ATHLETE OF THE WEEK - West Orange Times & Observer: Ryan Brewer

After two seasons at Apopka, Ryan Brewer has made himself right at home in his first campaign with the Ocoee Knights. Brewer is the starting shortstop for the Knights (9-9) and has done a little bit of everything this season and is one of the team's top hitters. On the mound, Brewer tossed a two-hitter and did not allow an earned run against East River March 22, helping Ocoee to a 4-1 win.

How important was it for the team to pick up a pair of wins over spring break?

It was big to get these wins. We’ve been kind of battling, kind of having some bad luck and stuff like that. So to get these wins kind of shows the team that we’re still in it — we can still compete.

How are things going getting acclimated in your first season at Ocoee?

It’s a great environment over here. … Everyone plays for each other; it’s great.

Which teammate has made you feel the most at home?

It would have to be between Logan Cariglio and Noah Satterwhite. They’ve definitely introduced me to all the teammates and made me feel welcome.

What’s something about you that people may not know?

I’m really good at ping-pong. My dad has a ping-pong table at his work, he works at the rec department in Apopka. I just kind of started playing when I was like 10 or 12 (years old), just been playing ever since.

Who is your favorite superhero and why?

That’s a hard one. I would have to say Superman. He’s a great guy, has all the powers and you can’t ask for anything more.

Who is your favorite big leaguer?

Josh Donaldson. I feel like he’s kind of my type of player. I like how he goes about the game, and he’s definitely a great hitter.

What’s your non-baseball dream job?

Probably playing ping-pong professionally.

When you’re not playing baseball or doing schoolwork, what’s a hobby of yours?

I’m a big gamer. My favorite game would have to be any “Call of Duty” (title). I like playing multiplayer.

The team has endured some tough losses in district play to this point, but is this a group that believes it can be successful in the district tournament?

We’re definitely confident we can do that. Our bats are starting to show up and we’ve been better and better every game. We’re just coming together as a team.