Rocktown's Santana Perry Commits to Concord for College Baseball

Rocktown senior Santana Perry signed to continue his athletic and academic career at Division II Concord during Tuesday afternoon’s signing ceremony at Rocktown High School.

Playing college baseball has been a goal for Perry since childhood. He realized the dream was within reach during the summer following his sophomore year, when he performed in front of an increased number of college coaches while preparing for his junior season.

“I really started to realize that I could actually get to the next level like I dreamed of,” Perry said.

“That summer, I was playing in front of more college coaches, getting ready to come into my junior year, where I could actually speak with college coaches — I feel like that was the moment when I knew that I could actually do this.”

Perry first caught the attention of Concord head coach Drew Bailey while playing shortstop at a Valley Baseball Scout tournament. Following subsequent tournament appearances, Perry attended a pro day at Concord where he impressed the staff, though Bailey’s concluding remarks sealed his decision.

“I knew that I really liked the program after Coach Bailey gave his speech to every athlete that was at the pro day,” Perry said.

“I liked how intense he was and how much he wants to push his athletes and the environment that he likes to build around his team. That’s just really what [did] it for me.”

For Rocktown head coach Kevin Navedo, the signing marks the third consecutive year he has helped a senior secure a college commitment. Navedo praised both Perry’s on-field abilities and his character within the school community.

“This is why we do it,” Navedo said.

“We come out every day and just try to build them to that level. My goal is always to get my seniors committed to go play somewhere.”

Navedo added, “He’s every single part of the culture and community that we want to build here. I’ve never heard any complaints about him. The way he carries himself on the field is the same person he carries outside.”

With his collegiate plans finalized, Perry turns his focus to his senior season with the Raptors. He will share the field with his younger brother, Xavier, before making the transition to Division II baseball next year.

“He’s definitely going to be in the lineup every single day,” Navedo said.

“I’m excited to see what he’s going to do this year but I’m even more excited about what he’s going to do in the next four [years].”

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