It is not always easy to balance academics with athletics, and when you are a three-sport athlete who participates in athletics year round, that challenge becomes even greater. But for Bonners Ferry High School senior Brady Bateman, he has managed to not only meet the challenge but to exceed it.
Graduating in the top 10 of his class this year, Brady has lettered in baseball and basketball all four years and twice in football. “I have received all-league honors three times in baseball and once in football,” said Brady, who also participated in cross country for one year.
After graduation, Brady will serve a full-time, two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. “Upon completion of my mission, I plan on attending college and pursuing baseball,” he said.
Brady has his sights set on becoming a high school history teacher and would eventually like to work in school administration with the goal of one day being a principal.
With so much ahead of him, Brady has already proven that he can overcome most any obstacle that comes his way.
Diagnosed with epilepsy after his freshman year of high school, Brady shares that it is something that is a reality he lives with every day. “I do my best to not let it define me or control what sports and activities I choose to play,” said Brady, adding that he shares his story as a way to offer encouragement to those who struggle with similar issues, advising others to “stay positive and continue to do the activities you have a passion for to the best of your ability.”
Although he said he was vertically challenged in basketball, he worked hard on small parts of the game so he could contribute to the team. Brady also said his biggest challenge in baseball was developing his pitching skills when he entered high school as it was not a position he previously played.
There were many moments that stand out for Brady as he looks back on his high school sports career, but the most memorable was when his team won second place at state last year.
He said baseball has taught him important lessons that he plans to carry with him as he goes forward to the next chapter in his life.
“I have learned that, like baseball, life can go up and down in a hurry so it is important to keep your eyes on the goal you set out to accomplish,” said Brady, who goes on to express gratitude to all have supported him. “As my high school career comes to a close, I would like to thank all my coaches, teachers, family and friends for all the support they have given me over the years. You have blessed my life and made my journey thus far a great and memorable one.”