Southwestern Oregon’s men’s basketball team qualified for the NWAC Championships, March 6-10, Columbia Basin College, Pasco, WA. The Lakers (23-6), who finished second in the NWAC South, will open Thursday, March 7, 6p, against Everett (18-10). SWOCC’s softball team was on the road and beat Yakima Valley, Friday, in five-innings. On Saturday, North Idaho beat Southwestern 11-6. Two games against Edmonds and one against Everett were cancelled. The Lakers (6-2) are scheduled to next play in the NWAC Preseason Tournament March 9th, against Columbia Basin. SWOCC’s baseball team won two games against Clackamas Sunday at Roseburg, 13-3 & 2-1. Southwestern (2-0, 5-5) plays at Umpqua on Thursday, March 7, 1 & 4 p.m.
Former SWOCC Pitcher Jonah Hurney Signs with Cincinnati Reds
NWAC release – COOS BAY, Ore. – Jonah Hurney, a Southwestern Oregon CC alum, recently signed a free agent deal with the Cincinnati Reds on January 23rd, 2024. Following a stellar freshman season with the Lakers, Hurney committed early in his sophomore campaign to pitch for Virginia Tech University in the ACC. Despite the disruption caused by the COVID-19 season at SWOCC in Spring 2020, Hurney managed to pitch for three seasons at Virginia Tech, alternating between relieving and starting roles. Additionally, he participated in the new MLB Draft League last summer. During his time at SWOCC, Hurney excelled as the team’s No. 1 pitcher in both 2019 and 2020, leading the NWAC in strikeouts and wins during the shortened 2020 season. Coach Dave Deutschman accredits Hurney’s success to his unwavering commitment and work ethic. “Jonah always wanted to be great, and he didn’t just talk about it; he put in the work to fulfill his lifelong dream of playing professional baseball.” Despite starting with a partial scholarship and topping 80 mph, Hurney’s dedication and progress were evident. His development over 16 months with the Lakers, culminating in an increased velocity of 88 MPH and polished secondary pitches, exemplifies his dedication to improvement. Deutschman praises Hurney’s tireless work ethic and adaptability, emphasizing his ability to make adjustments and listen to his body. Hurney’s journey from Southwestern Oregon to the professional ranks is a source of pride for Deutschman, who admires his exceptional character and determination. Hurney was assigned to the Daytona Tortugas, the Reds’ Single-A Affiliate, on Jan. 24.
