Stepping up his senior year, Matthew Rinaldi was named Captain, so far being the only representative for Norwalk High’s Baseball team. Matthew floated from JV to varsity through the past two years, but he secured a starting spot on varsity mid-junior season after persisting and putting in the work. He was recognized for his leadership on and off the field going into his final season with the Bears, where the 2024 team voted him as the 2025 captain. Over the years, Matthew has been a crucial part of the outfield for the Bears on the field, and in the batter’s box no matter the level it was at.
Coach Mitchell, the head coach of Norwalk’s Varsity Baseball program, has been coaching Matthew for the past four years. He has had a big impact on Matthew’s growth to get to where he is now, especially the growth to become the leader and captain he is and will continue to be this season. “Matt is extremely humble, unassuming, and there isn’t a player that maximizes his skill set and his talent quite like he does.” Coach Mitchell shares nothing but good words about Matthew, and his personal growth on the field and as an individual himself.
“Being a talented and hard-working ball player, being involved in the community, giving back to youth programs of both baseball and basketball, he is just the greatest ambassador for what I want our program to be represented by.”
Rinaldi’s career began in the youth league. He has been a part of many teams and programs, such as Tides, which, during his time on the team, claimed the 15U Babe Ruth title. Matthew also continues to give back and help youth programs with the Bear’s Baseball program as well. Through high school, Matthew played off-season with Turn2, and the decision to play in college is still in the air.
Captain Matthew Rinaldi expresses his excitement for the season “We have a very talented group of guys with aspirations of making a good post-season run.” As well as Coach Mitchell, expressing his excitement for the season, but especially to have Matthew as a leader and representative for him and the team. The Bears’ season kicks off on April 5th against McMahon.
