Community Sports Highlights: Awards, Tryouts, and Upcoming Events

ELLIS HONORED

Pine Tree ISD’s Cody Ellis Receives National Recognition

KC SOFTBALL

Kilgore College Rangers Announce Tryout Combine

TIMBERHOGS

Piney Woods TimberHogs Return for Second Season

KC PICKLEBALL

First-Ever Pickleball Camp at Kilgore College

PT BASKETBALL

Pine Tree Boys Basketball Summer Leagues Open for Registration

ARK-LA-TEX JUNIOR GOLF

2025 Junior Golf Tour Schedule Released

KILGORE ALUMNI GOLF

Sixth Annual Alumni Golf Tournament Set for June

KLB TOURNAMENT

Golf Fundraiser for Keep Longview Beautiful Scheduled

KC HALL OF FAME

Kilgore College to Induct New Members in October

Pine Tree ISD’s Cody Ellis Receives National Recognition

Pine Tree, TX — In a remarkable achievement for Pine Tree Independent School District, Cody Ellis, the strength and conditioning director, has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Program of Excellence Award by the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA). Ellis is one of only 29 recipients nationwide to receive this accolade, which recognizes the top high school strength and conditioning programs across the country.

This award is a testament to Ellis’s professionalism, commitment, and significant contributions to the field of strength and conditioning. His dedication to fostering athletic excellence among students has not only elevated the program at Pine Tree ISD but has also set a benchmark for high school athletic programs nationwide.

Kilgore College Softball Tryouts

In other local sports news, the Kilgore College Rangers are gearing up for their upcoming softball season with a tryout combine scheduled for July 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Ballpark at KC Commons. This event is open to aspiring softball players graduating between 2026 and 2031, with a participation fee of $100 payable on the day of the camp. Participants are encouraged to bring their gear, including a glove, helmet, bat, and appropriate footwear.

For more information, interested players can reach out via email at awilliams1@kilgore.edu or call (903) 983-8178.

TimberHogs Set for Exciting Season

The Piney Woods TimberHogs are returning to White Oak for their second season in the Mid America League, kicking off on May 22 with a seven-game home stand. The team will play a total of 64 regular-season games, with matches scheduled Tuesday through Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 6 p.m.

In a move towards modern convenience, the TimberHogs will now operate with card and mobile payments only. The team is also seeking host families for players during the season. For more details, visit timberhogsbaseball.com.

Upcoming Events at Kilgore College

Kilgore College is excited to announce its inaugural Pickleball Camp from June 9-13 at the KC Excel Fitness Center. Open to youth ages 9 to 14, the camp will be led by certified coach Jessica Guire. Participants will engage in dynamic drills and games, culminating in a round-robin event to showcase their skills. The camp costs $120 and includes a custom T-shirt, with limited spots available.

Additionally, the Pine Tree Boys Basketball Summer Leagues are seeking players for various grade levels, with games scheduled every Thursday from May 22 through June 26.

Ark-La-Tex Junior Golf Tour

Golf enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the 2025 Ark-La-Tex Junior Golf Tour, kicking off on June 2 with an adult/youth event at Alpine Golf Club. The tour features multiple tournaments across various local clubs, culminating in a Tournament of Champions in August.

Kilgore Alumni Golf Tournament

The sixth annual Kilgore High School Alumni, Coaches, and Teachers 4-man Scramble Golf Tournament is set for June 7 at Meadowbrook Country Club. Participants can compete for prizes, including a chance to win a Corvette Stingray with a hole-in-one shot.

Hall of Fame Induction Weekend

Kilgore College will honor former athletes and contributors during its Hall of Fame Induction Weekend on October 4-5. The event will feature a brunch and recognition ceremony during the Hall of Fame football game. Proceeds will benefit KC student-athletes.

For more information on these events and to register, visit kilgore.edu or contact the respective organizers.

As local sports continue to thrive, the community’s support and participation remain vital in nurturing the next generation of athletes.