Hilltopper Nation: Recent Episodes
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WKU Football junior defensive back Kendrick Simpkins discusses the 2-0 start to the season, learning from some great defensive players that proceeded him, what brought him to The Hill, playing for Tyson Helton, and looking ahead to Ohio State
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WKU Volleyball head coach discusses the intense matches his team had this season against Rice, building respect within the volleyball world, the value of a regular season conference championship, the legacy of all-time great Lauren Matthews and he previews the NCAA Tournament for the Hilltoppers.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball head coach Rick Stansbury discusses the excitement surrounding his team, the new additions to the roster in the offseason, the team’s preparation for the season with two exhibition games, and the anticipation surrounding the season opener at Eastern Kentucky. Stansbury also talks about the importance of a packed house in Diddle Arena this year and how fans can help the team to success.
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WKU Soccer fifth year defender discusses scoring the game-winner on Senior Night, helping find this year's team's identity, close matches this season, the trademark stingy WKU defense, her final season on The Hill and previewing the Conference USA tournament.
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WKU Football defensive coordinator Tyson Summers discusses the team's rivalry win at Middle Tennessee, the emphasis the Hilltoppers have put on defense, being promoted to defensive coordinator, his many connections to Tyson Helton including their days together at UAB and he previews WKU's game against UAB.
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WKU Soccer assistant coach Grant Williams discusses his experience as a WKU alum, his local ties with the Bowling Green soccer community, his previous time at WKU and his current stint on The Hill.
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WKU Football head coach Tyson Helton recaps the season so far, looks ahead to the remaining schedule, discusses Bailey Zappe's debut with the Patriots and talks about the game day atmosphere at Houchens-Smith Stadium
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WKU Volleyball assistant coach Craig Bere discusses the performance of the Hilltoppers this season, the tough non-conference schedule, earning the respect of the volleyball world, and his relationship with the coaching staff.
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WKU Football senior wide receiver Craig Burt, Jr. discusses his time on The Hill, improving each season, differences and similarities from last season to this season, what the team does in down time, recapping the Indiana game and looking forward to Conference USA play.
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WKU Volleyball's redshirt freshman Callie Bauer discusses the team's start to the season, how the veteran players are helping the younger players develop, replacing last season's roster departures, the environment in Diddle Arena for the season opener, her recent triple double and what the team will be working on as the season continues.
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WKU Women's golf freshman Sydney Hackett discusses her win in the USA Intercollegiate tournament, the recruiting process and what brought her to WKU, her play with Junior Golf this summer, the chemistry this year's team is building and goals for the season.
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WKU Soccer senior forward Katie Erwin discusses the start of the 2022 season, the WKU defense, the program's success against Power Five opponents the past few seasons, playing in-state teams and how much fan support means to the team during home matches.
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WKU Director of Athletics Todd Stewart opens Season 3 of the podcast and discusses the beginning of the 2022-23 sports season, expectations for the WKU Volleyball and WKU Soccer programs this fall, the chance for those teams to host Louisville and Kentucky early in their seasons, Hilltopper Volleyball’s new Taraflex playing court, WKU Football opening the college football season nationally against Austin Peay on Saturday, what to expect from the Hilltoppers on the gridiron, upcoming facility plans on campus, and the recent media exposure valuation completed by Nielsen Sports involving WKU Football and Hilltopper Basketball last December.
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WKU Director of Athletics Todd Stewart closes Season 2 of the podcast by discussing another successful year with four championships, WKU Softball’s strong season, the transformational time in college athletics with the transfer portal and Name, Image and Likeness, how WKU has adapted to NIL, the importance of community buy-in, upcoming facility upgrades, and what he sees for the future of college athletics and WKU’s place in that vision.
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WKU Sport Psychologist Dr. Joey Case discusses how common mental health concerns are among college athletes, ways to recognize and support mental health issues in others, the typical barriers to providing services, the success of WKU’s TOPCARE program, what a first meeting with him is typically like, advice for coaches to help themselves and their student-athletes, and his vision for the future evolution of TOPCARE.
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WKU Associate Athletic Directors Olivia Higgins and Zach Greenwell discuss how the first year of Name, Image and Likeness has gone, the importance of WKU's partnership with INFLCR to support student-athletes in NIL, the launch of Hilltopper Local Exchange to help businesses and student-athletes connect, negotiate and complete deals, how to sign up for Local Exchange and how payments work, the benefits of completing deals through Local Exchange, and the vital role of the community in ensuring WKU's success in the NIL landscape.
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WKU Track and Field freshman Keegan Barnette discusses what first brought him to the Hill, his relationship with coach Brooks LeCompte, what he attributes his first-year success to, his competition in the steeplechase and setting the facility record at UAB in the event, what he’s learned from the team’s veterans, and the camaraderie amongst the team.
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Current New Orleans Saints and former WKU offensive lineman Forrest Lamp discusses re-signing with the Saints this offseason, his journey through a NFL career, the brotherhood between former Hilltoppers in the league, how he keeps up with the Tops and his pride in the program, what it means to see WKU’s offense back in an explosive way, and his goals heading into the upcoming season.
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Former WKU quarterback and current New York Jets QB Mike White discusses his breakout NFL performance last season against the Cincinnati Bengals that led to AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors, re-signing with the Jets this offseason, balancing his pro career with his family life, his impressions of WKU Football’s explosive offense and Bailey Zappe in 2021, what makes a good relationship between quarterback and coaches, Tyson Helton’s strong reputation working with QBs, and what his preparation will look like for the upcoming season.
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WKU Dance head coach Audrey McDole discusses her new role as the program’s full-time coach, the experience she gained as the program’s co-coach last year, what originally led her into dance, her background in dance coaching, what goes into a typical year with a college dance program, and what she envisions for the future of WKU Dance.
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WKU Track and Field senior Audrey Griffin discusses her work with the program as a sprinter and hurdler, adding new events this season, her passion for the 400 hurdles, her leadership role as a three-time team captain, the emotions for her as she nears the end of her competitive career, this coming week’s Hilltopper Relays at WKU, her participation in community service events in Bowling Green, and what she’s looking to accomplish over the rest of the outdoor season.
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WKU Football head coach Tyson Helton discusses starting spring practice this week, the mindset going into spring ball, the new structure of his coaching staff, the quarterback competition after the departure of star Bailey Zappe, what to expect on the defensive side of the ball, and the main things he’s looking for over the next few weeks.
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WKU Lady Topper Golf junior Sarah Arnold discusses her journey to WKU, her relationship with head coach Adam Gary, learning from some of the program’s recent veterans, earning her place in the team’s record book, the progression of her game, what it’s been like over the last two years playing through a pandemic, and hosting the Spring Break Shootout this week in Florida.
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WKU Softball fifth-year senior Bailey Curry discusses her strong start to the 2022 season, the journey that eventually led her to WKU, the master’s degree program she’s pursuing, what it’s been like to be a Hilltopper for a short time, the prior relationships she had with her new teammates, the team’s outstanding start to the season and the next steps in conference play.
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WKU Assistant Director of Development Kat Smith discusses her family’s deep ties to WKU, her time as a student-athlete on The Hill with the softball program, her professional journey back to WKU working with the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation, getting the opportunity to work as a play-by-play broadcaster this season for the softball team, the announcement of the Women’s Legacy Fund, the campaign’s ties to the 50th anniversary of Title IX, and the importance of donor support to the athletic department.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball sophomore guard Dayvion McKnight discusses the team’s seven-game winning streak in 17 days, building chemistry and momentum through the win streak, his dominant week in helping WKU to three wins in six days, how the team dug deep to overcome a five-game losing skid, him embracing his role as a leader, the pride he takes in being an all-around player, what sold him on coming to WKU, and what he wants to see from the Hilltoppers leading into the conference tournament.
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WKU Track and Cross Country sophomore distance runner Lucy Rutherford discusses her recruiting process and decision to attend WKU, transitioning into college during a pandemic, her strong start to her college career, competing under coach Brooks LeCompte, having a close-knit group amongst the distance runners, getting to compete in the Music City Challenge, how she originally got involved in the steeplechase event, and what to expect from this week’s C-USA Indoor Championships.
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WKU Soccer senior defender Lyric Schmidt discusses a busy and successful 2021 calendar year with two full seasons of competition, the benefits of playing two seasons in such a short time period, her role on WKU’s stout defense, her decision to return for a fifth COVID year in 2022, getting to play another season with teammate Ambere Barnett, and her individual and team goals for her final year.
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WKU Softball junior pitcher Katie Gardner discusses having her jersey retired at Warren East High School, her journey to WKU, being a role model for softball players in the area, how she’s grown during her time on the Hill, winning the 2021 C-USA Championship on their home field, her preparation for the 2022 season, and her goals for the upcoming season.
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WKU coed cheerleader Dakota Finerman discusses his squad winning a national championship earlier this month in Orlando, what it means to take home the program’s first coed national title, the preparation that goes into competing for a cheer championship, how he got into cheer after injuries ended his cross country career, how his relationship with WKU head coach Alli Lumpkin has helped guide his college career, and what he sees for the future of WKU Cheer.
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Legendary former Lady Topper Basketball head coach Paul Sanderford discusses his 1992 National Runner-Up Team, which will be honored this weekend, as well as his time on The Hill, the current Lady Toppers and the success of all women’s athletics at WKU.
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WKU Director of Athletics Todd Stewart returns to the show to discuss one of the most remarkable days in Hilltopper history – the Dec. 18 combination of WKU Football's bowl win on ESPN and Hilltopper Basketball's home victory over Louisville on CBS – as well as Bailey Zappe's record-breaking season at quarterback, the dominant success of Hilltopper Volleyball, and the way WKU and the community have come together in the wake of the Dec. 11 tornadoes. Note: This podcast was recorded shortly after Dec. 18, but held due to Hilltopper Basketball's added game against Kentucky and the Christmas holiday.
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WKU Football graduate senior quarterback Bailey Zappe discusses winning the Conference USA East Division championship Saturday at Marshall, the talented teammates he plays with on offense, closing in on the NCAA all-time single season touchdown and passing yardage records, his relationship with offensive coordinator Zach Kittley, how the team stayed the course after a 1-4 start, getting buzz in the Heisman Trophy candidate discussion, and this week’s upcoming rematch against UTSA for the Conference USA championship.
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WKU Volleyball senior middle hitter Lauren Matthews discusses winning another Conference USA championship and earning the NCAA Tournament berth, defeating Rice again and winning three straight C-USA Tournament MVP awards, the support of fans – and even a rival program – at the tournament, what it means to win the C-USA Player of the Year award named for late WKU legend Alyssa Cavanaugh, how her improved defensive skills led to C-USA Defensive Player of the Year, what has helped her sustained offensive success over several years, the team’s chemistry between veterans and underclassmen, the challenges of playing two seasons in a calendar year because of COVID-19, her relationship with coach Travis Hudson, and a look ahead to the NCAA Tournament.
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WKU Volleyball fifth-year senior defensive specialist Logan Kael discusses last weekend’s pair of wins over Charlotte, having never lost a regular season Conference USA match in her three seasons with the program, what Senior Night was like for her, how she decided to return to WKU for an extra COVID year, her thoughts on the impact of the team’s newcomers, her decision to come to the Hill, her relationship with head coach Travis Hudson, favorite memories from her time at WKU, and the upcoming C-USA Tournament.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball head coach Rick Stansbury returns to the show to discuss preparations for the 2021-22 season, the leadership of Luke Frampton and Dayvion McKnight, handling an influx of transfers in the first year of the transfer portal, Josh Anderson’s decision to return to WKU for a fifth season, what to expect overall from this year’s roster, the impact of 7-5 center Jamarion Sharp, a challenging non-conference schedule, and what it will mean to have Diddle Arena back at full capacity.
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WKU Lady Topper Basketball head coach Greg Collins discusses the upcoming season, what was learned through last season in a pandemic, bringing back key pieces like Meral Abdelgawad and Hope Sivori, what to expect from some of the newcomers, the impact of crowds returning to Diddle Arena, the team’s non-conference schedule, and a change to a more up-tempo style of play.
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WKU Football redshirt sophomore offensive lineman Rusty Staats discusses the team’s victory at Old Dominion last weekend, the offensive line’s role in the Hilltoppers’ explosive offense, his respect for quarterback Bailey Zappe, playing center in a creative offensive scheme, moving into a starting role at that position, WKU’s history of standout offensive linemen, and what he’s learned from some of the Hilltopper linemen who came before him.
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WKU Director of Student-Athlete Career Development McKenzie Watson discusses implementing the The Hilltopper CLIMB program, her background as a volleyball student-athlete at Kentucky, how her experiences as a student-athlete shape her work in career development, how she ended up in her position at WKU, working with a large number of student-athletes every day, and her future plans for WKU Athletics’ programming.
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WKU Softball alum and new Olympic medalist Larissa Franklin discusses winning a bronze medal with Canada in the 2020 Tokyo Games, what the training process was like for the delayed Olympics, being one of five Hilltoppers competing in Tokyo, becoming the first medalist in WKU Softball history and the third medalist in WKU Athletics history, what life has been like since returning from Japan, playing against WKU in an exhibition with Team Canada this past spring, and her thoughts on the Hilltoppers’ conference championship in May.
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WKU Women’s Golf sophomore Rachel Rich discusses the team’s chemistry, their most recent finish at the Lady Paladin Invitational in her home state of South Carolina, her freshman-year experience, her recruitment process to WKU, how the team bonds off the golf course, what it’s like to be coached by Adam Gary, and goals for the team and herself individually headed into the rest of the season.
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WKU Soccer sophomore midfielder Brina Micheels discusses the team’s 2-0 start in conference play, her two-goal performance in a win over Vanderbilt, WKU’s comeback win at Marshall in the C-USA opener, the team’s defensive prowess lifting the offense, how she ended up on The Hill, what’s strengthened the team’s chemistry, her freshman season which included an East Division championship, her popular Instagram account (@skillchallenges) with nearly 90,000 followers, and her goals for the stretch run of the season.
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WKU Volleyball freshman outside hitter Katie Howard discusses playing her first matches in Diddle Arena and earning her first start, her experience watching the program growing up as a Bowling Green native, the start of the 2021 season, the impact the seniors have made on her and the team, the chemistry off the court amongst the players, her recruitment process to WKU, what it means to play for head coach Travis Hudson and his staff, and her goals for this season.
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WKU Football junior receiver Jerreth Sterns discusses his two-touchdown debut in the Hilltoppers’ win over UT Martin, his transition after transferring from Houston Baptist, making that move with his brother, quarterback Bailey Zappe and offensive coordinator Zach Kittley, his bond with his brother and fellow WKU receiver Josh Sterns, the debate over who's the best bowler on the team, his academic success and pursuit of a degree in finance, and this week’s game at Army.
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To open Season 2 of the show, WKU Director of Athletics Todd Stewart discusses a return to full capacity for the 2021-22 season, how WKU continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing the fan experience back to college athletics, the start of football season, expectations for WKU Volleyball and Soccer, the new “Champions Climb Here” campaign, how the athletic department is handling Name, Image and Likeness, and his vision for WKU Athletics moving forward.
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WKU Softball redshirt-junior Shelby Nunn talks about winning the Conference USA Championship on the Hilltoppers home field in her hometown. Nunn talks about the run support her teammates were able to provide the WKU pitching staff in the championship game along with the highs and lows of the Tops' championship run. She also goes on to talk about how long she's played with and against some of her Hilltopper teammates before finally touching on the team heading to the NCAA Softball Tournament.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
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WKU junior distance runner Clint Sherman discusses transitioning from Cross Country to indoor and outdoor Track & Field, helping the program podium in the distance medley relay team, the secret to his incremental success throughout the season, training with a highly competitive distance group, being able to connect to the school’s distance alumni, his favorite moment from the 2020-21 season, and what he’s looking forward to about the Conference USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Head Cheerleading Coach and Spirit Program Coordinator Alli Lumpkin discusses the program winning its first national championship last week in the D1A All-Girl Division of the UCA Collegiate National Championship in Orlando, what the accomplishment means for the program moving forward, how WKU Cheer had to adjust during the COVID-19 pandemic, what it was like for her to take over as coach in August 2020, how her cheerleading background has prepared her for her current role, what it means to be the WKU coach as a nearby Glasgow native, and what she views as the next steps for the program.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Softball redshirt sophomore outfielder Taylor Davis discusses the Hilltoppers’ walk-off win Sunday over Charlotte, how players are stepping up with the team shorthanded and battling other adversity, dealing with the pandemic over the last year, how she’s adjusted her game to catching and throwing with the same arm, her favorite memories as a Hilltopper, some of her other activities on The Hill, and what first sold her on WKU.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Football senior safety Antwon Kincade discusses the defense’s success in last weekend’s Spring Game, the work the team put in throughout the spring, the defense’s “Mamba Mentality,” using an extra year of eligibility due to the pandemic to return in 2021, his fellow secondary member Devon Key pursuing pro football, goals for the Hilltoppers this summer, and getting to have larger crowds in the stands next season.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Soccer senior defender Avery Jacobsen discusses winning the Conference USA East Division championship on Friday, the dramatic 1-0 home win over Charlotte that clinched the title, the program’s steady improvement during her playing career, taking on more of a leadership role as a senior, the connection between the players as teammates, the team’s defensive success this season, and the expectations for this week’s C-USA Tournament.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Volleyball junior middle hitter Katie Isenbarger discusses the Hilltoppers' most recent Conference USA Tournament Championship, heading to the NCAA Tournament Bubble, being a dual-sport student-athlete (and All-Conference in both) on The Hill with WKU Volleyball and Track & Field, what makes the program so special, and even shares a challenge for Hilltopper Nation!
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Softball redshirt sophomore pitcher/outfielder Kennedy Sullivan discusses her game-winning hit to beat No. 7 Kentucky last week, having longstanding relationships with several of her teammates even before college, being a unique two-way player, the team’s strong pitching staff, what sold her on coming to WKU, the upcoming start of conference play, and what it means to get to host the C-USA Championship after it was canceled in Bowling Green last year due to the pandemic.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Soccer head coach Jason Neidell discusses the 20 seasons of Lady Topper Soccer on The Hill, his team’s hot start to the year, adjusting during the pandemic including shifting soccer’s playing season to the spring from the fall, who on his team has stepped up this season and how he is approaching the final stretch of the 2021 spring season.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss all WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
WKU Volleyball senior defensive specialist Hallie Shelton discusses the Hilltoppers' win over West Virginia, experience of playing a season during COVID, her decision to return for a fifth season as well as some of her favorite things and memories of her time since arriving on The Hill.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss the nine WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an insightful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball junior center Charles Bassey discusses the Hilltoppers winning the C-USA East Division title on their home court Saturday, what it means to bring a championship to The Hill, the accolades he’s received this season, what he’s most proud of about his game this year, his selection to the C-USA All-Academic Team, the team’s excitement for this week’s C-USA Tournament, and what it would mean to finish the season with a trip to March Madness.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss the nine WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an inciteful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
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WKU Baseball redshirt sophomore pitcher Jake Kates discusses why he decided to come to WKU, his impressive start to the shortened 2020 season, the work he did to improve his game over the extended offseason, his continued success on the mound to start the 2021 season, getting his first career start against his hometown team, his ability to play in the field and pitch, and his goals for the rest of the season.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss 11 WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an inciteful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
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WKU Softball redshirt senior outfielder Paige Carter discusses the team’s 4-1 start last weekend in Chattanooga, her weekend that included a .500 batting average and hitting leadoff for the first time in her career, coming back for an extra year of eligibility with teammate Kelsey Aikey, what went into her decision to return to college for another year, adjusting to playing without crowds and altered travel, getting to finally host the Conference USA Tournament at WKU, and her favorite memories as a Hilltopper.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview, recap and discuss 11 WKU squads that are currently in action. Our hosts give an inciteful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball redshirt senior forward Carson Williams discusses the team’s six-game winning streak, how it used a 19-day layoff to stay locked in, his strong effort Saturday against Rice, how he’s adjusted to a new role this season, his efforts to lead by example, what the team has learned about how to handle back-to-back series, staying ready this season through chaotic changes, where the team is at with six regular season games left, and the Hilltoppers’ desire to get another chance at a conference championship.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams talk about 11 different WKU squads as we hit full stride on what looks to be an action-packed spring. From baseball scheduling to volleyball's 7-0 start along with the hardwood and gridiron our hosts give an inciteful overview of everything happening on The Hill.
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WKU Track and Field freshman thrower Kaison Barton discusses the transition from high school to college during the pandemic, what first led him to compete in throwing, how he chose WKU, head coach Brent Chumbley’s efforts to improve WKU’s throwing program, the start of his college career through this indoor season’s opening meets, what he chooses as his favorite event between hammer and shot put, and what he’d like Hilltopper Nation to know about the Track and Field program.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode talking about WKU Hilltopper and Lady Topper Basketball. From there, WKU Volleyball gets some airtime as Randy, Tyler and Brett talk wins and conference play. At that point, WKU Soccer, Tennis and Track & Field are discussed before the episode closes out with WKU Golf talk.
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WKU Volleyball senior setter Nadia Dieudonne discusses the team’s 5-0 start, entering the season ranked in the top 25, adjusting to prepare for a spring season instead of the fall, becoming the most highly regarded setter in Conference USA after transferring from Xavier, what drew her to WKU as a transfer, her relationship with head coach Travis Hudson and her bond with fellow transfer Logan Kael, getting to host the NCAA Tournament last season, and her plans after leaving The Hill.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode talking about WKU Football's newly released 2021 schedule. Following the gridiron talk, the trio switches to the hardwood to talk Hilltopper and Lady Topper Basketball. From there, WKU Volleyball gets some airtime as Randy, Tyler and Brett talk wins and awards. At that point, WKU Track & Field is discussed before the episode closes out with WKU Tennis talk.
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WKU Track & Field sophomore sprinter Alexis Williams discusses returning to action this spring with a strong start, the abrupt end to the 2020 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic, her recruitment process, leading C-USA in multiple events so far this season, her success in the 60-meter dash after an extended break from running it, her favorite event to run, how competition on the team has helped her improve, and her goals for the remainder of the season.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode talking about WKU Men's Basketball All-American candidate Charles Bassey earning national player of the week honors before talking scheduling. From there, the trio switches gears to talk Lady Topper Basketball and the return of Raneem Elgedawy. Next up, Randy, Tyler and Brett talked about WKU Football's Freshman All-American, Ricky Barber. With spring sports finally here, WKU Volleyball, Track & Field, Tennis and Soccer are also discussed.
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WKU Women’s Basketball senior forward Raneem Elgedawy discusses returning to the team with two standout performances after spending the first semester in her native Egypt, how she’s adjusted to a changing Lady Topper roster, her role with the team as a senior, her relationship with head coach Greg Collins and his children, the discussions she had with her father and family to ultimately return from Egypt, her goals for the remainder of the season, her love of the double-double, and her close friendship with teammate and fellow Egyptian Meral Abdelgawad.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode with an overview of WKU Football's staff changes before switching gears to talk both men's and women's hoops. From there, the trio touch on women's tennis as well as track and field as well as the chaotic spring that is quickly approaching.
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Newly promoted WKU Football defensive coordinator Maurice Crum discusses his new opportunity to lead the Hilltopper defense, what he learned from former WKU defensive coordinator Clayton White, how he’s prepared for the role, the future of WKU’s defense and linebacker group, the continuity in the defensive coaching staff, and how he and his family have found a home in Bowling Green over the last five years.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode with discussion of the return of Raneem Elgedawy for Lady Topper Basketball and the impact she'll make for Greg Collins' squad. The trio then switches gears to recapping Hilltopper Basketball's C-USA opening weekend at Charlotte and looking ahead to this weekend's Louisiana Tech contests. This week's episode concludes with the topic of WKU Volleyball, as Travis Hudson's team has been voted No. 25 in the AVCA Preseason Coaches Poll.
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WKU Director of Athletics Todd Stewart joins the program for the first episode of 2021 to reflect on the department’s success having games played in 2020 through the COVID-19 pandemic, having a 1.3% COVID positivity rate on thousands of tests during the fall semester, the second WKU Football season under head coach Tyson Helton, the start of the men’s basketball season, the national exposure from the Hilltoppers’ early TV opportunities, what’s to come in a very busy spring on The Hill, the recent passing of John Oldham and Alyssa Cavanaugh, and the last decade of success at WKU.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode with a tribute to WKU Volleyball legend Alyssa Cavanaugh, who passed away on Dec. 25, 2020. From there, the hosts recap WKU Football's bowl game. After that, the trio talks WKU Basketball scheduling with Lady Topper Hoops' Conference USA-opening doubleheader on hold due to COVID-19 concerns within the Charlotte program. In this episode, they also breakdown the pros and cons of the league's East and West division format this year.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode previewing WKU Football's bowl trip to Mobile, Alabama for the 2017 Cure Bowl rematch before transitioning to WKU Men's and Women's Basketball.
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WKU Football Head Trainer Jessica Judd discusses what it’s been like navigating the team through a global pandemic, the differences in working with the student-athletes during COVID, the protocols in place to care for an individual who contracts the virus, the challenges in handling the pandemic with such a large roster, making it through the season with all 11 games played and a bowl game, and how some of the things learned during the pandemic can still be applied once it’s over.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode talking about WKU Football's bowl bid and newest coaching hire. The trio then switched gears to the hardwood to preview Hilltopper Basketball's upcoming game at Alabama. From there they transition to Lady Topper Basketball's upcoming five-game homestand.
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WKU Football redshirt senior defensive tackle Jeremy Darvin discusses the Hilltoppers getting selected for the LendingTree Bowl, his experiences with postseason play, getting a rematch with Georgia State in bowl competition, how the Tops finished the regular season on a three-game winning streak, playing for defensive line coach Kenny Martin, how the team stayed disciplined through the COVID-19 pandemic, and what his decision is regarding using an extra year of eligibility to return to The Hill next year.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's episode talking about WKU Football's third-straight win before switching gears to talk potential bowl game scheduling. From there, the trio switches gears to the hardwood to preview Hilltopper Basketball's upcoming games against Gardner-Webb (Thursday) and Rhode Island on Sunday. Then they transition to Lady Topper Basketball's tilt at Little Rock on Sunday along with recapping both sides' recent contests. This week's episode of Big Red Roundtable concludes with talks of spring sports schedules following the recent release of the Indoor Track, Men's Golf and Women's Golf slates.
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WKU Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities Les Forsythe discusses the challenges his department has faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the process of instituting new gameday safety guidelines for home events, navigating through a full football season, and a look at last weekend's first basketball games in Diddle Arena.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams begin this week's episode with the latest football scheduling news followed by discussions of bowl games. From there, the trio talks about the opening week for WKU's Men's and Women's Basketball teams and scheduling.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball redshirt junior guard Luke Frampton discusses the team’s 2-1 start in the Crossover Classic, what their bubble setups in South Dakota and Louisville have been like, what brought him to WKU as a transfer from Davidson, the other skills he brings in addition to his reputation as a sharpshooter, the depth of this year’s squad, and the grind of starting the season with six games in 10 days.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams recap WKU Football's fourth win of the season, before discussing the Tops' regular-season finale against Charlotte being pushed back. They also talk about Men's Basketball bubble play and how the Hilltoppers ended up in South Dakota before taking a look at Greg Collins' Lady Topper Basketball team and previewing their season opener at Tennessee. The show also pays tribute to the late John Oldham, a WKU Basketball legend.
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WKU Lady Topper Golf graduate senior Mary Joiner discusses what made her use the NCAA waiver for an extra year of eligibility, playing in the first Division I college golf tournament this fall, the impact head coach Adam Gary has had on her, being the winningest women’s golfer in WKU and Conference USA history, what she sees for the future of the program, and her plans after leaving The Hill.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's show by recapping WKU Football's third win of the season, before previewing Tyson Helton and company's next game: a Senior Day tilt against FIU. From there, the trio switches to Men's and Women's Basketball scheduling, Diddle Arena attendance and game environments. Episode 11 of Big Red Roundtable closes with talks of Women's Tennis scheduling and recruiting followed by WKU Athletics' successfully completed competitions.
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WKU Football redshirt senior safety Devon Key discusses becoming the program's all-time FBS era leader in career tackles in Saturday's win over Southern Miss, how WKU has navigated the COVID-19 pandemic as one of few teams nationally without a season disruption, the birth of his son this year, what led him to WKU out of high school, the bonds between the Hilltopper senior class, his process of becoming a leader for the team, and his engagement with the athletic department off the field.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's show by revisiting WKU Football's trip to Boca Raton, before previewing Tyson Helton and company's next game: a tilt against visiting Southern Miss. They closed the gridiron chat by highlighting some upcoming individual player milestones. From there, the trio switches to recapping WKU Volleyball's season-opening win, WKU Women's Golf's third-place team finish at the Mercer Invitational and Men's and Women's Basketball previews.
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WKU Volleyball sophomore middle hitter Avri Davis discusses the team’s season-opening win over UAB last weekend, her starting debut in that victory, preparing this fall for a limited schedule and a full slate in the spring, the outlook for this year’s team coming off a memorable 2019 season, the improvement of her own game, her relationship with head coach Travis Hudson, and her role on WKU Athletics’ new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's show by recapping WKU Football's trip to Provo, Utah, before previewing Tyson Helton and company's next game: a trip to Boca Raton, Florida, to face former Hilltopper and current Florida Atlantic head coach Willie Taggart. From there, the trio switches to basketball scheduling before wrapping up with a cross country recap as well as previews for WKU Volleyball and WKU Women's Golf.
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Presented by PNC Bank | WKU Hilltopper Basketball senior guard Taveion Hollingsworth discusses what the pandemic has been like for him, the ability to spend more time with his daughter in quarantine, how the team built chemistry through COVID-19 obstacles, what originally drew him to WKU, what he would tell recruits about playing for the Hilltoppers, what it was like when the Conference USA Tournament was canceled, the versatility of this year’s team, his favorite memories so far with WKU, what it means to him to have a place in the program record books, and how badly he wants to add a championship to his accomplishments.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's show by recapping the latest WKU Football win and looking ahead to this weekend's nationally-televised game at No. 10/11 BYU before switching gears to talk WKU Men's and Women's Basketball schedules, WKU Cross Country Championships and WKU Volleyball's season-opener.
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WKU Soccer freshman defender Ellie Belcher discusses what led her to play for WKU, her run to a state championship locally last year at Greenwood High School, practicing this fall for a season that was moved to the spring because of COVID-19, getting to host UAB in an exhibition last Friday and winning on penalty kicks, and her expectations for the Lady Toppers in the spring.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's show by recapping the latest WKU Football result and looking ahead to this weekend's game against Chattanooga before switching gears to talk WKU Men's and Women's Golf, WKU Tennis and WKU Cross Country.
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WKU Lady Topper Basketball head coach Greg Collins discusses staying adaptable during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of technology on recruiting and scouting, the team’s large group of incoming freshmen, his expectations for the development of the returning players, the success of 2020 senior Dee Givens in her pro career overseas, navigating through the long wait for the upcoming season, and the challenge of building a non-conference schedule this year.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | Hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams open this week's show by discussing WKU Volleyball head coach Travis Hudson's induction into the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni before switching gears to talk WKU Football, WKU Men's and Women's Golf and WKU Cross Country.
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WKU Cross Country freshman runner Rory O’Connor discusses her recruitment to WKU after not competing in the sport in high school, why she chose distance running over soccer, what ultimately sold her on attending WKU, getting used to college in a pandemic, her relationship with her teammates, her early success in Cross Country’s first events of the season – including a top-10 finish in her first college meet, and the goals for her and the team for the remainder of the season.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | In this week's show, hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams recap WKU Football's rivalry win at Middle Tennessee, preview the Tops' Homecoming matchup with Marshall, talk through Men's and Women's Golf seasons and touch on WKU Cross Country's second meet.
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WKU graduate senior quarterback Tyrrell Pigrome discusses the Hilltoppers’ first win Saturday at Middle Tennessee, players stepping up on the offensive side of the ball in that victory, what he’s learned so far as part of the Hilltopper offense, being one of three quarterbacks in the country with at least six passing TDs and no interceptions, his influences in the NFL, his decision to leave Maryland and come to WKU, and the origin of his “Piggy T” nickname.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | In this week's show, hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams preview WKU Football at Middle Tennessee, mention the excitement of volleyball’s season opener and talk about the new normal of stadium and arena environments on game day.
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WKU Coordinator of Football Academic Development Imari Hazelwood discusses how she transitioned from an academic role with the university to working in athletics, how working on her doctorate influences her work with student-athletes, the challenges of working with such a large program, the most rewarding parts of her job, navigating through the pandemic and changes in learning methods, how her identity as a Black female plays a role in her work, and some of her tips for student-athletes for juggling academic and athletic responsibilities.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | In this week's show, hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams talk WKU Football bye week adjustments, recap Lady Topper Golf’s hot start to the season as well as touching on the excitement of volleyball’s season opener and Brooks LeCompte’s impact on the cross country programs.
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WKU Head Cross Country/Assistant Track & Field Coach Brooks LeCompte discusses his arrival to The Hill in January, the learning curve as a first-time head coach, his first WKU recruiting class, his recruiting style, the team's training program over the summer, having the team back on campus, the excitement of the team competing in their first cross country meet of the 2020 season and the team's goals for the future.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | In this week’s show, hosts Randy Lee, Tyler Eaton and Brett Williams recap WKU Football’s season-opening game at Louisville, look ahead to this week’s home opener vs. Liberty, discuss the latest news on the start of the college basketball season, and touch on what’s upcoming for WKU Golf and Cross Country.
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WKU Women’s Golf redshirt senior Teri Doss discusses what made her return to her home state as a graduate transfer from Mississippi State, the relationships she had with the Lady Topper program before transferring, what it was like to transfer during a pandemic, WKU last week winning the first Division I college golf tournament in the country since COVID-19 began, her third-place individual finish in that event, head coach Adam Gary’s record-breaking victory and what has made his teams so successful, the importance of experience for the Lady Toppers this year, and what Doss is most looking forward to this season.
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Presented by Don Franklin Auto | In their inaugural show, hosts Tyler Eaton, Randy Lee and Brett Williams discuss the opening week of WKU Athletics for the 2020-21 season, including Lady Topper Golf's victory in the USA Intercollegiate, WKU Football's upcoming opener at Louisville and Hilltopper Golf's first event this weekend at Louisiana Tech. Former Hilltopper Football great Brandon Doughty joins the group in the back half to discuss the Tops.
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WKU Associate Athletic Director Matt Morrison discusses the planning and approval process that went into Hilltopper Football’s 20 percent capacity for Houchens-Smith Stadium, what that capacity means for fans and students, the gameday changes expected in and around the stadium, how the reseating process will work for season ticket holders, the financial implications of lower capacity and attendance, how fans can support WKU Athletics during this time, and a brief look at what’s expected for basketball season.
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WKU Football redshirt senior offensive lineman Tyler Witt discusses how the Hilltoppers adapted to the new safety measures in place upon their return to campus because of COVID-19, adjusting to not being around his teammates during the pandemic, the personalities of WKU’s offensive line group, how that unit has benefited from years of experience together, the upside of going against WKU’s stout defensive line, the outlook for the 2020 offense as a whole, being a part of the program’s player leadership council, and how he’s learned new perspective on social justice issues from his Black teammates.
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WKU Women's Golf head coach Adam Gary discusses how COVID-19 has impacted his program, what it was like to have the spring 2020 season canceled while at WKU's own event in Florida, having senior Mary Joiner return for another year of eligibility with a NCAA waiver, what to expect from his newcomers and the rest of the squad, what's ahead for the program as one of the few sport programs that can compete this fall, how the Lady Toppers have improved during his time as coach, the dedication of the Phillip Hatchett Golf Facility, and his lights-out 63 score last week at a pro event.
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WKU Hilltopper Basketball head coach Rick Stansbury discusses what quarantine was like for him, why he’s not rushing his players’ return to activity on campus, how having an experienced team helps him trust them to do the right things in a pandemic, why he believes this year’s team is his most experienced and complete since arriving on The Hill, how Charles Bassey’s work ethic has put him ahead of schedule in his rehab, his reflections on his first four years at WKU, and what’s in store in 2020-21 with the uncertainty of COVID-19.
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WKU Softball alum and Team Canada member Larissa Franklin discusses her training for the sport's return to the Olympics and the postponement of the Tokyo Games to 2021, how she's handled the COVID-19 pandemic, her tongue-in-cheek Twitter quarantine "training" videos, why she chose to transfer to WKU for her final season, her memories from WKU's 2015 championship run, and what it would mean to be the first Olympian from the Hilltopper program.
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WKU Athletics Sports Psychologist Joey Case discusses what led him to his role with WKU, his work as TOPCARE Coordinator and the implementation of the program, how mental health is being addressed in WKU Athletics through TOPCARE, how he’s worked with student-athletes through quarantine, the process of providing resources to student-athletes who receive a positive COVID-19 test, working with coaches to promote mental health through the pandemic, and his advice for all listeners about dealing with anxiety and depression in the current world.
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WKU Volleyball rising senior Kayland Jackson discusses how she and her teammates have navigated through the COVID-19 pandemic, why the coaching staff stressed communication throughout quarantine, how the team has prepared despite losing its spring training, battling back from injuries in her college career, what the return to campus has been like, why she chose WKU, the team getting to host the NCAA Tournament last year, the conversations around the program about the social justice movement.
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WKU Medical Director and Head Team Physician Dr. Chaitu Malempati discusses his background in medicine, how he balances being an orthopedic surgeon for the Medical Center at Bowling Green with his work with the Hilltoppers, how he's handled being a surgeon during the COVID-19 pandemic, his role in WKU Athletics' COVID-19 response, and some of his favorite things about working with WKU.
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WKU Baseball alum and current professional player Anderson Miller discusses the impact of the cancellation of the Minor League Baseball season, how he's handled the pandemic, his intention to finish his degree at WKU, why he chose the Hilltoppers out of high school, how WKU prepared him for pro baseball, his experience of getting drafted, what it was like to play for the Lexington Legends in his hometown, and his thoughts on America's movement for social justice as a biracial pro athlete.
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WKU Football Defensive Coordinator/Cornerbacks Coach Clayton White joins the podcast to discuss life in quarantine with his family, the conversations the team has had on social injustice and what he hopes to see come out of the Black Lives Matter movement, the value of the returning experience and coaching continuity on defense for the Hilltoppers, and how two elite basketball players – Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant – have impacted him and WKU’s defensive unit.
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WKU Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning Hong Tran discusses keeping student-athletes in shape through a pandemic, the ins and outs of her job and responsibilities, the importance to her of coaching with high energy, working as a female in a male-dominated profession, the difference in working with men’s and women’s sports, and the challenges/rewards that come with being a go-to presence for the players.
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WKU rising senior sprinter Dartez Hamlin discusses how the Track and Field team has been staying in touch and training during quarantine, his win in the 200-meter dash at the Conference USA Indoor Championships and his disappointment at the cancellation of the outdoor season, how junior college prepared him for Division I, what sold him on WKU, his thoughts on the Black Lives Matter movement, and his personal and team goals for his senior season.
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Former WKU Football star and current Chicago Bears linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe discusses his perspective on the COVID-19 crisis as a pre-med student with two parents in the medical world, his desire to be a pediatrician after football, his journey from South Warren High School in Bowling Green to WKU to the NFL, how he’s preparing for next season during the pandemic, how the Bears have supported their organization in the Black Lives Matter movement, and what he hopes society will ultimately take away from the movement to effect change.
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Mike Gaddie, WKU’s Associate Athletic Director of Sports Medicine and Athletic Training, discusses the medical side of WKU Athletics’ campus restart plan. Gaddie discusses the local, regional and national collaboration that went into crafting the plan, the importance of adapting as information changes, the crucial piece of educating student-athlete and staff before their return, why it’s so key to get things right in June, how the soft return for staff has gone so far, and why mental health can be an overlooked aspect of the return of college athletics.
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WKU Director of Athletics Todd Stewart discusses the COVID-19 pandemic, the athletic department’s planned restart on campus this summer, WKU’s current budget situation, a successful 2019-20 season that was cut short, his chance meeting with Michael Jordan as a graduate assistant, why being WKU’s AD is the best job he’s ever had, and what to expect in the year ahead.
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In the eighth and final installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2015 as WKU Football takes on South Florida in the Miami Beach Bowl. After falling behind 10-0, the 25th-ranked Hilltoppers score 24 straight, put up more than 600 yards and cap perhaps the most successful season in program history with their 12th win.
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Former WKU Hilltopper Golf standout Billy Tom Sargent discusses the one-year anniversary of his run to the NCAA Championships, transitioning to professional golf, his passion for promoting the WKU brand, the dedication of the Phillip Hatchett Golf Facility, what he sees for the future of Hilltopper Golf, and why a potential prospect should choose WKU.
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In the seventh installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2018 as WKU Hilltopper Basketball welcomes #15 Wisconsin to Diddle Arena. Looking for payback for a controversial loss the year before and playing in front of the fourth-largest crowd in the arena since its renovation, the Hilltoppers use a dominant second half to beat their highest-ranked opponent at home since 1973.
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WKU Lady Topper Soccer senior Kaylyn Bryant discusses how she’s handled the COVID-19 pandemic during the end of her final year of college, being named Ms. Hilltopper in the recent TOPSY Awards, her involvement in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, her efforts with Conference USA’s mental health initiative, completing a degree in biology, her career with the soccer program and her advice for incoming freshmen.
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In the sixth installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2012 as WKU Football travels to Kentucky for one of the benchmark games of the Hilltoppers’ FBS era. The matchup came down to a trick play out of the pocket of WKU head coach Willie Taggart in overtime, and it resulted in the program’s first-ever win over a SEC opponent.
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WKU Football/Basketball alum and current NFL offensive lineman George Fant discusses how he, his wife (Lady Topper Basketball great Chastity Gooch Fant) and their three children are handling the pandemic, his new contract with the New York Jets, how and why he transitioned from basketball to football, his thoughts on both WKU Football and WKU Basketball, and the impact he and Chastity have tried to make in the region as southcentral Kentucky natives.
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In the fifth installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2016 as WKU Football hosts Louisiana Tech in the Conference USA Championship game. The Hilltoppers fall behind in the second half, only to dominate the final minutes of the game and claim their second straight conference title on their home field.
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New WKU Cheerleading Coach and Spirit Program Coordinator Ryan Martin O’Connor discusses coming from Ole Miss back to her home state of Kentucky, holding virtual team tryouts during COVID-19, how she and her family have handled the pandemic, growing up with a legendary cheerleading coach as her mother, the yearly grind for a college cheerleader and her overall vision for the WKU program.
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In the fourth installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds just a few months to 2019 as WKU Hilltopper Basketball hosts previously unbeaten Arkansas in E.A. Diddle Arena. The Hilltoppers face plenty of adversity, including the loss of Charles Bassey to injury, but rally to force overtime and complete an all-time classic.
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WKU Lady Topper Basketball redshirt senior Dee Givens discusses having her college career ended abruptly by the COVID-19 pandemic, her aspirations for a pro career, what being a two-time WKU graduate means to her and her family, her hobby of researching bulletin-board material, her relationship with WKU head coach Greg Collins, and more.
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In the third installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2018 as WKU Lady Topper Basketball meets top-seeded UAB in the Conference USA Championship. With Tashia Brown’s 25 points leading four Lady Toppers in double figures, WKU earns its third C-USA Tournament title in four seasons in the league.
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WKU Volleyball head coach Travis Hudson discusses the impact of COVID-19 on his family and his program, the team's adjustments in training for the spring, one of the greatest seasons in program history in 2019, helping his student-athletes find the positives in trying times, the two-year anniversary of his "widow-maker" heart attack, and more.
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In the second installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2014 as WKU Football visits #19 Marshall in the regular-season finale. Ultimately 133 points are scored, Brandon Doughty throws eight touchdown passes, and it all comes down to a two-point conversion try.
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Former WKU Basketball star and NBA veteran Courtney Lee discusses how he and his family have coped with the COVID-19 pandemic, the night the league halted its games and changed the national discourse, having to quarantine for 14 days in Dallas, how WKU prepared him for the NBA, and what it’s been like to carry the NBA banner for the Hilltoppers with more than a decade in the league.
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In the first installment of the WKU Radio Rewind presented by Meijer, the clock rewinds to 2018 as WKU Hilltopper Basketball picks up a massive road win at Oklahoma State in the NIT Quarterfinals – with a trip to New York City for the NIT Final Four on the line.
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WKU Baseball head coach John Pawlowski discusses the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on him, his family and his team, the bus ride to Birmingham where the Hilltoppers’ season was ultimately halted, what lies ahead for the program with the NCAA eligibility waiver for seniors and uncertainty around the MLB Draft, as well as his team’s hot start to the 2020 season before it was cut short.
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WKU Softball senior pitcher Kelsey Aikey discusses the NCAA granting an eligibility waiver this week for spring-sport athletes, her intention to return for an additional year at WKU next season, the team’s experience in Dallas when the 2020 season was halted, and how she and her family have handled the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Former WKU Basketball star Justin Johnson discusses playing professionally in Italy and being quarantined in the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, returning to the United States with his pregnant wife, WKU’s NIT Final Four run in his senior year, the current Hilltoppers and more.
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Host Tyler Eaton and WKU Football Head Coach Tyson Helton discuss how he and his family are handling the COVID-19 pandemic, how the Hilltoppers are adjusting and continuing to grow despite the cancellation of spring football, and what to expect from the 2020 roster and more.
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