
Jack Goodman entered his first days at Pepperdine understanding that those around him may not be so welcoming.
Goodman, now a sophomore at Northeastern, began his time in Malibu as one of better renowned high school hitters out of the Northeast, and was gunning for a spot as a regular in the Waves’ lineup. The Medfield, Mass., native knew that may upset some upperclassmen.
"I definitely worried about upstaging upperclassmen and felt a little tension at times," Goodman said. "I understand where they're coming from. When you put yourselves in their shoes, it's understandable to think there's a little bit of a target on your back as a hungry freshman."
The challenge for freshmen has only grown in recent years. Rosters are now laden with players spread across four, five or even six graduating classes. At Northeastern University, graduate student Tyler MacGregor (23 years old) and true freshman Will Fosberg (18 years old) may both make impacts for Mike Glavine's team.