Name: Cristian Corcione

Grade: 12

Sport: Baseball

How did you start playing?

I started playing when I was four, because my dad has grown up playing, and I kind of just fell in love with it.

What position do you play?

I play second base, but I also play middle and field.

How long have you been playing?

I have been playing since I was four.

Have you played any other positions?

I can also play outfield as well.

Do you want to play in college and or, do you know what school you’re attending?

Yes, I am playing at Kean University next year.

Do you play any other sports?

I also play soccer and basketball.

Do you play outside of school?

Yes, I do play outside of school.

Do you like playing in school or outside of school better?

I enjoy playing inside of school better because I can play with my friends and support my school. It gives me the opportunity to play for my town and help our school win.

What was the hardest thing to learn about the sport?

For me, the hardest thing is learning to accept defeat and failure.

What is your favorite thing about the sport?

My favorite thing about baseball would be the fact that it is my passion and just something I love to do and look forward to.

What was your greatest achievement in the sport?

I would say that committing to play at Kean is an extremely amazing achievement for me because my dream has always been to play at college level.

What was the greatest moment you had during the season?

My greatest moment so far would be hitting my first ever career home run.

How do you stay in shape?

Well I also play soccer and basketball, so being a three sport athlete helps me stay in shape and healthy.

Is it hard for you to balance school and baseball?

It was at first, but over the years I’ve learned how to time manage properly and I have been able to balance my workload.

Do you ever think about going pro?

Yes, of course I would go to the professional level, it has been a dream of mine for all I could remember to make it up to that level. I know that it is a challenge but I’d love to make it.

Do you have any before game superstitions or rituals?

I don’t really have rituals, but this year I have been wearing eye black every game and it has been beneficial so far.

How are the season stats so far?

Currently we are 10 and 7 and we have three games left. So far we have clenched the tournaments so we are in the playoffs. Hopefully, we can get in a hot streak and make it farther.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS (STATISTICAL OR OTHERWISE) FROM THE MONTH:

• Leads or is second on team in every major offensive statistical category including:
• .425 Batting Average
• .500 On-Base Percentage
• Nominated for State All-Star Game and Shore Conference Carpenter Cup Team
• Plays a fantastic defensive second base.

ATHLETE’S IMPACT ON THE TEAM’S OVERALL SUCCESS:

“Cristian has been the most integral part of the team’s success in April. His character and leadership and positive attitude reassures his teammates. He leads by example with his work ethic as well as his statistical output. He is a true captain and puts the team above all else.”