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Tanner Stippich, OF, Allen East HS, Class of 2015

PBR: Why did you choose Defiance?

Stippich:  After contact with the coaches and a couple visits I knew it was the right fit for me. Not only for baseball, but academically as well.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Stippich:  Ashland, Findlay, Eastern Michigan

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

Stippich: They saw me at PBR's Unsigned Senior Games. I first started talking to Coach Castro.  We talked on the phone a couple of times and he arranged a visit.  That was when I met Coach Woodley and Coach Uxley.  

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

Stippich: They expect me to compete and work hard.

PBR:  Defiance is very close to home.  How important of a role was distance in your decision?

Stippich: It was pretty important to me. I like how easy it will be for my parents to come up for games.

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

Stippich: Both of my parents. They have both always pushed me to be the best that I can be and without them I wouldn't be in this position.

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

Stippich: I just played ACME ball through my high school, but the most exciting thing for me was hitting my first home run.

PBR: What were your stats last season?

Stippich: I'm not even sure.  I know I was disappointed after the season I had my sophomore year.  I'm just looking forward and working hard to be an asset to my team in 2015.

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

Stippich: Damian Helm from Crestview. He had great control of his fastball and his off-speed stuff was killer.