Luling Mustangs finish fifth in nation, third in World Series

With an arsenal of powerful pitching, a rock-solid defense, an offense with speed and explosive hitting that scored nearly 8 runs per game in 2009, the Mustangs team has it all. The 11U Mustangs Baseball team had a fantastic season that was waged in tournaments across Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama.

The Mustangs, were formed in 2005 as a 7-year old-group from St. Charles Parish.

The team was started with the idea of teaching fundamentals, sportsmanship and hard work.

The Mustangs have since evolved into a nationally competitive 11U program.

Today, the team includes veteran players Dane Authement, Mason Aucoin, Richard Oubre, Brandon Morris, Zachary Hansen, Luke Bourgeois and Chance Melancon. New players to the program in 2009 are Chase Fourcade, Louis Kieffer and Chad Alello

The Mustangs won first place in seven tournaments, placed second in three tournaments and placed third in four tournaments.

The Mustangs made it to the championship game in 10 of the 14 tournaments in which they played in 2009.

Their overall record was 50 wins, 17 loses, with a third place finish in the USSSA Global World Series (out of 24 teams) in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Ala. - Finishing the season fifth in the nation in USSSA points.

The Mustangs scored an average of eight runs per game while giving up only four.

“Trophies and plaques aren’t the reason the Mustangs got into competitive baseball,” said coach Mike Aucoin. “Watching the players grow and learn the great game of baseball and become competitive young men is all the reward the parents, coaches and players need.”

Part of the team's strategy was to compete at the highest level in the USSSA major class.

“We gained a lot of experience in those tournaments, and that experience has helped our players advance in their development,” added Aucoin. “The players' confidence and their skill levels are soaring. That experience will carry right into a successful 2010 season.”

The Mustangs play in 14 to 15 tournaments a year and take time off for the kids to play football, basketball and soccer. The Mustangs will start the off-season in January 2010 with agilities and core strength training.

They will also begin stretching and work on the mechanics of pitching and hitting.

Looking ahead, the Mustangs' 2010 schedule will travel to meet and compete with other high ranking teams. Coaches believe that the team is ready for the challenge.

“We have a group of kids who are focused on becoming better baseball players. ,” said Aucoin. “That's the essential ingredient in every successful baseball program.

“Each of the boys has a great passion for the game and good attitudes. The players are also making lifetime friendships each weekend.

“I would like to thanks the players, coaches and parents for their dedication, support and contributions to the teams' wonderful season.”