For Albert Baur, the journey to Newberry College unfolded as a transformative experience, one that left an indelible mark on his life and career.
 
As a student-athlete, he found his place, his purpose, and his path at Newberry, setting the stage for a future that would see him continue to make an impact in the world of baseball.
 
Baur's story is a testament to the power of mentorship, camaraderie, and personal growth, as he reflects on his time at Newberry with gratitude and pride.
 
Mentorship and camaraderie
 
Baur's journey to Newberry began with a series of pivotal conversations that would change the course of his life. His initial commitment was to play college baseball at Indian River Community College, but fate had other plans.
 
Enter Coach Russell Triplett, whose persistent engagement and genuine interest in Baur's potential as a player and person sparked a connection that would lead him to Newberry.
 
"From there, Coach Triplett constantly stayed in contact with me, sometimes waking me up at noon," Baur said. "But those constant conversations were the first time I felt like someone really wanted me to be a part of their program."
 
Baur's visit to Newberry sealed the deal, and he found a home away from home.
 
"It fit me perfectly, and everything worked out where I was able to attend Newberry in the fall," Baur said.
 
As Baur settled into life at Newberry, he quickly realized that the impact of the college extended far beyond the baseball field.
 
The camaraderie with his teammates and the support of his coaches and professors played a crucial role in his development as a student-athlete.
 
"It's just the camaraderie with my teammates and hanging out that I will always remember," Baur said. "We have a ton of great memories that we still joke about to this day."
 
Personal growth and life lessons
 
Baur's time at Newberry was not only about honing his baseball skills but also about learning valuable life lessons that would shape him as a person and professional.
 
"My time at Newberry and being a part of the baseball program really impacted me and shaped me into the person I am today," Baur said. "Here is where I really learned what it takes to be successful in anything you decide to do."
 
The principles of hard work, accountability, and preparation became the cornerstones of Baur's mindset, and he continues to impart these values to the youth athletes he works with today.
 
"I'm still involved in baseball and able to give back to youth baseball players here in South Philadelphia," Baur said. "These are standards that I live by and teach my youth athletes today."
 
Influential figures
 
Throughout his journey at Newberry, Baur acknowledges the countless individuals who played a significant role in his success.
 
From his family, who provided unwavering support despite the distance, to his wife (then girlfriend), who made the long-distance relationship work, Baur was surrounded by a network of love and encouragement.
 
"My family, even though we didn't see each other often, was constantly a phone call away," Baur said. "Good or bad days, they constantly kept my head and my focus where it needed to be."
 
Baur also credits his coaches, teammates, and professors for their guidance and mentorship.
 
"Every single coach I had during my time at Newberry played a role in the player I became," Baur said. "Although I didn't talk much, I was always listening and learning from each and every one of you."
 
Among his teammates, Baur fondly remembers, Wes Camp, who left an indelible mark on him.
 
"Wes Camp and I were completely opposite personalities," Baur said. "But one thing we both did was compete, and playing alongside Wes really brought the best out in me."
 
A legacy of giving back
 
As Baur looks back on his time at Newberry, he is filled with gratitude for the opportunities and experiences that shaped his journey.
 
His advice to current Newberry student-athletes is simple yet profound.
 
"If you are doing what you truly enjoy doing, don't be afraid to put in the work and don't cut corners," Baur said. "Don't be afraid to fail, and if you do, fall forward. Continue to learn each day on and off the field and just work to become the best version of yourself."
 
Baur's story is a testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship, and community, reminding us all of the impact we can have on and off the field.