Hayden Shenefield, INF, Class of 2014, Worthington Kilbourne HS

PBR: Why did you choose Ohio Northern?

Shenefield: First and foremost, I chose ONU for the academic opportunities. The university has an excellent engineering program that I’m excited to be a part of. The baseball program was also a key part of the decision. It’s a strong program and I hope to be a big part in continuing to grow the Polar Bear winning tradition.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Shenefield: I had been talking to a few other division 3 schools and I was also considering attending Ohio State for just academics.

PBR:  Where did the coaching staff first see you compete?

Shenefield: I saw Coach Stechschulte at a few of our games last summer at a tournament in Cleveland but we started conversing after they saw me play a double-header at Heidelberg last fall. 

PBR: What role does Coach Stechschulte expect you to play during your first year on campus?

Shenefield: Coach Stechschulte doesn’t make promises about playing time to anyone, but I look forward to competing for chance to start.

PBR: Coach Stechschulte was a former MLB pitcher.  How much of a role did that play in your decision, knowing you would receive some of his firsthand knowledge?

Shenefield: Having a coach who has been in the big leagues made me more confident in my decision in choosing ONU. I look forward to receiving coaching from someone who has played at the highest level. 

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Shenefield: My dad, Ken Shenefield, has definitely had the biggest impact on me as a baseball player. He’s been there for me since day one and has helped me develop along the way.

PBR: Who do you play for in the summer and what was your most exciting experience playing summer ball?

Shenefield: I play for the Dayton Classics. My favorite memory from summer ball was going up to Cooperstown for a week and being able to play ball, see the Hall of Fame, and have fun with my teammates. 

PBR: What were your stats last season for Worthington Kilbourne?

Shenefield: I don’t remember for sure. I know that I led the team in hits and I was near.350 for my batting average.