Clay Strope Signs to Become a Freed-Hardeman University Lion

Surrounded by his family and friends, coach, and baseball teammates, Bolivar Central High School’s (BCHS) Clay Strope signed on the dotted line to become a Freed-Hardeman University Lions baseball player. The next step at college level play comes after a 14-year career of playing baseball, which started with Strope playing coach pitch at the age of three years old.

“Baseball has been something I have loved my whole life,” said Clay who is looking forward to college-level play. “Playing at the next level has been a goal and dream of mine for so long.  I’m blessed with this opportunity, and I couldn’t be happier to join the Lion family in the fall.”

Clay also played golf in middle school and high school, but baseball has managed to become the true sport he loves. During Clay’s baseball career, he has played many positions on the field, but pitcher, catcher, and shortstop have been the main positions.

“I am very passionate about pitching,” said Clay. “I have always enjoyed playing baseball since I was little. The feeling of being out there competing with your friends and succeeding is amazing!”

Clay’s parents, Eric and Julie Strope, are proud of their son and his accomplishments on the field and off. They watched Clay grow over the years into an accomplished player on the baseball field and are excited for him to reach a goal he has had for many years.  

“We are so proud of Clay for setting a goal at a very young age and seeing it through. It was a surreal moment watching him on signing day. He put so much hard work and dedication into this. So thankful for all his coaches, past and present, for always encouraging Clay and believing in him,” said the Stropes.

BCHS baseball coach Clint Barnes has coached Clay since his freshman year of high school. Barnes shared he has been impressed with the way Clay has presented himself on the field as well as off.

“The way he carries himself and how he treats people is what has been the most impressive characteristics about him. He’s kind, respectful, has a great work ethic, and has always been a team first guy,” said Barnes who believes Clay will have a positive impact on the FHU team and benefit greatly from the education opportunity. “I can see him contributing at FHU right away as a position player or as a pitcher. But the best thing I see him doing at FHU is walking away four years from now with a degree, and a chance to have a successful life. That’s the end game for all of us coaches is to see our kids have a chance at a great life. If they have that opportunity then we’ve done our job.”

Clay will major in business at FHU and plans to become a real estate appraiser/broker.

BCHS baseball fans will be able to see Clay play one last season as a Tiger during the spring 2024 season.

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