Article by Diana Robinson

After ending last year’s season with 10 players and only 4 returning to the 2007 season, EC Baseball Head Coach Aaron Brister did some major recruiting over the summer.

“My goal is to finish in the top 8 of the conference tournament,” says Coach Brister.

“The only senior, Blake Williams, may shift to first base so he can concentrate on his bat and contribute to the mound as a pitcher if need be.”

Also returning to Lion baseball are Assistant Coaches Jonathan and Roman Kelly. Instead of taking the chance to turn professional, the brothers are returning to Emmanuel to complete their degrees.

The 2007 Lions have a young team consisting mostly of freshmen and transfer students.

“While pitching is always questionable and our team is young, there is a total change in camaraderie within the team,” says Coach Brister.

Additions to the team include local talent J Wood and Tyler Langford from Jefferson, Ryne Williamson from Nicholson, Barkley Hart from Royston, and Adam Toole from Elberton. Transfer students Arc Black, who has a Junior College World Series appearance, and Terrance Lafferty, who is recouping from Tommy-John surgery, should also be big contributors in the spring.

“Look out for freshmen Seth Kirkland, Adam Toole, and Tyler Langford. They should be looking for a big role both on the mound and at the plate” Coach Brister says.

 “Every position is open and every player has the fall season to prove himself. We are building for the future.”