News Summary

Local baseball star Jayven Parks from Carson High School has signed with Belmont Abbey College, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career. After facing early challenges and setbacks, including being cut from his sixth-grade team, Jayven’s dedication led him to outstanding performances, including a .397 batting average his junior year. With impressive skills and a dedicated work ethic, he is poised for a successful future in college baseball.

Celebrating Jayven Parks: A Stellar Journey from Setbacks to Success in Baseball

In a thrilling turn of events for Carson, we are excited to share the remarkable journey of local baseball star Jayven Parks. Recently, this talented center fielder from Carson High School made waves by signing with Belmont Abbey College, marking a significant milestone in his athletic career. Standing tall at 6-foot-3 and weighing a solid 200 pounds, the newly 18-year-old Parks has transformed his experience in the sport, proving that perseverance trumps all challenges.

A Rocky Start

Jayven’s journey didn’t start smoothly. Back in sixth grade, he faced a tough break when he was cut from the baseball team. This was a heavy hit for his young confidence, leaving him pondering whether to even try again in seventh grade. For a moment, he thought about following in the basketball footprints of his father, WJ Parks, a notable high school basketball player. But as fate would have it, Jayven’s love for baseball brought him back to the diamond in eighth grade.

Finding His Stride

Although he made the eighth-grade team, early on, Jayven found himself warming the bench during most games. It wasn’t until he entered Carson High School that things began to change. Spending his sophomore year on the junior varsity team, he dedicated himself to honing his skills. His hard work paid off, and by late 2023, he earned his spot on the varsity squad, making a notable impact during a crucial playoff game.

Junior Year Transformation

The turning point in Jayven’s career came during his junior year. He joined a showcase team, playing against some of the best talent around. This new level of competition ignited a passion within him for the game. By February 2024, his hard work was evident as he posted an incredible batting average of .397, racking up 31 hits, including four home runs, eight doubles, and 24 RBIs during the season.

Record-Breaking Performance

One of Jayven’s standout games came against Central Cabarrus High School, where he launched two home runs, showcasing his power and skill. His new head coach, JC Alexander, sees great potential in him, especially concerning leadership, as the Cougars face a smaller senior class this year. Not to mention, Jayven’s physical strength has surged as he committed to a dedicated weightlifting program, boosting his weight from 185 to 200 pounds.

All-Around Star

Known for his all-around skills, Parks has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his hitting, running, and throwing capabilities. He is also anticipated to take on pitching duties at various points throughout the season. Coach Kyle Bridges has played a key role in connecting Jayven with Belmont Abbey, showcasing his talent through video presentations and nearly guaranteeing a bright future for him in college baseball.

Future at Belmont Abbey

Jayven feels that Belmont Abbey is a perfect match for him, blending commendable academics with a competitive baseball program. Carson High School boasts a proud legacy of 16 winning seasons and 16 playoff appearances in its short 18-season history, so he has certainly joined a team with a lot of expectations. This season, as the Cougars adapt to losing 12 seniors to graduation, the focus will be on increasing runs to support the pitching line-up. Jayven is projected to bat third in the lineup and is viewed as a potential star player who may significantly shape the team’s success.

The Road Ahead

As Jayven Parks embarks on this new chapter at Belmont Abbey College, it’s crucial to reflect on how his journey to this point hasn’t always been smooth—yet each setback only propelled him further. His story is more than just baseball; it’s about resilience, hard work, and the unyielding spirit that comes from following one’s passion. Carson is undoubtedly proud to have such a dedicated and talented athlete making waves in the world of sports.

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