East Central set for Dizzy Dean state tournament

By By Steve Swogetinsky / special to The Star
July 7, 2004
NEWTON The East Central 9-10 year-old all-star team swings back into action Thursday as it enters play in the Dizzy Dean State Tournament in Fulton.
The tournament has been pushed back a few days because of rain.
"Some of the teams have not finished their district tournament yet," said East Central coach Ray Thomas. "The rain has really pushed things back."
East Central is scheduled to play the third-place team out of the Hernando district at 5 p.m. Thursday. At press time, the team had not been determined.
East Central made up of all-stars from Newton, Union and Decatur swept through the district tournament that was held in Newton last week. East Central swept through the district tournament held at Newton's ESCO Park with three straight victories. The local team was paced by pitcher Junior Watt of Newton who claimed all three pitching wins.
"We really came together and played well," Thomas said. "We have good hitting all the way around, and our pitching has been strong. We are looking forward to the state tournament."
Other members of the team are Jordan Walker, right fielder; Clay Upton, first base; Jesse Barrett, catcher, Hunter Collins, center fielder; Luke Viverette, third base; Trent Brantley, pitcher; Jacob Rush, pitcher; Tyler Pigg, short stop; Will Brand, pitcher, and Cody Thomas, catcher.
Assistant coaches include Ricky Walker, Tim Collins and Kenneth Thompson.
"Weve been practicing hard," Thomas said. "The rain has hurt us some, but even then, we get in the batting cage at East Central Community College. I think we are ready to play."