Senior Nick Caruso (Communication Studies/Sterling Heights, Mich.) gives YSUsports.com an update in this Q&A session.
Why did you choose to come to Youngstown State?
I chose to come to YSU after Macomb Community College to finish my academic and athletic career. Coach Eric Smith recruited me at our JUCO regionals and offered me a scholarship. After my visit, I loved everything about YSU. The facilities and the opportunity that I was offered here was something I could not turn down.
How did you get started in your sport? / Where did your passion for your sport originate?
I started playing tee ball at four years old. It was not until after my sophomore year of high school that I decided to only play baseball. I started training with a catching coach at 11 years old and began to fall in love with the position. From then on, my sole focus was baseball and I wanted to continue playing until the professional level.
Who or what has been the biggest influence or inspiration during your athletic career?
The biggest influence in my athletic career has been my catching/hitting coach Tim McConnell. I would not be where I am today without him and his guidance.
Did you have a favorite athlete or team that inspired you growing up? – If so, what athlete or team and why?
My favorite team has always been the hometown Detroit Tigers, who I am currently employed by as well.
What has been your favorite part about being a student-athlete at YSU?
My favorite part about being a student-athlete at YSU has been the memories and friends that I have made. These are memories and friends that will last a lifetime.
What is your favorite memory or moment during your time at YSU?
I have had a lot of enjoyable moments over my three years at YSU. By far, the most fun I have ever had on a baseball field took place at the University of Houston on opening weekend. Two extra-inning wins, the way we did it, was awesome. It was also the first step in the right direction and showed that what we worked so hard for is finally paying off.
Do you have a favorite place or venue that you've traveled to or competed at during your time at YSU?
My favorite place that we have traveled to has to be N.C. Central. All three years of summer ball I played in North Carolina, so being able to travel back to and play at N.C. Central gave me the opportunity to reconnect with my host families.
What are you studying academically and why?
I am a communication studies major and psychology minor. To be honest, I never had a plan to major in communication studies, but when it came down to transferring from JUCO, YSU gave me the best opportunity academically and athletically.
What are your plans and goals after graduation?
With the COVID-19 pandemic, after graduation, it looks like I may have an opportunity to play one more year at YSU and start a master's program. My number one goal after school is to continue playing baseball at the professional level.
What would be your advice to other student-athletes in terms of managing athletics and academics?
My advice would be to always stay on top of your work and seek help when it is needed. The faculty and staff at YSU is extremely helpful and understanding of our busy schedule. A lot of our teammates have also been through the same or similar classes and are always willing to help.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of your sport?
My hobbies outside of baseball include golf, working out, walking my dog and video games.
What are you doing to stay in shape during this time?
I am lucky enough to have a bench and dumbbells in my house. I am also lucky enough to have a hot tub to keep the body right.
What was your reaction when you found out the season was coming to an end?
I was in disbelief and devastated. I do not have any or enough words to explain what all of us were feeling. This season started off as a very promising one, we were all excited and ready to see what the rest of the season held for us.
What do you miss most about being around the team and playing your sport?
There is nothing better than being around our team. It was always a good time with them this year. I miss the competitiveness that came with baseball all year long. The season also kept us busy, so without it, I would say we are all pretty bored and lost with what to do.
What have you learned throughout this whole situation? How has it changed your perspective on things?
I learned that you cannot take anything for granted. I looked forward to and enjoyed stepping on the field with these boys every practice and game. We must take the down time to realize how grateful we all are for what we have and are able to do every single day. This pandemic also gives us time to grow our relationship with God. Follow instructions, stay inside and stay safe so we can conquer this pandemic and return to normal life.
What are your personal and team goals for next season?
Personally, I would like to continue to grow my relationships with the pitching staff and to be the best catcher that they can throw to. As a team, we will settle for nothing short of a Horizon League championship.
