Husky Hero: Andrew Debethune

FP: What is your major?

AD: I am an Athletic Training major.

FP: What has your experience been like in your three years here at USM?

AD: I’d describe my experience here at USM as rewarding. The Athletic Training major is a difficult one, especially because of the 150 clinical hours we are required to do each semester. Between that and playing baseball, I’ve pretty much been immersed in athletics and the care of athletes. It’s been difficult to schedule both but I wouldn’t change a thing. I may of given all my time to athletics but it’s given me my peers, mentors and friends as well as life lessons learned. Everything I’ve needed has been given to me by these two programs here at USM.

FP: How does it feel to be named co-captain of the Huskies this year?

AD: It feels awesome when the hard work you’ve been putting in for years is recognized. We have a great group of captains and to be one of four asked to lead such a young, talented team is an honor.

FP: How do you feel about the upcoming season?

AD: I’m really excited about this season. In past years we were a team built around offense and the long ball. This year we have a lot of younger position players who don’t have the power of teams in the past. Instead we are a lot faster and scrappy and we’re going to play a lot of small ball. I think the mix of a young athletic team with an experienced pitching staff is going to be really fun and hopefully successful as well.

FP: Being such a young team, with only four seniors, there are plenty of other guys who have logged a lot of time on the field in years past. Do you think age or experience matters more? Do you think this group has the experience they need to succeed?

AD: Having a young team without much experience is great. It means there is alot of competition for positions which pushes everyone to get better. I think our veteran players have enough combined experience to guide these young players while they find their feet. I also think it will be a pleasant little surprise when identity of the team transitions from the older players to the younger ones as they grow into the shoes of leadership. I’m not sure how this all correlates to success but we will take care of what we can control and work hard and be competitive every day.