Plymouth Athlete of the Week: Doug Maccaferri

1) What drew you to the sport of baseball?

I've just always seemed to have baseball in my life in some capacity. I started off with T-ball, and have played ever since. I think I fell in love from the get-go, and a lot of my friends played, so continuing with the sport was a no-brainer.

2) What do you believe leads to a team's success?

The obvious answer is that a team needs a bunch of really good players, which we have been fortunate enough to have, but that alone can't guarantee a team's success. I believe that it takes focus, and a drive to always play better than the day before. To be successful, we have to all believe that we can achieve our goals, and believe that our teammates will make plays, and be there to back each other up. I think it's also imperative that a team has a good sense of humor, and the ability to just have fun. I think it's a combination of all of these factors that have led to Plymouth North's success.

3) As a captain, how do you motivate and lead your team?

As a captain, I tend to lean more towards the "lead by example" type. I always, always keep a positive attitude when I'm on the field and with the team. A positive attitude helps keep my teammates focused on what's going right, and not dwelling on the negatives. Baseball is a game of failure, and if a player starts getting down on himself, it can be hard to pick them back up. I try to never let it get to that point.

Being a captain doesn't apply just to the field though. If I can influence my teammates to make good decisions off of the field as well, than I've truly done my job, which is why I try to be a positive role model in all aspects of life-not just on the field.

4) What is yoiur life like outside of athletics?

Outside of athletics I'd say that my life is pretty busy. I have four siblings at home that I try to spend time with. I also play the guitar, piano, and drums. Music is a major part of my life. I am also enrolled in entirely honors classes and an Advanced Placement class, so school work can definitely take up some time as well. I am also one of two Plymouth North Student Representatives to the Plymouth School Committee.

5) What words of wisdom would you share with an incoming freshman about what to expect from their high school career?

Referring to baseball, I would tell them to always place their family and academics first. At the high school level, there can be some conflict between baseball and school, and school should always be more important. Although it may seem far away now, focusing on academics will pay off in four years when it comes to head off to college.

Referring to high school life in general, I would tell them that there is a lot of peer pressure and many outside influences in high school, and making the right decisions can often be difficult. A quote that I have often looked at and remember constantly is one by Gandhi that goes “A 'No' uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a 'Yes' merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble.” This would be the best advice I could ever give to an incoming freshman.

6) Any post graduation plans?

After I graduate I'll be heading to the University of Maine, Farmington, to study Music Performance and Composition.

7) Is there anyone you would like to say thank you to?

I would like to thank my Mom and Poppy for supporting me and always being there.