Matt Kilby Commits to Navy

On April 15, 2010, senior Matt Kilby, a pitcher and right fielder for the Titans, committed to play Division I baseball at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. The Naval Academy is a prestigious institute that is the training ground for Naval and Marine officers. Kilby was recruited by many top universities including Yale, Penn, and Georgetown. When asked why he chose Navy, he said, “It was the first school that recruited me. In my sophomore year they came to four or five games. And it’s pretty awesome to get a top education for free. I’ve visited Annapolis and I really like the area.” Kilby has maintained a strong academic record to ensure he would be able to play baseball in college. “Matt Kilby has a natural intelligence and intellectual curiosity that allows him to excel in the classroom and to stand out as a leader among his peers. He has the ability to handle difficult situations with composure and quick thinking. I am sure that he will enjoy success at the Naval Academy,” said Kerri Serrano, Matt’s AP Economics and Government teacher. He says that staying dedicating in the classroom, not letting assignments slip by, and continuing to stay motivated-especially junior year-are the keys to success. “Good grades look really good to recruiters. If they see you have good grades, it will be much easier to get in to the school,” Kilby said.

When accepted into the Naval Academy, midshipmen are committed to 5 years of service in the military after college. It has always been Matt’s dream to play Major League Baseball, but unfortunately, at the Naval Academy you must be drafted before your junior year to accept an offer. Matt thinks this is unlikely for him, but he’s looking forward to his time playing at Navy. “I think he’ll do well at Navy because he’s good at committing himself to certain things. He’s definitely a D-I caliber baseball player,” said senior teammate Rob Mannel.
Despite one of the strongest lineups in the district, the T.C. Baseball team has been off to a rocky start with a record of 7-6. Matt has remained a positive force for the Titans baseball team, co-captaining with Rob Mannel, Alex Goldfarb, and Adam Forrer. A three year varsity starter, Matt had a batting average of .514 last year, along with five home runs and seven doubles. He had 35 hits, 24 runs, and led the region with 33 RBIs (runs batted in). He was rewarded for his impressive season by being named a First Team All Region outfielder. This year Matt has a .570 batting average, 5 home runs, 5 doubles and 16 RBIs. “He’s worked really hard to become a great baseball player and I’m happy he’s getting recognized for it,” said teammate Adam Forrer. T.C. wishes Kilby luck in his baseball career and experience at the Naval Academy.