Hard work of Starkville Academy’s Holley leads him to Blue Mountain
Will finds a way for the Starkville Academy Volunteers.
During his baseball career at Starkville Academy, Will Holley has put in the work necessary to become the best player he can be.
“I’ll be up there during practice and usually the first one down to the field,” Holley said. “When we’re done with practice, I stay up there and hit. After that, I come back at night and see if the coaches will come out there with me, so I’ve been working extra hours to get back to where I am.”
That dedication has paid off for Holley as he has signed a scholarship to play base-
ball at Blue Mountain College. He celebrated the occasion with family, friends, coaches and administration at the school on Thursday morning.
After starting for the Vols as a sophomore and then spending time on the bench, that little detour did not distract Holley from getting back to where he wanted to be. He came back as a junior and made the All-MAIS team and has continued to produce as a senior.
“I’m proud of his work ethic,” Starkville Academy coach Brooks Roberts said. “I’m proud of the way he’s stayed level-headed though all of it. I’m excited to see him move on and get a chance to play somewhere else.”
After hitting .388 with seven doubles, five home runs and 17 runs batted in as a junior for the Vols, Holley has hit .287 with five doubles, four home runs and 22 RBI as a senior.
Holley threw out 14 runners from his catcher position as a junior and 11 more this season.
“He’s been a great offensively player for us, but he’s played even better defense,” Roberts said. “In my opinion, he’s the best catcher in our league. He was last year and I believe he is again this year.”
Holley was impressed with everything about Blue Mountain after taking a visit. He liked coaches, the new facility, the classrooms and the professors he met.
Once he joins the Blue Mountain program, Holley will be going in with an open mind and ready to do whatever is needed to stay on the field.
“They told me I could work for another position,” Holley said. “As long as I can hit the ball very well and stay consistent with the bat, I would be able to play first, third, anywhere on the infield and catcher.
“They are wonderful and I love the campus. It’s going to be a great experience and I’m glad to be able to continue my baseball career.”