GUNNER SHELBY
Webbers Falls
Gunner Shelby has made a name for himself as just a sophomore at Webbers Falls High School as a standout on the baseball diamond and football field for the Warriors.
This spring, he currently leads the baseball team in several categories. Shelby paces the Warriors in stolen bases (16), RBIs (20) and runs scored (30). Webbers Falls was 10-11 under head coach Trent Holt in games played through April 11.
Shelby, who plays in the outfield and also sees time on the mound, says he has been able to get more settled in at the plate in his second season.
“I feel like I have improved in baseball by feeling more comfortable at the plate with higher velocity pitchers than last year,” he said. “I have more confidence in myself to make plays when my team depends on me.”
Shelby has had the opportunity to play with his older brother, Maddux, and it’s something he always wanted to be able to do. Maddux has been a big inspiration as well.
“My proudest moment as a baseball player was when I got to play with my older brother Maddux. I have always wanted to play with him and I finally got to last year. It was a dream come true,” Shelby said.
“My biggest influence on my game is Maddux. He has always pushed me to do more and be the player I am today. That is the reason I look up to him.”
Shelby plays cornerback and receiver for the Warrior football team. He led the team with seven interceptions and posted a team-high 69 tackles this past season, helping Webbers Falls to a 6-5 mark under Holt.
“In football I am picking up the game faster and I am improving on defense wanting to come down hill to make tackles,” Shelby said.
Shelby feels his knowledge and IQ are what help him succeed in both sports.
“I think my biggest strength in baseball and in football is my ball knowledge. I feel like my IQ is what makes me a better player,” he said.
Following his high school days, Shelby plans on finishing at Indian Capital Technology Center and entering the workforce.
