Justin Baca

What sport do you play? Baseball

What school do you attend? Sierra Vista

How long have you played and what motivated you to get involved in this sport? I've played baseball for about eight years. Growing up, I was more of a basketball player. My older brother played baseball and I looked up to him so I wanted to get involved in baseball. I knew that my dad wanted me to start playing so I gave it a shot and fell in love with the game.

List accomplishments you are proud of achieving in your sport:  Most of all, I am proud that I have the chance to play Division 1 baseball. That was my goal as a freshman, to be able to play baseball at the college level. Last summer, I was selected for the 2006 area code games. Earlier that summer, I was named “Pitcher of the Tournament” for the West Coast Regional Tournament. I also played for the Las Vegas scout team the fall of 2006.

What do you like most about your sport?  I love the anticipation and the pressure situations.  During the game anything can happen. Without pressure situations the game wouldn't be fun. I work hard in practice so when the time comes, I’m ready for anything. To be the best, I have to be able to handle a tough situation and get myself out of it. 

What is your favorite sport to watch on T.V. and why?  My favorite sport to watch is baseball, because I like to see how the game is supposed to be played by the best in the world. I can see how good I need to be to accomplish the ultimate dream of, one day, pitching in the majors.

Who is your favorite athlete or person you draw inspiration from? Why?  Although I'm a baseball player, my favorite athlete is Kobe Bryant, because he can beat you not only physically but mentally. Before you step on the court with him you already know that he's the best and that's the way that I want to be thought of by other teams. He inspires me because he can carry his team to victory if he has to and, if we're in a low scoring game, I want to be able to carry the team to a win.

Do you think that being an athlete helps or hinders you with your academic studies?  I think it helps me with my studies. I have a 3.7 GPA. To play a sport in high school and college, you have to have good grades. I knew as a freshman that I needed to have good grades if I wanted to be a college baseball player. We're student-athletes and student comes first. 

Do you plan on pursuing your sport at the college level? Yes. I have signed my letter of intent to UNLV to play baseball. Choosing a college was a very tough decision. My family and I had to think about what was best for me and, in the end, we thought that UNLV is the right place for me to be. I get to play with my older brother again so I’m looking forward to that.

Do you have a favorite saying?  “Don't think, just throw.” I like this saying because it keeps me calm on the mound. Once I get thinking about things too much, then things don't go my way. When I stay calm and just throw my game, things work out for me in the end.

What is your favorite food?  Mexican food

Favorite T.V. show?  “SportsCenter”

Favorite movie?  Wedding Crashers