By Ryan Massad
School: Shrewsbury High
Sport: Baseball
Coach: Lee Diamantopoulos
What are your earliest baseball memories?
My earliest memory is pitching when I was 8 years old for the Mariners of the town league.
At what point did you really start taking baseball seriously?
My older brother Brent played baseball, so I started taking it seriously at a very young age. I was probably 9 years old. I'se played nearly year-round since then.
What's it been like playing for Shrewsbury High?
Playing for SHS has been awesome. From freshman year on JV, to my three years on varsity, I'se had a chance to play with some very good coaches and teammates. Each year, we'se qualified for districts, which has given me the opportunity to play in some great games.
What has been the single most memorable game of your young career?
My most memorable game was when I started against Gardner in the first round of the district tournament last season. We won the game 14 – 1.
Which coach has encouraged you to succeed?
Coach Diamantopoulos has helped me the most throughout my career. He really taught me how to pitch, but even more so, how to think on the mound.
What would you consider to be the best part of your game?
The best part of my game would be my changeup. I don's really overpower hitters, so the changeup has allowed me to keep batters off balance.
What other sports do you enjoy playing?
Up until this year, I'se played basketball. I also enjoy playing pickup soccer games with my friends.
What is your favorite class in school?
Accounting was my favorite class in school this year. I like working with numbers, and accounting really challenged me.
Who is your favorite MLB team and player?
My favorite team is the Red Sox, and my favorite player is Barry Zito of the San Francisco Giants. I'se tried to base my pitching mechanics, and style, off his.
