Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Richie Barnaby (Baseball)

 

Leominster High School junior Richie Barnaby has loved baseball since he was four years old, and that passion continues on the Doyle Field diamond for the Blue Devils. He especially enjoys the competitive nature of the game.

“I like the competitive nature of baseball,” Barnaby said. “When in the batter’s box, I love the feeling of me versus the pitcher.”

Barnaby, a lifelong Leominster resident, has played baseball in the city from Little League through Babe Ruth and into high school. He also has the unique experience of playing for his father, varsity head coach Rich Barnaby.

“It’s not easy being coached by your dad,” said coach Barnaby. “There’s a different kind of pressure that comes with it, and Richie feels that everyday. People see the last name before they see the player, and that’s a tough spot for any kid to be in. But, to his credit, he handles it with a maturity beyond his years.”

“I have learned a lot from my dad,” said Barnaby. “He has taught me how to control my emotions, not to get too high or low, and not to be too hard on myself.”

Barnaby says his favorite part of being on the LHS baseball team is spending time with his teammates during and after practice. While he is still deciding where he wants to attend college, he hopes to continue playing baseball while studying business.

Outside of baseball, Barnaby is a member of the National Honor Society. He also enjoys playing video games and spending time with friends.

“My favorite class was sophomore year Spanish,” said Barnaby. “It was taught by my favorite teacher, Ms. Piragis.”

Barnaby’s impact on the Leominster High School baseball program is best summed up by his father and coach: “No matter how intense things get, Richie always has that smile and always brings a calm presence to the group. When the game starts to speed up and emotions run high, he has a way of settling everyone down. That kind of composure is special, and it means a lot to this team.”