Friendswood grad Jake Ebner continues to be rewarded for his work on and off the field at the University of Houston.
Ebner was named one of 18 athletes selected for the 2008-09 Conference-USA Scholar-Athlete Award. The Scholar-Athlete Award is given to the top student-athlete in each Conference sponsored sport as determined by the Faculty Athletics Representatives. The award is based on academic achievement, athletic achievement and service.
Ebner was honored as the conference’s top scholar-athlete in football.
This isn’t Ebner’s first off-the-field award this season. He also won the C-USA Spirit of Service Award in December, received the Robert L. Grainger Outstanding Leadership Award, and was named to the C-USA football All-Academic team.
Ebner had 19 tackles and a sack in 13 games for Houston this season. He also helped the Cougars win the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl against Air Force.
Backe Headed Back To The Bullpen
After one start for the Houston Astros, it appears as though Ball grad Brandon Backe has been moved back to the bullpen.
With Monday’s off day, the Astros elected to shuffle their rotation, keeping Backe off its list of probable pitchers for this week.
Backe started Thursday’s game against the Texas Rangers, giving up four hits and three runs. According to Astros.com, Backe had to leave the game after four innings with a finger blister.
Pendergast Makes National List
Creek grad Megan Pendergast was selected as one of the “Fab 50” recruits in the nation by Volleyball Magazine. The list highlights the top 50 seniors in the nation.
Pendergast helped lead Creek to the Class 5A state tournament this season. She also was first-team all-state and The Daily News’ player of the year.
Pendergast also was a part of Nebraska’s No. 2 ranked recruiting class, according to prepvolleyball.com. She was one of the Lady Cornhuskers’ four commits to make the “Fab 50” list.
Wright Scores In Lone Star Bowl
Creek grad Jordan Wright helped had a standout game in the Lone Star Bowl played earlier this month in Alvin.
Wright, who is committed to Texas A&M Commerce, had four catches for 65 yards, one rush for 14 yards and a touchdown. However, his South team lost the contest, 24-17.
Also participating in the game were Ball grads Dominick Valdez and Fabian Galavez, Dickinson grads Chris Alonso, Devin Allen and Darrell Riley, and Creek grad D.J. Gipson.
Galveston County Alumni notes are compiled by Joshua Buckley. Coaches and parents are highly encouraged to help us keep track of any Galveston County athlete in college or the pros. Contact us at 409-683-5242 or sports.desk(at)galvnews.com.
