- October 2017
Personal Statement
I am a student of the game, always learning by play, by observing, by listening, and by asking questions. When I'm not on the field, I'm next to one or more of the coaches on the bench listening, asking questions, learning. As a catcher through 15u, coaches from my teams and from other teams told me that I was a great receiver who made a great field general with solid instincts on where to be or where to position my teammates on the field.
I've been blessed to play high school varsity baseball since my Sophomore year. Two highlights from that year: I won my first ever varsity game as the starting pitcher and in the district game, facing a 6'4" dominating senior pitcher in the bottom of the 5th inning, I lined a solid single to center field to break up his perfect game. I was selected by other high school coaches my junior year to be in our district's all-star game (1 for 2) with several 100% successful chances at first base.
T-ball through 14u my coach was a former Division I outfielder, who had been cut from his team as a high school freshman. He taught me not only a true love of and passion for the game but also the fundamentals. I credit him the most too on the importance of team-play and the all-important maintaining focus and composure in all circumstances.
15u I enjoyed the coaching from two former MiLB players, one of who has become my hitting and 1B field trainer, Lance Durham. Because I grew "too tall to catch", I converted to pitching for travel baseball for the past two 17u/18u seasons (I skipped 16u). Helping me with my mechanics have been two fantastic pitching trainers and mentors: Chris Hook - former MLB pitcher and current AA Brewers organization pitching coach and Mo Sanford - former MLB pitcher and University of Alabama standout.
I currently throw both 2-seam and 4-seam fastballs, a window-shade changeup that many coaches ask if I throw a knuckleball because of its movement, and a slider.
My goals are simple: Continue to succeed in the classroom and on-the-field as I build experience-upon-experience in pursuit of the next level.
