Meet Outfielder Kevin Mannix
May. 2, 2000
Q & A With Freshman Outfielder Kevin Mannix
What was your favorite baseball memory as a player? When my high school team in Syosset won the Long Island Championship in my junior season over Masapequah H.S. I was the pitcher and also had the winning hit. We were down 5-4 in the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs and two men on. I hit a double down the right field line to score both base runners and win the game 6-5.
Why did you choose Miami? The University of Miami baseball program goes to Omaha for the College World Series every season. As a player with high expectations, that was a major factor. The weather in Miami is so favorable year-round. We are able to practice or play around all year long. Not many programs nationally can do this. Back home, you can’t start playing until the snow melts.
What was your biggest adjustment from playing high school to major college baseball? The season started very quickly. Back home, the weather plays such an important part to when the season begins. At Miami, the season started like a month before everyone else. I did not expect the fans to be this much into it. There are some real die-hards down here. As a player, it is what you look for in stadium atmosphere.
Did you expect to be such an important part of the team so quickly? Honestly, I knew I could contribute and start. But, I did not expect it. Coming out of fall practice I did not think I impressed myself. I knew then what it would take to succeed at this level. There is still a lot of room for improvement in my game.
Outside of playing baseball, what else do you like to do? I love to watch sports on TV. Also, I like to play basketball and lift weights. During the offseason, I might have another answer, like going to the movies or hanging out with friends. During the season all I can think about is sports.
What is you favorite professional baseball team? Definitely, the New York Mets are my favorite team. (Mets All-Star catcher) Mike Piazza is my favorite baseball player. I heard he went to Miami too! I live 50 minutes from Shea Stadium, so I have been to a ton of games. I am looking forward to when the Mets come down to play the Marlins later this season. In football, I am a huge Jets fan.
If you were a tourist guide, where would you tell people visiting Miami to go?I would definitely send them to South Beach and Coconut Grove. I have been to many places either visiting or playing baseball and I have never seen such beautiful places as South Beach and The Grove.
Did you have to go through any rookie rituals this season? Yes. Earlier this season on my first road trip I had to sing in the airport. It was pretty funny. Coach Lazer (Collazo) called me over. I knew what was about to happen. Soon after, I was singing “Take Me Out To The Ballgame.” After that experience, I knew I might have to take singing lessons.
