Marshall Thundering Herd

College basketball's annual window shopping spree is beginning. NCAA Division I coaches are entering the summer evaluation period, a look but don't touch month of recruiting with viewing of prospects allowed from Monday to July 15 and again from July 22 to 31. A recruiting dead period falls in between the evaluation periods from July 16-21 when no recruiting is allowed.

Kathi Goddard admittedly is "speechless" by the response from faraway fans and friends of her son. Johnathan Goddard, 27, died last month from a single-vehicle accident near his Jacksonville, Fla., hometown. Goddard's passing shocked Marshall University's football family, who embraced both player and family during Johnathan's historic career.

HUNTINGTON -- There are unquestioned stars and role players, specialists and practice squad members looking to find a niche.

The Marshall football team's August 30 season-opener against Illinois state is quickly approaching and the time to renew Big Green Annual Fund Pledges is running out. The Big Green has set a deadline of July 9 for Big Green Annual Fund renewals for donors who wish to have their name listed in the 2008 Gameday Program. Pledges received after July 9 will not be listed in the football game program.

Marshall University head coach Royce Chadwick has announced the hiring of John McGraw as Assistant Coach with the Thundering Herd. McGraw replaces John Sutherland, who took the position of Associate Director of Athletics at Marshall in March.

The Marshall Thundering Herd softball team hired former pitching ace Randi Nielson to the 2008 coaching staff, head coach Shonda Stanton recently announced.

C.J. Crawford has been on the move this summer. From camps to a new high school, it’s been a busy time for the rising senior, who has recruiting interest from several schools at several positions. We caught up with the man on the move after his appearance at West Virginia’s rising senior camp.

Marshall has had a long line of great kickers. Steven Bohne of Avondale High School in Michigan has drawn the interest of many programs after a successful camp run. Find out what his interest level is in the Herd in this addition of Goherd.com.

FOXBORO -- The New England Patriots have added another draft pick to the official roster according to a league source. Linebacker Bo Ruud agreed to terms with the team on Monday. Terms of the deal were not available.