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SUPER SOPHOMORE: Cerino Keeping His Cool In The Heat In Spring Competition
MOST ATHLETES HAVE A FOUNDATION FROM THEIR FAMILY FOR THEIR RESPECTIVE SPORT.
However, that doesn’t happen to be the case for Nimitz third baseman Alberto Cerino. He was the one to blaze the trail.
“I was actually the first one in my family to start playing,” he said. “So, I encouraged all my cousins to try it out too, which got them into it. There was a time when I put the bat down for a few years, but my cousins returned the favor and re-motivated me to get back on the field.
“I’m glad they did, because it’s become really cathartic. I find a lot of relaxation with it, and I get to spend a lot of time with my friends, which is all the appeal I need.”
Even though he keeps that cool, calm demeanor, the sophomore always seems to show up when it matters most.
As a freshman, he earned first-team, all-district honor after hitting at a .400 clip, knocking in 12 RBSs and scoring 11 runs.
While the going hasn’t always been easy for the Cougars as a whole, there’s plenty of upside to be found for the future of the ballclub.
“It’s about the experience for me, honestly,” said Cerino. “Playing against other schools in this district and this area, there’s nothing like it. The level of competition that we face is really high, which can only help me and my teammates to improve.”
The future shouldn’t just end at the high school level for Cerino.
According to the Nimitz coaching staff, Cerino has had more than a few eyes spotting him – namely Harvard and the San Diego Padres – for a potential opportunity to play at the next level.
“It’s incredibly surreal,” he said. “But, I can’t get my hopes up just yet. I’m still very young, so all I can do now is just remain focused on what’s in front of me for the time being.”
Despite his young age, Cerino holds a wisdom beyond his years, which is indicated by his patience. Just as he said, his focus will be with his team as Nimitz seeks to re-enter the district conversation.
“Right now, I feel that our chances of turning things around are pretty good,” Cerino said. “We do have some seniors on this team who are prepared to give it their all in their last year. I’m hopeful for the future of this program, and I think we have some guys who can get things done.”
Obstacles are meant to be overcome as the Cougars’ best baseball is ahead of them with Cerino in the lineup.
Nimitz's Eric Woods
THE 411: Woods capping off career at Nimitz in style
SINCE HE’S STEPPED ONTO THE COURT, ERIC WOODS HAS BEEN A GAME-CHANGER FOR NIMITZ.
Given his 6-foot-1 frame, Woods thrives in his aggressive style from the guard spot, which often makes him a handful for opposing teams.
Now that he’s entering his senior year, VYPE had the opportunity to catch up with Woods to see where his mindset is in his final season donning the navy-and-gold.
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VYPE: Nimitz is a well-established program and you’ve been a key piece for quite some time. Being an undisputed leader, how has this team impacted you and what are your expectations on the year?
WOODS: I’ve enjoyed playing a big role on this team, especially as a leader. I know I need to step up, and the expectation for this team is that the sky’s the limit. I feel like being here has helped me grow as a player and as a man. The coaches and the players make us stay whole and I know we have high expectations for each other.
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VYPE: What has it been like playing with these teammates? I’m sure the chemistry y’all have has played a big role in the success of this group.
WOODS: Those are my brothers. We hang out all the time, after school, at games, we go to each other’s houses. We go all over the place, and these guys are like family to me. That bond has definitely helped us out in games.
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VYPE: How long have you been playing basketball, and what’s kept you in for so long?
WOODS: I’ve been playing since I was about six years old. The person who helped me stay with it has been my Pops. He motivates me every day to get better, and to block out all the noise and just focus on my game. I really do enjoy this game.
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VYPE: Is there a particular athlete you try to model your game after?
WOODS: Ja Morant, for sure. I like his aggressive style of play.
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VYPE: What makes you unique? Maybe a hobby of yours or something you do in your spare time?
WOODS: I’m into fashion. I like to dress and buy clothes. That’s one thing I do outside of school. If I’m not hooping, I’m buying clothes and trying to build up my inventory.