Bears second baseman Brad McDonald, above, was named District 20-3A’s Defensive Player of the Year for 2010. Loyd Cook Photo After a season that saw a young Bears baseball team finish 16-10, it became apparent it was a team that was held in high regard by its competitors.

Brownsboro second baseman Brad McDonald was named District 20-3A Defensive Player of the Year, one of the top superlative honors selected each year.

The Bears also saw district coaches name seven of its players to the first team All-District squad.

Four more Bears were tapped for second team honors.

Two team members earned honorable mention honors.

“I feel like we had a very successful year,” head coach Ty Thomison said. “We did not end the way we would have liked, but I feel that the young men on the team performed very well on the season and that they were rewarded with the all district recognition they received.”

Named to the 20-3A first team squad were: Colin Mason, junior, pitcher; Jose Mendez, senior, shortstop; Ryan Smith, senior, centerfield; Matt Tobey, senior, utility player; Jacob McCarthy, senior, gold glove; and Scott Spearman, junior, designated hitter.

On second team were: Clint Cundieff, junior, pitcher; Bret Ralson, senior, catcher; Brett Tidwell, senior, outfield; and Cameron Warren, senior, outfield.

Honorable mention went to: Tyler Rogers, senior, outfield; and Justin Vause, senior, outfield.

The Bears finished district competition tied for second place, won a game to earn second-place seeding to represent 20-3A in the postseason, then lost to the Mexia Blackcats a best 2-of-3 series in the first round of the playoffs.

“Our goal was to win a championship,” Thomison said. “We did not do that, so I cannot say that we were not disappointed when it was over, but I refuse to allow that to define our season.

“We had fun everyday at practice and I feel like the guys gave me all that they had day in and day out. We are already looking forward to next season and the opportunity that it will bring.”

The Bears will see 11 players graduate this year, a big change for next year’s squad.

“Next year will be a challenge. It is hard to replace senior leadership,” Thomison said. “We have had several young men start for two or three years. Two have started for four years.

“Next year, we will have a completely new look in the field. Some young guys are going to have to step up and fill the gaps left by the great group we are losing. Ihope that next year’s guys will work as hard as the men have over the past few years.”