Sports Spotlight - Windermere Observer: Patrick Parker

Windermere Little League’s Patrick Parker, a rising eighth-grader at Holy Family Catholic School and member of the league’s Orioles team, is fresh off the spring season — and with some new hardware to show for it. Parker is the league’s most recent Home Run Derby champion, with five home runs to his credit. 

What got you started playing baseball?

I was a football and soccer player and all my friends played baseball and they begged me to start playing, so I tried it out, and I’ve been playing for a long time now. I started in 2014, in fourth grade.

What do you like about playing in Little League?

There’s a lot of fun stuff and activities. I like that there’s a Home Run Derby, there’s usually an All-Star team, and a bunch of my friends play, here so I like to hang out and play against them.

How did it feel to win the Home Run Derby?

I didn’t even know I’d win; I thought it’d be one of my friends. 

What’s the most challenging part of the sport?

My favorite position is pitching, but it’s also very stressful at the same time. You’re running the game and the scores and everything. If they get hits, it’s on you.

What’s the most rewarding part of the game for you?

I love striking people out, and I like to hit and get triples, home runs and all that stuff.

Who is your Major League team and favorite player?

The L.A. Dodgers, and I like Corey Seager. He’s a young player, he’s a rookie, and he made it into the Home Run Derby his first year and everything, and the All-Star team. I like him; he’s got a good attitude.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Hopefully playing high-school or college ball maybe, and just keeping everything going. 

What’s your all-time favorite movie?

I don’t have one, but I recently saw “Guardians of the Galaxy” and that was good. I liked that one.

Disney or Universal?

I love Universal because I’m at the age now where I go with all my friends, and the roller coasters now are big-time and more fun with friends.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

Probably my dad, because he did track when he was in high school. He did really (well). He hurt his leg, but he never gave up.