| School: Jefferson | Graduation Year: 1994 |
Sports Played: Football, Baseball
Year Inducted: 2024
High School Honors: 2 Football letters.
3 Baseball letters. 1st Team All-PIL and All-State as a Senior with .527 batting average. Drafted by Baltimore Orioles in 10th round of 1994 MLB draft. Chosen as alternate to the 1995 Olympic Team. Received Howard Cherry Award for Baseball (citizen/athletic award)
Post High School Career: Accepted full-ride scholarship to Washington State University for Baseball in lieu of signing pro contract. Named Pac-10 “Player of the Week” 12 times in 3-year career. Drafted in 16th round of 1997 MLB by Atlanta Braves and played three pro seasons in the Atlanta organization
Commentary:
It’s with great humility, and gratitude that I reflect on the experiences that brought me to this moment. Never was it part of any plan or dream that I would do something worthwhile to be celebrated, much less inducted to such a prestigious fraternity alongside individuals I consider greats. I was simply a young man fighting for relevancy within a family I idealize. I never dreamed to be like Michal Jordan, Walter Payton, or Willie Mays. I wanted to be strong as my dad, great at sports like my brothers, and smart like my sister. I wanted to reach the goals and expectations they set for me. In doing so I learned to pursue and achieve my own.
Growing up I was always told, “If you want to know who you are and where you are headed, simply look at the people you hang around”. Reflecting on this period of my life, and those who played a critical role in developing me as a person, student, and athlete, I must first thank my parents. They always provide me with the resources and support to pursue dreams and achieve goals. Additionally, instilling a work ethic and desire to never give up when things are tough.
My brothers John and Jeffrey, for always letting me be part of their lives and protecting me in the process. Although I was younger, I was never left to feel as if I didn’t belong. We played legendary Super Bowls, NBA Finals, and World Series in our yard and driveway. They always made me feel like an All-Pro, Finals MVP, and Home Run King.
My sister Vicki for always forcing me to stay focused in school and pursue other interests outside of sports.
I would also like to recognize my coaches for taking the time to participate in my journey and offer their knowledge, with the sole purpose of making me better. I would like to mention by name James Combes, Bobby Hill, and Mark Burke. I thank each of you for your time and commitment in coaching me. Your patient working with a kid who at times thought he knew it all. Your efforts preparing fields, giving rides, and coaching games. Most of all, your dedication to the community for working so hard to provide a safe organized place for me to play.
Last, I would like to acknowledge my teammates. Hakiem McCallister, Joe Robertson, Mark Burke, Jimmy Thompson, Levi Ashley, Jason Berg, and Anthony Lamberth. Without you all, I would not have become the player and person I was. Nor would I have had a chance to compete and grow in the game I love. I would like to particularly acknowledge Derrick Brame–my friend who always pushed me. I would be remised if I did not tell you how your encouragement and healthy competitive spirit kept me in the gym and working on my craft.
Finally, I would like to thank Jefferson High School, The PIL, and The PIL Hall of Fame for providing such a great platform for young student athletes to dream, perform, and succeed. I will have the ability to repay the debt for the opportunities and memories you provided me. However, I will try to pay it forward by representing this PIL HOF “Fraternity” with the integrity and respect it deserves. In doing so, play a role in providing the same opportunities to others, as they were given to me.