Bombers return to World Series

Keaton Parsell, Brownsboro Senior

Although the Brownsboro Bears baseball season ended in April at least two members of the varsity team are still kicking up dirt on the diamond.

Senior Keaton Parsell and Sophomore Ryan Smith have been staying busy this summer with what they love the most, baseball.

Both boys are playing with the East Texas Bombers, a tournament team for boys 17 years old and younger.

The Bombers began tournament play last season after a group from the Bullard area formed the team. Parsell played on the team all of last season while Smith joined the club towards the end of the season.

Seven different schools are represented on the team with most of the players from Bullard.

The team is coached by former UT-Tyler catcher Zach James, of Palestine. James is a member of the 2007 ASC East Championship Patriots that compiled an overall record of 37-1.

James has taught the players a college-like approach to the game including the mental aspect of it.

During the College World Series June 15-21 the Bombers played in an 18 year old tournament in Nebraska just missing the cut in pool play. Overall the Bombers finished 3-2 in the tournament. Just one winner from every pool was selected to move on to the next round.

Ryan Smith, Brownsboro Sophomore

Keaton Parsell has pitched for the Bombers and while not on the mound patrols first base. Ryan Smith has played the "super utility" role filling in wherever need in the infield.

Coach James understands how to relate with the teens on the team and instills confidence in them that they will carry back with them as they step onto the fields at their respected high schools.

This Saturday, July 21 the team will participate in the National Baseball Congress "Hap" Dumont World Series in Topeka, Kansas.

Last season the Bombers advanced to the 16 year old and under championship game after losing the second game of the tournament. Overall the team finished in second place. Six teens who played on last season's team remain on the team this season.

The Bombers are a parent supported team and they receive no funding from sponsors or businesses.