Piedmont University Athletics

Senior John Vohlken is a starting pitcher for the #10 ranked Piedmont College baseball team and currently stands at 3-1 on the mound. The southpaw recently sat down for a "Nine Inning" question and answer session with Sports Information Director Richard Dombrowsky.

1. The Lions are having a tremendous season and are ranked #10 in the ABCA national poll. What has been the difference this season compared to past years with the squad?
Since before the fall season started the entire program has really dedicated themselves to becoming the best team we could be. Our work ethic has been incredible, but the biggest difference has been the the team's attitude. We have really bought into an attitude that is never take a second off, but at the same time have as much fun as possible. We understand what our roles are and what it takes to play Piedmont baseball.

2. The pitching staff has been outstanding up to this point. What has been the difference with the pitchers this season?
As a staff we have learned to trust our defense. Even at the beginning of the season we struggled with the concept, but we have come to rely on our defense to help us. The other biggest difference is that we have tried to take a relaxed attitude out to the mound. We trust our offense to score runs, so even when we give up runs we still just try to throw good pitches and keep the team in the game.

3. You mentioned the offense, how do the pitchers feel about the offense?
We have total faith in our offense to pick us up when we are struggling, and on the flip side it makes us try and pick them up when we don't score a lot of runs. Knowing that our offense has the potential to put up runs really takes a lot of pressure off and lets us focus on making good pitches.

4. This season you have taken on a lot more roles on the mound than any other in your career. How do you feel about your performance so far this season?
I have gotten to throw more innings this season, and all I try to do is give our team a chance to win. The best part is knowing that if I get a chance I have teammates to help me out, I don't need to go out and throw a shutout. I want to do whatever I can to help our team, whatever the role may be.

5. What have you done this year to keep your focus sharp, even when not always knowing when you would pitch?
I take the attitude of if I get the ball, I will compete. I have learned to not get wraped up in the situation or the opponent, and just go out and make pitches. It has been nice to learn that having fun and pitching relaxed makes a world of difference.

6. Your four-year career includes a redshirt season in which you were unable to compete. What was it like having to watch a season from outside the field?
It was really hard, I wanted to be out there with my teammates. I tried to really focus on my rehab, and come up with ways to adjust my workouts to stay on track. As hard as it was it made me really appreciate the opportunity I have to play.

7. Have you always been a pitcher?
I played outfield and first base until I was 14. I really enjoyed playing defense, but did not like to hit at all. Some of my best memories are taking groundballs with my dad. When I got to high school I made the switch to pitching full time and have not looked back since.

8. How have your parents helped you throughout your career?
My parents have been the biggest impact on my career. Whether it is coming to support me at the games or just talking to me on the phone they are incredible. The biggest thing they do is really keep me grounded and show me the big picture.

9. What would you tell future Piedmont Lions about the baseball program?
If I had to describe Piedmont baseball it is working as hard as you can while at the same time always having fun. When the bell rings for practice it is a group of guys dedicating themselves to becoming better baseball players and learning how to play as a team. No matter what our roles are on the team, we all share the same common goal and do everything we can to help the team.