Ellis has Hawks on track

By Staff
Todd Thompson, Hartselle Enquirer
Brian Ellis never really expected to be coaching this season - especially baseball.
That’s just the way it worked for the former Hartselle player who went on to a two-year college playing career at Shelton State and Calhoun.
The Hawks have been impressive in Ellis’ first season, jumping off to a 14-3 record after sweeping Addison Monday afternoon on the road.
The start has certainly drawn the attention of people around the state. The Hawks found themselves ranked fourth in the state in the first Alabama Sports Writers Association prep baseball poll.
Danville will play seven of its next nine games on the road and Ellis hopes that will keep the Hawks’ attention away from the rankings for the foreseeable future.
The Hawks reached the quarterfinals last season under Jay Stanley - now an assistant coach at Bob Jones High School - before losing to state champion Hokes Bluff.
To reach the third round of the playoffs, the Hawks had to win five of their last seven games.
But most importantly, Ellis wants the Danville players to take a renewed pride in the program.
Sports editor Todd Thompson can be reached at 773-6566 or by email at todd.thompson@hartselleenquirer.com