Chicorelli playing for Yalobusha Giants 13U team in Viera, Fla.
James Chicorelli has been playing baseball since he was 4 years old and close to 10 years later his hard work his paying off as he accepted an invitation to participate in the United States Specialty Sports Association Select30 Program Aug. 4 to 10.
The USSSA Select 30 program is structured around daily fundamental workouts administered by the Select30 Task Force, former professional players current and former college coaches, current and former scouts and baseball industry experts. Chosen players will be issued a ‘Golden Ticket’ from a Select30 Task Force officially inviting them to participate in the S30 Championships Aug. 4 to 10 at USSSA Space Coast Complex in Viera, Fla. Players participating in the 13U & 14U divisions will attend Aug. 6 to 10 with Top Prospect Games on Aug. 10.
Chicorelli is a player on the Yalobusha Giants 13U team. The Select30 Task Force evaluated players on the five tools of baseball during live game situations to identify the S30 championship prospects.
Chicorelli is the son of Jimmy and Lisa Chicorelli of Clarksdale and headed into his freshman year at Lee Academy. He is left-handed, plays center field and pitches.
He reflected on all of his father’s experience and guidance.
“My Dad has been my biggest influence in baseball,” Chicorelli said. “He played throughout his elementary and high school years as a left-handed pitcher and outfielder. In 1964, he was one of the pitchers on the Clarksdale All-Star team that won the Dixie Youth Mississippi State Championship.”
Chicorelli himself played in the pitcher position and was the first baseman throughout his Coach Pitch years. Advancing to fast pitch he played center field and pitched. He will continue to pitch and play center field as a member of the Major Yalobusha Giants baseball team.
In 2017, Chicorelli’s team, the 11-year old Clarksdale All-Stars, won the State Dizzy Dean Championship and advanced to the World Series.
Chicorelli hopes his baseball career continues for years to come.
“One of my major goals would be to earn a scholarship to play college baseball,” he said.
Chicorelli also plays football at Lee Academy. He plays tailback, is a punt and kickoff returner for the Colts. He also plays defense as one of the cornerbacks.
