Former Marshalltown Community College Baseball player Colton Blackford will move on to play at Lubbock Christian University next season. Blackford was a two-year member of the Tigers from 2014-2016.
Blackford, a left-handed pitcher for the Tigers, appeared in eight games on the mound. He posted back-to-back scoreless appearances as a sophomore, including a two-inning stint where he struck out four batters against Ellsworth.
Lubbock Christian is a NCAA Division II school located in Lubbock, TX. The Chaparrals went 37-19 in 2016 and reached the NCAA Tournament where they went 2-2. The Chaps have averaged over 41 wins per year since 2007 under the guidance of head coach Nathan Blackwood who has been at the helm for 12 years.
"I decided on Lubbock because they are giving me an opportunity to play baseball," Blackford stated. "The school has great facilities and a nice, warm climate. I think the thing that attracted me most was the welcoming coaching staff and they have been in contact with me since day one."
In terms of his time at MCC, Blackford saw his tenure as a Tiger as a humbling experience. "The best part of MCC was the small community so you get to know everyone. I had some great teammates and a nice place to live for two years. On the baseball side, I believe I increased speed and became a better pitcher since I stepped on campus."
Aside from being a member of the baseball team, Blackford served as an exceptional worker for two years in the Sports Information Department.
Head coach Rich Grife sees Blackford's potential to continue to increase among the great competition at Lubbock. "Colton has consistently worked on his craft while at MCC," said Grife. "He knows what works for him and he will take that to a strong program. As a whole staff, it's great to see a kid come in and get better every day. We wish Colton the best."
