Always on the go

Kirby Powell's sports motor operates at top speed year-round.

Powell is a three-sport athlete at Conway Christian who doesn't mind getting down and dirty. He is entering his senior year at the school, and the coaches of the football, basketball and baseball programs will be glad to see his face this year.

Powell is not resting this summer by any means. He's working out, preparing for football season as the team's top quarterback in the pistol offense. He's not only trying to get in football shape, but he's trying to win games as a member of Conway NBMC, which is an American Legion team comprised of students from Conway Christian and St. Joseph. Conway NBMC is gearing up for the upcoming zone and state tournament.

"Out of the three sports that I play, baseball is my favorite," Powell said. "I've been playing baseball since I was like 3-years old. I started playing basketball early in my life and football just a few years ago. I really like both sports, but if I had to choose one, it'll be baseball."

Powell's father, Chris Powell, is an assistant coach of both Conway Christian's high school baseball team and Conway NBMC. He has seen his son grow in each sport, but he also believes that Powell's best sport to earn a scholarship is in baseball.

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"In baseball, he's got the bills and he's got the skills," Chris Powell said. "In basketball he has the skills, but not necessarily the bills. In football, you just have to be seen. As parents, we are proud of him because he's done well in all three sports while making straight A's in school."

Chris Powell said his son has no problem with switching from one season to the next.

"Whatever season it is, that's what games he watches, and that's the only sport that he talks about," he said.

Powell starts at catcher, but he can also hold down first base.

"He started out playing first base, but when he turned 14, he switched over to play catcher also," Chris Powell said. "He's good as a first baseman, and he's good overall as a catcher. He's well-suited for the position because he has a good glove and a good understanding of how to play the position. He can play either position."

Powell hit his fourth home run of the season last Sunday against Sylvan Hills. Tyler Spangle tied that mark with his fourth Thursday.

Both of Kirby Powell's parents are deeply involved with Conway Christian's sports programs. His mother, Kim Powell, serves as the high school's women's athletic director, along with Chris Powell helping on the baseball staff.

"I've been real fortunate to have both of my parents participate in sports at my school," Powell said. "My mother is always there to encourage me. After a test sometimes when I don't feel like I've done as I could have, then I'll go in her classroom. That's when she tells me not to worry and she encourages me."

Powell continued, "My dad played baseball over at (the University of Central Arkansas), so he's my baseball role model. He knows a lot about catching, and he taught me how to play the position. He's always been right there beside me."

Powell said that his favorite athlete is Albert Pujols, who plays professional baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals.

"I read some books and found out that he is a good Christian guy," Powell said. "He uses baseball as a platform and an extracurricular activity. I've also watched a movie on Larry Bird, and I learned a lot from him on how to play basketball."