For many students it is vital to achieve academic and athletic goals as they make their way through high school. Some may feel as though they are obligated to do well in order to impress their peers, or some may just feel like doing well in school will point them in the right direction once they step foot into the real world. However, there are two student athletes who are driven in the classroom and on the field. Not only are they determined to be the best, but they also give their 100 percent effort at all times.

Seniors, Zack Nowland and Evan Shaw perform above and beyond the expectations set in the classroom. They are both members of the Hayes High School baseball team, and are involved in many extracurricular activities. Many may wonder what these two students are going to do with their lives as they walk out of Hayes High School.

Many students may be struggling with this decision and some may feel a little apprehensive. However, Nowland has his eyes set on The Ohio State University where he will enter with a fully paid tuition due to his hard work in the classroom. After considering many colleges some of which included University of Michigan, Indiana University, University of Dayton, and Michigan State, Nowland made the decision that Ohio State was the college that fit his needs.

“After taking an overnight visit to OSU and comparing that visit to my visits to other schools, it was an easy decision. OSU combines the athletic, academic, and social aspects of life better than anyone,” said Nowland.

Nowland is hoping to play first base for the Buckeyes and is planning on majoring in business at OSU’s well-known Fisher School of Business. As for this year, Nowland will be batting in the three hole (in the batting lineup) for the Pacers and playing first base. His goals include an OCC title followed by a chance to repeat a District Championship and finally take part in the Regional Tournament.

“Through hard work, I hope to continue my successes in the classroom and on the field. I also want to have fun and enjoy the college experience,” said Nowland.

Not only has Nowland committed to The Ohio State University but also Evan Shaw has recently signed to Ohio Dominican hoping to play centerfield. Shaw’s perform in the classroom and on the baseball field earned him 50 percent academic scholarship as well as 15 percent athletic. These scholarships have Shaw’s tuition nearly paid going into college.

Before committing to Ohio Dominican Shaw considered many other colleges some of which included Marietta, Ohio Wesleyan, Dayton, and Seton Hall. Last year he attended some of Ohio Dominicans baseball games where the team ended up winning their conference. The Pacers also had the opportunity to play in the stadium last season. Shaw likes that Ohio Dominican is close to home and just the right size.

Shaw will be batting lead off (first in the batting lineup) for the Pacers this year where he hopes to bat .500, steal 30 bases, win the OCC and make a showing to the state final four tournament.

“I have had the privilege to play with him for three years now and he has always been someone I can look up to. He is an overall great player and gives nothing less than his best everyday. He is an all around athlete plain and simple,” said junior shortstop Caleb Wilburn.

It has been a privilege for Zack Nowland and Evan Shaw to be a part of Hayes High School. Nowland and Shaw’s display of hard work and determination will continue to take part in their everyday lives as they begin their college experiences.