Velocci hopes to anchor middle of Badgers lineup

With just over one week left until the start of training camp, we briefly catch up with one final Badgers baseball recruit, Adam Velocci (Unionville, Ont), as he takes time out of his busy summer schedule.

The 20 year old freshman will be enrolled in Brock's Social Sciences program this September as he looks to crack the Badgers' lineup. Adam, a transfer from John A. Logan College in Illinois speaks on the experience he acquired playing in the USA.

"I recently played baseball for John Logan and it was a great experience. Living out on your own forces you to mature and grow up pretty quickly. Playing at a high level makes the game that much more enjoyable as well. I decided to come back to Canada after I realized that the playing time wasn't there and I felt like I could be more successful and have a little more fun North of the border."

Velocci explains why he chose to attend Brock to play baseball this year over any other University in Ontario.

"I chose Brock because they have a lot of young guys coming in to play baseball this year. A lot of guys in the same situation as myself which makes it easier to relate. I'm looking forward to being a part of the youth movement. From the sound of it, there's a bunch of talented veterans in place already too. I'm really looking forward to training camp and earning a spot on this team. The Badgers will have one the most experienced and talented squads this year."

Adam discusses his own playing style, offensively and defensively.

"Offensively, I think I'm a middle of the lineup guy, just because I feel I hit my best with runners on base. Defensively, I was raised at first base but I have the ability to play third and make an athletic play as well."

Head Coach Jeff Lounsbury echoes Adam's analysis, saying, "Adam comes from a strong baseball program in the Ontario Bluejays and has done well at every level he has played at. After a strong freshman year in JC he did not play much his sophmore year and that turned out to be good news for us. He's a strong kid who can play defense and hit in the middle of our order. I think camp will rekindle the spirit in him and the strong supporting team and competition will fuel him to get back on track to being the player he's capable of becoming."

Adam reflects on his baseball career to date.

"The best moment in my baseball career so far has to be winning a National Championship with the Markham Mariners. I'll never forget that tournament and those group of guys. It was a really fun time."

Finally, Velocci shares how he's stayed in baseball shape this offseason and his aspirations for the season ahead.

"I've been hitting the gym lately and taking cuts at some indoor hitting places to keep the swing on track. I've been working a few jobs here and there this summer too save up some money. Bottom line, I can't wait to get back on the field in a few weeks and I plan to do whatever I can to help the Brock Badgers win a championship."

We would like to thank Adam for taking the time to talk with us, and welcome him to the Badgers Baseball program. Training camp will begin Saturday, August 28th.