9Q’s with Hooker’s Justin Palacios
By Elizabeth Contreras
VYPE: What grade are you in and what position do you play?
JP: I am in 11th grade and I’ve been playing baseball since I was about 5 years old. I play pitcher, catcher, and shortstop.
VYPE: Who has been the biggest influence on your baseball journey?
JP: My dad has been my biggest influence. He was the one who showed me the game of baseball, and it became my favorite sport.
VYPE: How do you prepare for a game?
JP: I prepare by either listening to music or just talking to my teammates. I usually try not to worry about the game because sometimes I get nervous before it starts, so I try not to think about it too much.
VYPE: What’s your proudest moment on the field so far?
JP: My proudest moment was hitting a walk-off against Holbert in the regional playoffs. It was a really fun game and a close one.
VYPE: What’s the most challenging part of playing baseball at your level?
JP: The most challenging part is trying to see the baseball while batting. When you have a pitcher on the mound who can throw really fast, it can be a little hard for me to see the ball while hitting.
VYPE: What skill are you currently working hardest to improve?
JP: The biggest thing I’m focusing on right now is my batting. I’m working on my hand coordination and getting my hands to the ball better, whether I’m batting in a game or hitting off the tee.
VYPE: How do your teammates inspire or challenge you?
JP: Good teammates hold each other accountable. If we are slacking, they notice that, and it pushes everyone to do better. I try to be the best I can both on and off the field.
VYPE: What do you enjoy most about your coach’s leadership?
JP: I enjoy that our coach teaches us new things that we haven’t learned before.
VYPE: Outside of baseball, what other interests or hobbies do you have?
JP: I like to go fishing and hunting during Thanksgiving break with my aunt and my cousin from South Carolina. They come down every year to hunt, and it’s always great spending time with my family.
