FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April. 4, 2008

Lions conclude spring practice with annual Green and Gold Game

Joplin, Mo. - The Missouri Southern football team will conclude its spring season with the annual Green and Gold Spring game this Saturday on April 5 at 10:30 am in Hughes Stadium. Fans are invited to bring their own chairs and line the track to get an up close look at the game.

Southern finished 6-5 in coach Bart Tatum's second campaign, the first winning season in 11 years. Southern returns nine starters on on defense and eight on offense, led by senior quarterback, Adam Hinspeter. Hinspeter became the all-time leading passer in Southern history with 6,993 career yards. He also claimed the top spot in career completions with 677 and moved into second place in all-purpose yardage with 7,112.

Joining Hinspeter on the offensive side of the ball from a season ago will be junior tight end Korie Henry, junior fullback Anthon Aiono, sophomore running back Renard Johnson and junior receiver Isaac Norman. Henry and Johnson are injured and will not play in the game. Junior Chris Norris and sophomore Raul Sanchez return to bolster the offensive line, while senior kicker Brian Malette is back for his third season with the Lions.

Seniors Jordan Patton and Antwan Dyer, as well as juniors Jared Brawner and Rudy Mascaro anchor what will be a solid defense this season for the Lions. Last season's team ranked third in defense and was second in the MIAA in interceptions with 21, the most since the school record of 28 was set in 1975. Also returning on defense will be junior defensive back Skyler Vandiver, junior defensive lineman David Benham, sophomore punter Ian Harrison and sophomore defensive back Corderial Collier. Collier will not play in the game due to injury.  

The Lions signed 21 incoming freshman to play for next year's squad as well as six junior college and division I transfers who are already on campus and have been participating in spring drills.

Southern starts the 2008 season at home with Harding University on Saturday, August 30. They continue with Haskell University on Thursday, September 4 and open up MIAA play at Pittsburg State in the Miners Bowl on September 13 at 6 pm. Southern will play seven games at home in 2008. To see the 2008 Lions football schedule, click here: 2008 Lions Football Schedule.