(Editor’s Note: This is the 13th installment of the Up Next series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Jack Mulligan, Alex Pagano, Quincy Gibbs, Michael Cotto, Charlie Edwards, Evan Picciano, Nick Lawrence, Robbie Mascia, Jacob Abran, Tyler Camastro, Jason Davis and Michael Garcia. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Next Level scores six runs during a huge first inning, two scoring on this RBI single by Vincent Bourne (Lutheran 2026)
Next Level 6 – MVP 0
Mid first pic.twitter.com/LqFHpXr5Wp— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) September 27, 2025
It was a terrific season for the Long Island Lutheran Crusaders, who reached the NYSAIS Finals in their first season as an independent school.
The move came after four straight PSAA Championships.
They came as close as possible to winning the championship, but lost to Fieldston on a walk-off bunt in the bottom of the eighth inning.
While the Crusaders were led by several experienced upperclassmen, it was a freshman that was one of their unsung heroes – playing in 25 games and displaying incredible versatility.
Vincent Bourne, a Franklin Square-native, played shortstop, center field, right field, second base and pitched 12 innings in relief. His versatility was a tremendous asset for the Crusaders in the field but he also was a key cog in their offensive attack.
He reached base at a near .400 clip, stole 14 bases and compiled 12 extra base hits.
His school ball coach, Shaun Manning, had the following to say:
“Vincent has a great desire to get better each day. Extremely coachable kid and very competitive. If he progresses as expected, he has a very good shot to become a Division-I baseball player.”
He spoke to Axcess Baseball and had the following to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport ?
Baseball wasn’t always my first choice. I used to play football before transferring to LuHi but then I stopped after the transfer.
Any family members that played college sports?
My cousin, Joseph Hauser, plays baseball for Northeastern.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your life?
Some people that have had a positive impact on my life are my parents. They are there to guide me and are always there to support me whenever needed.
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
Yes I take hitting lessons with Ryan Hensley.
Why did you choose LuHi? How did you enjoy your first year?
I chose LuHi because I saw an opportunity to get better as an athlete with my coach’s help and also become a better student and person off the field. I enjoyed my first year; I held good grades and had fun playing baseball.
What has been your biggest thrill on a baseball field?
My biggest thrill was probably hitting a go-ahead triple to take the lead in a championship game.
Favorite professional athletes?
I’m going to pick two. I would start off with Mookie Betts. He’s a very key component wherever he plays and has a lot of grit, that’s why I like him. Also, Aaron Rodgers for my second one. Another gritty guy that I grew up watching.
Goals for 2026?
Some goals I have for 2026 are winning the state championship for LuHi, and for summer ball I want to work on consistency at the plate a little more. I would also like to gain more weight by the end of the year.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Going to Florida with LuHi. Lots of practice but also lots of fun.
Favorite TV Show?
Stranger Things even though the ending was horrible.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Instagram or Microfactor.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
My favorite restaurant is Chic-Fil-A. Pretty basic but definitely one of my favorites.
Favorite musical artist?
Can’t go wrong with Drake.
Dream Car?
Porsche 911
Favorite vacation spot?
Myrtle Beach, SC. I spent a lot of vacations there growing up.
