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Q&A with Bradley commit Andrew Shadid

January 16, 2014

By Steve Nielsen
Scouting Director – Illinois/Wisconsin

Class of 2015 graduate Andy Shadid recently made his commitment to Bradley University. Ranked No. 30 in Illinois, Shadid is one of the more dynamic athletes in the class. Shadid is a 6.75 runner with an 87 mph arm from the outfield and 79 mph out of the crouch posting 1.94-2.01 pop times.

Here’s what Shadid had to say about his recruiting process. 

PBR: Where did Bradley first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?

Shadid: I think Bradley first saw me play in a real game in the summer going into my sophomore year. I went to their camp the winter of my sophomore year, and that’s when our relationship got closer. I have some family ties at Bradley. My dad played there in college and so did a few of my cousins and uncles. It’s nice to be another one of the family going there.

PBR: What were your expectations about the recruiting process? Was it as expected? Easy/Difficult?

Shadid: The recruiting process for me was more difficult than I thought. When I was in the process it was kind of hard to believe it was already here. It came up so fast on me; I don’t feel that old. Overall the recruiting process was very fun, but it was stressful as well.

PBR: When did the recruiting process really start to heat up for you? Was there a particular game or event that you feel turned the corner for you?

Shadid: I think the recruiting process really heated up in the summer before my junior year. The Midwest Future Games really helped out the process.

PBR: What were you looking for out of a college program to continue your baseball career at?

Shadid: I was looking for a program somewhat close to home, a good academic school, and a school that really cared about their players.

PBR: Did location or distance from home play a factor in your decision?

Shadid: Location did play a factor for me. My limit on schools was around five hours. I did this so my parents would be able to come watch some of my games.

PBR: What do you like most about Bradley and what were the key factors in making your decision?

Shadid: The things I like most about Bradley are how close it is to home and the coaches. I like how my family can come watch me play and I really like how the coaches treat their players and myself.

PBR: What other schools were on your short list before you made your final decision?

Shadid: My list consisted of Bradley, Northwestern, Notre Dame, and Michigan State.

PBR: Who is the best player you have faced in your state, and why?

Shadid: The best player I have faced in my state was Spencer Gaa last year. He has the whole package. He can hit, field, throw, and run. He is the most complete player I have faced. I’m happy that I’ll get to play with him at Bradley instead of against him.

PBR: What advice would you give to young baseball players striving to get where you are?

Shadid: My advice to younger players is to lift. You have to get your muscles as strong as you can while keeping flexibility. You will notice how big of a difference it makes.

PBR: Preview your high school season for us. How do you feel your team will be? What are your expectations and goals?

Shadid: I think my high school season will be really exciting. We are playing a lot of hard teams this year and I’m really excited. I think my team will be very good and our ultimate goal just like every other team is to win a state title.

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