With baseball season in full swing and the tough preseason behind them, the baseball team is coming out but not without a vital leader, Nick Rivera.
For the senior first baseman,  being a part of the first team in program history to go to a regional is the only thing on his mind.
Rivera puts his degree and his commitment to the FGCU baseball team before everything else.
“I’m pursuing a degree in criminal justice because I feel it is important to have a degree, just in case I can’t play one day,” Rivera said. “I plan on playing baseball for as long as possible, but my degree is something I will always have.”

Rivera made a tough decision turning down the Houston Astros after being selected in the 38th round in the MLB draft last season.
Rivera came into this season with many goals on and off the field.
Beyond the field, Rivera has always been able to manage his time in a way that is beneficial for his baseball schedule, school work and social life. With a year-round commitment and eight months of school, one might get overwhelmed by this intense schedule.
However, with the help from coaches and academic advisors, Rivera seems to be successful with everything he does on and off the field.
“There are many sacrifices I have had to make for the past four years, but I need these in order to succeed,” Rivera said. “It takes a lot to be a student athlete, but with help from our great staff, it is a lot more manageable.”
As a senior, Rivera took it upon himself to hold the weight of the team on his back, assisting his teammates with anything.
With no assigned captains on the team, senior Rivera tries to look out for his team, especially during big pressure games in big atmospheres. Having plenty of experience under his belt and a positive attitude at all times, Rivera is the shoulder for his teammates to lean on,