Getting to know Brad Collins-Corner Infielder

Brad is a Senior at Weddington High School 6 ft 2 and 198 solid pounds.


What is your earliest memory of playing baseball?
- When I was little my dad would go out in the backyard with me and we would play catch and hit wiffle balls. I remember how I would always hold the bat the wrong way, with my left hand on top, and my dad would tell me that I'm holding it wrong and I would just say I hit better like that.

When did you start playing travel baseball?
- I started playing travel ball at the age of 9 in Minnesota. I played for the Woodbury Royals and we went undefeated our first season.

What do you do the night before a game?
- The night before a game I love to eat spaghetti and then I listen to music until I go to bed.

Who is your baseball hero?
- My baseball hero is Torii Hunter. I grew up in Minnesota watching him on the Twins, and I just love the way he plays the game.

What was your showcase experience like?
- My showcase experience was a lot of fun. I loved getting to go to all the different college fields and having the chance to play on them. Also when you have Jeff Schaefer as a coach its hard not to have a good time.

What has been your most memorable game?
- My most memorable game was last year in the SW4A conference tournament championship. I hit a 400+ ft home run to put us ahead, and we never looked back.

What are your future plans in baseball?
- Next year I plan on attending Gardner-Webb University where I have committed to play baseball.. Ultimately my goal is to get drafted and have the opportunity to play in the MLB.

What is your favorite uniform number and why?
- My favorite number is 33. I'm not really sure why but I just always liked it and I grew up wearing it.

Are you dating and what does she think of baseball?
- Yes I am dating and she loves baseball. She is a cheerleader so she love sports and coming to all the baseball games.

Who are you parents and siblings?
- My parents are Jane and Dave. I have two brothers Mark-15 Sean-13 and one sister Krista-11.

What music do you listen to on your Ipod?
- I listen to all kinds of music just not country, because I'm from the north. But mostly I listen to rap music, especially Lil Wayne.

What is your favorite movies?
- I love comedies and anything with Will Ferrell, he is the funniest man alive. My favorite movie would defiantly have to be Step Brothers.


Why did you select Gardner-Webb University?
- I selected Gardner-Webb because it was such a good fit for me not only on the field but also in the classroom. I also love the coaching staff they are so positive about everything. When I went up there to visit I just felt at home and knew it was the right place for me.

Who has had the most influence on you as a player?
- Jeff Schaefer has had the most influence on me. He has been working with me for a couple of years now on all aspect of the game and has really made me not only into a better ballplayer but a better man.

What Stretchy Knows: Brad worked extremely hard the last few years since moving here from Chicago as a Freshman. He lost 42 pounds and increased his speed and agility to the point that he will play SS this year. He maintains a 3.85 GPA and co-created a spirit club at school.

 

I have been fortunate to have known Brad for the last couple of years. He not only is a talented player but a great young man as well. I wish him nothing but the best of luck in the future. Great job Dave and Jane ...... you done good!

 

Brad is a wonderful young man who plays baseball with passion and a smile. He worked extremely hard over the past year to achieve his goals and I am very happy for him. And that 400'+ homer at UNCC last year is still etched in my memory as well, NICE! It has been our pleasure to watch you over the last year, good luck in the future.
The Tewells

 

Great Young Man

Brad is a great young man and I am sure he will have continued success. Dave and Jane have a lot to be proud of !!

Congrats !