Jones County High School is known for its rich history in churning out successful baseball teams. This year's squad stands at 11-4.
One young man has quietly led the guys on the field and in the classroom. For his efforts, Cody Evans is our 'Athlete of the Week.'
Evans is a no-nonsense type of kid. He knew from a young age in order to take a swing at the things he loved he was going to have to excel in the classroom. "You have to have the good grades to play sports, and every coach will tell you, 'What are your grades like?" he said.
Head Coach Barry Veal never had to worry about his second baseman. "He's the kind of young man you'd want your son go grow up to be like," Veal bragged.
That's a strong statement. But then if you get to know Cody, you know he's all business. He's laid out some simple rules to live by.
"He likes to do things right and gets mad at himself when they're not done up to his standards, which are probably higher than most people, Veal said.
"It's all about taking the time after a game to go home and do your homework and go through your studies," Evans explained.
The senior carries a high "B" average. With those grades and his drive on the field, he signed a scholarship with Andrew Junior College. "He wanted to go somewhere where he could play as a freshman, and a Junior College route is a great way to go," Veal said.
Cody has chosen a field to go into when he graduates from school. The senior who is also the quarterback of the football team plans to become a nurse.
"The way the economy is now, I feel there will always be a job there. I feel there are parts that I could enjoy and love doing," he said.
For now, Cody will work on getting the Hounds to the playoffs.
He figures the future will take care of itself because he's already established a work ethic that began in childhood with his love of the game.
Cody is ranked 81st out of 358 students at Jones County High School.