A dual-signing reception was held last week for two Zachary High Bronco baseball players - Trent Crowder and Evan Tidwell.

The similarities between the two Bronco players seem endless - both are 17, seniors, pitchers and friends. The main difference being the universities the two have committed themselves - Crowder to the ULM Warhawks and Tidwell to the Northwestern State Demons.

Crowder is the son of Sherry and Ed Crowder and younger brother to Hunter, a former Bronco football player and La. College signee.

Crowder, a right-handed pitcher, was also sought by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

"He's been playing baseball since he was young and pitching since age 12," said mom, Sherry. "We're so very excited for him and can't wait to start this new chapter with him."

"It's a big day for Trent. He's earned it and has worked hard for it," said Trent's dad, Ed Crowder. "He is very fortunate to have had someone like Jesse (Cassard) be his coach over the years. We're very blessed, but we know God is in control of this."

The Tidwell family is equally as pleased with their son signing on to play college ball.

"This is a huge day, and we're thrilled for Evan," said mom, Janie Tidwell, who added that the scholarship to play in Natchitoches is in addition to several academic awards her son has received, including a TOPS scholarship.

"This is a huge day for Evan, he has worked all his life for this," said dad Buddy Tidwell, echoing the sentiments of his wife.

Glad that their son will be playing ball in Louisiana, the elder Tidwell said his family cannot compliment their son's high school baseball coach enough.

"Jesse has worked hard in getting these kids to the next level of baseball. He's got a special relationship with them," said Tidwell.

"Next to earning a state championship title, is our guys signing scholarships to continue their baseball careers," said Head Coach Jesse Cassard on Nov. 14. "I hope this motivates you younger players, and it's not too late for some of you senior players...you could sign next week or even next spring."

Cassard said Crowder and Tidwell have become great players, and they are truly what the ZHS baseball program is all about.

Coach Cassard said this is the third consecutive year that at least two Division I players have signed early and the seventh straight year that a Bronco player has signed a scholarship to play at the next level.

"Thanks to all who have supported me," said Trent Crowder. "Now, it's about getting to state and getting that ring."

"We're here because of ya'll and what ya'll helped us do to get here," said Evan Tidwell. "I'm just happy to be here."