Conner McRae officially made his dream a reality on May 25 by signing an academic scholarship and an opportunity to play baseball on the college level at Lawson State Community College in Birmingham.

McRae began playing baseball at 3 years old and quickly fell in love with the nuisances of the sport.

The position he feels most natural playing is centerfield, which is known as the captain of the outfield.

“I played some second base in high school but in college they want me to focus primarily on being a centerfielder,” McRae said.

What makes McRae such a dynamic player in centerfield is his speed and ability to properly read a ball’s flight off the bat.

“I thank my parents and all my coaches that have been involved along the way in some way or another,” McRae said.

Signing day can be an emotional rollercoaster for everyone involved.

“I was pretty pumped up to have all my friends and family there,” McRae said. “I’m also glad that it’s over.”

According Michelle McRae, Conner’s mother, because he received the honor of salutatorian his books will be paid for as well as his tuition.

McRae became very comfortable with Lawson State Community College throughout the selection process.

He participated in practice with the team, attended a game and also toured the campus.

With each step further taken in the process, McRae knew that Lawson State was the right fit for him.

“I had my eyes on them the entire time,” McRae said. “It just felt right in the end.”