Sports Spotlight - Windermere Observer: Robert Hurlock

Robert Hurlock moved to Florida within the past few years, but already he is making a strong impression at Dr. Phillips Little League and for his travel team, Pro4mer. Pro4mer coach James Parr said that, in addition to having a good arm on the mound, Robert has displayed fantastic character and a go-getter determination. 

“Perhaps my favorite thing about (Hurlock) is he is determined and he works on his own, at home, without being told to do so by his parents,” Parr said.

How did you get started in baseball?

I’ve been playing baseball since I was 3. I got started because my mom said, “You have to play a sport.” I started out with baseball, basketball — I tried soccer. Baseball just stuck out to me, and I started to enjoy pitching, mainly.

Tell us about the pitches you have available and what you’re working on.

I got a fastball, a change-up and a curveball. The curveball is pretty nice. I’m working on improving the curveball.

What is some good baseball advice you have received?

Rick Asadoorian is always like, “Stay calm and stay relaxed.” He says that as long as you know what you’re supposed to do, you’ll do it right.

What is your favorite baseball memory so far?

When I won a (10-and-under) state championship in Indiana — that was huge. … Everyone was so happy.

Coming to Florida from Indiana, what are the differences in the level of play?

It wasn’t as competitive over there. Over there, it was more of the coach’s son and their friends that got to play. Over here, they don’t care — they want everyone to get their chance.

What are your goals that you’re working to achieve in baseball?

I’m hoping by next year, I’ll be throwing in the low 80s. And then just to get better in fielding and hitting.

What is your favorite class at Windy Ridge?

Technology, probably, taught by Mr. (Michael) Cohen. You get to mess around with technology and see all the cool things you can do with code. We use Google Drive a lot to mess around with the aspects of it. It helps me a lot with projects and other classes.

Do you have any other hobbies besides baseball?

Basketball, and I play a little bit of other sports on the side, but nothing major.

What else do you do with your free time?

I watch YouTube. I like comedy.

Who do you think will win the NBA Finals?

I had wanted the Rockets to win, but they got out, so probably Cleveland.

What is your dream car?

Lamborghini. An Aventador. It would be one of the pearlescent colors they do.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

I would probably want to go somewhere in the tropics and just chillax — Hawaii or something.