Sean Hjelle, RHP, Mahtomedi HS, Class of 2015

PBR:  Why did you choose University of Kentucky?

HJELLE:  The coaches were a separator.  I fell in love with the Lexington area when I was on my visit.  I always wanted to go south to play.  I received a great offer from them.  Along with the opportunity to play in the SEC.  It was a perfect fit for me.

 

PBR:  What other schools were you considering?

HJELLE:  My final three were Kentucky, Creighton, and Michigan.

 

PBR:  Where did Kentucky first see you? How did your relationship develop with the coaching staff?

HJELLE:  I believe it was the PBR event I did in Chicago.  They also saw me at the Area Code tryouts in Kenosha, WI.  Coach Bohannon was great at Kentucky.  I found him and Coach Henderson to be very approachable and open.  They gave me a lot of attention and really seem to care.  

 

PBR: What role do you expect to play your first year on campus?

HJELLE:  First I just have to earn a spot.  Take what I get.  But I don’t want to settle.  I want to work hard and take advantage of my opportunities whether it’s in relief or a starting role.  Ultimately it would be great if I’m ready to be a rotation type guy by my sophomore year.

 

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

HJELLE:  My family has been very supportive of everything.   Wouldn’t trade them for the world.  Coach Herb Gibson with PHD has probably had the biggest impact.  He has gone above and beyond to work hard for me and give me opportunities.  He really is like a second father in some ways.

 

PBR: What have you worked on/improved since last year?

HJELLE:  I’ve really changed my mentality and effort when pitching.  I never really let it loose when I pitched.  Once I started to let it go every pitch and tried to throw hard; my velocity continued to get better and better.

 

PBR: Who is the toughest player that you have faced in Minnesota?

HJELLE:  Ty Buck from Red Wing has always been tough.  He just always seems to be on base and even when he gets out he hit the ball hard somewhere.

 

PBR:  Are you excited to be done with your decision and recruiting?

HJELLE:  It was a fun process.  I did the dance.  I enjoyed it.  But I am glad I know what’s in front of me for the next 3-4 years and know where I’m going.