Castle Outfielder Loves The Game And Loves His Knights

It’s well-known in the Castle program that out-fielder Billy Kerkau can cover a lot of ground. The senior-to-be also knows how to finish plays.

“He’s a good defensive outfielder,” head coach Rocky Fraticelli said. “He made a couple of diving catches in the state tournament against (eventual champion) Waiakea that kept us in the game. That’s his strength. He plays with enthusiasm.”

Kerkau is one reason why the Knights figure to be a major factor in the OIA next spring. Currently, they are 4-1 in American Legion League play, which runs into early July when the playoffs begin. The team returns to action at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday when it visits Kailua.

Kerkau recently took some time away from the practice field to visit with MidWeek‘s Windward Islander.

Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? My dad (Bill). He’s coached me my entire life and always taken me to all of my games and supported me in everything I’ve done.

What is your earliest sports-related memory? When I was 9, I was playing Minor A (Little League) baseball, and our team was trailing by three runs in the bottom of the last inning. I hit a walk-off grand slam (to win the game). That’s the one I remember.

What area of your game will you focus on in the off-season? I will be working on my hitting – especially hitting to the opposite field – because I didn’t think I did that well (offensively) last season. I plan to be in the batting order next season. It will be my senior year, and I want to help the

What is your least favorite household chore? Washing the dishes. I hate washing dishes.

What movie could you watch over and over? Rudy. I love that movie.

What’s in your iPod? Eminem and Nicki Minaj, I would say they are two of my favorites.

Do you play video games? How do you spend your free time? I don’t usually play video games. Once in awhile, I’ll play my dad in Little League World Series on Wii. I mostly play baseball and watch baseball 24/7.

What person in history would you like to meet? Babe Ruth.

If you could have your pick, what celebrity would you choose as your prom date? Nicki Minaj.

You’re stuck on Kahoolawe and can only have an endless supply of one food. What would it be? That’s easy. Rice.