CCSN baseball signs 11 locals

Spencer Patterson

Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2001 | 10:34 a.m.

When the Community College of Southern Nevada founded its intercollegiate baseball program two years ago, its goal was to provide opportunities for local athletes to begin their college careers in town.

On Monday, the Coyotes did just that, signing 11 local players, including some of Southern Nevada's premier senior pitchers and position players.

"We're excited, and I think they're excited," CCSN coach Tim Chambers said. "They have to be 11 of the top 15 kids in town."

Headlining the list is Green Valley outfielder Garrett Guzman. A member of the Sun's all-state first team last year, the Gator finished the 2000 season with a .542 batting average, striking out just five times in 96 at-bats.

"Guzman is obviously the best hitter in town, probably the best outfielder in town," Chambers said. "When you get a guy like Guzman, other guys say, 'Wow, why should I go anywhere else?' "

Also signing with the Coyotes was Bishop Gorman catcher Cooper Fouts, who began his prep career when Chambers coached the Gaels. Fouts' brother, Nate, pitches for CCSN.

"In my mind, it was an easy decision to make," Cooper Fouts said. "It's like a family over there, and I'd follow Chambers anywhere."

The Coyotes also snagged one of the area's top right-handed pitchers, inking Basic's Jesse Craig. Last year, Craig was a key member of a Wolves squad that beat out Silverado and Green Valley for the Southeast Division title.

Also signing on Monday were pitchers Derek Rodriguez (Gorman), Chris Huseman (Bonanza), Ryan Coiner (Las Vegas) and Larry Ellenbrook (Palo Verde), catcher Robert Grana (Cimarron-Memorial), outfielder Joe Cosentino (Gorman) and infielders Justin Sibley (Gorman) and Zeke Parraz (Green Valley).