Austin Szink, C, Jackson HS 

PBR: Why did you choose Walsh?

Szink:  After visiting with Coach Mead and talking to current/former players I felt it was a good fit.  I also liked the school and the opportunity to come in and play my freshman year.

 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Szink: Heidelberg, Muskingum, Tiffin, and Mount Union

 

PBR: What distance from home a factor in your decision?

Szink: I never based my decision on distance, but it was a huge benefit to have my parents and friends right down the street. They can watch me play and visit as often as they want.

 

PBR: Where did the coaches first see you? How did your relationship develop with their coaching staff?

Szink: My Junior year playing for Jackson.  One of my coaches played at Walsh and got me interested.  I talked to Coach Mead and have been in contact with him for a while. 

 

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

Szink: Coach Mead and the staff expect me to come in and compete my freshman year for the starting catcher role.

 

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

Szink: My biggest strength as a player is being a leader.  I also do a good job of handling the pitchers and their different personalities. 

 

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

Szink: In the summer, I played for the Jackson Bears Summer Ball team.  Being a team consisted of all kids from one school, we competed with the toughest teams in the state and held our own, but my favorite memories was being with my teammates/friends and creating memories that will last forever.

 

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?

Szink: I don’t necessarily believe in individual goals, but I strive to be one of the best in the Federal League.  This is a team sport and all that matters is the Jackson Polar Bears winning the Federal League and making a run in the state tournament.