Bruce Mistler '25 Recruiting Profile

Baseball. This sport can mean, teach, and show many different things for everyone. For me, baseball is a way of life. No one can immediately pick up a bat and play at a competitive level, nor could someone grab a ball and throw 90 miles an hour. Baseball is hard work. It requires perseverance, dedication, as well as a positive mental mindset. I’ve translated these traits into my journey as a student, an athlete, and a person. In youth sports I realized quickly that athleticism didn’t come naturally to me like it did for some of my peers. I was passed over many times by coaches and my peers for opportunities. Even though I wasn’t getting those opportunities I still supported the team and my teammates 100% of the time. The same translated to the classroom. During the transition of middle school I was told that “maybe you are just an average student” in regard to my academic performance.  These statements and opinions drove me crazy. I made a commitment to myself that would do everything possible to be the athlete and student I wanted to be to make my dreams happen. I researched and implemented a training & workout plan that was tailored to what my body needed. I’m not like everyone else, at 13 I was over 6’ tall with a size 14 shoe, (at an age where you're awkward to begin with I was even more awkward).  I had to, and will continue, to put in the work every day to be the player I want to be.  I began engaging with my teachers during class, which made it easier to ask for help.  I utilize the free time I have during the school day to meet with teachers, review assignments, and ask questions.  All to better myself as a student athlete. I believe you need to make sure you enjoy and want what you're putting effort and heart into. I know now that I desire and want to put my heart and all into being the best and hardest working player on the field, as well as the hardest working student in the classroom. Baseball is so much more than a game, it teaches us the hard life lessons that no one can teach us. I love being a student athlete because it constantly challenges me and pushes me to be the best version of myself.