Hunter Barco
School: The Bolles School
Sport: Baseball
Grade: 10
Parents: Barry and Robin Barco
What is your main position, and what other positions do you play?
Main: Left-handed pitcher
Others: First base and outfield
Describe the 2016 Bolles season (5A State Champions)
The 2016 season was incredible. I will certainly remember that year for the rest of my life. We lost our 2015 ace Ryan Fultz to Tommy John surgery, so last year’s seniors knew everyone would have to step up. Last year’s seniors were true leaders. They pushed us toward the goal of winning a state championship every day.
The team was mostly underclassmen, but the older guys greatly influenced us. As the season went on, everything started to lock into place. Everyone executed as expected. Teamwork and respect for each other got us through the tough games. Although some teams we played were more talented, none of them played as much as a team as we did. Winning the state championship is one of the best memories of my life, and winning it with that group of guys made it even more memorable.
When did you start playing baseball?
I started playing when I was five years old at Navy Ortega Lakeshore Little League.
Why do you attend Bolles?
I attend Bolles because it has outstanding athletics and very challenging academics. It is also where my father went to school.
Where else have you played baseball?
I have played for a number of travel teams in Northeast Florida. I have also played with the East Cobb Astros (a nationally-recognized premier youth baseball organization) since 2015.
What other sports do you play?
I play only baseball.
Describe your academic success at Bolles.
I have maintained first honors every year since I came to Bolles in seventh grade.
Where do you plan to play college baseball?
I am committed to the University of Virginia.
What professional teams have shown interest in you?
I attended the Area Code Games last summer in Long Beach, California, representing the Washington Nationals.
Do you have any siblings who play sports?
My sister Mckenzie (19) plays tennis at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. My brother Holden (9) plays travel ball for the 9U Five Star Tigers.
How much have your parents helped you in your baseball pursuit?
My parents have always been a huge inspiration to me. They have always supported me in everything I do, and they push me to give my all. I appreciate all the traveling they have done with me so I can keep playing. I would not be where I am today without them.
Whom else would you like to thank for your success?
I would like to thank Guerry and Kevin Baldwin of the East Cobb Astros for guiding me through the baseball world. I would also like to thank Palmer Knight for always believing in me and taking time out of his day to help us get better.
You Never Forget the Moment You Fell in Love With The Game
Written by: Raymond Bureau
Pictures courtesy of prospectwire.com and www.fhsaa.org
