Friends, family and players alike gathered at the Troy Parks and Recreation gym Friday night to help bring in the new Charles Henderson baseball season with the third annual “Meet the Trojans” banquet.

As in years past, the banquet gave an opportunity to introduce all three Trojan teams and playing host for the event was varsity head coach Derek Irons.

Along with the introductions of each player, the event featured guest speakers to talk to both the players and their parents about what it takes to be successful at the game they love, but also in the game of life.

Barry Dean, who is the executive director of the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association, was the first to take the podium. During his time speech, Dean talked about the importance of not giving up, even when it seems like the easy way out.

“You have to work hard in everything you do and I urge everyone here to find a way to work things out and to never give up,” he said.
Following Dean, was Alabama baseball legend and current Auburn Montgomery head coach, Q.V. Lowe.

While pitching for Auburn during his collegiate years, Lowe went 23-3 and still holds two Tiger records for career ERA (1.69, and most complete games with 10. He began coaching AUM in 1986 and has led the program to three NAIA World Series appearances.

He was selected into the Alabama Coaches Hall of Fame early this year.
“I have been very fortunate with my life,” he said to the crowd. “And I ask each of you to handle your life with care. Have a strong character, always have a good attitude, be responsible for your actions and be enthusiastic.”