The Ellis Performing Arts Center was the stage for the signings of two outstanding Latta High School baseball athletes, Luke Haselden and Eli Henderson, on Wednesday, November 16, at 10:00 a.m.
Athletic Director/Head Baseball Coach Robbie Brown “on November 11, 2009, I signed to play at the next level. It was a great day for me.” Therefore, my goal is to make certain that all of the kids at Latta High have the same opportunity.
In January each year, Brown asks his players what is their 3-, 4-, or 5-year plans for baseball. Brown’s goal was to play often and to continue to play Power 5 baseball. It’s an honor to coach a kid with that type of grit and determination. These two, Luke Haselden and Eli Henderson, are motivated and always working to do better. They want to play. Brown is proud of both of these young men…on the baseball field and off of the baseball field. These kids come from great families. I want to thank the families for allowing me to work with the kids. It has been and is an honor.
Henderson took another step in his baseball career as he signed with Francis Marion University, and Luke Haselden is pursuing his dream by signing with Southeastern Community College.
Although Haselden received other offers from other schools, he decided that he would be a good fit at Southeastern Community College as he has a great relationship with the coach, likes the staff, and facilities where he will major in Sports Management.
Luke Haselden thanked everyone for being present for this special day in his life. He also thanked the coaching for taking the time and encouraging him on and off the field.
For 13 years, Haselden has dedicated his life to the pursuit of baseball greatness.
Luke’s Father, Jimmy Haselden, influenced him most in this sport, a sport that he has dedicated most of his life practicing and playing…he truly loves baseball.
Haselden has learned much while playing for the late Coach Donald Cribb and now Athletic Director and Head Coach Robbie Brown. He will carry that knowledge with him to the next level.
He refers to “His Goggles” as the one item he remembers most about the sport of baseball.
While at Latta High School, Haselden was a stand-out pitcher in the success of the Latta baseball program. He was rewarded with his skill as he made All Region.
In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, gardening, and weightlifting.
Haselden’s parents, Monica and Jimmy Henderson are very proud of all of his accomplishments. “We are proud of you, Luke. You have worked hard for so many years to reach your dream of playing college baseball, and now that dream ia a reality. Congratulations. We love you and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.”
Latta Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach Robbie Brown stated “Luke is a kind of high character and grit. He exemplifies the right way to play the game of baseball. He commits to everything he does and I am proud of the strides he has made and cannot wait to see what the future holds for him!”
Eli Henderson thanked God and his family, his teammates, and his coaches for helping him become a better baseball player.
Eli Henderson eagerly awaits his opportunity with the Francis Marion University baseball program where his strength as a hitter should help him as the team is known for their hitting ability.
Henderson was influenced most by his Father, Chad Henderson, in the sport of baseball.
Henderson learned much from the coaching staff at Latta High School such as how to be a better teammate. He, of course, will carry that to the next level along with much more that he learned while playing at the high school level. His talents at first base and left field aided the Latta High School team to be successful.
Although he has not decided on a major yet, he has time as he pursues his dream of playing college baseball. Eli remembers is first home run in this sport and treasures that memory in his baseball career to this point.
In his spare time, he enjoys hunting and hanging out with friends.
His parents, Chad Henderson and Reeanna Henderson are very proud of him. Both exclaimed “We are proud of Eli and look forward to his future accomplishments, both on and off the baseball field.”
Latta Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach Robbie Brown commented ” I am very happy for Eli.
He is a kid of resilience, and he doesn’t settle. He works extremely hard, and his great team-oriented demeanor is a standard that is exemplified through his actions. I look forward to seeing his career continue!”
