By MARK MOLINA
Staff Writer
Harlingen South pitcher Jacob Atkinson knew where he wanted to be and over the last two years, he did whatever he could to get there.
After signing his letter of intent this past Monday to play baseball with the NAIA’s University of Houston – Victoria Jaguars, he’s made it.
Atkinson has had his sights on the UHV program since his junior year at Harlingen South and even reached out.
“I had decided that (UHV) it’s where I wanted to go play baseball. I even sent an email to them,” Atkinson said. “However, I didn’t hear back from them.”
Things, however, would fall into place for the Hawks pitcher.
Being a junior at the time, Atkinson understood the no reply, but he got his chance to showcase his talents last month.
“In June, UHV held a camp for pitchers and catchers. At that point I had been working out pretty hard so I attended,” He said. “Shortly after the camp I was contacted by the coaches and I was told they could offer me a scholarship.”
Atkinson will join a Jaguars baseball program finished 28-21 this past season and is led by head coach Terry Puhl and assistant coaches Jose Chapa and Doug Heinhold, all of which have pro baseball ties.
That’s one thing that stood out to Atkinson.
“I really liked the campus itself, but I like the program and what the coaches can teach me,” Atkinson said. “(Heinhold), who is the pitching coach, was a pro who I can learn a lot from. They also bring in pro ball players so we can learn from.”
Atkinson was the solid on the mound for the 13-6 South Hawks this year.
In his senior season, Atkinson struck out 70 batters and posted a 2.06 ERA.
At the plate, Atkinson had 20 hits on the year and a batting average of .339.
He was also honored as a 32-6A All-District First team pitcher.
While it will be a bittersweet adjustment going from Harlingen South to college baseball, Atkinson doesn’t see himself struggling.
“I will be somewhat sad to leave South, but I had my years there and I was happy to contribute to the Hawks while I was there,” he said. “I know it’ll be tough to transition, but I don’t see myself having as hard of a time doing it than some people might think.”