Pope John Paul II graduate Chad Casey pitched and served as the Jaguars’ designated hitter this season. He helped lead PJP to a co-district 9-2A championship with St. Thomas Aquinas as both teams posted an 11-1 record.

During the district season, Casey went 4-0 with a 1.78 earned run average in his four starts, spanning 19 and two-thirds innings. He threw a pair of complete games, and opponents hit only .154 against him. At the plate, Casey hit .313 with eight runs batted in and a pair of doubles against district foes.

PJP coach Mark Homburg said Casey was major part of his team’s success this year.

Chad Casey

“Chad stepped up big his senior year,” Homburg said. “He was hurt his first two years, but through hard work, he got himself tied for the team lead in wins.”

What do you enjoy most about playing baseball? I can express my feelings when I’m out there. It’s a sport I grew up loving.

What do you like best about being a student athlete? I can be an example for other children to look up to.

Do you feel an added responsibility of being a role model as a student athlete? Yes, I think some students struggle being a student athlete. They need somebody to look up to.

Most memorable game/accomplishment or situation in sports? St. Thomas Aquinas at Pope John Paul II this year, I hit two runs in with a single. The game was scoreless when I got the hit. We won the game, 3-2.

Who has been the most influential person in your school sports career? My dad, Mark, because he’s always pushed me to never give up and to try to be better than the best.

Who is your favorite athlete? Major League baseball strikeout record-holder Nolan Ryan, who finished with 5,714.

Favorite team? Boston Red Sox.

What is your favorite subject in school? English.

Plans after high school/college major? I’m going to attend Southeastern Louisiana University. I plan on majoring in business or architecture.

Favorite sports movie/TV show/actor/actress? “Sandlot,” “Wipeout,” Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts.

Favorite type of music? R&B

Favorite food dish? A nice juicy steak.

Best vacation? I went to Gulf Shores with my friends during my freshman year.

Best thing about living on the Northshore? I’m used to it, the environment’s nice, and it’s home.

Hobbies/interests/volunteering: Rock climbing.

I help on retreats with my church St. Margaret Mary.

Parents: Mark and Teresa Casey of Slidell.