Kinston Post 43’s Malik Dixon was named Captain of the American Legion’s All-Academic Team, helping him earn $5,500 in scholarships. Photo by William ‘Bud’ Hardy / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

Kinston Post 43 had its best season in nearly 50 years in-state, and Malik Dixon received national acclaim Friday.

During the American Legion World Series in Shelby, the All-Academic Team was announced. Dixon, a former North Lenoir standout heading to the University of Mount Olive this season, was named as the team captain after deliberations from the World Series Scholarship Committee — comprised of academic representatives and Legionnaires.

Dixon, in his second year with Post 43, helped the team reach the state championship for the first time since 1970 and excelled in the classroom with a 4.2 GPA. He received a $500 scholarship as the overall state winner — deliberated by the North Carolina baseball committee — along with a $5,000 scholarship for being named the top academic player.

“It means a lot to me,” Dixon said. “I put a lot of heart and effort into everything I did in school and American Legion, and as a college student every bit helps.  It felt great being around the guys I played with — some of them I’ve grown up with, like (Cameron) ‘Smiley’ (Butler). I thought my senior year would be the last time I’d play with these guys, but to be able to go out this year and have the run we did is amazing.”

Kinston Post 43 coach Ty Eason nominated Dixon and said he couldn’t think of anyone more deserving.

“He gave me his all over the past two years and made sacrifices to be here,” Eason said. “I’m proud of what he’s accomplished, I wish him the best and Mount Olive has a gem with this kid. I hope he’ll continue to perform well academically and athletically.”