EDITOR’S NOTE: The following Sports story is sponsored by the Kenner Dental Group: By Luke Olson Sports Editor Kody Darcy of Kentridge High School was recently selected in the 39th round by the New York Mets in the Major League Baseball (MLB) draft. But due to financial differences on each side, Darcy has opted to play college baseball for Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH, earning a full ride for his athletics and academics. It was a tough decision for the recent graduate, who slashed a .425 batting average with 18 RBIs his senior season. Many teams in the league were in contact with Darcy days before the draft, but their offers were not enough for him to forgo the opportunity to play collegiate baseball. His edict was around a $500,000 signing bonus – but never came to fruition. “I just was really happy with going to Xavier University,” Darcy said. “And didn’t think the money was enough to pull me away from experiencing college baseball.” But, the Mets decided to take Darcy late in the draft, with hopes of an agreement on the signing bonus and not wasted an earlier pick on a kid who would possibly not sign, like Darcy. “The deadline to decide was in the middle of July,” he said. “And getting closer to that deadline, they still hadn’t been able to come up with all the money, so I told them I didn’t want to sign for anything less. They were understanding and said hopefully we can make something work in a few years if I do what I’m capable of doing in school.” If all goes to plan with a healthy and successful collegiate career, you can expect Darcy to declare for the 2020 MLB Draft. Most of the time, college baseball players can not declare for the draft until after their junior or senior seasons. But, if you are old enough after your sophomore season—you are qualified to do so. “I am actually eligible after my sophomore year,” Darcy stated. “So, if things go as planned, I would like to go to the draft after my sophomore year.” For any 18-year old, it’s a hefty life decision at such a young age. There were constant discussions within the family on what the ‘right’ choice was for him. But, there was no deterrent on whether to turn pro or go to college. “They left the decision to me,” he said. “But they definitely were giving me advice and we talked a lot about what is probably the best option. I think we were all mostly on the same page that if I got the money I was asking for I would take it, but if not, I still had a very good option of going to play at Xavier University.” Darcy had multiple college offers, but “fell in love” with the school and its campus. He also saw the trend the baseball program was going in and knew it was the right choice. He finished his high school career playing 92 games for the Chargers with a .359 batting average and a .436 on base percentage. Darcy knocked in a total of 64 runs and scored 80 runs for Kentridge.

ABOUT OUR SPORTS SPONSOR: Dr. William C. Kenner, V

“Having the opportunity to utilize my expertise and help patients achieve optimum, functional oral health is what drives my passion for dentistry.”

About our office: Our patients have a great appreciation for the care that we provide, and many of them have been with the practice since it was opened by my father in 1978. It is extremely rewarding to see those patients entrust our office with their own care, the care of their children, and their friends and family. We strive to provide quality, patient-centered dental care. Our goal is to create a unique dental experience for our patients, where their needs and comfort come first. Each Team member brings their individual element to the office, making everyday entertaining and enjoyable. For the past four years the Kenner Dental Group has been an event sponsor for the Burien Brat Trot, benefiting Highline Schools Foundation. We have also worked to raise awareness of children’s oral health and provided pediatric dental care in the community. I am a Burien native born and raised. My wife Dr. Leigh Kenner, who I met in dental school, and I have been married since October 2009. We have two beautiful children, daughter Brynn and son Liam, along with two dogs, Lilly and Cali. Our house is always a bit busy, but when there is time to relax and get away, our family loves outdoor activities together, watching the Seahawks, traveling to see family in San Diego and Palm Springs, and enjoying the beach along Alki. My individual outdoor passion is fresh-water fly fishing, although I’ve been known to throw saltwater flies off Alki Point and Fauntleroy occasionally. For more info, visit https://www.kennerdentalgroup.com, or call 206-248-1339.
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