Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Veronica and Kyle Rateau

Siblings: I have a little brother named Gregory and two younger sisters named Kinley and Viana.

Position or events: In football I am an OLB and RB. In baseball I play primarily outfield and pitcher. In basketball I am a guard.

Instagram: @xavier_salzman

Career Highlight: My career highlight is probably when I walked it off against Little Chute last year in Sectionals for baseball.

How did you get started playing your sport?

I got started when I was around three when my grandpa introduced me to sports.

How has the balance between academics and athletics changed for you from freshman to senior year?

I would say I didn’t really have to balance it, since I have never had homework to worry about.

What is your favorite part about this sport? What is the most challenging part about this sport?

I think for every sport it is staying confident. It’s pretty easy to get negative on yourself after something bad happens to you.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?

Making it to state for baseball.

Do you have a bucket list goal that pertains to your sport?

I used to, It was just to make it to state in any sport.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

It is surreal to see who I was to who I am today. I feel like I’ve matured a lot. And how much bigger I’ve gotten is just crazy.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?

I pray before every game.

Dream vacation destination?

Tokyo.

Any quotes that help you in your sport or life in general?

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”- Wayne Gretzky

Favorite food?

BLT.

Random fun fact about you?

I have two dogs.

Any hobbies outside of your sport?

I just like to hangout with my friends and family.

Favorite movie/TV show?

Transformers.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to shout out?

All of my high school coaches.

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I’d like to attend a four-year college, but I’m still undecided on my career or college.