Neil Walker - More Than an Athlete

By Kyle Decker

Opening Day this year is extra special for my long-time best friend, Neil Walker, as he is about to embark on the rare feat of 10 years in Major League Baseball.

I am not only writing this to honor Neil’s decade of excellence on the field but more importantly, to honor him as a person. Neil Walker is more than an athlete; Neil is a father, husband, friend, and all-around great human.

Making millions, gaining fame, and everything that comes with it can quickly change a person (something I have, unfortunately, seen happen to others). Not with Neil, he has not changed since we were just a couple of kids playing baseball, basketball, football, or roller hockey in our Pittsburgh neighborhood. Even as kids, we craved comradery and to be part of a team… so much so that we were ball boys for our brothers’ Pine-Richland High School Basketball team.

Neil and I align on more than a love and passion for sports and success, our values start and end with our families. The Walker Family is a remarkable bunch of people, and it comes as no surprise to those who know Tom, Carolyn, Matt, Sean, Carrie, Niki, and other family members that it is with their support that he is accomplishing this extraordinary milestone.

Neil has been there for me throughout the years when I needed him most. I moved away from Pittsburgh as a sophomore in HS to Columbus, OH, and struggled at first. I moved six times in the first 16 years of my life and with each move, or as time has passed, most relationships faded away, but ours has grown stronger. Neil and our other best friend, Billy White, made it a point to visit me in Granville and surprised me with weekend trips when I was in college at Miami University. These visits, and our frequent phone calls and group texts, have continued to strengthen our bond. Experiences and relationships are what matter most. To create a bond like the one we have, you must invest time and effort.

As Neil transitioned to Major League Baseball and I started with The Job Center Staffing, I faced significant challenges in my career and Neil was (and still is) one of the best listeners. He asks mindful questions and provides great advice. He supports his friends’ success and wants us to be successful in all facets of life. He is also quick to hold us accountable, often reminding me,

“Stay humble or get humbled Deck.”

After our careers were up in running, we were fortunate to marry wonderful ladies and add to our growing families two kids each. Neil cares deeply for his family and those that are close to his family. While in Cincinnati, he always makes a point to be part of my kids’ lives. Once again, while he is exhausted grinding it out day-to-day, he puts in the effort to be more than an athlete and be a great friend. He is very gracious with his time to the communities he has played in, as well to make a positive difference.

I could write a novel on how Neil has positively impacted my life but simply put I am thankful for his continued friendship.

With that said, congrats on 10 years! I can’t wait to ring the bell with you. Go Phillies!

Your Friend,

              Kyle Decker