Time Out with: Michael Hebenstreit *Junior (2009) *Sports Management *Member of the   Monks Baseball Team

The "Timeout" feature will provide St. Joe's followers with an opportunity to learn more about our athletes and other individuals involved in athletics.

The short interviews will focus on recent events in professional sports or St. Joe's athletics, possibly current issues in the news. No specific format will be followed; we will ask open-ended questions and discover where the conversation takes us from there!

This week we will feature junior Michael Hebenstreit, a utility player on the Saint Joseph's College baseball team. Athletics Office Assistant Brian Decandia '10 conducted the following interview.

Brian DeCandia: What are your plans for the Holiday Break?
Mike Hebenstreit: I am going on a cruise with my girlfriend from January 6-January 13. We will be seeing the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortolla, and the Bahamas. Other than that I’ll be substitute teaching at my alma mater, Barnstable High School.
BD: Have you ever gone on a cruise before?
MH: No, this is my first time. I've always wanted to but have never had the chance.
BD: Did someone give the cruise to you as a Christmas gift?
MH: Actually I paid for it myself. I saved money from working all summer.

BD: Finals are this week, how do you expect to fare?
MH: Marketing will be my toughest final exam. I’ve learned so much from Professor Hellenbeck that my mind is overflowing with information.

BD: The Patriots had another big win yesterday to keep their undefeated season alive. Do you think they can run the table?
MH: No doubt about it. 19-0. Undefeated season.
BD: What about the close games they played the previous two weeks?
MH: Those close games against Baltimore and Philadelphia were hiccups for the best team in NFL history…
BD: Not worried about the Dolphins in week 16?
MH: Hahaha, not at all!!

BD: Are you a big Celtics fan as well?
MH: They regained my interest when the management finally decided to improve the team. I haven’t missed a game on television yet this season.
BD: Another title in Beantown?
MH: I'm not willing to go that far quite yet. No predictions! It's been so long since they've been this competitive, I'm just enjoying the ride!

BD: The Red Sox haven't made a big splash this off season, do they need to make any moves?
MH: I’d love to have Minnesota Twins LHP Johan Santana, but don’t want to lose Red Sox OF Jacoby Ellsbury in the deal. I still think the trade will happen. This Sox team should be in contention for years. I’m pumped that they re-signed 3B Mike Lowell!

BD: How do you feel about St. Joe’s entering the GNAC?
MH: I’m looking forward to playing some different teams, some of which are closer to my hometown.

BD: What is your Academic Major here at St. Joe's?
MH: Sports Management.
BD: What is your plan after graduating in 2009?
MH: I’d like to be a well-paid coach someday. The first step in reaching my goal is to gain experience by participating in an apprenticeship where I coach at a college and have my master’s degree paid for by the school.

BD: Are you excited about getting started with baseball practice in January?
MH: I’m really looking forward to getting started after break. We have a great group of guys. We’re like a family.
BD: What can we expect from the 2008 Monks Baseball team? MH: With the returning players and the newcomers we have, it looks to be another successful year.

BD: What are your hobbies?
MH: I love to watch the TBS afternoon lineup: Yes Dear, Just Shoot Me, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and the King of Queens while playing video games on my second television! When I’m not in class of course!

BD: What can you tell us about growing up in Cape Cod?
MH: Sheltered! Fun in the summer but dull in the winter. Can you say ghost town?

BD: Thank you Mike for taking the time to sit down for our "Time Out" questions!
MH: No problem! Have a great Holiday!

Be sure to check out
"Monk Confessions" featuring Women's
Soccer Standout
Jillian Leger!