Through the
Varsity S Club Spotlight we'll re-connect with student-athletes of the past. This series will illustrate the impact that a Sonoma State University education has on student-athletes and highlights the impact they are now having in their communities.
TOMMY EVERIDGE
Baseball | 2002-2004
Following an All-American career at SSU, Tommy was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in 2004. He made it all the way to the big leagues in 2007, doubling off the Green Monster at Fenway Park in his Major League debut.
What is your favorite memory as a student-athlete?
My entire experience is my favorite memory. I met my wife here, as well as some of my best friends. Being able to go to the baseball field everyday was a blessing. Coach Goelz and a multitude of other great coaches were always around to help, not just with baseball, but with any other problem I may have had. I am still friends with them today.
How do you think you changed as a person, from freshman to senior year?
I matured a lot. The small campus of Sonoma State enabled me to feel comfortable in building relationships and working on my self-confidence. I would not be person I am today without my experiences.
If you could give advice to a freshman student-athlete today, what would it be?
Use the resources around you. We have a great library and gym to better yourself. There are a lot of people who are new to college just like you, so find ways to interact and socialize.
What are you up to these days?
I live in Glen Ellen with my wife, Kellie, and 3 children (Allison, Camden, and Jackson). I spend half the year being with my family as much as possible, while giving batting lessons on the side. The other half of the year is spent as a minor league hitting coach in the Oakland A's system. This will be my 4th season with Oakland and 2nd season as the hitting coach for the Stockton Ports, our Advanced A affiliate.
How did Sonoma State University help prepare you for your career?
The baseball program taught me a lot about the game, as well as what it means to be a leader, both on and off the field. I am grateful for the coaching staff, amazing friends I made, and my wife. I would not have made it to the big leagues or have been hired as a coach without the knowledge I gained while at SSU. I loved my time as a Cossack/Seawolf and am thankful for the memories.
ABOUT THE VARSITY S CLUB
The Varsity S Club is an exclusive group of past and present Sonoma State University student-athletes, coaches, cheerleaders, athletic trainers, and administrators formed for the purpose of building enthusiasm for Sonoma State University Athletics. The Varsity S Club does this through a variety of philanthropic, fundraising, and social events designed to strengthen SSU Athletics. Membership in the Varsity S Club is open to any individual who has competed in varsity athletics at Sonoma State University, as well as any past member of the cheer team, athletic training, or administrative staff. Sign up here:
Varsity S Club.
See past Varsity S Club Spotlight features here:
Varsity S Club Spotlight Archive.
