GAMES
RANKINGS
Ridge Point's Jack McKernan
STRIKING THE FLAME: McKernan prepared to ignite Ridge Point, Texas Baseball
Despite the buzz surrounding his future, McKernan remains focused on the present, striking a balance between the demands of baseball and the experiences of his senior year.
“I think you just need to keep your priorities straight if you’re someone in my position,” McKernan said. “I make sure to put in the work on the field first before I have fun off it. Baseball is my dream, and I’m going to chase that. I’ve been blessed with people who understand that and continue to encourage me as I walk down this path.”
McKernan’s dream has led him to the University of Texas, a program steeped in baseball tradition.
“There’s a lot of history that comes with the university,” he said. “When it comes to the baseball program, the saying around there is ‘you’re guaranteed to go to Omaha at least once.’ The winning culture helped me understand that I couldn’t go wrong choosing that place to be my home.”
Before McKernan dons burnt orange, he has unfinished business at Ridge Point.
The Panthers finished 25-9-1 last season but fell in the Area Round to eventual Regional Semifinalist Memorial. McKernan, a first-team, all-district honoree, believes this year’s team has the potential to make a deeper run.
The stars of 2024-25 Ridge Point BaseballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I think the hitting side of our lineup has already figured itself out,” he said. “So, right now, it’s about solidifying the back end of the bullpen. If we can keep developing our pitching and play good defense, I’m confident we can make a really good run this year.”
The left-hander is no stranger to expectations. As a projected MLB Draft prospect, the spotlight follows him, but he keeps a level head.
“It’s amazing to have those kinds of expectations on me,” McKernan said. “But once you’re on the field, titles don’t really matter. Every time I’m on the mound, I do my best to earn the respect I’ve worked for.”
His work ethic stems from the influence of his grandfather, Dave Rowe, a former NFL player.
“His work ethic and everything he accomplished back in the day has been a real inspiration to me,” McKernan said. “I wasn’t around to see it, but his legacy showed me what it takes to become a professional athlete. I’ve aspired to chase that dream.”
Of course, not everything about McKernan is serious business. His teammates and coaches affectionately call him “Jack-Jack,” a nod to the energetic baby from The Incredibles.
“I got the nickname from my Twelve Baseball coach,” he laughed. “I was always on fire, running around like crazy.”
As McKernan’s high school career nears its end, whether his future takes him to Austin or professional baseball first remains to be seen.
But one thing is certain—his competitive fire will continue to burn wherever he goes.
Alief Hastings' Smith Orogbo
TARDY TO THE PARTY: Hastings' Orogbo a future star in the making
The 6-foot-4 outside linebacker looks like a natural in pads and is just learning the game. His future and upside are so bright that colleges across the country were vying for his commitment over the off-season.
“When talking about legacy, I want to be that guy,” he said. “I hope to set an all-time record in sacks or tackles for losses, which is abig thing to aspire to. Overall, I just want to leave it all out there during my last year, with no questions left to be asked.”
New coach Michael Carter’s eyes light up with he talks of his stud senior.
“Yeah, a few years from now, this guy is going to be playing on Sundays,” he said. “He just has ‘it’.”
The first-team, all-district selection in 2023 has expanded his game entering his senior year.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“It’s a little hard to believe, but I’m just going into my fourth year of playing football, in general,” he said. “When I was going into high school, I wanted to play basketball. I saw my brother play football so I figured I might as well give it a shot. After I got my first hit in practice, I knew that this was the sport for me.
“I’ve enjoyed the opportunities that I’ve been given here, and now it’s my time to lead through my vocals and through my actions. I’m going to try to help pick my team up on the defensive side of the ball all season.”
Orogbo likes to model his game after professional players such as Nick Bosa (San Francisco 49ers), Micah Parsons (Dallas Cowboys)and Maxx Crosby (Las Vegas Raiders).
While he has NFL aspirations, first things first.
“Once I first get there (Texas), I’m going to be a sponge,” said Orogbo. “I’ll be trying to soak up all the information I can and keep up my work ethic as I look up to the guys in front of me. I’ll have to be patient for when my time comes. Until then, all I can do is continue to work on my craft and get better as a player.”
The way that the soon-to-be Longhorn composes himself on the field speaks for itself. So, what does he do when he’s not in pads?
“When I’m not hanging with the guys, you’ll probably see me watching some movies and shows,” Orogbo said. “I’m a big fan of The Boys, the Planet of the Apes trilogy and The Walking Dead. I really like Spider-Man,too. Something else people might know about me is that I like to listen to music by Nirvana.”
The stars of 2024-25 Alief Hastings FootballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
But, back to football.
Hastings will be moving over to District 20-6A this Fall, which brings new competition in the district– namely Fulshear, Foster, George Ranch and Strake Jesuit.
With Orogbo being the first one off the bus for Hastings, the Bears will be in the conversation for a district title and surely a playoff spot.
Are the Bears back in business?