Kyle Koppenhoefer, RHP, Elder HS, Class of 2014

PBR: Why did you choose Cincinnati?

Koppenhoefer: I chose Cincinnati because it was a perfect fit for me. They have the major I was intending to pursue and I can play division I baseball close to home. The campus is great and I have been a UC fan my whole life. 

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Koppenhoefer: Rose-Hulman, Mount Union, Ohio Dominican, Dayton

PBR:  Coach Neal was just recently hired as the new coach at UC.  How does it feel to be a part of his first recruiting class? 

Koppenhoefer: It is unbelievable. I am very excited to be part of the first recruiting class of Coach Neal. 

PBR:  Coach Neal was a big part of the success at why Indiana went to the College World Series.  How quickly do you think that success can transfer to Bearcat baseball?

Koppenhoefer: I believe the success can transfer very quickly. He has a mind set and he has his own coaching strategies that worked in Indiana and I believe it will work as a head coach in Cincinnati as well.

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

Koppenhoefer: Coach Neal saw me at a fall baseball game. He was there for another player and I caught his eye when I was pitching. He met with me after the game and we talked about college and baseball. 

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

Koppenhoefer: I am not sure what the coaches specifically want me to do yet. I am going to do what they tell me and try to help the team win some games in whatever way possible. 

PBR: This fall you participated in PBR's Unsigned Senior Showcase.  Did your performance at the event help with your with recent decision?

Koppenhoefer: Yes, pitching in the Unsigned Senior Showcase got my name out to bigger schools, and also more schools.

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

Koppenhoefer: My baseball coaches throughout my life, especially Coach Thompson and Coach Espelage for deciding my best position was a pitcher. Without them I wouldn't have the opportunity to play Division I baseball. 

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

Koppenhoefer: I played for the Cincinnati Mustangs for the past two seasons. My most exciting summer experience was playing at the Ripken Experience Baseball Tournament in Myrtle Beach. 

PBR: What were your stats last season for Elder?

Koppenhoefer: 1-0 with an ERA of 3.50. 10 IP with 12 K’s.

PBR: Who is the toughest hitter you have faced in Ohio?

Koppenhoefer: The toughest hitter I faced in Ohio was Nick Tensing of St. Xavier High School.