The stadium lights beamed across the shadowy field, making it glow vividly. It was the pre-game, and the team members were getting ready to play the championship tournament. He sat in the dugout with the others, but he was silent. Teammates were either bouncing around, reading the Bible, or listening to music. He sat quietly, with his eyes closed and his earphones tucked in. I can do this, he thinks to himself, his heart racing rapidly. It’s gonna be another great game.

Sophomore Jose Renteria has been playing baseball since he was 2 years old. As soon he was able to walk, his father began to play catch with him. Soon after he signed him up to participate in a baseball team.

He started off as a shortstop, the most defensive position between second and third base. But as Renteria progressed, one of the coaches recognized the strength and accuracy in his arms. Acknowledging his advice, he practiced his pitching, and also became a pitcher at age 9.

“That coach is the one who taught me to pitch,” he said. “Without his guidance, being a pitcher would’ve never happened.”

Since his dad is the head coach of the baseball team, a lot of pressure weighs on his shoulders.

“He pushes me more than the others,” Renteria said. “Whenever I make mistakes during practice or a game, he gets frustrated, but it’s only because he knows I can do better. I thank him everyday for giving me the opportunities to get somewhere in life.”

He continues to kick the loose dirt off his cleats, wipe the drops of sweat off his forehead, and takes the pitcher’s mound with confidence.