Kinston Wingmen: Just in time
Photo retrieved from Kinston Wingmen FB page/ GannonBall media productions
In the wake of the Down East Wood Ducks' departure, a new team has risen to keep the spirit of baseball alive in Eastern North Carolina. The Kinston Wingmen, the latest addition to the Old North State League (ONSL), are set to make their mark on the local sports scene.
Established in 2018, the ONSL is a collegiate wood bat summer league filled with college-bound and current college players. The league prides itself on creating fun and engaging environments for fans. The Wingmen, the 15th team to join the league, are making their debut this season, which runs from May 20th to July 31st.
The Wingmen's roster boasts a mix of local talent and promising players from top-tier baseball programs. Among them are standouts from our local teams, such as Luke Cannon from North Lenoir, who is committed to Campbell University. Cannon just finished a remarkable senior season, boasting a batting average of .463 with 20 RBIs and 2 HRs in 22 games. Jones Senior High School star Maja Brown is also on the team. Brown, who batted .397 with 3 HRs and 18 RBIs in 21 games, is committed to Lenoir Community College.
Another local talent is Logan Merritt, a Rosewood High School native who recently led the Lancers to a conference championship. Playing third base, Merritt batted .333 with 8 HRs and 45 RBIs in 52 games. The Lancers' Dawson Ables and Carter Startweather also join Merritt on the Wingmen's roster.
Despite initial plans of being Goldsboro Wingmen and to play home games at the C35 Sports Complex in Goldsboro, the team had to pivot due to scheduling conflicts and county regulations. However, this setback has not dampened the team's momentum as they quickly found a home in Kinston.
The Wingmen are set to undergo a rebranding. According to Billy Stern, GM of the Kinston Wingmen, the team will announce a new team name contest tonight. The goal is to find a name that resonates more with the Kinston community. The name change will take effect next season, marking a new chapter in the team's history.
This summer, the Wingmen will also have the honor of hosting the Native American National Team twice at LCC, further solidifying their place in the local sports scene.
The Wingmen's inaugural season promises to be an exciting one, filled with thrilling games and memorable moments. The Kinston Wingmen may be a new team, but they are ready to continue the rich tradition of baseball in Eastern North Carolina.
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