Palos Verdes Highschool’s very own Kai Van Scoyoc, a senior and University of Southern California baseball commit, began his baseball journey at just 5 years old.
Dedication, perseverance, and discipline have shaped him into the player he is today, earning him a coveted spot on a Division 1 roster.
His career hasn’t been easy. “I got hurt my sophomore year and I really had to ask myself if I wanted to play in college,” Van Scoyoc said.
Despite this challenge, Van Scoyoc stayed consistent, working both on the field and in the gym.
But Van Scoyoc’s presence goes beyond just athletic performance; his leadership and consistency is vital to the team’s success.
“Kai has led the team by staying consistent on the field and being a great example of how all our teammates should be,” Van Scoyoc’s teammate, Jonah Cohen, said.
Many young kids are inspired to commit to a Division 1 sport like Van Scoyoc.
“Being disciplined and keeping up the hard work has to be the most important thing I’ve learned in my journey, and is something I would tell younger kids wanting to be an athlete in college,” Van Scoyoc said.
His commitment to the game, and his goal of playing at the collegiate level, has never wavered.
According to Van Scoyoc, his continuous drive and work ethic over the last few years are what ultimately opened the door to Division 1 baseball.
Van Scoyoc’s determination arrived in high school, and has stayed consistent throughout the past couple years. He credits much of this to his family.
“My dedication comes from my parents. They have put a lot of their own time and money into my baseball career and I want to be able to repay them,” Van Scoyoc said.
Van Scoyoc has had tremendous growth in his high school career, both as a player and as a person.
“He’s always had the confidence, but now he understands where it comes from and how to get it back when things don’t go as planned,” PVHS baseball Head Coach, Alex Morales, said.
“He also recognizes that being team-focused and making others better is just as important as individual success,” Morales said.
“He’s shown leadership through Red Tide and baseball, maturity, and a great attitude, working to set a positive example for others.”
Van Scoyoc’s high school baseball career may be ending, but his journey is just beginning.