JOURNAL SPORTS
Bossier Parish Community College clinched its third consecutive playoff appearance for the first time in program history over the weekend after a 6-5 defeat of Northeast Texas Community College on the road.
The win gave the Cavaliers their second consecutive 30-win season at 30-22 and the first consecutive 30-win seasons since 2000-01.
“It came down to the last weekend for us to get in,” said coach Bobby Gilliam. “We had to fight hard to earn this. I’m proud of this club. We went through several must-win moments during the season and each time found a way when we had to have it.”
“We also dealt with season-ending injuries to four key players,” continued Gilliam. “Most teams can’t survive losing that many difference makers. This is why you have to build depth.”
BPCC is led by six Region XIV All-Conference performers, two named to the first team.
Kam Edwards, a sophomore centerfielder, was a first team selection in the outfield after hitting .374 and with a .480 on base percentage. He finished with nine doubles, three triples, two home runs, 19 stolen bases and has signed to Division I Lindenwood University for next season.
Connor Crowson, another sophomore, was a first-team selection at third base. Crowson hit .345 with an on base percentage of .469. He had 11 doubles , three home runs and 48 RBIs. This was his second all-conference selection. He is signed to play at Top 25 Division II Montavello State.
Sonny Rao, a sophomore who transferred to Bossier Parish from the University of South Florida, had a huge impact on the Cavs’ offense. He was named second team all-conference at first base after hitting .333 with 14 doubles, eight home runs and a team leading 58 RBI. He will be going back to the Division I level next year with offers from multiple schools.
Sophomore Brando Leroux was named to the second team at shortstop after hitting and playing outstanding defense all season. He hit .358 with 15 doubles and nine home runs on the year. He is signed to play for Florida Atlantic next season.
Emil Estrella, a freshman, was a second-team outfield selection. Estrella was an intimidating force for opposing pitchers, hitting .395 with 23 doubles, seven home runs, 50 RBI and 43 walks, giving him a .520 on base percentage.
Sophomore pitcher Seth Gurr earned his second consecutive all-conference selection. He went 6-0 in 55 innings and posted a 4.40 ERA. He is also signed to Montavello State for next season.
The Cavs kick off postseason play Friday against Blinn in Brenham, Texas at 2 p.m.
