Q and A with Wabash Commit Paul Snyder (Hillsboro)

PBR: Why did you choose Wabash?
Snyder: When I first started looking at schools, academics was my main priority and Wabash College has a great reputation. On the baseball side I really liked Wabash because of the great facilities, they just added a new baseball field last year, and they play in the North Coast Athletic Conference which is one of the best Division 3 conferences in America. Coach Stevens the head coach at Wabash is also a very enthusiastic coach who wants to develop players on and off the field. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Snyder: I was considering Cornell, Brown, Grinnell, and Gettysburg College.

PBR: Where did Wabash first see you compete?
Snyder: I first contacted the coaches and sent them some game footage, they then pursued me throughout summer and fall baseball.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play during your first year on campus?
Snyder: The coaches expect me to be able to contribute to the team.  Wabash is graduating John Holm an All American first baseman and P.J. Tyson a 4x All conference catcher. I will have an opportunity to compete for a spot at multiple positions.

PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that will help at the next level?
Snyder: My biggest strength is definitely my hitting, however, my work ethic and passion for the game helps me out the most at the next level.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?
Snyder: My family supports me 100% in everything I do. But I think Rocky Curnayn, my hitting and catching coach, has had the biggest impact on me, helping me develop into a better player. 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience?
Snyder: Last summer I played for the Storm Club and one of the best memories was playing in the Pony regional tournament. I caught and called a no hitter for Dillon Sears. It was one of the most exciting games I have played in.

PBR: What are your goals both individually and for the team going into your senior season?
Snyder: As far as team goals, we definitely want to make a run in the playoffs. I think that's a goal for every team. We have 8 returning seniors so we should have a pretty good chance of doing well. As far as individual goals I want to receive All State honors and help my team win as many games as possible.

PBR: What were your stats last season for HIllsboro?
Snyder: Last year I hit 517 with 5 homeruns and a fielding percentage of 987.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher you have faced in Ohio?
Snyder: Nate Brunty is a tough pitcher, partly because we played together for 5 years. I know his stuff and he knows my weaknesses. Last fall I had a 14 pitch at bat against him, the last 4 pitches were 3-2 curveballs.