By By BRUCE HIXON Sports Editor
W.S. Neal Blue Eagles senior running back Alphonso Gross has given a verbal commitment to play at West Virginia.
Gross rushed for 2,407 yards and scored 36 touchdowns. thisseason. He wound up with 6,096 yards for his career.
"Alphonso flew out to West Virginia a few days ago and really liked it. Alphonso really likes the campus and he likes the way West Virginia uses its running backs," W.S. Neal coach Shane Smothers said. "It will be a great opportunity for him. I know Alphonso is glad to get this (a decision) behind him."
Gross is expected to make his signing official February 4, which is the first day high school players can sign. T.R. Miller Tigers senior tight end Trent Davidson is expected to make his signing with Alabama official that day as well. Davidson gave his commitment to the Crimson Tide during the season.
* * * * * * * * *
Postseason awards continue to come in for both Gross and Davidson. Both have been named to the Alabama Sports Writers Association Class 3A All-State First Team.
W.S. Neal senior linebacker Roc Herbert and sophomore defensive back Mario Daniel were also First Team choices. T.R. Miller senior offensive lineman Demetrius Preyer was also a First Team selection. Tigers sophomore return specialist Antonio Gomez was also a First Team pick.
W.S. Neal senior offensive lineman Chris Johnson received Honorable Mention.
Another area player, senior offensive lineman Cody Turner of Flomaton, was named to the Class 2A First Team Offense.
JDCC basketball player Jamal Carson, a 6-0 sophomore from Mobile, has officially been declared a redshirt for the 2003-04 season.
Carson injured his knee in the Warhawks' season opener against Gadsden State and has not played since.
"I know it has been a frustrating situation for Jamal. Even now he is still a little gimpy," JDCC coach Allen Gainer said. "We do expect Jamal to have a full recovery by next season. While we could certainly use Jamal's help now, the good news is it does give us a head start for next season's roster."
Registration for the upcoming Brewton Little League baseball season will be held February 16, February 17 and February 19 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the T.R. Miller High School Field House.
All players who turn age nine before August 1, 2004 and do not turn age 13 before August 1, 2004 are eligible to play. Players must bring a birth certificate to verify age.
Players will be fitted for shirts and pants.
Tryouts will be held February 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon for players in the age nine and 10 division at the Brewton YMCA Sports Park. Tryouts for for players in the age 11 and 12 division will be held from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Those tryouts will also be held at the Brewton YMCA Sports Park.
Individuals who are interested in coaching a team must fill out a Little League Volunteer Application Form. The Brewton Little League Board will approve coaches based on qualifications.
For more information, contact Tony Smith at 867-6407 or Randy Denton at 867-8876
See BITS Page 7
after 5 p.m.
The Brewton Baseball Umpires Association is recruiting anyone who is interested in becoming a high school baseball umpire for the upcoming season.
All interested individuals must be at least 19 years old, have knowledge and love of the game of baseball, and dedication to the advancement of youth activities in this area.
For more information, contact Ricky Dean at 809-2156 or 809-2869.