Coalgate High School’s Jase Burris carries himself like a small-town athlete with a big-time purpose. He balances his love for baseball with a faith- and family-centered foundation that keeps him grounded.
Burris grew up around sports, but he said baseball — and the adversity that comes with it — has shaped him the most.
“Baseball [comes] from the struggles and adversity you have to overcome,” Burris said. The game has taught him how to respond to failure, remain patient and continue working, lessons he applies both on and off the field.
That mindset is rooted in his faith. When asked what he is most proud of, Burris points first to his relationship with Jesus Christ, which he said is the center of everything he does.
In the classroom, Burris credits Mrs. Hall as his favorite teacher, not only for what she taught but for the way she taught it.
“Mrs. Hall [is my favorite] from how she believed in me and just the fun way she taught,” Burris said. He added that her belief in him gave him confidence that carried over into athletics.
Burris said he draws inspiration from several important figures in his life, starting with his father, who he said has taught him a great deal. He also credited Coalgate coach Cagle for offering steady advice and strong teachings, as well as his pastor, Jim Lewis, for the wisdom and guidance he has shared over the years.
Among teammates, Burris said Dax Childers, Easton Wilkinson and his brother, Jett Burris, have had the biggest influence on him.
Representing Coalgate means more to Burris than wearing a uniform. He said he competes to show that small towns can produce great athletes and, more importantly, great kids.
“Really just trying to prove that this small town has hope for having great athletes and overall, just great kids,” Burris said.
The best advice he has received, he said, is simple but impactful: “Just pray about it.”
When asked who he would like to thank, Burris immediately mentioned his mother.
“For all the dedication and love she has shown me and my brother,” he said.
Burris also looks up to professional athletes Jameis Winston, whom he admires for his openness and public expression of faith, and Adrián Beltré, for his ability to bring humor into any situation while still leading by example.
