Big league ambitions
Published 12:01 am Monday, October 10, 2011
Q: You’re in the middle of football season at Jackson, but your future is tied to another sport. Tell me about that.
A: Yes, I play quarterback for Jackson. I play football, basketball and baseball. I’m already committed to playing baseball at the University of Arizona.
Q: Baseball is your first love?
A: I started when I was a little kid, playing tee ball. My dream is to play professional baseball. Last summer I went to Long Beach (Calif.) to play baseball.
Q: Have you picked a career beyond sports?
A: I’ve had a lot of sports injuries, so I’m interested in the whole doctor thing. My dream is to play for the L.A. Dodgers, then be a doctor, then retire. That’s the dream.
Q: So academics are important to you, too. How do you keep your grades up while playing sports every season?
A: I’ve learned time management. You have to do that, or you won’t be able to get the grades. My grade point average is about a 3.8.
Q: I’m sure other colleges pursued you. Besides sunny weather, what helped you choose Arizona?
A: One thing that struck me, Arizona followed me throughout the summer as I played baseball. They were really interested in me.
Q: Tell me about your family.
A: I’m an only child. My mom used to work for the school district. She’s always supporting whatever I do. My dad, Rob Brown, played college baseball at Gonzaga (University) and Central (Washington University). Baseball is both of our No. 1 sports.
Q: As Jackson’s quarterback and star pitcher, are you seen at school as a “golden boy”? Do your accomplishments come easily?
A: Some people have joked with me about that. But people know I didn’t get there by doing nothing, either in sports or in school.
Q: Describe a typical school day.
A: I set my alarm for 6:10 a.m., but don’t get up until 6:30. I shower and get to school by 7:27 — it starts at 7:30. After school, there’s football practice for two and a half hours. I lift weights for a half-hour after that. Then it’s home to eat — I’m starving — then homework.
Q: What’s your favorite subject at Jackson?
A: Math or science. I’m not as into writing papers.
Q: Do you have a favorite teacher?
A: Mr. (Jared) Kink, my English teacher last year. I’ve never been a big English guy, but with him you had no idea what to expect.
Q: What TV shows and movies do you like? How about music?
A: I mostly watch “SportsCenter” on TV. My favorite movies are “Remember the Titans” or “The Sandlot.” I like country music, Kenny Chesney.
Q: Is there an athlete you particularly admire?
A: I read an autobiography of Michael Jordan. He’s the best. That just stuck with me.
Q: Was there one game you’ll always remember?
A: Last spring’s 4A state championship baseball game against Bothell. I was pitching. It was a really rough loss. We were winning 1-0, but it ended up we lost by 1. It makes me want to work even harder this year.
Q: You were among nominees for Jackson’s homecoming king. Did you win?
A: Nope. I voted for my buddy, who did win.
Q: Next fall you’ll be in Tucson. What will you miss about home?
A: Being around everyone here. School went fast, especially high school. It feels like I was just a freshman.
Q: How would you spend a free Friday night?
A: I’d have some friends over, make a fire in the backyard — not too much.
Know a super kid? Contact Gale Fiege at 425-339-3427 or email gfiege@heraldnet.com.
