It is no surprise that Tate Van Poppel would like to play baseball in college.
The son of former Texas Rangers and Oakland Athletics pitcher Todd Van Poppel, the Argyle High school senior has the sport in his blood.
“My favorite activity is baseball,” Van Poppel said. “I grew up loving baseball from the time I was a little kid and I have spent my life around the game.”
But, as far as what he would like to do for a professional career, it may not be following in his father’s cleats.
“I would love to play baseball in college and get a degree, then eventually make a career doing something I love,” Van Poppel said. “At this time, I am not sure what that is, but maybe something in engineering.”
Van Poppel, 18, plays baseball and football at Argyle High School and is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
The Argyle teen said being involved is something he believes is important for several reasons.
“I enjoy participating in school events so I can be with friends and make memories,” Van Poppel said. “Also, I want to look back and know I made the best of my high school years.”
Van Poppel is also a member of the National Honor Society and is a Senior Buddy.
He said the most challenging thing he has had to overcome in life so far was making new friends after his family moved from Southlake to Argyle when he was in elementary school. He added that there is one problem with the world today he would like to see go away.
“I would change all the hate in the world,” Van Poppel said. “Hate is all over and is spread way too much; and, life should not be that way. We should all be kind to everyone.”
Van Poppel carries a 3.9 grade point average at Argyle High School and is ranked 48th (the top quarter) of his graduating class.
He is undecided on colleges, but plans to major in engineering.
Van Poppel’s Favorites
Favorite Subject: Math
Person who most inspires me: My dad, Todd Van Poppel
Favorite Food: Breakfast Tacos
Favorite Movie: Rocky 4
Favorite TV Show: Friends
Last Book Read: “Naked Economics”
