Tristan Chandler, a recent high school graduate from Portage Collegiate Institute, is settling into life at Itasca College in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, where he will pursue both his education and a baseball career. Chandler, who was awarded a scholarship to play baseball at the college level, expresses his excitement about the opportunity.
"It's pretty awesome. I'm very fortunate to get a scholarship and I'm just enjoying my time."
Chandler, who is majoring in psychology, explains that his interest in the field of psychology has grown over time, aligning well with his social skills and his demanding baseball schedule.
" I've been interested in psychology for a little while. I've always been very social and very good with talking to people and it just kind of fit the baseball schedule well."
He talks about the calibre of baseball at Itasca and how it differs from high school ball.
"The ball moves a lot quicker, and your reaction time is going to have to be on point. Everything is just faster and harder and just a little bit better."
Chandler has already started practice under his new coach, Justin Lampa, who has made a strong impression on him.
"He is awesome. He's very personal with the team and really gets to know them on the personal level. He loves to take us out fishing, but when it comes down to crunch time on the ball diamond, he's hard, you know, in a good way."
Chandler's family, though finding his departure difficult, is supporting his move.
"They're taking it pretty well. I know it's hard for them when I leave, and it's also hard for me."
As for the upcoming season, Chandler is looking forward to fall ball, which kicks off next Thursday September 12, with the regular season beginning in early spring. The team's first big trip will take them to Myrtle Beach, SC for some NJCAA Div 3 baseball.