The Peach Hunt kicks off Memorial Day.
So, Grab a friend to hunt, it’s more fun that way!
You’re free to look high and low, but public property is the place to go.
Peach Hunt Clue: Monday, May 27
Month: May 2024
Spring 2024 graduates receive hearty and healthy life advice
Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications
The “total Louisiana Tech graduates” tally climbed to 114,892 on Saturday when 1,076 new Tech alumni and their friends and families gathered in the Thomas Assembly Center for two full-length ceremonies to cap off the academic year.
The keynote speaker for both the morning and afternoon ceremonies was Frank Bright, a Class of ’65 chemical engineering graduate and four-year letterman in Tech track and cross country. Bright has run over 20 Boston Marathons (placing fourth and fifth respectively in his 80+ age group the past two races), hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back this month, and logged more than 62,200 miles collectively since 1979, the year he started tracking his running in a journal.
He made sure to give his address a structure and tone apt for such a disciplined individual and focused on making three main points to the graduates in attendance:
“Follow your bliss.”
“Stay physically fit.”
“Life isn’t fair.”
He followed each piece of advice with anecdotes from his life, from stories of pursuing his passions throughout law school to taking care of his health into his eighties.
Bright hammered home his advice with some audience participation, encouraging the crowd to repeat his key points back to him, and he repeatedly advised students to keep a journal as he had, calling the suggestion “point 2.5” of his main ideas.
“I’m truly grateful for this opportunity to speak to you today,” said Bright at the end of his address. “Congratulations and best wishes in your future endeavors.”
The ceremonies were the first in-person commencement experiences for most of the graduates in attendance; COVID forced many 2020 high school graduations to take place virtually.
Tech President Jim Henderson pointed out that this was a special occasion for the students, and each ceremony was punctuated with an energetic touch as the arena lights flashed red and blue and streamers rained down on the celebrating crowd. Maybe more than any commencement prior—or any to follow—this will be one to remember for Louisiana Tech’s Class of 2024.
Creek Valedictorian heading to Starkville
by Hanna Singh
As the Cedar Creek High School Valedictorian, Hayes Bridges boasts an impressive 4.0 GPA, involvement in dual enrollment and 10 AP courses. However, his academic success is only part of what makes Bridges such an outstanding representation of Cedar Creek.
As a member of several organizations and a student athlete, Bridges has shown consistent dedication to his involvement in school activities. He has served as the president of the Spanish club, president of the national honors society, president of the key club and served on the student council. At the same time, Bridges has maintained his commitment as a student athlete on the Cedar Creek tennis and cross-country teams.
Outside of school, Bridges has displayed dedication to his community as well. At Temple Baptist Church, he has gone on several mission trips as well as playing in the church youth band. Bridges has also assisted in providing tornado and hurricane relief throughout his community.
Cedar Creek math teacher, Marilyn Hyams, has witnessed the distinct love for learning and impressive character that Bridges has shown in the classroom.
“While Hayes’ character and integrity are exemplary, I believe that what I love the most about him is his enthusiasm for learning something new. He could find a new way to solve a problem or a short-cut to beat everyone else to the answer,” Hyams said. “While teaching him math, I believe that it is evident that he also learned some life lessons like fairness, determination and responsibility. I can’t wait to see what he achieves in the future.
After graduation, Bridges has made plans to attend Mississippi State in the fall to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. His interest in the fields of mathematics and physics push him to understand their applications more in day-to-day life. His goals include becoming the most complete and well-adjusted person he can be through living in Jesus Christ.
“I hope to be a positive influence to those around me and build up others as I go about my journey,” Bridges said. “I am passionate about life and thankful that God allows me to experience it to the fullest.”
The Cedar Creek family is proud to be represented by a young man with immense dedication to his academics, future career and his community. It is evident through Bridges motivation that he will succeed in his collegiate journey and future career.
Column: Honor, don’t celebrate, Memorial Day
by T. Scott Boatright
Most of us are enjoying a holiday off work today,
A probably undeserved holiday. Simply granted to us by the sacrifice of others.
Granted to us by those who gave all.
Twice a year we honor those who serve to protect us and honor our country.
But only once a year do we officially celebrate a holiday in honor of those who gave their lives in service of us all.
Those who gave all — those who never made it back home after serving to protect us all.
They are the reason we are on holiday today — because of the sacrifices they made.
Remember, today is not Veteran’s Day. It is Memorial Day, and the meaning is much deeper.
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a solemn occasion. It is dedicated to honoring and remembering the brave men and women who have died while serving in our military.
This day is meant for reflection and remembrance — not for celebration but for honoring those who laid their lives on the line for those of us who remain.
Veterans Day, which falls on Nov. 11 each year, has a different focus. This day is set aside to honor all U.S. military veterans, both the living and the deceased.
The two holidays are distinctly different. One is to honor those who serve us through military service. The other is to honor those military members who gave their lives protecting the rest.
So do not forget — the two holidays are distinctly different.
Today should not be a day of celebration but instead a day of remembering and honoring those who were willing to lay down their lives for us.
And did.
So today I remember many, but especially Army Sgt. Nicholas J. Olivier of Ruston, who died in 2005, killed on Feb. 23 of that year when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was on foot patrol in Baghdad, Iraq.
If I am wrong, please let me know, but that’s the last Ruston native I know of who died in the line of service, although I do still remember Air Force Academy Cadet Jack Lindsey and the way he honored Ruston and is still loved by his hometown.
So, take a minute during your free time today to remember those who gave all.
We are all incredibly fortunate they did.
News and Notes from the CUSA Championships
by Malcolm Butler
Below are some news and notes from the Conference USA Baseball Championships.
Curtain Call: Sunday’s title game had an emotional ending for a number of Bulldog players as well as Tech fans as head coach Lane Burroughs provided an opportunity for a curtain call for a number of the seniors. The curtain calls began when Burroughs lifted catcher Jorge Corona prior to the start of the top of the ninth inning. Corona went out to warm up pitcher Ryan Harland. However, Burroughs sent out Karsten Evans to replace Corona and then embraced his fifth-year senior as he walked back to the dugout.
“I addressed the team this morning and I busted out crying. I walked out of the room thinking ‘What in the world is wrong with me.’ I was hoping Jorge would get a hit (in the bottom of the eighth) and get on base,” said Burroughs. “But sense he didn’t, I told Miguel Santos to give us a second and he was kind enough to do it. The umpire Brandon (Henson) said, ‘You take as much time as you need for this guy.’ I got emotional. It’s hard not to. The third base umpire (Thomas Newsom) was like, ‘Dude that was awesome.'”
“It meant everything,” said Corona of the opportunity to walk off the field to a standing ovation. “I was getting emotional already towards the end of the game. It was tough. Playing here for the last five years has been a blast. The fans … it meant everything to me.”
Burroughs also provided curtain calls for Kasten Furr and Cole McConnell when they reached base while Logan McLeod and Ethan Bates were given standing ovations after being retired in their final at bats in the ninth.
“I saw Cole his last at bat, he kind of looked around. I think he was taking it all in. It is emotional. It’s the last game they will play here.”
Historic Win Totals: Louisiana Tech’s 45 wins this year is the second most in program history and only one shy of the all-time mark for a single season set in 1978 by Pat “Gravy” Patterson’s Bulldogs. Tech’s 30 home wins this year are a program record. Tech was 30-7 at the Love Shack.
Bulldog Baseball Graduates: While Louisiana Tech was defeating Liberty twice on Saturday to earn a spot in the championship game, the University was holding a pair of spring commencement ceremonies at the Thomas Assembly Center. Four Bulldog baseball players and a Tech baseball manager earned their degrees this quarter, but were unable to participate in commencement due to their obligations in the day’s games. Ethan Bates, Dalton Davis, Grant Hubka, Reed Smith and Brooks Robert will all participate in a small private graduation ceremony this morning prior to the NCAA Selection Show.
Selection Show Monday: Louisiana Tech will find out its fate in this year’s NCAA Tournament today at 11 a.m. when the NCAA Selection Show airs on ESPN2 to reveal the 64-team field. Bulldog fans are invited to the Club Level of the Davison Athletics Complex to join Lane Burroughs and the boys as they find out their destination. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m.
McConnell Runs Stop Sign: Cole McConnell ran through a stop sign late Saturday night and Louisiana Tech fans are glad he did. With the Bulldogs trailing 5-3 against Liberty with two outs in the bottom of the eighth of an elimination game, Jorge Corona doubled down the right field line. McConnell, who was on first base prior to the hit, came around third base as Lane Burroughs threw up his hands to stop the senior centerfielder. However, McConnell raced right past Burroughs and slid in to home head first, his hand just beating the tag by Liberty catcher
“Yeah, I tried to stop him,” said Burroughs Sunday. “I threw up the stop sign, but as he came around third he had his head down and his eyes focused on home plate. He never saw me. I told the team (Sunday morning) that we did everything right Saturday night, even Cole running through the stop sign whether intentionally or unintentionally.”
McConnell’s run tied the game and Tech eventually won in the bottom of the 10th on Grant Comeaux’s walk-off single.
Dalton Davis Misses Title Game: One of the hottest hitters in the Louisiana Tech lineup wasn’t available on Sunday. Senior first baseman Dalton Davis missed the championship game due to what Lane Burroughs labeled dehydration. Davis came out of Saturday night’s Liberty game prior to the start of the top of the 10th inning and ran into the locker room nauseous.
“He was really just dehydrated,” said Burroughs during Sunday’s post-game. “We talk all the time about leaving it all out on the field. They ruled out a virus. So that is good. He just couldn’t keep anything down. He was getting fluids and IVs all day today. He just couldn’t go.
“I am the kind of coach that I like to make the lineup out really early. I like to get it out of the way. These are the guys that are playing. I am in here talking to Dalton and he doesn’t want to tell me no. But it was obvious that he wasn’t going to be able to post. That kid is tough. He played with a broken hand half the year. He just couldn’t make it today.”
Davis was 6-of-20 at the plate with three home runs, seven runs scored and four RBI during the four games he played in the tournament.
McLeod Returns to Lineup: With Dalton Davis out of the lineup Sunday, freshman Grant Comeaux moved to first base and senior Logan McLeod got the start at third base. It was McLeod’s first start since suffering an injury April 10 at UL-Lafayette and he made the most of it. The Sour Lake, Texas, native was 2-for-5 at the plate with an RBI and a run scored.
“He had a great at bat last night,” said Burroughs. “Almost had the game-winning hit up the middle but the Liberty second baseman made a great play. He hasn’t even swung a bat very much. He gets the start … and had a great day for us. Had some good at bats. It’s good. Going into a regional where guys get sick or you have an injury, we know Logan is full speed now. He’s 100 percent.”
State of Louisiana: Collegiate baseball in the state of Louisiana will be well represented in the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Following Grambling State (SWAC) and Tulane (ACC)’s wins in their respective conference title games Sunday, it appears as if there will be six teams among this year’s 64-team field. Nicholls State won the Southland Conference tournament title while Tech, LSU and UL-Lafayette should be among the at-large teams come today.
“It’s unbelievable,” said Burroughs. “I grew up in Mississippi and it’s pretty good college baseball. They take it serious. Louisiana is the best. I mean in the country. You give me California, Texas, Florida … I will take Louisiana. Not only is college baseball good, but high school baseball is really good. There are great coaches. There are great summer programs. People know the game and they teach, and they develop these guys. I am telling you, guys like Grant Comeaux that play at Barbe (High School) and our guys from West Monroe … when they get here, they know how to play. You don’t have to spend a lot of time teaching them the game. Baseball is taken seriously in this state. Six teams to a regional … that’s all you need to know about the state of baseball in Louisiana.”
Burroughs Praises Tournament: Louisiana Tech played host to the CUSA Baseball Championships for the third time in the last four years. Lane Burroughs stopped the media questions at one point during Sunday’s post-game to praise the efforts of everyone at the University for their part in the work that went into the event.
“I want to give a shout out to our administration, all our workers,” said Burroughs. “To a man, every umpire, every person, every head coach …. we do the best job of running this tournament. Running a tournament is hard, especially when you have delays. We have administrators sleeping in my office. They don’t even go home just to make sure everything is run right. From the custodians to the police to everyone. I can’t thank them enough and the job they did to put on this tournament. When you get those kind of compliments from umpires and head coaches it means a lot. I am proud to be the head coach here and I’m proud to be a part of Louisiana Tech and the Ruston community.”
Four Bulldogs Earn All-Tournament Team Honors: Louisiana Tech saw a foursome of Bulldogs named to the all-tournament team. Ethan Bates (RP), Dalton Davis (INF), Grant Comeaux (INF) and Jorge Corona (C) were all a part of the 13-member all-tournament squad. Dallas Baptist (Michael Dattalo, Ethan Mann, Miguel Santos, Jerrod Jenkins) had four members, while Liberty (Camden Troyer, Cole Hertzler) had two, WKU (Ethan Lizama) had one, and Sam Houston (Michael Watson) had one. DBU’s Alex Pendergast was named the tournament MVP.
Search warrant prompts four arrests
The Lincoln Parish Narcotics Enforcement Team raided a Heard Road residence southwest of Ruston Wednesday, making four arrests and seizing numerous types of narcotics.
Sicario C. Singleton, 39, and Zantorria K. Brantley, 25, both the Heard Road address, were arrested for numerous offenses after several types of controlled substances were found during the search.
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team executed the search warrant about 5:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. When authorities arrived, Singleton was standing inside the threshold of the front door. He quickly went back inside and closed the door.
When LPNET searched the residence, suspected crack cocaine, cocaine, furanyl fentanyl and Adderall were found in a toilet bowl. Singleton admitted he had attempted to flush the drugs when he saw SRT deputies arrive.
Marijuana and $724 in cash were found in the bedroom allegedly used by Singleton and Brantley.
Digital scales, alprazolam, Vyvase, and lidesamfetamine were found in the kitchen.
Singleton and Brantley were booked for the following charges based on evidence recovered in the home:
–possession of marijuana with intent to distribute
–possession of cocaine with intent to distribute
–possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute
–possession of MDMA (ecstasy) with intent to distribute
–possession of furanyl fentanyl with intent to distribute
–possession of Adderall with intent to distribute
–possession of Vyvanse with intent to distribute
–possession of alprazolam with intent to distribute
–possession of with intent to distribute
–possession of drug paraphernalia
–possession of controlled substances in the presences of persons under 17
Singleton was also booked on a LPNET arrest warrant for a previous incident of distribution of cocaine.
Bail for Singleton was set at $195,000; Brantley’s bail was $110,000.
Others arrested were:
Verra Harris-Woods, 65, of Ruston was found on the front porch in possession of a cigarette pack that contained a small amount of crack cocaine. She was arrested for possession of crack cocaine. Bail was set at $2,500.
Emorris Brantley, 21, was found inside the residence and arrested on two warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Court earlier this year on traffic charges. Bail was set at $4,000.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
COLUMN: On this fine Memorial Day
By Randy Rogers
I read where it all started in 1864 – when Gettysburg, Penn., widows placed flowers on the graves of their fallen Civil War soldiers. The next year, Southern women decorated the graves of fallen soldiers at a Cemetery in Vicksburg, Miss..
Later, in April 1866, women from Columbus, Miss., laid flowers on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers. In the same month, in Carbondale, Ill., 219 Civil War veterans marched through town in memory of the fallen to Woodlawn Cemetery.
It was once referred to as Decorations Day and – in 1967 by Federal law – became what we know today as an official day of remembrance – our Memorial on the last Monday in May.
Some people understandably confuse Memorial Day with Veteran’s Day. The difference is this: Every year, on the last Monday in May we remember the fallen – those who didn’t come home from the battlefield. On November 11th; we honor all veterans who served their country in the military.
I’m sure some took into consideration the fact they might not come back, while some didn’t. Some were asked to land on an enemy-occupied beach where the wave before them lay on the beach dead and dying. They had to know death was eminent. Yet, because of their training, duty, and loyalty to each other – as the bullets rained down – they charged up a hill for the last time, for an eternity that took them to this, their, our Memorial Day.
Someone once said that the reason a country sends their youngest into battle is that most of them are too young to believe they can die at a young age. Some that served and died were enlisted, some were drafted. Some went to military school and made officers; some came right off the farm and went to the infantry, some jumped out of airplanes over enemy lines. Some served on ships and in submarines.
I can’t help wondering how different life would be – had those service men and women we honor on Memorial Day made it home. How many cancer-curing doctors did we lose at Gettysburg, Normandy, Chosen Reservoir, the jungle and rice patties of Vietnam, the sands of Iraq or the mountains of Afghanistan? How many Nobel Prize-winning scientist do you think are lying under those grave markers at Arlington Memorial? How many great fathers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and grandparents might they have made – if given the chance? Of course; we’ll never know the answer to those questions.
When Abraham Lincoln gave his Gettysburg address, he wrote in the book of history these immortal words: “that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.”
So what do we owe these veterans? In a word: Everything. When it came to uniforms; some wore white, some blue, some green and some khaki. When their time was up, their number got called, the only colors they had in common were red white and blue.
Had many of them not paid the ultimate sacrifice; this would be a different world today. In our history; we’ve had serious people wanting to do us serious harm. They gave up their lives, their futures, their families, their fortunes while asking for nothing in return – all with the hope that we could defeat an enemy that threatened our way of life.
I hope all Americans will take the time to acknowledge the meaning of this day. And appreciate that those we honor, in a heartbeat, would gladly traded places with us today. And, when you stop to think about it; it was just one heartbeat that made the difference.
LPJ to run Peach Hunt Clues
The Lincoln Parish Journal staff is excited to announce that we will be running clues for the 2024 annual Peach Hunt from Monday, May 27, through Friday, May 31.
Today day at 10 a.m. be sure to check the LPJ’s home page or Facebook page for the most recent clue.
The winner will also be announced in the Journal.
This year’s Peach Prize is worth $500, and if the winner is wearing this year’s #LAPeachFest t-shirt when they find the prize, it will increase to $750.
The 74th annual Peach Festival will be held Saturday, June 1, throughout Downtown Ruston. Admission will be free.
Trespasser who caused disturbance rearrested hours later
A Ruston man was arrested Wednesday after he allegedly trespassed at a local convenience store and caused a disturbance. Just hours later after his release from jail, he was arrested again blocking traffic on a state highway.
Donald Rabb, 30, had been banned from the EZ Mart on South Vienna Street in Ruston because of prior incidents. On Wednesday evening at about 7 p.m., he returned to the store and caused a disturbance, according to the store manager.
Ruston Police found Rabb inside the store, shirtless and wearing pajama pants. He was causing a disturbance and would not respond to an officer who was talking to him.
Once the manager said she wanted to pursue charges, Rabb was arrested. He was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for disturbing the peace and entry into a place after being forbidden.
After Rabb was released from the detention center, police received a report about 10:45 p.m. of a man walking in the roadway on the Farmerville Highway (La. 33). Officers found Rabb walking in the middle turn lane.
Rabb refused directives to get out of the roadway. He was arrested but refused to get in a patrol car and a Taser had to be used to gain compliance.
Rabb was returned to the detention center and booked for simple obstruction of a roadway and resisting an officer. Bail was set at $1,000.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Having a sale? Take advantage of the LPJ Digital Deals
Do you own a business? Are you having a sale?
Well the LPJ Digital Deals is for you!
The Lincoln Parish Journal will send out the LPJ Digital Deals email each Thursday that will include coupons from local businesses, giving out loyal readers opportunities to take advantage of special savings from local businesses.
In order for a business or individual to participate, their coupons must contain (a) a savings and (b) an expiration date that falls within one month if the date of run.
Any business who wishes to take advantage of this new piece of inventory may contact the LPJ at LPJNewsLA@gmail.com.
The cost of the weekly coupon to run within the special Thursday afternoon email and then again on Friday morning as an all-inclusive LPJ Digital Deals is $125 per week (or a discounted rate of $350 for a 4-week run).
This is just one more way that the Lincoln Parish Journal can bring its advertising partners together with our loyal readers.
Choudrant, Simsboro garner All-State diamond honors
By T. Scott Boatright
It’s no secret that Choudrant and Simsboro’s diamond teams had shining seasons on the diamonds this spring with the Aggies, Lady Aggies, Tigers and Lady Tigers all making runs in the Louisiana High School Athletics Association baseball and softball playoffs.
So it’s only fitting that both Lincoln Parish high schools are well represented on the 2024 Louisiana Sports Writers Association All-State Baseball and Softball teams.
A pair of Lincoln Parish players were named to the Class B All-State softball team — Simsboro pitcher Carli Wheeler and Choudrant catcher Zoey Smith.
Smith led District 2-B with a .455 batting average in district play, recording seven RBIs, three doubles and a triple along the way, earning district MVP accolades in the process.
Wheeler was a dual threat, batting .545 while posting a 0.389 ERA pitching in District 2-B contests.
Both Choudrant and Simsboro also had a pair of players earn All-State honorable mention — Lady Tigers catcher Jacoya Lewis and Lady Aggies pitcher/infielder Holly Bennett.
Choudrant pitcher/infielder Colton Smith was named to the Class B All-State baseball first team after batting .436 during his junior season.
Simsboro pitcher/infielder Hayden Rabo earned Class B All-State honorable mention.
Quitman took three of the top four Class B All-State honors, leading off with Cali Deal, a LSU commit, being named Class B’s Outstanding Softball Player of the Year after going 20-3 on the season in the softball circle, recording 218 strikeouts with a 0.986 ERA, while also batting .440 with four home runs and 30 RBIs.
QHS swept Class B Coach of the Year accolades with Justin Dodson earning softball honors and Joe Lockhart getting the nod of the All-State baseball list.
LSWA CLASS B SOFTBALL
Cali Deal, Quitman, Jr. 20-3, .440
Maggie Guyotte, Quitman, soph. .531
Madison Chaplin, Quitman, Sr., .382
Zoey Smith, Choudrant, Jr. . 5731
Carlei Wheeler, Simsboro, Jr., .545
Jade Jones, Stanley, Soph. 21 HR, .545
Paige Campbell, Stanley, 8th, .349, 15 wins
Summer Brumley, Converse, Sr., .493
Avery Pine, Converse, Sr., .392, 161 Ks
Bailey Davis, Anacoco, Sr., .654, 19 wins
Hanna Jackson, Anacoco, Sr., .476, 13 HRs
Courtlyn Dousay, Hicks, 8th, .550
Rylee Guillot, Grace Christian, Jr., .429, 21 wins, 221 Ks
Wynlee Vincent, Grace Christian, Soph., .467
Ali Conner, Bell City, Sr. .475
Anna Hutchinson, Holden, Sr. .453
OUTSTANDING PLAYER: CALI DEAL, QUITMAN
COACH OF THE YEAR: JUSTIN DODSON, QUITMAN
HONORABLE MENTION: Hallie Kate Pullig, Quitman; Holly Bennett, Choudrant; Jacoya Lewis, Simsboro; Riley Palmer, Stanley; Kourtney Sepulvado, Zwolle; Addison Burr, Zwolle; Jayde Wilbanks, Hicks; Tucker Perkins, Pitkin; Bella Acree, Grace Christian; Erin Tiffee, Monterey; Addison Hollier, Lacassine; Raievah Craddock, Holden.
LSWA CLASS B BASEBALL
Tait Henderson, Weston, Sr. .400
Brew Browning, Weston, Soph., .403
Logan Ponder, Quitman, Sr., .350, 1.35 ERA
Hudson Pullig, Quitman, Sr., .386
Colton Smith, Choudrant, Jr. . 436
Brooks Boudreaux, Converse, Sr. . 442
Jaxon Perkins, Pitkin, Sr. .405
Dayne Martin, Pitkin, Jr. . 476, 1.49 ERA
Hayden Doyle, Hicks, Sr., .381
Kyle Scott, Anacoco, Jr., .405, 8 HRs
Tanner Stockman, Elizabeth, Jr., .489
Kanyon Wright, Grace Christian, Jr. . 452
Maddox Attales, Grace Christian, Jr., .442
Tanner Dupuy, Avoyelles Charter, Sr., .460
Conner Mayeaux, Avoyelles Charter, Sr., 1.18 ERA,
Ean Thibodeaux, Bell City, Sr., .404
OUTSTANDING PLAYER: TANNER DUPUY, AVOYELLES PUBLIC CHARTER
COACH OF THE YEAR: JOE LOCKHART, QUITMAN
HONORABLE MENTION: Bryce Zehr, Weston; Noah Spears, Doyline; Hayden Rabo, Simsboro; Gavon Waldron, Stanley; Lincon Stephens, Pitkin; Brock Nolen, Pitkin; Micah Merchant, Hicks; Seth Cook, Grace Christian; Noah Hoyt, Rapides; Kane Broussard, Lacassine; Kade Penalber, Maurepas; Tyler Thompson, Holden.
ICYMI: Tech’s Grant Comeaux: “I’m going to out-tough him.”
by Malcolm Butler
Grant Comeaux stepped to the plate late Saturday night with a bloodied, swollen lip.
The red-shirt freshman had been hit in the face by a pitch in the bottom of the fourth that came close to knocking him out of the game.
“It was a fast ball up and in,” said Comeaux in his post-game interview. “A little two seamer. I didn’t think it was going to hit me. It ended up running up and in, and I didn’t turn in time, and it smoked me.”
But after Tech trainers and coaches went through proper protocol to make sure the Barbe High School product was okay, Comeaux trotted to first base.
“The ball hit him in the mouth. He is bleeding,” said Tech head coach Lane Burroughs. “I was about to take him out of the game. Concussion protocol and all that stuff. He said, ‘I’m staying in.’ I didn’t feel good about it. I wasn’t sure if he was all there. It defines what this program is all about.”
Little did anyone know at the time, Comeaux’s continued presence in the ball game would lead to a heroic ending.
Fast forward to the bottom of the 10th inning.
With the game tied 5-5 with two outs, Comeaux lined a 1-2 pitch up the middle and into centerfield to score pinch runner Thaxton Berch with the winning run.
Comeaux once again trotted to first base, this time with his fist clinched and raised high into the air.
He was quickly mobbed by his teammates in celebration.
“When he was up at the plate, you just feel like it’s going to happen,” said Burroughs. “I am extremely proud of Grant. He is a winner. He came through for us tonight.”
It was a bit of redemption for Comeaux, who came to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the eighth. Game tied 5-5.
Comeaux was up 3-0 in the count against Liberty reliever Dylan Mathiesen. One ball or one big swing away from giving his team the lead.
However, Mathiesen threw three straight strikes as Comeaux went down swinging to end the threat.
“The at bat before he got the best of me,” said Comeaux. “The next couple of innings my mind was like ‘If I come up again, I’m going to out-tough him. I am not going to let it happen again.’ My teammates set me up in a really good position for the last inning.”
“He comes through every time,” said teammate Nate Crider. “He has been unbelievable. (Just a) freshman. He has been just unbelievable.”
Comeaux watched from south Louisiana when the Bulldogs made their run to the CUSA title game in 2021. On Saturday night he became part of the Bulldog lore with his game-winning walk-off RBI single.
“It was surreal,” said Comeaux. “The whole message today was out-tough the other team. If we make it to Sunday we won’t be denied. We just have to outlast the other team these past two games. We did exactly that.”
Road closure on Tech campus announced
Louisiana Tech has announced a road closure on campus beginning today.
There will be a temporary road closure on Railroad Avenue between the Everett Street Bridge and the entrance to the College Street parking lot, which is also referred to as the University Hall lot.
This closure will begin Monday, May 27 and remain closed for about two weeks.
Weekly events
Each Monday and Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Monday, May 27
Memorial Day
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6 p.m.: Creative Meetups (112 W. Alabama Ave.)
Tuesday, May 28
10 a.m.: Storytime at Lincoln Parish Library
Wednesday, May 29
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
Thursday, May 30
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
2 p.m.: Tween STEAM (Lincoln Parish Library)
5-7 p.m.: Peach Art Exhibition Reception (Lincoln Parish Library)
Friday, May 31
Peach Festival: https://www.lapeachfest.com/schedule
2-3 p.m.: CPR on the Go (Lincoln Parish Library)
Saturday, June 1
Peach Festival: https://www.lapeachfest.com/schedule
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Student Steel Bridge Competition National Finals (Ruston Sports Complex)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
COLUMN: Love Shack Magic is real
By Malcolm Butler
Magic is usually slight of hand or an optical illusion.
Most people don’t believe it’s real.
Well, don’t try to tell that to Louisiana Tech baseball fans.
They have seen enough over the past two Conference USA Baseball Championships hosted in Ruston in 2021 and again this year to know that Love Shack magic is real.
Don’t doubt it.
It was on full display Saturday night as Lane Burroughs and the Boys found yet another way to pull a rabbit out of a hat.
This time against Liberty.
After falling to the Flames on Thursday and dropping into the losers bracket, the Diamond Dogs staved off elimination late that night with a 5-3 win over Sam Houston State.
The victory set up Semifinal Saturday. The Bulldogs needed to defeat Liberty twice to advance to Sunday’s title game where Dallas Baptist awaits the winner.
With temperatures and humidity taking a toll physically and the Bulldogs bullpen starting to wear thin, how in the world could Tech beat the Flames twice?
Simple. Magic.
After an 8-7 win Saturday afternoon to force the if necessary game, the Bulldogs came back just hours later and used a walk-off single in the bottom of the 10th to advance to Sunday.
“It’s Love Shack magic,” said Burroughs in his post-game following the Bulldog’s 6-5 come-from-behind extra inning win in the nightcap. “That’s what it is. We said, ‘let’s make it a thing.’ A few weeks ago after we beat Sam Houston that was the group text. Let’s make Love Shack magic a thing, and I think we have.”
Tech fans believe.
In 2021 when the Bulldogs hosted the CUSA Championships in the inaugural year of the new stadium, Tech lost Thursday to Southern Miss before coming back with a win over WKU Friday. It set the stage for one of the most memorable days in Tech Athletics history.
Tech rallied not once but twice to defeat rival Southern Miss with both wins coming in walk-off fashion. The Love Shack was rocking to Pump It Up. It’s when the real magic began.
Anyone who thought maybe, just maybe, it was just luck? Well, forget about it. The 2024 Bulldogs are benefiting from Love Shack magic once again.
Trailing 5-2 heading into the bottom of the eighth against Liberty tonight and a berth in the championship game on the line, the Love Shack came to life.
Cole McConnell’s RBI single cut the deficit to 5-3 and then with two outs, Jorge Corona drove a pitch down the right field line that landed — magically — on the chalk, plating two runs and tying the game.
It wasn’t luck. It was magic.
“It reminded me of three years ago,” said Burroughs. “The crowd is going crazy and you could just feel it. I said it last night that I wouldn’t bet against us.”
Not with magic on your side, Lane.
In the top of the ninth, Liberty loaded the bases with no outs against All-American closer Ethan Bates. Burroughs pulled Bates and turned to Nate Crider to try to get out of the jam. All Crider had to do was face the heart of the Flames order with the game on the line.
It seemed like an almost impossible task for Crider, who had tossed only 13 innings all season.
Strikeout. Ground ball double play.
Crider and the Bulldogs somehow got out of a potential disaster. But how?
You guessed it … Love Shack magic.
The final act came in the bottom of the 10th with two outs. Corona recorded what appeared to be a harmless single. Adarius Myers walked. Burroughs pinch ran Thaxton Berch for Corona.
And redshirt freshman Grant Comeaux stepped to the plate and lined a 1-2 pitch up the middle into centerfield.
As Berch crossed home plate with the winning run, the Tech faithful were in a full frenzy. And seconds later, Love Shack began blaring over the speakers.
The win gave the Bulldogs a 6-0 record in elimination games in 2021 and 2024 — all coming at the Love Shack.
Four of those six wins have come by one run with three of them in walk-off fashion.
As Burroughs addressed the media following the game, he was drenched in sweat with a towel around his neck. He talked about the resolve of his players. He talked about the program. He talked about challenging his team midway through Saturday night’s final game when the Bulldogs were trailing 4-0.
“We called the team up in the fifth inning and told them you have five innings,” said Burroughs. “Don’t go down like this. You have to reach deep. I know you are tired. Everybody is tired. The fans are tired. It’s been a long tournament.
“We seem to be at our best when we have our backs against the wall. I don’t know why. We are the underdog. We like that. We like the chip on our shoulder. When we have to fight and come out of a corner, that’s when we seem to play our best. That’s who these guys are. That’s who our program is. Those are the type of players we want to have, and we got them. We got a locker room full of them.”
Tech will host well-rested Dallas Baptist Sunday at 1 p.m. in the title game following Saturday night’s magic.
Do the Bulldogs have enough left in the tank to win it?
“The odds are stacked against us,” said Burroughs. “I’m sure DBU was enjoying every bit of this. So be it. We are going to come play and give it everything we got. We won the regular season, so we might as well win the tournament. We are playing a really good team. It’s the two best teams in the league playing each other. It’s the way it should be. We like to do it the hard way.
“We talked about it when we got in the loser bracket. We talked about it with our team. We have been here. We are built for this. This is not new. We have guys that were on that team and they talked about it. It’s just that belief system of we are at home. We are in the right place to make it happen here at the Love Shack. Our fans are going crazy. I can’t thank them enough. I know it’s hot. It’s humid. It’s just that belief system that we are going to get it done. We have seen it before with our own eyes.”
But with their tanks on empty, the Bulldogs may need a little help.
Maybe a little magic.
Remembering Scott Alan Norris
Funeral services for Mr. Scott Alan Norris, age 46, are scheduled for 10:00 AM, Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Fellowship Baptist Church in Dubach, LA with Rev. Paul Watts and Oscar Robertson officiating. Burial will follow in Fellowship Cemetery under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston. Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Monday, May 27, 2024, at Owens Memorial Chapel.
Scott Alan Norris was born March 29, 1978 in Alexandria, LA, the beloved son of Susan and Ebbin Norris. Scott was their second child; Brent being the first and Elizabeth being the baby. Scott enjoyed his childhood days in Dubach, LA where he was close to grandparents and cousins. There, he began to grow his strong relationship with the Lord. He was also raised to be respectful, to put others ahead of self and the value of hard work.
In high school, Scott enjoyed family, friends, baseball and the loving family at Fellowship Baptist Church. His family enjoys an everlasting bond that most families only hope for.
After high school, Scott worked in Alexandria and gave college a try at Northwestern. Finding college wasn’t his forte, Scott set out to work and find his way, always keeping love of God, family and friends in the forefront.
When his sister gave birth to her first child, Scott dropped everything and moved to Ruston to provide love and support. There, Scott began a job at Pilgrim’s Pride and enlisted in the Louisiana National Guard.
Scott was a patriot who loved his country. When the Guard was called up following the terrorist attack on 9/11/2001, Scott was prepared and gave comfort and motivation to his brothers in arms. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2002. His valor and fidelity on the battlefield were recognized by Army leadership resulting in his promotion to Non-Commissioned Officer and reassignment to another unit across Afghanistan.
Returning home, the National Guard gave Scott the love of his life, Carly Robertson who was also assigned in his unit. The two fell in love and on September 24, 2005 exchanged marriage vows, pledging to bond as one and continue to grow in Christ. With their union, God gifted Scott with Carly’s daughter, Morgan, who he readily accepted as his own and he is the only Dad she has ever known. Soon, Scott’s family grew again with the addition of Susan’s husband, Danny, or as he is affectionately known, “Grand Dan”.
Now, having a family, Scott sought to find a technical skill where he could earn a good living and protect his new family. Scott found his niche as an apprentice with an electrical contractor specializing in high voltage, high-wire installation and repair. His goal was to learn and succeed in this field to ultimately become a senior lineman. Soon, the family found themselves in Chunchula, AL in 2005 where Scott worked subcontracted jobs across the South. It was there, in May, 2006, that daughter, Eleanor, was born. Scott beamed with his growing family and continued to work toward improving his position with the company and his knowledge in his chosen profession. The family moved to Monroe, LA to be closer to family. There, Scott got to spend a lot of time working as a subcontractor with Entergy. Entergy had the opportunity to see Scott’s strong, dedicated work ethic which earned him a position with this large power conglomerate. This also opened more doors for Scott as a lineman and he soon impressed his brothers at work as well as Entergy supervision. Scott was known as the “Go To” guy who would never turn down a job. He was a disciple for Christ wherever he went spreading love with his sweet, positive personality.
In 2012, God rewarded Scott with his baby boy, Beaux, who adored his Dad. Unlike many guys who look forward to hunting, fishing and other activities outside the family, Scott’s focus was on his family at all times. We knew he would always be there to love and provide for his family. After work, Scott wanted nothing more than to come home to his family. In time, Scott’s hard work and dedication paid off with promotion to Senior Lineman, which had been his initial objective.
The family bought a home in Monroe and enjoyed many family trips with many more planned. Carly and Scott had a vision to share their eternal love with retirement in Florida. Sadly, this was not God’s plan. On the evening of May 22, Scott took a call-out as he regularly did. Finishing up around midnight, Scott told his supervisor he would stop by Oak Ridge where a family was without power on a stormy night. Scott couldn’t go home to an air-conditioned house on a warm, humid night knowing a customer would go without. When his Entergy brothers found him, they saw he had installed a transformer fuse, restoring power and was booming down to the ground when God called him home; mission accomplished, be now at peace.
ALL things work together for good to those who love God and are called by His name. We may not understand, but in Christ, we have HOPE. Our lives have been blessed and enriched for having our time with Scott.
Remembering M. Douglas Walton
A Memorial Celebration for the Life of M. Douglas Walton, 81, of Ruston, LA will be Saturday, June 8, 2024, 2:00 PM – 4:00 P.M. at the Davison Athletics Complex (DAC) located at the south end of the Louisiana Tech University football stadium, under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes in Ruston, LA.
Douglas was born on June 23, 1942, raised in Carmen, OK. He died peacefully in Ruston, LA on April 5, 2024. He is preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Leota Walton.
Doug lived in his own little world as a child. He had a speech problem no one could solve. His mother and father sold their family restaurant when Doug was sixteen and moved to Wichita, Kansas to send him to the Institute of Logopedics, now known as Heartspring. He was educated in public schools and graduated in Architecture from Oklahoma State University earning the Schools’ Prestigious Silver Medal of Excellence in Architecture. After college, he was employed with Haas and Massey and Associates, Architects in Shreveport, LA.
Louisiana Tech University needed an architecture teacher in the Fall. He took the opportunity, thinking he would have summers to paint. At that time, he was a student of Edgar Whitney, the father of American Watercolor. Whitney would later pass the teaching torch to Douglas. He has taught more artists who have gone on to teach themselves.
He traveled extensively, teaching on LA Tech Rome Summer trips, 2 years. He has been to Bali, Indonesia 30 times, to Europe, Morocco, Egypt, Mexico, Peru, Cambodia, Guatemala, and South Africa.
In April of 2015, he was in the Nepal Earthquake with 15 students. That experience changed his life.
In June 2022, he celebrated his 80th Birthday and 50 years of teaching. His teaching experiences were more than workshops…..the students named them “encounters”. Accomplished artists came to Ruston since 1977 to seek Douglas unique teaching and critique; unlike anyone else.
He had the ability to bring a student to their highest potential. Instilling in them their ability and confidence – excellence. He strived to help each one find their unique voice.
Doug will always be remembered for his amazing ability to critique works, to encourage, and to tell stories. He was entertaining, on the cutting edge, reaching higher, caring for his students. He was an amazing and exceptional teacher, was very compassionate in helping his students grow to their maximum potential in painting as well as helping them to gain greater self-confidence and self-esteem.
His teaching of painting had become his vehicle to enable students to get in touch with who they are and what they can become.
Doug is survived by many. His art community is his legacy. They are Family!!
An appropriate tribute will be dedicated to this life lived to the fullest.
Online condolences may be sent to http://www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.
Remembering Jeanne H. Lynch
A Memorial Service for Jeanne H. Lynch, age 91, of Ruston, was held Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Grace Methodist Church in Ruston, La., under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home of Ruston, La.
Memorials may be made to Grace Methodist Church of Ruston or Louisiana United Methodist Children and Family Services.
Jeanne H. Lynch passed peacefully in her sleep on May 23, 2024, shortly after her 91st birthday. She was born Helen Jeanne Hall in Birmingham, Alabama on May 20, 1933, second child to Clarence C Hall and Helen Hitt Hall.
Her childhood was filled with music, academics and farm life. She was a graduate of Wetumpka High School, Auburn University with both a Bachelors in Elementary Education and a Masters in History, and La Tech with a Masters in Child Development. During a long career as a Kindergarten teacher, Jeanne was a member of LACUS, Delta Kappa Gamma, Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), and DAR.
She married Wesley Otis (W.O.) Lynch, Jr on September 1, 1951. Leaving employment at Auburn University, W.O. accepted a call to ministry. Upon graduation from seminary, they embarked on 34 years of ministry together in the Methodist Church, serving appointments in Shongaloo, Cotton Valley, Minden, Ruston, Lafayette, Shreveport, and New Orleans.
Jeanne is preceded in death by her husband, W.O. Lynch, Jr, parents, C. C. and Helen Hall, and her brothers, John C. Hall and Philip C. Hall. She is survived by her siblings Henry E. Hall (Jane) and Mary Elizabeth “Ibbie” Hall Moultrie, her sisters-in-law Faye Hall and Mary Hall, her 4 children and their spouses, Dr Wesley O. Lynch, III, (Deborah), Libbi Lynch Ellis (Jeff), Alicia Lynch, David C. Lynch (Cheryl); her 12 grandchildren and their spouses, Wesley O Lynch, IV (Lori), Johnathan D. Lynch, Stephen A. Lynch (Cassidy), Emily Ellis, Olivia Ellis Sanders (Matthew), Adelai Lynch, Tabby Self (Shane), Mindy Menard and 8 great grandchildren, Brynn Lynch, Nora Lynch, Vivienne Lynch, Dominick Self, Alex Self, Emily Self, Ian LeMarie-Menard and Piper LeMarie-Menard.
Meme and Papa were devoted to their children and grandchildren, passing on their curiosity of adventure and instilling in them a sense of connection and belonging. In retirement, they were active in their church and with their church family. They enjoyed traveling throughout their married life. They were fond of camping in the US, including trips to Alaska. They also enjoyed international travel to Nova Scotia and Europe, often traveling with their siblings. They loved Storytelling Festivals, especially the annual International Storytelling Festival in Tennessee. Often taking their children and grandchildren with them, they impressed upon them the importance of telling their own story.
Jeanne lived a full and wonderful life and now she is whole again in our Lord’s arms and with loved ones.
A special thank you to the loving caregivers at The Arbor, Best Home Health, and Premier Hospice.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com
Notice of death — May 26, 2024
Jeanne H. Lynch
May 20, 1933 – May 23, 2024
Scott Alan Norris
March 29, 1978 – May 23, 2024
Visitation: Monday, May 27, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home
Funeral service: uesday, May 28, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Fellowship Baptist Church, Hwy 151, Dubach
Cemetery committal: Tuesday, May 28, 2024, 11:00 AM, Fellowship Cemetery, Hwy 151, Dubach
Early DBU runs doom Diamond Dogs
By Kyle Roberts
RUSTON — Following a magical Saturday with a pair of one-run wins, Louisiana Tech’s pitching staff looked completely depleted in the tank Sunday, as the Bulldogs fell 17-10 after a nine-run top of the first inning gave Dallas Baptist the early lead and momentum in the title game of the 2024 Conference USA Championships.
Bulldog senior pitcher Reed Smith got off to a rocky start by giving up four consecutive singles and back-to-back home runs, giving the Patriots an early 6-0 lead before an out was ever recorded. Junior Caden Copeland came in for relief after Smith’s outing and gave up two hits and a run and would be replaced by senior Isaac Crabb on the mound.
“(Dallas Baptist is) very scary because they have power,” said Tech head coach Lane Burroughs. “That’s what they are known for. The wind was howling out to left. When I saw the first ball leave (the park) I knew it was going to be hard to hold them in to left field. They got on some balls. It was Reed’s bullpen day so we just wanted an inning out of him. I feel bad for him that he couldn’t get out of the inning.
“The nine-spot was tough. It was tough to watch. I felt bad for our fans because they were all fired up and they were grinding too. They hadn’t had any sleep and it was hot, and that’s how we greeted them.”
Tech answered in the bottom of the first with a RBI single into left field by senior catcher Jorge Corona to score senior Cole McConnell from third. And as the legendary rally train roared past the outfield wall, senior infielder Michael Ballard hit a ball that appeared to be an easy double-play right to the short stop, who muffed the ball and allowed the bases to load.
Senior outfielder Adarius Myers hit into a fielder’s choice double-play in his outing, scoring senior designated hitter Ethan Bates to cut the lead to 9-2 at the bottom of the first.
DBU’s Luke Heefner would single into right field to score senior Alex Pendergast with two outs to extend the lead to 10-2 in the top of the second.
“We just couldn’t get a zero,” said Burroughs. “Finally Connor Nation gave us one and some life.”
The Bulldogs then loaded the bases in the bottom of the second with no outs, bringing McConnell back up at the top of the order, who would get hit by a pitch and score junior Brody Drost to cut the lead to 10-3. Bates would add a sacrifice fly to right field on the next at-bat, scoring senior Kasten Furr for a 10-4 score.
Corona then hit a one-out single to left field to score senior Logan McLeod, who got the nod at third base after freshman Grant Comeaux had to take over at first base for ill senior Dalton Davis. Tech’s three runs in the bottom of the second cut the lead to 10-5.
“I just felt like offensively we were going to keep scoring and we did,” said Burroughs. “We kept getting runners on and guys were having good at bats. We were without one of the best hitters in the league in Dalton (Davis). That hurt us.”
Dallas Baptist homered three times in the top of the third after junior Turner Swistak came into relieve Crabb, extending the lead to 13-5.
Tech loaded the bases in the bottom of the third with one out, and Heefner would be charged with an error as he mishandled what could have been another routine double-play from McLeod to score Comeaux and keep the bases loaded at 13-6. McConnell would add a sacrifice fly to center field to score Drost and cut DBU’s lead to 13-7.
The Patriots added their sixth home run of the day in the top of the fourth, scoring two and extending the lead to 15-7.
Comeaux hit a sac-fly in the bottom of the forth to left field, scoring Ballard and cutting the lead to 15-8.
Junior Connor Nation came in for the Bulldogs in the top of the fifth, leading to the first scoreless half-inning of the game to that point.
DBU added another run in the top of the sixth with a one-out single by Chayton Krauss to go up 16-8.
After a scoreless seventh by both teams, the Patriots scored on a single by sophomore Michael Dattalo with no outs in the top of the eighth for a 17-8 lead.
Myers would bring a run home in the bottom of the eighth with a two-out single to cut the DBU lead to 17-9 — he’d then score one batter later on an awkward single by Comeaux in the right field gap for a 17-10 score.
The teams combined for 34 hits total, with Tech getting 13 on the day. The biggest difference, however, was extra base hits: the Bulldogs only had one to the Patriots’ nine, including six home runs.
“Credit DBU,” said Burroughs. “They have a good program and they have a good team, and they deserved to win today.
“We never quit. That’s what I said on the post-game radio. If you are a Louisiana Tech fan or alumni and you are ashamed of this game today then you need to check yourself. Our guys kept fighting to the last out was made. It ends up being 17-10 after a 9-0 start. I couldn’t be more proud of our guys and their resiliency and the way they played.
“Obviously we wanted to win the game. We made it to Sunday and we had to do it the hard way. We still have a lot of baseball in front of us.”
The Bulldogs will learn their regional location Monday at 11 a.m.
G-Men punch NCAA ticket in walk-off fashion
By T. Scott Boatright
ATLANTA —- History continues happening for Grambling State athletics in 2024.
After seeing both GSU basketball teams earn postseason hoops berths earlier this spring, now the Diamond G-Men have earned the first NCAA berth for Grambling since 2010.
It came in dramatic fashion.
Graduate student Trevor Hatton laid a bunt down the third base line that resulted in a throwing error allowing both Cameron Bufford and Kyle Walker to cross the plate in the bottom of the ninth, giving the G-Men a 6-5 win over Jackson State and the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship title.
The win secures the SWAC’s automatic berth in the NCAA tournament.
The win comes only months after GSU’s men’s and women’s claimed postseason tournament basketball berths for the first time in years.
Jackson State scored a run in the top of the ninth to take a 5-4 advantage heading into Grambling’s last at bat.
But the north Louisiana Tigers were undaunted.
Walker singled to open the bottom of the ninth inning and advanced to second base on a throwing error before Jackson State intentionally walked Cameron Bufford. The runners were then advanced to second and third on a ground out to second base by Julian Murphy.
Following an intentional walk to Ashton Inman that loaded the bases, Hatton’s picture perfect bunt combined with the Jackson State throwing error provided the history-marking runs for GSU.
The teeter-totter of a game saw Jackson State go on top 2-0 in the top of the first inning before the G-Men plated one run in the bottom of the third and three more in the fourth to build a 4-2 advantage.
But Jackson State countered with one run in the top of the fifth and another in the top of the seventh to tie things up at 4-4.
Jackson State plated a run in the top of the ninth before Hatton’s heroics in the bottom half of the stanza gave Grambling its first SWAC title in 13 years.
Hatton finished the day batting two-of-five for three runs batted in.
“He had a slow start to the season and at one point I had to sit him,” said GSU coach Davin Pierre about Hatton. “It was inconsistency. But he worked his way back into the (starting) lineup and my back big trio — Hatton, Julian Murphy and Cam (Murphy) — those guys were the heart of this. The heart of history being made.”
Pierre also credited mentors James Cooper and Wilbert Ellis for their encouragement throughout the season.
“I can’t say enough about either of them,” Pierre said. “I learned everything from Coop — he was my guy and I still talk to him all of the time.
“And Coach Ellis, he’s part of the foundation of Grambling State University. We love him for the support and dedication he’s shown to this team. We’re still learning from him every day. Now this team has to learn how to play in the NCAA Regionals, and that’s something I know Coach Coop and Coach Ellis are proud of, even if I’m the proudest.”
Grambling State will find out its regional site Monday at 11 a.m. when the NCAA Selection Show airs on ESPN.
Tech’s Comeaux: “I’m going to out-tough him.”
by Malcolm Butler
Grant Comeaux stepped to the plate late Saturday night with a bloodied, swollen lip.
The red-shirt freshman had been hit in the face by a pitch in the bottom of the fourth that came close to knocking him out of the game.
“It was a fast ball up and in,” said Comeaux in his post-game interview. “A little two seamer. I didn’t think it was going to hit me. It ended up running up and in, and I didn’t turn in time, and it smoked me.”
But after Tech trainers and coaches went through proper protocol to make sure the Barbe High School product was okay, Comeaux trotted to first base.
“The ball hit him in the mouth. He is bleeding,” said Tech head coach Lane Burroughs. “I was about to take him out of the game. Concussion protocol and all that stuff. He said, ‘I’m staying in.’ I didn’t feel good about it. I wasn’t sure if he was all there. It defines what this program is all about.”
Little did anyone know at the time, Comeaux’s continued presence in the ball game would lead to a heroic ending.
Fast forward to the bottom of the 10th inning.
With the game tied 5-5 with two outs, Comeaux lined a 1-2 pitch up the middle and into centerfield to score pinch runner Thaxton Berch with the winning run.
Comeaux once again trotted to first base, this time with his fist clinched and raised high into the air.
He was quickly mobbed by his teammates in celebration.
“When he was up at the plate, you just feel like it’s going to happen,” said Burroughs. “I am extremely proud of Grant. He is a winner. He came through for us tonight.”
It was a bit of redemption for Comeaux, who came to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the eighth. Game tied 5-5.
Comeaux was up 3-0 in the count against Liberty reliever Dylan Mathiesen. One ball or one big swing away from giving his team the lead.
However, Mathiesen threw three straight strikes as Comeaux went down swinging to end the threat.
“The at bat before he got the best of me,” said Comeaux. “The next couple of innings my mind was like ‘If I come up again, I’m going to out-tough him. I am not going to let it happen again.’ My teammates set me up in a really good position for the last inning.”
“He comes through every time,” said teammate Nate Crider. “He has been unbelievable. (Just a) freshman. He has been just unbelievable.”
Comeaux watched from south Louisiana when the Bulldogs made their run to the CUSA title game in 2021. On Saturday night he became part of the Bulldog lore with his game-winning walk-off RBI single.
“It was surreal,” said Comeaux. “The whole message today was out-tough the other team. If we make it to Sunday we won’t be denied. We just have to outlast the other team these past two games. We did exactly that.”