you have to get your work done then–that’s a motivator so you don’t have to stay up late.” Another aspect of time management they’re learning is to be proactive, which is critical when they know they will be missing class for games or the annual spring trip to Tucson, which cuts into three days of classes. All of them spoke to their teachers in advance and turned in the work for days they would be missing before leaving.
“It’s an awesome feeling when you see your professors in the stands cheering you on and talking to your parents.” The baseball coaches remind players to stay on top of their studies because they know how easy it can be to fall behind. But Toninato says he and his teammates understand academics come first at a NCAA Division III school. “We know we’re here for school,” he says. It’s also easier when they see one another studying on the plane or at the hotel or in the library. “When you see other guys working, you’re encouraged to work, too,” Hershey says. “That creates a positive work environment for being a student athlete.” Head baseball coach Jerry Haugen ’76 draws a straight line between academics and athletics. “Guys that pay attention and do the right things on the field do well off the field, too. They have to learn to manage their time if they want to be successful in the classroom. Brett, Logan and Alex have that in common. They did all of the things they had to to take care of their studies. I’m real proud of them.” Even though baseball keeps them busy, it paradoxically provides mental relief. “Baseball serves as an escape,” Hershey says. “When I’m at practice or a game, I’m not thinking about everything else I have to do. It’s an outlet where I don’t have to worry.” That escape can provide fresh energy to hit the books. “Baseball can clear your head of stress,” he says. “The fact you weren’t thinking about school gives you more energy to get work done.” The game itself has specific lessons to teach, such as mental alertness. “In baseball you have to pay attention to little things and always be focused,” Becker says. “Playing baseball and going to school keeps you on your toes. I am always locked in to the task before me. I don’t have any mindless days.”
Brett Becker ’15
Alex Toninato ’15
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