May 20, 2003

Columbia, S.C. – South Carolina’s Landon Powell is one of ten semi-finalists for the Fourth Annual Johnny Bench Award, announced today by the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission. This award is presented annually at the Greater Wichita Sports Banquet to the nation’s top collegiate catcher, as voted on by a panel of sportswriters, sportscasters, Division I coaches and scouts.

A preseason All-American and captain, Powell is the top defensive catcher in the SEC with a .995 fielding percentage owning just two errors on the year. Powell, catcher for the 2002 USA baseball team, became the fourth South Carolina player to hit two home runs in a game this season and the third to hit a grand slam in Carolina’s 14-2 win over Georgia on May 17. Powell leads the SEC in walks (39) and is among the league leaders in doubles (19). For his efforts, he was named to the 2003 First Team All-SEC squad.

The three finalists will be announced on June 3, 2003. The final vote will take place during the College World Series, with the winner of the Johnny Bench award being revealed at the Greater Wichita Sports Banquet on June 24, 2003.

The Johnny Bench Award Semi-FinalistsBrady Burrill, Michigan State, SeniorJosh Ford, Baylor, SophomoreRyan Garko, Stanford, SeniorChris Grossman, California, JuniorDevin Ivany, South Florida, SophomoreJason Jaramillo, Oklahoma State, SophomoreColt Molton, NC State, JuniorLandon Powell, South Carolina, JuniorTony Richie, Florida State, JuniorBrian Rose, Florida, Senior