Friday, January 27, 2012

Walter Displays Leadership Through Work-Out Routine


Graham Jewell  | Staff Writer  for “The Mount” 

The lackluster weather of this winter has left many students feeling apathetic and impatient for spring to arrive. However, for senior Tom Walter, the conditions are perfect for off-season baseball training. He has been lifting each day after school.

Tom WalterWith the help of baseball coach Brent Suing and strength and conditioning coach Tim Struckman, Walter is following a six-day workout plan specifically designed to give him an edge in building strength and endurance for the up­coming baseball seasons.

While some others may crowd the weight room to look good for their girlfriends or check in the mirror to see how their “six pack abs in six months” workout is go­ing, Walter is in there to work like it’s his job. “I am lifting to get stronger, because I know strength is key to having good performances in the spring. I don’t want to come up short of my best because of a lack of focus in the weight room, so I’m always ready to go when I’m in there,” said Walter.

Although practices don’t start until March, Walter says it seems like the lifting is part of the season itself. “The lifting program is great for team chemistry. Guys are getting in the weight room and working together,” said Walter.

Senior baseball player Evan Murray is also lifting everyday in prepara­tion for the season, and noted Walter’s leadership. “He is usually one of the first guys in and the last guy out. Other guys see him working hard and do the same, which is leadership that is really going to help us this year,” said Mur­ray.

Throughout the long winter, it can often be easy to slip up, but Walter has a goal system that keeps him on track to achieve. “I always write down how much I lift and how many repetitions I do, so I can keep track of my progress. Each person has their own lifting and strength goals, but as a team we are devel­oping a sense of hard work and accountability, which is really important,” said Walter.

Walter has started lifting in the winter to help himself perform better in the spring, but more importantly he is setting an example and leading the younger players, who are still finding their way around this emerging baseball program. “I have felt myself step into the po­sition of a leader and I just want to teach the younger guys to work hard and show them what Mount Michael baseball is all about,” said Walter. So keep an eye out for No. 17 this spring. With of all his hard work, you just might not recognize him.