Ben Atkinson

When it to comes to memories of high school baseball, one may think of all the great teammates they had the opportunity to play with throughout their career. Some of these guys they had the opportunity of playing with for two, three or maybe all four years of their high school career. Now, imagine playing with a completely different team each year that is filled with various players from various schools throughout your community. That is exactly what freshman pitcher Ben Atkinson experienced throughout his time in high school.

Due to lack of funding and competitiveness; Corcoran, Fowler and Henninger High School combined with Nottingham High School (Ben's High School), to give players at each school a chance to continue their baseball careers. It may not be viewed as the most favorable way to play high school baseball, but it never seemed to bother Ben.

Ben not only praises his teammates for the lasting memories he experienced during his baseball career but he also shows love for his coach as well. "Bob 'Southy' Southworth was by far one of the best coaches I have ever had in my life," said Ben. "He taught me so many things about the game of baseball and it was truly an honor to play under him."

I'm sure Coach Southworth feels the same about having Ben as a player. During Ben's senior year, his team left Coach Southworth with one incredible memory. His 700th career win. "We had a huge game to play against Liverpool High School early on in the season and it was my turn to pitch," said Ben. "I was a nervous heading in but once game day arrived I was ready to get that win for Coach." That's exactly what Ben went on to do. He went on to pitch five strong innings and gave up only one run. His team would go on to win 2-1.

Now that he has reach the collegiate level, Ben has set goals for himself this year. He plans to compete and be effective in any situation that comes his way this year. No matter who he faces this spring, Ben fully intends to help the Blue Devils find success this season.


Interesting Facts:
Favorite Player: Jacob DeGrom
Player he models his game after: Klayton Kershaw
Roommate: Rob Wiegand
Major: Biology
Played AAU hoops against Jim Boehiem's son