AOTW: Matt Reinert, sophomore baseball player
The Beacon: Male Athlete of the Week 2/19 – 3/11 Why Matt Reinert was selected: Matt Reinert started the team’s spring break to Myrtle Beach going 11-for-11 and finished with an overall average of .458.
Name: Matt Reinert
Year: Sophomore
Major: Marketing
Minor: Management
Hometown: Telford, Pa.
High School: Souderton Area HS
Position: Center Field
Driving force to come to Wilkes?
The driving force for me to come to Wilkes was the combination of high academic standards of the school as well as the opportunity to play baseball. Being a business student, I felt that Wilkes offered lots of resources to be successful once my baseball career came to an end. There were lots of other things that factored into my decision such as proximity to my hometown.
Post-graduation plans in terms of a career?
After receiving my degree from Wilkes, my goal is to be hired as a manager in the marketing field. Having the opportunity to be elected into leadership positions at Wilkes University, being a manager is something that I would love to do. Motivating others and helping them reach their goals is something I developed a true passion for and hope to do in my future career.
Favorite building on campus?
My favorite building on campus would have to be the SUB. More specifically Grille Works. I’m a huge fan of their Chicken Cheesesteaks.
If you had to choose one thing about your program that you could improve, what would it be?
I wouldn’t say there’s things I would want to improve. Our program is in a really good spot right now. We have a great group of guys who believe in our coaching staff and are hungry to earn a playoff berth. (Some new gear that we could keep wouldn’t hurt though.)
A quote you live your life by?
“Limits like fears, are often just an illusion” – Michael Jordan
What does “Be Colonel” mean to you?
To me, “Be Colonel” means that you should try your best to be a positive role model on and off the playing field.
Most influential person in your life?
I don’t think I could narrow it down to one person. My family has a huge influence on everything I do. I don’t know where I would be without them as they have pushed me to be the best person I can be.
If you could have dinner with a famous person from the past, who would it be?
He’s not from the past and he’s not a real person. But it would have to be Michael Scott from The Office… preferably at Benihanas.
Hopes for this season as a Colonel?
It’s been a long time since this baseball team has made the playoffs. My teammates and I would want nothing more than have a chance to compete for a MAC Championship. The guys are hungry to accomplish this goal and with the leadership of Coach Michael, we are confident that this is a very attainable goal.
When/Why did you first begin playing?
Sports was always a big part of my family, so sitting around in the summertime was something I never wanted to do. I love being outside so my parents felt baseball was something I would be very interested in.
Favorite thing to do during practice?
Definitely batting practice, hitting is the best part of baseball.
Other interests or hobbies off the field?
Anything outdoors. This past summer I spent a lot of time kayaking and fishing. During winter breaks pickup basketball is something I always like to do as well.
Favorite professor?
My favorite professor would have to be Dr. Woojun Lee. He does a great job of keeping every class engaged and always brings a positive attitude.
Anyone to give a shout-out to?
Shout out to my teammates and coaches for grinding this offseason. Conference play is about to begin, time to show people who we really are.
Alex Kielar is currently the assistant sports editor. Kielar began as a staff writer in Fall 2017 and was promoted to his current role in Spring 2018.
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