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PHOTO: Provided by Sasheika Tomlinson

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Age: 21 • Lives in Orlando • Full-time student at UCF

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Quite a catch: As a catcher for Lake-Sumter State College’s baseball team, I received the 2014 National Junior College Athletics Lea Plarski Award. Each year, this award is given to one student-athlete in the country who excels in sportsmanship, leadership, academics, community service and athletics. Winning this is a big accomplishment for not only me but also the school and the community. I never dreamed about winning such a prestigious award.

Walking the walk: I played varsity baseball at Timber Creek High School in Orlando. I was not heavily recruited and became a walk-on at L-SSC. During my freshman year I competed against two sophomore catchers for playing time. I became the starting catcher toward the end of the season. At the beginning of my sophomore year I earned the starting job once again. I also received a scholarship for the spring semester.

Making a statement: L-SSC President Dr. Charles Mojock called me the most decorated student-athlete in school history. My success would not have been possible without the excellent support staff in place.

Giving back: During my time at L-SSC, I enjoyed volunteering in the community. I was able to participate in several Habitat for Humanity projects and also visit local elementary schools to help children with reading and other schoolwork. Through the Miracle League, our team taught baseball fundamentals to special-needs children.

Let’s call it a Knight: I am attending the University of Central Florida and attempting to be a walk-on with the baseball team. Recently, the baseball team held a walk-on tryout. I was invited back to practice with the team during the fall. It’s like an extended tryout to make the team once the real season rolls around.

Off the diamond: When I’m not playing baseball or studying, I enjoy PlayStation, pick-up basketball games, hanging out with friends and golf.

Last book you read: My marketing textbook. I do not have much time to read for pleasure.

Favorite junk food: When I go to Miller’s Ale House in Orlando, I order fried chicken tenders that sit atop a mountain of fries with melted cheese and bacon. Essentially, it’s a heart attack on a plate.

Dogs or cats: Dogs. We always had at least two dogs when I was growing up. We had a cat that constantly terrorized me when I was 6.

Music I’d take on a deserted island: Kenny Chesney. He does laid-back beach songs, so his music would add to the atmosphere.

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Fast Facts:

Chris was the first Lake-Sumter State College student selected for three awards in one year: the Bill Tuten Baseball Scholar-Athlete from the Florida College System Activities Association; the Mid-Florida Conference Male Scholar Athlete of the Year; and the National Junior College Athletics 2014 Lea Plarski Award.

Despite juggling athletics and academics, Chris maintained a 4.0 grade-point average at L-SSC.[/notification]