Oliver Jones '30 Named 13NewsNow Athlete of the Week

Photo by WVEC

Nansemond-Suffolk Academy eighth grader Oliver Jones '30 is doing something most middle school athletes only dream about: pitching varsity baseball against players up to four years older than him.

Jones, a pitcher and outfielder for the Saints, earned a spot on the varsity roster after impressing coaches with his composure on the mound as a seventh grader playing junior varsity.

“It all kind of started last year when he was pitching for JV as a seventh grader,” head coach Joey Seal said. “We all kind of agreed that his poise, he’s just a little different on the mound.”

That confidence has translated quickly at the varsity level. Jones recently struck out nine batters while allowing just one unearned run over six innings against Peninsula Catholic.

Despite his age, Jones said nerves have not been an issue.

“I had a lot of confidence, and haven’t been nervous,” Jones Said. “I have nothing to lose. I’m an eighth grader.”

Seal said Jones’ maturity and willingness to learn have stood out as much as his talent.

“He’s a sponge, in every aspect,” Seal said. “Whether it’s coachability or just receiving advice from some of our upperclassmen, he listens, and he applies it immediately.”

Jones said his long-term goal is to continue improving and eventually play baseball at the college level.

“I just want to get better,” he said. “I got a shot at playing baseball in college. Playing as long as I can, that’s the goal.”

Seal believes Jones’ understanding of pitching at such a young age is rare.

“It’s extremely unusual for someone of his age and his maturity level to understand what goes into being a really good pitcher,” Seal said. “We are really excited about his development.”

With four years still ahead of him at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, Jones is already showing signs of being a cornerstone of the Saints program.

This article was first featured on 13newsnow.com.