LIBERTY – The Brookhaven Academy Cougars kicked off their 2016 baseball campaign on a positive note by defeating the Amite School Center Rebels by a score of 5-3 Tuesday night in Liberty.  The win was also career victory No. 1 for BA first-year head coach Tyler Parvin.

Behind a stellar 10 strikeout, complete game pitching performance from sophomore right hander Taylor Freeny, the Cougars jumped on the Rebels early plating three runs in the first inning and added a single run in the fifth and sixth innings to seal win.

“Taylor (Freeny) went out and pitched a great game for us tonight.  He showed a lot of heart and determination.  This is the exact effort we will need throughout the year to continue to win,” said Parvin after securing his first career win as a head coach. “It is great to get your first win as a head coach, but I’m happier for our kids and their performance getting the win. They have worked extremely hard for it.”

Madison Smith led Brookhaven Academy’s seven-hit attack with a double and a single. Connor Clyde Smith also doubled for the Cougars. Fisher Warren, William King, Carter Culbertson and Dawson Flowers added a single each to support the win.

“I was pleased with our approach and execution at the plate tonight.  Our guys will continue to improve here as we get more at bats under our belt,” Parvin said.

BA (1-0) is back in action Thursday afternoon as it host Tri-County.  JV first pitch is scheduled for 4:30 p.m., followed by varsity action at 6:30.

In junior varsity action, the BA Cougars easily handled the ASC Rebels 9 – 1 behind a four-hit pitching performance by freshman Cade Brown.