Story By SHANNON J. ALLEN
GUNTERSVILLE — College athletics runs in the family for Guntersville senior Cam Gentle, whose father, Kevin, was a Wildcat football star in the 1990s. Kevin kicked for the Auburn Tigers.
Cam excelled in football for the Wildcats as well, but his best sport is baseball. On Friday, April 4, he signed to play for the UAH Chargers and head coach Hunter Royer, the all-time winningest coach in program history.
“They definitely showed me the most interest, it’s close to home and they’ve got a good program,” Gentle said of his decision. “I’m good friends with all the coaches and got to know them well.
“When I went over there, they told me we’re recruiting you to come and play. I’ll have to fight for a spot, but I think I have as good a chance as anybody.”
Gentle said he expects the Chargers to use him wherever they need him as a freshman, but his goal is to eventually become a starter.
Gentle recalled that it was during his sophomore year when he began dreaming of playing baseball at the next level.
“I was telling my dad I think this is what I want to do after high school. I’m just glad I got there,” he said.
Gentle earned four varsity letters for the Wildcats and was a six-year member of the program.
“When you throw it 88 or 89 and have a slider like Cam, those things don’t just happen. Those are good qualities to have as a pitcher in college,” Guntersville head coach Kenny Chaffin said.
“Velocity is the king and being able to throw hard is always good, and when you add that with the character of Cam, it equals success.
“Cam’s older brother, Collin, pitched for us as well and was a great pitcher for us. He threw no-hitters.”
Gentle expressed appreciation to his coaches and his family for their contributions to his career.
“Definitely first and foremost, Coach Chaffin and Coach [Brad] Lett,” Gentle said. “They’ve really helped me a lot this year. They both came to me and said we want to help you be the best you can.
“Over the summers, I played for a couple of different teams and just to be a part of those teams has been great, and the coaches have helped me. Some pitching coaches have helped me.
“My family too. My dad is one of the biggest [supporters]. He’s there for me all summer. He goes and throws with me whenever. He always makes time and just really helped pave the way.”
