LOUISVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) — It was a welcome home fit for a hero.

That’s what Louisville native and Winston Academy eighth grader Dev Jaiswal has become for the state of Mississippi.

- Advertisement -

This week, Dev stole the hearts of everyone not just in the Magnolia State but in the entire United States with his charm and poise at the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Dev finished as the fifth best speller in the nation in Washington D.C. And on Saturday, the Louisville community welcomed their hero home who was overcome with emotion.

“This has been the best experience of my life,” Dev said. “Thank you for all the support. This is the best trophy that I could receive.”

The welcome home to Louisville also included a warm embrace with his father, Upendra, whom Dev had not seen in a week.

“I’m very proud of him,” Upendra said. “He’s a gift from God. I just want to say thank you.”

And that wasn’t all: the surprises continued as Mississippi State baseball coach Zach Dillon presented Dev with a game-worn jersey and a baseball signed by John Cohen.

“Dev is an unbelievable representative of Mississippi,” Dillon said. “His town and our community are so excited for him and in this moment.

“We’re excited to bring him into our program next spring and we’re looking forward to having him throw out the first pitch of a ball game for us.”

That’s right: Dev Jaiswal will throw out the first pitch of a Bulldog Baseball game next year at Dudy Noble Field!

As Dev warms up his right arm for the special occasion, he’s quick to thank, appreciate and remember all of those who were there for him during his amazing week.

“The community has been so great,” Dev said. “I want to thank everyone. All the support I’ve received and friendships I’ve made. Everything. Thank you. I love to represent my state to the best of my abilities.”

Imagine if we all smiled, laughed and showed the same emotion and appreciate as Dev Jaiswal. It’s just another way the Winston Academy eighth grader continues to inspire us all.