JOHN DAY Jordan Ackerman, a 2013 Grant Union High School graduate, has earned a spot on the Bend Bucks, a triple A summer league team in Central Oregon.

Ackerman also plans to continue his baseball career with an athletic scholarship to play baseball at Blue Mountain Community College in the fall.

After the Grant Union Prospectors earned the 2A/1A state title this year, Ackerman was honored with a first-team All-League outfield pick, and chosen District 7 player of the year. Ackerman was also named to first-team All-State pitcher and Oregons 2A/1A state player of the year.

Ackerman will be working on a transfer degree while at Blue Mountain Community College, and plans to focus in sports administration and management in the future.

The Eagle caught up with him recently:

Q: How did you feel about the opportunities that came your way this year? A: I feel honored for the opportunities I have worked hard for four years, this is what I wanted.

Q: What are your future plans?

A: I want to eventually play for the University of Oregon to play for the Ducks has always been my dream. My ultimate goal is to be drafted. I will do everything I can to be drafted.

Q: What were these teams looking for? How did you stand out?

A: Theyre looking for someone who works harder than anyone else thats where I fit it. I may not have the strongest arm in the outfield, but I worked harder than anyone in tryouts. Thats how I made the Bend Bucks.