For JD Dugan, baseball is more than a game—it’s a lifelong passion. Having picked up a bat at just three years old, he’s spent nearly his entire life dedicated to the sport. Now a senior at Ada High School, JD reflects on his journey and the lessons that have shaped him both on and off the field.
“My first inspiration was my dad—he got me into playing the sport,” JD said. “My mom and dad have inspired me the most.” Beyond his family, JD draws inspiration from MLB stars Adrian Beltre and Ian Kinsler, whose dedication and work ethic have left a lasting impression on him.
JD is proud of the growth he’s witnessed in his team over the years and is optimistic about the upcoming season. “Our team was very young last year. We started off rough but peaked later in the season,” he explained. “This year, our team has matured all around. We’re heavy junior and senior and are all close together.” As a key player, JD’s versatility is a major asset to his team. “Since I’ve moved to Ada, I’ve started every game, playing third base, shortstop, and centerfield. I plan to be an impact in the outfield again this year, as well as the closer, and bring a good average to help the team wherever I am placed in the lineup.”
One of JD’s proudest moments came during regionals last season. “We came in as the three-seed and ended up winning it all against the one-seed by run rule,” he shared. Building on that momentum, JD is focused on a strong start this year. “My main goal is to start the season off better and stay at our peak all the way through playoffs and state. My minor goal is to find my home for after high school.”
The road hasn’t been without challenges. “In eighth grade, I had to be out for six months because of elbow issues and couldn’t play any sports at that time,” JD said.
Beyond high school, JD plans to continue his baseball career. “After high school, I plan on attending a junior college to keep playing baseball,” he said. “Five years from now, I see myself still playing at a four-year school or coaching at a high school or college.”
Grateful for the support of his community, JD cherishes the relationships he’s built through baseball. “The community around the baseball team is the most important part of our team,” he explained. “From the restaurants that give us food before games to the parents that help us travel, it all makes a difference.”
As JD prepares for his final season, he’s ready to leave it all on the field, cherishing every moment of his senior year.
