Athlete of the Week: Andrew DiLacqua

IMG Academy senior center fielder Andrew DiLacqua was named the 2013 USSSA World Series MVP after leading his Florida Travel Ball Worth team to a 7-0 victory over Florida Pokers Carolina Underclass July 28.

DiLacqua, who has verbally committed to Arizona State University, went 8-of-15 at the plate with four RBIs. In 20 games this summer, DiLacqua hit .463, with six doubles, two triples and 18 RBIs. He maintained a .545 on-base percentage and a .648 slugging percentage to lead FTB Worth in every offensive category.

The USSSA Championship was DiLacqua’s third tournament title this year; he helped lead IMG to victories at the Cleats Classic Invitational and the inaugural IMG National Classic this spring.

It was an honor to be named MVP. In a tournament that goes all week, there were a lot of players who contributed to the team’s success. I was fortunate to be selected.

It was special because it was the last tournament I will play for (Florida Travel Baseball). I have been with the FTB organization for the last three summers. It was nice to win the last tournament of my summer high school career.

Going to IMG Academy has been a very good experience for me. I feel playing with players from different parts of the country and from outside of the United States has been a unique experience. Every year, there are new players who come to the academy and promote renewed competition. I think this has helped me get ready for the next level.

My defensive play in the outfield is my biggest strength. I feel that I can always contribute to my team’s success by playing well in the field.

I have been playing center field since I was 9 years old. I really never think about playing another position, but, if I could, it would be shortstop because of the amount of action that position gets.

I enjoy the challenge. Baseball requires many different skills to be successful. I have played the game since I was 5 and have always been good at it.

Derek Jeter is my favorite player because of his classy approach to the game.

I hope to have a strong senior year at IMG. I am preparing myself to play baseball at Arizona State next fall. I want to help my team have a successful season, and I also hope that I can perform well enough to be considered for the draft.