By George Mahl – Sports Editor

RESERVE – Over the last two years, Dominick Thomas has been working hard for the East St. John baseball team. Whether he is pitching or playing in the outfield, he always gives 100 percent. His dedication to the Wildcat baseball team has resulted in him signing a scholarship with Gulf Coast Community College, located Northwest of Biloxi.

“It is great choice for him both academically and athletically,” said East St. John Head Baseball Coach Macky Waguespack.

There were two selling points that led Thomas to making his decision. First, by signing with GCCC he will not only have the opportunity to pitch, but play outfield as well.

“When I am not pitching, I want to play in the outfield,” Thomas said Tuesday.

“I did not want to be sitting on the bench if I was not pitching.”

The second selling point, Waguespack recalled, was when the Head Coach, Cooper Ferris, came down to pick up Thomas and bring him to the campus.

“I was very encouraged by what they did for Dominick,” Waguespack said.

“To me, that showed that they cared,” added Thomas.

Thomas will be going to a highly respected Junior College. Ferris recently won his 500th game and has been to a regional 14 out of 15 years.

“This year they have a record of 31-7,” continued Waguespack.

After struggling a little in previous years, Thomas has come back strong and has a great deal of potential.

“I have battled through some injuries previously. It’s just a confidence thing for me,” he said.

One of the highlights for Thomas during his years at ESJ was when Major League Baseball scouts came to watch him pitch.

“While I was out there (pitching for the scouts), I just had to tell myself to calm down,” said Thomas. “It was an adrenaline rush.”

Thomas is excited about the off the field goals student-athletes have achieved while at GCCC.

“Every player he has coached has graduated and has gone on to a Division One school,” Thomas said.

The Wildcats are currently in playoff position. Thomas has a chance to be on a team that makes the playoffs for the first time since 1998.

“I am glad to be a part of it,” he said.

Waguespack concluded by saying Thomas is almost in a no lose situation.

“Worse case scenario is that he plays for two years and gets an associate’s degree. An associate’s degree is better than no degree.”