Hollister’s Colin Parker is on his way to New York for four
years at the United States Military Academy at West Point
Hollister – Getting a full scholarship for college is a big accomplishment for any student who is getting ready for life after high school.
Getting a full scholarship to a school that requires an endorsement from a member of Congress prior to admission is a big accomplishment and then some.
Hollister’s Colin Parker, a linebacker on the Baler football team as well as a scholastic standout, was all smiles on Wednesday as he gathered with family, friends and coaches at San Benito High School and signed his letter of intent to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point.
“I’m really happy about this, it couldn’t have happened to a better kid,” said Hollister head football coach Chris Cameron. “He epitomizes the true meaning of the term student athlete. He works really hard in the classroom and he’s been a hell of a player for us out on the field.”
Given the fact that all cadets at West Point are required to participate in athletics, the academy always has a high turnout for its football program and the competition is always fierce.
But in Parker’s case, the coaches at West Point actually recruited and then invited the Hollister linebacker to join the team.
“It’s really pretty spectacular, we’re all very proud of Colin,” said San Benito High athletic director Tod Thatcher. “He’s worked real hard to get here and now all of his efforts are paying off.”
The fact that Parker was hand picked by the coaching staff at West Point speaks volumes to his abilities as an athlete. But his performance in the classroom is equally impressive.
Parker’s GPA is over 4.0 and his SAT score is right around the 1200 mark, cementing coach Cameron’s assertion that Parker embodies everything that a student athlete should be.
Parker’s parents, Janis and Jim, were both flush with pride and emotion on Wednesday as their son put pen to paper and accepted the challenge of taking on a $300,000 education. But Janis is quick to point out that her son’s accomplishment is something that the entire city of Hollister should be proud of. Colin’s success is not only a product of great parenting, it’s a product of the community he has spent his entire life in. From teachers to coaches to his peers, many have played a role in his life’s story so far.
“This is wonderful and it’s great that it’s happening in this great town,” said Mrs. Parker. “It’s a big compliment for San Benito High School’s athletic program and for our town.”
Parker means a lot to the SBHS community, as is evident every time he steps onto the basketball court during a Balers’ home game. The crowd simply goes nuts when his name is called and decibel levels in the gym can reach deafening levels when he makes a play.
“San Benito High has been really good to me,” said Parker, who leaves June 26 for basic training. “My best experiences have been on the football field, playing with a great group of guys and great coaches. (West Point) is going to be a challenge but I feel like I can deal with any challenge after going through coach Cameron’s workouts.”
No doubt, Parker will miss Hollister once he sets out for college. But good news regarding familiar faces, Eric Davis, the gritty Haybaler point guard, has been accepted into West Point as well and will join his Baler teammate and friend in New York for their freshman year of school.
