Eathyn Matthews '24 Recruiting Profile

As a student athlete, I have been playing baseball for 11 years. I have played both in and outside of the school environment, from our youth Cal Ripken baseball league, All Star teams, club baseball and the High School team. Throughout this time, I have always known that I wanted to play throughout my lifetime and feel that this passion leads me to aspire playing at the collegiate level next. I have always viewed playing baseball in general as the sport which takes the most teamwork. As my dad has always said “Baseball is a team game made up of individuals”. I have taken this view nearly to heart because it not only explains so much of the sport mentally, but how in some instances you can’t change the outcome of the team performance but what you can change on your own. Whether that be body language, picking up others, or allowing reflection on what worked and what didn't work to improve for the next game. 

Over the years I have won some notable awards but personally I feel like there hasn't been one as impactful and exciting as this year. Following the 2023 season I was named the Tulare Union High School Baseball Captain. This award really feels special to me because it not only shows the work put toward my teammates in building relations both on and off the field, but also the work I have put into the game where I was able to hold my head high and lead by example for others. I have always felt it is my job to help build players up and play the game hard, whether the outcome is a blowout or a win. 

In college I would like to major in Criminal Justice and look forward to a career in Law Enforcement. I believe that my background with a law enforcement family and military involvement has helped to prepare me for my impact on the field as well as for the college academic experience. During high school, I have studied hard to maintain a high GPA, most recently a 4.25, as well as participate in 2 AP Courses and 2 Honors Courses where I was able to push myself with determination, hard work and the drive to grow and succeed. 

These characteristics have led me to pursue a future of collegiate academics and athletics. I am looking forward to what I can accomplish and am open to the possibilities that lie ahead, making myself, my peers and my family proud.