Latest news with #NAIA
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
SSU's Gloster signs with Germany's VIMODROM Baskets Jena
PORTSMOUTH —Shawnee State graduate Cianna Gloster, who was an All-River States Conference selection in both seasons she played with the SSU women's basketball program, has signed a professional contract to play women's basketball for Germany's USV Vimodrom Baskets Jena —the organization announced on Monday. Gloster was a First-Team all-RSC selection during the 2024-25 season, and led Shawnee State back to the NAIA National Tournament for the first time since 2021. Advertisement Gloster, who is arguably the best rebounding forward in the history of the Shawnee State women's basketball program, was a force as the Bears went 48-15 during her time in the lineup. Gloster averaged 13.5 points, 12.1 rebounds, 2.9 steals and 1.2 blocks over the course of her time at Shawnee State. She shot 56.1-percent from the field during her Shawnee State career and scored 1,029 career collegiate points — 849 of those coming at Shawnee State in two seasons, after transferring from Rochester Christian (Mich.). The six-foot forward from Flint, Mich. was named as a First-Team all-RSC selection after averaging 15.1 points, 11.7 rebounds and three steals while shooting 55.4-percent from the field. Advertisement Gloster spearheaded the RSC's top defensive unit, as the Bears ultimately won as many as 20 consecutive games to run the RSC table during the regular season —while advancing to the 2025 RSC Championship Game. Gloster then led Shawnee State to an NAIA Opening Round victory over Loyola (La.) 70-62, before dropping a scant 71-66 decision to No. 5-ranked Cumberlands (Ky.) in the NAIA Second Round. She finished her career as not only a First-Team all-RSC honoree, but a 2025 CSC-NAIA Academic All-District selection —who played in and started each of Shawnee State's 63 games. In 43 of those 63 contests, Gloster posted a double-double. Advertisement USV Vimodrom Baskets Jena, which plays in the German Regionalliga League, went 14-0 last season in the league's SouthEast-North Division —winning the division by five games. Players which have suited up for USV Vimodrom Baskets Jena include Celeste Mershmister, who played at Rochester Christian and was a former college teammate of Gloster's, and 6-5 center Marta Miscenko, who was a First-Team All-South Atlantic Conference talent at NCAA Division II Wingate (N.C.). For more on the Shawnee State women's basketball program, please visit or
Miami Herald
10 hours ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Newly-hired assistant coach's recruiting skills figure to benefit STU basketball program
It looks like St. Thomas University men's basketball coach Zach Moss has made a genius move. Moss recently hired Jacob Shaw, 44, as associate head coach at STU, which is an NAIA program. Shaw, who has been a head coach at Miami Beach High and an assistant at Florida Memorial University, is perhaps best known as the creator of a free website ( is highly popular among college coaches all across the country. Largely due to that website, Shaw has been able to forge connections with players and coaches throughout South Florida. Just ask Lawton Williams III, the highly-respected boys' basketball coach at Miami Norland. '(Shaw) is an excellent recruiter,' Williams said. 'He's a great judge of talent, and he's pretty good at skill development. 'His connections allow him to get to know a lot of players. He's a relentless worker. He's always on the phone, and that's what college coaching is all about. You've got to get players.' Southridge High coach Robert Doctor said Shaw is a player's coach. 'He also has a vast knowledge of the game,' Doctor said. 'He has the support of a lot of coaches in South Florida, and that's going to help him get players.' SLAM coach Alex Garcia is also high on Shaw. 'He has a feel for all the players in Miami, and we need that,' Garcia said. 'There's a lot of talent down here that doesn't get recruited locally.' Moss, a 42-year-old Naples native, can certainly use the help. Last season, in Moss' first year as a head coach, the Bobcats went 10-16. In the previous two seasons – with Moss as associate head coach under Patrick Crarey – the Bobcats went 22-9 and 26-8, making the NAIA national playoffs each time. Crarey, though, left STU for Florida A&M, and he is now the head coach at Grambling State. Meanwhile, Moss admits last season could've gone smoother, especially when it came to key injuries that tested STU's depth. 'There are a lot of things I need to do better,' Moss said humbly. 'I was a really good assistant coach, but that was my first year as a head coach, and I had a lot to learn. 'I had a lot of growth this summer, which I spent reflecting and watching film.' Moss also corrected what may be considered a mistake. Prior to his first year as the head coach, Moss offered Shaw a job as a part-time coach. Shaw declined. Then in June of this year, Moss made a stronger offer, eventually giving Shaw the title of associate head coach. So, who is Jacob Shaw? In high school, Shaw – a 6-foot-4 shooting guard – led Detroit's Pershing High to four straight East Side championships. From there, Shaw spent two years playing for Bismark (North Dakota) State College. After junior college, Shaw wrapped up his career with two years in South Dakota at the University of Sioux Falls, which advanced to the NAIA Final Four while he was playing for the Cougars. Shaw said he remembers one particularly frigid night in Bismark when it was negative-14. 'With the wind chill, it was negative-61,' Shaw said. 'I was thinking, 'What am I doing here?'' In search of sunshine, Shaw landed a teaching job at Miami Edison. He also coached the Red Raiders' girls' basketball team in the 2008-2009 season. From there, he spent the next decade as the head boys' basketball coach at Miami Beach High, and that eventually led Shaw to one year (2001-2002) as an assistant men's basketball coach at Florida Memorial, which is STU's rival. During that one season, FMU won the Sun Conference tournament title for just the second time in the school's long history. 'Jacob is a proven winner in our conference,' Moss said. 'I have recruited in Florida for a long time, but Jacob has done it at such a deep level that bringing him on staff is something I really wanted.' Shaw will handle multiple roles for the Bobcats – defensive guru; ace recruiter and Moss' right-hand man on the bench. 'I want opponents to feel pressured,' Shaw said when asked about his defensive philosophy. The Bobcats, who have won the Sun Conference postseason tournament just three times – in 1994, 1997 and 2009 – return former Rivera Prep 6-3 guard Esteban Lluberes, who started 23 games last year. He was top-three on the team in scoring (14.3); 3-point percentage (39.6); and free throws (86.0 percent). Among STU's top newcomers are two junior-college transfers: Kaleb Myers, a 6-8 Nicaragua native signed by Shaw; and Blake Neverdon, a 40-percent 3-poiont shooter. Then there's 6-3 point guard Jalen Gilmore, who started at Lynn University, an NCAA Division II school. Two years ago, he averaged 5.2 assists, second in the Sunshine State Conference. 'I have a very positive attitude about what's about to happen at STU,' Shaw said. 'I haven't been this excited about a team in a long time.'
Time of India
6 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
How student-athletes score scholarships at top global universities
How student athletes can secure sports scholarships in universities abroad. In today's global education landscape, student-athletes stand out, not just for their sporting excellence, but for their unique ability to unlock doors at top-tier universities. Successfully combining academics and athletics creates a powerful profile, especially when applying to institutions in the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia. If you're an aspiring student-athlete dreaming of studying abroad, this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know—from building a strong profile to securing scholarships and navigating the admissions process. How Indian Students Can Secure College Sports Admissions in the U.S. & Beyond Who is a student-athlete? A student-athlete is a full-time university student who also competes in varsity-level sports for their college. This structured pathway is especially prominent in North America, where organizations like the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association), NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), and other college leagues ensure that sports and education go hand in hand. Why choose the student-athlete route abroad? Scholarship Opportunities: Top universities often offer partial or full sports scholarships, significantly reducing tuition and living expenses. World-Class Training and Coaching: State-of-the-art facilities and professional coaching help athletes reach peak performance. Holistic Growth: The system is built to support both academic and athletic goals, without forcing a choice between the two. Global Exposure and Networking: Student-athletes enter diverse networks of peers, mentors, and alumni across the globe, creating long-term career and life opportunities. How to study abroad through sports Student-athletes planning to study abroad can plan their journey by following the steps outlined below: 1. Start Early: Begin planning by Grade 9–11; research countries, sports, and universities. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ultra-Luxury 3–5 BHKs Overlooking the Arabian Sea L&T The Gateway Enquire Now Undo 2. Build Your Sports Profile: Create a resume, record highlight videos, and track rankings/stats. 3. Maintain Academic Excellence: Keep strong grades and prepare for SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS. 4. Contact Coaches: Email shortlisted coaches with your sports profile and personalised message. 5. Get Evaluated: Use rankings or attend camps to benchmark your level. 6. Understand Recruitment & Scholarships: Communicate regularly with coaches and apply formally when ready. 7. Prepare Key Documents: Include transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters, resume, and personal statement. 8. Stay Organised: Track deadlines, check eligibility (e.g., NCAA/NAIA), and prepare for visa processes. Which sports offer the best opportunities? Sports like tennis, golf, swimming, and track & field offer the best opportunities for international student-athletes, as they rely on measurable stats and rankings—making it easier for coaches to assess talent remotely. Soccer, basketball, and fencing offer moderate opportunities but often require showcase participation or video-based evaluations. Emerging sports like hockey, squash, shooting, and equestrian have fewer programs but can still lead to scholarships for standout athletes. Quantitative sports generally provide smoother recruitment pathways due to their data-driven nature. The student-athlete journey goes far beyond scholarships. It builds life skills that last a lifetime—discipline, time management, leadership, and resilience. Whether you pursue a pro career or pivot to other fields, these experiences shape you into a global citizen with a competitive edge. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Indianapolis Star
14-07-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
Pitcher becomes 4th Taylor baseball player picked in MLB draft as 6th round pick to Houston Astros
Gabel Pentecost's path from homeschool student to NAIA star to professional baseball took another step toward reality Monday. The Houston Astros selected the Taylor University right-handed pitcher 186th overall in the sixth round of the Major League draft. As a junior, Pentecost retains the option of signing or returning to Taylor for a final season. That draft slot carries a bonus value of $341,600, per Pentecost was the first NAIA player selected in this draft, which lasts 20 rounds. However, per NAIA Ball on he is the third NAIA pitcher selected by the Astros in the past two years, following Southeastern's Ramsey David and The Masters' Ryan Mathiesen. Pentecost drew the interest of MLB scouts when his velocity kept climbing to the verge of 96 miles per hour this past season. He repeated as Crossroads League Pitcher of the Year, going 12-2 with 116 strikeouts against 21 walks and a 3.04 ERA. Pentecost was a homeschool student who did not play his first two years of high school. He played two years for the local district, Fremont, but planned to play Division III basketball. Taylor became his only scholarship offer when the coaches saw him pitch the sectional championship game. Pentecost's path: From homeschool to NAIA to MLB Draft? Taylor pitcher develops with pro-level technology He's the fourth baseball player from Taylor to be selected in the MLB draft. Josh DeGraaf became the program's third MLB draft pick in 2015 and reached Triple-A with the Toronto Blue Jays.
The Star
12-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
New Manila International Airport positions Philippines for long-term growth
MANILA: A brighter chapter is set to open for Philippine aviation. With the New Manila International Airport (NMIA) now under development in Bulakan, Bulacan, the country is building on the momentum of aviation reforms and infrastructure upgrades—setting the stage for stronger economic growth, improved connectivity and a better travel experience for millions. Designed to be one of the most modern airports in the world, NMIA is expected to offer more efficient movement of passengers and cargo, complement the ongoing rehabilitation of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and support a new wave of regional development. The development of NMIA is led by San Miguel Aerocity Inc., through a 50-year concession agreement with the national government. The first phase is scheduled to begin construction in January 2026. This will include two runways, a modern terminal, and key facilities designed to serve up to 35 million passengers annually, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2028. NMIA is being built to work alongside NAIA, which is now undergoing a P170.6-billion (US$3.02 billion) upgrade to improve its capacity and passenger experience. Once the rehabilitation is done, NAIA will be able to handle up to 62 million passengers a year and manage 48 flights per hour. With both airports operating, the country will have a stronger, more reliable aviation system that can keep up with growing travel demand. With the new airport located only 18 km from SM North Edsa and 15 km from Balintawak, it's almost part of Metro Manila. Good transportation access is a big part of NMIA's design. New roads and terminals will connect the airport to Metro Manila and nearby provinces. A six-lane highway will link it to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx), and a transport terminal will be built to serve provincial buses and other types of public transportation. There are also proposals to extend the MRT-7 line—currently under construction between Quezon City and San Jose del Monte in Bulacan—so that it could eventually connect to the NMIA site. If approved, this extension would make it easier for travelers from northern Metro Manila and nearby areas to reach the airport. For now, the plan remains under review and has not yet been finalised. NMIA is expected to do more than enhance air travel—it will also contribute to economic growth and the development of surrounding areas. The project is projected to generate over one million jobs and pave the way for an airport city with dedicated spaces for businesses, residential communities, and industrial facilities. This bigger plan highlights how the airport can help guide how land is used, bring in new investments and make the country more competitive in tourism and trade. As more roads and facilities are built, and travel becomes easier, businesses in different industries—such as logistics, hotels, real estate and manufacturing—are likely to look at Bulacan and nearby areas for new opportunities. For years, the country's aviation system has carried growing demand with very limited capacity. NAIA, which for decades has been the lone international gateway for Metro Manila, is now being upgraded to meet higher standards and improve service. The addition of NMIA—designed with modern facilities, future-ready technologies and world-class design—marks a turning point in how the Philippines is seen by the world. It's a major step toward restoring confidence, improving the traveler experience and presenting the Philippines as a premier destination in the region. Recognising how these major infrastructure changes influence property values, development prospects and long term investment strategies will be essential for those looking to take part in this rapidly evolving growth corridor. As the country builds toward a more connected future, the New Manila International Airport will play a central role in driving local progress and shaping the next wave of regional development. NMIA is not just a new dot on the map—it's the Philippines' runway for growth to take off. It will propel Bulacan into a prime growth area of Metro Manila, while ushering in business to nearby provinces. Large scale investors will be drawn in with its world-class connectivity, fuelling growth in years to come. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
