Carson-Newman football looks to get back on winning track with 2012 campaign
Two Thursday night showdowns, a national television appearance and a head coach’s potential 300th win highlight Carson-Newman’s first month of the 2012 season.
Two Thursday night showdowns, a national television appearance and a head coach's potential 300th win highlight Carson-Newman's first month of the 2012 season.
Ken Sparks, in his 33rd year leading the Eagles' football team, goes for career win 300 in game one of the season – a Thursday night affair at Burke-Tarr Stadium against Glenville State at 7.
"We have a great group of kids that have been a major encouragement to me through some times when I needed encouragement," Sparks said. "They've got some character in them. I've been blessed to be around them. Without the Lord, none of this would be possible."
With his 300th victory, Sparks will become the 12th head football coach at any level to win that many games.
The Eagles jump into conference play immediately following the contest with Glenville. Back-to-back home games mark the start of the schedule as South Atlantic Conference foe Lenoir-Rhyne comes to Mossy Creek September 15.
On Thursday night at 8, September 27, Sparks' gang will make a national television appearance on CBS Sports Network.
"We've been on national TV before," Sparks said. "It's a sensational opportunity to showcase the Christ-centered nature of Carson-Newman and what our football program stands for."
While the Eagles play three of four within the friendly confines of Burke-Tarr Stadium in September, October will see Carson-Newman play the role of road warrior.
The Eagles will be away from Jefferson City for much of the month with three of four contests on the road.
The lone home game happens October 13 – homecoming – against North Greenville.
"We've got our Legacy Club that we've started," Sparks said. "It's great to see all those people come back – players, alums and fans. It's especially exciting because North Greenville had such a spectacular season last year."
The Eagles finish the regular season on senior day November 10. The game is against a Mars Hill squad that spoiled Sparks' first shot at win 300 in a 23-20 loss.
Carson-Newman will try to improve upon an injury-depleted 5-6 mark from 2011, the first non-winning season in Sparks' tenure at the school.
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