“Coach, can I hit that ball again?” That's what I said to my tee ball coach after hitting a weak ground ball to 3rd base. Ever since the young age of 4, I have always wanted to compete and do my best. My name is Alex De La Cruz, and I am a 15-year-old baseball player from Vienna, VA. Growing up I played baseball in Vienna Little League and made the All Stars team every year. I am now playing showcase baseball with The Stars organization and high school baseball with Gonzaga College High School in Washington D.C. Being on the smaller side of a baseball player I have to go the extra mile and work harder in order to compete with guys who are bigger than me. My hard work, IQ, and skills always earn me a starting spot in the middle infield, and batting at the top of the line-up.
I play to win the game. I bring a determined and collaborative spirit to every game, workout and practice. I am eager to do as much as I can for the team and help lead us into victory. In addition, I try to lead by keeping a positive attitude, and trusting the process with my coaches and teammates. I believe in the power of teamwork and supporting my teammates. If I see a teammate who is down, I do my best to pick them up and put a smile on their face because I know how it feels to struggle. Throughout my years of playing baseball, I have been faced with challenges as well and have realized how crucial it is to learn from my mistakes, build my confidence, and move on.
As a student I focus on my academics and community service. I am in four honors classes and am taking electives/clubs (mock trial, chess and broadcasting) that put me out of my comfort zone. Outside of school, I have been involved in a unique service project to help restore the burial sites of enslaved persons, who were buried on a Jesuit Plantation in Bowie Maryland. I have also been involved with two organizations called the McKenna Center and So Others May Eat (SOME), that focus on feeding the homeless in Washington D.C. I have volunteered numerous hours serving breakfast and lunch to communities in need.
My character, academics, and baseball abilities will be a valuable asset to your team, and to the university. My goal is to compete at the next level, and I am confident that I have the drive and dedication to make it a reality. I appreciate your consideration and thank you for reading my personal statement. I look forward to hearing from you and learning more about how I can contribute to your school and baseball program.