When you play for MacArthur, playoff berths are par for the course. The General are coming off a 16-win season, but they had their season cut-short by rival Division in the second round of the postseason.
They will be looking to avenge that loss this season. One of the players they will be counting on is left-handed hitting senior outfielder Joey Ricciardi. He announced his commitment to play at York College of Pennsylvania a couple days ago. Prior to that, he put on an impressive performance at the charity Home Run Derby at Calhoun last month. He spoke with Vinny Messana about a variety of things, and here’s what he had to say…
Talk a little bit about the college recruiting process and how you made your decision?
The recruiting process was very stressful. I attended a lot of college camps and showcases and played in a lot of high-level tournaments where scouts were present. Through some of these events, I received interest from multiple schools and was invited to take tours with coaches. After I visited York with Coach Scappa, I felt most comfortable there and that is why I committed to York.
What is it like being a part of a program like MacArthur that is a perennial powerhouse with such high expectations every year?
There is a level of camaraderie that you don’t see everywhere else and it is also very competitive. It’s an honor to play under a very successful coach like Coach Costello. It seems that the schools we play throw their best at us, which is fun because it brings out the better player in me and my teammates.
Who are some athletes you look up to?
My favorite athletes are Yoenis Cespedes, Carmelo Anthony and Drew Brees. I look up to Cespedes because I just love the way he plays the game with all that swagger and I hope one day I can be as good of a player he is. I look up to Carmelo Anthony because in every clutch moment it seems like ‘Melo always wants the ball to take that game-winning shot; which is something I admire. I look up to Drew Brees because not only is he one of the best QBs in NFL history, but he’s also a good person and I hope to become a man like him one day.
Who have been your biggest influences in your baseball career?
Definitely my parents. My dad has been with me every step of the way–ever since I first picked up a baseball right until my commitment. I wouldn’t be where I am now without all the sacrifices he made to make me the best baseball player possible and I will be forever grateful. My mom also played a big role in my career; whenever I had a big game she would always be there to boost my self-esteem and she would always tell me to work hard in almost anything and especially sports.
To become a Black Diamond call 631-942-2542
Do you come from an athletic family?
Yes, my dad played football for 10 years; he was a strong safety and a wide receiver. My younger sister plays basketball and used to play lacrosse. My mom never really played sports but she loves to watch them especially when me and my sister are playing.
What are your goals for 2018?
To be the best student-athlete I can be in my senior year at MacArthur and hopefully help to bring a county championship back–which I feel we have the talent to do so. Also, to continue to grow and develop my baseball skills and be the best player I can be both for the spring and summer season, as well as for the Spartans baseball team in the fall.
