Nick Ungania (Chaminade 2022) pic.twitter.com/91vb7zALKH
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) September 3, 2020
When the news was released last year that a Long Island-native gifted SUNY Binghamton baseball with a $60 million donation – the largest in university history – it had a few tangible effects. Besides bringing some additional credibility to northeast baseball, it also immediately became a destination for high-end players. Getting recruited by Binghamton had gotten a little more competitive.
The school is already ranked No. 88 in the U.S and now they are about to have arguably the second best baseball complex in the nation.
Justin Rosner is a 2020 Farmingdale graduate that is currently at Binghamton, and he will be getting joined by another Long Islander in the fall of 2022. Nick Ungania (Chaminade) is a left-handed hitting outfielder that was recently described to me as “one of the best defensive center fielders on the island”. He has outstanding speed and a pure stroke at the plate. He will be a key cog in the Flyers lineup as they look to defend their crown in the NSCHSAA in 2021.
I spoke with him and here’s what he had to say…
Can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose SUNY Binghamton?
My experience with the recruiting process was definitely a positive one. The guidance I was given from Next Level coaches and Shaun Manning was invaluable. Without having those contacts the process would have been much more difficult. My parents and I came up with a checklist of what I wanted from a college program before this process started, Binghamton pretty much checked off all my boxes. I visited the campus this past weekend and really liked it. Even thought there are Covid restrictions and I couldn’t meet with the coaches, I was able to get a feel for campus life. Their coaching staff was fantastic, transparent and answered every question we had through Zoom calls. They were incredibly accommodating and made the decision pretty much a no-brainer for me.
How would you evaluate your performance in 2020? Also what were some highlights for Next Level?
2020 was such a strange year for everyone, especially athletes. I am thankful that we were able to get to play this summer. I thought my performance was really good. I definitely believe I finished stronger than I started back in earl July but I am sure that a lot of players feel that way. We were just so grateful to get back on the field and do what we love. Probably my biggest Next Level highlight was winning the Fall Finale at BBH back in October. It was a great way for our team to end the fall season.
How have you enjoyed your time with Next Level?
My Next Level experience has been fantastic. The coaches are great and incredibly supportive. The camaraderie with my teammates and club members has also been important in helping my development. We really are like a family. I highly recommend to any ball player who is looking to play college ball to look into some of the bigger baseball travel clubs. There are a few on Long Island that can really help develop a player but for me, Next Level was the best decision I made for travel ball.
Who are some individuals that have had an impact on your career?
This is a tough question because I will definitely leave people out. Let me limit my list to the top 5 that have had an impact on me. Dom Gatti is the best hitting instructor I have ever worked with and he has shaped me into the hitter I have become. Coach Tom Pisani has always been a constant source of encouragement and brings so much knowledge to the game. Shaun Manning has pushed me to become the player he knew I could be and he has offered so much guidance over the years. Matt Williams has been my athletic trainer since I was 12 years old and is hard core as far as making me stronger and faster. Lastly, Nick Yip is an amazing hitting coach and mentor and I really appreciate all the advice he’s given me.
What are your goals for 2021?
MY goals in 2021 are pretty simple – get better and get stronger. I assume the jump to college baseball is challenging for any high school player and I want to be on top of my game when I get to Binghamton.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
I’d have to say Mike Trout, Gleybar Torres and Mookie Betts.
Favorite app on your phone?
I like watching sports videos on YouTube so I would say YouTube.
Favorite type of food?
Italian food 100 %
Favorite musical artist?
I really can’t say that I have one in particular. I usually listen to whatever is on the radio but I like all kinds of music.
Any superstitions on game day?
I always have to have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich before a game but I won’t eat it unless the crusts are cut off.
Dream car?
Definitely a red corvette
Favorite vacation spot?
We went to Italy in 2018 and the most amazing place was Positano. I’d like to get back there someday soon.
