The success of East Central Community College’s 2010 baseball team has caught the attention of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).

The Diamond Warriors – who compete in Division II - are ranked tenth in the recently released poll, according the NJCAA Web site.

Head coach Neal Holliman said he is “appreciative and proud” of the  attention given to his squad, which sports a 17-5 record following Tuesday’s (March 16) doubleheader split with Mississippi Gulf Coast.

“We are very appreciative of the support and recognition that we have received for our program,” said Holliman. “There are a lot of individuals that have contributed to this team’s success from within the program and outside the program.  Everyone has a role to play in this recognition, from current players, supporters, parents to former players, and parents and supporters. This (national ranking) has been one of the goals since we arrived (in 2006) and we are very proud for our team and institution. Now we must stay focused and approach every day with the concentration and effort that got us to this point.”

In addition to the team’s success, sophomore first baseman Richie Long of Carthage received Division II Player of the Week honors for the week of March 17.

During the week of competition, Long posted a .700 (7 of 10) batting average with one home run and six RBIs. He also scored five runs and walked twice.

Prior to the games with Gulf Coast, Long batted .424 with seven doubles, three home runs and 21 RBIs. He owns a .474 on-base percentage and .667 slugging percentage.

Long added to his home run and RBI total against Gulf Coast, as he belted a three-run shot.