Xavier’s (Grade 8) Journey to Becoming a Mariner’s Hometown Nine Member

Written By: Gena Wynkoop, Editorial Content Manager

Last year, Xavier Austin, a Seattle Academy eighth grader, set his sights on becoming a member of the Mariner’s Hometown Nine - and he knocked it out of the park.

The Hometown Nine is a big deal. It’s a program offered by the Seattle Mariners that’s all about leveling the playing field for youth sports. They’re committed to making sports, specifically baseball and softball, more inclusive and accessible, particularly for student-athletes of color. They also cover all club fees, travel expenses, gear and equipment for each player.

It wasn’t a simple application process. Xavier had to put in some serious work. On top of his regular school load and his responsibilities as a baseball player, he spent countless hours writing essays, preparing for interviews, and even rallying his community to write letters of recommendation.

“I had to write three essays of my own, and then there were two more from my peers and one from my family. So, in total, six essays,” explained Xavier. “It was a lot, especially with my schoolwork and baseball, but it was definitely worth it.”

Even with covering costs and providing gear, once the student is in the program, they hook them up with a player mentor and a front office contact who will be there to support Xavier with his schoolwork and anything else needed on the academic front.

Every school year, nine incoming eighth graders are selected for the program in King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties.

For Xavier, it was a friend who had gone through the program a year ahead of him that encouraged him to apply. And it just made sense–Xavier’s been swinging for the fences since he was three. 

After he submitted his application, it was all about the waiting game. Then came the big moment - an invitation to a Mariners game, specifically on fireworks night this summer. His parents knew before he did; they got the call and were asked to keep it a secret until the big night at T-Mobile Park.

“It was the bottom of the ninth, and someone from the Mariners asked if we wanted to play a game on the field,” said Xavier. “There were nine of us, and we walked out, put on blindfolds, and lined up. When we took off the blindfolds, we were facing the big screen and centerfield. And there it was, “Hometown Nine!” I just started crying.”

It was a dream come true for Xavier. Mariners came out to congratulate them, they watched the fireworks from right field, and then it was back to home plate for interviews, family photos, and their very own Hometown Nine jerseys.

“I was beyond excited, overwhelmed and speechless.”

Being a part of the Hometown Nine in its early years is a special feeling for Xavier.

“It’s amazing to be part of something that’s still so new. Knowing I’m helping lay the foundation and being a role model for those who come after me, while also having role models to look up to, is an incredible feeling.”

For the rest of middle and for the entirety of his high school career, Xavier has some serious perks lined up - 10 game tickets a month, VIP passes, the works. It’s every baseball fan’s dream.

If you’re eyeing a spot in the program for the next year, here’s Xavier’s advice:

“If you’re aiming for the Hometown Nine or any other big goal that might seem tough, keep pushing yourself. The sky’s the limit.”