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Local Sports

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News13’s Stephen Gunter is committed to giving you stories of the Panhandle’s top athletes, intriguing match-ups and unusual sports you may not even know exist.
sgunter@wmbb.com

Friday, May 16, 2008

The Power of Pitching

MARIANNA- “He’s got great character, he’s one of our best leaders on the team,” said Chipola Head Coach Jeff Johnson.

“He’s a great teammate. I’ve known Matt for a few months and he’s been an excellent teammate since day one,” said freshman outfielder Chris Berroa.

That’s what players and teammates think of Chipola pitcher Matt Jackson, the 6’3 right hander, who is currently holding a perfect 10-0 record on the mound this season.

Jackson began his college career at LSU, and played there for a year and a half before deciding to transfer out and become an Indian this spring.

Jackson believes being around Coach Johnson has helped improve his game tremendously.

“He’s been a great help on my mechanics, my velocity has gone up a lot. I was anywhere from 81-83 when I was at LSU and I have been anywhere from 88-92 since I’ve been here,” said sophomore pitcher Matt Jackson.

It’s not the velocity of Jackson’s pitches that have made him so successful, it’s his control.

In 72.1 innings of work this season, Jackson has only walked 14 batters.

“That’s the key to Matt Jackson. Matt’s key to being successful is command of his fastball and he’s got great command. His command is his thing, he knows how to pitch. The lack of walks, thank goodness, and let’s knock on some wood, has been the key for him,” said Johnson.

“I can spot my fastball on and off the plate, that’s the biggest thing, being able to spot my fastball,” Jackson stated.

One of the things that makes Jackson so effective might be the power of the bald head.

“Growing up, I always had a shorter hair cut.  At LSU, I had a longer hair cut, so when I transferred, I decided for a change. So, when I came here, I shaved the head, kind of looking for a new change and everything and get a new start,” said Jackson.

I’m here with pitcher Matt Jackson and some teammates rub his bald head for good luck. I’m going to give this a try. I think that there is a lottery ticket with my name on it.

“A couple of them do. A couple of them will give it a little rub before they go out on the field,” Jackson stated.

“I actually rubbed his head at a state tournament game. I gave him a little rub down before the game. I haven’t been swinging the bat that good, but I’m going to rub his head before the World Series to see if I can get a few hits in,” said Berroa.

“I haven’t rubbed it. He has a few too many bumps on it for me sometimes,” said Johnson.

Chipola looks to make its second straight national title run starting on May 24th in Grand Junction, Colorado, at the JUCO World Series. They will be playing the winner of the South Central District in the first round.

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