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Robert Zurawski, SS, De La Salle Collegiate, Class of 2016

PBR: Why did you choose Hillsdale?

Zurawski: After visiting twice, I fell in love with the school and the program. I went with my gut feeling.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Zurawski: Saginaw Valley State, Kalamazoo and Spring Arbor. 

PBR:  Where did the coaches first see you compete and how did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

Zurawski: The first time they saw me was at a PBR event at Northwood I believe. It was all uphill from there. There was always constant communication between us and the relationships have only gotten better from there. 

PBR: What role does the coaching staff expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Zurawski: Hillsdale will be graduating all 3 senior outfielders and their freshman class is loaded with infielders so I will most likely be transitioning to outfield. 

PBR:  What are you individual and team goals for this spring?

Zurawski: As a team, I would like to win the Catholic League first and make a solid run deep into the state playoffs. Personally I'm just looking for a solid year all around, but the team will always be first for me and my teammates. 

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

Zurawski: My dad. My dad has been there for me the whole way, always supporting, but never soft. He's a very blunt guy and tells it how it is but that is what you need to be successful I think. Making mistakes known and working off of them is huge for him. About two years ago he really dove deep into the mental game and that has helped me out immensely, whether it being my plan at the plate or being a good teammate or dealing with failure. He has had a huge influence on me and more than anything, has funded almost all of the recruiting events I've done and I couldn't be more thankful for him. 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Zurawski: I just finished up a 6 year stint with the Grosse Pointe Redhawks and I loved that organization but we fell out. Next summer I will be playing with the Oakland Reds and I could not be more thrilled. My most exciting experience was going down to perfect game in Georgia last summer. It was one of those weekends where the ball was a beach ball for me and that's when baseball is the most fun. 

PBR: What were your stats last season?

Zurawski:  I had a rough school season hitting .212. Summer went much better where I hit .365, .930 OPS, 23 RBI's, 7 doubles and 4 triples. 

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher you have faced?

Zurawski: I think Davis Feldman was the best pitcher I have faced. Davis can bring the heat and then dice you up with a real nice curveball. Great pitcher.