Each week during the school year the Naples Daily News selects athletes that stood out the week before based on a combination of coach reports and school nominations sent to [email protected] and our coverage. Those athletes are put in a poll each Monday on naplesnews.com and you, our readers, vote on who you think did it best. The winners of the Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week poll receive a T-shirt provided by BSN Sports and a tote bag provided by USA Today High School Sports Awards. To get to know our winners better, the Naples Daily News will have a question-and-answer session with each athlete weekly.
The Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week for April 14-19 was Gulf Coast baseball player Eric Hermanson. The junior threw a complete game against South Fort Myers in the Class 5A-District 12 title game, allowing just two hits and an unearned run with six strikeouts.
Question: How early did you get into baseball? What drew you to the sport?
Hermanson: I started playing baseball at the age of 7 at Golden Gate National Little League. I played several years of Little League and then I went to travel ball. Through the years, I’ve been on several teams and had fun playing the game. I continue to play baseball because I enjoy the competition and the mental aspect of the game.
What was it like making such a large impact on the team this season on the mound?
Hermanson: At the beginning of the season, I wasn’t sure what impact I would make. But with each start, I felt myself getting more confident with solid performances. Coaches (Pete) Garcia and (Rick) Raymer trusted me to succeed, no matter what field we were playing on or what team we were against. I have been able to use my command of the baseball and use of off-speed to be able to compete at a high level.
What’s the trickiest part about being on the baseball team, being in band, and being a student?
Hermanson: The most challenging part about being a baseball player, being in band, and being a student is balancing my time. Whether I’m across the state for a band competition, playing a late away baseball game, or studying for AP exams, I’m always keeping myself busy and preparing myself for college and medical school.
Do you have a baseball player, current or former, that you look up to?
Hermanson: One person I’ve always looked up to is my older brother, Evan. His passion for sports has inspired me to become the athlete I am today. He’s helped me whether it be a bullpen session or advice after a game. Before each big game, he’d call or text me and help me calm my nerves. He always believes in me and gives me the confidence to do my best
If you weren’t playing baseball, what sport would you be playing?
Hermanson: If I wasn’t playing baseball, I would be playing football because my family is really involved with the sport. Both of my brothers play football, and I played it for several years myself.
Follow Sports Reporter Alex Martin on X: @NP_AlexMartin. For the best sports coverage in Southwest Florida, follow @newspresssports and @ndnprepzone on Instagram.
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