Hi Melissa & welcome!
Well this could be just a crush, as you don't really know him yet. A crush can feel just like love.
But it might develop into something more.
Friendship?
Romance?
Who knows?
Since you don't know each other, or how you might get along, it's difficult to say.
Best to start with friendship, anyway, I think.
How old are you both?
8th grade is quite young, isn't it?
He is obviously intrigued by you, as he has been told that you like him but what his thoughts are, only he knows.
Since you both like sport, you have something in common ~ something to give you the reason & opportunity to talk to each other.
Try to find a reason to chast with him and see how you get on with each other.
Good luck!