Life at the next level: Former Hound speaks about playing college baseball

This time last year Peyton Buford was on his way to becoming 2016 News Journal All-County Player of the Year by helping the Corbin Redhounds to a 22-15 season, including a 50th District championship and an appearance in the semifinals of the 13th Region tournament.

Now a freshman at Alice Lloyd College, Buford is finding a way to contribute to the Eagles baseball program. He recently spoke about his experiences for this special feature story.

On life at Alice Lloyd College…
“Things are going good. It’s different than being in Corbin, and I admit that was a little nervous coming in, but I decided that I was going to do whatever it took to be successful. I have worked hard, and my coach has noticed that. He told me before the season started that I would have the opportunity to be one of the only freshman players to contribute at the varsity level.”

Editor’s Note: Buford was originally looked at to play first base for the Eagles, but has since been asked to play in the outfield, serve as a designated hitter and pitch.

On his role on the team…
“The pitching is kind of a new development. Coach asked me if I could pitch, and I told him that I did a little bit in high school. When I threw my first breaking ball for him, he said that I could do it at this level, probably as a reliever or closer.”
“I’ve accepted that role. I like coming in with the game on the line and ball in my hand. I always wanted to be a pitcher, but they didn’t really need me to do it that much in high school.”
“I’m just going to do whatever it takes to get on the field.”

On the team’s progress this season…
“We have played a tough schedule, and we’re a young team with only two seniors. We’ve played against the number five and number twelve teams in the NAIA, but we were able to hang with them. In my opinion, we are the best team in our conference, and if we take care of business I think we can go to the [NCCAA] World Series.”
“Anybody can beat you on any given day, though. In baseball, you never really know will happen next. That’s part of the beauty of the game.”

On playing at the next level…
“If you want to play college baseball it’s going to be a grind. I thought it would be a lot like high school, but it’s been pretty tough. Managing my time between classes and playing has been stressful, but I’ve been able to maintain a 3.0 GPA, and I still love baseball.”
“It’s definitely a grind, but my advice to anybody that has the opportunity to do it is give it a shot. You can’t be satisfied with just being here. You have to stay ready. It’s tough, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything in the world.”

On his days at CHS…
“I definitely miss putting on the Redhound uniform. When we say “Corbin forever” it’s absolutely true. I grew up playing with all of my best friends, and I miss that. As for this year’s team, I wish them nothing but success. They’re a good ball club, and I think they have real potential in the region.”
“I miss walking the halls of Corbin High School, and I miss being home. It’s different here, but I honestly wouldn’t trade it. You have to grow up at some point. I loved every minute of my time at Corbin, though.”

On the future…
“We are trying to get to the World Series. We’re working hard every day to achieve that goal. We want to win, and we’re working very hard at it. We are young, but I feel like we’re starting to turn it around.”

Final thoughts…
“I would just like to thank everyone in Corbin for their support, especially my coaches and my mom and dad. I couldn’t have gotten to where I am without their help.”

For more information on all Alice Lloyd Eagles athletic programs, visit www.alc.edu/athletics.