NCSA caught up with rising baseball star Steve Pollakov to talk about his high school career and the opportunity to compete at the next level.
NCSA: What motivates you before a big game?
Pollakov: Before a big game I try to think of all the games I have played under a lot of pressure and came out on top. I also listen to a playlist that gets me in my "zone".
NCSA: What are you looking forward to if and when you get the opportunity to play at the collegiate level?
Pollakov: I'm looking forward to playing against great competition, challenging myself to get better, and helping my team be successful.
NCSA: Why did you get involved in baseball?
Pollakov: I got started with baseball because of my older sister. When I was two years old and my sister was eight, I was jealous that she got to play softball. My dad then started to toss plastic balls for me to hit.
NCSA: Tell us about what you've learned since being with NCSA.
Pollakov: I have learned that you have to take initiative and contact coaches on your own. Also, I learned how important grades are in the recruiting process. I didn't realize how much coaches look at your academics.
NCSA: What are your goals athletically, academically and in your community for the rest of the school year?
Pollakov: My biggest goal athletically, besides playing college baseball, is to help my high school team win its 3rd straight Regional Championship. Academically, I would like to maintain my high GPA and challenge myself in the classroom. I also plan to continue tutoring students in my school to assist them in reaching their academic goals.
