In a 2006 season filled with disappointments, outfielder Joey Boaen was one of Penn's few consistent bright spots.
Boaen, now a senior, led last year's squad in batting average (.349), home runs (4), and slugging percentage (.596).
While last year proved to be his breakout season, 2006 was not kind to his team. Last year's Quakers finished the season with a dismal 12-27 overall record while going 7-13 in Ivy League play.
Boaen, who was recently named team captain by coach John Cole, now wants to make last year a distant memory. He is confident that things will be different this time around for the Red and Blue.
"We didn't have a great season last year," he said. "There isn't a whole lot of positives to take from it, but we've got a lot of guys coming back. Everybody's a year older . I'm just excited to have a chance to get out there and compete."
For the Quakers to rebound from last year, Boaen knows he must continue to provide a consistent threat in the heart of the lineup and play defense in the outfield. In addition to his responsibilities as a player, Boaen's new role as captain will require him to be a leader and role model, both on and off the field.
"On the field, [my role is to] lead by example," he said. "[I have to] play hard - be the best that I can while I'm out there. . Off the field, we've got a lot of young guys, so [I need to] make sure they're doing the right thing. . I've just got to be there for them, help them out, and answer questions."
His coach thinks he has chosen the right man to fill his team's void.
"[I chose him for] his ability to handle people around him," Cole said. "[He's a] very loyal young man and a very high-energy young man, which is what we're looking for in a captain, and kind of a go-to player. He was very clutch last year, I think the kids respect him and they respect his leadership qualities."
One area where Boaen feels the Quakers have a chance to improve this year is in the outfield. He leads a group of veterans who are looking to make an impact.
"We'll have a lot of speed and a lot of athleticism in the outfield, which will help covering ground and making plays."
On a personal note, Boaen knows exactly which area of his game needs the most improvement.
"Plate discipline is something I need to improve on," he said. "I didn't walk very much last year . taking a couple pitches and getting a walk or taking a couple pitches and hitting a good pitch is a big deal."
Cole is confident that his star is ready to take his game to the next level and reign in his aggressive hitting style.
"I think he'll be more consistent," he said. "He was a little bit over-aggressive at the plate sometimes and got himself out swinging at too many balls."
Either way, Cole knows he has a special player on his hands.
"He's just a great kid and I'm really excited for him," he said.
