San Jacinto Christian Academy’s Ben Mitchell signs with Wayland Baptist

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) - San Jacinto Christian Academy’s star baseball player Ben Mitchell signed his national letter of intent to continue his athletic career at Wayland Baptist University.

The pitcher and shortstop will head to Plainview, about 70 minutes from his current school. Mitchell transferred to San Jacinto from Randall and contributed to two successful seasons for the Patriots.

“It just means a lot. First and foremost, I thank God. I just want to thank my parents for all the support, all the coaches that have poured out to me and just invested time in me,” Mitchell said. “It’s just a dream. Everything you ever dream of comes to today.”

Mitchell said the campus and athletic facilities impressed him during his visit.

“Just the campus, the activity, the Student Activity Center, everything. Just beautiful campus,” he said. “I just loved the field, loved the coaches, loved everything.”

The location factored into his decision, offering independence while remaining close to home.

“It kind of gives me a little grown-up life. It kind of makes me think about decisions a lot more,” Mitchell said. “Also, close enough to Lubbock that I’d go down, catch a Tech game if you want to. Also come back on the weekends if you have anything.”

The Christian environment at both institutions resonated with Mitchell.

“I transferred into [San Jacinto] from Randall, kind of joined right away as a team. Just loved it, progressed well, just performed,” he said.

San Jacinto athletic director and head baseball coach Jamie Boyd has watched Mitchell grow since childhood.

“It’s been really cool to see him overcome everything that’s come his way. Obviously, he’s been instrumental for us the last two years. Tremendous baseball player. Great kid, great family,” Boyd said. “If you get to go play at the next level of something, you don’t always get to do that. Ever since I’ve known Ben, this is always wanted to do, and I’m just thankful that San Jac was an avenue for him.”