HAMILTON – Montana is one of the few states in the country to not play high school baseball. So naturally, it’s one of the toughest places for stars to get seen. Hunter Omlid’s talent on the mound still shined bright enough.
Last week, the Bitterroot Red Sox star made his future plans official. Omlid, his family, friends and teammates gathered at his family’s restaurant, Kodiak Jax in Hamilton, to sign his national letter of intent to play for Boise State.
The two-time all-state pitcher for the Red Sox is also an infielder and an all-state basketball player for the Hamilton Broncs. But he’s excited to focus on his development on the mound.
“I think I have a lot of improvement,” said Omlid. “That’s part of the reason why (Boise State head coach) Gary (Van Tol) was so interested in me, because in Montana we don’t play year-round baseball. And the league here isn’t nearly as competitive as other leagues throughout the country. And I haven’t been exposed to a lot of other things, and he thinks I have a lot more to come. I love baseball, and I feel like I fit better in baseball. So that was my goal, D-1.”
The Broncos give him that chance while also providing a unique opportunity. Boise State is bringing back its baseball team next year after folding the program 40 years ago.
“I think it’s an awesome idea, just to be the first player, set new records. I’ll be on the first team in Boise, so I’m just really excited about it,” said Omlid. “Today’s awesome. It’s not stressful, but really exciting, and just a great opportunity. I’m excited for what’s to come.”
