Commitment To Northern Kentucky Brings Relief To Romans

Josh Romans SS / RHP / Jackson, OH / 2020

MASSILLON - After missing his sophomore season of high school due to a back injury, doubt crept into the mind of Josh Romans regarding his future in baseball.

That doubt has now been erased after a commitment to Northern Kentucky.

“It’s the biggest relief of my life,” Romans said in regard to finalizing his college plans. “From being hurt, to being frustrated with not getting any offers … it’s a big relief to be able to sign.”

While interest was there from Mid-American Conference schools like Ohio U, Central Michigan, Kent State, Miami and Ball State, and a visit was taken to East Tennessee State, the Jackson senior was leaning toward taking Sinclair up on an offer before NKU came into the picture.

“I was thinking of going to Sinclair before Northern Kentucky popped up,” Romans explained. “I wanted to go Division I, that was always my goal, but the opportunity to play a lot was big for me, even if it wasn’t D-I. Then I saw an opportunity to play at Northern Kentucky and I thought it was a good fit.

“I started talking to them three to four weeks ago,” Romans continued. “My summer coach reached out to them. I went on a visit and I loved it. They offered on the visit.”

The 6-1 185-pound shortstop then weighed his decision.

“I wanted to play in the south and that’s a little south,” the 52nd-ranked 2020 in Ohio said of the Horizon League school. “The coaches were great and I liked the campus a lot. I wanted a smaller campus and it felt homey, not too big.

“I really liked the whole baseball side and developing there,” Romans added about Northern Kentucky. “I like the opportunity I could have there if I continue to progress.”

Northern Kentucky saw a lot to like in the top-rated uncommitted senior shortstop in Ohio prior to his decision to play for the Norse.