Salvador (Sal) Diaz
Baseball connected Salvador (Sal) Diaz with SUNY Canton. Originally from Norwalk City, California, the Health and Fitness Promotion major recently transferred from Gallaudet University when the college for deaf, hearing impaired, and signing communities shuttered its baseball program.
Baseball connected Salvador (Sal) Diaz with SUNY Canton.
Originally from Norwalk City, California, the Health and Fitness Promotion major recently transferred from Gallaudet University when the college for deaf, hearing impaired, and signing communities shuttered its baseball program.
“Engaging in the sport of baseball has not only allowed me to embrace my passion for the game but has also opened my eyes to the vibrant and diverse deaf community,” Sal said. “Learning sign language was challenging yet rewarding, immersing me in a culture that values communication and connection in unique ways.”
Sal came to the college with his teammate, Johnathan Guerrero, who also attended Gallaudet. The two players were linked with the college’s new Baseball Head Coach, Ryan Stevens, and followed him to SUNY Canton alongside a selection of players from Wells College.
Being hearing-impaired on a team that communicates through verbal commands can be challenging for Sal. “There are moments when I feel out of place, as communication styles differ significantly, and it’s not always easy to keep up,” he said. “I often rely on lip-reading and gestures, but during fast-paced games and practices, it can be overwhelming to catch every detail.”
Despite the challenges, Sal said he’s learned to advocate for himself and seek new ways to connect with his teammates. He said he’s found supportive allies who are patient and willing to adapt, which helps him feel more included in the group.
“This journey has been about more than just playing the sport,” he said. “It’s about finding my voice within a hearing environment and building bridges with my teammates. I’m determined to contribute and grow, proving to myself that I belong on this team and in the larger community of athletes.”
Sal said he’s hoping to become an athletic trainer after graduation. Until then, he’ll be playing the sport he loves. “I am committed to playing until my last breath of college baseball, cherishing every moment on the field and every bond formed with my teammates,” he said.