Ben Hiller '19 Recruiting Profile

My goal of playing college baseball started at a very young age. As I have grown and matured, my dreams have become more defined and my character has developed. Often your character is shaped by the obstacles you overcome. Nothing in life comes easy and many times challenges are even harder to achieve when you don’t compromise your integrity and honor. I am steadfast in my goals and my priorities are firm.

    Hard work has been the cornerstone of my academics. I have to work hard and often late into the night to excel at my studies. Many times I have to make choices between recreation and homework. But when I was selected as one of only three sophomores to be inducted into National Honors Society, I knew my dedication and sacrifices were paying off and my priorities were in line.

    Being a student-athlete also has its demands and time commitments. I have always loved competing and the opportunities to persevere that come along with sports. For me, every time up to the plate in baseball is a battle. You are at battle with the pitcher. It is as if you are the only two on the field and the tougher more strategic one will be victorious. Those moments give me the biggest thrill and make me hungry for the fight.

    Leadership has been a defining characteristic of development and one that is strengthened through adversity. For the past three summers, I have participated in the Hanging Rock Christian Assembly’s Adventure Camp. For this camp, we travel to an area known for hiking and spend a week backpacking rough terrain. In addition to serving as a devotional leader, I encouraged the campers struggling on the trails. This past summer we traveled to Colorado and many of my fellow campers were not prepared for the impact of the changing elevation. Several of my friends had to stop due to illness, but I was determined to conquer the trail. I knew the campers looked up to me, and my leaders had impressed upon me the need to set an example and encourage my peers. Along with a few others, I made it to the top. I had to dig deep for the will to keep going despite the breathing challenges, falls, and vomiting. Each time I picked myself back up and pushed forward. It was one of the greatness physical challenges I have ever endured, and I am so thankful for the opportunity.

    However, the pride I felt would not compare to being committed to a college team that will fulfill my athletic aspirations as well as my academic goals. I will be committed to your program and never waiver in my determination to fulfill my potential for the betterment of team.