Local anglers help Parsons become top 2-year college ranks
From STAFF REPORTS
Snead State Community College’s fishing team has been named the No. 1 junior college program in the nation following a series of strong tournament finishes this fall. The Parsons also sit at No. 27 overall among all collegiate teams.
The team’s rise gained momentum after anglers Mason George of Albertville and Walker Griffith of Ashville placed fourth out of 82 boats at the Southern Collegiate event on Lake Eufaula.
“Days like that are why we work so hard,” Griffith said. “We knew the competition was tough, but we also knew we belonged in the mix. Snead State has provided us with everything we need to compete at this level.”
George said, “We had one of those tournaments where everything clicked. Our practice was solid, and then the tournament went even better.”
At the Big Bass Splash, which featured more than 250 boats, angler Jarred Bodine of Guntersville finished 14th in the Day 1 morning session.
“When you’re up against that many boats, every decision counts,” Bodine said. “I’m really proud of how we represented our program.”
In Round 1 of the same event, Griffith placed second overall and George finished 21st, adding to the program’s consistent results this season.
Snead State fishing team sponsor Tom Warren said he is proud of the team’s accomplishments and character.
“These young men keep impressing me — not just with their skills, but with their integrity, effort and demeanor,” Warren said. “What they’ve achieved this season is incredible, but what’s even more important is the kind of individuals they are becoming.”
Warren said the program aims to prepare students for life well beyond competition.
“This program has never only been about catching fish,” he said. “We’re focused on helping these young people become disciplined, responsible adults who will thrive long after they leave Snead State.”
The Snead State Community College fishing team has been named the No. 1 junior college program in the nation. Members of the team include, from left, Jarred Bodine, Mason George, Walker Griffith, Carson Floyd, Snead State alumnus and former team member Reece Knight, team members Carter Maples, Sean Baugh, L.J. Brown and Dayton Wilson (not pictured). SPECIAL TO THE LEADER
