STUDENT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Jack Gurevitch: A Baseball Love Story

Junior Jack Gurevitch is hitting a scorching .448 thus far, leading the Toreros in batting average. Hear from him about why he loves the sport that he competes relentlessly in.

Baseball isn't just a sport for me – it's been a lifelong love story that started in the laid-back streets of Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles. I was lucky enough to have parents who never pushed me into anything, instead letting me naturally gravitate toward what I loved. While they encouraged me to try other sports, baseball was different. It just clicked. I'd spend my days playing catch outside, hanging out with friends on the block, and walking to school with a glove in hand. Looking back, that freedom to discover my passion organically is probably why I still love the game so much today.

The beauty of baseball, for me, goes way beyond what happens on the field. Every new season and every new team brings relationships that last a lifetime. From summer ball to college ball at the University of San Diego, I've connected with players from across the country and around the world – Japan, Puerto Rico, everywhere. People aren't kidding when they say the baseball world is small. These connections make every day at the ballpark special.

When I chose USD, it wasn't just about the stunning campus or the program's winning history – though those definitely caught my attention. It was about joining a community that feels like family. Our coaching staff – Coach Florer, Coach Holland, Coach Miller, Coach Nicoloff, and Coach Ungricht – they're not just developing players; they're shaping characters. They push us to be dogs on the field and gentlemen off it.

There's nothing quite like the feeling of coming through for your team – whether it's a walk-off hit or a game-saving play. But what really drives me isn't personal statistics or accolades. It's showing up every day for the guys next to me. When your teammates give their all for you, you've got to match that energy. That's what makes our team special – we're all pushing toward the same goals: winning the WCC and making noise in the postseason.

Sure, like many players, I dream of making it to the MLB someday. But right now, I'm focused on the journey, taking it one day at a time, and soaking in every moment with my teammates. Baseball's given me so much already, and whether I'm playing in the big leagues or finding another way to stay connected to the game, I know it'll always be a part of who I am.

Best,

Jack Gurevitch

Support Jack and other USD Athletes by donating to our Spring Sports Campaign!

GIVING BACK

WBB Volunteers at Unified Basketball Event

Last month, the USD women's basketball team brought their enthusiasm and expertise to Montgomery High School's Unified Basketball Tournament.

Team members joined special education students on the court for an inspiring day of inclusive basketball activities.

The tournament brought together students from across the district, with USD players offering guidance and support throughout the games.

Their presence added excitement to the event, which successfully promoted inclusivity through sports and strengthened community bonds between USD athletics and local schools.

Click the link below to help fund our Toreros in their pursuit of bettering the SD community.

GROWING THE FAMILY

USD Baseball Welcomes a New Teammate

The University of San Diego baseball team expanded their roster last week with their newest and most inspiring member - eight-year-old Eric. In a touching ceremony at Fowler Park, Eric signed his official letter of intent to become a Torero, marking a bright moment in his challenging journey.

Since 2022, Eric has shown remarkable courage in his battle against a brain tumor, recently completing six weeks of radiation treatment. His fighting spirit and determination make him a perfect fit for the Torero family. The baseball program proudly welcomed Eric to the team, celebrating his strength and resilience.

The signing ceremony at Fowler Park marked not just a new chapter for Eric, but a meaningful moment for the entire USD baseball community as they embrace their youngest teammate.

GREAT PRICES, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT NEWS

Men’s Tennis Continues to Shine

The University of San Diego men's tennis team is enjoying their most successful season in program history, currently ranked #7 nationally with an impressive 10-2 record—the highest ranking the program has ever achieved.

The Toreros started with an eight-match winning streak before falling to top-ranked TCU in the quarterfinals of the ITA Team Indoor National Championships, but quickly rebounded with a dominant 4-0 sweep of #21 UCF.

Oliver Tarvet, ranked #4 in singles nationally, has led the way for the Toreros. He pairs with Stian Klaassen to form the #1-ranked doubles team in the country.

"Ollie [Tarvet] hands down proved he is one of the best competitors and players in the country," said USD Head Coach Ryan Keckley. "He does so much for this team from an energy standpoint."

The team has collected six top-25 wins, including a dramatic 4-3 comeback victory over #38 Arizona State. Down 1-3, USD rallied behind clutch three-set victories from Klaassen and Neo Niedner to secure the win.

We are thrilled to witness this exceptional team's journey as they continue to shatter records and reach unprecedented heights!

Help power Men’s Tennis and other USD Sports.

WHERE TOREROS OWN THEIR FUTURE…

That’s All For Now!

We hope you enjoyed this week’s newsletter! You can follow us on @olefoundation on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Please help us in continuing to spread the word, and thank you for supporting the Olé Foundation!

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