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Rob Froio '11
Centerfielder Rob Froio ’11 (Midlothian, Ill.) discusses chemical engineering, his ping-pong skills, and the importance of being prepared.
What do you like about your major?
I am a chemical engineering major. I like engineering in general because engineers have to be smart enough to find the best solution to a problem, but they also have to be realistic enough to choose a solution that is economically viable. I specifically like chemical engineering because I believe it is the most flexible of the engineering degrees. I like that I have flexibility when I graduate.
How would you describe your role on the team?
I would consider myself a spark plug. I help the team most by using my speed both on defense and offense. Some have said that I remind them of a young Ricky Henderson. However, I was fourth on the team in home runs last year so maybe I’m more like Josh Hamilton. It’s up for debate.
What is your fondest (pre-Lafayette) baseball memory?
My senior year of high school, we knocked off the top team in the state during the playoffs. We were underrated by the press all year, despite being a great team. It felt good to prove everybody wrong by winning that game.
What can you take from your experience playing baseball and incorporate into everyday life?
Often in baseball, one or two plays will decide a game. Baseball has taught me to always be prepared because you may only get a few opportunities to do something meaningful. You have to be focused and ready at all times, no matter how boring the game gets… and trust me it gets boring in the outfield.
What do you still wish to accomplish at Lafayette, on and off the field?
On the field, I want nothing more than to win a Patriot League Championship. That goal has driven our team for four years. Off the field, I want to continue to excel in the classroom so I can graduate and be prepared for life beyond baseball.
Sport you would play other than your own?
That’s easy: ping-pong. People that have seen me play know that my nickname is “Lightning.”
Something about me that others would be surprised to hear is:
I’m a neat freak, especially when it comes to my room.
Favorite field to play at (other than Lafayette):
We played at Citizen’s Bank Park my freshman year. That was awesome. My favorite college field would have to be Army.
Favorite TV show as a kid:
I was a huge Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fan. I still practice some of their ninja moves on my roommates from time to time.
Your theme song:
“Firework” by Katy Perry