In front of family, teammates, coaches, and supporters who have watched his rise from Little League fields to varsity success, Midway High School senior Carson Tew made it official. The Raider standout signed his national letter of intent to continue his baseball career at the University of Mount Olive, taking the next step in a journey built on steady growth, quiet leadership, and an unwavering work ethic.
For his parents, Eric and Gina Tew, the moment was the culmination of years of sacrifice, countless practices, and a belief that their son’s dedication would eventually carry him to this milestone.
“We’re super proud of Carson,” Eric Tew said. “He’s worked hard to get to this milestone. He’s put in the work in practice and in travel ball, and he’s just thankful to be able to continue to play.”
The proud father added that Carson hasn’t walked the road alone. His younger brother has always watched him closely, learning beside him as the two pushed each other. “They’ve always worked well together,” he said. “They practiced growing up together, and they’re a good team.”
Both parents said Mount Olive is the perfect fit — close enough to home for support, but strong enough to challenge him.
“It’s close by, so we can still go see him during the week if we need to, and on the weekends for sure,” his dad said. “We’re glad the opportunity is close to home.”
Mrs. Tew echoed that sentiment, calling the moment emotional and deeply meaningful.
“I’m so proud of the dedication and the grit he’s shown since he was a little boy,” she said. “Just seeing his dream come true means everything.”
She’s watched his growth not just physically, but in character and faith.
“Carson has grown into a mature young man. He loves Jesus. He’s a good individual on and off the field,” she said. “And I love the idea that I can just hop in the car and get to him at a moment’s notice.”
Midway baseball coach Justin Carroll didn’t hesitate when reflecting on what Tew has meant to the program. He’s been a varsity contributor from the moment he arrived.
“Carson has been a hard worker since day one,” Carroll said. “As soon as he got here, he was stepping on a varsity field and was ready to go. He’s just a great ball player.”
Carroll said Tew embodies the spirit of Raider baseball: tough, disciplined, and committed. He believes Mount Olive’s culture will suit him perfectly.
“I was thinking today that just 12 months from now, he’ll have had a season under his belt at the next level,” Carroll said. “Mount Olive is a great fit for him. Their culture is similar to ours. He’s going to go there and compete to get on the field from day one, just like he did as a freshman here. He does so many of the little things right, and that’s what will help him succeed.”
Travel baseball coach Danny Boone has coached hundreds of kids, but he describes Tew in rare terms.
“He’s progressed on a pace consistent with where he started, because he was always above average,” Boone said. “He’s not the kid that wasn’t great and got really good. He’s the kid that started out pretty good and just kept getting better and better.”
Then came the trait Boone says sets Tew apart from almost everyone he’s coached.
“He’s the most clutch player I’ve ever had,” Boone said. “Whenever you needed a base hit with runners on second and third and two outs, Carson would get up to the plate and bring in one or two runs. He’s always been that kid.”
Boone said Tew’s attitude is as strong as his game.
“He’s super positive. Always wanting to learn. Always wanting to hustle. He’s just about it,” Boone said. “And he’s not going to get outworked. He’ll be solid at the next level.”
For all the praise, Tew remains grounded. Hearing those words from the people who helped shape him left him humbled.
“It’s very humbling,” he said. “I’ve been working hard my whole life, and it’s nice to see it pay off.”
He’s eager for the challenge ahead.
“I’m very excited. I’m ready to get to work next fall,” he said.
And for him, Mount Olive isn’t a stepping stone. It’s home.
“I feel comfortable being near here,” Tew said. “I love it there, and I plan to play there all four years.”
Seeing friends and classmates show up to support him made the moment even more meaningful.
“I love them boys,” he said with a grin. “I’d do anything for them. It means a lot for me to be there for them and for them to be here for me.”
Tew carries big dreams and every intention of continuing to chase them.
“I’ve always had major goals,” he said. “Always have.”