Q&A with Hawaii Commit Aaron Gerdes, SS, Millard North
August 23, 2016
By Brian Feekin
Prep Baseball Report Nebraska
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Name: Aaron Gerdes 
Class: 2017
Commitment: Hawaii
School: Millard North
Positions: SS
Height/Weight: 5'11, 170 pounds
Throws/Bats: R/R
PBR: Why did you choose University of Hawaii?
Gerdes: I chose the University of Hawaii because there baseball program is in one of the top conferences in the nation so I knew I'd see competition that fits me the best. Also because I'm all for the way of life that the state of Hawaii provides. Considering that the University has a beautiful campus and the landmarks that are on the Island, I couldn't turn the opportunity down. Along with that they have a prominent business program that I plan on studying the next couple years.
Gerdes: Some of the other schools I was considering were Nebraska, Wichita State, Long Beach State, Cal State Fullerton, and Kansas State
Gerdes:The coaching staff first saw me in Phoenix playing in the MLK World Championship tournament. From there Coach McNamara showed interest right away and I sent him videos of me playing in games on defense and hitting. I went on a visit as soon as I knew they were interested and the coaches connected with me from the start.
Gerdes: Yes, I feel very relieved because now I won't be stressed and I can just have fun playing the game. I won't have to worry about anybody watching me play.
Gerdes: What helped me choose Hawaii over any of the other schools was that the coaching staff knew I would contribute right away. Also, I will enjoy playing against great competition over in the Big West.
PBR: Who has helped you the most to get to where you are today?
Gerdes: My dad has helped me the most to get me where I am today. Back when I could barely hold a bat he would always get me into the mood to play baseball. He coached me throughout my select ball years and would help me improve on all parts of the game, physically and mentally. I couldn't thank him enough for the sacrifices he has made in shaping me into the player I am. He's a good man.
Gerdes: Entering high school I didn't know what was going to happen, but after my first varsity year as a sophomore I knew that colleges were watching. I'd say it was difficult at first because the contacting of coaches but then I got use to it. I wanted to commit as soon as possible but finding the right fit was going to take some time.
Gerdes: Coach Trapasso and Coach McNamara know that I have the ability to play my first year at Hawaii, but I am going to have to grind it out.
Gerdes: Going down to the Elite 32 World Series and hitting a home run at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex down in Florida.
Gerdes: The best player I have competed against was Matt Waldron when I was a sophomore. He was a legit pitcher with nice off speed but a fastball that he could usually bring it.
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