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| Arlington Catholic's Ryan Spagnoli announced his commitment to play college baseball at Southern New Hampishire. Here is him firing a strike from shortstop in the spring. |
Ryan Spagnoli (2B/SS) has always had a dream of playing college baseball and on Friday his dream came true as he announced on his twitter page that he verbally committed to Southern New Hampshire University (15th in the country) for the fall of 2015.
"@RSpagnoli3: Proud to announce my commitment to play college baseball at SNHU! Thanks to everyone who's helped me along the way! #GoPenman #D2Powerhouse"
Spagnoli, who will officially be a four year starter for the Cougars of Arlington Catholic next spring, hit .354 this spring and played tremendous defense for the Cougars helping them win just there third league title in twenty five years. Spagnoli was nominated as Catholic Central League All Star for his efforts to the baseball team. However, Spagnoli isn't just a baseball player, he's also a very talented hockey player as well. The Burlington, MA native, will be a four year starter in hockey as well. Just like in baseball, Ryan was nominated as Catholic Central League All Star this past year for hockey and will also captain the hockey team this winter as well. This past season Ryan was in the Top 10 in the league in scoring with 10 goals and 9 assists finishing with 19 points in 20 games while playing some of Massachusetts best high school teams the state.
"I will always have love and passion for the game of hockey and I am truly going to miss it after this year, but baseball has always been my number one ever since I was little. I fell in love with the game at such a young age, and I've always wanted to chase my dreams in baseball." Spagnoli stated when asked about why he chose baseball instead of hockey.
We caught up with "Spags" and asked him some questions on why he chose Southern New Hampshire:
With you potentially being a Division one player, what made you choose a Division 2 school like SNHU?
"I chose SNHU because of the great tradition and opportunity there. Coach Loiseau and his staff have really built this school as a nationally ranked powerhouse and I want to help continue this success and hopefully win a National Championship during my time there. Also, I really liked the coaching staff at SNHU, they have a lot of fun coaching and I think that's the best part and makes it more enjoyable for us as players. I really like how the staff pushes there players but at the same time really cares for them, I wanted someone who would push me to be the best player possible but also someone who I could go to if I needed help on or off the field, and I felt SNHU's staff really hit the nail on the head for that. It's truly an honor to be able to wear that Penman jersey, I'm already counting down the days until I get there!"
What did you really like at SNHU? What made you make your decision to commit to SNHU?
"Like I said before, the coaching staff really did it for me. They have had a lot of success and will continue to get better each year. I really liked the campus and facilities they had to offer and the winning tradition they have at SNHU. Also being apart of a great team of great players. I'm truly blessed"
Was there any special coach, parent, or mentor that really helped you reach your accomplishment? If so, how were they such a big impact on your commitment?
"Of course. It's hard to mention everyone who has helped me over my career, but these people were a big help to me. First off, I wouldn't be where I am today without my amazing family, especially my mom and dad. All the money and time they have spent is something that I will never be able to pay back, but most importantly there love and support. They have stuck by my side through the good and bads of not only baseball but just in everyday life. I love them and owe them the world. Second, Ryan Leahy with Recruiting Edge Baseball, he was my coach for a year but has been my recruiting adviser for a few years now. Ryan has always been there for me, calling schools, helping me with hitting and defense, keeping me up to date in the classroom. He really taught me how to play 100% all the time and to play the game the right way all the time. I wouldn't be where I am in baseball today without his help, I owe him the world, he helped make this all possible. Third, My little league coach and best friends father, Pat O'Halloran. He really made me fall in love with this amazing game at such a young age since he coached me from 8-12 years old. He taught me mental toughness, intensity and how to have a drive to always play your best and win every time you step on the field. Also, he's always there for me if I ever needed it. Lastly, the whole staff and my teammates at Legends Baseball. The coaches have taught me so much over the years and my teammates have been there for me as best friends and have picked me up several times. I am truly going to miss wearing that Legends jersey."
Earlier this week your longtime teammate, Tyler Shemick, also committed to SNHU? What's your relationship with him?
"Shem has been one of my best friends for a few years now, when we go away with Legends we've roomed together for two straight years. When we actually first got contacted about SNHU we would always joke about how we may be roomamates and teammates again and for that to come true is something that will make SNHU even more fun. Shem is one of the most hardworking, intense players I've ever played with and a kid who would give you his shirt off his back, I'm really looking forward to spending another four years with him!"
So far in your baseball career, what was the most memorable game(s) or season(s)and why?
"Wow, haha, this is a tough one. My most memorable season was when I won the State Championship my twelve year old season, we ended up losing a heartbreaker in the regional finals, one game away from the Cal Ripken World Series, but I gained so many great memories from that summer. It will always be with me. Also, the past three seasons with Legends, we won over 120 games, winning several tournaments all over the East Coast, and every kid I played with I considered a brother, we were a big family, and I know will all stay in touch through college."
Ryan sure has a great future in not only baseball but life as well. We wish him nothing but the best in his future.
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