Loften Hinklin '25 Recruiting Profile

My name is Loften Hinklin, and my life has been shaped by the challenges and opportunities that come with constant movement. Born in Portageville, Missouri, I've called five different towns across the United States home Dumas, Texas; Marshall, Missouri; Maricopa, Arizona; Ankeny, lowa; and finally Gilbert, Arizona. Each new place presented me with a chance to start over, form new friendships, and learn new lessons. These experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of building strong relationships.

Baseball has always been a constant in my life. It's more than a sport to me; it's a way to connect with others and grow as a person. When I was 16, I pitched at 90 mph, a milestone I reached through years of hard work, discipline, and dedication. But it wasn't just about the speed of the ball— it was about the sacrifices I made to improve, the long hours at the gym and on the field, and the

perseverance it took to overcome obstacles. Baseball taught me how to handle failure and celebrate success with humility.

Throughout my journey, I've learned to approach life with kindness, respect, and maturity. These values were instilled in me by my family, friends, and coaches. Two figures who had a profound impact on my life were my best friend, Braden Kimball, and my father figure and coach, Jeff Forney.

Braden, a friend who always supported me, tragically passed away, leaving an irreplaceable void in my life. Jeff Forney, who guided me as both a coach and mentor, also passed away unexpectedly.

Their deaths were painful, but their legacies live on in the way I carry myself today. I honor them by striving to be a better person and by using the lessons they taught me to guide my actions, both on and off the field.

My experiences have shaped me into someone who is outgoing and approachable, someone who values the importance of respect, hard work, and the relationships I build with others. I'm not just a baseball player; I am a friend, a teammate, and someone who is always looking for ways to grow and improve.

As I pursue my college education, I am excited to continue my journey and take on new challenges. I am confident that the experiences I've had moving across the country, facing loss, and pushing myself to be better have prepared me for the next chapter in my life. I look forward to contributing to the college community and using my experiences to inspire and support those around me.