Since his Junior year, Marek Krystofolski ’25 has devoted himself to Boys Baseball, and still, he continues to improve every single day. He prides himself in his dedication to the sport, and that translates into his quality as a captain of the team.
Krystofolski not only sets an example as a player, but he also encourages team bonding especially for the newest members of the team. He emphasized that his goal is to always improve and motivate others to do the same.
“I was just being open to meeting new people and talking, striking up conversations with guys, even if it’s your first time meeting them. So I think I was pretty good with that. Just trying to be a team guy, not trying to be a me guy, but trying to make yourself available, make yourself seem friendly. Overall just trying to be the best leader I can,” said Krystofolski.
Nate Dubuc ’28 also described Krystofoloski’s impact on him as a new member of the team. He highlighted how Krystofolski was both a captain in and out of the fields.
“Marek’s been very open and warm to us, both me and Miles O’Neil ’28 but definitely me. I feel like he’s been a really nice guy in the locker room and out in the field. He’s just giving me tips here and there, and just makes me really feel comfortable here at Andover. And especially with Big Blue Baseball,” said Dubuc.
Coming in as a Junior, Krystofolski was inspired by his then captains’ work ethics. He specifically pointed out Jake Needham ’22 and Thomas McAndrews ’22 and noted how their straightforward style is something he tries to emulate himself.
“They really knew what it meant to win and to work hard, and they knew what it took to win. And they kind of gave it to us straight and they wouldn’t sugarcoat stuff. That’s what you need in sports. It was really fun learning underneath them. So I think just trying to take their work ethic into my everyday life, just like trying to win, trying to get better every time I can, and trying to be the best leader I can. I think I take after those two a lot,” said Krystofolski.
This season has not been without its share of challenges. Both co-captains Krystofolski and Luke Gallo ’25 went out injured near the start of the season. Despite his injury, Krystofolski looked to other ways to impact the game.
“He can’t pitch right now due to his injury, but just the fact that he can hit and still goes to practice every day, that mindset he has to constantly get better is just amazing. As a freshman here and seeing that drive is just really moving. I feel like everyone can learn from him to be gritty and to be persevering and hardworking all the time. And even though he can’t pitch in his case, he can always hit. It’s always good just to be working hard no matter what happens and no matter your circumstances,” said Dubuc.
Outside of their captaincies, Kyrstofolski and Gallo have shared the fields for four years and are roommates. Having known him for so long, Gallo described Krystofolski as an exceptional leader and someone you would want on your side in any scenario.
“Marek, he’s trying to lead, and I know he got injured this year so it was tough for him not being able to pitch, but he’s still going out there battling every game. Leading by example, he gets our guys going in practice and in games when they need it. Marek’s the guy that’s going to help push our team forward and be better. He’s a guy that you always want by your side, on your team, because he’s going to fight for you,” said Gallo.
