Baseball Factory has selected Stuart Smith as the first recipient of the Jim Spooner Memorial Award

In what will be an annual tradition here at the Baseball Factory, we would like to announce the first ever recipient of the Jim Spooner Memorial Award.  This award goes to the Baseball Factory player who best exemplifies sportsmanship, teamwork, strong character, hustle, and leadership.   In 2008, Stuart Smith embodied each of these attributes while participating in numerous Baseball Factory events.  A Baseball Factory player since 2004, Stuart has consistently demonstrated sportsmanship, teamwork, and a strong character.  He is a former Under Armour Pre-Season All-American, and has also participated in the Team One West showcase.  The first baseman graduated from Buena High School this past spring and is currently in his first year at Cal State – Bakersfield.

The Jim Spooner Memorial Award was created to honor the late Jim Spooner, who passed away in September.  As both a coach and friend, Jim touched the lives of hundreds of players, families and fellow coaches.  One of the most successful coaches in college baseball history, Jim compiled 688 victories as Head Coach at the University of West Florida.  In addition to success in college baseball, Jim reached out to the Baseball Factory in 2005 when he became active as a coach, instructor and college recruiting consultant.  The award will be given annually to honor Jim’s legacy, enthusiasm and his life long commitment to baseball.