Adapting through autism: Redmon perseveres as Heritage’s ace

MONROEVILLE, Ind. (WANE) – Steve Redmon still remembers the challenges that his son, Noah, endured as a child.

The Heritage High School senior had fixated behaviors, getting upset over anything that deviated from his every day routine.

He remembers Noah being independent during playtime. His son made up tournaments using mini helmets that he collected.

“(Noah) was very rigid and could do things by himself more than other kids could,” Steve said. “He was just a special kid that didn’t need the same things, or needed more than other kids.”

Noah was diagnosed with autism at a young age. The developmental disability has a wide range of symptoms and severity, but it can affect how a person functions in society. Steve and his wife enrolled Noah into programs to get their son specialized care.

Meanwhile, Noah took time to understand autism and how it affects him as he grew older.

“Trying to keep my emotions down, keep my mind right and cope with everything that happens,” Noah said.

One way that Noah copes with his emotions is through sports. The Heritage student has been active most of his life by playing football, basketball and baseball.

Through time, Noah discovered his true passion on the diamond, specifically on the bump.

Redmon has developed into an ace for the Patriots’ program. Last season, Redmon helped Heritage win sectional and regional titles en route to the 3A semi-state title game. This spring, Redmon has a 2.21 ERA with a team-high 37 strikeouts. He’s also allowed six runs and 10 hits heading into this week.

Succeeding as a pitcher takes discipline, control and plenty of resilience. As an athlete living with autism, Redmon is an inspiration to his teammates and coaches.

“I can’t say enough about the things he’s overcome,” said Heritage’s long-time baseball head coach Dean Lehrman. “What a great kid, what a great message to that segment that you can accomplish a lot despite whatever’s holding you back.”

Redmon’s baseball journey is far from over. He signed with Indiana Tech back in February and hopes his story of overcoming autism can inspire other athletes who are diagnosed with a developmental disability.

“It just lets them know that you can do anything you want, even if you have autism,” said Noah.

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