Schneck always looking to get better
In more ways than one, Jason Schneck knew he had to take his game to the next level.
He was looking forward to his summer playing days, shifting his time between the Catasauqua Connie Mack team and the boys’ basketball team.
Both of them produced some favorable results.
In baseball, Schneck hit a team-high .429 and also led the team with 20 runs scored. He also posted an overall 2-2 record with a 3.44 ERA and 20 strikeouts and 14 walks in 20.1 innings.
It was just a matter of realizing his potential and stance with the team.
“I took a different approach this year,” said Schneck, who will be a senior this fall. “I played with a lot more confidence knowing I could a leader. It worked out.
“I had a closer stance this year and I saw the ball a lot better. I also got my timing down.
We had a good group of young players, and the older guys knew they had to step it up.
“I enjoyed the challenge.”
Connie Mack head coach Jim Kober wasn’t surprised with Schneck’s efforts.
“Jason (Schneck) did a nice job for us,” he said. “He took a different approach with his game and he was a leader out there. He really saw the ball well and had a great year hitting. He also did a nice job on the mound for us.”
Schneck also filled a similar role for the Roughies’ summer basketball program. Being one of the elder statesman on the team, Schneck realized the Roughies will need some time to mature.
“We’re a young team, but we all really connect well,” he said. “We had a good summer, and we just need to keep on playing. I think we can have a good year.”
Yet, the summer still isn’t over for Schneck. With baseball and basketball finished, Schneck will turn his concentration toward cross country, a sport he began as a freshman.
Again, it will be another sport for him to raise the bar.
“It keep me in shape,” he said. “It is a sport where it tests your stamina. My goal is get under 20 minutes. I did it twice and I know I have to lower my times this year.”
Sports has been a staple in the Schneck household. Older brother Jacob played baseball and basketball, and their father, Joseph, has coached both boys over the years.
“I just wanted to do the best I could for my teams,” said the younger Schneck. “I also knew I had to be a leader.”
Based on his accomplishments, Schneck did just that.