Tallulah Falls senior Norman Bastian of Nassau, Bahamas, made good on his commitment to Olivet Nazarene University on Wednesday to continue his academic and baseball career. Bastian signed his letter of intent with the purple and gold Tigers, who are located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and are members of the NAIA Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.
“The ONU baseball program is excited to announce the commitment of Norman Bastian,” says Olivet Nazarene coach Jeff Mullikin. “Norman comes to Bourbonnais from legendary coach Justin Pollock. We are excited to see the growth and development of Norman both on and off the field. It is always a great day in the Bourb when you can add a player of Bastian’s caliber.”
Pollock has been able to rely on Bastian’s abilities at the plate and even on the mound this season. To date, he is batting .406 with one homer and 12 RBI. He also has a spotless 0.00 ERA across 8.1 innings of work, nailing down his lone save opportunity.
“Norman is a great player and an even better young man,” adds TFS coach Pollock. “He has come in this year and made our program better on and off the field. I am excited for this opportunity for him and I know he will be a great addition to the Olivet Nazarene program.”
Though Bastian hasn’t been at TFS long, he has made the most of this opportunity both in the classroom and on the field.
“In my short time at TFS, I’ve not only furthered my education but I’ve become a new baseball player as well,” states Bastian. “I have learned a lot from my coaches and teammates. This is a special team and no matter the outcome of the season, I will be proud to say I was a part of the Tallulah Falls varsity baseball team. I am excited for what lies ahead of me in the classroom and on the baseball field at Olivet Nazarene University.”
Not many players have the chance to play at the next level, so Bastian’s next level achievement will inspire other TFS players who have similar dreams.
“Norman will be experiencing his dream of playing America’s national pastime while furthering his education,” adds TFS Athletic Director Scott Neal. “The way he plays the game and his accomplishments continue to pave the way for others who hope to further their playing career at the next level.”
Bastian signed his letter of intent with teammates, friends, and family in attendance at TFS on Wednesday afternoon. He becomes the seventh Tallulah Falls athlete to sign this school year, and eighth baseball player in program history to do so.
