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David Coleman is one of several freshmen who have earned significant playing time this season. Wearing No. 9, batting left handed and playing in right field, he gives a look that Cavalier fans are used to seeing, like former Cavalier Brandon Marsh. Coleman sat down and talked about the team, life before Virginia and what it felt like to play in his first collegiate game.
What does it mean to you to be a UVa student-athlete?
Coleman: A lot of people look up to athletes. I want to be a great example for others and as a team.
To you, what is the team’s biggest strength this year?
Coleman: Leadership. We have a lot of older guys, third and fourth years, that have really stepped up because we have a lot of young guys in this class. We have a lot of great leaders and you can see it out on the field.
What are you looking forward to the most this season?
Coleman: Omaha. We set our goals and the coaches want it and we want it real badly. We just have to take it one game at a time.
What has your role been on the team so far this year?
Coleman: As an outfielder, just step up and do the best that I can. Everyone was doubting the (Virginia) outfield this year after everyone was drafted or graduated last year. Every spot was up for grabs so we all just stepped up to fill the void.
What did it feel like to get your first hit and first RBI in your first game as a Cavalier?
Coleman: That was amazing. Right when I hit the ball it was a really great feeling.
What do you feel are the two most important attributes or qualities to have as a baseball player?
Coleman: I’d say leadership and being humble. You are going to fail in this game and you have to be able to accept that and swallow your pride sometimes.
Do you have any plans to play in a league this summer?
Coleman: I am planning on playing up in New York (New York Collegiate Baseball League) for the Saratoga Phillies.
Did you pick No. 9 to wear?
Coleman: I picked it. I’ve always worn 9 and I got the opportunity to wear it here with (Brandon) Marsh graduating.
Who is your favorite MLB team and player?
Coleman: Definitely the Atlanta Braves, and my favorite player has always been Greg Maddux.
What would you say is the best rivalry in sports?
Coleman: Definitely the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.
During your last two years of high school, you did not strikeout a single time. How hard was that to do?
Coleman: I never really thought about it. I just wanted to put the ball in play and I never thought about it until the last few games of my senior year and nobody really brought it up.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
Coleman: My dad. He’s always come to my games and he’s always there for me whenever I need him.
What was it like growing up with six brothers and sisters?
Coleman: It was crazy. Everybody was home schooled so we were always around each other, and I love them to death but it was pretty crazy.
Where did you fit in the mix of things?
Coleman: I was right in the middle.
Did you have any pets running around too?
Coleman: We did. We have two dogs.
What is the thing you miss most about home?
Coleman: My mom’s cooking. She’s a great cook.
What is her best dish?
Coleman: Probably her wok chicken.
What are your hobbies outside of baseball?
Coleman: I play guitar and before I came to UVa I played a little hockey.
What is your favorite sport or TV show to watch?
Coleman: Definitely Family Guy’ for a TV show, and for sports other than baseball I like to watch college football.
If you were a car which one would you be?
Coleman: A Porsche 911 turbo.
Cavaliers or Wahoos?
Coleman: Cavaliers
Orange or Blue?
Coleman: Blue