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Christopher Ackerman, C, Howell HS, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Hillsdale?

Ackerman: Ever since I started the recruiting process with Hillsdale, I always felt very comfortable with the culture surrounding the school and baseball program. Academics were also a big factor, and Hillsdale provided a great opportunity to receive a great education while playing baseball.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Ackerman: Eastern Michigan, Kalamazoo College, Wheaton College, Benedictine University, Albion College, Calvin College, Adrian College and Northwood.

PBR:  Where did the coaches first see you compete and how did your relationship develop with the rest of the coaching staff?

Ackerman: The Hillsdale coaches first saw me play when I went to their prospect camp last August. Ever since then, they have watched me play on numerous occasions between the high school and travel seasons. They had me back on campus for a visit in December and for another camp this fall. I've remained in contact with them with texting and emailing, etc. throughout that time.

PBR: What role does the coaching staff expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Ackerman: Like a lot of college programs, they play a lot during the fall. Everybody gets an opportunity then, and the positions go to the deserving players. There will be a senior catcher there my freshman year, but I believe that I would have a great opportunity to start after he graduates.

PBR:  What are you individual and team goals for this spring?

Ackerman: I want to win a state championship this year. This has been my goal for a long time, and my senior year is the last chance for me to be a part of it. On a personal level, I want to do whatever it takes to contribute to this goal.  

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Ackerman: First and foremost, God has blessed me in a number of ways and has given me unique opportunities that I am very thankful for. I've also been blessed with a lot of great people in my life that have shaped my baseball career. My travel coach, Coach Piesko, has kept the game enjoyable as long as I have played for him. I am also extremely fortunate to be able to train at Phoenix Athletics in MSA-Livingston. My trainer Chris Down has helped me to meet and exceed my physical goals, and I have learned a lot about the game from Coach Kling. I have received a lot of knowledge over the years from Cory Conrad, Scott Aldred, Barbaro Garbey, Reichl Mayne, and my high school coaches. But I wouldn't have been connected to any of these great people without my dad. He has always been more than willing to help me pursue all of my goals both baseball and non-baseball related and has supported me through all of my streaks and slumps over the last several years. 

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Ackerman: I play for the Howell Hawks Gold. This season, the most exciting experience had to be going to the championship in our last tournament at Michigan State University on a walk off home run by Robbie Jones. The timing and magnitude of the moment made it a special experience. 

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you have faced?

Ackerman: Nick Plummer. Calling pitches when he's up is always a challenge.