Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Dre Lazar, Loyola Academy baseball

Dre Lazar is a senior shortstop for the Ramblers. On senior night against Downers Grove South, the John Carroll commit went 3-for-3 with a double and a home run.

1. Do you have pregame rituals or superstitions?

I do the same stretch routine before every game, that makes me confident going into a game. I also like to put my bat in the same spot, glove in the same spot before I start warming up.

2. Why John Carroll?

I think John Carroll is a good fit to continue my Jesuit education. I’ve talked to Loyola alumni who have gone there and only say good things — George Haracz and Roger Simon (current players and former Ramblers) said good things. I think it’s the right place to continue my athletic and academic career.

3. What is your dream job?

My dream job definitely would be an entrepreneur. I could choose my own hours and work for myself. Maybe just taking over my dad’s business and be a realtor on the side. My dad is a general contractor.

4. If you could play another sport, what would it be?

Football. No doubt about it. The culture for Loyola football is so great, the history and winning championships. It’s so amazing. Every game they have the confidence they’re going to win and every year, a state championship, and they put their payers in a position to succeed.

5. What is your favorite thing to do off the field?

I’d probably say fish with friends and family. Spend some time away from reality and almost feel like I can relax, have a good time and be with nature — and catch some fish.

6. Who is your favorite athlete?

I think my favorite athlete is probably Derek Jeter (Retired shortstop, New York Yankees). He put in the work every single day and was just a leader on and off the field. I feel like many people look up to him. He carries himself very well.

7. What is your sports highlight so far?

(May 10) senior night was one of my best games. I was 3-for-3 and was hit by a pitch — a single, double and home run, my first home run in a Loyola uniform. It was really big, especially having friends and family supporting me on senior night.

8. If you’re in Walgreens with a couple bucks, what are you buying?

Probably just some Doritos (cool ranch) and maybe a sweet iced tea.

9. What is something people don’t know about you?

I’m a first-generation Assyrian. I’ve also never been out of the country.

10. How would you describe your senior season?

I feel like this year has been pretty up and down, like a roller coaster. We started off the year pretty strong; before our spring trip we were 7-1. But going into conference play we were kind of shaky. We hit a high when we beat St. Laurence. It was a really big confidence boost for all of us, but then we had some injuries and it has affected the way we’ve been playing. The goals for the rest of season are just to take each game one at a time and hopefully get on the winning side of them. We have a chance to beat any team in the state. We have the talent to do it. We just can make little mistakes that turn into bigger ones. If we play our game, we can make a pretty far run.

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