Evan Paladino '23 Recruiting Profile

The definition of success differs from each and every player. For me, the meaning of success continues to evolve. During my early years, success strictly meant winning. But over time, I have grown to understand that success comes in many forms. There is a feeling of success in making a tough play or getting a clutch hit. But there is also a sense of personal success for me, when lifting up a teammate who is struggling for one reason or another. My ability to offer support or guidance not only aids in his play, but also improves his overall perception of himself which, of course, ultimately helps the entire team.

Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to have had many positive role models. My biggest influence has come from my parents. They have supported me every step of the way. Both of my parents are former players, so they understand the game and what it takes to be great. Additionally, they are both psychotherapists, so they have a clinical background in the mental components of being a superior athlete, the challenges of staying focused and maintaining resolve. In addition to having a private practice, my mom is also a personal trainer. Because of this, the importance of healthy nutrition and fitness was instilled in me. As far back as I can remember, baseball was always a part of my life. In my home a game of some sort was always on the television or radio. Like any young fan I would strive to emulate the pros. 

Over time, I have gained characteristics that have helped shape me as a solid person and an overall player. I am self-motivated, confident, disciplined, optimistic, focused and open-minded. When I was ten years of age, I played on my first travel team. The coach and assistant coaches' children were all the starting players. That was the first time I realized that people won't always be fair. I tried my best on and off the field, but that did not matter to my coach. Even though I was one of the most talented on the team, my playing time was not equal to my ability. I left the team doubting myself, and baseball felt disheartening. Instead of quitting however, I decided to work even harder in order to prove to myself that I am better than the way I was treated.  Since that experience, I have given more than what has been required of me for everything that I do to ensure that I achieve the goals for which I constantly strive.

My academic goals for high school are to achieve honor roll status each quarter, as well as engage in classes that challenge me in preparation towards earning a high SAT score. To me, having all this, will provide me with the opportunities leading to a variety of amazing schools with both the academic and athletic programs I seek. My goals for college are to graduate top of my class and to earn a degree in Sports Medicine, while also being a starting shortstop on a well-respected team.

The chapters of a successful lifetime of baseball are yet to be realized. I am certain however, that they will be filled with tremendous rewards for myself, my teammates and those who will reap my special talents. I hope my future will be a part of yours as well.

High School Coach‘s Recommendation Letter:

  To Whom it May Concern,

I am writing this letter for inclusion in the profile of Evan Paladino, a student athlete at MacArthur High School who is interested in playing baseball at the college level.  Evan is a versatile player who played an important role in our 2022 League Championship season.  He played both second base and shortstop for us, moving positions based on our pitching rotation.  We were a team led by a strong senior class and Evan was one of the few underclassman who played significant innings.  Evan played strong defense at both positions and hit well for us as well.  This coming season, Evan’s senior year, he will play a very prominent role for us as he is slated to play shortstop and bat near the top of the lineup.  I have no doubt that he will be up to the challenge as he is not only a talented player, but also a hard worker who is dedicated to improving his game.  

In addition, Evan is an excellent teammate who comes to practice every day with a smile on his face and a determination to help his team get better.  He has a great personality, is very outgoing, and encourages his teammates - and even his coaches - at every opportunity.  Evan is a very well respected member of the school community, who takes part in a variety of diverse activities and is very popular among his teachers and peers.  In short, Evan Paladino is a pleasure to coach.  He combines outstanding baseball skills with determination, work ethic, and strong sense of team success.  He will be an asset to any college program that he is a part of.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Steve Costello 

Varsity Baseball Coach

MacArthur High School