Name: Nicholas Capozzi

Year: Senior

Majors: Criminology & Sociology

Minors: Spanish & Business Administration

Hometown: Syracuse, NY

High School: Christian Brothers Academy

Position: First Base

Driving force for your decision to come to Wilkes?

Honestly, I noticed the potential. I saw that Wilkes was ready to thrive and advance its reputation, and I wanted to flourish right along with it. I thought the baseball program took a shot in recruiting me, and I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity.

When/Why did you first begin playing?

Between playing catch with foam baseballs, watching the Yankees with my grandma or going to games with my parents, I fell in love and became obsessed with the sport. 

Hopes for this season as a Colonel?

The expectation is to win. We’re done hoping for playoff appearances. This program has developed on and off the field, and we just need to expect the highest level of excellence. 

Favorite building on campus?

UCOM. The team rooms are my favorite place to get work done and I’m a regular at Starbucks to say the least.

Favorite meal to eat on campus?

The Asiago crusted chicken at the SUB, penne with red sauce and a breadstick on the side. For dessert, mint chocolate chip ice cream with crushed oreos or blondies.

Favorite professor?

I don’t think picking one professor would do justice. Wilkes is unique in that students can develop personal relationships with their professors outside of the classroom, which can help us excel inside the classroom. 

Coke or Pepsi?

Definitely Coke, especially fountain Coke. 

Other interests or hobbies off of the field?

I’m a big country music fan, so driving along listening to it or going to a bunch of concerts is what I like to do off of the field.

What came first? The chicken or the egg?

The chicken. On Noah’s Ark two chickens walked off, not two eggs.

Most influential person in your life?

There are a lot. I think the most important thing is taking little things from admirable people who are influential to better yourself.

If you could have dinner with a famous person from the past, who would it be?

Alex Rodriguez. He gets bad publicity from the steroid stigma, but the way he composes himself is remarkable. He came back humbled and still shares his knowledge. He would probably pay for dinner, too. 

A quote you live your life by?

“Don’t be a victim of your own success.” Learn what you do well and roll with it. Stick to your inner self and don’t try to be bigger than who you are. We all have different strengths and skills, so recognize them, but don’t become complacent.

What does “Be Colonel” mean to you?

Nobody at Wilkes is the same, and we have different outcomes. “Be Colonel” means take advantage of the opportunities that the University can provide and solidify yourself for who you really want to be.

Anyone to give a shout-out to?

Definitely, my family and those at Wilkes who have made my fours years so special. 

-Compiled by Kirsten Peters, Co-Sports Editor