Mike Halas credits working on the family farm to instill the kind of work ethic it takes to get into the U.S. Military Academy.

On Nov. 15, the senior catcher signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball at West Point.

When Halas was recruited by the prestigious institution looking over the Hudson River, he knew it was the best opportunity for him.

“It’s an honor and humbles me to be accepted,” says Halas, who at 18 already has a .385-career batting average.

By attending West Point, Halas is following in his grandfather’s footsteps by giving back to the country. “My grandfather is an inspiration to me” says Halas. “I feel like I owe my life to the military as he did.”

As Halas attends West Point, he will expect to have many opportunities open to him in his future. Upon graduation, Halas will actively serve in the military as a second lieutenant.  

As the catcher for the Hatters’ baseball team, Halas holds an enormous amount of responsibility on the field. “You have to know the game inside and out,” says Halas.

Even off the field Halas has a knack for responsibility.

Coach Shaun Ratchford describes Halas as “more than just a baseball player. The presence about him has and will make him a great leader; that is something I cannot coach, it is something his parents fostered out of him.”

“I am very excited and proud for Michael and his family,” Ratchford said.

Even his teammates contend that Halas is most deserving for this accomplishment. Brent Jacobellis, who is right fielder for the Hatters, describes Halas as someone who “will never give into anything and will accomplish great things.”

“He is always looking out for those around him and always tries to bring out the best in everyone,” says Jeff Torres, pitcher and middle infielder for the baseball team.

Halas says growing up and working on the family farm — Halas Farm — instilled a strong work ethic, which has spread to the baseball diamond.

“Being who I am, I was raised on a family farm and knew hard work at a young age” says Halas. By working on the farm, Halas transferred his motivation into baseball. “Working on the farm and on my team motivated me to become a successful, strong, well-rounded athlete, physically and emotionally.”

Halas’ family has played a large part in his achievements, always attending his baseball games and cheering him on.

“My dad is my best friend and a father at the same time. He’s the only man I can trust to guide me through my life,” says Halas.

Halas said he was interested in the academy as it has recently hired a new baseball coach, Jim Foster.

He’s eager to continue his baseball career at West Point. “It makes me hungrier to have another chapter in my career,” says Halas. “Now it is a mission to be the best man, player I can be.”