In 2001, Mets third baseman David Wright was named an Under Armour All American. Now, more than ten years later, he’s leading Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Last season, senior Nick Duarte was granted the same coveted achievement.
“Being an Under Armour All American was an honor. I got to play in the national games in Arizona representing the Northeast, and I met many professional players at the ceremony,” said Duarte.
Duarte, a catcher, hopes to follow up his 2012 campaign, where he hit for a .314 average.
“He is one of our most talented players. He has the ability to hit for average as well as for power. He has one of the strongest arms on the team and is a versatile player. He is not only a great catcher, but can also play the outfield at a very high level,” said Coach Holzer.
However Duarte isn’t just a leader on the diamond, he is also leads off the field.
“In addition to his skills, he is one of the hardest workers on the team and has matured into a leader,” said Holzer.
Duarte was recently named captain by members of the squad.
“I handle my responsibility as a captain by being on the same page as the players and coaches at all times. We all have a great relationship with each other which also makes my job easier,” said Duarte.
“He’s the most dedicated player on the team and it’s evident that he’s gone through a lot of preperation to make a statement in his final season. It’s a privilege to play with him,” said sophomore Andrew Chou.
His dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed by the coaches.
“The two things that gave most impressed me this year is his work ethic and his leadership. Nick is a team player and is always trying to do what is best for the team. I think the other guys look up to him and want to work harder because of him,” said Holzer.
Duarte will play at Siena College in the spring of 2014.