Darren Wittcke
High School Honors
3-year Football Letterman, 1st team All-PIL, senior; PIL champions and Defensive player of the year, senior. 2-year Baseball Letterman pitcher, 1st team All-PIL, junior and senior, 2nd team All-State, senior; PIL champs both years. PIL Player of the year; State/Metro All-Star. 1-year Basketball Letterman, Sr.
Post-High School Career
Portland State University, 4-year baseball Letterman; drafted SF Giants, 1991; one year in Northwest League. Baseball Coach, Lake Oswego High, 1992-94; professional scout for Seattle Mariners 1994-95, San Francisco Giants 1996-2015 (3x world champs). Presently a Special Assignment Scout.
Commentary
As far back as I can remember I've had a passion for football, baseball, and basketball. The thrill of competition and achieving athletic success is in my blood.
To my parents, thank you for providing me with the opportunity to play youth sports and for always encouraging and supporting me.
I feel very grateful to each coach I had in high school: in particular Dave Gasser, my freshman and Jayvee football coach and varsity baseball coach. He taught me that through hard work and dedication, goals both on and off the field could be achieved.
When I entered Portland State University, I was very fortunate to receive a baseball scholarship. Coach Jack Dunn was an excellent teacher of the game. He also did a great job preparing me for life after the game.
I had the good fortune of being drafted by the San Francisco Giants. Thanks to John Shafer for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime to play the game that I love.
Since 1995, I've been a professional baseball scout. I've signed multiple players who have made it to the big leagues. What an incredibly fun ride it has been to be part of a three-time World Champion organization.
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