By Jeff Moeller, correspondent

For Jax Pursley, baseball and family have been a perfect combination. And the Richmond Hill junior second baseman has drawn plenty of inspiration from both.

“I’ve been playing baseball for as long as I can remember, my family had a bat in my hands before anything else it feels like,” explained Pursley. “And my family is how I got into this game, but my family will always be my why, and why I will keep pushing.”

Pursley credited his grandfathers for helping plant the baseball seeds; grandfathers Rich Ewen played at Emporia State and Jeff Ubben at Neumann University. He also has gained plenty of encouragement from his teammates, who have been his extended family.

“I’ve been playing with most of these guys on the team since I was little,” said Pursley. “Right now, I don’t think a single one of them doesn’t want to fight for one more game. I think right now we are more connected and prepared as a team than we ever have been.”

The Wildcats began the week with an overall 13-13 record and an 8-7 region (third place) slate. They have four regular-season games to play that began with South Effingham (16-10) Wednesday.

Pursley was hitting .344 overall with 20 runs scored and 15 stolen bases with a .482 on-base percentage (OBP). In region play, Pursley is the leader in hitting (.389), OBP (.522) and runs (13).

Pursley’s preseason work surely has paid dividends.

“Before the season started I worked on staying fluid and smooth in my play, and the best way I could do that is also working on the mental side of my game. By working on that and learning to let go and move forward, I felt more confident and calm in the field.”

That has resulted in him being in a good flow.

“Right now I’m seeing the ball well,” said Pursley. “This is the toughest pitching I’ve seen, but that almost makes me excited. I love to compete and if the pitcher thinks he can beat me no matter who he is, he can come try.

“I’ve always been able to put bat to ball very well, but the best way to continue to do that is by not trying to do much, trusting my hands and knowing my job at the time.

Pursley, the second baseman, noted his connection with shortstop Bryson Helsel has made his play in the field more comfortable.

“I’m very confident there,and my chemistry with Bryson helps me feel confident in plays,” said Pursley. “I’d never try without him. Our bond is strong and special on the field.

Head coach Hill Thomas has relished watching Pursley develop.

“I’ve been very proud of his contributions this year, from being a guy that truly loves all his teammates to being an impact player,” said Thomas. “The kid can roll on the bases. Jax is someone that loves playing the game and plays it the right way.”

Whatever happens in the next few weeks, Pursley will continue to reach to what has constantly fueled him.

“My mom and dad have always pushed me to be my best, and no matter the outcome they always have my back, but I still refuse to let them down,” Pursley said.

“Coach Godbee taught me confidence and patience, and he helped me stay smooth and work hard in the off season, shaping me as a player. And Coach Thomas taught me that my talent can only go so far and I’m forever thankful for that. He influenced and shaped me as a player, making my discipline and commitment to not just the game but the team forever change for the better.”