Hunter Simon has made quite the name for himself in his days at Mazon-Verona-Kinsman Middle School — and he's just 13 years old.

Simon recently was a part of the Mavericks baseball team that went to state, which means that he's been to IESA state events in three of the last four seasons. Due to his prowess on the baseball field this fall, Simon was selected by state coaches to play in the inaugural Central Illinois Junior High All-Star Showcase to be played this weekend in downstate Jacksonville.

"This will be my first All-State All-Star game and it feels great to be chosen," Simon said. "I've worked hard for it. I know the other kids have worked hard for it, too, and I'm excited to meet them."