Athlete of the WeeK: Tyler Dauphinee

Lakewood Ranch High senior Tyler Dauphinee hit a three-run double in the bottom of the first inning propelling the Mustangs to a 4-1 victory over Winter Haven in the Class 6A –Region 3 finals May 11. The Mustangs catcher also called his own game. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What does it mean to you to be going to the state semifinals?
It means everything to me. I’ve been dreaming about this since I started playing high school baseball. Now that we are here and have a chance to do it, it feels amazing.

What do you enjoy the most about baseball?
It just fun for me — everything about it. I just have a good time playing.

What’s the toughest part about being a catcher?
Blocking balls. That can get annoying. When you’re taking balls to the arm, it starts to hurt, and that can get annoying.

If Lakewood Ranch wins a state title, what’s the first thing you’ll do?
I’m probably going to have a dog pile on the mound. Then, I’ll probably walk up to coach (Mike) Mullen and give him a bear hug.

If you could play another sport for a day, what would it be?
Volleyball. It’s so much fun. We used to go into practice before baseball season started and mess around and play with the girls team.

What’s your favorite subject?
Is lunch a subject? I would definitely get an “A” in lunch.

Do you have any siblings?
I have two brothers, Michael, 19, and Ryan, 12, and one sister, Melissa, 12.

Who is your biggest role model?
My older brother. Ever since I was younger, I wanted to be around him and try and do what he does.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
I want to read people’s minds just to know what they are thinking.

Do you have a favorite movie?
“Pineapple Express.” No matter how many times I’ve seen it, I laugh throughout the whole movie.