Q&A with Mike Walker

1. When did you start playing baseball?

I first started playing fastball when I was about 5. I made the change to baseball at about 7, once there was pitching. I never did play tee-ball.
 
2. What has your five years at Brock been like as an athlete and a student?

I only have good things to say about my years at Brock. I feel like you really get a chance to learn a lot about yourself, and what it takes to be successful. Its definitely been a privilege to be a student-athlete at the university level. 
 
3. As a team leader what do you tell the young players?

As a five-year guy, I think its important to make sure the young players feel like they are an important part of what we're doing as a team. Sometimes its easy for players to forget about carrying out their roles to the best of their ability, and I think thats where the veterans play an important role in making sure the young guys know they'll get a chance if they put the work in. On top of that you just try and pass on as many details about the game as you can. 
 
4. As a role model in the community what do you tell young children about combining education and athletics?

Athletics can pay for your education. I don't think we teach that to students in Canada as much as we probably could. Your education is an important key to your future and if you can open doors with athletics, then its something worth pursuing. 
 
5. Who is your role model (s)?

Some people might laugh, but my role model is actually Will Smith. The guy is super talented and has an incredible demeanour and work ethic - he pushes himself everyday.
 
6. What has your greatest athletic accomplishment been and why?

My greatest athletic accomplishment was probably winning the 2006 National Championships and being the MVP at the national tournament. Our win in the gold medal game was no doubt the greatest comeback win I have ever been apart of - the atmosphere was incredible.
 
7. What is your team and individual goals this season?

I think we need to set our sights on the national title this year. We've lost four straight years in the OUA finals, and we don't want to make it a fifth. We've got the team to do it, theres no question about it. Its going to be a fun a year, the guys get along really well with each other, and everyones willing to work toward the same goal. Its important for the veteran guys to kind of set the tempo, and make sure everyone knows to come to the park and put a solid effort forward. On a personal note, my goal is to have a good work ethic and play the game to the best of my abilities. I think last year I tried too hard to do too much and it showed. Im just going to enjoy my last year at Brock.