WILMINGTON, N.C. –  Ryan Hulme, a 6-3, 190-pound freshman pitcher out of Aliquippa, P.A. has seen limited action so far in the 2008 college season, making two appearances out of the bullpen, both coming against La Salle and not allowing a hit in 1.1 innings.

At Central Area High School in Pennsylvania, Hulme helped lead the team to a 2005 sectional title to go along with a Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) semifinal appearance and state playoff berth.  During his 2006 season, Hulme finished with a 3-3 record, posting a 2.64 ERA.

Hulme is majoring in Elementary Education.

Elon Teammate Neal Pritchard is a 5-11, 173-pound shortstop out of Asheboro, N.C.  The freshman has appeared in 43 games this season, starting 42 of them for the 31-13 Phoenix.  Pritchard has had a successful campaign at the plate thus far, posting a .299 batting average while hitting eight doubles, six home runs, driving in 42 runs and scoring another 32 himself.  He’s second on the team in both home runs and runs batted in.

During his prep career at Asheboro High School, Pritchard helped guide the team to a conference title, all the while notching All-Conference and All-Area selections.  He was a member of the 2006 Region 5 State Team, which won a Gold Medal.  In 2006 while playing for American Legion Post 45, Pritchard hit .509 with 17 home runs, 12 doubles, and 63 RBIs.

The Wilmington Sharks are a member of the Coastal Plain League, the nation’s hottest summer collegiate baseball league.  Celebrating its 12th season, the Coastal Plain League features 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.  The CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with the use of wooden bats.  Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts.  For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league Web site at www.coastalplain.com.