My name is Dylan Kopesky, I am a senior, 2023 Grad, Catcher and Infielder for Mankato East.
I plan to attend Crown College to play baseball and study business administration.
My goals for the season is to win a section and Big 9 Conference championship.
I think my favorite baseball memory is my first varsity at bat. I was put in for a pinch hit in the first game of a double header in Winona in extra innings. I hit a single into left center field, driving in two runs and putting us ahead, ultimately securing the win for us.
I think the best advice I’ve received is from my dad. He used to tell me when I was younger that baseball is like the game of life, it’s not always about how you perform, but it’s also how you pick yourself up after failure, learn from the mistake, and then try again.
I think my advice for all the younger players is to not take anything for granted. Make every second count, because you only have so many.
Before a game I always need to get my head right. I listen to my pregame playlist on shuffle, I always tie my cleats the same, I say a pregame prayer, and I like to focus on my breathing while warming up.
My favorite pregame meal is wherever the guys decide to go for lunch. It’s less of what I eat, and more of who I eat with.
My favorite athlete is Dansby Swanson. Since I was younger, I’ve always tried to model myself after him. He plays hard and stays humble. I even had his glove model a few years ago.
I love baseball because it’s my escape from reality. It is like a three hours a day get away from all things school/work/etc. I get to be with my best friends, and I get to work hard while having fun.
My favorite class is Physical Conditioning because we get to do fun things outside and in the gym.
I want to thank my family and my coaches for all the opportunities over the years and everything they have taught me because the lessons I’ve learned are applicable to my future life, not only as a ball player, but as a person as well.