It's certainly been an interesting week in Virginia sports. There's been some bad news in terms of some football recruits not qualifying, but with all things considered, it's been an excellent week for Virginia.

While recruits Ahmad Brooks, Keenan Carter and Robert Armstrong look like they might be attending Fork Union Military Academy this fall, they've all stated that they will stick with their commitments to Virginia and sign again next February. There seems to be some hope that Brooks can come to UVa on a partial scholarship, but nothing has been decided as of yet.

Virginia also received commitments from three football recruits for the 2003 class, bringing the total number of commitments up to five this early in the recruiting season.

Then there's the news of Anthony Poindexter coming back to Charlottesville as a graduate assistant coach at UVa and the most excellent news that point guard Majestic Mapp has been cleared to participate fully in practices and scrimmages.

All in all, in a week of early summer that doesn't usually include much in terms of news, UVa certainly got their fill. For more on these subjects, please read on.

With a glaring need for depth and quality along the offensive line, the Virginia coaching staff is focusing heavily on recruiting top notch prospects who not only possess the size to play in the trenches, but who possess the skill and athletic ability to possibly contribute immediately.  Coach Groh and co. got off to a promising start earlier this week when West Springfield's (VA) Marshall Ausberry and New Jersey's Gordie Sammis committed to the 'Hoos.  

Ausberry was the first to commit this week, making his decision public on Monday.  The 6-6, 330-pound mammoth prospect chose the Cavaliers over Virginia Tech and Marshall, both of whom had offered scholarships.  In addition, Ausberry received heavy interest from Penn St, Maryland, Tennessee, South Carolina and Michigan State.   

Ausberry has the athleticism to compliment his size.  He has recently run a very respectable 5.2 in the 40.  In the spring, Ausberry is the starting center for West Springfield's varsity basketball squad.  Off the field, he is already fully qualified for NCAA freshmen eligibility.   

This week, we were able to speak with Marshall about his recent commitment to the Cavaliers.  He is very excited about the opportunities the University of Virginia presents to him and looks forward to officially becoming a Wahoo in the near future.        

Interview with Marshall Ausberry  

Why did you choose Virginia?  

"UVA is a great school.  It is a top academic school.  Getting a degree from there is quite an accomplishment, and it gives me an opportunity to get a job right out of college.  Also, the football program is on the rise.  They had a top 5 recruiting class last year, so they have lots of talent.  The NFL experience on the coaching staff is awesome.  They have an NFL style.  It will help me to learn a little bit about the pro game while I am in college, and hopefully I can use that experience and take it to the next level."   

Why the early decision?  

"I wanted to eliminate any pressure during my senior year.  I have heard horror stories from other recruits, so I didn't want to deal with the pressure."  

What other schools were in the mix?  

"Well, Virginia Tech and Marshall both offered me early as well.  UVA was just the place for me.  It is only two hours away from home, and I didn't want to go too far away.  I also received interest from Penn State, Maryland, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Michigan State.  Those were the other schools that were really interested."  

Do you expect to play early?  

"Coach [Groh] said that they have preseason drills and games.  Depending on how I can handle those games, the coaching staff may decide to redshirt me.  Or I can decide to redshirt myself if I don't feel comfortable with where I am at.  It basically is up to me, depending on how I feel.  I would like to get a chance to play though."  

How does playing basketball help you on the gridiron?  

"Basketball is a great sport.  It's fun and it helps with my footwork and lateral movement.  I am a pretty big guy, so it helps me get in pretty good shape.  Once I end basketball season I can continue training through the summer and push myself physically."  

What now for Marshall Ausberry?  What goals do you have for next year?   

"Well, as a team, our top goal is to win the state championship.  I want to help us win the title.  Personally, I want to hit the weight room and be ready for next year.  I want to work hard to improve in football.  I want to improve in academics as well, because they are so important.  

Have you thought about what your course of study will be at Virginia?  

"I am thinking about majoring in Education, but for right now, I am not positive."

Sammis Commits

Gordie Sammis wanted to wait until today to announce his decision to commit to the University of Virginia. Unfortunately for him, someone in the recruiting world jumped the gun and reported it earlier in the week. No matter though, Sammis went ahead and confirmed his commitment with Mike Farrell of Rivals.com and Doug Doughty of the Roanoke Times this week.

Sammis, a 6-5, 290-pound offensive lineman from Immaculata High School in Somerville, New Jersey, is just another piece to the offensive line puzzle of the future for UVa. Virginia desperately needed to sign some big time offensive linemen in this class, and they've gotten two huge prospects in Sammis and Ausberry.

Last recruiting season the Cavaliers added some big names as well, including D.J. Bell (6-4, 298), Ron Darden (6-4, 315), Brick Ferguson (6-5, 250) and Damian Spradlin (6-3, 290). All were listed as three-star recruits or better by Rivals.com.

While all of these players look to get early playing time at Virginia, the Cavaliers still needed to add a few more top linemen this class in order to have the depth and talent they need to succeed at the next level. Commitments from Sammis and Ausberry have the Hoos on the right track.

Terry Commits

James Terry, a 6-2, 225-pound running back/linebacker from Woodbridge H.S. in Lake Ridge, VA has committed to Virginia. Terry runs the forty in the 4.5's and can bench 360 pounds. Terry is a versatile player who can play on either side of the ball. He could be Virginia's next bruising back, or he could end up helping the Hoos at linebacker.

Terry missed four games last season as a junior, but still amassed 700 rushing and 10 touchdowns. On defense as a linebacker, Terry finished the season with 70 tackles. Rivals.com lists him with three stars and has his player stock climbing.

Terry is the fifth commitment of the 2003 recruiting class for UVa.

Jon Stupar listing UVa and FSU as leaders

SuperPrep is reporting that tight end recruit Jonathan Stupar (State College, PA) is listing Virginia along with Florida State as his co-leaders.

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Mapp cleared for practice

Jeff White of the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported today that UVa point guard Majestic Mapp has been cleared to participate in summer drills, including pick-up games with the team.

Mapp has been out of action for two seasons following an ACL tear in his knee two summers ago. After his injury, Mapp underwent two ACL reconstructive surgeries, along with two knee scopes in between. His progress has been encouraging this past winter and spring, and it appears that the former high school All-American will finally get a chance to show UVa fans what he's made of.

Dex to coach at UVa

Anthony Poindexter

Anthony Poindexter, a.k.a. Dex, is making his return to UVa football. This time, he'll be on the sidelines as on of Coach Al Groh's graduate assistants.

Dex graduated from UVa in 1998 after a brilliant college career that was suddenly cut short by a nasty knee injury. After battling through an intensive rehab program, Dex found his way onto the field with the NFL's Baltimore Ravens. Dex played two years, primarily on special teams, and earned a Super Bowl ring just two seasons ago.

With his pro career all but over, Dex has elected to try his hand at coaching in order to keep himself in the game. Poindexter's attitude, enthusiasm and knowledge of the game make him a welcomed edition to an already outstanding coaching staff. Welcome back #3.

Virginia to play Michigan State again

The UVa men's basketball team will get another shot at Michigan State. Last season, the ACC-Big Ten match-up was cut short after condensation on the court at the Richmond Collesium caused the game to be cancelled.

This season, the Hoos will travel to East Lansing, Michigan to play on December 4th. The game is schedule to be televised by ESPN at 9:00 p.m. EST.

Aerial Print

It took a little while, but we've finally restocked TheSabreShop.com with the Scott Stadium Aerial Print. This is a stunning 10 x 14 inch, full-color, aerial photographic print of the newly expanded Scott Stadium.

Commemorate UVA's stadium for the millenium, one of the most beautiful in the nation. The print is suitable for framing to standard 12x16 inch size. Perfect for your den, living room or office.

Makes a great gift. Only $39.95!

Click here for more details, or to order.

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