Ben Porter, OF, Newton North HS, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Columbia?

Porter: I chose Columbia because of the unique combination of elite education as well as Division 1 baseball. When I visited campus I could really envision myself living there and taking advantage of all of New York City's opportunities. I also truly believe that Columbia's coaching staff will get the most out of me as a player. Ultimately, the opportunity to play baseball in the Ivy League was too good to pass up.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Porter: I was also considering Northeastern, William & Mary, Dartmouth, Merrimack, Penn State, and Cornell.

PBR: Now that you have your commitment out of the way, what are your goals for your senior year?

Porter: My goals for senior year are to continue to improve as a player and help my high school team defend last year's Super 8 title. I hope I can provide as much guidance as I can to our underclassmen in terms of moving forward as a student athlete and guiding them through the recruiting process. I also just want to enjoy senior year, as having already committed will undoubtedly take stress out of the application process.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience?

Porter: This past summer I played for the Northeast Baseball Rays. The most memorable experience was playing at Vanderbilt just days after they won the College World Series. Our whole team enjoyed the moment and it was my favorite game of the summer.

PBR: What person has the greatest impact on your baseball career and why?

Porter: My dad has had the greatest impact on my baseball career. From teaching me how to hit, throw, and catch, to coaching my little league team, to cheering me on from the stands during my high school and summer games, he has always been there to give me advice and support which I will always hold close to me.

PBR: Who is the toughest pitcher you’ve faced in the state?

Porter: The toughest pitcher I've faced in the state was Andrew Noviello. The ball explodes out of his hand and his slider bites like a whiffle ball. Hopefully I get to face him again this year!