Campus Newcomer: Newman Catholic C Max Burt
The Iowa Baseball campus newcomer series continues to take a look at the new faces joining the team this season. Up next, we take a look at catcher Max Burt from Mason City. Out of Newman Catholic High School, Burt is rated as the #9 player in the state and the #100 catcher in the country by Perfect Game. He was a four-time All-State selection for the Knights and earned a spot on the All-State Super Team as a senior, which includes players from 1A-4A schools. Burt committed to Iowa way back in November of 2020 and now it is finally time for him to begin his career as a Hawkeye.
We caught up with the 6-foot-0, 195 pound catcher to discuss his move to Iowa City and preview his freshman year at Iowa.
Q: When do you move to Iowa City and what is your excitement level like for that move in day?
BURT: I move in on August 13th. Excitement level is definitely high. I really look forward to getting situated and getting to know all of the guys better. It will be fun to get after it and start working out.
Q: What number do you plan on wearing and why?
BURT: As of right now I am unsure of what number I will be wearing. I definitely understand there is a seniority system.
Q: What did it mean to be named to the 1A All-State Team Captain this past season?
BURT: It’s a huge honor. I tried my best to do anything and everything possible to help contribute to a successful season for my high school team. I credit my teammates and coaches for a lot of my success.
Q: How would you evaluate the way you played during your senior season?
BURT: This year I played multiple positions. I played catcher, pitcher, shortstop, and centerfield. The mindset was to play selfless and do all I could to try and help the team win. I believe overall I played well in the field, on the bump, behind the plate, and in the box.
Q: What have you been doing since the high school season to prepare for when you join the team?
BURT: I have been continuing to lift, hit, and catch. I am always trying to improve my skills. I was fortunate enough to get to play in the All Star Series and get a couple more games in before heading to Iowa City.
Q: Looking back at your recruitment, what stood out about the Iowa Baseball program that made them an easy choice over other schools?
BURT: The family feel that the coaching staff and players instill. Coach Sutherland and Coach Heller as well as the rest of the coaching staff did a great job and continue to do a great job of developing relationships. They are all genuinely good people that will help me develop not only as a baseball player but as a person too. Iowa continues to implement new technology to help prepare players at the highest level.
Q: Were there any other teams that you considered during your recruitment?
BURT: I talked to Oregon, Oregon State, Florida State, and Arizona throughout my recruitment process. But, I haven’t looked back since my commitment and am stoked to get to opportunity to wear the black and gold and play for my home state.
Q: What is your relationship like with the coaching staff? Who do you talk with the most?
BURT: I’ve talked to Coach Sutherland the most. I’ve also gotten to know the Coach Heller and the rest of the staff through calls, my official visit, and trips to Iowa City to watch the Hawks play. It’s clear the coaches care about the players and want to help them succeed.
Q: What is your relationship like with the other incoming freshman? Current players?
BURT: I know all of the in-state guys pretty well through playing with and against them growing up. Doug and I have a pretty solid relationship as we’ve been playing together our whole lives and going to school together. Most of the guys were able to make the official visit and meet each-other in person. I knew a few of the sophomores through travel ball and met the rest on the visit. The older guys also did a great job of making me feel welcome when I met them.
Q: If someone asked you “what do you bring to the Iowa team?” How would you describe your game?
BURT: I love to compete and have work ethic. I don’t care if it’s baseball, ping pong, or checkers I am going to give it my all and play hard till the very end. I am a catcher and love catching but I am willing to do whatever is necessary to earn a spot on the field wherever that is. Love both the offensive and defensive side of the game.
Q: What are your goals for your freshman season at Iowa? What areas of your game do you want to improve?
BURT: I want to contribute to a successful year for the Hawkeyes and earn playing time. I think I can improve all aspects of my game. I am excited to get to focus on baseball after playing multiple sports throughout my high-school career.
