ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Travis Luensmann

Luensmann got his second win in relief in the last five days. (Ali Wagner)

Ali Wagner, Staff Writer

The Bellwood-Antis baseball team has had a riveting season with Travis Luensmann stepping up and closing out a few wins for the Blue Devils.

For his efforts he has been selected as the BluePrint’s Athlete of the Week.

Baseball has been a huge part of Travis’s life since he was three. Travis has been playing baseball for thirteen years.

For it being his first year playing varsity baseball, Luensmann is having a good season, and is proud of it.

“I’m proud that I made the varsity baseball team, starting the field for varsity,” said Travis. “I feel like I am filling a big role for my team. My offense and defense game has made a big impact to our success.”

The coaches are pleased to have a player like Travis on the team.

“Travis has had an outstanding freshman year,” said Coach Steve Conlon. “He has done a tremendous job at the plate leading the team most of the season in batting average. Along with his hitting, he has been throwing relief. It is nice to know we have pitcher that can step in and do the job, if one of the starters aren’t doing their best.”

Through 14 games for the 10-4 Devils Luensmann is batting .405 with three doubles. On the mound he is 2-0 with a 1.17 ERA.

It’s evident that the hard work Travis puts in during the off season is paying off.

“You have to dedicate yourself to your sport. You have to be willing to make sacrifices and commitments that other players wouldn’t make,” said Travis. “Push yourself out of your comfort zone so you can be the best player that you can be.”

The environment of being on a team is what Luensmann favors most about baseball.

“I like being a part of a team where you can help other players get better and bring out the best character in them,” Luensmann said.

As far as goals, Travis would like for his team to make it to the districts and state championship.