Apollo High School

After the 2004 baseball season, the Apollo Eagle's standout pitcher will retire his blue and white attire for something bigger, better and long-awaited.
Ryne Mantooth made a verbal commitment to play for the University of Louisville and pitch for their Division 1 baseball program. He couldn't be more excited, especially considering that playing for a Division 1 college has been his dream and motivation all through highschool.

"I've been to a couple of their games and talked to their pitching coach and I think it's the best place for me to play. I'm really excited to be playing for a Division 1 program.," said Ryne.

Ryne was selected for first-team All-State at last season's state baseball tournament, along with being selected to the All-District and All-Regional teams.

Other than baseball, Ryne is involved in varsity basketball (4 yrs.) and varsity golf (7 yrs.) As a junior, Ryne even tied the school record for Most Three-Pointers in a game, knocking down an impressive 10 from beyond the arc. During the season, Ryne is well-known throughout the stands and on the court for his talent and consistency with all of his shots.

Ryne has definitely recieved the utmost support here at AHS. He's joined by sister, Kara, and his dad, who we all know as P.E. teacher, Coach Mantooth.

"It's really great having my dad with me. Its convenient because (being the baseball coach) he can open up the batting cages and let me hit whenever I want or he'll take me to the gym to work on my shooting anytime. He can relate to me during the games and at home with my sports," said Ryne of his dad, who is the head baseball coach and assistant basketball coach at Apollo.

Ryne said throughout his years of several time-consuming sports, he's really never had to worry about balancing his academics and social life along with it.
"I've done everything possible to be where I am today. I've had to sacrifice alot of things, like going out on weekends , in order to get practice in, but it's all been worth it," said Ryne.

Ryne's future goals after college include playing professional baseball . It's clear to see that baseball is Ryne's favorite thing to do, and his commitment and dedication will be sure to allow him to fufill his dreams and reach his goals.