Freshman Friday
11/4/2016 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
The Panthers welcome seven members to the 2017 season’s freshman class. Follow @Pitt_BASE on Instagram and Twitter for behind-the-scenes action and check out the weekly #FreshmanFriday series, featuring a new freshman each week. This week, meet Pittsburgh native, Nico Popa.
Name: Nico Popa
Number: 1
Position: OF
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
High School: Seton-La Salle
Birthday: Dec. 11, 1997
Why did you choose Pitt: I grew up in Pittsburgh and always wanted to play ball at Pitt. Now I have the opportunity to play in the ACC, in my hometown and in front of all of my family, it’s a dream come true.
Favorite part about Pittsburgh so far: I love the sense of community and the atmosphere.
What are you looking forward to most about baseball at Pitt: I am looking forward to playing against the best competition in the country in the ACC.
Who is your mentor on the team: Frank Maldonado because he is a great leader and an excellent outfielder. He has helped me out a lot thus far by giving me advice to improve my game in the outfield and at the plate.
What are some of your goals this season: I want to help the team win any way that I can. I want to help the team win the ACC championship, win a regional and make it to Omaha.
What legacy would you like to leave on the Pitt baseball program: I want to be known as a team player who always worked hard and give 110 percent on every play.
Name your favorite…
Color: Blue
Gatorade Flavor: Blue
Disney Character: Goofy
Season: Summer
Professional Sports Team: Pittsburgh Pirates
TV Show: SportsCenter
Song: Money Longer
Food: My mom’s pasta and meatballs
Ice Cream Flavor: Cookie Dough
Book: Outsiders
Vacation Destination: Hilton Head Island, S.C.
Animal: Fish
Movie: Sandlot
Cereal: Cinnamon Toast Crunch
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