As a seventh grader, Adam Colon was called up to Bellport’s varsity team to fill a void. Five years later, he has been through his share of ups-and-downs but has been able to come out on the other side as a stronger individual.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Have you been playing baseball your entire life?
Yes, I began playing when I was five-years-old.
Was baseball always your main focus?
Yes. I played basketball until eighth grade, but I stopped to focus on baseball.
Did any of your family members play at a high-level?
My father grew up in Puerto Rico and played minor league ball with the Montreal Expos.
Which player had the biggest influence in your career?
I would have to say Roberto Clemente. I wear No. 21 to honor him.
Talk a little about the obstacles you have faced in your career.
When I was in seventh grade I tore three ligaments in my ankle. It was a really tough time and I was feeling really down on myself, unsure of whether I could come back. I ended up missing some time. I stayed focused and was able to get back but in 11th grade I partially tore the UCL in my elbow and that was a longer recovery. I ended up missing almost six months but I didn’t get down on myself and I am back now.
Can you describe your college recruiting process?
Originally I was committed to Farleigh-Dickinson but some things happened and I ended up losing the offer. It was a stressful time due to the lost opportunity but I stayed focused. I ended up getting an email from a guy named Zach Brown from South Carolina, who told me he had a connection to Citadel College and it ended up being a good fit for me.
What did you do to improve this offseason?
I’ve been going to Infiniti Performance since I was 10-years-old. I used to go just to focus on speed but now I am focusing on strength training as well.
Mike Trout photographed for BodyArmor sports drink by Monte Isom
