Inside the Recruitment: '16 LHP Ausin Swift commits to Indiana Wesleyan
January 3, 2016
Austin Swift, LHP, Kalida HS, Class of 2016
PBR: Why did you choose Indiana Wesleyan?
Swift: I chose IWU because the campus offers a great Christian atmosphere, facilities, and has sound academics. Also, first year head coach Rich Benjamin went after me really hard late in my recruiting process and I believe that the baseball program is on the rise. After a couple visits and being around the current and future players, I felt that IWU would be a comfortable fit for me.
PBR: What other schools were you considering?
Swift: I was considering Mount Vernon Nazarene, Heidelberg, Ashland, and Tiffin University.
PBR: Where did the IW coaching staff first see you? How did your relationship develop with them?
Swift: Ironically, through a relationship between Lima Locos Express GM / pitching coach Brian Garman and coach Benjamin. He saw videos of me only, but on my first visit I was able to pitch in front of him. I developed a very good relationship with the coaches, players, and other recruits during my visits to IWU.
PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?
Swift: Due to the shortage of left-handed pitching after this year, the coaches expect me to be a nice asset to the rotation and to be ready to go at all times. I will also have the opportunity to compete for an outfield position as well.
PBR: What is your biggest strength as a player and how do you feel that you will help IW baseball?
Swift: My biggest strength is my defense in the outfield and also being a lefty on the mound, I believe that I have an advantage on many hitters. I feel I will help IWU baseball by bringing a positive attitude and mindset everyday and that my skill set will be a valuable weapon.
PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was the most memorable experience from this summer?
Swift: I play for the Lima Locos Express in the summer and enjoy competing at a higher level of competition and being around my teammates.
PBR: Now that recruiting process is over what are your individual and team goa