Former Surry outfielder Cory Harrilchak became the latest player with Surry ties to be drafted in the Major League Baseball First Year Player Draft. Harrilchak (left) played his first two seasons at Surry before finishing his college career at Elon University. The Atlanta Braves selected the outfielder in the 14th round with the 418th overall selection.

"It's a great organization," Harrilchak said of the Braves.  "I think I can learn and develop a lot with them.  I'm just happy to be a pro athlete."

Harrilchak is expected to join the Braves' Rookie League affiliate, the Danville Braves after coming to terms on a professional contract. Harrilchak batted .336 with 18 doubles, three triples and 16 home runs during his senior campaign at Elon.

The Cary native was a First Team All-Southern Conference pick by the league's coaches this year after being named the preseason Southern Conference Player of the Year. Harrilchak was also named a preseason All-American by three different publications.

While at Surry, Harrilchak helped lead the Knights to a 41-16 record in 2006 and third place finish in the Region X tournament. In 2007, Harrilchak was an All-Region nominee leading the Knights to a 40-19 record and third place finish in Region X. Harrilchak was a Dean’s List student at Surry while also volunteering with Special Olympics basketball.

“We are extremely proud of Cory and all of his accomplishments,” stated Mark Tucker, Surry Athletic Director and former head baseball coach. “Cory is an outstanding young man who has a bright future. It is great for him to get an opportunity to play professional baseball.”

Harrilchak with join seven other Surry players currently in professional baseball including former teammates Cole McCurry, Baltimore Orioles and Steven Stewart, Washington Nationals as well as Aaron King, San Francisco Giants; Josh Whitlock, Chicago Cubs; Jered Stanley, Boston Red Sox; and Chris Luck, Tampa Bay Rays.