It takes a lot to be successful at anything. There is a lot of hard work and preparation that is required. Gabe Vasko knows that it is the same for athletes.
“It takes work, commitment, and my team,” Gabe said. “It takes year-round commitment for baseball. Hours in the cages, gym, and watching film. I’ve had the opportunity to attend a few prospect camps, such as the one at the University of Tennessee, to understand my benchmarks and improvements. All this is important, but the support from the older guys on my team and their support as a freshman goes a long way. In the end, it’s why I play. For the team.”
Gabe is a freshman at Shattuck High School. Along with baseball, he also plays football. Outside of sports, he is also involved in the Future Farmers of America.
Playing baseball for the Indians is about more than just playing the sport that he loves. Vasko also has guys who have worn the Shattuck uniform that have influenced his life.
“I look up to the guys who have been successful in the past at Shattuck,” he said. “Brendan Girton and John Bay are two examples. These guys played D1 ball, and Brendan is now drafted by the Mets. I got the opportunity to catch Brendan this past off-season. While it was a memorable experience, it also let me know the work I have to do in order to play D1 baseball.”
The teammates that Gabe competes alongside have also helped him become the player and the person that he is today.
“Everyone is appreciated on our team,” he said. “I think that is why we’ve been so successful. Everyone has a job; everyone contributes to our success and is accountable. Coach Girton ensures we understand teams win baseball, not individuals. He treats us like accountable, respectable men versus kids. This has helped us become the team we are today.”
While it takes a lot of work to be his best on the field, Vasko also knows that he has to be his best in the classroom to be able to compete.
“To be a good student and athlete, it takes equal dedication,” he stated. “My parents have always taught me that education comes first. I know that without good grades, baseball is for nothing. I ensure I stay organized and plan ahead with studying. I think that’s the key. Dedication and being organized in your life.”
