Justis Hellegards '22 Recruiting Profile

My goals and aspirations are to play baseball at a very competitive level (preferably Division 1) and ultimately play centerfield or catcher for an MLB team. I visited Phoenix, AZ in October 2019, and toured many MLB practice facilities to watch my dad participate in the annual MSBL World Series 50+ tournament (my dream of participating in the Father/Son division was  ------ due to my age restriction at the time as I was 15 and requirements were age 16 and older. We intend to participate this fall if Covid-19 restrictions are lifted) 

I am very easy-going and I have a good work ethic while always instilling a competitive mindset. My mentor is  Coach Cliff Skibinski, who is a 73-year-old baseball player/former high school gym teacher who taught my mom. He has been instrumental in my love and joy of baseball skills and development.  Additionally, I've been coached by my dad who is still active in the sport. I've been coached by a former college baseball player/coach Gordie Leduchowski - Mayville State University, Athletic Hall of Fame (2009) and Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame (2003). I've played alongside former MLB player Blaine Fortin who played for the Toronto Blue Jays. I've been spring training coached by Fargo College Bullpen coach Robbie Lopez. 

I've been playing baseball since I was 5 years old and have played on many teams at many different levels, including A, AA, and AAA - oftentimes simultaneously.  I am a versatile, base-stealing player. I excel at centerfield and catcher.  I set my school divisional record for the 200m sprint in Grade 8 (2018) and competed in track and field in Grade 9 (2019). I placed 6th in the 100m sprint and 3rd in the 300m sprint in Provincial Qualifiers (200m was not offered at Provincial level).  Recipient of Grade 9 Athlete of the Year Award. I play high school hockey (Grades 9-12, was the only defenceman chosen from Grade 9 level). Junior Varsity volleyball captain and starting power hitter (2019). Junior Varsity Boys Doubles Badminton Provincial Qualifiers Finalists (2019). Weight Training and sports are the main aspects of my life and define who I am as a person.

I received  College St. Norbert Collegiate Honour Roll status in the 2019 school year for maintaining an overall average of above 80%. I received a Certificate of Excellence in Physical Education,  Basic French and Social Studies (grade above 90%). I also received a 2018-2019 Scholar-Athlete Recognition Award for South Central Athletic Conference. 

I strive to maintain good academic marks along with maintaining and constantly improving my athletic ability and knowledge of baseball. I have always and I will always respect my teammates, coaches, umpires and the game.