WHO WE ARE
The Chandler “Chuck” Bakley & Reed Harter Heart of the Game Scholarship Award is a nonprofit initiative established to honor two young men whose lives were defined by commitment, integrity, and a deep respect for the game of baseball.
Founded in their memory, the Heart of the Game Scholarship Award supports high school baseball players pursuing collegiate opportunities. The scholarship recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate dedication in the classroom, commitment to their sport, and strong character on and off the field.
Through scholarship funding and community-supported fundraising efforts, we invest in students who reflect the values Chandler and Reed lived by — responsibility, leadership, and respect for others.
At its core, the Heart of the Game Scholarship Award is rooted in the belief that the impact of the game extends far beyond the field. By supporting education and athletics, we help ensure Chandler’s and Reed’s legacy continues through the next generation of student-athletes.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to create opportunity through legacy easing the financial burden of higher education while recognizing the qualities that truly define the heart of the game.
Reed was the kind of person who made people feel seen. Born on February 27, 1997, and raised on a farm near Colome, South Dakota, he grew up grounded in hard work, family, and responsibility. Early mornings and long days shaped him, along with the quiet understanding that you show up, do your part, and take care of the people around you. From a young age, Reed led not by demanding attention, but by earning trust.
Sports were a defining part of Reed’s life, though they were never just about winning. He competed in football, basketball, track, and baseball, earning recognition as a three-sport All-Stater and becoming the all-time leading scorer in Colome Cowboys basketball history. What mattered most, however, was how he played with intensity, passion, and unwavering loyalty to his teammates. In 2025, Reed was inducted into the South Dakota High School Baseball Hall of Fame, a meaningful honor that reflected both his talent and the way he carried himself in the game. Baseball, especially, was where Reed felt most at home, giving everything he had and standing shoulder to shoulder with those beside him.
That same dedication carried into the classroom. After graduating from Colome High School in 2016, Reed pursued History Education at Dakota Wesleyan University, where he excelled as both a student and an athlete. An honor roll student every semester, he later earned his Master’s in Educational Administration. Following college, Reed worked as a teacher and coach in Ethan, South Dakota. Students gravitated toward Mr. Harter because he genuinely cared — believing in them, holding them to high standards, and supporting them wholeheartedly. His influence reached far beyond lesson plans or seasons.
Above all, Reed cherished his life with his wife, Mikayla. He adored being a husband and treasured the quiet moments at home, especially those shared with their rescued cat, Mr. Binx. A proud uncle, loyal friend, and constant source of encouragement, Reed gave 100% to everything he did. Not out of obligation, but because that was simply who he was.
About Reed Harter
Chandler “Chuck” Bakley lived life fully and without hesitation. Born on May 5, 1998, and raised in Martin, South Dakota, Chuck grew up surrounded by family, hard work, and wide-open spaces. He was the kind of person who seemed naturally good at whatever he tried. Sports, work, or a friendly competition. But what stood out most was the enthusiasm and effort he brought to everything. Chuck had an “all-in” approach to life, showing up with confidence, humor, and an unmistakable presence.
Chuck loved being active and outdoors. From football, wrestling, and baseball to hunting, fishing, and summers spent working on the family farm alongside his grandpa, he embraced the kind of life that values grit, responsibility, and time well spent. Baseball was a constant for Chuck, and he proudly played amateur baseball with the Winner/Colome Pheasants. Whether on the field, the golf course, or in a casual game of cards, Chuck competed hard, laughed often, and made every moment count.
That same drive carried into his career. After graduating from Dakota Wesleyan University with a degree in Ag Business, Chuck continued his education in Power Line Construction and Maintenance before beginning his career as an apprentice lineman with Central Electric Cooperative. He took pride in his work and the life he was building. One rooted in effort, dependability, and showing up for others.
Above all, Chuck valued his people. He married the love of his life, Angie, in October of 2024, and cherished the life they were building together in Mitchell. Chuck was deeply loyal to his family and friends, intentional with his time, and generous with his attention. He made sure the people around him felt valued, included, and appreciated. Chuck’s life was marked by energy, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to living fully.
