Former Mustang Derrick Hawk inks with Spartanburg Methodist

Derrick Hawk, a former Smoky Mountain standout, has signed to play baseball for Spartanburg Methodist College. With him are, from left: Tim Wallace, SMC coach, Hawk's parents, Lou Ellen and Marc Hawk, and Austin Alexander, SMC assistant.

Hawk graduated from Smoky Mountain in May and is attending Western Carolina. He has continued to play for the Orioles, a traveling squad based in Waynesville.

It was while playing for the Orioles that Spartanburg Methodist Coach Tim Wallace saw him in action and became interested.

"It's great to get the opportunity to do this," Hawk said. "I'm glad I've got an opportunity to go to a junior college."

The Pioneers are coming off a 40-10 season. They have 10 former players playing professionally.

He is the son of Marc and Lou Ellen Hawk of Sylva.

Hawk was a star pitcher and hitter for the Mustangs. This past season he set a school record on the mound with 92 strikeouts. He posted a 6-4 record with a 2.20 ERA.

He batted .432 with four home runs and 22 RBIs and tied a school record with 22 runs.

"That's great for Derrick," Smoky Mountain Coach Tim Hawkins said. "It's a good opportunity for him. Spartanburg Methodist has an outstanding baseball program. He'll have an opportunity, without a lot of pressure, to work on his schooling and to play baseball. This will be good for Derrick physically. He'll have time to mature and be ready if he has a chance to play at the next level."

Hawkins said he is proud of Hawk and is certain he will represent the Mustang program well.

Wallace could not be reach for comment by Herald press time.

Back to Sports: 11/16/00.