Photo courtesy of Hillary Hartline
Callen Hartline
Callen is homeschooled, in the 8th grade, and plays for Florida Baseball Heaven- Angels 14u.
How did you first get interested in baseball, and what made you fall in love with the game?
I’ve been playing since I was four years old. I’ve just always loved it; I like working hard and pushing myself to be the best that I can be.
What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about playing that position?
My two primary positions are Catcher and Shortstop. As catcher, I love being in the action with every pitch and working with my pitcher. At shortstop, working with my teammates to lock down the infield.
What has been your favorite baseball moment or memory so far?
Hitting a grand slam in a championship game and playing in Cooperstown
Who has been the biggest influence on you as a baseball player, and why?
My Dad, he taught me early on that baseball was a game of mistakes, and when you make a mistake, you have to move on quickly.
What is one part of your game that you’ve been working hard to improve?
I have to practice slowing down and being intentional with my movements.
How do you handle it when you have a tough game or make a mistake?
My identity is in Jesus, not baseball.
What are some goals you have for yourself this season and moving forward?
I’m working on getting stronger by working out, sometimes at 4 a.m. with my Dad before he goes to work. My big goal for next year is making the high school team.
If you could give one piece of advice to a younger athlete who wants to play baseball, what would you tell them?
Work hard and have fun
