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Tyler Wardwell, INF, LaSalle, Class of 2017

PBR: Why did you choose Duke?

Wardwell:  I chose Duke because of the incredible academics paired with a great baseball program.  Also, I really like the coaching staff and wanted to play in the ACC.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Wardwell:  Other schools I was considering included UNC, OSU, Virginia Tech, UConn, West Virginia, Michigan State, Grand Canyon, Northwestern, Butler, Harvard, William and Mary, Kent State, Miami of Ohio, Ohio University, Wright State, and Xavier University.

PBR: How much did playing down south play a part in your decision?

Wardwell: Playing down south was positive in making my decision. However, location would not have been the deciding factor.

PBR: Duke is a very prestigious school academically.  How much of a challenge will it be to balance both academics and athletics at the same time?

Wardwell: It will be very challenging to balance both academics and athletics. It will require time management and dedication, but it will be well worth it to be successful at both.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?

Wardwell: I play for Ohio Elite and my most memorable experience this summer was being a participant at the 2015 PBR Future Games in Indianapolis.

PBR:  What person has the greatest impact on your baseball career and why?

Wardwell: My dad has had the greatest impact on my baseball career. He has taught me the game of baseball, spending countless hours helping me improve. My dad has always told me that “it will work out in the end if you put the work in.” This motto has helped me get through hard times in baseball.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher that you have faced?

Wardwell: Grant Macciocchi who pitched for Moeller High School.