Shelton, Bearkats poised for big 2010 season
2/18/2010 4:58:00 PM | Baseball
Matt Shelton has his oddities when standing on the pitchers mound that even he can't explain. He has a tendency to stick his tongue out, and if you look closely, he even bends his elbows backwards before going into the stretch.
One thing he can explain is where he sees himself fitting in on this 2010 baseball team which will get the season started on Friday with a three-game series against TCU.
"My position on the team is to compete with all my heart in every game that I play," Shelton said. "I am surrounded by people who are always encouraging and helping me be the best that I can be. I am excited about this upcoming season, we have worked really hard in preparation and I believe that our hard work is going to be worth it."
Shelton is a junior, majoring in General Business and is a two-year letterman with 41 mound appearances and 13 victories. He was named the Most Valuable Player at the 2009 Southland Conference post-season tournament and led the Bearkats with a 7-0 record.
Shelton has had to deal with minor back injuries over the years, but has gotten through them with the support of his coaches and teammates.
"Injuries are frustrating because it is hard to watch people play while you have to take a break," Shelton said. "As athletes we are constantly fighting in the trenches and without the support from my coaches and teammates I would not be able to push myself as far."
SHSU pitching coach Chris Berry is impressed by how Shelton has grown physically and mentally over the years and is confident that he will continue to make an impact on the team.
"Matt is a leader and he is one of the hardest workers I have ever seen," Berry said. "While some athletes struggle with distractions, Matt stays focused and leaves the stress that does not involve baseball in the locker room. He is a warrior and he is always going to give you whatever he has got."
The Bearkats open Friday against TCU in Fort Worth at 6:30 p.m. Their first home game will be on Feb. 23 against Prairie View at 6:30 p.m. Berry is confident the Kats are ready for another strong season.
"I believe that we are physically and mentally prepared for this season," Berry said. "We have worked really hard and are hoping to see the fruits of our labor pay off. Our main goals this season are to win our league, win the league tournament and have a shot at winning the regional title"
