For Gabriel Lesoa, baseball runs in the family. His brother has represented New Zealand and his grandfather and uncles have all played the sport. That’s why nine years ago when Gabriel first picked up the bat, there was no surprise that he instantly fell in love with the game.
Next week, Gabriel will embark on his first trip to China where he’ll represent New Zealand in the Junior League World Series. He says that he’s excited about the opportunity to go up against countries such as China, Korea, the Phillipines and Guam.
A lot of saving and work goes into making trips like this possible. All the training, matches and fundraising events that Gabriel’s family have been involved in have all led to this point. Being a NZ rep had always been one of Gabriel’s major goals and making the Kiwi side, has inspired him to strive to make other representative teams in the future as he continues playing for the Howick Pakuranga Baseball Club.
Like his favourite player Mike Trout, a player for the Los Angeles Angels of the Major League Baseball, Gabriel wants to one day play in the USA.
At thirteen years of age, he gets to travel the world and play the sport he loves. He embraces the friendly rivalry with his brother Eli, stays humble amidst his phenomenal achievements and has a desire to continue to get better.
Qualities and a character that will see him go far. Sancta Maria College wishes him all the best.
Shontelle Matano
