Personal Statement
Having the opportunity to play baseball in Japan has been an amazing experience. Playing baseball all my life in the states had me one-sided on the field and in life. Being able to see the different styles of the game, and being able to experience both first hand has really molded me into a better person. Knowing and applying the knowledge base of the Japanese style and American style of baseball has really helped me raise the level of my playing ability.
On one hand, I do miss the friends I grew up and played travel ball with back in the Quad Cities. On the other hand, it has helped me grow a lot, personally, academically and athletically. I am out of my comfort zone and I have to adapt to new team mates, coaches and philosophies on the game, as well as new standards and teachers in a strange new scholastic environment. I feel that having to work through these things now will help very much to prepare me for the challenges I will face moving into a college program. Until then, I am continuing to dedicate myself to learning as much of the game as I can. My profile lists my positions as P and SS, however, between my HS team and my Japanese team, I have game time at every position on the field.
I also have interests outside of baseball, I played first chair cello for the Quad City Youth Philharmonic Orchestra and I’ve earned my first degree black belt in tae-kwon-do. Some people might wonder if these activities have any bearing on baseball. I feel they all have one thing in common, they reinforce the dedication it takes to perform anything at the highest levels. This is what I can bring to your program, my heart, dedication and desire to perform at the highest possible level!
