Grayslake Central's Nozicka catches on with Memphis

Grayslake Central catcher Sam Nozicka recently signed a national letter of intent to continue playing baseball at Memphis University.

Nozicka, who has been on varsity since his freshman season, is coming off a junior campaign in which he was named all-Fox Valley Conference and Daily Herald All-Area. He hit 290 with 23 hits and 24 runs scored. Nozicka was second on the team in RBI with 24. Grayslake Central coach Troy Whalen said it's Nozicka's defense, specifically his arm strength, that separates him from the pack.

"Sam is one of the hardest workers we've had come through this program," Whalen said. "He plays arguably the toughest position on the field and rarely comes out of the game. We've tried to find times to get his body some much needed rest, but he is such a fierce competitor and does not want to miss a single pitch. He has great passion for the game, and his work ethic sets the bar high for others to follow."

University of Memphis coach Daron Schoenrock had this to say about Nozicka: "We are thrilled with Sam's decision to become a Tiger. We love his work ethic, his leadership and his ability to defend from behind the plate. Sam will be a great addition to our 2016 roster."