For Hollywood Hills (Fla.) defensive end Clarence Murphy, nothing was able to top his first scholarship offer. That offer came from Maryland last spring, when Terps defensive coordinator Don Brown visited the 6-foot-2, 235-pound prospect. "They were the first big school to come after me," Murphy said. "It was a good experience when they first talked to me and when I went on my visit and they came to visit me at my home and school. I just really fell in love with the coaching staff and the players. I just really felt comfortable with Maryland." Murphy committed to Maryland on Thursday, selecting the Terps over Michigan, South Florida and Colorado State, among others. Murphy cited Maryland's criminology program, the school's proximity to Washington and available playing time as reasons for his decision. "I got real comfortable with the D-line coach, Coach [Dave] Sollazzo," Murphy said. "They really need defensive ends. So, if I come in at an ideal size and work hard, I'll have an opportunity to get some playing time or even potentially start. It's got me real pumped up right now." While College Park is a long way from Hollywood Hills, Murphy said his family and friends look forward to seeing him play next year on TV and in person when the Terps visit Miami. "They were just really happy for me," Murphy said. "They were happy that I made the first big choice as a man in life. They're really excited to see me come up to school." - Matt Bracken

Indoor track and field: UMES senior Saisha Woodward broke her own school record in the women's weight throw at the NYU Gotham Cup/Metropolitan Coaches Invitational in Manhattan, N.Y. Woodward's throw of 16.29 meters - good for fourth place in the event - broke the mark of 15.78 meters she set Dec. 11. Woodward also placed third in the shot put (13.81 meters).