Garrett Byrd: North Lenoir High's Rising Star Commits to Winthrop University
Garrett Byrd, a senior at North Lenoir High School, has fulfilled a lifelong dream by committing to play baseball at Winthrop University. A versatile athlete excelling as a pitcher, catcher, and hitter, Byrd's dedication to the game has set him apart as one of the region's top talents.
A Dream Realized
"I have dreamed about this moment since I was three," Byrd shared. "As soon as I saw Derek Jeter play for the Yankees, I just knew I wanted to play baseball."
The Journey and Grind
Reflecting on his path, Byrd acknowledged the challenges he's faced. "It's been tough. You just gotta keep going. You're gonna have those games where you give up hits or home runs, but you just gotta keep pushing."
Now, with his college commitment secured, he feels a sense of relief. "I am not worried about recruiting, not worried about getting videos or whatnot or having to send stuff out. Now I can put my head down and go to work."
Looking Ahead
Byrd is optimistic about North Lenoir's upcoming season. "I think we are going to shock a lot of people. I think people are doubting us, but I think we are just as good as last year, if not better."
Impressive Stats
Last year, as a junior, Byrd showcased his exceptional skills:
Batting: .345 average, 29 RBIs, 6 home runs, 8 doubles in 26 games.
Pitching: 5-2 record in 10 appearances, 2.91 ERA, 65 strikeouts over 43 innings.
Coach Sherrer's Praise
"Garrett came to us last year and made an immediate impact," said Coach Sherrer. "With his all-around contributions—great batting average, leading in home runs and RBIs, excellent play behind the plate, and dominance on the mound like his no-hitter against Southwest Onslow—Garrett was unanimously voted Conference Player of the Year (East Central Conference) and helped lead us to the fourth round of the playoffs last year."
Family Support
His father, Stephen Byrd, expressed immense pride. "Garrett is a true student of the game; there is no complacency with this guy. We're scared and excited. We've watched him grow up playing since he was four or five years old on the Greene County rec fields, to signing with Winthrop."
Stephen's message to his son is heartfelt: "I hope when you get there, you work as hard as you can!"
His mother, Suzette Manning-Byrd, shared her mixed emotions. "I am so proud of him, but I am also sad. It's a big moment in life. We never had a vacation that didn't involve baseball. It has been a grind; we gave up a lot for baseball."
She added, "I have seen him come home and cry; I have seen him come home and can hardly walk. He puts in the work. Last summer, he really put in a lot of work before he started here at North Lenoir."
Her message to Garrett is inspiring: "Always trust in God and believe in yourself!"
Gratitude
Byrd doesn't forget those who've supported him. "I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, my parents, coaches, any teammates I have ever had, any friend that ever supported me. All those people have made me the person I am today."