BVSA is proud to recognize Wim Nook as the First County Bank Athlete of the Month. A leader on and off the field, Wim’s dedication, hard work, and passion for the game have shaped his athletic journey and earned him this honor.
Sports have been a part of Wim’s life from the very beginning. His father played hockey and lacrosse at Union College, so athletics were always central in his household. Wim grew up playing ice hockey, soccer, and basketball before eventually falling in love with baseball and dedicating himself fully to the sport.
At Brunswick School, Wim has been a steady presence at shortstop for the past two years, while also showing his versatility at second and third base during summer ball. His growth as a player has been guided in part by his training with BVSA’s Mike Abate, whom he credits for helping him improve across the board—at the plate, in the field, and in his mental approach to the game.
“Wim’s comment to his training and the process has allowed him to excel and achieve his goal of playing college Baseball. Wim has been a client of Abate Training for years. Wims attention to detail and the approach he uses both on and off the field has propelled his entire game to another level. I’m extremely proud and honored to have been able to help guide his journey and look forward to watching him play at the next level!” – Mike Abate
That consistent effort has translated to the field. As a junior, Wim captained Brunswick to the best record in the Fairchester Athletic Association (FAA) and earned Second Team All-FAA honors at shortstop. This summer, playing with the 18U Phillies Scout Team, he was a force offensively, hitting over .460 with two home runs.
Wim’s baseball journey will continue at the next level—last September, he committed to Bowdoin College. After playing in front of the Bowdoin coaching staff and visiting campus, he knew it was the right fit. The combination of a strong academic environment and a supportive coaching staff sealed the decision. He says he can’t wait to contribute to the team and experience everything Bowdoin has to offer.
When asked what motivates him most, Wim points to his love for the process. For him, it’s not just about the glory of the games but the repetition of practice, the grind of preparation, and the small details that often define outcomes in baseball. Even in moments of struggle, Wim embraces the challenges as learning opportunities, reminding himself of a phrase shared by Cleveland Guardians Manager Steven Vogt: “Learn the lesson, leave the event.”
Off the field, Wim’s interests are just as well-rounded. He enjoys photography, particularly nature and sports, and alongside his brother has even photographed the professional boxer Chordale Booker from Stamford, CT. He also serves as the President of the Connecticut Branch of Angels at Bat, a non-profit dedicated to expanding baseball in Africa, where he recently helped send a shipment of equipment to players in Benin.
Looking to the future, Wim is focused on taking the next step one day at a time—having a strong fall season on the field, while also diving into his academics and meeting new people at college. On the diamond, he draws inspiration from Cleveland’s Steven Kwan, admiring the way Kwan plays the game with intelligence, hustle, and respect for every detail.
Wim embodies everything that the First County Bank Athlete of the Month represents: hard work, resilience, leadership, and a love for the game. With his transition to Bowdoin on the horizon, he’s prepared to make an impact both in the classroom and on the baseball diamond.