All STAR BASEBALL PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Patrick Drago

Patrick Drago, Lionville Middle School

The ASBA Player of the Week Award this week goes to Patrick Drago, a 14 year old 8th grader at Lionville Middle School.  Patrick has been working hard on his baseball skills over the last two months, specifically on his hitting, his outfield skills, and agility drills.

"Every time he comes into the academy at Downingtown he has a positive attitude and is determined to continue to get better throughout his all-around game," said instructor Dave Slusser, who coaches Patrick.  "Week after week, Patrick has shown solid improvements, especially in his hitting. We have been working hard on getting him to a good 'load' position with his hands and making sure his footwork and lower half are under control.

"He has great 'pop' off the bat.  Getting his whole body working together is one of our goals for the future. I have been very impressed with Patrick's ability to understand and retain the material he is learning week by week. Patrick is an intelligent kid and I really enjoy working with him on the game of baseball and his skills," added Slusser.

"Pat's favorite position is center field. He gets to run a lot and field in this position," smiled Debbie Drago, Parick's Mom.
 
"I have noticed remarkable changes in Pat's performance through his lessons at All Star," continued Debbie.  "His confidence level has soared. He is more willing to try out for teams. When he is hitting, he is making contact more often and he has learned how to control the power he puts into his swing. Dave has also worked on his footwork for fielding. This has helped with Pat's agility and overall ability to field ground balls and catch. His next goal is to gain a stronger arm to throw farther, and with more accuracy. But under Dave's help, I am sure that this skill will also happen."

Congratulations, Patrick, for being named the ASBA Player of the Week and keep up the hard work with your lessons at Downingtown!