PBR: What are your current stats for Southside? 

VanSumeren: .400, .580 OBP, 11 RBI, 21 runs, 55 AB, 6 2B, 4 3B, 1 HR, 14 SB, 14 BB

PBR: How has playing for the Summit City Sluggers helped you as a baseball player? 

VanSumeren: The Summit City Sluggers have really helped me play the game better mentally. They taught me the importance of thinking the game. The Sluggers was a great experience, they gave me the opportunity to compete on a national level.

PBR: Why did you choose IPFW?

VanSumeren: I chose IPFW because I believe there is a lot of upside with the program. They have a young team with a good class coming in.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

VanSumeren: I considered; Valparaiso, Wright St., Dayton, Heidelberg, and Manchester

PBR: Where did IPFW first see you compete?

VanSumeren: IPFW has seen me compete throughout my Sluggers career. Every season we would have multiple games out at IPFW, and I've seen Coach Pierce at those games as young as my freshmen year.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play during your first year on campus?

VanSumeren: Coach Pierce is giving me an opportunity to compete for a starting role in the outfield my freshmen year. 

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that will help IPFW?

VanSumeren: My biggest strength as a player is being versatile. I can play in many different roles for my team and will take whatever role I'm needed at IPFW.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

VanSumeren:  My travel coach Dustin Sebastian has had the biggest impact in developing me to be prepared for the next level. 

PBR: What was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

VanSumeren:  The most exciting summer ball experience was being given the opportunity to go to Georgia and play in the CABA World Series. I had the chance to play teams from all around the United States and saw the nation’s best seniors.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher/hitter you have faced in Indiana?

VanSumeren: The most challenging pitcher I've encountered in Indiana is Christian Montgomery.

PBR: What are your goals both individually and for the team going into the 2nd half of your senior season?

VanSumeren: Going in to the final stretch of the season I would like to maintain a .400+ average. My team goals are break the school record in wins and compete in a tough sectional.