Bay race begins at the Fairfield Bay Marina at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, and is open to racers of all skill levels.

There are races for everyone in the family, including a race around Sugar Loaf for the more skilled paddlers, and races around the Fairfield Bay Breakwater for family groups...

...

Community Connections recently unveiled its largest ever slate of free extracurricular programs for children with special needs and their families, including brand-new offerings in Conway and Sherwood. This fall... ...

Fairfield Bay celebrates Mardi Gras in September at beautiful Greers Ferry Lake. Entering its fifth year, this colorful party on the water festival is everything its name suggests. Since Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, Boati Gras mean Fat Boat, with a whole lot of fun happening aboard. ...

Checks totaling $23,000 – proceeds from the annual Toad Suck Daze Run – were recently presented by the Conway Kiwanis Club to local non-profit organizations.

Runners and walkers of all ages participated in the 34rd annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on May 6 at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

...

The St. Joseph Bulldogs competed in its first meet of the season at Batesville in the Lyon College Invitational on August 31. 

The junior high runners finished first as a team. 

...

The University of Central Arkansas will add eight new names this fall to the UCA Sports Hall of Fame.

The newest members of the Hall will include: Clell Burnett, Coy Clark, Jim Faulkner, Tom Howard, Teresa Moss, Robert Ricks Jr., Mark Segovis and Tim Woods.

...

The Greers Ferry Lake and Little Red River Tourism Association and the Army Corps of Engineers are seeking volunteers and sponsors to pitch in from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, during the 48th Annual Greers Ferry Lake and Little Red River Cleanup.

Cleanup day check-in is 7:30 to 8 a.m. at any of the participating Greers Ferry Lake area marinas.

...

Environmental writer Mark Spitzer, author of numerous fish books, recently traveled to Nebraska on a quest of the state record bowfin (Amia calva) for a book he was researching on fish of the American West.

Although Dead Timber Lake (in which the current state record was caught in 1982) failed to produce the prehistoric, eel-finned monstrosity Spitzer...

...

After extensive renovations and an expansion to the range house, the Dr. James E. Moore Jr. Camp Robinson Firing Range near Mayflower will reopen to the public Friday, Sept. 8, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is celebrating the reopening with a special treat for anyone who wants to shoot.

...

by Bob Reising

“She will never make a successful college basketball player,” predicted one Arkansas college coach in 1990 as Stephanie Strack Mathis neared the end of her senior basketball season at St. Joseph High School in Conway.

St. Joe Boys’ Basketball Coach Joe Mallett quickly conveyed the message to Stephanie and was probably not surprised by the “Oh, really?” response reaching his ears.

...

Former Central Baptist College baseball player Jalin Lawson has signed a professional contract to continue his baseball career. Lawson signed with the Westside Woolly Mammoths of the United Shore Professional Baseball League on Aug. 7.

“I’m so proud that Jalin is finally getting a pro contract,” said Mustangs head baseball coach Dr. Aaron Brister. ...

Derek Nichols has been named director of coaching for Arkansas Rush (Conway Rush).

"Everyone in our soccer community seems to love this man and his style of coaching,” said  Rush Communications Director Jeff Turnbow. ...

More than 200 young people recently participated in the 20th Annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon held at Hendrix College.

“It was such an incredible day!” said race director Heather Kendrick. “We had 214 total registered participants, with 192 in the regular divisions and 22 competing in the Community Connections adaptive division.” ...

The Soaring Wings of Conway Half Marathon will mark its 10th anniversary on Saturday, Oct. 21. The race benefits Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christ-centered home for children needing a chance.

More than 18,000 have registered since 1997 for the event. The first half marathon in Conway soon became a must-do race for both local runners and those around the area. ...

Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton and head wrestling coach Ken Prophete recently announced the opening of a new wrestling center for the Mustangs.

The center will be the site of a grand opening hosted by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15.

...

After an undefeated 10-0-1 record in Southland Conference play in 2016, the Central Arkansas women’s soccer team looks to earn a second-consecutive league title in 2017.

The Bears, who went 15-4-1 overall last season, were tabbed as the preseason favorite by the Southland’s coaches and sports information directors. ...

Tom Roberts, MD, has joined Conway Regional Health System as medical director of a new sports medicine program as part of the formation of the Conway Regional Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

In his role and in partnership with other physicians on staff at Conway Regional, Roberts will help to oversee six full-time athletic trainers across Faulkner County.

...

The Third Annual Fishin’ for a Mission Benefit Bass Tournament recently raised more than $3,500 to help alleviate hunger in the Conway area.

The tournament was held in April at Beaverfork Lake near Conway. ...

The 20th Annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon will be held Saturday, Aug. 12, at Hendrix College. Youth ages 6 to 15 can register at conwaykidstri.com until Friday, Aug. 11, as long as spots are still available. 

The Conway event is one of the country’s premier youth triathlons but is open for all kids, not just kids who have previously participated in triathlons. ...

Bailey Mason of Maumelle didn’t know where archery could take her when she was first introduced to the sport in her fourth grade physical education class, but after hard work, practice and competition through regional, state and national tournaments, she took second place in the Elementary Division during the recent National Archery in the Schools World Tournament.

...

Registration is open for the 2018 edition of the Little Rock Marathon to be held Saturday, March 3, and Sunday, March 4. 

The Little Rock Marathon Weekend is presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation.  ...

Story and photos
by Sonja J. Keith

Conway High School graduate Abby Baker will soon be living her dream as a college cheerleader.

During a ceremony last spring at Buzz Bolding Arena, Abby signed a national letter of intent to cheer at Arkansas State University. ...

501 LIFE and Fairfield Bay are teaming up again to give away a weekend getaway for four to enjoy the natural beauty of Greers Ferry Lake and all the fun that Fairfield Bay has to offer.

Contest entrants must be 21 or older, with a limit of one entry per person.
...

Fifteen students from St. Joseph High School took part in a recent cheerleading camp sponsored by the Universal Cheerleading Association, which was held at the University of Central Arkansas Hyper Center.

St. Joseph's junior high and varsity squads were instructed on game cheerleading and crowd leadership techniques by the cheerleading association's coaches. ...

Central Baptist College athletic director Lyle Middleton recently announced the hiring of CBC men’s assistant soccer coach Chris Murphy as the head coach for the women’s soccer program. Murphy succeeds Tasha Flynn, who recently left CBC after three seasons.

“We are very excited about this opportunity,” Middleton said. ...

by Bob Reising

Bobby Tiner avoids mathematics.

When in conversation, it was pointed out to him that he had earned 10 letters in varsity athletics at Arkansas State Teachers College (ASTC), now the University of Central Arkansas.

 

...

by Mark Oliver

With a little bit of luck and a lot of hard work, Vilonia earned the Class 5A state baseball championship in May — the team’s first in 18 years.

“This was a team that relied on the comradery between each other to get the job done,” said Coach Brad Wallace. ...

Family Track Night, presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center, recently wrapped up its summer session.

“This is such a great event for kids and families, plus it is free,” said Amanda Castillo, marketing coordinator at the fitness center. ...

University of Central Arkansas golfer Brenda Gonzalez earned national academic honors for the second consecutive season, being named an All-American Scholar again by the Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA).

Gonzalez, a senior from Torreon, Mexico, was a first-team All-Southland Conference selection after tying for eighth at the SLC Championship. ...

by Zoie Clift, travel writer


Arkansas is home to more than 600,000 acres of lakes. Among these are five in Southwest Arkansas collectively known as the Diamond Lakes.

These are Lake Ouachita and Lake Hamilton at Hot Springs, Lake Catherine near Malvern, DeGray Lake at Arkadelphia and Lake Greeson between Glenwood and Murfreesboro.

...

Two Central Baptist Mustangs were recently recognized by Natural State Baseball for their outstanding play this season. Jalin Lawson was selected to the All-Arkansas first team at second base and Ben Madison was selected as honorable mention. ...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation will welcome three new names to the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame at this year’s annual banquet, Friday, Aug. 11, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock. David Pryor, Ross Whipple and Mark Karnes will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and the late Winthrop Paul Rockefeller will be honored with the Hall of Fame Legacy Award. ...

An image of two trumpeter swans rising from the cattails was honored with production as the 2017 Junior Duck Stamp at the official first day of sale at Bass Pro Shops in Little Rock on June 23. The fantastic image grabbed the attention of judges at the Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest in April, just as the species has been fascinating Arkansans for decades. ...

Official training for the Soaring Wings of Conway Half Marathon will begin in August.

The theme for this year was inspired by the Bible verse, “For those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:30-31. ...

Central Arkansas volleyball head coach Jeni Jones Chatman recently announced her indoor squad’s 2017 schedule. The Sugar Bears, who will be looking for their eighth consecutive Southland Conference Tournament appearance, will split their 28 matches evenly, with 14 set to be played in Conway. ...

A trio of Central Arkansas baseball players has been named to the Southland Conference All-Academic Team.

Sophomore Hunter Strong and graduate student Justin McCarty earned First Team honors, while senior Brandon Hagerla was named to the Second Team. ...

Central Baptist College men’s golfer Austin Harmon was recently recognized today by the Golf Coaches Association of American and PING as a third team NAIA All-America. It was Harmon’s second recognition of the 2016-17 season. ...

Steve Cook of Malvern was recently elected chairman of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission at its regularly scheduled June meeting in Jonesboro. Cook has served six years on the Commission, and this marks his seventh and final year to serve for the sportsmen and women of Arkansas and its natural resources. ...

A team representing Trinity Development team shot a 52 and finished first on June 5 in the 21st Annual Conway Regional Golf Classic. Their score topped the two-round, four-player scramble, which featured 47 teams of amateur golfers. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears had a pair of junior pitchers taken in the recent 2017 Major League Baseball Draft.

Ty Tice of Prairie Grove and Tyler Gray of Fort Smith were taken by the Toronto Blue Jays and Minnesota Twins, respectively. ...

Dare to be Aware, a free injury prevention event hosted by Conway Regional Health System, has been rescheduled for Saturday, June 24. The event was rescheduled due to inclement weather in May. ...

by Bob Reising

Stan Lee is an engaging conversationalist with a warm and winning personality, but when he turns his attention to golf, a level of seriousness embellishes his comments.

The sport has brought him so many enjoyable, rewarding hours that it is impossible for him to exaggerate its importance.

...

Central Baptist Mustang baseball coach Dr. Aaron Brister recently announced the signings of a pair of players, Dillon Vice and Jay French.

Vice and French join CBC family from points in the South. ...

Fairfield Bay will host the Annual "Surf the Bay" Water Sport Festival on Friday, June 17, and Saturday, June 18, at the Fairfield Bay Marina.

The free event will feature wakesurfing, flyboarding, paddle boarding, kayaking and family-fun water slides where you can “ride the wave.” ...

After experiencing the most successful season in program history in 2016, the Central Arkansas women’s soccer team knows the road it will have to travel to continue that success in 2017, as head coach Jeremy Bishop recently released the Bears’ 2017 schedule. The Bears will play eight matches at the Bill Stephens Complex on the year, including five against Southland Conference opponents. ...

Chris Wright has been named the new head men’s basketball coach at Central Baptist College.

CBC Athletic Director Lyle Middleton recently made the announcement at a press conference. ...

Following a collegiate career that saw her serve as an anchor for a Central Arkansas women’s soccer program on the rise, former Bear Allie Coleman is continuing her soccer career at the professional level, playing for Alamein FC in Australia’s Women’s National Premier League.

Coleman, who finished her UCA career with five goals and five assists, is tied for second in program history with 75 matches played and sits third with 5,383 minutes played. ...

The Eighth Annual Go! Running event will be held 7 a.m. Saturday, June 17, at the Clinton Presidential Library.

GO! Mile is a competitive timed one-mile race which features seven heats, including the First Mile for beginners, age group heats, an Elite Race and a Mini Mile kids race. ...

Get Moving Arkansas! drew fourth-graders from across state to Conway, trying to make exercise fun.

In its debut, Get Moving Arkansas! attracted more than 320 fourth-graders and their physical education teachers and parents to Bill Stephens Track and Field at the University of Central Arkansas. ...

The University of Central Arkansas had two of the five honorees on the 2016-17 Southland Conference Women’s Golf All-Academic team.

Senior Brenda Gonzalez and sophomore Emma Svensson were named to the All-Academic team. ...

Conway Regional will celebrate Global Running Day on Wednesday, June 7, at the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

There will be group runs at 5 a.m., 6 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. ...

The Fayetteville Shale Scholarship Fund awarded $20,000 in scholarships to high school students who participated in the 10th Annual FSSF Bass Tournament at Greers Ferry Lake on April 22. A total of 74 boats went out on the water, with 65 adults and nine high school students competing. 
...

St. Joseph School was officially presented with a check for $2.000 by the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center for having the greatest participation by a school or organization in the Ninth Annual Kids Run Arkansas held April 21 in Conway's Laurel Park.

With 244 entrants, St. Joseph earned the distinction for the eighth consecutive year. ...

Rider registration is currently under way for the 14th annual CARTI Tour de Rock, a cycling-based fundraiser benefiting CARTI cancer patients, scheduled Saturday, June 3, at River Trail Station in North Little Rock.

Presented by Russell Chevrolet and Arkansas’ Best Chevy Dealers, the CARTI Tour de Rock is an open-course ride departing from North Little Rock and routed through Scott and England that annually attracts more than 1,000 cycling enthusiasts from all across the United States. ...

by Mark Oliver
Megan Ledbetter photos

When it comes to competitive swimming in the 501, Searcy junior Erin McGuirt has been making a big splash.

“I’ve never been very good at anything on land,” McGuirt said. ...

Nearly 2,000 ladies recently participated in the 20-year anniversary of the Women Can Run/Walk 5K.

“This race is so special because we celebrate the first finisher just as much as the last,” said Amanda Castillo who serves on the board for Women Run Arkansas. ...

The 12th Annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament will be held Tuesday, May 23, at the Morrilton Country Club beginning with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The three-person scramble is sponsored by the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation. ...

This year’s Freezin’ for a Reason 5K and 10K and Lap for Life raised $42,000 for Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

The event is sponsored by the Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital. ...

Despite gusting winds and storm clouds looming, trap shooting teams from Bergman and Bald Knob recently came out victorious in the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program’s north regional qualifiers.

Chuck Woodson, program coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, said he was impressed not only with the shooting skills of the teams involved, but their attitudes adjusting to the poor shooting conditions. ...

Conway Corp presented four Conway High School seniors with scholarships for their performance in the classroom and on the field during the recent Wampus Cat All-Sports Ceremony.

Lauren Campbell and Cooper Tribett were honored as the Female and Male Scholar Athletes of the year. ...

Madison Holloway, a seventh-grader at Ruth Doyle Middle School in Conway, set high goals for herself and teammates at the beginning of this year's track season.

Those goals were met, along with others, resulting in her breaking five school records. ...

The 17th Annual Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament will be held 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 18, at the Maumelle Country Club.

The tournament is limited to the first paid 26 four-person teams. ...

Organizers are putting the finishing touches on the 34th Annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run, planned Saturday, May 6, in Conway.

This year’s event will feature new race courses, with the start and finish at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. ...

Women Run Arkansas is celebrating 20 years of empowering women to put one foot in front of the other and is inviting all women to be a part by registering for the group’s 5K Graduation on Saturday, May 13.

For the last 20 years, WRA has hosted free, 10-week run/walk clinics in various cities across Arkansas. ...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Family and Community Fishing Program welcomes all anglers 65 years and older to come to Lake Valencia in Maumelle for the largest senior citizen community fishing event in Arkansas from 9 a.m. until noon, Friday, May 5.

The fishing derby is free, but anglers should bring their own fishing gear. ...

A record number participated Friday in the Ninth Annual Kids Run Arkansas, presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center.

According to race organizer Amanda Castillo, 1,116 registered for the event, representing 45 different schools throughout Central Arkansas. ...

Young people of all ages will soon be hitting the swimming pool as part of the annual Conway Crocs program offered through the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

Chris Brynell, who started the summer swim team, is the coach. ...

Fairfield Bay will host the Third Annual Full Blown Open Disc Golf Weekend on Friday, May 5, through Sunday, May 7. Presented by the Fairfield Bay Recreation Department and Dynamic Discs, the disc golf weekend appeals to a full range of skills and ages. 
...

Three Cabot artists recently claimed the top spots in this year’s state-level Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation Program art contest at the Witt Stephens Junior Central Arkansas Nature Center in Downtown Little Rock.

Andrea LaFave of Cabot High School claimed the best of show with her portrayal of a pair of wood ducks in a flooded forest. ...

An official event of Toad Suck Daze, the 10th Annual Tour de Toad will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 6, at Cantrell Field near Conway.

This year’s event features a new venue and three new routes. ...

Hundreds of people are expected to raise more than $95,000 at Walk MS: Central Arkansas on Saturday, April 29, at the First Security Amphitheater in the Little Rock River Market.

The walk begins at 10 a.m. ...

Conway Public Schools has named Brian “Salty” Longing as its new high school boys basketball coach.

Longing has been the assistant coach for the Wampus Cats for the last 16 years. ...

Young people throughout Central Arkansas are making plans to participate in the Ninth Annual Kids Run Arkansas, presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center.

Groovy Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is again the title sponsor for the event, planned at 6 p.m. Friday, April 21, at Laurel Park in Conway. ...

Three Sacred Heart students were recently recognized for winning state championship titles in the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship, in their divisions.  

Ninth-grader Madeline Bottoms and fifth-graders Jennifer Hartman and Carson Thomas received trophies for winning the titles. ...

Hundreds of people are expected to raise more than $95,000 at Walk MS: Central Arkansas on Saturday, April 29, at the First Security Amphitheater in the Little Rock River Market.

The walk begins at 10 a.m. ...

The Fayetteville Shale Scholarship Fund, a nonprofit organization with members representing companies working in the Fayetteville Shale, will host its 10th annual bass tournament on Saturday, April 22, at Greers Ferry Lake.

Registration forms, along with the entry fee of $100 per boat, must be received no later than Friday, April 21. ...

The Third Annual Fishin’ for a Mission benefit bass tournament will be held Saturday, April 29, at Beaverfork Lake near Conway.

Last year the event raised $3,000 for Soul Food Café Mission. ...

Catholic High School (CHS) will host the 13th Annual Rocket 5K Run at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 22.

The event, featuring a challenging 5K, a 3K Walk, and Kids’ Rocket Dash for ages 10 and under, is held at the school, located at 6300 Father Tribou St. in Little Rock. ...

Junior Main Street, the student-led community service arm of Main Street Morrilton, is planning the Main Street Mutt Strutt, a 1-mile walk-n-wag in the historic downtown district of Morrilton. This event was the brainchild of the high school students who serve on the board as a way to raise funds for their community service scholarship while increasing awareness for local pet rescue. ...

The Children’s Advocacy Alliance will present Heroes for Hope on Saturday, April 8, in Simon Park in Downtown Conway.

The 1K/5K/10K race is open to runners, walkers, families and corporate teams. ...

Shikar-Safari Club International recently recognized Wildlife Officer First Class Steve Paul as the 2016 Wildlife Officer of the Year for the state of Arkansas.

The Shikar-Safari Club International was formed in 1952 by a group of international hunters who joined together to exchange experiences and ideas on worldwide conservation issues. ...

The Faulkner County Library recently introduced Danni Mize, a registered yoga instructor who will be teaching a new class at 6 p.m. Thursdays at the library, beginning April 6.

Danni completed Yoga Warrior training, an evidence-based practice for first responders, people in high stress environments and their families.

...

by Mark Oliver

Little Rock native Karen Williams wasn’t always an athlete. As a child, she didn’t play sports, and she didn’t start exercising regularly until her mid-twenties.

However, in 2005, everything changed when she met Robert Petter, a farmer from Stuttgart. As their romance began to blossom, so did a new hobby for Williams.

...

The Third Annual Fishin’ for a Mission benefit bass tournament will be held Saturday, April 29, at Beaverfork Lake near Conway.

Last year the event raised $3,000 for Soul Food Café Mission.
...

Arkansas Game and Fish Commissioners recently voted to approve the purchase of 989 acres known as Stone Prairie from The Nature Conservancy.

The property, which borders a portion of the Camp Robinson Special Use Area, will be added to the Commission’s system of wildlife management areas for public use with a special emphasis on quail restoration. ...

by Jill Rohrbach

Professional and amateur cycling teams will head to Fayetteville from Thursday, March 30, through Sunday, April 2, for the annual Joe Martin Stage Race.

Celebrating 40 years, this four-day, four-stage race will host 750 athletes from 27 countries and all 50 states. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The 501 fared well in last week’s high school state championship basketball games.

Guy-Perkins, led by 501 Basketball Team honoree Jahcoree Ealy, won the 1A boys’ championship — Coach John Hutchcraft’s 10th ring; and the Quitman Lady Bulldogs won in the 2A girls’ bracket.

...

More than 400 runners and walkers braved chilly and damp conditions on Saturday morning to participate in the annual Chase Race and Paws in Downtown Conway.

“The 12th Chase Race and Paws was the best ever when you look at the numbers and the street filled with 7- to 10-year-old 'after school track program' athletes,” said founder and race director Don Potter. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The high school basketball state championship games kick off tonight, and several teams from the 501 are vying for a title.

Two 501 Basketball Team honorees — Jahcoree Ealy (Guy-Perkins) and Brooke Zimmerman (Wonderview) — will be playing for a 1A championship. ...

More than 500 have registered for the 12th Annual Chase Race and Paws, which will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday, March 11, at Simon Park, 805 Front St. in Downtown Conway.

“This is the 12th anniversary of the Chase Race..." ...

As an Emmy-awarding journalist at Fox 16 in Little Rock, news anchor Donna Terrell knows firsthand that the most powerful and impactful stories are those that evoke emotion drawn from a deep, personal perspective that can put a relatable face on the subject or topic at hand.

That’s why Terrell is on a mission to use her own experience to promote cancer awareness and advocate on behalf of the health benefits of yoga for oncology patients by sharing the story of the daughter she lost to colon cancer in 2011. ...

University of Central Arkansas guard Jordan Howard was named a CoSIDA Academic All-American, the first men’s basketball player to earn that distinction since the Bears moved to NCAA Division I in 2006-07.

Howard, a junior record-setting guard from Chandler, Ariz., has a 3.80 grade-point average with a major in digital filmmaking and was named a third-team Academic All-American, joining players from Princeton, Vanderbilt, Gonzaga, Brown, Purdue, Florida and SMU, among others. ...

The 12th Annual Chase Race and Paws will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday, March 11, at Simon Park, 805 Front St. in Downtown Conway.

The 2-mile state championship race awards a $100 cash prize to any runner who breaks the present course records. ...

The Searcy High School Swim Team recorded an impressive performance at the recent 7A/6A Arkansas High School State Swim and Dive meet in Bentonville.

It was a particularly noteworthy meet for SHS junior Erin McGuirt. ...

by Levi Gilbert

For junior Jayla King and the Maumelle Lady Hornets, this basketball season was all about developing mental toughness. This was an especially difficult challenge for King, who tore her ACL in January 2016. ...

by Mark Oliver

Maumelle senior forward Tyren Kutz isn’t your typical basketball player. Unlike most of his teammates, Kutz only started playing competitive basketball in 10th grade. ...

Registration is open for the 10th Annual Tour de Toad.

An official event of Toad Suck Daze, Tour de Toad raises funds to increase adult literacy in Central Arkansas while encouraging a healthy lifestyle and cycling. ...

by Mark Oliver

In fourth grade, Seth Peters was just another kid from Greenbrier with big dreams of playing football on a big stage.

Years later, after successful high school and college careers in Faulkner County, Peters is ready to take the world by storm for the football opportunity of a lifetime.

...

by Bob Reising

On June 29, 1905, Archibald Wright Graham made his lone appearance in Major League Baseball, playing two innings in right field for the New York Giants in a game in Brooklyn.

Never again was the man nicknamed “Moonlight” to take the field for a big-league team.

...

by Levi Gilbert

While it hasn’t been the season the Greenbrier Lady Panthers had hoped for, they haven’t given up. Senior Kassadie Knowles is proud of how her team has finished. ...

by Mark Oliver

It’s the game that Greenbrier has had circled on its schedule since the season began — a home date with longtime rival Vilonia. For the Panthers, not only is it an opportunity to complete the season sweep of its rival, but it’s also a chance to put the finishing touch on a successful Class 5A West conference season. ...

Coming off of its first Southland Conference title, the University of Central Arkansas Women’s Soccer Team added nine players on National Signing Day, including Cabot High’s Hadley Dickinson. The class features four defenders, three midfielders and a pair of forwards. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Savannah Lowe is a rare breed.

The Conway guard moved up to the Lady Cat varsity team during her freshman season and has played a role in three straight 7A state championship appearances, which included a title win in 2014. ...

by Mark Oliver

Matt Stanley will never forget the night his Cabot Panthers overcame the odds to become Class 7A state champions. Over his 14 years of playing basketball, it’s something the senior center could only dream of. ...

by Mark Oliver

Entrenched in a difficult conference, Cabot (14-7, 3-5 Class 7A Central) finds itself in prime position for a state tournament berth. According to senior guard Maggie Bush, anything is possible for her team as long as they play together. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Two Conway Christian students recently signed letters of intent to play college football.

Rob Hogue and Seth Smith both committed last week to play at Southern Arkansas University. ...

by Levi Gilbert

February is crunch time in high school basketball. For Kaliyah Brooks and the Morrilton Lady Devil Dogs, how they finish down the stretch in February will determine the outcome of their season. ...

by Mark Oliver

In his final season at Morrilton, senior point guard Juwan Moore has many goals that he’s working toward. One of those goals is becoming a better role model for his team. ...

by Mark Oliver

As a child, Searcy forward Kaleb Ramey was taught an important lesson from his parents — to never give up when the going gets tough. It’s a virtue that’s stayed with the senior for the entirety of his basketball career. ...

The 16th Annual Beast Feast will be held Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

The event is an outreach program of Second Baptist Church Men’s Ministry and is a night filled with games, entertainment, prizes, live music, great food and great speakers. ...

by Mark Oliver

From a young age, Nemo Vista senior guard Maggie Mahan was destined for success on the basketball court.

“I have been playing basketball ever since I could remember,” Mahan said. ...

by Levi Gilbert

It’s been a season of change for Ethan Hill and the Nemo Vista boys basketball program. Hill, a leader among the Red Hawks, has been eager to embrace and lead his teammates through new horizons. ...

Central Baptist College will host its annual homecoming activities on Friday, Feb. 3, and Saturday, Feb. 4.

Events begin on Friday with a prospective student open house at 2:30 p.m. ...

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will have its Fifth Annual Freezin’ for a Reason 5K and 10K and Lap for Life on Saturday, Feb. 4, at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

The race was initiated by the chapter as a way to honor the memories of Charlotte and Stella Mulhearn, two children from Conway who received treatment at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. ...

by Levi Gilbert

As Amber Briggler’s senior season moves closer to its conclusion, the point guard is reflective on the more important things in life. Her best memories on the court go far beyond the wins column. ...

by Mark Oliver

St. Joseph senior center David Beck has played sports for the majority of his life. Through the years, playing the games he loves has helped the senior develop a clear vision for his future — a career in coaching. ...

by Mark Oliver

After managing just one win last year, Conway Christian is committed to changing its basketball culture this season, one game at a time. According to junior guard David Belvardi, the Eagles’ first order of business is understanding one another on the court. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Adrianna Ferrand entered her senior season with a singular goal — to be an impact player.

“I want to be someone who made a difference when they stepped on the court,” Ferrand said. ...

Sacred Heart Senior Cade Chapman officially signed on Jan. 11 to play baseball for Williams Baptist College, an NAIA school in Walnut Ridge (Lawrence County).

Cade is a four-year starter for the Sacred Heart Baseball team and has been the ace of the pitching staff for two years. ...

by Mark Oliver

In many ways, it hasn’t been the final season that Sacred Heart guard Toni Malik had dreamed of. However, in the face of adversity, the senior finds power in positivity to help her Lady Rebels improve. ...

by Mark Oliver

Tyler Kersey has been around basketball most of his life. While the senior has made many great memories on the court over the years, the Sacred Heart point guard often recalls one pivotal moment in his career in which his teammates provided him with the encouragement to be victorious. ...

by Mark Oliver

Over the years, Quitman’s Trey McGhee has proven that when it comes to sports, the senior really can do it all.

From quarterbacking the Bulldogs’ football team to playing baseball and track and field, McGhee has grown in multiple ways during his high school career. ...

St. Joseph High School will play its homecoming basketball game against Southside Bee Branch on Friday, Jan. 13.

The game will be followed by a dance in the high school cafeteria later that evening. ...

by Mark Oliver

For the past two seasons, Kira Cartwright has helped write basketball history at Riverview High School.

From achieving the perfect season to repeating as Class 4A state champions, the senior Lady Raider has made many memories that will last a lifetime.

...

by Mark Oliver

Garret Finley is a big deal at Riverview. In addition to his team-leading blocks and rebounds, the 6-foot-5 junior forward uses his physicality to lead his team to victory.

“My size gives me many advantages,” Finley said. ...

Central Baptist College has a new support organization to enhance and promote the Mustang Athletic Department.  

The Mustang Club, formed in the fall of 2014, exists to aid the Mustang teams, coaches and student-athletes. ...

by Mark Oliver

From the first time he picked up a basketball, Bigelow senior Austin Neumeier knew that he had a future in the sport. Coming from a coaching family, one might even say that it’s in his blood. ...

by Levi Gilbert

At Wonderview, basketball is about legacy. And like for most Wonderview players, the legacy runs deep through many decades of siblings, parents, aunts, uncles and on and on.

...

by Mark Oliver

There’s two sides to every story, and for the Wonderview Daredevils, the story only gets better in the second half of the season.

“Up to this point, some people might think that we’re having a bad season, but I don’t,” said Wonderview senior guard Thomas Zimmerman. ...

by Megan Ledbetter

Hayden Weber is hoping to open the door for men’s volleyball in Arkansas.

“Not many boys would continue to do something when they are the only one, but he has stood his ground and continued to play, so I am very proud of him,” said Angela Walls, director of the Conway Juniors Volleyball Club. 
...

by Levi Gilbert

The Harding Academy Wildcats haven’t won a state championship in basketball since 2012. Senior Brady Palmer is looking to change that this season. ...

by Mark Oliver

Right out of the gate, the Perryville Mustangs are focused on putting last season behind them. Off to a 7-2 start, the young team is already making great strides toward its goal of making the state tournament. ...

Greenbrier elementary school students, faculty and family recently participated in a special event to promote health and wellness.

The Light Up the Night 5K was held recently with all four Greenbrier elementary schools participating – Westside, Springhill, Eastside and Wooster. ...

The Little Rock Marathon recently unveiled its 2017 finisher’s medals as it makes preparations for another sell-out event, confirming the race is quickly reaching its participant limit.

The 15th Annual Little Rock Marathon Race Weekend, presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, is slated for Saturday, March 4, and Sunday, March 5, in Downtown Little Rock and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation. ...

by Mark Oliver

Guy-Perkins lost just one game last season. Unfortunately, it was that single loss which ended the team’s season in the Class A quarterfinals. ...

by Mark Oliver

Before the season began, Mount Vernon-Enola junior Kanyin Martin set three goals. Each time the forward takes the floor this year, he focuses on those goals as motivation to be the best player he can be for both himself and his team. ...

Nine Aquakids, under the leadership of Coach Tony Marleneanu, have qualified to attend the Pro-Am Elite swim meet in Lewisville, Texas, scheduled Thursday, Dec. 15, through Sunday Dec. 18.

The Elite Pro-Am is one of the most prestigious swim meets in the United States and is the winter championship competition for many colleges and swim clubs. ...

The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center will hold a winter open house to celebrate its eighth anniversary on Saturday, Dec. 17, in the River Market district.

“We try to have a little open house every year,” said Jill Gray, administrative specialist at the center. ...

501 LIFE is excited to announce the 2017 edition of its 501 Basketball Team.

The team boasts 34 honorees, including the best student-athletes the 501 has to offer — both on and off the court.

...

by Mark Oliver

Faulkner County Falcons guard Judson Woodfin wasn’t always the leading scorer on his team. In fact, it wasn’t long ago that the senior struggled with a personal challenge that kept him from playing at his best. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Victoria Gerbholz competes fiercely on the court, but she knows internal competition off the court is just as important. For her, it’s all about accountability. ...

The Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will present the Second Annual Run Like You've Been Stung Maumelle 5K on Sunday, Dec. 11, at Maumelle High School.

This event was created by students in the National Junior Honor Society at Maumelle Middle School in 2015. ...

Nemo Vista Senior Maggie Mahan is moving from Red Hawk to Red Wolf.

On Nov. 9, Mahan signed a National Letter of Intent to play Division I college basketball at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. ...

The Dr. James E. Moore Jr. Camp Robinson Firing Range near Mayflower will be closed to public use Monday, Dec. 5, for renovations to the ranges and range house. The closure should last until spring. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears recently had 12 players named to the 2016 All-Southland Conference football teams.

Five more Bears were named honorable mention following a regular season that saw UCA finish 9-2 overall and 8-1 in conference play, with the lone SLC loss to the No. 1 team in the nation, Sam Houston State. ...

Many in the 501 will get Thanksgiving Day off on the right foot at the United Way of Central Arkansas “Turkey Trot.”

“Last year, it was very successful for our first year and we hope to grow on that success,” said Maret Cahill Wicks, United Way executive director. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears are back in the NCAA Division I Football Championship playoffs, and this time they are playing on “The Stripes.”

UCA (9-2) will host Illinois State (6-5) at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, in first-round action at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. ...

by Mark Oliver

After falling in the first round of the playoffs a year ago, Heber Springs focused on improving in 2016. However, what the Panthers achieved on the field was much better than expected.

“It’s been a heck of a ride this year,” said senior wide receiver Pierce Mitchum. ...

Story and photos
by Sonja J. Keith

The Vilonia Middle School Football Team is lending huge support to a new student.

New seventh-grader Eli Hatfield and his family recently moved to the Vilonia area. ...

The Sixth Annual Go!bbler Turkey Trot is planned 8 a.m. Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24, in The Heights in Little Rock.
 
The event benefits the Arkansas Foodbank. ...

Story and photos
by Sonja J. Keith

Nearly 1,500 registered for this year’s Soaring Wings Marathon and Half Marathon held recently in Conway.

“The race went great, with tons of community support and amazing participants and volunteers,” said Amanda Castillo, who served as race director with Marla Watson. ...

St. Joseph High School's Junior Boys Cross Country Team recently won first place in both Conference 2A East and District at the 2A Region 4 District Meet hosted by Magazine High School (Logan County).

There were also several individual runners for St. Joseph who medaled. ...

After leading the Central Arkansas women’s soccer team to the No. 1 seed in this week’s Southland Conference Tournament and an undefeated record in league play, head coach Jeremy Bishop was named the conference’s Coach of the Year.

Bishop, who is currently in his fifth season at the helm of the Bears, led a team that dominated the Southland Conference stat book this season to become just the fourth program in league history to finish with an unbeaten record while tallying the third-best goal differential in conference history at plus-33. ...

The Soaring Wings Marathon and Half Marathon will kick off with an expo on Friday, with the main running events on Saturday in Conway.

Proceeds support Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christ-centered family and home that provides security, love and hope to children who need a chance. ...

The Central Arkansas women’s soccer team picked up its biggest win of the season on Sunday afternoon, clinching the Southland Conference regular season title with a 3-0 win over the Nicholls Colonels at the Bill Stephens Complex. The title is the first for the Bears in the program’s 19-year history. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Few rivalries in the 501 have as much at stake every year as the Faulkner County showdown between Greenbrier and Vilonia. This year is no exception.

Both teams this year are formidable foes in their own rights. ...

by Katie Kemp

By the time he graduated high school, Ryan Spurlock had already made something of a name for himself as a golfer.

The Maumelle native has won 15 events on the Arkansas State Golf Association Junior tour, six times in the junior PGA and once in the United States Junior Golf Tour.

...

The Ruth Doyle Middle School Girls Volleyball Team had a special season this year, finishing the regular season 12-0.  

This year’s squad started their preparation for the season back in early July, going to team camps and practicing a couple of times a week. ...

The Koontz Electric Scholarship Fund, Inc. recently hosted its Fifth Annual KECI Invitational Golf Tournament in Morrilton.  

Approximately $12,000 was raised and will provide scholarships to Conway County high school graduates focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematic degrees and specialized training programs. ...

The University of Central Arkansas will celebrate Homecoming 2016 on Monday, Oct. 17, through Saturday, Oct. 22.

The 2016 theme for the week is “Every road you take will always lead you home.” ...

Unity Health has recruited the help of St. Louis Cardinal Manager Mike Matheny to help celebrate the healthcare provider’s 50th anniversary in 2017.

Matheny will be the keynote speaker 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Searcy High School Performing Arts Center. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Central Baptist College athletes recently had an experience that most players only dream of – playing baseball in a Major League stadium.

The CBC Mustang Baseball Team played the St. Louis Community College Archers on Oct. 1 in Busch Stadium in St. Louis, immediately following the Cardinals game with the Pittsburgh Pirates. ...

The University of Central Arkansas will host the seventh annual Amigo Cup on Saturday, Oct. 8. The competition kicks off at 9 a.m. at the UCA soccer fields located on the corner of Donaghey Avenue and Dave Ward Drive. ...

The Soaring Wings Marathon and Half Marathon is planned Saturday, Oct. 29, in Conway.

Proceeds support Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christ-centered family and home that provides security, love and hope to children who need a chance. ...

The University of Central Arkansas will honor a man with long-time ties to the university, Bill Johnson, with a retirement reception on Thursday, Sept. 29.

Johnson, the radio voice of UCA football for 40 years and a development officer in the UCA athletic department for the past 10 years since leaving the radio booth, will be honored from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the UCA President’s home at 140 Donaghey Ave. ...

Arkansas PGA golfer Bryce Molder will serve as honorary chair of the 30th annual CARTI Golf Classic and its pre-tournament launch party, All That Jazz, as part of the event’s two-day diamond anniversary celebration presented by Arkansas’ Best Chevy Dealers on Sunday, Oct. 2, and Monday, Oct. 3.

"I am very honored and excited to be involved in this year's CARTI Golf Classic,” said Molder. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Young people with special needs have a unique opportunity to participate in sporting events and other extra-curricular activities through a program called Community Connections.

According to executive director Courtney Leach, Todd and Amy Denton and David and Krista Tapp, co-owners of Pediatrics Plus, identified a need in 2005 for children and their parents. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

The Conway High School volleyball and dance teams, along with coaches and parents, are rallying around a local mom who is facing her second battle with breast cancer.

The Eighth Annual Pink Night game will be held 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11, against Little Rock Central at Buzz Bolding Arena, with proceeds going to Tina MacNamara. ...

Four recent graduates of Nemo Vista High School will be participating in a college sport.

Isaiah Criswell will be playing basketball for Central Baptist College in Conway. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Casey Ott won’t have to change the color scheme in her closet when she makes the transition from high school to college golf.

Ott, the defending Arkansas High School Overall champion for the Conway Lady Cats and winner of the 2016 Arkansas Women’s Golf Association junior championship, has committed to the Kentucky Wildcats. ...

Conway Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic (COSMC) has now opened a limited clinic for sports injuries 8 to 10 a.m. every Saturday morning at its facility on Club Lane.

“We want to make ourselves available to the athlete, whether it’s a Friday night football or cheer injury, or volleyball, soccer, biking, etc..." ...

The GFWC Century League of Morrilton will host its Fourth Annual Century League 5K Color Fun Run at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, in Downtown Morrilton. The start/finish line and check-in table will be set up outside the Morrilton Depot Museum. ...

Central Baptist College recently hosted a Mustang Media Day to introduce new coaches and programs to the community.  

Highlights of the event included the introductions of new head volleyball coach Shatel Gaines and new men’s soccer coach Taylor Carnahan. 
...

Ronnie Huckeba, head football coach at Harding University, will join the University’s Office of Advancement in January. Huckeba announced Aug. 10 that he would be stepping down as head coach at the conclusion of this season. 
...

by Sonja J. Keith

Rebecca Vines knows how quickly life can change. One minute she and family were traveling to a birthday dinner.

In the next, her vehicle was hit head-on, and she was trapped, worried that she might die while her family watched.

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Missy Newton of Greenbrier has seen firsthand the impact that Soaring Wings Ranch has had on young people, and she is showing her support in a special way.

Missy has enlisted as a Winged Warrior for the Ranch and is on a mission to raise money and awareness about the ministry. ...

More than 250 cyclists, this event’s highest registration ever, are expected to raise more than $150,000 to stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever at Bike MS: Rock’n Hot Ride.

The event is planned Saturday, Sept. 10, and Sunday, Sept. 11, and features a ride from Little Rock to Hot Springs Village and back. ...

Nearly 200 young people participated Saturday in the 19th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon.

“We had a great Kids Triathlon this year,” said race director Heather Kendrick. ...

The Conway Human Development Center Volunteer Council recently hosted its inaugural fishing derby at the CHDC Pond on Siebenmorgen Road.

There were 51 participants from the community and about 20 CHDC residents who participated. ...

The 19th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon will be held Saturday, Aug. 13, at Hendrix College.  

Youth ages 6 to 15 can register and find out more information at conwaykidstri.com as long as spots are still available until 7 p.m. Friday. ...

The Southland Conference recently released it preseason polls for volleyball and the Central Arkansas Sugar Bears were once against picked to be one of the league’s best teams. UCA was picked to finish third by the league’s Sports Information Directors, while the SLC’s head coaches picked the Sugar Bears to finish fourth. ...

The Cabot Lions Club will once again host its Annual "Memorial" Golf Classic on Monday, Sept. 12, with a “shot gun start” at 1 p.m.  The 4-Person Scramble will be held at Cabot’s Rolling Hills Country Club, located on Mount Carmel Road/Highway 321. 
...

by Sonja J. Keith

As athletes from around the world gather for the opening ceremonies Friday at the Olympic Games in Brazil, the 501’s Lexi Weeks will be among them.

The Cabot athlete had a third place finish in pole vault during the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore., to secure a spot on the U.S. team and earn the title Olympian. ...

Central Baptist College recently announced the hiring of Taylor Carnahan as men’s soccer coach.  

Carnahan, originally from Russellville, was the assistant coach for the Mustangs in 2015-2016 when the team had a 5-9-2 season. ...

Three of Arkansas’s most influential individuals in the outdoors will be honored at the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation’s 25th annual Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame banquet Friday, Aug. 12, at the Statehouse Convention Center. Steve “Wild Man” Wilson, Rodney Herndon and Scott Simon have all been named as the Hall of Fame’s 2016 inductees. ...

Checks totaling $13,000 – proceeds from the annual Toad Suck Daze Run – were recently presented by the Conway Kiwanis Club to local non-profit organizations.

Runners and walkers of all ages participated in the 33rd annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on April 30 at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School. ...

St. Joseph High in Conway was one of eight schools and 10 teams that took part in the Universal Cheerleaders Association Summer Camp recently held at the University of Central Arkansas.

The Bulldogs were represented by six junior high and six varsity cheerleaders. ...

Shatel Gaines has been named the head volleyball coach at Central Baptist College.  

Gaines, originally from Jonesboro, received a bachelor of science degree in early childhood education from Arkansas State University. 
...

University of Central Arkansas is losing one KATV voice and gaining another for the 2016 football season.

Steve Sullivan, the play-by-play voice for UCA football for the last nine years, has had to give up those duties due to added responsibilities at KATV Channel 7. ...

501 LIFE and Fairfield Bay are teaming up to treat a family of four to a weekend getaway.

Online entries are being accepted through midnight Sunday, July 31, at http://visitfairfieldbay.com/contact-us/win-a-lake-vacation/.

...

Excited young athletes from Little Rock, Fayetteville, Conway, Pine Bluff, Jacksonville, Searcy and several other cities in Arkansas are ready to GO FOR THE GOLD!

The Christian Competition Track Club from Little Rock, along with track clubs and unattached athletes throughout Arkansas, are counting the days until they compete in the 50th Anniversary of the AAU/USA Junior Olympics in Houston, Texas, from Friday, July 29, through Saturday, Aug. 6. ...

Arkansas State Parks has a history of embracing the latest technology to encourage Arkansans and others to visit their state parks. Park staff stays connected to visitors through various social media sites including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Terry May couldn’t have picked a better way to go out as Greenbrier baseball coach.

May, 50, retired from coaching following the season after 26 years at the helm of the Panther program. ...

by Mark Oliver

From the moment they were born, Jacob and Jackson Berry have been competitors.

Born fraternal twins just one minute apart, they have competed together in nearly every sport — from baseball and basketball to track and field — and have made a name for themselves at Vilonia High School.

...

The Soaring Wings of Conway First Mile Training Program Kickoff last weekend was a success despite thunderstorms and rain.

“Nearly 50 individuals came out to log their first miles and get the first glimpse of the medals for this year,” said co-race director Amanda Castillo, adding that individuals ran either a 5K or 10K. ...

Nick Hoelzeman, a 2016 graduate of Sacred Heart School, was selected to the Arkansas All-Star Baseball Team.  

This distinction means that he was considered to be one of the top 50 senior baseball players in the state ...

The Conway Human Development Center will host a fishing derby at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, July 30, at the CHDC Pond, 150 E. Siebenmorgen Road.

The event is hosted by the CHDC Volunteer Council and proceeds benefit the development of the CHDC Nature Trail. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

With the first half of the season in the books, 54 swimmers for the Conway Crocs have already qualified for the Meet of Champs.

"I have been very proud of the team so far for what they have accomplished,” said head coach Chris Brynell. ...

The Cabot High School cheerleading team recently attended camp in Hot Springs and won first place in the large co-ed varsity division for a performance of “The Jam.”

“The Jam” is the routine the team learned during camp and was choreographed specifically for the Cabot cheerleaders. ...

The University of Central Arkansas recently placed 126 student-athletes on the Southland Conference Commissioner’s 2016 Spring Academic Honor Roll.

UCA’s total was second among the 13 league institutions. ...

The Arkansas Sportscasters/Sportswriters Hall of Fame has announced its 10th class for the ASCSW Hall of Fame with induction ceremonies slated for Saturday, July 9, at the Centennial Special Events in Conway.

Sportswriter Dr. Donna Lampkin Stephens of Conway and sportscaster Rex Nelson of Arkadelphia will be inducted into the ASCSW Hall of Fame. ...

The awards stand at the recent National Junior Olympic Shooting Championships was dominated by former Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program athletes. The first- and second-place finishers of both the men’s and women’s divisions brought their medals back to The Natural State. ...

Forty-two girls from kindergarten through the sixth grade recently took part in a cheerleading camp held at St. Joseph School.

The camp was led by the school's cheerleading sponsor, Amy Covington, along with 15 adult and student assistants. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears will open the 2016 football season with a televised game against the Houston Baptist Huskies on “The Stripes” at First Security Field at Estes Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1, on the American Sports Network. ...

The Cabot School District is home to some shooting stars.

The Cabot Panthers Trapshooting Team participated earlier this month in the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program's State Tournament. 
...

The Southland Conference recently announced its All-Academic Softball teams, and a pair of Central Arkansas Bears was named to the teams. Senior Jessie Taylor was named to the first team, while junior Briana Whisenhunt earned second team honors. ...

Central Arkansas Rescue Effort for Animals (CARE) will host its first Paws at the Net — a charity tennis tournament — at Rebsamen Tennis Center from Friday, Aug. 12, through Sunday, Aug. 14.  

Paws at the Net is a USTA sanctioned tournament with a two-event limit. ...

A Therapy and Rehab Solutions-Smith team shot a top score of 52 in the first flight of the afternoon round of the 20th annual Conway Regional Golf Classic held recently at Centennial Valley Country Club. The score also topped the two-round, four-player scramble which featured 48 teams of amateur golfers. ...

Renewal Ranch will hold its third annual bike ride, The Renewal Ride, on Saturday, July 16.

The ride consists of three courses: a 3-mile family course, 35-mile intermediate course and a 55-mile advanced course. ...

St. Joseph School recently held a basketball camp at the school's Family Activities Center.

The camp was for boys and girls in grades first through seventh. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

The Fishin’ for a Mission benefit bass tournament raised $3,000 for the Soul Food Café Mission.

Presented by Nabholz, the event was held Saturday, April 30, at Beaverfork Lake near Conway. ...

An informational meeting for the 2016 Women Bike Arkansas bicycle clinic will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 16, at the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

The clinic is free and will be held 6 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday from June 20 to Sept. 17 at the McGee Center. ...

The University of Central Arkansas will add seven new members to the UCA Sports Hall of Fame this fall.

The Class of 2016 will include Cleon Brown (football/track), Nathan Brown (football), Lisa Dreher (softball), Layton Gray (football/track), Bobby Hill (football), Don Struebing (football) and Bill Terwilliger (basketball/coaching). ...

by Zoie Clift

Arkansas angler and fishing expert Billy Murray recently tackled one of the highest achievements in the sport, an induction into the National Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. His fellow inductees this year include former President George H.W. Bush and Gary Yamamoto, an innovative lure designer. ...

Fairfield Bay is making waves again this summer at the annual "Surf the Bay" Water Sport Festival on Friday, June 17, and Saturday, June 18, at the Fairfield Bay Marina.

The free event will feature wakesurfing, flyboarding, paddle boarding, kayaking and family-fun water slides where you can “ride the wave.” ...

The Women's Shelter of Central Arkansas will host a benefit golf tournament Friday, June 17, at Nutter's Chapel Golf Club.

Registration and breakfast will start at 7:45 a.m., with tee off beginning at 8:30 a.m. ...

Conway Regional will host Moving for a Medal (MFAM) for young people 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 6, through Thursday, June 30.

Certified personal trainers will lead a variety of 30-minute fitness classes to encourage children to get moving this summer, along with fun activities to engage their imagination!

...

Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center recently presented $9,000 in scholarship funds to the top 10 participating schools in Kids Run Arkansas.

The scholarships are for the schools’ physical education programs. ...

The Go! Mile is celebrating six years of being “one fast little race” held at the Clinton Presidential Library at 7a.m. Saturday, June 18.

The one-mile championship race is the state’s only sanctioned one-mile race and offers something for runners of all ages and abilities. ...

Amateur golfers from throughout Faulkner County will tee off in the 20th Annual Conway Regional Golf Classic at Centennial Valley Country Club on Monday, June 6.

The four-player scramble offers a morning (8 a.m.) and an afternoon round (1:30 p.m.) with two flights per round. ...

Harding University will host the Special Olympics Arkansas summer games Thursday, May 26, through Saturday, May 28, celebrating 23 consecutive years having the event on campus.  

Opening ceremonies kick off at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 26, and activities last through closing ceremonies at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 28. ...

Two University of Central Arkansas student-athletes recently earned academic honors.

Sophomore Fernanda Lira was named to the Southland Conference Women’s Golf All-Academic team. ...

The Arkansas Activities Association recently announced the selections for the Wendy’s Bowling High School Players of the Year Awards for the 2015-2016 school year.
 
Greenbrier senior Taylor Bradway and Cabot junior Cole Stillman were named as the Players of the Year.
...

St. Joseph School was recently awarded $2,000 by the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center for the school's participation in the annual Kids Run Arkansas.
 
The event was held April 15 at Conway's Laurel Park. 
...

Special Olympics Arkansas’ 15,000 athletes across the state are no stranger to training and hard work.

The organization hosts 240 competitions year-round in 20 different Olympic-type sports.

...

With inclement weather all week and the threat of severe thunderstorms on the event day, the Maumelle Area Chamber Golf Committee made the decision to reschedule its 16th Annual Golf Tournament.  
 
The new tournament date is Thursday, June 23, but the location will remain the same at the Maumelle Country Club with the same afternoon tee time.
...

Central Baptist College will host its Eighth Annual Benefit Dinner and Auction on Saturday, May 14, on the CBC campus. All proceeds from this event will benefit the CBC Fishing Team and Vision 2020. ...

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation Board recently announced plans for its 11th Annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament to be held Thursday, May 19, at the Morrilton Country Club.  

The three-person scramble will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. ...

Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center will offer swim lessons for children 4 years old and older from Monday, May 16, through Wednesday, June 8 (excluding Monday, May 30, for Memorial Day; make-up day offered on Friday, June 3).

Lessons are two 45-minute classes per week at 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. or 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. ...

The Southland Conference recently released its softball All-Conference Teams, and for the second straight season, the Central Arkansas Bears had five players honored.

Third baseman Sam Forrest and catcher Jessie Taylor were each named to the All-SLC Second Team, while second baseman Sarah Bigej, outfielder Briana Whisenhunt and pitcher Shivaun Landeros were each placed on the All-SLC Third Team. ...

Young people of all ages will soon be hitting the swimming pool as part of the annual Conway Crocs program offered through the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

Chris Brynell, who started the summer swim team, will be returning as the coach. ...

University of Central Arkansas’ Jonathan Woodard was sitting in his parents’ living in Jacksonville, Fla., on Saturday afternoon when he was drafted in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft by, of all teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Woodard, a 6-foot-6, 275-pound defensive end from Brentwood, Tenn., was the No. 226 overall pick in the draft, and the seventh player chosen by the Jaguars. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 33rd annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

Online registration ends at noon Friday. ...

Sarah Beth Briggler, a senior at St. Joseph High School and a member of the 501 Basketball Team, was recently honored by the Arkansas Basketball Coaches Association at a banquet held in Benton.

Coaches and players from across the state attended the event. ...

by Mark Oliver

Two years ago, Brendan Hale considered hanging up his cleats for good. Between constantly changing high schools and suffering injuries that often prevented him from playing the game he loved, the Vilonia senior saw little opportunity to achieve his dreams of playing football at the next level. ...

The Aquakids Swim Team will hold an official swim-a-thon on Friday, April 29, at the Hendrix College pool.

The event will be held 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. and will raise funds to support the Aquakids Swim Team and USA Swimming Foundation. ...

Story and photos
by Sonja J. Keith

Conway High School celebrated its 531 student-athletes, including 146 seniors, at the annual All-Sports Recognition Program on Wednesday at Buzz Bolding Arena.

“During the school year, it can be difficult to express our appreciation for the hard work and dedication all of you put into our athletic programs,” said Conway Athletic Director Steve Daniels. ...

Young people from six counties converged on Conway last week for the Eighth Annual Kids Run Arkansas.

The event, held April 15 at Laurel Park, featured a 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk for kids of all ages as well as face painting, games and other activities. ...

Individuals and teams from Conway and the surrounding region will converge 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at Beaverfork Lake Park for the Second Annual Conway Dragon Boat Festival.

Through a partnership with High Five Dragon Boat, based in Tampa, Fla., the Junior Auxiliary of Conway is continuing its strategic efforts to create and recruit teams to participate in this one-of-a-kind event. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Kelli Molder Memorial Golf Classic is scheduled Monday, May 9, at Centennial Valley Country Club in Conway. Proceeds from the event benefit Conway KLIFE, an inter-denominational Christian organization for youth.

“The ministry of KLIFE [is] actively involved in over 450 students’ lives,” said Kyle Williamson, area director of Conway KLIFE. ...

by Mark Oliver

Two years ago, Brendan Hale considered hanging up his cleats for good. Between constantly changing high schools and suffering injuries that often prevented him from playing the game he loved, the Vilonia senior saw little opportunity to achieve his dreams of playing football at the next level.

Discouraged, Hale found inspiration in a unique place. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

It was a record-breaking year for the 11th Annual Chase Race and Paws, held recently in Simon Park in Downtown Conway. Organizers report a record crowd, sponsorships and a record amount raised. ...

The 19th Annual Women Can Run/Walk 5K will be held at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 7, in Conway and is presented by The Sporty Runner.

The Women Can/Run Walk Arkansas Clinics and 5K began in 1997 with a desire to help women lead a healthier lifestyle and to empower them.  ...

The University of Central Arkansas recently announced the hiring of Lindsey Green as the new wellness coordinator for the university.

Green’s primary responsibility will be creating a wellness program for UCA. ...

Literacy Action of Central Arkansas will host its Ninth Annual Tour de Toad and Iron Toad at noon Saturday, April 30, in Conway.

An official event of Toad Suck Daze, Tour de Toad raises funds to increase adult literacy in Faulkner County, while encouraging a healthy lifestyle and cycling. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 33rd annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, April 30, at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

Proceeds from the race will benefit a variety of local non-profits – the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County, the UCA Main Stage Education Series, Community Connections, Conway High Athletic Department, Conway Junior High backpack program, HAVEN (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need) and Miracle League Conway Braves Field. ...

The Children’s Advocacy Alliance will host its sixth annual Heroes for Hope race Saturday, April 9, in Downtown Conway, as part of child abuse prevention and awareness month.

The event includes 5K and 10K timed races on a USATF certified course for all ages. ...

501 LIFE contributor Donna Stephens has been selected for induction into the Arkansas Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame.

A former sportswriter of the Arkansas Gazette, Stephens is a member of the journalism faculty at the University of Central Arkansas. ...

The City of Greenbrier will host a Big Event Spring Fling on Friday, April 15, and Saturday, April 16.

The event is to celebrate the completion of the third annual Mayor's 107+ Challenge and to raise funds for the Greenbrier Volunteer Fire Department to paint the new ladder truck. ...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and its conservation partners will celebrate the career of Steve “Wild Man” Wilson at the iHeart Media Metroplex in Little Rock at 6 p.m. Friday, April 29.

True to his larger-than-life nature, Wild Man’s retirement “roast and toast” promises to be the capstone in the AGFC public affairs coordinator’s career. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Registration will open Friday, April 1, for the Soaring Wings Marathon and Half Marathon, which will take place 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, in Conway.

Last year, the annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon was expanded to a full marathon. ...

Registration is under way for the eighth annual Kids Run Arkansas, a 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk for kids of all ages, sponsored by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center.

The registration deadline is Tuesday, March 29, to guarantee an event shirt and finisher medal. ...

The Fairfield Bay Library Friends, Inc. eighth annual “Tee It Up For Literacy” Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, April 16, at Indian Hills Golf Course in Fairfield Bay.

This fun event is a fundraiser for the Fairfield Bay Library. The library is a non-profit that operates from donations, grants, memberships and contributions. ...

The second annual Full Blown Open Disc Golf Weekend is scheduled Friday, April 8, through Sunday, April 10. Presented by the Fairfield Bay Recreation Department and Dynamic Discs, this disc golf weekend appeals to a full range of skills and ages. ...

by Mark Oliver

After 31 years, long-time high school basketball coach Len Harris is calling it a career.

“This is all I’ve ever done,” Harris said. “I started playing basketball when I was 6 years old. I played at Wonderview for nine years and devoted two years each to Central Baptist College and Arkansas Tech University before picking up the whistle and beginning my coaching career." ...

Conway Corp Channel 5 will air a special on the 2015-2016 Conway Lady Cats basketball team. The team finished the season 30-2 and made their third straight trip to the championship game in Hot Springs. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Out of the 14 Arkansas high school basketball championship games last week, six of the champions came from the 501: Nemo Vista (1A girls), Baptist Prep (4A boys), Riverview (4A girls), Little Rock Parkview (6A boys), Cabot (7A boys) and North Little Rock (7A girls).

Two of the champions featured 501 Basketball Team players — Nemo Vista’s Jacie Andrews and Cabot’s Hunter Southerland. ...

The 2016 Sunrise Marine Soaring Wings Bass Tournament will be held Saturday, March 19 at Devil’s Fork Park at Greers Ferry.

Check-in and onsite registration will begin at 5 a.m. at the pavilion, with take-off beginning at 6 a.m. or safe light. ...

The “Hoof it for Heifer” 20K Trail Run will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, April 9, at Petit Jean State Park.

The 12.4-mile run, benefitting Heifer International, will provide awards for the overall male and female finishers, as well as T-shirts for all runners. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Arkansas high school basketball championship games begin Thursday night in Hot Springs.

Four 501 Basketball Team honorees will be playing for a championship: Conway’s Alexis Tolefree, Nemo Vista’s Jacie Andrews, Cabot’s Hunter Southerland and Maumelle’s De’Shawn Williams.

...

The Eleventh Annual Chase Race and Paws will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, March 12, starting and finishing at Simon Park, in Downtown Conway.

The 2-mile state championship race awards $100 cash prize to any male or female who breaks the present course records. ...

The Knights of Columbus recently held its State Free Throw Contest finals at Sacred Heart School.

More than 100 boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 14 represented 16 different Knights of Columbus districts from across the state. ...

The Arkansas Educational Television Network (AETN) will premiere “Bell Ringer: The Invisible Brain Injury,” a one-hour film exploring concussions, at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7. A panel discussion will follow the program at 8 p.m. in “Arkansans Ask: Concussions.” ...

St. Joseph School held its basketball awards program Feb. 28 in the high school cafeteria.

Athletes in the seventh through 12th grades were recognized for their achievements. ...

Caytee Wright is the first Cabot High School swimmer to bring home a first place individual win at state, and she not only did it once, but twice.

Wright took home first place state titles in the 50 freestyle and the 100 freestyle. ...

The Perryville High School senior girls’ basketball teams from 1965, 1966 and 1967 were recently honored for winning three consecutive state championships. PHS is one of only eight schools in Arkansas to hold three consecutive state titles in girls basketball. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Conway Lady Cats had wrapped up the 7A Central title weeks ago, but Conway officially finished 7A Central play with an 83-47 win over Bryant on Tuesday and cut down the net to celebrate.

It was senior night for Conway, and the seniors showed up and showed out. ...

by Mark Oliver

As the regular season draws to a close, the Cabot Panthers can breathe easy, having locked up the top seed in the Class 7A state tournament. However, despite earning a first-round bye and having home-court advantage during the tournament, you won’t find the Panthers (16-8, 7-5 7A East) taking a game off. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The high school basketball season is down to the wire. On Tuesday, Rachel Allgood and the Cabot Lady Panthers waited to find out if they would make the 7A state tournament as the third seed out of the 7A East. ...

by Mark Oliver

When Searcy senior guard Simon Medley steps on the court, he not only battles his opponents, but he also battles himself.

“Over the years, I’ve struggled with a fear of failure,” Medley said. ...

by Mark Oliver

With the Class 5A state tournament looming ahead and just three games remaining on its schedule, Vilonia is on the outside looking in. For the Eagles, each game has now become a must-win battle. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The best laid plans of players and coaches often go awry — because of injury. For Abby Hightower, her junior campaign has been cut to its knees by the big injury beast. ...

by Mark Oliver

The Greenbrier Panthers have had their share of ups and downs this season. Despite being eliminated from state tournament contention, senior center Tyler Williams says there’s still plenty for the team to play for. ...

Conway Christian Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Michael Carter was recently elected president of the Arkansas Football Coaches Association.  

The vote came during the annual coaches clinic and meeting held recently in Hot Springs. 
...

The Central Baptist College Mustang Baseball team will be the first Arkansas team to play a game in Busch Stadium in St. Louis.

The agreement between the St. Louis Cardinals organization was announced at a press conference held on the CBC campus.   ...

by Levi Gilbert
 
The Maumelle girls’ basketball team is currently on the outside looking in for the 5A state playoffs, but with six games left on the 5A West schedule, the Lady Hornets control their fate. 
 
Senior guard Kamri Summons relishes the opportunity before her and her teammates — a chance to play their way into the 5A playoffs. 
...

by Levi Gilbert

Sometimes a team’s record just doesn’t tell the whole story. There’s more to a team than just wins and losses, and behind every team’s group of players are individual stories to be told.  ...

by Mark Oliver

With just five games remaining on its schedule, Morrilton (14-9-1, 8-1) sits atop the 5A West conference.

With their goal of a conference championship nearly complete, the Devil Dogs will soon be turning their focus to the next big task — winning the Class 5A state championship.

...

by Mark Oliver

Maumelle senior point guard De’Shawn Williams has never backed down from a challenge — no matter how difficult.

According to the senior, challenges are something he’s dealt with his entire life.

...

by Glenn Crockett

Each year at this time, basketball players and their families from all over the state of Arkansas travel to Conway for the State Homeschool Basketball Tournament.  

The event kicks off a series of tournaments over the next four weeks. ...

by Mark Oliver

With the end of 1A 5 North conference play right around the corner, the Sacred Heart Rebels find themselves right in the thick of things. Currently sitting in third place in the conference, senior post player Stephen Maus feels confident about the team’s chances in the upcoming Class A district tournament. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Sacred Heart Lady Rebels have the end of the regular season in sight, but there’s still much left to play for as the team could finish second in the 1A 5 North with a strong finish.

For senior Taylor Usery, this will be her last chance at a strong finish on the basketball court. ...

The Eleventh Annual Chase Race and Paws will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, March 12, starting and finishing at Simon Park, in Downtown Conway.

The 2-mile state championship race awards $100 cash prize to any male or female who breaks the present course records. ...

Central Baptist College will host its annual homecoming activities on Friday, Feb. 19, and Saturday, Feb. 20.

Events begin on Friday afternoon with a prospective student Open House starting at 2:30 p.m.
...

by Mark Oliver

A year ago, a senior-laden Mayflower Eagles basketball team enjoyed major success before falling to conference-rival Episcopal Collegiate in the Class 3A title game, 57-40.

This year, however, the Eagles (2-16, 1-7 5-3A) have struggled to replicate last year’s achievements. ...

Faulkner County Circle of Friends will host the fourth annual Freezin for a Reason 5K/10K on Saturday, Feb. 6, to benefit Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

“We have had three successful events and this has become the largest fundraising event for Arkansas Children's Hospital in Faulkner County, raising over $36,000,” said organizer Karil Greeson. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Jacie Andrews is a two-time champion with the singular focus of moving the number of rings up to three.

The senior guard leads the Nemo Vista Lady Red Hawks who are poised for another deep post-season run after winning the 1A championship the past two seasons. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Raegan Jones and the Wonderview Lady Daredevils are on a clear mission — get back to the 1A championship and avenge the last two years.

Jones, a senior guard for Wonderview, has had quite the postseason experience in her high school career, but the story has yet to finish the way she would like. ...

by Mark Oliver

For many high school athletes, basketball can be a hobby — something to do with friends to pass the time or a way to unwind from the stresses of the classroom.

For Wonderview senior guard MJ Griffin, however, basketball is more than just a game — it’s the perfect vessel to overcoming some of his life’s biggest hurdles. ...

by Mark Oliver

It’s the game that Nemo Vista has had circled on its schedule for weeks — an opportunity to get back at one of its biggest conference rivals — a rematch against the Mount Vernon-Enola Warhawks. With both teams fighting for second place in the competitive 1A 5 North, the stakes are higher than ever in 2016. ...

The University of Central Arkansas recently placed 105 student-athletes on the 2015 Southland Conference Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll for the fall 2015 semester.

UCA tied Sam Houston State for the most of any of the 13 conference institutions. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

A Conway writer is putting together a biography on Jim Thorpe, who was once described as “the greatest athlete in the world.”

At a Conway Writers’ Group Reading on “Art and Science” for ArtsFest, Dr. Robert Reising presented a short essay from “Jim Thorpe: The Rest of the Story,” a biography he is co-authoring with James Thorpe Kossakowski, Jim Thorpe’s great-grandson.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

His first go-round, Seth Norton was afraid of bicycles.

Not anymore. Norton, 17, a junior at Conway Christian School, has found his niche and is one of the 501’s upcoming young cyclists.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Conway Lady Wampus Cats are 16-1, and dynamic senior Alexis Tolefree is leading the way on the floor, in the classroom and in the city.

To close out her high school basketball career, the senior guard has her eyes set on a rare feat — returning to the state championship game for the third-straight time. ...

by Mark Oliver

If you’re looking for a team that’s heating up at the right time, look no farther than the heart of the 501, where the Conway Wampus Cats are quickly gaining attention in the 7A Central conference.

“This year, we started the season 0-6,” said senior point guard Prentice Mullins. ...

Tickets are on sale for the 15th Annual Beast Feast scheduled Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

Special guests are Wade Nolan and Preservation Theory. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears placed a league-high five players on the Southland Conference All-Academic Football Team.

UCA’s five selections, which tied for the league high, included: graduate offensive lineman Kyle Stouffer; junior wide receiver Desmond Smith; redshirt freshman offensive lineman Stockton Mallett; graduate defensive end Jonathan Woodard, and graduate defensive back Bobby Watkins. ...

by Mark Oliver

With eight losses in their first 10 games, the Beebe Badgers have taken their share of lumps this season. Despite the rough start to the season, however, the optimistic Badgers believe that with each game comes a new lesson, and with 5A Central conference play under way, they’re ready to put it all together as a team. ...

by Levi Gilbert

For a coach, there’s just no substitute for experience, and that’s what makes Taylor McGraw so crucial to the Beebe Lady Badgers.

McGraw, a senior point guard for Beebe and three-year starter, was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 35 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. ...

Nine Aquakids swimmers recently competed at the prestigious Pro-Am Elite Meet in Edmond, Okla., under the leadership of Coach Tony Marleneanu.

This year was one of the fastest meets in the history of the Pro-Am Elite where the majority of the meet records were broken. ...

The Little Rock Marathon recently unveiled its 2016 finisher’s medals as it makes preparations for another “sell out” event, confirming the race is quickly reaching its participant limit.

The 14th Annual Little Rock Marathon Race Weekend, presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, is slated for Friday, March 4, through Sunday, March 6, in Downtown Little Rock and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation. ...

by Levi Gilbert

One thing’s for sure about Joeli “Jo” Harvey. She’s a believer — in her family, teammates and faith.

Harvey, a senior guard for the Faulkner County Falcons, was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 35 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. ...

by Mark Oliver

All across the 501, high school basketball teams are gearing up for the final stretch of the regular season. In Conway, the 11-4 Faulkner County Falcons are looking to take the Arkansas Homeschool Basketball Association by storm. ...

Coming off of its first Southland Conference Tournament Championship and an appearance in the NCAA Softball Regionals, the Central Arkansas softball team added nine players on National Signing Day.

“This is our biggest class in five years, and they have speed, power, size and great athletic ability,” said Central Arkansas head coach David Kuhn. ...

The Southland Conference recently announced its volleyball All-Academic teams and they were headlined by a Central Arkansas Sugar Bear. UCA sophomore Megan Nash was named the league’s Student-Athlete of the Year. She has a 3.91 GPA while majoring in kinesiology. ...

by Levi Gilbert

For Harding Academy’s Ally Davis, basketball is much more than just a game — it’s a gift.

“Being able to play basketball is an opportunity that God has given me, and I want to strive to use the gifts He has given me to be the best player and teammate that I can be and to be His light throughout the journey,” Davis said. ...

by Mark Oliver

It’s the one thing that every high school athlete dreams of — winning a state championship — being the best in the sport he or she loves. Harding Academy’s Alex Francis has enjoyed that honor not once, but four times in his high school career, and shows no signs of slowing down. ...

by Mark Oliver

Riverview opened its 2015-16 campaign with a 10-point loss. Since that game, however, the Raiders have reeled off 11 consecutive wins to take sole possession of first place in the 2-4A conference. ...

The Conway Athletic Awards Commission recently announced its 2015 award winners, naming Conway School District Assistant Athletic Director Janet Taylor as the recipient of the Elijah Pitts Award for career achievement.  

Taylor’s award comes after a 25-year coaching career at Conway High School, where she has won championships in girls’ volleyball, basketball, and boys’ and girls’ golf. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Two Conway teenagers are among the country’s best youth triathletes.

Brothers Bryan, 15, and Garrett Pendergraft, 14, sons of Buck and Kim Pendergraft, finished fourth and 59th, respectively, in the USA Triathlon Youth Junior National Championship in West Chester, Ohio, in August. ...

Nine Conway swimmers from the Aquakids Swim Team will be attending the Pro-Am Elite meet in Oklahoma City on Thursday, Dec. 17, through Sunday, Dec. 20.

The Elite Pro-Am is one of the most prestigious swim meets in the United States. ...

by Mark Oliver

Conway Christian forward Jakob Henry is a young man who thrives on competition. Whether it be on the baseball field, football field or basketball court, the multi-sport senior never backs down from an opportunity to display his athletic finesse. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Conway Christian’s Lyndi Dather is carrying on the family tradition — she’s the second Dather to be named to the 501 Basketball Team.

Lyndi’s brother, Caleb, was named to the inaugural team in 2014. ...

by Levi Gilbert

On the court, Nikki Brown uses her voice to lead the Guy-Perkins Lady Thunderbirds from her point guard position. Off the court, her voice is making an even bigger impact — bringing joy to the elderly. ...

by Mark Oliver

This fall, the hottest basketball team in the 501 may also be one of the smallest. Off to an impressive 18-0 start, the Guy-Perkins Thunderbirds are playing dominating basketball and show no signs of slowing down yet. ...

by Mark Oliver

There’s nothing quite like starting the season strong — just ask the St. Joseph Bulldogs.

As the team nears the halfway point of the season, the Bulldogs have already amassed a 6-1 home record and have also emerged as the front runners in the 4-2A East conference. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Leadership can come in many forms, and luckily for St. Joseph, Sarah Beth Briggler has mastered many of them for the Lady Bulldogs.

Briggler was selected to this year’s 501 Basketball Team — 35 players representing the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the court. ...

The First Security Conway Kids Triathlon recently donated $750 to Soul Food Café as a result of the proceeds from the annual children’s event.

The 18th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon was held in August and was “an amazing success,” according to director Heather Kendrick. ...

Searcy K-LIFE will host its first “It’s a Wonderful K-LIFE” 5K/1M fun run on Saturday, Dec. 12.

Inspired by the beloved Christmas movie, the fun run will correspond with the Searcy Holiday of Lights festivities. ...

501 LIFE is excited to announce the 2016 edition of its 501 Basketball Team. The team has expanded to 35 honorees (a 45 percent increase over last year’s team) and includes the best student-athletes the 501 has to offer — both on and off the court. ...

Gram Middleton, 13 of Vilonia, recently won the 2015 Junior World Champion duck calling contest in Stuttgart.

Middleton won a huge trophy and a prize package valued more than $2,000 which included cash, a ring, a watch, cooler, gun, apparel and hunting supplies. ...

On Saturday, Dec. 12, Junior Auxiliary of Conway will host its fourth annual Frozen Feet 5K. The certified race course will start at the Conway High School football stadium and continue through parts of historic Conway before heading back to finish at the high school. ...

Collin Hasty Cahill, a senior at Conway High School, has signed a letter of intent and accepted a scholarship to pitch for Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. Collin will join the A State Baseball Family in the fall of 2016. ...

Two scholar/athletes from Sacred Heart High School were recently named as school winners in the Wendy’s High School Heisman program.

They are Chloe Andrews, daughter of Allen and Natalie Andrews, and Nicholas Hoelzeman, son of Mark and Annie Hoelzeman. 
...

Conway Regional Health System will present a Turkey Trot 5K Family Fun Run and Walk on Thursday, Nov. 26.

The event, which will benefit the United Way of Central Arkansas, will be held the morning of Thanksgiving Day at Centennial Valley Country Club. ...

by Sonja J. Keith                

Since she has played on the Conway Bears Basketball Team, it was only fitting that Conway High Lady Cat Alexis Tolefree would sign to play with the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears.

Teammates, coaches, friends and family attended the signing ceremony, held Wednesday afternoon on the basketball floor at Buzz Bolding Arena at Conway High School. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Jakob Henry has taken the next step in his childhood dream to play college baseball.

In front of classmates, faculty, friends and family, the Conway Christian School senior signed a national letter of intent on Wednesday afternoon to play baseball at the University of Central Arkansas. ...

St. Joseph High School has been notified by the Arkansas Activities Association that its 2014-2015 Senior Girls Basketball Team has been named the Academic State Champion.

The honor goes to the school with the highest team grade point average across the state. ...

Rainy conditions didn’t dampen spirits Saturday morning at the inaugural Soaring Wings of Conway Marathon.

“The thunderstorms and heavy rain held off, and we had a fantastic race day!” said Marla Watson, who served as co-director of the race with Amanda Castillo. ...

The GFWC Century League of Morrilton will host its third annual 5K run/walk fundraiser at 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton.

A kids 1K fun run will begin at 7:45 a.m.

...

Searcy K-LIFE will host its sixth annual Benefit Golf Tournament on Friday, Oct. 30.

The 4-man scramble will take place on the Course at River Oaks, 1 Golf Course Dr., with lunch at 11:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m.

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Hailey Estes and her mother, Kathy, have a special bond. Both love sports, especially basketball. Each earned a state high school championship when they were sophomores.

They share a unique perspective on the game and don’t take the ability to dribble, run and shoot for granted.

...

Organizers are putting the finishing touches on plans for the inaugural Soaring Wings Marathon planned 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, in Conway.

The event will feature a variety of activities, including the marathon, a half marathon and a two-man relay beginning and ending at Conway’s McGee Center, which has been the location for the half marathon the last seven years. ...

Many St. Joseph School students recently answered the call to help from Athletic Director/Coach Chris Kordsmeier in cleaning the school gym to prepare for this year's use.

Students showed up and scrubbed showers and toilets; dusted shelves, loads of trophies, plaques and pictures; and swept and mopped floors, in addition to scrubbing walls and vacuuming carpets. ...

The Conway High School Volleyball Team will host its annual PINK NIGHT on Thursday, Oct. 8, as the team plays the Russellville Lady Cyclones.

The evening’s festivities include several fundraising efforts to benefit the John and Vickie Bailey Family that is close to the volleyball program. ...

Graci Thomas earned a spot on the USA Elite Select All American Southeast Regional Softball Team.

The USA Elite Select All American Tournament was held in July in Kissimmee, Fla. ...

by Levi Gilbert

As basketball season approaches for schools all across the 501, former 501 Basketball Team honoree Keeton McEntire is still settling in to his new college life at Central Baptist College.

But McEntrie, a basketball standout for the Mount Vernon-Enola Warhawks, is not gearing up for another basketball season — he’s working hard in preparation for baseball season in the spring. ...

Kids Run For Kids, an event of the Soaring Wings Marathon, will be held 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

Kids Run for Kids, presented by TLC Pediatrics, is dedicated to young up-and-coming athletes who want to try out the sport of running or walking, improve their health and run for kids their age who live at Soaring Wings Ranch. ...

The historic first race of the new Sacred Heart Cross Country team was a success.

Junior Ethan Croswell and freshman Emily Andrews comprise the inaugural team that recently ran at the Minuteman XC Invitational meet in Little Rock. ...

The inaugural Soaring Wings Marathon and Half Marathon will take place 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24.

Organizers announced last fall their plans to expand the annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon to a full marathon. ...

This year’s 501 Football Team was recently featured on an early-morning segment on KARK Channel 4.

The team features 27 student-athletes (the largest team yet) — the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the field. Every county in the 501 is represented, with several schools for the first time. ...

The Knights of Columbus recently recognized Sacred Heart eighth-grader Qualyn James as the winner of the 2014-2015 International Free Throw Championship in his division.  

“Your shooting precision has placed you in the top one percentile of thousands and thousands of participants in the council, district, regional and state levels of competition,” said Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight. ...

Proceeds from the 32nd annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run were recently presented by the Conway Kiwanis Club to local non-profits.

Donations totaling $21,000 were given to the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County, CAPCA-Headstart, the Children's Advocacy Alliance, the Conway Interfaith Clinic, Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need (HAVEN), Junior Auxiliary of Conway, Braves Field and Conway High School (for track resurfacing). ...

The Missouri Valley Conference released on Tuesday its Player of the Week awards, and for the first time this season, the Central Arkansas Bears were represented. Junior Wes Carson was named the MVC’s Offensive Player of the Week on the back of a three-goal weekend. ...

The sixth annual Carl and Cole Hill Memorial Golf Tournament proved to be the most successful thus far in terms of profit benefitting Sacred Heart School and Church.

The tournament was held May 28 at the Morrilton Country Club. ...

by Callie Sterling

Three Arkansan women, along with one woman from Texas, raised awareness for Neurofibromatosis (NF) nationally by riding in the 34th annual Race Across America (RAAM) at the end of June.

Hannah Turnbough of Conway, Lesley Oslica of Conway, Angela Earle of Dallas and Julie Hathcock of Malvern rode 3,000 miles as a team across 12 states. ...

Story and photos
by Sonja J. Keith

Chris Brynell has a big heart for kids, especially those he has worked with through the Conway Crocodiles swim program.

Originally from Cabot, Chris has been the aquatics coordinator at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center for the last six and a half years. ...

While organizers continue to make preparations, runners are training and getting their registration in for the Soaring Wings of Conway marathon and half marathon.

Organizers announced last fall their plans to expand the annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon to a full marathon. ...

Jason Lieblong of Conway weighed a five-bass limit totaling 12 pounds, 2 ounces on Saturday to win the Rayovac FLW Series Central Division finale on Lake Dardanelle presented by Mercury. He had a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 46 pounds, 3 ounces. ...

Organizers of the Soaring Wings Half Marathon will kick off its training program on Saturday, Aug. 8.

First Security Bank is the sponsor of the official training program for the Soaring Wings of Conway Inaugural Marathon and Half Marathon. ...

Geyer Springs Baptist Church in Little Rock is planning Run with the Son, a 5K Run/Walk that will benefit Renewal Ranch in Perry County.

The event will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15. ...

Registration for the Little Rock Marathon will open 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17, for its 2016 event to be held Saturday, March 5, and Sunday, March 6. The Little Rock Marathon Weekend is presented by the Arkansas Democrat Gazette and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation. ...

by Zoie Clift, travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Arkansas has an abundance of waterways for paddlers to explore. The Arkansas Water Trails project, created in 2009, is at the forefront of developing a system of mapped water trails throughout the state. ...

The University of Central Arkansas women’s track and field program was recently named a 2015 Division I All-Academic Track and Field team by the USTFCCCA.

UCA’s women had a cumulative grade-point average of 3.28. ...

Central Baptist College has hired Darryl McPhate as its sports information director.  

McPhate will be responsible for the promotion of Mustang Athletics in print and social media, managing team statistics, maintaining the athletics website and various other duties. ...

The Arkansas Big Bass Bonanza has been rescheduled for Friday, July 31, Saturday, Aug. 1, and Sunday, Aug. 2, due to excessive water flows on the Arkansas River.

All current tournament registrations will be honored for the new dates, and the tournament rules and prize pay-out arrangements will remain the same.  

...

John Baugh, a graduate of Nemo Vista School District, recently signed a letter of intent to continue his basketball career at Central Baptist College in Conway.

Baugh, a 6-foot-1 forward/guard, is grateful for the opportunity to live out his dream of playing basketball at the college level. ...

by Levi Gilbert

For many students, college is a defining time in their lives. For some, those defining moments come even earlier, in high school, thanks to great educators and the opportunity for growth.

In the classroom and on the pitch, Kortni Gifford was exposed to these opportunities at Conway High, and she leaves the school with a sense of purpose moving forward. ...

Three Faulkner County baton twirlers will be competing later this month in a national contest at Notre Dame University.

Chloe’ Kordsmeier, Kimrey Mathews and Sawyer Grammer were winners at the NBTA Arkansas State Championships held May 30 at Hendrix College. ...

The Arkansas United U19 Girls had a great showing at the 2015 US Youth Southern Regionals held June 18-25 at Burns Park Soccer Complex in North Little Rock.

The state champions from 12 states, including Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, North Texas, South Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Louisiana compete each summer in the US Youth Southern Regionals, the most prestigious tournament in the South. ...

The University of Central Arkansas recently placed 100 student-athletes on the Southland Conference Commissioner's 2015 Spring Academic Honor Roll.

The 13 SLC schools combined to have 1,240 student-athletes that met the criteria. ...

More than 200 turned out Saturday for the official kickoff of the Soaring Wings of Conway marathon and half marathon training program.

The celebration was held at the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center. ...

Renewal Ranch will host its second annual bike ride, Renewal Ride, on Saturday, July 11.

First Security Bank is again this year’s Title Sponsor. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears will play at least three televised football games this fall, the Southland Conference has announced.

The league announced its television schedule for the first four weeks of the regular season, along with select games throughout the rest of the season. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Three Morrilton Devil Dogs recently shared the spotlight, all signing to continue their basketball careers on the college level.

Classmates, school personnel, family and friends gathered in the gym at Morrilton Junior High School for the signing ceremonies.

...

In its 30th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with USA TODAY High School Sports, recently announced Lexi Weeks of Cabot High School as its 2014-15 Gatorade Arkansas Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year.

Weeks is the first Gatorade Arkansas Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year to be chosen from Cabot High School. ...

Three Faulkner County soccer players were among the competitors in the recent Southern Regional Championship Tournament held in Central Arkansas.

The Arkansas State Soccer Association hosted the 2015 Southern Regional Championships from June 18 through Thursday, June 25, at the Burns Park Soccer Complex in North Little Rock. ...

The Arkansas High School Athletic Administrators’ Association will recognize Steve Roberts as the 2014-2015 Athletic Director of the Year at its annual summer meeting June 25 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Conway.

Roberts was selected by his peers as the 2014-2015 Athletic Director of the Year as well as the Class 7A Athletic Director of the Year. ...

A kickoff celebration for the Soaring Wings of Conway marathon and half marathon training program is planned 8 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

First Security Bank is the sponsor of the Official Training Program for the Soaring Wings of Conway Inaugural Marathon & Half Marathon. ...

The Therapy and Rehab Solutions-Smith team won the first flight and afternoon round of the 19th annual Conway Regional Golf Classic on June 8 with a score of 53. The team consisted of Dr. Jevin Smith, Andy Harris, Monty Longing and Greg Lanford. ...

Casey Ott won the Arkansas Women’s Golf Association Match Play competition last week at Hot Springs Country Club – Arlington Course.  

Ott secured the second seed position with an 80 on the first day of competition. ...

by Callie Sterling

Three Arkansas women along with one woman from Texas are raising awareness for Neurofibromatosis (NF) nationally by riding in the 34th annual Race Across America.

Hannah Turnbough of Conway, Lesley Oslica of Conway, Angela Earle of  Dallas and Julie Hathcock of Malvern will ride 3,000 miles as a team across 12 states. ...

An informational meeting for the 2015 Women Bike Arkansas is planned 6 p.m. Monday, June 22, at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center.

Women Bike Arkansas is a free bicycling clinic offered to women in the area to gain the ability to participate in the Conway Fall Classic. ...

The Go! Mile is celebrating its fifth anniversary and will be held 7 a.m. Saturday, June 20.

This year’s event features a new location at the Clinton Presidential Library and a new start time. ...

Sacred Heart School in Morrilton was recently presented with the proceeds from a special promotion.

Allison Ford Lincoln Co. owner John Magie presented Sacred Heart coach Aaron Duvall and Booster Club president Djuana Beck with a check for $6,000. ...

Conway Corporation recently presented four Conway High School seniors with scholarships for their performance in the classroom and on the field during the Wampus Cat All-Sports Ceremony.

Dance team member Macy Trevillion and soccer player Ian Spatz were honored as the Female and Male Scholar Athletes of the year. ...

Cabot junior and senior high teams were among the top finishers in the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program east regional finals tournament.

The Cabot Panthers Trap Team A won the junior division and the Corning Senior Squad 1 won the senior division. ...

A four-man scramble to benefit Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry will be held Monday, June 8, at the Country Club of Arkansas in Maumelle.

Arkansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry is a program that provides venison and other wild game to those in need. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Mayflower Eagles completed a dominant run through the 3A state baseball playoffs with a 6-1 championship win over Fordyce last Saturday at Baum Stadium in Fayetteville.

The win was indeed special for the Eagle players and Coach Joe Allbritton, and it paid off several years’ worth of effort.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Vilonia Lady Eagles softball team defeated Paragould, 5-2, last Friday at UofA Bogle Park in Fayetteville.

For the Lady Eagles, the win was extra sweet, as Vilonia fell last year in the 5A final by the same score. The Lady Eagles were also runners-up in 2012.

...

Amateur golfers from throughout Faulkner County will tee off in the 19th annual Conway Regional Golf Classic at Centennial Valley Country Club on Monday, June 8.

The four-player scramble offers a morning (8 a.m.) and an afternoon round (1:30 p.m.) with two flights per round. ...

Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center and the Conway Running Club are teaming up to host Family Track Night at 6 p.m. every Monday in June.

The event – a free activity for kids - will take place at the University of Central Arkansas track at Donaghey Avenue and Dave Ward Drive. ...

The Arkansas State Soccer Association will host the 2015 Southern Regional Championships from Thursday, June 18, through Thursday, June 25, at the Burns Park Soccer Complex in North Little Rock. Opening ceremonies will be held in the River Market District on June 18. ...

Former Conway High and Central Arkansas women’s soccer player Brooke Ballard has fulfilled a life-long dream this month, joining P18ik, a member of Sweden’s third division. Ballard becomes the first UCA women’s player to make the jump to the professional ranks. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Conventional baseball and softball wisdom holds that the shortstop position is usually filled by the best overall player on the field.

Vilonia’s Buggy Lyons meets that mold and then some.

...

Conway Regional Health System, the Conway Running Club and The Sporty Runner are teaming up for a local observance of National Running Day on Wednesday, June 3.

Organizer Amanda Castillo encourages individuals to “celebrate living a healthy lifestyle and run with us!” ...

Nine-year-old Liam Stockwell of Hot Springs knew exactly what he’d accomplished earlier this month when he caught a $500 bluegill in the 2015 $86,000 Hot Springs Fishing Challenge.

Stockwell, the son of Elizabeth Ledbetter, was fishing with his 4-year-old brother, Noah, from the dock at their house on Marion Anderson Road on Lake Hamilton. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Morrilton High’s Tori Jackson recently signed a letter of intent to continue her basketball career at Lyon College.

“[I’m looking forward to] getting to continue my basketball career with an amazing team and coaching staff,” Jackson said. ...

Conway Christian seniors Ross Minner and Josiah Smith recently signed National Letters of Intent to play their respective sports in college.

Minner committed to play tennis at John Brown University in Siloam Springs while Smith signed as a kicker for Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia. ...

Sacred Heart School senior Talyn McCoy recently signed with the basketball team from Crowley’s Ridge College in Paragould.

A Rebel basketball player since the third grade, Talyn plans to major in education while attending on a partial basketball scholarship. 
...

iCor-Searcy Sports Performance Center will host the Searcy Kid's Triathlon on Saturday, June 6, with all proceeds benefitting Searcy Children's Home.

"For most kids, swimming, biking and running are natural," said Chris Adams, event director. ...

More than 1,000 runners and walkers of all ages participated Saturday in the 32th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

Proceeds from the race will benefit a variety of local non-profits – HAVEN (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need), the Boys and Girls Club, Children's Advocacy Alliance, the Conway Interfaith Clinic, CAPCA (Community Action Program for Central Arkansas), Junior Auxiliary of Conway, Braves Field and Conway High School (for track replacement). ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Organizers of this year’s Tour de Toad bike ride saw a big jump in participation with nearly 275 riders and 100 spectators.

“The event was amazing. ...

More participants and schools were represented than previously in this year’s seventh annual Kids Run Arkansas held April 17 at Laurel Park in Conway.

Presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center, the 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk is for kids of all ages. ...

The 2015 high school baseball season has been hampered by inclement weather all year but the Conway Christian Eagles have found success.

The Eagles are preparing to start the 2A – West Regional Tournament beginning on Friday. ...

Registrations are still being accepted for the 32nd annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, May 2, at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

Over the years, the race has raised more than $350,000 for local charities. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Those interested in participating in the inaugural Soaring Wings of Conway Marathon have through Friday, May 1, to register before the entry fee increases.

Organizers announced last fall their plans to expand the annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon to a full marathon. ...

The Second Annual Mayor's 107 Mile Challenge wrapped up with a Big Event on April 18 in Greenbrier.

The challenge was part of Greenbrier Gets Fit, a free community wellness program promoted by the City of Greenbrier through the Melton Cotton City Event Center. ...

Demonstrations, vendors, door prizes and hands-on activities will highlight the annual Wampus Cat Wellness Expo 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. today (Thursday, April 30) at Buzz Bolding Arena at Conway High School.

The event is designed to help families get involved in wellness opportunities. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Senior goalkeeper Leanna Sartain has overcome personal injury to lead the Conway Christian Lady Eagles Soccer Team.

Coach Ancil Lea nominated Leanna Sartain as a 501 Player of the Week, citing her leadership, encouragement and direction on the field as her best qualities.

...

Literacy Action of Central Arkansas is partnering with the Conway Kiwanis Club to award those that complete the Toad Suck Daze Run and the Tour de Toad ride with an Iron Toad medal.

The Toad Suck Daze Run is 8 a.m. Saturday, May 2, at Conway High School. ...

Arvest Bank, Crafton Tull Inc. and the Crain Automotive Team are again sponsoring a competition during the annual Toad Suck Daze Festival to be held in Downtown Conway on Friday, May 1, through Sunday, May 3.

The event is an athletic competition where teams and individuals will compete for prizes and trophies on an inflatable obstacle course. ...

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation Board recently announced plans for its 10th annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament to be held Thursday, May 21, at the Morrilton Country Club. The three-man-scramble will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. ...

Registration is still under way for the seventh annual Kids Run Arkansas planned Friday in Conway.

Presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center, the 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk is for kids of all ages. ...

Conway High School senior Marin Carter recently signed to play soccer at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Surrounded by family, friends and teammates, the ceremony was held at Buzz Bolding Arena on the high school campus. ...

Guy-Perkins Lady Thunderbird Abigail Smith recently signed to play basketball at Central Baptist College.

A senior at Guy-Perkins, she is also valedictorian of her class. ...

Plans are under way for the 9th Annual Conway Christian School Booster Club Golf Tournament, which will be held Monday, April 27, at Centennial Valley Golf and Country Club in Conway.

The event represents a day of fun and fellowship with the proceeds from the tournament benefiting the almost 200 student-athletes competing in the 16-plus athletic programs offered at Conway Christian High School. ...

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers of Central Arkansas will present the 13th Annual Marks Memorial Cup on Friday, April 17, at the Country Club of Arkansas in Maumelle.

The annual tournament honors the memory of V. Waner Marks, a member of NAIFA Central Arkansas for many years. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 32th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, May 2, at John McConnell Stadium at Conway High School.

Proceeds from the race will benefit a variety of local non-profits – HAVEN (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need), the Boys and Girls Club, Children's Advocacy Alliance, the Conway Interfaith Clinic, CAPCA (Community Action Program for Central Arkansas), Junior Auxiliary of Conway, Braves Field and Conway High School (for track replacement). ...

The fourth annual “Hoof It For Heifer” 20K Trail Run will be held Saturday, April 11, on the Boys Scouts of America Trail at Petit Jean State Park.

The event is organized by the Heifer Volunteer Group in Conway. ...

Registration is under way for the seventh annual Kids Run Arkansas, a 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk for kids of all ages, presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center.

Kids Run Arkansas will be held Friday, April 17, at Laurel Park in Conway. ...

Heroes for Hope – which includes a 10K, 5K and Superhero 1K Fun Run – will be held Saturday, April 18, in Simon Park in Downtown Conway.

The course is USATF certified. ...

The Seventh Annual “Tee It Up For Literacy” Golf Tournament, sponsored by the Fairfield Bay Library Friends Inc., will be held Saturday, April 18, at Indian Hills Golf Course in Fairfield Bay.

This fun event is a fundraiser for the Fairfield Bay Library, a non-profit public library that operates from donations, grants, memberships and contributions. ...

It's not too late to sign up for the Moustache Dash 5K on Saturday, April 18, in Greenbrier!

April 18 marks the final day for the Mayor's 107+ Challenge, a free community wellness program designed to encourage people to get motivated, get moving and get fit.

 

...

Registration is under way for the seventh annual Kids Run Arkansas, a 1-mile and 3-mile run/walk for kids of all ages, presented by Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center.

Kids Run Arkansas will be held Friday, April 17, at Laurel Park in Conway. ...

Cabot High senior Megan Goodnight has signed to continue her softball career on the college level.

With family and friends in attendance, Megan signed a letter of intent to play for Arkansas Tech University at Russellville. ...

Story and photos
by Callie Sterling

Mayflower High School seniors Lloyd Trey Lasker III and Justin Bailey signed national letters of intent on Feb. 4 to collegiate level schools to play football.

Lasker III will be attending the University of Arkansas at Monticello and Bailey will be attending Arkansas Tech University in the fall. ...

Friends and family packed Cabot High School for National Signing Day to watch two seniors sign with Arkansas colleges.

In front of a big crowd, Tristan Bulice signed to play football for Ouachita Baptist University. ...

by Levi Gilbert

In a defensive battle, the Nemo Vista Lady Red Hawks accomplished one of the hardest things to do in sports — repeat as champions. The Lady Red Hawks held off conference and county rival Wonderview to win a second-consecutive 1A championship, 32-30, last week at Summit Arena in Hot Springs. ...

by Levi Gilbert

A dream season came to an abrupt halt for the Conway Lady Cats in Hot Springs last weekend. The Lady Cats fell just short of repeating as 7A champions, falling to Fayetteville in the 7A final, 80-65. ...

The Aquakids Swim Team recently finished fifth in the girls rankings while the boys finished third in the Short Course State Championships in Little Rock.

In the combined team scores, Aquakids placed fifth. ...

St. Joseph High School recently recognized its 7th grade, junior high and varsity basketball teams for season accomplishments. The highest honors went to the senior boy and girl who best represent the school both on and off the court. ...

by Levi Gilbert

It’s déjà vu for Conway County basketball fans.

For the second year in a row, the 1A girls’ state championship game will feature 1A 5 North conference foes and cross-county rivals Nemo Vista and Wonderview. ...

The Conway Christian Lady Eagles (21-9) claimed the No. 3 seed out of the 2A-West regional by defeating the Hector Wildcats 57-39 Tuesday night.

Senior Lindsey Clay led the scoring with 17 boosted by four threes. ...

by Mark Oliver

Over the years, the Danberry name has been synonymous with success for Conway High School. From undefeated seasons to state championships and a plethora of awards in between, for Lady Cats’ senior point guard Jordan Danberry, basketball isn’t just a game, it’s in her blood. ...

by Levi Gilbert

It was rare this season for John Nekonchuk to not be the tallest man on the court. At 6-foot-7, Nekonchuk gave the Conway Wampus Cats a large presence on the court this winter. ...

The tenth annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament sponsored by the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation will be held Thursday, May 21. The three-person scramble will be held at the Morrilton Country Club and will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. ...

by Mark Oliver

Much like his team’s hefty defense, Cabot’s Garrett Rowe has learned how to stand tall in the face of adversity. When injuries took him out of the game in junior high, the Panthers’ junior guard never gave up on the game he loved.   
...

by Levi Gilbert

This Friday marks the end of regular season play for all 6A and 7A basketball teams, and it features a matchup between two 501 Basketball Team honorees — Searcy’s James Wade and Cabot’s Garrett Rowe.

Wade, a senior for the Searcy Lions, is a physical specimen at the point guard position. ...

Conway High School is the recipient of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Safe Sports School award for its athletics program.

The award champions safety and recognizes secondary schools that provide safe environments for student athletes. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Registration has kicked off for the inaugural Soaring Wings of Conway Marathon and corresponding events.

Organizers announced last fall their plans to expand the annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon to a full marathon. ...

Conway High School swimmer Amanda Crnic recently signed a national letter of intent to continue swimming competitively on the college level.

Crnic will swim at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Penn., where she plans to study finance and accounting. She is a daughter of Melanie and the late John Crnic. ...

Story and photos
by Sonja J. Keith

Bailey Zimmerman’s dream is coming true – she will be an Arkansas Lady Razorback.

The Wonderview High School senior recently made school history – becoming the first student to sign a national letter of intent to play for Coach Jimmy Dykes and the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville on the Division 1 playing field. ...

Bill Patterson photos

The Conway Christian Lady Eagles recently hosted “Answer The CALL” night, benefitting The CALL in Faulkner County.

The CALL in Arkansas is a non-profit Christian foster care organization. ...

by Mark Oliver

For many high school basketball teams in Central Arkansas, with the end of February comes the hopes of advancing to the state tournament. For Garrett Brown and the Vilonia Eagles, not only is it crunch time, but it’s exactly the kind of excitement that the community needs from its hometown team. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The hunger of a champion can never really be satisfied. Such is the case for Harding Academy’s Hayden Mathews. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Perryville Lady Mustangs are headed to the regional tournament after recently winning their district tournament for the first time since 2006.

The feat marks Perryville head coach Terry Smith’s first district championship with the Lady Mustangs. ...

St. Joseph School recently won the Fifth Grade Boys Division of the Pee Wee Conference Tournament held at the St. Joseph Family Activities Center.

Six schools including St. Joseph, Sacred Heart (Morrilton), Conway Christian, Wonderview, Nemo Vista and Hector fielded teams in the fourth-sixth grades. ...

by Mark Oliver

When the Mayflower Lady Eagles needed a boost to their on-the-court ranks, the team turned to a place that not too many teams may have looked — Emily Hampton and Mayflower’s eighth-grade girls’ basketball team.

“At the end of our eighth grade season, Coach Frost asked five of us if we wanted to move up to the senior high team,” Hampton said. ...

by Levi Gilbert

A senior season naturally brings with it a sense of pressure. For many, it’s the last chance at a championship. ...

The St. Joseph High School Boys Bowling Team won the 3A/2A/1A East Conference Bowling Tournament held at Conway Bowl on Feb. 10.

St. Joseph competed with eight other teams that included Riverside (Jonesboro), Izard County Consolidated, Mayflower, Concord, Conway Christian, Academics Plus and Bay. ...

The Rotary Club of Cleburne County will sponsor the second annual Anglers Expo in March.

The event is planned noon until 7 p.m. Friday, March 13, and 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Community Center, 201 Bobbie Jean Lane in Heber Springs. ...

by Mark Oliver

After a successful junior season, Greenbrier power forward Kyle Ferguson appeared primed for a monster senior year. However, a week before the season began, he sustained an injury that would put his athletic career at Greenbrier in jeopardy and rob him of the chance to suit up one last time as a Panther. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Tori Jackson is a rare breed — a student athlete truly willing to selflessly give of herself for the betterment of her team. As her head coach, Carin McNabb, puts it, Jackson is a “special student-athlete that is a joy to coach.” ...

by Levi Gilbert

This basketball season has been about change for the Morrilton Devil Dogs, as 2014-15 welcomed in a new era under head coach Keith Zackery. But this big change has led to more of the same for Morrilton, and that’s not a bad thing. ...

St. Joseph School eighth-graders Jack Briggler and Alexis Roach were two of a dozen Faulkner County athletes to receive the Marvin Delph Student Athlete Award. They were presented by the Conway Athletic Awards Commission at its annual luncheon hosted by Central Baptist College in Conway. ...

by Levi Gilbert
 
Anna Lawrence’s high school basketball career is quickly coming to an end, and the conclusion will be bittersweet for many reasons.
 
The end will also close a chapter between Anna and her father, Brooks Lawrence, who is also her coach.
...

by Mark Oliver

Faulkner County Falcons center Stephen McNair understands hard work.

In addition to academics and athletics, the homeschooled senior also volunteers his time teaching a full house of his brothers and sisters. 

...

by Sonja J. Keith
 
The Conway High School Lady Cats Soccer Team is showing its support for a teammate seriously injured in an automobile accident.
 
Morgan McAlexander, a junior at Conway High, suffered a brain injury in a car wreck in December on Highway 65 north of Conway.
...

McDonald’s has announced the 823 high school seniors who have been nominated to play in the 2015 McDonald’s All American Games.

This year’s list includes players from 47 states and the District of Columbia who have been selected by high school coaches, athletic directors, principals and members of the McDonald’s All American Games Selection Committee.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Weeks twins of Cabot are pure magic in high school track and field.

Tori and Lexi, daughters of Brent and Amy Weeks of Cabot, boast a long list of accomplishments... ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Cabot High School’s Alyssa Hamilton will continue to play basketball, moving to the college level in the fall at Southern Arkansas University.

Alyssa was surrounded by family, friends, classmates and faculty during a recent signing ceremony held in the media center at Cabot High. ...

by Erica Goodwin

War is fought on the front lines. Soldiers make sacrifices. They witness unspeakable tragedy. They experience death and destruction in the name of liberty and justice.

But often, the battlefield of the mind is much harder to fight after they return home. ...

by Mark Oliver

2014 was a year to remember for Nemo Vista.

Through hard work and phenomenal effort, the Red Hawks finished the season with a 32-6 record and captured their first state championship in school history. ...

by Mark Oliver

As he enters the home stretch of his final season at Nemo Vista, senior guard Ty Virden hopes to accomplish one major goal before hanging up his Red Hawks uniform.

“I’m wanting to lead my team to a state championship,” Virden said. ...

The Greenbrier High School Panthers athletics program has been selected as a recipient of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Safe Sports School Award.

Greenbrier, one of only eight high schools in Arkansas to achieve the award, received “first team” recognition for efforts to protect young athletes.

...

Sonshine Academy’s Josh Hicks won a gold medal in the Boys 13-14 Tumbling and a bronze medal in Boys 13-14 Double Mini Trampoline at the International Elite Development exchange camp held earlier this month at the USA Gymnastics National Team Training Center at the Karolyi Ranch near Huntsville, Texas.

Twenty-three Level 9 and 10 athletes from the U.S. qualified in September through the Elite Development Program to represent the USA in the International Exchange Program. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Mount Vernon-Enola Warhawks are in the midst of a part of their conference schedule that could best be summed up as “rivalry row.”

The Warhawks faced Guy-Perkins last Friday, Sacred Heart on Tuesday and take on Wonderview this Friday. ...

by Mark Oliver

With less than a month remaining in the regular season, Sacred Heart senior guard Joe Beck fully understands the challenges that lie ahead for the Rebels. Off to a 9-15 start (as of press time), the Rebels are looking to make an impact during the final weeks of the season — not just in the 1A-5 North conference, but the entire state of Arkansas as well.   
...

Cali Lankford, a senior at Perryville high school, recently signed a letter of intent to continue her softball career at Central Baptist College.

Lankford, a daughter of Keith and Lisa Lankford, is a three-time All Conference and a two-time All State selection.

...

Ty Virden’s dream of being a college basketball player is finally coming true.

Virden, a 6-foot-5 guard/forward/center for Nemo Vista High School, has signed a letter of intent to play college basketball for Lyon College in Batesville. 
...

by Mark Oliver

For many players who suit up on the court, basketball is a way to have fun and a means to unwind. For Conway Christian senior point guard Carly Powell, basketball isn’t just a game — it’s in her blood.

...

by Mark Oliver

From learning the basics in Upward Basketball to suiting up for the senior high Eagles, Conway Christian senior point guard Luke Beckman has enjoyed his share of memories on the basketball court over the years. Two of his favorites include plays that have helped him become a clutch player for the Eagles. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Cross-town rivals Conway Christian and St. Joseph face off this week, and the importance of this game will have ripple effects that will reach into the postseason.

“All of our conference games are important,” said Caroline Dail, a senior post for St. Joseph. ...

by Levi Gilbert

This week is a great week to be a basketball fan in Conway as cross-town rivals St. Joseph and Conway Christian will face off in conference play.

“No matter where it’s at, it’s always intense — always crazy,” said Dylan Schrekenhofer, a senior post player for St. Joseph. ...

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will host its third annual Freezin’ for a Reason 2K Family Run, 5K and 10K on Saturday, Feb. 7, in Conway.

The race was initiated by the chapter as a way to honor the memories of Charlotte and Stella Mulhearn, two children from Conway who received treatment at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. ...

Participants are being recruited for the 2015 Greenbrier Gets Fit program, including the Mayor’s 107+ Challenge.

The community wellness program is designed to encourage people to get motivated, get moving and get fit. ...

The third annual National Park Community College Van Davis Memorial 5K scheduled Saturday, Feb. 14, in Whittington City Park, will include as a new feature USATF certification. A USATF-certified road race course is one in which the distance is certified for accuracy. ...

2014 was a year to remember in the world of sports in the 501. Several 501 teams brought home conference and state championships, and the stories of personal accomplishments and communities coming together to support their teams in the midst of adversity off the field provided endless inspiration.

Mark Oliver, a 501 LIFE sports writer, and Levi Gilbert, associate editor, recently selected their Top 5 sports stories that 501 LIFE shared with its readers in 2014. ...

For the fourth-straight year, Harding has taken the lead in the Great American Conference All-Sports Standings following the fall sports seasons. The Bisons and Lady Bisons totaled 26.5 points to lead the nine other eligible GAC schools. ...

Story and photos
by Erica Goodwin

The Kiwanis Club of Searcy recently hosted a Basketball Preview to give members and guests a glimpse of the upcoming season.

Searcy-area basketball coaches representing Harding University (HU), Harding Academy (HA), Riverview High School (RHS) and Searcy High School (SHS) expressed their optimism about the season, discussed returning and new players and highlighted conference games on the schedules. ...

Saturday, Nov. 8, was the perfect day for the Third Annual K-C to 5K Run of the Mill Event held in the Industrial Park of Conway.

The 5K event is developed and sponsored by TRS|Wellness as part of the Work-Site Wellness offerings Kimberly-Clark Corporation provides for its employees. ...

Vilonia Middle School Principal Lori Lombardi recently presented a $3,000 donation to Conway Regional Medical Center’s Fabulous You Boutique. The donation represented proceeds from a Powder Puff football game. ...

The Faulkner County Day School will host its annual Racin’ in the New Year 5K at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3.

The race benefits the Milestones and Work Force programs of the Faulkner County Day School, which provide services to children and adults with developmental delays or disabilities. ...

The St. Joseph School senior girls basketball team is showing its support for the fight against Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, by wearing blue laces in their athletic shoes.

The color blue is a symbol of hope for ALS. ...

Sonshine Academy’s Cheer Force Arkansas recently collected more than 1,500 food items and raised more than $1,000 to be donated to Bethlehem House.

The donation will help fill food boxes for families in need and provide food for the shelter’s nightly soup kitchen. ...

Junior Auxiliary of Conway will host its third annual Frozen Feet 5K Race at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.

The certified race course will start at the Conway High School football stadium and run through parts of historic Conway before heading back to finish at the high school. ...

The second annual St. Joseph vs. Sacred Heart Alumni Basketball Game – a fundraising event for the booster clubs at both schools – was held Nov. 14 at the Sacred Heart gymnasium in Morrilton.

Four different contests took place; a game between female graduates under 35 years of age and another for males in the same age bracket. ...

Roger Taylor and Bill Patterson photos

Grand opening festivities were held recently at the Braves Field at Curtis Walker Park in Conway.

The grand opening on Oct. 22 was a dream come true for Conway Alderman David Grimes, who along with Jeff Matthews led the efforts to establish the park. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens
Todd Owens photos

Cody Kelley of Conway has wanted to be a professional fisherman since he was 2, when he saw Shamu at SeaWorld.

Now 24, he’s on the verge of reaching that dream. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Conway High School baseball standout Bubba Carter was “Loving LIFE” on Sunday after signing a national letter of intent to play baseball for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Trojans.

...

The GFWC Century League of Morrilton will host its second annual 5K run/walk fundraiser at 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton, 1537 University Blvd.

People of all ages are welcome to participate in the Century League 5K. ...

The annual Soaring Wings Half Marathon, held Saturday in Conway, once again sold out with 2,000 registrants.

The event benefits Soaring Wings Ranch, a Christ-centered family and home in the Holland community that provides security, love and hope to children. ...

St. Joseph students are participating in "Little Dribblers," an athletic program aimed at developing basketball handling skills at the elementary school level.

It was first started by Laura Hiegel Williams in 2006. ...

The 2014 Kids Run for Kids was held Saturday at Laurel Park, with nearly 100 young people participating. The event is presented by TLC Pediatrics. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Foundation recently announced the creation of the Jimmy Fitzgerald McClain Endowed Scholarship Fund. The fund was created in memoriam and honors Jimmy Fitzgerald McClain, a former University of Central Arkansas basketball standout, who played alongside Scottie Pippen on some of the Bears' best teams in 1986 and 1987. ...

A variety of events are on tap next week in celebration of homecoming at the University of Central Arkansas.

At 3 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, there will be a special pep rally at College Square retirement community, at College Avenue and Farris Road. ...

Conway Christian took home the District 2A-3 boys golf title at the Links in Conway.

CCS was led by Will Jackson (86), who finished as the individual runner-up to Bigelow’s Dylan McKnight (82).  ...

by Zoie Clift

Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Though fishing in Arkansas is available year-round, fall is a beautiful time to cast a line and enjoy the favorable temperatures and colorful fall foliage of the season. The Ouachita River has long been a lure to anglers due to the stream’s prime fishing waters. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Work is nearing completion and grand opening festivities are being planned at the Conway Braves Field at Curtis Walker Park.

The grand opening game is 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22. ...

Sacred Heart Catholic School recently hosted the 1A District 3 Golf Tournament at the Morrilton Country Club.

Both the Sacred Heart girls and boys finished first in the tournament. ...

Two Conway teams qualified for the 2A Girls State Golf Tournament on Tuesday.

Conway Christian won the three team field by shooting a combined 314 (Leanna Sartain-88, Madison Pelley-110, Katie Jo Henley-116 and Macey Vaught-138). ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Softball player Mallory Kirkemier’s dream of playing on the college level is coming true.

Mallory recently signed a letter to play for the Central Baptist College Lady Mustangs. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

A year after putting her life on hold to focus on battling cancer, Conway’s Sara Stovall is a symbol of triumph.

Stovall, a two-time all-state volleyball player for Conway’s Lady Cats before graduating in May 2013, is finally on the volleyball court at Arkansas Tech this fall, albeit a year later than she’d planned. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Organizers are making plans to go the extra mile — actually 13.1 miles — to offer a full marathon next year as part of an annual event that benefits Soaring Wings Ranch.

“We have been talking to the city and are super excited,” said Andrew Watson, founder and executive director of Soaring Wings. “I think it’s going to be a really big deal.” ...

Conway Advocates for Bicycling (CAB) will host its annual Conway Fall Classic at 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20.

Designed for cyclists who enjoy riding the countryside, this annual event features three routes which start and end at Fellowship Bible Church, 1051 Hogan Lane (next to Grace United Methodist Church, the previous location). ...

The Faulkner County Lady Falcon homeschool varsity volleyball team dominated in a recent tournament sponsored by Ambassador Christian Academy in Bentonville. 
...

Team Worth 05 recently returned from Tulsa with a second place finish in the machine pitch 8U World Series.

Arkansas Team Worth 05 finished the spring season with an overall record of 44-14. ...

Little Rock Marathon race officials will partner with the Corner Store and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas to host the inaugural Corner Store Country Run Saturday, Sept. 20.  

The race starts at 7:30 a.m. in front of War Memorial Stadium and is part of an eight-city race series. ...

After making the Southland Conference Tournament for the first time in program history last season, the Central Arkansas women’s soccer program is gearing up to make a run at a second consecutive appearance this season.

The Bears will count on a seasoned squad that returns six starters and 13 lettermen to help reach the tournament.

...

Hendrix biology professor Dr. Matthew Moran recently completed a “Guide to the Trails of Petit Jean State Park,” the first comprehensive educational guidebook for the park’s hiking trail system.

The 62-page book is available in print at http://www.moranbooks.com/ and in Kindle format through Amazon.com. ...

The Faulkner County Library will present the Arkansas premiere of a film by the Mayo Clinic: “The Real Moonlight Graham: A Life Well Lived” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11.

This original documentary film profiles Dr. Archibald “Moonlight” Graham, an intriguing character from the movie “Field of Dreams” and a beloved physician in Chisholm, Minn., who had important connections to the Mayo Clinic. ...

Harding University's Kristen Celsor was recently named the Central Region Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year by the NCAA Division II Conference Commissioner's Association.

Celsor, a native of Searcy, recently graduated with a 3.91 grade point average in communication sciences and disorders. ...

The 17th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon drew more than 200 young people at a new venue.  

“We had 261 kids register for our event this year with 243 crossing the finish line,” said race director Shannon Milam. ...

The Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) recently announced that Conway Christian High School has been awarded the Sportsmanship Award for class 2A schools.  

The award is voted on by all 2A schools. ...

The Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce will hold a Skeet and Trap Shoot fundraiser event on Friday, Sept. 19, at the new Arkansas Game & Fish Foundation Sports Shooting Complex, 2800 Graham Road.

Proceeds will help fund the Chamber’s year round programs. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

It’s been another stellar golf season for Conway’s Casey Ott, and at press time, it wasn’t even over.

Ott, barely 14, has been in Cape Girardeau, Mo., all week as a member of the Arkansas team for the Southern Junior Cup Matches, a competition among Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Mississippi. ...

Hendrix College Professor of English Dr. Marjorie Swann recently edited a new edition of Izaak Walton's The Compleat Angler that was published this spring by Oxford University Press.

First printed in 1653, The Compleat Angler is the most famous book about outdoor recreation ever published. ...

Little Rock Marathon race officials recently announced that registration is open for its 2015 event to be held Saturday, Feb. 28, and Sunday, March 1.  

Race Weekend events include the 13th Annual Little Rock Marathon, the Little Rock Half Marathon, the Little Rock 10K, the Little Rock 5K Fun Run/Walk, the Little Rockers Kids Marathon and the Little Rock Health & Fitness Expo. ...

Central Baptist College recently announced the hiring of Peter Smith as the new head men’s soccer coach.   

Last week, CBC announced that Tasha Flynn took over as the CBC head women’s soccer coach. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Cabot softball player Kaitlyn Campbell has a lot to celebrate.

Her team recently won its World Series competition in Florida, and this fall she will play for the Cabot High School Softball Team. ...

Central Baptist College has named Tasha Flynn as the head women’s soccer coach.   

Flynn takes over the CBC program after Coach Philip Bohn left in mid-July to become the head men’s soccer coach at Kansas Wesleyan. ...

Central Baptist College is making plans for its 2014 Mustang Classic.

This year’s four-person golf scramble tournament will be held Monday, Sept. 15, at Nutters Chapel Golf & Country Club in Conway. ...

Conway Christian School recently welcomed Austin Mitchell as head men's basketball coach for the 2014-2015 school year.

Austin – a son of Gary and Brenda Mitchell in Conway – is an active member of Harlan Park Baptist Church, where his father is the pastor. ...

Nineteen girls in the seventh through the 12th grade recently took part in a cheerleading camp held at St. Joseph School.

The camp was conducted under the direction of cheerleading sponsor Amy Covington. ...

The 17th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon is quickly approaching and continues to accept registrations through Friday, Aug. 1.  

The triathlon – scheduled Saturday, Aug. 2 – moves to Hendrix College this year from the University of Central Arkansas. ...

by Levi Gilbert

After more than 36 years of being involved in radio — either as a student or professional — change is afoot for Monty Rowell.

As Rowell heads back to school this fall at the University of Central Arkansas, he’ll be serving as student center assistant director and no longer as general manager of KUCA-FM. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

With the success of its first Renewal Ride on Saturday, organizers are already considering making it an annual event.

“It was a great turnout and a great success,” said Kyle Allison, race coordinator, adding “with such positive feedback” that a meeting is planned next week to discuss making the ride an annual event. ...

Conway Regional Health System will be the Premier Training Sponsor for this year’s Soaring Wings Half Marathon.

The training program will officially begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center, but a kickoff event called The First Mile is planned 7 a.m. Saturday, July 26, at the fitness center. ...

The 8th Annual Arkansas Sportscasters/Sportswriter Hall of Fame Banquet was held Saturday at the Centennial Special Events Center in Conway.

Three legendary names were enshrined. ...

by Zoie Clift

Part of the appeal of riding motorcycles is the adventure found on the open road. On a dual sport motorcycle, one suited for both on- and off-road riding, bikers can also venture off paved roads and highways to explore backcountry terrain like dirt roads, gravel roads and jeep trails. ...

The 17th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon is moving to Hendrix College this year and registration is now open.

Youth ages 6 to 15 can register at conwaykidstri.com until Friday, Aug. 1, as long as spots are still available. 
...

Conway resident Alyssa Strickland will continue her basketball career in the fall, playing for Moody Bible Institute in Chicago.

The Moody women's basketball program recently announced that Alyssa, a guard, has committed to play for the Lady Archers next season. ...

Thirty-one Aquakids recently broke records and combined for 40 new long course state competition times at the Summer Invite Meet in Fayetteville.  

Swimmers with new state times include Brooklyn Anderson in the 100 Fly and 100 Free; ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Just 29, Conway girls basketball coach Ashley Nance surpassed her legendary father twice last week.

Nance was the head coach of the East girls basketball team for the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star Week activities held at the University of Central Arkansas. ...

Conway Christian's Anna Cain was selected as an Arkansas Soccer All-Star and participated last week in the Arkansas Activities Association High School All-Star Soccer game at University of Central Arkansas.  

Anna was selected by the coaches of the 4A NE Conference, where Conway Christian participates in conference play. ...

Three local athletes recently won championships during the 2014 Title Boxing National Championship Tournament in Hot Springs.

The following won championships in their division: ...

A ground-breaking ceremony took place Monday for the Conway Braves Field at Curtis Walker Park.

“Our field really will serve much more of the 501 than just Conway,” said Conway Alderman David Grimes, who along with Jeff Matthews has led the effort to establish the park. ...

An Arkansas Blue Cross/Blue Shield team won the afternoon round at the 18th Annual Conway Regional Golf Classic on June 16 with a score of 51.

A Trinity Development team, led by Jim Rankin Jr., won the morning round with a score of 55.

...

The University of Central Arkansas placed 96 student-athletes on the Southland Conference Commissioner’s 2014 Spring Academic Honor Roll.

UCA also had 12 student-athletes with a perfect 4.0 grade-point average. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens
Mike Kemp photo

Coming home had a bit of a different meaning in May for a pair of professional bass fishermen from Mayflower.

Kevin Short, 52, whose career on the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society circuit goes back to 1998, and Billy McCaghren, 42, who started fishing B.A.S.S. tournaments in 2002, returned to Arkansas for the Bassmaster Elite Tournament at Lake Dardanelle just more than two weeks after a devastating EF-4 tornado struck their town. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Ten head coaches will lead the contingent from the 501 in the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star activities next week in Conway.

Cody McNabb, who led the Morrilton Devil Dogs to the Class 5A state football championship in December, is head coach of the West squad. ...

Organizers of the 16th Annual Bulldog Foundation Golf Tournament are describing this year’s event as a huge success.

The event - held at The Greens at Nutters Chapel on Saturday, June 7 - raised more than $15,000. ...

The fifth annual golf tournament to benefit HAVEN (Help for Abuse Victims in Emergency Need) will be held Monday, July 14, at The Greens at Nutters Chapel in Conway.

There are 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. start times for the four-person scramble, with first, second and third place prizes to be awarded. ...

Photos and story
by Sonja J. Keith

The Conway Booster Club recently celebrated high school senior athletes representing 18 different sports during an annual recognition program held at Buzz Bolding Arena.

The event included a dinner for student athletes — provided by Virco Mfg. and prepared by Gary Crockett — followed by a program. 
...

Employees at Salem Place Nursing and Rehabilitation in Conway recently competed in a special whiffle ball game for the newly named “Louise Tidwell Trophy.”

Tidwell is a resident at Salem Place and a Navy veteran of World War II. ...

A catfish worth $5,000 was landed last week on Lake Hamilton, the biggest prize awarded in the three years of the Hot Springs Fishing Challenge.  

On the evening of May 19, just as the sun was setting, retired Hot Springs High School teacher Jimmy Schultz was sitting on his dock across the street from his house. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Vilonia School District is producing success in track and field that is unmatched in the 501, and it all starts in the junior high programs.

Lady Eagles coach Casey Craun and Eagles coach Tommy Stephens are developing and managing talent at a championship level. ...

Amateur golfers from throughout Faulkner County will tee off in the 18th annual Conway Regional Golf Classic at Centennial Valley Country Club on Monday, June 9.

The four-player scramble tournament offers a morning (8 a.m.) and an afternoon flight (1 p.m.). ...

Rachel Skinner, a senior libero at Conway High School, recently signed to continue her volleyball career as a University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bear.

Over the last three years, Rachel has accumulated a 72-15 overall record, 38-4 conference record and two conference championships, with three trips to the 7A State Final Four. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

The Conway High School Lady Cats got together Tuesday night to celebrate their state championship and receive their rings.

The Lady Cats beat the defending champs, Fort Smith Northside, 74-67, in the 7A basketball final March 16 at Summit Arena in Hot Springs. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will add seven new members this fall when the Class of 2014 enters.

The newest inductees, who will officially join the Hall on Saturday, Oct. 11, include: Aundra Bohanon, Kenneth Davis, James Dickey, Charlie Eagle, Kevin Ervin, Danny Hazelwood and John Simmons. ...

Arkansas Trails Day will be held on May 31 while the national celebration will get under way on Saturday, June 7.

Events throughout Arkansas will join this nationwide observation of America’s wealth of trail types and experiences while encouraging the public to enjoy a trail, according to state trails coordinator Mike Sprague. ...

by Callie Sterling

Thousands gathered at Dickey-Stephens Park in Little Rock on May 6 for a storm relief fundraiser benefiting the cities of Mayflower and Vilonia.

Total attendance was 8,014, the third highest attended game this season at Dickey-Stephens. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Two head coaches will lead the contingent from the 501 in the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star activities Sunday, June 22, through Friday, June 27, in Conway.

Cody McNabb, who led the Morrilton Devil Dogs to the Class 5A state football championship in December, is head coach of the West squad. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Conway’s Sean Criswell is pursuing his dream at the next level, and his family and friends will get to experience it, too.

Criswell is staying in Conway as he recently signed a letter of intent to continue his basketball career at Hendrix College.
...

Official dedication ceremonies were held recently for a new state-of-the-art public shooting range in Jacksonville.

Several dignitaries, including Gov. Mike Beebe, were on hand for the dedication. ...

St. Joseph School recently received a check for $700 from the Conway Regional Fitness Center for its participation in the sixth annual Kids Run Arkansas.

The one-mile and three-mile fun run/walk is for kids of all ages in Arkansas. ...

The Maumelle Chamber of Commerce will host its 14th annual golf tournament Thursday, May 29, at the Maumelle Country Club.

The event is limited to the first 26 paid four-man teams and only a few spots are available. ...

Rider registration is currently under way for the 11th annual CARTI Tour de Rock, a cycling-based fundraiser benefiting CARTI cancer patients, scheduled for Saturday, June 7, at the Burns Park Soccer Complex in North Little Rock.

Coulson Oil Company/Road Runner is the presenting sponsor of the 2014 CARTI Tour de Rock, a 100-mile “century ride” departing from Burns Park in North Little Rock and routed through Little Rock, Scott and England. ...

B.A.S.S. will host the Bassmaster Elite at Lake Dardanelle, Thursday, May 15, through Sunday, May 18, in Russellville, the fifth of nine Bassmaster Elite Series professional bass fishing tournaments scheduled in 2014.

The tournament will mark the 11th time B.A.S.S. has held a professional event on the lake. ...

The Aquakids Swim Team will be holding an official swim-a-thon on Friday, May 16, at the Hendrix College Pool.

During the event, swimmers will have a two-hour period in which to swim a maximum of 200 lengths. ...

The Sonshine Academy Cheer Force Falcons traveled to Orlando, Fla., last month to compete at The Cheerleading Worlds Championships.  

The title of the competition is an accurate description because squads from all over the United States and many foreign countries were competing. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Conway Christian Lady Eagles are in the midst of a successful soccer season, and senior center midfielder Anna Cain is leading the charge.

“Anna is the captain of our CCS girls varsity team,” Coach Ancil Lea said. ...

The Central Baptist College Athletic Department recently hosted its end of the year awards banquet.  

The following athletes were presented with awards in their respective sports. 
...

The nation’s largest amateur big bass tournament, Arkansas Big Bass Bonanza, will be held on 300 miles of the Arkansas River from Friday, June 27, through Sunday, June 29.

The annual Big Bass Bonanza it the successor to the King Cotton Classic that operated a number of years out of Pine Bluff. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Two Mayflower Eagles recently signed letters of intent to play baseball at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville.

Seniors Jordan Burns and Michael Post will become Wonder Boys after graduating as Eagles in May.

...

The sixth annual Kids Run Arkansas Kids was a huge success with 750 participants representing 36 schools.

The event was held April 18 at Laurel Park in Conway. ...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission recently set the state’s deer hunting seasons, with modern gun deer season opening Saturday, Nov. 8, archery season opening Saturday, Sept. 27, and muzzleloader season opening Saturday, Oct. 18.

The deer season dates are part of the 2014-15 general hunting regulations approved during the commission’s monthly meeting.

...

by Hunter Brooks

In just its second year under the Arkansas Activities Association, the eStem girl’s basketball team won the school’s first state championship, 47-38, over Harding Academy.

Maybe even more impressive is they did it with just eight players.

...

by Hunter Brooks

There’s a dynasty forming at Maumelle High School behind wrestling head coach Ed Viera.

The Maumelle Hornets wrestling team recently captured the Arkansas class 1A-5A state championship — its second straight state title in the school’s three-year history (state runner-up in 2012). ...

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation Board has announced plans for its ninth annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament to be held Thursday, May 15, at the Morrilton Country Club. The three-man-scramble will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. ...

The second annual Conway Spring Fling will be held 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, April 28, at Conway High School.  

The event, a fundraiser for the Conway Booster Club, will include booths and concessions manned by school athletic teams. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The future of basketball at Vilonia High School is looking bright, and talented freshmen like Abby Hightower keep feeding the flames of excitement. Vilonia is fresh off a semi-final appearance in the 5A state playoffs, and Hightower looks to keep Vilonia in the hunt throughout the rest of her high school career. ...

The sixth annual Kids Run Arkansas will be held 6 p.m. Friday, April 18, at Laurel Park in Conway. Participants may choose the one-mile or three-mile route and families are encouraged to participate. ...

The St. Paul A.M.E. church of Morrilton will sponsor its first annual Tribute to Mom 5K run/walk Saturday, May 10.

The race will begin at the church at 7 a.m. and has a $15 advance entry fee with a $20 entry fee the day of the race. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 31st annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, May 3, at Conway High School West at John McConnell Stadium.

This year’s event will feature a new race course through neighborhoods in Central Conway. ...

The president of the Arkansas High School Coaches Association, Calvin Mallett of Yellville-Summit, recently announced the names of the head coaches and staffs for the 2014 Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star Football and Volleyball Games along with the staffs of the Cheer and Dance squads at a news conference at the University of Central Arkansas.

UCA athletic director Dr. Brad Teague welcomed the members of the AHSCA, the 2014 All-Star coaches and media representatives during the morning press conference. ...

University of Central Arkansas head athletic trainer David Strickland will be inducted into the Arkansas Athletic Trainers Hall of Fame in the Class of 2014.

Strickland, UCA’s head athletic trainer since 1998, will join the Hall of Fame in a ceremony on Saturday, April 12, at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Little Rock during the Arkansas Athletic Trainer’s Association annual meeting and symposium. ...

The Maumelle Chamber of Commerce will host its 14th annual golf tournament Thursday, May 29, at the Maumelle Country Club.

The tournament, which will start at 1 p.m., will include a putting contest and lunch. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Nemo Vista Lady Red Hawks made school history last week with 37-32 win over Conway County rival Wonderview in the girls 1A final at Summit Arena in Hot Springs, earning the school’s first state basketball championship.

Chase Paladino finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and one steal to earn the MVP honor. ...

by Levi Gilbert

For the second time in six years and the first time under Ashley Nance, the Conway Lady Wampus Cats brought home a basketball state championship.

The Lady Cats beat the defending champs, Fort Smith Northside, 74-67, in the 7A final March 16 at Summit Arena in Hot Springs. ...

The Aquakids Swim Team participated this past weekend at the Short Course State Championships in Fayetteville.

“We had 35 kids qualified for this meet,” said Tony Marleneanu, head coach of the Aquakids swim team in Conway. ...

An official event of Toad Suck Daze, Tour de Toad is a bike ride to raise funds to increase adult literacy in Faulkner and Pulaski counties while encouraging a healthy lifestyle and cycling.

The event, presented by First Security Bank, is planned Saturday, May 3, in Conway.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Less than a year removed from Tommy John surgery, Nemo Vista’s Mason Faulkner returns to the mound this spring for the Red Hawks.

The senior had the reconstructive surgery on his elbow in August. ...

Conway High School senior Avery Taylor will be continuing her soccer career close to home at the University of Central Arkansas.

In front of family, friends, teammates and classmates, Taylor recently signed a letter of intent to play for UCA during a ceremony at Buzz Bolding Arena at CHS. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Friendship has been the best medicine for two teenagers who have not only softball in common, but also cancer.

They are members of two teams from two different communities who have formed a special bond.

...

by Hunter Brooks

Dr. Anne Trussell has helped many in the 501 as a physician. In April, she is traveling to London to help millions around the world.

Trussell will be running in the London Marathon on Sunday, April 13, to help raise awareness for neurofibromatosis (NF) as a member of the NF Endurance Team, and to raise research funds for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. ...

by Hunter Brooks
Mike Kemp photos

During his 10-year tenure (1972-1981) at UCA, Ken Stephens led the Bears to four Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference titles, including the NAIA national championship game in 1976.

In February, Stephens was honored for his accomplishments with an induction into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The Conway Lady Wampus Cats face Fort Smith Northside Thursday at Summit Arena in Hot Springs with a 7A championship on the line.

For Conway Coach Ashley Nance, a state championship game is familiar territory. This will be her sixth trip to a final either as a player or coach. ...

Renewal Ranch will host its fourth annual Golf Classic tournament Monday, April 21, at The Greens at Nutters Chapel golf course in Conway.

The tournament will be a four-person scramble and the cost is $400 per team. ...

St. Joseph High School’s Melissa Hambuchen won second place in the 15 to 19-year-old age group at the 12th Annual Little Rock Marathon held March 2.

She completed the 26.2 mile course in 3 hours and 57 minutes. ...

The Central Arkansas PRCA committee is getting ready for its sixth PRCA Rodeo at 7 p.m. Friday, April 4, and Saturday, April 5, at Back Achers Ranch in Conway.

Attendance the last few years has been very good and those attending have proclaimed it “great family entertainment at affordable prices.” ...

Registration has opened for the sixth annual Kids Run Arkansas, a one-mile and three-mile fun run/walk for kids of all ages in Arkansas.

Kids Run Arkansas will be held 6 p.m. Friday, April 18, at Laurel Park in Conway. ...

Big Al is back, and this time he’s bringing a bigger gang.

The Annual Hot Springs Fishing Challenge, which runs from Thursday, May 1, through Thursday, July 31, will have a total prize pool of $75,000, compared to $60,000. ...

by Mark Oliver

In the time that Audrey Moran has taken the court for the Vilonia Eagles, the program has accomplished many things.

Now, as she prepares to enter the playoffs for the final time in her high school career, Moran is hoping to make her swan song a memorable one.

...

The Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will welcome 11 new members during its 56th annual induction banquet Friday, Feb. 28, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.

In the regular category, the 2014 class includes David Bazzel, Gary Blair, Ken Duke, Bennie Fuller, Stephanie Strack Mathis and Dennis Winston. ...

by Levi Gilbert

The CALL of Faulkner/Conway County will host the inaugural “Best Ball for the CALL” Monday, March 24, at Conway Country Club.

For Chris and Crystal Dendy, the CALL is more than just an organization — it’s life. ...

by Mark Oliver

Conway junior Jordan Danberry knows what it takes to be successful.

From being a member of Conway White’s impressive 43-game winning streak from 2009-12 to defeating the top-ranked team in Georgia with her AAU team, the Arkansas Mavericks, a year ago, the 5-foot-7 point guard has experienced success on many levels throughout her basketball career. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Autumn Russell is a special athlete — a star that shines brighter and brighter as her high school career shoots toward its end at Greenbrier.

In December, Russell was honored with a selection to the inaugural 501 Basketball Team, which is made up of male and female student-athletes honored for their on- and off-the-court accomplishments and contributions. ...

Two years ago, the Conway Christian Lady Eagles won its first Junior High District Championship in Mountain Pine by defeating cross-town rival St. Joseph 36-15. “That was a special bunch of players. ...

The Ninth Annual Chase Race and Paws will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, March 8, starting and finishing at Simon Park, 805 Front St., in Downtown Conway.

The 2-mile state championship race features a $100 cash prize to any male or female who breaks the present course records. ...

by Hunter Brooks

The Arkansas Wrestling Association will be holding the sixth annual state high school wrestling tournament Friday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 15, at UALR’s Jack Stephens Arena.

...

by Mark Oliver

Like a comic book superhero, when someone in Greenbrier needs help, Panthers senior Logan Horvath is there to the rescue.

And on the basketball court, the 6-foot-5 center helps out in a big way. ...

Community Connections is kicking off its spring programs starting this month, and registration has already begun.

The programs offered this spring are martial arts, My Art, ACTS Jr. Theatre, TOP Soccer, Showstoppers Cheerleading, and music. ...

by Hunter Brooks

Legendary football coach Bobby Bowden spoke at the 13th annual Beast Feast on Feb. 1 in Conway.

Beast Feast, a sportsman banquet that started in 2002, saw more than 2,600 boys and men of all ages fill the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. ...

The Faulkner County Community Foundation has awarded a $1,000 grant to the Conway Regional Health Foundation to help fund a program that encourages elementary school students to become physically active.

The Before/After School Run Walk training program - which will be offered twice a week to elementary schools throughout Faulkner County - is coordinated by the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Conway businessman Ron Hill was recognized Wednesday for his community service, including time spent volunteering to coach many local young people during the last 40 years.

The presentation was made during the weekly meeting of the Conway Kiwanis Club, where Hill is a member. ...

The Hendrix College women’s basketball team will host its annual Play 4Kay basketball game at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, with proceeds going toward the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.

The Kay Yow Cancer Fund is an organization created in 2007 by the late Kay Yow, who fought breast cancer for 22 years before passing away in 2009. ...

Story and photos
by Stephanie Byrnes

Nearly 200 runners gathered in freezing temperatures for Conway’s second annual Frozen Feet 5K.

The race, hosted by the Junior Auxiliary of Conway, raised money and support for other non-profit organizations... ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

An old cowboy from Greenbrier has been fueling his competitive nature over the last 10 years in a different sort of way.

Jack Harmon, 71, is the coach and manager of the Arkansas Xtreme 16-and-under fast-pitch softball program, which, according to the team’s website, “helped put Arkansas softball on the map.” ...

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will host the second annual Freezin’ for a Reason 2K Family Run, 5K and 10K on Saturday, Feb. 1, in Conway.

Nearly 4,000 have registered for the event, which organizers hope will attact 1,000. ...

by Levi Gilbert

It’s been circled on the basketball calendar from the very beginning, and Wonderview’s John Beck is looking forward to it.

Sacred Heart is on the schedule Tuesday.

...

by Mark Oliver

Have you ever heard the saying, “the team that plays together, stays together”?

Since the second grade, Drew Bottoms and his classmates have been doing just that. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Danielle Wright is a Lady Devil Dog born and bred — the Morrilton native has lived in the 501 her whole life.

The junior point guard was nominated and selected to the inaugural 501 Basketball Team and is poised for a breakout season in the 5A West. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Conway High Lady Wampus Cat Peyton Turner – described by her coach as an “aggressive, attack-minded player” – signed on Tuesday to continue her soccer career at Central Baptist College.

“Peyton has been a leader in every team she’s been on,” said Conway High School Soccer Coach Kevin DeStefano, adding that she is also an exemplary student athlete. ...

The Little Rock Marathon recently unveiled its 2014 finisher medals as it makes preparations for another “sell out” event, confirming the race is quickly reaching its 15,000 participant limit.

The 12th Annual Little Rock Marathon Race Weekend, presented by the Arkansas Democrat Gazette, is slated for Friday, Feb. 28, through Sunday, March 2, in Downtown Little Rock and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation. ...

by Mark Oliver


In elementary school, a young Caleb Dather could be seen dribbling up and down the court for Upward basketball in Conway.

Today, the 6-foot-5 senior center contributes in a big way for the Conway Christian Eagles.

...

by Mark Oliver

Conway Christian forward Katie Jo Henley had big plans for her junior season. That was until tragedy struck during a practice last month.

“I had a bad landing on a drill during practice and tore my ACL,” Henley said. 

...

by Levi Gilbert

St. Joseph’s Drake Cooper has moved from sixth man to leading man in his senior year. The 6-foot-2 power forward was nominated by his coach, Brent Bruich, and selected to the inaugural 501 Basketball Team.

“Drake was our sixth man last year and averaged six points and three rebounds a game,” Bruich said. “He gave us a spark off the bench every game.” ...

The “Greenbrier Gets Fit Mayor’s 107-mile Challenge” is a friendly, community walking/running campaign open to anyone interested in improving their health.

Mayor Melton Cotton began walking regularly about a year ago and was so pleased with the results that his is encouraging others to do the same. ...

The Arkansas Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) recently honored dedicated individuals for their outstanding service to the Arkansas RRCA and the sport of distance running.

Winners were based on nominations, followed by popular voting from members of Arkansas RRCA clubs.

...

“Chasing Waters,” a fly fishing TV series developed and filmed by Central Arkansas fishing guides will make its debut on Monday, Dec. 30, on the Pursuit Channel.

The weekly show will run for 26 weeks on the Pursuit Channel, which is carried on Dish, Direct and other local cable stations. ...

Eleven Aquakids recently attended the Pro-Am Elite meet in Oklahoma City.

According to Tony Marleneanu, head  swim coach for the Aquakids, the event represents one of the most prestigious swim meets in the US. ...

Former national football champion coach Bobby Bowden will be the speaker at the 13th Annual Beast Feast on Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

Beast Feast is the annual Sportsman Banquet hosted by the Second Baptist Men's Ministry in Conway. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, in conjunction with the Southland Conference's "Christmas in the Southland," has once again collected toys, clothing, school supplies and toiletries to donate to Samaritan's Purse.


...

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends chapter, a group of individuals working to raise funds and awareness for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, will host its second annual Freezin’ for a Reason 2K Family Run, 5K and 10K on Saturday, Feb. 1, in Conway.

...

Conway Boy Scout Troop 392 recently held its second annual “Swing for Scouts” four-man scramble golf tournament at the Greens at Nutters Chapel golf course.

The grand marshal for the event, former Sen. Stanley Russ, offered up words of encouragement to both the Scouts and players. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears are headed to Missouri for the NCAA Volleyball Tournament.

The NCAA has released the bracket for this year’s tournament which gets under way Friday, and the Sugar Bears will play in Columbia for the first and second rounds. ...

The Conway Christian Junior Lady Eagles recently won the championship game in the Guy-Perkins Invitational Tournament. The team defeated the Wonderview Junior Lady Daredevils, 35-32. ...

by Levi Gilbert

What a weekend it was for the University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bear volleyball team.

The Sugar Bears marched through the Southland Conference tournament in Corpus Christi, Texas, fairly unscathed through the first two days, but in the championship match... ...

The second annual Frozen Feet 5K Run/Walk, hosted by the Junior Auxiliary of Conway, will be held Saturday, Dec. 14.

This year, the Frozen Feet 5K will be dedicated “In Loving Memory of Beloved JA Associate Member Mandie Hoelscher” who passed away earlier this year. ...

The Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run/Walk in Little Rock is just around the corner on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Register a team by visiting arkansasjinglebellrun.org or by calling the local office at 531.664.4591. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway High School has been one of the state’s top baseball programs since Noel Boucher started it in 1985, and the latest example of that fact will happen at 3:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22.

That’s when six Wampus Cats will sign early letters of intent to play college baseball next year. ...

Graduates from St. Joseph School in Conway and Sacred Heart at Morrilton recently played each other in a series of basketball games at the St. Joseph Family Activity Center.  

The competition was designed to raise money for the schools’ athletic booster clubs and included four divisions: men under 35, women over 35, men over 35 and women under 35. ...

The Faulkner County Lady Falcon's varsity volleyball team was recently named runner-up in the Class 6-A, Division III at the National Christian Homeschool Volleyball Tournament.  

The tournament was held in Springfield, Mo., in October. 
...

by Levi Gilbert

The family that plays together, stays together, and that’s certainly been true for the Darren and Lori Dather and their seven kids.

The Conway family — which could field its own softball team — can frequently be found at a football field. ...

The Caring Cats Club at Conway High School is using its annual powder puff game to raise money for the 501 LIFE hunger campaign and Special Olympics.

The game will feature a team of senior girls playing against a team of sophomores and juniors at 6:30 p.m. Monday at John McConnell Stadium. ...

Greenbrier High School softball player Autumn Russell signed a letter of intent on Wednesday to play for the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville – the first athlete from her school to play as a Razorback.

“This is a special day for Autumn and Greenbrier High School,” said athletic director Steve Wood to the family, friends, classmates, coaches and other faculty gathered in the school cafeteria. ...

Tyler Gum sunk a shot on Sept. 3 that he won’t soon forget.

“I couldn't believe it!” Gum said.

Gum, a sophomore at Conway Christian, landed a hole-in-one on Hole 4 at the Links in Conway. The 16-year-old athlete is only in his first year of golf at Conway Christian — he also plays basketball and tennis — and qualified for the 2A state golf tournament. 

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals is a family affair for Dr. Bill and Freda Freeman of Conway and their son, Dr. Alex Freeman.

“Baseball is a generation thing for us,” said Freda. ...

The Faulkner County Falcons recently held “Falcon Night” at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse at Central Baptist College.  

More than 250 people were in attendance with players from the boys and girls basketball teams, the girls volleyball teams and a host of parents and grandparents. 
...

Registration for the 11th Annual Mud Run is up as officials begin preparing for the race day festivities.  

Affectionately called “Little Rock’s Dirtiest 5K,” the Mud Run is slated for 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Two Rivers Park in West Little Rock and is a project of Little Rock Parks & Recreation. ...

The Morrilton High School Devil Dog Football team will take on the Vilonia Eagles Friday night, Oct. 18, in this year’s homecoming game.

This year’s theme is “Devil Dogs: We Always Guard the Yard.” ...

The Aquakids Swim Team hosted the 50th Annual Bob Courtway Swim Meet last week.

The event took place at the Hendrix College pool and more than 350 swimmers participated. ...

The Conway Christian Tennis Team traveled to Fairfield Bay for the 2A-1 District Tournament on Monday, coming home with first place titles in boys’ singles, girls’ singles and girls’ doubles, as well as the overall district championship in the girls’ division.

Conway Christian junior Ross Minner won the district championship in boys’ singles. ...

The GFWC Century League of Morrilton will host its first Century League 5K on Saturday, Nov. 16. The race will begin at 9 a.m., and the start and finish line will be located on the University of Arkansas Community College campus in Morrilton. ...

St. Joseph High School senior Landon Enderlin was the medalist at the Class 2A Boys State Golf Tournament played at the Conway Country Club on Oct. 8.

Enderlin had an even round score of 70. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Greenbrier’s Paxton Wallace recently made USA Baseball’s 15U National Team Trials. Wallace was the only player from Arkansas to make it past the 2013 National Team Identification Series (NTIS) in any age division. ...

St. Joseph School won the boys 2A-3 District Golf Tournament played Sept. 30 on the Links at Cadron Valley.

St. Joseph’s team score was 262. ...

The St. Joseph School Lady Bulldogs Golf Team won the 2A3 District Championship competition held Sept. 23 on the Links at Cadron Valley Golf and Country Club in Conway.

St. Joseph had a team score of 155. ...

The Conway Christian Lady Eagle Golf Team secured a berth in the school's second consecutive state golf tournament by finishing second in the district tournament on Monday afternoon.

Junior Leanna Sartain led the CCS team with a 57, followed by senior Hannah Cates and freshman Macey Vaught with a 71. ...

Arkansas Pride 12u softball team from Central Arkansas recently played in the USSSA World Series in Collierville, Tenn., but kept the 501 and one of their teammates in their hearts.

As the team traveled and competed, they dedicated the season to Kaitlyn Campbell of Cabot. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Motocross is all in the family for the Keetons, Reels and Crees of Morrilton.

This gets complicated, but stay with us: Scott Keeton and Nathan Reel married sisters, the former Jessica and Danielle Cree, respectively. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

“Take Me Out to the Ball Game” will take on a new meaning Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Hole in the Wall Café in Downtown Conway.

It will be the site of a major fundraising event in the private effort to build a Miracle League baseball field in the city. ...

by Levi Gilbert

Four Conway High baseball players recently tried out for USA Baseball National Teams.

Jacob Adams, Conner Williams and Mitch Jones tried out for 17U team, and Bubba Carter tried out for the 16U team.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway High School’s volleyball program recently got word that the 2012 squad received the American Volleyball Coaches Association Academic Award — again.

The combined GPA for the team for the 2012-13 academic year was 3.7. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway St. Joseph, one of the most successful golf programs in Class 2A, is preparing for crunch time.

Chris Kordsmeier’s Bulldogs are the defending boys state champion, having won their fifth state title last year by holding off Conway Christian by just three strokes at Chamberlyne Golf Club in Danville. ...

The Conway Regional Komen Race Team is sponsoring a “Pink Up the Pace for a Cure” 5K and 1 mile fun run/walk at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, in support of the Susan G. Komen, Arkansas Affiliate Race for the Cure in October.

The event is open to runners, walkers and families and will include a post race party and a Zumbathon celebration. ...

The Conway Christian varsity volleyball team opened conference play Tuesday with a win against Rose Bud. The Lady Eagles won in four sets (25-22, 8-25, 25-14, 25-15).

"This was a great game to get our season started," Coach Suzanne Feimster said. ...

The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the 14th annual Chairman’s Memorial Golf Tournament on Friday, Sept. 27, at The Course at River Oaks.

The tournament is held each year to memorialize past leaders and their contributions to the community. ...

What do 35 counties, three state parks, one national park, three conservation education centers, two nature centers, four wildlife management areas, one commission meeting and 11 high school seniors have in common?

All were elements of the first annual Youth Conservation Institute held recently all across Arkansas. ...

by Mark Oliver

Winning a state championship is hard. Just ask anyone who has ever played high school athletics. For many, it’s just a dream.

For Will Francis and the Harding Academy Wildcats, it is not only a reality, but a story for the ages.

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Bud Oliver has a passion for the young people served at Glenhaven Youth Ranch. So much so, he is undertaking something new and challenging — training for a long-distance bike ride.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Rick Crow will literally be the man in the middle as high school volleyball starts this week.

His wife, Laura, is the ultra-successful head coach at Conway High. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Jeremy Byles of Conway isn’t giving up on his dream.

Byles, 26, continues to train in hopes of reaching his goal of qualifying for the 2016 Olympic boxing team and, ultimately, a professional career in the sport he loves. ...

Central Baptist College recently announced two additions to its sports staff.

Coach Jillian Jeffcoat will be entering her first season as the Lady Mustangs volleyball head coach. ...

The Conway Wampus Cats will kick off the 2013 volleyball and football seasons with its 30th annual Steak Out on Saturday, Aug. 24.

The volleyball showcase begins at 1 p.m. in Buzz Bolding Arena. 
...

Physicians and staff of Conway Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Clinic will offer acute injury appointments to area athletes on Saturdays this fall.  

The “Sports Injury Clinic” will be available from 8 to 10 a.m. each Saturday morning from Aug. 31 through Nov. 2. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway High School swept the Class 7A state golf titles last fall, and despite some heavy graduation losses on the boys' side, coach Janet Taylor is optimistic for both teams’ chances this fall.

“We are looking forward to another great season at CHS,” said Taylor, starting her 14th season at the helm of both programs. ...

For the first time since the event has been held, the weather did not cooperate for the 16th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon.

“This was the first time in 16 years to have inclement weather,” said race director Shannon Milam. ...

Nine-year-old Madison Holloway of Conway recently stood on the medal podium in Michigan at the AAU Track and Field Junior Olympics for finishing seventh in the country in the long jump.  

Madison started competing in track this summer for the first time and is considered one of the best long jumpers for her age. ...

Registration is now open for the 2014 Little Rock Marathon to be held Saturday, March 1, and Sunday, March 2.  

The Little Rock Marathon is presented by the Arkansas Democrat Gazette and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation. ...

University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball coach Corliss Williamson is leaving to become an assistant coach with the Sacramento Kings of the National Basketball Association, the team announced Thursday.

Williamson, a former fan favorite with the Kings as a player, spent the past three seasons as head coach at UCA, his first Division I head coaching position. Williamson led the Bears to their first Southland Conference Tournament appearance last spring. 

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway’s Casey Ott wrapped up a sweep of the Arkansas State Golf Association junior girls majors for 2013 last week when she won the Junior Girls Match Play Championship at Eagle Hill in Little Rock.

Ott, who recently turned 13, will hold the Mary Perrin Trophy for a year after escaping Kirsten Garner of Hot Springs in 19 holes. ...

The Conway Crocs Swim Team – offered through the Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center – had an impressive summer season with 79 swimmers ranging from age 5 to 18 competing.


...

Conway Christian High School won the “All Sports” state championship for a second year in a row, according to an announcement made by the Arkansas Activities Association.

"What a great accomplishment for our athletic program at Conway Christian with back to back state championships in 'All Sports',” said athletic director and head football
coach Michael Carter.
...

by Donna Lampkin Stephen

Joe Mosby, a 501 favorite outdoor writer, and Steve Sullivan, sports director of KATV Channel 7 in Little Rock, entered the Arkansas Sportscasters/Sportswriters Hall of Fame on Saturday.

Mosby and Sullivan made up the seventh class and were inducted during a banquet at the Centennial Special Events Center in Conway. ...

United Way of Central Arkansas’ day of action on Saturday, Oct. 5, will include a 5K to help raise awareness about childhood obesity.

United Way’s day of action is a single day that involves communities from all across the world. ...

The Greenbrier Red Sox recently returned from Dallas, after participating in the 2013 USSSA Baseball World Series.  

The Red Sox qualified for the World Series after placing in several tournaments and finishing fourth overall in power ranking in the Arkansas AA 11U classification.
...

The Community Service Youth Foundation is teeing up to start its First Tee program for youth ages 7- 12.

An informational meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, for anyone interested in the First Tee program including parents, participants, volunteers, donors and interested community members. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Jayme and Justin Jeane celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary in a unique way — hunting black bear in Canada.

The two began discussing the trip when they celebrated their 10th anniversary. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway golfers will be among the favorites when the Arkansas State Golf Association’s junior circuit nears its finale with the ASGA Junior Match Play Championships next week.

But any number of golfers from the 501 should be in contention at Eagle Hill Golf and Athletic Club in Little Rock Monday, July 22, through Thursday, July 25. ...

Faith Church of Conway is hosting “Hoops for the Homeless,” a 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, Aug. 3.

The tournament benefits Bethlehem House, a homeless shelter in Conway. ...

Several lucky hunters have been drawn for Arkansas’s seventh season of alligator hunting which will get under way in September.

The season will be open from 30 minutes after sunset on Friday, Sept. 20, until 30 minutes before sunrise on Monday, Sept. 23, and from 30 minutes after sunset on Friday, Sept. 27, until 30 minutes before sunrise on Monday, Sept. 30. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The recent Arkansas High School All-Star Week activities in Conway were extra special for a couple of Faulkner County athletes.

Jared Thielke, a goalkeeper for Conway St. Joseph and the East All-Star squad, was named the most valuable player in the boys soccer game. ...

The 2013 Braswell & Son Soaring Wings Half Marathon and Relay will take place at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the McGee Center in Conway.  

The RRCA Grand Prix Half Marathon for Arkansas, the Soaring Wings Half Marathon has become a “must do” race in this area. 
...

Participants in a free Family Track Night recently celebrated completion of the program.

Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center and the Conway Running Club sponsored the program, which kicked off May 28 at the Conway High School track. ...

The Arkansas EXPRESS 11 Major team recently finished its third consecutive Arkansas Major State championship in Fort Smith.

This team has won three state championships in 9-Major, 10-Major and now 11-Major. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

One of Conway’s historic parks is in the midst of a facelift, thanks in part to some community-minded Lowe’s employees.

According to conwayparks.com Curtis Walker Park, a 15-acre plot located at 1700 Museum Road in east Conway, includes one lighted baseball field, two basketball courts, a playground, five picnic tables, two park benches, a grill and a lighted youth football field with a concession and restroom area. ...

Registration is open for the Conway Fall Classic set for Saturday, Sept. 21.

In partnership with the Conway Interfaith Clinic, the Conway Advocates for Bicycling will present the annual road cycling event which benefits both non-profit organizations. ...

The return of the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star activities to Conway and the University of Central Arkansas last week after 10 years was a welcome one.

“Bringing the all-star activities back to Conway is good on a number of fronts,” said Jamie Gates, senior vice president of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and a major player in bringing the week’s activities back to Conway. ...

Phillip Bohn has accepted the position of head men’s and women’s soccer coach at Central Baptist College.

CBC Athletic Director Lyle Middleton made the announcement at a press conference held Monday.

...

The 2013 Ranch Run 5K will be held 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, on the campus of Soaring Wings Ranch in the Holland community.

For those participating in the Soaring Wings Half Marathon and Relay in October, this is a perfect way to kick off training. ...

Former University of Central Arkansas outfielder Forrestt Allday recently earned first-team Rawlings/American Baseball Coaches Association All-America honors.

Allday, who was drafted by the Boston Red Sox and is now playing for the Lowell Spinners in the New York-Penn League, was one of five first-team outfielders. ...

A magical sports year for Magnet Cove concludes this week with the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star Week activities at the University of Central Arkansas.

Four athletes and two coaches from the Class 2A school in Hot Spring County were chosen to be a part of the festivities. ...

The Arkansas Junior Tri-states team won a two-day, Ryder Cup-style format match.

The final point totals were Arkansas - 10, Louisiana - 9 and Mississippi - 5. This is the third straight win for Arkansas. This year’s team consisted of seven newcomers to the Tri-states team. ...

For many Arkansas fishermen it is a dream. One cast can win the equivalent of a year’s salary – the $50,000 top prize.

It is the Arkansas Big Bass Bonanza scheduled Friday through Sunday, June 28-30, and the competition is on all of the Arkansas River in the state. Big Bass Bonanza is operated by the Arkansas Hospitality Association. ...

It is not surprising that Conway-based Nabholz Construction Company regularly reaches out to support community-based health care.

It’s a Nabholz tradition. Nabholz has been sponsoring the Conway Regional Golf Classic since its early inception and was once again the presenting sponsor for the 17th annual tournament on Monday. ...

Dr. Aaron Brister has accepted the position of head men’s baseball coach and professor of kinesiology at Central Baptist College.

CBC Athletic Director Lyle Middleton made the announcement at a press conference on Monday, June 10. ...

The Conway Regional Therapy Center’s summer FAST program will kick off at the Hendrix Wellness and Athletic Center with four sessions beginning Monday, June 17.

The program has sessions designed to help young athletes, grades 3 through college, improve their skills and athleticism.

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Eleven-year-old Gram Middleton of Conway started his summer off with a bang – a hole-in-one at Nutters Chapel Golf Course.

Lyle Middleton and his wife, Tracie, were on the course with both of their children – Gram and his 6-year-old sister Sidni – when Gram made the hole-in-one. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

From teammates on a 9-year-old squad, three Conway baseball players are now on the roster for a University of Central Arkansas team that saw its season end Monday in the final of the Starkville Regional of the NCAA Tournament.

...

The Conway High School girls swimming and diving team met last week to celebrate winning the 2013 Girls State Championship in swimming and diving.  

The Conway High School Girls Swim Team broke a Bentonville winning streak at the state meet, claiming the first championship for Conway in 25 years. ...

“The best things in life are free,” the old song tells us, and a strong example is the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Free Fishing Weekend – noon on Friday, June 7, to midnight on Sunday, June 9.

No licenses will be required for anyone during that period, including residents, out-of-state residents and out-of-country residents. No trout permits will be required either. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears are headed to the school’s first NCAA Regional after winning five straight elimination games to take their first Southland Conference baseball championship.

The win earned the Bears the league’s automatic bid to the NCAA tourney. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Its most famous alumnus will return to Little Rock’s Lamar Porter Field on Saturday, June 15, to help the landmark celebrate its 77th birthday.

Third baseman Brooks Robinson, who went on from his native Little Rock to the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame after a 23-year career with the Baltimore Orioles... ...

The Stride to Prevent Suicide annual fundraising event was held recently in Spring Park, Searcy.

“The Stride to Prevent Suicide consisted of a 10K/5K and 1 Mile Run/Fun Walk, but more importantly, gave our organization an opportunity to raise awareness about the disease of depression and suicide prevention,” said Alana Pinchback, executive director.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Drake Walker started the school year at Ruth Doyle Middle School in Conway, and his friends and family are remembering him as the year winds up.

Walker, 12, died Sept. 1 in a freak accident when he drowned following heavy rains in the aftermath of Hurricane Isaac. ...

The Arkansas Rush Soccer Club recently announced local athletes who are college bound to play soccer on the next level.

Among the players, Alex Carter of Conway has already enrolled at the University of Kentucky to play NCAA Division 1 soccer. ...

Registration is now open for the First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon Training Day session scheduled 8-10 a.m. Saturday, June 15, at the Centennial Valley Country Club at 1600 Centennial Club Dr. in Conway.  

Kids who will be 6 to 15 years old by the end of this year are eligible to attend.
...

A FREE Family Track Night will be offered this summer, powered by Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center and the Conway Running Club.

The kick off will be 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at the Conway High Track.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

After eight years, the father of Central Baptist College's soccer programs has moved on.

Justin Hawkins, 38, who started the men's and women's programs at CBC, recently left that position to become director of coaching at Little Rock Futbol Club, one of the most prestigious soccer clubs in the 501. ...

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) Foundation recently held its eighth annual “Links for Learning” Golf Tournament fundraiser at the Morrilton Country Club.

A field of more than 100 golfers enjoyed the three-person scramble under sunny skies. ...

Organizers of the annual Toad Suck Daze Run reported another good year, with more than 1,350 10K/5K participants.

“Despite the record cold temperatures for the first weekend in May, we had a great year,” said committee member Kevin Wish. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Nearly 2,000 women from all across the state will descend on Conway on Saturday for the 16th Women Can Run/Walk 5K, the culminating event following the 10-week Women Run Arkansas clinics.

...

Prior to the District 2A 5 North track meet, Conway Christian High School Senior Andrew Dather had no idea how to triple jump or what was even a good triple jump.

“I told Andrew he was going to do it, and he said ‘ok, but I don’t know how.’ I showed him the steps about 20 minutes before the meet began, and he won district going away,” said Jeremy Carson, CCS track coach. ...

Austin Odom of Benton repeated his 2012 position as the top male high school international trapshooter in Arkansas and Haley Colbert of Texarkana took first place honors among females for the 2013 season.

They were the overall winners in the recent 2013 Arkansas Junior Olympic State Qualifier at the Delta Conference Center near Tillar in southeastern Arkansas. ...

by Alan Williams

The Conway Wampus Cats boys’ soccer team (9-5) played their final conference game of the year on Friday night against the Fort Smith Southside Rebels (8-5).

The game was set up to be an emotional game as they were celebrating senior night, and they had to win in order to make the state playoffs. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

The Conway Booster Club celebrated school athletes representing 14 different sports during an annual recognition program held at Buzz Bolding Arena.

The event included a dinner for student athletes – provided by Virco Mfg. – followed by a program. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Mayflower has been in the news this spring as the center of the Exxon oil spill, but the town may next be on the map for a stellar baseball season.

Joe Allbritton's Eagles (24-1) will open the Class 3A Region 2 Tournament at Glen Rose at 5 p.m. Friday against Rose Bud, the fourth seed from the 2-3A. ...

Conway High School swim coach Christy Rye and several local swimmers took top state honors last weekend.

At the annual Arkansas Swimming Awards Event on Saturday, Tyler Crosson won the 17- to 18-year-old Arkansas Swimmer of the Year Award... ...

On Saturday, April 27, Central Baptist College honored the two newest inductees to the Central Baptist College Sports Hall of Fame in conjunction with the CBC Sports Awards ceremony in the CBC Dining Hall.

Each individual was selected for their outstanding achievements as a CBC Mustang both on and off the court. ...

With a win Monday night against Jonesboro Westside, the Conway Christian Lady Eagles soccer team have made it to the state tournament.  

The Lady Eagles have qualified for state each year they have been in AAA, which is five times. ...

by Levi Gilbert

501 LIFE has been so good to me over the past five years, but Sonja Keith sure gave me a cruel and unusual assignment to coincide with the 501 LIFE birthday celebration: Pick the five most memorable 501 LIFE sports stories.

What?!? ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Lance Boykins has been boxing for only seven years, but in just a few weeks he’ll be contending for a national Golden Gloves title.

Boykins, 28, a standout football and basketball player at Oak Grove High School, will make his first appearance at the national tournament May 13-19 in Salt Lake City. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 30th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, May 4, at Conway High School at John McConnell Stadium.

Proceeds from the race will benefit a variety of local non-profits... ...

The fifth annual Kids Run Arkansas was a huge success with more than 450 participants and 32 different schools represented.

The race, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System, is a one-mile walk and three-mile run aimed at fighting childhood obesity by involving children and their families in fun physical activity. ...

Big Al the Second and his fishy fellows will lurk in Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine this summer as the Second Annual Hot Springs Fishing Challenge throws more money and more species into the net.

The Second Hot Springs Fishing Challenge begins at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, May 1, and ends at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 31. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Conway High player Bubba Carter accomplished something Wednesday night that few high school pitchers do – a complete game no-hitter.

Bubba, a sophomore, was playing at home in a conference game when he recorded the no-hitter against Little Rock Parkview. The final score was 8-0. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Approximately 30 third- and fourth-graders at Conway's Jim Stone Elementary School will run the school's inaugural Stallion 5K on Thursday, April 25.

The 1 p.m. timed event will mark the achievement of a goal and, organizers, hope, the beginning of a lifetime of fitness habits. ...

The Conway Christian Sixth Grade Boys Team recently won its conference tournament to finish the season undefeated in all play with a record of 11-0. 

The boys competed in a local conference, playing nine regular season games against Sacred Heart, Wonderview, Nemo Vista, Clinton and St. Joseph. ...

What do you get when you combine Toad Suck Daze, cycling and a great cause? The Tour de Toad!  

The charity ride is a sanctioned event of Toad Suck Daze and all proceeds benefit adult literacy programs in Faulkner County. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The Toad Fly is only eight months old, but in January, the Conway fly fishing business will go nationwide with "Chasing Waters," a fly fishing show, on the Pursuit Channel.

The Pursuit Channel is broadcast into 40 million homes and is part of the basic package for Dish or DirectTV satellite customers. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Greenbrier's Stephen Wood has been named Arkansas Athletic Director of the Year for 2012-13.

Wood, 37, in his sixth year of athletic administration — all at Greenbrier — will receive the award given by the Arkansas High School Athletic Administrators Association during the Arkansas High School All-Star Week activities in Conway the third week of June. ...

The Conway and Perry Counties Relay for Life will feature its first midnight 5K race at this year’s relay event. 

The relay will be held on the campus of the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton on Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27. ...

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton Foundation Board will host its eighth annual “Links for Learning” golf tournament Thursday, May 9, at the Morrilton Country Club.

The three-man-scramble will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. ...

An ASU linebacker and one of the Arkansas Razorbacks most famous wide receivers are teaming up.

JJ Meadors is best known for a game-winning catch that helped the Razorbacks beat Alabama at Tuscaloosa and win the SEC in 1995. Devrett Wade splattered his share of wide receivers back when ASU was still called the Indians. ...

The Wampus Cat Booster Club is planning its inaugural Wampus Cat Spring Fling/Walk-A-Thon from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 22.

The 5K walk-a-thon will take place on the track at Conway High School and involve athletes from all of the district’s teams and other community members who will seek financial pledges. ...

The Conway Christian Booster Club will present its Seventh Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, April 29, at Centennial Valley Country Club.

The event was originally planned Monday, April 22. ...

Several local observances are planned in conjunction with National Walk @ Lunch Day, which is designed to complement — not compete — with an individual’s busy lifestyle.

National Walk @ Lunch Day is the perfect start for a new daily walking routine, helping to improve health step by step. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

A Physical Education Expo is in the works to promote health and wellness among Conway elementary students, their parents and others in the community.

In previous years, several elementary school physical education teachers have organized a health and fitness night.

...

Organizers are describing this year’s Chase Race as the most successful, with records set in both attendance and money raised.

“This was the eighth year for the Chase Race & Paws to commemorate my son, Chase, and it was also the most successful,” said organizer Don Potter.
...

The Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program – part of the National Archery in the Schools Program – recently held its state tournament at Summit Arena in Hot Springs.

More than 2,000 kids from 125 Arkansas schools competed. ...

Kidsfest – which features a run and music festival – is planned Saturday, April 6, in Downtown Conway.

The event starts at the Faulkner County Courthouse with a 5K fun run for all ages (chip timers available) and a 1K Superhero Race for kids 10 and under (parents can run too). ...

by Paige Turner

Kids Run Arkansas will celebrate its fifth anniversary with a race/walk on Friday, April 19, at Laurel Park in Conway.

The race, sponsored by Conway Regional Health System, is a one-mile walk and three-mile run aimed at fighting childhood obesity by involving children and their families in fun physical activity. ...

Conway Corporation cable subscribers can enjoy unparalleled, multi-screen access to all the March Madness action through the company’s “Watch TV Everywhere” platform.

“Whether viewing on a big-screen TV or a computer, tablet or smart phone, fans can enjoy the excitement of March Madness anywhere they are and however they choose,” said Matthew Hong. ...

The Central Baptist Mustangs recently won the Christian Brothers University golf tournament at Quail Ridge Country Club in Bartlett, Tenn.

The team was led by senior Cameron Angerman with a score of 74 and 71. Angerman’s total of 145 was good enough to earn him the victory. ...

Young people from Arkansas, Texas and Tennessee attended a firearms safety program in late February hosted by the Cleburne County Shooting Club.

The CCSC offered its facility, professional licensed training and food hospitality in an effort to further the firearm handling knowledge to today’s youths. ...

by Levi Gilbert

David McFatrich still can’t quite put it into words.

A 30-win season, a Southland Conference regular season title, a SLC Tournament championship and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament — all Division I firsts for the University of Central Arkansas volleyball program — can have that kind of effect on a person. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

It was a time of remembering and recognition as the Conway Kiwanis Club celebrated the last 30 years of the Toad Suck Daze Run.

The program for this week’s club meeting was devoted to the event, which has raised more than $300,000 and benefitted countless local non-profits. ...

by Alan Williams

The Conway High School Soccer Team will host the Wampus Cat Invitational Tournament Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23, at John McConnell Stadium.

Schools participating are Conway, Springdale, Springdale Harber, Little Rock Catholic and Memorial High School from Edmond, Okla. ...

The Conway Christian Booster Club will host its seventh annual golf tournament on Monday, April 22, at Centennial Valley Country Club.

“Conway Christian educates beyond the classroom; expanding to the playing fields, courts, tracks and greens,” said athletic director Michael Carter. ...

Renewal Ranch will host its third annual Renewal Ranch Golf Classic on Monday, April 22, at The Greens at Nutter Chapel.

The tournament features a morning and afternoon flight with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 30th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, May 4, at Conway High School at John McConnell Stadium.

Proceeds from the race will benefit a variety of local non-profits... ...

The Eighth Annual Chase Race and Paws will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, March 9, starting and finishing at its new location in Simon Park in Downtown Conway.

The 2-mile state championship race awards a $100 cash prize to any male or female who breaks the present course records. ...

The St. Joseph School Boys Bowling Team won the state championship in the 1,2,3A classifications.

Ten teams from across Arkansas competed at the Jonesboro Bowling Center on Feb. 13. ...

The Conway High School Girls Swim Team broke a Bentonville streak on Saturday to claim the state title that was 25 years in the making.

The CHS boys team was fourth in the state competition. ...

The 16th Annual “Women Can Run” running and walking clinics kick off in Conway at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 4, at the Four Winds Outreach Center, 2005 Dave Ward Dr.

The first meeting is an orientation, and all following meetings will be held 6:30 p.m. every Monday and Thursday at the University of Central Arkansas track at Dave Ward Drive and Donaghey Ave. ...

Two Conway gymnasts were among the top performers at the 2013 Bart Conner Invitational Boys Gym Meet held Feb. 16 in Oklahoma City.

The meet attracted gymnasts from Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Louisiana. ...

The popular Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program recently held its regional tournaments.

The number of competitors is up more than 30 percent from the previous year, with 2,710 archers competing at six regional sites. ...

Conway High School swimmers took top honors last weekend at the district meet.

The Conway Lady Cats were district champs and the Boys were runner-up at the meet, held at Hendrix College. The state meet is this weekend at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. ...

A sell-out crowd recently attended the 12th Annual Beast Feast hosted by the men’s ministry at Second Baptist Church.

The event – held at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds – is held each winter and is open to men and boys of all ages. ...

by Mark Oliver

Ever since she picked up a basketball for the first time, University of Central Arkansas senior Megan Herbert has seen success on many different levels.

For Herbert, the journey began in first grade. ...

by Chris Green

As spring approaches it signals the end of another great hunting season.

There is a special group of guys among those who hate to see it end.

...

by Alan Williams

The Conway Wampus Cats are ready to begin the 2013 soccer season.  

The Cats want to continue to build from last year’s success when the team made it to the second round of the state playoffs. ...

More than 900 registered to participate in the inaugural “Freezin for A Reason” 5K/10K and family fun 2K held Feb. 2.

The event – sponsored by the Faulkner County Circle of Friends – was held in memory of Stella and Charlotte Mulhearn. ...

When the UCA Sugar Bears tip off against Sam Houston State on Saturday, Feb. 16, it will be about more than wins and losses.

UCA will again designate proceeds from the PinkZone game against Sam Houston State to cancer programs at Conway Regional Health System. ...

The Central Baptist College Lady Mustangs kicked off their season with a sweep of Henderson State University. 

In the first game, junior Jessica Sheldon held the opposing offense to five hits and one run, while her offense rallied with seven runs, with a final score of 7-1. ...

The Morrilton Area Chamber of Commerce will host a welcome reception for the 40th Anniversary Morrilton High School 1973 Basketball State Champions from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, in the Chamber lobby. 

The team will also be honored with a recognition dinner at 5 p.m. at the Morrilton High School cafeteria and a special recognition presentation... ...

With about a week before the big event, there are less than 200 tickets left for the 12th Annual Beast Feast hosted by the men’s ministry at Second Baptist Church. Organizers expect the event to sell out again this year.

The event is scheduled Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. The expo begins at 1 p.m., with the dinner and program at 5 p.m. ...

More than 700 have registered to participate in the inaugural “Freezin for A Reason” 5K/10K and family fun 2K on Saturday, Feb. 2.

The event – sponsored by the Faulkner County Circle of Friends – is being held in memory of Stella and Charlotte Mulhearn. ...

Three University of Central Arkansas outfielders were named to the 2013 Southland Conference Preseason Baseball teams on Wednesday, while the Bears were picked fifth in both preseason baseball polls.

Senior Forrestt Allday and junior Jonathan Davis were named to the first team, while senior Ethan Harris received second-team honors.

...

The annual public meetings concerning the state’s hunting seasons have passed, but there’s still time to send any comments or concerns to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Just visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2013-14HuntRegsComments to take a quick online survey. ...

Tailgating, basketball games and awards will highlight homecoming festivities at Central Baptist College on Friday, Feb. 15, and Saturday, Feb. 16.

Graduates and friends of the college will also have an opportunity to tour the new David T. Watkins Academic Building. ...

The Conway Lions Club will present the Harlem Ambassadors versus the Toad Suck Lions in a benefit basketball game at 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at Hendrix College.

The Harlem Ambassadors offer a unique brand of Harlem-style basketball, featuring high-flying slam dunks, dazzling ball-handling tricks and hilarious comedy routines. ...

Registration for the Conway Parks and Recreation youth baseball program will begin Monday, Jan. 28, and conclude at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 11.

The cost is $80 for the first child and $55 per sibling. There is an additional $20 late registration fee for anyone signing up after the deadline. ...

The Eighth Annual Chase Race and Paws will be held 8 a.m. Saturday, March 9, starting and finishing at Simon Park, 805 Front Street, Downtown Conway.

The two-mile state championship race includes a $100 cash prize to any male or female who breaks the present course records. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway's Alex Carter won't be around for her high school sorority's winter formal or its charity work, will likely miss prom and won't walk across the stage at graduation in May.

She has traded all of that to graduate early and head to Lexington, Ky., where she will enroll a semester early as a scholarship soccer player at the University of Kentucky. ...

by Mark Oliver


At 12-4 (1-2 7-A Central), the Conway Lady Wampus Cats are off to a great start this season. Averaging 26 points per game, one major key to the team’s success is senior guard Enjonae Chambers.


“Enjonae is one of the best shooters in the state,” Lady Cats Coach Ashley Nance said. ...

Local organizers are seeking sponsors for Kidsfest – a day recognizing child abuse prevention month and celebrating children and strong families.

Kidsfest is planned Saturday, April 6, and starts at the Faulkner County Courthouse with a 5K fun run for all ages (chip timers available) and a 1K Superhero Race for kids 10 and under (parents can run too). ...

Officials of the Little Rock Marathon revealed the finisher medals for each of the 2013 Little Rock Marathon races.

“Since 2004, we have awarded the ‘world’s largest marathon finisher’s medal’ according to Runner’s World Magazine,” said Gina Marchese Pharis, co-executive director. ...

Yards and roadsides all over the 501 and Arkansas are littered with trees and branches broken by the heavy snow of Christmas night.

Many city residents have the debris piled at curbside waiting for municipal crews to pick it up. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Conway Wampus Cat fans had a lot to celebrate on Tuesday as a new statue of the school mascot was unveiled.

“Tuesday was a great day for all of us who bleed Wampus Cat blue,” said Conway School District Superintendent Dr. Greg Murry. ...

The Faulkner County Circle of Friends will host the inaugural Freezin For A Reason 5K/10K and family fun 2K on Saturday, Feb. 2.

The event is being held in memory of Stella and Charlotte Mulhearn, children of Travis and Amanda Mulhearn of Conway. ...

Central Baptist College will host its third annual Mustang Open wrestling tournament Saturday, Jan. 26, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

About 15 teams representing 250 to 300 athletes are expected to participate in the college tournament, according to CBC coach Ken Prophete. ...

Eight new Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame inductees will be honored when the organization holds its 55th annual induction banquet on Friday, March 8.

The banquet will begin at 6 p.m. at Verizon Arena in North Little Rock.

...

Women Run Arkansas has begun planning for the free 2013 run/walk clinics across the state, with four new clinics.

The Women Run Arkansas Running Club, an RRCA organization, was formed in 2000 in response to the need for a statewide women’s running and walking club. ...

Organizers are preparing for the 11th anniversary of the Little Rock Marathon.

The 5K kicks off the weekend beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 2. The marathon, half marathon and 10K are on Sunday, March 3. ...

The current deer hunting season in Arkansas is one of the best in the state’s history, and it is still going on.

Hunters this season have checked more than 196,000 deer, passing the record of 194,687 set in 1999-2000.

...

2012 was a big year for sports in the 501.

Members of the 501 Sports Editorial Board selected its own top sports stories of the year: ...

The Conway Christian Lady Eagles (4-6, 0-1) recently defeated the Abundant Life Lady Owls in non-conference action by a score of 57-49.

Conway Christian erased a 2 point halftime deficit with an 8-0 run in the third period and held on for the win.

...

by Mark Oliver

From playing outside with her brother to games with the Morrilton Lady Devil Dogs and the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, every time Shekinna Stricklen stepped on the basketball court, she dreamed about playing in the WNBA.

...

by Mark Oliver

Bobby Ward of Springhill recently reached the pinnacle of the racing world with his National Sprint Car Hall of Fame induction on June 2 in Knoxville, Iowa, capping an incredible nearly 20-year journey in which he earned a whopping 369 wins. 

...

Photo and story by Lee Hogan

Take a trip to the concession stand or bathroom at a Greenbrier basketball game, and you might miss something entertaining.

The Lil’ Dribblers have become a hot commodity during halftime at the Panther Pavilion, and the group just started its 10th year of performing. ...

by Mark Oliver

On Oct. 22, Conway senior Tyler Crosson took the next step in his academic and athletic career, signing a letter of intent to swim for Louisiana State University.

“I began speaking to LSU in late October of my junior year,” Crosson said. ...

by Lee Hogan

Cycling has always been a part John Maygar’s life.

There’s a trophy case in his living room that holds just a portion of the awards and photos that Maygar has collected in cycling. ...

Plans have been announced and tickets are on sale for the 12th Annual Beast Feast hosted by the men’s ministry at Second Baptist Church.

The event is scheduled Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. The expo begins at 1 p.m., with the dinner and program at 5 p.m. ...

The Conway Christian School Senior High Boys Basketball team recently opened up the 2012-2013 conference season with a road trip to Bigelow.

The Eagles were able to hold on to an 11 point halftime lead and win the conference opener 59-50. ...

The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears continued their most successful season ever last week, as it was announced that outside hitter Jessica Hays was named the Southland Conference’s Student-Athlete of the Year.

Middle blocker Alicia Dittrich also earned SLC All-Academic honors. ...

The Sacred Heart Catholic School alumni basketball games and barbecue dinner benefiting the school booster club will be Saturday, Jan. 5. 


Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is $6 for a barbecue sandwich, chips and trimmings. ...

by Lee Hogan

The Central Baptist College Golf Team has enjoyed success at the national level the past two seasons, and senior Justin Burns has a lot to do with that success.

Burns won the National Christian College Athletic Association individual championship and helped CBC to finish sixth among the 18-team field. ...

More than 100 runners and walkers recently participated in the first K-C 5K.

The wellness department at Kimberly-Clark in Conway hosted the event, held Dec. 1. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Bears recently signed nine players during the early signing period, including four in-state prospects.

The newest Bears include: pitcher Cole Johnson from Fordyce; catcher Justin McCarty of White Hall; infielder Joey Pinney from Little Rock; outfielder Wesley Hoover of Conway; outfielder Travis Able of Leawood, Kan... ...

by Lee Hogan

There are a lot of new faces on the Lady Mustangs, but that hasn’t stopped CBC from getting off to a hot start.

“This is probably our best starts since I’ve been coaching there,” said athletic director/women’s basketball coach Lyle Middleton. ...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission recently dedicated its newest access point on the Little Red River in White County.

The two acre site is located near the Dewey community on Arkansas Highway 305 just to the north of Searcy. ...

The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears gathered in the new skyboxes at Estes Stadium to watch Sunday afternoon’s NCAA Volleyball Tournament Selection Show, and they’re excited about what they learned.

Central Arkansas traveled to Seattle to face off with host school Washington at 7 p.m. local time (9 p.m. Central) on Friday in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Washington is the tournament’s 13th-seeded team. ...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has released a new locator service for smartphones.

It uses Geographic Information Systems data, but it doesn’t produce a map typically associated with GIS data. Instead, it simply displays the information for your location. ...

For the first time ever, the University of Central Arkansas volleyball team is headed to the NCAA Tournament.

The Sugar Bears defeated the Oral Roberts Golden Eagles in the finals of the Southland Conference Tournament on Sunday to secure the conference’s automatic bid. ...

The Conway Cyclones, a member of the American Basketball Association (ABA), was founded in August 2010 to provide professional sports entertainment for the 501 community.

The Cyclones began a 16-game schedule Nov. 17 at Hendrix College, where the team plays all its home games, against the North Dallas Vandals. ...

Two players on the Conway Christian High School volleyball team – Payton Cope and Olivia Meriweather – signed this week to play for Central Baptist College.

Payton is a daughter of Dean and Cindy Cope and attends New Life Church. Payton has played varsity volleyball at CCS for four years and began playing Junior Olympic volleyball when she was 10. ...

University of Central Arkansas freshman cross country student-athlete Edward Limo has been named the Southland Conference Male Newcomer of the Year for 2012.

Limo, from Eldoret, Kenya, is the first UCA cross country athlete to claim the newcomer of the year award. ...

Conway Corporation is proud to provide local programming to Conway residents including Wampus Cat basketball with Channel 5 Sports.

Home games will air with commentary from Jeff Matthews and Jim Files on Channel 5 at 11 a.m. Saturday and 8 p.m. Monday. ...

by Lee Hogan

Kerri McCabe of Greenbrier recently took part in the sixth alligator hunting season in Arkansas.

The season ran two weekends in September. McCabe has applied for a hunting permit all six years and compared finally being selected for one to “winning the lottery.” ...

In an intense competition of the world’s best trapshooters, including several Olympic medalists, Kayle Browning of Wooster had no trepidations.

She broke clay targets with the best of them in faraway Slovenia. That is in southeastern Europe, one of the nations of the former Yugoslavia.

...

The Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, in partnership with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and the City of Jacksonville, announced plans for a state-of-the-art shooting range facility to be built in Jacksonville.

The facility will be used for shooting sports and archery, and will be the largest of its kind in the state with 13 ranges and room for expansion. ...

The AquaKids of Arkansas took third place overall in the 49th Annual Bob Courtway Fall Invitational held Oct. 5-6 in Conway.

The girls team took fourth place in the meet with 417 points and the boys finished second with 808.5 points. ...

The University of Central Arkansas athletic department joined one of their own on Monday in the fight against breast cancer.

Several members of the athletic administration and coaching staff, including director of athletics Dr. Brad Teague, got new haircuts to support...
...

The Conway Christian boys’ golf team finished second in the class 2A state tournament this past Monday at Chamberlyne Golf Course in Danville.

Seniors Jarret Bowden (83), Shane Starkey (84) and Brandon Helms (88) all posted scores in the 80s, giving them a team total of 255 and a second place finish, the highest finish ever for a CCS boys’ golf team. ...

Regular registration has closed for the 2012 Braswell and Son Soaring Wings Half Marathon and Rock Runners Relay to be held at 8 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 27, at the McGee Center in Conway.

“We sold out on Sept 17 with 2,000 participants from 24 states,” said organizer Rachel Speer. ...

by Lee Hogan

The Conway Lady Cats volleyball team will host its fourth annual “Dig Pink” event Tuesday, Oct. 9, at Buzz Bolding Arena.

The event raises money for the Side Out Foundation, which helps with breast cancer awareness and research. ...

A variety of activities are on tap next week as Conway Christian School celebrates homecoming.

Named to the homecoming court are freshman Lyndi Dather, sophomore Autumn Jones, junior Anna Cain and seniors Sarah Nekonchuk, Andrea Howell, Jordan Williams, Allison Martin and Sarah Roberson. ...

Kayle Browning of Wooster won a bronze medal at the International Shooting Sports Federation World Cup earlier this spring and punched her ticket to compete in the World Cup Final in Slovenia.

Browning, competing with an invite-only crowd of the best in the world, finished sixth overall with 84 out of 100 targets. ...

by Lee Hogan

Most golfers can only dream of the elusive hole-in-one.

Most, amateur or professional, play their entire lives and are only left with stories of close calls or close shots, but are never rewarded with the ultimate prize and thrill.

...

Boys and girls will have an opportunity to participate in hitting camps in October through the Junior Warrior Baseball Program. 

Camps will be held on Monday, Oct. 8 and Oct. 15, and Tuesday, Oct. 23, at Hendrix College. ...

Golfers in the 501 looking for a tournament to play in have a few great opportunities coming up.

The first chance is on Friday, Sept. 21, as Nabholz Construction presents the Conway Noon Rotary Hippo Crafton Memorial Golf Tournament. ...

Registration for the 10th Annual Mud Run, presented by the Hatcher Agency, is up more than 200 percent as officials begin preparing for the race day festivities.

Affectionately called Little Rock’s Dirtiest 5K, the Mud Run is slated for 9 a.m. Saturday, October 27, in Two Rivers Park in West Little Rock and is a project of the Little Rock Parks & Recreation.

...

The Aquakids Swim Team, a competitive, year-round swimming program in Conway for children between the ages of 7 and 18, will hold an open evaluation and informational meeting for swimmers interested in joining the team.

...

The William J. Clinton Presidential Center is hosting a special exhibit – “Play Ball! The St. Louis Cardinals” through Sunday, Sept. 16.

The exhibit has decades of memorabilia from one of the country's most storied franchises, the St. Louis Cardinals. ...

If you’re a fifth-grade teacher anywhere close to Perry County, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has a terrific, free offer.

Lake Sylvia Recreation Area will be buzzing with fifth-graders Tuesday, Oct. 30, and Wednesday, Oct. 31, during the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s sixth Youth Outdoor Expo. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Friends, family, teammates, colleagues, former players — they all recently converged on the Conway Country Club for Harold Horton’s send-off to retirement.

Horton stepped down July 31 as executive director of the Razorback Foundation. ...

The Central Baptist College Lady Mustangs recently opened their 2012 soccer season with a win over the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff Lady Lions, competitors at the NCAA division 1 national tournament for the past three years. ...

Mallory Kirkemier recently won first runner-up in pitching velocity in the skills and drills test for the 15-under USSSA Fastpitch World Series.

Forty-nine teams competed in the event, held in Ankeny, Iowa. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears were the favorites to win the 2012 Southland Conference title on Wednesday when the preseason polls and All-Conference teams were released. ...

Eight-year-old gymnast Ellen Evatt is among the finalists in a contest sponsored by Disney.

A current member of the Level 4 gymnastic team at Sonshine Academy in Conway, Ellen recently submitted a video of herself tumbling and dancing to audition for the "Make Your Mark Shake it Up Dance Off."  ...

Two University of Central Arkansas baseball players recently earned honors in their respective summer leagues.

Senior outfielder Forrestt Allday set two league records while playing for the Wilmar (Minn.) Stingers in the Northwoods League. He broke the conference records for walks (77) and runs scored (68). ...

by Sonja J. Keith

With a record number of participants, it came as no surprise that this year’s Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run raised a record amount for local charities.

The Conway Kiwanis Club and Regions Bank are the main organizers of the event, which is also supported by the Conway Convention & Visitors Bureau. ...

The Central Baptist College Mustang Classic Golf Tournament will be held Monday, Sept. 17, at Nutter’s Chapel Golf and Country Club in Conway. 

The tournament format will be a four-person golf scramble that will begin with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. (morning session) and 1:30 p.m. (afternoon session).

...

Some of Arkansas’s youngest and best artists had their talents on display this summer at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center.

The young artists were competing in the Arkansas State Fish Art Contest sponsored by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. ...

Registration is under way for the 11th annual Little Rock Marathon planned March 2 – 3, 2013.  The event is expected to attract more than 20,000 participants.

The Little Rock Marathon is presented by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and benefits Little Rock Parks & Recreation.  ...

The $50,000 Hot Springs Fishing Challenge on Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine has been extended until Friday, Aug. 31.

“We conferred with our friends at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Andrew Hulsey Fish Hatchery, and they agreed it would be fair to extend the Challenge beyond the original July 31 deadline,” said Steve Arrison, CEO of Visit Hot Springs, which is sponsoring the fishing contest. ...

by Mark Oliver

Basketball runs in Trevor Martin’s family.

His mother, Michelle, won a state championship at Vilonia High School and coached him in second grade as a member of the Vilonia Grizzlies. ...

The University of Central Arkansas baseball program will host a Fall Baseball Instructional League beginning on Sunday, Sept. 23.

The league is designed to provide players with instruction from the UCA coaching staff and current players in the areas of pitching, hitting and defense. ...

The Conway Interfaith Clinic and Conway Advocates for Bicycling will present the Conway Fall Classic Bicycle Tour on Saturday, Sept. 15.

Longer rides, ranging from 28 miles to 62 miles (a metric century), will leave from Conway’s First United Methodist Church at 8 a.m. A 7-mile community ride will begin at 9 a.m. ...

by Mark Oliver

Conway disc golf players no longer have to drive more than 30 minutes to play the sport they love.


A grand opening was recently held at Bear Trail Disc Golf Course. ...

The 2012 Braswell and Son Soaring Wings Half Marathon and Rock Runners Relay will be held in Conway beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, at the McGee Center.

With a scenic course, eight aid stations, a free Family Fun Day for spectators and a free training program, the Soaring Wings Half Marathon and Rock Runner Relay is top-notch. ...

Registration is open for the 15th First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon scheduled Saturday, Aug. 4, at the University of Central Arkansas.

According to organizers, about 250 kids have already signed up for the triathlon, brought to participants by the Conway Running Club and title sponsor, First Security. ...

by Mark Oliver


Arkansas sportswriters and sportscasters were honored Saturday at the sixth annual ASCASW Hall of Fame Banquet at the Centennial Special Events Center in Conway.


Dallas Cowboys owner and former Arkansas Razorbacks player Jerry Jones received the Lifetime Achievement Award. ...

Three Arkansas softball teams took first, second and third places last weekend in the USSSA 8u World Series in Kansas City.

Impact – a team made up of girls from Mount Vernon, Greenbrier, Rose Bud, Vilonia and Morrilton – went undefeated 7-0 in the tournament and took first place. ...

Nine University of Central Arkansas Bears were named on Tuesday to the preseason All-Southland Conference football team, which tied for the second-most in the league.

Heading the list are three first-team selections in graduate linebacker Seth Allison of Stuttgart, senior running back Jackie Hinton of Houston and junior offensive lineman Dominique Allen of Houston. ...

Gov. Mike Beebe has named Ford Overton of Little Rock as the newest commissioner of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. 


“Ford has an enthusiasm for hunting, fishing and conservation, and a passion to ensure that our young people get the first-hand education to learn all three,” Beebe said. ...

by Lee Hogan

Central Baptist College turned to a familiar face on Tuesday, hiring Crystal Robinson as its new softball and volleyball coach.

Robinson served as an assistant softball coach for CBC the last three seasons under Jason Anderson, who last month accepted the position of softball head coach at North Alabama. ...

Two hundred and sixteen golfers broke out their putters and drivers on June 11 for a four-player scramble to help raise funds for Conway Regional Health System.

It was a fine morning for golf with an overcast sky and a cool breeze as the first 24 teams zipped through the 18-hole course at Centennial Valley Country Club during the 16th annual Conway Regional Golf Classic. ...

University of Central Arkansas linebacker Seth Allison and safety Jestin Love were named on Monday to The Sports Network FCS Preseason All-America third team.

Allison is a graduate linebacker from Stuttgart, while Love is a junior safety from West Memphis. ...

Xavier Huskey, a senior at Jacksonville High School, signed a national letter of intent to play basketball for Central Baptist College in Conway.  

Huskey, a 6-foot-5, 185-pound forward, led the Red Devils in rebounding at 8.5 per game while serving as team captain.

...

Fishing in the Coal Pile area of the lower Arkansas River, David Shopher of McGehee caught a 6.27-pound largemouth bass to take the overall lead Sunday and win the 2012 Arkansas Big Bass Bonanza.

Shopher was using a Tennessee shad-colored crank bait. “This fish was near a laydown, a fallen tree,” he said. ...

Aaron Hamby, a senior at Magnet Cove High School, signed a national letter of intent to play basketball for Central Baptist College in Conway.  

Hamby, a 6-foot-4, 175-pound guard, averaged 12.6 points per game while helping to lead the Panthers to their first-ever district championship and a trip to the class 2A state tournament. ...

For 25 lucky hunters, the highlight of the Buffalo River Elk Festival was the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s drawing for public land elk hunting permits. The two-segment season will be Sept. 24-28 and Oct. 29-Nov. 2.

Elk hunting on private land is restricted to one zone, consisting of all private land in Boone, Carroll, Madison, Newton and Searcy counties except for a portion of Boxley Valley. ...

LITTLE ROCK – On a day when most people would say it’s too hot to fish, Gary Hensley of Conway narrowly leads the Arkansas Big Bass Bonanza with a 5.94-pound bass he caught in the Dardanelle Pool of the Arkansas River. Hensley caught the fish in the 9 a.m. hour to take the overall lead on the first day of the three-day bass tournament. ...

The Arkansas Sportscasters/Sportswriters Hall of Fame has announced its 2012 inductees and award winners.

The hall of fame banquet is scheduled at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 14, at the Centennial Special Events Center at 1600 Centennial Club Drive in Conway.

...

by Lee Hogan

Central Baptist College welcomed 15 high school students onto its campus for a wrestling camp.

Thirteen of the campers came from New Orleans, while the other two were from Cabot and North Pulaski. ...

Softball player Katie McGregor and football player Seth Allison were recently named the University of Central Arkansas’ Scholar-Athletes of the Year by the Southland Conference.

Twenty-four student-athletes were selected by the conference as the outstanding male and female student-athletes from each of the league’s 12 member institutions. ...

Young people will have a special opportunity to train with J.J. Meadors, former Arkansas Razorback wide receiver and three-time national champion as a member of the Razorback track and field team.

Meadors will be working with athletes at a speed and agility camp scheduled 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, July 20, and 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, July 21, at the Harmony Grove High School football field. ...

by Mark Oliver

When his daughter’s soccer coach stepped away from the team in 2000 to deal with a personal matter, Kevin Rittman stepped in.

Rittman, a software developer at Acxiom Corporation for more than 20 years, quickly learned that becoming a soccer coach would be no easy matter. ...

by Lee Hogan

Practices are long, hot and strenuous, and summers aren’t filled with as many fun, relaxing trips, but it’s the price the Arkansas Lady Bears pay to be one of the better AAU teams in the nation.

Their hard work on the basketball court has already paid off with two recent tournament wins. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame will add nine new members this fall during the annual Hall of Fame Weekend.

The Class of 2012, the 12th class to be inducted since 2001, includes John Cameron, Anita Curry, David Evans, Mickey Johnson, George Jones, J.E. “Stovepipe” Lawrence, John Robinson, Bill Shimek and Verlon Spencer. ...

Need something for your child to do this summer, but can’t commit to a summer long program?  Summer camps at Sonshine Academy in Conway might be the answer. 

“We have tons of camps still remaining this summer ranging from any type and age of child you have,” said Eric Marsh, assistant business manager. ...

Preparations are already in the works for the 19th Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure planned Saturday, Oct. 20, in Downtown Little Rock.

The theme for the 2012 event is “RUN AS ONE.” ...

Junior Warrior Baseball Camps are planned Monday, July 9, through Thursday, July 12, at Hendrix College.

The camps offer a broad range of skills on the fundamentals of the game. Emphasis will also be placed on the importance of good sportsmanship, hard work and academic excellence. ...

The Arkansas Rush soccer program is planning a summer camp for youth ages 7-14.

The camp will be held 9-11 a.m. Monday, June 18, through Thursday, June 21, at Centennial Soccer Park in West Conway. ...

Central Arkansas residents will once again have a short drive to watch the state’s best high school athletes compete in the Arkansas High School Coaches Association (AHSCA) All-Star Activities.

The governing bodies of Arkansas high school athletics voted Wednesday, June 6, to move the All-Star Week clinics and games to Conway starting in 2013. ...

Registration is now open for the First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon Training Day session scheduled for 8-10 a.m. Saturday, June 9, at the Centennial Valley Country Club in Conway.  

Kids who will be 6-15 years old by the end of this year are eligible to attend. 
...

Conway Christian High School soccer standout Sumerlin Criswell recently signed a letter of intent to play for Hendrix College beginning in the fall.

Criswell has earned all-state honors for the past three years and was chosen to play in the AAA All-star game on Tuesday, June 19, at Razorback soccer field in Fayetteville. ...

Two former University of Central Arkansas golfers recently earned their cards for the Canadian Professional Golf Tour.

Steven Lecuyer and Andrew Hopkins earned exempt status by finishing in the top 30 at the Canadian Tour Qualifying School held May 8-12 in San Jacinto, Calif. The Q-School was held at The Country Club of Soboba Springs and Oak Valley Golf Club. ...

by Mark Oliver

From varsity basketball and tennis to two afterschool jobs and volunteerism at his church, Vilonia junior Colton Johnson may just be one of the most well-rounded high school students you’ll ever meet.

“My parents thought it would be good for me to try to play every sport,” Johnson said. ...

The second annual Crain Buick GMC Ranch Ride, a charity cycling event benefitting Soaring Wings Ranch Christian Home for children, is quickly pedaling into Central Arkansas.  

As race director Jon Priest puts it, “Soaring Wings Ranch is a place for children who need a chance in life.” ...

Wildlife Forever has announced the winners of the 2012 State-Fish Art Contest.

A panel of fish artists and honorary judges selected 142 winners from a field of thousands to be "the best of the best" in their state and grade category and for the international entries in each grade category. ...

Austin Odom of Benton and Amber Culwell of Rose Bud were recently named the top trapshooters in Arkansas high schools.

They were the overall winners in the 2012 Arkansas Junior Olympic State Qualifier at the Delta Conference Center near Tillar in southeastern Arkansas. ...

by Mark Oliver


Central Baptist College ended its season Monday with a 4-0 loss to Cal State San Marcos in the NAIA tournament in Gulf Shores, Ala.


The Lady Mustangs (53-8), who entered the tournament ranked No. 4 in the nation, started pool play with an 8-0 victory Thursday over Morningside College of Iowa. 

...

More than 1,500 registered to participate in this year’s Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run (an RRCA Grand Prix event).

The 29th annual event – held at Conway High School West at John McConnell Stadium – also attracted nearly 300 participants in the Tadpole Trot runs for kids. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The incredible three-year run of the Conway Lady Cat soccer team came up just short last week in the Class 7A state championship game in Fayetteville.

Bentonville squeezed past the Lady Cats, 1-0. ...

Four Conway High School baseball players recently signed national letters of intent to play college baseball.  

The signings took place May 10 at the Conway baseball field. 
...

by Janna Virden

Nestled in 190 acres of the Ouachita National Forest in Plainview is Glenhaven Youth Ranch — a place where teens can go to heal and find help to become the person they want to be. 

Executive director Dwayne Webb said the faith-based youth home coordinates with juvenile courts to get kids to go through the program before they get into serious trouble with the law. ...

by Chris Green

For many of us, a few days each year at deer camp with the guys is considered an adventure.

Some of us even endeavor to other locales in the U.S. to hunt elk, mule deer or even moose. As fun as these trips are, it isn’t enough for Conway resident Curt Pelot.   

...

by Peggy Gardner Kemp

Britt “Rage” Ray, Amanda “Scargeant Major” Hitts and Jennifer “Smash-mouth Barbie” are not wrestlers vying for takedowns in the ring.

Rather these women are pivots, jammers and blockers — wheel warriors battling for wins in a different venue, the roller rink.


...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Ancil Lea grew up playing football and running track, but thanks to his second daughter, he’s become the dean of the Conway Christian School soccer program.

Seven years ago, Kelsey Lea, who was in eighth grade, asked then-CCS athletic director Chuck Speer if the Eagles could start a soccer team – even without a field.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Women who begin running after turning 40 believe they can do anything, and Elaine Doll-Dunn is proof.

Doll-Dunn, a South Dakota woman about to turn 75, was the guest speaker and starter last week for the 15th annual Women Can Run 5K Run/Walk in Conway. ...

The Conway Christian School fifth grade boys team recently won their conference tournament to finish the season undefeated in all play with an overall record of 10-0.  

The boys competed in a local conference, playing eight regular season games against Sacred Heart, Wonderview, Nemo Vista and St. Joseph. ...

Central Baptist College will host several soccer camps this summer for young people ages 10-18.

Justin Hawkins, head soccer coach at CBC, will be the camp director. Camp staff include Nate Billings, assistant coach at CBC, and Michael Gerard, assistant coach at the University of Central Arkansas. ...

More than 250 teams recently competed in the Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program regional tournament at the Remington range near Lonoke.

The Gun Slingers from South Side Bee Branch won the junior division and the Clay Commanders from Batesville won the senior division. ...

The Conway Wampus Cats boys soccer team advanced to the second round of the state tournament Thursday night with a win over Rogers Heritage High School in Fort Smith.

The Wampus Cats will play Bentonville - the second team from the 7A West - at 4 p.m. today (May 11) in Fort Smith. If they win this game, they will play the winner of Little Rock Catholic and Fayetteville at 6 p.m. Saturday (May 12) in the semi-finals.

...

by Mark Oliver



Bottom of the ninth. Bases loaded. Two outs. It’s the kind of thing you only see in the movies. 



The scene screams for a hero, and that’s exactly what Central Baptist College got when junior Samantha Luther stepped to the plate in the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference tournament on Friday. 



...

by Mark Oliver

For the first time in school history, the Vilonia Lady Eagles Soccer Team is going to the 5A state playoffs.

“This is a huge step for our program,” said Lady Eagles coach Heather Gray. ...

Walkers and runners from across the state will be in Conway on Saturday for the Women Can Run/Walk 5K.

The event – which marks the culmination of free, 10-week training clinics held across the state – will start/finish at Conway High School West at 2300 Prince St. ...

A special summer basketball camp is planned in Conway in June.

Coach Wayne Mendo of Washington will lead the Quick Handle girls and boys camp, planned Monday, June 4, through Wednesday, June 6, at the McGee Community Center.

...

The Conway High School Wampus Cats boys soccer team ended its conference season on Tuesday at Russellville. 

The Cats came into the game in second place in the conference and needed a win to hold onto that position. ...

The Conway High School boys soccer team closed out its home games with a convincing win over Van Buren on Friday night 7-0. 

The Wampus Cats were celebrating senior night and said goodbye to the following seniors: Michael Anthony, Josh Ashley-Pauley, Keanu Fredric, Ivan Pelayo, Hector Saenz and Garrett Todd. ...

by Mark Oliver


Central Baptist College will host the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference tournament at City of Colleges Park in Conway, beginning today.


In their first year in the conference, the Lady Mustangs (46-4, 13-1) enter the tournament as the top seed and the No. 4 team in the nation.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The first state basketball championship in the history of Cabot’s Lady Panther program capped what was, for all practical purposes, a perfect season.

Carla Crowder’s ninth Lady Panther squad finished 25-7, beating Fort Smith Northside in the Class 7A state championship game at the Hot Springs Summit Arena, 51-41. ...

Central Baptist College recently honored the three newest inductees into the CBC Sports Hall of Fame at the 2012 Athletic/Hall of Fame Banquet.

Each individual was selected for outstanding achievements as a CBC Mustang both on and off the court. ...

by Mark Oliver


From the moment his father put plastic golf clubs in his hands at 2 years of age, Conway senior Tyler Pinney experienced love at first sight — for the game of golf.


“I started playing with my dad and started working my way up,” Pinney said. ...

On Saturday, April 28, Central Baptist College will honor the three newest inductees into the Central Baptist College Sports Hall of Fame at the 2012 Athletic/Hall of Fame Banquet.

Each individual was selected for outstanding achievements as a CBC Mustang both on and off the court. ...

For the fourth consecutive year after joining the AAA, the Conway Christian Lady Eagle soccer team qualified for the state tournament with a decisive victory over Jonesboro Westside with a score of 6-0. 

“I’m very proud of this team’s accomplishment!” said coach Ancil Lea.
...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Taylor Gault of Conway compiled a 3.6 GPA during her first semester at UALR last fall, but her learning didn’t stop at the classroom.

Gault, a 5-foot-8 guard for Joe Foley’s women’s basketball team, became a starter in the second game of the season, was the team’s leading scorer at 16.3 points per game and was selected the Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year... ...

The United Way is hosting a golf tournament that will provide community members an opportunity to support the United Way as well as enjoy holes of golf and other activities.

The tournament will begin at noon Friday, May 11 at The Greens at North Hills in Sherwood. ...

Women Run Arkansas Running and Walking Club will present the “Women Can Run/Walk 5K” at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 12.

The event, which will benefit Children’s Tumor Foundation & Neurofibromatosis Research, will begin at Conway High School West. ...

by Mark Oliver

Since 2002, the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) has brought the sport of archery to millions of students in schools across the United States and various other countries.

Recently, archery programs have been trickling into area schools in the 501, targeting students as young as fourth grade and as old as high school seniors.

...

The Greenbrier Golf Scramble will be held Saturday, April 28, at Persimmon Ridge Golf Club.

The two-man scramble is sponsored by the Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce.

The cost is $120 per team. ...

Challenger Sports – a top youth soccer company in the U.S. – will be hosting one of its nationwide British Soccer training camps in Maumelle.

Maumelle Soccer Club hosts one of the largest camps of its kind in the region, and has again teamed up to host the weeklong British Soccer Camp during the week of Monday, June 25, through Friday, June 29, at Rolling Oaks Soccer Complex. ...

Conway Christian School Booster Club will host its sixth annual Golf Classic Tournament on Monday, April 30, at Centennial Valley Country Club.

The golfer registration fee is $100, which will cover the four-man scramble with lunch, golf cart and gifts. The event will consist of three flights with trophies being awarded to the winning team in each flight. ...

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 29th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run (an RRCA Grand Prix event) on Saturday, May 5, at Conway High School West at John McConnell Stadium.

Proceeds from the race will benefit a variety of local non-profits – the Faulkner County Boys and Girls Club, Faulkner County Day School... ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

When Buzz Bolding, the former Conway High athletic director, hired Whitney Allison to coach the Lady Cat soccer team, the young coach intended it to be a one-year gig.

But heading into her third season — with an overall record of 39-1-2 — Allison is adamant this one will be it. ...

The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) Foundation is making preparations for its seventh annual “Links for Learning” fund-raising golf tournament.

The three-person scramble tournament is scheduled for Thursday, May 10, at the Morrilton Country Club with a 10 a.m. shotgun start.

...

by Mark Oliver

Conway high juniors Tyler Crosson and Jocelyn Woo recently represented the 501 in the National Club Swimming Association Junior Nationals in Orlando, Fla.

The event, which is considered to be the top 18-and-under swim meet in the country, featured more than 1,400 swimmers from over 250 teams, with Crosson and Woo being the only two swimmers from Arkansas. ...

More than 300 runners, spectators and volunteers – many dressed in 1980s attire – were in attendance at the recent “Nineteen Eighty 5K” benefitting K-Life.

According to Anderson Wilkins, area director for Conway K-Life, there were 216 runners in this year’s event which represented the largest group to participate. ...

The annual “Tour de Toad Ride” is scheduled 8 a.m. Sunday, May 6, in conjunction with Toad Suck Daze.

The ride will leave from Conway High School West, near the fieldhouse.

...

by Mark Oliver

In 2007, Sonshine Academy’s Cheer Force All Stars program took its cheerleading teams to the World Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, Fla., to watch the best cheerleading teams in the country take the floor.

This year, one of the program’s teams, the Cheer Force All Stars Falcons, will have its time to shine in the spotlight on one of the biggest stages in cheerleading.


...

by Mark Oliver


For the first time in school history, the Wonderview Lady Daredevils are state basketball champions, defeating Kingston, 44-33, in the Class A title game at Summit Arena in Hot Springs.

“It’s been an unbelievable ride,” said first-year coach Jeremy Simon. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Spirit Squad is headed to a national competition but is in need of help to make the trip possible.

The team is seeking sponsorships from local businesses to help with expenses associated with the competition that will take place in April in Daytona Beach, Fla. ...

The American Cancer Society hosts Relays For Life each year to raise awareness about cancer in a unique way.

Rather than holding an event during the daylight hours, Relay For Life takes place over night - because cancer never sleeps. For one night a year, neither do volunteers, survivors and caregivers. ...

by Mark Oliver

The dream of winning a high school state basketball championship is still alive for many teams in the 501.

In Class A boys’ action, the Sacred Heart Rebels will face off against Mammoth Springs at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, while Wonderview and Kingston will meet for the girls’ championship at 8:45 p.m. on Friday. ...

by Mark Oliver

If you haven’t been keeping an eye on the UCA Sugar Bears basketball team this season, you’ve been missing out.

The Sugar Bears (24-6, 14-3 Southland) claimed their first Division I title in school history in front of a packed Farris Center on Saturday, defeating Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 66-45, finishing an impressive 16-0 at home. ...

Renewal Ranch will host its second annual Renewal Ranch Golf Classic on Friday, April 20, at The Greens at Nutters Chapel.

The tournament features a morning and afternoon flight with shotgun starts at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Registration is at 7 a.m. and noon. ...

by Mark Oliver

Only one word can describe Conway High School’s recent trip to the state swim meet in Little Rock: it was a battle.

Winners of 11 of its last 12 meets, the Conway girls swim team looked to cap off its great season with a win at the state meet at UALR on Saturday. ...

by Mark Oliver

For more than 40 years, Orlando “Odie” Phillips has been a priceless contribution to youth basketball in the 501 community.

Formerly involved with the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County and Pulaski County, he has coached the likes of five-time NBA champion and current... ...

Conway High School will host its second annual boys soccer preseason Tournament of Champions on Friday and Saturday at John McConnell Stadium.  

This will be the second time the state has had a preseason soccer tournament of this magnitude. Organizers are bringing in the past few years state champions for all classifications to Conway to play. ...

The Seventh Annual Chase Race and Paws, one of the most unique sporting events in the 501, will be held Saturday, March 10, in Conway.

The event will begin at 8 a.m. in front of Petsmart in the Conway Commons Shopping Center, 650 Elsinger Blvd. ...

by Mark Oliver

At the beginning of the season, the Guy-Perkins Junior High Thunderbirds were only good enough to compete with the other teams in the conference.

Today, they’re both conference champions and district champions.

...

The fourth annual Dr. Jack Logan Memorial Golf Tournament is planned Saturday, April 28, at Tannenbaum Golf Course at Greers Ferry.

Proceeds benefit the Conway Interfaith Clinic.

The event begins at 8 a.m. with a breakfast.

...

LITTLE ROCK – Better hurry. Just a few days left. But there is still time for winding hunting season with a quest for rabbits and squirrels.

The season for both ends at sundown Wednesday, Feb. 29.

There are several factors working in the hunters’ favor in a late February field outing. ...

by Mark Oliver

One started snorkeling at age 3.

One saw an advertisement for open tryouts and gave it a shot.

One started because her parents didn’t want her to play soccer... ...

The Conway Christian School Lady Eagles recently became the first junior high team in CCS history to win a district championship.  

The district final featured two Conway teams – CCS vs. St. Joseph School at Mountain Pine High School. CCS won the game, 35-11. ...

by Mark Oliver

The Arkansas State Homeschool Basketball Tournament will be held at the McGee Center in Conway beginning today through Saturday.

The tournament allows for homeschooled basketball players to gain exposure akin to that of basketball players from public schools and is open to all homeschool basketball organizations in the state. ...

K-Life of Conway staffers and supporters are getting their 1980s attire together for the fourth annual “Nineteen Eighty 5K” on Saturday, Feb. 25.

Check-in is at 4 p.m. and the race is at 5 p.m. ...

Registration is open for the free Women Can Run/Walk training clinics planned across the state.

The clinics are scheduled to begin the week of Sunday, March 4 and culminate with a 5K graduation run on Saturday, May 12. ...

by Mark Oliver

They’re still winning.

The Conway White Lady Cats basketball team defeated the visiting Lake Hamilton Lady Wolves, 51-15, on Feb. 2 at Buzz Bolding Arena in Conway, capping an undefeated regular season and extending the team’s winning streak to an impressive 43-straight games. ...

The 11th annual Beast Feast exceeded all expectations with a bigger crowd and a guest speaker described as “the best” ever.

The event was held Saturday at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

Long-time TV host Hank Parker, who has had his own fishing or hunting show since the late 1970s, was the guest speaker for the event. 

...

Gillespie Boxing recently hosted its first ever Central Arkansas Boxing Classic here in Conway.  

The event was a sanctioned amateur boxing match for youth ages 8 and up. 

Rodney Gillespie, a member of the USA Boxing Club, teamed up with the Conway Advertising and Promotion Commission and GetSMART Sports to organize the event.  

...

The Fourth Annual High School AAA Sanctioned Arkansas State Wrestling Championship Tournament will be held Friday and Saturday at the Jack Stephens Center at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

The opening ceremony is 1 p.m. Friday. ...

by Mark Oliver

Conway High School represented the 501 as one of 22 schools that competed in the Hendrix Invitational swim meet Saturday in Conway.

Thirty-nine Conway swimmers participated in a variety of events — 22 in all — in both boys’ and girls’ competitions.  ...

by Mark Oliver

On the outside, Corey Noble appears to be the average man, but to the students, faculty and fans of Morrilton High School’s athletic teams, he’s much more.

In 1998, Noble was invited to come to basketball practice by former coach John Drake. Soon after, Corey became manager of the Devil Dogs junior and senior high basketball teams.

...

Central Baptist College will host its second annual Mustangs Open Wrestling Tournament on Saturday at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

“This will be our second time hosting this tournament,” said Ken Prophete, head wrestling coach at CBC. ...

The University of Central Arkansas Sugar Bears and the Conway Regional Health System are establishing a weekend partnership in efforts to convey a concern that both share - breast cancer awareness.

UCA's Farris Center will be the hosting site for this year's Pink Zone Weekend on Saturday, Feb. 18. ...

The 22nd Annual Arkansas Big Buck Classic will take place Friday through Sunday at the Arkansas State Fair Grounds in Little Rock.

The event is scheduled 1-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. ...

Tickets are still on sale for the 11th annual Beast Feast planned Saturday, Feb 4, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

Held each winter, the event is open to men and boys of all ages and is a night filled with games, entertainment, prizes, live music, great food and great speakers.  ...

Williams Baptist College in Walnut Ridge has picked up a commitment from Greenbrier Panther standout Brittany Merritt. 

She recently signed her scholarship in front of family, friends and future teammates at the Southerland-Mabee Center on the campus of WBC.

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Twenty-two high school swim teams will be battling it out on Saturday at the Hendrix Invitational in Conway.

According to Conway High head swim coach Christie Rye, 400-plus swimmers are expected to compete including 30 divers. ...

by Mark Oliver

It started as an item on one's “bucket list” and ended up being an experience that members of the Conway Running Club will never forget.

On Nov. 6, members of the Conway Running Club made the journey to New York to represent the 501 in the New York City Marathon, one of the world’s greatest races, which attracts more than 100,000 applicants each year. ...

Hollender's ATA Martial Arts' Regional Tournament will be held Saturday, Feb. 4, at Bob Courtway Middle School in Conway.

“We are very excited about this boost to Conway's economy, with over 400 competitors plus their families expected to attend,” said organizer Blair Hollender. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The 2011 award winners of the Conway Athletic Awards Commission will be honored with a luncheon Sunday, Feb. 5, at Central Baptist College’s Mabee Student Center.

Don Dyer, former University of Central Arkansas men’s basketball coach, is the commission’s selection for the Elijah Pitts Award for Career Achievement.

...

2011 was a big year for sports in the 501 – from multiple state championships won by Conway High School athletes to a year to remember for the University of Central Arkansas football program.

Members of the 501 Sports Editorial Board selected its own Top 5 sports stories of the year: ...

Ask any Arkansas fisherman and you'll get a multitude of answers about how they feel when it comes to underwater structure.

Anglers may curse those logs and branches that snag their brand new lures, but they know that structure is key to a successful outing.

...

Ben Brasuell did his homework. One result is several teachers at Benton Junior High School will enjoy some tasty elk summer sausage.

Brasuell, 14 and an eighth-grader, scouted the elk country of the Buffalo River “six or seven times” after winning a permit to hunt for an antlerless elk at the Buffalo River Elk Festival in June. ...

by Mark Oliver

Tyler Crosson started swimming just before his 12th birthday as a means to keep in shape during off-season football.

However, after discovering his potential in the pool, he never went back to football.

...

The Faulkner County Day School will host a “Racin’ New Year’s Eve 5K” at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31.

The race will begin and end at the school, located at 1700 South Blvd. in Conway. Proceeds from the race will be used to purchase teaching supplies and materials, according to Teresa Little, early child services director at the day school.

...

The late Raymond Bright, a former University of Central Arkansas head football coach, will be among the inductees into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.

 

Bright excelled as a football coach and track coach at Conway High School and the University of Central Arkansas. 

...

by Mark Oliver

Since November 2009, something special has been happening for a group of Conway basketball players.

The Conway White Lady Cats basketball team is currently 13-0 this season and has an overall 34-game winning streak over the last two years.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

For a few more months anyway, in Searcy, the Giboneys are the volleyball family.

Keith, 42, was the volleyball coach at Harding University for 13 seasons before his contract wasn’t renewed following this season. ...

by Chris Green

Several years ago, I was introduced to pheasant hunting by a dear friend, and it has since become one of my favorite hunting seasons.

As many of my friends can attest, I like to talk, and bird hunting allows me to do just that without scaring away the intended quarry. ...

Turnout for this year's Braswell and Son Soaring Wings Half Marathon was at an all-time high, with more than 1,800 registrations representing more than 30 states – from California to New York.

Johnathan Cherono of Little Rock won the overall race in a time of 1:15:56.

...

As cooler weather descends on Conway, swim meets seem far away for the Conway Crocs.

However swim practice in the warm comforts of the heated indoor pool at the Conway Regional Health & Fitness Center can be beneficial for aspiring members of the Conway Crocs swim team, says Chris Brynell, aquatics coordinator and swim team coach at the fitness center. ...

Many in the 501 will likely be headed to Texas in January to watch No. 6 Arkansas vs. No. 8 Kansas State in the 76th AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic or to another sporting event in the weeks ahead.

The Cotton Bowl is scheduled at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, in the recently finished Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (For more information, visit attcottonbowl.com.)

...

Tickets will soon be available for the 11th annual Beast Feast planned Saturday, Feb 4, in Conway. 

The guest speaker will be long-time TV host Hank Parker, who has had his own fishing or hunting show since the late 1970s. 

...

by Mark Oliver

A look inside Greenbrier senior Ali Rowden's trophy case would reveal many things: four All-Conference awards, three All-State awards and two 5A state tennis championship rings, among other honors.

To top it off, Ali's brother, Jon Mark, has won three conference championships of his own and her sister, Gabrielle, has won a conference championship and a state championship.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Carla Crowder is more interested in talking about her Cabot High basketball team than herself, but both have quite a story to tell.

The Lady Panthers return four starters from last year’s team that reached the quarterfinals of the Class 7A State Tournament. ...

by Mark Oliver

There’s a new way to keep up with Conway Christian athletics.

The Conway Christian sports network offers a free and reliable way for fans to tune in to athletic events from anywhere in the country. ...

by Sonja J. Keith

Come next fall, best friends Jake Fitts and Alex Smith will be headed to the University of Arkansas at Monticello to play baseball.

Both signed national letters of intent on Wednesday to play for the UAM Boll Weevils. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

In only their second season of varsity volleyball competition, Harding Academy’s Lady Wildcats took home a state championship last weekend.

Harding Academy, which finished the year 33-2, knocked off Mansfield, the 2009 state champion, 25-9, 18-25, 27-25, 25-14, in the Class 3A final at Conway High’s Buzz Bolding Arena. ...

A special weekend of wrestling is planned this month at Central Baptist College.

At 7 pm. Friday, Nov. 11, the Mustangs team will compete against Truman State University. At 9 a.m. Saturday Nov. 12, the wrestling team will host the college’s first team invitational. ...

Kick It 3v3 Soccer is coming to the Centennial Park Soccer Complex in Conway Saturday, Nov. 19, and Sunday, Nov. 20.

Now in its 21st year, Kick It offers players of all ages and abilities a festival-style atmosphere filled with fun, dynamic, and fast-paced competition. ...

Registrations are being accepted for the youth basketball program sponsored by the Faulkner County Boys and Girls Club.

According to executive director Robert Wright, the program includes teams for young people in grades first through 12th. Last year’s program had 35 teams and 365 participants. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

For 78 years, Anavurl and Luevern Sams have been the perfect team.

The twins, the youngest pair among eight children, grew up at Martinville in rural Faulkner County, where they attended school through seventh grade. ...

by Chris Green

Have you ever been on a trip or had an experience with friends that earned you a nickname?

Every year as hunting season rolls around, I’m reminded and happily reminisce about just such a trip.  

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Students and staff at St. Joseph School in Conway are rallying around a classmate battling leukemia.

About 350 students in grades fourth through high school along with faculty and staff participated in a pep rally on Friday that was dedicated to Trey Hickey. ...

The Sacred Heart Boys’ Golf Team, along with girls’ team member Claire Andrews, recently competed against seven other 1A schools in the District 1A golf tournament at Persimmon Ridge Golf Course near Greenbrier. 

After 18 holes, the Sacred Heart team was tied with Southside, resulting in a single-player sudden death playoff. ...

GUADALAJARA, Mexico – Kayle Browning of Wooster finished third and won a bronze medal Tuesday in the Pan-Am Games trapshooting competition at Guadalajara, Mexico.

Browning was first in the event’s qualifying round, breaking 68 of a possible 75 targets. In the final 25-target round, she broke 17. ...

Central Baptist College will officially kick off its fall sports programs with Mustang Madness on Friday and Saturday.

Mustang Madness is an event to showcase the CBC athletic programs and a fundraiser for the college’s athletic teams.   
...

In the spirit of teamwork taught by youth sports, Superior Chevrolet of Conway is teaming up with Arkansas Rush Soccer Club to help raise thousands of dollars for youth soccer.

The Arkansas Rush Soccer Club will have the opportunity to raise as much as $10,000 through the Chevy Youth Soccer program sponsored by Superior Chevrolet and other participating Chevrolet dealers. ...

Gov. Mike Beebe recently named Steve Cook of Malvern as the newest commissioner of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

“Steve was imbued with a philosophy of conservation as a young man, and has never wavered from his dedication to that cause,” Governor Beebe said. ...

Boys in grades second through sixth are invited to participate Friday in the Baseball Big Brother program at the University of Central Arkansas.

Planned in conjunction with the UCA Fall World Series, the program is scheduled 4-5 p.m. at Bear Stadium. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway’s Summar Roachell capped the September of her life with a decision about her future.

Roachell, 16, who helped the United States retain the Junior Solheim Cup in Ireland last month, won her third consecutive Class 7A state championship in Fayetteville on Sept. 20 and made a commitment to the University of Arkansas that same day. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The Conway High School Golf Team recently celebrated its state championship season with a ring presentation ceremony at the Conway Country Club.

Each player was presented with a state championship ring sponsored by Steve Strange, Chris Crain and Todd Ross. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

In 1968, Wadie Moore entered the old Arkansas Gazette as the first black employee of the newsroom.

Forty-three years later, he entered the Arkansas Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame before a record crowd of 432 at the Centennial Valley Country Club Special Events Center in Conway.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway’s Summar Roachell announced herself as a golfer to watch nationally with her play over the summer, and she’ll make her international debut in Ireland in September.

Roachell, 16, a junior at Conway High, is the first Arkansas golfer to be named to the United States’ PING Junior Solheim Cup Team.

...

by Sonja J. Keith

Conway resident Alex Freeman is on a baseball fan’s dream vacation.

Alex finished up his family medicine residency at the end of June. Before joining his father’s medical practice this fall, Alex set out on a unique, three-month vacation with one goal in mind – to visit every ballpark in Major League Baseball. ...

by Will Hehemann

Fourth- through sixth-grade boys and girls who want to learn to play football have that opportunity thanks to the Conway Optimist Youth Football Program.

On average, 400 kids participate every year; some participants are already experienced and some are throwing a football for the first time in their life.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Steve Quattlebaum has never been so proud of a losing record.

In 27 seasons coaching girls basketball, including 16 at Central Arkansas Christian, Quattlebaum has built a career record of 504-194, including 360-137 with three state championships at CAC. ...

Neal Burcham’s triumph in ESPN’s Elite 11 quarterback competition will air on the cable channel at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19, as part of its Year of the Quarterback programming.

The Greenbrier senior came from off the radar, having had to earn his invitation to the 24-player camp at Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif.

But he emerged not only as one of the 11 finalists but also as one of three MVPs — along with Tanner Mangum of Eagle, Idaho, and Jameis Winston of Hueytown, Ala. — from the camp July 18-22.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Prior to 2008, Nemo Vista had won two state championships in school history.

The boys basketball team won a title in 1975. Twenty-one years later, the baseball team notched the other, in 1996.

Thanks to softball, the Lady Hawks have won two since 2008.

...

by Will Hehemann

When eight British coaches recently arrived in the 501 for the annual summer soccer camp hosted by the Maumelle Soccer Club, the entire community – kids, coaches and business owners alike – joined together for a week-long celebration of the sport at the Rolling Oaks Sports Complex.

For its sixth consecutive year, the Maumelle Soccer Club coordinated an intensive week-long camp for kids ages 4-18 with Challenger Sports, a British company that conducts camps throughout the U.S., Australia and Canada. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

In two seasons as coach, Whitney Allison has led the Conway Lady Cat soccer team to a record of 39-1-2, and this spring the Lady Cats took the Class 7A state championship to cap a perfect 22-0 mark.

Their only blemishes the last two years are the one loss and two ties to Fayetteville.

Not bad for a 24-year-old who never planned to coach.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Conway has been among the elite high school athletic programs in the state for some time, but spring 2011 proved it to be the best of the best.

The Wampus Cats and Lady Cats combined for three state championships — wrestling in February and baseball and girls soccer within 24 hours in May. 

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens
Todd Owens photos

For several years, Deborah Shaw of Bryant has been one of the state’s best gymnasts.

But now it’s official. She’s also one of the best in the country.

Ten-year-old Shaw is 4-foot-4 and 72-pounds of solid muscle. The fourth-grader at Collegeville Elementary School was selected to the Talent Opportunity Program national B-Team, qualifying her to train at the Women’s National Team Training Center at Bela Karolyi’s Ranch in Houston. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

As with so many things in life, Jon Priest’s involvement with Soaring Wings Ranch and the upcoming Crain Buick GMC Ranch Ride seem to have been inspired from above.

Priest, 28, is the ride coordinator for the inaugural event, scheduled Saturday, June 4. The ride, like the Soaring Wings Half-Marathon, will benefit Soaring Wings Christian Home and Ranch, which “provides a permanent Christ-centered home for children who have been the victims of unfortunate circumstances and just need a chance.”

...

Rick de Roque of Conway – a former contestant in the NBC show “The Biggest Loser” – has been named the honorary chairman of this year’s Toad Suck Daze Run.

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in the 28th annual Toad Suck Daze 5K/10K Run on Saturday, April 30, at Conway High School West at John McConnell Stadium on Prince Street. 

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Charles Otieno has traveled 8,440 miles to make a life in the 501, and Central Baptist College and Conway are the better for it.

So, too, are the youth of his hometown, Nairobi, Kenya, thanks to the President Kimbrow Foundation he has established there in honor of Dr. Terry Kimbrow, president of CBC. 

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

The past, present and future of Conway sports were celebrated Feb. 6 with the 11th Conway Athletic Awards Commission banquet at Central Baptist College’s Mabee Student Center.

The luncheon, the brainchild of David Grimes, celebrated the 2010 winners of four categories of awards.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Gracie Frizzell took what turned out to be a devastating blow during a Central Arkansas Christian basketball practice heading into Christmas break.

Working on a play coach Steve Quattlebaum had put in for her, she bumped knees with a teammate. It seemed to be a minor injury, but the diagnosis turned out to be a shredded anterior cruciate ligament.

Her senior season — and with it, her Lady Mustang career — was over barely after it started.


...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

An idea born at the starting line of the Little Rock Half-Marathon seven years ago has come into fruition, having aided in the spiritual and physical development of a number of people in the 501.

And it continues to grow.

Bill Doshier and Randy Grace of Conway are co-founders and co-leaders of Rock Runners, a faith and fitness ministry now in its sixth year.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

For its 10th anniversary, Conway’s Beast Feast will feature a new home and a big-name speaker as it continues to reach out to men of all ages.
The outreach of the Second Baptist Men’s Ministry will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds. Dave Dravecky, the former Major League pitcher who overcame cancer to return to the majors before ultimately losing his arm to a recurrence of the disease, is the speaker.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens
Mike Kemp photos

Greenbrier was a “rock solid” football team in more ways than one in 2010.
The Panthers continued the turnaround begun by third-year coach Randy Tribble. Long an afterthought in Arkansas high school football, Greenbrier went from 0-10 the year before Tribble’s arrival to 1-9 in 2008 to 9-4 and semifinalist in Class 5A in ’09. In 2010, the Panthers finished 9-3 when their season ended in the quarterfinals of the playoffs at Watson Chapel.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens
Mike Kemp photos


Mike Isom worked with plenty of athletes over a football-coaching career that spanned 1972-99, but the most special was one of his last ones — his son, Bates.
Bates was just 7 when his father left coaching full-time after a career capped by his University of Central Arkansas Bears winning the NAIA national championship in 1991, a year prior to Bates’ birth. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Despite her young coaching career, Ashley Nance has seen enough players to know that Taylor Gault is something special.

Nance, the first-year Conway Lady Cat coach and the daughter of legendary Guy-Perkins coach John Hutchcraft, inherited a good one with Gault, who signed in November to play for Joe Foley’s University of Arkansas-Little Rock team. ...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

With a couple of new faces on the sidelines, the venerable basketball rivalry between Hendrix College and the University of Central Arkansas will continue Saturday, Nov. 13, at the UCA Farris Center.

The series resumed in 2009 after a hiatus since Feb. 19, 1992. Since then, UCA has gone on to the Southland Conference of NCAA Division I; Hendrix moved to NCAA Division III’s Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (with no athletic scholarships) the following season.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Ken Prophete is new to the 501, but it didn’t take him long to find a family here.

Prophete, 26, arrived in Conway in May to become the father of Central Baptist College’s infant wrestling program.

The Mustangs — representing just the second Arkansas school to field a collegiate wrestling program — competed officially for the first time Oct. 16. They have two more meets in Conway this season: a dual meet Tuesday, Nov. 30, against Bacone College on campus at A.R. Reddin Fieldhouse and the Mustangs Inaugural Open on Saturday, Jan. 29, at the Conway Expo Center and Fairgrounds.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

For years, Cody McNabb was close enough to Morrilton to dream about the possibilities they might bring to each other.
And this year, McNabb, the new Devil Dog football coach, has had a chance to begin turning that dream into reality.
“I’ve always liked the community, and I’ve always thought it was a great fit for me,” said McNabb, 34, who made his head coaching debut this fall, coming to Conway County after six years as defensive coordinator at Russellville.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Eddie Carmona enters the 2010 season poised to become the University of Central Arkansas’ most decorated kicker.
As of press time, the senior was third on the school’s list of career field goals with 32, and he needs just 15 this season for the school record. It’s not bad considering just four years ago he was roofing houses with his dad in Texas.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Frank Broyles, one of the icons of Arkansas sports, recently preached a sermon that too many people today seem not to understand at the fourth induction banquet of the Arkansas Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame.

“When you plan for the future, you never forget the past because the past is the key to the future,” said Broyles, retired football coach and athletic director at the University of Arkansas. “The greatest joy in life is bringing the past to the present. We want to never forget the past. Always, always honor the past.”

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Faulkner County’s first 18-hole public golf course officially opened July 15 with fanfare that included food and lots of friends.

More than 100 people celebrated Nutters Chapel Golf and Country Club as it joined the city’s Lindsey Management golf course community of Centennial Valley and The Links at Cadron Valley.

It’s a gorgeous layout that came together in the last weeks before the grand opening.

...

by Levi Gilbert

City of Faith-Little Rock will host its second annual FORE!!! Charity Golf Tournament Monday, Sept. 13, at Centennial Valley Country Club in Conway. All proceeds from the tournament go to Community Connections of Conway.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Moving on is never easy.
For 16 years, Cassie Martin has identified herself as a softball player. Now – she’s choosing to move on.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Greenbrier volleyball celebrates its 20th year this fall, and coach Cindy Hartman knows the next step of progress for the program lies with its players – past and present.
Hartman, 42, of Greenbrier recently put together a volleyball reunion with the goal of forging connections and establishing a strong alumnae base.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

There is no separating basketball from the John Hutchcraft family, even on Father’s Day.

So Father’s Day 2010 was much the same as the family had spent in the past — preparing for the Arkansas High School Coaches Association All-Star Week in Fayetteville.

...

Bryce Molder returns to Conway for K-Life golf event

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Kelli Molder died of spinal meningitis at the age of 16, but she lives on in her younger brother, Bryce.
Bryce Molder, now 31 and a member of the PGA Tour, returned to Conway May 10 to publicly remember the sister he’ll never forget.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The third time was the charm for Preston Purifoy.

In March, the senior led a talented Conway Wampus Cat basketball team to its first state championship since 1976. Conway beat Fayetteville, 66-56, in the 7A state title game at Summit Arena in Hot Springs.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Norman Baker is investing in people.Baker, head amateur trainer at Arkansas Boxing Club in Little Rock, believes in what his sport and his facility can do for young people.

“I pride myself on turning around kids with attitude problems, disciplinary problems, grade problems,” said Baker, who has volunteered his time with the club since the late 1970s. “What I try to do is get them hooked on the gym where they feel like they can’t do anything that means they can’t come to the gym.”

...

by Levi Gilbert

Cliff Henry still remembers Randy Baker, and that’s why the Toad Suck Daze Run is important to him.


The original Toad Suck 10K was started in 1982 by the Conway Kiwanis Club. The Toad Suck Daze Festival began that same year. In 1984, First National Bank (now Regions Bank) started the Randy Baker 8K. Baker was a former employee who had died of cancer.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Sometimes the answer to a problem is just 20 feet away.
David McFatrich – an assistant volleyball coach at the University of Central Arkansas – wants to reach people spiritually through athletics. His first attempt at a volleyball mission trip failed, but the disappointment was short lived.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Central Baptist College continues to grow, both academically and athletically. CBC experienced a 10 percent growth in spring enrollment and recently announced the addition of two athletic programs – men’s wrestling and women’s golf – for the 2010-11 academic year.
After meeting with Arkansas Wrestling Association President Greg Hatcher, CBC President Terry Kimbrow and Athletic Director Lyle Middleton entertained the idea of adding men’s wrestling.

...

by Levi Gilbert

NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball history has been rewritten by a freshman at the University of Central Arkansas.

Megan Herbert of Rogers moved into second place on the consecutive double-double list, passing Hall of Fame players Cheryl Miller and Anne Donovan. The streak ended Feb. 13 against Northwestern State. Herbert, with 23 consecutive double-doubles, is second only to former University of Oklahoma standout Courtney Paris, who holds the record at 112.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Larry Hart, a two-time FCS All-American and Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year, is taking the next step to prepare for his future in football.

Hart is training at the Wellness Performance Institute in Georgia as he pursues his dream of playing in the NFL.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Six NBA championships.
Seven NBA All-Star nominations.
Eight NBA All-Defensive First Team selections.
Two Olympic Gold Medals.
And now, two retired No. 33 jerseys.

...

by Levi Gilbert

The Bass Pro Shops Crappie Masters All American Tournament Trail will host its first Arkansas tournament – the 2010 Ultimate Challenge – at Lake Conway on Friday, March 26, and Saturday, March 27. The Ultimate Challenge is a one pole, artificial bait only tournament. Anglers can fish in teams of two or alone.


Crappie Masters President Paul Alpers said he has been looking to bring a tournament to Arkansas for years, and Lake Conway seemed to be a great fit.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

It was nine years in the making but the University of Central Arkansas finally has a fitting tribute to former long-time athletic director Bill Stephens.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Conway is a college town to the core, and the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College and Central Baptist College each have something special athletically to offer to the community.

...

by Levi Gilbert

For the past two years, the Miracle League has hosted a Big League Training Camp featuring professional baseball players. The camp was held in December and featured pitchers Cliff Lee of the Phillies (now with the Mariners) and AJ Burnett of the Yankees. Both are natives of the 501.
...

by Levi Gilbert

 For eight years, the Beast Feast in Conway has served as a night of fun and fellowship for men and boys of all ages. The banquet – hosted by the Second Baptist Men’s Ministry of Conway – has had the same goal every year.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

More than 4,100 youth are preparing for the Arkansas Youth Shooting season, which will open Feb. 1.
The Arkansas Youth Shooting Sports Program, an educational outreach of the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, began in 2007, and its numbers are steadily rising.

...

by Levi Gilbert

Ron Marvel is the basketball coach’s equivalent to Brett Favre. OK, he’s not that indecisive, but the man refuses to quit.

Marvel, 66, is coming out of retirement for the second time in the past two years, and this time he’s returning to his roots: coaching high school boys’ basketball.

...

by Donna Lampkin Stephens

Whitney Allison isn’t sure exactly what path her life will take, but she won’t have any problem being fulfilled whichever direction she takes.

Allison, who will graduate in December with a political science degree from the University of Arkansas, is the new girls soccer coach at her alma mater, Conway High School — at least for the spring.

...

Monday, Oct. 5, was an “exciting day” for Central Baptist College in Conway as the school officially announced it has joined the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). ...

by Sonja J. Keith

When Jace Harris returned to school this fall, he had a special story to share with classmates on how he spent his summer – winning a national rodeo title.

...