TBR Interview--Elliott Arrington

Elliott Arrington, South Mecklenburg, State Games player, has been one of the best players to come through Coach Bagwell's program. As the leader of the On Deck O's and South Meck, Elliott is the type that leads by example. He let's his actions speak for themselves, but when Elliott does speak...everyone listens. This sweet swinging first baseman epitomizes that old saying "walk softly and carry a big stick"....and what a stick( ok...metal) he has. I was able to pull Elliott out from under his jeep to answer a few questions:

1. Congratulations with signing at UNC-Asheville. You will be re-joining old
pals, Ben Kerr and J.K. Whited. Tell us about it?

Well, Asheville seems like a program that is on a steady rise. I was with On
Deck since the day it opened, and have seen that program rise to unbelievable levels, and I wanted to make sure I was playing college ball for a program with the same mentality. I can't wait to play with Ben Kerr and J.K. again, they are two guys with unbelievable talent and great work ethics. I'm also looking forward to playing some more with Ben Buchanen, who has a great deal of knowledge about the game, and shows it every time he gets the ball. Also, it looks like we might be getting another South Meck player on a transfer, if everything works out.

2. You were the senior player returning to the On Deck O's baseball team. Tell us your experience with the team and the successful run through the PG Jupiter Tournament?

I didn't know how the team would compare to the O?s from the previous fall, but we quickly stated that we were going to not try to compare with the 2002 O?s, we were going to try and beat them. It truly was a group effort, and every single person on the team bought into our approach of pushing the tempo and game-speed to a level our opponents did not want to play. I think this was most obvious in Jupiter, where we faced many teams who liked to play at a slow pace and sit back and wait for a 3-run home-run to put them up. We quickly realized that if we played our game, we could cruise right through that tournament. It was a great feeling to see more and more fans showing up to our games, and they all came for one reason?we played the game right. The fans and the scouts were tired of seeing showcase teams play at a slow pace with no team cohesion. We were a cohesive team that played the game at a quick pace, and people truly enjoyed watching it. I could talk to you all day about the memories I have from that tournament, but the biggest thing that sticks out in my mind is right before the seedings for the championship round came out all of the team was sitting by the press box with so much focus and intensity, and we knew we were going to something incredible, I could truly see it in every individuals eyes.

3. It appears your South Meck HS team is creating a stir across the State. Pre-Season polls have you guys ranked #4. Tell us your thoughts on your team this year?

Well, we do have quite a bit of talent at South right now, but more importantly we have a great deal of cohesion on our team. Everyone is committed to achieving our goals, and everyone works their tails off and picks each other up. I love getting to the field after school, because even if I?ve had a bad day there are 17 other guys their to pick me up, we all feed off each others energy, and I can assure all of my teammates truly love the game, and it?s great to be surrounded by people like that.
We have a very offensive team that executes very well, we have a great deal of pitching, and a very solid defense, and a coaching staff second to none. Right now we are 2-0, and have high goals for this season, and if we continue to work the way we are now, I have no doubt we will accomplish those goals.

4. You have had some great players as teammates growing up with the different Travel teams. Who are some of the players that you have played with and who has influenced you the most?

I could give you a list of 50 players I have played with and look up to but the
people I?ve learned the most from and truly respect are:Jason Haynes and Tommy Baldridge- Both of these kids have a very strong work ethic and will do anything for a win. They are extremely competitive and have
high levels of talent. I have seen them make some extraordinary plays, and they amaze me every time I watch them play the game.
Kyle Shelton- I have played with Kyle since I was about 10, and we know each others game very well. We work well together, and he is extremely dedicated. You often refer to him as the slickest infielder in the state, and I totally agree. He always puts himself in a position to make great plays, and he gets it done at the plate.
Alex Martin- Alex is a guy who puts it all on the line. He always seems to get
the job done. His pitching is unbelievable, but his work ethic is one of the
strongest I've ever seen. I have played with him since I was about 8, and have learned a great deal from him.
Kevin Dietrich- Kevin is the most talented player I've ever played with. He is
such a smooth and refined hitter, who can bunt, hit for average, and hit for
power. His play in the outfield is second to none, he is a true gamer. I only
got to play with him this past summer and fall, but I learned so much from him, and can't wait to play with him more this summer.There are many more, but these are the ones that really stick out in my mind. These are all kids I love to play with, but absolutely hate to play against. I have the utmost respect for all of them.

5. What has been your best baseball moment to date?

Finishing 3rd in Jupiter, but a State Title might top it off.

6. Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know?
I love to work on cars, especially Jeeps.

7. Favorite Food
Spaghetti w/ meatballs.

8. Favorite Movie
Top Gun

9. What do you like to do on your days off?
Hang out with my friends, go 4-Wheeling, and just rest up for the next practice or game.

10. What advice would you give to a JV player wanting to move up to Varsity?

Young players often try to do too much to impress a coach or other players.
They must understand and trust that their preparation will show if they simply play their game. I also see many young players who are good leaders, take a back-seat to upperclassmen. It doesn't matter how old you are or even how good you are, if you have a gift to lead people, whether it be a vocal leader, or a leader by example, make sure you use it. And of course, always hustle and give it everything you have in you. Make sure when you leave a field you know that nobody has outworked you, knowing that is a great feeling, and it inspires you for the next practice or game.

11. My goals are ....

Most importantly, to give my team every chance I can to assure we all reach our team goals. I would like achieve personal goals in batting average and RBI's, but the only goal I truly care about is wins, and I'll do anything to propel my team in that direction. One goal I have taken on is to give Coach Bagwell and his staff what they deserve. They prepare us better than any crew in the state, and I have a feeling it is going to pay off this year.

All of the interviews have been outstanding, but this has been one of the best. The depth that Elliott answered some of the questions displays the type person he is....smart, insightful and a team player. I know that Betsy and Ed are proud parents...but everyone that has contact with Elliott are proud of him, too. A mature, classy young man that will be successful in whatever he chooses. Through his leadership, don't be surprised if the Sabres go deep into the playoffs.

By the way, Elliott. I was thinking about purchasing a jeep...........

 

Congratulations Elliott, great interview!! Great player, student, and overall person, and great parents. We are looking forward to a great time this season from all the Sabres! :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:

 

the son

Man I love him as a team mate. His there for you when you need him, his got your back when in a hole, and just a great guy. I have played with him for along time and in the cages this year I can say something that nobody else will get but him and he can make the change. It goes the other way around too. I wish I had the chance to play the rest of my career with him. He is the type of guy you want to have as a godparent for your kid or to coach your kid. We can sit down with coaches and talk for hours about what we know together and what we have learned from each other. He is the best team leader I have ever played with.
I remember down in Jupiter right before we played the East Cobb Astros he was sitting down at the end of the dugout by himself. One of the coaches walked up to him and asked if everything was ok and he just said," Man, this is what I live for." That is what type of teammate he is. He is ready to go at all times. He will make you laugh during warmups but then he is ready to go.
I am proud of you man and if you ever need anything I am here for you just like you would be there for me. Looking forward to getting those goals you were talking about.

 

To Sugarjet's son. There is not a coach in the state of NC that wouldn't want a kid with your attitude on his team. Good luck young man.

 

great kid, great player and superb interview.................Elliott, i have a jeep and live half way between charlotte and asheville........spending $$$$$ for you maybe?

note: 1986 Commache, 4x4, 2.8 and not for sale Braves!!!

good luck Elliott and to the parents.......great job! :applause:

his coaches, on deck and his fans:

 

Congratulations Elliott on being first a fine young man; second a fine scholar, third a fine son; and fourth a fine athlete! Glad that my family has had a chance to both know and play with you and your family!

 

Great interview…will be following Elliott Arrington with the South Meck Sabres this year and @ UNC-Asheville as well next year! I know that Elliott will evidently achieve all his goals in baseball and in life as he is a strong individual and has the parental backing that one needs as well!

 

:applause: