Senior Grayson Hoffman has been named Athlete of the Week for his success on the boys baseball team. As a three-year player and captain, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the sport, maintaining a positive and hardworking attitude. Grayson recently proved his dedication when he committed to Wesleyan University to play baseball.

Long before even considering playing at the collegiate level, Grayson touched a baseball bat for the first time when his Dad signed him up for the Little Sluggers baseball team at 3 years old. He immediately became attached to the sport, and Grayson has played baseball ever since. He has also been a devoted Cubs fan for as long as he can remember.

More than a decade later, he is the starting shortstop—one of the most important positions on defense—for Latin’s boys baseball team. A confident and encouraging leader, he always enjoys stepping on the field.

“I just try to have as much fun as I can out there, and I’ve played shortstop my entire life,” Grayson said. “I have a lot of fun and always make sure I’m locked in.”

Grayson’s teammates inspired him to play baseball in college. “[A reason] to play in [college] was probably being on a team with so many kids that went on to play at the next level,” he said. “They made the game really fun. They gave me a lot of advice and took me under their wing, and I became a better baseball player.”

With only a few months until he begins playing baseball for Wesleyan, he is thrilled for the opportunity to continue the sport. “It’s something that every kid dreams of doing,” he said.

As Grayson leaves Latin’s team, he offered advice for younger athletes hoping to play at the collegiate level.

“Just work hard and love what you do,” he said. “Hard work pays off, and make sure you’re having fun.”