Following an impressive 2021 postseason run, Owensboro Catholic’s Sam McFarland is set to continue his baseball career at Kentucky Wesleyan.
McFarland said that the recruiting process wasn’t an easy one, but he’s glad to finally be moving on to the next step in his athletic career.
“It feels great to finally know where I am going to attend college,” McFarland said. “It was a super long process and stressful time and I am super excited to finally know where I will be.”
McFarland’s choice to become a Panther was an easy one, as they have made him feel welcome from the very beginning.
“I chose Kentucky Wesleyan because the coaches for a long time have made me feel welcome,” McFarland said. “It has always been a place I have wanted to be. I also will have the opportunity to be around my family often which most college athletes don’t get to do.”
On top of the camaraderie felt from the jump, McFarland said Kentucky Wesleyan’s recent success is something he wanted to be a part of.
“The success that Wesleyan has had in the past few years has really stood out to me,” McFarland said. “I’ve been around the program multiple times and the environment and bond the coaches and players have also stands out. The coaches have always been welcoming to me and it attracted my family and I to be a part of it.”
McFarland finished up his senior season with a .395 batting average to go with two home runs and 25 RBIs at the plate. On the mound, he dominated all season, finishing with a 1.71 ERA and 44 strikeouts en route to a 7-2 record over 10 appearances.
Owensboro Catholic Head Coach Derek Hibbs said during the season that his versatility was a major reason for their success in the 2021 season.
“Sam is a dynamic athlete who can do a multitude of things on the field,” Hibbs said. “He is our leadoff hitter, who is great at getting on base and wreaking havoc on the bases when he gets there. He also is good at driving in runs when we need it in other situations. He anchors the outfield in centerfield and has great range. His arm is one of the best in the state. He also was one of our best pitchers this spring and came through with big starts in the regular and postseason.”
McFarland is ready to make the jump to the collegiate level, but said he will always miss his days as an Ace.
“I am really going to miss the family environment of both my team and school,” McFarland said. “I wouldn’t be able to make the decision of where I would attend college without the coaches, teammates, and most importantly academics at Owensboro Catholic.”
