VGCC holds first Athletics Banquet

Vance-Granville Community College held its first Athletics Banquet on April 30 in Building 8 on the college’s main campus. The event honored players and coaches who were involved in the first year of the college’s growing intercollegiate athletics program. VGCC, which joined the National Junior College Athletic Association in 2008, has introduced men’s basketball and golf teams. A women’s volleyball team, to be coached by Ellis Crews of Oxford, is scheduled to begin play later this year.

VGCC President Randy Parker welcomed guests to the banquet. Gene Purvis, the college’s Vice President of Student Affairs, and Jasmine Hightower, the director of student activities and athletics, also spoke during the program following dinner. Vanguards basketball coach Avery Wilson of Louisburg and golf coach Frank Hester of Henderson presented awards to several of their players.

Raymond Dunn of Henderson was recognized as leading the 2008-09 basketball team in field goal percentage, as the Vanguards’ “Outstanding Rebounder” and as “Most Outstanding Player” on the team. Dunn’s teammate, Bryan Burrell of Raleigh, was recognized as co-MVP, as the best “Scholar-Athlete,” and for leading the Vanguards in assists. The other MVP was Mitchell Jeffries of Raleigh, who was also recognized for having the highest free throw percentage. Cameron Keith of Youngsville and L.C. Hester of Oxford were named the team’s best defensive players.

For the golf team, Michael Reese of Henderson was honored as the “Most Consistent Player.” Joshua Lorenzo of Henderson was named “Most Improved” player. Tommy Overcash of Henderson was named Best Overall Golfer and Team Low Medalist, indicating that Overcash achieved the lowest (best) scores on the team.

Schedules and other information concerning VGCC athletics are available on the college web site ( vgcc.springerstudios.net/Athletics ).