CLEVELAND – The honors continue to roll in for Delta State senior catcher Craig Newton. On Monday, Newton received a pair of honors. First, the Gulf South Conference named the former Warren Central High School product the West Division’s Player of the Year.

Then later Monday, Newton learned he was named one of four finalists for the 2005 Cellular South Ferriss Trophy. The award, named for former Collegiate Baseball Hall of Fame and DSU coach Dave “Boo” Ferriss, is given to Mississippi’s top college baseball player.

Joining Newton as a finalist is his former WC teammate Brian Pettway, now at Ole Miss. The other two finalists are Ole Miss pitcher Stephen Head and Millsaps’ infielder Garner Wetzel.

Newton said Monday afternoon after an intrasquad practice, that he is amazed by the honors that have come in during the past week.

“A lot of stuff has been happening,” Newton said. “I’m obviously honored that I happen to be a finalist for the Ferriss Trophy with Brian and for the GSC honor as well. Glory to God.

“But, really, my biggest honor is getting to play for this (Delta State) team,” Newton said.

The Vicksburg native was also inducted last week into the Delta State Student Hall of Fame.

“I was told by my roommate that this is one of the best honors you can get at Delta State. It’s big,” added Newton who is working toward his MBA in Business Management.

On the field, Newton is the senior captain for the Statesmen who are preparing to defend their NCAA Division II National Championship won last year in Montgomery, Ala.

On Thursday, DSU (48-8) will host an NCAA D-II South Central Regional at Ferriss Field. The Statesmen will open against West Alabama (45-17) at 7 p.m. The other first round matchup pits Abilene Christian (41-14) against Central Oklahoma (42-13) at 3 p.m.

Newton has had another standout season, leading the team in hits and RBIs. He enters the regionals batting .358 with 13 home runs and 66 RBIs. His 66 hits was second best in the GSC.

“Coach (Mike) Kinnison talks about that small window (of opportunity) you have,” Newton said. “I just try to go out and do the best of it I can everyday.”

The Ferriss Award ward will be presented at a banquet at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum on Monday.