BOWMAN COLUMN: Gators made mark in state record book

It was a season of memorable performances by the Division II-AAAA state champion Goose Creek Gators football team.

Just how memorable?

Two players have entered Palmetto's Finest, the official record book of the High School League.

Kicker Masamitsu Ishibashi set a state record by kicking 97 extra points. He was 97 of 99 on the year. The old record was 93.

Fullback Virgil Smalls' 40 touchdowns this season are good for third place in state history. His 90 career touchdowns are also good for third place in the record book.

Offensively, the Gators led the Class AAAA teams in the state in scoring (47.9 points per game), rushing offense (366 yards per game) and total offense (457 YPG).

The Gators were second in state in scoring defense, and led in rushing defense.

Linebacker T.J. Burrell has been selected to play in the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl, which is slated for Dec. 29 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Burrell, who has committed to play for Clemson, had 105 tackles for the Gators, including 12 for a loss. He played in Saturday's Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas in Spartanburg.

Haun honored

Kylie Haun of Hillcrest has been named the Gatorade South Carolina Volleyball Player of the Year.

The 5-8 senior outside hitter led the Rams (53-5) to the Class AAAA state title this fall. Haun recorded 479 kills, 245 digs, 95 assists and 65 service aces. The school record-holder for career kills and digs, she is a two-time all-state selection and was named Class AAAA player of the year.

Haun has maintained a 4.16 GPA in the classroom and is a member of student government.

Pitchers commit

Two All-Lowcountry pitchers have committed to play baseball at Spartanburg Methodist: James Island right-hander Josh Escoffier and Wando left-hander Jake McBreairty.

Follow Phil Bowman on Twitter at @pandcphil.