NEWTON – A student-athlete from Newton North High School in Massachusetts is committed to supporting both his teammates and the local community, even well in advance of the baseball season. Guiding fellow players On an early Friday morning, while most seniors are still asleep, Ryan Huckabone is up refining his skills and aiding others in […]
NEWTON – A student-athlete from Newton North High School in Massachusetts is committed to supporting both his teammates and the local community, even well in advance of the baseball season.
Guiding fellow players
On an early Friday morning, while most seniors are still asleep, Ryan Huckabone is up refining his skills and aiding others in doing the same. Twice each week, the senior shortstop assists players such as freshman Logan Kelton.
“He consistently offers me technical advice regarding my swing and works to improve it,” Kelton remarked.
Huckabone diligently practices on these mornings, leading hitting drills at Newton North High School.
“These are all sophomores and freshmen,” noted assistant baseball coach Tom Donnellan. “But Ryan is eager to wake up, put in that extra effort, and come in early. He serves as a mentor for these guys.”
“It matters to me because I was once that younger student searching for someone to guide me,” Huckabone expressed.
Having been involved in baseball throughout his life, it’s his leadership qualities that others claim set him apart.
“He’s an excellent player, but for me, people are drawn to him due to his high energy and readiness to extend effort with anyone,” Donnellan said.
“My connection with some of these kids goes beyond the field,” Huckabone stated. “We converse outside of baseball.”
Proud to help
Next year, Huckabone will be attending the University of Rochester, where he plans to play on the baseball team. Off the field, he takes pride in being helpful.
“We’ve helped move air conditioners, shifted furniture,” Huckabone shared.
He’s recognized for his volunteering efforts in the community, offering rides to younger students and assisting at baseball camps for young children.
“I just make one call or send a text to Ryan saying, ‘Hey, we need people to go to the library this weekend for this project. We need folks to rake leaves at this woman’s house,’ and he’s like, ‘I’m on it,'” remarked Donnellan.
Huckabone credits his motivation to his father.
“He’s always emphasized leading by example, doing the right thing, and always hustling,” Huckabone explained. “And my mom, she’s very levelheaded; she certainly keeps me focused.”
Though the baseball season doesn’t kick off until March, Huckabone is vying for the captaincy.
“He hasn’t been officially named captain, but he acts like one,” Donnellan stated. “Everyone is drawn to him because that’s just his nature. He’s an incredible role model for all to admire.”
