Monday, March 2, 2009

RM's Goodwin named to All-America team


CHARLOTTE - Rocky Mount center fielder Brian Goodwin started gaining national attention for his talents last season and this past summer.

More attention was recently thrown his way when The Sporting News' 2009 Baseball Yearbook hit newstands with him as a member of its 2009 High School All-America Team.

He joins Charlotte Providence infielder Richie Shaffer as the only North Carolina players on the squad.

The 6-foot-1, 185-pound senior was named to the 10-player All-America squad. Weather permitting, fans of the Gryphons can catch him in their season opener at home Wednesday against South Granville.

Goodwin helped Rocky Mount win the NCHSAA 3-A state championship last season while hitting .473, socking a state-leading 15 doubles and 21 RBI while stealing 21of 21 bases.

Goodwin has signed to play next season with the University of North Carolina, which The Sporting News ranked as the team to beat for an NCAA title this season.