Kamau Neighbor has built a reputation both on the baseball field and within his community for his exceptional athleticism, leadership, and service-driven mindset. A first-year player at the University of Louisville, Kamau’s character and work ethic were quickly recognized when he was voted team captain. Before joining Louisville, Kamau played for California State Northridge, where he started all fifty-four games of the season. As a key player, he slashed .305/.436/.420 and was ranked second on the team in hits, runs scored, and doubles. Known for his consistency, Kamau ranked fourth in the nation in toughest to strike out and twelfth in sacrifice hits. His nineteen-game hit streak and twenty-two-game on-base streak were both remarkable, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure. He also led the team in walks and stolen bases with impressive efficiency, going eight-for-ten in attempts.

Off the field, Kamau’s passion for giving back to others is just as strong. He is deeply committed to helping improve his community and serving those in need. Through the SPAD Association Wheelchair Volunteer Group, Kamau helped elderly and mobility-challenged individuals navigate to their seats during the Louisville football season opener against Austin Peay. Kamau is also an active volunteer with the Louisville Miracle League, an organization that provides children with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities the opportunity to play baseball.

In addition to his work with the Miracle League, Kamau served Thanksgiving meals to less fortunate families in South Louisville with the South Lou Thanksgiving Serve Team. His compassion extended further through his involvement with Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child project, where he helped pack gift boxes to be sent to children worldwide. Kamau’s dedication to youth extends to his volunteer work at the MLB Youth Academy in Compton, California, where he mentored young athletes, helping them develop not only as players but as individuals committed to excelling both on and off the field.

As a mentor at On Deck Batting Cages in Signal Hill, California, Kamau continues to inspire aspiring student-athletes, offering guidance on how to balance academics with sports. Kamau’s service extends to his spiritual life as well; he is an active member of Reach Church in Paradise, California, where he serves on the production and stagehands team while also participating in community outreach.

Kamau’s commitment to serving others is deeply intertwined with his personal values, and his leadership both on the field and in his community reflects his dedication to making a positive impact wherever he goes.

“It’s an honor to have one of our captains selected for the Lou Gehrig Community Impact Team. He’s clearly making a huge impact in our program as well as in the Louisville community. The Gehrig family will be proud to have Kamau as a member of this prestigious team.”

—Dan McDonnell, Head Baseball Coach, Louisville