Ryan Etheridge started his education at CHA from K2-K5. He wandered for a bit but returned in the 8th grade graduating in 2023. While at Central Hinds, Ryan was a multi-sport athlete playing not only baseball but also basketball and football during his time as a cougar. During his baseball career at CHA he was awarded CHA's Best Pitcher, MAIS All-Conference, Baseball Futures, and MAIS Co-Pitcher of the Year. While on campus, Ryan says he was impacted by a lot of staff members but mentions a few specifically. He says "Melissa Nix was ALWAYS there for whatever I needed and always listened. Chad Bradford helped forge me into the player I am today, which helped me earn the opportunity to play college ball. Rene Smith and Caitlyn Gates helped me find a love for Chemistry." Ryan is continuing his education at MUW where he is a pitcher on the Owls baseball team and is pursing a degree in Biology. He says that his time at CHA "helped in so many ways. One being the schedule we were asked to maintain. CHA made everyone attend class consistently and do what they were supposed to do. College is the same way if not more strict especially for athletes. The course material I took directly prepared me for the material I am seeing today. The opportunity to take college courses while still in high school was another huge bonus of attending CHA". He also mentions "A major statistic that rings in my head is 7%. Only 7% of high school athletes get a chance to compete at the next level and, thanks to my time at CHA, I am one of them." Ryan has big plans for the future. "I plan on finishing my playing and academic career at the W and then attend medical school. The long term "plan" is to pursue being an orthopedic surgeon, but that's way out in the future." When asked about his time on campus he has this advice for students, "People complain about this and that, small things, but I urge you to embrace the time you are experiencing at CHA. It truly is some of the best times of your life! Go Cougars!" We here at Central Hinds think the future looks extremely bright for Ryan and we can't wait to see what he continues to accomplish! Go Owls!
