Versatility and faith guide sophomore Jarron Ford as he prepares for Smithville baseball with a purpose bigger than the box score. “To be competitive in every play and situation, but most importantly to glorify God on and off the field,” Ford said of his personal goals this season.
Early work has already shown progress at the plate. “We have competed much better at the plate cutting down on our overall strikeouts as a team and giving us a better opportunity to compete with teams that we had not competed with in the past,” Ford said.
The group stays focused on steady growth. “We are working to improve individually and as a team every day,” he said. “We also hope to make a deeper run in the playoffs.” Experience has become their edge. “We are getting better with every game due to the experience we are gaining,” Ford said. “We try to learn from our mistakes and improve on them with each game.”
Ford handles a demanding workload across the diamond. “Shortstop, pitcher, and catcher,” he said. Reading defenses comes down to awareness and opportunity. “I look for holes and gaps in the field,” Ford said. “I try to be aware of the situation and do whatever I need to do for my team.”
Competition defines his approach. “Compete every pitch,” Ford said of his mindset when he steps on the field.
This season carries extra weight for the team. “Outsiders may not know that this will be our first season playing without our friend and fellow teammate, Jaxton Gallups, who passed away unexpectedly this past December,” Ford said. Playing for him is their purpose.
Ford hopes his impact lasts beyond innings played. “I want to be remembered for my work ethic and that I never gave up,” he said. “I also hope that people remember how I treated those around me. I hope to be a positive example for other kids to look up to, not just as an athlete but as a person.” Looking ahead, his path is clear. “Fall 2025 hitting stats: BA .411 OBP .587 H 30 RBI 20. Fall 2025 pitching stats: IP 46.0 ERA 1.674 SO 62 BB 8. I play basketball and am active in my church youth group at Smithville Assembly and FISH (Fellowship in School Hours) group at school. I want to go to college and play sports. I plan on getting a degree to become a physical trainer.”
