Badge of honor
for Judge senior

By Melissa Yerkov
Times Sports Editor

His 83-mph fastball protects the Crusaders on the baseball diamond.
But in a few months, Frank Leaden will make a career of protecting the streets of Philadelphia.
The Father Judge senior plans to enter the Police Academy after receiving his high school diploma in June.
"I’ve always wanted to be a police officer," said Leaden. "That’s what my dad does, and it’s what I wanted to do my whole life."
Leaden’s father, a Philadelphia police officer for 18 years now, has set an impressive example for his son.
"I want to follow in my dad’s footsteps," said Leaden, who will take the police exam on June 16. "I plan to just start off on the streets and work hard to get promoted."
Before the Rhawnhurst resident puts on his police uniform, he still has some things to accomplish in a red-and-white Crusaders jersey.
"At the end of my freshman season I came up to varsity and suited," said Leaden. "I got a little bit of time my sophomore and junior year. But this year should be a really good year for me."
So far, it’s looking like a promising season.
When he is not playing first base, Leaden is switching up his three pitches on the mound. His impressive fastball, change-up and curveball held Cardinal Dougherty to just four hits during the five-inning game on April 11.
"I’ve been pitching as long as I can remember," said Leaden. "It’s the best part of the game for me."
His offensive skills aren’t too shabby either. Leaden had a single, double and triple during the game, helping Judge to a 12-2 romp over the Cardinals.
"Frank has done a really nice job for us," said Tim Ginter, who is in his first year as head coach of the Crusaders. "He’s a very positive person. He keeps the players motivated during the game."
Leaden’s assertive attitude and teamwork skills are strong assets to have both on and off the baseball field.
"Frank seems to have his career path pretty much picked," said Ginter. "And I think he’s the type of kid who will excel at pretty much anything he puts his mind to. I wish him all the best."
Before he vows to serve and protect the people of Philadelphia, Leaden still has time to enjoy being a high school student athlete. He has some high hopes for the Crusaders this year.
"The team looks great so far, and I think we’ll do well this season," he said. "We’re making all the plays. The pitchers are throwing good. And we’re hitting a lot."
Along with nine other seniors, this will be Leaden’s final season in a Crusaders uniform. At the moment, with that victory over the Cardinals, the team is on a five-game winning streak.
"We have a strong team this year," said Ginter. "Of course, it’s always great to see the seniors have a successful season. And I wish all of them the best in their career paths after Judge."
The real world is right around the corner for the Crusader veterans. And while 18-year-old Leaden is excited for what the future holds, he’s not in any rush to leave his Judge teammates.
"I really want to just concentrate on baseball for now," said Leaden. "I plan on going to the Police Academy and I’m looking forward to following in my dad’s footsteps. But for now, I’m really enjoying just playing baseball." ••
Sports editor Melissa Yerkov can be reached at 215-354-3035 or myerkov@phillynews.com