Spring Athlete Award - John Carre
The 2025 Spring Male Athlete Award winner is from North Moore Baseball.
John Carre, previously at Pinecrest, only spent his senior season with a Mustang uniform on. Coach Kennedy wishes he had John for more than one season. John struck out 54 batters in the 29 innings that he pitched. His best game on the mound came back in April against rivals Chatham Central. He pitched five innings, only giving up one run and having 12 strikeouts. His ability to play the game isn’t the only reason Coach Kennedy would have loved to have him longer. “He is an awesome young man, my silent leader, who leads by most by his example,” said Kennedy. “His hard work ethic and drive to be the very best day in and day out is next level.”
The game against Chatham Central was John’s most memorable one. “This season was an enjoyable experience. The best memories from this season were our first win and the second game against Chatham,” said John.
A commitment to play baseball has been made by John at Robeson Community College. After graduating from college, he would like to work in sports medicine.
This summer, John will be playing for American Legion Post 49 in Hamlet. This is his second year playing for Post 49, and he is looking forward to summer ball.
John has been playing the game he loves while battling leukemia; he has been in remission for three years. Despite having to go for testing every two weeks, he would still give his all on the diamond. “Those things zap every bit of energy he has for a couple of days after, and yet he still comes out and practices and plays games to the best of his ability, always giving the team 100% of what’s left in his tank,” said Kennedy. “The way he just goes about his business as if every day is a blessing is an inspiration to all the people who know him.”
John described being in the hospital and missing the game. “I missed it more when I was in the hospital, and now it has made me more grateful to play the game,” said John.
“As a coach, it’s rare to say, but my life and outlook on life have changed, and it is brighter just by having been given the opportunity to get to know and build a relationship with such an awesome young man,” said Kennedy.
John thanked his coaches for their support and guidance. “I also want to thank my dad for pushing me to play baseball,” said John.
To read about Grace Queen, the female spring athlete award winner, follow the link: www.mooredailysports.com/union-pines-vikings/spring-athlete-award-grace-queen
Simply Avilee sponsored the spring Athlete Awards.
Written by Curtis Self
Photo by Lynn Pennington
