Old Westbury entered 2015 knowing that they would get plenty of offensive production. They did just that, but it came from sources that did not receive any pre-season acclaim.
Despite having two senior All-Conference outfielders, their best offensive player was arguably freshman Dean Sheridan.
Photo Credit: One21 Productions
The then-freshman, coming from St. Anthony’s HS, got off to a slow start but began to heat up in the middle of the season.
After going 2-for-3 on April 11 at St. Joseph’s, he rattled off a 13-game hitting streak in which he recorded multiple hits on nine (!) occasions.
He played a pivotal role in Old Westbury winning the Skyline Conference title and appearing in their first NCAA regional since 2001.
For his efforts, he was named second team All-Conference and to Baseball on the Island’s All-Long Island team.
Our reporter David Moskowitz had a chance to sit down and speak with him and here is the transcript.
What was it like to be a driving force in the team that won the skyline conference for the first time in years?
It was a fun experience for me. The whole team thought we deserved to win the Skyline Conference and we knew we had the talent to do so. All I had to do was go out and play the game I love.
Can you explain what you did last offseason to help you accomplish what you did at the plate and in the field and what are you doing this offseason?
Conditioning is a big part of my offseason. I conditioned almost everyday to make sure my body stays healthy and fresh for the season. This season I am conditioning just as much as last year. This offseason I am putting more emphasis on hitting too.
How does this years Old Westbury team look in your opinion? Is the team confident it can repeat as Skyline champs?
This year’s team looks very talented in my opinion. Everyone is focused and looking to get better. I am very confident in a repeat because I trust my teammates to get us there, and I believe our hard work will pay off.
You had a remarkable year at the plate last year. What are your expectations personally this year?
I just want to be better this season. I believe that I can push myself to be better and I don’t think I have reached my full potential yet.
Describe what made Old Westbury the college you wanted to attend/play ball at.
The coaching staff and the players are a big reason why I chose old Westbury. The team is a great group of guys and the coaches always support and have your back.
Anyone in particular give you advice or stand out when you think of how you have become the player you are today?
My dad has always supported me playing baseball ever since I can remember. He would come home from work and hit me ground balls everyday since I was little, and still throws batting practice to me all the time.
Any long-term baseball plans? Long term plans in general?
I would like to continue playing baseball for as long as I can, and even after I am done playing I never want to leave the game. After I am done playing I would be interested in coaching.
