James Snipes: Life Beyond the Noise
Written by Aliyah Hill | Photos by Aliyah Hill, James Snipes
James Snipes, a standout baseball pitcher at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU), embodies resilience and determination. Snipes has navigated life's challenges with a steadfast spirit and a passion for baseball that began at a very young age.
Snipes was born and raised in Woodstock, Georgia, where he attended Etowah High School. His journey in baseball began at the tender age of three when he joined little league. By the time he was ten, Snipes was playing travel baseball, showcasing his versatility by playing shortstop and first base. His transition to pitching at age eleven was a significant shift, but one he embraced wholeheartedly. "It was a little bit of a transition, but we made it work," he reflects.
Snipes’ early years were marked by a significant challenge: he has only 8 percent of his hearing. Diagnosed at age four, he has worn hearing aids since then. This early intervention was critical; a Pre-K teacher’s concerns about his speech prompted a hearing test, revealing his hearing loss. Though he has limited memories of hearing fully, Snipes adapted quickly, using hearing aids and his adept lip-reading skills to communicate, with sign language taking a back seat.
Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood in Woodstock, James faced bullying and indifferent treatment, compounded by his hearing aids. “It definitely changed who I was,” he says. "Before middle school, I cared way too much about what everybody had to say and how everybody thought about me. I was bullied every day. Going through that and learning from that made me a better person. It put me in the best position to authentically and unapologetically be myself, and not worry about what others think.”
Without a role model in sports with hearing aids, Snipes found motivation in himself and rare encounters with others who shared his condition. Seeing older people with hearing aids always boosted his spirits, turning into instant conversation starters. “I just feel like I could relate to them. It was an automatic day booster for me,” says Snipes.
Snipes’ path to MVSU was unexpected. Playing on the same travel ball team as a friend who was being recruited by MVSU coaches brought him into their radar. Following an official visit, Snipes decided to commit, a decision he remains grateful for: “I’m glad I did.”
Before arriving at MVSU, Snipes completed two years of dual enrollment at Kennesaw State University, earning 50 credit hours. This head start allowed him to graduate early, a testament to his academic dedication. Snipes earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Broadcasting, graduating with a 3.94 GPA and receiving the “Scholar Award” at the 2023-2024 Mass Communication Honor’s Awards Luncheon.
Snipes credits his sister, Tori, for helping him choose his path. “She wrote down all of the things I was good at, interested in, and my hobbies.” His time at MVSU was filled with opportunities in radio, television, writing, editing, and production, providing a well-rounded education.
Living by the motto "live in the now with no regrets and no fear," Snipes emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between seriousness and enjoyment in both baseball and life. His ability to focus intensely during games, undistracted by external noise, has been a significant advantage, especially during high-pressure situations.
One of Snipes’ proudest moments was being selected to give a speech at the 2024 Athletics Spring Stole Ceremony. Reflecting on his journey and the importance of kindness, he inspired his peers with messages of resilience, teamwork, and adaptability.
Looking ahead, Snipes plans to pursue a master’s degree in Convergence Media at MVSU and then join his father’s construction business, Snipes Enterprises. He also envisions starting a sports podcast and resuming his study of sign language with support from his sister, Tori.
James Snipes' story is one of overcoming adversity and thriving despite challenges. His journey from Woodstock, Georgia, to Mississippi Valley State University is a testament to his resilience, determination, and love for baseball. With his unwavering spirit and focus, Snipes is poised for success in whatever path he chooses, always inspiring others to embrace their true selves and live life to the fullest.