For 2020 C McGwire Holbrook (Bishop Moore HS, FL), making a choice about where to play at the next level came down to where he thought he would fit best and allow him to continue to maximize his full potential. He had the opportunity to talk with coaches, visit campuses, and get a true feel of the environment, but West Virginia always stood out in Holbrook’s mind throughout the process. Once he and his family evaluated the success of the program, the home field atmosphere, and the outstanding coaching staff, the Mountaineers became the clear choice.

The PBR Future Games participant is currently ranked No. 42 in Florida, No. 178 in the Overall Rankings and has continued to take his game to new heights. While committing to West Virginia was one of his most memorable experiences so far, Holbrook is looking forward to the upcoming spring season with Bishop Moore where they will look to capture a state title after falling just short in the state title game last year.

Below is a Q and A we had with the West Virginia recruit along with his responses:

What were your expectations about the recruiting process? Was it as expected? Easy/Difficult?
I thought the process for my recruiting would’ve started much later. Turns out I was wrong. It wasn’t too difficult.

What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?
I was looking for a good program where I would get to play. Also, I wanted a school that had coaches who I thought I could connect with. West Virginia provided me with all the things I was looking for, which led me to my decision. 

Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?
I thought location and distance from home would play a role in my decision, but it turned out not being that big of a deal once I sat down with my parents to talk about it.

When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Was there a particular game or event that you feel turned the corner for you?
The process really started to heat up for me at the beginning of the 2017 summer. The PBR Future Games really was a great experience with Team Florida. West Virginia offered me shortly after. 

Where did the college you chose first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?
West Virginia first saw me when I was 13 years old at the FTB camp. Coach Sabins talked to my coaches and that’s when they started looking at me. 

What do you like most about the college you committed to and what were the key factors in making your decision?
The thing I like the most about West Virginia is the baseball facility and field. They just finished a $25,000,000 renovation and everything is so nice. 

What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?
Some other schools on my list included Central Florida, Stanford, Florida International, Jacksonville, and Louisiana State. 

Who is the best player you have faced and why?
The best player that I have faced in my class is definitely Austin Hendrick. He just doesn’t miss a barrel ever. The best player I have faced outside of my class is JP Gates. He can really pitch. 

At what point in your career did you realize you were a college caliber player and became serious about taking your game to the next level?
I realized it the day that West Virginia started talking to my coaches. I always had the dream and that’s when it hit me that I could make it a reality. 

What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?
Some advice I would give is listen to your parents. They know more than you. Have fun while playing, but still be competitive. 

What is the most memorable moment in your baseball career to this point?
The most memorable moment in my career is committing to West Virginia for sure. That was just a really humbling feeling. 

Preview your spring season for us. How do you feel your team will be? What are your expectations and goals?
High school ball will be fun this year. We made a solid run last year, but this year we plan on winning it all rather than losing in the state final. We may be a little young, but we can hit. 

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