Bratton is building NFL credits through Germany

Former Lakeside star Brian Bratton continues to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL.

The 5-11, 185-pound wide receiver had a stellar career at Furman University, where as a true freshman he earned All-American status as a kick returner. That season Bratton averaged more than 37 yards per return and ran three kicks back for touchdowns.

In his final three seasons, Bratton settled in at wide receiver, and by the time his college career was over he had established himself as one of the best in school history.

Bratton got a free agent tryout with the Atlanta Falcons but was released. The Ravens quickly signed him, and after the season they re-signed the former Lakeside Panther so they could send him to NFL Europe.

The Ravens allocated Bratton to the Cologne Centurions.

First, he went through a rigorous monthlong training camp in Tampa, Fla., to prepare himself for the season in Germany. Apparently the work paid off, because Bratton quickly earned a starting spot at wide receiver.

Also, in the Centurions' first game, Bratton caught a 9-yard touchdown pass, helping Cologne to a 14-10 victory over Hamburg. Bratton and the Centurions play a 10-game regular season that concludes May 5.

You can keep tabs on Bratton's progress on the Baltimore Ravens Web site (www.baltimoreravens.com).

He will be writing a weekly diary of his experiences in NFL Europe.

Greenbrier keeps rolling

The top-ranked Greenbrier baseball team has now run its record to 9-0 (at press time). In those seven wins, the Wolfpack have outscored opponents 87-11. That's an average of nearly 10-1 each game.