Joel Perry, LHP, Holly HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Daytona State?

Perry: I chose Daytona State because of the elite coaching staff down in Daytona. Numbers don't lie, and their numbers are fantastic for academics, moving kids on to the next level, and winning at their own level. I was also able to watch one of their practices and it's exactly what I'm looking for. You can't beat the location or weather either.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Perry: I had a multitude of schools I was considering, ranging from Heidelberg, Adrian, Ohio University, Wayne State, and Western Michigan. 

PBR: Daytona State is known for sending many of their players to 4 year colleges.  How much of a role did that you play in your decision to go to Daytona?

Perry: This was a big point for me, as it would be for many aspiring ball players. The goal is to continuously reach the next level, until you're at the top. Their statistics are astounding down there, you can't overlook it.

PBR: Where did the coaching staff first see you?

Perry: I went down to Daytona over spring break with my buddies, and I needed to get some work in while I was on vacation. So I looked for a local junior college down there I could go to, and there just so happens to be an elite junior college right in Daytona. Tim Touma was more than happy to have me come down and work out for them during a practice. After my initial bullpen, they welcomed me with open arms.  

PBR: Playing down south in the warmer weather is a huge advantage.  What that a factor in you college decision?

Perry: It's tough being so far away from family and friends, but it's worth it. I'm going down there on a mission to become the best baseball player I can be. Being so far down south has it's disadvantages, but also has many obvious advantages. Just being able to get work done on an actual field everyday through the fall and winter is huge, as well as the elite level of competition there is down there. 

PBR: What team do you play for in the summer and what is your most memorable moment?

Perry: I've played for the Michigan Bulls for 6 years. My most memorable moment has been winning the AABC Regional's, and going to Texas for the World Series. 

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process?

Perry: It's much more stressful when you're not a top recruit. You have schools who don't give straight answers, you interpret what they say, and the worst part is the wait if you are a late sign like myself. But, it's an exciting time once you get past the stress levels.  

PBR: What are your stats this spring at Holly?

Perry:  I have thrown 44 2/3 innings, 93 strikeouts, and allowed 8 earned runs. My best game was an 8 inning no hitter where I struck out 18.