Garrett Koutsopoulos, RHP, Vermillion HS, Class of 2013

PBR: Why did you choose Tiffin?

Koutsopoulos: I chose Tiffin because of its impressive combination of academics and athletics. The atmosphere of the college was nice and the coaching staff really impressed me.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Koutsopoulos: Ashland, Ball State, Morehead state, Baldwin Wallace.

PBR:  Where did Tiffin first see you compete?

Koutsopoulos: I believe Tiffin first saw me at a PBR showcase. They then invited me to pitch for them at the college to further review my pitching abilities. 

PBR: Coach Wilkins is beginning his first year at the helm as the Head Coach of the Dragons.  How does it feel to be a part of his first recruiting class?

Koutsopoulos: It feels great being a part of this class. The talent in this class is very impressive and it shows that Tiffin is committed to getting better each year.

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

Koutsopoulos: They expect me to show what I can do and compete for time on the mound as a freshman. They expect me to have a positive impact on the team.   

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

Koutsopoulos: I think my biggest strength as a ballplayer is that I will use my knowledge of the game to do whatever it takes to win. I give 100% effort everyday. 

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

Koutsopoulos: My father. First off I'd like to thank him for all he has done. He is a perfectionist and has always been there to make sure I play the right way to make me a better player. He really knows his stuff and both of us are always looking to improve.

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

Koutsopoulos: I play for the T3 Rays coached by Ed Konopka. My most exciting experience as a player was playing with the 14u Lake Erie Bulldogs. We played in a 16u tournament and I pitched 5 innings in relief of shut out ball two days after having surgery on my feet. We were down 5-0 and came back to win 6-5 against a 16 year old team.

PBR:  Now that you have made your college decision what are your goals going into your final high school baseball season?

Koutsopoulos: My goals are to have a winning team and a fun season. I plan to work on my game and prepare myself for college ball as well.

PBR: What were your stats for this spring season at Vermillion?

Koutsopoulos: 61.1 Innings. 8 Complete Games. 64 Strikeouts. 14 walks. 1.93 ERA. 4-5 Record.

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

Koutsopoulos: The talent in Ohio is phenomenal. But the toughest hitters I have faced have been from the Cincy Flames team. Every year their lineup is the toughest to face. Top to bottom they all make solid contact.