‘We want to be able to give everything we’ve got for the nine innings’

Daniel R. Doherty | Daily Kent Stater

Credit: DKS Editors

A game is supposed to be just an extracurricular activity, not a way of life. Don’t tell that to Greg Rohan of Kent State’s baseball team.

Rohan, a senior first baseman from North Lima, has been a crucial part of the Flashes’ baseball program since he first joined the team. He ranks fifth all-time at Kent State with 40 career home runs, and earned the 2008 Mid-American Conference Player of the Year.

Sports correspondent Cody Erbacher talked to Rohan about his passion for the game and how baseball has affected him throughout his life.

Was baseball a big part of your life when you were growing up?

Yes, it was a hugething because my dad was a college baseball player at Youngstown State. When I was growing up, a lot of people in my family played baseball, so I worked as hard as I could to become the best player at my level.

When did you start playing baseball?

The first time I remember is when I was 4 years old, when I played on my brothers’ 6-year-old baseball team.

What person pushed you to be a better player while growing up?

My dad was the person who pushed me a lot. Every time I didn’t feel like doing the extra hitting or extra workouts, he was always there to push me.

How did you feel about receiving the MAC Player of the Year award last season?

I wasn’t surprised. It was a big honor, and I was really happy for it to happen. Our team worked really hard, so it was really a team effort. I’m really grateful for it.

Baseball America ranked the team 18th in the nation coming into the season. Does being ranked nationally add any extra pressure to each game?

A lot of people ask about that, but it’s a long season and there is no way that I worry about that. We knew we were going to be a strong team this year. When the rankings came out, a lot of people said it would change us, but we try not to worry about it.

What are some of the team’s goals for this season?

We’re going to outwork everyone that we play against. We want to be able to give everything we’ve got for the nine innings.

What’s the best part of Kent State baseball?

It’s definitely the guys that you meet from when you’re a freshman to a senior. The guys you meet are going to be your lifelong friends. Also, coach (Scott) Stricklin has this program heading in the right direction, and I’m blessed to be able to play here.

What is your favorite Kent State baseball memory?

This is weird, but I’ve got to say it. During the Akron game (last season), we had a rain delay for about four hours. Both teams were interacting with each other and dressing up. The other team put a bag in center field and said they had a present. So someone went out there, and a freshman jumped out with his hands taped.

Contact sports correspondent Cody Erbacher at [email protected].