MONTICELLO – Coach Pat Bridges and his Lawrence County Cougars experienced a Cinderella season by making their first trip back to the Big Dance in Jackson in 15 years.

The Cougars finished the season with a 21-11 record and placed second in Region 7-4A race behind two-time defending state champions, the McComb Tigers.

In Lawrence County’s playoff run, the Cougars defeated Port Gibson 53-31 and Pass Christian 51-44 in their historic run to the state tournament in Jackson.

In the quarterfinals of the Class 4A State Tournament, the Cougars battled the Gentry Rams at Jackson State University. The Cougars fought hard in a tough, physical contest from start to finish, but the Rams spoiled Lawrence County’s dreams of winning gold with a late 11-5 run in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter to prevail 61-55.

For this accomplishment, Pat Bridges has earned The DAILY LEADER’s 2015 All-Area Boys Basketball Coach of the Year honors.

“I am very grateful to be chosen,” Bridges said. “I think it is a tremendous honor and privilege, I could not have done it without the players and support from the community. They are the ones who deserves the honor.”

Bridges shared his thoughts on his Cougars’ Cinderella season.

“I thought we had a very good year,” he said. “The kids bought into the system and worked hard to do what we asked for. We took our bumps and bruises early, but the guys didn’t waiver and stayed with it. We were able to get a taste of a little success and hopefully that will propel us forward.”

Bridges will lose only one starting senior, Keith Davis, to graduation but has a talented group of young guys returning for next season.

“The team is working hard during the offseason to get better and stronger,” he said. “Hopefully, when the season begins next year, we can pick up where we left off and finished what we started.”

Bridges gives great praises to Lawrence County’s community support.

“The support from the community has always been great in Lawrence County, he said. “It was even better this year. I would like to thank the administration, principal, athletic director and superintendent for their support and hard work. I would also like thank my assistant coach Eddie Rials for his hard work and dedication.”

Bridges teaches Mississippi studies, geography, economics and American government at Lawrence County. Bridges enjoys watching television and spending time with his family. He is happily married to Cassie Bridges, and they have two daughters, Jordyn and Laicie.