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Heilman named Bicentennial Citizen of the Week

Last Updated on December 6, 2016 by cassnetwork

bicentennialOne of the most dominant names in Indiana prep and collegiate pitching is this week’s recipient of a special award.

Aaron Heilman, 38, who starred for Logansport High School before heading off to a storied career at Notre Dame, has been named Bicentennial Citizen of the Week. Heilman was drafted by the New York Mets and pitched them within an inning of the World Series after he reached the Major Leagues in 2003. He later pitched in relief for the Chicago Cubs, his childhood favorite team, and the Arizona Diamondbacks.

“Aaron was a pitcher I really enjoyed watching personally because he had such control of a game when he pitched,” said Mayor Dave Kitchell, who watched many of his games at Notre Dame. “From the outset of his college career, it was clear he had the right stuff to get to the next level. His career was a tribute to our local baseball program and schools, as well as his family.”

Heilman was named Gatorade Player of the Year in Indiana Baseball in 1997 when he went 11-1 with a 1.06 ERA and 105 strikeouts in just 79 innings. He went 23-7 with Walton Post 418 in the American Legion competition, tossing a perfect game as a freshman.

Heilman was a freshman All-American at Notre Dame and led the nation with the lowest ERA for relief pitchers. He is one of only two Notre Dame baseball players to be named All-American twice. During his career, Notre Dame was ranked No. 1 in baseball. He received his degree from Notre Dame in 2001.

He is the son of Joe and Deborah Heilman.

Bicentennial Citizens of the Week are honored throughout the year for their recognition statewide, nationwide or worldwide. Aaron will receive a certificate from the Mayor’s Office and an Indiana state flag.

SOURCE: News release from Logansport Mayor Dave Kitchell

Cass County Online