By By Zach Brooks, Sports Writer
J. W. Condrey represents what's good in the game of Babe Ruth Baseball.
He works hard, never complains, always gives the maximum effort, and always strives to be the best in everything he does.
That is why J. W. Condrey is the Babe Ruth Sportsmanship of the Year award winner.
Condrey has been battling hip problems since 1998 and was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes in 2001. "J.W. has overcome a tremendous handicap to win this award," Johnson said. " He deserves it because of his will and determination and for his love of the game."
J.W. has been playing Babe Ruth Baseball for two years. Last year he played on the Frontier baseball team. This year he was drafted by the Apple Barrel team and has been one of their better hitters throughout the year.
Not only is J.W. a good ballplayer and person in life, he is a great teammate and friend to a lot of people.
Condrey is the son of Larry and Susan Condrey. "We are very proud of him for earning this award," they said. "After all of the medical problems that J. W. has been through, to come out and play baseball and earn this award makes us so proud of him."
The Sportsmanship Award is based on seven basic characteristics: Develop a strong, clean, healthy body, mind, and soul; develop a strong urge for sportsmanlike conduct; develop understanding of and respect for the rules; develop courage in defeat, tolerance and modesty in victory; develop control over emotions and speech; develop spirit of cooperation and team play and develop into real, true citizens
J.W. plans to try out for the 15 year-old tournament team this week, so he can keep playing the game he loves on in to July.