On March 6, 2009, the Avalon Eagles made history. It was the first time in 10 years, since Kris Marsall has been head coach, that the Eagles made it this far in playoffs. Though they didn’t win, Avalon played in the Region III Division Tournament at Stephen F. Austin University.

The Eagles fought with all their might, but the Slocum “Wild” Mustangs couldn’t be tamed. The final score was 71-53 leaving Avalon will an impressive 22-9 season record. Along with loosing this game, the team will also be loosing five incredible seniors.

When asked about the five graduating seniors, head coach Kris Marshall had this to say:

“Seniors Andrew Romero, Dernard Hughes, David Crocker, Rodney Mungia, and William Cockerham have accumulated a 20+ win season for the past three years. They have been to the playoffs all three years. The two previous seasons, they were Area finalist and their Senior year they made it to the Regional Semifinals. Each individual Senior brought a different aspect to the team. I have seen these five young men grow and mature not only as players but also into productive, respectful, positive role models for the younger students at Avalon. All five of these young men will graduate and pursue their education beyond high school in some form. I am extremely proud of this group of Seniors because of the adversity they had to face throughout out this season. There were personal situations in their lives that brought these young men together as a team, as friends and as family. I could not be any prouder of what they have accomplished thus far in their lives than if they were my own sons. There is always a group of students that you as a teacher will remember more than some; I believe this is my group. They have taught me as much, if not more, than I have hopefully taught them. It was a blessing and a privilege to be able to coach this great group of young men.”

Like Coach Marshall, Avalon fans will miss this wonderful group of talented players. “It’s going to be hard to not see them on the court next year. They played so well together and they always make the game worth watching. I’m going to miss them,” explained an Avalon student.

Avalon Eagle 2008-2009 Players