Some athletes are born into the game—and for Idabel’s Bryce Roberts, baseball has always been in his blood.
“I’ve been playing since I could walk,” Roberts said. “I’ve always had a bat in my hand, and ball has been in our family for a while. I plan to continue that in the future.”
Watching his grandparents compete on the weekends and being surrounded by the game from a young age, Roberts quickly fell in love with the sport. But it’s not just family that molded him—his late coach Sammy Lopez made a lasting impact.
“He was like a father and a coach at the same time,” Roberts said. “I really am thankful for him being my coach.”
This season, Roberts has embraced his leadership role, setting the tone for the team both on and off the field.
“My role this year is being the best leader and a great role model for teammates and coaches,” he said.
That leadership has helped fuel what he calls the best team chemistry he’s experienced.
“Our team chemistry is off the charts this year,” Roberts said. “We’re all brothers and we enjoy being around each other—the best group I’ve been around since I have been in high school.”
With goals that include winning their district, hosting regionals, and making a deep run to the state tournament, Roberts trains relentlessly.
“I hit the weights as hard as I can every day,” he said. “If I lose, I don’t want to end on a ‘what if.’ It’s the same for all of us—we have to bring energy and effort.”
Off the field, Roberts finds peace in the outdoors, whether it’s fishing, mudding, or hunting. And when he’s looking for inspiration, he turns to two MVPs: his mom and former Texas Ranger Adrian Beltre.
“I look up to my mom—she is the MVP in my life,” he said. “Without her I would not be where I’m at right now.”
Roberts’ journey is just beginning. Committed to play at Brookhaven College in Dallas, his eyes are set on baseball—and a future in physical education. Through every high and low, he hasn’t forgotten who got him here.
“I’m really thankful for all my coaches who have coached me since T-ball,” he said. “And my favorite coach is my family.”
