Derek Hendrixson, RHP/INF, Centerville HS, Class of 2013

PBR: Why did you choose Heldelberg?

Hendrixson: After contacting me, I immediately built a relationship with the coaches at Heidelberg.  I also felt extremely comfortable on campus when I first visited and could see this being my home for my first 4 years of college.  In general, Heidelberg not only provides great academics but a great baseball program as well, which played a major part in my decision.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Hendrixson: My decision on where to attend school fell between Heidelberg, Mount Union, and Marietta.  I was also contacted by a couple of Division II & NAIA schools but ultimately didn't feel like they were the right fit for me.

PBR: Where did the Coach Palm first see you? How did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

Hendrixson:  The coaches at Heidelberg first saw me at PBR events, but also watched me at some points throughout my previous summer season.  One of the assistant coaches coached me two summers ago so we had already established a baseball relationship prior to being contacted by Heidelberg.  Once I visited Heidelberg and I had the opportunity to meet Coach Palm and the rest of the coaching staff I really felt comfortable there. 

PBR: Now that you have your commitment out of the way, what are your goals both individually and for the team going into your senior season?

Hendrixson: I have very high goals set for myself and our team this year.  I think we have a very good chance of competing for a state championship.  I want to continue to build my strength and develop my skill levels each and every day. 

PBR: Heidelberg baseball has had a lot of success in the OAC.  How does it feel to be a part of such a great baseball program?

Hendrixson: I am very excited to be part of such a great program and I am looking forward to helping the program in any way I can.  With all of the success that Heidelberg has had in the OAC, it feels good to know that I will be able to play a part in their success in the years to come.

PBR:  What role does the coaching staff expect from you in your first year on campus?

Hendrixson: I'm expected to contribute to the program right away.  Whether in the middle infield, or on the hill as a pitcher, I will contribute to the team and hopefully play a major role in their success immediately.

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

Hendrixson: Last year I played for the Butler County Bombers, but this upcoming summer I will be playing for the Ohio Elite.  My most memorable experience from the summer was most definitely competing and bonding with my teammates, as well as building a relationship with my coaches.

PBR: What were your stats this spring season at Centerville?

Hendrixson:  Hitting - .294 BA, .442 OBP  Pitching - 3 wins, 1 loss, 1 save, 23 IP, 27 K's, 2.13 ERA, 0.96 WHIP

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter that you have faced in Ohio ?

Hendrixson: I would have to say the toughest hitter I have faced in Ohio is Tom Stoffel.