From Underdogs to Champions: LCC Lancers' Remarkable Baseball Turnaround
In just a few short years, the Lenoir Community College (LCC) Lancers' baseball program has transformed from struggling to becoming the 2023 NJCAA Region X East Regular Season Champions for the first time since 2013. The team's incredible turnaround can be attributed to their commitment to excellence, Coach Gary Smith's winning mentality, and a unique team bonding ritual that has become a trademark of their success.
A closer look at the team's statistics over the past few years reveals a significant improvement in their performance. The Lancers' winning percentage skyrocketed from .333 in 2021 to an impressive .674 in 2023. In 2023, they scored 361 runs in 46 games, boasting a .302 batting average and 43 home runs, leading to 31 wins and the conference championship.
"Last year's players bought into our vision, and with their success, they've become this year's leaders," said Lancers head coach Gary Smith. "Now the freshmen are being led by experienced players who know how to win."
Coach Smith has played a crucial role in cultivating this winning culture at LCC. His focus on continuous improvement has led to remarkable progress, including the team's batting average climbing from .254 in 2021 to .302 in 2023 and their home runs soaring from just 5 in 2021 to a staggering 43 in 2023. Their home record also improved to an outstanding 20-7 in 2023.
"Ultimately, you want the program to run itself and have the expectations already set," Smith explained.
Despite the challenges of the JUCO level, where half the team is replaced each year, Smith believes the program has reached that point. The high standards are set by past accomplishments and diligent work, which translate into victories on the scoreboard and success in recruiting.
"Success breeds success," Smith added. "Our rivals have become more selective in their recruiting due to their success, and we're getting close to that point as well."
The Lancers' offensive leaders were Tanner Cannon (.384), Kevin Jones (.373), and Logan Brown (.369), while Danny Staley, Logan Merritt, Tanner Cannon, and Kevin Jones provided a powerful presence at the plate, contributing a combined total of 33 home runs.
"In the fall, I thought we were going to be a scrappy team that could scrape up some runs," Smith admitted. "I'm not going to lie; I'm shocked by our power at the plate, but it just speaks to our hard work during the season and in the offseason."
Logan Merritt and Kevin Jones were also the team's top run producers, with 42 and 39 RBIs, respectively. Tanner Cannon showcased his speed on the base paths, stealing 35 bases during the season.
The LCC pitching staff proved to be a force to be reckoned with, featuring four pitchers with an ERA below 3.0, led by Tyler Deluzio's 2.02 ERA. Tyler Thompson and Grey Gurganious each added five wins to the team's total, while nine pitchers made at least ten appearances, and 16 had at least five game appearances.
As the Lancers enter postseason play, Coach Smith emphasizes that the regular season is a marathon, but the sprint starts in the postseason. The ability to pitch up to 16 players is a strength for the Lancers during the postseason's more demanding schedule.
The Lancers' longest winning streak during the season was nine games, demonstrating their consistency and dedication to winning.
A unique aspect of the Lancers' winning culture is Coach Smith's post-victory "dancing" ritual. After each win, he performs a dance in front of the team, symbolizing their triumph and the joy of their hard-earned success. When asked about the purpose of the dancing ritual, Coach Smith said, “It is a long season, these kids need a mental break. Something that can pull the team together to get through the dog days.”
Beyond their on-field accomplishments, Coach Smith has been instrumental in helping his players advance to the next level of their baseball careers. This year, five Lancers have committed to play at higher-level institutions:
Grey Guranious to Chowan
Kevin Jones to UNC-Wilmington
Thomas Hill to the University of Mount Olive
Tanner Cannon to Francis Marion University
Brady Tucker to Erskine College
Lenoir Community College's baseball program has truly embraced Coach Gary Smith's winning standard, demonstrating that hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence can yield remarkable results. The Lancers' turnaround serves as a testament to the hard work the players and coaches have put in. LCC has become a sought-after destination for players who want to win and continue their baseball careers at the next level.
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