Matthew Hassaj '22 Recruiting Profile

    I'd have to say that the people who have had the most influence on who I am would be my parents.  I was brought up to be respectful, helpful and appreciative. I was taught not to give up or quit and if you make a commitment to fulfill it while doing it at your best at all times.

    Like other kids I started my career of baseball as a child playing t-ball. I naturally took to it.  My grandfather excelled in baseball and had the opportunity to take his skills to the highest level, but things were different in the 40's and his father wouldn't let him pursue the once in a lifetime opportunity. I like to believe that I inherited his natural abilities,  understanding and love of the game. I was big for my age, physically and strength wise,  so I always ended playing up with the older boys. I didn't fit in. The fact that I could play with and outplay most of the older boys didn't sit well with a lot of the parents and coaches.  This made things difficult for me but made me a better and stronger person and a better baseball player. 

    I have two coaches/trainers that have played at the professional level and they have said I am one of the most coachable players they have ever worked with and that I am a hard worker. I am eager to learn and improve myself and my team.

    I love the game and would love to play college baseball. I think I have what it takes to succeed.  Long term I want to stay involved with the game as much as I could, at the least through sports management or analytics.