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Apalachee High School Senior Colin Hedges reflects on his high school career. The young athlete has played baseball for Apalachee’s varsity team since he was a freshman. During his sophomore year, the team made it all the way to the Final Four.
During his time playing for the Wildcats baseball team, there have been many emotional moments of victory. They’ve included making it to the Elite 8, playing in the Sweet Sixteen in 2022, and him earning First Team All-Region in 2023.
Hedges has played leftfield primarily throughout his baseball career and would periodically take on the role of pitching.
“Baseball is a sport that a lot of people get into at a young age. I played T-ball since I was five years old, then I eventually played travel ball and then high school baseball,” said Hedges.
Baseball has been his constant in life. Hedges could always throw the ball around with his friends after school. He looked forward to being with his teammates and enjoying the sport. It wasn’t just a sport for him, he truly enjoyed the memories that he’d make along the way.
“Baseball keeps me on task and paying attention. You have to get good grades to be able to play baseball so that has kept me motivated in the classroom,” said Hedges.
Teachers and coaches have played an influential role in Hedges’ academic and athletic success. His U.S. History teacher Coach Chad Hooper has been a great role model for the young athlete. Hedges also appreciates Varsity Baseball Coach Kyle Bailey.
“I can think of a few influential teachers who have made a lasting impression on me. Coach Hooper not only taught me U.S. History but he also taught me to stay chill through it all. He is kind and honest. Another teacher is Coach Kyle Bailey. He gives one hundred percent in everything he does, and I appreciate him,” said Hedges.
The high school senior has lived in Bethlehem his entire life. As a young child, he started elementary school at Bethlehem Elementary and then entered Haymon-Morris Middle School.
Hedges will graduate as an Honor Grad with a 3.9 GPA in May of 2024. The high school senior plans to attend a technical college to attain a degree in Construction Management. He dreams of owning his own remodeling business someday in the future.
"Colin exemplifies what it means to be a student-athlete at Apalachee High School. He is a student of character and commitment, and we are so proud of his accomplishments throughout his time here. I know that he has also been a role model to younger student-athletes, and that’s all we can ask of our seniors," said Apalachee High School Principal Jessica Rehberg.
Congratulations, Colin! Barrow County School System is proud of your hard work inside the classroom and on the field.