Jan. 29, 2008

JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. - Carson-Newman Head Coach Dale Clayton will take a short leave of absence from the team to be with his family.

Clayton, in his 20th season with the Eagles, is leaving the team to assist with health issues and living arrangements for his elderly mother in Florida. He is expected to return next week.

Associate Head Coach Chuck Benson will coach the Eagles during Clayton's absence.

The Eagles (12-4, 4-2 SAC) host Catawba Wednesday night at Holt Fieldhouse at 8 p.m. C-N will travel to Newberry Saturday for a 4 p.m. tip with the Indians.

Carson-Newman Athletic Director David Barger - "Our thoughts and prayers are with Coach Clayton as he ministers to the needs of his mother."